The American Bully has rapidly emerged as a prominent dog breed in the UK in recent times. Although not officially recognised by major UK dog associations, the increasing frequency of news coverage, often depicting tragic incidents involving these dogs, indicates the American Bully's growing presence in the country.

As per the Guardian, the American Bully is a modern variation of the American Bulldog and is typically available in four different types: standard, pocket, classic, and XL. These variations differ in size, with those taller than 50cm (20 inches) falling into the XL category.

<h2>Incidents of aggressive dogs</h2>

Since 2021, the United Kingdom has reportedly seen nine cases of aggressive individual dogs that have fatally attacked humans. Of the nine cases, three cases involved children.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woman-found-innocent-after-spending-20-years-in-jail-for-killing-her-four-children-600662">Australian woman found innocent after spending 20 years in jail over deaths of her four children</a>

It is the larger American Bully, classified as XL, that has been responsible for half of all dog-related fatalities in the UK since 2021.

While it is not advisable for first-time dog owners or households with children to own an American Bully, it is worth noting that the two individuals killed by the breed this year were experienced dog handlers.

<h2>Tragic incidents involving the breed</h2>

In January, a tragic incident occurred in Surrey where a 28-year-old dog walker named Natasha Johnston was fatally attacked while walking eight dogs. The investigation revealed that one of the dogs, an American Bully XL owned by Johnston, was responsible for her death. The dog was subsequently euthanised following a forensic veterinary report.

In a similar incident last month, Jonathan Hogg, a 37-year-old dog caretaker from Greater Manchester, was playing with an American Bully XL when it suddenly attacked him, targeting his throat. Hogg later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The Greater Manchester police had to deploy armed officers to control the dog, which was deemed a significant risk to the public, before ultimately euthanizing it.

<h2>Is American Bully an aggressive breed you should be scared of?&nbsp;</h2>

The United Kennel Club, one of the few organisations in the US to recognise the American Bully, describes the breed as "first and foremost, a companion, exhibiting confidence with a zest and exuberance for life," and calls its nature "gentle and friendly".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/british-base-jumper-dies-after-jumping-off-400m-high-cliff-wearing-wing-suit-600748">British base jumper dies after plunging off 400m high cliff wearing wingsuit</a>

Although there are demands for a ban on the breed, guidance from dog organisations suggests that such a measure might not effectively address the core issue.&nbsp;

The Kennel Club, based in the UK, argues that "Breed-specific legislation ignores the most important factors that contribute to biting incidents–primarily antisocial behaviour by irresponsible dog owners who train their dogs to be aggressive or do not train their dogs adequately."

If the American Bully were to be banned, it would join the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro as the dog breeds banned in the UK.

<h2>Who should adopt/buy the breed?</h2>

Experienced dog handlers recommend that first-time dog owners or inexperienced people should not keep this breed.

As per an investigation by BBC One, people often bypass reputable dog breeders and obtain American Bully dogs through classified ads or social media.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The American Bully has rapidly emerged as a prominent dog breed in the UK in recent times. Although not officially recognised by major UK dog associations, the increasing frequency of news coverage, often depicting tragic incidents involving these dogs, indicates the American Bully's growing presence in the country.

The American Bully has rapidly emerged as a prominent dog breed in the UK in recent times. Although not officially recognised by major UK dog associations, the increasing frequency of news coverage, often depicting tragic incidents involving these dogs, indicates the American Bully's growing presence in the country. As per the Guardian, the American Bully is a modern variation of the American Bulldog and is typically available in four different types: standard, pocket, classic, and XL. These variations differ in size, with those taller than 50cm (20 inches) falling into the XL category. Incidents of aggressive dogs Since 2021, the United Kingdom has reportedly seen nine cases of aggressive individual dogs that have fatally attacked humans. Of the nine cases, three cases involved children. Also read | Australian woman found innocent after spending 20 years in jail over deaths of her four children It is the larger American Bully, classified as XL, that has been responsible for half of all dog-related fatalities in the UK since 2021. While it is not advisable for first-time dog owners or households with children to own an American Bully, it is worth noting that the two individuals killed by the breed this year were experienced dog handlers. Tragic incidents involving the breed In January, a tragic incident occurred in Surrey where a 28-year-old dog walker named Natasha Johnston was fatally attacked while walking eight dogs. The investigation revealed that one of the dogs, an American Bully XL owned by Johnston, was responsible for her death. The dog was subsequently euthanised following a forensic veterinary report. In a similar incident last month, Jonathan Hogg, a 37-year-old dog caretaker from Greater Manchester, was playing with an American Bully XL when it suddenly attacked him, targeting his throat. Hogg later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The Greater Manchester police had to deploy armed officers to control the dog, which was deemed a significant risk to the public, before ultimately euthanizing it. Is American Bully an aggressive breed you should be scared of? The United Kennel Club, one of the few organisations in the US to recognise the American Bully, describes the breed as "first and foremost, a companion, exhibiting confidence with a zest and exuberance for life," and calls its nature "gentle and friendly". Also read | British base jumper dies after plunging off 400m high cliff wearing wingsuit Although there are demands for a ban on the breed, guidance from dog organisations suggests that such a measure might not effectively address the core issue. The Kennel Club, based in the UK, argues that "Breed-specific legislation ignores the most important factors that contribute to biting incidents–primarily antisocial behaviour by irresponsible dog owners who train their dogs to be aggressive or do not train their dogs adequately." If the American Bully were to be banned, it would join the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro as the dog breeds banned in the UK. Who should adopt/buy the breed? Experienced dog handlers recommend that first-time dog owners or inexperienced people should not keep this breed. As per an investigation by BBC One, people often bypass reputable dog breeders and obtain American Bully dogs through classified ads or social media. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK seeks to ban the American Bully. A killer or 'gentle & friendly' breed? Here's all you need to know

Elected officials and representatives of Israel's Arab minority demonstrated in Jerusalem on Tuesday against the crime plaguing their communities, calling on the government to increase security, an AFP reporter said.&nbsp;

Around 50 current and former members of parliament, as well as municipal representatives and Jewish supporters, gathered in a tent in front of the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a sit-in that began Monday.&nbsp;

"The police are complicit in the crime", read a large banner hanging in the tent in Arabic, Hebrew and English.&nbsp;

Mohammed Baraka, a former MP who heads the High Committee for the Arab Minority in Israel, a civil society group which organised the protest, told AFP it opposed the "spread of crime."

"Hardly a day goes by without gunshots, injuries or murders," he said. "Instead of working to develop our towns and society, we're thinking about how to get out of our homes safely."

Experts say Arab gangs have amassed large quantities of illegal weapons over the past two decades and are involved in drug, arms and human trafficking, prostitution, extortion and money laundering.

Arab-Israelis, descendants of Palestinians who stayed on their land after Israel's creation in 1948 and comprise around 20 per cent of the country's population, have long complained of discrimination and police inaction against violence and crime within their communities.

Baraka accused Israeli authorities of responsibility for the "catastrophe" because the Arab community itself is not allowed to have "the power to arrest, prosecute or confiscate weapons."

According to Israeli police, 84 Arabs have been killed since the start of the year.&nbsp;

"There are thousands of wounded, and nobody talks about it," Mahmoud Nassar, a specialist in criminology at the non-governmental Center for Combating Violence and Crime, told AFP.&nbsp;

At a parliamentary discussion on Arab crime on Monday, Netanyahu invited the Arab lawmakers to his office for a roundtable to address the situation.

"I hear your appeal for increased police presence and more gun confiscations," he said. "We'll have to act on many fronts, and I want your help and cooperation."

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Elected officials and representatives of Israel's Arab minority demonstrated in Jerusalem on Tuesday against the crime plaguing their communities, calling on the government to increase security, an AFP reporter said.

Elected officials and representatives of Israel's Arab minority demonstrated in Jerusalem on Tuesday against the crime plaguing their communities, calling on the government to increase security, an AFP reporter said. Around 50 current and former members of parliament, as well as municipal representatives and Jewish supporters, gathered in a tent in front of the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a sit-in that began Monday. "The police are complicit in the crime", read a large banner hanging in the tent in Arabic, Hebrew and English. Mohammed Baraka, a former MP who heads the High Committee for the Arab Minority in Israel, a civil society group which organised the protest, told AFP it opposed the "spread of crime." "Hardly a day goes by without gunshots, injuries or murders," he said. "Instead of working to develop our towns and society, we're thinking about how to get out of our homes safely." Experts say Arab gangs have amassed large quantities of illegal weapons over the past two decades and are involved in drug, arms and human trafficking, prostitution, extortion and money laundering. Arab-Israelis, descendants of Palestinians who stayed on their land after Israel's creation in 1948 and comprise around 20 per cent of the country's population, have long complained of discrimination and police inaction against violence and crime within their communities. Baraka accused Israeli authorities of responsibility for the "catastrophe" because the Arab community itself is not allowed to have "the power to arrest, prosecute or confiscate weapons." According to Israeli police, 84 Arabs have been killed since the start of the year. "There are thousands of wounded, and nobody talks about it," Mahmoud Nassar, a specialist in criminology at the non-governmental Center for Combating Violence and Crime, told AFP. At a parliamentary discussion on Arab crime on Monday, Netanyahu invited the Arab lawmakers to his office for a roundtable to address the situation. "I hear your appeal for increased police presence and more gun confiscations," he said. "We'll have to act on many fronts, and I want your help and cooperation." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel's Arab minority leaders protest crime menace

In India's eastern state of Odisha, a horrific three-train collision between two passenger trains and a freight train has resulted in the death of at least 288 people, while another 900 people were injured. Amid the tragedy, reports of locals queuing up all night to donate blood, to help the injured, have emerged. Meanwhile, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has said that dialogue between the United States and China is "essential' to prevent any miscalculation or conflict. In other news, just three days into the Pride Month, a major scuffle broke out at an anti-LGBTQ rally outside a Los Angeles school between opposing groups of parents. Finally, In Senegal, the death toll from clashes has risen to 10.

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-coromandel-express-derails-near-bahanaga-station-in-odisha-several-injured-599787">LIVE three-train crash in India's Odisha: Death toll rises; at least 288 dead, 900 injured</a>

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A collision between two passenger trains and a goods train in the eastern Indian state of Odisha's Balasore has resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 288&nbsp;individuals, with approximately 900 others sustaining injuries. According to the&nbsp;railway officials, the Coromandel Express, which operates between Kolkata and Chennai, crashed into the Howrah Superfast Express. Stay tuned to WION for all the updates.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-train-tragedy-locals-in-odishas-balasore-queue-up-all-night-to-donate-blood-for-wounded-599885">India train tragedy: Locals in Odisha's Balasore queue up all-night to donate blood for wounded</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/03/356488-untitled-design-2023-06-03t074432586.png?imwidth=1920" />

Locals in India's Odisha state's Balasore district queued up all-night to donate blood for the wounded victims of one of country's worst train accidents ever. The visuals shared on social media showed locals lined up at a blood bank in a hospital where the wounded from the tragedy are being treated.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senegal-death-toll-rises-to-10-as-clashes-continue-599923">Senegal: Death toll rises to 10 as clashes continue</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/03/356515-senegal.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Police and protesters in Senegal clashed for a second day which resulted in death of one more person on Friday (June 2). The protests and clashes have erupted after sentencing of opposition politician Ousmane Sonko. The violence is one of the deadliest in recent memory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-talks-essential-to-eliminate-chance-of-conflict-austin-599889">US-China talks 'essential' to eliminate chance of conflict: Austin</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/09/337627-000339b87p.jpg?imwidth=1920" />US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said on Saturday (June 3) that dialogue between the United States and China is "essential' in order to prevent any miscalculation which potentially can lead to conflict.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/propaganda-vs-bullying-groups-of-parents-clash-at-anti-lgbtq-protest-outside-los-angeles-school-599920">'Propaganda' vs 'bullying': Groups of parents clash at anti-LGBTQ protest outside Los Angeles school</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/03/356521-live-blog-2.png?imwidth=1920" />

In the United States Los Angeles, over a hundred anti-LGBT protesters and pro-LGBT counter-protesters clashed on a typically quiet suburban street on Friday. The trigger behind this was a Pride Month event being held at Saticoy Elementary School, which drew contrasting views from the two groups.&nbsp;

In India's eastern state of Odisha, a horrific three-train collision between two passenger trains and a freight train has resulted in the death of at least 288 people, while another 900 people were injured.

In India's eastern state of Odisha, a horrific three-train collision between two passenger trains and a freight train has resulted in the death of at least 288 people, while another 900 people were injured. Amid the tragedy, reports of locals queuing up all night to donate blood, to help the injured, have emerged. Meanwhile, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has said that dialogue between the United States and China is "essential' to prevent any miscalculation or conflict. In other news, just three days into the Pride Month, a major scuffle broke out at an anti-LGBTQ rally outside a Los Angeles school between opposing groups of parents. Finally, In Senegal, the death toll from clashes has risen to 10. Click on the headlines to read more LIVE three-train crash in India's Odisha: Death toll rises; at least 288 dead, 900 injured A collision between two passenger trains and a goods train in the eastern Indian state of Odisha's Balasore has resulted in the tragic deaths of at least 288 individuals, with approximately 900 others sustaining injuries. According to the railway officials, the Coromandel Express, which operates between Kolkata and Chennai, crashed into the Howrah Superfast Express. Stay tuned to WION for all the updates. India train tragedy: Locals in Odisha's Balasore queue up all-night to donate blood for wounded Locals in India's Odisha state's Balasore district queued up all-night to donate blood for the wounded victims of one of country's worst train accidents ever. The visuals shared on social media showed locals lined up at a blood bank in a hospital where the wounded from the tragedy are being treated. Senegal: Death toll rises to 10 as clashes continue Police and protesters in Senegal clashed for a second day which resulted in death of one more person on Friday (June 2). The protests and clashes have erupted after sentencing of opposition politician Ousmane Sonko. The violence is one of the deadliest in recent memory. US-China talks 'essential' to eliminate chance of conflict: Austin US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said on Saturday (June 3) that dialogue between the United States and China is "essential' in order to prevent any miscalculation which potentially can lead to conflict. 'Propaganda' vs 'bullying': Groups of parents clash at anti-LGBTQ protest outside Los Angeles school In the United States Los Angeles, over a hundred anti-LGBT protesters and pro-LGBT counter-protesters clashed on a typically quiet suburban street on Friday. The trigger behind this was a Pride Month event being held at Saticoy Elementary School, which drew contrasting views from the two groups.

Morning news brief: Odisha train tragedy, US defence secretary on importance of US-China talks, & more

In May 2023, India's retail sales of electric two-wheelers reached a new peak at 104,755 units, marking a 57 per cent increase compared to April 2023, which saw 66,724 units sold. This translates to an average of 3,379 electric two-wheelers sold per day last month. This is the first time, the sale of two-wheeler EVs&nbsp;topped 100,000 units.

These figures are based on end-of-day sales data from the government's Vahan website as of May 31.&nbsp;The record-breaking sales surpassed the previous high of 85,452 units in March 2023 by a significant margin of 19,303 units. This is despite the fact that in April, sales experienced a 22 per cent decline in April 2023 compared to the previous month.

<h2>What is driving the sale surge?</h2>

The surge in retail sales in May, particularly in the last week of the month, as per Auto Car Pro can be attributed to the Indian government's May 22nd decision to revise the subsidy under the FAME India (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &amp;) Electric Vehicles) Scheme.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/upi-hits-record-9-billion-transactions-in-may-worth-rs-143-trillion-599456">UPI records 9 billion transactions in May worth Rs 14.3 trillion</a>

The subsidy was reduced to Rs 10,000 per kilowatt per hour (kWh) from the previous Rs 15,000/kWh, and the incentive cap was lowered to 15 per cent of the two-wheeler EV's ex-factory price, down from the previous 40 per cent. This 37.5 per cent reduction in incentives resulted in higher vehicle prices starting from June 1, prompting value-conscious buyers to make their purchases earlier.

Between May 23 and May 31, a total of 57,917 electric two-wheelers were sold, indicating a rush of new purchases in the last eight days of May.&nbsp;

<h2>Which companies sold the most unit?</h2>

Among the leading OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), only three out of the top 25 experienced a decline in sales month-on-month.

Market leaders Ola Electric, TVS Motor Co, Ather Energy, and Bajaj Auto achieved their best-ever monthly sales figures.&nbsp;

- Ola Electric sold 28,438 units, surpassing its previous high of 21,991 units in April 2023.&nbsp;

- TVS Motor Co's iQube crossed the 20,000-unit mark with 20,253 units sold.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-narrowly-avoids-its-first-ever-default-as-congress-approves-debt-ceiling-suspension-599453">US narrowly avoids its first-ever default as Congress approves debt-ceiling suspension</a>

- Ather Energy achieved a new monthly high of 15,256 units.&nbsp;

- Bajaj Auto saw a remarkable 168 per cent increase in sales to 9,910 units, securing the fourth position for the first time.

These four OEMs, along with Ampere Vehicles, accounted for 83,475 units of the total 104,755 EVs sold in May, representing 80 per cent of the market share. Additionally, seven other OEMs achieved four-figure sales.

<h2>Will the sales sustain over time?</h2>

Looking ahead, the reduced FAME II subsidy, which took effect on June 1 and resulted in higher prices for e-scooters and e-motorcycles, and is expected to slow down demand in the coming months. However, it might pick up during the upcoming festival season.

Nevertheless, the prospects for the domestic electric two-wheeler industry are expected to remain strong due to the rising cost of petrol and diesel and the cost-effective nature of eco-friendly two-wheeler travel. Manufacturers are expected to announce price increases in the near future.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In May 2023, India's retail sales of electric two-wheelers reached a new peak at 104,755 units, marking a 57 per cent increase compared to April 2023, which saw 66,724 units sold.

In May 2023, India's retail sales of electric two-wheelers reached a new peak at 104,755 units, marking a 57 per cent increase compared to April 2023, which saw 66,724 units sold. This translates to an average of 3,379 electric two-wheelers sold per day last month. This is the first time, the sale of two-wheeler EVs topped 100,000 units. These figures are based on end-of-day sales data from the government's Vahan website as of May 31. The record-breaking sales surpassed the previous high of 85,452 units in March 2023 by a significant margin of 19,303 units. This is despite the fact that in April, sales experienced a 22 per cent decline in April 2023 compared to the previous month. What is driving the sale surge? The surge in retail sales in May, particularly in the last week of the month, as per Auto Car Pro can be attributed to the Indian government's May 22nd decision to revise the subsidy under the FAME India (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles) Scheme. Also read | UPI records 9 billion transactions in May worth Rs 14.3 trillion The subsidy was reduced to Rs 10,000 per kilowatt per hour (kWh) from the previous Rs 15,000/kWh, and the incentive cap was lowered to 15 per cent of the two-wheeler EV's ex-factory price, down from the previous 40 per cent. This 37.5 per cent reduction in incentives resulted in higher vehicle prices starting from June 1, prompting value-conscious buyers to make their purchases earlier. Between May 23 and May 31, a total of 57,917 electric two-wheelers were sold, indicating a rush of new purchases in the last eight days of May. Which companies sold the most unit? Among the leading OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), only three out of the top 25 experienced a decline in sales month-on-month. Market leaders Ola Electric, TVS Motor Co, Ather Energy, and Bajaj Auto achieved their best-ever monthly sales figures. - Ola Electric sold 28,438 units, surpassing its previous high of 21,991 units in April 2023. - TVS Motor Co's iQube crossed the 20,000-unit mark with 20,253 units sold. Also read | US narrowly avoids its first-ever default as Congress approves debt-ceiling suspension - Ather Energy achieved a new monthly high of 15,256 units. - Bajaj Auto saw a remarkable 168 per cent increase in sales to 9,910 units, securing the fourth position for the first time. These four OEMs, along with Ampere Vehicles, accounted for 83,475 units of the total 104,755 EVs sold in May, representing 80 per cent of the market share. Additionally, seven other OEMs achieved four-figure sales. Will the sales sustain over time? Looking ahead, the reduced FAME II subsidy, which took effect on June 1 and resulted in higher prices for e-scooters and e-motorcycles, and is expected to slow down demand in the coming months. However, it might pick up during the upcoming festival season. Nevertheless, the prospects for the domestic electric two-wheeler industry are expected to remain strong due to the rising cost of petrol and diesel and the cost-effective nature of eco-friendly two-wheeler travel. Manufacturers are expected to announce price increases in the near future. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's electric two-wheeler retail sales hit record high in May 2023

The United States is well on its way to narrowly avoiding what would have been its first-ever debt default of&nbsp;$31.4 trillion&nbsp;as the bill raising its debt ceiling&nbsp;sped through the Senate in a 63-36 vote, just a day after it sailed through the US House of Representatives. President Joe Biden will have to sign the bill before it becomes law. In other news, the US President&nbsp;said that Sweden will “soon” join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Finally,&nbsp;air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn Ukraine, including in the capital Kyiv. The officials in Kyiv claimed that they shot down 30 missiles and drones fired into the capital.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-narrowly-avoids-its-first-ever-default-as-congress-approves-debt-ceiling-suspension-599453">US narrowly avoids its first-ever default as Congress approves debt-ceiling suspension</a> 

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Just days before the United States was set to default on its debt for the first time, the US Congress approved a deal to lift the nation's borrowing limit. The bill, which is well on its way to becoming a law, will spare the US from a catastrophic default on its $31.4 trillion in debt.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-will-soon-join-nato-says-us-president-joe-biden-599446">Sweden ‘will soon’ join NATO, says US President Joe Biden</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356210-biden-2.png?imwidth=1920" />

Despite Turkey and Hungary’s opposition, US President Joe Biden said that Sweden will “soon” join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-alarmed-by-air-raid-sirens-as-russia-launches-fresh-wave-of-attacks-599452">Kyiv alarmed by air raid sirens as Russia launches fresh wave of attacks</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356212-untitled-design-2023-06-02t085952064.png?imwidth=1920" />

Russia-Ukraine war showed no signs of de-escalation on Friday (June 2) as air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn east European nation including in the capital Kyiv. The officials in Kyiv claimed that they shot down 30 missiles and drones fired into the capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-killed-one-missing-as-heavy-rain-batters-china-30-million-tonnes-of-bumper-wheat-harvest-impacted-599441">Three killed, one missing as heavy rain batters China; 30 million tonnes of bumper wheat harvest impacted</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356206-new-wion-31.png?imwidth=1920" />As higher-than-normal rain batters&nbsp;various areas of China, at least three people have died while one&nbsp;was reported missing from southwestern China, reports Anadolu citing local media.&nbsp;As of Thursday, authorities have reportedly&nbsp;evacuated some 32,200 people from flood-affected regions.

Arrest warrant against Putin overshadows BRICS FMs meeting in South Africa | All you need to know 
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The United States is well on its way to narrowly avoiding what would have been its first-ever debt default of $31.4 trillion as the bill raising its debt ceiling sped through the Senate in a 63-36 vote, just a day after it sailed through the US House of Representatives.

The United States is well on its way to narrowly avoiding what would have been its first-ever debt default of $31.4 trillion as the bill raising its debt ceiling sped through the Senate in a 63-36 vote, just a day after it sailed through the US House of Representatives. President Joe Biden will have to sign the bill before it becomes law. In other news, the US President said that Sweden will “soon” join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Finally, air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn Ukraine, including in the capital Kyiv. The officials in Kyiv claimed that they shot down 30 missiles and drones fired into the capital. Click on the headlines to read more: US narrowly avoids its first-ever default as Congress approves debt-ceiling suspension Just days before the United States was set to default on its debt for the first time, the US Congress approved a deal to lift the nation's borrowing limit. The bill, which is well on its way to becoming a law, will spare the US from a catastrophic default on its $31.4 trillion in debt. Sweden ‘will soon’ join NATO, says US President Joe Biden Despite Turkey and Hungary’s opposition, US President Joe Biden said that Sweden will “soon” join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Kyiv alarmed by air raid sirens as Russia launches fresh wave of attacks Russia-Ukraine war showed no signs of de-escalation on Friday (June 2) as air raid sirens were heard across the war-torn east European nation including in the capital Kyiv. The officials in Kyiv claimed that they shot down 30 missiles and drones fired into the capital. Three killed, one missing as heavy rain batters China; 30 million tonnes of bumper wheat harvest impacted As higher-than-normal rain batters various areas of China, at least three people have died while one was reported missing from southwestern China, reports Anadolu citing local media. As of Thursday, authorities have reportedly evacuated some 32,200 people from flood-affected regions. Arrest warrant against Putin overshadows BRICS FMs meeting in South Africa | All you need to know

Morning news brief: US debt-ceiling raised, Kyiv rings with air raid sirens, and more

In yet another shooting in the United States, six people were shot, one fatally. The latest shooting incident took place in Charleston County, South Carolina, just as the Memorial Day weekend drew to a close on Monday night. A CBS News report quoting the sheriff's office reports that no arrests have been made at the moment.

The shooting happened around 9:50 pm local time near a nightclub. As per the Sherrif office spokesperson, Andrew Knapp, deputies found one person slumped inside a vehicle at the scene. The person was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;

Five other people were injured and have been taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. As per Knapp, their condition is stable and their condition is not believed to be life-threatening.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-16-people-killed-dozens-injured-during-memorial-day-weekend-shootings-across-us-598035">Over 16 people killed, dozens injured during Memorial Day weekend shootings across US</a>

No further details of the shooting are available at the moment.&nbsp;

This is not an isolated incident of shooting. During the Memorial Day weekend, the United States witnessed multiple shootings across the country.

<h2>Memorial day shootings</h2>

More than a dozen people, 16 to be exact, were gunned down in a spate of shootings across the nation. Additionally, dozens were injured in the gun violence incidents.

The shootings happened in eight states across America. Among the affected states are Chicago, Atlanta, Washington, DC, and New Mexico.

<h2>Biker rally "rolling shootout"</h2>

In Red River, New Mexico, three individuals died, while five others, according to local media reports, were injured. The shooting, as per the news agency AFP, occurred at around 5 pm during an annual Memorial Day motorcycle rally that drew approximately 20,000 bikers to the small town near Taos, a popular skiing destination.

Apart from the said biker rally, as per a NBC News report beaches, and high schools were the places specifically targeted by the gunmen. The dead include victims of various ages, ranging from teenagers to those in their 60s.

<h2>Baltimore scuffle turns deadly</h2>

In Baltimore, Maryland, an argument between two men led to gunfire, which injured five people, around 3:30 pm (local time) on Friday, officials told NBC News.

The victims, who haven’t been identified, suffered non-threatening injuries, and the police said that they are searching for the suspected gunman.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rolling-shootout-at-biker-rally-in-new-mexico-kills-three-injures-five-597477">'Rolling shootout' at biker rally in New Mexico kills three, injures five</a>

Three people were injured, two seriously, in Garden Grove, California, on Saturday evening, in a shooting at Hot Restaurant and Lounge. Garden Grove Police Sgt. Nick Jensen said the gunman got into an argument before opening fire.

<h2>America's gun violence epidemic</h2>

The long weekend violence is just a small example of the growing gun menace threatening American society.

In the last three years, there have been more than 600 mass shootings each, almost two a day on average, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

This year alone, there have been more than 200 mass shootings across the US. The figures include shootings that happen in homes and in public places.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In yet another shooting in the United States, six people were shot, one fatally. The latest shooting incident took place in Charleston County, South Carolina, just as the Memorial Day weekend drew to a close on Monday night.

In yet another shooting in the United States, six people were shot, one fatally. The latest shooting incident took place in Charleston County, South Carolina, just as the Memorial Day weekend drew to a close on Monday night. A CBS News report quoting the sheriff's office reports that no arrests have been made at the moment. The shooting happened around 9:50 pm local time near a nightclub. As per the Sherrif office spokesperson, Andrew Knapp, deputies found one person slumped inside a vehicle at the scene. The person was pronounced dead at the scene. Five other people were injured and have been taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. As per Knapp, their condition is stable and their condition is not believed to be life-threatening. Also read | Over 16 people killed, dozens injured during Memorial Day weekend shootings across US No further details of the shooting are available at the moment. This is not an isolated incident of shooting. During the Memorial Day weekend, the United States witnessed multiple shootings across the country. Memorial day shootings More than a dozen people, 16 to be exact, were gunned down in a spate of shootings across the nation. Additionally, dozens were injured in the gun violence incidents. The shootings happened in eight states across America. Among the affected states are Chicago, Atlanta, Washington, DC, and New Mexico. Biker rally "rolling shootout" In Red River, New Mexico, three individuals died, while five others, according to local media reports, were injured. The shooting, as per the news agency AFP, occurred at around 5 pm during an annual Memorial Day motorcycle rally that drew approximately 20,000 bikers to the small town near Taos, a popular skiing destination. Apart from the said biker rally, as per a NBC News report beaches, and high schools were the places specifically targeted by the gunmen. The dead include victims of various ages, ranging from teenagers to those in their 60s. Baltimore scuffle turns deadly In Baltimore, Maryland, an argument between two men led to gunfire, which injured five people, around 3:30 pm (local time) on Friday, officials told NBC News. The victims, who haven’t been identified, suffered non-threatening injuries, and the police said that they are searching for the suspected gunman. Also read | 'Rolling shootout' at biker rally in New Mexico kills three, injures five Three people were injured, two seriously, in Garden Grove, California, on Saturday evening, in a shooting at Hot Restaurant and Lounge. Garden Grove Police Sgt. Nick Jensen said the gunman got into an argument before opening fire. America's gun violence epidemic The long weekend violence is just a small example of the growing gun menace threatening American society. In the last three years, there have been more than 600 mass shootings each, almost two a day on average, according to the Gun Violence Archive. This year alone, there have been more than 200 mass shootings across the US. The figures include shootings that happen in homes and in public places. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Yet another shooting in US claims one life; Memorial Day weekend death toll rises to 17

In a major win for the LGBTQIA+ community in Japan, a court has ruled that the nation's insistence on not allowing same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. The Tuesday ruling is seen by activists as a welcome step towards marriage equality in a nation where there exists no protection for same-sex unions.

Speaking to the press outside the court, the lead lawyer Yoko Mizutani said that the ruling has "rescued" them from the "hurt" of the last ruling on this issue.

"This ruling has rescued us from the hurt of last year's ruling that said there was nothing wrong with the ban, and the hurt of what the government keeps saying."

<h2>Past rulings on same-sex marriages in Japan</h2>

To date, Japan has had four rulings on the issue. The recent ruling by the Nagoya District Court is the second ruling to find a ban on same-sex marriages unconstitutional. Previously, in March 2021, a district court in Sapporo, the capital city of the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido in a similar ruling&nbsp;said that the ban was "unconstitutional".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-g7-summit-japans-lgbtqia-community-demand-legalisation-of-same-sex-marriage-585495">Ahead of G7 summit, Japan's LGBTQIA+ community demand legalisation of same-sex marriag</a>

However, in June 2022, the Osaka district court ruled that the ban was not unconstitutional. The court added that "from the perspective of individual dignity, it can be said that it is necessary to realise the benefits of same-sex couples being publicly recognised through official recognition."

Subsequently, in December of last year, a Tokyo court reiterated that while the ban was not "unconstitutional," the country's failure to legally protect same-sex partners creates an "unconstitutional situation".

<h2>Marriages and Japan</h2>

Japan is the only remaining G7 nation where same-sex marriage is banned. The Japanese constitution defines marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes".

<h2>Same-sex marriage, the Japanese people, and the government</h2>

As per a Reuters report, opinion polls on the issue have found overwhelming support for the legality of same-sex marriages. Roughly 70 per cent of the public said they are all for the legality of same-sex unions.

However, the conservative ruling Liberal Democratic Party of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida opposes it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/photos/perils-of-the-lgbtq-community-in-africa-597866" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/perils-of-the-lgbtq-community-in-africa-597866&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiuhJOTjJ3_AhVWyGEKHRvBAU4QFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0QahE8YA-xkyddSC5yTNSU" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/perils-of-the-lgbtq-community-in-africa-597866" target="_blank">Perils faced by the LGBTQ community in Africa</a>

In March of this year, Kishida reiterated that a ban on same-sex marriage is not unconstitutional. "I believe I do not have a sense of discrimination (on the issue)," he said, adding, "I have never stated I’m against it."

"I don’t think disallowing same-sex couples to marry is unjust discrimination by the state," said the Japanese PM when questioned by an opposition lawmaker about whether in his opinion the ban on same-sex marriage constitutes discrimination.

In spite of the ban, more than 300 Japanese municipalities that account for some 65 per cent of the Japanese population allow same-sex couples to enter partnership agreements. However, these agreements are far from marriage.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a major win for the LGBTQIA+ community in Japan, a court has ruled that the nation's insistence on not allowing same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. The Tuesday ruling is seen by activists as a welcome step towards marriage equality in a nation where there exists no protection for same-sex unions.

In a major win for the LGBTQIA+ community in Japan, a court has ruled that the nation's insistence on not allowing same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. The Tuesday ruling is seen by activists as a welcome step towards marriage equality in a nation where there exists no protection for same-sex unions. Speaking to the press outside the court, the lead lawyer Yoko Mizutani said that the ruling has "rescued" them from the "hurt" of the last ruling on this issue. "This ruling has rescued us from the hurt of last year's ruling that said there was nothing wrong with the ban, and the hurt of what the government keeps saying." Past rulings on same-sex marriages in Japan To date, Japan has had four rulings on the issue. The recent ruling by the Nagoya District Court is the second ruling to find a ban on same-sex marriages unconstitutional. Previously, in March 2021, a district court in Sapporo, the capital city of the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido in a similar ruling said that the ban was "unconstitutional". Also read | Ahead of G7 summit, Japan's LGBTQIA+ community demand legalisation of same-sex marriag However, in June 2022, the Osaka district court ruled that the ban was not unconstitutional. The court added that "from the perspective of individual dignity, it can be said that it is necessary to realise the benefits of same-sex couples being publicly recognised through official recognition." Subsequently, in December of last year, a Tokyo court reiterated that while the ban was not "unconstitutional," the country's failure to legally protect same-sex partners creates an "unconstitutional situation". Marriages and Japan Japan is the only remaining G7 nation where same-sex marriage is banned. The Japanese constitution defines marriage as something based on "the mutual consent of both sexes". Same-sex marriage, the Japanese people, and the government As per a Reuters report, opinion polls on the issue have found overwhelming support for the legality of same-sex marriages. Roughly 70 per cent of the public said they are all for the legality of same-sex unions. However, the conservative ruling Liberal Democratic Party of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida opposes it. Also read | Perils faced by the LGBTQ community in Africa In March of this year, Kishida reiterated that a ban on same-sex marriage is not unconstitutional. "I believe I do not have a sense of discrimination (on the issue)," he said, adding, "I have never stated I’m against it." "I don’t think disallowing same-sex couples to marry is unjust discrimination by the state," said the Japanese PM when questioned by an opposition lawmaker about whether in his opinion the ban on same-sex marriage constitutes discrimination. In spite of the ban, more than 300 Japanese municipalities that account for some 65 per cent of the Japanese population allow same-sex couples to enter partnership agreements. However, these agreements are far from marriage. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan court 'rescues' nation's LGBT community from 'hurt', says ban on same-sex marriage 'unconstitutional'

In India's capital, New Delhi, another senseless murder has left people stunned. A 36-year-old woman has been arrested for the alleged murder of her 35-year-old flatmate early Tuesday morning. The latest case comes just a day after the gruesome murder of a 16-year-old girl by her boyfriend shook the city.

The victim of the latest crime has&nbsp;been identified as Rani, who used to work as a beautician at a Gurgaon-based beauty parlour. As per a report by news agency ANI, Rani was found lying in a pool of&nbsp;blood after being stabbed by her flatmate. The accused was found sitting near the body.

A case has been filed against the accused under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. Police are yet to recover the murder weapon — a kitchen knife.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-man-stabs-minor-girl-more-than-20-times-smashes-her-head-with-stone-slab-597843">Delhi: Man stabs minor girl more than 20 times, smashes her 'lifeless' body with stone slab</a>

Following reports of the murder, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has implored the UT's Lieutenant Governor&nbsp;Vinai Kumar Saxena "to do something".

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ये हमारी दिल्ली में क्या हो रहा है? क़ानून व्यवस्था पूरी तरह चरमरा गयी है। चारों ओर जंगल राज है। LG साहिब, कुछ तो कीजिए… <a href="https://t.co/BdTC3aSQwJ">https://t.co/BdTC3aSQwJ</a>
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Police were informed of the crime at around 7 am. The incident, as per ANI, took place in Majnu Ka Tila, in north Delhi's Civil Lines Area.&nbsp;

The two women were renting a flat together in Majnu ka Tila, a popular tourist spot in North Delhi.

On Monday night, the victim and the accused, along with a group of friends, had a dinner party at a mutual friend, Neha's house. At the party, which went on till around 1 am, alcohol was consumed and the murder happened under the influence.

Reportedly, during the house party, Sapna and Rani, who were both drunk, got into a fight.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indo-canadian-gangster-amarpreet-chucky-samra-killed-in-suspected-gang-war-in-vancouver-597968">Indo-Canadian gangster Amarpreet 'Chucky' Samra killed in suspected gang war in Vancouver</a>

Following the party, they both returned to their shared flat, where they kept drinking. Once there, the fight was reignited and things got heated up and the disagreement turned into a scuffle, during which Sapna stabbed Rani in the chest using a kitchen knife.

Reportedly, Rani abusing Sapna's dead father was the trigger for the assault and the murder.

Upon reaching the spot, police found Sapna sitting next to Rani's body, which was lying in a pool of blood. Sapna, as per the Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Sagar Singh Kalsi, has confessed to the crime. A postmortem of Rani's body will be done, following which it'll be handed to her loved ones.

"Teams of FSL and crime have inspected the spot. We have registered a case of murder under section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. Based on the investigation, the accused Sapna was arrested after she confessed to her crime. Efforts are being taken to recover the weapon of offence," said Kalsi.

In India's capital, New Delhi, another senseless murder has left people stunned. A 36-year-old woman has been arrested for the alleged murder of her 35-year-old flatmate early Tuesday morning.

In India's capital, New Delhi, another senseless murder has left people stunned. A 36-year-old woman has been arrested for the alleged murder of her 35-year-old flatmate early Tuesday morning. The latest case comes just a day after the gruesome murder of a 16-year-old girl by her boyfriend shook the city. The victim of the latest crime has been identified as Rani, who used to work as a beautician at a Gurgaon-based beauty parlour. As per a report by news agency ANI, Rani was found lying in a pool of blood after being stabbed by her flatmate. The accused was found sitting near the body. A case has been filed against the accused under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. Police are yet to recover the murder weapon — a kitchen knife. Also read | Delhi: Man stabs minor girl more than 20 times, smashes her 'lifeless' body with stone slab Following reports of the murder, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has implored the UT's Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena "to do something". ये हमारी दिल्ली में क्या हो रहा है? क़ानून व्यवस्था पूरी तरह चरमरा गयी है। चारों ओर जंगल राज है। LG साहिब, कुछ तो कीजिए… https://t.co/BdTC3aSQwJ — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 30, 2023 × Police were informed of the crime at around 7 am. The incident, as per ANI, took place in Majnu Ka Tila, in north Delhi's Civil Lines Area. The two women were renting a flat together in Majnu ka Tila, a popular tourist spot in North Delhi. On Monday night, the victim and the accused, along with a group of friends, had a dinner party at a mutual friend, Neha's house. At the party, which went on till around 1 am, alcohol was consumed and the murder happened under the influence. Reportedly, during the house party, Sapna and Rani, who were both drunk, got into a fight. Also read | Indo-Canadian gangster Amarpreet 'Chucky' Samra killed in suspected gang war in Vancouver Following the party, they both returned to their shared flat, where they kept drinking. Once there, the fight was reignited and things got heated up and the disagreement turned into a scuffle, during which Sapna stabbed Rani in the chest using a kitchen knife. Reportedly, Rani abusing Sapna's dead father was the trigger for the assault and the murder. Upon reaching the spot, police found Sapna sitting next to Rani's body, which was lying in a pool of blood. Sapna, as per the Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Sagar Singh Kalsi, has confessed to the crime. A postmortem of Rani's body will be done, following which it'll be handed to her loved ones. "Teams of FSL and crime have inspected the spot. We have registered a case of murder under section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. Based on the investigation, the accused Sapna was arrested after she confessed to her crime. Efforts are being taken to recover the weapon of offence," said Kalsi.

Delhi woman stabs flatmate to death after drunken argument; CM Kejriwal urges Lt. Gov to 'do something'

Just hours after Pakistan's ruling coalition rejected Imran Khan's offer for dialogue, the former prime minister on Sunday (May 28th), in a video message to the masses, urged authorities to "break as many Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)&nbsp;members for the next three to four weeks but announce elections afterwards."

"Don't destroy the country just to keep Imran Khan out of politics, destroy as many people as you want to destroy quickly and don't waste time, announce immediate elections to save the country."

Khan started off the more than 20-minute-long&nbsp;video message by alleging that members of his party have been subject to a litany of abuses at the hands of Pakistani authorities.&nbsp;

Talking about Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah's post-midnight press conference, the PTI chief claimed that female members of the party were being "mistreated and harassed by the state" for protesting peacefully.

Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah claimed earlier on Saturday&nbsp;that intelligence agencies intercepted a telephone call in which a plan to “stage a raid and rape at a known PTI&nbsp;worker’s home” was being discussed.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters, Sanaullah said the conspiracy was being hatched to later claim that human rights were being violated in Pakistan, Dawn reported on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-minister-claims-to-expose-conspiracy-to-stage-raid-rape-at-known-pti-workers-house-says-report-597416">Pak minister claims to expose ‘conspiracy to stage raid, rape’ at PTI worker’s house, says report</a>

Slamming the interior minister, Imran Khan said: "If there were any doubts about women being mistreated in jails, this press conference from this certified criminal should remove all such doubts."

"He is so obviously trying to cover up and pre-empt the horror stories about to break in the media," added the PTI chief.

In the video shared on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party social media channels, Khan said that "Never have women been humiliated for using their constitutional right to protest peacefully in any democracy let alone in one that is Muslim."

Watch Imran Khan's latest address to Pakistan here:

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"This is a planned campaign to depoliticise about 50 per cent of Pakistan's population."

The same message was shared by Khan in a tweet that is accompanied by a video which allegedly showcases the abuses borne by women in Pakistan.

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Never have women been humiliated for using their constitutional right to protest peacefully in any democracy let alone in a one that is muslim. 
This is a planned campaign to depoliticise women in the country. 
 
The clampdown and terror campaign against women is being done so that… <a href="https://t.co/JdEbKPlY9B">pic.twitter.com/JdEbKPlY9B</a>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1662872194119000065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Khan further counted off his government's achievements, mentioning the 'Billion Tree Tsunami', Pakistan's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, etc. Making mention of "three long marches" that took place during his regime, Khan said that no FIRs happened back then and that "whatever has happened since 25th March is planned".

Comparing the current scenario to General Pervez Musharraf's reign after the military coup of 1999, Khan said that even then, the situation wasn't this bad.

"What's happening now is a negation of our Jamhuriat (democracy)," said Imran Khan, adding that "fundamental rights, Supreme court orders are being ignored."

He also reiterated that the constitutional direction "to hold elections within 90 days was ignored by the government."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pti-chief-imran-khan-names-his-replacements-in-case-he-is-arrested-or-disqualified-597375">PTI chief Imran Khan names his 'replacements' in case he is arrested or disqualified</a>

Khan also said that the media is being blackmailed into silence with threats of harm to their families.

"Democracy is dead," said Khan, adding that he is appealing "to 15 judges of our Supreme Court on behalf of our people."&nbsp;

He said that "so far it seems that you are losing your power, freedom in front of the powerful" and urged them to "take a stand."

"History will remember your role," he implored.

"It is the right of every citizen to protest peacefully those who cause chaos and vandalism should be dealt with, but to destroy the entire party under the guise of it is the negation of democracy and the law of the jungle."

Khan further urged the "Judiciary to issue a suo motu notice that the women who only protested peacefully should be released and a full judicial inquiry should be conducted into the" chaos that happened during the recent protests in Pakistan.&nbsp;"We will fully cooperate in this," added Imran Khan.&nbsp;

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Just hours after Pakistan's ruling coalition rejected Imran Khan's offer for dialogue, the former prime minister on Sunday (May 28th), in a video message to the masses, urged authorities to "break as many Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members for the next three to four weeks but announce elections afterwards.

Just hours after Pakistan's ruling coalition rejected Imran Khan's offer for dialogue, the former prime minister on Sunday (May 28th), in a video message to the masses, urged authorities to "break as many Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members for the next three to four weeks but announce elections afterwards." "Don't destroy the country just to keep Imran Khan out of politics, destroy as many people as you want to destroy quickly and don't waste time, announce immediate elections to save the country." Khan started off the more than 20-minute-long video message by alleging that members of his party have been subject to a litany of abuses at the hands of Pakistani authorities. Talking about Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah's post-midnight press conference, the PTI chief claimed that female members of the party were being "mistreated and harassed by the state" for protesting peacefully. Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah claimed earlier on Saturday that intelligence agencies intercepted a telephone call in which a plan to “stage a raid and rape at a known PTI worker’s home” was being discussed. Speaking to reporters, Sanaullah said the conspiracy was being hatched to later claim that human rights were being violated in Pakistan, Dawn reported on Sunday. Also read | Pak minister claims to expose ‘conspiracy to stage raid, rape’ at PTI worker’s house, says report Slamming the interior minister, Imran Khan said: "If there were any doubts about women being mistreated in jails, this press conference from this certified criminal should remove all such doubts." "He is so obviously trying to cover up and pre-empt the horror stories about to break in the media," added the PTI chief. In the video shared on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party social media channels, Khan said that "Never have women been humiliated for using their constitutional right to protest peacefully in any democracy let alone in one that is Muslim." Watch Imran Khan's latest address to Pakistan here: × "This is a planned campaign to depoliticise about 50 per cent of Pakistan's population." The same message was shared by Khan in a tweet that is accompanied by a video which allegedly showcases the abuses borne by women in Pakistan. Never have women been humiliated for using their constitutional right to protest peacefully in any democracy let alone in a one that is muslim. This is a planned campaign to depoliticise women in the country. The clampdown and terror campaign against women is being done so that… pic.twitter.com/JdEbKPlY9B — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) May 28, 2023 × Khan further counted off his government's achievements, mentioning the 'Billion Tree Tsunami', Pakistan's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, etc. Making mention of "three long marches" that took place during his regime, Khan said that no FIRs happened back then and that "whatever has happened since 25th March is planned". Comparing the current scenario to General Pervez Musharraf's reign after the military coup of 1999, Khan said that even then, the situation wasn't this bad. "What's happening now is a negation of our Jamhuriat (democracy)," said Imran Khan, adding that "fundamental rights, Supreme court orders are being ignored." He also reiterated that the constitutional direction "to hold elections within 90 days was ignored by the government." Also read | PTI chief Imran Khan names his 'replacements' in case he is arrested or disqualified Khan also said that the media is being blackmailed into silence with threats of harm to their families. "Democracy is dead," said Khan, adding that he is appealing "to 15 judges of our Supreme Court on behalf of our people." He said that "so far it seems that you are losing your power, freedom in front of the powerful" and urged them to "take a stand." "History will remember your role," he implored. "It is the right of every citizen to protest peacefully those who cause chaos and vandalism should be dealt with, but to destroy the entire party under the guise of it is the negation of democracy and the law of the jungle." Khan further urged the "Judiciary to issue a suo motu notice that the women who only protested peacefully should be released and a full judicial inquiry should be conducted into the" chaos that happened during the recent protests in Pakistan. "We will fully cooperate in this," added Imran Khan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘PM Sharif govt worse than Musharraf’s,’ says Imran Khan as he urges Supreme Court to take action

A judge has issued a temporary halt to South Carolina's new law that bans most abortions at around six weeks of pregnancy. The Friday ruling by Judge Clifton Newman came shortly after Governor Henry McMaster signed the bill into law. As a result, South Carolina will revert back to a ban on abortions at approximately 20 weeks after fertilisation until the state Supreme Court reviews the measure.

Judge Newman stated that the status quo should be maintained until the Supreme Court has an opportunity to review the law. "It's going to end up there," he said.

The newly passed law is similar to a previous ban on abortions once a heartbeat is detected, which was passed in 2021.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-south-carolina-passes-six-week-abortion-ban-details-here-595807">US: South Carolina passes six-week abortion ban. Details here</a>

However, the state Supreme Court in a 3-2 decision ruled that the 2021 law violated the right to privacy outlined in the state constitution.&nbsp;

As per AP, legislative leaders believe that the new law makes some technical tweaks and that these may influence at least one justice to reconsider their position, especially since the author of the previous ruling has retired.

However, abortion rights group Planned Parenthood contends that the new law is so similar to the previous one that it would harm clinics and women seeking treatment if it remains in effect until a full court review.

Planned Parenthood immediately filed a lawsuit against the new law upon its signing, arguing that it created uncertainty for South Carolina's abortion clinics, resulting in cancelled appointments for patients in the later stages of pregnancy and requiring doctors to give careful consideration to the new regulations.&nbsp;

The majority opinion in the state Supreme Court ruling that struck down the 2021 law highlighted the authority of lawmakers to protect life but ultimately recognised that the privacy clause in the state constitution grants women the time to decide whether to have an abortion.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-carolina-legislature-overrides-12-week-abortion-ban-veto-makes-it-law-593429">North Carolina legislature overrides 12-week abortion ban veto, makes it law</a>

It stated that most women are unaware of their pregnancy at six weeks after conception.&nbsp;

Justice Kaye Hearn, who authored the opinion, has since retired, leaving the South Carolina Supreme Court as the only high court in the country without a female justice.

The changes made in the new law specifically target Justice John Few, who was part of the majority in the previous ruling. Justice Few expressed concerns about the poorly written nature of the 2021 law and suggested that a full ban on abortion would likely be constitutional.&nbsp;

He compared a ban to child abuse or rape laws and said that it would not violate privacy rights if a fetus is granted the same rights as a person.&nbsp;

The new law includes exceptions for fatal fetal anomalies, the life and health of the patient, and cases of rape or incest within the first 12 weeks. Violating the law could result in felony charges for doctors, carrying a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A judge has issued a temporary halt to South Carolina's new law that bans most abortions at around six weeks of pregnancy. The Friday ruling by Judge Clifton Newman came shortly after Governor Henry McMaster signed the bill into law.

A judge has issued a temporary halt to South Carolina's new law that bans most abortions at around six weeks of pregnancy. The Friday ruling by Judge Clifton Newman came shortly after Governor Henry McMaster signed the bill into law. As a result, South Carolina will revert back to a ban on abortions at approximately 20 weeks after fertilisation until the state Supreme Court reviews the measure. Judge Newman stated that the status quo should be maintained until the Supreme Court has an opportunity to review the law. "It's going to end up there," he said. The newly passed law is similar to a previous ban on abortions once a heartbeat is detected, which was passed in 2021. Also read | US: South Carolina passes six-week abortion ban. Details here However, the state Supreme Court in a 3-2 decision ruled that the 2021 law violated the right to privacy outlined in the state constitution. As per AP, legislative leaders believe that the new law makes some technical tweaks and that these may influence at least one justice to reconsider their position, especially since the author of the previous ruling has retired. However, abortion rights group Planned Parenthood contends that the new law is so similar to the previous one that it would harm clinics and women seeking treatment if it remains in effect until a full court review. Planned Parenthood immediately filed a lawsuit against the new law upon its signing, arguing that it created uncertainty for South Carolina's abortion clinics, resulting in cancelled appointments for patients in the later stages of pregnancy and requiring doctors to give careful consideration to the new regulations. The majority opinion in the state Supreme Court ruling that struck down the 2021 law highlighted the authority of lawmakers to protect life but ultimately recognised that the privacy clause in the state constitution grants women the time to decide whether to have an abortion. Also read | North Carolina legislature overrides 12-week abortion ban veto, makes it law It stated that most women are unaware of their pregnancy at six weeks after conception. Justice Kaye Hearn, who authored the opinion, has since retired, leaving the South Carolina Supreme Court as the only high court in the country without a female justice. The changes made in the new law specifically target Justice John Few, who was part of the majority in the previous ruling. Justice Few expressed concerns about the poorly written nature of the 2021 law and suggested that a full ban on abortion would likely be constitutional. He compared a ban to child abuse or rape laws and said that it would not violate privacy rights if a fetus is granted the same rights as a person. The new law includes exceptions for fatal fetal anomalies, the life and health of the patient, and cases of rape or incest within the first 12 weeks. Violating the law could result in felony charges for doctors, carrying a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $10,000 fine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Carolina judge temporarily blocks abortion ban, pending Supreme Court review

An online fraud scheme run via WhatsApp link and a fraudulent app fuelled by a rumours promising substantial profits from buying virtual animals, like pigs, ducks etc., has cost hundreds of thousands of rupees to villagers in India's state of Bihar. As reported by Boom Decode, the scheme had lured people to invest&nbsp;in pigs and other livestock online through a game, with the expectation of high returns.&nbsp;

Here's all you need to know:

<h2>How it all started</h2>

The origins of the online scam can be traced back to a WhatsApp message that circulated in Bihar, claiming that purchasing animals online could yield profits of up to thousands of rupees within a few months. The message propagated the idea that an online game called ‘Smile Rancher’ helped a middle-aged man win big by "investing" in the online purchase of livestock. As per the claims, the man won INR 20 lakh or $2 million.

<h2>The scheme</h2>

The report quotes an 18-year-old victim of the scheme,&nbsp;Suraj Kumar who revealed that people had to create an account by entering a six-digit password. Once that was done, they would find pictures of dozens of animals which they could buy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bird-flu-fowls-the-mood-kills-nearly-9000-marine-creatures-in-chile-france-develops-vaccine-for-ducks-596812">Bird flu 'fowls' the mood, kills nearly 9,000 marine creatures in Chile, France develops vaccine for ducks</a>

After paying for the purchase, all they had to do was log in everyday and click on the animal. This would result in them getting paid a certain amount in the app's wallet.

"The most expensive was the peacock, which cost Rs 50,000. It would earn Rs 3,000 a day. Duck was the cheapest one which cost Rs 5,000 rupees, the app claimed to offer Rs 400 for it every day," said Kumar.

"One had to log in every day and click on the animal or bird that was bought. The earnings on the animals would come in the wallet of the account which was created in the app," he added.

<h2>Could this money be withdrawn?</h2>

Yes, but most times people would receive a server error.

The maximum limit for withdrawal from the application wallet was Rs&nbsp;3000,&nbsp;however, people who purchased and bred these virtual animals said they would very often get error messages on attempting to withdraw money.

However, some people successfully withdrew small amounts of money. This only helped give people false hope.&nbsp;

As the word spread, more individuals became interested in investing and many people borrowed money or sold assets to enter the market.&nbsp;

But one day the app just stopped working.

<h2>Who owns ‘Smile Rancher’ and why haven’t app stores like Google Play Store or Apple App Store taken any action?</h2>

As per transaction details accessed by Decode, the money people would spend on these virtual animals would go to the account of Sewing SKY India Pvt Limited — an unlisted company which according to the Indian Ministry of Corporate Affairs website deals in fabrics and is registered in Telangana Hyderabad and belongs to Gangadhar Pathri and Ajay Kumar Pathri.

Application stores like Google Play Store or the Apple AppStore have been unable to take any action because the application is not available on these platforms. People downloaded the application via a specific link shared on WhatsApp.

The app is now defunct.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cocaine-price-crash-a-blow-for-colombian-coca-growers-596786">Cocaine price crash a blow for Colombian coca growers</a>

<h2>Who sent them the message?</h2>

As per the villagers, a man called Bhishma Pratap&nbsp;spread these rumours. They say that Pratap claimed that his uncle was the one who won Rs 20,00,000 ($24,190).

For those interested in earning extra money, Pratap created a WhatsApp group named "Ranchers no. 1".&nbsp;As the admin of the group, he started adding more and more villagers, he then sent the forwarded application&nbsp;link to the group, which had more than 60 members. Pratap left the group the same day the application stopped working.

<h2>How did so many people fall for the scam?</h2>

The application called itself a "breeding management investment company from the United States."&nbsp;

It noted that was involved in "offline investment promotion for major breeding pastures and looking for investors who work part-time in the breeding industry".

It further claimed that after 2020, i.e., the pandemic, the company&nbsp;started doing its business online and started seeking people from all over the world to join the breeding industry and "make money together".

For residents of the small Bihar village of Maulanagar, this seemed like a good idea to earn some extra money. Most of the village residents belong to a socially marginalised community called the Musahars.

<h2>Has anyone filed a complaint?</h2>

Kasim Khan, a self-proclaimed victim of the scam, reportedly took action against the fraudulent company by filing a complaint with the Consumer Complaints Court on July 22nd 2022. In his complaint, Khan stated that he had invested Rs 55,000 in&nbsp;the scheme and attempted to withdraw the amount after two days, but was unsuccessful despite multiple attempts. He alleges that the company, Breeding Management, had now ceased operations and had deceived thousands of individuals through their online scam.&nbsp;

<h2>Was it just the one Bihar village that got duped?</h2>

Unfortunately no, the app has reportedly spread far from Bihar and has reached Assam.&nbsp;

The people of the small Bihar village got duped in February 2022, and in early July last year, a gym trainer in Guwahati Assam also received the link to that game. He and his colleagues invested in the app and lost thousands of rupees.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
 
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An online fraud scheme run via WhatsApp link and a fraudulent app fuelled by a rumours promising substantial profits from buying virtual animals, like pigs, ducks etc.

An online fraud scheme run via WhatsApp link and a fraudulent app fuelled by a rumours promising substantial profits from buying virtual animals, like pigs, ducks etc., has cost hundreds of thousands of rupees to villagers in India's state of Bihar. As reported by Boom Decode, the scheme had lured people to invest in pigs and other livestock online through a game, with the expectation of high returns. Here's all you need to know: How it all started The origins of the online scam can be traced back to a WhatsApp message that circulated in Bihar, claiming that purchasing animals online could yield profits of up to thousands of rupees within a few months. The message propagated the idea that an online game called ‘Smile Rancher’ helped a middle-aged man win big by "investing" in the online purchase of livestock. As per the claims, the man won INR 20 lakh or $2 million. The scheme The report quotes an 18-year-old victim of the scheme, Suraj Kumar who revealed that people had to create an account by entering a six-digit password. Once that was done, they would find pictures of dozens of animals which they could buy. Also read | Bird flu 'fowls' the mood, kills nearly 9,000 marine creatures in Chile, France develops vaccine for ducks After paying for the purchase, all they had to do was log in everyday and click on the animal. This would result in them getting paid a certain amount in the app's wallet. "The most expensive was the peacock, which cost Rs 50,000. It would earn Rs 3,000 a day. Duck was the cheapest one which cost Rs 5,000 rupees, the app claimed to offer Rs 400 for it every day," said Kumar. "One had to log in every day and click on the animal or bird that was bought. The earnings on the animals would come in the wallet of the account which was created in the app," he added. Could this money be withdrawn? Yes, but most times people would receive a server error. The maximum limit for withdrawal from the application wallet was Rs 3000, however, people who purchased and bred these virtual animals said they would very often get error messages on attempting to withdraw money. However, some people successfully withdrew small amounts of money. This only helped give people false hope. As the word spread, more individuals became interested in investing and many people borrowed money or sold assets to enter the market. But one day the app just stopped working. Who owns ‘Smile Rancher’ and why haven’t app stores like Google Play Store or Apple App Store taken any action? As per transaction details accessed by Decode, the money people would spend on these virtual animals would go to the account of Sewing SKY India Pvt Limited — an unlisted company which according to the Indian Ministry of Corporate Affairs website deals in fabrics and is registered in Telangana Hyderabad and belongs to Gangadhar Pathri and Ajay Kumar Pathri. Application stores like Google Play Store or the Apple AppStore have been unable to take any action because the application is not available on these platforms. People downloaded the application via a specific link shared on WhatsApp. The app is now defunct. Also read | Cocaine price crash a blow for Colombian coca growers Who sent them the message? As per the villagers, a man called Bhishma Pratap spread these rumours. They say that Pratap claimed that his uncle was the one who won Rs 20,00,000 ($24,190). For those interested in earning extra money, Pratap created a WhatsApp group named "Ranchers no. 1". As the admin of the group, he started adding more and more villagers, he then sent the forwarded application link to the group, which had more than 60 members. Pratap left the group the same day the application stopped working. How did so many people fall for the scam? The application called itself a "breeding management investment company from the United States." It noted that was involved in "offline investment promotion for major breeding pastures and looking for investors who work part-time in the breeding industry". It further claimed that after 2020, i.e., the pandemic, the company started doing its business online and started seeking people from all over the world to join the breeding industry and "make money together". For residents of the small Bihar village of Maulanagar, this seemed like a good idea to earn some extra money. Most of the village residents belong to a socially marginalised community called the Musahars. Has anyone filed a complaint? Kasim Khan, a self-proclaimed victim of the scam, reportedly took action against the fraudulent company by filing a complaint with the Consumer Complaints Court on July 22nd 2022. In his complaint, Khan stated that he had invested Rs 55,000 in the scheme and attempted to withdraw the amount after two days, but was unsuccessful despite multiple attempts. He alleges that the company, Breeding Management, had now ceased operations and had deceived thousands of individuals through their online scam. Was it just the one Bihar village that got duped? Unfortunately no, the app has reportedly spread far from Bihar and has reached Assam. The people of the small Bihar village got duped in February 2022, and in early July last year, a gym trainer in Guwahati Assam also received the link to that game. He and his colleagues invested in the app and lost thousands of rupees. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | ‘Smile Rancher’ makes people cry. All you need to know about the latest online scam

Pope Francis returned to his duties on Saturday after taking a day off due to a fever. The 86-year-old pontiff, who was hospitalised for bronchitis about two months ago, had a busy schedule of private audiences planned for the day, said the Vatican.

The previous day, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni had explained that the pope would not be holding audiences "due to a feverish state".

Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin attributed the pope's fatigue to his demanding schedule and said he was "tired".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-down-with-fever-skips-friday-meetings-596983">Pope Francis down with fever after exhaustion, skips all scheduled Friday meetings</a>

Pope Francis, according to his published schedule, had eight meetings the day before — Thursday.

The pope's next public appearance is scheduled for Sunday when he will conduct a mass at St. Peter's Basilica to celebrate Pentecost, followed by the traditional Regina Coeli prayer. On Monday, he will&nbsp;meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella.

<h2>Pope Francis' health issues</h2>

Francis, who has been the leader of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics since 2013, has faced a series of health challenges over the past year. These range from persistent knee pain to his recent hospitalisation for bronchitis.&nbsp;

In late March, the pope was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome because of breathing difficulties and remained there for three nights. He received treatment with antibiotics for bronchitis.&nbsp;

Upon his discharge on April 1, he greeted well-wishers with a smile and a joke, quipping, "I am still alive!"

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-meets-pope-francis-as-italy-reiterates-its-support-592092">Zelensky asks Pope Francis to 'join' Kyiv's peace plan as Italy reiterates its support</a>

In the past, Pope Francis has expressed the belief that his papacy would be short-lived. In 2014, he told reporters he expected it to last only a few years.

"This will last a short time, two or three years, and then we go to the house of the father," he said before making a chopping gesture and a whistling sound.

During his earlier years as Pope, Francis as per Reuters appeared sprightly and had a slimmer figure. However, his current health condition has led to the use of a cane and a wheelchair because of a persistent knee ailment. His sedentary lifestyle within the Vatican, which began before his leg problem, has caused a noticeable increase in his waistline.

<h2>Is retirement on the cards for Pope Francis?</h2>

These health issues have raised concerns and led to speculation about the possibility of him choosing to retire instead of serving for life, as his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI did.

In 2013, Pope Benedict XVI made history by becoming the first pope since the Middle Ages to resign from his position.

However, despite these physical challenges, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, with its nearly 1.4 billion followers, has dismissed suggestions that he is prepared to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor and retire.&nbsp;

"You don't run the Church with a knee but with a head," he reportedly told an aide.

This remark came after he started occasionally using a wheelchair in public for the first time on May 5, 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pope Francis returned to his duties on Saturday after taking a day off due to a fever. The 86-year-old pontiff, who was hospitalised for bronchitis about two months ago, had a busy schedule of private audiences planned for the day, said the Vatican.

Pope Francis returned to his duties on Saturday after taking a day off due to a fever. The 86-year-old pontiff, who was hospitalised for bronchitis about two months ago, had a busy schedule of private audiences planned for the day, said the Vatican. The previous day, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni had explained that the pope would not be holding audiences "due to a feverish state". Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin attributed the pope's fatigue to his demanding schedule and said he was "tired". Also read | Pope Francis down with fever after exhaustion, skips all scheduled Friday meetings Pope Francis, according to his published schedule, had eight meetings the day before — Thursday. The pope's next public appearance is scheduled for Sunday when he will conduct a mass at St. Peter's Basilica to celebrate Pentecost, followed by the traditional Regina Coeli prayer. On Monday, he will meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella. Pope Francis' health issues Francis, who has been the leader of the world's 1.3 billion Catholics since 2013, has faced a series of health challenges over the past year. These range from persistent knee pain to his recent hospitalisation for bronchitis. In late March, the pope was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome because of breathing difficulties and remained there for three nights. He received treatment with antibiotics for bronchitis. Upon his discharge on April 1, he greeted well-wishers with a smile and a joke, quipping, "I am still alive!" Also read | Zelensky asks Pope Francis to 'join' Kyiv's peace plan as Italy reiterates its support In the past, Pope Francis has expressed the belief that his papacy would be short-lived. In 2014, he told reporters he expected it to last only a few years. "This will last a short time, two or three years, and then we go to the house of the father," he said before making a chopping gesture and a whistling sound. During his earlier years as Pope, Francis as per Reuters appeared sprightly and had a slimmer figure. However, his current health condition has led to the use of a cane and a wheelchair because of a persistent knee ailment. His sedentary lifestyle within the Vatican, which began before his leg problem, has caused a noticeable increase in his waistline. Is retirement on the cards for Pope Francis? These health issues have raised concerns and led to speculation about the possibility of him choosing to retire instead of serving for life, as his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI did. In 2013, Pope Benedict XVI made history by becoming the first pope since the Middle Ages to resign from his position. However, despite these physical challenges, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, with its nearly 1.4 billion followers, has dismissed suggestions that he is prepared to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor and retire. "You don't run the Church with a knee but with a head," he reportedly told an aide. This remark came after he started occasionally using a wheelchair in public for the first time on May 5, 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pope Francis returns to duties following day off due to fever and exhaustion

Shabazz Suleman, a 27-year-old British man from High Wycombe, has been sentenced to life in prison by a UK court for travelling to Syria nearly a decade ago to join the Islamic State (ISIS) group. Judge Mark Lucraft, who presided over the case at London's Old Bailey criminal court, highlighted that Suleman knowingly joined an organisation proscribed under English law.

<h2>What did the judge say?</h2>

"You went to Syria in order to join IS. You understood IS was a proscribed organisation in English law," said Judge Mark Lucraft as he passed the sentence.&nbsp;

The judge also noted that Suleman's intention was to become a sniper within ISIS.

"Your ambition was to become a sniper."

<h2>Guilty plea and the sentence</h2>

Suleman, who pleaded guilty last month, admitted to preparing acts of terrorism by travelling from the UK to Turkey in August 2014 at the age of 18, with the purpose of joining ISIS in Syria.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-carolina-judge-temporarily-blocks-abortion-ban-pending-supreme-court-review-596939">South Carolina judge temporarily blocks abortion ban, pending supreme court review</a>

Under the life sentence, Suleman will serve a minimum term of nine years and six months.&nbsp;

How did an 18-year-old join ISIS?

He disappeared during a family holiday in Turkey. This, as per the news agency AFP, Turkey, which borders Syria, is a common route for Western individuals aspiring to join jihadist groups in Syria.&nbsp;

During the court proceedings, prosecutor Duncan Atkinson revealed that Suleman was detained by Turkish forces while attempting to travel to Syria, but later chose to participate in a prisoner exchange with ISIS.&nbsp;

Once in Syria, he shared his experiences on social media and gave incriminating interviews to Sky News.&nbsp;

<h2>Shabazz Suleman's arrest and charges against him</h2>

In September 2021, Suleman was arrested at Heathrow Airport and charged with several terror offences, including firearms training and membership in a proscribed organisation.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexicos-olmec-portal-of-the-underworld-returns-home-after-five-decades-in-us-596915">Mexico's Olmec 'Portal of the Underworld' returns home after five decades in US</a>

However, the prosecution decided to leave the two specific charges on file as Suleman's guilty plea already addressed them. This means that although the charges were not dropped entirely, they were not pursued separately as they were already encompassed by his admission of guilt.&nbsp;

<h2>Escaping the ISIS</h2>

Suleman's defence lawyer, Abdul Iqbal, described him as an "immature and idealistic" young man who initially wanted to help people in distress and participated in non-combat duties within ISIS.&nbsp;

However, Suleman eventually became "disenchanted" with jihadism and attempted to desert the terrorist group.

Iqbal emphasized that his client "firmly" decided to leave the terrorist organisation within five months of joining.

After the collapse of ISIS, Suleman was captured by a faction of the Free Syrian Army (FSA) in 2017. He was subsequently transferred to Turkey and later to Pakistan.&nbsp;

Shabazz Suleman, a 27-year-old British man from High Wycombe, has been sentenced to life in prison by a UK court for travelling to Syria nearly a decade ago to join the Islamic State (ISIS) group.

Shabazz Suleman, a 27-year-old British man from High Wycombe, has been sentenced to life in prison by a UK court for travelling to Syria nearly a decade ago to join the Islamic State (ISIS) group. Judge Mark Lucraft, who presided over the case at London's Old Bailey criminal court, highlighted that Suleman knowingly joined an organisation proscribed under English law. What did the judge say? "You went to Syria in order to join IS. You understood IS was a proscribed organisation in English law," said Judge Mark Lucraft as he passed the sentence. The judge also noted that Suleman's intention was to become a sniper within ISIS. "Your ambition was to become a sniper." Guilty plea and the sentence Suleman, who pleaded guilty last month, admitted to preparing acts of terrorism by travelling from the UK to Turkey in August 2014 at the age of 18, with the purpose of joining ISIS in Syria. Also read | South Carolina judge temporarily blocks abortion ban, pending supreme court review Under the life sentence, Suleman will serve a minimum term of nine years and six months. How did an 18-year-old join ISIS? He disappeared during a family holiday in Turkey. This, as per the news agency AFP, Turkey, which borders Syria, is a common route for Western individuals aspiring to join jihadist groups in Syria. During the court proceedings, prosecutor Duncan Atkinson revealed that Suleman was detained by Turkish forces while attempting to travel to Syria, but later chose to participate in a prisoner exchange with ISIS. Once in Syria, he shared his experiences on social media and gave incriminating interviews to Sky News. Shabazz Suleman's arrest and charges against him In September 2021, Suleman was arrested at Heathrow Airport and charged with several terror offences, including firearms training and membership in a proscribed organisation. Also read | Mexico's Olmec 'Portal of the Underworld' returns home after five decades in US However, the prosecution decided to leave the two specific charges on file as Suleman's guilty plea already addressed them. This means that although the charges were not dropped entirely, they were not pursued separately as they were already encompassed by his admission of guilt. Escaping the ISIS Suleman's defence lawyer, Abdul Iqbal, described him as an "immature and idealistic" young man who initially wanted to help people in distress and participated in non-combat duties within ISIS. However, Suleman eventually became "disenchanted" with jihadism and attempted to desert the terrorist group. Iqbal emphasized that his client "firmly" decided to leave the terrorist organisation within five months of joining. After the collapse of ISIS, Suleman was captured by a faction of the Free Syrian Army (FSA) in 2017. He was subsequently transferred to Turkey and later to Pakistan.

British man receives life sentence for trying to join ISIS in Syria

Bird flu, a highly pathogenic avian influenza, has caused significant damage to poultry production worldwide, resulting in the culling of over 200 million birds in the last 18 months.&nbsp;In Chile, the disease, as per AFP, has killed close to 9,000 sea lions, penguins, otters and small cetaceans. France, which has also been severely affected by the disease, has now announced its intention to launch a vaccination programme against bird flu in the autumn following successful tests on ducks, according to the farm ministry.&nbsp;

<h2>France's vaccination for ducks</h2>

Among the European Union countries, France has been the most severely affected, experiencing a notable resurgence of outbreaks in the southwestern part of the country since the beginning of the month, primarily among ducks.&nbsp;

Reuters reports that in anticipation of this situation, France had previously placed an order for 80 million vaccines, contingent upon the confirmation of their effectiveness through final tests conducted by the French health safety agency ANSES.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-explains-smile-rancher-makes-people-cry-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-latest-ponzi-scheme-596879">WION Explains | 'Smile Rancher' makes people cry. All you need to know about the latest ponzi scheme</a>

On its website, the French farm ministry wrote, "These favourable results provided sufficient guarantees to launch a vaccination campaign as early as autumn 2023."

<h2>Is the vaccination effective?</h2>

The conclusions drawn from the tests indicated that the vaccinated mule ducks exhibited effective control of virus transmission, differentiation between infected and vaccinated animals — referred to as the DIVA principle — and a decrease in virus excretion among vaccinated birds.&nbsp;

<h2>Vaccination and governments</h2>

Governments have historically been cautious about using vaccines due to potential trade restrictions. However, in light of the severity of the bird flu outbreak and its implications for public health, many governments have increasingly considered vaccinations as a means to control the virus's spread and prevent human transmission.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/animal-health-body-calls-for-vaccine-for-birds-against-bird-flu-amid-pandemic-concerns-594771">Animal health body calls for vaccine for birds against avian flu amid pandemic concerns</a>

Preliminary results from the Netherlands have also shown the tested vaccines to be efficient.

<h2>Situation in Chile</h2>

Chile's fisheries service, as per AFP, has reported that an avian flu outbreak along the country's north coast has led to the deaths of nearly 9,000 sea lions, penguins, otters, and small cetaceans. The outbreak, which began in 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 7,600 sea lions, 1,186 Humboldt penguins — an endangered species exclusive to Chile and Peru — as well as various otters, porpoises, and dolphins.

The disease has affected 12 out of Chile's 16 regions, prompting the activation of "surveillance protocols" along the coast. Measures include the burial of affected animals to prevent further spread of the virus.

<h2>Bird flu around the word</h2>

Since late 2021, the world has been grappling with one of the most severe avian influenza outbreaks on record. The outbreak has resulted in the culling of tens of millions of poultry, widespread die-offs of wild birds, and an increasing number of infections among mammals in multiple countries.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Bird flu: Brazil declares animal health emergency after several cases found

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bird-flu-brazil-declares-animal-health-emergency-after-several-cases-found-595924/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Bird flu in humans</h2>

In Cambodia, an 11-year-old girl fell ill in mid-February and tragically succumbed to the H5N1 bird flu virus, exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat. While her father also tested positive, health authorities in Cambodia ruled out human-to-human transmission. Instances of bird flu crossing over into mammals are rare, and human infections are even rarer. Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment for the disease, which tends to be fatal in both wild and domesticated birds.

In March, Chile reported its first case of human infection in a 53-year-old man. Other countries in South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Peru, have also reported cases, with hundreds of sea lion deaths reported in some regions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bird flu, a highly pathogenic avian influenza, has caused significant damage to poultry production worldwide, resulting in the culling of over 200 million birds in the last 18 months.

Bird flu, a highly pathogenic avian influenza, has caused significant damage to poultry production worldwide, resulting in the culling of over 200 million birds in the last 18 months. In Chile, the disease, as per AFP, has killed close to 9,000 sea lions, penguins, otters and small cetaceans. France, which has also been severely affected by the disease, has now announced its intention to launch a vaccination programme against bird flu in the autumn following successful tests on ducks, according to the farm ministry. France's vaccination for ducks Among the European Union countries, France has been the most severely affected, experiencing a notable resurgence of outbreaks in the southwestern part of the country since the beginning of the month, primarily among ducks. Reuters reports that in anticipation of this situation, France had previously placed an order for 80 million vaccines, contingent upon the confirmation of their effectiveness through final tests conducted by the French health safety agency ANSES. Also read | WION Explains | 'Smile Rancher' makes people cry. All you need to know about the latest ponzi scheme On its website, the French farm ministry wrote, "These favourable results provided sufficient guarantees to launch a vaccination campaign as early as autumn 2023." Is the vaccination effective? The conclusions drawn from the tests indicated that the vaccinated mule ducks exhibited effective control of virus transmission, differentiation between infected and vaccinated animals — referred to as the DIVA principle — and a decrease in virus excretion among vaccinated birds. Vaccination and governments Governments have historically been cautious about using vaccines due to potential trade restrictions. However, in light of the severity of the bird flu outbreak and its implications for public health, many governments have increasingly considered vaccinations as a means to control the virus's spread and prevent human transmission. Also read | Animal health body calls for vaccine for birds against avian flu amid pandemic concerns Preliminary results from the Netherlands have also shown the tested vaccines to be efficient. Situation in Chile Chile's fisheries service, as per AFP, has reported that an avian flu outbreak along the country's north coast has led to the deaths of nearly 9,000 sea lions, penguins, otters, and small cetaceans. The outbreak, which began in 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 7,600 sea lions, 1,186 Humboldt penguins — an endangered species exclusive to Chile and Peru — as well as various otters, porpoises, and dolphins. The disease has affected 12 out of Chile's 16 regions, prompting the activation of "surveillance protocols" along the coast. Measures include the burial of affected animals to prevent further spread of the virus. Bird flu around the word Since late 2021, the world has been grappling with one of the most severe avian influenza outbreaks on record. The outbreak has resulted in the culling of tens of millions of poultry, widespread die-offs of wild birds, and an increasing number of infections among mammals in multiple countries. Watch | Bird flu: Brazil declares animal health emergency after several cases found Bird flu in humans In Cambodia, an 11-year-old girl fell ill in mid-February and tragically succumbed to the H5N1 bird flu virus, exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat. While her father also tested positive, health authorities in Cambodia ruled out human-to-human transmission. Instances of bird flu crossing over into mammals are rare, and human infections are even rarer. Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment for the disease, which tends to be fatal in both wild and domesticated birds. In March, Chile reported its first case of human infection in a 53-year-old man. Other countries in South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Peru, have also reported cases, with hundreds of sea lion deaths reported in some regions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bird flu ‘fowls’ the mood, kills nearly 9,000 marine creatures in Chile, France starts vaccination

Taiwan's last known "comfort woman" has passed away. According to a statement released by the Taipei Women's Rescue Foundation (TWRF) on Monday (May 22), the Taiwanese woman who was coerced into becoming a "comfort woman" for the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II has passed away.

The woman, aged 92, died on the evening of May 10.&nbsp;

As per a statement published by the organisation on its website, in consideration of her desire for privacy, TWRF withheld the announcement of her passing until after her funeral had taken place.

"Since grandma didn't want to be disturbed when she was alive, we waited for the farewell ceremony before releasing this news," they wrote. The original statement was written in traditional Chinese.

The group said that its members had maintained regular contact with the woman's family and often visited her home to engage in conversation or simply provide companionship. Taiwan News reports that despite her advanced age, the members of the organisation were deeply saddened by the news of her death.

Shortly before the farewell ceremony, social workers from TWRF paid their respects at the woman's mourning hall and extended condolences to her family. On the day of the funeral, TWRF Chair Theresa D. Yeh reportedly attended the ceremony.

TWRF expressed its commitment to ensuring that the "historical truth of the 'comfort women'/military sex slaves in Taiwan" is included in the country's educational curriculum, National History Museum, and history books. By doing so, they aim to prevent this history from fading away with the passing of these women.&nbsp;

The foundation also pledged to continue its efforts towards educating the public about the harm inflicted upon women through sexual violence during World War II and to continue demanding an apology and compensation from the Japanese government for the victims and their family members.

<h2>Who were comfort women?</h2>

As per the Association for Asian Studies, "comfort women refers to the system of sexual slavery created and controlled by the Imperial Japanese government between 1932 and 1945."

"It is the largest case of government-sponsored human trafficking and sexual slavery in modern history."

However, many experts contend that the Japanese military's euphemism "comfort women" obscures the gravity of the crime and the much more accurate term would be "military sexual slaves".

<h2>Why was this practice started?</h2>

As per history.com, "On December 13, 1937, Japanese troops began a six-week-long massacre that essentially destroyed the Chinese city of Nanking. Along the way, Japanese troops raped between 20,000 and 80,000 Chinese women."

These mass rapes horrified the world and concerned about Japan's image, Emperor Hirohito established military brothels or the so-called "comfort stations".

<h2>Where did these ‘comfort women’ come from?</h2>

During the initial phase, comfort stations were initially staffed by Japanese prostitutes who volunteered for the role. However, as the Japanese military expanded its operations in the late 1930s, it resorted to coercing women from the local populations in occupied territories like Korea, Taiwan, and China into providing sexual services at these stations.

<h2>How many women were put through this ordeal?</h2>

While the true numbers remain unknown, estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of women, including girls as young as 12 years old were victimised.

These women were forced into prostitution "comforting" the tens of thousands of military men during World War II.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Taiwan's last known "comfort woman" has passed away. According to a statement released by the Taipei Women's Rescue Foundation (TWRF) on Monday (May 22), the Taiwanese woman who was coerced into becoming a "comfort woman" for the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II has passed away.

Taiwan's last known "comfort woman" has passed away. According to a statement released by the Taipei Women's Rescue Foundation (TWRF) on Monday (May 22), the Taiwanese woman who was coerced into becoming a "comfort woman" for the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II has passed away. The woman, aged 92, died on the evening of May 10. As per a statement published by the organisation on its website, in consideration of her desire for privacy, TWRF withheld the announcement of her passing until after her funeral had taken place. "Since grandma didn't want to be disturbed when she was alive, we waited for the farewell ceremony before releasing this news," they wrote. The original statement was written in traditional Chinese. The group said that its members had maintained regular contact with the woman's family and often visited her home to engage in conversation or simply provide companionship. Taiwan News reports that despite her advanced age, the members of the organisation were deeply saddened by the news of her death. Shortly before the farewell ceremony, social workers from TWRF paid their respects at the woman's mourning hall and extended condolences to her family. On the day of the funeral, TWRF Chair Theresa D. Yeh reportedly attended the ceremony. TWRF expressed its commitment to ensuring that the "historical truth of the 'comfort women'/military sex slaves in Taiwan" is included in the country's educational curriculum, National History Museum, and history books. By doing so, they aim to prevent this history from fading away with the passing of these women. The foundation also pledged to continue its efforts towards educating the public about the harm inflicted upon women through sexual violence during World War II and to continue demanding an apology and compensation from the Japanese government for the victims and their family members. Who were comfort women? As per the Association for Asian Studies, "comfort women refers to the system of sexual slavery created and controlled by the Imperial Japanese government between 1932 and 1945." "It is the largest case of government-sponsored human trafficking and sexual slavery in modern history." However, many experts contend that the Japanese military's euphemism "comfort women" obscures the gravity of the crime and the much more accurate term would be "military sexual slaves". Why was this practice started? As per history.com, "On December 13, 1937, Japanese troops began a six-week-long massacre that essentially destroyed the Chinese city of Nanking. Along the way, Japanese troops raped between 20,000 and 80,000 Chinese women." These mass rapes horrified the world and concerned about Japan's image, Emperor Hirohito established military brothels or the so-called "comfort stations". Where did these ‘comfort women’ come from? During the initial phase, comfort stations were initially staffed by Japanese prostitutes who volunteered for the role. However, as the Japanese military expanded its operations in the late 1930s, it resorted to coercing women from the local populations in occupied territories like Korea, Taiwan, and China into providing sexual services at these stations. How many women were put through this ordeal? While the true numbers remain unknown, estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of women, including girls as young as 12 years old were victimised. These women were forced into prostitution "comforting" the tens of thousands of military men during World War II. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan’s last ‘comfort woman’ passes away. All you need to know about Japan’s sordid past

UK and US regulators were aware of and participated in a state-led effort to manipulate interest rates during the 2008 financial crisis. As per a BBC report, newly uncovered evidence suggests that the regulators concealed this information.

The evidence as cited by the BBC report suggests that lenders made a significant cut to their interest rate estimates under pressure from central banks. However, when bankers were later prosecuted for smaller-scale interest rate "rigging", this evidence was not presented in court.&nbsp;

While regulators have previously faced allegations of involvement in interest rate manipulation, this evidence reveals a broader international effort by central banks across the Western world.&nbsp;

Allegedly, central banks, including the Bank of England, Banque de France, European Central Bank, Banca d'Italia, Banco de Espana, and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, intervened extensively in setting Libor and Euribor rates — benchmark interest rates that track how much it costs banks to borrow from one another — in October 2008.&nbsp;

These actions were apparently aimed at artificially restoring calm to the market during a time when bank lending was nearly held up.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/will-indians-spend-with-rs1000-currency-notes-again-rbi-governor-responds-595187">Will Indians be able to spend using ₹1000 notes again? RBI governor responds</a>

The evidence, which was reportedly disclosed to investigating agencies such as the FBI and UK's Financial Services Authority (FSA) in November 2010, was never made public and has been kept secret from Parliament, Congress, and the public.&nbsp;

This information suggests that Parliament may have been "misled" said Andrew Tyrie, the former chair of the UK Treasury Committee of MPs during the Libor inquiry.

In a conversation with BBC, he said that "the evidence that Mr Verity** has unearthed strongly suggests that the committee's inquiry into the Libor scandal was not told the whole truth."&nbsp;

**Financial Journalist Andy Verity is currently working as BBC News' economic correspondent and is behind the newly uncovered evidence.

"The public rely on Parliament to get to the truth. This case illustrates why Parliament should bolster its information-gathering powers with more effective sanctions against those who provide less than the full picture. Parliament appears to have been misled and, if that's the case, should not let it rest," said Tyrie.

The suppressed evidence that as per Verity's report indicates a potential cover-up is a recording from 2010 of an interview between FBI investigator Mike Kelly and Peter Johnson, a Barclays bank employee responsible for submitting Libor rates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/the-turnaround-story-of-indias-public-sector-banks-594985">The Turnaround Story of India's Public Sector Banks</a>

In the interview, Johnson reveals that in October 2008, he was instructed by his superiors to report artificially low Libor rates that were significantly below the actual interest rates available in the market. He claims that this instruction came under pressure from both the Bank of England and the UK government.

The recording also indicates that the French banks were similarly pressured by the Banque de France.&nbsp;

In the recording, Kelly can be heard asking Johnson: "Did you have any understanding as to why this pressure was being put upon Barclays?"

To this, Johnson replies: "I'm not sure that it was being put just on Barclays."

Kelly: "OK? Who else did you think, was being pressured?"

Johnson: "We understood that the French banks had been told to get their rates down[...]"

Kelly: "What entity was pressuring them?"

Johnson: "We believe it was the Banque du France."

Published data on Euribor submissions during that period support these claims, showing "record falls in banks' estimates of the cost of borrowing euros by French banks - moves only explicable as having been co-ordinated at a national level," writes Verity.

Senior Conservative MP David Davis has called for a fresh investigation, expressing concerns that Parliament may have been misled.&nbsp;

The MP said that the evidence points to "a case to believe that state agencies coerced individuals into perjury that led to false convictions".&nbsp;

The US Department of Justice and the UK's Serious Fraud Office have prosecuted 37 traders for Libor manipulation. However, the prosecutions were done in the absence of this evidence.

The regulators involved have either declined to comment, rebutted the claims, or stated that they followed disclosure rules. The Bank of England labelled the allegations "unsubstantiated," while the European Central Bank "strongly rebut" the assertions which it said "misrepresent the role of a central bank in implementing monetary policy". Responding to the allegations, Italian bank Intesa Sanpaolo has reportedly emphasised that it has always acted independently and in full compliance with rate-setting rules. As per Verity, the FBI and the Commodity Future Trading Commission (CFTC) have declined to comment.

(With inputs from agencies)

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UK and US regulators were aware of and participated in a state-led effort to manipulate interest rates during the 2008 financial crisis. As per a BBC report, newly uncovered evidence suggests that the regulators concealed this information.

UK and US regulators were aware of and participated in a state-led effort to manipulate interest rates during the 2008 financial crisis. As per a BBC report, newly uncovered evidence suggests that the regulators concealed this information. The evidence as cited by the BBC report suggests that lenders made a significant cut to their interest rate estimates under pressure from central banks. However, when bankers were later prosecuted for smaller-scale interest rate "rigging", this evidence was not presented in court. While regulators have previously faced allegations of involvement in interest rate manipulation, this evidence reveals a broader international effort by central banks across the Western world. Allegedly, central banks, including the Bank of England, Banque de France, European Central Bank, Banca d'Italia, Banco de Espana, and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, intervened extensively in setting Libor and Euribor rates — benchmark interest rates that track how much it costs banks to borrow from one another — in October 2008. These actions were apparently aimed at artificially restoring calm to the market during a time when bank lending was nearly held up. Also read | Will Indians be able to spend using ₹1000 notes again? RBI governor responds The evidence, which was reportedly disclosed to investigating agencies such as the FBI and UK's Financial Services Authority (FSA) in November 2010, was never made public and has been kept secret from Parliament, Congress, and the public. This information suggests that Parliament may have been "misled" said Andrew Tyrie, the former chair of the UK Treasury Committee of MPs during the Libor inquiry. In a conversation with BBC, he said that "the evidence that Mr Verity** has unearthed strongly suggests that the committee's inquiry into the Libor scandal was not told the whole truth." **Financial Journalist Andy Verity is currently working as BBC News' economic correspondent and is behind the newly uncovered evidence. "The public rely on Parliament to get to the truth. This case illustrates why Parliament should bolster its information-gathering powers with more effective sanctions against those who provide less than the full picture. Parliament appears to have been misled and, if that's the case, should not let it rest," said Tyrie. The suppressed evidence that as per Verity's report indicates a potential cover-up is a recording from 2010 of an interview between FBI investigator Mike Kelly and Peter Johnson, a Barclays bank employee responsible for submitting Libor rates. Also read | The Turnaround Story of India's Public Sector Banks In the interview, Johnson reveals that in October 2008, he was instructed by his superiors to report artificially low Libor rates that were significantly below the actual interest rates available in the market. He claims that this instruction came under pressure from both the Bank of England and the UK government. The recording also indicates that the French banks were similarly pressured by the Banque de France. In the recording, Kelly can be heard asking Johnson: "Did you have any understanding as to why this pressure was being put upon Barclays?" To this, Johnson replies: "I'm not sure that it was being put just on Barclays." Kelly: "OK? Who else did you think, was being pressured?" Johnson: "We understood that the French banks had been told to get their rates down[...]" Kelly: "What entity was pressuring them?" Johnson: "We believe it was the Banque du France." Published data on Euribor submissions during that period support these claims, showing "record falls in banks' estimates of the cost of borrowing euros by French banks - moves only explicable as having been co-ordinated at a national level," writes Verity. Senior Conservative MP David Davis has called for a fresh investigation, expressing concerns that Parliament may have been misled. The MP said that the evidence points to "a case to believe that state agencies coerced individuals into perjury that led to false convictions". The US Department of Justice and the UK's Serious Fraud Office have prosecuted 37 traders for Libor manipulation. However, the prosecutions were done in the absence of this evidence. The regulators involved have either declined to comment, rebutted the claims, or stated that they followed disclosure rules. The Bank of England labelled the allegations "unsubstantiated," while the European Central Bank "strongly rebut" the assertions which it said "misrepresent the role of a central bank in implementing monetary policy". Responding to the allegations, Italian bank Intesa Sanpaolo has reportedly emphasised that it has always acted independently and in full compliance with rate-setting rules. As per Verity, the FBI and the Commodity Future Trading Commission (CFTC) have declined to comment. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK, US banking regulators were instructed to 'rig' interest rates during 2008 financial crisis: Report

Former UK deputy prime minister Dominic Raab has announced that he will not be running for the parliament in Britain's upcoming general elections. The ex-minister announcement comes just a month after he quit his high-profile role and the UK cabinet over bullying allegations.

Raab, who has served in a number of major roles — including the UK foreign secretary, justice secretary and Brexit secretary — conveyed his decision to the chair of his local Conservative Association in an exchange of letters.

In the exchange which was seen by the Telegraph, Raab said: "I am writing to let you know of my decision to step down at the next General Election. It has been a huge honour to represent the Conservatives, since 2010, in this wonderful constituency."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/breaking-uk-deputy-pm-dominic-raab-resigns-after-bullying-allegations-584747">UK Deputy PM Dominic Raab resigns, says inquiry set threshold for bullying 'so low'</a>

He also wrote that he has "become increasingly concerned over the last few years about the pressure the job has placed on my young family". The Tory leader has two sons, 10-year-old Peter, and eight-year-old Joshua.

However, as per a Daily Mail report, when faced with the risk of losing the seat, the disgraced MP chose to step down.

As per Telegraph, this move means the end of Raab's parliamentary career. It is not yet clear what he plans to do when he leaves the UK House of Commons.

While&nbsp;Raab is the most high-profile figure to reveal he was standing down rather than fighting the elections, as per the report, more than 30 Tory ministers are planning to "depart from frontline politics or seek a different, safer seat - rather than fight what could be a losing battle."

Other former Cabinet ministers like former chancellor Sajid Javid, former health secretary Matt Hancock and former environment secretary George Eustice are also leaving. So are young Tories like Chloe Smith and William Wragg.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-sikh-councillor-creates-history-becomes-first-turban-clad-lord-mayor-of-uk-city-595432">British Sikh councillor creates history, becomes first turban-clad Lord Mayor of UK city</a>

Since 2010, Raab has represented Esher and Walton in Surrey. The constituency is one of the top targets for the opposition- the Liberal Democrats in the elections due to take place next year.

In 2017, Raab won the election with a majority of over 23,000 and in 2019, this number fell to 2,743, reports Daily Mail.

Reportedly, the Liberal Democrats are targeting the 'Blue Wall' — affluent seats in the London suburbs and Home Counties, that traditionally vote for the conservatives.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former UK deputy prime minister Dominic Raab has announced that he will not be running for the parliament in Britain's upcoming general elections. The ex-minister announcement comes just a month after he quit his high-profile role and the UK cabinet over bullying allegations.

Former UK deputy prime minister Dominic Raab has announced that he will not be running for the parliament in Britain's upcoming general elections. The ex-minister announcement comes just a month after he quit his high-profile role and the UK cabinet over bullying allegations. Raab, who has served in a number of major roles — including the UK foreign secretary, justice secretary and Brexit secretary — conveyed his decision to the chair of his local Conservative Association in an exchange of letters. In the exchange which was seen by the Telegraph, Raab said: "I am writing to let you know of my decision to step down at the next General Election. It has been a huge honour to represent the Conservatives, since 2010, in this wonderful constituency." Also read | UK Deputy PM Dominic Raab resigns, says inquiry set threshold for bullying 'so low' He also wrote that he has "become increasingly concerned over the last few years about the pressure the job has placed on my young family". The Tory leader has two sons, 10-year-old Peter, and eight-year-old Joshua. However, as per a Daily Mail report, when faced with the risk of losing the seat, the disgraced MP chose to step down. As per Telegraph, this move means the end of Raab's parliamentary career. It is not yet clear what he plans to do when he leaves the UK House of Commons. While Raab is the most high-profile figure to reveal he was standing down rather than fighting the elections, as per the report, more than 30 Tory ministers are planning to "depart from frontline politics or seek a different, safer seat - rather than fight what could be a losing battle." Other former Cabinet ministers like former chancellor Sajid Javid, former health secretary Matt Hancock and former environment secretary George Eustice are also leaving. So are young Tories like Chloe Smith and William Wragg. Also read | British Sikh councillor creates history, becomes first turban-clad Lord Mayor of UK city Since 2010, Raab has represented Esher and Walton in Surrey. The constituency is one of the top targets for the opposition- the Liberal Democrats in the elections due to take place next year. In 2017, Raab won the election with a majority of over 23,000 and in 2019, this number fell to 2,743, reports Daily Mail. Reportedly, the Liberal Democrats are targeting the 'Blue Wall' — affluent seats in the London suburbs and Home Counties, that traditionally vote for the conservatives. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former UK deputy PM Dominic Raab says 'stepping down' from next year's general elections

New Zealand has lost its almost decade-old fight for exclusive rights to trademark 'mānuka honey'. For years now, the nation has been trying to stop Australian beekeepers from using the name and the lucrative profits associated with it. However, on Monday, New Zealand's Intellectual Property Office ruled that the nation's mānuka beekeepers didn't meet the necessary requirements for exclusive rights.

<h2>What did the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand say?</h2>

As per the court, the New Zealand beekeepers didn't meet the minimum requirements for a trademark. It also said that the term 'mānuka' itself was descriptive.&nbsp;

"This case represents a trans-Tasman tussle of extraordinary proportions over trade mark rights for mānuka honey," said the ruling.

"It is one of the most complex and long-running proceedings to have come before the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand," remarked the court, as per NZ Herald.

<h2>What is mānuka?</h2>

'Mānuka' is a word from the Maori language — the language of the Indigenous people of Aotearoa, or New Zealand, known as Maori.

The word refers to a distinct white-flowered tree that grows in New Zealand and in Australia.

However, in Australia, it isn't called mānuka, it is known as "tea tree".

The mānuka tree has sweet-smelling leaves that are often used to make tea. Its white, pink, or red flowers are used by beekeepers to produce a special kind of honey.

<h2>What makes mānuka honey so special?</h2>

The mānuka honey is very special and sells for lucrative amounts. It is known for its antibacterial and supposed health properties.&nbsp;

As per Healthline, this particular&nbsp;honey offers "sweet benefits", like wound healing, cough relief, protection against ulcers, improved digestion, and better oral health.

<h2>How much does it sell for?</h2>

A lot. The supposed health benefits of mānuka honey mean that it has a significant markup price in international markets.

At its highest concentrations, the mānuka honey in overseas luxury stores can fetch up to NZ $2,000 to $5,000 or US $1,255 to $3,137 for a 250g jar.

<h2>Why do New Zealand beekeepers don't want to share the trademark?</h2>

They claim that the name 'mānuka' is an indigenous treasure uniquely associated with New Zealand's honey production.

On top of that, the lucrative nature of the product is connected to the name.&nbsp;

In New Zealand itself, there exists fierce competition over access to mānuka forests. This competition has spurred a wave of criminal activities like poisoning of bees, thefts, vandalism and beatings, reports the Guardian.

<h2>When did the battle for trademark start?</h2>

The battle for trademark started way back in 2015.

<h2>How did New Zealand beekeepers react to the court&nbsp;ruling?</h2>

In the words of Pita Tipene, Chair of the Manuka Charitable Trust, the court's ruling was "disappointing in so many ways" and "today’s finding reflects the technicalities and limitations of conventional IP law to protect Indigenous rights."

Tipene said that the trust would, for the time being, pause to regroup, but that it will continue its battle.

He said that "if anything," the decision "has made us more determined to protect what is ours on behalf of all New Zealanders and consumers who value authenticity."

<h2>Is it an Indigenous rights issue?</h2>

As per Mānuka Charitable Trust chair Pita Tipen, their "role as kaitiaki (guardians) to protect the mana (dignity) and value of our taonga (treasured) species, including mānuka on behalf of all New Zealanders, is not contestable."

He said that it is well established, both in New Zealand and overseas, that the recognition of Indigenous rights in the intellectual property regime is lacking.

"It is time the New Zealand Government took urgent action and committed sufficient funding to address these issues as raised in the Wai 262 claim and recognised in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples," he added.

<h2>How did the Australian beekeepers react?</h2>

Australian Mānuka Honey Association chairman Ben McKee said they were&nbsp;delighted by the decision.

As per him, the ruling "confirms what we have been saying since New Zealand producers began this legal process nearly eight&nbsp;years ago - our product has a long history of being recognised as Mānuka honey, it is produced like the New Zealand product is, and it also offers the sought-after antimicrobial properties that consumers around the world value so highly."

He also said that the association hoped that "the fact that even authorities in New Zealand cannot find a way to support the trademark claims of New Zealand producers" should "bring this legal dispute to an end once and for all".

<h2>What do the industry partners say?</h2>

As per the NZ Herald, industry partners have remained "steadfast in their resolve the Mānuka Honey name belongs and should refer only to products produced in Aotearoa&nbsp;New Zealand".

However, Australian Mānuka Honey Association chairman Ben McKee claims that the above is true for only a particular group of New Zealand producers, under the umbrella of the Mānuka Honey Appellation Society (MHAS). He said that other industry members and even some New Zealand beekeepers were open to collaborating with the Australian industry.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Zealand has lost its almost decade-old fight for exclusive rights to trademark 'mānuka honey'. For years now, the nation has been trying to stop Australian beekeepers from using the name and the lucrative profits associated with it.

New Zealand has lost its almost decade-old fight for exclusive rights to trademark 'mānuka honey'. For years now, the nation has been trying to stop Australian beekeepers from using the name and the lucrative profits associated with it. However, on Monday, New Zealand's Intellectual Property Office ruled that the nation's mānuka beekeepers didn't meet the necessary requirements for exclusive rights. What did the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand say? As per the court, the New Zealand beekeepers didn't meet the minimum requirements for a trademark. It also said that the term 'mānuka' itself was descriptive. "This case represents a trans-Tasman tussle of extraordinary proportions over trade mark rights for mānuka honey," said the ruling. "It is one of the most complex and long-running proceedings to have come before the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand," remarked the court, as per NZ Herald. What is mānuka? 'Mānuka' is a word from the Maori language — the language of the Indigenous people of Aotearoa, or New Zealand, known as Maori. The word refers to a distinct white-flowered tree that grows in New Zealand and in Australia. However, in Australia, it isn't called mānuka, it is known as "tea tree". The mānuka tree has sweet-smelling leaves that are often used to make tea. Its white, pink, or red flowers are used by beekeepers to produce a special kind of honey. What makes mānuka honey so special? The mānuka honey is very special and sells for lucrative amounts. It is known for its antibacterial and supposed health properties. As per Healthline, this particular honey offers "sweet benefits", like wound healing, cough relief, protection against ulcers, improved digestion, and better oral health. How much does it sell for? A lot. The supposed health benefits of mānuka honey mean that it has a significant markup price in international markets. At its highest concentrations, the mānuka honey in overseas luxury stores can fetch up to NZ $2,000 to $5,000 or US $1,255 to $3,137 for a 250g jar. Why do New Zealand beekeepers don't want to share the trademark? They claim that the name 'mānuka' is an indigenous treasure uniquely associated with New Zealand's honey production. On top of that, the lucrative nature of the product is connected to the name. In New Zealand itself, there exists fierce competition over access to mānuka forests. This competition has spurred a wave of criminal activities like poisoning of bees, thefts, vandalism and beatings, reports the Guardian. When did the battle for trademark start? The battle for trademark started way back in 2015. How did New Zealand beekeepers react to the court ruling? In the words of Pita Tipene, Chair of the Manuka Charitable Trust, the court's ruling was "disappointing in so many ways" and "today’s finding reflects the technicalities and limitations of conventional IP law to protect Indigenous rights." Tipene said that the trust would, for the time being, pause to regroup, but that it will continue its battle. He said that "if anything," the decision "has made us more determined to protect what is ours on behalf of all New Zealanders and consumers who value authenticity." Is it an Indigenous rights issue? As per Mānuka Charitable Trust chair Pita Tipen, their "role as kaitiaki (guardians) to protect the mana (dignity) and value of our taonga (treasured) species, including mānuka on behalf of all New Zealanders, is not contestable." He said that it is well established, both in New Zealand and overseas, that the recognition of Indigenous rights in the intellectual property regime is lacking. "It is time the New Zealand Government took urgent action and committed sufficient funding to address these issues as raised in the Wai 262 claim and recognised in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples," he added. How did the Australian beekeepers react? Australian Mānuka Honey Association chairman Ben McKee said they were delighted by the decision. As per him, the ruling "confirms what we have been saying since New Zealand producers began this legal process nearly eight years ago - our product has a long history of being recognised as Mānuka honey, it is produced like the New Zealand product is, and it also offers the sought-after antimicrobial properties that consumers around the world value so highly." He also said that the association hoped that "the fact that even authorities in New Zealand cannot find a way to support the trademark claims of New Zealand producers" should "bring this legal dispute to an end once and for all". What do the industry partners say? As per the NZ Herald, industry partners have remained "steadfast in their resolve the Mānuka Honey name belongs and should refer only to products produced in Aotearoa New Zealand". However, Australian Mānuka Honey Association chairman Ben McKee claims that the above is true for only a particular group of New Zealand producers, under the umbrella of the Mānuka Honey Appellation Society (MHAS). He said that other industry members and even some New Zealand beekeepers were open to collaborating with the Australian industry. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WION Explains: New Zealand loses almost decade-old fight for 'mānuka honey' trademark. Here's what it means

Israeli forces have overnight killed three Palestinian fighters in the occupied West Bank. The operation has been described by Israel as a mission to capture terrorist suspects. However, Palestine has branded the killings a "veritable massacre". The men were killed in the Balata refugee camp in Nablus.

A statement by the Palestinian health ministry has identified the three men killed as 32-year-old Muhammad Abu Zaytoun, 30-year-old Fathi Abu Rizk, and 24-year-old Abdullah Abu Hamdan.

The latest deaths, as per AFP, come just over a week into a fragile Gaza ceasefire after a five-day cross-border conflict between Israel and the Islamic Jihad militant group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thousands-of-israelis-participate-in-contentious-flag-march-in-jerusalem-rattles-palestinians-593867">In pics | Thousands of Israelis participate in contentious 'flag march' in Jerusalem, rattles Palestinians</a>

According to the Israeli army, a gun battle erupted during its "counterterrorism" operation and in that several fighters were shot.

In a statement, it said that during the operation to apprehend terrorists, "armed suspects fired at the soldiers, who responded with live fire," and that "hits were identified."&nbsp;

The statement added that the Israeli army has also apprehended "three wanted individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist activity". In addition, weapons and ammunition were also seized.

However, the Palestinian presidency spokesperson Nabil Abu Redeineh described the killings as a "veritable massacre". He also said that the repeated Israeli raids and attacks by settlers added up to "a major war crime and a collective punishment."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-says-israeli-forces-killed-teen-in-west-bank-raid-587779" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-says-israeli-forces-killed-teen-in-west-bank-raid-587779&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj5iaXr6Yj_AhVQcWwGHa0wAdQ4ChAWegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2mQXbiTVDJtj2ohwBRc96r" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestine-says-israeli-forces-killed-teen-in-west-bank-raid-587779" target="_blank">Palestine&nbsp;says Israeli forces killed teen in West Bank raid</a>

Redeineh further claimed that US "silence" over these attacks has actually emboldened the Israelis towards escalating them. He called on Washington to "immediately intervene to stop the Israeli madness that will drag the region toward explosion".

Quoting witnesses, AFP reports that Israeli forces carried out raids on several houses in the camp. Gunfire and loud explosions were heard and reportedly a house was also demolished.

As per the Israeli Army it had "located in one of the residences an explosives manufacturing site". The house was detonated, reports AFP.

Another scuffle was reported in an operation in Jenin, where as per the Israeli army, suspects hurled explosive devices at the forces. The forces "responded with live fire", two hits were identified.

The forces have arrested three suspects from Jenin, whine another seven were arrested from West Bank.

As per an AFP tally, since the start of the year, at least 153 Palestinians, 20 Israelis, a Ukrainian and an Italian have been killed in the conflict between Israel-Palestine. This tally is based on data from official sources from both sides.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israeli forces have overnight killed three Palestinian fighters in the occupied West Bank. The operation has been described by Israel as a mission to capture terrorist suspects.

Israeli forces have overnight killed three Palestinian fighters in the occupied West Bank. The operation has been described by Israel as a mission to capture terrorist suspects. However, Palestine has branded the killings a "veritable massacre". The men were killed in the Balata refugee camp in Nablus. A statement by the Palestinian health ministry has identified the three men killed as 32-year-old Muhammad Abu Zaytoun, 30-year-old Fathi Abu Rizk, and 24-year-old Abdullah Abu Hamdan. The latest deaths, as per AFP, come just over a week into a fragile Gaza ceasefire after a five-day cross-border conflict between Israel and the Islamic Jihad militant group. Also read | In pics | Thousands of Israelis participate in contentious 'flag march' in Jerusalem, rattles Palestinians According to the Israeli army, a gun battle erupted during its "counterterrorism" operation and in that several fighters were shot. In a statement, it said that during the operation to apprehend terrorists, "armed suspects fired at the soldiers, who responded with live fire," and that "hits were identified." The statement added that the Israeli army has also apprehended "three wanted individuals suspected of involvement in terrorist activity". In addition, weapons and ammunition were also seized. However, the Palestinian presidency spokesperson Nabil Abu Redeineh described the killings as a "veritable massacre". He also said that the repeated Israeli raids and attacks by settlers added up to "a major war crime and a collective punishment." Also read | Palestine says Israeli forces killed teen in West Bank raid Redeineh further claimed that US "silence" over these attacks has actually emboldened the Israelis towards escalating them. He called on Washington to "immediately intervene to stop the Israeli madness that will drag the region toward explosion". Quoting witnesses, AFP reports that Israeli forces carried out raids on several houses in the camp. Gunfire and loud explosions were heard and reportedly a house was also demolished. As per the Israeli Army it had "located in one of the residences an explosives manufacturing site". The house was detonated, reports AFP. Another scuffle was reported in an operation in Jenin, where as per the Israeli army, suspects hurled explosive devices at the forces. The forces "responded with live fire", two hits were identified. The forces have arrested three suspects from Jenin, whine another seven were arrested from West Bank. As per an AFP tally, since the start of the year, at least 153 Palestinians, 20 Israelis, a Ukrainian and an Italian have been killed in the conflict between Israel-Palestine. This tally is based on data from official sources from both sides. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Palestine says Israel 'emboldened' by US silence as raid in West Bank kills three Palestinian fighters

China has implemented new rules to tackle its looming demographic crisis. It has allowed migrant workers to register their marriages in the cities where they reside, instead of having to travel back to their hometowns. The State Council, China's cabinet, has approved a regulation that permits residents from 21 provinces and municipalities, predominantly in eastern and central China, to register their marriages based on their residence permits.&nbsp;

This change is significant as it eases the burden of travel for the hundreds of millions of migrant workers in the country, reports state broadcaster CCTV on Saturday.

Previously, prospective couples were required to return to the city or country of their household registration, known as hukou, to register their marriages.&nbsp;

The hukou system determines individuals' access to public services such as education and healthcare. However, in recent years, some regions have introduced residence permits that provide limited access to social services for individuals whose hukou are tied to a different area. For instance, in Beijing, individuals without a Beijing hukou can obtain a permit to access certain social services like healthcare.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-western-hype-of-its-population-decline-584476">China slams Western hype of its population decline</a>

The primary objective of the new regulation is to alleviate the travel burden faced by migrant workers. According to state broadcaster CCTV, China had 376 million migrants in 2020, with over 120 million of them moving across provinces.&nbsp;

While some individuals praised the convenience brought about by the new regulation, others expressed scepticism about its ability to increase the marriage rate.&nbsp;

A comment on Weibo, China's Twitter-like social media platform, questioned, "Do you think people don’t get married because it’s not convenient to register?".

China has experienced a decline in population for the first time in six decades, with the national birth rate reaching a record low of 6.77 births per 1,000 people in 2022. In comparison, the birth rate in the United States during the same period was 12 births per 1,000 people.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-launch-projects-in-20-more-cities-to-build-new-era-marriage-culture-report-592501">China to launch projects in 20 more cities to build new-era marriage culture: Report</a>

In recent months, the Chinese government has implemented several measures to encourage marriage and childbirth, including relaxing its one-child policy, enhancing maternal healthcare and pay, and providing financial support to families with more than two children.

Furthermore, the government has taken steps to address the issue of huge dowries in rural areas, which can reach up to 1 million yuan (US$142,000).&nbsp;

In the city of Harbin, authorities have established a "green channel" for students at the Harbin Institute of Technology to register their marriages over the weekend. This initiative, as per online news outlet Jimu allows eligible university students to obtain their marriage certificates without having to wait in long queues. 
 
&nbsp;

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China has implemented new rules to tackle its looming demographic crisis. It has allowed migrant workers to register their marriages in the cities where they reside, instead of having to travel back to their hometowns.

China has implemented new rules to tackle its looming demographic crisis. It has allowed migrant workers to register their marriages in the cities where they reside, instead of having to travel back to their hometowns. The State Council, China's cabinet, has approved a regulation that permits residents from 21 provinces and municipalities, predominantly in eastern and central China, to register their marriages based on their residence permits. This change is significant as it eases the burden of travel for the hundreds of millions of migrant workers in the country, reports state broadcaster CCTV on Saturday. Previously, prospective couples were required to return to the city or country of their household registration, known as hukou, to register their marriages. The hukou system determines individuals' access to public services such as education and healthcare. However, in recent years, some regions have introduced residence permits that provide limited access to social services for individuals whose hukou are tied to a different area. For instance, in Beijing, individuals without a Beijing hukou can obtain a permit to access certain social services like healthcare. Also read | China slams Western hype of its population decline The primary objective of the new regulation is to alleviate the travel burden faced by migrant workers. According to state broadcaster CCTV, China had 376 million migrants in 2020, with over 120 million of them moving across provinces. While some individuals praised the convenience brought about by the new regulation, others expressed scepticism about its ability to increase the marriage rate. A comment on Weibo, China's Twitter-like social media platform, questioned, "Do you think people don’t get married because it’s not convenient to register?". China has experienced a decline in population for the first time in six decades, with the national birth rate reaching a record low of 6.77 births per 1,000 people in 2022. In comparison, the birth rate in the United States during the same period was 12 births per 1,000 people. Also read | China to launch projects in 20 more cities to build new-era marriage culture: Report In recent months, the Chinese government has implemented several measures to encourage marriage and childbirth, including relaxing its one-child policy, enhancing maternal healthcare and pay, and providing financial support to families with more than two children. Furthermore, the government has taken steps to address the issue of huge dowries in rural areas, which can reach up to 1 million yuan (US$142,000). In the city of Harbin, authorities have established a "green channel" for students at the Harbin Institute of Technology to register their marriages over the weekend. This initiative, as per online news outlet Jimu allows eligible university students to obtain their marriage certificates without having to wait in long queues. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China eases marriage registration process for migrant workers to tackle population crisis

New York City&nbsp;may soon sink under the sea predicts a new research. The city is sinking due to the weight of its towering skyscrapers. Coupled with the rising sea levels, this weight is pushing New York under at an average rate of 1-2 millimetres per year; some areas are sinking at twice this rate.&nbsp;Since 1950, the water surrounding New York City has risen by approximately 9 inches (22 centimetres).&nbsp;The rising water levels are a looming&nbsp;threat to&nbsp;the&nbsp;8.4 million people of the city.

Researchers behind the study published in the Earth’s Future journal warn that "a deeply concentrated population of 8.4 million people faces varying degrees of hazard from inundation in New York City."

<h2>Why is New York sinking?</h2>

New York's iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, or rather their weight, are causing the city&nbsp;to sink.

As per the research estimates, New York City's buildings, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, weigh a total of 1.68 trillion pounds — equivalent to the weight of 140 million elephants. This enormous weight pushes down on a mixture of different materials beneath the city, causing it to sink just a little bit every year.&nbsp;

It says that while the city's largest buildings are constructed on solid bedrock, such as schist, the ground beneath also contains a mixture of sand and clays. This mixture contributes to the natural sinking occurring along much of the US east coast as the land adjusts to the retreat of glaciers following the last ice age.

<h2>Were the iconic buildings a mistake?</h2>

Tom Parsons, a geophysicist at the US Geological Survey, and lead author of the research emphasised&nbsp;that constructing large buildings in New York was not a mistake, but it is essential to consider that each new construction further compresses the ground.

He said that the softer the soil, the more the buildings compress it.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-is-sinking-in-the-sea-says-a-study-488110">Mumbai is sinking in the sea, says a study</a>

Parsons&nbsp;explains that while there is no immediate cause for panic, the ongoing sinking process increases the vulnerability to flooding.

"It’s not something to panic about immediately, but there’s this ongoing process that increases the risk of inundation from flooding."

<h2>Is it just New York that risks sinking?</h2>

No, the threat exists for all the coastal cities worldwide.

Researchers caution that it's not just New York that faces this danger. The risks, as per the authors, will be shared by many other coastal cities around the world as the climate crisis deepens.&nbsp;

They assert that the combination of tectonic and human-induced subsidence, along with other factors, all indicate a growing danger for coastal and riverfront regions.

"The combination of tectonic and anthropogenic subsidence, sea level rise, and increasing hurricane intensity imply an accelerating problem along coastal and riverfront areas."

<h2>Any previous research to support this?</h2>

A March 2022 study&nbsp;indicated that India's financial capital Mumbai,&nbsp;with a population of approximately 20 million, is experiencing a gradual sinking at an average rate of 2 mm per year.

The research, titled "Subsidence in Coastal Cities Throughout the World," highlighted that it is not just Mumbai.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-global-warming-pushing-billions-to-buy-air-conditioners-heres-how-thats-adding-to-climate-change-594153">Explained: Global warming pushing billions to buy air conditioners. Here's how that's adding to climate change</a>

As per the study,&nbsp;Tianjin, located in China, holds the distinction of being the fastest-sinking coastal city worldwide, with a subsidence rate of 5.2 cm per year.

Apart from Tianjin and Mumbai, the study examined land subsidence in 99 countries around the world. It identified additional coastal cities experiencing sinking, such as Jakarta in Indonesia (3.44 cm per year), Shanghai in China (2.94 cm per year), and Ho Chi Minh (2.81 mm per year) and Hanoi (2.44 cm per year) in Vietnam.

<h2>How is climate change causing these decades-old cities to sink?</h2>

The sinking, as per the study, is intensified by&nbsp;the impact of sea level rise, which is already occurring at approximately twice the global average due to the melting of glaciers and the expansion of seawater caused by global warming.&nbsp;

The research warns that by the end of the century, major flooding events from storms could occur up to four times more frequently due to the combined effects of sea level rise and climate change-fuelled hurricanes.

<h2>Are there any examples of how global warming is exacerbating the problem in New York?</h2>

In 2012 and then in 2021, New York City has already experienced the devastating impacts of flooding.

Hurricane Sandy in 2012 caused extensive damage and power outages, including flooding in the New York subway system. In 2021, Hurricane Ida led to further flooding and loss of life in the city.&nbsp;

Scientists have attributed the severity of both these disasters to the damning effects of global warming.

<h2>How can we protect iconic cities like New York and Mumbai?</h2>

As per Parsons, proactive&nbsp;planning is the way. He stressed that proactive planning is important for New York and other coastal cities. He said that vulnerable cities "have to get planning for this. If you get repeated exposure to seawater, you can corrode steel and destabilise buildings, which you clearly don’t want. Flooding also kills people, too, which is probably the greatest concern."

(With inputs from agencies)

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New York City may soon sink under the sea predicts a new research. The city is sinking due to the weight of its towering skyscrapers. Coupled with the rising sea levels, this weight is pushing New York under at an average rate of 1-2 millimetres per year; some areas are sinking at twice this rate.

New York City may soon sink under the sea predicts a new research. The city is sinking due to the weight of its towering skyscrapers. Coupled with the rising sea levels, this weight is pushing New York under at an average rate of 1-2 millimetres per year; some areas are sinking at twice this rate. Since 1950, the water surrounding New York City has risen by approximately 9 inches (22 centimetres). The rising water levels are a looming threat to the 8.4 million people of the city. Researchers behind the study published in the Earth’s Future journal warn that "a deeply concentrated population of 8.4 million people faces varying degrees of hazard from inundation in New York City." Why is New York sinking? New York's iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, or rather their weight, are causing the city to sink. As per the research estimates, New York City's buildings, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building, weigh a total of 1.68 trillion pounds — equivalent to the weight of 140 million elephants. This enormous weight pushes down on a mixture of different materials beneath the city, causing it to sink just a little bit every year. It says that while the city's largest buildings are constructed on solid bedrock, such as schist, the ground beneath also contains a mixture of sand and clays. This mixture contributes to the natural sinking occurring along much of the US east coast as the land adjusts to the retreat of glaciers following the last ice age. Were the iconic buildings a mistake? Tom Parsons, a geophysicist at the US Geological Survey, and lead author of the research emphasised that constructing large buildings in New York was not a mistake, but it is essential to consider that each new construction further compresses the ground. He said that the softer the soil, the more the buildings compress it. Also read | Mumbai is sinking in the sea, says a study Parsons explains that while there is no immediate cause for panic, the ongoing sinking process increases the vulnerability to flooding. "It’s not something to panic about immediately, but there’s this ongoing process that increases the risk of inundation from flooding." Is it just New York that risks sinking? No, the threat exists for all the coastal cities worldwide. Researchers caution that it's not just New York that faces this danger. The risks, as per the authors, will be shared by many other coastal cities around the world as the climate crisis deepens. They assert that the combination of tectonic and human-induced subsidence, along with other factors, all indicate a growing danger for coastal and riverfront regions. "The combination of tectonic and anthropogenic subsidence, sea level rise, and increasing hurricane intensity imply an accelerating problem along coastal and riverfront areas." Any previous research to support this? A March 2022 study indicated that India's financial capital Mumbai, with a population of approximately 20 million, is experiencing a gradual sinking at an average rate of 2 mm per year. The research, titled "Subsidence in Coastal Cities Throughout the World," highlighted that it is not just Mumbai. Also read | Explained: Global warming pushing billions to buy air conditioners. Here's how that's adding to climate change As per the study, Tianjin, located in China, holds the distinction of being the fastest-sinking coastal city worldwide, with a subsidence rate of 5.2 cm per year. Apart from Tianjin and Mumbai, the study examined land subsidence in 99 countries around the world. It identified additional coastal cities experiencing sinking, such as Jakarta in Indonesia (3.44 cm per year), Shanghai in China (2.94 cm per year), and Ho Chi Minh (2.81 mm per year) and Hanoi (2.44 cm per year) in Vietnam. How is climate change causing these decades-old cities to sink? The sinking, as per the study, is intensified by the impact of sea level rise, which is already occurring at approximately twice the global average due to the melting of glaciers and the expansion of seawater caused by global warming. The research warns that by the end of the century, major flooding events from storms could occur up to four times more frequently due to the combined effects of sea level rise and climate change-fuelled hurricanes. Are there any examples of how global warming is exacerbating the problem in New York? In 2012 and then in 2021, New York City has already experienced the devastating impacts of flooding. Hurricane Sandy in 2012 caused extensive damage and power outages, including flooding in the New York subway system. In 2021, Hurricane Ida led to further flooding and loss of life in the city. Scientists have attributed the severity of both these disasters to the damning effects of global warming. How can we protect iconic cities like New York and Mumbai? As per Parsons, proactive planning is the way. He stressed that proactive planning is important for New York and other coastal cities. He said that vulnerable cities "have to get planning for this. If you get repeated exposure to seawater, you can corrode steel and destabilise buildings, which you clearly don’t want. Flooding also kills people, too, which is probably the greatest concern." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WION Explains | New York, the city that never sleeps, may soon lie in slumber under the sea

Myanmar's military junta on Friday said the death toll from Cyclone Mocha has reached 145. Most of the dead, as per the news agency AFP, belong to the persecuted Rohingya minority. In a statement, the junta said that out of the 145 dead, 24 were locals, four were soldiers and the rest 117 were "Bengalis" — a pejorative term for the Rohingya.

"Altogether 145 local people were killed during the cyclone," said the authorities in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Media reports of higher Rohingya death toll "not true"</h2>

The junta statement also said that media reports of around 400 Rohingya dead were "not true". As per the statement, action would be taken against the outlets that publish the number.

Since it ousted the elected government more than two years ago, the junta, as per AFP, has arrested scores of journalists and has closed outlets deemed critical of its rule.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/in-myanmars-rakhine-locals-say-hundreds-have-died-due-to-cyclone-mocha-official-figures-claim-only-3-dead-593071">In Myanmar's Rakhine, locals say hundreds have died due to Cyclone Mocha; official figures claim only 3 dead</a>

<h2>United Nations on Cyclone Mocha's damage to Myanmar</h2>

On Friday, the United Nations in a statement said that at least 800,000 people in Myanmar have been affected by Cyclone Mocha.

It said that the affected people need emergency food aid and other assistance.

According to Anthea Webb, the UN World Food Programme's deputy regional director for Asia and the Pacific, the cyclone caused extensive damage in Myanmar's Rakhine State, with massive destruction to homes, roads, hospitals, schools, and telecommunications and power lines.

"There are at least 800,000 people in urgent need of emergency food assistance," said Webb,&nbsp;adding that "greater needs for food, shelter, water, health and other humanitarian aid are expected to be revealed as we reach more areas."

<h2>International aid</h2>

AFP reports that a few international aid groups, including the United Nations World Food Programme, have been working on the ground in Sittwe.

However, a junta spokesperson remained silent about whether UN agencies would be granted access to displacement camps outside Sittwe that house Rohingya.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/cylcone-mocha-indian-navy-rushes-to-help-battered-myanmar-593724">Cyclone Mocha: Indian Navy ships rush relief material to battered Myanmar, many feared dead</a>

Myanmar state media on Tuesday reported that "offers from the international community for providing aid have been accepted."

"But relief and rehabilitation tasks must be done through existing united strength," added the Global New Light of Myanmar.

<h2>Cyclone Mocha and the damage it did to Myanmar</h2>

On Sunday, the cyclone brought lashing rain and winds of 195 kilometres per hour (120 miles per hour) to Myanmar and neighbouring Bangladesh.&nbsp;

The high-speed winds collapsed buildings, turned streets into rivers, uprooted trees and also knocked out communications across much of Myanmar's Rakhine state, which is home to hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees who following decades of ethnic conflict, have been living there in displacement camps.

<h2>The Rohingyas</h2>

In Myanmar, Rohingyas are widely viewed as interlopers from Bangladesh. As per AFP, they are denied citizenship and access to health care in the country. To travel outside of the townships, they require permission.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Myanmar's military junta on Friday said the death toll from Cyclone Mocha has reached 145. Most of the dead, as per the news agency AFP, belong to the persecuted Rohingya minority.

Myanmar's military junta on Friday said the death toll from Cyclone Mocha has reached 145. Most of the dead, as per the news agency AFP, belong to the persecuted Rohingya minority. In a statement, the junta said that out of the 145 dead, 24 were locals, four were soldiers and the rest 117 were "Bengalis" — a pejorative term for the Rohingya. "Altogether 145 local people were killed during the cyclone," said the authorities in a statement. Media reports of higher Rohingya death toll "not true" The junta statement also said that media reports of around 400 Rohingya dead were "not true". As per the statement, action would be taken against the outlets that publish the number. Since it ousted the elected government more than two years ago, the junta, as per AFP, has arrested scores of journalists and has closed outlets deemed critical of its rule. Also read | In Myanmar's Rakhine, locals say hundreds have died due to Cyclone Mocha; official figures claim only 3 dead United Nations on Cyclone Mocha's damage to Myanmar On Friday, the United Nations in a statement said that at least 800,000 people in Myanmar have been affected by Cyclone Mocha. It said that the affected people need emergency food aid and other assistance. According to Anthea Webb, the UN World Food Programme's deputy regional director for Asia and the Pacific, the cyclone caused extensive damage in Myanmar's Rakhine State, with massive destruction to homes, roads, hospitals, schools, and telecommunications and power lines. "There are at least 800,000 people in urgent need of emergency food assistance," said Webb, adding that "greater needs for food, shelter, water, health and other humanitarian aid are expected to be revealed as we reach more areas." International aid AFP reports that a few international aid groups, including the United Nations World Food Programme, have been working on the ground in Sittwe. However, a junta spokesperson remained silent about whether UN agencies would be granted access to displacement camps outside Sittwe that house Rohingya. Also read | Cyclone Mocha: Indian Navy ships rush relief material to battered Myanmar, many feared dead Myanmar state media on Tuesday reported that "offers from the international community for providing aid have been accepted." "But relief and rehabilitation tasks must be done through existing united strength," added the Global New Light of Myanmar. Cyclone Mocha and the damage it did to Myanmar On Sunday, the cyclone brought lashing rain and winds of 195 kilometres per hour (120 miles per hour) to Myanmar and neighbouring Bangladesh. The high-speed winds collapsed buildings, turned streets into rivers, uprooted trees and also knocked out communications across much of Myanmar's Rakhine state, which is home to hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees who following decades of ethnic conflict, have been living there in displacement camps. The Rohingyas In Myanmar, Rohingyas are widely viewed as interlopers from Bangladesh. As per AFP, they are denied citizenship and access to health care in the country. To travel outside of the townships, they require permission. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cyclone Mocha: Myanmar Junta says reports of 400 Rohingya dead 'not true,' claims toll at 145

Since the United States&nbsp;Title 42 migration policy ended, the nation's border authorities, as per the US homeland security chief, have witnessed a fifty per cent drop in "encounters" with undocumented migrants crossing the southern border.&nbsp;

Talking to CNN during a talk show, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said that&nbsp;the US Border Patrol has seen a marked reduction in the number of crossings over the past two days since the end of the policy.

"Over the past two days, the United States border patrol has experienced a 50 per cent drop in the number of encounters, versus what we were experiencing earlier in the week."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-bidens-title-42-transition-faces-legal-roadblocks-591826">Joe Biden’s ‘Title 42’ transition faces roadblocks, immigration advocates say new asylum bars violate laws</a>

Nevertheless, he cautioned that "we are in Day Three," and that it is "too early" to predict the flow of future border crossings.

However, Representative Mark Green, the Republican chairman of the Homeland Security Committee in the House of Representatives, has disputed the figures, saying that more people crossed the border this week than at any other time in US history. Green attributed this to a surge in people crossing the border ahead of Title 42's end.

"This week has seen more crossings than any week in our history," he told CNN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-illegal-migrants-rush-to-us-mexico-border-as-title-42-rule-ends-591498">Thousands of migrants rush to US-Mexico border as Title 42 rule ends</a>

Introduced by the previous president Donald Trump during Covid times, the Title 42 policy allowed the US to quickly expel migrants on public health grounds. However, that power ended last Thursday with the government's declaration that Covid-19 is no longer an official public health emergency, reports AFP.&nbsp;

The country has now reverted to its previous immigration law, called Title 8.

At the same time, Joe Biden's administration is also attempting to create a system which allows for expanded asylum and legal routes in some cases. However, it will also come with strict penalties for those who cross the border illegally, including five-year bans on entering the US and possible criminal charges.

The Biden administration was initially prepared for a surge in border crossings ahead of the end of Title 42 and deployed troops to the border. Nevertheless, Mayorkas said that approximately 6,300 people crossed the border on Friday, with 4,200 crossing on Saturday.&nbsp;

He described these figures as "markedly down" compared to the 10,000 per day who crossed earlier in the week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Since the United States Title 42 migration policy ended, the nation's border authorities, as per the US homeland security chief, have witnessed a fifty per cent drop in "encounters" with undocumented migrants crossing the southern border.

Since the United States Title 42 migration policy ended, the nation's border authorities, as per the US homeland security chief, have witnessed a fifty per cent drop in "encounters" with undocumented migrants crossing the southern border. Talking to CNN during a talk show, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said that the US Border Patrol has seen a marked reduction in the number of crossings over the past two days since the end of the policy. "Over the past two days, the United States border patrol has experienced a 50 per cent drop in the number of encounters, versus what we were experiencing earlier in the week." Also read | Joe Biden’s ‘Title 42’ transition faces roadblocks, immigration advocates say new asylum bars violate laws Nevertheless, he cautioned that "we are in Day Three," and that it is "too early" to predict the flow of future border crossings. However, Representative Mark Green, the Republican chairman of the Homeland Security Committee in the House of Representatives, has disputed the figures, saying that more people crossed the border this week than at any other time in US history. Green attributed this to a surge in people crossing the border ahead of Title 42's end. "This week has seen more crossings than any week in our history," he told CNN. Also read | Thousands of migrants rush to US-Mexico border as Title 42 rule ends Introduced by the previous president Donald Trump during Covid times, the Title 42 policy allowed the US to quickly expel migrants on public health grounds. However, that power ended last Thursday with the government's declaration that Covid-19 is no longer an official public health emergency, reports AFP. The country has now reverted to its previous immigration law, called Title 8. At the same time, Joe Biden's administration is also attempting to create a system which allows for expanded asylum and legal routes in some cases. However, it will also come with strict penalties for those who cross the border illegally, including five-year bans on entering the US and possible criminal charges. The Biden administration was initially prepared for a surge in border crossings ahead of the end of Title 42 and deployed troops to the border. Nevertheless, Mayorkas said that approximately 6,300 people crossed the border on Friday, with 4,200 crossing on Saturday. He described these figures as "markedly down" compared to the 10,000 per day who crossed earlier in the week. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Illegal border crossings dropped by half since Title 42's end: US homeland security chief

Flash floods caused by heavy rainfall in central Somalia have claimed the lives of at least 22 people and left over 450,000 affected, according to the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). The Shabelle River burst its banks, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee their homes in search of refuge.&nbsp;

OCHA on Sunday reported that almost 219,000 people have been displaced from their homes, mainly in flood-prone areas.&nbsp;

"Initial estimates indicate that the flash and riverine floods across Somalia have affected at least 460,470 people, of whom nearly 219,000 have been displaced from their homes mainly in flood-prone areas, and 22 killed," said the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

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Floods have inundated parts of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Somalia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Somalia</a>, affecting 460K ppl, of whom 219K are displaced and 22 killed. Belet Weyne town in Hirshabelle state, is flooded. 
 
Partners are implementing a Response Plan, but need urgent funding to meet rising needs. 
 
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— OCHA Somalia (@OCHASom) <a href="https://twitter.com/OCHASom/status/1657705610496860164?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;The flooding has "left a trail of destruction" and is responsible for &nbsp;"inundating homes and farmland, washing away livestock, temporarily closing schools and health facilities, and damaging roads," the agency said in its situation report.

Earlier this week, a significant amount of rain caused floodwaters to enter houses and buildings in Beledweyne town, located in the Hiran region. This forced residents to quickly gather their belongings and walk through the flooded streets to seek shelter.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/category-5-cyclone-mocha-hits-myanmar-bangladesh-border-threatens-rohingya-refugees-in-low-lying-regions-592249">'Very severe' cyclone Mocha hits Myanmar-Bangladesh border, threatens Rohingya refugees in low-lying regions</a>

Talking to AFP, residents said that the floods have become a familiar ordeal, with one resident saying that it is her fifth time fleeing flash floods in the Beledweyne area.

According to experts, the country is experiencing extreme weather events more frequently and with greater intensity due to climate change.

AFP reports that the extreme weather is not unique to Somalia. East and Central Africa have often been hit by extreme weather during the rainy seasons, causing significant damage to property and claiming many lives.

Earlier this month, floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains claimed the lives of 135 people in Rwanda, leaving over 9,000 homeless.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-reports-highest-temperature-in-in-40-years-592264">Singapore reports highest temperature in 40 years; short-duration showers expected next week</a>

Last week, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, more than 400 people died due to torrential downpours, floods and landslides.&nbsp;

As per AFP, at the end of 2019, East Africa suffered from two months of relentless rainfall, which resulted in the deaths of 265 people and the displacement of tens of thousands in Burundi, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.&nbsp;

Flash floods caused by heavy rainfall in central Somalia have claimed the lives of at least 22 people and left over 450,000 affected, according to the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

Flash floods caused by heavy rainfall in central Somalia have claimed the lives of at least 22 people and left over 450,000 affected, according to the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). The Shabelle River burst its banks, forcing tens of thousands of people to flee their homes in search of refuge. OCHA on Sunday reported that almost 219,000 people have been displaced from their homes, mainly in flood-prone areas. "Initial estimates indicate that the flash and riverine floods across Somalia have affected at least 460,470 people, of whom nearly 219,000 have been displaced from their homes mainly in flood-prone areas, and 22 killed," said the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Floods have inundated parts of #Somalia, affecting 460K ppl, of whom 219K are displaced and 22 killed. Belet Weyne town in Hirshabelle state, is flooded. Partners are implementing a Response Plan, but need urgent funding to meet rising needs. ▶https://t.co/AEfQt5pj6q pic.twitter.com/HjU1h0it6O — OCHA Somalia (@OCHASom) May 14, 2023 × The flooding has "left a trail of destruction" and is responsible for "inundating homes and farmland, washing away livestock, temporarily closing schools and health facilities, and damaging roads," the agency said in its situation report. Earlier this week, a significant amount of rain caused floodwaters to enter houses and buildings in Beledweyne town, located in the Hiran region. This forced residents to quickly gather their belongings and walk through the flooded streets to seek shelter. Also read | 'Very severe' cyclone Mocha hits Myanmar-Bangladesh border, threatens Rohingya refugees in low-lying regions Talking to AFP, residents said that the floods have become a familiar ordeal, with one resident saying that it is her fifth time fleeing flash floods in the Beledweyne area. According to experts, the country is experiencing extreme weather events more frequently and with greater intensity due to climate change. AFP reports that the extreme weather is not unique to Somalia. East and Central Africa have often been hit by extreme weather during the rainy seasons, causing significant damage to property and claiming many lives. Earlier this month, floods and landslides triggered by heavy rains claimed the lives of 135 people in Rwanda, leaving over 9,000 homeless. Also read | Singapore reports highest temperature in 40 years; short-duration showers expected next week Last week, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, more than 400 people died due to torrential downpours, floods and landslides. As per AFP, at the end of 2019, East Africa suffered from two months of relentless rainfall, which resulted in the deaths of 265 people and the displacement of tens of thousands in Burundi, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.

Climate change | Flash floods caused by heavy rainfall claims 22 lives in Somalia, 450,000 affected: UN

Since 2010, prisons in England and Wales have seen nearly 1,000 rapes. As per exclusive data obtained by The Observer for the period, an additional 2,336 sexual assaults were reported to the police. However, as per a report by the Guardian, experts have warned that the true figure of the heinous crimes may be much higher, as not all the attacks get reported. The data reportedly includes cases of both staff-on-prisoner and prisoner-on-prisoner abuse.

The figures have raised concerns about the safety of prisoners and the prison system's effectiveness in addressing the issue of sexual violence.

Overcrowding, staff reductions and budget cuts have all contributed to the rising incidents of sexual assault and rape in prisons. These issues, as per the report, have been further exacerbated by austerity measures over the past decade.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/gucci-reincarnated-7-year-old-prodigy-dressmaker-claims-to-be-renowned-fashion-designer-in-past-life-592020">Gucci reincarnation: 7-year-old prodigy dressmaker claims to be renowned fashion designer in past life</a>

According to research by Nasrul Ismail, a lecturer in criminology at Bristol University, the impact of austerity has left English prisons "unable to provide safe environments for rising prison populations".

A government report revealed that 52 per cent of prisons in England and Wales were overcrowded as of September 2022.

There are currently just under 90,000 people in prisons in the UK, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;

Last year, the government even announced a £500 million (a little more than $622mn) funding injection to create thousands of new prison places for both men and women.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-elections-ahead-of-polls-erdogan-to-lead-prayers-at-iconic-hagia-sophia-mosque-heres-what-it-means-592064">On poll eve, Erdogan to emulate historical ritual of Ottoman Sultans: lead prayers at Hagia Sophia</a>

However, it's not just space for prisoners, the prison system is also struggling to recruit and retain staff.

As per the Guardian report, in 2021-22, the number of prison officers and custodial managers fell by 600. Losing staff has also contributed to the safety issues, putting safety at risk. Many experienced officers are leaving the workforce and prisons are struggling to recruit and retain new staff to replace them.

Talking to the Observer, UK-based charity Howard League for Penal Reform's director of campaigns, Andrew Neilson said that his organisation had called for staff to be given more training and guidance. However, he added, "we know that many experienced officers have since left the workforce and prisons have struggled to recruit and retain people to replace them."

He also said that there has been "minimal research – and a worrying lack of coherent and consistently applied policies – in relation to consensual and coercive sex behind bars."

Sexual violence is a problem not just for the female prison estate but also for male ones.

According to the latest statistics on safety in custody published by the UK Ministry of Justice, there were a total of 20,993 assaults in the 12 months leading up to December 2022. Out of these, 12 per cent were classified as "serious assaults," which encompass sexual violence incidents. This represents a 19 per cent rise in the number of serious assaults compared to the previous year. The number of prisoner-on-prisoner sexual assaults, however, fell to 195, which is 26 per cent lower than the 265 incidents that were recorded in 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Since 2010, prisons in England and Wales have seen nearly 1,000 rapes. As per exclusive data obtained by The Observer for the period, an additional 2,336 sexual assaults were reported to the police.

Since 2010, prisons in England and Wales have seen nearly 1,000 rapes. As per exclusive data obtained by The Observer for the period, an additional 2,336 sexual assaults were reported to the police. However, as per a report by the Guardian, experts have warned that the true figure of the heinous crimes may be much higher, as not all the attacks get reported. The data reportedly includes cases of both staff-on-prisoner and prisoner-on-prisoner abuse. The figures have raised concerns about the safety of prisoners and the prison system's effectiveness in addressing the issue of sexual violence. Overcrowding, staff reductions and budget cuts have all contributed to the rising incidents of sexual assault and rape in prisons. These issues, as per the report, have been further exacerbated by austerity measures over the past decade. Also read | Gucci reincarnation: 7-year-old prodigy dressmaker claims to be renowned fashion designer in past life According to research by Nasrul Ismail, a lecturer in criminology at Bristol University, the impact of austerity has left English prisons "unable to provide safe environments for rising prison populations". A government report revealed that 52 per cent of prisons in England and Wales were overcrowded as of September 2022. There are currently just under 90,000 people in prisons in the UK, reports The Guardian. Last year, the government even announced a £500 million (a little more than $622mn) funding injection to create thousands of new prison places for both men and women. Also read | On poll eve, Erdogan to emulate historical ritual of Ottoman Sultans: lead prayers at Hagia Sophia However, it's not just space for prisoners, the prison system is also struggling to recruit and retain staff. As per the Guardian report, in 2021-22, the number of prison officers and custodial managers fell by 600. Losing staff has also contributed to the safety issues, putting safety at risk. Many experienced officers are leaving the workforce and prisons are struggling to recruit and retain new staff to replace them. Talking to the Observer, UK-based charity Howard League for Penal Reform's director of campaigns, Andrew Neilson said that his organisation had called for staff to be given more training and guidance. However, he added, "we know that many experienced officers have since left the workforce and prisons have struggled to recruit and retain people to replace them." He also said that there has been "minimal research – and a worrying lack of coherent and consistently applied policies – in relation to consensual and coercive sex behind bars." Sexual violence is a problem not just for the female prison estate but also for male ones. According to the latest statistics on safety in custody published by the UK Ministry of Justice, there were a total of 20,993 assaults in the 12 months leading up to December 2022. Out of these, 12 per cent were classified as "serious assaults," which encompass sexual violence incidents. This represents a 19 per cent rise in the number of serious assaults compared to the previous year. The number of prisoner-on-prisoner sexual assaults, however, fell to 195, which is 26 per cent lower than the 265 incidents that were recorded in 2019. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Since 2010, more than 1,000 rape, sexual assault incidents happened in England, Wales prisons: Report

Ahead of Sunday's vote that decides if he will stay in power, Turkish incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will lead the Saturday prayers at Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia mosque. According to the news agency AFP, the leader will emulate a historical ritual that the Ottoman Sultans performed before they led their men off to war. The ritual will take place just a day before the contentious leader braces for the upcoming parliamentary and presidential ballot opposite an "energised or united opposition".

<h2>The importance of Hagia Sophia</h2>

Once the world's largest Byzantine cathedral, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans but became a museum after the establishment of a secular Turkey by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk in 1923.

In 2020, Erdogan's decision to convert the museum back into a mosque helped solidify his status as a hero among his religious supporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-strongly-denies-accusations-of-spreading-deep-fakes-meddling-in-turkey-elections-591776">Russia ‘strongly’ denies accusations of spreading deep fakes, meddling in Turkey elections</a>

However, the decision also contributed to growing concerns from the Western world about his leadership.

During a rally in Istanbul on Saturday, Erdogan boasted, "The entire West got mad - but I did it."&nbsp;

His statement highlights his focus on religious themes and cultural conflicts, which he has previously used to galvanise his conservative and nationalist base.

Nevertheless, the 69-year as per AFP has never "faced a more energised or united opposition".

<h2>Erdogan's opposition</h2>

Leading the opposition against the Turkish leader is retired civil servant Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has set up an alliance of six parties. Putting aside their political and cultural differences, these six parties have reportedly joined forces for the "lone task" of pushing Erdogan out.

They also have the official backing of Turkey's primary pro-Kurdish party, which represents around10 per cent of the total votes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/turkey-election-2023-the-candidates-for-president-and-other-key-figures-591692">Turkey elections 2023: These are top candidates for president, other key players you should know</a>

<h2>Will Erdogan win?</h2>

In the past, Erdogan has proven his might. Over the course of 21 years, the Turkish leader has demonstrated exceptional skill in dividing his opponents and forming unlikely alliances, a skill which, as per AFP, has helped him win numerous national elections.

However, this time the math is not in his favour. Recent polls show that the secular opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu is edging ahead of Erdogan in Sunday's presidential ballot.&nbsp;

They reportedly show challenger Kilicdaroglu possessing a slight advantage and close to breaking the 50-per cent threshold needed to avoid a runoff on May 28.

Speaking at a rally in Ankara, the opposition leader said: "Are you ready to bring democracy to this country? To bring peace to this country? I promise, I am ready too."

&nbsp;

Ahead of Sunday's vote that decides if he will stay in power, Turkish incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will lead the Saturday prayers at Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia mosque.

Ahead of Sunday's vote that decides if he will stay in power, Turkish incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will lead the Saturday prayers at Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia mosque. According to the news agency AFP, the leader will emulate a historical ritual that the Ottoman Sultans performed before they led their men off to war. The ritual will take place just a day before the contentious leader braces for the upcoming parliamentary and presidential ballot opposite an "energised or united opposition". The importance of Hagia Sophia Once the world's largest Byzantine cathedral, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans but became a museum after the establishment of a secular Turkey by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk in 1923. In 2020, Erdogan's decision to convert the museum back into a mosque helped solidify his status as a hero among his religious supporters. Also read | Russia ‘strongly’ denies accusations of spreading deep fakes, meddling in Turkey elections However, the decision also contributed to growing concerns from the Western world about his leadership. During a rally in Istanbul on Saturday, Erdogan boasted, "The entire West got mad - but I did it." His statement highlights his focus on religious themes and cultural conflicts, which he has previously used to galvanise his conservative and nationalist base. Nevertheless, the 69-year as per AFP has never "faced a more energised or united opposition". Erdogan's opposition Leading the opposition against the Turkish leader is retired civil servant Kemal Kilicdaroglu, who has set up an alliance of six parties. Putting aside their political and cultural differences, these six parties have reportedly joined forces for the "lone task" of pushing Erdogan out. They also have the official backing of Turkey's primary pro-Kurdish party, which represents around10 per cent of the total votes. Also read | Turkey elections 2023: These are top candidates for president, other key players you should know Will Erdogan win? In the past, Erdogan has proven his might. Over the course of 21 years, the Turkish leader has demonstrated exceptional skill in dividing his opponents and forming unlikely alliances, a skill which, as per AFP, has helped him win numerous national elections. However, this time the math is not in his favour. Recent polls show that the secular opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu is edging ahead of Erdogan in Sunday's presidential ballot. They reportedly show challenger Kilicdaroglu possessing a slight advantage and close to breaking the 50-per cent threshold needed to avoid a runoff on May 28. Speaking at a rally in Ankara, the opposition leader said: "Are you ready to bring democracy to this country? To bring peace to this country? I promise, I am ready too."

On poll eve, Erdogan to emulate historical ritual of Ottoman Sultans: lead prayers at Hagia Sophia

The Biden administration on Friday started the implementation of a significant policy shift at the US-Mexico border. Starting May 13, Title 42, a COVID-era order that had allowed the swift expulsion of many migrants expired, and new asylum restrictions took effect.

As per Reuters, adding to the confusion and uncertainty, were several last-minute actions. These legal challenges have added to the questions about how Biden's new strategy will play out.

The end of Title 42, a three-year-old order that allowed American authorities to expel migrants to Mexico or other countries quickly without a chance to request asylum, has raised concerns that US border facilities could be strained to the breaking point.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/honduran-teen-dies-in-us-custody-after-crossing-the-southern-border-591821">Honduran teen dies in US custody after crossing the southern border</a>

Officials are reportedly keeping a close eye on the movement of migrants.

US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official Blas Nunez-Neto told reporters on Friday that they "continue to encounter high levels of non-citizens at the border, but we did not see a substantial increase overnight or an influx at midnight (when Title 42 expired)."

New asylum restrictions put in place by President Joe Biden's administration to curb illegal crossings were met with criticism from immigration advocates.&nbsp;

Advocates represented by the American Civil Liberties Union filed a legal challenge against the new asylum bars, claiming they violate US and international laws.

They argue that Biden's new legislation resembles the restrictions imposed by his predecessor Donald Trump — these were blocked in the court.

However, US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas defended the Biden regulation. Talking to MSNBC, he said it aims to encourage migrants to enter using legal pathways.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-illegal-migrants-rush-to-us-mexico-border-as-title-42-rule-ends-591498">Thousands of migrants rush to US-Mexico border as Title 42 rule ends</a>

"It's going to be a tough transition," he added.

Along with immigration advocates, a few Democrat legislators also say that Biden's new regulation is too harsh and that it counters previous statements the US President made in 2020 on the campaign trail when he said he thought it was "wrong" for people not to be able to seek asylum on American soil

Biden's new measures, as per ABC News, have stopped short of imposing a total ban and instead, put in place severe limitations for those seeking to cross illegally without first opting for legal routes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Biden administration on Friday started the implementation of a significant policy shift at the US-Mexico border. Starting May 13, Title 42, a COVID-era order that had allowed the swift expulsion of many migrants expired, and new asylum restrictions took effect.

The Biden administration on Friday started the implementation of a significant policy shift at the US-Mexico border. Starting May 13, Title 42, a COVID-era order that had allowed the swift expulsion of many migrants expired, and new asylum restrictions took effect. As per Reuters, adding to the confusion and uncertainty, were several last-minute actions. These legal challenges have added to the questions about how Biden's new strategy will play out. The end of Title 42, a three-year-old order that allowed American authorities to expel migrants to Mexico or other countries quickly without a chance to request asylum, has raised concerns that US border facilities could be strained to the breaking point. Also read | Honduran teen dies in US custody after crossing the southern border Officials are reportedly keeping a close eye on the movement of migrants. US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official Blas Nunez-Neto told reporters on Friday that they "continue to encounter high levels of non-citizens at the border, but we did not see a substantial increase overnight or an influx at midnight (when Title 42 expired)." New asylum restrictions put in place by President Joe Biden's administration to curb illegal crossings were met with criticism from immigration advocates. Advocates represented by the American Civil Liberties Union filed a legal challenge against the new asylum bars, claiming they violate US and international laws. They argue that Biden's new legislation resembles the restrictions imposed by his predecessor Donald Trump — these were blocked in the court. However, US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas defended the Biden regulation. Talking to MSNBC, he said it aims to encourage migrants to enter using legal pathways. Also read | Thousands of migrants rush to US-Mexico border as Title 42 rule ends "It's going to be a tough transition," he added. Along with immigration advocates, a few Democrat legislators also say that Biden's new regulation is too harsh and that it counters previous statements the US President made in 2020 on the campaign trail when he said he thought it was "wrong" for people not to be able to seek asylum on American soil Biden's new measures, as per ABC News, have stopped short of imposing a total ban and instead, put in place severe limitations for those seeking to cross illegally without first opting for legal routes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Joe Biden’s ‘Title 42’ transition faces roadblocks, immigration advocates say new asylum bars violate laws

Toyota Motor Corp on Friday admitted that the vehicle data of 2.15 million customers in Japan, including those of its luxury brand Lexus, had been publicly available for almost a decade due to a 'human error'. The incident, which affected nearly the entire customer base who signed up for Toyota’s main cloud service platforms since 2012, was caused by a cloud system being set to public instead of private.

It also affected customers who signed up for the T-Connect — a service that provides a wide range of services including AI voice-enabled driving assistance, auto connection to call centres for vehicle management, and emergency support in such cases as a traffic accident or sudden illness — and Lexus vehicle's G-Link services were affected.&nbsp;

As per the company, while there have been no reports of malicious use, details such as vehicle locations and identification numbers of vehicle devices could have been compromised.&nbsp;

This incident, as per Reuters, comes to light as Toyota is making a push into vehicle connectivity and cloud-based data management to offer autonomous driving and other artificial intelligence-backed features.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/296000-toyota-customers-affected-by-a-data-breach-that-went-undetected-since-2017-523496">296,000 Toyota customers affected by a data breach that went undetected since 2017</a>

Responding to a question regarding why it took Toyota so long to realise the mistake, a spokesperson for the company said, "There was a lack of active detection mechanisms, and activities to detect the presence or absence of things that became public."

The issue, as per Reuters, began in November 2013 and lasted until mid-April of this year.

The Personal Information Protection Commission in Japan has been notified of the incident, but the body has declined to disclose details in accordance with their practice. Toyota has taken measures to prevent unauthorised outside access to the data and is conducting an investigation of all cloud environments managed by Toyota Connected Corp.

Toyota’s announcement follows several other major data breaches in Japan, including one in March when mobile carrier NTT DoCoMo said the data of up to 5.29 million customers may have leaked via a company to which it had outsourced work.

The incident adds to a series of challenges Koji Sato, who took over as Toyota CEO on April 1 from Akio Toyoda, faces.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Toyota Motor Corp on Friday admitted that the vehicle data of 2.15 million customers in Japan, including those of its luxury brand Lexus, had been publicly available for almost a decade due to a 'human error'.

Toyota Motor Corp on Friday admitted that the vehicle data of 2.15 million customers in Japan, including those of its luxury brand Lexus, had been publicly available for almost a decade due to a 'human error'. The incident, which affected nearly the entire customer base who signed up for Toyota’s main cloud service platforms since 2012, was caused by a cloud system being set to public instead of private. It also affected customers who signed up for the T-Connect — a service that provides a wide range of services including AI voice-enabled driving assistance, auto connection to call centres for vehicle management, and emergency support in such cases as a traffic accident or sudden illness — and Lexus vehicle's G-Link services were affected. As per the company, while there have been no reports of malicious use, details such as vehicle locations and identification numbers of vehicle devices could have been compromised. This incident, as per Reuters, comes to light as Toyota is making a push into vehicle connectivity and cloud-based data management to offer autonomous driving and other artificial intelligence-backed features. Also read | 296,000 Toyota customers affected by a data breach that went undetected since 2017 Responding to a question regarding why it took Toyota so long to realise the mistake, a spokesperson for the company said, "There was a lack of active detection mechanisms, and activities to detect the presence or absence of things that became public." The issue, as per Reuters, began in November 2013 and lasted until mid-April of this year. The Personal Information Protection Commission in Japan has been notified of the incident, but the body has declined to disclose details in accordance with their practice. Toyota has taken measures to prevent unauthorised outside access to the data and is conducting an investigation of all cloud environments managed by Toyota Connected Corp. Toyota’s announcement follows several other major data breaches in Japan, including one in March when mobile carrier NTT DoCoMo said the data of up to 5.29 million customers may have leaked via a company to which it had outsourced work. The incident adds to a series of challenges Koji Sato, who took over as Toyota CEO on April 1 from Akio Toyoda, faces. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Human error’ exposed vehicle data of 2.15 million Toyota customers for over a decade

The Kremlin has denied allegations that it was meddling in Turkey's upcoming presidential election campaign. Recently Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan's main rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu accused Moscow of spreading "deep fakes" targeting him.

Earlier this week, opposition politician Kilicdaroglu claimed that ahead of the crucial Sunday elections, Russia was targeting him with an online smear campaign.

Replying to the allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "We strongly reject such statements".

"We officially declare: there can be no talk of any interference."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/turkey-election-2023-the-candidates-for-president-and-other-key-figures-591692">Turkey elections 2023: These are top candidates for president, other key players you should know</a>

"If someone provided Mr. Kilicdaroglu with such information, they are liars," he added, as reported by the AFP.

Kilicdaroglu's allegations came hours after Third-party candidate Muharrem Ince dropped out from the presidential elections. Withdrawing his candidacy just days before the elections, on Thursday, Ince said: "I am doing this for my country."&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, Kilicdaroglu addressed "Russian friends" and said, "You are behind the montages, conspiracies, deep fakes and tapes that were exposed in this country yesterday." He did not provide any details.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/third-party-candidate-ince-drops-out-of-turkeys-presidential-race-591356">Turkey's presidential candidate Ince drops out after release of 'sex tape'</a>

He further threatened Russia and said:&nbsp;"If you want our friendship after May 15, get your hands off the Turkish state. We are still in favour of cooperation and friendship."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Sevgili Rus Dostlarımız, 
Dün bu ülkede ortaya saçılan montajlar, kumpaslar, Deep Fake içerikler, kasetlerin arkasında siz varsınız. Eğer 15 Mayıs sonrası dostluğumuzun devamını istiyorsanız, elinizi Türk’ün devletinden çekin. Biz hala işbirlikten ve dostluktan yanayız.
— Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu (@kilicdarogluk) <a href="https://twitter.com/kilicdarogluk/status/1656705796208574468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As per the news agency AFP, recent polls show the secular opposition leader edging ahead of Erdogan in Sunday's presidential ballot. They reportedly show&nbsp;challenger Kemal Kilicdaroglu possessing a slight advantage and close to breaking the 50-per cent threshold needed to avoid a runoff on May 28.

However, as per Kremlin spokesman Peskov, Russia is doing nothing of that sort, and that Moscow "highly values" its bilateral relations with Turkey.

"Turkey has a very responsible, sovereign and thought-through position on a whole range of regional and global problems that we face," he said.

In recent months, even as Russia faces criticism from various nations, Moscow and Ankara have maintained close ties. Erdogan has also, at times, played the role of a mediator, talking to both Russia and Ukraine.

In recent days, disinformation has added a dark note to the pivotal elections that on Sunday will decide if Erdogan — who has been Turkey's President since 2014 — will remain in power.

Recently, at a huge rally, Recep Tayyip Erdogan played a 14-second clip which allegedly was proof that his rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu has formed a union with "terrorists"&nbsp;and outlawed Kurdish militants. The clip was played at the rally and beamed live on TV, following which challenger Kilicdaroglu had fumed: "How can a person sitting in the president's chair stoop this low."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Kremlin has denied allegations that it was meddling in Turkey's upcoming presidential election campaign. Recently Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan's main rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu accused Moscow of spreading "deep fakes" targeting him.

The Kremlin has denied allegations that it was meddling in Turkey's upcoming presidential election campaign. Recently Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan's main rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu accused Moscow of spreading "deep fakes" targeting him. Earlier this week, opposition politician Kilicdaroglu claimed that ahead of the crucial Sunday elections, Russia was targeting him with an online smear campaign. Replying to the allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "We strongly reject such statements". "We officially declare: there can be no talk of any interference." Also read | Turkey elections 2023: These are top candidates for president, other key players you should know "If someone provided Mr. Kilicdaroglu with such information, they are liars," he added, as reported by the AFP. Kilicdaroglu's allegations came hours after Third-party candidate Muharrem Ince dropped out from the presidential elections. Withdrawing his candidacy just days before the elections, on Thursday, Ince said: "I am doing this for my country." Taking to Twitter, Kilicdaroglu addressed "Russian friends" and said, "You are behind the montages, conspiracies, deep fakes and tapes that were exposed in this country yesterday." He did not provide any details. Also read | Turkey's presidential candidate Ince drops out after release of 'sex tape' He further threatened Russia and said: "If you want our friendship after May 15, get your hands off the Turkish state. We are still in favour of cooperation and friendship." Sevgili Rus Dostlarımız, Dün bu ülkede ortaya saçılan montajlar, kumpaslar, Deep Fake içerikler, kasetlerin arkasında siz varsınız. Eğer 15 Mayıs sonrası dostluğumuzun devamını istiyorsanız, elinizi Türk’ün devletinden çekin. Biz hala işbirlikten ve dostluktan yanayız. — Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu (@kilicdarogluk) May 11, 2023 × As per the news agency AFP, recent polls show the secular opposition leader edging ahead of Erdogan in Sunday's presidential ballot. They reportedly show challenger Kemal Kilicdaroglu possessing a slight advantage and close to breaking the 50-per cent threshold needed to avoid a runoff on May 28. However, as per Kremlin spokesman Peskov, Russia is doing nothing of that sort, and that Moscow "highly values" its bilateral relations with Turkey. "Turkey has a very responsible, sovereign and thought-through position on a whole range of regional and global problems that we face," he said. In recent months, even as Russia faces criticism from various nations, Moscow and Ankara have maintained close ties. Erdogan has also, at times, played the role of a mediator, talking to both Russia and Ukraine. In recent days, disinformation has added a dark note to the pivotal elections that on Sunday will decide if Erdogan — who has been Turkey's President since 2014 — will remain in power. Recently, at a huge rally, Recep Tayyip Erdogan played a 14-second clip which allegedly was proof that his rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu has formed a union with "terrorists" and outlawed Kurdish militants. The clip was played at the rally and beamed live on TV, following which challenger Kilicdaroglu had fumed: "How can a person sitting in the president's chair stoop this low." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia ‘strongly’ denies accusations of spreading deep fakes, meddling in Turkey elections

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has labelled the "relief" provided to his predecessor Imran Khan by the courts as "double standards" in corruption cases and termed him a 'laadla' of courts. Responding to the&nbsp;Supreme Court's granting of relief to its "laadla" Imran Khan, Sharif said the "double standards&nbsp;have led to the death of justice in Pakistan". 
 
Pakistan's Supreme Court granted&nbsp;a major relief for Khan&nbsp;on Thursday when it declared his dramatic arrest "unlawful" and "invalid" and ordered his immediate release after he was produced before a bench on its orders. 
 
Sharif said that the apex court's relief was nothing but an NRO. He was referring to the infamous National Reconciliation Ordinance, which was used by past leaders to pardon their allies, before being outlawed by the top court itself. 
 
Addressing Pakistan's federal cabinet, Sharif referred to the arrests of PML-N [Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz)] supremo Nawaz Sharif and other members of the federal coalition and asked why such&nbsp;leniency was not given to them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-says-hes-worried-they-will-pick-him-again-warns-of-same-reaction-if-arrested-again-591698">Imran Khan says he's worried 'they' will pick him again; warns of 'same reaction' if arrested again</a>

"No one spoke to Nawaz about injustices suffered by him."

Calling&nbsp;Imran Khan the "laadla," a crude reference that roughly translates to blue-eyed-boy, he said, "If you want to keep favouring this laadla then you should also release all the dacoits behind bars in the country."

"Let this be free for all," he said, adding that everyone will bear the consequences of whatever followed next.

Talking about the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party workers' protests, he said they have disrespected the martyrs of Pakistan in a way that has never been done by "our enemies".

Lamenting the protests after Imran Khan's May 9 arrest, he said such scenes have not been witnessed in Pakistan since the fall of Dhaka in 1973.

"The attacks on army installations, there can be no greater terrorism in the country," he said. "And seeing all this, a country, I don’t want to take its name, was celebrating that what couldn’t happen in 75 years is now happening in Pakistan."

He said that even after the death of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, the nation had erupted into protests but no one "moved towards military installations".

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has labelled the "relief" provided to his predecessor Imran Khan by the courts as "double standards" in corruption cases and termed him a 'laadla' of courts.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has labelled the "relief" provided to his predecessor Imran Khan by the courts as "double standards" in corruption cases and termed him a 'laadla' of courts. Responding to the Supreme Court's granting of relief to its "laadla" Imran Khan, Sharif said the "double standards have led to the death of justice in Pakistan". Pakistan's Supreme Court granted a major relief for Khan on Thursday when it declared his dramatic arrest "unlawful" and "invalid" and ordered his immediate release after he was produced before a bench on its orders. Sharif said that the apex court's relief was nothing but an NRO. He was referring to the infamous National Reconciliation Ordinance, which was used by past leaders to pardon their allies, before being outlawed by the top court itself. Addressing Pakistan's federal cabinet, Sharif referred to the arrests of PML-N [Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz)] supremo Nawaz Sharif and other members of the federal coalition and asked why such leniency was not given to them. Also read | Imran Khan says he's worried 'they' will pick him again; warns of 'same reaction' if arrested again "No one spoke to Nawaz about injustices suffered by him." Calling Imran Khan the "laadla," a crude reference that roughly translates to blue-eyed-boy, he said, "If you want to keep favouring this laadla then you should also release all the dacoits behind bars in the country." "Let this be free for all," he said, adding that everyone will bear the consequences of whatever followed next. Talking about the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party workers' protests, he said they have disrespected the martyrs of Pakistan in a way that has never been done by "our enemies". Lamenting the protests after Imran Khan's May 9 arrest, he said such scenes have not been witnessed in Pakistan since the fall of Dhaka in 1973. "The attacks on army installations, there can be no greater terrorism in the country," he said. "And seeing all this, a country, I don’t want to take its name, was celebrating that what couldn’t happen in 75 years is now happening in Pakistan." He said that even after the death of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, the nation had erupted into protests but no one "moved towards military installations". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Sharif: Courts' relief to ‘laadla’ Imran exposes ‘double standards’, led to death of justice in Pak

In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan's former prime minister, Imran Khan, was "whisked away by unknown people," from outside the Islamabad High Court (IHC). This comes at the heels of the Pakistan army shooting down the cricketer-turned-politician's allegations regarding the involvement of top ISI officer Major-General Faisal Naseer in the brutal murder of senior journalist Arshad Sharif.

In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan's former prime minister, Imran Khan, was "whisked away by unknown people," from outside the Islamabad High Court (IHC). This comes at the heels of the Pakistan army shooting down the cricketer-turned-politician's allegations regarding the involvement of top ISI officer Major-General Faisal Naseer in the brutal murder of senior journalist Arshad Sharif. Not even two days after the allegations and the subsequent warning from the military, Khan has been arrested "in the Qadir Trust case." The leader's arrest comes as a surprise to the world, but right on the lines of a prediction made by PTI chief Imran Khan. Here's a blow-by-blow account of Imran Khan's arrest May 7th, 2023 Speaking at a rally in Lahore, Imran Khan on Sunday (May 7th) makes fresh allegations against the top intelligence service officer, while reiterating previous claims that Naseer had tried to "kill me twice". "Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)'s Major-General Faisal Naseer tried to kill me twice. He is also involved in the killing of (TV anchor) Arshad Sharif. He also stripped my party Senator Azam Swati naked and inflicted severe torture on him," the Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief had said. May 7th, 2023 - evening Incumbent Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif tweets that Imran Khan's allegations "cannot be allowed and will not be tolerated." Imran Niazi's act of routinely maligning and threatening Pakistan Army and Intelligence Agency for the sake of petty political gains is highly condemnable. His leveling of allegations without any proof against Gen Faisal Naseer and officers of our Intelligence Agnecy cannot be… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 7, 2023 × May 8th, 2023 Pakistan Army lashes out at Khan and warns him over his "fabricated and malicious allegation." In a statement released by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), they said: "This fabricated and malicious allegation is extremely unfortunate, deplorable and unacceptable. This has been a consistent pattern for last one year wherein military and intelligence agencies officials are targeted with insinuations and sensational propaganda for the furtherance of political objectives." "We ask the political leader concerned to make a recourse to legal avenues and stop making false allegations," it said, adding that the institution reserves the right to a legal recourse against patently false and malafide statements and propaganda. May 9th, 2023 10:00 am PKT (05:02 am GST) Imran Khan leaves for a hearing at the Islamabad High Court. In a video posted by the PTI party, he reacts to ISPR Press Release and says his claims are true and that if an investigation is conducted, he will prove them. Watch the video here: اسلام آباد عدالتی پیشی کیلئے روانگی سے قبل چیئرمین تحریک انصاف کا خصوصی پیغام آئی ایس پی آر کی پریس ریلیز پر خصوصی ردعمل #BehindYouSkipper pic.twitter.com/NtrcUSrwwY — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × 2:00 pm | Khan reaches court Imran Khan reaches the court where he was supposed to file bail applications in seven cases. عمران خان انسداد دہشت گردی عدالت پہنچ گئے،عمران خان 7 مقدمات میں ضمانت کی درخواست دائر کریں گے#BehindYouSkipper pic.twitter.com/Ri75Xh0weq — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × عمران خان اسلام آباد ہائیکورٹ پہنچ گئے۔ #BehindYouSkipper pic.twitter.com/DmadRgPD82 — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × 2:15 pm | Pakistan's paramilitary federal law enforcement corps storm into the court premises Videos shared by the PTI party show Rangers personnel breaking windows in their attempt to get to the party chief Imran Khan. This is how they’re treating Pakistan’s national leader inside the court premises. Unbelievable and disgusting! #نکلو_خان_کی_زندگی_بچاؤ pic.twitter.com/ZQTDYqonaU — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × Ladies and Gentlemen, this is the respect for Courts by powerful corridors. Black day! pic.twitter.com/QuLCuePy9d — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × 2:35 pm | Rangers "abduct" Khan As per the PTI party rangers "abducted" Khan and, in the process, tortured the leader. They allege that Khan, his lawyers and supporters were assaulted during the arrest. The party's lawyer Faisal Chaudhry says, "Imran Khan has been arrested by Rangers outside the IHC. Lawyers have been subjected to torture and PTI workers and supporters are also being arrested." As per a video posted by PTI, Khan's lawyer was tortured by members of the paramilitary force. The video shows a bloodied lawyer receiving medical attention. Imran Khan’s lawyer badly injured inside the premises of IHC. Black day for our democracy and country. pic.twitter.com/iQ8xWsXln7 — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × 2:45 pm | PTI party member confirms arrest, alleges torture Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Musarrat Cheema said: "They are torturing Imran Khan right now, they are beating Khan sahib. They have done something with Khan sahib." The party claims that during the arrest, Khan was hit on his injured leg and on his head. فسطائیت اپنے عروج پر ہے،ملک کے سابق وزیراعظم عمران خان کی ٹانگ زخمی ہونے کے باوجود ان پر تشدد کیا گیا۔ #ReleaseImranKhan pic.twitter.com/LgDVzKfxj3 — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × Barrister Gohar, while talking to Dawn, claims that "they hit Imran's head and leg," and that the PTI chairman’s wheelchair was also tossed aside during the arrest. عمران خان کی زخمی ٹانگ پر رینجرز نے لاتیں ماریں، مرچوں والا سپرے کیا گیا، بیرسٹر گوہر تفصیلات بتا رہے ہیں۔ #ReleaseImranKhan pic.twitter.com/uD54XQmPOq — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × 3:30 pm | Arrest warrant made public The arrest was made on National Accountability Bureau (NAB) instructions. Officials say arrest warrants for the former premier in the Al-Qadir trust case were issued on May 1. عمران خان کو قادر ٹرسٹ کیس میں گرفتار کیاگیا ہے۔ آئی جی اسلام آباد ۔ حالات معمول کے مطابق ہیں ۔ آئی جی اسلام آباد دفعہ 144 نافذ العمل ہے خلاف ورزی کی صورت میں کارروائی عمل میں لائی جائے گی ۔ — Islamabad Police (@ICT_Police) May 9, 2023 × #NewsAlert | Former Pakistan PM #ImranKhan arrested in corruption case. (Copy of arrest warrant) pic.twitter.com/fZcY5cqA6w — WION (@WIONews) May 9, 2023 × 4:00 pm | Khan predicted the arrest As per a video shared by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party on Instagram, the senior leader had predicted that he would be locked up over a "najayaz" (illegitimate) case. Watch what he said here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Imran Khan (@imrankhan.pti) × 4:15 pm | IHC chief justice summons police chief IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq directed the Islamabad police chief, the interior ministry secretary and the additional attorney general to appear before the court within 15 minutes. Farooq said that he was showing "restraint" and warned that he would "summon" the prime minister if the Islamabad police chief did not appear before the court. "Come to court and tell us why Imran has been arrested and in which case," Justice Farooq said. The Islamabad IG appeared before the court alongside the additional attorney general and the interior secretary, 30 minutes late. "We told you to appear in court within 15 minutes but you came after 45 minutes," the IHC CJ observed. Islamabad IG says didn't know about the arrest IG said he found out about Imran’s arrest from the media. "He has been arrested in a case pertaining to corrupt practices," he said while submitting the PTI chief’s arrest warrant. "But as far as I know and from what the court staff said, Imran was not arrested by the NAB," Justice Farooq noted. "I will issue an appropriate order if the arrest was in violation of the law," he added. Imran Khan supporters take to the streets PTI issues a clarion call as section 144 was imposed in Islamabad. If you don’t come out to save your country today, then the scene we are seeing right now will continue till years to come. Our dear Pakistan, its a never before opportunity for you, take it! #نکلو_خان_کی_زندگی_بچاؤ — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × لاہور کے ورکرز اور سپورٹرز فوری طور پر لبرٹی پہنچیں #ReleaseImranKhan pic.twitter.com/GiaBwTcbLV — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × Faisalabad! #ReleaseImranKhan pic.twitter.com/lAfdxFLS0A — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × بہاولپور بئ پاس چوک ملتان #ReleaseImranKhan pic.twitter.com/749rQTgXM4 — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × PTI party demands live coverage of Khan Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party demands live coverage of Imran Khan says "People of Pakistan trust Imran Khan, but they are not ready to trust those who abducted him now. Show Imran Khan LIVE." Live coverage of PTI Chairman @ImranKhanPTI must be ensured. People of Pakistan trust Imran Khan, but they are not ready to trust those who abducted him now. Show Imran Khan LIVE. #ReleaseImranKhan — PTI (@PTIofficial) May 9, 2023 × Protests turn violent Protesters displayed their rage against the military by raiding the home of the corps commander in Lahore and besieging the entrance to the army's general headquarters in the garrison city of Rawalpindi. Law enforcement used tear gas and water cannons to break up the group of Khan supporters in Karachi and Lahore, while protesters impeded roads in Islamabad, Peshawar, and other cities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Imran Khan arrest | Blow-by-blow account of how former Pak PM was whisked away to be 'tortured'