US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on Monday (April 15) showed in their tax returns that their income rose 7 per cent to $619,976 in 2023 and that the couple paid 23.7 per cent of their income in federal taxes.

The US president released the data on the deadline date for Americans to file their taxes.

The tax return for Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff were also released by the White House, showing that the couple&nbsp;made $450,299 last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-biden-gearing-up-to-welcome-iraqi-prime-minister-711585" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-biden-gearing-up-to-welcome-iraqi-prime-minister-711585&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiB2frJ4MWFAxWlcGwGHfZ_A-8QFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1xE_B129SdpJOxb0RZNYYr&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-biden-gearing-up-to-welcome-iraqi-prime-minister-711585" target="_blank">US President&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;gearing up to welcome Iraqi Prime Minister</a>

Taking a dig at Donald Trump, the White House said in a statement, “President Biden thinks that all occupants of the Oval Office should be open and honest with the American people and that the tradition of annually releasing presidential tax returns should continue unbroken.”

It is worth mentioning that Trump declined to voluntarily release his tax returns while he was president, saying he was not able to do so while being audited by the Internal Revenue Service, even as the agency claimed he was free to release them.

Biden and his wife earned four-fifths of their income from their jobs as US president and teacher at Northern Virginia Community College. Joe Biden drew a $400,000 wage, while Jill Biden earned $85,985 from her job teaching English at Northern Virginia Community College.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-trump-leads-biden-by-slim-1-margin-in-latest-poll-711245" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-trump-leads-biden-by-slim-1-margin-in-latest-poll-711245&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiB2frJ4MWFAxWlcGwGHfZ_A-8QFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3S7GQiU4a8BhoiajxkQkMl&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-trump-leads-biden-by-slim-1-margin-in-latest-poll-711245" target="_blank">US: Trump leads&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;by slim 1% margin in latest poll</a>

The additional income was drawn from interest on investments, pensions and a corporate entity that collects the couple's book royalties.

Biden’s reported $20,477 worth of contributions to 17 different charities in 2023. They donated $5,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation, which is named after the president’s late son, and smaller amounts to other organisations, including the Fraternal Order of Police, a Wilmington fire station and St. Joseph on the Brandywine.

The proportion of Joe Biden's income that went to federal taxes was roughly equal to the prior year.

Biden plans to deliver a speech on tax policy from Pennsylvania&nbsp;on Tuesday that is expected to include a call for the wealthy to pay higher rates of taxes.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on Monday (April 15) showed in their tax returns that their income rose 7 per cent to $619,976 in 2023 and that the couple paid 23.

US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on Monday (April 15) showed in their tax returns that their income rose 7 per cent to $619,976 in 2023 and that the couple paid 23.7 per cent of their income in federal taxes. The US president released the data on the deadline date for Americans to file their taxes. The tax return for Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff were also released by the White House, showing that the couple made $450,299 last year. Also read: US President Biden gearing up to welcome Iraqi Prime Minister Taking a dig at Donald Trump, the White House said in a statement, “President Biden thinks that all occupants of the Oval Office should be open and honest with the American people and that the tradition of annually releasing presidential tax returns should continue unbroken.” It is worth mentioning that Trump declined to voluntarily release his tax returns while he was president, saying he was not able to do so while being audited by the Internal Revenue Service, even as the agency claimed he was free to release them. Biden and his wife earned four-fifths of their income from their jobs as US president and teacher at Northern Virginia Community College. Joe Biden drew a $400,000 wage, while Jill Biden earned $85,985 from her job teaching English at Northern Virginia Community College. Also read: US: Trump leads Biden by slim 1% margin in latest poll The additional income was drawn from interest on investments, pensions and a corporate entity that collects the couple's book royalties. Biden’s reported $20,477 worth of contributions to 17 different charities in 2023. They donated $5,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation, which is named after the president’s late son, and smaller amounts to other organisations, including the Fraternal Order of Police, a Wilmington fire station and St. Joseph on the Brandywine. The proportion of Joe Biden's income that went to federal taxes was roughly equal to the prior year. Biden plans to deliver a speech on tax policy from Pennsylvania on Tuesday that is expected to include a call for the wealthy to pay higher rates of taxes. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden and his wife earned nearly $620,000 in 2023, tax return shows

US President Joe Biden has welcomed Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shyaa Al Sudani to the White House. These are previously scheduled high level talks between the two leaders but the gravity of the meeting has increased markedly given the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Iran's missile and drone attack on Israel over the weekend. Watch in for more details!

US: President Joe Biden meets Iraqi PM Al-Sudani at White House

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Can Biden restrain Netanyahu - Israel: Will respond when time is right - IDF strikes Hezbollah in Lebanon - Two officers killed in New York shooting

India's wholesale inflation rises | US President Joe Biden set to host Iraqi PM

US President Joe Biden is facing backlash from MAGA Republicans following Iran's airstrike on Israel on Saturday (April 13). American President in his statement said that the US helped Israel take down "nearly all" of the the drones and missiles.

"Earlier today, Iran—and its proxies operating out of Yemen, Syria, and Iraq—launched an unprecedented air attack against military facilities in Israel. I condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms," Biden said.&nbsp;

"At my direction, to support the defense of Israel, the U.S. military moved aircraft and ballistic missile defense destroyers to the region over the course of the past week. Thanks to these deployments and the extraordinary skill of our servicemembers, we helped Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles," he added. President Biden has maintained strong support for Israel since the Middle Eastern nation's war with Hamas began.

<h2>MAGA Republicans' reaction to Iran's attack</h2>

Former President Donald Trump&nbsp;claimed on social media that Iran's strike would never have occurred if he were president. "The weakness that we've shown is unbelievable. It would not have happened if we were in office," Trump said. Republicans who support Trump also placed blame for Iran's attack on Biden.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Pres. Biden’s weak, ineffectual leadership led to this moment. Iran was emboldened to attack because Pres. Biden refused to stand up for our ally Israel. Texas stands with Israel and its people. Always. Our prayers are with Israel and our Jewish friends around the world."

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Pres. Biden’s weak, ineffectual leadership led to this moment. 
 
Iran was emboldened to attack because Pres. Biden refused to stand up for our ally Israel. 
 
Texas stands with Israel and its people. Always. 
 
Our prayers are with Israel and our Jewish friends around the world.
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) <a href="https://twitter.com/GregAbbott_TX/status/1779281779091775759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuid5ad77xm8jQUm" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="http://wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-us-to-stay-out-of-israeli-counter-strike-on-iran-joe-biden-tells-netanyahu-711229" target="_blank">West Asia crisis: US won’t be part of Israeli counter-strike on Iran, Joe Biden tells Netanyahu</a>

Texas Rep. Wesley Hunt wrote that the attack "would have NEVER happened under Trump."&nbsp;

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Emily and I are praying for the people of Israel as they defend themselves against the Islamo-Nazi regime in Tehran. 
 
This would have NEVER happened under Trump. 
 
America, Israel, and the world need strength at the helm now more than ever. 
 
Iran has been emboldened by…
— Wesley Hunt (@WesleyHuntTX) <a href="https://twitter.com/WesleyHuntTX/status/1779265776832197014?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote on X, "Biden gave Iran access to $10 BILLION after Hamas attacked Israel. Now Iran has launched an attack on Israel."

<h2>Why did Iran attack Israel?</h2>

Iran fired numerous drones and missiles toward Israel in reaction to an attack on an Iranian embassy in Damascus, Syria, that killed 12 people, including two senior Iranian generals. The attack, the first time Iran has conducted a direct military attack on Israel, occurred as regional tensions have reached their peak since the Israel-Hamas conflict began six months ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden is facing backlash from MAGA Republicans following Iran's airstrike on Israel on Saturday (April 13). American President in his statement said that the US helped Israel take down "nearly all" of the the drones and missiles.

US President Joe Biden is facing backlash from MAGA Republicans following Iran's airstrike on Israel on Saturday (April 13). American President in his statement said that the US helped Israel take down "nearly all" of the the drones and missiles. "Earlier today, Iran—and its proxies operating out of Yemen, Syria, and Iraq—launched an unprecedented air attack against military facilities in Israel. I condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms," Biden said. "At my direction, to support the defense of Israel, the U.S. military moved aircraft and ballistic missile defense destroyers to the region over the course of the past week. Thanks to these deployments and the extraordinary skill of our servicemembers, we helped Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles," he added. President Biden has maintained strong support for Israel since the Middle Eastern nation's war with Hamas began. MAGA Republicans' reaction to Iran's attack Former President Donald Trump claimed on social media that Iran's strike would never have occurred if he were president. "The weakness that we've shown is unbelievable. It would not have happened if we were in office," Trump said. Republicans who support Trump also placed blame for Iran's attack on Biden. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "Pres. Biden’s weak, ineffectual leadership led to this moment. Iran was emboldened to attack because Pres. Biden refused to stand up for our ally Israel. Texas stands with Israel and its people. Always. Our prayers are with Israel and our Jewish friends around the world." Pres. Biden’s weak, ineffectual leadership led to this moment. Iran was emboldened to attack because Pres. Biden refused to stand up for our ally Israel. Texas stands with Israel and its people. Always. Our prayers are with Israel and our Jewish friends around the world. — Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) April 13, 2024 × Also read: West Asia crisis: US won’t be part of Israeli counter-strike on Iran, Joe Biden tells Netanyahu Texas Rep. Wesley Hunt wrote that the attack "would have NEVER happened under Trump." Emily and I are praying for the people of Israel as they defend themselves against the Islamo-Nazi regime in Tehran. This would have NEVER happened under Trump. America, Israel, and the world need strength at the helm now more than ever. Iran has been emboldened by… — Wesley Hunt (@WesleyHuntTX) April 13, 2024 × Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote on X, "Biden gave Iran access to $10 BILLION after Hamas attacked Israel. Now Iran has launched an attack on Israel." Why did Iran attack Israel? Iran fired numerous drones and missiles toward Israel in reaction to an attack on an Iranian embassy in Damascus, Syria, that killed 12 people, including two senior Iranian generals. The attack, the first time Iran has conducted a direct military attack on Israel, occurred as regional tensions have reached their peak since the Israel-Hamas conflict began six months ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump and MAGA Republicans blame Joe Biden for Iran’s strikes on Israel

A judge in the US state of Delaware on Friday (Apr 12) declined to dismiss gun charges against President Joe Biden's son Hunter. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, US District Judge Maryellen Noreika in Wilmington ruled against Hunter's request to dismiss two counts of lying about the use of illegal narcotics when he purchased a Colt Cobra handgun in 2018 and a third count of illegally possessing that weapon.

A judge in the US state of Delaware on Friday (Apr 12) declined to dismiss gun charges against President Joe Biden's son Hunter. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, US District Judge Maryellen Noreika in Wilmington ruled against Hunter's request to dismiss two counts of lying about the use of illegal narcotics when he purchased a Colt Cobra handgun in 2018 and a third count of illegally possessing that weapon. The report said that the ruling cleared the way for a trial on the gun charges, tentatively scheduled to start in June in Wilmington. Hunter has pleaded not guilty. Hunter faces over 20 years of jail time if convicted The gun charges were brought by Special Counsel David Weiss in September last year. If convicted on the charges, Hunter faces more than 20 years in prison. Also read | State ballot certification clashes with DNC convention, will Biden be omitted from their Nov ballot? Judge Noreika, who was appointed to the bench by former President Donald Trump, has not yet ruled on a challenge to the constitutionality of the gun charges. 'Case is politically motivated' Hunter's lawyers argued that the case is politically motivated and asserted that an immunity provision from an original plea deal that fell apart still holds. The lawyers argued that the gun charges should be dismissed for a variety of reasons including that the law under which Hunter Biden was charged was likely unconstitutional after the US Supreme Court expanded gun rights in a 2022 ruling that set a tough new test to determine the legality of firearms restrictions. Also watch | Biden-led democrats shoulder poll campaign on abortion rights × The lawyers also pointed out that Special Counsel Weiss was not appropriately appointed, that Hunter was being selectively prosecuted, and that he had a binding agreement that shielded him from prosecution. (With inputs from agencies)

US judge declines to dismiss gun charges against President Joe Biden's son Hunter

United States President Joe Biden said on Friday (Apr 12) that he expected Iran to attack Israel "sooner, rather than later" and warned Tehran not to proceed, the news agency Reuters reported.

United States President Joe Biden said on Friday (Apr 12) that he expected Iran to attack Israel "sooner, rather than later" and warned Tehran not to proceed, the news agency Reuters reported. On being asked by reporters about his message to Iran, President Biden said, "Don't," and underlined Washington's commitment to defend Israel. "We are devoted to the defence of Israel. We will support Israel. We will help defend Israel and Iran will not succeed," he added. Hezbollah fires missiles towards Northern Israel Biden's remarks came as Iran-backed Hezbollah fired dozens of missiles towards Northern Israel. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), some 40 rockets were fired from Lebanon at northern Israel, some of which were intercepted, while others impacted open areas or fell short in Lebanon. There were no injuries in the attack. For the past few days, Israel has been bracing for an attack by Iran or its proxies as warnings grew of retaliation for an attack on Iran's embassy compound last week in Syria's Damascus that killed a senior commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps' overseas Quds Force and six other officers. Countries warn citizens against travel to Israel, Iran Several countries including India, France, Poland, and Russia have warned their citizens against travelling to Israel and Iran. Also read | Middle East crisis: List of countries that have issued advisory against travel to Israel, Palestine & Iran "In view of the prevailing situation in the region, all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice. All those who are currently residing in Iran or Israel are requested to get in touch with Indian Embassies there and register themselves," the Indian foreign ministry said in a statement on Friday. Travel advisory for Iran and Israel:https://t.co/OuHPVQfyVp pic.twitter.com/eDMRM771dC — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 12, 2024 × The French foreign ministry advised citizens to "refrain absolutely" from travelling to Iran, Lebanon, Israel, or the Palestinian territories in the coming days. Germany, meanwhile, asked its citizens to leave Iran, adding, "German citizens are at concrete risk of being arbitrarily arrested and interrogated and being given long prison sentences. Dual citizens with Iranian and German nationality are especially at risk." (With inputs from agencies)

West Asia crisis: US expects Iran to attack Israel soon, Biden warns Tehran not to proceed

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has paid more than one million to lawyers who represented United States President Joe Biden in the special counsel probe into his handling of classified documents, federal records showed.&nbsp;

This comes as Democrats, including those in the Biden administration, have previously lambasted former US President Donald Trump for using campaign funds to deal with his mounting legal fees.&nbsp;

<h2>What do the records show?</h2>

The DNC has paid around $1.5 million to a law firm and the US president’s personal attorney Bob Bauer since July, according to the filings with the Federal Election Commission.&nbsp;

As Biden and Trump are headed for a rematch in the upcoming presidential elections in November, the incumbent president has repeatedly criticised his predecessor for using donor funds to pay his legal fees.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-expects-iran-to-attack-israel-soon-biden-warns-tehran-not-to-proceed-710687">West Asia crisis: US expects Iran to attack Israel soon, Biden warns Tehran not to proceed</a>

The Republicans were quick to point at the financial records and call Democrats “corrupt” and hypocrites. “If these corrupt Democrats didn’t have HYPOCRISY, they’d have NOTHING!” the Republican National Committee said, in a post on X, on Friday (Apr 12).&nbsp;

However, the use of the party’s funds to cover Biden’s legal bills is not without precedent and falls within the bounds of campaign finance law.&nbsp;

The money for Biden’s legal team comes from the DNC’s legal account, which is primarily funded by major donors who have already met contribution limits, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of last year, the DNC paid nearly $905,000 to the firm Hemenway &amp; Barnes whose attorney, Jennifer Miller was identified in Hur’s final report as a “personal counsel” for the president.&nbsp;

It is also worth noting that while the national party had been paying the firm since 2020, the amount rose last year.&nbsp;

However, it is still far from the more than $100 million in donor money that the former president’s campaign has used to deal with his many legal woes as he faces 88 criminal charges in four separate indictments.&nbsp;

<h2>‘There’s no comparison’</h2>

The funds, according to the report by Axios, were used to pay lawyers or firms, including Bauber who represented Biden during the investigation by special counsel Robert Hur into his handling and retention of classified documents.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-willfully-retained-classified-documents-but-no-criminal-charges-warranted-special-counsel-688431">Biden 'willfully retained' classified documents, but no criminal charges warranted: Special counsel</a>

The US president had come under fire last year when his attorneys first acknowledged that he had been in possession of classified documents from when he served as the vice president in the Barack Obama administration from 2009 to 2017.

However, speaking about Biden’s legal fees, DNC spokesman Alex Floyd, said “There is no comparison.”&nbsp;

“The DNC does not spend a single penny of grassroots donors’ money on legal bills, unlike Donald Trump, who actively solicits legal fees from his supporters and has drawn down every bank account he can get his hands on like a personal piggy bank,” he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has paid more than one million to lawyers who represented United States President Joe Biden in the special counsel probe into his handling of classified documents, federal records showed.

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has paid more than one million to lawyers who represented United States President Joe Biden in the special counsel probe into his handling of classified documents, federal records showed. This comes as Democrats, including those in the Biden administration, have previously lambasted former US President Donald Trump for using campaign funds to deal with his mounting legal fees. What do the records show? The DNC has paid around $1.5 million to a law firm and the US president’s personal attorney Bob Bauer since July, according to the filings with the Federal Election Commission. As Biden and Trump are headed for a rematch in the upcoming presidential elections in November, the incumbent president has repeatedly criticised his predecessor for using donor funds to pay his legal fees. Also Read | West Asia crisis: US expects Iran to attack Israel soon, Biden warns Tehran not to proceed The Republicans were quick to point at the financial records and call Democrats “corrupt” and hypocrites. “If these corrupt Democrats didn’t have HYPOCRISY, they’d have NOTHING!” the Republican National Committee said, in a post on X, on Friday (Apr 12). However, the use of the party’s funds to cover Biden’s legal bills is not without precedent and falls within the bounds of campaign finance law. The money for Biden’s legal team comes from the DNC’s legal account, which is primarily funded by major donors who have already met contribution limits, reported the Associated Press. Since the beginning of last year, the DNC paid nearly $905,000 to the firm Hemenway & Barnes whose attorney, Jennifer Miller was identified in Hur’s final report as a “personal counsel” for the president. It is also worth noting that while the national party had been paying the firm since 2020, the amount rose last year. However, it is still far from the more than $100 million in donor money that the former president’s campaign has used to deal with his many legal woes as he faces 88 criminal charges in four separate indictments. ‘There’s no comparison’ The funds, according to the report by Axios, were used to pay lawyers or firms, including Bauber who represented Biden during the investigation by special counsel Robert Hur into his handling and retention of classified documents. Also Read | Biden 'willfully retained' classified documents, but no criminal charges warranted: Special counsel The US president had come under fire last year when his attorneys first acknowledged that he had been in possession of classified documents from when he served as the vice president in the Barack Obama administration from 2009 to 2017. However, speaking about Biden’s legal fees, DNC spokesman Alex Floyd, said “There is no comparison.” “The DNC does not spend a single penny of grassroots donors’ money on legal bills, unlike Donald Trump, who actively solicits legal fees from his supporters and has drawn down every bank account he can get his hands on like a personal piggy bank,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Democratic donors paid more than $1 million in legal fees for Biden’s classified documents probe

United States (US) President Joe Biden said on Thursday (Apr 11) that Washington's defence commitments to Japan and the Philippines were "ironclad" as he hosted Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

United States (US) President Joe Biden said on Thursday (Apr 11) that Washington's defence commitments to Japan and the Philippines were "ironclad" as he hosted Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. amid the two countries' territorial disputes with China. In a first-of-its-kind trilateral summit, Biden, Kishida, and Marcos Jr. unveiled a wide range of agreements to enhance security and economic ties. "United States defence commitments to Japan and to the Philippines are ironclad," Biden said. South China Sea tops summit agenda Topping the summit's agenda was China's increasing presence in the South China Sea, which has escalated despite a personal appeal by Biden to Chinese President Xi Jinping last year, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Also read | Support from 'indispensable' US vital for Ukraine's survival, Japan PM tells Congress The Philippines and China had several maritime run-ins in March that included the use of water cannons and heated verbal exchanges. These disputes centre on the Second Thomas Shoal, home to a small number of Filipino troops stationed on a warship that Manila grounded there in 1999 to reinforce its sovereignty claims. During Thursday's meeting, Biden affirmed that a 1950s-era mutual defence treaty binding Washington and Manila would require the US to respond to an armed attack on the Philippines in the South China Sea. Japan, meanwhile, has a dispute with China over islands in the East China Sea. Deals struck on defence, AI, space During the summit, deals were struck in the areas of defence, artificial intelligence (AI), space, and other areas. The US and Japan announced plans to upgrade their military alliance, and Biden's meeting with Kishida addressed Japan's possible involvement in advanced capabilities projects of the AUKUS security pact. Also watch | US-Japan forge new deals and partnership eyeing Indo-Pacific tensions × On Tuesday, American software giant Microsoft announced it would invest $2.9 billion over two years to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure in Japan. In the space sector, Japan is hoping to land its first astronaut on the moon with the US Artemis project. The US and Japan also signalled support for a plan to build the first high-speed rail in the US using Japanese bullet trains. Meanwhile, the US would place undisclosed "humanitarian relief commodities" at Philippine military bases. Facebook parent Meta has invested in a submarine cable system that would connect the US with the Philippines. Biden's Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment backed a new Luzon corridor effort in the Philippines, aimed at infrastructure projects including ports, rail, clean energy and semiconductor supply chains. (With inputs from agencies)

US defence commitments to Japan and Philippines are 'ironclad': President Joe Biden

In a bid to woo the young generation in the upcoming elections, United States President Joe Biden's administration has announced to cancel $7.4 billion more in student loans.

In order to ease the&nbsp;students off the debt, the White House will be reaching out to 277,000 borrowers via email on Friday (April 12) to let them know their debts are being forgiven.

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said during a call with reporters, the administration's purpose is to provide relief and highlighted the potential benefits of making higher education more accessible to all Americans.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-plans-to-cancel-student-loans-heres-what-it-holds-for-25-mn-americans-709262">&nbsp;Biden plans to cancel student loan debts. Here's what it means for 25mn Americans</a>

The Biden administration has been keeping the public informed as it progresses with its debt relief efforts. With this latest announcement, President Biden has now approved a total of $153 billion in loan forgiveness for nearly 4.3 million individuals.

The majority of the newly forgiven loans will benefit 206,800 borrowers enrolled in Biden's Save repayment plan. This plan links monthly loan payments to income and family size, allowing borrowers who borrowed less than $12,000 to have their debts cleared after 10 years of payments, rather than the typical 20 to 25 years under other repayment plans.

Additionally, 65,700 borrowers who have been repaying their loans for over 20 or 25 years will have their balances cancelled through a temporary waiver of the rules governing income-driven repayment plans. This adjustment, introduced two years ago, aims to address inconsistencies in how loan servicers have handled and tracked payments.

The remaining 4,600 borrowers set to have their debts cancelled are public servants benefiting from the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. This program erases the balances of individuals who spend a decade repaying their loans while working for the government or a nonprofit organisation.

<h2>Who will benefit from Biden's new proposal?&nbsp;</h2>

The new proposal of Biden will offer cancellation of loans to five categories of borrowers.&nbsp;

According to the proposal, the student loan of those borrowers whose debt has grown due to unpaid interest will be cancelled.

The government will cancel around $20,000 in interest for Americans who currently owe&nbsp;way more than what they had borrowed originally.&nbsp;

However, this cap will not be applicable to individuals who earn less than $120,000 every year or couples whose income is less than $240,000 and have enrolled themselves in an income-driven repayment plan.

According to the Education Department, 25 million people will be eligible for that relief, which includes 23 million whose interest will be completely erased.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/biden-administration-to-grant-samsung-a-66-bn-subsidy-for-texas-chip-expansion-709238">Biden administration to grant Samsung a $6.6 bn subsidy for Texas chip expansion</a>

In the new proposal, the loans will also get cancelled for the borrowers who are eligible for different federal forgiveness programmes but have not applied. It is also applicable to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness programme and income-driven repayment plans.

The debt of the borrowers, who have been repaying undergraduate loans for 20 years or more, will be cancelled. Those who have been paying graduate school debt for the last 25 years will also get relief as per the proposal.&nbsp;

The Biden administration has claimed to cancel the loans of more than two million people.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to woo the young generation in the upcoming elections, United States President Joe Biden's administration has announced to cancel $7.4 billion more in student loans.

In a bid to woo the young generation in the upcoming elections, United States President Joe Biden's administration has announced to cancel $7.4 billion more in student loans. In order to ease the students off the debt, the White House will be reaching out to 277,000 borrowers via email on Friday (April 12) to let them know their debts are being forgiven. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said during a call with reporters, the administration's purpose is to provide relief and highlighted the potential benefits of making higher education more accessible to all Americans. Also read: Biden plans to cancel student loan debts. Here's what it means for 25mn Americans The Biden administration has been keeping the public informed as it progresses with its debt relief efforts. With this latest announcement, President Biden has now approved a total of $153 billion in loan forgiveness for nearly 4.3 million individuals. The majority of the newly forgiven loans will benefit 206,800 borrowers enrolled in Biden's Save repayment plan. This plan links monthly loan payments to income and family size, allowing borrowers who borrowed less than $12,000 to have their debts cleared after 10 years of payments, rather than the typical 20 to 25 years under other repayment plans. Additionally, 65,700 borrowers who have been repaying their loans for over 20 or 25 years will have their balances cancelled through a temporary waiver of the rules governing income-driven repayment plans. This adjustment, introduced two years ago, aims to address inconsistencies in how loan servicers have handled and tracked payments. The remaining 4,600 borrowers set to have their debts cancelled are public servants benefiting from the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. This program erases the balances of individuals who spend a decade repaying their loans while working for the government or a nonprofit organisation. Who will benefit from Biden's new proposal? The new proposal of Biden will offer cancellation of loans to five categories of borrowers. According to the proposal, the student loan of those borrowers whose debt has grown due to unpaid interest will be cancelled. The government will cancel around $20,000 in interest for Americans who currently owe way more than what they had borrowed originally. However, this cap will not be applicable to individuals who earn less than $120,000 every year or couples whose income is less than $240,000 and have enrolled themselves in an income-driven repayment plan. According to the Education Department, 25 million people will be eligible for that relief, which includes 23 million whose interest will be completely erased. Also Read: Biden administration to grant Samsung a $6.6 bn subsidy for Texas chip expansion In the new proposal, the loans will also get cancelled for the borrowers who are eligible for different federal forgiveness programmes but have not applied. It is also applicable to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness programme and income-driven repayment plans. The debt of the borrowers, who have been repaying undergraduate loans for 20 years or more, will be cancelled. Those who have been paying graduate school debt for the last 25 years will also get relief as per the proposal. The Biden administration has claimed to cancel the loans of more than two million people. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden administration forgives an additional $7.4 billion in student loans

Joe Biden and Fumio Kishida unveil plans for military cooperation and projects ranging from missiles to moon landings. The United States and Japan are strengthening their alliance with an eye on countering China and Russia.

Biden, Kishida, honor 'unbreakable alliance' between the US and Japan

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida touted increased joint military cooperation and a new missile defence system on Wednesday, strengthening their alliance with an eye on aggressive actions by China and Russia.

"This is the most significant upgrade in our alliance since it was first established," Biden said at a joint White House news conference with Kishida, after about two hours of talks that focused on the restive Indo-Pacific region, Ukraine and the Gaza conflict.

Kishida said the two leaders also discussed tense relations between Taiwan and China, and pledged to uphold international order based on the rule of law.

“Unilateral attempts to change status quo by force or coercion is absolutely unacceptable, wherever it may be,” Kishida said. The US&nbsp;and Japan will continue to respond to such actions, including challenges from China, he said.

WATCH |&nbsp;Japan PM Fumio Kishida arrives in Washington, set to address US Congress

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“Regarding Russia’s aggression of Ukraine... Ukraine today may be East Asia tomorrow,” Kishida said.

The announcements from Biden and Kishida brought the two old World War II enemies into the closest collaboration they have had since they became allies decades ago.

Biden said their militaries will cooperate with a joint command structure and they will, together with Australia, develop a new air missile defence network. The two leaders also announced that Japanese astronauts will participate in NASA moon missions.

Japan, often described as the US's most important Asia ally and its largest source of foreign direct investment, is taking on a stepped-up global role after a series of security law changes in the past decade that have transformed its pacifist constitution.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-visit-beijing-soon-lavrovs-china-visit-lays-groundwork-as-two-countries-defy-west-709744">Putin to visit Beijing soon? Lavrov's China visit lays groundwork as the two countries defy West</a>

Kishida will address the US&nbsp;Congress on Thursday and join Biden and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr&nbsp;for a meeting expected to focus on Beijing's South China Sea incursions.

<h2>SOUTH CHINA SEA INCURSIONS</h2>

Overall, the US&nbsp;and Japan have hammered out about 70 agreements on defence cooperation, including moves to upgrade the US&nbsp;military command structure in Japan to make it better able to work with Japanese forces in a crisis.

The meeting comes as China steps up pressure on the Philippines in the South China Sea over area Beijing claims but international law says belongs to the Philippines.

China is attempting to isolate Japan and the Philippines, a US&nbsp;official said. By meeting the leaders of those two nations this week in Washington, Biden is aiming to "flip the script and isolate China."

Fitch cut its outlook on China's sovereign credit rating to negative on Wednesday, citing risks to public finances as the economy faces increasing uncertainty in its shift to new growth models.

On Thursday, Biden will hold a bilateral meeting with Marcos, whom he welcomed in Washington just last year before the two join Kishida for a trilateral summit.

The visit may give a political boost to Kishida, whose popularity has waned at home. He is being greeted with great fanfare, with Japanese flags on display throughout Washington.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fumio-kishida-begins-us-state-visit-as-bidens-welcome-japan-pm-in-white-house-709706">Fumio Kishida begins US state visit as the Bidens welcome Japan PM to White House</a>

The two leaders were to attend a lavish state dinner in the White House on Wednesday. Biden and his wife Jill took Kishida and his wife Yuko to a private dinner at a local restaurant on Tuesday night.

Overshadowing the visit is a controversy over the planned $15 billion acquisition of American steel maker US&nbsp;Steel by Japan's Nippon Steel, a deal some say is "on life support" after criticism by Biden and former President Donald Trump, his rival in November's US&nbsp;election.

Kishida, asked about the deal, said he hoped discussions about it would bear fruit.

"We wish to cement this win-win relationship," he said.

Biden said he stood by his commitment to union workers on the issue.

Also looming are Japanese concerns that if Trump wins a second term he might seek a deal with China that could destabilise the region.

US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida touted increased joint military cooperation and a new missile defence system on Wednesday, strengthening their alliance with an eye on aggressive actions by China and Russia.

US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida touted increased joint military cooperation and a new missile defence system on Wednesday, strengthening their alliance with an eye on aggressive actions by China and Russia. "This is the most significant upgrade in our alliance since it was first established," Biden said at a joint White House news conference with Kishida, after about two hours of talks that focused on the restive Indo-Pacific region, Ukraine and the Gaza conflict. Kishida said the two leaders also discussed tense relations between Taiwan and China, and pledged to uphold international order based on the rule of law. “Unilateral attempts to change status quo by force or coercion is absolutely unacceptable, wherever it may be,” Kishida said. The US and Japan will continue to respond to such actions, including challenges from China, he said. WATCH | Japan PM Fumio Kishida arrives in Washington, set to address US Congress “Regarding Russia’s aggression of Ukraine... Ukraine today may be East Asia tomorrow,” Kishida said. The announcements from Biden and Kishida brought the two old World War II enemies into the closest collaboration they have had since they became allies decades ago. Biden said their militaries will cooperate with a joint command structure and they will, together with Australia, develop a new air missile defence network. The two leaders also announced that Japanese astronauts will participate in NASA moon missions. Japan, often described as the US's most important Asia ally and its largest source of foreign direct investment, is taking on a stepped-up global role after a series of security law changes in the past decade that have transformed its pacifist constitution. Also Read | Putin to visit Beijing soon? Lavrov's China visit lays groundwork as the two countries defy West Kishida will address the US Congress on Thursday and join Biden and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr for a meeting expected to focus on Beijing's South China Sea incursions. SOUTH CHINA SEA INCURSIONS Overall, the US and Japan have hammered out about 70 agreements on defence cooperation, including moves to upgrade the US military command structure in Japan to make it better able to work with Japanese forces in a crisis. The meeting comes as China steps up pressure on the Philippines in the South China Sea over area Beijing claims but international law says belongs to the Philippines. China is attempting to isolate Japan and the Philippines, a US official said. By meeting the leaders of those two nations this week in Washington, Biden is aiming to "flip the script and isolate China." Fitch cut its outlook on China's sovereign credit rating to negative on Wednesday, citing risks to public finances as the economy faces increasing uncertainty in its shift to new growth models. On Thursday, Biden will hold a bilateral meeting with Marcos, whom he welcomed in Washington just last year before the two join Kishida for a trilateral summit. The visit may give a political boost to Kishida, whose popularity has waned at home. He is being greeted with great fanfare, with Japanese flags on display throughout Washington. Also Read | Fumio Kishida begins US state visit as the Bidens welcome Japan PM to White House The two leaders were to attend a lavish state dinner in the White House on Wednesday. Biden and his wife Jill took Kishida and his wife Yuko to a private dinner at a local restaurant on Tuesday night. Overshadowing the visit is a controversy over the planned $15 billion acquisition of American steel maker US Steel by Japan's Nippon Steel, a deal some say is "on life support" after criticism by Biden and former President Donald Trump, his rival in November's US election. Kishida, asked about the deal, said he hoped discussions about it would bear fruit. "We wish to cement this win-win relationship," he said. Biden said he stood by his commitment to union workers on the issue. Also looming are Japanese concerns that if Trump wins a second term he might seek a deal with China that could destabilise the region.

US President Biden, Japan's PM Kishida pledge united front against China

During Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s official visit to Washington, the US and Japan announced joint agreements on a plethora of similar interests, including defence and tech, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, semiconductors and space exploration.&nbsp;

Within the space realm, one of the biggest announcements that came from the White House on Wednesday was the collaboration of Japan and the US on future moon missions, with one Japanese astronaut being part of the Artemis mission to become the first non-American to land on the Moon.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ntsb-expands-boeing-probe-following-alaska-airlines-737-max-9-emergency-710040">NTSB expands Boeing probe following Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 emergency</a>

During a meeting between the two state leaders, Biden said, “Those ties stretch up to the Moon, where two Japanese astronauts will join future American missions, and one will become the first non-American ever to land on the moon.”

NASA administrator Bill Nelson and Japan’s Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) Masahito Moriyama signed an agreement on April 9 to advance sustainable human exploration of the Moon, among many other announcements.&nbsp;

<h2>Japanese rover to support astronauts on Moon</h2>

Japan will design, develop and operate a pressurised rover for crewed and uncrewed exploration on the Moon. The pressurised lunar rover enables astronauts to travel farther and work for longer periods on the lunar surface.&nbsp;

The lunar rover will be capable of conducting science in geographically diverse areas by serving as a mobile laboratory for the astronauts to live and work for extended periods. It will also be able to accommodate two astronauts for up to 30 days as they travel the areas near the lunar south pole.&nbsp;

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Diplomacy is good for discovery, and discovery is good for diplomacy. 
 
What better representation of the power of partnership than <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NASA</a>'s new agreement with Japan. 
 
Thanks to the new pressurized rover, we will explore the Moon like never before. <a href="https://t.co/u1kNfN2yp0">pic.twitter.com/u1kNfN2yp0</a>
— Bill Nelson (@SenBillNelson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenBillNelson/status/1778166126070956312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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NASA has expressed its desire to use the Japanese rover on Artemis VII and subsequent missions over an approximate 10-year lifespan.&nbsp;

<h2>Japanese astronaut on Moon and more&nbsp;</h2>

During a meeting between Biden and Kishida, they announced that a Japanese astronaut will join US counterparts on a future Artemis mission.

“A shared goal for a Japanese national to be the first non-American astronaut to land on the Moon on a future Artemis mission, assuming important benchmarks are achieved,” said Biden.&nbsp;

In addition to lunar surface exploration, the US will also engage with Japan for its future participation in NASA’s Dragonfly mission and the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-releases-new-images-showing-wreckage-of-baltimore-bridge-underwater-710043">US Navy releases new images showing wreckage of Baltimore bridge underwater</a>

The two countries also intend to collaborate on JAXA’s Next-generation Solar-observing Satellite, SOLAR-C, which will investigate the mysteries of solar atmospheres by conducting observations of ultraviolet radiation from the Sun.

NASA is also planning to collaborate with JAXA under the Gateway Implementing Arrangement. As per the agreement signed in 2022, a Japanese astronaut will serve as a Gateway crew member on a future Artemis mission and Japan will provide Gateway’s environmental control and life support systems and cargo transportation.

(With inputs from agencies)

During Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s official visit to Washington, the US and Japan announced joint agreements on a plethora of similar interests, including defence and tech, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, semiconductors and space exploration.

During Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s official visit to Washington, the US and Japan announced joint agreements on a plethora of similar interests, including defence and tech, artificial intelligence, quantum technology, semiconductors and space exploration. Within the space realm, one of the biggest announcements that came from the White House on Wednesday was the collaboration of Japan and the US on future moon missions, with one Japanese astronaut being part of the Artemis mission to become the first non-American to land on the Moon. Also Read | NTSB expands Boeing probe following Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 emergency During a meeting between the two state leaders, Biden said, “Those ties stretch up to the Moon, where two Japanese astronauts will join future American missions, and one will become the first non-American ever to land on the moon.” NASA administrator Bill Nelson and Japan’s Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) Masahito Moriyama signed an agreement on April 9 to advance sustainable human exploration of the Moon, among many other announcements. Japanese rover to support astronauts on Moon Japan will design, develop and operate a pressurised rover for crewed and uncrewed exploration on the Moon. The pressurised lunar rover enables astronauts to travel farther and work for longer periods on the lunar surface. The lunar rover will be capable of conducting science in geographically diverse areas by serving as a mobile laboratory for the astronauts to live and work for extended periods. It will also be able to accommodate two astronauts for up to 30 days as they travel the areas near the lunar south pole. Diplomacy is good for discovery, and discovery is good for diplomacy. What better representation of the power of partnership than @NASA's new agreement with Japan. Thanks to the new pressurized rover, we will explore the Moon like never before. pic.twitter.com/u1kNfN2yp0 — Bill Nelson (@SenBillNelson) April 10, 2024 × NASA has expressed its desire to use the Japanese rover on Artemis VII and subsequent missions over an approximate 10-year lifespan. Japanese astronaut on Moon and more During a meeting between Biden and Kishida, they announced that a Japanese astronaut will join US counterparts on a future Artemis mission. “A shared goal for a Japanese national to be the first non-American astronaut to land on the Moon on a future Artemis mission, assuming important benchmarks are achieved,” said Biden. In addition to lunar surface exploration, the US will also engage with Japan for its future participation in NASA’s Dragonfly mission and the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. Also Read | US Navy releases new images showing wreckage of Baltimore bridge underwater The two countries also intend to collaborate on JAXA’s Next-generation Solar-observing Satellite, SOLAR-C, which will investigate the mysteries of solar atmospheres by conducting observations of ultraviolet radiation from the Sun. NASA is also planning to collaborate with JAXA under the Gateway Implementing Arrangement. As per the agreement signed in 2022, a Japanese astronaut will serve as a Gateway crew member on a future Artemis mission and Japan will provide Gateway’s environmental control and life support systems and cargo transportation. (With inputs from agencies)

Rover and first Japanese astronaut on Moon: US, Japan announce historic space collaboration

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: US President Joe Biden and Japan's prime minister have vowed to strengthen defence co-operation in the face of a potential threat from China.

Biden: US-Japan alliance stronger than ever | Kishida's state dinner at the White House

US President Joe Biden laid out the red carpet for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's state visit to the United States as the Democratic leader hailed the Washington-Tokyo ties as "stronger than it's ever been". A swanky state dinner astonished Washington's corridors of power as the two of India's Quad partners discussed the Indo-Pacific with veiled references to China's expansionist belligerence in the region.&nbsp;

Tokyo and Washington inked a total of 17 pacts during this state visit, making it the most significant bilateral for Biden in an election year.&nbsp;

"We have been brought together with the same hopes, the same values, the same commitment to democracy and freedom and to dignity, dignity for all. And today without question, our alliance is literally stronger than it has ever been," Biden said during the dinner.&nbsp;

The state dinner was attended by the likes of Jamie Dimon, Apple top executive Tim Cook and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.&nbsp;

<h2>A swanky dinner and cherry blossoms underline Japan-US ties</h2>

Dry-aged rib eye steak, cherry blossoms and a special ensemble of songs played by Paul Simon. That's what defined the swanky dinner that Biden hosted for Kishida to underline the Washington-Tokyo ties that Biden described were at an "inflection point".

"Tonight, we pledge to keep going. We stand at an inflection point where the decisions we make now are going to determine the course of the future for decades to come," Biden added.&nbsp;

With Japan undergoing a significant flux in its defence posture, its partnership with the United States has attained a significance that is different from the ties it has shared with the world's biggest economy in past decades.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-japan-australia-and-philippines-hold-drills-708728">US, Japan, Australia and Philippines hold drills</a>

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Over 70 items covering a wide array of critical sectors were announced. This included a purported commitment to changing the US force structure in Japan with a simultaneous assurance to Kishida that the establishment of a "military-industrial council" remained a top priority for the two countries.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-quad-bill-what-does-it-mean-for-india-690743">US House passes Quad bill: What does it mean for India?</a>

"Together, we made it closer, stronger and more effective than ever before in history."

Japan has also committed to giving 250 new cherry blossom trees to honour the US's 250th birthday in 2026.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden laid out the red carpet for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's state visit to the United States as the Democratic leader hailed the Washington-Tokyo ties as "stronger than it's ever been".

US President Joe Biden laid out the red carpet for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's state visit to the United States as the Democratic leader hailed the Washington-Tokyo ties as "stronger than it's ever been". A swanky state dinner astonished Washington's corridors of power as the two of India's Quad partners discussed the Indo-Pacific with veiled references to China's expansionist belligerence in the region. Tokyo and Washington inked a total of 17 pacts during this state visit, making it the most significant bilateral for Biden in an election year. "We have been brought together with the same hopes, the same values, the same commitment to democracy and freedom and to dignity, dignity for all. And today without question, our alliance is literally stronger than it has ever been," Biden said during the dinner. The state dinner was attended by the likes of Jamie Dimon, Apple top executive Tim Cook and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. A swanky dinner and cherry blossoms underline Japan-US ties Dry-aged rib eye steak, cherry blossoms and a special ensemble of songs played by Paul Simon. That's what defined the swanky dinner that Biden hosted for Kishida to underline the Washington-Tokyo ties that Biden described were at an "inflection point". "Tonight, we pledge to keep going. We stand at an inflection point where the decisions we make now are going to determine the course of the future for decades to come," Biden added. With Japan undergoing a significant flux in its defence posture, its partnership with the United States has attained a significance that is different from the ties it has shared with the world's biggest economy in past decades. Also watch | US, Japan, Australia and Philippines hold drills × Over 70 items covering a wide array of critical sectors were announced. This included a purported commitment to changing the US force structure in Japan with a simultaneous assurance to Kishida that the establishment of a "military-industrial council" remained a top priority for the two countries. Also read | US House passes Quad bill: What does it mean for India? "Together, we made it closer, stronger and more effective than ever before in history." Japan has also committed to giving 250 new cherry blossom trees to honour the US's 250th birthday in 2026. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden-Kishida meet: Cherry blossoms, defence pacts highlights of grand state visit

US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign has blamed Republican rival Donald Trump for Arizona's revival of the 160-year-old near-complete&nbsp;abortion ban.

In a statement on Tuesday (Apr 9), Biden's running mate Vice President Kamala Harris said: "Arizona just rolled back the clock to a time before women could vote–and, by his own admission, there’s one person responsible: Donald Trump."

<h2>'Proudly' responsible&nbsp;</h2>

On Tuesday, Arizona's Supreme Court revived a law dating back to 1864 that bans abortion in virtually all instances. This damning ban came just a day after Trump in a video proclaimed that he was "proudly the person responsible" for the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 ruling that enshrined abortion rights in the US for nearly five decades.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arizonas-top-court-revives-1864-law-which-criminalises-nearly-all-abortions-709576">Arizona’s top court revives 1864 law which bans nearly all abortions</a>

Also in the video, Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential candidate, said individual states should be able to choose their own abortion restrictions.

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Democrats have blamed Trump for the ban in Arizona that could shutter abortion clinics in the state.

In a statement, Biden said the "ruling is a result of the extreme agenda of Republican elected officials who are committed to ripping away women's freedom."

His campaign spokesperson Brooke Goren in a statement said,&nbsp;"It's alarming and will send shockwaves throughout this crucial swing state and the country."

<h2>Is Trump actually to blame for Arizona's abortion ban?</h2>

As per USA Today, the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization that overturned Roe v. Wade— which Trump himself took credit for — was cited in the recent Arizona Supreme Court ruling 22 times.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michigan-school-shooting-parents-of-teenage-gunman-sentenced-to-10-15-years-in-prison-709571">Michigan school shooting: Parents of teenage gunman sentenced to 10-15 years in prison</a>

The 1854 law hands two to five years in prison to anyone aiding an abortion, the only exception being when the life of the mother is at stake.

As per White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, 21 states have adopted abortion bans. These bans, she said, affect one-third of all American women of reproductive age.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign has blamed Republican rival Donald Trump for Arizona's revival of the 160-year-old near-complete abortion ban. In a statement on Tuesday (Apr 9), Biden's running mate Vice President Kamala Harris said: "Arizona just rolled back the clock to a time before women could vote–and, by his own admission, there’s one person responsible: Donald Trump.

US President Joe Biden's re-election campaign has blamed Republican rival Donald Trump for Arizona's revival of the 160-year-old near-complete abortion ban. In a statement on Tuesday (Apr 9), Biden's running mate Vice President Kamala Harris said: "Arizona just rolled back the clock to a time before women could vote–and, by his own admission, there’s one person responsible: Donald Trump." 'Proudly' responsible On Tuesday, Arizona's Supreme Court revived a law dating back to 1864 that bans abortion in virtually all instances. This damning ban came just a day after Trump in a video proclaimed that he was "proudly the person responsible" for the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 ruling that enshrined abortion rights in the US for nearly five decades. Also read | Arizona’s top court revives 1864 law which bans nearly all abortions Also in the video, Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential candidate, said individual states should be able to choose their own abortion restrictions. × Democrats have blamed Trump for the ban in Arizona that could shutter abortion clinics in the state. In a statement, Biden said the "ruling is a result of the extreme agenda of Republican elected officials who are committed to ripping away women's freedom." His campaign spokesperson Brooke Goren in a statement said, "It's alarming and will send shockwaves throughout this crucial swing state and the country." Is Trump actually to blame for Arizona's abortion ban? As per USA Today, the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization that overturned Roe v. Wade— which Trump himself took credit for — was cited in the recent Arizona Supreme Court ruling 22 times. Also read | Michigan school shooting: Parents of teenage gunman sentenced to 10-15 years in prison The 1854 law hands two to five years in prison to anyone aiding an abortion, the only exception being when the life of the mother is at stake. As per White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, 21 states have adopted abortion bans. These bans, she said, affect one-third of all American women of reproductive age. (With inputs from agencies)

'It's alarming': Biden campaign blames Trump for Arizona's near-total ban on abortion

United States President Joe Biden has urged Israel to declare a 'unilateral ceasefire' for at least six to eight weeks and said that&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy in the war is&nbsp;a mistake.

The statement of Biden appeared to be nullifying the stance of the administration that a truce in Gaza is only possible if Hamas agrees to release some of the hostages, who have still been kept in the Gaza Strip.

“What I’m calling for is for the Israelis to just call for a ceasefire, allow for the next six, eight weeks, total access to all food and medicine going into the country,” said Biden, in an interview with Univision, a US Spanish-language TV network.

“I’ve spoken with everyone from the Saudis to the Jordanians to the Egyptians. They’re prepared to move in. They’re prepared to move this food in. And I think there’s no excuse to not provide for the medical and food needs of those people. It should be done now,” the president added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-buy-40000-tents-for-evacuating-palestinians-from-rafah-before-launching-ground-offensive-report-709472">Israel to buy 40,000 tents for evacuating Palestinians from Rafah before launching ground offensive: Report</a>

Meanwhile speaking about Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's strategy in war with Hamas, Biden said, “I think what he’s doing is a mistake… I don’t agree with his approach.”

<h2>White House says no shift in US administration's policy</h2>

Reacting to Biden's appeal to call for a unilateral ceasefire, the White House clarified that the president's statements do not hint at any shift in the US administration's policy.

A White House official said that Biden was speaking about the truce which is being currently&nbsp;negotiated by his administration and would see the release of some 40 hostages over a six-to-eight-week period.

“There is no change in our position. The president was reiterating our longstanding position: we are calling for an immediate ceasefire that would last for at least six weeks as part of a hostage deal,” said the official.

“His quote [to Univision] makes that clear. This is in line with what he said at the State of the Union, and that we’ve repeatedly said,” added the senior White House official.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Israel preparing to target Iran's nuclear facilities?

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Hours before Biden's interview was aired, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had blamed Hamas for delaying a deal.

“There could be a ceasefire in place today that would extend for several weeks to be built upon longer if Hamas would be prepared to release some of those people, so let’s train the attention where it belongs… I believe Israel is ready and Hamas should step up to the table and be prepared to do so as well,” said Sullivan.

Hamas “has an opportunity now to agree to the proposal on a ceasefire and hostages. The ball is in Hamas’s court. The world is watching to see what it does,” said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden has urged Israel to declare a 'unilateral ceasefire' for at least six to eight weeks and said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy in the war is a mistake.

United States President Joe Biden has urged Israel to declare a 'unilateral ceasefire' for at least six to eight weeks and said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy in the war is a mistake. The statement of Biden appeared to be nullifying the stance of the administration that a truce in Gaza is only possible if Hamas agrees to release some of the hostages, who have still been kept in the Gaza Strip. “What I’m calling for is for the Israelis to just call for a ceasefire, allow for the next six, eight weeks, total access to all food and medicine going into the country,” said Biden, in an interview with Univision, a US Spanish-language TV network. “I’ve spoken with everyone from the Saudis to the Jordanians to the Egyptians. They’re prepared to move in. They’re prepared to move this food in. And I think there’s no excuse to not provide for the medical and food needs of those people. It should be done now,” the president added. Also Read: Israel to buy 40,000 tents for evacuating Palestinians from Rafah before launching ground offensive: Report Meanwhile speaking about Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's strategy in war with Hamas, Biden said, “I think what he’s doing is a mistake… I don’t agree with his approach.” White House says no shift in US administration's policy Reacting to Biden's appeal to call for a unilateral ceasefire, the White House clarified that the president's statements do not hint at any shift in the US administration's policy. A White House official said that Biden was speaking about the truce which is being currently negotiated by his administration and would see the release of some 40 hostages over a six-to-eight-week period. “There is no change in our position. The president was reiterating our longstanding position: we are calling for an immediate ceasefire that would last for at least six weeks as part of a hostage deal,” said the official. “His quote [to Univision] makes that clear. This is in line with what he said at the State of the Union, and that we’ve repeatedly said,” added the senior White House official. Watch: Gravitas: Is Israel preparing to target Iran's nuclear facilities? Hours before Biden's interview was aired, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan had blamed Hamas for delaying a deal. “There could be a ceasefire in place today that would extend for several weeks to be built upon longer if Hamas would be prepared to release some of those people, so let’s train the attention where it belongs… I believe Israel is ready and Hamas should step up to the table and be prepared to do so as well,” said Sullivan. Hamas “has an opportunity now to agree to the proposal on a ceasefire and hostages. The ball is in Hamas’s court. The world is watching to see what it does,” said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden calls for 'unilateral ceasefire' by Israel in Gaza, says Netanyahu making 'a mistake'

Aimee Harris, a Florida mother, has been sentenced to a month in prison and three months of home confinement for stealing and selling US President Joe Biden's daughter, Ashley Biden's, diary to the conservative group Project Veritas.

Calling Harris' actions "despicable," Judge Laura Taylor Swain delivered the ruling in Manhattan federal court on Tuesday (Apr 9).&nbsp;

<h2>How much did she sell Ashley Biden's diary for?</h2>

As per the South China Morning Post, Harris pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge in August 2022. She admitted to receiving $20,000 of the $40,000 from Project Veritas for personal items belonging to Ashley Biden.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/people-using-cannabis-vapes-in-uk-at-risk-from-zombie-drug-warn-experts-709737">People using cannabis vapes in UK at risk from 'zombie' drug, warn experts</a>

Project Veritas, a self-described news organisation, as per the report, is known for its undercover, hidden camera stings that have embarrassed news outlets, labour organisations, and Democratic politicians.

<h2>Harris apologises to Biden's daughter</h2>

In a tearful and remorseful statement, Harris expressed regret for her role in making Ashley Biden's private writings public.&nbsp;

She reportedly found the diary and other items at a friend's home in Delray Beach, Florida, in 2020 and made a "grave error in judgment" by selling them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-oldest-human-is-124-years-old-and-currently-lives-in-peru-claims-peruvian-authorities-709735">World's oldest human is 124 years old and currently lives in Peru, claim Peruvian authorities</a>

Harris told the judge she was "a survivor of long-term domestic abuse and sexual trauma."

The mother of two children aged six and eight said she did not "believe I am above the law," after a prosecutor pushed for a prison sentence because Harris failed to appear at many sentencing dates.

Her lawyer also highlighted her difficult life circumstances, including surviving long-term domestic abuse and sexual trauma, and her efforts to care for her two young children.

"She carries the shame and stigma of her actions," Defence lawyer Anthony Cecutti urging no prison time.

However, Assistant US Attorney Robert Sobelman argued that Harris's actions demonstrated a "pattern of disrespect for the law and the justice system."

"Ms Biden is the victim in this case," he said, adding "She wanted to damage Ms Biden's father".

In her sentencing, Judge Swain noted that Harris and a co-defendant, Robert Kurlander, had attempted unsuccessfully to sell Ashley Biden’s belongings to then-President Donald Trump’s 2020 presidential campaign before selling them to Project Veritas.&nbsp;

She described Harris's actions as motivated by greed and a desire to influence the nation's political landscape.

(With inputs from agencies)

Aimee Harris, a Florida mother, has been sentenced to a month in prison and three months of home confinement for stealing and selling US President Joe Biden's daughter, Ashley Biden's, diary to the conservative group Project Veritas.

Aimee Harris, a Florida mother, has been sentenced to a month in prison and three months of home confinement for stealing and selling US President Joe Biden's daughter, Ashley Biden's, diary to the conservative group Project Veritas. Calling Harris' actions "despicable," Judge Laura Taylor Swain delivered the ruling in Manhattan federal court on Tuesday (Apr 9). How much did she sell Ashley Biden's diary for? As per the South China Morning Post, Harris pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge in August 2022. She admitted to receiving $20,000 of the $40,000 from Project Veritas for personal items belonging to Ashley Biden. Also read | People using cannabis vapes in UK at risk from 'zombie' drug, warn experts Project Veritas, a self-described news organisation, as per the report, is known for its undercover, hidden camera stings that have embarrassed news outlets, labour organisations, and Democratic politicians. Harris apologises to Biden's daughter In a tearful and remorseful statement, Harris expressed regret for her role in making Ashley Biden's private writings public. She reportedly found the diary and other items at a friend's home in Delray Beach, Florida, in 2020 and made a "grave error in judgment" by selling them. Also read | World's oldest human is 124 years old and currently lives in Peru, claim Peruvian authorities Harris told the judge she was "a survivor of long-term domestic abuse and sexual trauma." The mother of two children aged six and eight said she did not "believe I am above the law," after a prosecutor pushed for a prison sentence because Harris failed to appear at many sentencing dates. Her lawyer also highlighted her difficult life circumstances, including surviving long-term domestic abuse and sexual trauma, and her efforts to care for her two young children. "She carries the shame and stigma of her actions," Defence lawyer Anthony Cecutti urging no prison time. However, Assistant US Attorney Robert Sobelman argued that Harris's actions demonstrated a "pattern of disrespect for the law and the justice system." "Ms Biden is the victim in this case," he said, adding "She wanted to damage Ms Biden's father". In her sentencing, Judge Swain noted that Harris and a co-defendant, Robert Kurlander, had attempted unsuccessfully to sell Ashley Biden’s belongings to then-President Donald Trump’s 2020 presidential campaign before selling them to Project Veritas. She described Harris's actions as motivated by greed and a desire to influence the nation's political landscape. (With inputs from agencies)

Florida woman sentenced to one month in prison for selling Ashley Biden’s diary

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida and his wife Yuko arrived in Washington on Monday. Kishida will hold a meeting with US President Joe Biden and attend a state dinner on Wednesday. He will deliver a speech at a joint session of Congress on Thursday before attending the first trilateral summit with Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos.

US President Biden aims to upgrade US-Japan defence ties: Reports

Japan PM Fumio Kishida arrives in Washington, set to address US Congress

US: Joe Biden to host Japan's Kishida | US & Japan seek to strengthen ties | World News | WION

In a bid to woo the young generation in the upcoming general elections, United States President Joe Biden made another attempt at student loan cancellation.&nbsp;

With the new plan, President Biden is hoping to deliver on a major campaign promise, which he has so far not been able to fulfil.&nbsp;

Biden, on his visit to Wisconsin on Monday (April 8), gave a detailed proposal as per which the debt loan of around 25 million Americans will be cancelled.

For months, the plan is being worked out after the first attempt of Biden at mass cancellation was rejected by the Supreme Court. The decision of the court was called by Biden a "mistake", as he gave orders to the Education Department to make a new plan by using a different legal authority.&nbsp;

In comparison to his original plan, Biden's latest proposal is more targeted and focused on those for whom student loan is a major hurdle.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/biden-administration-to-grant-samsung-a-66-bn-subsidy-for-texas-chip-expansion-709238">Biden administration to grant Samsung a $6.6 bn subsidy for Texas chip expansion</a>

The plans, which were detailed by presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Biden in Madison, Wisconsin, included cancelling up to $20,000 of accrued and capitalised interest for borrowers, without taking into consideration their income.

According to the Biden administration, this will cancel the entire interest for 23 million borrowers.

<h2>Who will benefit from Biden's new proposal?&nbsp;</h2>

The new proposal of Biden will offer cancellation of loans to five categories of borrowers.&nbsp;

According to the proposal, the student loan of those borrowers whose debt has grown due to unpaid interest will be cancelled.

The government will cancel around $20,000 in interest for Americans who currently owe&nbsp;way more than what they had borrowed originally.&nbsp;

However, this cap will not be applicable to individuals who earn less than $120,000 every year or couples whose income is less than $240,000 and have enrolled themselves in an income-driven repayment plan.

Watch:&nbsp;US: Donald Trump says states should decide abortion rights

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-donald-trump-says-states-should-decide-abortion-rights-709201/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the Education Department, 25 million people will be eligible for that relief, which includes 23 million whose interest will be completely erased.

In the new proposal, the loans will also get cancelled for the borrowers who are eligible for different federal forgiveness programmes but have not applied. It is also applicable to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness programme and income-driven repayment plans.

The debt of the borrowers, who have been repaying undergraduate loans for 20 years or more, will be cancelled. Those who have been paying graduate school debt for the last 25 years will also get relief as per the proposal.&nbsp;

The Biden administration has claimed to cancel the loans of more than two&nbsp;million people.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to woo the young generation in the upcoming general elections, United States President Joe Biden made another attempt at student loan cancellation. With the new plan, President Biden is hoping to deliver on a major campaign promise, which he has so far not been able to fulfil.

In a bid to woo the young generation in the upcoming general elections, United States President Joe Biden made another attempt at student loan cancellation. With the new plan, President Biden is hoping to deliver on a major campaign promise, which he has so far not been able to fulfil. Biden, on his visit to Wisconsin on Monday (April 8), gave a detailed proposal as per which the debt loan of around 25 million Americans will be cancelled. For months, the plan is being worked out after the first attempt of Biden at mass cancellation was rejected by the Supreme Court. The decision of the court was called by Biden a "mistake", as he gave orders to the Education Department to make a new plan by using a different legal authority. In comparison to his original plan, Biden's latest proposal is more targeted and focused on those for whom student loan is a major hurdle. Also Read: Biden administration to grant Samsung a $6.6 bn subsidy for Texas chip expansion The plans, which were detailed by presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Biden in Madison, Wisconsin, included cancelling up to $20,000 of accrued and capitalised interest for borrowers, without taking into consideration their income. According to the Biden administration, this will cancel the entire interest for 23 million borrowers. Who will benefit from Biden's new proposal? The new proposal of Biden will offer cancellation of loans to five categories of borrowers. According to the proposal, the student loan of those borrowers whose debt has grown due to unpaid interest will be cancelled. The government will cancel around $20,000 in interest for Americans who currently owe way more than what they had borrowed originally. However, this cap will not be applicable to individuals who earn less than $120,000 every year or couples whose income is less than $240,000 and have enrolled themselves in an income-driven repayment plan. Watch: US: Donald Trump says states should decide abortion rights According to the Education Department, 25 million people will be eligible for that relief, which includes 23 million whose interest will be completely erased. In the new proposal, the loans will also get cancelled for the borrowers who are eligible for different federal forgiveness programmes but have not applied. It is also applicable to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness programme and income-driven repayment plans. The debt of the borrowers, who have been repaying undergraduate loans for 20 years or more, will be cancelled. Those who have been paying graduate school debt for the last 25 years will also get relief as per the proposal. The Biden administration has claimed to cancel the loans of more than two million people. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden plans to cancel student loan debts. Here's what it means for 25mn Americans

Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, once again on Saturday (Apr 6) reiterated his rhetoric against immigrants from Africa, Asia and the Middle East, and lamented that people from "nice" countries "like Switzerland" were not immigrating to the United States.&nbsp;

Speaking at a multi-million fundraiser at a mansion owned by billionaire financier John Paulson in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump also bashed his Democratic rival, US President Joe Biden. As per The New York Times, Trump said that he will not use the 'Resolute Desk' and implied that Biden has defecated on it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-launches-fresh-tirade-against-illegal-migrants-calls-them-animals-and-not-humans-707246">Trump launches fresh tirade against illegal migrants, calls them ‘animals’ and ‘not humans’</a>

<h2>'Nice countries'</h2>

Citing an attendee at the fundraiser, the NYT reports that Trump went on an extensive rant about migrants entering the United States.

Blaming Biden for illegal immigrants, Trump said: "These are people coming in from prisons and jails. They're coming in from just unbelievable places and countries, countries that are a disaster."

Seemingly making a reference to a controversial statement where he described Haiti and some nations in Africa as "shithole countries",&nbsp;he said, "And when I said, you know, Why can't we allow people to come in from nice countries, I'm trying to be nice."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/make-america-great-again-migrants-or-cannibals-trump-compares-migrants-to-hannibal-lecter-696750">Trump rants against migrants, compares them to Hannibal Lecter and mocks their languages</a>

"Nice countries, you know, like Denmark, Switzerland? Do we have any people coming in from Denmark? How about Switzerland? How about Norway?"

"And you know, they took that as a very terrible comment, but I felt it was fine," he added.

<h2>Trump's weird claim about&nbsp;the Resolute Desk</h2>

Trump also slammed Biden and said that he might not use the Resolute Desk if he wins.

Talking about the desk that many of the US presidents have used as their Oval Office desk, Trump said it was beautiful, "Ronald Reagan used it, others used it."

Sounding disgusted, he continued, "And he's (Biden) using it. I might not use it the next time. It's been soiled. And I mean that literally, which is sad."

Trump, as per a Republican National Committee claim, reportedly raised more than $50 million at the event. However, this figure is yet to be verified.

In a video shared by RNC, Trump can be heard saying, "People wanted to contribute to a cause of making America great again!"

(With inputs from agencies)

Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, once again on Saturday (Apr 6) reiterated his rhetoric against immigrants from Africa, Asia and the Middle East, and lamented that people from "nice" countries "like Switzerland" were not immigrating to the United States.

Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, once again on Saturday (Apr 6) reiterated his rhetoric against immigrants from Africa, Asia and the Middle East, and lamented that people from "nice" countries "like Switzerland" were not immigrating to the United States. Speaking at a multi-million fundraiser at a mansion owned by billionaire financier John Paulson in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump also bashed his Democratic rival, US President Joe Biden. As per The New York Times, Trump said that he will not use the 'Resolute Desk' and implied that Biden has defecated on it. Also read | Trump launches fresh tirade against illegal migrants, calls them ‘animals’ and ‘not humans’ 'Nice countries' Citing an attendee at the fundraiser, the NYT reports that Trump went on an extensive rant about migrants entering the United States. Blaming Biden for illegal immigrants, Trump said: "These are people coming in from prisons and jails. They're coming in from just unbelievable places and countries, countries that are a disaster." Seemingly making a reference to a controversial statement where he described Haiti and some nations in Africa as "shithole countries", he said, "And when I said, you know, Why can't we allow people to come in from nice countries, I'm trying to be nice." Also read | Trump rants against migrants, compares them to Hannibal Lecter and mocks their languages "Nice countries, you know, like Denmark, Switzerland? Do we have any people coming in from Denmark? How about Switzerland? How about Norway?" "And you know, they took that as a very terrible comment, but I felt it was fine," he added. Trump's weird claim about the Resolute Desk Trump also slammed Biden and said that he might not use the Resolute Desk if he wins. Talking about the desk that many of the US presidents have used as their Oval Office desk, Trump said it was beautiful, "Ronald Reagan used it, others used it." Sounding disgusted, he continued, "And he's (Biden) using it. I might not use it the next time. It's been soiled. And I mean that literally, which is sad." Trump, as per a Republican National Committee claim, reportedly raised more than $50 million at the event. However, this figure is yet to be verified. In a video shared by RNC, Trump can be heard saying, "People wanted to contribute to a cause of making America great again!" (With inputs from agencies)

Trump wants immigrants only from 'nice' countries like 'Denmark, Switzerland'

United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (Apr 8) posted a video ahead of the total solar eclipse urging people to wear protective eyewear to view the rare phenomenon and also seemingly mocking his predecessor.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden issues safety warning</h2>

“An eclipse is worth marveling at,” said the caption with which the video was posted, on X. The clip shows the US president standing on a White House balcony while wearing eclipse glasses looking at the sky.&nbsp;

“Folks, enjoy the eclipse. But, play it safe. Don’t be silly,” said Biden in the seven-second clip.&nbsp;

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An eclipse is worth marveling at. 
 
But don't be silly, folks – play it safe and wear protective eyewear. <a href="https://t.co/S6REAiZ735">pic.twitter.com/S6REAiZ735</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1777355754791432285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The clip also seemingly mocked his predecessor, former president Donald Trump whose images and videos taken during the eclipse in 2017 have gone viral recently.&nbsp;

On August 21, 2017, during Trump’s presidency, he was seen standing on a balcony of the White House with his wife Melania and his son Barron, during the eclipse when he directly looked at the sun multiple times and was even seen squinting and pointing.&nbsp;

This prompted an aide to shout, “Don’t look!” The former president was given eclipse glasses to wear, but he reportedly looked up at the sun at least six times, without them.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-us-states-should-decide-abortion-law-709026">Donald Trump says US states should decide abortion law, dodges stand on national ban</a>

Solar eclipses are arguably one of the most fascinating astronomical events to witness, but only with protective eyewear. It is also advised to never look directly at the sun as its rays can be intense and damage our eyes.&nbsp;

<h2>Trump posts bizarre campaign ad</h2>

Meanwhile, the former president ahead of the rare astronomical event took to his social media platform, Truth Social, and posted a bizarre campaign ad where his own head takes the place of the moon and blocks out the sun.&nbsp;

The video begins with dramatic music and visuals similar to the opening score of 2001: A Space Odyssey. The clip starts with the words, “The most important moment in human history is taking place in 2024.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/total-solar-eclipse-2024-map-shows-totality-path-peak-times-and-best-cities-to-watch-astronomical-spectacle-708897">Total Solar Eclipse 2024: See path of totality, peak times and best cities to watch cosmic spectacle</a>

Subsequently, it shows crowds of people wearing eclipse glasses looking at the sky in amazement. However, it is not the moon which is covering the sun, but an outline of Trump’s head creating the eclipse.&nbsp;

The clip then shows the crowds cheering. The nearly one-and-a-half-minute clip ends with the quote, “We will save America. And make it great again.”

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Donald Trump just posted a solar eclipse campaign ad on Truth Social.<a href="https://t.co/hbNHehsNEW">pic.twitter.com/hbNHehsNEW</a>
— Proud Elephant 🇺🇸🦅 (@ProudElephantUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/ProudElephantUS/status/1777376940510310841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The campaign ad comes ahead of the US presidential election in November where Trump, a Republican, is expected to run against Democrat Biden, again.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (Apr 8) posted a video ahead of the total solar eclipse urging people to wear protective eyewear to view the rare phenomenon and also seemingly mocking his predecessor.

United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (Apr 8) posted a video ahead of the total solar eclipse urging people to wear protective eyewear to view the rare phenomenon and also seemingly mocking his predecessor. Biden issues safety warning “An eclipse is worth marveling at,” said the caption with which the video was posted, on X. The clip shows the US president standing on a White House balcony while wearing eclipse glasses looking at the sky. “Folks, enjoy the eclipse. But, play it safe. Don’t be silly,” said Biden in the seven-second clip. An eclipse is worth marveling at. But don't be silly, folks – play it safe and wear protective eyewear. pic.twitter.com/S6REAiZ735 — President Biden (@POTUS) April 8, 2024 × The clip also seemingly mocked his predecessor, former president Donald Trump whose images and videos taken during the eclipse in 2017 have gone viral recently. On August 21, 2017, during Trump’s presidency, he was seen standing on a balcony of the White House with his wife Melania and his son Barron, during the eclipse when he directly looked at the sun multiple times and was even seen squinting and pointing. This prompted an aide to shout, “Don’t look!” The former president was given eclipse glasses to wear, but he reportedly looked up at the sun at least six times, without them. Also Read | Donald Trump says US states should decide abortion law, dodges stand on national ban Solar eclipses are arguably one of the most fascinating astronomical events to witness, but only with protective eyewear. It is also advised to never look directly at the sun as its rays can be intense and damage our eyes. Trump posts bizarre campaign ad Meanwhile, the former president ahead of the rare astronomical event took to his social media platform, Truth Social, and posted a bizarre campaign ad where his own head takes the place of the moon and blocks out the sun. The video begins with dramatic music and visuals similar to the opening score of 2001: A Space Odyssey. The clip starts with the words, “The most important moment in human history is taking place in 2024.” Also Read | Total Solar Eclipse 2024: See path of totality, peak times and best cities to watch cosmic spectacle Subsequently, it shows crowds of people wearing eclipse glasses looking at the sky in amazement. However, it is not the moon which is covering the sun, but an outline of Trump’s head creating the eclipse. The clip then shows the crowds cheering. The nearly one-and-a-half-minute clip ends with the quote, “We will save America. And make it great again.” Donald Trump just posted a solar eclipse campaign ad on Truth Social.pic.twitter.com/hbNHehsNEW — Proud Elephant 🇺🇸🦅 (@ProudElephantUS) April 8, 2024 × The campaign ad comes ahead of the US presidential election in November where Trump, a Republican, is expected to run against Democrat Biden, again. (With inputs from agencies)

Total Solar Eclipse 2024: Biden issues safety reminder, takes a dig at Trump

The Israel-Hamas war continues to rage on. The death toll is piling up in Gaza. Efforts are underway to establish peace. Meanwhile, the U.S. continues to support Israel. Watch this video for all details.

What military support does the US provide to Israel?

The United States (US) has reacted to the sudden withdrawal of Israeli military troops from the southern Gaza Strip. On Sunday (Apr 7), White House national security spokesperson John Kirby called the surprise removal of troops a "rest and refit plan." Kirby also said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured US President Joe Biden that he would make changes in Israel's military operations.

Russia on Sunday blamed Ukraine for launching drones on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and causing safety concerns. According to Russian officials, no serious damage happened to the reactor and the radiation levels remained normal.

In other news from around the world, a judge in Brazil has opened an inquiry into Elon Musk over charges of obstruction of justice. The inquiry as per a court document involves Musk's social media company X.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-israels-withdrawal-from-south-gaza-a-rest-and-refit-plan-says-biden-govt-frustrated-708781">US calls Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza a 'rest and refit' plan, says Biden govt ‘frustrated’</a>

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The United States called the sudden withdrawal of the Israeli military's troops from the southern Gaza Strip a "rest and refit" plan and not something which indicates any new operations.&nbsp;White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, in an interview with ABC News, said, "As we understand it, and through their public announcements, it is really just about rest and refit for these troops ... and not necessarily that we can tell indicative of some coming new operation for these troops."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscows-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-power-plant-comes-under-drone-strike-un-watchdog-condemns-708779">Russia-Ukraine war: Drone strikes damage Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/08/423560-russia-ukraine.png?imwidth=400" />

Russia on Sunday (April 7) held Ukraine responsible for launching drones on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and causing safety concerns.&nbsp;Ukraine's military was held responsible for the attack by Russia's nuclear power corporation Rosatom and international energy officials for detonating a drone against the dome which covered the closed nuclear reactor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-under-inquiry-after-defying-brazil-judges-unconstitutional-order-to-block-certain-x-accounts-708784">Elon Musk under inquiry after defying Brazil judge's 'unconstitutional' order to block certain X accounts</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/08/423562-new-wion-2024-04-08t074410650.jpg?imwidth=400" />

A Brazilian judge on Sunday (Apr 7) opened an inquiry into Elon Musk over charges of obstruction of justice. The inquiry as per a court document involves Musk's social media company X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;This comes after Musk challenged a decision by Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, ordering X to block certain accounts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/probe-begins-in-another-boeing-mishap-after-engine-cover-falls-off-passenger-records-scary-moment-watch-708794">Probe begins in another Boeing mishap after engine cover falls off. Passenger records 'scary' moment: Watch</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/08/423571-boeing.png?imwidth=400" />

The airline regulators in the United States have started investigating another mishap involving a Boeing jet after an engine cowling in one of its jets fell off during take-off and hit a wing flap.&nbsp;After the mishap, Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737-800 flight flew back safely to Denver International airport at around 15:15 GMT.

Watch |&nbsp;India: West Bengal police lodges FIR against NIA

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The United States (US) has reacted to the sudden withdrawal of Israeli military troops from the southern Gaza Strip. On Sunday (Apr 7), White House national security spokesperson John Kirby called the surprise removal of troops a "rest and refit plan.

The United States (US) has reacted to the sudden withdrawal of Israeli military troops from the southern Gaza Strip. On Sunday (Apr 7), White House national security spokesperson John Kirby called the surprise removal of troops a "rest and refit plan." Kirby also said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured US President Joe Biden that he would make changes in Israel's military operations. Russia on Sunday blamed Ukraine for launching drones on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and causing safety concerns. According to Russian officials, no serious damage happened to the reactor and the radiation levels remained normal. In other news from around the world, a judge in Brazil has opened an inquiry into Elon Musk over charges of obstruction of justice. The inquiry as per a court document involves Musk's social media company X. Click on the headlines to read more: US calls Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza a 'rest and refit' plan, says Biden govt ‘frustrated’ The United States called the sudden withdrawal of the Israeli military's troops from the southern Gaza Strip a "rest and refit" plan and not something which indicates any new operations. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, in an interview with ABC News, said, "As we understand it, and through their public announcements, it is really just about rest and refit for these troops ... and not necessarily that we can tell indicative of some coming new operation for these troops." Russia-Ukraine war: Drone strikes damage Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant Russia on Sunday (April 7) held Ukraine responsible for launching drones on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and causing safety concerns. Ukraine's military was held responsible for the attack by Russia's nuclear power corporation Rosatom and international energy officials for detonating a drone against the dome which covered the closed nuclear reactor. Elon Musk under inquiry after defying Brazil judge's 'unconstitutional' order to block certain X accounts A Brazilian judge on Sunday (Apr 7) opened an inquiry into Elon Musk over charges of obstruction of justice. The inquiry as per a court document involves Musk's social media company X, formerly Twitter. This comes after Musk challenged a decision by Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, ordering X to block certain accounts. Probe begins in another Boeing mishap after engine cover falls off. Passenger records 'scary' moment: Watch The airline regulators in the United States have started investigating another mishap involving a Boeing jet after an engine cowling in one of its jets fell off during take-off and hit a wing flap. After the mishap, Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737-800 flight flew back safely to Denver International airport at around 15:15 GMT. Watch | India: West Bengal police lodges FIR against NIA ×

Morning brief: US reacts to Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza, and more

United States President Joe Biden is set to warn China this week over its growing belligerent movements in the South China Sea during his scheduled summits with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

According to the Financial Times report, two high-ranking US officials said that Biden is expected to voice grave concerns over the ongoing situation surrounding the Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed submerged reef within the Spratly Islands.

The officials stated that Biden would emphasise that the Sierra Madre is covered under the US-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty and that the US president expressed “deep concern” when he had a telephonic conversation with Xi last week.

“China is underestimating the potential for escalation. We’ve tried to make that clear in a series of conversations . . . that our mutual defence treaty covers Philippine sailors and ships and by extension . . . the Sierra Madre,” the Financial Times quoted one of the officials as saying.

“China needs to examine its tactics or risk some serious blowback,” they added.&nbsp;

Biden held his first direct talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, since their meeting in November, where the US president emphasised "the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the rule of law and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea," the White House said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-vows-countermeasures-against-attacks-by-chinese-coastguard-will-not-be-cowed-into-silence-705371">Also read: Philippines vows countermeasures against attacks by Chinese coastguard; 'will not be cowed into silence'</a>

Xi, after the phone call, stated that the diplomatic ties between the United States and China have started to stabilise. However, he also warned that there were chances that both countries could "slide into conflict or confrontation," as per China's official Xinhua news agency.

<h2>Beijing patrols the South China Sea</h2>

Meanwhile, China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia.&nbsp;

“The Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army will conduct a joint air and sea combat patrol in the South China Sea on April 7,” said Southern Theatre Command in a surprising announcement on its WeChat account, on Sunday morning.&nbsp;

The statement indicated that the patrols were conducted in response to the joint naval exercises by the US and its allies in the South China Sea. The PLA, in its brief statement, added “All military activities that disrupt the South China Sea and create hotspots are under control.”

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden is set to warn China this week over its growing belligerent movements in the South China Sea during his scheduled summits with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

United States President Joe Biden is set to warn China this week over its growing belligerent movements in the South China Sea during his scheduled summits with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. According to the Financial Times report, two high-ranking US officials said that Biden is expected to voice grave concerns over the ongoing situation surrounding the Second Thomas Shoal, a disputed submerged reef within the Spratly Islands. The officials stated that Biden would emphasise that the Sierra Madre is covered under the US-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty and that the US president expressed “deep concern” when he had a telephonic conversation with Xi last week. “China is underestimating the potential for escalation. We’ve tried to make that clear in a series of conversations . . . that our mutual defence treaty covers Philippine sailors and ships and by extension . . . the Sierra Madre,” the Financial Times quoted one of the officials as saying. “China needs to examine its tactics or risk some serious blowback,” they added. Biden held his first direct talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping last week, since their meeting in November, where the US president emphasised "the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the rule of law and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea," the White House said in a statement. Also read: Philippines vows countermeasures against attacks by Chinese coastguard; 'will not be cowed into silence' Xi, after the phone call, stated that the diplomatic ties between the United States and China have started to stabilise. However, he also warned that there were chances that both countries could "slide into conflict or confrontation," as per China's official Xinhua news agency. Beijing patrols the South China Sea Meanwhile, China’s military conducted joint air and sea “combat patrols” in the disputed South China Sea, on Sunday (Apr 7) as the United States held its first joint military drills with the Philippines, Japan and Australia. “The Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army will conduct a joint air and sea combat patrol in the South China Sea on April 7,” said Southern Theatre Command in a surprising announcement on its WeChat account, on Sunday morning. The statement indicated that the patrols were conducted in response to the joint naval exercises by the US and its allies in the South China Sea. The PLA, in its brief statement, added “All military activities that disrupt the South China Sea and create hotspots are under control.” (With inputs from agencies)

Biden set to issue warning to China over its increasing belligerence in South China Sea

Presidential elections in the US Are one year away, but the political battleground is heating up. And in the eye of the storm, is the public divide in abortion rights. Can the Biden-led democrats rely heavily on their pro-abortion stance and snatch victory from the pro-life, conservative republican camp?

Explained: Why Joe Biden may not be on Ohio's ballot

Former United States president Donald Trump, on Monday (Apr 8) said that he believes that the decision regarding abortion rights should be left up to the US states, but did not mention his position on a national abortion ban.

<h2>What did Trump say?&nbsp;</h2>

The presumptive Republican presidential nominee weighed in on one of the most contentious issues in American politics months ahead of the upcoming elections in November, in a video post on his social media platform, Truth Social.&nbsp;

Trump has previously indicated support for a 15-week federal ban with exceptions for rape, incest and to protect the life of the mother. He also reiterated his support for the availability of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fake-news-donald-trump-dismisses-report-about-him-pressuring-ukraine-to-give-russia-some-territory-708846">Will Trump ask Ukraine to give up some land to end war? His campaign denies any such plans</a>

“My view is now that we have abortion where everybody wanted it from a legal standpoint, the states will determine by vote or legislation or perhaps both. And whatever they decide must be the law of the land. In this case, the law of the state,” said the former president.&nbsp;

He also said that many states will be “different” and have “different number of weeks, or some will have more conservative than others, and that’s what they will be. At the end of the day, this is all about the will of the people,” Trump added.&nbsp;

However, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee did not mention anything about a national ban to prohibit abortions beyond a certain number of weeks into a pregnancy.&nbsp;

In his video, on Monday, the former president also took credit for overturning the 1973 landmark Supreme Court decision on Roe v Wade which effectively ended the&nbsp;constitutional right to an abortion.&nbsp;

The reversal of the five-decade-old decision has led more than a dozen states to ban or severely restrict women’s ability to access safe and legal abortion.&nbsp;

“This 50-year battle over Roe v. Wade took it out of the federal hands and brought it into the hearts, minds and vote of the people in each state. It was really something. Now it’s up to the states to do the right thing,” said Trump.&nbsp;

Notably, the court’s decision to overturn the landmark decision triggered a backlash among voters and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wasnt-my-fault-donald-trump-on-the-midterm-loss-blames-abortion-548875https://www.wionews.com/world/wasnt-my-fault-donald-trump-on-the-midterm-loss-blames-abortion-548875">reportedly affected</a> Republican gains in several states during the 2022 midterm elections.&nbsp;

<h2>About Biden’s stance</h2>

Meanwhile, incumbent President and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, Joe Biden has made his predecessor and Republicans’ opposition to abortion rights a key tenet of his re-election campaign.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-wants-immigrants-from-nice-countries-like-denmark-switzerland-to-come-to-america-708877">Trump wants immigrants only from 'nice' countries like 'Denmark, Switzerland'</a>

“Donald Trump is endorsing every single abortion ban in the states, including abortion bans with no exceptions. And he’s bragging about his role in creating this hellscape,” said Ammar Moussa, director of rapid response for the Biden campaign, on X, on Monday.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Biden denounced a ruling by the Florida Supreme Court which allows a six-week ban on abortion to take effect. On April 1, the state’s top court upheld a ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.&nbsp;

The incumbent president slammed Republicans for limiting reproductive rights in Florida and other US states saying that it is “putting the health and lives of millions of women at risk.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former United States president Donald Trump, on Monday (Apr 8) said that he believes that the decision regarding abortion rights should be left up to the US states, but did not mention his position on a national abortion ban.

Former United States president Donald Trump, on Monday (Apr 8) said that he believes that the decision regarding abortion rights should be left up to the US states, but did not mention his position on a national abortion ban. What did Trump say? The presumptive Republican presidential nominee weighed in on one of the most contentious issues in American politics months ahead of the upcoming elections in November, in a video post on his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump has previously indicated support for a 15-week federal ban with exceptions for rape, incest and to protect the life of the mother. He also reiterated his support for the availability of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Also Read | Will Trump ask Ukraine to give up some land to end war? His campaign denies any such plans “My view is now that we have abortion where everybody wanted it from a legal standpoint, the states will determine by vote or legislation or perhaps both. And whatever they decide must be the law of the land. In this case, the law of the state,” said the former president. He also said that many states will be “different” and have “different number of weeks, or some will have more conservative than others, and that’s what they will be. At the end of the day, this is all about the will of the people,” Trump added. However, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee did not mention anything about a national ban to prohibit abortions beyond a certain number of weeks into a pregnancy. In his video, on Monday, the former president also took credit for overturning the 1973 landmark Supreme Court decision on Roe v Wade which effectively ended the constitutional right to an abortion. The reversal of the five-decade-old decision has led more than a dozen states to ban or severely restrict women’s ability to access safe and legal abortion. “This 50-year battle over Roe v. Wade took it out of the federal hands and brought it into the hearts, minds and vote of the people in each state. It was really something. Now it’s up to the states to do the right thing,” said Trump. Notably, the court’s decision to overturn the landmark decision triggered a backlash among voters and reportedly affected Republican gains in several states during the 2022 midterm elections. About Biden’s stance Meanwhile, incumbent President and presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, Joe Biden has made his predecessor and Republicans’ opposition to abortion rights a key tenet of his re-election campaign. Also Read | Trump wants immigrants only from 'nice' countries like 'Denmark, Switzerland' “Donald Trump is endorsing every single abortion ban in the states, including abortion bans with no exceptions. And he’s bragging about his role in creating this hellscape,” said Ammar Moussa, director of rapid response for the Biden campaign, on X, on Monday. Earlier this month, Biden denounced a ruling by the Florida Supreme Court which allows a six-week ban on abortion to take effect. On April 1, the state’s top court upheld a ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy. The incumbent president slammed Republicans for limiting reproductive rights in Florida and other US states saying that it is “putting the health and lives of millions of women at risk.” (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump says US states should decide abortion law, dodges stand on national ban

US President Joe Biden might face legal challenges in appearing on the Ohio ballot over a scheduling conflict. According to Ohio’s secretary of state, the Democratic National Convention may take place too late for Biden to contest general elections in the state.

“The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to convene on August 19, 2024, which occurs more than a week after the August 7 deadline to certify a presidential candidate to the office,” Secretary of State Frank LaRose wrote in a letter to Ohio Democratic Party Chairwoman Liz Walters.

<h2>Legal trouble</h2>

According to Ohio’s legal provisions, a party needs to put forward the nomination by August 7. However, the DNC is expected to start on August 19 in Chicago, Illinois, which is 12 days late to the nomination deadline.

If left unsolved, the legal challenge could end up removing Biden from the state ballot altogether.

<h2>Remedies</h2>

Frank LaRose in his letter talked about two potential solutions.

Solution number 1: The Democratic Party can hold the nomination convention before August 7.

Solution number 2: The party can circumvent the August 7 deadline by getting the Ohio state legislature to “create an exemption to this statutory requirement” by May 9 in accordance with state law.

Watch:&nbsp;President Biden urges Egypt, Qatar to press Hamas for peace talks

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Paul DeSantis, the attorney with the office of the Ohio Secretary of State, said, “I am left to conclude that the Democratic National Committee must either move up its nominating convention or the Ohio General Assembly must act by May 9, 2024 (90 days prior to a new law’s effective date) to create an exception to this statutory requirement.”

<h2>Biden’s reaction</h2>

A spokesperson for the Biden campaign stressed that the president will appear on all 50 state ballots. The campaign is “monitoring the situation in Ohio and we’re confident that Joe Biden will be on the ballot in all 50 states,” the spokesperson was quoted as saying by NBC News.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiupeLA06-FAxWcnFYBHeKQCwkQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-want-a-drug-test-trump-says-biden-was-higher-than-kite-at-state-of-the-union-address-708400" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/i-want-a-drug-test-trump-says-biden-was-higher-than-kite-at-state-of-the-union-address-708400&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiupeLA06-FAxWcnFYBHeKQCwkQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">'I want a drug test': Trump says Biden was 'higher than kite' at State of the Union address</a>

Being a major party, the Democratic Party appears on the ballot in all 50 states.

Ohio is a key state for Biden, where ex-president Donald Trump emerged victorious in the 2016 and 2020 elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden might face legal challenges in appearing on the Ohio ballot over a scheduling conflict. According to Ohio’s secretary of state, the Democratic National Convention may take place too late for Biden to contest general elections in the state.

US President Joe Biden might face legal challenges in appearing on the Ohio ballot over a scheduling conflict. According to Ohio’s secretary of state, the Democratic National Convention may take place too late for Biden to contest general elections in the state. “The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to convene on August 19, 2024, which occurs more than a week after the August 7 deadline to certify a presidential candidate to the office,” Secretary of State Frank LaRose wrote in a letter to Ohio Democratic Party Chairwoman Liz Walters. Legal trouble According to Ohio’s legal provisions, a party needs to put forward the nomination by August 7. However, the DNC is expected to start on August 19 in Chicago, Illinois, which is 12 days late to the nomination deadline. If left unsolved, the legal challenge could end up removing Biden from the state ballot altogether. Remedies Frank LaRose in his letter talked about two potential solutions. Solution number 1: The Democratic Party can hold the nomination convention before August 7. Solution number 2: The party can circumvent the August 7 deadline by getting the Ohio state legislature to “create an exemption to this statutory requirement” by May 9 in accordance with state law. Watch: President Biden urges Egypt, Qatar to press Hamas for peace talks × Paul DeSantis, the attorney with the office of the Ohio Secretary of State, said, “I am left to conclude that the Democratic National Committee must either move up its nominating convention or the Ohio General Assembly must act by May 9, 2024 (90 days prior to a new law’s effective date) to create an exception to this statutory requirement.” Biden’s reaction A spokesperson for the Biden campaign stressed that the president will appear on all 50 state ballots. The campaign is “monitoring the situation in Ohio and we’re confident that Joe Biden will be on the ballot in all 50 states,” the spokesperson was quoted as saying by NBC News. Also read: 'I want a drug test': Trump says Biden was 'higher than kite' at State of the Union address Being a major party, the Democratic Party appears on the ballot in all 50 states. Ohio is a key state for Biden, where ex-president Donald Trump emerged victorious in the 2016 and 2020 elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Scheduling conflict may end up removing Biden from Ohio ballot

The United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and Australia will begin talks on bringing new members into their security partnership AUKUS as the US is pushing for Japan to be involved (in the alliance) as a deterrent against China.

The United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and Australia will begin talks on bringing new members into their security partnership AUKUS as the US is pushing for Japan to be involved (in the alliance) as a deterrent against China. According to a report by the Financial Times on Sunday (Apr 7), the group's ministers would announce on Monday that they would launch talks related to Pillar II of the alliance, which commits the members to jointly develop quantum computing, undersea, hypersonic, artificial intelligence, and cyber technology. The report said that the defence ministers of the three countries are not considering expanding Pillar I, which focuses on Australia’s procurement of nuclear-powered submarines. Also read | Blinken reiterates USA’s ‘ironclad’ commitment to defend Philippines against attack by China AUKUS is part of the US, UK, and Australia's efforts to push back against China's growing power in the Indo-Pacific region. Beijing has called the security partnership dangerous and warned it could spur a regional arms race. Biden seeking to step up partnerships with US' Asian allies The above developments come as US President Joe Biden is seeking to step up partnerships with American allies in Asia, including Japan and the Philippines, amid China's historic military build-up and its growing territorial assertiveness, a report by the news agency Reuters said. The Pillar II talks of AUKUS come just two days before Biden will be hosting Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for a summit at the White House on Wednesday, and a historic US-Japan-Philippines trilateral meeting a day later. Also watch | Gravitas: China, Russia winning the new arms race? Australian Defence Official warns AUKUS × Biden and Kishida will likely discuss expanding AUKUS to include Japan during the White House summit. Australia and UK pushing back against idea of including Japan The US' idea to include Japan in AUKUS has been earlier opposed by Australia and the UK, partly because they want to focus on ironing out existing complications in their trilateral cooperation, the FT report on Sunday said. Australia and the UK are concerned Japan still lacks the security systems required to protect highly sensitive information. (With inputs from agencies)

US, UK & Australia to begin talks on bringing new members into AUKUS: Report

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has done a lot of thinking and has come to the conclusion that he will not endorse Joe Biden in the upcoming 2024 Presidential election. 
&nbsp; 
In 2022, the Rock lent his public support towards the Biden-Harris campaign. However, four years down the line, things have changed and the former WWE wrestler has made up his mind that he will not be publicly endorsing any candidate in this year's election.&nbsp;

In an interview with Fox News'&nbsp;Will Cain, The Rock explained why he regrets publicly supporting Biden in the 2020 election, what's in America that's&nbsp;affecting him and whether he's planning to run for president this year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-on-high-alert-amid-iran-threat-following-israeli-strike-in-syria-708220">US on high alert for Iran threat following Israeli strike in Syria</a>

Dwayne Johnson will not support Joe Biden

Speaking to Will Cain, Johnson said, ''The endorsement that I made years ago with Biden was one I thought was the best decision for me at that time.''

He added, “I thought, ‘I’m in this position where I have some influence and I felt it was my job then to exercise my influence [and] share: This is who I’m going to endorse.’ I’m not going to do that. I was then, the most followed man in the world, and am today, and I appreciate that… but what that caused was something that tears me up in my guts — which is division. That got me. I didn’t realize that then, I just felt like there was a lot of unrest and I’d like things to calm down.”

Saying that his goal is to bring this country together, Johnson continues, “The takeaway after that was it caused an incredible amount of division. I realize now going into this election, I will not do that. My goal is to bring this country together. I believe in that. There will be no endorsement. At this level of influence, I will keep my politics to myself. It is between me and the ballot box. But I will tell you this: Like a lot of us out there, not trusting of all politicians, I do trust the American people and whoever they vote for that is my president and who I will support 100 percent.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-indian-student-dies-in-us-probe-underway-708227">Indian student dies in US state of Ohio, probe underway</a>

Is Dwayne Johnson in the&nbsp;race for US president?

Johnson,&nbsp;whose name has time and again popped up when it comes to the presidential race, has again made it very clear that he's going to stay away from politics and the US presidential run.

When asked about his plans to run for president, the actor answered that he’s still not interested in it, explaining: “No, that’s not my intention. I’m not a politician.”

Previously, in 2022, Johnson said that he was not planning to run for president anytime soon, as he went on to explain that his focus and priority is to be a good father&nbsp;and spend quality time with his kids.&nbsp;

What's in the America that's affecting Dwayne?

Somewhere in the interview, Cain asked Johnson whether he was happy with the state of America. To this, the Red Notice star said, 'No.'

Elaborating his views, the actor said, “Today’s cancel culture, woke culture, division, etc — that really bugs me,” Johnson said. “In the spirit of that, you either succumb to that and be what other people want you to be, or you be yourself and be real … and that might make people upset and piss people off, and that’s okay.”

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has done a lot of thinking and has come to the conclusion that he will not endorse Joe Biden in the upcoming 2024 Presidential election.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has done a lot of thinking and has come to the conclusion that he will not endorse Joe Biden in the upcoming 2024 Presidential election. In 2022, the Rock lent his public support towards the Biden-Harris campaign. However, four years down the line, things have changed and the former WWE wrestler has made up his mind that he will not be publicly endorsing any candidate in this year's election. In an interview with Fox News' Will Cain, The Rock explained why he regrets publicly supporting Biden in the 2020 election, what's in America that's affecting him and whether he's planning to run for president this year. US on high alert for Iran threat following Israeli strike in Syria Dwayne Johnson will not support Joe Biden Speaking to Will Cain, Johnson said, ''The endorsement that I made years ago with Biden was one I thought was the best decision for me at that time.'' He added, “I thought, ‘I’m in this position where I have some influence and I felt it was my job then to exercise my influence [and] share: This is who I’m going to endorse.’ I’m not going to do that. I was then, the most followed man in the world, and am today, and I appreciate that… but what that caused was something that tears me up in my guts — which is division. That got me. I didn’t realize that then, I just felt like there was a lot of unrest and I’d like things to calm down.” Saying that his goal is to bring this country together, Johnson continues, “The takeaway after that was it caused an incredible amount of division. I realize now going into this election, I will not do that. My goal is to bring this country together. I believe in that. There will be no endorsement. At this level of influence, I will keep my politics to myself. It is between me and the ballot box. But I will tell you this: Like a lot of us out there, not trusting of all politicians, I do trust the American people and whoever they vote for that is my president and who I will support 100 percent.” Indian student dies in US state of Ohio, probe underway Is Dwayne Johnson in the race for US president? Johnson, whose name has time and again popped up when it comes to the presidential race, has again made it very clear that he's going to stay away from politics and the US presidential run. When asked about his plans to run for president, the actor answered that he’s still not interested in it, explaining: “No, that’s not my intention. I’m not a politician.” Previously, in 2022, Johnson said that he was not planning to run for president anytime soon, as he went on to explain that his focus and priority is to be a good father and spend quality time with his kids. What's in the America that's affecting Dwayne? Somewhere in the interview, Cain asked Johnson whether he was happy with the state of America. To this, the Red Notice star said, 'No.' Elaborating his views, the actor said, “Today’s cancel culture, woke culture, division, etc — that really bugs me,” Johnson said. “In the spirit of that, you either succumb to that and be what other people want you to be, or you be yourself and be real … and that might make people upset and piss people off, and that’s okay.”

Dwayne Johnson will not endorse Joe Biden again for President, says ‘Will keep my politics to myself’

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