<p>It is a Christmas miracle that Zeppelin, a three-year-old German shepherd mix who went missing last year, is about to reunite with his family.</p>

<p>A few weeks ago, Zeppelin's owner Sandra O'Neil received a call from the company that makes the microchip implanted in the dog. They informed her that someone found him wandering on a woman's property in Kansas, 1,600 miles from his hometown, California.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/pet-dog-accidentally-flown-to-saudi-arabia-instead-of-nashville-flown-back-to-owner-after-three-flights-545038/amp"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;Pet dog mistakenly flown to Saudi Arabia instead of Nashville, reunited with owner after three flights</strong></a></p>

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<p>The Alsation mix went missing more than a year ago in West Sacramento, California, NPR reported. O'Neil was in shock as she got the news of its homecoming. Zeppelin, named after his owner's favourite band, Led Zeppelin, made a sudden appearance after a year 1,600 miles away from California, in Kansas, without any possible explanation.</p>

<p>According to the owner, Zeppelin is a friendly dog. In 2021, he used to visit a construction site near his house where the workers gave him treats. Every day after getting pets and treats, he would come home, or the owner fetched him. However, one evening, O'Neil could not find Zeppelin, even in his regular zones.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-for-sale-new-york-bans-sale-of-cats-dogs-and-rabbits-in-pet-stores-to-fight-puppy-mills-543568"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;Not for sale!: New York bans sale of cats, dogs and rabbits in pet stores to fight 'puppy mills'</strong></a></p>

<p>After many unsuccessful inquiries, she turned to Facebook. In addition, she held onto the fact that Zeppelin was a micro-chipped dog. Even though Sandra O'Neil lived on a farm, surrounded by animals all day, she hoped for the German shepherd to return.</p>

<p>Before he went missing, Zeppelin fathered a litter of puppies. They were only a few weeks old when he disappeared. O'Neil kept two of them, Angus and Sweet Pea, while she gave away the most.</p>

<p>Mary Hastings, a Californian woman, has volunteered to drive Zeppelin home. The family have missed having him around and is delighted to have him back. During the press conference, the family expressed gratitude towards Mary for her help.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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It is a Christmas miracle that Zeppelin, a three-year-old German shepherd mix who went missing last year, is about to reunite with his family. A few weeks ago, Zeppelin's owner Sandra O'Neil received a call from the company that makes the microchip implanted in the dog.

It is a Christmas miracle that Zeppelin, a three-year-old German shepherd mix who went missing last year, is about to reunite with his family. A few weeks ago, Zeppelin's owner Sandra O'Neil received a call from the company that makes the microchip implanted in the dog. They informed her that someone found him wandering on a woman's property in Kansas, 1,600 miles from his hometown, California. Also Read: Pet dog mistakenly flown to Saudi Arabia instead of Nashville, reunited with owner after three flights The Alsation mix went missing more than a year ago in West Sacramento, California, NPR reported. O'Neil was in shock as she got the news of its homecoming. Zeppelin, named after his owner's favourite band, Led Zeppelin, made a sudden appearance after a year 1,600 miles away from California, in Kansas, without any possible explanation. According to the owner, Zeppelin is a friendly dog. In 2021, he used to visit a construction site near his house where the workers gave him treats. Every day after getting pets and treats, he would come home, or the owner fetched him. However, one evening, O'Neil could not find Zeppelin, even in his regular zones. Also Read: Not for sale!: New York bans sale of cats, dogs and rabbits in pet stores to fight 'puppy mills' After many unsuccessful inquiries, she turned to Facebook. In addition, she held onto the fact that Zeppelin was a micro-chipped dog. Even though Sandra O'Neil lived on a farm, surrounded by animals all day, she hoped for the German shepherd to return. Before he went missing, Zeppelin fathered a litter of puppies. They were only a few weeks old when he disappeared. O'Neil kept two of them, Angus and Sweet Pea, while she gave away the most. Mary Hastings, a Californian woman, has volunteered to drive Zeppelin home. The family have missed having him around and is delighted to have him back. During the press conference, the family expressed gratitude towards Mary for her help. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Found in Kansas after one year,

<p>IT Consulting firm Cognizant announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) with Indian drone firm Garuda Aerospace, to develop "smart drones". This is aimed at powering drones with advanced digital capabilities, achieving greater productivity. In real-world applications, it is set to bring solutions such as intelligent water and soil management, crop spraying, aerial planting in the agriculture sector; asset inspection, storm impact assessment, and fire safety in the energy sector; the drones can also be used for warehouse management in inventory audit, tracking products etc.</p>

<p>"Drones are not just about the hardware, it is a combination of hardware, software and firmware. Our goal is to make drones more intelligent and multi-functional and ensure that they can be pre-programmed for use in multiple scenarios. We expect the co-developed drones to be ready in six months" Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Co-Founder &amp; CEO, of Garuda Aerospace told WION.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-to-carry-out-two-test-missions-two-uncrewed-missions-before-gaganyaan-astronaut-flight-545422"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;ISRO to carry out two test missions, two uncrewed missions before ‘Gaganyaan’ astronaut flight</strong></a></p>

<p>Drone services are one of the fastest growing technology segments with the potential to provide extraordinary value to industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy and utilities, retail and logistics, said Achal Kataria VP &amp; India Country Head, Cognizant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-marines-deliver-holiday-gifts-to-underprivileged-children-in-chennai-544815"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India: US Marines deliver holiday gifts for underprivileged children in Chennai</strong></a></p>

<p>"We are excited to collaborate with Garuda Aerospace, combine our deep industry knowledge with capabilities such as advanced data analytics, real-time insights and software development to elevate drone-based solutions and new use cases for enterprises across sectors" he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such smart drones can be integrated into operations of a wide range of sectors including agriculture, mining, defence, factories, oil pipelines, industrial facilities etc.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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IT Consulting firm Cognizant announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) with Indian drone firm Garuda Aerospace, to develop "smart drones". This is aimed at powering drones with advanced digital capabilities, achieving greater productivity.

IT Consulting firm Cognizant announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) with Indian drone firm Garuda Aerospace, to develop "smart drones". This is aimed at powering drones with advanced digital capabilities, achieving greater productivity. In real-world applications, it is set to bring solutions such as intelligent water and soil management, crop spraying, aerial planting in the agriculture sector; asset inspection, storm impact assessment, and fire safety in the energy sector; the drones can also be used for warehouse management in inventory audit, tracking products etc. "Drones are not just about the hardware, it is a combination of hardware, software and firmware. Our goal is to make drones more intelligent and multi-functional and ensure that they can be pre-programmed for use in multiple scenarios. We expect the co-developed drones to be ready in six months" Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Co-Founder & CEO, of Garuda Aerospace told WION. Also read | ISRO to carry out two test missions, two uncrewed missions before ‘Gaganyaan’ astronaut flight Drone services are one of the fastest growing technology segments with the potential to provide extraordinary value to industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy and utilities, retail and logistics, said Achal Kataria VP & India Country Head, Cognizant. Also read | India: US Marines deliver holiday gifts for underprivileged children in Chennai "We are excited to collaborate with Garuda Aerospace, combine our deep industry knowledge with capabilities such as advanced data analytics, real-time insights and software development to elevate drone-based solutions and new use cases for enterprises across sectors" he added. Such smart drones can be integrated into operations of a wide range of sectors including agriculture, mining, defence, factories, oil pipelines, industrial facilities etc. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US IT firm Cognizant ties up with India's Garuda Aerospace to make 'smart drones'

<p>Tesla is set to lay off more employees. As per reports, the electric car maker has notified its employees that it will be implementing a hiring freeze and that another wave of layoffs is also in the cards.&nbsp;Quoting an anonymous source familiar with the matter, Electrek reported that the layoffs will happen in the first quarter of next year.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch | Tesla to freeze hiring, lay off employees in next quarter: Report</strong></p>

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<p>Tesla has communicated to some employees that it will be stopping hiring.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with Tesla planning to expand in some manufacturing locations, it is not known how extensive the hiring freeze will be as no further details were made available.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-breaks-silence-after-damning-poll-called-for-his-resignation-as-twitter-ceo-544678">Elon Musk breaks silence after damning poll called for his resignation as Twitter CEO</a></strong></p>

<p>The current spate of layoffs comes after Tesla CEO Elon Musk implemented a 10 per cent staff cut in June. At the time, Musk reportedly gave different reasons to different people for the layoffs. He even chalked it up to a "very bad feeling" about the economy.</p>

<p>In the last year, since September and especially after Musk's acquisition of Twitter, Tesla stock has experienced a steady fall which might be contributing to the hiring freeze. This year, the company's shares have lost nearly 60 per cent of their value so far.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tesla-reports-two-new-crash-fatalities-in-model-3-cars-linked-to-advanced-driver-assistance-systems-534811">Tesla reports two more crash fatalities in Model 3 cars linked to advanced driver assistance system</a></strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, Tesla's shares tumbled to around $137 per share, it's lowest ever as Elon Musk blamed global macroeconomic conditions. Shares of Tesla as per Reuters rose 1 per cent to $139.25 in Thursday's trading before the bell.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Tesla is set to lay off more employees. As per reports, the electric car maker has notified its employees that it will be implementing a hiring freeze and that another wave of layoffs is also in the cards.

Tesla is set to lay off more employees. As per reports, the electric car maker has notified its employees that it will be implementing a hiring freeze and that another wave of layoffs is also in the cards. Quoting an anonymous source familiar with the matter, Electrek reported that the layoffs will happen in the first quarter of next year. Watch | World Business Watch | Tesla to freeze hiring, lay off employees in next quarter: Report Tesla has communicated to some employees that it will be stopping hiring. However, with Tesla planning to expand in some manufacturing locations, it is not known how extensive the hiring freeze will be as no further details were made available. Also read | Elon Musk breaks silence after damning poll called for his resignation as Twitter CEO The current spate of layoffs comes after Tesla CEO Elon Musk implemented a 10 per cent staff cut in June. At the time, Musk reportedly gave different reasons to different people for the layoffs. He even chalked it up to a "very bad feeling" about the economy. In the last year, since September and especially after Musk's acquisition of Twitter, Tesla stock has experienced a steady fall which might be contributing to the hiring freeze. This year, the company's shares have lost nearly 60 per cent of their value so far. Also read | Tesla reports two more crash fatalities in Model 3 cars linked to advanced driver assistance system On Wednesday, Tesla's shares tumbled to around $137 per share, it's lowest ever as Elon Musk blamed global macroeconomic conditions. Shares of Tesla as per Reuters rose 1 per cent to $139.25 in Thursday's trading before the bell. (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.

Tesla plans to implement hiring freeze, lay off more employees in 2023: Report

China is once again provoking a military confrontation with India. But India is not the only country China is fighting for land. China shares borders with 14 countries, it has disputes with almost all of them

Gravitas Plus: China provokes India again But is India alone?

Nirav Modi who is accused of defrauding an Indian bank has appealed against being extradited to India. But according to reports, he can be put on a flight to India anytime now.

Gravitas: Will Nirav Modi be extradited to India

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<p>Argentina superstar Lionel Messi is on a record-breaking spree at the moment after winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Having already cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever play the sport, Messi reached another landmark when his first celebratory Instagram post after the World Cup triumph became the most-liked social media post of all time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The previous record was held by TikToker Bella Poarch who had posted a video of her lip-syncing to Millie B's ‘M to the B’ and amassed 60.3 million likes. However, as of the last update, Messi's post had beaten Poarch's record by&nbsp;garnering over 67 million likes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! I dreamed it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still haven't fallen, I can't believe it," read the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thank you very much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We demonstrate once again that Argentines when we fight together and united we are capable of achieving what we set out to do. The merit belongs to this group, which is above individualities, it is the strength of all fighting for the same dream that was also the dream of all Argentines... We did it!!! GO ARGENTINA!!!!! we are seeing each other very soon," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Earlier, Messi had beaten the record of the most-liked Instagram post by beating the photo of an egg that was posted in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi has been having a party after leading his country to the promised land. On Tuesday, he posted a picture of himself sleeping with the iconic, shiny-golden World Cup trophy in his bed with the caption 'Good Morning!'.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmYyND_OYMl/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi)</a></p>
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<p>Apart from breaking the internet with his photo, Messi has also broken the followers' record on Instagram. The Argentine maestro became the second person in internet history to reach the 400 million followers mark on the Meta-owned platform behind his rival Cristiano Ronaldo.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-lionel-messi-becomes-second-person-to-reach-400-million-followers-on-instagram-544800" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Lionel Messi becomes second person to reach 400 million followers on Instagram</strong></a></p>

<p>Messi played a pivotal part in guiding Argentina to the victory shores. His seven goals and three assists formed the fulcrum around which Argentina turned around their World Cup dream after suffering a shock defeat in the opening match against Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Argentina superstar Lionel Messi is on a record-breaking spree at the moment after winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Having already cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever play the sport, Messi reached another landmark when his first celebratory Instagram post after the World Cup triumph became the most-liked social media post of all time.

Argentina superstar Lionel Messi is on a record-breaking spree at the moment after winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Having already cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever play the sport, Messi reached another landmark when his first celebratory Instagram post after the World Cup triumph became the most-liked social media post of all time. The previous record was held by TikToker Bella Poarch who had posted a video of her lip-syncing to Millie B's ‘M to the B’ and amassed 60.3 million likes. However, as of the last update, Messi's post had beaten Poarch's record by garnering over 67 million likes. "WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! I dreamed it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still haven't fallen, I can't believe it," read the post. "Thank you very much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We demonstrate once again that Argentines when we fight together and united we are capable of achieving what we set out to do. The merit belongs to this group, which is above individualities, it is the strength of all fighting for the same dream that was also the dream of all Argentines... We did it!!! GO ARGENTINA!!!!! we are seeing each other very soon," it added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) × Earlier, Messi had beaten the record of the most-liked Instagram post by beating the photo of an egg that was posted in 2019. Messi has been having a party after leading his country to the promised land. On Tuesday, he posted a picture of himself sleeping with the iconic, shiny-golden World Cup trophy in his bed with the caption 'Good Morning!'. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) × Apart from breaking the internet with his photo, Messi has also broken the followers' record on Instagram. The Argentine maestro became the second person in internet history to reach the 400 million followers mark on the Meta-owned platform behind his rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Lionel Messi becomes second person to reach 400 million followers on Instagram Messi played a pivotal part in guiding Argentina to the victory shores. His seven goals and three assists formed the fulcrum around which Argentina turned around their World Cup dream after suffering a shock defeat in the opening match against Saudi Arabia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Record-breaking: Messi's World Cup Instagram picture becomes the most-liked social media post ever

<p>A video of US President Joe Biden saying that the Iran Nuclear Deal is "dead" is making the rounds on the internet. Apparently, the leader last month said that the multi-state deal to limit Tehran's nuclear deal is dead. However, he refused to formally announce that.</p>

<p>The video that surfaced on Tuesday has been shared far and wide. It is believed to have been shot on November 3 during the US President's visit to California.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Iran inching closer to enriching nukes? IAEA's shocking report amidst nuke deal talks</strong></p>

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<p>In it, Biden can be seen responding to a woman, who can be seen wearing a hair ribbon in Iranian flag colours. The woman asks him to announce that the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is no longer in effect. Biden, however, says no.</p>

<p>The White House hasn't denied the video, and national security spokesperson John Kirby said that nobody was questioning its authenticity. He added that Washington still wants to restore the JCPOA but that right now due to the Ukraine war, it's not a priority.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-using-advanced-machines-to-further-expand-its-nuclear-enrichment-capabilities-iaea-report-524365">Iran using 'advanced machines' to further expand its nuclear enrichment capabilities: IAEA report</a></strong></p>

<p>"The president's comments are very much in line with everything we've been saying about the JCPOA, which is just not our focus right now," said Kirby.</p>

<p>"There is no progress happening with respect to the Iran deal now. We don't anticipate any progress anytime in the near future."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We simply don't see a deal coming together anytime soon, while Iran continues to kill its own citizens and is selling UAVs to Russia," he said, referring to the so-called anti-Hijab protests in Tehran and the government's campaign to repress months-long demonstrations over its treatment of women.</p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President Biden asked if he will announced the Iran deal is dead by Iranian Americans:<br />
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“It is dead but we’re not gonna announce it”<br />
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🤦🏼‍♀️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IranRevoIution?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IranRevoIution</a><br />
<a href="https://t.co/Qakgj6Lz06">pic.twitter.com/Qakgj6Lz06</a></p>
— Emily Schrader - אמילי שריידר امیلی شریدر (@emilykschrader) <a href="https://twitter.com/emilykschrader/status/1605127937774190592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Here's a transcript of the conversation as reported by AFP:</p>

<p>"President Biden, could you please announce that the JCPOA is dead," asks the woman, as Biden passes by shaking hands.</p>

<p>"No," he replies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Why not?" the woman retorts.</p>

<p>"It is dead, but we are not going to announce it," says Biden adding, "Long story."</p>

<p>The woman, and others next to her, then urge him to not make deals with the Iran government and say "they don't represent us."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They are not our government," adds another.</p>

<p>"I know they don't represent you. But they will have a nuclear weapon," Biden responds. The video ends here.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-deal-what-are-major-issues-bedevilling-talks-on-its-revival-507317">Iran nuclear deal: What are major issues bedevilling talks on its revival?</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes as even after months of pressure Iran refuses to bow to pressure and accept the final stipulations of the agreement that would revive the JCPOA deal.</p>

<p>The United States pulled out of the agreement under the leadership of former President Donald Trump in 2018.&nbsp;Talks towards the revival of the 2015 deal have been on since April 2021 and as per AFP at one point early this year, Iran and US came really close to a deal.</p>

<p>However, recent months haven't seen any progress and in September, European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned that the parties were actually "diverging."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


A video of US President Joe Biden saying that the Iran Nuclear Deal is "dead" is making the rounds on the internet. Apparently, the leader last month said that the multi-state deal to limit Tehran's nuclear deal is dead.

A video of US President Joe Biden saying that the Iran Nuclear Deal is "dead" is making the rounds on the internet. Apparently, the leader last month said that the multi-state deal to limit Tehran's nuclear deal is dead. However, he refused to formally announce that. The video that surfaced on Tuesday has been shared far and wide. It is believed to have been shot on November 3 during the US President's visit to California. Watch | WION Dispatch: Iran inching closer to enriching nukes? IAEA's shocking report amidst nuke deal talks In it, Biden can be seen responding to a woman, who can be seen wearing a hair ribbon in Iranian flag colours. The woman asks him to announce that the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is no longer in effect. Biden, however, says no. The White House hasn't denied the video, and national security spokesperson John Kirby said that nobody was questioning its authenticity. He added that Washington still wants to restore the JCPOA but that right now due to the Ukraine war, it's not a priority. Also read | Iran using 'advanced machines' to further expand its nuclear enrichment capabilities: IAEA report "The president's comments are very much in line with everything we've been saying about the JCPOA, which is just not our focus right now," said Kirby. "There is no progress happening with respect to the Iran deal now. We don't anticipate any progress anytime in the near future." "We simply don't see a deal coming together anytime soon, while Iran continues to kill its own citizens and is selling UAVs to Russia," he said, referring to the so-called anti-Hijab protests in Tehran and the government's campaign to repress months-long demonstrations over its treatment of women. Watch the video here: President Biden asked if he will announced the Iran deal is dead by Iranian Americans: “It is dead but we’re not gonna announce it” 🤦🏼‍♀️ #IranRevoIution pic.twitter.com/Qakgj6Lz06 — Emily Schrader - אמילי שריידר امیلی شریدر (@emilykschrader) December 20, 2022 × Here's a transcript of the conversation as reported by AFP: "President Biden, could you please announce that the JCPOA is dead," asks the woman, as Biden passes by shaking hands. "No," he replies. "Why not?" the woman retorts. "It is dead, but we are not going to announce it," says Biden adding, "Long story." The woman, and others next to her, then urge him to not make deals with the Iran government and say "they don't represent us." "They are not our government," adds another. "I know they don't represent you. But they will have a nuclear weapon," Biden responds. The video ends here. Also read | Iran nuclear deal: What are major issues bedevilling talks on its revival? This comes as even after months of pressure Iran refuses to bow to pressure and accept the final stipulations of the agreement that would revive the JCPOA deal. The United States pulled out of the agreement under the leadership of former President Donald Trump in 2018. Talks towards the revival of the 2015 deal have been on since April 2021 and as per AFP at one point early this year, Iran and US came really close to a deal. However, recent months haven't seen any progress and in September, European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned that the parties were actually "diverging." (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.

'It is dead, but we are not going to announce it,' says Biden about Iran nuclear deal. Watch!

<p>The Bank of Japan in its policy statement on Tuesday shocked markets by expanding its target band for interest rates, causing the yen to rise, bond yields to go up and stock prices to fall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In its statement, the central bank said it will now allow yields on 10-year government bonds to move up or down on the basis of 50 basis points instead of 25 basis points around its 0 per cent objective, Nikkei Asia reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BoJ Governor Haruhiko Kuroda told reporters, "This is neither a tightening nor a step toward an exit. This is a tweak to the monetary policy operation." He added that the changes are done responding to the changes in the market. "We did this to support the economy and will explain it to market players as much as necessary."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/world-bank-slashes-chinas-growth-forecast-from-43-per-cent-to-27-per-cent-in-2022-544824"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World Bank slashes China’s growth forecast from 4.3 per cent to 2.7 per cent for 2022</strong></a></p>

<p>Bank's board decided to keep its main monetary policies unchanged.</p>

<p>Amid the tweaking of monetary policies, the yen soared to a four-month high against the dollar. The policy also comes after a decline in the US interest rates and market policies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move sent the yen to 132 per dollar making its strongest level since August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bank added that the policies were modified in order to improve the market functioning in the Asian country, encouraging a smoother yield cure formation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The yield curve allows the bank to purchase Japanese government bonds with yields of zero and shirt term rates of minus 0.1 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japan-government-spent-more-than-40-billion-to-bolster-the-yen-in-october-530006"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Japanese government spent more than $40 billion to bolster the yen in October</strong></a></p>

<p>The move also caused the benchmark Nikkei 225 average to fall y 2.5 per cent, raised the yen from a range of 137 to about 132 against the dollar, and spiked the yield in the 10-year JCB to 0.46 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the past several months, the pressure on the central bank to tighten the policy has decreased as the yield on the 10-year US Treasury has declined from 4.2 per cent to 3.4 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Japan's inflation is at a 40-year high with consumer prices increasing by 3.6 per cent in October which is far beyond BoJ's 2 per cent target.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The Bank of Japan in its policy statement on Tuesday shocked markets by expanding its target band for interest rates, causing the yen to rise, bond yields to go up and stock prices to fall.

The Bank of Japan in its policy statement on Tuesday shocked markets by expanding its target band for interest rates, causing the yen to rise, bond yields to go up and stock prices to fall. In its statement, the central bank said it will now allow yields on 10-year government bonds to move up or down on the basis of 50 basis points instead of 25 basis points around its 0 per cent objective, Nikkei Asia reported. The BoJ Governor Haruhiko Kuroda told reporters, "This is neither a tightening nor a step toward an exit. This is a tweak to the monetary policy operation." He added that the changes are done responding to the changes in the market. "We did this to support the economy and will explain it to market players as much as necessary." Also read | World Bank slashes China’s growth forecast from 4.3 per cent to 2.7 per cent for 2022 Bank's board decided to keep its main monetary policies unchanged. Amid the tweaking of monetary policies, the yen soared to a four-month high against the dollar. The policy also comes after a decline in the US interest rates and market policies. The move sent the yen to 132 per dollar making its strongest level since August. The bank added that the policies were modified in order to improve the market functioning in the Asian country, encouraging a smoother yield cure formation. The yield curve allows the bank to purchase Japanese government bonds with yields of zero and shirt term rates of minus 0.1 per cent. Also read | Japanese government spent more than $40 billion to bolster the yen in October The move also caused the benchmark Nikkei 225 average to fall y 2.5 per cent, raised the yen from a range of 137 to about 132 against the dollar, and spiked the yield in the 10-year JCB to 0.46 per cent. Over the past several months, the pressure on the central bank to tighten the policy has decreased as the yield on the 10-year US Treasury has declined from 4.2 per cent to 3.4 per cent. Japan's inflation is at a 40-year high with consumer prices increasing by 3.6 per cent in October which is far beyond BoJ's 2 per cent target. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Japan's central bank shocks markets with yield policy change, yen strengthens  

<p>Just a week back,&nbsp;WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expressed hope that the COVID-19 emergency might be ending, turns out "the end is (not) in sight". Global health experts have warned the sudden surge China is experiencing represents a "wild card" and that we may be in a different phase of the pandemic.</p>

<p>This comes as around the globe, a potential end of the COVID-19 pandemic phase had raised hopes. In September, Tedros had said the "end is in sight" for the pandemic, but talking to the press last week, WHO Emergencies chief Mike Ryan said: "I think the world still has… work to do. The job is not done."</p>

<p>Talking to Reuters, Dutch virologist Marion Koopmans, who is part of the WHO committee tasked with advising on the status of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID</a> emergency said, "The question is whether you can call it post-pandemic when such a significant part of the world is actually just entering its second wave."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: Is a new wave coming</strong></p>

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<p>"It's clear that we are in a very different phase [of the pandemic], but in my mind, that pending wave in China is a wild card," she added.</p>

<p>Koopmans and her fellow advisory committee members are scheduled to submit their recommendation regarding the emergency status of the pandemic to the WHO chief in January.</p>

<p>This emergency designation is the global health agency's highest level of alert associated with disease outbreaks and is put in place to help international organisations prioritise funding and assistance for research, treatments and vaccine.</p>

<p>Experts have also warned that a domestic spread of the virus in China or elsewhere carries with it the risk of mutation. While currently, Chinese data accessed by WHO and the virus database GISAID shows the variants circulating in the nation are Omicron and its subvariants, in the absence of full data, the picture isn't clear.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-in-china-demand-for-a-particular-fruit-rises-as-people-seek-natural-remedies-to-fight-the-virus-544905">COVID-19 in China: Demand for a particular fruit rises as people seek natural remedies to fight the virus</a></strong></p>

<p>Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College, London said, "The bottom line is, it's not clear [if] the wave in China is variant-driven, or whether it just represents a breakdown of containment."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another expert, an infectious disease specialist and WHO adviser, David Heymann warned, "I don't think anybody can predict for sure whether we could see new variants that might be a concern to the rest of the world, but clearly the world should be concerned if people are becoming sick and dying [in China]."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to BBC, epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that China might experience three waves of Covid infection this winter. As per his estimates, the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-60-population-in-china-may-be-infected-by-covid-in-the-next-three-months-top-epidemiologist-544810">Over 60% population in China may be infected by Covid in the next three months: Top epidemiologist</a></strong></p>

<p>Wang Guangfa, a respiratory expert at China's Peking University First Hospital has also warned that the nation may face a surge in severe COVID-19 cases cases in the next two weeks.</p>

<p>"We must act quickly and prepare fever clinics, emergency and severe treatment resources," said Wang.</p>

<p>Last week, China began dismantling its stringent zero-Covid regulations that have been in place for close to three years and since then the nation has reported a significant rise in its number of cases and deaths, which given its 1.4 billion population are low, but remain alarming.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Just a week back, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expressed hope that the COVID-19 emergency might be ending, turns out "the end is (not) in sight". Global health experts have warned the sudden surge China is experiencing represents a "wild card" and that we may be in a different phase of the pandemic.

Just a week back, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expressed hope that the COVID-19 emergency might be ending, turns out "the end is (not) in sight". Global health experts have warned the sudden surge China is experiencing represents a "wild card" and that we may be in a different phase of the pandemic. This comes as around the globe, a potential end of the COVID-19 pandemic phase had raised hopes. In September, Tedros had said the "end is in sight" for the pandemic, but talking to the press last week, WHO Emergencies chief Mike Ryan said: "I think the world still has… work to do. The job is not done." Talking to Reuters, Dutch virologist Marion Koopmans, who is part of the WHO committee tasked with advising on the status of the COVID emergency said, "The question is whether you can call it post-pandemic when such a significant part of the world is actually just entering its second wave." Watch | Gravitas: Wuhan Virus: Is a new wave coming "It's clear that we are in a very different phase [of the pandemic], but in my mind, that pending wave in China is a wild card," she added. Koopmans and her fellow advisory committee members are scheduled to submit their recommendation regarding the emergency status of the pandemic to the WHO chief in January. This emergency designation is the global health agency's highest level of alert associated with disease outbreaks and is put in place to help international organisations prioritise funding and assistance for research, treatments and vaccine. Experts have also warned that a domestic spread of the virus in China or elsewhere carries with it the risk of mutation. While currently, Chinese data accessed by WHO and the virus database GISAID shows the variants circulating in the nation are Omicron and its subvariants, in the absence of full data, the picture isn't clear. Also read | COVID-19 in China: Demand for a particular fruit rises as people seek natural remedies to fight the virus Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College, London said, "The bottom line is, it's not clear [if] the wave in China is variant-driven, or whether it just represents a breakdown of containment." Another expert, an infectious disease specialist and WHO adviser, David Heymann warned, "I don't think anybody can predict for sure whether we could see new variants that might be a concern to the rest of the world, but clearly the world should be concerned if people are becoming sick and dying [in China]." Speaking to BBC, epidemiologist Wu Zunyou has warned that China might experience three waves of Covid infection this winter. As per his estimates, the current spike might continue till mid-January, a second spike can happen around the Lunar New Year celebrations that begin on January 21, and the third wave could happen between late February and mid-March when people return to the office. Also read | Over 60% population in China may be infected by Covid in the next three months: Top epidemiologist Wang Guangfa, a respiratory expert at China's Peking University First Hospital has also warned that the nation may face a surge in severe COVID-19 cases cases in the next two weeks. "We must act quickly and prepare fever clinics, emergency and severe treatment resources," said Wang. Last week, China began dismantling its stringent zero-Covid regulations that have been in place for close to three years and since then the nation has reported a significant rise in its number of cases and deaths, which given its 1.4 billion population are low, but remain alarming. (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: Is China a threat to the world? Beijing's new Covid wave a 'wild card', warn experts

<p>Taliban-led Afghanistan announced another rule for girls and women in the country, restricting their access to education for many who aspired to be a doctors or engineers.</p>

<p>The Taliban authorities on Tuesday in a letter sent to all public and private colleges announced that the ministry put an indefinite ban on Afghan girls attending educational institutions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-at-least-12-die-after-oil-tanker-overturns-catches-fire-in-salang-pass-544231"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan: At least 19 killed as oil tanker overturns in Salang tunnel, catches fire, traps travellers</strong></a></p>

<p>Signed by Neda Mohammad Nadeem, the letter read, "You all are informed to implement the mentioned order of suspending the education of females until further notice."</p>

<p>The announcement was confirmed by the ministry's spokesperson Ziaullah Hashimi to AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ban comes&nbsp;after thousands of female students took university entrance exams across the country.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-states-claims-responsibility-for-kabul-hotel-attack-542558"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul hotel attack, China says condems 'all forms of terrorism'</strong></a></p>

<p>Universities have been compelled to adopt the new regulations following the takeover by the Islamist group&nbsp;in August last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many such regulations have been imposed on women. These include gender-segregated classrooms and entrances, and women are allowed to attend classes only when taught by female or old male professors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The majority of female students in the South Asian country have been prohibited from attending secondary schools restricting their access to further education.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Taliban-led Afghanistan announced another rule for girls and women in the country, restricting their access to education for many who aspired to be a doctors or engineers.

Taliban-led Afghanistan announced another rule for girls and women in the country, restricting their access to education for many who aspired to be a doctors or engineers. The Taliban authorities on Tuesday in a letter sent to all public and private colleges announced that the ministry put an indefinite ban on Afghan girls attending educational institutions. Also read | Afghanistan: At least 19 killed as oil tanker overturns in Salang tunnel, catches fire, traps travellers Signed by Neda Mohammad Nadeem, the letter read, "You all are informed to implement the mentioned order of suspending the education of females until further notice." The announcement was confirmed by the ministry's spokesperson Ziaullah Hashimi to AFP. The ban comes after thousands of female students took university entrance exams across the country. Also read | Islamic State claims responsibility for Kabul hotel attack, China says condems 'all forms of terrorism' Universities have been compelled to adopt the new regulations following the takeover by the Islamist group in August last year. Many such regulations have been imposed on women. These include gender-segregated classrooms and entrances, and women are allowed to attend classes only when taught by female or old male professors. The majority of female students in the South Asian country have been prohibited from attending secondary schools restricting their access to further education. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taliban-led education ministry bans Afghan girls and women from universities

<p>Three cases of Omicron subvariant BF.7 have been detected in India so far. This is the same strain causing a major surge in China's Covid cases currently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of now,&nbsp;two cases have been reported in Gujarat and one in Odisha, PTI news agency reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first case was reported back in October in Gujarat, detected&nbsp;by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As cases in China soar, Indian ministers and experts at a review meeting held on Wednesday claimed that although there is no increase cases as of now, tight surveillance needs to be maintained to track existing or emerging virus variants.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-steps-up-measures-amidst-china-covid-explosion-expert-says-hybrid-immunity-will-help-country-544957"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India steps up measures amidst China Covid explosion,&nbsp; expert says 'hybrid immunity' will help country</strong></a></p>

<p>Most of the cases reported in China are of subvariant BF.7, said officials, adding that the variant is heavily contributing to Beijing's and other cities' cases.</p>

<p>They said, "The BF.7's high transmissibility in China might be attributed to a low level of immunity in the Chinese population from the previous infection and possibly vaccination too."</p>

<p>India's health secretary Rajesh Bhushan, in a letter to all states, urged them to increase genome sequencing of positive case samples.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-60-population-in-china-may-be-infected-by-covid-in-the-next-three-months-top-epidemiologist-544810"><strong>Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;Over 60% population in China may be infected by Covid in the next three months: Top epidemiologist</strong></a></p>

<p>The letter read, "ln view of the sudden spurt of cases being witnessed in Japan, United States of America, Republic of Korea, Brazil and China, it is essential to gear up the whole genome sequencing of positive case samples to track the variants through...INSACOG network."</p>

<p>"Such an exercise will enable timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country and will facilitate the undertaking of requisite public health measures for the same," Bhushan said.</p>

<p>According to reports, the variant has already been detected in Germany, Denmark, Belgium, and France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BF.7 is a sub-lineage of Omicron variant BA.5 and has been named as the strongest one. It is easily transmissible, with a high capacity to cause infection.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Three cases of Omicron subvariant BF.7 have been detected in India so far. This is the same strain causing a major surge in China's Covid cases currently. As of now, two cases have been reported in Gujarat and one in Odisha, PTI news agency reported.

Three cases of Omicron subvariant BF.7 have been detected in India so far. This is the same strain causing a major surge in China's Covid cases currently. As of now, two cases have been reported in Gujarat and one in Odisha, PTI news agency reported. The first case was reported back in October in Gujarat, detected by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre. As cases in China soar, Indian ministers and experts at a review meeting held on Wednesday claimed that although there is no increase cases as of now, tight surveillance needs to be maintained to track existing or emerging virus variants. Also read | India steps up measures amidst China Covid explosion, expert says 'hybrid immunity' will help country Most of the cases reported in China are of subvariant BF.7, said officials, adding that the variant is heavily contributing to Beijing's and other cities' cases. They said, "The BF.7's high transmissibility in China might be attributed to a low level of immunity in the Chinese population from the previous infection and possibly vaccination too." India's health secretary Rajesh Bhushan, in a letter to all states, urged them to increase genome sequencing of positive case samples. Also read | Over 60% population in China may be infected by Covid in the next three months: Top epidemiologist The letter read, "ln view of the sudden spurt of cases being witnessed in Japan, United States of America, Republic of Korea, Brazil and China, it is essential to gear up the whole genome sequencing of positive case samples to track the variants through...INSACOG network." "Such an exercise will enable timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country and will facilitate the undertaking of requisite public health measures for the same," Bhushan said. According to reports, the variant has already been detected in Germany, Denmark, Belgium, and France. BF.7 is a sub-lineage of Omicron variant BA.5 and has been named as the strongest one. It is easily transmissible, with a high capacity to cause infection. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Covid: India reports 3 cases of Omicron subvariant BF.7, which is ravaging China now

<p>Thousands of ambulance workers and other public staff walked out on Wednesday, escalating the pay dispute with the UK government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The series of stoppages by workers is ruining the essence of holidays in the country as the government rejected the wage demands, AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Writing in the Daily Telegraph newspaper, Health Secretary Steve Barclay accused&nbsp;unions of making a "conscious decision" to "inflict harm" on patients.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-nurses-begin-second-day-of-strikes-as-health-secretary-readies-to-meet-unions-544746"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;UK nurses begin second day of strikes as Sunak warns of months of industrial action</strong></a></p>

<p>Replying to Barclay's comments, the unions called it "insulting" for the ambulance workers who according to the organsiation were "forced" to strike as the government failed to address their issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the government refuses to discuss pay, unions for medical staff have threatened further stoppage of facilities during the new year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, five days after their first strike, thousands of Royal College of Nursing (RCN) on Tuesday (Dec 20) in the UK took to picket lines.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;UK: After nurses, ambulance workers strike over pay rise</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-after-nurses-ambulance-workers-strike-over-pay-rise-545089/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The government has been insisting on modest pay increases for workers suggested by independent review bodies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the government's insistence that it will not negotiate, polls in the UK showed that citizens support workers. According to a poll published by YouGov on Tuesday, it showed that two-thirds of Britishers support nurses, and almost 65 per cent support other workers.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Employees across&nbsp;the UK&nbsp;have been demanding a pay rise amid rising inflation in the country.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
With the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak focused on reducing inflation quickly, will it be possible for workers to reach a settlement or will these strikes continue?&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></div>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Thousands of ambulance workers and other public staff walked out on Wednesday, escalating the pay dispute with the UK government. The series of stoppages by workers is ruining the essence of holidays in the country as the government rejected the wage demands, AFP reported.

Thousands of ambulance workers and other public staff walked out on Wednesday, escalating the pay dispute with the UK government. The series of stoppages by workers is ruining the essence of holidays in the country as the government rejected the wage demands, AFP reported. Writing in the Daily Telegraph newspaper, Health Secretary Steve Barclay accused unions of making a "conscious decision" to "inflict harm" on patients. Also read | UK nurses begin second day of strikes as Sunak warns of months of industrial action Replying to Barclay's comments, the unions called it "insulting" for the ambulance workers who according to the organsiation were "forced" to strike as the government failed to address their issues. If the government refuses to discuss pay, unions for medical staff have threatened further stoppage of facilities during the new year. Similarly, five days after their first strike, thousands of Royal College of Nursing (RCN) on Tuesday (Dec 20) in the UK took to picket lines. Watch | UK: After nurses, ambulance workers strike over pay rise The government has been insisting on modest pay increases for workers suggested by independent review bodies. Despite the government's insistence that it will not negotiate, polls in the UK showed that citizens support workers. According to a poll published by YouGov on Tuesday, it showed that two-thirds of Britishers support nurses, and almost 65 per cent support other workers. Employees across the UK have been demanding a pay rise amid rising inflation in the country. With the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak focused on reducing inflation quickly, will it be possible for workers to reach a settlement or will these strikes continue? (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK minister accuses unions of 'inflicting harm' on patients as thousands of health and public workers walk out

<p>A strong 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of northern California, killing at least two people on&nbsp;Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The National Tsunami Warning Center said that no tsunami was expected, AFP reported.</p>

<p>According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred in Humboldt county, 25 miles southwest of the port city of Eureka. It added that a dozen&nbsp; minor aftershocks were felt in the nearby areas.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-indonesia-earthquake-increased-to-602-after-new-count-543932"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Death toll in Indonesia earthquake increased to 602 after new count</strong></a></p>

<p>During USGS's preliminary assessment, the department stated a low risk of deaths but some damage is predicted.</p>

<p>Over 60,000 customers in Humboldt County reported no power.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The county's Office of Emergency Services in a tweet said that power is out across the US and urged people to not call 911 unless an immediate emergency.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">NO TSUNAMI IS EXPECTED. Magnitude 6.4 earthquake 14 miles from Fortuna. Power is out across the county. DO NOT CALL 911 UNLESS YOU ARE EXPERIENCING AN IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY.</p>
— Humboldt Co OES (@HumCoOES) <a href="https://twitter.com/HumCoOES/status/1605159221665837058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/60-magnitude-earthquake-rattles-turkey-536608"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;6.1 magnitude earthquake rattles Turkey, injuring 35</strong></a></p>

<p>Seismologists had predicted that California might have a major earthquake within the next 30 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The western US state is frequently jolted by earthquakes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck Northridge, northwest of Los Angeles, in 1994 which claimed lives of 60&nbsp;and an estimated $10 billion in damage, while a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck San Fransico in 1989 and claimed lives 67 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(with inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A strong 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of northern California, killing at least two people on Tuesday. The National Tsunami Warning Center said that no tsunami was expected, AFP reported.

A strong 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of northern California, killing at least two people on Tuesday. The National Tsunami Warning Center said that no tsunami was expected, AFP reported. According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred in Humboldt county, 25 miles southwest of the port city of Eureka. It added that a dozen minor aftershocks were felt in the nearby areas. Also read | Death toll in Indonesia earthquake increased to 602 after new count During USGS's preliminary assessment, the department stated a low risk of deaths but some damage is predicted. Over 60,000 customers in Humboldt County reported no power. The county's Office of Emergency Services in a tweet said that power is out across the US and urged people to not call 911 unless an immediate emergency. NO TSUNAMI IS EXPECTED. Magnitude 6.4 earthquake 14 miles from Fortuna. Power is out across the county. DO NOT CALL 911 UNLESS YOU ARE EXPERIENCING AN IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY. — Humboldt Co OES (@HumCoOES) December 20, 2022 × Also read | 6.1 magnitude earthquake rattles Turkey, injuring 35 Seismologists had predicted that California might have a major earthquake within the next 30 years. The western US state is frequently jolted by earthquakes. A 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck Northridge, northwest of Los Angeles, in 1994 which claimed lives of 60 and an estimated $10 billion in damage, while a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck San Fransico in 1989 and claimed lives 67 people. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: 6.4 magnitude earthquake hits northern California, two dead, thousands without power

<p>Holiday plans are battling or are set to suffer the brunt of bad weather as the United States and Canada experience freezing temperatures.</p>

<p>In America as per the Guardian close to 50 million are currently under winter storm watches, alerts and warnings, while another 50 million are under a winter chill alert.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Snowstorm strikes Canada's Vancouver, halting traffic and flights</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/snowstorm-strikes-canadas-vancouver-halting-traffic-and-flights-545146/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>With a burst of Arctic air settling over some states the situation is expected to worsen, and it might even turn deadly. NWS Prediction Center in a forecast on Twitter said that "Many will experience MUCH below average temps this week, ~20-30° or more below. Keep in mind, the wind chill will make it feel even colder than this!".</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We've got chills just looking at this forecast 🥶<br />
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⬇️ This shows high temps Tue-Sun, the color represents the departure from average. Many will experience MUCH below average temps this week, ~20-30° or more below. Keep in mind, wind chill will make it feel even colder than this! <a href="https://t.co/4fGd3lXdoP">pic.twitter.com/4fGd3lXdoP</a></p>
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSWPC/status/1605244824478576640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The agency has warned that a temperature this cold can cause frostbite in less than five minutes.</p>

<p>On the other hand in Canada, heavy snowfall due to a strong weather winter storm forced the nation's second busiest airport, the Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to halt or delay flights. As per a Reuters report citing data from airline tracking website Flightware, nearly 200 flights were cancelled and 67 were delayed.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chicago-weather-snow-storm-expected-ahead-of-christmas-avoid-travel-on-these-days-544819">Chicago weather: Snow storm expected ahead of Christmas, avoid travel on these days</a></strong></p>

<p>"Travel continues to be significantly impacted this morning and we anticipate cancellations and delays to continue through the day and the week ahead," said the airport in a statement.</p>

<p>With Christmas and New Year just around the corner, a majority of people had travel plans which now stand to suffer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Holiday plans are battling or are set to suffer the brunt of bad weather as the United States and Canada experience freezing temperatures. In America as per the Guardian close to 50 million are currently under winter storm watches, alerts and warnings, while another 50 million are under a winter chill alert.

Holiday plans are battling or are set to suffer the brunt of bad weather as the United States and Canada experience freezing temperatures. In America as per the Guardian close to 50 million are currently under winter storm watches, alerts and warnings, while another 50 million are under a winter chill alert. Watch | Snowstorm strikes Canada's Vancouver, halting traffic and flights With a burst of Arctic air settling over some states the situation is expected to worsen, and it might even turn deadly. NWS Prediction Center in a forecast on Twitter said that "Many will experience MUCH below average temps this week, ~20-30° or more below. Keep in mind, the wind chill will make it feel even colder than this!". We've got chills just looking at this forecast 🥶 ⬇️ This shows high temps Tue-Sun, the color represents the departure from average. Many will experience MUCH below average temps this week, ~20-30° or more below. Keep in mind, wind chill will make it feel even colder than this! pic.twitter.com/4fGd3lXdoP — NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) December 20, 2022 × The agency has warned that a temperature this cold can cause frostbite in less than five minutes. On the other hand in Canada, heavy snowfall due to a strong weather winter storm forced the nation's second busiest airport, the Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to halt or delay flights. As per a Reuters report citing data from airline tracking website Flightware, nearly 200 flights were cancelled and 67 were delayed. Also read | Chicago weather: Snow storm expected ahead of Christmas, avoid travel on these days "Travel continues to be significantly impacted this morning and we anticipate cancellations and delays to continue through the day and the week ahead," said the airport in a statement. With Christmas and New Year just around the corner, a majority of people had travel plans which now stand to suffer. (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.

US, Canada experience freezing temperatures, forecast service warns it'll cause frostbite in five mins

Sam Bankman-Fried is expected to agree to be extradited to the United States according to a report. If this happens, it would be a U-turn from what the defense law told the Magistrate Judge in Bahamas on Monday.

US: FTX founder to agree to extradition, Sam Bankman-Fried appears before Bahamas court

One of the first such claims made by Moscow since it started the war nine months ago, the Russian Defense Ministry announced on Monday that its forces had shot down four US-built anti-radiation missiles over a territory of southern Russia bordering Ukraine.

Ukraine using US weaponry for offensive attacks? UK PM announces $304 million aid for Ukraine

The House of Lords economic affairs committee said the substantial rise in economic inactivity – when working-age persons are neither in employment nor looking for a job – since the outset of the health emergency was providing “serious challenges” to the economy.

UK Economic Troubles: Lords report points out sharp rise in economic inactivity

In the "white Christmas" busts in Antwerp, ten tonnes of cocaine were found. As drug gangs ramp up their smuggling for the holiday season, customs officers in Belgium have hailed a "white Christmas" after 10 tonnes of cocaine worth over €750 million were intercepted in Antwerp.

Belgium: 'Banana High' and 'White Christmas' this festive season, police seize 10 tonnes of cocaine

Conservation and climate change mitigation are often considered two separate environmental issues but both are deeply linked to each other. We know that tackling climate change can help save wildlife populations around the world but the opposite is also true.

WION Climate Tracker: Whales help store planet-heating carbon emissions

Climate change pose is a major threat to coffee production in Kenya. The country has experienced one of its worst droughts which is causing the coffee berries to dry up.

WION Climate Tracker: Climate change affecting Kenya's coffee output

The governing council of the Indian Himalayan Council of Nalanda Buddhist Tradition met on Tuesday. This meeting took place in New Delhi. The point of interest was the succession of Dalai Lama.

WION Fineprint: Indian Himalayan Council of Nalanda Buddhist Tradition meeting

Lionel Messi of Argentina is the focus of all media attention, as it should be. The "Little Genius" won the World Cup at the fifth attempt, proving that the last dance, if that is what it was, was the best. But without the other Lionel, it would not have happened. The golden rule of football is that the stars shine brightest when the side as a whole is balanced, and rookie coach Lionel Scaloni is in charge of providing Messi with the best, most cohesive team of his lengthy international career.

WION Fineprint | Scaloni: The other Lionel

Three years after the virus first emerged, it's almost like we're going back to stage one. Let's take a look at what's happening in China and what is the situation like for the residents of Shanghai.

WION Fineprint: Covid spreading in China after zero-covid policy eased

According to the sources, it is now being said that the hostage crisis in Pakistan's Bannu has now ended. The hostages according to report have all been rescued.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan hostage crisis ends after 3 days

Continent-wide data on sports betting is not readily available, but snapshots from different countries show its growing popularity. Online gaming platforms have enjoyed recent growth, driven by the widening adoption of mobile payments and pandemic-era demand for digital entertainment. Much of the betting focuses on soccer games in europe. Critics warn that sports betting in africa is underpinned by widespread poverty, unemployment, and poor or non-existent regulation. However, the craze will not fade anytime soon. Our world of africa special report this week examines why the gambling euphoria has turned into a huge scourge in the continent.

World of Africa: Gambling addiction turns problematic

Hundreds of animals, including elephants and endangered grevy's zebras, have died in Kenyan wildlife reserves during east Africa's worst drought in decades. The Kenya wildlife service and other bodies counted the deaths of 205 elephants, 512 wildebeests, 381 common zebras, 51 buffalos, 49 grevy's zebras, and 12 giraffes in the past nine months. Here's a report from Amboseli National Park.

World of Africa: East Africa faces worst drought in decades

Following their absence and failure to qualify for the 2002 and 2006 world cups, and losing the 2004 African cup of nations final to Tunisia, Morocco resorted to launching the "Mohamed the sixth academy" to search for football talents in the country. Morocco succeeded in graduating a new generation that was the core of the atlas lions team in the 2018 world cup in Russia, before achieving a historic feet of reaching the semi-final match in the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

World of Africa: The jewel of Moroccan football

This is said to be an incident where about 50 militants had attacked the police station in the Wana city of South Wazirstan travel district and according to the local officials, militants in fact entered into the police station by firing a rocket-propelled grenade.

Pakistan: Militants attack police station in South Wazirstan, constable injured in firing

Christmas is just around the corner. This of course is the time when people are in a festive mood, binging on traditional food and also finishing off some last minute shopping.

Christmas around the World: Tallest London tower sparkles with attitude and altitude

The seventh round of internal Twitter staff communication was published on the microblogging network on Monday. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) paid a stunning $3.4 million to Twitter between October 2019 and February 2021, according to the "Twitter Files 7.0," which also revealed how the FBI forced top Twitter executives to kill the "Hunter Biden narrative" under duress.

Twitter Chaos: Emails reveal FBI's involvement to suppress Hunter-Biden laptop story

The Twitter CEO Elon Musk has restricted the voting policy on the social media platform and has said that Twitter will only account votes of users who have a blue tick on their accounts.

US: Twitter to only account votes of users with blue ticks, change in voting policy

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