NASA's 'six-wheeled geologist,' the Perseverance rover has captured a Martian dust devil on camera.

The video was captured on August 30, 2023, day 899th Martian day or sol of the mission.

<h2>What is a dust devil?</h2>

A dust devil is a dust tornado, similar to the tornadoes we see on Earth. Generally, Martian tornadoes are smaller than the one we see on our planet.

However, the one recently captured by NASA, as per calculations based on the tornado's shadow, was about two&nbsp;kilometres (1.2 miles) in height — much taller than the average tornado the US experiences every year, and about five times the height of the US Empire State Building.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/55-chinese-sailors-die-of-poisoning-asphyxiation-in-catastrophic-nuclear-submarine-accident-642315">55 Chinese sailors die of poisoning, asphyxiation in catastrophic nuclear submarine accident</a>

Mark Lemmon, a planetary scientist at the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colorado, said: "We don't see the top of the dust devil, but the shadow it throws gives us a good indication of its height"

Lemmon, who is a member of the Perseverance science team, said, "Most are vertical columns. If this dust devil were configured that way, its shadow would indicate it is about 1.2 miles (2 kilometres) in height.”

The rover spotted the dust devil on a location nicknamed "Thorofare Ridge." It was about four kilometres or 2.5 miles away from the Perseverance Rover and was moving at a speed of about 19 kilometres per hour or 12mph.

As per estimates, its width was about 200 feet (or 60 metres).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/india-once-again-sets-sight-on-mars-readies-to-launch-mangalyaan-2-641709">India once again sets sights on Mars, readies to launch Mangalyaan-2</a>

NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) has shared a video of the dust devil. Composed of 21 frames, the video has been sped up 20 times to showcase the tornado.

Watch the video here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Mars dust devil caught in action! This video, which is sped up 20 times, was captured by one of my navigation cameras. 📸 More on what my team is learning: <a href="https://t.co/PhaOYOTrFH">https://t.co/PhaOYOTrFH</a> <a href="https://t.co/vRaAVszcm5">pic.twitter.com/vRaAVszcm5</a>
— NASA's Perseverance Mars Rover (@NASAPersevere) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAPersevere/status/1707804949860724973?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>What does a dust devil do?</h2>

Dust devils, as per NASA, are one of the mechanisms&nbsp;"that move and redistribute dust around Mars."

These help scientists understand the Martian atmosphere better and improve weather models.

The Perseverance rover is part of NASA's Moon to Mars exploration approach, which includes Artemis missions to the Moon.

(With inputs from agencies)

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NASA's 'six-wheeled geologist,' the Perseverance rover has captured a Martian dust devil on camera. The video was captured on August 30, 2023, day 899th Martian day or sol of the mission.

NASA's 'six-wheeled geologist,' the Perseverance rover has captured a Martian dust devil on camera. The video was captured on August 30, 2023, day 899th Martian day or sol of the mission. What is a dust devil? A dust devil is a dust tornado, similar to the tornadoes we see on Earth. Generally, Martian tornadoes are smaller than the one we see on our planet. However, the one recently captured by NASA, as per calculations based on the tornado's shadow, was about two kilometres (1.2 miles) in height — much taller than the average tornado the US experiences every year, and about five times the height of the US Empire State Building. Also read | 55 Chinese sailors die of poisoning, asphyxiation in catastrophic nuclear submarine accident Mark Lemmon, a planetary scientist at the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colorado, said: "We don't see the top of the dust devil, but the shadow it throws gives us a good indication of its height" Lemmon, who is a member of the Perseverance science team, said, "Most are vertical columns. If this dust devil were configured that way, its shadow would indicate it is about 1.2 miles (2 kilometres) in height.” The rover spotted the dust devil on a location nicknamed "Thorofare Ridge." It was about four kilometres or 2.5 miles away from the Perseverance Rover and was moving at a speed of about 19 kilometres per hour or 12mph. As per estimates, its width was about 200 feet (or 60 metres). Also read | India once again sets sights on Mars, readies to launch Mangalyaan-2 NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) has shared a video of the dust devil. Composed of 21 frames, the video has been sped up 20 times to showcase the tornado. Watch the video here: Mars dust devil caught in action! This video, which is sped up 20 times, was captured by one of my navigation cameras. 📸 More on what my team is learning: https://t.co/PhaOYOTrFH pic.twitter.com/vRaAVszcm5 — NASA's Perseverance Mars Rover (@NASAPersevere) September 29, 2023 × What does a dust devil do? Dust devils, as per NASA, are one of the mechanisms "that move and redistribute dust around Mars." These help scientists understand the Martian atmosphere better and improve weather models. The Perseverance rover is part of NASA's Moon to Mars exploration approach, which includes Artemis missions to the Moon. (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.

A two-kilometre-tall 'dust devil' has been caught on camera, but not on Earth

In an explosive court testimony, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on Monday (Oct 2) said that rival tech giant Google's dominance of the search engine market gives it an unfair advantage over rivals.

The Microsoft CEO was speaking during a tense cross-examination by a Google lawyer in the midst of a trial, where lawyers from the US Department of Justice are attempting to persuade a federal judge to rule on Google's antitrust actions.

He also slammed Apple, recalling Microsoft's willingness to pay the iPhone maker to get Bing the 'default status' on the phone. Microsoft was even ready&nbsp;to hide its search engine's brand on Apple Inc handsets, he said.

<h2>'Dominant' Google</h2>

Hitting out sharply at the business practices of his arch rival company, Nadella said Google has made it very hard for rivals to emerge.

Addressing a courtroom in Washington, DC, he said, "you can call it popular, but to me it's dominant."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-vs-us-justice-department-landmark-antitrust-trial-begins-what-you-need-to-know-635243">Explained: Google vs US Justice Department: Why the biggest antitrust trial in US is crucial</a>

The case by US DoJ alleged that Google has illegally paid billions of dollars to Apple and others to preserve its monopoly.

<h2>Bing's fight for a market share</h2>

As per AFP, Microsoft's Bing has been trying since 2009 to build market share against Google. However, Nadella blamed the company's failure on&nbsp;Google.

He said Bing could never compete against the search engine behemoth.

Nadella backed the US Government's contention that Google's dominance of the search engine market fuels its intake of data, which creates a 'network effect' that further fortifies Google's prominence as a more powerful tool to advertisers and users.

He said: "It becomes even harder to break through when you don't have (market) share."

<h2>What is Google antitrust trial?</h2>

The US and its state allies contend that Google has unfairly forged its position as the world's pre-eminent search engine.

They allege that Google's domination of online search is a result of exclusivity contracts the tech titan signed with device makers, mobile operators and other companies. These contracts allegedly involved making Google the default search engine on most phones and web browsers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-justice-department-to-sue-google-for-the-second-time-report-555359">US justice department to sue Google for the second time over market dominance: Report</a>

Filed in 2020, the lawsuit alleges that such contracts were intended to be "exclusionary" by Google and that they left rivals no chance to compete with the search engine, enabling its position as the search market king.

It also alleges that such contracts have resulted in less choice for consumers and also less innovation.

This, in turn, helped Google parent firm Alphabet to be one of the richest companies on the planet. As per government estimates, Google has grabbed a 90 per cent of the market share in search in recent years.

The three-month trial, as per AFP, is the biggest US antitrust case against a big tech company since the US Department of Justice took on Microsoft more than two decades ago over the dominance of its Windows operating system.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an explosive court testimony, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on Monday (Oct 2) said that rival tech giant Google's dominance of the search engine market gives it an unfair advantage over rivals.

In an explosive court testimony, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella on Monday (Oct 2) said that rival tech giant Google's dominance of the search engine market gives it an unfair advantage over rivals. The Microsoft CEO was speaking during a tense cross-examination by a Google lawyer in the midst of a trial, where lawyers from the US Department of Justice are attempting to persuade a federal judge to rule on Google's antitrust actions. He also slammed Apple, recalling Microsoft's willingness to pay the iPhone maker to get Bing the 'default status' on the phone. Microsoft was even ready to hide its search engine's brand on Apple Inc handsets, he said. 'Dominant' Google Hitting out sharply at the business practices of his arch rival company, Nadella said Google has made it very hard for rivals to emerge. Addressing a courtroom in Washington, DC, he said, "you can call it popular, but to me it's dominant." Also read | Explained: Google vs US Justice Department: Why the biggest antitrust trial in US is crucial The case by US DoJ alleged that Google has illegally paid billions of dollars to Apple and others to preserve its monopoly. Bing's fight for a market share As per AFP, Microsoft's Bing has been trying since 2009 to build market share against Google. However, Nadella blamed the company's failure on Google. He said Bing could never compete against the search engine behemoth. Nadella backed the US Government's contention that Google's dominance of the search engine market fuels its intake of data, which creates a 'network effect' that further fortifies Google's prominence as a more powerful tool to advertisers and users. He said: "It becomes even harder to break through when you don't have (market) share." What is Google antitrust trial? The US and its state allies contend that Google has unfairly forged its position as the world's pre-eminent search engine. They allege that Google's domination of online search is a result of exclusivity contracts the tech titan signed with device makers, mobile operators and other companies. These contracts allegedly involved making Google the default search engine on most phones and web browsers. Also read | US justice department to sue Google for the second time over market dominance: Report Filed in 2020, the lawsuit alleges that such contracts were intended to be "exclusionary" by Google and that they left rivals no chance to compete with the search engine, enabling its position as the search market king. It also alleges that such contracts have resulted in less choice for consumers and also less innovation. This, in turn, helped Google parent firm Alphabet to be one of the richest companies on the planet. As per government estimates, Google has grabbed a 90 per cent of the market share in search in recent years. The three-month trial, as per AFP, is the biggest US antitrust case against a big tech company since the US Department of Justice took on Microsoft more than two decades ago over the dominance of its Windows operating system. (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.

Microsoft CEO Nadella testifies against Google in case on 'billion-dollar' exclusivity contracts

The Federal Reserve Board opened up its Threads and Instagram accounts on Monday in an effort to make its news and instructional materials more easily accessible. Chair Jerome H. Powell will make a little greeting video the first post on Instagram. Instagram posts typically consist of images, videos, answers to frequently asked questions, information for economic education, and more.

From Secrecy To Sharing: FED's Instagram journey

Letitia James, the attorney general of New York, is currently requesting $250 million in fines as well as the ouster of Trump and his sons from the family business. James declared that "justice will prevail" and accused the former president of "persistent and repeated fraud" on Monday.

US: Ex-President Donald Trump's $250 million civil trial in New York begins

China's Evergrande group resumed trading on the Hong Kong stock exchange on Tuesday. That comes after trading was halted last week in the wake of the arrest of its billionaire founder on suspicion of unspecified crimes.

China’s Evergrande resumes trading

According to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Google's hegemony stems from deals that set its browser as the default one on PCs and cellphones. He brushed off the notion that the market in which Microsoft and Google compete has been significantly altered by artificial intelligence or more specialized search engines like Amazon or social media websites.

Microsoft vs Google: Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella challenges Google's default dominance

As part of its attempts to promote indigenization in the defence sector, the Indian Air Force is working on several 'Make in India' projects valued at over Rs 3.15 lakh crore. Among these programs are the 156 Light Combat Helicopters, 180 Light Combat Aircraft Mark1A, and other weapon systems.

Indian Air Force's list of domestic projects worth over $37 BN

The Border Security Force (BSF) has found a drone in a paddy field in the Kalsian Khurd area of the Tarn Taran district of Punjab that contains one packet that is thought to contain narcotics. Late in the evening on October 2, BSF forces stationed forward intercepted a drone's movement.

India: China-made drone recovered amid crackdown on pro-Khalistan terror

Malaysia is gearing up to combat deteriorating air quality by attempting to 'make it rain' through cloud seeding.

The country, as per its Department of Environment,&nbsp;has been facing the recurring threat of air pollution, due to which it is even considering school closures.

<h2>What is causing the drop in air quality?</h2>

According to Reuters, the deteriorating air quality is caused by forest fires, primarily from land clearing activities for palm oil and pulp and paper plantations in neighbouring Indonesia.

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Last week, Kuala Lumpur blamed fires in Indonesia for the pollution. The neighbouring nation, however, denied any smoke crossing its borders into Malaysia. 
&nbsp; 
The Malaysian department earlier had said that a regional meteorological agency identified nearly 250 "hotspots," that were indicative of fires on Sumatra and Borneo islands in Indonesia. However, none were detected within Malaysia.

<h2>Burning throat and other health risks</h2>

Almost every dry season, thick smoke blankets the skies over the region, posing health risks and concerns for the tourism and aviation industries.

Wan Abdul Latiff Wan Jaffar, director of the Department of Environment in Malaysia recently, in a statement, reported a decline in air quality, particularly in the western part of Peninsular Malaysia. He said that in total, 11 areas recorded unhealthy Air Pollution Index (API) readings.

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To alleviate the situation, the nation will use methods, including cloud seeding and other measures to combat pollution. These methods will be initiated when API readings exceed 150 for more than 24 hours, announced Wan Abdul Latiff Wan Jaffar.

Furthermore, schools and kindergartens will be required to stop all outdoor activities when API readings reach 100. They will be closed when the API reaches 200.

Environmental organisation Greenpeace has called on countries in the region to enact legislation to hold plantation companies accountable for causing air pollution.&nbsp;

Heng Kiah Chun, regional campaign strategist for Greenpeace Southeast Asia, emphasised the need for a domestic transboundary haze act and said that enabling it "is necessary to act as a deterrent, especially as there are bad apples in the industry." 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Malaysia is gearing up to combat deteriorating air quality by attempting to 'make it rain' through cloud seeding. The country, as per its Department of Environment, has been facing the recurring threat of air pollution, due to which it is even considering school closures.

Malaysia is gearing up to combat deteriorating air quality by attempting to 'make it rain' through cloud seeding. The country, as per its Department of Environment, has been facing the recurring threat of air pollution, due to which it is even considering school closures. What is causing the drop in air quality? According to Reuters, the deteriorating air quality is caused by forest fires, primarily from land clearing activities for palm oil and pulp and paper plantations in neighbouring Indonesia. Also read | Scientists find microplastics in cave closed to humans for 30 years: Study Last week, Kuala Lumpur blamed fires in Indonesia for the pollution. The neighbouring nation, however, denied any smoke crossing its borders into Malaysia. The Malaysian department earlier had said that a regional meteorological agency identified nearly 250 "hotspots," that were indicative of fires on Sumatra and Borneo islands in Indonesia. However, none were detected within Malaysia. Burning throat and other health risks Almost every dry season, thick smoke blankets the skies over the region, posing health risks and concerns for the tourism and aviation industries. Wan Abdul Latiff Wan Jaffar, director of the Department of Environment in Malaysia recently, in a statement, reported a decline in air quality, particularly in the western part of Peninsular Malaysia. He said that in total, 11 areas recorded unhealthy Air Pollution Index (API) readings. Also read | No pain, no gain a lie? New drug claims it can make you lose weight without any exercise To alleviate the situation, the nation will use methods, including cloud seeding and other measures to combat pollution. These methods will be initiated when API readings exceed 150 for more than 24 hours, announced Wan Abdul Latiff Wan Jaffar. Furthermore, schools and kindergartens will be required to stop all outdoor activities when API readings reach 100. They will be closed when the API reaches 200. Environmental organisation Greenpeace has called on countries in the region to enact legislation to hold plantation companies accountable for causing air pollution. Heng Kiah Chun, regional campaign strategist for Greenpeace Southeast Asia, emphasised the need for a domestic transboundary haze act and said that enabling it "is necessary to act as a deterrent, especially as there are bad apples in the 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.

Malaysia to use cloud seeding to 'manufacture' rain as air quality deteriorates

Over the last 24 months, Tsubame Industries has been working on a four-wheeled, 4.5-meter (14.8-foot) tall robot that bears a little similarity to "Mobile Suit Gundam" from the immensely popular Japanese animation series. The robot is scheduled to make its debut at the Japan Mobility Show in late October. Afterwards, Tsubame Industries intends to sell the robot in five units for a total of 400 million yen ($2.7 million) apiece. The robot, named ARCHAX after the bird-like dinosaur Archaeopteryx, is equipped with cockpit monitors that project pictures from external cameras. This allows the pilot to control the robot's hands and arms using joysticks from inside its body.

Japan startup develops a giant human-piloted robot

In the latest,&nbsp;Matt Gaetz, a Republican lawmaker associated with far-right views, initiated an effort to remove Kevin McCarthy, the current Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, from his position. As reported by AFP, Gaetz introduced a resolution on the House floor, declaring that the role of Speaker of the House of Representatives should be considered unoccupied. In other news, UK&nbsp;nurses stand accused of subjecting a Sikh patient to humiliating and biased care. Allegedly, these healthcare providers employed plastic gloves to secure the patient's beard, neglected his fundamental care requirements, resulting in a deeply unsettling scenario where he was left in a state of urine-soaked discomfort.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republican-lawmaker-launches-bid-to-oust-us-house-speaker-mccarthy-641922">Republican lawmaker launches bid to oust US House Speaker McCarthy</a>

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Far-right Republican lawmaker Matt Gaetz launched a bid on Monday (Oct 2) to oust United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from his post. According to a report by the news agency AFP, Gaetz entered his resolution from the House floor "declaring the office of Speaker of the House of Representatives to be vacant." This development has reignited an intra-party battle between traditional conservatives and firebrand supporters of former president Donald Trump.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-bidens-son-to-plead-not-guilty-to-charges-of-illegally-possessing-handgun-641945">US President Joe Biden's son to plead not guilty to charges of illegally possessing handgun</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/03/383442-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=1920" />

United States President Joe Biden’s son Hunter Biden will be appearing in federal court in Delaware on Tuesday (Oct 3) and is likely to plead not guilty to gun charges. Hunter Biden has been charged with illegal possession of a handgun.

53-year-old Biden has been facing three felony charges because of a .38-caliber Colt Cobra revolver which he purchased in 2018.

Biden has been with two counts of making false claims while filing the form needed for gun purchase wherein, he stated that he was not illegally using drugs at the time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-nurses-accused-of-tying-sikh-mans-beard-with-gloves-leaving-him-in-urine-report-exposes-641949">UK nurses accused of tying Sikh man's beard with gloves, leaving him in urine: Report exposes</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/03/383445-the-battle-for-kyiv-2023-10-02t202058790.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

In an incident that has been described as "institutional racism" within the UK's healthcare system, nurses are accused of subjecting a Sikh patient to degrading and prejudiced treatment. The&nbsp;healthcare professionals allegedly used plastic gloves to tie the patient's beard, failed to attend to his basic needs, leading to a distressing situation where he was left in his own urine, and offered him food that directly contravened his religious dietary requirements.

Watch |&nbsp;US-Philippines Naval Drills | Manila: Exercise 'Samasama' held amid tensions with China

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Watch |&nbsp;Hollywood's Writers' Strike fuels AI job revolution</div>

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In the latest, Matt Gaetz, a Republican lawmaker associated with far-right views, initiated an effort to remove Kevin McCarthy, the current Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, from his position.

In the latest, Matt Gaetz, a Republican lawmaker associated with far-right views, initiated an effort to remove Kevin McCarthy, the current Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, from his position. As reported by AFP, Gaetz introduced a resolution on the House floor, declaring that the role of Speaker of the House of Representatives should be considered unoccupied. In other news, UK nurses stand accused of subjecting a Sikh patient to humiliating and biased care. Allegedly, these healthcare providers employed plastic gloves to secure the patient's beard, neglected his fundamental care requirements, resulting in a deeply unsettling scenario where he was left in a state of urine-soaked discomfort. Click on the headlines to read more. Republican lawmaker launches bid to oust US House Speaker McCarthy Far-right Republican lawmaker Matt Gaetz launched a bid on Monday (Oct 2) to oust United States House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from his post. According to a report by the news agency AFP, Gaetz entered his resolution from the House floor "declaring the office of Speaker of the House of Representatives to be vacant." This development has reignited an intra-party battle between traditional conservatives and firebrand supporters of former president Donald Trump. US President Joe Biden's son to plead not guilty to charges of illegally possessing handgun United States President Joe Biden’s son Hunter Biden will be appearing in federal court in Delaware on Tuesday (Oct 3) and is likely to plead not guilty to gun charges. Hunter Biden has been charged with illegal possession of a handgun. 53-year-old Biden has been facing three felony charges because of a .38-caliber Colt Cobra revolver which he purchased in 2018. Biden has been with two counts of making false claims while filing the form needed for gun purchase wherein, he stated that he was not illegally using drugs at the time. UK nurses accused of tying Sikh man's beard with gloves, leaving him in urine: Report exposes In an incident that has been described as "institutional racism" within the UK's healthcare system, nurses are accused of subjecting a Sikh patient to degrading and prejudiced treatment. The healthcare professionals allegedly used plastic gloves to tie the patient's beard, failed to attend to his basic needs, leading to a distressing situation where he was left in his own urine, and offered him food that directly contravened his religious dietary requirements. Watch | US-Philippines Naval Drills | Manila: Exercise 'Samasama' held amid tensions with China Watch | Hollywood's Writers' Strike fuels AI job revolution

Morning brief: Republican lawmaker pushes to oust House Speaker McCarthy, UK's healthcare racism, & more

US: Former President Donald Trump business empire under threat as New York fraud trial opens

This year's joint naval exercise between the United States and the Philippines has begun, involving a number of partner nations. It occurs as Beijing and Manila's territorial claims in the South China Sea are causing tensions to grow.

US-Philippines Naval Drills | Manila: Exercise 'Samasama' held amid tensions with China

Former Democratic President Bill Clinton admitted on Sunday that, in light of the migrant crisis, New York City's progressive "Right to Shelter law" needed to be modified. A county in the upstate is opposing the proposal by New York City Mayor Eric Adams to relocate the homeless population of the Big Apple north, referring to it as "yet another blatant attempt to shift the migrant crisis elsewhere." In order to provide refuge for the influx of migrants entering the city from the southern border of the nation, the Democratic mayor of the city decided last week that housing vouchers for the homeless might be used outside of the five boroughs.

US: Hundreds of migrants make their way, crisis continues to spiral out of control

Henry Cuellar, a member of the US House of Representatives on Monday, became the victim of a carjacking. The incident took place right outside his Washington residence.&nbsp;

<h2>Carjacked</h2>

The democrat, as per a BBC report, was parking his vehicle about a mile or 1.5 kilometre away from the US Capitol, when three armed men stole his car.&nbsp;

Confirming the theft, Cuellar's Chief of Staff, Jacob Hochberg told AFP that "Three armed assailants approached the Congressman and stole his vehicle" as he was parking. The incident happened around 1:30 GMT (21:30 local time) in Washington's Navy Yard neighbourhood.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-tory-health-secretary-targets-wokery-to-ban-trans-patients-from-female-wards-641989">UK health secretary pushes against 'wokery', to ban transgender patients from female wards</a>

Along with his car, the 68-year-old was robbed of his phone and iPad. The police later recovered the politician's car. However, it is not known if the other valuables were tracked down.

"Luckily, he was not harmed and is working with local law enforcement," said Hochberg, thanking police for their "swift action and for recovering the congressman's vehicle."

<h2>Crime rise in Washington</h2>

Recently, the United States capital has seen a steep rise in the number of carjacking cases. As per the city's police department, so far this year, 750 offences have been reported. BBC reports that&nbsp;75 per cent of these offences involved guns.

This, as per news agency AFP, is almost double the number of car-jackings recorded during the same period last year in the national capital Washington.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-democrat-from-minnesota-angie-craig-assaulted-in-her-washington-apartment-elevator-560457">US Democrat from Minnesota, Angie Craig, assaulted in her Washington apartment elevator</a>

&nbsp;

Recently, another member of the US Congress, Representative Angie Craig of Minnesota, also became the victim of a crime. Craig was attacked in the elevator of her Washington apartment back in February this year. At the time, her office said that the attack was not believed to have any political motivations.&nbsp;

The Minnesota representative escaped the incident relatively unharmed. Her assailant, who was later identified as Kendrid Hamlin, as per CNN, suffers from "mental illness and homelessness". Hamlin punched Craig in her neck and grabbed her by the collarbone. The Congresswoman escaped by throwing hot coffee at her attacker.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Henry Cuellar, a member of the US House of Representatives on Monday, became the victim of a carjacking. The incident took place right outside his Washington residence.

Henry Cuellar, a member of the US House of Representatives on Monday, became the victim of a carjacking. The incident took place right outside his Washington residence. Carjacked The democrat, as per a BBC report, was parking his vehicle about a mile or 1.5 kilometre away from the US Capitol, when three armed men stole his car. Confirming the theft, Cuellar's Chief of Staff, Jacob Hochberg told AFP that "Three armed assailants approached the Congressman and stole his vehicle" as he was parking. The incident happened around 1:30 GMT (21:30 local time) in Washington's Navy Yard neighbourhood. Also read | UK health secretary pushes against 'wokery', to ban transgender patients from female wards Along with his car, the 68-year-old was robbed of his phone and iPad. The police later recovered the politician's car. However, it is not known if the other valuables were tracked down. "Luckily, he was not harmed and is working with local law enforcement," said Hochberg, thanking police for their "swift action and for recovering the congressman's vehicle." Crime rise in Washington Recently, the United States capital has seen a steep rise in the number of carjacking cases. As per the city's police department, so far this year, 750 offences have been reported. BBC reports that 75 per cent of these offences involved guns. This, as per news agency AFP, is almost double the number of car-jackings recorded during the same period last year in the national capital Washington. Also read | US Democrat from Minnesota, Angie Craig, assaulted in her Washington apartment elevator Recently, another member of the US Congress, Representative Angie Craig of Minnesota, also became the victim of a crime. Craig was attacked in the elevator of her Washington apartment back in February this year. At the time, her office said that the attack was not believed to have any political motivations. The Minnesota representative escaped the incident relatively unharmed. Her assailant, who was later identified as Kendrid Hamlin, as per CNN, suffers from "mental illness and homelessness". Hamlin punched Craig in her neck and grabbed her by the collarbone. The Congresswoman escaped by throwing hot coffee at her attacker. (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.

Crime rise in Washington, DC spares no one: Congressman Henry Cuellar carjacked near US Capitol

Heavy rain in Thailand has turned streets into rivers. Over 2,000 households in Sukhothai have been affected by flooding. This after embankments along the Yom river burst due to heavy rain. Residents say that these are the worst floods they have ever experienced. The water levels in the yom river have gone up significantly. Local residents and officials are using sandbags to hold back the flood waters and minimise the damage caused to their homes. Thailand's prime minister, srettha thavisin, has ordered state agencies to pay special attention to areas affected by the overflow from yom river. Thavisin has also urged the government to prepare for more rainfall in the coming days.

Heavy rain in Thailand turn streets into rivers

From east to west, Canada experienced an unprecedented wildfire season that has left scientists struggling to find the right words to describe its magnitude. The scale, duration, and long-term consequences of these fires have been truly exceptional. The records have been shattered, with over 44 million acres burned and over 200,000 people evacuated.

Wildfires affect almost all Canadians this year

Workers have been fighting a fire all night that began at a food waste recycling facility after a lightning strike resulted in a massive gas explosion. At 19:20 BST on Monday, a tank at the Severn Trent Green Power facility in Cassington, Oxfordshire, was struck; the resulting explosion of gases ignited the tank.

Oxfordshire Explosion: Lightning strike causes fire at recycling plant biogas tank

With the start of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry's next phase, political decisions made during the Covid pandemic regarding lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social separation will be closely scrutinized.

UK's Covid inquiry turns its focus to Tory leaders and scientists

In an election set for December, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has declared that he will run for a third term in power. El-Sisi is favored to win the election, which takes place at a time when Egypt is dealing with an economic crisis, historic levels of inflation, a steep decline in the value of its local currency, and allegations from the political opposition that its candidates are being intimidated and harassed.

Sisi confirms candidacy for Egypt presidential poll, opposition report obstacles

Van Gogh's final two months before his death on July 29, 1890, are the subject of a new show at the Orsay Museum in Paris. This exhibition is both extraordinary and extremely heartbreaking because it represents one of the artist's most productive periods of life.

Paris exhibition displays intense period of Van Gogh's creativity

This month, on October 1st, 2023, Secretary of State for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs Therese Coffey announced new regulations that forbade the use of single-use plastic plates, trays, bowls, cutlery, balloon sticks, and some varieties of food and drink containers made of polystyrene.

England bans range of single use plastics to tackle ‘scourge of plastic pollution’

Following the deaths of seven more patients, the number of fatalities at a government hospital in the Nanded district of Maharashtra has risen to 31. There were sixteen adult and fifteen pediatric patients that passed away at the hospital.

Maharashtra: 24 patients, including 12 newborns die in state-run hospital

Six more Caesar truck-mounted howitzers from Nexter will be sent to Ukraine to aid in the expulsion of Russian occupation soldiers. According to the French Ministry of Defense on X, since last year, Ukraine has already acquired 30 Caesars: 18 from France and 12 from the manufacturer Nexter.

Russia-Ukraine War: Truck-mounted Caesar Howitzers for Ukraine

Mike Jeffries, ex-CEO of Abercrombie &amp; Fitch has been accused of exploiting young men for sex, along with his partner Mathew Smith&nbsp;at fashion events they hosted across the world, a BBC investigation revealed on Monday (Oct 2).

BBC reporter Rianna Croxford during the&nbsp;two-year investigation for Panorama, spoke to eight men who attended the events between 2009 and 2015. They said that these events involved sex acts, which were run for Jeffries, 79, and Smith, 60.

The young men alleged that a "middleman" was hired by the fashion boss who used to "sexually audition" the men by asking them to perform oral sex on him before they were introduced to the duo.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-jack-smith-new-york-prosecutor-who-became-former-president-donald-trumps-legal-nemesis-642012">Also read |&nbsp;Who is Jack Smith? New York prosecutor who became former president Donald Trump's legal nemesis</a>

Some of the men alleged that at the events, the two partners would either engage in intercourse with about four men or would 'direct' them to have intercourse with each other. Afterwards, the individuals would receive an envelope filled with cash. A victim told Croxford, "What happened to me changed my life – and not for the better."

Here's what you should know about Mike Jeffries:

<h2>Mike Jeffries's personal life:</h2>

Michael Stanton Jeffries, popularly known as Mike Jeffries, is an American businessman&nbsp;born and brought up in Los Angeles. He completed his MBA&nbsp;from Columbia Business School in 1968.&nbsp;

He married Susan Hansen and the couple have a son. The fashion executive is reportedly living with Mathew and his three dogs, Salon.com reported.&nbsp;

<h2>Jeffries's Career:</h2>

Jeffries was first hired by Les Wexner, CEO of LBrands in 1992 to invigorate Abercrombie &amp; Fitch. However, by 1996, LBrands was no longer involved with the company and left Jeffries in charge.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/largest-ambedkar-statue-outside-india-to-be-unveiled-in-us-on-october-14-641997">'Largest' Ambedkar statue outside India to be unveiled in US on October 14</a>

Gaining success, he helped the brand gross&nbsp;$2 billion yearly by 2006. Despite his success, Jeffries was criticised for using semi-nudes for advertising and selling clothes with racially and sexually off-colour slogans.&nbsp;

The executive was often involved in controversies for his&nbsp;statements. One of these comments included, "We hire good-looking people in our stores. Because good-looking people attract other good-looking people, and we want to market to cool, good-looking people. We don't market to anyone other than that."

During an interview with Salon, he stated that his clothing is exclusively for "cool people." Moreover, he added that he did not want any overweight or unattractive people to wear his clothes. However,&nbsp;the company&nbsp;issued a public apology, reading, "We are completely opposed to any discrimination, bullying, derogatory characterisations or other anti-social behaviour based on race, gender, body type or other individual characteristics."

Jeffries, who was once one of the USA’s highest-paid CEOs, stepped down in 2014. He has a net worth of $300 million, according to the website Celebrity Net Worth, which he acquired during his days at the company.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Mike Jeffries, ex-CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch has been accused of exploiting young men for sex, along with his partner Mathew Smith at fashion events they hosted across the world, a BBC investigation revealed on Monday (Oct 2).

Mike Jeffries, ex-CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch has been accused of exploiting young men for sex, along with his partner Mathew Smith at fashion events they hosted across the world, a BBC investigation revealed on Monday (Oct 2). BBC reporter Rianna Croxford during the two-year investigation for Panorama, spoke to eight men who attended the events between 2009 and 2015. They said that these events involved sex acts, which were run for Jeffries, 79, and Smith, 60. The young men alleged that a "middleman" was hired by the fashion boss who used to "sexually audition" the men by asking them to perform oral sex on him before they were introduced to the duo. Also read | Who is Jack Smith? New York prosecutor who became former president Donald Trump's legal nemesis Some of the men alleged that at the events, the two partners would either engage in intercourse with about four men or would 'direct' them to have intercourse with each other. Afterwards, the individuals would receive an envelope filled with cash. A victim told Croxford, "What happened to me changed my life – and not for the better." Here's what you should know about Mike Jeffries: Mike Jeffries's personal life: Michael Stanton Jeffries, popularly known as Mike Jeffries, is an American businessman born and brought up in Los Angeles. He completed his MBA from Columbia Business School in 1968. He married Susan Hansen and the couple have a son. The fashion executive is reportedly living with Mathew and his three dogs, Salon.com reported. Jeffries's Career: Jeffries was first hired by Les Wexner, CEO of LBrands in 1992 to invigorate Abercrombie & Fitch. However, by 1996, LBrands was no longer involved with the company and left Jeffries in charge. Also read | 'Largest' Ambedkar statue outside India to be unveiled in US on October 14 Gaining success, he helped the brand gross $2 billion yearly by 2006. Despite his success, Jeffries was criticised for using semi-nudes for advertising and selling clothes with racially and sexually off-colour slogans. The executive was often involved in controversies for his statements. One of these comments included, "We hire good-looking people in our stores. Because good-looking people attract other good-looking people, and we want to market to cool, good-looking people. We don't market to anyone other than that." During an interview with Salon, he stated that his clothing is exclusively for "cool people." Moreover, he added that he did not want any overweight or unattractive people to wear his clothes. However, the company issued a public apology, reading, "We are completely opposed to any discrimination, bullying, derogatory characterisations or other anti-social behaviour based on race, gender, body type or other individual characteristics." Jeffries, who was once one of the USA’s highest-paid CEOs, stepped down in 2014. He has a net worth of $300 million, according to the website Celebrity Net Worth, which he acquired during his days at the company. (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.

Who is Mike Jeffries? Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO accused of exploiting men for sex. Know his life & career

For the indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Air to Air Missile, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has placed two contracts with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL); according to defense sources, the first batch is anticipated to be deployed by the end of 2023.

India: IAF to conduct Astra missiles by end of 2023

Same-sex unions could finally be blessed by the Catholic Church. For the first time, Pope Francis has suggested that gay marriages could be blessed by Catholic priests.&nbsp;

However, as per the supreme pontiff, these blessings, if granted, would be only on a "case-to-case basis".

<h2>A case of 'dubia'</h2>

Pope Francis made this suggestion in a letter, responding to his 'harshest critics' in the Catholic ranks, reports CNN.

Previously, five conservative cardinals, in a letter, had formally questioned the Pope on a number of topics, including the October meeting of bishops and the impact it may have on the Church's teachings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-affirms-churchs-welcoming-stance-toward-all-including-lgbtq-individuals-within-defined-rules-623102">Pope affirms Church's welcoming stance toward all, including LGBTQ+ people, with caveats</a>

Cardinals Walter Brandmuller, Raymond Leo Burke, Juan Sandoval Iniguez, Robert Sarah and Joseph Zen Ze-kiun, had also asked in their 'dubia,' Pope Francis about his intentions to bless same-sex unions and his aspirations regarding the potential ordination of women priests. They initially sent the letter on July 10.

However, unsatisfied with the Pope's initial response, the five cardinals reworded their dubia and, citing "the gravity of the matter" sent it again on August 21.

Dubia is Latin for doubt and is an official request to a sitting pontiff. It seeks a simple "yes" or "no" response on disputed matters of Catholic teaching, practice and the running of the Church. &nbsp;&nbsp;

'Help from God'

"When you ask for a blessing, you are expressing a request for help from God, a prayer to be able to live better, a trust in a father who can help us live better," said the Pope in a letter released by the Vatican.

In the letter dated September 25, he also said that clergy must show "pastoral prudence, must adequately discern if there are forms of blessing requested by one or various people, which do not convey a wrong concept of marriage."&nbsp;

"We cannot be judges who only deny, reject, and exclude," he said.

However, he maintained that the&nbsp;Church still considered same-sex relationships "objectively sinful" and that same-sex marriages wouldn't be recognised.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/being-homosexual-not-a-crime-pope-francis-critcises-laws-that-criminalise-homosexuality-555894">Being homosexual is not a crime: Pope Francis criticises laws that criminalise homosexuality</a>

Pope Francis's recent statement contradicts his statement from March, when he said, "God cannot bless sin." &nbsp;

The Vatican has for long resolutely defined marriage as the indissoluble union between man and woman, and has long opposed gay marriage.

On women's ordination, the letter said the Pontiff will uphold the words of the late Pope John Paul II, who around two decades back said that the Church had "no authority" to ordain women, but that the issue needed to be evaluated in order to educate those who doubt it.

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Same-sex unions could finally be blessed by the Catholic Church. For the first time, Pope Francis has suggested that gay marriages could be blessed by Catholic priests.

Same-sex unions could finally be blessed by the Catholic Church. For the first time, Pope Francis has suggested that gay marriages could be blessed by Catholic priests. However, as per the supreme pontiff, these blessings, if granted, would be only on a "case-to-case basis". A case of 'dubia' Pope Francis made this suggestion in a letter, responding to his 'harshest critics' in the Catholic ranks, reports CNN. Previously, five conservative cardinals, in a letter, had formally questioned the Pope on a number of topics, including the October meeting of bishops and the impact it may have on the Church's teachings. Also read | Pope affirms Church's welcoming stance toward all, including LGBTQ+ people, with caveats Cardinals Walter Brandmuller, Raymond Leo Burke, Juan Sandoval Iniguez, Robert Sarah and Joseph Zen Ze-kiun, had also asked in their 'dubia,' Pope Francis about his intentions to bless same-sex unions and his aspirations regarding the potential ordination of women priests. They initially sent the letter on July 10. However, unsatisfied with the Pope's initial response, the five cardinals reworded their dubia and, citing "the gravity of the matter" sent it again on August 21. Dubia is Latin for doubt and is an official request to a sitting pontiff. It seeks a simple "yes" or "no" response on disputed matters of Catholic teaching, practice and the running of the Church. 'Help from God' "When you ask for a blessing, you are expressing a request for help from God, a prayer to be able to live better, a trust in a father who can help us live better," said the Pope in a letter released by the Vatican. In the letter dated September 25, he also said that clergy must show "pastoral prudence, must adequately discern if there are forms of blessing requested by one or various people, which do not convey a wrong concept of marriage." "We cannot be judges who only deny, reject, and exclude," he said. However, he maintained that the Church still considered same-sex relationships "objectively sinful" and that same-sex marriages wouldn't be recognised. Also read | Being homosexual is not a crime: Pope Francis criticises laws that criminalise homosexuality Pope Francis's recent statement contradicts his statement from March, when he said, "God cannot bless sin." The Vatican has for long resolutely defined marriage as the indissoluble union between man and woman, and has long opposed gay marriage. On women's ordination, the letter said the Pontiff will uphold the words of the late Pope John Paul II, who around two decades back said that the Church had "no authority" to ordain women, but that the issue needed to be evaluated in order to educate those who doubt it. (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 says Catholic Church can bless same-sex unions on 'case-by-case basis', amid tussle

Transgender women may soon be banned from female wards in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;UK health secretary Steve Barclay, as per reports, is all set to propose a pushback against such "wokery," as he calls it. Previously, the Tory MP has claimed that woke behaviour like this has led to women's rights being increasingly sidelined.

<h2>Common sense</h2>

Talking to the Telegraph, Barclay announced his plans to restore "common sense" to the NHS.

He said: "We need a common-sense approach to sex and equality issues in the NHS. That is why I am announcing proposals for clearer rights for patients."

"And I can confirm that sex-specific language has now been fully restored to online health advice pages about cervical and ovarian cancer and the menopause. It is vital that women’s voices are heard in the NHS and the privacy, dignity and safety of all patients are protected."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/british-pm-sunak-opens-up-on-trans-debate-declares-100-women-do-no-have-penises-583109">British PM Sunak wades into trans debate, declares 100% women do not have penises</a>

Previously, references to women were expunged from advice on menopause and diseases like cervical and ovarian cancer. Terms like "breastfeeding", as per Telegraph, were replaced by "chestfeeding." Additionally, the guidance made reference to pregnant "people" instead of women.

Barclay had labelled this "ideological dogma".&nbsp;

<h2>When will this be announced?</h2>

The UK Health Minister, as per the report, is set to make the announcement on Tuesday (Oct 3rd), during his speech at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester. These changes to the NHS constitution aim to strengthen protection for women.

<h2>Where will the Transgender patients be treated?</h2>

As per the report, trans patients would be housed in separate accommodations, i.e., they will get their own rooms.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/uk-transgender-man-gives-birth-to-girl-after-doctors-said-his-partner-could-never-have-kids-618855">Transgender man gives birth to baby girl in UK, plans on having another child</a>

Citing a 'source' close to the Health Secretary, the Telegraph reported&nbsp;that Barclay "is concerned that women’s voices should be heard on healthcare and that too often wokery and ideological dogma are getting in the way of this."

The move has been welcomed by the campaign group 'Sex Matters'. Its executive director Maya Forstater called it "fantastic news," and remarked that "Undoing the damage (purportedly wrought by staff trans activists) will take years of concerted effort but will bring huge benefits for all patients and staff, most especially women."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Transgender women may soon be banned from female wards in the United Kingdom. UK health secretary Steve Barclay, as per reports, is all set to propose a pushback against such "wokery," as he calls it.

Transgender women may soon be banned from female wards in the United Kingdom. UK health secretary Steve Barclay, as per reports, is all set to propose a pushback against such "wokery," as he calls it. Previously, the Tory MP has claimed that woke behaviour like this has led to women's rights being increasingly sidelined. Common sense Talking to the Telegraph, Barclay announced his plans to restore "common sense" to the NHS. He said: "We need a common-sense approach to sex and equality issues in the NHS. That is why I am announcing proposals for clearer rights for patients." "And I can confirm that sex-specific language has now been fully restored to online health advice pages about cervical and ovarian cancer and the menopause. It is vital that women’s voices are heard in the NHS and the privacy, dignity and safety of all patients are protected." Also read | British PM Sunak wades into trans debate, declares 100% women do not have penises Previously, references to women were expunged from advice on menopause and diseases like cervical and ovarian cancer. Terms like "breastfeeding", as per Telegraph, were replaced by "chestfeeding." Additionally, the guidance made reference to pregnant "people" instead of women. Barclay had labelled this "ideological dogma". When will this be announced? The UK Health Minister, as per the report, is set to make the announcement on Tuesday (Oct 3rd), during his speech at the Conservative Party conference in Manchester. These changes to the NHS constitution aim to strengthen protection for women. Where will the Transgender patients be treated? As per the report, trans patients would be housed in separate accommodations, i.e., they will get their own rooms. Also read | Transgender man gives birth to baby girl in UK, plans on having another child Citing a 'source' close to the Health Secretary, the Telegraph reported that Barclay "is concerned that women’s voices should be heard on healthcare and that too often wokery and ideological dogma are getting in the way of this." The move has been welcomed by the campaign group 'Sex Matters'. Its executive director Maya Forstater called it "fantastic news," and remarked that "Undoing the damage (purportedly wrought by staff trans activists) will take years of concerted effort but will bring huge benefits for all patients and staff, most especially women." (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 health secretary pushes against 'wokery', to ban transgender patients from female wards

Unidentified gunmen shot and killed a major Lashkar-e-Taiba figure in Karachi on Saturday, in what appears to be yet another unexplained terror operator death in Pakistan. Mufti Qaiser Farooq, who was shot several times at close range inside the Gulshan-i-Umar seminary in the Edhi Center neighborhood, was identified as the deceased.

Pakistan: Lashkar-E-Tayyiba operative killed in Karachi

The vice premier He Lifeng talked alongside the German finance minister Christian Lindner in Frankfurt at the start of the third China-Germany high-level financial dialogue, focusing on countering stagflation.

China-Germany cooperation to combat stagflation

Four persons, two of whom are women, were detained by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday in connection with the suspected kidnapping and murder of two Meitei students in Manipur in July. They were taken into custody from Churachandpur's hill district.

Manipur Chief Minister calls for peace, maintaining law and order | India

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