US President Joe Biden has done it again, he has made the headlines for another&nbsp;gaffe. This time, it came in the form of an insensitive comment that left people shocked.

On Monday (August 21), Biden reached Maui to assess the damage done by a devastating wildfire that has claimed 114 lives and destroyed the homes of thousands of people. The US President compared this loss to a small kitchen fire he experienced almost two decades back.

<h2>'I can relate'</h2>

During his meeting with a group of survivors in Lahaina, a city that has been destroyed by the flames, Biden said he could relate to them, because he and First Lady Jill Biden&nbsp;knew what it was like to lose a home.

"I don't want to compare difficulties, but we have a little sense, Jill and I, what it's like to lose a home," he said, as per remarks published by The White House.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-tours-wildfire-damaged-maui-offers-comfort-to-affected-residents-627700">Angry residents yell insults at Biden as he tours wildfire-ravaged Hawaii</a>

He was referring to an incident from 2004. Back then he was a senator for Delaware and was in Washington for a 'meet the press' session when lightning struck a pond by his home. The bolt&nbsp;hit a wire, only to travel into his Delaware home and into the heating and air conditioning ducts.

As per an AP report from August 2004, this led to a "small fire that was contained to the kitchen."

The then Cranston Heights Fire Company Chief George Lamborn in a statement had said that "the fire was under control in 20 minutes."

"To make a long story short, I almost lost my wife, my '67 Corvette, and my cat," said Biden, adding, "But all kidding aside, I watched the firefighters, the way they responded."

<h2>Milking the story</h2>

As per Business Insider, the US President has earlier been accused of embellishing the story.&nbsp;Previously, he had&nbsp;said that he knew what it was like to have "had a house burn down with my wife in it."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/850-people-still-missing-after-maui-wildfires-says-mayor-627682">850 people still missing after Maui wildfires, says mayor</a>

Just last year, as Category 5 Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction and misery in Florida and elsewhere,&nbsp;he reportedly told survivors that he "lost an awful lot of" his Delaware home in the small fire.

The blaze was described as an "insignificant blaze" by the Cranston Heights Fire Company, which responded to the house fire back in 2004. Compared to that, the Maui wildfire has destroyed many homes, at least 114 are dead, and 850 remain missing as the death toll climbs.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden has done it again, he has made the headlines for another gaffe. This time, it came in the form of an insensitive comment that left people shocked.

US President Joe Biden has done it again, he has made the headlines for another gaffe. This time, it came in the form of an insensitive comment that left people shocked. On Monday (August 21), Biden reached Maui to assess the damage done by a devastating wildfire that has claimed 114 lives and destroyed the homes of thousands of people. The US President compared this loss to a small kitchen fire he experienced almost two decades back. 'I can relate' During his meeting with a group of survivors in Lahaina, a city that has been destroyed by the flames, Biden said he could relate to them, because he and First Lady Jill Biden knew what it was like to lose a home. "I don't want to compare difficulties, but we have a little sense, Jill and I, what it's like to lose a home," he said, as per remarks published by The White House. Also read | Angry residents yell insults at Biden as he tours wildfire-ravaged Hawaii He was referring to an incident from 2004. Back then he was a senator for Delaware and was in Washington for a 'meet the press' session when lightning struck a pond by his home. The bolt hit a wire, only to travel into his Delaware home and into the heating and air conditioning ducts. As per an AP report from August 2004, this led to a "small fire that was contained to the kitchen." The then Cranston Heights Fire Company Chief George Lamborn in a statement had said that "the fire was under control in 20 minutes." "To make a long story short, I almost lost my wife, my '67 Corvette, and my cat," said Biden, adding, "But all kidding aside, I watched the firefighters, the way they responded." Milking the story As per Business Insider, the US President has earlier been accused of embellishing the story. Previously, he had said that he knew what it was like to have "had a house burn down with my wife in it." Also read | 850 people still missing after Maui wildfires, says mayor Just last year, as Category 5 Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction and misery in Florida and elsewhere, he reportedly told survivors that he "lost an awful lot of" his Delaware home in the small fire. The blaze was described as an "insignificant blaze" by the Cranston Heights Fire Company, which responded to the house fire back in 2004. Compared to that, the Maui wildfire has destroyed many homes, at least 114 are dead, and 850 remain missing as the death toll climbs. (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.

'I can relate': Biden faces flak for comparing Maui wildfires to his small housefire 20 years back

US President Joe Biden was&nbsp;in Maui Monday to&nbsp;engage with local authorities, assess the on-ground situation and console victims of the devastating wildfires that have claimed the lives of more than a hundred residents.

However, people weren't happy with his late response to the terrible tragedy that unfolded in Hawaii. Several residents, mostly those from the western part of Maui, shouted insults at him and held signs reading “no comment” as he left Kapalua Airport in his motorcade.&nbsp;

Biden's arrival, on Monday, comes nearly two weeks after devastating wildfires swept through the Hawaiian island, claiming the lives of over 114 individuals.&nbsp;

<h2>Residents were visibly angry with Biden</h2>

Those gathered yelled&nbsp;“Go home Joe!” as Biden prepared to speak on the wildfires. Notably, Biden has been accused by the residents of Hawaii of late response and being indifferent to their troubles following the devastation. Locals say that efforts being made to help them aren't enough.

Other signboards read, “NO COMMENT,” “REALLY $7, “ACTION SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS”, and “FJB".&nbsp;

There were a few boards that&nbsp;endorsed&nbsp;former President Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential bid.&nbsp;

Others alleged that the airport where Biden landed wasn't used to bring in relief supplies for the affected residents.

“Where has the president been?“ Dennis Mullen, 58, a resident of Kahana said while speaking to The New York Post.

“Any number of military aircraft, planes and helicopters could have flown in here. To leave a town that was just devastated shut down was just ridiculous. The runway wasn’t cratered,” Mullen said.

<h2>Helicopter tour of the devastation</h2>

Biden, accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden, embarked on a helicopter tour of the areas ravaged by the fires upon arriving in Maui.&nbsp;

As per Reuters, they will be visiting the devastated city of Lahaina to assess the extent of the wildfire damage, engage with survivors, receive briefings from state and local officials, and deliver remarks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maui-wildfires-us-president-joe-biden-to-visit-hawaii-to-survey-massive-destruction-627492">Maui Wildfires: US President Joe Biden to visit Hawaii to survey massive destruction</a>

Hawaii Governor Josh Green and First Lady Jaime Green, Senators Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono, as well as Representative Jill Tokuda, will accompany the Bidens on the aerial tour of the affected areas.

En route to Maui, White House spokesperson Olivia Dalton emphasised that "It's going to be an emotional day for everyone."

<h2>Too little, too late?</h2>

Despite the fact that the President's visit comes two weeks into the devastating wildfires, Dalton said that Biden will make clear that he was concerned about the victims since day one and "intends for his administration to be there for as long as it takes."

Biden, who is seeking a second term and is in the race for the 2024 US Presidential elections, has been facing criticism from some quarters, particularly Republicans, regarding his initial response or the lack thereof to the Maui wildfires.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/850-people-still-missing-after-maui-wildfires-says-mayor-627682">850 people still missing after Maui wildfires, says mayor</a>

On August 10, he declared that he would extend federal aid to Hawaii and offer assistance to those in need. However, he then went several days without addressing the tragedy as he vacationed at his Delaware beach house.

Deanne Criswell, the administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), assured reporters that in spite of that, Biden had been kept updated on the situation and that he was "satisfied" with the administration's response.

<h2>The wildfires</h2>

Propelled by strong winds, the destructive firestorm raged through Lahaina in west Maui on August 8. A total of 114 deaths have been reported and&nbsp;the death toll is still rising.&nbsp;

Official estimates as posted by Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen on Facebook show that around 850 people remain missing. This is down from earlier estimates of&nbsp;over 2,000.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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US President Joe Biden was in Maui Monday to engage with local authorities, assess the on-ground situation and console victims of the devastating wildfires that have claimed the lives of more than a hundred residents.

US President Joe Biden was in Maui Monday to engage with local authorities, assess the on-ground situation and console victims of the devastating wildfires that have claimed the lives of more than a hundred residents. However, people weren't happy with his late response to the terrible tragedy that unfolded in Hawaii. Several residents, mostly those from the western part of Maui, shouted insults at him and held signs reading “no comment” as he left Kapalua Airport in his motorcade. Biden's arrival, on Monday, comes nearly two weeks after devastating wildfires swept through the Hawaiian island, claiming the lives of over 114 individuals. Residents were visibly angry with Biden Those gathered yelled “Go home Joe!” as Biden prepared to speak on the wildfires. Notably, Biden has been accused by the residents of Hawaii of late response and being indifferent to their troubles following the devastation. Locals say that efforts being made to help them aren't enough. Other signboards read, “NO COMMENT,” “REALLY $7, “ACTION SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS”, and “FJB". There were a few boards that endorsed former President Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential bid. Others alleged that the airport where Biden landed wasn't used to bring in relief supplies for the affected residents. “Where has the president been?“ Dennis Mullen, 58, a resident of Kahana said while speaking to The New York Post. “Any number of military aircraft, planes and helicopters could have flown in here. To leave a town that was just devastated shut down was just ridiculous. The runway wasn’t cratered,” Mullen said. Helicopter tour of the devastation Biden, accompanied by First Lady Jill Biden, embarked on a helicopter tour of the areas ravaged by the fires upon arriving in Maui. As per Reuters, they will be visiting the devastated city of Lahaina to assess the extent of the wildfire damage, engage with survivors, receive briefings from state and local officials, and deliver remarks. Also read | Maui Wildfires: US President Joe Biden to visit Hawaii to survey massive destruction Hawaii Governor Josh Green and First Lady Jaime Green, Senators Brian Schatz and Mazie Hirono, as well as Representative Jill Tokuda, will accompany the Bidens on the aerial tour of the affected areas. En route to Maui, White House spokesperson Olivia Dalton emphasised that "It's going to be an emotional day for everyone." Too little, too late? Despite the fact that the President's visit comes two weeks into the devastating wildfires, Dalton said that Biden will make clear that he was concerned about the victims since day one and "intends for his administration to be there for as long as it takes." Biden, who is seeking a second term and is in the race for the 2024 US Presidential elections, has been facing criticism from some quarters, particularly Republicans, regarding his initial response or the lack thereof to the Maui wildfires. Also read | 850 people still missing after Maui wildfires, says mayor On August 10, he declared that he would extend federal aid to Hawaii and offer assistance to those in need. However, he then went several days without addressing the tragedy as he vacationed at his Delaware beach house. Deanne Criswell, the administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), assured reporters that in spite of that, Biden had been kept updated on the situation and that he was "satisfied" with the administration's response. The wildfires Propelled by strong winds, the destructive firestorm raged through Lahaina in west Maui on August 8. A total of 114 deaths have been reported and the death toll is still rising. Official estimates as posted by Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen on Facebook show that around 850 people remain missing. This is down from earlier estimates of over 2,000. (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.

Angry residents yell insults at Biden as he tours wildfire-ravaged Hawaii

Months after attempting an unthinkable but failed military coup against Russian President Vladimir Putin, Wagner Group chief&nbsp;Yevgeny Prigozhin appeared in his first video address.

In the footage posted on the Telegram channel linked to the mercenary group, Prigozhin can be seen in combat gear standing in a desert with a rifle in his hand, stating he is in Africa.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We are working. The temperature is +50 - everything as we like. Wagner PMC conducts reconnaissance and search actions, makes Russia even greater on all continents, and Africa even more free," he can be heard saying in the video.&nbsp;

The Wagner boss added that his mercenary group continues to recruit fighters who&nbsp;“will fulfil the tasks that were set”. Notably, the video carries a telephone number for those who want to join&nbsp;Prigozhin's group.&nbsp;

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⚡️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> Yevgeny Prigozhin appeared in a video for the first time in a while, this time from Africa and invites people to join the ranks of Wagner PMC. <a href="https://t.co/gSb8YaqMp9">pic.twitter.com/gSb8YaqMp9</a>
— War Monitor (@WarMonitors) <a href="https://twitter.com/WarMonitors/status/1693682725922783447?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>The failed coup attempt</h2>

Surprising almost everyone, Prigozhin on June 24 announced a coup against Putin&nbsp;after growing discontent against the&nbsp;top Russian defence officials for overlooking Wagner Group's needs.

The mercenary group and its troops&nbsp;took control of Rostov-on-Don - one of Russia’s largest cities but did not proceed further saying that they want to avoid “shedding Russian blood” and agreed to live in exile in Belarus.

Initially, Putin accused the group of treason and sought to eliminate Prigozhin, once Putin’s ally, but Belarusian President&nbsp;Aleksandr Lukashenko claimed to have intervened in the matter, and negotiated a peace deal between the two.

Since then, there were rumours that&nbsp;Prigozhin may have set camp in Belarus to remain away from the wrath of Putin.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-russias-wagner-group-setting-up-a-secret-training-base-in-belarus-610683">WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Russia's Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus?</a>

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-suggests-wagner-chief-be-careful-of-poisoning-as-putin-formally-disbands-mercenary-outfit-615346#" id="jqclosemark">×</a>

<h2>Wagner Group doesn't exist: Putin</h2>

While Prigozhin claims he is in Africa, one thing&nbsp;is certain that his mercenary group's future in Russia is over. When questioned about the organisation's future, from the point of view of the Russian legislation, Putin said, "Wagner PMC does not exist".&nbsp;

The president explained that Moscow had&nbsp;no law on private military companies and, therefore, "there is no such legal entity".&nbsp;

"The [Wagner] Group exists, but it is judicially non-existent," Kommersant’s special correspondent Andrey Kolesnikov quoted Putin as saying.&nbsp;

"The formal legalisation is a separate issue that should be addressed by the State Duma [the lower chamber of the Russian parliament] and the government. It’s a complicated issue."

"Wagner’s ordinary members were fighting with dignity… so it is very regrettable that they became embroiled into these events," said the president.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

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Months after attempting an unthinkable but failed military coup against Russian President Vladimir Putin, Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appeared in his first video address.

Months after attempting an unthinkable but failed military coup against Russian President Vladimir Putin, Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appeared in his first video address. In the footage posted on the Telegram channel linked to the mercenary group, Prigozhin can be seen in combat gear standing in a desert with a rifle in his hand, stating he is in Africa. "We are working. The temperature is +50 - everything as we like. Wagner PMC conducts reconnaissance and search actions, makes Russia even greater on all continents, and Africa even more free," he can be heard saying in the video. The Wagner boss added that his mercenary group continues to recruit fighters who “will fulfil the tasks that were set”. Notably, the video carries a telephone number for those who want to join Prigozhin's group. ⚡️#BREAKING Yevgeny Prigozhin appeared in a video for the first time in a while, this time from Africa and invites people to join the ranks of Wagner PMC. pic.twitter.com/gSb8YaqMp9 — War Monitor (@WarMonitors) August 21, 2023 × The failed coup attempt Surprising almost everyone, Prigozhin on June 24 announced a coup against Putin after growing discontent against the top Russian defence officials for overlooking Wagner Group's needs. The mercenary group and its troops took control of Rostov-on-Don - one of Russia’s largest cities but did not proceed further saying that they want to avoid “shedding Russian blood” and agreed to live in exile in Belarus. Initially, Putin accused the group of treason and sought to eliminate Prigozhin, once Putin’s ally, but Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko claimed to have intervened in the matter, and negotiated a peace deal between the two. Since then, there were rumours that Prigozhin may have set camp in Belarus to remain away from the wrath of Putin. WATCH | Gravitas: Is Russia's Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus? × Wagner Group doesn't exist: Putin While Prigozhin claims he is in Africa, one thing is certain that his mercenary group's future in Russia is over. When questioned about the organisation's future, from the point of view of the Russian legislation, Putin said, "Wagner PMC does not exist". The president explained that Moscow had no law on private military companies and, therefore, "there is no such legal entity". "The [Wagner] Group exists, but it is judicially non-existent," Kommersant’s special correspondent Andrey Kolesnikov quoted Putin as saying. "The formal legalisation is a separate issue that should be addressed by the State Duma [the lower chamber of the Russian parliament] and the government. It’s a complicated issue." "Wagner’s ordinary members were fighting with dignity… so it is very regrettable that they became embroiled into these events," said the president. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Wagner chief Prigozhin releases first video since failed coup against Putin

North Korea has issued a stern denouncement of the annual joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of trilateral agreements reached by the United States, South Korea, and Japan during the recent summit at Camp David, Pyongyang on Tuesday issued a stark warning of a possible "thermonuclear war."

<h2>Drills or Provocation?</h2>

On Monday, South Korea and the United States commenced the Ulchi Freedom Shield summer exercises, which are aimed at enhancing the two nations' collaborative response to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. The drills have long been labelled a rehearsal for war by North Korea.

As per a report by North Korea's KCNA news agency, Pyongyang said that the recent trilateral Camp David summit was a platform for devising a "nuclear war provocation."&nbsp;

The commentary expressed concern that "If the agreements fabricated at the Camp David Resort are additionally put into practice in the war drill ... the possibility of an outbreak of a thermonuclear war on the Korean peninsula will become more realistic."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/camp-david-summit-us-south-korea-japan-condemn-chinas-actions-strengthen-alliances-626872">Camp David Summit: US, South Korea, Japan condemn China's actions, to strengthen ties</a>

It further said that the prevailing situation requires its military to "take the initiative, offensive and overwhelming action for a war." As per Reuters, the nation did not elaborate on this remark.

<h2>Camp David</h2>

In a landmark trilateral summit held at the US presidential retreat of Camp David on Friday, August 18, leaders of the United States, South Korea, and Japan agreed to deepen military and economic ties.&nbsp;

The summit held by the Biden administration brought together American allies South Korea and Japan and aimed to present a unified front in the face of China's rise and the nuclear threats posed by North Korea.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-agrees-to-200000-bond-that-forbids-him-from-using-social-media-for-intimidation-627698">Donald Trump agrees to $200,000 bond forbidding him from using social media for 'intimidation'</a>

After the meeting, referring to the threat posed by North Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, the South Korean President, announced that the nations&nbsp;agreed to improve "our joint response capabilities to North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats, which have become sophisticated more than ever."

Reuters reports that South Korean lawmakers are speculating that the North might resort to test-firing an intercontinental ballistic missile or other military actions to protest against the ongoing drills or as a reaction to the recent trilateral summit.

(With inputs from agencies)

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North Korea has issued a stern denouncement of the annual joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea. In the aftermath of trilateral agreements reached by the United States, South Korea, and Japan during the recent summit at Camp David, Pyongyang on Tuesday issued a stark warning of a possible "thermonuclear war.

North Korea has issued a stern denouncement of the annual joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea. In the aftermath of trilateral agreements reached by the United States, South Korea, and Japan during the recent summit at Camp David, Pyongyang on Tuesday issued a stark warning of a possible "thermonuclear war." Drills or Provocation? On Monday, South Korea and the United States commenced the Ulchi Freedom Shield summer exercises, which are aimed at enhancing the two nations' collaborative response to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. The drills have long been labelled a rehearsal for war by North Korea. As per a report by North Korea's KCNA news agency, Pyongyang said that the recent trilateral Camp David summit was a platform for devising a "nuclear war provocation." The commentary expressed concern that "If the agreements fabricated at the Camp David Resort are additionally put into practice in the war drill ... the possibility of an outbreak of a thermonuclear war on the Korean peninsula will become more realistic." Also read | Camp David Summit: US, South Korea, Japan condemn China's actions, to strengthen ties It further said that the prevailing situation requires its military to "take the initiative, offensive and overwhelming action for a war." As per Reuters, the nation did not elaborate on this remark. Camp David In a landmark trilateral summit held at the US presidential retreat of Camp David on Friday, August 18, leaders of the United States, South Korea, and Japan agreed to deepen military and economic ties. The summit held by the Biden administration brought together American allies South Korea and Japan and aimed to present a unified front in the face of China's rise and the nuclear threats posed by North Korea. Also read | Donald Trump agrees to $200,000 bond forbidding him from using social media for 'intimidation' After the meeting, referring to the threat posed by North Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, the South Korean President, announced that the nations agreed to improve "our joint response capabilities to North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats, which have become sophisticated more than ever." Reuters reports that South Korean lawmakers are speculating that the North might resort to test-firing an intercontinental ballistic missile or other military actions to protest against the ongoing drills or as a reaction to the recent trilateral summit. (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.

North Korea threatens 'thermonuclear war' over Camp David summit and US-South Korea drills

The ancient city of Timbuktu in Mali has reportedly been under a blockade by Islamist militants for several days.

As per AFP, local officials reported on Monday that the jihadists "have blocked all the roads," effectively sealing off all roads in and out of the northern city, situated on the fringes of the Sahara desert.&nbsp;

<h2>What's happening in Timbuktu?</h2>

Speaking to the news agency on the condition of anonymity, a local lawmaker revealed that "Nothing is getting through between Timbuktu and the south," and that the jihadists had blocked all connections along the nearby Niger River.

"Everything's expensive in Timbuktu because products are no longer getting into the city. The jihadists have blocked the roads. It's really difficult," a city hall official told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-burkina-faso-police-officers-40-terrorists-die-in-clashes-627357" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/five-burkina-faso-police-officers-40-terrorists-die-in-clashes-627357&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjnkYqmzu6AAxV4plYBHU1iCTkQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2U85XkBb8zbFVEq3BE-sFp" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-burkina-faso-police-officers-40-terrorists-die-in-clashes-627357" target="_blank">Five Burkina Faso police officers, 40 'terrorists' die in clashes</a>

<h2>Prices skyrocket</h2>

The situation has led to severe disruptions in the Timbuktu's supply lines and has also resulted in significant price increases.&nbsp;

As per a petrol station owner, the price of petrol surged from "845 CFA francs (around $1.40) to 1,250 CFA francs in a week".

<h2>A war</h2>

As per AFP, earlier this month, messages on social media attributed to a commander from&nbsp;Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM)&nbsp;— which has linkages to&nbsp;Al Qaeda —&nbsp;announced that it had "declared war" on the Timbuktu region.&nbsp;

These messages reportedly warned trucks from Algeria, Mauritania, and other regional locations from entering Timbuktu and threatened to target any vehicles that fail to heed the 'warning'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-peacekeeping-mission-in-mali-quits-base-early-over-insecurity-625213">UN peacekeeping mission in Mali quits base early over insecurity</a>

These&nbsp;series of threats come as the United Nations peacekeeping mission MINUSMA for Mali expedited withdrawal from a base in the country's northern regions. This was done&nbsp;citing heightened security risks.&nbsp;

Mali, which has witnessed three coups in the past decade, is currently under the rule of a military junta that has been pressing for the departure of the MINUSMA UN mission which commenced in 2013 following the 2012 separatist and jihadist rebellions in the northern part of the nation.&nbsp;

MINUSMA has already handed over control of two bases near Timbuktu to Malian authorities. In spite of the UN&nbsp;compliance&nbsp;with the Junta's demand, the region remains plagued by unrest, reports AFP.

Currently, the UN mission is maintaining a camp within Timbuktu. However, its troops are slated to withdraw from the city by the end of this year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The ancient city of Timbuktu in Mali has reportedly been under a blockade by Islamist militants for several days. As per AFP, local officials reported on Monday that the jihadists "have blocked all the roads," effectively sealing off all roads in and out of the northern city, situated on the fringes of the Sahara desert.

The ancient city of Timbuktu in Mali has reportedly been under a blockade by Islamist militants for several days. As per AFP, local officials reported on Monday that the jihadists "have blocked all the roads," effectively sealing off all roads in and out of the northern city, situated on the fringes of the Sahara desert. What's happening in Timbuktu? Speaking to the news agency on the condition of anonymity, a local lawmaker revealed that "Nothing is getting through between Timbuktu and the south," and that the jihadists had blocked all connections along the nearby Niger River. "Everything's expensive in Timbuktu because products are no longer getting into the city. The jihadists have blocked the roads. It's really difficult," a city hall official told AFP. Also read | Five Burkina Faso police officers, 40 'terrorists' die in clashes Prices skyrocket The situation has led to severe disruptions in the Timbuktu's supply lines and has also resulted in significant price increases. As per a petrol station owner, the price of petrol surged from "845 CFA francs (around $1.40) to 1,250 CFA francs in a week". A war As per AFP, earlier this month, messages on social media attributed to a commander from Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM) — which has linkages to Al Qaeda — announced that it had "declared war" on the Timbuktu region. These messages reportedly warned trucks from Algeria, Mauritania, and other regional locations from entering Timbuktu and threatened to target any vehicles that fail to heed the 'warning'. Also read | UN peacekeeping mission in Mali quits base early over insecurity These series of threats come as the United Nations peacekeeping mission MINUSMA for Mali expedited withdrawal from a base in the country's northern regions. This was done citing heightened security risks. Mali, which has witnessed three coups in the past decade, is currently under the rule of a military junta that has been pressing for the departure of the MINUSMA UN mission which commenced in 2013 following the 2012 separatist and jihadist rebellions in the northern part of the nation. MINUSMA has already handed over control of two bases near Timbuktu to Malian authorities. In spite of the UN compliance with the Junta's demand, the region remains plagued by unrest, reports AFP. Currently, the UN mission is maintaining a camp within Timbuktu. However, its troops are slated to withdraw from the city by the end of this year. (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.

Timbuktu under siege: Jihadist fighters block roads, cut off supplies

Somalia has banned a number of social media applications in light of rapidly spreading indecent content and propaganda, said the nation's communication minister in a statement released late on Sunday.

<h2>Which apps have been banned?</h2>

The East African nation has placed a ban on the popular short video format application TikTok, messaging app Telegram and an online betting website 1XBet.

Reuters reports that the government order has given internet service providers time till August 24&nbsp;to comply with the ban.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fifty-four-ugandan-soldiers-killed-by-al-shabaab-militants-in-somalia-600255">Fifty-four Ugandan soldiers killed by al-Shabaab militants in attack on military base in Somalia</a>

Somalian communications minister Jama Hassan Khalif's statement, as per Reuters, said: "The minister of communications orders internet companies to stop the aforementioned applications, which terrorists and immoral groups used to spread constant horrific images and misinformation to the public."

<h2>What prompted this ban?</h2>

As per the news agency, the ban comes days after the nation's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud revealed that a Somalian military offensive is aiming to eliminate al Shabaab, an insurgent group, in the next five months.

Members of al Shabaab — a group with linkages to al-Qaeda — often post about their illegal activities on TikTok and Telegram.

While ByteDance's TikTok and betting website 1XBet are yet to issue a comment over the ban, Telegram in its statement said: "Telegram consistently removes terrorist propaganda in Somalia and worldwide."

It also said that it "actively moderated" harmful content on its platform.

<h2>App users criticise the ban</h2>

In Somalia and elsewhere, millions of users use TikTok to make money by posting videos, entertaining content or promoting their products. Talking to Reuters, some Somalian TikTok influencers&nbsp;and content creators said they were against the ban.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-banned-by-new-york-city-on-government-owned-devices-over-security-concerns-626232">TikTok banned by New York City on government-owned devices over security concerns</a>

One user, Abdulkadir Ali Mohamed, who calls himself Somalia's "TikTok President," said: "The ban on TikTok will make the lights of many homes go off."

"Where will we get our daily bread?" he asked.

Another user, Halimo Hassan, who sells precious metal gold on TikTok, expressed worry over losing her customers and said: "I urge the government to allow TikTok for the public, but control how it is used in the cultural context of Somalia."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Somalia has banned a number of social media applications in light of rapidly spreading indecent content and propaganda, said the nation's communication minister in a statement released late on Sunday.

Somalia has banned a number of social media applications in light of rapidly spreading indecent content and propaganda, said the nation's communication minister in a statement released late on Sunday. Which apps have been banned? The East African nation has placed a ban on the popular short video format application TikTok, messaging app Telegram and an online betting website 1XBet. Reuters reports that the government order has given internet service providers time till August 24 to comply with the ban. Also read | Fifty-four Ugandan soldiers killed by al-Shabaab militants in attack on military base in Somalia Somalian communications minister Jama Hassan Khalif's statement, as per Reuters, said: "The minister of communications orders internet companies to stop the aforementioned applications, which terrorists and immoral groups used to spread constant horrific images and misinformation to the public." What prompted this ban? As per the news agency, the ban comes days after the nation's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud revealed that a Somalian military offensive is aiming to eliminate al Shabaab, an insurgent group, in the next five months. Members of al Shabaab — a group with linkages to al-Qaeda — often post about their illegal activities on TikTok and Telegram. While ByteDance's TikTok and betting website 1XBet are yet to issue a comment over the ban, Telegram in its statement said: "Telegram consistently removes terrorist propaganda in Somalia and worldwide." It also said that it "actively moderated" harmful content on its platform. App users criticise the ban In Somalia and elsewhere, millions of users use TikTok to make money by posting videos, entertaining content or promoting their products. Talking to Reuters, some Somalian TikTok influencers and content creators said they were against the ban. Also read | TikTok banned by New York City on government-owned devices over security concerns One user, Abdulkadir Ali Mohamed, who calls himself Somalia's "TikTok President," said: "The ban on TikTok will make the lights of many homes go off." "Where will we get our daily bread?" he asked. Another user, Halimo Hassan, who sells precious metal gold on TikTok, expressed worry over losing her customers and said: "I urge the government to allow TikTok for the public, but control how it is used in the cultural context of Somalia." (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.

Somalia bans TikTok, Telegram to curb spread of 'constant horrific images and misinformation'

A few days ago, an image went viral, showing a lone house, with a bright red roof&nbsp;and white facade, standing untouched while the neighbouring properties were burnt to a crisp in the Maui wildfires. The incredible image caught the attention of the internet and soon enough several theories started circulating regarding the miraculous escape. However, according to&nbsp;Dora Atwater Millikin, who owns the house with her husband, the reason for the escape could have been a simple and minute change during the renovation&nbsp;of the building.&nbsp;

Speaking to Los Angeles Times,&nbsp;Millikin said the house had undergone a recent renovation and they were looking to restore the structure's original features.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s a 100 per cent&nbsp;wood house so it’s not like we fireproofed it or anything,” the landscape painter told the publication.

She said the house was a 100-year-old property and was once a bookkeeper’s house for employees of the Pioneer Mill Co, a sugar plantation that operated in the region in the mid-1800s.&nbsp;

“We love old buildings, so we just wanted to honour the building.&nbsp;And we didn’t change the building in any way — we just restored it.”

<h2>Changing the roof material</h2>

She said one decision that may have unknowingly helped the house survive the wildfire was replacing the asphalt roof with one made out of heavy-gauge metal.&nbsp;

“When this [wildfire]&nbsp;was all happening, there were pieces of wood - 6, 12 inches long - that were on fire and just almost floating through the air with the wind and everything,” she said.&nbsp;

“They would hit people’s roofs, and if it was an asphalt roof, it would catch on fire. And otherwise, they would fall off the roof and then ignite the foliage around the house.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/maui-wildfires-after-church-a-single-home-miraculously-left-untouched-amidst-devastation-watch-626415">Also read |&nbsp;A lone house remained untouched by the Maui wildfires</a>

According to experts, roofs are the number one factor that contributes to the flammability of homes. Changing the roof provided the advantage and helped avoid, what is being dubbed as the deadliest wildfire in the US in more than a century.&nbsp;

The homeowners got lucky yet&nbsp;again when they lined the ground with stones up to the drip line of the roof and cut down the foliage that was up against the outside walls.&nbsp;

The miracle house may have also benefitted from not being close to neighbouring properties -&nbsp;often one of the main causes of fires. The red-roofed house was bordered by the ocean, a road and an empty plot on three sides.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maui-wildfires-among-the-deadliest-in-us-history-wion-climate-tracker-625308">Watch |&nbsp;Maui wildfires among the deadliest in US history | WION Climate Tracker</a>

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Notably,&nbsp;Millikin and her husband were in&nbsp;Massachusetts visiting family when the blaze started.&nbsp;They&nbsp;plan to return to Maui soon and open their place to neighbours who were left homeless.

Earlier, a similar sight emerged in the historic town of Lahaina where the Maria Lanakila Catholic Church was left untouched amid the eerie hellscape.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A few days ago, an image went viral, showing a lone house, with a bright red roof and white facade, standing untouched while the neighbouring properties were burnt to a crisp in the Maui wildfires.

A few days ago, an image went viral, showing a lone house, with a bright red roof and white facade, standing untouched while the neighbouring properties were burnt to a crisp in the Maui wildfires. The incredible image caught the attention of the internet and soon enough several theories started circulating regarding the miraculous escape. However, according to Dora Atwater Millikin, who owns the house with her husband, the reason for the escape could have been a simple and minute change during the renovation of the building. Speaking to Los Angeles Times, Millikin said the house had undergone a recent renovation and they were looking to restore the structure's original features. “It’s a 100 per cent wood house so it’s not like we fireproofed it or anything,” the landscape painter told the publication. She said the house was a 100-year-old property and was once a bookkeeper’s house for employees of the Pioneer Mill Co, a sugar plantation that operated in the region in the mid-1800s. “We love old buildings, so we just wanted to honour the building. And we didn’t change the building in any way — we just restored it.” Changing the roof material She said one decision that may have unknowingly helped the house survive the wildfire was replacing the asphalt roof with one made out of heavy-gauge metal. “When this [wildfire] was all happening, there were pieces of wood - 6, 12 inches long - that were on fire and just almost floating through the air with the wind and everything,” she said. “They would hit people’s roofs, and if it was an asphalt roof, it would catch on fire. And otherwise, they would fall off the roof and then ignite the foliage around the house.” Also read | A lone house remained untouched by the Maui wildfires According to experts, roofs are the number one factor that contributes to the flammability of homes. Changing the roof provided the advantage and helped avoid, what is being dubbed as the deadliest wildfire in the US in more than a century. The homeowners got lucky yet again when they lined the ground with stones up to the drip line of the roof and cut down the foliage that was up against the outside walls. The miracle house may have also benefitted from not being close to neighbouring properties - often one of the main causes of fires. The red-roofed house was bordered by the ocean, a road and an empty plot on three sides. Watch | Maui wildfires among the deadliest in US history | WION Climate Tracker × Notably, Millikin and her husband were in Massachusetts visiting family when the blaze started. They plan to return to Maui soon and open their place to neighbours who were left homeless. Earlier, a similar sight emerged in the historic town of Lahaina where the Maria Lanakila Catholic Church was left untouched amid the eerie hellscape. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Real reason why the viral red house in Maui remained untouched by wildfires revealed

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has once again refused to put a timeline to stopping the migrants-crossing-the-channel-crisis. Sunak said his plan to stop the boats may not succeed before the next election.

The Tory leader said the migrant situation was a "complex problem" which was costing exchequers and the public a lot of money.&nbsp;

“I want it&nbsp;to be done as soon as possible, but I also want to be honest with people that it is a complex problem. There is not one simple solution and it can’t be solved overnight and I wouldn’t be being straight with people if I said that was possible," said Sunak.&nbsp;

“The current system is both unsustainable and completely unfair, but particularly unfair on British taxpayers who are forking out millions of pounds to house illegal migrants in hotels and local communities," added Sunak.&nbsp;

“It’s not an easy problem to fix. I never said we would be able to solve it overnight – it will take time and we have to attack it from lots of different ways."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-announces-law-to-stop-illegal-immigrants-569817">WATCH |&nbsp;UK announces law to stop illegal immigrants</a>

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While Sunak tempered his expectations, he looked at the bright side saying that the number of illegal migrants crossing the Channel this year had been down for the first time in several years.&nbsp;

<h2>Sunak's back-and-forth on migrant&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;</h2>

At the start of the year, the Tory leader, amid much pomp, laid out five pledges for 2023, of which one was to&nbsp;stop migrants from entering the UK illegally.&nbsp;

Afterwards, Home Secretary Suella Braverman tabled the Illegal Migration Bill&nbsp;before the House of Commons with the Tory leader simultaneously issuing an ultimatum to illegal migrants crossing the English Channel.&nbsp;

However, Sunak's enthusiasm appeared to take a hit in April when he said his plan to stop small boats crossing the Channel "won't happen overnight". He also&nbsp;pushed the timeline to achieve his goals beyond the general elections.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-wont-happen-overnight-sunak-appears-defeatist-on-small-boats-channel-crossings-582456">Also read | 'It won't happen overnight...': UK PM Rishi Sunak appears defeatist on illegal migrants issue</a>

Notably, former interior minister Priti Patel in April last year brought the "Rwanda Asylum Policy"&nbsp;under which immigrants arriving in the UK through "illegal"&nbsp;means would be sent to the African country of Rwanda to seek asylum.

The immigration crisis reached a peak in 2022 when over 45,000 people entered the UK, breaking the previous year's record by more than 17,000.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has once again refused to put a timeline to stopping the migrants-crossing-the-channel-crisis. Sunak said his plan to stop the boats may not succeed before the next election.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has once again refused to put a timeline to stopping the migrants-crossing-the-channel-crisis. Sunak said his plan to stop the boats may not succeed before the next election. The Tory leader said the migrant situation was a "complex problem" which was costing exchequers and the public a lot of money. “I want it to be done as soon as possible, but I also want to be honest with people that it is a complex problem. There is not one simple solution and it can’t be solved overnight and I wouldn’t be being straight with people if I said that was possible," said Sunak. “The current system is both unsustainable and completely unfair, but particularly unfair on British taxpayers who are forking out millions of pounds to house illegal migrants in hotels and local communities," added Sunak. “It’s not an easy problem to fix. I never said we would be able to solve it overnight – it will take time and we have to attack it from lots of different ways." WATCH | UK announces law to stop illegal immigrants While Sunak tempered his expectations, he looked at the bright side saying that the number of illegal migrants crossing the Channel this year had been down for the first time in several years. Sunak's back-and-forth on migrant crisis At the start of the year, the Tory leader, amid much pomp, laid out five pledges for 2023, of which one was to stop migrants from entering the UK illegally. Afterwards, Home Secretary Suella Braverman tabled the Illegal Migration Bill before the House of Commons with the Tory leader simultaneously issuing an ultimatum to illegal migrants crossing the English Channel. However, Sunak's enthusiasm appeared to take a hit in April when he said his plan to stop small boats crossing the Channel "won't happen overnight". He also pushed the timeline to achieve his goals beyond the general elections. Also read | 'It won't happen overnight...': UK PM Rishi Sunak appears defeatist on illegal migrants issue Notably, former interior minister Priti Patel in April last year brought the "Rwanda Asylum Policy" under which immigrants arriving in the UK through "illegal" means would be sent to the African country of Rwanda to seek asylum. The immigration crisis reached a peak in 2022 when over 45,000 people entered the UK, breaking the previous year's record by more than 17,000. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

British PM Rishi Sunak concedes he may not be able to stop Channel migrants by next election

World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: Every year on August 21, we observe World Senior Citizens' Day to honour the efforts and contributions made by them. Senior citizens are generally people who have attained the age of 60 or people who have retired from their job. They are important because they share joy, wisdom and experiences with us. Senior citizens contribute a lot to society and teach us the importance of leading lives with kindness and empathy. Our lives without our parents and grandparents are incomplete.&nbsp;

Here's all you need to know about this day:

World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: History

The day dates back to 1988, when Ronald Reagan, the then president of the United States declared "August 21" to honour the old people for their achievements and contributions, while also highlighting the importance of programmes and policies that support well-being.&nbsp;

Soon, the day gained world attention and became a global celebration. People around the world now recognise the invaluable role that senior citizens play.&nbsp;

World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: Significance

As a global opportunity for old people, this day holds immense significance as it appreciates and celebrates them, their accomplishments, dedication and wisdom.&nbsp;

The occasion promotes intergeneration connections and love for better lives of senior citizens.&nbsp;

World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: Theme

The theme for this year's "World Senior Citizens' Day 2023" has not yet been declared but last year the theme revolved around " Celebrations Spending time withyour parents and grandparents." In 2021, the theme was "Pandemic: Do they change how we address age and ageing."

World Senior Citizens Day 2023: Wishes&nbsp;

"This day reminds us to be thankful to our seniors. Have a great World Senior Citizens' Day everybody."

"Age is just a number for those who know how to make the most of their lives…. Warm wishes for you on this Senior Citizen Day."

"Avoid doing all the mistakes all by yourself and make this a beautiful life by following the advice of seniors around you…. Wishing you a very Happy Senior Citizen Day."

"Senior Citizen Day is a special day because it celebrates having seniors around us to complete our lives and contribute to our society in a big way…. Warm greetings on Senior Citizen Day."

"Just live your life and stop worrying about your age…. That is probably the most perfect way to have the most perfect life…. Happy Senior Citizen Day." 
&nbsp;

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World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: Every year on August 21, we observe World Senior Citizens' Day to honour the efforts and contributions made by them. Senior citizens are generally people who have attained the age of 60 or people who have retired from their job.

World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: Every year on August 21, we observe World Senior Citizens' Day to honour the efforts and contributions made by them. Senior citizens are generally people who have attained the age of 60 or people who have retired from their job. They are important because they share joy, wisdom and experiences with us. Senior citizens contribute a lot to society and teach us the importance of leading lives with kindness and empathy. Our lives without our parents and grandparents are incomplete. Here's all you need to know about this day: World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: History The day dates back to 1988, when Ronald Reagan, the then president of the United States declared "August 21" to honour the old people for their achievements and contributions, while also highlighting the importance of programmes and policies that support well-being. Soon, the day gained world attention and became a global celebration. People around the world now recognise the invaluable role that senior citizens play. World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: Significance As a global opportunity for old people, this day holds immense significance as it appreciates and celebrates them, their accomplishments, dedication and wisdom. The occasion promotes intergeneration connections and love for better lives of senior citizens. World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: Theme The theme for this year's "World Senior Citizens' Day 2023" has not yet been declared but last year the theme revolved around " Celebrations Spending time withyour parents and grandparents." In 2021, the theme was "Pandemic: Do they change how we address age and ageing." World Senior Citizens Day 2023: Wishes "This day reminds us to be thankful to our seniors. Have a great World Senior Citizens' Day everybody." "Age is just a number for those who know how to make the most of their lives…. Warm wishes for you on this Senior Citizen Day." "Avoid doing all the mistakes all by yourself and make this a beautiful life by following the advice of seniors around you…. Wishing you a very Happy Senior Citizen Day." "Senior Citizen Day is a special day because it celebrates having seniors around us to complete our lives and contribute to our society in a big way…. Warm greetings on Senior Citizen Day." "Just live your life and stop worrying about your age…. That is probably the most perfect way to have the most perfect life…. Happy Senior Citizen Day." 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.

World Senior Citizens' Day 2023: Check history, significance, theme and all you need to know

Ahead of the start of a major joint exercise between Seoul and Washington, North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un visited a navy unit and oversaw a strategic cruise missile test, state media agency Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Monday (August 21).

Ahead of the start of a major joint exercise between Seoul and Washington, North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un visited a navy unit and oversaw a strategic cruise missile test, state media agency Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Monday (August 21). The agency added that Kim inspected one of the fleets in the East Sea, more colloquially known as the Sea of Japan and watched, while the crew staged a drill launching "strategic cruise missiles". It wasn't divulged when the visit took place or what type of missile was launched. The images, however, showed him watching a soaring missile from the patrol ship from another place, not on the vessel. South Korea and the US kick off the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield drills on August 21 that will run through August 31 to act as a counterbalance against the growing threats from the nuclear-armed North. Pyongyang has not hidden its distaste for the exercise, saying it was "rehearsals for an invasion" and that it would take "overwhelming" action in response. Also read | North Korean hackers target US-South Korea military drills, police say Earlier this month, Kim, taking evasive actions, ordered the authorities to boost the production of missiles and artillery shells in order to be prepared for war. Kim reportedly visited key munitions factories that produce tactical missiles, missile launch platforms, armoured vehicles and artillery shells and gave the orders. "Our army must thoroughly secure overwhelming military power and solid readiness to handle any war at any time, so that the enemy does not dare to use force, and would be annihilated if it does," said Kim, according to state media reports. Watch | Russia behind North Korea's ICBM programme? | WION Fineprint × Pyongyang is miffed Notably, the apparent "cruise missile launch" comes days after US President Joe Biden hosted South Korean leader Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at Camp David. It was the first time that the three countries and their leaders met for a standalone summit where North Korea formed a major part of the talks. Pyongyang may have been irked by the fact that the three countries agreed to a multi-year plan of regular exercises in all domains. They also made a formal "commitment to consult" during crises, with Biden saying they would open a hotline. On Sunday (August 20), a Reuters report stated that hackers believed to be linked to a North Korean group that researchers call Kimsuky, had carried out hacking operations over the joint military exercise. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ahead of US-South Korea military drills, Kim oversees cruise missile launch: Reports

At least seven people were killed while 27 were left injured after a tourist bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand on Sunday (August 20).&nbsp;

The bus carrying the pilgrims had set off from the western state of Gujarat and plunged into the gorge from the&nbsp;Gangotri national highway in the Uttarkashi district.&nbsp;

State&nbsp;Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who was in the capital city of Delhi at the time of the accident, spoke to the officials and directed them to carry out relief and rescue operations at a fast pace.&nbsp;

Consequently, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response&nbsp;Force (SDRF) teams were pressed into action for rescue operations. The local villagers who arrived on the scene first also helped the authorities with the evacuation.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AccidentRescue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AccidentRescue</a> 
 
🔶Passenger bus falls into gorge 
🔶at Gangnani, Uttarkashi (UK) 
🔶<a href="https://twitter.com/15bnNdrf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@15bnNdrf</a> joined rescue ops with SDRF, Civil Adm &amp; locals 
🔶28 person rescued safely 
🔶 retrieved 7 dead victims<a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMOIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/BhallaAjay26?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhallaAjay26</a><a href="https://twitter.com/AtulKarwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AtulKarwal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBHomeAffairs</a><a href="https://twitter.com/PIBDehradun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBDehradun</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> <a href="https://t.co/3v3n2HyrZq">pic.twitter.com/3v3n2HyrZq</a>
— NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/NDRFHQ/status/1693293520516522468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/heavy-rains-wreak-havoc-in-uttarakhand-himachal-pradesh-626006">Watch |&nbsp;Heavy rains wreak havoc in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh</a>

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Notably,&nbsp;all the pilgrims were originally from Bhavnagar district in Gujarat, while the driver and conductor were from Dehradun, according to Devendra Patwal, the district disaster management officer.&nbsp;

"Five individuals with serious injuries have been transferred to a higher medical facility in Dehradun," said Patwal.

The remains of the seven pilgrims were retrieved by the rescue teams and have been sent for postmortem examination. Meanwhile, the cause of the accident is currently being probed after authorities ordered an inquiry.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rain-updates-imd-predicts-heavy-rainfall-in-uttarakhand-and-other-indian-states-626308">Also read |&nbsp;Rain updates: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand and other Indian states</a>

<h2>Heavy rainfall in northern states&nbsp;</h2>

Notably, the northern states of India have been hit by heavy monsoon rains, leading to treacherous conditions. Earlier on Sunday, the weather office had issued an orange alert for Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, warning of "extremely bad" weather with the potential of disruption on commute.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Uttarakhand is set to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall over the coming days with estimates ranging from 115.6 to 204.4 mm.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least seven people were killed while 27 were left injured after a tourist bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand on Sunday (August 20).

At least seven people were killed while 27 were left injured after a tourist bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand on Sunday (August 20). The bus carrying the pilgrims had set off from the western state of Gujarat and plunged into the gorge from the Gangotri national highway in the Uttarkashi district. State Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who was in the capital city of Delhi at the time of the accident, spoke to the officials and directed them to carry out relief and rescue operations at a fast pace. Consequently, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams were pressed into action for rescue operations. The local villagers who arrived on the scene first also helped the authorities with the evacuation. #AccidentRescue 🔶Passenger bus falls into gorge 🔶at Gangnani, Uttarkashi (UK) 🔶@15bnNdrf joined rescue ops with SDRF, Civil Adm & locals 🔶28 person rescued safely 🔶 retrieved 7 dead victims@HMOIndia@BhallaAjay26@AtulKarwal @PIBHomeAffairs@PIBDehradun @ANI pic.twitter.com/3v3n2HyrZq — NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) August 20, 2023 × Watch | Heavy rains wreak havoc in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh × Notably, all the pilgrims were originally from Bhavnagar district in Gujarat, while the driver and conductor were from Dehradun, according to Devendra Patwal, the district disaster management officer. "Five individuals with serious injuries have been transferred to a higher medical facility in Dehradun," said Patwal. The remains of the seven pilgrims were retrieved by the rescue teams and have been sent for postmortem examination. Meanwhile, the cause of the accident is currently being probed after authorities ordered an inquiry. Also read | Rain updates: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand and other Indian states Heavy rainfall in northern states Notably, the northern states of India have been hit by heavy monsoon rains, leading to treacherous conditions. Earlier on Sunday, the weather office had issued an orange alert for Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, warning of "extremely bad" weather with the potential of disruption on commute. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Uttarakhand is set to witness heavy to very heavy rainfall over the coming days with estimates ranging from 115.6 to 204.4 mm. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: At least 7 dead, 27 injured after bus carrying pilgrims falls into gorge in Uttarakhand

Aldie Mackay, the hotel manager at the Drumnadrochit, stormed into the bar one evening to inform the stunned customers that she had just seen a "water beast" in Loch Ness 90 years prior. The modern myth surrounding an elusive monster living in the depths of the Highland loch was started by this sighting, which was zealously reported in the Inverness Courier. Next weekend, hundreds of Nessie enthusiasts are expected to participate in the largest organized hunt for the mysterious creature in 50 years.

Scotland: Loch Ness monster enthusiasts prepare for search operation

For the first time since North Korea shut its borders in early 2020 as a preventative step against the COVID-19 epidemic, China stated on Monday that it has approved the restart of commercial flights between Beijing and Pyongyang.

China permits the restart of commercial flights between Beijing and Pyongyang

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- For the first time since North Korea shut its borders in early 2020 as a preventative step against the COVID-19 epidemic, China stated on Monday that it has approved the restart of commercial flights between Beijing and Pyongyang.

China approves resumption of Beijing-Pyongyang commercial flights

By analyzing the tone of a baby's screams, Palestinian teen Layali Khatib claims to have created an app that can determine the cause of a baby's tears. The software also offers mothers and other caregivers advice on how to comfort the infant.

Palestinian teen Layali Khatib creates app to decode babies' cries

A new analysis of data from&nbsp;the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) has shown that&nbsp;gun-related deaths among children in the United States&nbsp;reached a peak in 2021, claiming 4,752 young lives.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Out of those fatalities, 64.3 per cent&nbsp;were homicides, 29.9 per cent&nbsp;were suicides and 3.5 per cent&nbsp;resulted from unintentional injury, according to the analysis.&nbsp;

Dr&nbsp;Chethan Sathya, the lead author of the study and&nbsp;a pediatric trauma surgeon at Northwell Health in New York said the most likely reason someone's kid was to die from in the US was&nbsp;the use of a firearm.&nbsp;

“This is undoubtedly one of our chief public health crises in this country. The most likely reason that your child will die in this country is at the hands of a firearm. That’s not acceptable,” said Sathya, whose study was published Monday (August 21) in the journal Pediatrics.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-alarming-stats-in-charts-us-has-more-gun-dealers-than-mcdonalds-starbucks-outlets-put-together-617139">Also read |&nbsp;Data Lab | Alarming stats, in charts: US has more gun dealers than McDonald's, Starbucks outlets put together</a>

<h2>Increase in deaths surprised researchers&nbsp;</h2>

The increase in gun-related deaths in 2021 surprised researchers&nbsp;who said they were expecting to see a decrease, following their sharp increase in 2020 when kids were forced to be confined to homes due to pandemic-induced lockdowns.&nbsp;

“This was surprising to many of us,” said Sathya, adding that the US has&nbsp;potentially entered an “alarming new baseline”, where gun-related death among children may continue to rise.&nbsp;

The report states that Black children continue to be disproportionately affected by gun-related deaths. They accounted for nearly 68 per cent of all gun-related homicides, which was a twofold increase from 2020 numbers.&nbsp;

“Structural inequity, structural racism, social determinants of health, food insecurity are all root drivers of violence.&nbsp;including gun violence," said Sathya when quizzed about the disparity in numbers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-gun-violence-crisis-how-easy-is-it-to-buy-guns-wion-wideangle-582644">Watch |&nbsp;US gun violence crisis: How easy is it to buy guns? | WION Wideangle</a>

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Recent weeks have seen a flurry of cases where young kids have died by the use of firearms. A three-year-old in Florida shot himself with a handgun, while in California&nbsp;a three-year-old killed his one-year-old sister with the firearm. Last week, a six-year-old in Florida was fatally shot by a nine-year-old.&nbsp;

Sathya's research is not the only one that points towards the growing trend of gun-related deaths among children. A Pew Research report&nbsp;released earlier this year stated that the number of children and teens killed by gunfire increased by 50 per cent between 2019 and 2021.&nbsp;

The US has long been associated with gun violence as mass shootings, especially in schools and colleges, have become a routine phenomenon. The data by Dr Sathya and Pew research, now, corroborates the anecdotal evidence.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new analysis of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) has shown that gun-related deaths among children in the United States reached a peak in 2021, claiming 4,752 young lives.

A new analysis of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) has shown that gun-related deaths among children in the United States reached a peak in 2021, claiming 4,752 young lives. Out of those fatalities, 64.3 per cent were homicides, 29.9 per cent were suicides and 3.5 per cent resulted from unintentional injury, according to the analysis. Dr Chethan Sathya, the lead author of the study and a pediatric trauma surgeon at Northwell Health in New York said the most likely reason someone's kid was to die from in the US was the use of a firearm. “This is undoubtedly one of our chief public health crises in this country. The most likely reason that your child will die in this country is at the hands of a firearm. That’s not acceptable,” said Sathya, whose study was published Monday (August 21) in the journal Pediatrics. Also read | Data Lab | Alarming stats, in charts: US has more gun dealers than McDonald's, Starbucks outlets put together Increase in deaths surprised researchers The increase in gun-related deaths in 2021 surprised researchers who said they were expecting to see a decrease, following their sharp increase in 2020 when kids were forced to be confined to homes due to pandemic-induced lockdowns. “This was surprising to many of us,” said Sathya, adding that the US has potentially entered an “alarming new baseline”, where gun-related death among children may continue to rise. The report states that Black children continue to be disproportionately affected by gun-related deaths. They accounted for nearly 68 per cent of all gun-related homicides, which was a twofold increase from 2020 numbers. “Structural inequity, structural racism, social determinants of health, food insecurity are all root drivers of violence. including gun violence," said Sathya when quizzed about the disparity in numbers. Watch | US gun violence crisis: How easy is it to buy guns? | WION Wideangle × Recent weeks have seen a flurry of cases where young kids have died by the use of firearms. A three-year-old in Florida shot himself with a handgun, while in California a three-year-old killed his one-year-old sister with the firearm. Last week, a six-year-old in Florida was fatally shot by a nine-year-old. Sathya's research is not the only one that points towards the growing trend of gun-related deaths among children. A Pew Research report released earlier this year stated that the number of children and teens killed by gunfire increased by 50 per cent between 2019 and 2021. The US has long been associated with gun violence as mass shootings, especially in schools and colleges, have become a routine phenomenon. The data by Dr Sathya and Pew research, now, corroborates the anecdotal evidence. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kids in US most likely to die due to use of firearms, reveals study

According to a recent study, less than 25 percent of the populace believes that Britain should exit the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Additionally, it discovered that the Conservatives would lose twice as many votes as they would gain from making the commitment to quit the ECHR during the election.

Less than a quarter of voters think UK should leave ECHR :Poll

Scorching heat and dry weather have contributed to unusually severe wildfires in Europe this summer. Now, the wildfire that broke out in Spain's Tenerife island last week has forced tens of thousands of people to flee their homes. This, as the fire raging the north of the island, remained out of control.

Wildfire spreads on Spain's Tenerife forcing thousands to evacuate

Oil, aquatic trash, and toxic algae threaten life in Venezuela's lake Maracaibo.

Toxic algae engulfs Venezuela's largest lake

After making landfall in Mexico on Sunday, tropical storm Hilary now unleashes vicious wind gusts and heavy rain across California.

California coastal communities brace for storm Hilary

A delegation from the ECOWAS regional bloc of West Africa met the deposed president of Niger, Mohamed Bazoum, and had discussions with the head of the junta, General Abdourahmane Tchiani. A day after the military commanders of the bloc declared they were prepared to act militarily to reinstate Bazoum, a plane carrying the delegation touched down in the nation's capital Niamey at around 1pm on Saturday.

Niger Crisis: ECOWAS members meet ousted Nigerian President

Hilary was weakened from a major Category 4 hurricane to a Category 2 storm with maximum sustained winds of 110 mph in the course of a few hours. According to the hurricane center, it was most recently rated as a Category 2 storm with top sustained winds of 100 mph.

Hurricane Hilary reduced from category 4 to category 2 storm

India's moon mission, Chandrayaan-3, and Russia's Luna-25 are both set to attempt a soft landing on the lunar south pole in the coming days. The two missions would not interfere with each other as they have different landing areas planned, according to the Russian Space Agency, ROSCOMS.

Chandrayaan-3: Second and final de-boosting of Vikram Lander successful

The prolonged global recession has worsened the gender pay gap, and women are the biggest losers from the downturn in the economy.

Worsening gender pay gap amid global recession

The educational landscape in Russia is poised to drastically change. Classes will be required to instruct teens on how to build, handle, and clean Kalashnikov rifles as well as how to use hand grenades and provide first aid in a combat situation when the new school year starts next month.

Russia: From ABC to AK-47: Schools to birth soldiers? | Russia-Ukraine War

Following the shooting deaths of a father and son at a car wash in the occupied West Bank on Saturday, Israeli troops began a manhunt in the region.

Israeli father and son gunned down in West Bank

Weeks after China fired water cannons on Philippines vessels, Manila said it would again seek to resupply troops along the same route.&nbsp;

“This exercise of our sovereign rights and jurisdiction is a testament to our firm belief in the rules-based international order that underpins regional peace and stability,” said&nbsp;Philippine armed forces spokesperson&nbsp;Medel Aguilar.&nbsp;

The spokesperson added that the resupply mission was a show of resolve by the country to stand up against threats and coercion.

The supplies are intended for troops stationed on a rusty, World War-2 era warship that Manila&nbsp;intentionally grounded in 1999 as&nbsp;part of its sovereignty claim to the shoal, which lies within its 200-mile exclusive economic zone.

<h2>What happened?</h2>

Earlier this month, the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) fired water cannons on the&nbsp;Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)&nbsp;as it escorted vessels carrying food, water, fuel and other supplies for Filipino military personnel stationed at Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands.

"The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) strongly condemns the China Coast Guard's (CCG) dangerous manoeuvres and illegal use of water cannons against the PCG vessels," the PCG said in a statement.

A video released by the PCG showed the CCG conducting dangerous manoeuvres in the open sea without any provocation from the Filipino side.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-fires-water-cannons-at-filipino-boats-in-south-china-sea-622777">Also read |&nbsp;China fires water cannons at Filipino boats in South China Sea</a>

After the firing,&nbsp;President Ferdinand Marcos announced Manila had summoned&nbsp;Beijing's envoy to express its displeasure.

China&nbsp;retaliated by saying it had taken "necessary controls" against Filipino boats&nbsp;that had "illegally" entered its waters.

"Two repair ships and two coast guard ships from the Philippines illegally broke into the waters...in China's Nansha Islands," China Coast Guard spokesperson Gan Yu said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-rise-over-chinese-vessels-in-south-china-sea-613604" target="_blank">Watch | Tensions rise over Chinese vessels in South-China sea</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-25="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-31="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-rise-over-chinese-vessels-in-south-china-sea-613604/embed" width="560"></iframe>Manila instantly hit back and said it will never abandon the disputed shoal, despite Beijig's incessant pressure tactics.&nbsp;

"For the record, we will never abandon Ayungin Shoal. We are committed to Ayungin Shoal,"&nbsp;Jonathan Malaya, spokesman for the National Security Council was quoted as saying by AFP. He used the Philippine name for&nbsp;Second Thomas Shoal, located in the Spratly Islands.

Notably, Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored a 2016 international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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Weeks after China fired water cannons on Philippines vessels, Manila said it would again seek to resupply troops along the same route. “This exercise of our sovereign rights and jurisdiction is a testament to our firm belief in the rules-based international order that underpins regional peace and stability,” said Philippine armed forces spokesperson Medel Aguilar.

Weeks after China fired water cannons on Philippines vessels, Manila said it would again seek to resupply troops along the same route. “This exercise of our sovereign rights and jurisdiction is a testament to our firm belief in the rules-based international order that underpins regional peace and stability,” said Philippine armed forces spokesperson Medel Aguilar. The spokesperson added that the resupply mission was a show of resolve by the country to stand up against threats and coercion. The supplies are intended for troops stationed on a rusty, World War-2 era warship that Manila intentionally grounded in 1999 as part of its sovereignty claim to the shoal, which lies within its 200-mile exclusive economic zone. What happened? Earlier this month, the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) fired water cannons on the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) as it escorted vessels carrying food, water, fuel and other supplies for Filipino military personnel stationed at Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands. "The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) strongly condemns the China Coast Guard's (CCG) dangerous manoeuvres and illegal use of water cannons against the PCG vessels," the PCG said in a statement. A video released by the PCG showed the CCG conducting dangerous manoeuvres in the open sea without any provocation from the Filipino side. Also read | China fires water cannons at Filipino boats in South China Sea After the firing, President Ferdinand Marcos announced Manila had summoned Beijing's envoy to express its displeasure. China retaliated by saying it had taken "necessary controls" against Filipino boats that had "illegally" entered its waters. "Two repair ships and two coast guard ships from the Philippines illegally broke into the waters...in China's Nansha Islands," China Coast Guard spokesperson Gan Yu said. Watch | Tensions rise over Chinese vessels in South-China sea Manila instantly hit back and said it will never abandon the disputed shoal, despite Beijig's incessant pressure tactics. "For the record, we will never abandon Ayungin Shoal. We are committed to Ayungin Shoal," Jonathan Malaya, spokesman for the National Security Council was quoted as saying by AFP. He used the Philippine name for Second Thomas Shoal, located in the Spratly Islands. Notably, Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, through which trillions of dollars in trade passes annually, and has ignored a 2016 international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Philippines to resupply troops again, weeks after Chinese water cannon attack

At least 16 people died while 11 others were injured after a passenger bus collided with a pick-up truck carrying drums of diesel on the motorway near&nbsp;Pindi Bhattian, a city located in Punjab, Pakistan, according to Dawn.

The bus, carrying approximately 35 to 40 passengers was headed to&nbsp;Islamabad from Karachi when the accident took place around 4:30 am on Sunday (August 20).&nbsp;Hafizabad District Police Officer (DPO) Dr Fahad Ahmad said the bus immediately caught fire after the collision which added to the casualty toll. Both drivers were instantly killed in the accident.

Ahmad said people nearby the accident site attempted to pull the passengers out of the bus by breaking windows.&nbsp;

The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) released a statement in the aftermath and said: "As a result of the timely rescue operations of the NHMP, 15 passengers were rescued and shifted to a nearby hospital."

It added that&nbsp;Inspector General National Highways and Motorway Police Sultan Ali Khawaja reached the accident site and supervised the rescue operations while expressing condolences to the families of the victims.&nbsp;

"On the instructions of IGNHMP, the Emergencies Desk has been established," the bulletin added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-11-labourers-killed-in-deadly-van-bomb-blast-in-pakistans-north-waziristan-627165">Also read | At least 11 labourers killed in deadly van bomb blast in Pakistan's North Waziristan</a>

In a separate statement,&nbsp;Khawaja informed that an inquiry had been initiated to probe the incident.&nbsp;

“According to initial investigations, the accident occurred due to the bus driver’s negligence,” said Khawaja, adding,&nbsp;“Strict action will be taken against those responsible for the accident."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pakistan-bomb-blast-islamic-state-group-claims-responsibility-621179">Gravitas: Pakistan Bomb Blast: Islamic state group claims responsibility</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Bodies not recognisable&nbsp;</h2>

According to reports, the officials were having a difficult time identifying the dead bodies as most of them had been charred beyond recognition due to the extensive burns. The doctors said identifying the bodies would only be possible after conducting a DNA test.

Interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi , who was sworn-in earlier this week, expressed sorrow over the incident and pressed the concerned departments to determine the cause of the accident, in order to avoid similar events in the future.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

At least 16 people died while 11 others were injured after a passenger bus collided with a pick-up truck carrying drums of diesel on the motorway near Pindi Bhattian, a city located in Punjab, Pakistan, according to Dawn.

At least 16 people died while 11 others were injured after a passenger bus collided with a pick-up truck carrying drums of diesel on the motorway near Pindi Bhattian, a city located in Punjab, Pakistan, according to Dawn. The bus, carrying approximately 35 to 40 passengers was headed to Islamabad from Karachi when the accident took place around 4:30 am on Sunday (August 20). Hafizabad District Police Officer (DPO) Dr Fahad Ahmad said the bus immediately caught fire after the collision which added to the casualty toll. Both drivers were instantly killed in the accident. Ahmad said people nearby the accident site attempted to pull the passengers out of the bus by breaking windows. The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) released a statement in the aftermath and said: "As a result of the timely rescue operations of the NHMP, 15 passengers were rescued and shifted to a nearby hospital." It added that Inspector General National Highways and Motorway Police Sultan Ali Khawaja reached the accident site and supervised the rescue operations while expressing condolences to the families of the victims. "On the instructions of IGNHMP, the Emergencies Desk has been established," the bulletin added. Also read | At least 11 labourers killed in deadly van bomb blast in Pakistan's North Waziristan In a separate statement, Khawaja informed that an inquiry had been initiated to probe the incident. “According to initial investigations, the accident occurred due to the bus driver’s negligence,” said Khawaja, adding, “Strict action will be taken against those responsible for the accident." Gravitas: Pakistan Bomb Blast: Islamic state group claims responsibility × Bodies not recognisable According to reports, the officials were having a difficult time identifying the dead bodies as most of them had been charred beyond recognition due to the extensive burns. The doctors said identifying the bodies would only be possible after conducting a DNA test. Interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi , who was sworn-in earlier this week, expressed sorrow over the incident and pressed the concerned departments to determine the cause of the accident, in order to avoid similar events in the future. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan: At least 16 dead, 11 injured as bus collides with truck, catches fire

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) arrested Shah Mahmood Qureshi from his home in the federal capital in the cypher leak case under the Official Secrets Act of 1923 minutes after he unambiguously stated in a news conference on Saturday that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding Chairman Imran Khan was irreplaceable and that the party was united under his vision.

Pakistan: Federal agency makes more arrests in Cipher case

As a result of the frightening increase of the Sutlej River, several areas of Punjab are preparing for a potential flood. Mohsin Naqvi, the interim chief minister of Punjab, described the scenario and promised that all-out measures would be taken to stop losses and destruction brought on by a flood that would be "unprecedented in 35 years" in the river.

Pakistan: Thousands evacuated due to water level surge in Sutlej river

According to Ukrainian officials, a Russian missile struck a major square in the ancient northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv on Saturday, killing seven people, including a 6-year-old girl, injuring 144, and putting 41 of them in hospitals.

Russia-Ukraine War: Seven killed, 144 wounded in Russian missile strike on Ukraine's Chernihiv

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