Christophar Nolan's Oppenheimer has achieved what decades of activism cautioning the world about dangers of the misuse of nuclear energy could not. It made people talk about nuclear weapons so much so that search keywords related to the same dominated the <a href="https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?q=nuclear&amp;hl=en-GB">Google Trends</a> last month.&nbsp;

So arguably, on the sixth and ninth day of August this year – the anniversary of nuclear bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki cities of Japan – more people are aware of the scale of devastation caused by nuclear weapons than at any point of time in the history.

<img alt="Nagasaki" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="498b0a0c-32e0-4d87-8270-755aa891bbf9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Eighty-five-year-old%20atomic%20bombing%20survivor%20Takeko%20Kudo%20%283rd%20L%29%20and%20other%20representatives%20observe%20a%20moment%20of%20silence%20at%20the%20time%20of%20the%20bombing%20at%201102am%20during%20a%20peace%20memorial%20ceremony%20at%20an%20indoor%20facil.png" />

Eighty-five-year-old atomic bombing survivor Takeko Kudo (3rd L) and others observe a moment of silence at the time of the bombing at 11:02 AM in Nagasaki on August 9, 2023, as the city marks the 78th anniversary of the atomic bombing during World War II | AFP

Experts underline that the release of the film has been extremely timely as risks of nuclear proliferation remain high, especially with strained relations between nuclear powers.

"Recalling the horrors of nuclear use and bringing them into public imagination is something I have long argued for because leaders can be expected to respond to public opinion," &nbsp;Dr Manpreet Sethi, Distinguished Fellow at Centre for Air Power Studies, told WION.

&nbsp;<img alt="Cillian Murphy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="984c4022-38d8-4b24-a2f8-83b07e0bb985" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Eighty-five-year-old%20atomic%20bombing%20survivor%20Takeko%20Kudo%20%283rd%20L%29%20and%20other%20representatives%20observe%20a%20moment%20of%20silence%20at%20the%20time%20of%20the%20bombing%20at%201102am%20during%20a%20peace%20memorial%20ceremony%20at%20an%20indoor%20f%20%281%29.png" />

Actor Cillian Murphy, in a still from Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer | IMDb&nbsp;

At present, there are nine countries in the world that possess nuclear weapons; Russia, United States, China, France, United Kingdom, India, Pakistan, Israel and North Korea.&nbsp;

Together, these states have 12,700 nuclear warheads, of which 9,400 are in active military stockpiles, according to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons.

<h2>Distinction between&nbsp;Nuclear weapons and Nuclear energy</h2>

More than 400 reactors are operating around the world, 23 in India, none of them can cause an explosion of the kind that the nuclear weapons are designed to create, Dr Sethi points out.&nbsp;

Besides, the manner in which the process of nuclear fission is deployed in nuclear weapons and nuclear energy is quite different.&nbsp;

When the nucleus of an atom is split, it is called nuclear fission. The process releases a massive amount of energy.

"The manner in which nuclear fission is exploited in nuclear weapons and nuclear energy is very different. &nbsp;The former aims for an uncontrolled fission reaction while the other undertakes controlled fission through the use of various techniques that ensure safety to the operator, public and environment," added Dr Sethi.&nbsp;

Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, Senior Research Fellow at New Delhi-based Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, hopes that movies such as Oppenheimer will lead to more discussions on how green nuclear energy is given the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/shattered-climate-records-show-world-is-on-existential-brink-622713">scale of Climate Change crisis that has put world on the edge</a>.&nbsp;

"Nuclear energy is the highest amount of energy produced per gram of raw material consumed," Iyer-Mitra said.&nbsp;

"It's just incredible that all these benefits of nuclear reactors simply never get through to people."

<h2>Discourse over nuclear disarmament, deterrence after Oppenheimer</h2>

Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer did not exactly show the scale of devastation caused by Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings and its aftermath.

In contrast to what many cinephiles had expected, there was no vivid display of the scale of destruction and the loss of human life due to atomic weapons dropped on Japan.&nbsp;

Thereby it did not renew the fear of nuclear exchange in the minds of public, and discourse over nuclear disarmament remains least affected.

"The world is undergoing a geopolitical flux where scope for nuclear disarmament is only reducing further. 
This movie is unlikely to change that," said Saurabh Todi, an expert on Weapons of Mass Destruction and Research Analyst at Bengaluru-based Takshashila Institution. &nbsp; 
 
Experts also note that there has been ample evidence to suggest that nuclear deterrence works 'really well'.&nbsp;

"There has never been a weapon like the nuclear weapon which after its invention has not been used after its first and the second usage," noted Iyer-Mitra.

"It's a technology of the 1940s. It's not such a great miracle to master (its use). It's very tough to get a hold of. But once it is gotten hold of, it kind of forces a sense of responsibility on those countries," he added.

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Christophar Nolan's Oppenheimer has achieved what decades of activism cautioning the world about dangers of the misuse of nuclear energy could not. It made people talk about nuclear weapons so much so that search keywords related to the same dominated the Google Trends last month.

Christophar Nolan's Oppenheimer has achieved what decades of activism cautioning the world about dangers of the misuse of nuclear energy could not. It made people talk about nuclear weapons so much so that search keywords related to the same dominated the Google Trends last month. So arguably, on the sixth and ninth day of August this year – the anniversary of nuclear bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki cities of Japan – more people are aware of the scale of devastation caused by nuclear weapons than at any point of time in the history. Eighty-five-year-old atomic bombing survivor Takeko Kudo (3rd L) and others observe a moment of silence at the time of the bombing at 11:02 AM in Nagasaki on August 9, 2023, as the city marks the 78th anniversary of the atomic bombing during World War II | AFP Experts underline that the release of the film has been extremely timely as risks of nuclear proliferation remain high, especially with strained relations between nuclear powers. "Recalling the horrors of nuclear use and bringing them into public imagination is something I have long argued for because leaders can be expected to respond to public opinion," Dr Manpreet Sethi, Distinguished Fellow at Centre for Air Power Studies, told WION. Actor Cillian Murphy, in a still from Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer | IMDb At present, there are nine countries in the world that possess nuclear weapons; Russia, United States, China, France, United Kingdom, India, Pakistan, Israel and North Korea. Together, these states have 12,700 nuclear warheads, of which 9,400 are in active military stockpiles, according to the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons. Distinction between Nuclear weapons and Nuclear energy More than 400 reactors are operating around the world, 23 in India, none of them can cause an explosion of the kind that the nuclear weapons are designed to create, Dr Sethi points out. Besides, the manner in which the process of nuclear fission is deployed in nuclear weapons and nuclear energy is quite different. When the nucleus of an atom is split, it is called nuclear fission. The process releases a massive amount of energy. "The manner in which nuclear fission is exploited in nuclear weapons and nuclear energy is very different. The former aims for an uncontrolled fission reaction while the other undertakes controlled fission through the use of various techniques that ensure safety to the operator, public and environment," added Dr Sethi. Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, Senior Research Fellow at New Delhi-based Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, hopes that movies such as Oppenheimer will lead to more discussions on how green nuclear energy is given the scale of Climate Change crisis that has put world on the edge. "Nuclear energy is the highest amount of energy produced per gram of raw material consumed," Iyer-Mitra said. "It's just incredible that all these benefits of nuclear reactors simply never get through to people." Discourse over nuclear disarmament, deterrence after Oppenheimer Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer did not exactly show the scale of devastation caused by Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings and its aftermath. In contrast to what many cinephiles had expected, there was no vivid display of the scale of destruction and the loss of human life due to atomic weapons dropped on Japan. Thereby it did not renew the fear of nuclear exchange in the minds of public, and discourse over nuclear disarmament remains least affected. "The world is undergoing a geopolitical flux where scope for nuclear disarmament is only reducing further. This movie is unlikely to change that," said Saurabh Todi, an expert on Weapons of Mass Destruction and Research Analyst at Bengaluru-based Takshashila Institution. Experts also note that there has been ample evidence to suggest that nuclear deterrence works 'really well'. "There has never been a weapon like the nuclear weapon which after its invention has not been used after its first and the second usage," noted Iyer-Mitra. "It's a technology of the 1940s. It's not such a great miracle to master (its use). It's very tough to get a hold of. But once it is gotten hold of, it kind of forces a sense of responsibility on those countries," he added. 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.

Hiroshima-Nagasaki at 78: Nolan's Oppenheimer has put 'atomic' focus on safe use of nuclear energy

Christopher Nolan's new movie Oppenheimer, in which he chronicles the life of J Robert Oppenheimer, has taken the centre-stage in discussions surrounding the nuclear bomb and the life of the man who created such a destructive weapon. While the movie talks about a lot of things, it's peppered with baffling human emotions, mental disarray and repentance. It's about a success served cold and grisly. Here are the 8 dark shades of human lives depicted in the movie.

<h2>1. Fallacy of human mind</h2>

Mind is a mysterious world, full of waves of emotions and ideas all of which one may not be able to gather at once. To lose oneself to the atrocities unleashed by one's mind is only natural. But Nolan has shown how Oppenheimer lives through the pursuit of ultimate scientific glory in his initial days in Cambridge and Germany, only to fall into its fallacy of creating the most lethal weapon for deterrence among nations and for the world to find its peace. It's the mind of a scientist who is excited at the invention and is seeking happiness from the creation of something affirmative which may build the future of the world, unable to see its dark side.

<h2>2. 'To sin is a human business, but to justify sins is a devilish business'</h2>

This statement by Russian author Leo Tolstoy underlines the intense nuclear proliferation by Washington and Moscow that brought humanity closest to its prospect of annihilation. The statement also sits aptly for a few instances which the film depicts from the life of the scientist as well as that of former US president Harry S Truman. Oppenheimer is seen encountering a moment when rage takes over his sensibilities and he ends up poisoning an apple which he hopes his professor will eat.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/trapped-in-politics-should-dr-oppenheimer-have-been-blacklisted-for-what-he-did-619169">Trapped in politics: Should Dr Oppenheimer have been blacklisted for what he did?</a>

This is a perfect example of how people sin and how Oppenheimer's character hints at the destructiveness it may unleash in future. But the devil is seen residing in Truman too, who in a chilling scene, nonchalantly hands over a white handkerchief to the scientist to wipe his hands, when the latter, filled with guilt and remorse, says "I have blood on my hand".

<h2>3. Even the most decorated people can go nude with loose morals</h2>

While going through the pre-decided hearing, Oppenheimer is shown standing at the conjunction of realism and hyperrealism, driven by shame and fear of societal defamation when he is forced to reveal his meetings with Jean Tatlock, as his wife sits behind and stares at his revelation. It's a perfect depiction of how the scientist, who was once "the man of the moment", is now being stripped naked because of some of his wrongdoings in his personal life.

<h2>4. Excitement to reach the finishing line fades once the line is crossed</h2>

There is hustle and bustle and speed as America races against time to create the deadliest weapon humankind has ever seen. Shallow breath, hard deadlines which seem impossible to be met and curious eyes that stare blankly at the future – this is what defines the environment of Los Alamos hours before the Trinity test. However, once the test is successful and the success is celebrated, there is an eerie lull that stands behind the back of Oppenheimer as he looks at trucks filled with bombs he created going away to show the world the magic he brought to existence.

<h2>5. Most magnificent magic may hide death in its heart</h2>

'Magic' is the word that Oppenheimer utters when he talks about the most anticipated Trinity test. There is a thirst of a magician to show the world the most perfect trick ever mastered. He seems to be willing to give away everything to make it happen. However, hours before the test, he seemed to be hounded by the thoughts of what if the fire he is about to ignite may burn the whole world. It is the gory truth that the soul is aware of and the human mind refuses to accept.

<h2>6. Evil awakens the devil</h2>

If we look at World War II, we may find the scale of balance faltering, failing to choose who is more atrocious. The persecution of Jews by Nazi Germany is seen as one of the darkest phases of mankind. Even when the world was witnessing it, the defined monstrosity of Nazi Germany must have left weaker Jews horrified and afraid and the stronger ones filled with rage to avenge the cruelty.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Oppenheimer opens with a bang in Kashmir

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Science doesn't remain confined to labs and experimental sites; it unfolds itself in the growing, burgeoning society. That's what happened with Isaac Newton's Third Law of Motion - "For every action in nature there is an equal and opposite reaction". It was the horrors committed by Nazis that somewhere seems to have led Oppenheimer, himself a Jew, to think about creating something which can eradicate them completely.

<h2>7. What is once gained is always meant to be lost</h2>

Oppenheimer, who became the greatest scientist of his time and earned the title of the "father of the atomic bomb" and was featured in TIME magazine as the "man of the moment", suddenly saw his life falling apart with his security clearance getting revoked and him being branded as a "Russian spy". It is a full circle as life seems to complete its ecstatic dance, full of highs and lows, losing everything that once was earned through ideation, hard work and seldom through magic.

<h2>8. Humans don't ride on future, they get consumed by it</h2>

The future is a far-fetched dream that humans, like Oppenheimer, try to construct with their own efforts, only to find themselves stuck in its chaos and noise. As Oppenheimer takes the stage to address the roaring crowds after the success of the Trinity test, he seems to be troubled and lost in the future in which he had constructed himself. He is grieving and filled with sorrow and his vision is haunted by visuals of humans wailing and hurt after the bombing. Humans tend to believe they know it all, but what lies in future is just another magic that time reveals, eventually consuming us mere humans wholly.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Christopher Nolan's new movie Oppenheimer, in which he chronicles the life of J Robert Oppenheimer, has taken the centre-stage in discussions surrounding the nuclear bomb and the life of the man who created such a destructive weapon.

Christopher Nolan's new movie Oppenheimer, in which he chronicles the life of J Robert Oppenheimer, has taken the centre-stage in discussions surrounding the nuclear bomb and the life of the man who created such a destructive weapon. While the movie talks about a lot of things, it's peppered with baffling human emotions, mental disarray and repentance. It's about a success served cold and grisly. Here are the 8 dark shades of human lives depicted in the movie. 1. Fallacy of human mind Mind is a mysterious world, full of waves of emotions and ideas all of which one may not be able to gather at once. To lose oneself to the atrocities unleashed by one's mind is only natural. But Nolan has shown how Oppenheimer lives through the pursuit of ultimate scientific glory in his initial days in Cambridge and Germany, only to fall into its fallacy of creating the most lethal weapon for deterrence among nations and for the world to find its peace. It's the mind of a scientist who is excited at the invention and is seeking happiness from the creation of something affirmative which may build the future of the world, unable to see its dark side. 2. 'To sin is a human business, but to justify sins is a devilish business' This statement by Russian author Leo Tolstoy underlines the intense nuclear proliferation by Washington and Moscow that brought humanity closest to its prospect of annihilation. The statement also sits aptly for a few instances which the film depicts from the life of the scientist as well as that of former US president Harry S Truman. Oppenheimer is seen encountering a moment when rage takes over his sensibilities and he ends up poisoning an apple which he hopes his professor will eat. ALSO READ | Trapped in politics: Should Dr Oppenheimer have been blacklisted for what he did? This is a perfect example of how people sin and how Oppenheimer's character hints at the destructiveness it may unleash in future. But the devil is seen residing in Truman too, who in a chilling scene, nonchalantly hands over a white handkerchief to the scientist to wipe his hands, when the latter, filled with guilt and remorse, says "I have blood on my hand". 3. Even the most decorated people can go nude with loose morals While going through the pre-decided hearing, Oppenheimer is shown standing at the conjunction of realism and hyperrealism, driven by shame and fear of societal defamation when he is forced to reveal his meetings with Jean Tatlock, as his wife sits behind and stares at his revelation. It's a perfect depiction of how the scientist, who was once "the man of the moment", is now being stripped naked because of some of his wrongdoings in his personal life. 4. Excitement to reach the finishing line fades once the line is crossed There is hustle and bustle and speed as America races against time to create the deadliest weapon humankind has ever seen. Shallow breath, hard deadlines which seem impossible to be met and curious eyes that stare blankly at the future – this is what defines the environment of Los Alamos hours before the Trinity test. However, once the test is successful and the success is celebrated, there is an eerie lull that stands behind the back of Oppenheimer as he looks at trucks filled with bombs he created going away to show the world the magic he brought to existence. 5. Most magnificent magic may hide death in its heart 'Magic' is the word that Oppenheimer utters when he talks about the most anticipated Trinity test. There is a thirst of a magician to show the world the most perfect trick ever mastered. He seems to be willing to give away everything to make it happen. However, hours before the test, he seemed to be hounded by the thoughts of what if the fire he is about to ignite may burn the whole world. It is the gory truth that the soul is aware of and the human mind refuses to accept. 6. Evil awakens the devil If we look at World War II, we may find the scale of balance faltering, failing to choose who is more atrocious. The persecution of Jews by Nazi Germany is seen as one of the darkest phases of mankind. Even when the world was witnessing it, the defined monstrosity of Nazi Germany must have left weaker Jews horrified and afraid and the stronger ones filled with rage to avenge the cruelty. WATCH | Gravitas: Oppenheimer opens with a bang in Kashmir Science doesn't remain confined to labs and experimental sites; it unfolds itself in the growing, burgeoning society. That's what happened with Isaac Newton's Third Law of Motion - "For every action in nature there is an equal and opposite reaction". It was the horrors committed by Nazis that somewhere seems to have led Oppenheimer, himself a Jew, to think about creating something which can eradicate them completely. 7. What is once gained is always meant to be lost Oppenheimer, who became the greatest scientist of his time and earned the title of the "father of the atomic bomb" and was featured in TIME magazine as the "man of the moment", suddenly saw his life falling apart with his security clearance getting revoked and him being branded as a "Russian spy". It is a full circle as life seems to complete its ecstatic dance, full of highs and lows, losing everything that once was earned through ideation, hard work and seldom through magic. 8. Humans don't ride on future, they get consumed by it The future is a far-fetched dream that humans, like Oppenheimer, try to construct with their own efforts, only to find themselves stuck in its chaos and noise. As Oppenheimer takes the stage to address the roaring crowds after the success of the Trinity test, he seems to be troubled and lost in the future in which he had constructed himself. He is grieving and filled with sorrow and his vision is haunted by visuals of humans wailing and hurt after the bombing. Humans tend to believe they know it all, but what lies in future is just another magic that time reveals, eventually consuming us mere humans wholly. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer depicts 8 dark, grisly shades of human lives

J Robert Oppenheimer was a physicist and director of the Manhattan Project, which developed the world's first nuclear bomb. He witnessed the destructive power of the bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Despite his role in the creation of the most destructive force the world has ever seen, he became an outspoken advocate for nuclear disarmament. Christopher Nolan's upcoming biopic, Oppenheimer, promises to explore the scientist's complicated life and legacy.

The mind of Oppenheimer, father of atomic bomb who turned pacifist

Russian tactical missiles and nuclear bombs arrive in Belarus

In August 1945, the United States detonated two atomic bombs over Japanese cities. American bombing raids on Hiroshima and Nagasaki marked the first use of atomic weapons in a war. Tens of thousands were killed in the initial explosions. Many more later succumbed to radiation poisoning. The incident altered the life of a survivor.

Meet the Atomic bomb survivor who hopes G7 leaders in Hiroshima will act on nuclear abolition

Last year's Tonga volcano explosion packed quite a punch. As per research, the explosion was around 1,000 times more powerful than the nuclear bomb the United States dropped on Japan's Hiroshima in 1945. Its magnitude was comparable to the most powerful nuclear detonation by the US: the Castle Bravo bomb that was detonated at Bikini Atoll in the year 1954.

Scientists have reached these estimates by using eye and earwitness accounts, along with data from tide gauges, satellites, evidence of broken windows and other sources.&nbsp;

According to them, the January 15, 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano likely involved five blasts, the final of which released energy equivalent to about 15 megatonnes of TNT which is 1,000 more powerful than 'Little Boy' the nuclear bomb responsible for Hiroshima's destruction.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/up-up-and-away-elon-musks-spacex-to-try-and-launch-starship-its-most-powerful-rocket-ever-on-monday-582601">Up, Up, and Away!: Elon Musk’s SpaceX to try and launch ‘Starship,’ its most powerful rocket ever on Monday</a>

The new study builds on previous research, which revealed that the eruption resulted in the highest ash plume ever recorded, reaching a height of 57 km (35 miles).&nbsp;

Guardian reports that the eruption sent ash and debris 20 km into the air. Previously, it was believed that the volcanic eruption caused a tsunami that hit several islands, with waves reaching as high as 15 metres. However, a computer simulation of the event suggests that the western coast of Tofua Island experienced waves as tall as 45 metres in height.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/responding-to-office-messages-on-whatsapp-after-work-hours-you-may-be-eligible-for-compensation-582683">Responding to office messages on WhatsApp after work hours? You may be eligible for compensation</a>

Dr Mohammad Heidarzadeh from the University of Bath, who has previously conducted research on the Tonga volcano eruption, has commented on a new study. He noted&nbsp;that the study benefits from a diverse observation dataset, which has enabled the researchers to create the most detailed modelling of the tsunami to date. He also remarked&nbsp;that the results of the study are consistent with his own&nbsp;research, which suggested that the maximum tsunami wave height was 90 metres.

"Modelling tsunamis from volcano eruptions is a challenging task and this has been nicely done," he said, as quoted by the Guardian. "It is interesting that the results are consistent with our previous study on this event, where we reported a maximum tsunami wave height of 90 metres," he added.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Last year's Tonga volcano explosion packed quite a punch. As per research, the explosion was around 1,000 times more powerful than the nuclear bomb the United States dropped on Japan's Hiroshima in 1945.

Last year's Tonga volcano explosion packed quite a punch. As per research, the explosion was around 1,000 times more powerful than the nuclear bomb the United States dropped on Japan's Hiroshima in 1945. Its magnitude was comparable to the most powerful nuclear detonation by the US: the Castle Bravo bomb that was detonated at Bikini Atoll in the year 1954. Scientists have reached these estimates by using eye and earwitness accounts, along with data from tide gauges, satellites, evidence of broken windows and other sources. According to them, the January 15, 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano likely involved five blasts, the final of which released energy equivalent to about 15 megatonnes of TNT which is 1,000 more powerful than 'Little Boy' the nuclear bomb responsible for Hiroshima's destruction. Also read | Up, Up, and Away!: Elon Musk’s SpaceX to try and launch ‘Starship,’ its most powerful rocket ever on Monday The new study builds on previous research, which revealed that the eruption resulted in the highest ash plume ever recorded, reaching a height of 57 km (35 miles). Guardian reports that the eruption sent ash and debris 20 km into the air. Previously, it was believed that the volcanic eruption caused a tsunami that hit several islands, with waves reaching as high as 15 metres. However, a computer simulation of the event suggests that the western coast of Tofua Island experienced waves as tall as 45 metres in height. Also read | Responding to office messages on WhatsApp after work hours? You may be eligible for compensation Dr Mohammad Heidarzadeh from the University of Bath, who has previously conducted research on the Tonga volcano eruption, has commented on a new study. He noted that the study benefits from a diverse observation dataset, which has enabled the researchers to create the most detailed modelling of the tsunami to date. He also remarked that the results of the study are consistent with his own research, which suggested that the maximum tsunami wave height was 90 metres. "Modelling tsunamis from volcano eruptions is a challenging task and this has been nicely done," he said, as quoted by the Guardian. "It is interesting that the results are consistent with our previous study on this event, where we reported a maximum tsunami wave height of 90 metres," he added. (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.

Quite a punch! Last year's Tonga volcano eruption was 1,000 times stronger than Hiroshima nuclear bomb

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. If some media reports are to be believed, Russia is transporting equipment for its nuclear weapons programme. Multiple reports have claimed that President Vladimir Putin may be attempting to send a message to the West by conducting a nuclear test, amid the Ukraine war. The footage of the convoy, shot at an undisclosed location in central Russia and carried by several Western news outlets shows a locomotive, linked to the 12th main directorate of the Russian ministry of defence carrying upgraded armoured personnel carriers and other equipment while heading towards the front line of the battlefield. "This is actually a kit belonging to the 12th Main Directorate of the Russian MoD. The directorate is responsible for nuclear munitions, their storage, maintenance, transport, and issuance to units," Konrad Muzyka, a defence analyst specialising in Ukraine was quoted as saying by The Telegraph. NATO sends 'nuclear' warning to allies As reported by WION, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has already warned its members that Putin may have deployed Poseidon, a nuclear weapon that is also known as the "weapon of the Apocalypse". NATO issued the warning note over the weekend which was leaked to Italian media. As per the note, the doomsday weapon is on its way from its base in the Arctic circle to the Kara Sea. Read more: NATO warns Russia may have deployed its 'weapon of the Apocalypse' Poseidon. Here's all you need to know According to data exchanged earlier this year under the New START arms reduction treaty between Moscow and Washington, Russia has 5,977 nuclear warheads for its strategic forces and the US has 5,428. Each warhead is much more powerful than the bombs dropped by the US on two Japanese cities at the end of World War II, the only time atomic weapons were used. We will use anything to protect Russia: Putin The threat of Moscow using a nuclear bomb has grown exponentially ever since the Russian troops were forced to stand down as Ukraine quickly regained ground. Putin raised the stakes further by mobilisation of reservists for the war, aiming to call up at least 300,000. But the effort is proving widely unpopular, with tens of thousands fleeing Russia and fueling protests and violence that threaten to destabilize the country. WATCH | Russia's nuclear Gambit: How real are Putin's nuclear threats in Ukraine? × Facing heat, Putin, in a televised speech said he was prepared to use any available means to defend his country, hinting at using the nuclear arsenal he has at his disposal. "If the territorial integrity of our country is threatened, we will without doubt use all available means to protect Russia and our people - this is not a bluff," Putin had said at the time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Footage shows Russia's nuclear 'armageddon' convoy on the move: Report

An adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that Iran possesses the technical ability to create a nuclear bomb. But the Islamic Republic has not yet made the decision whether to do so, Kamal Kharrazi said on Sunday (July 17), in a conversation with Al Jazeera news channel. He was speaking after Joe Biden’s four-day visit to Israel and Saudi Arabia came to a close, during which the US president promised to prevent Iran from ‘acquiring a nuclear weapon.’ Kharrazi said, “In a few days, we were able to enrich uranium up to 60 per cent and we can easily produce 90 per cent enriched uranium ... Iran has the technical means to produce a nuclear bomb but there has been no decision by Iran to build one."

In exchange for respite from economic sanctions, Iran had earlier agreed to limit its uranium enrichment activities, which lead to the development of nuclear weapons, under the terms of the 2015 nuclear agreement, which Donald Trump abandoned when he was US president, in 2018. Tehran began breaking these nuclear constraints of the agreement in response to Washington’s exit and its reimposition of severe sanctions.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-imposes-sanctions-on-61-americans-including-mike-pompeo-for-supporting-dissident-group-498109">Iran imposes sanctions on 61 Americans including Mike Pompeo for supporting dissident group</a>

Kharrazi asserted that Iran would never agree to concessions from the West and its Middle Eastern allies about its development of ballistic missiles and regional strategy, according to a report in Reuters.

Watch |&nbsp;Joe Biden: Do not want Iran to get nuclear weapons, force will be 'our last resort'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/joe-biden-do-not-want-iran-to-get-nuclear-weapons-force-will-be-our-last-resort-497192/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The demand from Tehran that Washington provides assurances that no future American president will renege on the agreement in the manner as Trump caused the talks to break down.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-and-saudi-arabia-interested-in-more-talks-497147">Iran says it and Saudi Arabia interested in more talks</a>

After 11 months of indirect negotiations between Tehran and Biden’s administration in Vienna, the general framework of a resurrected deal was virtually agreed upon in March. Since the nuclear agreement is a political understanding and not a legally binding treaty, Biden is unable to make this commitment.&nbsp;

As per Kharrazi, the potential of any agreement is destroyed because the US has not given assurances about upholding the nuclear deal.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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An adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that Iran possesses the technical ability to create a nuclear bomb. But the Islamic Republic has not yet made the decision whether to do so, Kamal Kharrazi said on Sunday (July 17), in a conversation with Al Jazeera news channel.

An adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said that Iran possesses the technical ability to create a nuclear bomb. But the Islamic Republic has not yet made the decision whether to do so, Kamal Kharrazi said on Sunday (July 17), in a conversation with Al Jazeera news channel. He was speaking after Joe Biden’s four-day visit to Israel and Saudi Arabia came to a close, during which the US president promised to prevent Iran from ‘acquiring a nuclear weapon.’ Kharrazi said, “In a few days, we were able to enrich uranium up to 60 per cent and we can easily produce 90 per cent enriched uranium ... Iran has the technical means to produce a nuclear bomb but there has been no decision by Iran to build one." In exchange for respite from economic sanctions, Iran had earlier agreed to limit its uranium enrichment activities, which lead to the development of nuclear weapons, under the terms of the 2015 nuclear agreement, which Donald Trump abandoned when he was US president, in 2018. Tehran began breaking these nuclear constraints of the agreement in response to Washington’s exit and its reimposition of severe sanctions. Also read | Iran imposes sanctions on 61 Americans including Mike Pompeo for supporting dissident group Kharrazi asserted that Iran would never agree to concessions from the West and its Middle Eastern allies about its development of ballistic missiles and regional strategy, according to a report in Reuters. Watch | Joe Biden: Do not want Iran to get nuclear weapons, force will be 'our last resort' The demand from Tehran that Washington provides assurances that no future American president will renege on the agreement in the manner as Trump caused the talks to break down. Also read | Iran says it and Saudi Arabia interested in more talks After 11 months of indirect negotiations between Tehran and Biden’s administration in Vienna, the general framework of a resurrected deal was virtually agreed upon in March. Since the nuclear agreement is a political understanding and not a legally binding treaty, Biden is unable to make this commitment. As per Kharrazi, the potential of any agreement is destroyed because the US has not given assurances about upholding the nuclear deal. (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.

Iran ‘capable of building nuclear bomb’, says advisor to Supreme Leader

In 2020, a US&nbsp;naval engineer and his wife made the fateful decision to try to sell some of America’s most closely guarded military secrets, the technology behind the nuclear reactors that power the US&nbsp;submarine fleet.

Then the couple faced another choice: To which foreign government should they try to peddle the stolen secrets?

The engineer appeared to believe that soliciting US&nbsp;adversaries like Russia or China was, morally, a bridge too far, according to text messages released in court. Instead, Jonathan and Diana Toebbe thought of a country that was rich enough to buy the secrets, not hostile to the United States and, most importantly, increasingly eager to acquire the technology they were selling: Brazil.

The identity of the nation approached by the Toebbes has until now remained shielded by federal prosecutors and other government officials. But, according to a senior Brazilian official and other people briefed on the investigation, Jonathan Toebbe approached Brazil nearly two years ago with an offer of thousands of pages of classified documents about nuclear reactors that he had stolen from the US&nbsp;Navy Yard in Washington over the course of several years.

The plan backfired almost as soon as it began. After Jonathan Toebbe sent a letter offering the secrets to Brazil’s military intelligence agency in April 2020, Brazilian officials handed the letter over to the FBI legal attaché in the country.

Then, beginning in December 2020, an FBI undercover agent posed as a Brazilian official to win Jonathan Toebbe’s trust and persuade him to deposit documents in a location chosen by investigators. Jonathan Toebbe eventually agreed to provide documents and offered technical assistance to Brazil’s nuclear submarine program, using classified information he had learned from years working for the U.S. Navy.

Jonathan and Diana Toebbe, who lived in Annapolis, Maryland, were arrested in October and pleaded guilty to espionage charges last month. He faces up to 17 1/2 years in prison; she faces up to three.

The White House, Justice Department and FBI declined to comment.

Jonathan Toebbe’s public defender has said government rules prevent him from answering questions. A lawyer for Diana Toebbe declined to discuss the case before her sentencing, set for August.

In 2020, a US naval engineer and his wife made the fateful decision to try to sell some of America’s most closely guarded military secrets, the technology behind the nuclear reactors that power the US submarine fleet.

In 2020, a US naval engineer and his wife made the fateful decision to try to sell some of America’s most closely guarded military secrets, the technology behind the nuclear reactors that power the US submarine fleet. Then the couple faced another choice: To which foreign government should they try to peddle the stolen secrets? The engineer appeared to believe that soliciting US adversaries like Russia or China was, morally, a bridge too far, according to text messages released in court. Instead, Jonathan and Diana Toebbe thought of a country that was rich enough to buy the secrets, not hostile to the United States and, most importantly, increasingly eager to acquire the technology they were selling: Brazil. The identity of the nation approached by the Toebbes has until now remained shielded by federal prosecutors and other government officials. But, according to a senior Brazilian official and other people briefed on the investigation, Jonathan Toebbe approached Brazil nearly two years ago with an offer of thousands of pages of classified documents about nuclear reactors that he had stolen from the US Navy Yard in Washington over the course of several years. The plan backfired almost as soon as it began. After Jonathan Toebbe sent a letter offering the secrets to Brazil’s military intelligence agency in April 2020, Brazilian officials handed the letter over to the FBI legal attaché in the country. Then, beginning in December 2020, an FBI undercover agent posed as a Brazilian official to win Jonathan Toebbe’s trust and persuade him to deposit documents in a location chosen by investigators. Jonathan Toebbe eventually agreed to provide documents and offered technical assistance to Brazil’s nuclear submarine program, using classified information he had learned from years working for the U.S. Navy. Jonathan and Diana Toebbe, who lived in Annapolis, Maryland, were arrested in October and pleaded guilty to espionage charges last month. He faces up to 17 1/2 years in prison; she faces up to three. The White House, Justice Department and FBI declined to comment. Jonathan Toebbe’s public defender has said government rules prevent him from answering questions. A lawyer for Diana Toebbe declined to discuss the case before her sentencing, set for August.

Submarine spy couple tried to sell nuclear secrets to Brazil

Talks to revive the Iran nuclear deal resumed today. But the negotiations ended in one hour. Tehran is playing hardball - and using its nuclear program as a bargaining chip. But, can Iran really make a nuclear bomb? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Can Iran really make a nuclear bomb?

Diplomats are back at the table for Iran nuclear talks, they went on a deal. But are they willing to make a concession for it? The Iranians want all sanctions lifted while the Americans say, we don't trust your intentions.

Diplomats back at the table for Iran nuclear talks

Today in history: USSR detonates nuclear bomb, Annie Frank deported and more

Iran agreed to allow the UN nuclear watchdog to install new memory cards into surveillance cameras at its sensitive nuclear sites. The announcement was made by the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) after a meeting with the director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Iran allows IAEA to service nuclear monitoring cameras after talks

On the fateful day of&nbsp;August&nbsp;9, 1945, the Japanese city of Nagasaki, a major port for trade faced unfathomable devastation at the hands of the US, thus putting an end to Japan's participation in the Second World War.&nbsp;

Today's anniversary

76 years ago today, the Japanese city of Nagasaki was destroyed by an atomic bomb, and today, its mayor called on the global community to build on the new nuclear ban treaty.

With the rebuilding of Nagasaki post World War II, the city has become a spiritual centre for movements for the ban of nuclear weapons.

The ceremony is the first since an international treaty banning nuclear weapons went into effect last year.

"World leaders must commit to nuclear arms reductions and build trust through dialogue, and civil society must push them in this direction,"&nbsp;Nagasaki&nbsp;mayor Tomihisa Taue said.

<img alt="Doves fly during a memorial service for victims of the US atomic bombing at the Nagasaki Peace Park in Nagasaki on August 9, 2021, as the city marks the 76th anniversary of the bombing." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="55145c04-63df-4aa5-9d08-155d3ab2fdd9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-08-09T163231.004.jpg" />

Doves fly during a memorial service for victims of the US atomic bombing at the Nagasaki Peace Park in Nagasaki on August 9, 2021, as the city marks the 76th anniversary of the bombing.&nbsp;(Source:AFP)

"As the only country that has suffered atomic bombings during the war, it is our unchanging mission to steadily advance the efforts of the&nbsp;international community, step by step, towards realisation of a world free of nuclear weapons," Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said at the ceremony.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So, what exactly happened that day?

Just three days earlier the city of Hiroshima had faced destruction, an atomic bomb code-named "Little boy" had brought devastation to the picturesque city resulting in the death of thousands.&nbsp;

On June 9th 1945, the city of Nagasaki faced the same fate, situated&nbsp;some 185 miles southwest of Hiroshima, at 11:02 am,&nbsp;another American bomber dropped its payload over Nagasaki. Between 60,000 and 80,000 people died in the bombing. Codenamed 'Fat Man'; it obliterated more than 30 per cent of Nagasaki.&nbsp;

<img alt="This file photo taken in 1945 next to the Urakami river in Nagasaki shows a wrecked brick wall and a &quot;Mitsubishi&quot; steel factory after a bombing by the US Air Force. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ebc9bed-014e-41b1-b656-d5a9f85741f0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-08-09T163648.829.jpg" />

This file photo taken in 1945 next to the Urakami river in Nagasaki shows a wrecked brick wall and a "Mitsubishi" steel factory after a bombing by the US Air Force.&nbsp;(Source:AFP)

Why did the US resort to atomic bombs?&nbsp;

Japan's surrender was America's immediate objective, followed by ending World War II and avoiding further casualties for the Allies.&nbsp;

It is also believed that the superpower wanted to demonstrate its new technology's incredibly destructive capabilities to the world, and in particular to the Soviet Union.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Why was Nagasaki targeted?

During the early 20th century, Nagasaki developed into a major shipbuilding city, which led the United States to target the city as a target for the atomic bomb dropped on Japan during World War II.

How many people actually died in this "massacre"?&nbsp;

<img alt="This filed photo dated 1945 shows the devastated city of Nagasaki after an atomic bomb was dropped by a US Air Force B-29 on August 9, 1945." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb4d708-d7c9-4f87-86e4-7152c85de918" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202021-08-09T163637.586.jpg" />

This filed photo dated 1945 shows the devastated city of Nagasaki after an atomic bomb was dropped by a US Air Force B-29 on August 9, 1945. (Source:AFP)

Unfortunately, it is extremely difficult to calculate exact figures, as many records were destroyed by the bomb, and the destruction of the area prevented accurate counts of casualties. Nonetheless, they estimate some 40,000 people died within seconds of the attack, with many more dying from radiation exposure, burns, or injuries within months.

(With inputs from agencies)

On the fateful day of August 9, 1945, the Japanese city of Nagasaki, a major port for trade faced unfathomable devastation at the hands of the US, thus putting an end to Japan's participation in the Second World War.

On the fateful day of August 9, 1945, the Japanese city of Nagasaki, a major port for trade faced unfathomable devastation at the hands of the US, thus putting an end to Japan's participation in the Second World War. Today's anniversary 76 years ago today, the Japanese city of Nagasaki was destroyed by an atomic bomb, and today, its mayor called on the global community to build on the new nuclear ban treaty. With the rebuilding of Nagasaki post World War II, the city has become a spiritual centre for movements for the ban of nuclear weapons. The ceremony is the first since an international treaty banning nuclear weapons went into effect last year. "World leaders must commit to nuclear arms reductions and build trust through dialogue, and civil society must push them in this direction," Nagasaki mayor Tomihisa Taue said. Doves fly during a memorial service for victims of the US atomic bombing at the Nagasaki Peace Park in Nagasaki on August 9, 2021, as the city marks the 76th anniversary of the bombing. (Source:AFP) "As the only country that has suffered atomic bombings during the war, it is our unchanging mission to steadily advance the efforts of the international community, step by step, towards realisation of a world free of nuclear weapons," Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said at the ceremony. So, what exactly happened that day? Just three days earlier the city of Hiroshima had faced destruction, an atomic bomb code-named "Little boy" had brought devastation to the picturesque city resulting in the death of thousands. On June 9th 1945, the city of Nagasaki faced the same fate, situated some 185 miles southwest of Hiroshima, at 11:02 am, another American bomber dropped its payload over Nagasaki. Between 60,000 and 80,000 people died in the bombing. Codenamed 'Fat Man'; it obliterated more than 30 per cent of Nagasaki. This file photo taken in 1945 next to the Urakami river in Nagasaki shows a wrecked brick wall and a "Mitsubishi" steel factory after a bombing by the US Air Force. (Source:AFP) Why did the US resort to atomic bombs? Japan's surrender was America's immediate objective, followed by ending World War II and avoiding further casualties for the Allies. It is also believed that the superpower wanted to demonstrate its new technology's incredibly destructive capabilities to the world, and in particular to the Soviet Union. Why was Nagasaki targeted? During the early 20th century, Nagasaki developed into a major shipbuilding city, which led the United States to target the city as a target for the atomic bomb dropped on Japan during World War II. How many people actually died in this "massacre"? This filed photo dated 1945 shows the devastated city of Nagasaki after an atomic bomb was dropped by a US Air Force B-29 on August 9, 1945. (Source:AFP) Unfortunately, it is extremely difficult to calculate exact figures, as many records were destroyed by the bomb, and the destruction of the area prevented accurate counts of casualties. Nonetheless, they estimate some 40,000 people died within seconds of the attack, with many more dying from radiation exposure, burns, or injuries within months. (With inputs from agencies)

Explainer: Nagasaki bombing, the history, and significance of "Fat Man"

The chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Rafael Grossi said&nbsp; in an interview published Wednesday that the situation in Iran was “very concerning.”

He expressed alarm over Iran’s nuclear programme, spelling out his concern related to its uranium enrichment.

He said Iran is enriching uranium to levels that only countries seeking to make atomic weapons reach, and that the Islamic Republic’s nuclear programme can no longer be returned to where it stood when a landmark 2015 deal was struck with world powers.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-natanz-nuclear-facility-hit-by-terrorist-act-376895/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“A country enriching at 60 per cent is a very serious thing — only countries making bombs are reaching this level,” International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi said in an interview with the Financial Times published on Wednesday and cited by the Reuters News Agency.

“Sixty per cent is almost weapons-grade, commercial enrichment is 2, 3 [per cent],” he said. “This is a degree that requires a vigilant eye.”&nbsp;

“You cannot put the genie back into the bottle — once you know how to do stuff, you know, and the only way to check this is through verification,” he said, referring to checks by UN monitors.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Rafael Grossi said in an interview published Wednesday that the situation in Iran was “very concerning.

The chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Rafael Grossi said in an interview published Wednesday that the situation in Iran was “very concerning.” He expressed alarm over Iran’s nuclear programme, spelling out his concern related to its uranium enrichment. He said Iran is enriching uranium to levels that only countries seeking to make atomic weapons reach, and that the Islamic Republic’s nuclear programme can no longer be returned to where it stood when a landmark 2015 deal was struck with world powers. “A country enriching at 60 per cent is a very serious thing — only countries making bombs are reaching this level,” International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi said in an interview with the Financial Times published on Wednesday and cited by the Reuters News Agency. “Sixty per cent is almost weapons-grade, commercial enrichment is 2, 3 [per cent],” he said. “This is a degree that requires a vigilant eye.” “You cannot put the genie back into the bottle — once you know how to do stuff, you know, and the only way to check this is through verification,” he said, referring to checks by UN monitors. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s uranium enrichment now at levels of ‘countries making bombs’: IAEA chief

It has been 75 years since the United States dropped the world's first atomic bomb on Hiroshima.&nbsp;

Has the world learnt any lessons?

Nuclear war remains the single biggest threat to humanity.

As many as 30 years ago, the Cold War ended with the US and Russia agreeing to reduce their nuclear arsenal by 90 per cent.&nbsp;

But those agreements are being discarded one by one. China is scaling up its small nuclear arsenal. US and Russia are modernising their nuclear weapons and non-nuclear nations are not happy.

The 1968 treaty on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons allows the nuclear powers, US, Britain, China, France and Russia to maintain nuclear weapons. This has been allowed in exchange for a commitment of total nuclear disarmament.&nbsp;

In pics |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/unspeakable-horror-the-attacks-on-hiroshima-and-nagasaki-318534">'Unspeakable horror': The attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki</a>

Other nuclear states, like India, Pakistan and Israel have not signed this treaty. North Korea, a former signatory, broke away and developed nuclear warheads.&nbsp;

This treaty failed and was replaced by another agreement in 2017 prohibits building, possessing and testing of nuclear weapons. So far, only 40 countries have signed it and as a result of this, the world has 13,410 nuclear weapons.&nbsp;

The nuclear treaties are not the only deals that have been discarded.

The Trump administration has pulled out the Iran Nuclear deal in 2018. The US has exited the intermediate-range nuclear forces treaty too.&nbsp;

Now the deal, that the new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia may fail if China remains adamant on not joining it. This could have serious implications as America, Russia and China hold more than 90 per cent of the world's nuclear arsenal.

Technology has brought in a new threat, faster missiles, cyber warfare and artificial intelligence.

The US and Israel have targeted Iran's nuclear program with a computer worm. Hackers in Russia have probed US nuclear plants and Chinese hackers conducted cyber espionage on the US military.

The use of AI increases the prospects of accidents and unintentional use of nuclear weapons. An automated system can make a mistake and that mistake can wipe out the world.&nbsp;

Nuclear weapons that made us suffer for decades still exists and therefore to say the war is over, would be very much an exaggeration.&nbsp;

It has been 75 years since the United States dropped the world's first atomic bomb on Hiroshima. Has the world learnt any lessons? Nuclear war remains the single biggest threat to humanity.

It has been 75 years since the United States dropped the world's first atomic bomb on Hiroshima. Has the world learnt any lessons? Nuclear war remains the single biggest threat to humanity. As many as 30 years ago, the Cold War ended with the US and Russia agreeing to reduce their nuclear arsenal by 90 per cent. But those agreements are being discarded one by one. China is scaling up its small nuclear arsenal. US and Russia are modernising their nuclear weapons and non-nuclear nations are not happy. The 1968 treaty on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons allows the nuclear powers, US, Britain, China, France and Russia to maintain nuclear weapons. This has been allowed in exchange for a commitment of total nuclear disarmament. In pics | 'Unspeakable horror': The attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki Other nuclear states, like India, Pakistan and Israel have not signed this treaty. North Korea, a former signatory, broke away and developed nuclear warheads. This treaty failed and was replaced by another agreement in 2017 prohibits building, possessing and testing of nuclear weapons. So far, only 40 countries have signed it and as a result of this, the world has 13,410 nuclear weapons. The nuclear treaties are not the only deals that have been discarded. The Trump administration has pulled out the Iran Nuclear deal in 2018. The US has exited the intermediate-range nuclear forces treaty too. Now the deal, that the new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia may fail if China remains adamant on not joining it. This could have serious implications as America, Russia and China hold more than 90 per cent of the world's nuclear arsenal. Technology has brought in a new threat, faster missiles, cyber warfare and artificial intelligence. The US and Israel have targeted Iran's nuclear program with a computer worm. Hackers in Russia have probed US nuclear plants and Chinese hackers conducted cyber espionage on the US military. The use of AI increases the prospects of accidents and unintentional use of nuclear weapons. An automated system can make a mistake and that mistake can wipe out the world. Nuclear weapons that made us suffer for decades still exists and therefore to say the war is over, would be very much an exaggeration.

75th anniversary of Hiroshima bombing: Has the world learnt any lessons?

A Hiroshima court issued a rare ruling Wednesday expanding the designation of atomic bomb survivors to include more people hit by radioactive "black rain", 75 years after the US nuclear attack on Japan at the end of World War II. 
 
The Hiroshima District Court said all 84 plaintiffs, aged from their 70s through 90s, should be granted medical benefits given to the victims of the attack, known locally as "hibakusha". 
 
After the war, the central government designated certain areas as having been significantly impacted by the bombing, and offered free medical care to those who were there at the time.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/hiroshima-high-court-overrules-go-ahead-for-restarting-nuclear-plant-near-fault-line-275510" hreflang="en">Hiroshima High Court overrules go-ahead for restarting nuclear plant near fault line</a> 
 
The plaintiffs were in areas outside that zone but that were showered in radioactive "black rain" following the August 6, 1945 attack, and argued that they suffered health effects similar to those inside the government-designated areas. 
 
"There is no irrationality in the residents' statements that they were soaked in the black rain," presiding judge Yoshiyuki Takashima told the court, according to broadcaster NHK. 
 
"Medical documents show that the residents are experiencing illnesses that are believed to have links with the atomic bomb, and that fulfil legal conditions required of hibakusha," he said. 
 
Japan offers generous healthcare for the elderly. Those who are 75 or older pay 10 percent of costs, but the case also carried symbolic value for those who have argued for years that they too suffered in the horrific attack. 
 
After the verdict was announced, a man emerged from the courthouse and unfurled a banner reading "complete victory" as plaintiffs and their supporters erupted in cheers. 
 
As of March, the central government recognised 136,682 people as hibakusha, including those who lived in Nagasaki, which was the target of the second and final atomic raid on August 9, 1945.&nbsp; 
 
Around 140,000 people were killed in the Hiroshima bombing and its aftermath, and 74,000 perished in the Nagasaki attack. Japan will hold ceremonies marking the 75th anniversary of the two bombings next week.

A Hiroshima court issued a rare ruling Wednesday expanding the designation of atomic bomb survivors to include more people hit by radioactive "black rain", 75 years after the US nuclear attack on Japan at the end of World War II.

A Hiroshima court issued a rare ruling Wednesday expanding the designation of atomic bomb survivors to include more people hit by radioactive "black rain", 75 years after the US nuclear attack on Japan at the end of World War II. The Hiroshima District Court said all 84 plaintiffs, aged from their 70s through 90s, should be granted medical benefits given to the victims of the attack, known locally as "hibakusha". After the war, the central government designated certain areas as having been significantly impacted by the bombing, and offered free medical care to those who were there at the time. Also read: Hiroshima High Court overrules go-ahead for restarting nuclear plant near fault line The plaintiffs were in areas outside that zone but that were showered in radioactive "black rain" following the August 6, 1945 attack, and argued that they suffered health effects similar to those inside the government-designated areas. "There is no irrationality in the residents' statements that they were soaked in the black rain," presiding judge Yoshiyuki Takashima told the court, according to broadcaster NHK. "Medical documents show that the residents are experiencing illnesses that are believed to have links with the atomic bomb, and that fulfil legal conditions required of hibakusha," he said. Japan offers generous healthcare for the elderly. Those who are 75 or older pay 10 percent of costs, but the case also carried symbolic value for those who have argued for years that they too suffered in the horrific attack. After the verdict was announced, a man emerged from the courthouse and unfurled a banner reading "complete victory" as plaintiffs and their supporters erupted in cheers. As of March, the central government recognised 136,682 people as hibakusha, including those who lived in Nagasaki, which was the target of the second and final atomic raid on August 9, 1945. Around 140,000 people were killed in the Hiroshima bombing and its aftermath, and 74,000 perished in the Nagasaki attack. Japan will hold ceremonies marking the 75th anniversary of the two bombings next week.

Japan court recognises more Hiroshima bomb survivors

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un has said that his country's nuclear weapons are a security guarantee and “reliable, effective” deterrent that could prevent a second Korean War, state media reported Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-declares-emergency-in-border-town-over-first-suspected-covid-19-case-316097" hreflang="en">North Korea declares emergency in border town over first suspected COVID-19 case</a>

The North Korean dictator made these comments ahead of the 67th anniversary of the end of the 1950-53 Korean War hinting that he has no intentions of abandoning the weapons to resume diplomacy with the United States.

Previously, the country ratcheted up fiery rhetoric or conducted weapons tests to wrest outside concessions, however, some experts believe that North Korea will avoid serious talks with the Americans before the US presidential elections in November as there is a chance for a US leadership change.

According to the Korean Central News Agency, Kim said that his country has tried to become “a nuclear state” with “an absolute might” to prevent another war and that it has now built such a deterrent during his speech on Monday. 4

“Now, we’ve changed to a country which can defend itself reliably and unwaveringly against high-intensity pressures and military threats and blackmailing by imperialistic reactionaries and hostile forces,” Kim said.

“There won’t be any war on this land again and our national security and future will be guaranteed firmly and permanently because of our reliable, effective self-defensive nuclear deterrent,” Kim said.

After the speech, both North Korean and US officials passed remarks saying that they were reluctant to engage in a new round of diplomacy on the North’s nuclear program anytime soon.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said President Donald Trump would only want to engage with Kim if there were real prospects of progress. Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump met three times after the North Korean leader expressed his intent to deal away his advancing nuclear arsenals. Many experts were doubtful that Kim’s commitment disarm his weapons and said he only aimed to weaken US-led sanctions and perfect his nuclear program.

Both leaders last met in February 2019, when diplomacy talks failed in Vietnam and no agreement was signed because Trump rejected Kim’s proposal to get extensive sanctions relief in return for a limited denuclearization step.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un has said that his country's nuclear weapons are a security guarantee and “reliable, effective” deterrent that could prevent a second Korean War, state media reported Tuesday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un has said that his country's nuclear weapons are a security guarantee and “reliable, effective” deterrent that could prevent a second Korean War, state media reported Tuesday. Also read: North Korea declares emergency in border town over first suspected COVID-19 case The North Korean dictator made these comments ahead of the 67th anniversary of the end of the 1950-53 Korean War hinting that he has no intentions of abandoning the weapons to resume diplomacy with the United States. Previously, the country ratcheted up fiery rhetoric or conducted weapons tests to wrest outside concessions, however, some experts believe that North Korea will avoid serious talks with the Americans before the US presidential elections in November as there is a chance for a US leadership change. According to the Korean Central News Agency, Kim said that his country has tried to become “a nuclear state” with “an absolute might” to prevent another war and that it has now built such a deterrent during his speech on Monday. 4 “Now, we’ve changed to a country which can defend itself reliably and unwaveringly against high-intensity pressures and military threats and blackmailing by imperialistic reactionaries and hostile forces,” Kim said. “There won’t be any war on this land again and our national security and future will be guaranteed firmly and permanently because of our reliable, effective self-defensive nuclear deterrent,” Kim said. After the speech, both North Korean and US officials passed remarks saying that they were reluctant to engage in a new round of diplomacy on the North’s nuclear program anytime soon. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said President Donald Trump would only want to engage with Kim if there were real prospects of progress. Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump met three times after the North Korean leader expressed his intent to deal away his advancing nuclear arsenals. Many experts were doubtful that Kim’s commitment disarm his weapons and said he only aimed to weaken US-led sanctions and perfect his nuclear program. Both leaders last met in February 2019, when diplomacy talks failed in Vietnam and no agreement was signed because Trump rejected Kim’s proposal to get extensive sanctions relief in return for a limited denuclearization step.

Kim Jong Un denies possibility of another war in North Korea; thanks 'reliable, effective' nuclear arms

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Despite having nuclear technology, Iran has never pursued building or using nuclear weapons, which its religion forbids, the country's highest political authority, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said on Wednesday.

"Building and stockpiling nuclear bombs is wrong and using it is haram (religiously forbidden) ... Although we have nuclear technology, Iran has firmly avoided it," State TV quoted him as saying.

Iran has repeatedly denied ever having sought to build a nuclear bomb.

A landmark 2015 deal that put curbs on Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief has been on life support since May last year when US President Donald Trump withdrew the US from it and reimposed sanctions.

The remaining parties to the deal with Iran — Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia — have tried to salvage the accord, but Tehran has repeatedly accused Europe of not doing enough.

Despite having nuclear technology, Iran has never pursued building or using nuclear weapons, which its religion forbids, the country's highest political authority, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said on Wednesday.

Despite having nuclear technology, Iran has never pursued building or using nuclear weapons, which its religion forbids, the country's highest political authority, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said on Wednesday. "Building and stockpiling nuclear bombs is wrong and using it is haram (religiously forbidden) ... Although we have nuclear technology, Iran has firmly avoided it," State TV quoted him as saying. Iran has repeatedly denied ever having sought to build a nuclear bomb. A landmark 2015 deal that put curbs on Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief has been on life support since May last year when US President Donald Trump withdrew the US from it and reimposed sanctions. The remaining parties to the deal with Iran — Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia — have tried to salvage the accord, but Tehran has repeatedly accused Europe of not doing enough.

Iran's Khamenei says building, using nuclear bomb religiously forbidden: State TV

The mayor of Hiroshima urged Japan to sign a landmark UN treaty banning nuclear weapons as the city Tuesday marked 74 years since being targeted in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hiroshima-marks-73rd-anniversary-of-atomic-bombing-in-wwii-157247">world's first atomic attack</a>.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe led commemorations at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima as residents offered silent prayers, lit candles and placed wreathes to remember those killed in the August 6, 1945 bombing.

And mayor Kazumi Matsui used the occasion to push the Abe administration to sign the UN treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons (TPNW), approved by more than 120 nations, but rejected by the US and other nuclear armed countries.

"I call on the government of the only country to experience a nuclear weapon in war to accede to the hibakusha's (atomic bomb victims) request that the TPNW be signed and ratified," said Matsui.

"I urge Japan's leaders to manifest the pacifism of the Japanese constitution by displaying leadership in taking the next step towards a world free from nuclear weapons."

The mayor urged world leaders to come to the city to see the memorial for themselves, amid expectations that Pope Francis will visit later this year.

The ongoing threat from atomic weapons in the region was demonstrated as nuclear-armed North Korea fired off two "unidentified projectiles" off its eastern coast -- the latest in a series of tests.

Meanwhile, the US and Russia failed to renew a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-formally-withdraws-from-1987-nuclear-pact-with-russia-mike-pompeo-240169"> Cold War-era nuclear pact </a>last week, triggering renewed fears of an arms race.

Japan remains the only country to have experienced atomic attack -- against Hiroshima and Nagasaki, days ahead of the country's surrender on August 15, 1945 to end World War II.

For his part, Abe reiterated a pledge to serve as a "bridge" between nations with and without nuclear weapons to rid the world of them.

"With help from both sides, I will patiently encourage them to engage in dialogue and I am resolved to lead international efforts towards this end," he said.&nbsp;

The mayor of Hiroshima urged Japan to sign a landmark UN treaty banning nuclear weapons as the city Tuesday marked 74 years since being targeted in the world's first atomic attack.

The mayor of Hiroshima urged Japan to sign a landmark UN treaty banning nuclear weapons as the city Tuesday marked 74 years since being targeted in the world's first atomic attack. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe led commemorations at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima as residents offered silent prayers, lit candles and placed wreathes to remember those killed in the August 6, 1945 bombing. And mayor Kazumi Matsui used the occasion to push the Abe administration to sign the UN treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons (TPNW), approved by more than 120 nations, but rejected by the US and other nuclear armed countries. "I call on the government of the only country to experience a nuclear weapon in war to accede to the hibakusha's (atomic bomb victims) request that the TPNW be signed and ratified," said Matsui. "I urge Japan's leaders to manifest the pacifism of the Japanese constitution by displaying leadership in taking the next step towards a world free from nuclear weapons." The mayor urged world leaders to come to the city to see the memorial for themselves, amid expectations that Pope Francis will visit later this year. The ongoing threat from atomic weapons in the region was demonstrated as nuclear-armed North Korea fired off two "unidentified projectiles" off its eastern coast -- the latest in a series of tests. Meanwhile, the US and Russia failed to renew a Cold War-era nuclear pact last week, triggering renewed fears of an arms race. Japan remains the only country to have experienced atomic attack -- against Hiroshima and Nagasaki, days ahead of the country's surrender on August 15, 1945 to end World War II. For his part, Abe reiterated a pledge to serve as a "bridge" between nations with and without nuclear weapons to rid the world of them. "With help from both sides, I will patiently encourage them to engage in dialogue and I am resolved to lead international efforts towards this end," he said.

Mayor urges Japan to sign UN nuke ban on Hiroshima anniversary

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Likening Iran&#39;s leader to Adolf Hitler, Saudi Arabia&#39;s crown prince warned in a US television interview that if Tehran gets a nuclear weapon, his country will follow suit.

&quot;Saudi Arabia does not want to acquire any nuclear bomb, but without a doubt, if Iran developed a nuclear bomb, we will follow suit as soon as possible,&quot; Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in an excerpt of the interview that aired Thursday on &quot;CBS This Morning.&quot;

The 32-year-old Prince Mohammed said he has referred to Iran&#39;s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as &quot;the new Hitler&quot; because &quot;he wants to expand.&quot;

&quot;He wants to create his own project in the Middle East, very much like Hitler who wanted to expand at the time,&quot; Prince Mohammed said.

&quot;Many countries around the world and in Europe did not realize how dangerous Hitler was until what happened, happened. I don&#39;t want to see the same events happening in the Middle East.&quot;

The interview is scheduled to run on CBS&#39;s &quot;60 Minutes&quot; show on Sunday, two days before the crown prince&#39;s scheduled White House meeting with US President Donald Trump.

His comments come amid concerns over nuclear proliferation in the Middle East and just days after the kingdom put an atomic energy program on a fast track.

Although intended to reduce Saudi Arabia&#39;s dependence on oil, analysts warn the capacity to produce atomic energy could open a pathway to nuclear development for military purposes.

A 2015 nuclear agreement has placed curbs on Iran&#39;s nuclear program, but Trump has expressed a desire to scrap it, making its future uncertain.

The Saudi cabinet says its nuclear program will be in &quot;full compliance with the principle of transparency&quot; and meet nuclear safety standards &quot;in accordance with an independent regulatory and supervisory framework.&quot;

The country has accelerated plans to build 16 nuclear reactors over the next two decades, according to officials and analysts, at a cost of around $80 billion.

Saudi Energy Minister Khaled al-Faleh said in October that the nuclear program would start by building two reactors, each producing between 1.2 and 1.6 gigawatts of electricity.

'Saudi Arabia does not want to acquire any nuclear bomb, but without a doubt, if Iran developed a nuclear bomb, we will follow suit as soon as possible,' Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said

Likening Iran's leader to Adolf Hitler, Saudi Arabia's crown prince warned in a US television interview that if Tehran gets a nuclear weapon, his country will follow suit. "Saudi Arabia does not want to acquire any nuclear bomb, but without a doubt, if Iran developed a nuclear bomb, we will follow suit as soon as possible," Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in an excerpt of the interview that aired Thursday on "CBS This Morning." The 32-year-old Prince Mohammed said he has referred to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as "the new Hitler" because "he wants to expand." "He wants to create his own project in the Middle East, very much like Hitler who wanted to expand at the time," Prince Mohammed said. "Many countries around the world and in Europe did not realize how dangerous Hitler was until what happened, happened. I don't want to see the same events happening in the Middle East." The interview is scheduled to run on CBS's "60 Minutes" show on Sunday, two days before the crown prince's scheduled White House meeting with US President Donald Trump. His comments come amid concerns over nuclear proliferation in the Middle East and just days after the kingdom put an atomic energy program on a fast track. Although intended to reduce Saudi Arabia's dependence on oil, analysts warn the capacity to produce atomic energy could open a pathway to nuclear development for military purposes. A 2015 nuclear agreement has placed curbs on Iran's nuclear program, but Trump has expressed a desire to scrap it, making its future uncertain. The Saudi cabinet says its nuclear program will be in "full compliance with the principle of transparency" and meet nuclear safety standards "in accordance with an independent regulatory and supervisory framework." The country has accelerated plans to build 16 nuclear reactors over the next two decades, according to officials and analysts, at a cost of around $80 billion. Saudi Energy Minister Khaled al-Faleh said in October that the nuclear program would start by building two reactors, each producing between 1.2 and 1.6 gigawatts of electricity.

If Iran gets nuclear bomb, Saudi Arabia will follow suit: Crown Prince

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