Taiban said on Friday that the insurgent group is "optimistic" of signing a deal with the United States by the end of this month.

Taliban had also agreed to "scale down" military operations in Afghanistan in order to provide a safe environment for withdrawal of foreign forces from the region, Taliban chief spokesperson Suhail Shaheen told&nbsp;Pakistani daily Dawn.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-open-to-10-day-ceasefire-with-us-talks-with-afghan-government-report-275076">Taliban open to 10-day ceasefire with US, talks with Afghan government: Report</a>

“We have agreed to scale down military operations in days leading up to the signing of the peace agreement with the United States,” Shaheen, said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-special-envoy-zalmay-khalilzad-briefs-pakistan-on-taliban-peace-talks-268258">US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad briefs Pakistan on Taliban peace talks</a>

Shaheen said that the purpose behind the move is "to provide safe environment to foreign forces to withdraw from Afghanistan”. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-announces-a-pause-in-peace-talks-with-taliban-after-airbase-attack-267989">US announces a pause in peace talks with Taliban after airbase attack</a>

The chief spokesperson's comments came after Taliban is in talks with the US this week in Doha.&nbsp;

Shaheen, however, said that there is no agreement on ceasefire.&nbsp;

"The scaling down will be blanket and shall include all forces including state forces,” Shaheen added.&nbsp;

Shaheen also said that the draft peace agreement is ready.&nbsp;

“It’s now a matter of days", said the spokesperson, adding that the group is "optimistic" that the deal could be signed before the end of this month.&nbsp;

Afghan Presidential Palace said that it is unaware of the deal and affirmed that they need to be taken into confidence before finalising any agreement.&nbsp;

Taliban and the US had been working on a peace deal for a year and were on the brink of an announcement in September 2019 when President Donald Trump called off the process after a US soldier was killed in an attack.&nbsp;

Talks were restarted late in November 2019 after Trump made a surprise visit to Afghanistan. However, an attack near the Bagram military base once again halted the talks. &nbsp;

So far, the Taliban has not negotiated with the Afghanistan government as it considers the regime as "illegitimate".&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Taiban said on Friday that the insurgent group is "optimistic" of signing a deal with the United States by the end of this month. Taliban had also agreed to "scale down" military operations in Afghanistan in order to provide a safe environment for withdrawal of foreign forces from the region, Taliban chief spokesperson Suhail Shaheen told Pakistani daily Dawn.

Taiban said on Friday that the insurgent group is "optimistic" of signing a deal with the United States by the end of this month. Taliban had also agreed to "scale down" military operations in Afghanistan in order to provide a safe environment for withdrawal of foreign forces from the region, Taliban chief spokesperson Suhail Shaheen told Pakistani daily Dawn. Also read: Taliban open to 10-day ceasefire with US, talks with Afghan government: Report “We have agreed to scale down military operations in days leading up to the signing of the peace agreement with the United States,” Shaheen, said. Also read: US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad briefs Pakistan on Taliban peace talks Shaheen said that the purpose behind the move is "to provide safe environment to foreign forces to withdraw from Afghanistan”. Also read: US announces a pause in peace talks with Taliban after airbase attack The chief spokesperson's comments came after Taliban is in talks with the US this week in Doha. Shaheen, however, said that there is no agreement on ceasefire. "The scaling down will be blanket and shall include all forces including state forces,” Shaheen added. Shaheen also said that the draft peace agreement is ready. “It’s now a matter of days", said the spokesperson, adding that the group is "optimistic" that the deal could be signed before the end of this month. Afghan Presidential Palace said that it is unaware of the deal and affirmed that they need to be taken into confidence before finalising any agreement. Taliban and the US had been working on a peace deal for a year and were on the brink of an announcement in September 2019 when President Donald Trump called off the process after a US soldier was killed in an attack. Talks were restarted late in November 2019 after Trump made a surprise visit to Afghanistan. However, an attack near the Bagram military base once again halted the talks. So far, the Taliban has not negotiated with the Afghanistan government as it considers the regime as "illegitimate". (with inputs from agencies)

Taliban says deal with US can be signed before end of this month: Report

Global markets heaved a sigh of relief when the world's two largest economies signed the first phase of the trade truce, ending an 18-month standoff that feared a further slowdown in the global economy. The deal didn't end the hundreds of billions of dollars of tariffs imposed by both the countries but some reliefs were provided to the Chinese.

The trade war first started when US President Donald Trump accused China of unfair trade practices and intellectual property theft. So, let's look at the key issues and see whether the phase 1 of this deal address them or not.

Tariffs

The good news for China is that the US agreed to reduce half of the total tariffs imposed on its goods in September 2019. However, both countries have not rolled back enormous tariffs imposed on each other's exports. This means Washington's tariffs on $360 billion Chinese goods and Beijing's $110 billion on US goods will continue. The US also agreed that it will not impose tariffs that were supposed to be put in place on December 15.

Intellectual property

China has long been accused of intellectual property theft even by the previous US administrations and was one of the main reasons for the confrontation. This truce deals with intellectual property issue as China has committed to protect trademark, patents and copyrights. China also vowed of stronger criminal and civil laws to punish intellectual property thefts and counterfeiting.

The deal also ensures that US-based pharmaceutical industries get more shields from China as far as patents are concerned.

American businesses have often complained of surrendering technology and trade secrets to China as a necessity to do business in the country. China pledged to eliminate any forced transfer of technology which includes removing pressures of licensing and administrative approvals.

Purchase of American goods

Through this deal, the US President wanted to push US exports to China which is significantly lower than Chinese exports to the US. China vowed that it will purchase $200 billion worth of goods from the US in the next two years. The list of purchase includes $32 billion of agricultural products, $52.4 billion of energy exports, $77.7 billion worth manufactured products and $37.9 billion of services.

China, however, claims that the buying will depend on the market demand and some analysts and experts are also sceptical whether American manufacturers and farmers can produce enough to meet Chinese demands.

China has also relaxed a number of health standards which earlier were used to prevent American imports. These changes will benefit US products, such as dairy, meat, seafood, poultry, among others.

Subsidies and cybersecurity

Trump has complained of China offering massive industrial subsidies to its domestic firms, making it difficult for American businesses to compete. These subsidies were especially granted to solar panel and steel industries. It was a major issue of conflict but the truce has no word on these subsidies.

The trade deal also doesn't comment on other concerning issues such as cybersecurity and Chinese control of cloud computing and data storage.

Currency manipulations

Ahead of signing of the first-phase deal, the US removed its currency manipulator tag from China. In the deal, China pledged that it will not manipulate its currency for gaining unfair trade advantage, a commitment the country made for years to G20 nations and are its obligations to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The US treasury earlier said that China has made “enforceable commitments to refrain from competitive devaluation” and said that it would publish relevant data on exchange rates and external balances.

Access to financial services

With the deal, the US says that its financial services companies have got a better access to Chinese markets. The deal binds China to address concerns of foreign equity limitations and discriminatory regulatory requirements.

Interestingly, China already started giving foreign financial companies more room from 2017. Also, US payment companies' entry in the Chinese market will not be easy as the market is majorly dominated by domestic firms.

Dispute resolving mechanism

The deal also says that future trade disputes be settled through bilateral consultations, which will initiate from working level and escalate to top-tier.

If bilateral engagement doesn't solve the differences, then the affected party can impose penalties or tariffs and the other country cannot in retaliation put more tariffs. In such an act of retaliation, any party can give written notice and the deal could be withdrawn.

Global markets heaved a sigh of relief when the world's two largest economies signed the first phase of the trade truce, ending an 18-month standoff that feared a further slowdown in the global economy.

Global markets heaved a sigh of relief when the world's two largest economies signed the first phase of the trade truce, ending an 18-month standoff that feared a further slowdown in the global economy. The deal didn't end the hundreds of billions of dollars of tariffs imposed by both the countries but some reliefs were provided to the Chinese. The trade war first started when US President Donald Trump accused China of unfair trade practices and intellectual property theft. So, let's look at the key issues and see whether the phase 1 of this deal address them or not. Tariffs The good news for China is that the US agreed to reduce half of the total tariffs imposed on its goods in September 2019. However, both countries have not rolled back enormous tariffs imposed on each other's exports. This means Washington's tariffs on $360 billion Chinese goods and Beijing's $110 billion on US goods will continue. The US also agreed that it will not impose tariffs that were supposed to be put in place on December 15. Intellectual property China has long been accused of intellectual property theft even by the previous US administrations and was one of the main reasons for the confrontation. This truce deals with intellectual property issue as China has committed to protect trademark, patents and copyrights. China also vowed of stronger criminal and civil laws to punish intellectual property thefts and counterfeiting. The deal also ensures that US-based pharmaceutical industries get more shields from China as far as patents are concerned. American businesses have often complained of surrendering technology and trade secrets to China as a necessity to do business in the country. China pledged to eliminate any forced transfer of technology which includes removing pressures of licensing and administrative approvals. Purchase of American goods Through this deal, the US President wanted to push US exports to China which is significantly lower than Chinese exports to the US. China vowed that it will purchase $200 billion worth of goods from the US in the next two years. The list of purchase includes $32 billion of agricultural products, $52.4 billion of energy exports, $77.7 billion worth manufactured products and $37.9 billion of services. China, however, claims that the buying will depend on the market demand and some analysts and experts are also sceptical whether American manufacturers and farmers can produce enough to meet Chinese demands. China has also relaxed a number of health standards which earlier were used to prevent American imports. These changes will benefit US products, such as dairy, meat, seafood, poultry, among others. Subsidies and cybersecurity Trump has complained of China offering massive industrial subsidies to its domestic firms, making it difficult for American businesses to compete. These subsidies were especially granted to solar panel and steel industries. It was a major issue of conflict but the truce has no word on these subsidies. The trade deal also doesn't comment on other concerning issues such as cybersecurity and Chinese control of cloud computing and data storage. Currency manipulations Ahead of signing of the first-phase deal, the US removed its currency manipulator tag from China. In the deal, China pledged that it will not manipulate its currency for gaining unfair trade advantage, a commitment the country made for years to G20 nations and are its obligations to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The US treasury earlier said that China has made “enforceable commitments to refrain from competitive devaluation” and said that it would publish relevant data on exchange rates and external balances. Access to financial services With the deal, the US says that its financial services companies have got a better access to Chinese markets. The deal binds China to address concerns of foreign equity limitations and discriminatory regulatory requirements. Interestingly, China already started giving foreign financial companies more room from 2017. Also, US payment companies' entry in the Chinese market will not be easy as the market is majorly dominated by domestic firms. Dispute resolving mechanism The deal also says that future trade disputes be settled through bilateral consultations, which will initiate from working level and escalate to top-tier. If bilateral engagement doesn't solve the differences, then the affected party can impose penalties or tariffs and the other country cannot in retaliation put more tariffs. In such an act of retaliation, any party can give written notice and the deal could be withdrawn.

US China trade deal: What were the key issues and are they resolved?

Scientists in the US have developed the world's first living robots that can walk, swim using frogs' stem cells.&nbsp;

The living machines are named&nbsp;as Xenobots, after the African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis) from which they have taken their stem cells, reported CNN. The machines are less than a milimetre&nbsp;in size and look like a moving pink flesh.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smart-robots-in-the-offing-to-help-mine-the-moon-272277">Smart robots in the offing to help mine the moon</a>

Xenobots can swim, walk, survive for days without food and work together in groups.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/robots-to-take-20-million-jobs-worsening-inequality-study-230459">Robots to take 20 million jobs, worsening inequality: Study</a>

The scientists scraped living stem cells from frog embryos. They left them to incubate. After this, the cells were cut and reshaped into specific "body forms", said a news release from the University of Vermont.

The cells later started to work on their own. The skin cells combined to form a structure and pulsing heart muscle cells enabled the robot to move on its own.&nbsp;

The robots also have self-healing capabilities.&nbsp;

Joshua Bongard, one of the main researchers of the project, described Xenobots as "novel machines". He also said the new robots are "artfact", "a living, programmable organism".&nbsp;

The study also claimed that robots are more environmental-friendly and safer for human health.&nbsp;

The robots can perform tasks such as cleaning radioactive waste, carrying medicine inside human bodies and collecting microplastics from the oceans, among others. They can be also placed in the arteries to scrape out plaque. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Scientists in the US have developed the world's first living robots that can walk, swim using frogs' stem cells. The living machines are named as Xenobots, after the African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis) from which they have taken their stem cells, reported CNN.

Scientists in the US have developed the world's first living robots that can walk, swim using frogs' stem cells. The living machines are named as Xenobots, after the African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis) from which they have taken their stem cells, reported CNN. The machines are less than a milimetre in size and look like a moving pink flesh. Also read: Smart robots in the offing to help mine the moon Xenobots can swim, walk, survive for days without food and work together in groups. Also read: Robots to take 20 million jobs, worsening inequality: Study The scientists scraped living stem cells from frog embryos. They left them to incubate. After this, the cells were cut and reshaped into specific "body forms", said a news release from the University of Vermont. The cells later started to work on their own. The skin cells combined to form a structure and pulsing heart muscle cells enabled the robot to move on its own. The robots also have self-healing capabilities. Joshua Bongard, one of the main researchers of the project, described Xenobots as "novel machines". He also said the new robots are "artfact", "a living, programmable organism". The study also claimed that robots are more environmental-friendly and safer for human health. The robots can perform tasks such as cleaning radioactive waste, carrying medicine inside human bodies and collecting microplastics from the oceans, among others. They can be also placed in the arteries to scrape out plaque.

Scientists develop world's first living robots using stem cells from frogs

Elizabeth Warren made another stunning revelation against fellow Democratic presidential contender Bernie Sanders that he had told her earlier that a woman could not win the 2020 US election.&nbsp;

Warren's comments came amid escalating tensions between her and Sanders, who are friends and have similar ideological leanings.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/im-disappointed-bernie-sanders-sent-volunteers-to-trash-me-elizabeth-warren-273907">'I'm disappointed Bernie Sanders sent volunteers to trash me': Elizabeth Warren</a>

Earlier, as per a CNN report, Sanders told Warren in a 2018 meeting that he does not believe that a woman could beat US President Donald Trump. The media outlet also mentioned the names of four people who have knowledge about the meeting.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/warren-sanders-campaigns-spar-in-rare-show-of-discord-between-progressive-democratic-contenders-273901/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Sanders denied the report and in an interview to CNN said that it was "ludicrous" that he would tell Warren a woman could not win.&nbsp;

"I thought a woman could win; he disagreed," Warren said in a statement released on Monday.&nbsp;

Warren&nbsp;later said that she has no interest in discussing this private meeting anymore "because Bernie and I have far more in common than our differences in punditry".

The tensions between both the senators earlier rose when Politico reported on Sunday that Sanders' campaign volunteers are describing Warren as a candidate for the elite.&nbsp;

Warren responded she was disappointed to know that Sanders&nbsp;was sending volunteers to "trash" her.&nbsp;

Sanders later said that he didn't approve of talking negative points about other rival candidates.&nbsp;

"Elizabeth Warren is a very good friend of mine... No one is gonna trash Elizabeth Warren," Sanders had said.&nbsp;

Warren and Sanders will face off in the seventh Democratic presidential debate on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Elizabeth Warren made another stunning revelation against fellow Democratic presidential contender Bernie Sanders that he had told her earlier that a woman could not win the 2020 US election.

Elizabeth Warren made another stunning revelation against fellow Democratic presidential contender Bernie Sanders that he had told her earlier that a woman could not win the 2020 US election. Warren's comments came amid escalating tensions between her and Sanders, who are friends and have similar ideological leanings. Also read: 'I'm disappointed Bernie Sanders sent volunteers to trash me': Elizabeth Warren Earlier, as per a CNN report, Sanders told Warren in a 2018 meeting that he does not believe that a woman could beat US President Donald Trump. The media outlet also mentioned the names of four people who have knowledge about the meeting. Watch: Sanders denied the report and in an interview to CNN said that it was "ludicrous" that he would tell Warren a woman could not win. "I thought a woman could win; he disagreed," Warren said in a statement released on Monday. Warren later said that she has no interest in discussing this private meeting anymore "because Bernie and I have far more in common than our differences in punditry". The tensions between both the senators earlier rose when Politico reported on Sunday that Sanders' campaign volunteers are describing Warren as a candidate for the elite. Warren responded she was disappointed to know that Sanders was sending volunteers to "trash" her. Sanders later said that he didn't approve of talking negative points about other rival candidates. "Elizabeth Warren is a very good friend of mine... No one is gonna trash Elizabeth Warren," Sanders had said. Warren and Sanders will face off in the seventh Democratic presidential debate on Tuesday.

Bernie Sanders said no woman could beat Donald Trump in 2020: Elizabeth Warren

US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) listed a group of environmental activists as "extremists", as per a report.&nbsp;

As per documents accessed by The Guardian, the environment activists engaged in non-violent civil disobedience targeting the oil industry, are described as "extremists". Some of the people from the group are also described alongside "mass killers" and "white nationalists".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-crisis-to-be-part-of-school-education-in-new-zealand-273868">Climate crisis to be part of school education in New Zealand</a>

The group have been dubbed the Valve Turners, after they closed the valves on pipelines in four states carrying crude oil from Canada’s tar sands in 2016. The pipelines account for nearly 15 % of US daily consumption. It was considered as the largest coordinated action of its kind and for a few hours oil stopped flowing.&nbsp;

The five activists informed the energy companies whose pipelines were being disrupted and posted videos of their activities on the internet. They waited patiently to get arrested.

The DHS in an evaluation of domestic terrorism threats between 2018 and 2020, described the group as “suspected environmental rights extremists”.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) listed a group of environmental activists as "extremists", as per a report. As per documents accessed by The Guardian, the environment activists engaged in non-violent civil disobedience targeting the oil industry, are described as "extremists".

US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) listed a group of environmental activists as "extremists", as per a report. As per documents accessed by The Guardian, the environment activists engaged in non-violent civil disobedience targeting the oil industry, are described as "extremists". Some of the people from the group are also described alongside "mass killers" and "white nationalists". Also read: Climate crisis to be part of school education in New Zealand The group have been dubbed the Valve Turners, after they closed the valves on pipelines in four states carrying crude oil from Canada’s tar sands in 2016. The pipelines account for nearly 15 % of US daily consumption. It was considered as the largest coordinated action of its kind and for a few hours oil stopped flowing. The five activists informed the energy companies whose pipelines were being disrupted and posted videos of their activities on the internet. They waited patiently to get arrested. The DHS in an evaluation of domestic terrorism threats between 2018 and 2020, described the group as “suspected environmental rights extremists”.

Climate activist group listed as 'extremists' in US

US President Donald Trump is considering a visit to India next month, sources close to the matter said on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier invited Trump for India's annual Republic Day parade on January 26, but the US officials said it would overlap with the president's State of the Union address.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/memories-from-houston-pm-modi-gifts-framed-photograph-from-howdy-modi-to-trump-251835">'Memories from Houston': PM Modi gifts framed photograph from 'Howdy, Modi' to Trump</a>

If Trump makes it to India, it would be his first visit since he took office three years ago.&nbsp;

"There has been an open invitation for him to visit, both sides are working out the dates," a source said.&nbsp;

Another source said that Trump may come in the second half of February and could visit any other city apart from the national capital Delhi.&nbsp;

Indian foreign ministry has so far not reacted to this news.&nbsp;

(with Reuters inputs)

US President Donald Trump is considering a visit to India next month, sources close to the matter said on Tuesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier invited Trump for India's annual Republic Day parade on January 26, but the US officials said it would overlap with the president's State of the Union address.

US President Donald Trump is considering a visit to India next month, sources close to the matter said on Tuesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier invited Trump for India's annual Republic Day parade on January 26, but the US officials said it would overlap with the president's State of the Union address. Also read: 'Memories from Houston': PM Modi gifts framed photograph from 'Howdy, Modi' to Trump If Trump makes it to India, it would be his first visit since he took office three years ago. "There has been an open invitation for him to visit, both sides are working out the dates," a source said. Another source said that Trump may come in the second half of February and could visit any other city apart from the national capital Delhi. Indian foreign ministry has so far not reacted to this news. (with Reuters inputs)

Donald Trump considering a visit to India: Sources

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Sunday asserted that there is "enough testimony to remove President Donald Trump from office" when the impeachment hearing will move to Senate for the trial.&nbsp;

Pelosi will meet with the House Democratic caucus early Tuesday regarding the formal vote required to send the two articles of impeachment to the Senate.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-prepared-to-testify-in-trump-impeachment-trial-john-bolton-272608">I am prepared to testify in Trump impeachment trial: John Bolton</a>

The trial in Senate is expected to be held quickly as Republicans have enough votes to reject impeachment charges.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-impeachment-row-us-senate-in-stalemate-over-how-to-proceed-272003">Trump impeachment row: US Senate in stalemate over how to proceed</a>

Trump was impeached on December 18 by the House for pressurising Ukraine to investigate his potential 2020 election rival Joe Biden and obstructing the subsequent congressional probe.

Pelosi had hoped to convince Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell for allowing new evidence and witnesses in the trial. McConnell, however, has not budged.&nbsp;

"We wanted the public to see the need for witnesses," she told ABC on Sunday.&nbsp;

"Now the ball is in their court, to either do that or pay a price for not doing it."

McConnell claimed that Republicans have enough votes to block Democrats demand on witnesses and evidence.&nbsp;

The Speaker also said that new emails that back charges against the US President have emerged. Pelosi added that former national security adviser John Bolton has also expressed willingness to participate in the trial if subpoenaed.

Trump, earlier, had said in an interview on Friday that he might use executive privilege to block Bolton's testimony.&nbsp;The US President has expressed confidence on the trial and asked to done with it as soon as possible.&nbsp;

"Why should I have the stigma of Impeachment attached to my name when I did nothing wrong," the president tweeted on Sunday. "Very unfair to tens of millions of voters!"

(with inputs from AFP)

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Sunday asserted that there is "enough testimony to remove President Donald Trump from office" when the impeachment hearing will move to Senate for the trial.

US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Sunday asserted that there is "enough testimony to remove President Donald Trump from office" when the impeachment hearing will move to Senate for the trial. Pelosi will meet with the House Democratic caucus early Tuesday regarding the formal vote required to send the two articles of impeachment to the Senate. Also read: I am prepared to testify in Trump impeachment trial: John Bolton The trial in Senate is expected to be held quickly as Republicans have enough votes to reject impeachment charges. Also read: Trump impeachment row: US Senate in stalemate over how to proceed Trump was impeached on December 18 by the House for pressurising Ukraine to investigate his potential 2020 election rival Joe Biden and obstructing the subsequent congressional probe. Pelosi had hoped to convince Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell for allowing new evidence and witnesses in the trial. McConnell, however, has not budged. "We wanted the public to see the need for witnesses," she told ABC on Sunday. "Now the ball is in their court, to either do that or pay a price for not doing it." McConnell claimed that Republicans have enough votes to block Democrats demand on witnesses and evidence. The Speaker also said that new emails that back charges against the US President have emerged. Pelosi added that former national security adviser John Bolton has also expressed willingness to participate in the trial if subpoenaed. Trump, earlier, had said in an interview on Friday that he might use executive privilege to block Bolton's testimony. The US President has expressed confidence on the trial and asked to done with it as soon as possible. "Why should I have the stigma of Impeachment attached to my name when I did nothing wrong," the president tweeted on Sunday. "Very unfair to tens of millions of voters!" (with inputs from AFP)

Enough testimony to remove Donald Trump from office: Nancy Pelosi

Presidential contender Elizabeth Warren slammed his friend and another Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders on Sunday for describing her a candidate for the elite.

Warren said that she was disappointed to know that Bernie was sending volunteers to "trash" her.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elizabeth-warren-and-bernie-sanders-defend-progressive-policies-in-us-democratic-debate-239616">Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders defend progressive policies in US Democratic debate</a>

"Bernie knows me and has known me for a long time. He knows who I am, where I come from, what I have worked on and fought for, and the coalition and grassroots movement we are trying to build. Democrats want to win in 2020. We all saw the impact of the factionalism in 2016 and we can't have a repeat of that," Warren said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democratic-candidate-warren-discloses-details-of-past-legal-work-showing-2-million-in-compensation-267187">Democratic candidate Warren discloses details of past legal work, showing $2 million in compensation</a>

Warren and Sanders are friends and have similar ideological leanings and before this development, both of these candidates avoided a confrontation against each other.&nbsp;

"I hope Bernie reconsiders and turns his campaign in a different direction."

Earlier, a report by Politico claimed that volunteers of Sanders' campaign argue to voters that Warren was supported by "highly-educated, more affluent people who are going to show up and vote Democratic no matter what". &nbsp;The report added that Warren's campaign is not motivating people who do not cast their vote.&nbsp;

After the report, Sanders said that he did not approve of talking negative points about other candidates.&nbsp;

"We have over 500 people on our campaign. People do certain things. I'm sure that in Elizabeth's campaign people do certain things as well. But you have heard me for months. I have never said a negative word about Elizabeth Warren who is a friend of mine. We have differences on issues, that's what campaigning is about. But no one is going to be attacking Elizabeth."

He also called Warren "a good friend of mine" and said that nobody would trash her.&nbsp;

"Elizabeth Warren is a very good friend of mine. We have worked together in the Senate for years. Elizabeth Warren and I will continue to work together. We will debate the issues. No one is gonna trash Elizabeth Warren."

(with Reuters inputs)

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Presidential contender Elizabeth Warren slammed his friend and another Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders on Sunday for describing her a candidate for the elite.

Presidential contender Elizabeth Warren slammed his friend and another Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders on Sunday for describing her a candidate for the elite. Warren said that she was disappointed to know that Bernie was sending volunteers to "trash" her. Also read: Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders defend progressive policies in US Democratic debate "Bernie knows me and has known me for a long time. He knows who I am, where I come from, what I have worked on and fought for, and the coalition and grassroots movement we are trying to build. Democrats want to win in 2020. We all saw the impact of the factionalism in 2016 and we can't have a repeat of that," Warren said. Also read: Democratic candidate Warren discloses details of past legal work, showing $2 million in compensation Warren and Sanders are friends and have similar ideological leanings and before this development, both of these candidates avoided a confrontation against each other. "I hope Bernie reconsiders and turns his campaign in a different direction." Earlier, a report by Politico claimed that volunteers of Sanders' campaign argue to voters that Warren was supported by "highly-educated, more affluent people who are going to show up and vote Democratic no matter what". The report added that Warren's campaign is not motivating people who do not cast their vote. After the report, Sanders said that he did not approve of talking negative points about other candidates. "We have over 500 people on our campaign. People do certain things. I'm sure that in Elizabeth's campaign people do certain things as well. But you have heard me for months. I have never said a negative word about Elizabeth Warren who is a friend of mine. We have differences on issues, that's what campaigning is about. But no one is going to be attacking Elizabeth." He also called Warren "a good friend of mine" and said that nobody would trash her. "Elizabeth Warren is a very good friend of mine. We have worked together in the Senate for years. Elizabeth Warren and I will continue to work together. We will debate the issues. No one is gonna trash Elizabeth Warren." (with Reuters inputs)

'I'm disappointed Bernie Sanders sent volunteers to trash me': Elizabeth Warren

Amid row over the crash of Ukrainian plane in Tehran, Iran's civil aviation chief Ali Abedzadeh said on Friday he was "certain" that the aircraft was not hit by a missile.&nbsp;

"One thing is for certain, this airplane was not hit by a missile," Abedzadeh said in a press conference.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intelligence-evidence-indicates-boeing-airliner-was-shot-down-by-iranian-surface-to-air-missile-trudeau-273282">Intelligence evidence indicates Boeing airliner was shot down by Iranian surface-to-air missile: Trudeau</a>

Iran's civil aviation chief's statements came after Britain and Canada claimed that intelligence sources suggested a catastrophic error by Iranian air defence batteries had crashed the aircraft.

Watch:

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-rumours-missile-caused-plane-crash-make-no-sense-273278">Iran says rumours missile caused plane crash make 'no sense'</a>

Abedzadeh also said that "any remarks made before the data is extracted ... is not an expert opinion."

Earlier, a video was surfaced that showed the moment the airliner was hit.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-us-plane-crash-news-updates-iran-formally-invites-us-transport-board-to-investigate-boeing-airliner-crash-273301">Iran plane crash news: Iran formally invites US transport board to investigate Boeing airliner crash</a>

New York Times claimed that it has verified the footage, which shows a rapidly-moving object rising to an angle into the sky before a flash is noticed, which dims and continues moving forward. After several seconds, an explosion is heard.&nbsp;

"We have seen some videos. We confirm that the airplane was on fire for 60 to 70 seconds," Abedzadeh said.&nbsp;

But to say "that it was hit by something cannot be scientifically correct," the aviation chief added.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed that probe from multiple agencies showed that the plane was crashed after it was shot down by an Iranian missile.

63 Canadians were amongst the 176 people that were killed in the crash.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson also backed Trudeau's claims and said that the missile targetting the aircraft "may well have been unintentional."

The Ukranian airlines' Boeing 737 crashed after taking off from Tehran on Wednesday, nearly at the same time when Iran claimed it fired two missiles on US airbases in Iraq.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Amid row over the crash of Ukrainian plane in Tehran, Iran's civil aviation chief Ali Abedzadeh said on Friday he was "certain" that the aircraft was not hit by a missile.

Amid row over the crash of Ukrainian plane in Tehran, Iran's civil aviation chief Ali Abedzadeh said on Friday he was "certain" that the aircraft was not hit by a missile. "One thing is for certain, this airplane was not hit by a missile," Abedzadeh said in a press conference. Also read: Intelligence evidence indicates Boeing airliner was shot down by Iranian surface-to-air missile: Trudeau Iran's civil aviation chief's statements came after Britain and Canada claimed that intelligence sources suggested a catastrophic error by Iranian air defence batteries had crashed the aircraft. Watch: Also read: Iran says rumours missile caused plane crash make 'no sense' Abedzadeh also said that "any remarks made before the data is extracted ... is not an expert opinion." Earlier, a video was surfaced that showed the moment the airliner was hit. Also read: Iran plane crash news: Iran formally invites US transport board to investigate Boeing airliner crash New York Times claimed that it has verified the footage, which shows a rapidly-moving object rising to an angle into the sky before a flash is noticed, which dims and continues moving forward. After several seconds, an explosion is heard. "We have seen some videos. We confirm that the airplane was on fire for 60 to 70 seconds," Abedzadeh said. But to say "that it was hit by something cannot be scientifically correct," the aviation chief added. On Thursday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau claimed that probe from multiple agencies showed that the plane was crashed after it was shot down by an Iranian missile. 63 Canadians were amongst the 176 people that were killed in the crash. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson also backed Trudeau's claims and said that the missile targetting the aircraft "may well have been unintentional." The Ukranian airlines' Boeing 737 crashed after taking off from Tehran on Wednesday, nearly at the same time when Iran claimed it fired two missiles on US airbases in Iraq. (with inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian aircraft was not hit by a missile: Iran's civil aviation chief

A fresh row erupted in the United States after the Vice President made claims on Friday that Qasem Soleimani assisted clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the 9/11 attacks in the country.&nbsp;

Media houses in the country challenged Vice President Mike Pence's claims of Soleimani's connections to the September 11 attacks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump</a>

Soleimani, who was the head of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards', was killed on Friday in a drone strike by the US in Baghdad.

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Assisted in the clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States.
— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Pence/status/1213189757708189699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The American vice president on Friday said on Twitter that Soleimani "assisted in the clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States."

When critics on Twitter pointed out that the 2001 terror attacks were carried out by 19 militants, and not 11, Pence spokeswoman Katie Waldman clarified that Pence was referring only to the dozen who had "transited through Afghanistan."

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Yesterday, President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> took decisive action and stood up against the leading state sponsor of terror to take out an evil man who was responsible for killing thousands of Americans. Soleimani was a terrorist. Here are some of his worst atrocities:
— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Pence/status/1213189745821540353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"10 of those 12 were assisted by Soleimani," Waldman said.&nbsp;

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Directed the sophisticated January 20, 2007, attack on the Provincial Joint Coordination Center in Karbala, Iraq, in which five captured U.S. soldiers were executed.
— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Pence/status/1213189750409986049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, New York Times refuted Vice President's claims and said that Soleimani was never named in the elaborated 585-page report issued by the September 11 Commission. &nbsp;

The Washington Post said that it might be "technically correct to say that Iran 'assisted' in their (9/11 militants) travel." But, it added that did not mean Tehran, or Soleimani in particular was "knowingly assisting in what became the 9/11 attack."&nbsp;

Also, 15 of the 19 US terror attack hijackers were from Saudi Arabia, Iran's arch-rival. 
&nbsp; 
Pence went on to make his points clear through his tweets where he claimed of atrocities committed by Soleimani across a wide swath of the Middle East.

(with inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

A fresh row erupted in the United States after the Vice President made claims on Friday that Qasem Soleimani assisted clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the 9/11 attacks in the country.

A fresh row erupted in the United States after the Vice President made claims on Friday that Qasem Soleimani assisted clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the 9/11 attacks in the country. Media houses in the country challenged Vice President Mike Pence's claims of Soleimani's connections to the September 11 attacks. Also read: US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump Soleimani, who was the head of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards', was killed on Friday in a drone strike by the US in Baghdad. Assisted in the clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States. — Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) January 3, 2020 × The American vice president on Friday said on Twitter that Soleimani "assisted in the clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States." When critics on Twitter pointed out that the 2001 terror attacks were carried out by 19 militants, and not 11, Pence spokeswoman Katie Waldman clarified that Pence was referring only to the dozen who had "transited through Afghanistan." Yesterday, President @realDonaldTrump took decisive action and stood up against the leading state sponsor of terror to take out an evil man who was responsible for killing thousands of Americans. Soleimani was a terrorist. Here are some of his worst atrocities: — Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) January 3, 2020 × "10 of those 12 were assisted by Soleimani," Waldman said. Directed the sophisticated January 20, 2007, attack on the Provincial Joint Coordination Center in Karbala, Iraq, in which five captured U.S. soldiers were executed. — Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) January 3, 2020 × However, New York Times refuted Vice President's claims and said that Soleimani was never named in the elaborated 585-page report issued by the September 11 Commission. The Washington Post said that it might be "technically correct to say that Iran 'assisted' in their (9/11 militants) travel." But, it added that did not mean Tehran, or Soleimani in particular was "knowingly assisting in what became the 9/11 attack." Also, 15 of the 19 US terror attack hijackers were from Saudi Arabia, Iran's arch-rival. Pence went on to make his points clear through his tweets where he claimed of atrocities committed by Soleimani across a wide swath of the Middle East. (with inputs from AFP)

US media challenges Vice President Mike Pence's claims of Soleimani assisting 9/11 terrorists

After the escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran and at a time when World War 3 is trending on Twitter, an old video of US President Donald Trump has resurfaced where he accused his predecessor Barack Obama of starting a war with Iran.&nbsp;

In the video which came out in 2011, Trump said that then-president Obama will start a war with Iran because of his inability to negotiate and in order to get reelected.&nbsp;

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"Our president will start a war with Iran because he has absolutely no ability to negotiate. He's weak and he's ineffective. So the only way he figures that he's going to get reelected and is sure as you're sitting there is to start a war with Iran." <a href="https://t.co/Ad6IPLhOWg">pic.twitter.com/Ad6IPLhOWg</a>
— Angelo Carusone (@GoAngelo) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoAngelo/status/1212938627279466503?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump</a>

"President will start a war with Iran because he has absolutely no ability to negotiate. He is weak and ineffective. So the only way that he figured he is going to get reelected is to start a war with Iran," Trump had said in the video.&nbsp;

Ironically, concerns were raised of war after the strained ties between Washington and Tehran became even worsened after the killing of former Qasem Soleimani by a US drone strike.&nbsp;

Soleimani was a much-revered figure in Iran and its adjoining region and the pro-Iranian factions are threatening of attacking US missiles across Iraq after his killing.

Trump has been extremely critical of Obama's policies and in 2018 pulled out of former US President's nuclear deal with Iran and imposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic. China, Russia, Europeans were the other parties of the nuclear pact that limited Iran to extract uranium and in return avoided sanctions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After the escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran and at a time when World War 3 is trending on Twitter, an old video of US President Donald Trump has resurfaced where he accused his predecessor Barack Obama of starting a war with Iran.

After the escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran and at a time when World War 3 is trending on Twitter, an old video of US President Donald Trump has resurfaced where he accused his predecessor Barack Obama of starting a war with Iran. In the video which came out in 2011, Trump said that then-president Obama will start a war with Iran because of his inability to negotiate and in order to get reelected. "Our president will start a war with Iran because he has absolutely no ability to negotiate. He's weak and he's ineffective. So the only way he figures that he's going to get reelected and is sure as you're sitting there is to start a war with Iran." pic.twitter.com/Ad6IPLhOWg — Angelo Carusone (@GoAngelo) January 3, 2020 × Also read: US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump "President will start a war with Iran because he has absolutely no ability to negotiate. He is weak and ineffective. So the only way that he figured he is going to get reelected is to start a war with Iran," Trump had said in the video. Ironically, concerns were raised of war after the strained ties between Washington and Tehran became even worsened after the killing of former Qasem Soleimani by a US drone strike. Soleimani was a much-revered figure in Iran and its adjoining region and the pro-Iranian factions are threatening of attacking US missiles across Iraq after his killing. Trump has been extremely critical of Obama's policies and in 2018 pulled out of former US President's nuclear deal with Iran and imposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic. China, Russia, Europeans were the other parties of the nuclear pact that limited Iran to extract uranium and in return avoided sanctions.

Barack Obama will start a war with Iran: Donald Trump's 2011 video resurfaces

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif responded to Trump's warnings on Sunday in a tweet, saying that targetting country's cultural sites would be a "war crime".&nbsp;

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-Having committed grave breaches of int'l law in Friday's cowardly assassinations, <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realdonaldtrump</a> threatens to commit again new breaches of JUS COGENS; 
 
-Targeting cultural sites is a WAR CRIME; 
 
-Whether kicking or screaming, end of US malign presence in West Asia has begun.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1213742809095770113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The comments came after Trump tweeted early on Sunday where he warned Iran that US would target Iran's 52 sites if they killed any American.&nbsp;

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....hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years. Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have.....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593974679769093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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....targeted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level &amp; important to Iran &amp; the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593975732527112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump said in a tweet.&nbsp;

The tensions between Iran and the US rose after the killing of Soleimani, former chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force. Concerns of war were also raised after the US drone strike that killed Soleimani and Iraq's paramilitary chief.&nbsp;

Iran's army chief General Abdolrahim Mousavi also said on Sunday that US lacked the "courage" to initiate a conflict.&nbsp;

"I doubt they have the courage to initiate," Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said, reported by state news agency IRNA.&nbsp;

Earlier today, thousands of mourners cried, beat their chests as they paid respect to&nbsp;Soleimani after his last remains reached Iran.

In the southwestern city of Ahvaz, men and women shouted "Death to America" and carried portraits of the commander.

It is expected that the last remains of Soleimani, who was much-revered in the region&nbsp;will reach Iraqi capital Tehran in the evening. The funeral fo former commander will be done in his hometown Kerman on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Earlier, Iran's supreme commander Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed of "severe revenge" after the killing of former commander.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif responded to Trump's warnings on Sunday in a tweet, saying that targetting country's cultural sites would be a "war crime".

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif responded to Trump's warnings on Sunday in a tweet, saying that targetting country's cultural sites would be a "war crime". -Having committed grave breaches of int'l law in Friday's cowardly assassinations, @realdonaldtrump threatens to commit again new breaches of JUS COGENS; -Targeting cultural sites is a WAR CRIME; -Whether kicking or screaming, end of US malign presence in West Asia has begun. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 5, 2020 × The comments came after Trump tweeted early on Sunday where he warned Iran that US would target Iran's 52 sites if they killed any American. ....hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years. Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have..... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × ....targeted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump said in a tweet. The tensions between Iran and the US rose after the killing of Soleimani, former chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force. Concerns of war were also raised after the US drone strike that killed Soleimani and Iraq's paramilitary chief. Iran's army chief General Abdolrahim Mousavi also said on Sunday that US lacked the "courage" to initiate a conflict. "I doubt they have the courage to initiate," Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said, reported by state news agency IRNA. Earlier today, thousands of mourners cried, beat their chests as they paid respect to Soleimani after his last remains reached Iran. In the southwestern city of Ahvaz, men and women shouted "Death to America" and carried portraits of the commander. It is expected that the last remains of Soleimani, who was much-revered in the region will reach Iraqi capital Tehran in the evening. The funeral fo former commander will be done in his hometown Kerman on Tuesday. Earlier, Iran's supreme commander Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed of "severe revenge" after the killing of former commander.

It will be a 'war crime' if US attacks Iran's cultural sites: Foreign minister Zarif

US President Donald Trump warned Iran on Sunday&nbsp;that the United States is targetting 52&nbsp;sites in Iran and asserted of hitting them "very fast and very hard" if threats to the US are not stopped.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, Trump said Iran is talking very boldly about targetting "US assets" after the killing of top commander Qasem Soleimani.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chants-of-death-to-america-as-iraqis-mourn-death-of-iranian-commander-272136">Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani</a> 
&nbsp;

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Iran is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets as revenge for our ridding the world of their terrorist leader who had just killed an American, &amp; badly wounded many others, not to mention all of the people he had killed over his lifetime, including recently....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593965838163968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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....hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years. Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have.....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593974679769093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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....targeted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level &amp; important to Iran &amp; the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593975732527112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Iran is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets as revenge for our ridding the world of their terrorist leader who had just killed an American, &amp; badly wounded many others, not to mention all of the people he had killed over his lifetime, including recently hundreds of Iranian 
protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years."

He added that 52 represents the number of US hostages taken by Iran many years ago.&nbsp;

"Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have targetted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level &amp; important to Iran &amp; &nbsp;the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran 
itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats!," Trump tweeted.

The threat by the US President comes after two mortar rounds hit an area near the US embassy in Baghdad on Saturday, in apparent retaliation after the killing of Soleimani.&nbsp;

After the mortar attack, almost simultaneously, two rockets also were fired aiming the Al-Balad airbase where American troops are deployed. However, the US and Iraqi military confirmed that there were no casualties.&nbsp;

Soleimani, a much-revered figure in Iran and nearby region, was the leader of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' and was killed in a drone strike by the US near the Baghdad international airport. The strike killed 10 people including Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.&nbsp;

Yesterday, thousands of people in Iran chanted "Death to America" and called for "revenge" in the funeral procession in honour of late commander.&nbsp;

Pro-Iranian groups in Iran are threatening of targetting US installations across Iraq with missiles and warnings to Iraqi troops, part of great anger against the killing of Soleimani.&nbsp;

Earlier Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also called for "severe revenge" and vowed that "God willing, his work and his path will not be stopped".&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump warned Iran on Sunday that the United States is targetting 52 sites in Iran and asserted of hitting them "very fast and very hard" if threats to the US are not stopped.

US President Donald Trump warned Iran on Sunday that the United States is targetting 52 sites in Iran and asserted of hitting them "very fast and very hard" if threats to the US are not stopped. Taking to Twitter, Trump said Iran is talking very boldly about targetting "US assets" after the killing of top commander Qasem Soleimani. Also read: Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani Iran is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets as revenge for our ridding the world of their terrorist leader who had just killed an American, & badly wounded many others, not to mention all of the people he had killed over his lifetime, including recently.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × ....hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years. Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have..... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × ....targeted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × "Iran is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets as revenge for our ridding the world of their terrorist leader who had just killed an American, & badly wounded many others, not to mention all of the people he had killed over his lifetime, including recently hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years." He added that 52 represents the number of US hostages taken by Iran many years ago. "Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have targetted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats!," Trump tweeted. The threat by the US President comes after two mortar rounds hit an area near the US embassy in Baghdad on Saturday, in apparent retaliation after the killing of Soleimani. After the mortar attack, almost simultaneously, two rockets also were fired aiming the Al-Balad airbase where American troops are deployed. However, the US and Iraqi military confirmed that there were no casualties. Soleimani, a much-revered figure in Iran and nearby region, was the leader of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' and was killed in a drone strike by the US near the Baghdad international airport. The strike killed 10 people including Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis. Yesterday, thousands of people in Iran chanted "Death to America" and called for "revenge" in the funeral procession in honour of late commander. Pro-Iranian groups in Iran are threatening of targetting US installations across Iraq with missiles and warnings to Iraqi troops, part of great anger against the killing of Soleimani. Earlier Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also called for "severe revenge" and vowed that "God willing, his work and his path will not be stopped".

US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump

Thousands of mourners dressed in black paid respect to former general Qasem Soleimani after his body reached the Iranian city of Ahvaz on Sunday.&nbsp;

Like yesterday, mourners once again chanted "Death to America" at a mass gathering in the country's southwestern city. The last remains reached Iran after thousands bid adieu to the much-revered commander in the Iraqi cities of Baghdad and Najaf.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump&nbsp;</a>

A video clip by official IRIB agency showed that the coffin was wrapped in an Iranian flag and a military band started playing as soon as the coffin unloaded from the plane.&nbsp;
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani last remains" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6d78a13-5e5f-4e80-9c85-bdb869de53ec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1NG3AV.jpg" />
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;(Mourners holding the coffin: Photo Credit: AFP)

The mourners were seen crying, beating their chests and carried portraits of the commander who was the chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force.
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani last remains" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7de93e24-6a0f-4da4-a10e-b827ac124261" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pYcLf0yl.jpg" />
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;(Mourners holding the coffin in Iran: Photo Credit: AFP)

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chants-of-death-to-america-as-iraqis-mourn-death-of-iranian-commander-272136">Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani</a>

Men and women gathered in Mollavi Square with flags in green, white and red, which depicted the blood of "martyrs".
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani last remains" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6dc87dfa-93d9-4448-9f28-6d301385eaf5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/wYBcMV3Q.jpg" />
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; (An Iranian carrying Soleimani's photograph: Photo Credit: Reuters)

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-punish-americans-wherever-they-are-within-its-reach-guards-commander-272154">Iran will punish Americans wherever they are within its reach: Guards commander</a>

The 62-year old general was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad international airport on Friday. Iraq's paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis was also killed in the strike.&nbsp;

After Soleimani's killing, ties between Washington and Tehran got even more strained and raised concerns of a new war in the Middle East.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed "severe revenge" and declared three days of mourning in the Islamic Republic.

Earlier today, US President Donald Trump, in a tweet, said that the US would target Iran's 52 sites if they killed any American.&nbsp;

Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump tweeted.&nbsp;

On Sunday evening, it is expected that the last remains will be flown to the Iranian capital Tehran before the funeral in Soleimani's hometown Kerman on Tuesday.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Thousands of mourners dressed in black paid respect to former general Qasem Soleimani after his body reached the Iranian city of Ahvaz on Sunday. Like yesterday, mourners once again chanted "Death to America" at a mass gathering in the country's southwestern city.

Thousands of mourners dressed in black paid respect to former general Qasem Soleimani after his body reached the Iranian city of Ahvaz on Sunday. Like yesterday, mourners once again chanted "Death to America" at a mass gathering in the country's southwestern city. The last remains reached Iran after thousands bid adieu to the much-revered commander in the Iraqi cities of Baghdad and Najaf. Also read: US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump A video clip by official IRIB agency showed that the coffin was wrapped in an Iranian flag and a military band started playing as soon as the coffin unloaded from the plane. (Mourners holding the coffin: Photo Credit: AFP) The mourners were seen crying, beating their chests and carried portraits of the commander who was the chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force. (Mourners holding the coffin in Iran: Photo Credit: AFP) Also read: Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani Men and women gathered in Mollavi Square with flags in green, white and red, which depicted the blood of "martyrs". (An Iranian carrying Soleimani's photograph: Photo Credit: Reuters) Also read: Iran will punish Americans wherever they are within its reach: Guards commander The 62-year old general was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad international airport on Friday. Iraq's paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis was also killed in the strike. After Soleimani's killing, ties between Washington and Tehran got even more strained and raised concerns of a new war in the Middle East. Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed "severe revenge" and declared three days of mourning in the Islamic Republic. Earlier today, US President Donald Trump, in a tweet, said that the US would target Iran's 52 sites if they killed any American. Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump tweeted. On Sunday evening, it is expected that the last remains will be flown to the Iranian capital Tehran before the funeral in Soleimani's hometown Kerman on Tuesday. (with inputs from agencies)

Thousands of mourners pay respect as Qasem Soleimani's last remains reach Iran

Fresh airstrikes on Iran-backed fighters near camp Taji north of Baghdad have killed six people and critically wounded three, an Iraqi Army source said.&nbsp;

Two vehicles of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces convoy were found dead in the strikes that took place at 1:12 am local time, the source said.&nbsp;

The new strike comes ahead of a mourning march planned for Iranian Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi paramilitary heavyweight Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who were killed in a drone strike by the US in Baghdad on Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-ordered-action-against-irans-quds-force-commander-soleimani-us-department-of-defence-271773">Trump ordered killing of top Iranian general Soleimani in Iraq: US department of defence</a>

Soleimani's killing has once again escalated tensions between Iran and the US.&nbsp;

"This is just the beginning", said senior journalist Ray Locker, while talking to WION on the heightened tension in the Middle East after the airstrikes. He also said that US action would have serious repercussions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-iranians-general-qasem-soleimani-and-its-consequences-271884">The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences</a>

On the possibility of a war, Locker said that many countries don't want a war but are seeking a regime change in Iran.&nbsp;

No official confirmation was so far made on the new airtrikes, but Iraqi television state television claimed that it was from the US.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Fresh airstrikes on Iran-backed fighters near camp Taji north of Baghdad have killed six people and critically wounded three, an Iraqi Army source said. Two vehicles of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces convoy were found dead in the strikes that took place at 1:12 am local time, the source said.

Fresh airstrikes on Iran-backed fighters near camp Taji north of Baghdad have killed six people and critically wounded three, an Iraqi Army source said. Two vehicles of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces convoy were found dead in the strikes that took place at 1:12 am local time, the source said. The new strike comes ahead of a mourning march planned for Iranian Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi paramilitary heavyweight Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who were killed in a drone strike by the US in Baghdad on Friday. Also read: Trump ordered killing of top Iranian general Soleimani in Iraq: US department of defence Soleimani's killing has once again escalated tensions between Iran and the US. "This is just the beginning", said senior journalist Ray Locker, while talking to WION on the heightened tension in the Middle East after the airstrikes. He also said that US action would have serious repercussions. Also read: The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences On the possibility of a war, Locker said that many countries don't want a war but are seeking a regime change in Iran. No official confirmation was so far made on the new airtrikes, but Iraqi television state television claimed that it was from the US. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Iraq: New strikes on Iran-backed group kill six, three wounded

Iran will respond to the United States killing of Iranian Quds force chief Qassem Soleimani "any time and in any manner", Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Friday (January 3).

Soleimani, a 62-year-old general who headed the overseas arm of the Revolutionary Guards, was regarded as the second most powerful figure in Iran after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-qasem-soleimani-271974">Who is Qasem Soleimani?</a>

The commander was killed in an overnight air strike on a car convoy near Baghdad International Airport.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the strike aimed to disrupt an "imminent attack" that would have endangered Americans in the Middle East. Democratic critics called the Republican president reckless and said he had raised the risk of more violence in a dangerous region.

Speaking on State TV, Zarif said "we will not be involved in the US' smear campaigns and their blackmailing. We will give a proper response in any manner and time, we will, as stated by the Supreme Leader."

Khamenei earlier said harsh revenge awaited the "criminals" who killed Soleimani and his death would redouble resistance against the United States and Israel. He called for three days of national mourning. 
&nbsp;

Iran will respond to the United States killing of Iranian Quds force chief Qassem Soleimani "any time and in any manner", Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Friday (January 3).

Iran will respond to the United States killing of Iranian Quds force chief Qassem Soleimani "any time and in any manner", Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Friday (January 3). Soleimani, a 62-year-old general who headed the overseas arm of the Revolutionary Guards, was regarded as the second most powerful figure in Iran after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Also read: Who is Qasem Soleimani? The commander was killed in an overnight air strike on a car convoy near Baghdad International Airport. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the strike aimed to disrupt an "imminent attack" that would have endangered Americans in the Middle East. Democratic critics called the Republican president reckless and said he had raised the risk of more violence in a dangerous region. Speaking on State TV, Zarif said "we will not be involved in the US' smear campaigns and their blackmailing. We will give a proper response in any manner and time, we will, as stated by the Supreme Leader." Khamenei earlier said harsh revenge awaited the "criminals" who killed Soleimani and his death would redouble resistance against the United States and Israel. He called for three days of national mourning.

Iran will respond to Soleimani killing 'any time, in any manner': Foreign Minister Zarif

Sentiments of sadness, revenge were seen on the streets of the Iraqi capital Baghdad as they bid adieu to Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed on Friday in US drone attack.&nbsp;

Soleimani, the leader of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards', was a much-revered figure in the region. He was killed yesterday along with nine others in a pre-dawn attack on Baghdad international airport, including Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qasem-soleimanis-killing-what-options-does-iran-have-to-avenge-top-commanders-assassination-272107">Qasem Soleimani's killing: What options does Iran have to avenge top commander's assassination</a>
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani funeral" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21cd5f50-8ac9-4892-afe6-9caa447658dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WZ4sW59C.jpg" />
Iraqi political leaders, including caretaker Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi and clerics, attended the mass procession to honour the slain commander. &nbsp;

The coffins were first brought to Shiite shrine in northern Baghdad. The mourners chanted "Death to America!" and called for "revenge".

The mourners were dressed in black clothes and carried portraits of Iranian and Iraqi leaders.&nbsp;
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani funeral" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dcc57dc0-1275-477e-ac36-9d8717fe393a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/VIw22Cbm.jpg" />
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-accuses-europeans-of-not-being-helpful-after-us-strikes-272098">Soleimani killing: US reaches out to allies, Pompeo says Europeans aren't being 'helpful'</a>

The crowd went near the Green Zone, the high-security district which includes government offices and foreign embassies, including America's.&nbsp;

The remains will be taken to Shiite holy city of Najaf before reaching Iran, which has declared three days of mourning.&nbsp;

Earlier most of the countries asked all parties to act with restraint even though, the drone strike was praised by US-ally Israel.&nbsp;

"This is a moment in which leaders must exercise maximum restraint. The world cannot afford another war in the Gulf," UN chief said.&nbsp;

The Iraqi prime minister also said that US action would "spark a devastating war".

However, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened "severe revenge" for the US-action, and vowed that "God willing, his work and his path will not be stopped".&nbsp;

The US, on the other hand, is approaching allies of Middle East and elsewhere to gather support. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, said that he Europeans were not as "helpful" as they could be after the drone strike.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sentiments of sadness, revenge were seen on the streets of the Iraqi capital Baghdad as they bid adieu to Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed on Friday in US drone attack.

Sentiments of sadness, revenge were seen on the streets of the Iraqi capital Baghdad as they bid adieu to Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed on Friday in US drone attack. Soleimani, the leader of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards', was a much-revered figure in the region. He was killed yesterday along with nine others in a pre-dawn attack on Baghdad international airport, including Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis. Also read: Qasem Soleimani's killing: What options does Iran have to avenge top commander's assassination Iraqi political leaders, including caretaker Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi and clerics, attended the mass procession to honour the slain commander. The coffins were first brought to Shiite shrine in northern Baghdad. The mourners chanted "Death to America!" and called for "revenge". The mourners were dressed in black clothes and carried portraits of Iranian and Iraqi leaders. Also read: Soleimani killing: US reaches out to allies, Pompeo says Europeans aren't being 'helpful' The crowd went near the Green Zone, the high-security district which includes government offices and foreign embassies, including America's. The remains will be taken to Shiite holy city of Najaf before reaching Iran, which has declared three days of mourning. Earlier most of the countries asked all parties to act with restraint even though, the drone strike was praised by US-ally Israel. "This is a moment in which leaders must exercise maximum restraint. The world cannot afford another war in the Gulf," UN chief said. The Iraqi prime minister also said that US action would "spark a devastating war". However, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened "severe revenge" for the US-action, and vowed that "God willing, his work and his path will not be stopped". The US, on the other hand, is approaching allies of Middle East and elsewhere to gather support. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, said that he Europeans were not as "helpful" as they could be after the drone strike.

Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani

The killing of Iranian military leader Qassim Soleimani proves the point: The United States has perfected the art of strengthening Iranian hardliners fuelled by an apparently ingrained misreading of Iranian politics and strategy sustained over decades.

It also suggests that the Trump administration has walked into a trap in which spiralling tension between the United States and Iran is likely to be played out on Iranian rather than US terms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-in-baghdad-to-mourn-soleimani-others-killed-in-us-airstrike-272067">Thousands gather in Baghdad to mourn Soleimani, others killed in US airstrike</a>

Iran moved last year away from its initial strategic patience response to the US withdrawal from the 2015 international agreement that curbed the Islamic republic’s nuclear program and the imposition of harsh economic sanctions to a strategy of gradual escalation.

Iran is banking on the assumption that taking the United States to the brink of yet another Middle Eastern war will ultimately persuade the Trump administration to return to the negotiating table. It’s a high-risk gamble that so far has produced results.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qasem-soleimanis-killing-what-options-does-iran-have-to-avenge-top-commanders-assassination-272107">Qasem Soleimani's killing: What options does Iran have to avenge top commander's assassination</a>

Last week’skilling of an American contractor on an Iraqi military base constituted Iran’s latest chess move.

It sparked a US military strike against an Iranian-backed militia, the subsequent killing of Mr Soleimani and the leader of the militia, Abdul Mahdi al-Muhandis, and the targeting of a militia convoy.

The Iranian move led to the siege of the US embassy in Iraq that evoked images of the humiliating 1975 evacuation of the US mission in Saigon towards the end of the Vietnam war and the 444-day occupation of the US embassy in Tehran in 1979.

It also has put at risk the future of US forces in Iraq, seventeen years after US forces toppled Saddam Hussein and US$1 trillion later. Iraq’s parliament is about to discuss moves to remove foreign forces from the country.

“A humiliating departure for the US from Iraq now seems inevitable,” said International Crisis Group Iran expert Ali Vaez.

Pro-Iranian militias are counting on the fact that they are Iraqis with close ties to the Iraqi security establishment, which they expect will exclude them from the moves that would primarily target the United States.

Iraq’s influential Shiite leader Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani has so far limited himself to calling for restraint in the wake of Mr Soleimani’s killing. Yet, Mr Al-Sistani could prove to be the player who definitively sways the pendulum.

“How long before Ayatollah Sistani issues a fatwa (religious opinion) asking US troops to leave?” Mr. Vaez asked.

In a similarly humbling development, Iraq, long a primary venue for an ongoing US-Iranian proxy war, has become in the wake of Mr Soleimani’s death a no-go zone for Americans with the Trump administration urging US citizens to leave immediately to avoid becoming targets.

Earlier, an attack in September on two key Saudi oil facilities, widely believed to have been instigated by Iran, coupled with US President Donald J. Trump’s hesitant response to the assault and the earlier downing of a US drone by Iran, persuaded Saudi Arabia to tone down its rhetoric and explore ways of reducing tension with Iran.

The spectre of a Saudi Iranian rapprochement was put on hold with the eruption in recent months of anti-government protests in Lebanon and Iraq that threatened to throw a monkey wrench into Iran’s strategy of exerting regional influence through proxies.

While it is likely to remain on hold amid the escalating tension, it has not been taken off the table.

Earlier, the United Arab Emirates reached out to Iran after the Islamic republic was sought to have instigated attacks on tankers off the Emirati coast.

The “sequence of events shows that, thus far, the Iranian strategy of calculated counter-escalation is working… By escalating on its own, Iran forced a number of key players to change their cost-benefit calculus,” said Eldar Mamedov, an advisor to the social-democrats in the European parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee.

While that may be a positive development in and of itself, it also means that regional US allies, with the exception of Israel that wholeheartedly endorsed the killing of Mr Soleimani, are likely to be more circumspect in their support of the US amid escalating tensions.

Already, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have called for restraint in the wake of Mr Soleimani’s death.

Mr Soleimani’s killing has widened the opening for a tit-for-tat war in which Iran has the advantage of being a master of asymmetric warfare and at playing in grey areas.

Amid massive speculation about how it will respond to the killing, Iran is likely to take its time and strike out of the left field, potentially prompting an American response that again risks playing into Iranian hands.

“The Iranians will definitely respond, but not in a way that triggers an all-out war, which they know they would lose,” said Iran expert Dina Esfandiary.

In a further indication of US misreading of the tea leaves, the killing of Mr Soleimani threatens to amount to a gift of God for Iranian hardliners who are now expected to win next month’s parliamentary election in Iran.

A hardline victory would spotlight the United States’ repeated shooting of an own goal by adopting policies that undermine its own long-standing aim of persuading Iran to moderate its policies and tone down its revolutionary rhetoric.

Rather than provide incentives, like with the 2015 nuclear accord, US policy has more often than not reinforced perceptions in Tehran that the United States’ real goal was regime change.

Mr Trump’s former national security advisor John Bolton reinforced those perceptions in response to Mr Soleimani’s killing: &nbsp;“Hope this is the first step to regime change in Tehran,” he tweeted.

US policy prompted Iran to adopt a defence and security policy that compensated for the Islamic republic’s intrinsic weakness by emphasizing the very things the United States has long wanted to see change. These include Iran’s successful use of proxies across the Middle East.

At the bottom line, the strengthening of Iranian hardliners not only undermines US policy goals but also risks putting the United States in difficult, if not impossible and at times humiliating positions, and sucking it into a conflict for which it is ill-equipped.

Said political anthropologist Negar Razavi: “The US foreign policy establishment has collectively created a culture of expert impunity when it comes to Iran, which has contributed in no small part to the unstable and dangerous policy conditions we see under Trump today.”

(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The killing of Iranian military leader Qassim Soleimani proves the point: The United States has perfected the art of strengthening Iranian hardliners fuelled by an apparently ingrained misreading of Iranian politics and strategy sustained over decades.

The killing of Iranian military leader Qassim Soleimani proves the point: The United States has perfected the art of strengthening Iranian hardliners fuelled by an apparently ingrained misreading of Iranian politics and strategy sustained over decades. It also suggests that the Trump administration has walked into a trap in which spiralling tension between the United States and Iran is likely to be played out on Iranian rather than US terms. Also read: Thousands gather in Baghdad to mourn Soleimani, others killed in US airstrike Iran moved last year away from its initial strategic patience response to the US withdrawal from the 2015 international agreement that curbed the Islamic republic’s nuclear program and the imposition of harsh economic sanctions to a strategy of gradual escalation. Iran is banking on the assumption that taking the United States to the brink of yet another Middle Eastern war will ultimately persuade the Trump administration to return to the negotiating table. It’s a high-risk gamble that so far has produced results. Also read: Qasem Soleimani's killing: What options does Iran have to avenge top commander's assassination Last week’skilling of an American contractor on an Iraqi military base constituted Iran’s latest chess move. It sparked a US military strike against an Iranian-backed militia, the subsequent killing of Mr Soleimani and the leader of the militia, Abdul Mahdi al-Muhandis, and the targeting of a militia convoy. The Iranian move led to the siege of the US embassy in Iraq that evoked images of the humiliating 1975 evacuation of the US mission in Saigon towards the end of the Vietnam war and the 444-day occupation of the US embassy in Tehran in 1979. It also has put at risk the future of US forces in Iraq, seventeen years after US forces toppled Saddam Hussein and US$1 trillion later. Iraq’s parliament is about to discuss moves to remove foreign forces from the country. “A humiliating departure for the US from Iraq now seems inevitable,” said International Crisis Group Iran expert Ali Vaez. Pro-Iranian militias are counting on the fact that they are Iraqis with close ties to the Iraqi security establishment, which they expect will exclude them from the moves that would primarily target the United States. Iraq’s influential Shiite leader Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani has so far limited himself to calling for restraint in the wake of Mr Soleimani’s killing. Yet, Mr Al-Sistani could prove to be the player who definitively sways the pendulum. “How long before Ayatollah Sistani issues a fatwa (religious opinion) asking US troops to leave?” Mr. Vaez asked. In a similarly humbling development, Iraq, long a primary venue for an ongoing US-Iranian proxy war, has become in the wake of Mr Soleimani’s death a no-go zone for Americans with the Trump administration urging US citizens to leave immediately to avoid becoming targets. Earlier, an attack in September on two key Saudi oil facilities, widely believed to have been instigated by Iran, coupled with US President Donald J. Trump’s hesitant response to the assault and the earlier downing of a US drone by Iran, persuaded Saudi Arabia to tone down its rhetoric and explore ways of reducing tension with Iran. The spectre of a Saudi Iranian rapprochement was put on hold with the eruption in recent months of anti-government protests in Lebanon and Iraq that threatened to throw a monkey wrench into Iran’s strategy of exerting regional influence through proxies. While it is likely to remain on hold amid the escalating tension, it has not been taken off the table. Earlier, the United Arab Emirates reached out to Iran after the Islamic republic was sought to have instigated attacks on tankers off the Emirati coast. The “sequence of events shows that, thus far, the Iranian strategy of calculated counter-escalation is working… By escalating on its own, Iran forced a number of key players to change their cost-benefit calculus,” said Eldar Mamedov, an advisor to the social-democrats in the European parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee. While that may be a positive development in and of itself, it also means that regional US allies, with the exception of Israel that wholeheartedly endorsed the killing of Mr Soleimani, are likely to be more circumspect in their support of the US amid escalating tensions. Already, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have called for restraint in the wake of Mr Soleimani’s death. Mr Soleimani’s killing has widened the opening for a tit-for-tat war in which Iran has the advantage of being a master of asymmetric warfare and at playing in grey areas. Amid massive speculation about how it will respond to the killing, Iran is likely to take its time and strike out of the left field, potentially prompting an American response that again risks playing into Iranian hands. “The Iranians will definitely respond, but not in a way that triggers an all-out war, which they know they would lose,” said Iran expert Dina Esfandiary. In a further indication of US misreading of the tea leaves, the killing of Mr Soleimani threatens to amount to a gift of God for Iranian hardliners who are now expected to win next month’s parliamentary election in Iran. A hardline victory would spotlight the United States’ repeated shooting of an own goal by adopting policies that undermine its own long-standing aim of persuading Iran to moderate its policies and tone down its revolutionary rhetoric. Rather than provide incentives, like with the 2015 nuclear accord, US policy has more often than not reinforced perceptions in Tehran that the United States’ real goal was regime change. Mr Trump’s former national security advisor John Bolton reinforced those perceptions in response to Mr Soleimani’s killing: “Hope this is the first step to regime change in Tehran,” he tweeted. US policy prompted Iran to adopt a defence and security policy that compensated for the Islamic republic’s intrinsic weakness by emphasizing the very things the United States has long wanted to see change. These include Iran’s successful use of proxies across the Middle East. At the bottom line, the strengthening of Iranian hardliners not only undermines US policy goals but also risks putting the United States in difficult, if not impossible and at times humiliating positions, and sucking it into a conflict for which it is ill-equipped. Said political anthropologist Negar Razavi: “The US foreign policy establishment has collectively created a culture of expert impunity when it comes to Iran, which has contributed in no small part to the unstable and dangerous policy conditions we see under Trump today.” (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The killing of Qasem Soleimani will lead to the strengthening of Iranian hardliners

After the US drone strike that killed Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis on Friday, Washington is disappointed with European reaction as it is reaching out to its allies around the world in order to gain support.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is spearheading the campaign and called officials worldwide over the support of the strikes that was praised by US President Donald Trump and US-ally Israel. However, most of the countries have warned that the latest strike would trigger regional tensions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-cannot-afford-another-gulf-war-says-un-chief-after-us-kills-iran-general-271986">'World cannot afford' another Gulf war, says UN chief after US kills Iran general</a>

"I spent the last day and a half, two days, talking to partners in the region, sharing with them what we were doing, why we were doing it, seeking their assistance. They've all been fantastic," the secretary of state said in an interview with Fox News.

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Discussed with Iraqi President Salih <a href="https://twitter.com/RealDonalTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonalTrump</a>’s decision to take defensive action to protect U.S. personnel and interests abroad, and I reaffirmed that the U.S. remains committed to de-escalation.
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213207450293288960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Frankly, the Europeans haven't been as helpful as I wish that they could be," he said. Pompeo also said that talks with US-allies, other than the ones in Middle East, were&nbsp;not "quite as good".&nbsp;

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and I discussed the decisive defensive action <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> employed in Baghdad to protect American lives. I emphasized that de-escalation is the United States’ principal goal.
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213141648475119621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Following the killing, EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell called on all involved parties "to exercise maximum restraint and show responsibility in this crucial moment."&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron urged those involved to act with "restraint" and British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab called for de-escalation.&nbsp;

"The Brits, the French, the Germans all need to understand that what we did, what the Americans did, saved lives in Europe as well," Pompeo said.

Pompeo's twitter timeline was filled with the calls from leaders across the world.&nbsp;

The leaders with whom Pompeo talked include Iraqi President Barham Salih and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.&nbsp;

Interestingly, the US Secretary of State reached out to senior government officials of most of the countries, but in Pakistan's case, Pompeo called upon Army Chief Qamar Bajwa.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After the US drone strike that killed Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis on Friday, Washington is disappointed with European reaction as it is reaching out to its allies around the world in order to gain support.

After the US drone strike that killed Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis on Friday, Washington is disappointed with European reaction as it is reaching out to its allies around the world in order to gain support. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is spearheading the campaign and called officials worldwide over the support of the strikes that was praised by US President Donald Trump and US-ally Israel. However, most of the countries have warned that the latest strike would trigger regional tensions. Also read: 'World cannot afford' another Gulf war, says UN chief after US kills Iran general "I spent the last day and a half, two days, talking to partners in the region, sharing with them what we were doing, why we were doing it, seeking their assistance. They've all been fantastic," the secretary of state said in an interview with Fox News. Discussed with Iraqi President Salih @realDonalTrump’s decision to take defensive action to protect U.S. personnel and interests abroad, and I reaffirmed that the U.S. remains committed to de-escalation. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) January 3, 2020 × Also read: The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences "Frankly, the Europeans haven't been as helpful as I wish that they could be," he said. Pompeo also said that talks with US-allies, other than the ones in Middle East, were not "quite as good". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and I discussed the decisive defensive action @realDonaldTrump employed in Baghdad to protect American lives. I emphasized that de-escalation is the United States’ principal goal. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) January 3, 2020 × Following the killing, EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell called on all involved parties "to exercise maximum restraint and show responsibility in this crucial moment." French President Emmanuel Macron urged those involved to act with "restraint" and British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab called for de-escalation. "The Brits, the French, the Germans all need to understand that what we did, what the Americans did, saved lives in Europe as well," Pompeo said. Pompeo's twitter timeline was filled with the calls from leaders across the world. The leaders with whom Pompeo talked include Iraqi President Barham Salih and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. Interestingly, the US Secretary of State reached out to senior government officials of most of the countries, but in Pakistan's case, Pompeo called upon Army Chief Qamar Bajwa.

Soleimani killing: US reaches out to allies, Pompeo says Europeans aren't being 'helpful'

On Friday, Iran's supreme leader announced that Esmail Qaani would be the leader of the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' after the killing of former commander Qasem Soleimani in a US airstrike in Baghdad.&nbsp;

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had earlier described Qaani as one of the "most decorated commanders" of the Guards during the 1980-88 war between Iran and Iraq.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimanis-death-will-be-avenged-at-right-place-and-time-irans-top-security-body-271993">Soleimani's death will be avenged at 'right place and time': Iran's top security body</a>

Watch the video here:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-brigadier-gen-esmail-ghaani-appointed-as-countrys-quds-force-chief-replacing-soleimani-272005/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Qaani's elevation to the top post comes at a time when the tension between Washington and Iran escalated after US's drone strike on Friday that killed Soleimani. So let's look at who is Iran's new head of the overseas arm of Iran's Revolutionary Guard.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-iranians-general-qasem-soleimani-and-its-consequences-271884">The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences</a>

Qaani became deputy commander of the Quds Force in 1997 when Soleimani became the Force's main commander. He is one of the most influential Iranian figures in Syria where the country backs President Bashar al-Assad.&nbsp;

The new commander is also known for his strong criticism on Israel.&nbsp;

He had also warned US President Donald Trump in 2017 that any military action against Iran would "be regretted". Qaani has repeatedly lashed out at Trump and US-alles and made inflammatory statements in the past.&nbsp;

"We have buried many ... like Trump and know how to fight against America," Qaani had earlier said in 2017, quoted Iranian media.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

On Friday, Iran's supreme leader announced that Esmail Qaani would be the leader of the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' after the killing of former commander Qasem Soleimani in a US airstrike in Baghdad.

On Friday, Iran's supreme leader announced that Esmail Qaani would be the leader of the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' after the killing of former commander Qasem Soleimani in a US airstrike in Baghdad. Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had earlier described Qaani as one of the "most decorated commanders" of the Guards during the 1980-88 war between Iran and Iraq. Also read: Soleimani's death will be avenged at 'right place and time': Iran's top security body Watch the video here: Qaani's elevation to the top post comes at a time when the tension between Washington and Iran escalated after US's drone strike on Friday that killed Soleimani. So let's look at who is Iran's new head of the overseas arm of Iran's Revolutionary Guard. Also read: The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences Qaani became deputy commander of the Quds Force in 1997 when Soleimani became the Force's main commander. He is one of the most influential Iranian figures in Syria where the country backs President Bashar al-Assad. The new commander is also known for his strong criticism on Israel. He had also warned US President Donald Trump in 2017 that any military action against Iran would "be regretted". Qaani has repeatedly lashed out at Trump and US-alles and made inflammatory statements in the past. "We have buried many ... like Trump and know how to fight against America," Qaani had earlier said in 2017, quoted Iranian media. (with inputs from agencies)

Man who replaces Soleimani: Meet Iran's Quds Force's new chief, Esmail Qaani

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Friday issued sanctions on Cuban General, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fidel-castro-as-seen-by-allies-and-enemies-9356">Leopoldo Cintra Frias</a> for use of violence to assist the former Maduro regime in Venezuela.

"Today we designate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cuba-manuel-merrero-becomes-prime-minister-40-years-after-fidel-castro-269513">Cuba</a> regime official Leopoldo Cintra Frias for his involvement in gross violations of human rights and use of violence to prop up the former Maduro regime in Venezuela. We will promote accountability for those who abuse human rights, wherever they may reside," Michael Pompeo wrote in a tweet.

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Today we designate <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cuba?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cuba</a> regime official Leopoldo Cintra Frias for his involvement in gross violations of human rights and use of violence to prop up the former Maduro regime in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Venezuela?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Venezuela</a>. We will promote accountability for those who abuse human rights, wherever they may reside.
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1212848892867420181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Last year, the United States imposed sanctions on Cuban Interior Minister Julio Ceaser Gandarilla Bermejo for involvement in "gross human rights violations in Venezuela."

Friday's sanction was the latest in a series of punitive measures that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-a-man-of-his-word-on-denuclearization-donald-trump-271377">Trump</a> administration has taken against Washington's old Cold War foe.

The Trump administration has stopped short of breaking off diplomatic relations with Cuba restored by former president Obama in 2015 after more than five decades of hostility.

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Friday issued sanctions on Cuban General, Leopoldo Cintra Frias for use of violence to assist the former Maduro regime in Venezuela.

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Friday issued sanctions on Cuban General, Leopoldo Cintra Frias for use of violence to assist the former Maduro regime in Venezuela. "Today we designate Cuba regime official Leopoldo Cintra Frias for his involvement in gross violations of human rights and use of violence to prop up the former Maduro regime in Venezuela. We will promote accountability for those who abuse human rights, wherever they may reside," Michael Pompeo wrote in a tweet. Today we designate #Cuba regime official Leopoldo Cintra Frias for his involvement in gross violations of human rights and use of violence to prop up the former Maduro regime in #Venezuela. We will promote accountability for those who abuse human rights, wherever they may reside. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) January 2, 2020 × Last year, the United States imposed sanctions on Cuban Interior Minister Julio Ceaser Gandarilla Bermejo for involvement in "gross human rights violations in Venezuela." Friday's sanction was the latest in a series of punitive measures that the Trump administration has taken against Washington's old Cold War foe. The Trump administration has stopped short of breaking off diplomatic relations with Cuba restored by former president Obama in 2015 after more than five decades of hostility.

US sanctions Cuban general Leopoldo Cintra Frias for supporting Maduro regime in Venezuela

The United States will expand the scope of a program that returns non-Mexican migrants crossing Mexico's border to that country to await their US&nbsp;court hearings, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/immigration-hawk-promoted-to-us-homeland-security-acting-deputy-262013">Department of Homeland Security</a> said on Thursday.

Washington already has sent more than 56,000 migrants to Mexico under the program, known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP). The majority have been Central Americans applying for US asylum.

The effort — which had been implemented over the past year at ports of entry in Texas and California — will be applied at a port of entry south of Tucson, Ariz. Previously, migrants encountered in that area had been sent to El Paso, Texas, to process their return to Mexico.

US&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-a-man-of-his-word-on-denuclearization-donald-trump-271377">President Donald Trump</a> has made immigration enforcement a major focus of his first term in office and has continued to press the issue in the run-up to the 2020 presidential election.

Acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf said in a written statement on Thursday that the MPP program has been "an extremely effective tool" for the United States.

Advocates counter that the initiative exposes migrants to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-cabinet-opposed-mexican-cartel-policy-trump-forged-ahead-270508">violence in Mexico</a> and restricts their ability to seek protection in the United States. The US&nbsp;consulate in Mexico’s border city of Nuevo Laredo issued a security alert on Wednesday, warning against gun battles and urging government employees to take precautions.

Mexico’s asylum agency, known as COMAR, said on Wednesday that it had received 66,915 applications for asylum in 2019, up nearly 126 per cent&nbsp;from the previous year.

The agency has struggled to process the crush of applications with limited resources. COMAR received 20 million pesos ($1.05 million) in funding from the Mexican government in 2019, the lowest sum in seven years.

In December, US&nbsp;border authorities expanded a separate program to process asylum cases rapidly to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, according to CBS News. The programme, known as Prompt Asylum Claim Review (PACR), had been launched months earlier as a pilot in the El Paso area.

US&nbsp;authorities have not specified the criteria to place migrants in a growing array of border programs, which include MPP, PACR and another initiative that sends asylum seekers from Honduras and El Salvador to request protection in Guatemala.

Rodney Scott, acting deputy chief of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-citizen-dead-in-us-custody-ice-271529">US&nbsp;Border Patrol</a>, told reporters in December that the factors "change on a daily basis" but are determined in coordination with the receiving countries.

The United States will expand the scope of a program that returns non-Mexican migrants crossing Mexico's border to that country to await their US court hearings, the Department of Homeland Security said on Thursday.

The United States will expand the scope of a program that returns non-Mexican migrants crossing Mexico's border to that country to await their US court hearings, the Department of Homeland Security said on Thursday. Washington already has sent more than 56,000 migrants to Mexico under the program, known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP). The majority have been Central Americans applying for US asylum. The effort — which had been implemented over the past year at ports of entry in Texas and California — will be applied at a port of entry south of Tucson, Ariz. Previously, migrants encountered in that area had been sent to El Paso, Texas, to process their return to Mexico. US President Donald Trump has made immigration enforcement a major focus of his first term in office and has continued to press the issue in the run-up to the 2020 presidential election. Acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf said in a written statement on Thursday that the MPP program has been "an extremely effective tool" for the United States. Advocates counter that the initiative exposes migrants to violence in Mexico and restricts their ability to seek protection in the United States. The US consulate in Mexico’s border city of Nuevo Laredo issued a security alert on Wednesday, warning against gun battles and urging government employees to take precautions. Mexico’s asylum agency, known as COMAR, said on Wednesday that it had received 66,915 applications for asylum in 2019, up nearly 126 per cent from the previous year. The agency has struggled to process the crush of applications with limited resources. COMAR received 20 million pesos ($1.05 million) in funding from the Mexican government in 2019, the lowest sum in seven years. In December, US border authorities expanded a separate program to process asylum cases rapidly to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, according to CBS News. The programme, known as Prompt Asylum Claim Review (PACR), had been launched months earlier as a pilot in the El Paso area. US authorities have not specified the criteria to place migrants in a growing array of border programs, which include MPP, PACR and another initiative that sends asylum seekers from Honduras and El Salvador to request protection in Guatemala. Rodney Scott, acting deputy chief of the US Border Patrol, told reporters in December that the factors "change on a daily basis" but are determined in coordination with the receiving countries.

US to expand scope of program to return migrants to Mexico: Department of Homeland Security

Across snow-covered North Dakota, US&nbsp;farmers are stuck with fields full of weather-damaged corn - a crop they planted after the US-China trade war killed their soybean market. Many don't know yet what crops they'll plant next season among a host of dicey options.

In Texas, Kansas and Colorado, farmers are weighing whether they should plant fewer acres of corn and more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-imposes-anti-dumping-measures-against-us-sorghum-131047">sorghum</a>, even though China has all but stopped buying it. That's because sorghum costs about half as much as corn to plant, which appeals to farmers wary of investing too much for an uncertain return.

As the US&nbsp;farm economy reels from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-1-million-acres-of-us-cropland-ravaged-by-floods-206858">worst harvest</a> in decades after nearly two years of the trade war, US&nbsp;grain growers are struggling to decide what crops might keep them in business.

President Donald Trump announced last month that China had agreed to double its pre-trade war purchases of US&nbsp;agricultural products over the next two years as part of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-phase-one-trade-deal-to-be-signed-january-15-trump-271308">Phase 1 trade deal</a>. That brought little comfort to US&nbsp;farmers because China still has not confirmed the commitment or signed any deal.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/phase-one-trade-deal-with-china-would-be-signed-very-shortly-donald-trump-269576">President Trump</a> said that we're all going to need to go buy bigger tractors," said North Dakota farmer Justin Sherlock. "I don't think many farmers are going to invest much money until we see that this is a done deal and a long-term deal."

Trump administration officials say the Phase 1 trade deal with China will be signed in January, though many tariffs will remain in place during further negotiation. Commodity market analysts and agricultural economists warn an agreement won't be an immediate fix for the US&nbsp;farm economy because the conflict has spurred China to develop new supply chains.

China has, for instance, deepened ties with rival exporters such as Brazil and Argentina. Brazilian soy cultivation is expanding after record exports to China in the past year and China is investing in South American ports.

Making matters worse, China's need for soy and sorghum to feed livestock is waning because of a deadly pig disease that experts estimate has killed off about half the world's largest hog herd. China's hog industry has also worked to reformulate pig rations to include less soy and more alternative feeds that don't have to be imported from the United States.

"We won't go immediately back to where we were 18 months ago - maybe not for a long time," Jay Debertin, chief executive officer of CHS Inc, the largest US&nbsp;farmer cooperative, told grain producers at a recent conference in North Dakota.

&nbsp;

'We're done' withouth more trade aid

Many US&nbsp;farmers have tried shifting crops to dodge the economic fallout from losing such a crucial export market. They planted 76.5 million acres of soybeans in 2019, 14.3 per cent&nbsp;fewer than the previous year, according to the latest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-moves-to-remove-700000-people-from-food-stamps-266299">US&nbsp;Department of Agriculture</a> data. US&nbsp;plantings of sorghum - used in livestock feed and the fiery Chinese liquor baijiu - dipped about 7.5 per cent in 2019, to 5.3 million acres. Plantings of cotton have dropped, too, as China pulled back on purchases.

Plantings of such China-dependent crops likely would have fallen much further were it not for the Trump administration's allocation of $24.5 billion in aid to compensate farmers for trade-war losses. The bailouts gave many farmers an incentive to keep planting crops such as soybeans that they knew would be difficult to sell at any profitable price. Government handouts are expected to account for nearly a third of 2019 net farm income, according to federal government and bank regulatory data.

Trump administration officials have not said if farmers will get more payments in 2020. Robert Johansson, chief economist at USDA, told Reuters he expected the interim trade deal would solve the issues that the aid program had addressed.

USDA Deputy Press Secretary Alec Varsamis said the agency would decide in January on future payments. White House spokesman Judd Deere declined to comment and referred to previous statements by US&nbsp;Trade Representative <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-probably-sign-trade-deal-with-china-next-week-white-house-trade-adviser-271142">Robert Lighthizer</a>, who has said China committed to "massive" US&nbsp;agriculture purchases.

Farmers in export-dependent regions say they can't continue to sell their crops for below the cost of production without a third round of subsidies to cover the losses.

"If the government doesn't pay us, we're done," said Sherlock, who did not vote for Trump in 2016 and remains undecided for 2020.

Most farmers have backed the president as he seeks re-election, according to polls by Reuters and farm media outlets. In 2016, they were drawn to Trump's promise to shake up Washington bureaucracy and hoped the trade war, although it might bring short-term losses, would eventually improve the size and scope of China's US&nbsp;agricultural purchases.

&nbsp;

Damaged corn

Farmers last season intended to use more of their land for corn – a crop aimed at markets outside <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-says-will-start-delivering-china-made-model-3s-to-public-on-january-7-271722">China</a> - but that backfired for many growers when extreme weather prevented planting on millions of acres. Early seed orders for 2020 suggest farmers will again turn to corn to replace soybeans, China's largest agricultural import. Scott Beck - president of Beck's Hybrids, the largest family-owned US&nbsp;retail seed company - told Reuters that sales of corn seed for 2020 planting are already up about 40 per cent&nbsp;from 2019.

Sherlock and many of his neighbors last spring sowed one of North Dakota's largest-ever corn crops by acreage. They were enticed by rising springtime prices and the promise of trade aid as long as they planted something. They figured their corn would find buyers among domestic livestock or ethanol producers or in established export markets such as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-naruhito-hopes-for-a-year-without-natural-disasters-271532">Japan</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-of-south-korean-mps-charged-over-parliamentary-stand-off-271713">South Korea</a> or <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-expands-scope-of-program-to-return-migrants-to-mexico-271770">Mexico</a>. But bad weather left almost 60 per cent of the state's corn - about 2 million acres - unfit for harvest at winter's onset, according to USDA.

Many growers are caught in limbo. Their fields are not bad enough to trigger crop insurance payouts but not good enough to recoup costs. And trade-aid payments for North Dakota are not robust enough to cover losses, with larger per-acre aid payments flowing to southern states.

Sherlock says he might contract to grow more soybeans for a local seed company, a niche crop that costs more to grow but could reap higher prices. Field peas, used in grain-free pet foods, are another option.

Iowa corn and soybean farmer Mitchell Hora is also seeking alternatives. He sowed winter wheat and rye in fall of 2018 and sold the cleaned seed to fellow producers, and has more recently contracted to sell rye to a start-up malting company.

"The agricultural system is completely broken” because of the trade war, severe weather and mounting farm debt, Hora said. "We have to farm smarter."

Best of bad options

Farmers in the High Plains of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/egypt-signs-430-million-gas-deal-with-texas-noble-energy-264199">Texas</a>, the second-largest sorghum-producing state, also face hard choices. China's imports of US&nbsp;sorghum in 2019 were less than one-tenth of the volume purchased four years earlier, according to the most recent government data.

Still, the production cost for an acre of sorghum in this heavily irrigated region will be about half the cost of planting corn, according to Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Extension data. Farmer Robert Boozer of Dimmitt, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooter-among-one-dead-in-texas-church-attack-270896">Texas </a>– who grows cotton, corn and sorghum – said he and his neighbours pray for a time when the trade war no longer factors into planting decisions.

He's agonizing over the per-acre costs of different crops and the break-even selling prices he'll need to stay afloat. For now, he'll plant more sorghum - "the best option in a field of terrible options."

Across snow-covered North Dakota, US farmers are stuck with fields full of weather-damaged corn - a crop they planted after the US-China trade war killed their soybean market.

Across snow-covered North Dakota, US farmers are stuck with fields full of weather-damaged corn - a crop they planted after the US-China trade war killed their soybean market. Many don't know yet what crops they'll plant next season among a host of dicey options. In Texas, Kansas and Colorado, farmers are weighing whether they should plant fewer acres of corn and more sorghum, even though China has all but stopped buying it. That's because sorghum costs about half as much as corn to plant, which appeals to farmers wary of investing too much for an uncertain return. As the US farm economy reels from the worst harvest in decades after nearly two years of the trade war, US grain growers are struggling to decide what crops might keep them in business. President Donald Trump announced last month that China had agreed to double its pre-trade war purchases of US agricultural products over the next two years as part of a Phase 1 trade deal. That brought little comfort to US farmers because China still has not confirmed the commitment or signed any deal. "President Trump said that we're all going to need to go buy bigger tractors," said North Dakota farmer Justin Sherlock. "I don't think many farmers are going to invest much money until we see that this is a done deal and a long-term deal." Trump administration officials say the Phase 1 trade deal with China will be signed in January, though many tariffs will remain in place during further negotiation. Commodity market analysts and agricultural economists warn an agreement won't be an immediate fix for the US farm economy because the conflict has spurred China to develop new supply chains. China has, for instance, deepened ties with rival exporters such as Brazil and Argentina. Brazilian soy cultivation is expanding after record exports to China in the past year and China is investing in South American ports. Making matters worse, China's need for soy and sorghum to feed livestock is waning because of a deadly pig disease that experts estimate has killed off about half the world's largest hog herd. China's hog industry has also worked to reformulate pig rations to include less soy and more alternative feeds that don't have to be imported from the United States. "We won't go immediately back to where we were 18 months ago - maybe not for a long time," Jay Debertin, chief executive officer of CHS Inc, the largest US farmer cooperative, told grain producers at a recent conference in North Dakota. 'We're done' withouth more trade aid Many US farmers have tried shifting crops to dodge the economic fallout from losing such a crucial export market. They planted 76.5 million acres of soybeans in 2019, 14.3 per cent fewer than the previous year, according to the latest US Department of Agriculture data. US plantings of sorghum - used in livestock feed and the fiery Chinese liquor baijiu - dipped about 7.5 per cent in 2019, to 5.3 million acres. Plantings of cotton have dropped, too, as China pulled back on purchases. Plantings of such China-dependent crops likely would have fallen much further were it not for the Trump administration's allocation of $24.5 billion in aid to compensate farmers for trade-war losses. The bailouts gave many farmers an incentive to keep planting crops such as soybeans that they knew would be difficult to sell at any profitable price. Government handouts are expected to account for nearly a third of 2019 net farm income, according to federal government and bank regulatory data. Trump administration officials have not said if farmers will get more payments in 2020. Robert Johansson, chief economist at USDA, told Reuters he expected the interim trade deal would solve the issues that the aid program had addressed. USDA Deputy Press Secretary Alec Varsamis said the agency would decide in January on future payments. White House spokesman Judd Deere declined to comment and referred to previous statements by US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who has said China committed to "massive" US agriculture purchases. Farmers in export-dependent regions say they can't continue to sell their crops for below the cost of production without a third round of subsidies to cover the losses. "If the government doesn't pay us, we're done," said Sherlock, who did not vote for Trump in 2016 and remains undecided for 2020. Most farmers have backed the president as he seeks re-election, according to polls by Reuters and farm media outlets. In 2016, they were drawn to Trump's promise to shake up Washington bureaucracy and hoped the trade war, although it might bring short-term losses, would eventually improve the size and scope of China's US agricultural purchases. Damaged corn Farmers last season intended to use more of their land for corn – a crop aimed at markets outside China - but that backfired for many growers when extreme weather prevented planting on millions of acres. Early seed orders for 2020 suggest farmers will again turn to corn to replace soybeans, China's largest agricultural import. Scott Beck - president of Beck's Hybrids, the largest family-owned US retail seed company - told Reuters that sales of corn seed for 2020 planting are already up about 40 per cent from 2019. Sherlock and many of his neighbors last spring sowed one of North Dakota's largest-ever corn crops by acreage. They were enticed by rising springtime prices and the promise of trade aid as long as they planted something. They figured their corn would find buyers among domestic livestock or ethanol producers or in established export markets such as Japan, South Korea or Mexico. But bad weather left almost 60 per cent of the state's corn - about 2 million acres - unfit for harvest at winter's onset, according to USDA. Many growers are caught in limbo. Their fields are not bad enough to trigger crop insurance payouts but not good enough to recoup costs. And trade-aid payments for North Dakota are not robust enough to cover losses, with larger per-acre aid payments flowing to southern states. Sherlock says he might contract to grow more soybeans for a local seed company, a niche crop that costs more to grow but could reap higher prices. Field peas, used in grain-free pet foods, are another option. Iowa corn and soybean farmer Mitchell Hora is also seeking alternatives. He sowed winter wheat and rye in fall of 2018 and sold the cleaned seed to fellow producers, and has more recently contracted to sell rye to a start-up malting company. "The agricultural system is completely broken” because of the trade war, severe weather and mounting farm debt, Hora said. "We have to farm smarter." Best of bad options Farmers in the High Plains of Texas, the second-largest sorghum-producing state, also face hard choices. China's imports of US sorghum in 2019 were less than one-tenth of the volume purchased four years earlier, according to the most recent government data. Still, the production cost for an acre of sorghum in this heavily irrigated region will be about half the cost of planting corn, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension data. Farmer Robert Boozer of Dimmitt, Texas – who grows cotton, corn and sorghum – said he and his neighbours pray for a time when the trade war no longer factors into planting decisions. He's agonizing over the per-acre costs of different crops and the break-even selling prices he'll need to stay afloat. For now, he'll plant more sorghum - "the best option in a field of terrible options."

US farmers see another bleak year despite Phase 1 trade deal with China

Russia's President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/impeachment-against-trump-absolutely-on-made-up-grounds-putin-269164">Vladimir Putin </a>thanked US counterpart Donald Trump on Sunday for intelligence that helped in thwarting attacks planned in St' Petersburg, the Kremlin said. &nbsp;

The Russian president thanked Trump "for the transfer, through special services, of information allowing the prevention of terrorist acts in Russia," said a statement released by the president's office. Kremlin said that Putin expressed his gratitude through a phone call to the US president.&nbsp;

Kremlin's statement also added that Putin and Trump would continue the bilateral cooperation to tackle terrorism.

With the help of information shared by the US, the Federal Security Service (FSB) detained two Russians on December 27 on suspicion of plotting attacks during new New Year festivities in St. Petersburg, Russian news agencies said.&nbsp;

The reports said that the two detained were preparing a "terrorist act".

Moscow and Washington are at odds on most of the issues including Syria, allegations of Russia meddling 2016 US election, but Trump and Putin managed to maintain their personal ties.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

&nbsp;

Russia's President Vladimir Putin thanked US counterpart Donald Trump on Sunday for intelligence that helped in thwarting attacks planned in St' Petersburg, the Kremlin said.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin thanked US counterpart Donald Trump on Sunday for intelligence that helped in thwarting attacks planned in St' Petersburg, the Kremlin said. The Russian president thanked Trump "for the transfer, through special services, of information allowing the prevention of terrorist acts in Russia," said a statement released by the president's office. Kremlin said that Putin expressed his gratitude through a phone call to the US president. Kremlin's statement also added that Putin and Trump would continue the bilateral cooperation to tackle terrorism. With the help of information shared by the US, the Federal Security Service (FSB) detained two Russians on December 27 on suspicion of plotting attacks during new New Year festivities in St. Petersburg, Russian news agencies said. The reports said that the two detained were preparing a "terrorist act". Moscow and Washington are at odds on most of the issues including Syria, allegations of Russia meddling 2016 US election, but Trump and Putin managed to maintain their personal ties. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Vladimir Putin thanks Donald Trump for intelligence that foiled attack

Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski said she was "disturbed" by the Senate leader's approach to working with White House counsel on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-have-no-proof-i-want-an-immediate-trial-trump-on-impeachment-proceedings-269248">impeachment trial of President Donald Trump</a>, saying there should be distance between the two.

The comments by the Alaska lawmaker come after Mitch&nbsp;McConnell, majority leader of the Republican-led Senate, said during an&nbsp;interview earlier this month that he was working in "total coordination" with the White House on the upcoming trial.

"To me, it means that we have to take that step back from being hand-in-glove with the defence," Murkowski said in comments aired late on Tuesday during an interview. "I heard what leader&nbsp;McConnell&nbsp;had said. I happened to think that has further confused the process."

&nbsp;

Also Watch: Trump impeachment gets mixed reviews

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&nbsp;

Murkowski, who says she remains undecided in how she will vote in the upcoming impeachment proceedings, cited the need for distance between the White House and the Senate on how the trial should be conducted.

Trump was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/so-unfair-donald-trump-slams-impeachment-delay-in-senate-269522">impeached</a> last week by the Democratic-led House of Representatives on two charges over his pressuring Ukraine to announce an investigation of former Vice President Joe Biden, one of the top contenders for the Democratic presidential nomination, and Biden's son. He has been charged with abuse of power and obstructing Congress' investigation.

Trump has said he did nothing wrong.

Republicans have a 53-seat majority in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senator-schumer-outlines-documents-he-wants-for-impeachment-trial-269912">Senate</a>, where 51 votes are needed to pass a set of rules for the Trump trial. The actual impeachment trial in the Senate would need a two-thirds majority vote for a conviction.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has not yet transmitted the articles of impeachment to the Senate, a bid to pressure Senate Republicans to reach an accord with the Democrats in the chamber on trial rules.&nbsp;McConnell&nbsp;said the Senate could not take any action until it receives the articles.

Whether or not to call witnesses has been one of the main sticking points between the Democrats and the Republicans in drafting rules for the impeachment proceedings.&nbsp;McConnell&nbsp;on Monday said that Republicans had not ruled out hearing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-have-no-proof-i-want-an-immediate-trial-trump-on-impeachment-proceedings-269248">witnesses</a> in the impeachment trial the Republican president.

However,&nbsp;McConnell&nbsp;made clear he would not accede to a Democratic request for the Senate to agree ahead of time to take testimony during the trial.

There is little chance Trump will be convicted and removed from office through a trial in the Republican-led Senate, but the impeachment proceedings could resonate at the ballot box in November.

Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski said she was "disturbed" by the Senate leader's approach to working with White House counsel on the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump, saying there should be distance between the two.

Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski said she was "disturbed" by the Senate leader's approach to working with White House counsel on the impeachment trial of President Donald Trump, saying there should be distance between the two. The comments by the Alaska lawmaker come after Mitch McConnell, majority leader of the Republican-led Senate, said during an interview earlier this month that he was working in "total coordination" with the White House on the upcoming trial. "To me, it means that we have to take that step back from being hand-in-glove with the defence," Murkowski said in comments aired late on Tuesday during an interview. "I heard what leader McConnell had said. I happened to think that has further confused the process." Also Watch: Trump impeachment gets mixed reviews × Murkowski, who says she remains undecided in how she will vote in the upcoming impeachment proceedings, cited the need for distance between the White House and the Senate on how the trial should be conducted. Trump was impeached last week by the Democratic-led House of Representatives on two charges over his pressuring Ukraine to announce an investigation of former Vice President Joe Biden, one of the top contenders for the Democratic presidential nomination, and Biden's son. He has been charged with abuse of power and obstructing Congress' investigation. Trump has said he did nothing wrong. Republicans have a 53-seat majority in the Senate, where 51 votes are needed to pass a set of rules for the Trump trial. The actual impeachment trial in the Senate would need a two-thirds majority vote for a conviction. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has not yet transmitted the articles of impeachment to the Senate, a bid to pressure Senate Republicans to reach an accord with the Democrats in the chamber on trial rules. McConnell said the Senate could not take any action until it receives the articles. Whether or not to call witnesses has been one of the main sticking points between the Democrats and the Republicans in drafting rules for the impeachment proceedings. McConnell on Monday said that Republicans had not ruled out hearing witnesses in the impeachment trial the Republican president. However, McConnell made clear he would not accede to a Democratic request for the Senate to agree ahead of time to take testimony during the trial. There is little chance Trump will be convicted and removed from office through a trial in the Republican-led Senate, but the impeachment proceedings could resonate at the ballot box in November.

Republican senator 'disturbed' by McConnell's work with White House on impeachment trial

High profile city rivals&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lakers-kyle-kuzma-ruled-out-for-nba-season-opener-257190">Los Angeles Lakers</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/camila-cabello-shawn-mendes-make-temperatures-soar-during-los-angeles-clippers-game-261971">Los Angeles Clippers</a> clashed on Christmas Day which was witnessed by several Hollywood stars.

However, an incident&nbsp;became&nbsp;the centrepiece of jokes on social media&nbsp;at Staples Centre, Los Angeles after&nbsp;Lakers' player Anthony Davis fell on the lap of actor and comedian, Kevin Hart.

Rather than getting up, Davis decided to remain seated on Hart's lap to pose for a photo, and probably to make his Christmas wish. The two were joined by Davis's teammate and NBA star, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/houston-rockets-gm-wasnt-educated-when-he-sent-hong-kong-tweet-lebron-james-256087">LeBron James</a>, who rushed to sit on Hart's lap to make his own wish.

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Did AD want a selfie with Kevin Hart? 🤔😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LakeShow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LakeShow</a> <a href="https://t.co/DrgmKyK2Km">pic.twitter.com/DrgmKyK2Km</a>
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Hart has made known his liking for the game, having been seen on the telecast of several NBA games.

It led to several memes and&nbsp;jokes on social media.&nbsp;A&nbsp;joke on social media compared&nbsp;the situation to a scene from the 2003 movie 'Elf', where&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/julia-louis-dreyfus-and-will-ferrell-starrer-downhill-to-release-on-valentines-day-2020-264706">Will Ferrel</a> plays 'Buddy', sitting on the lap of the much smaller 'Papa Elf'.

High profile city rivals Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers clashed on Christmas Day which was witnessed by several Hollywood stars. However, an incident became the centrepiece of jokes on social media at Staples Centre, Los Angeles after Lakers' player Anthony Davis fell on the lap of actor and comedian, Kevin Hart.

High profile city rivals Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers clashed on Christmas Day which was witnessed by several Hollywood stars. However, an incident became the centrepiece of jokes on social media at Staples Centre, Los Angeles after Lakers' player Anthony Davis fell on the lap of actor and comedian, Kevin Hart. Rather than getting up, Davis decided to remain seated on Hart's lap to pose for a photo, and probably to make his Christmas wish. The two were joined by Davis's teammate and NBA star, LeBron James, who rushed to sit on Hart's lap to make his own wish. Did AD want a selfie with Kevin Hart? 🤔😂#LakeShow pic.twitter.com/DrgmKyK2Km — NBA TV (@NBATV) December 26, 2019 × Hart has made known his liking for the game, having been seen on the telecast of several NBA games. It led to several memes and jokes on social media. A joke on social media compared the situation to a scene from the 2003 movie 'Elf', where Will Ferrel plays 'Buddy', sitting on the lap of the much smaller 'Papa Elf'.

NBA star Anthony Davis land's on Kevin Hart's lap as LeBron James joins in

Rescue kittens got dressed up in festive holiday sweaters on Christmas Eve (December 24) as adoring fans took turns playing and cuddling with them at a Washington cat cafe.

Kittens in festive sweaters bring holiday cheer to Washington cat cafe

Christianity Today, the magazine founded by the late Reverend Billy Graham, renewed its criticism of President Donald Trump in a new editorial that cited his "misuses of power" and asked fellow Christians to examine their loyalty to him, days after a controversial editorial that called for his impeachment.

The 130,000-circulation magazine, which has 4.3 million monthly website viewers, in its editorial last week cited Trump's "profoundly immoral" conduct in office, drawing immediate criticism from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-democrats-seek-high-profile-trial-for-trump-in-senate-269263">Trump</a> and dozens of evangelical leaders.

Evangelicals have been a bedrock of support for the Republican president, and the magazine noted in its new editorial, published Sunday, that Trump "has done a lot of good for causes we all care about."

But the magazine's president, Timothy Dalrymple, wrote in the editorial, headlined "The Flag in the Whirlwind," that evangelicals' embrace of Trump means being tied to his "rampant immorality, greed, and corruption; his divisiveness and race-baiting; his cruelty and hostility to immigrants and refugees."

"With profound love and respect," Dalrymple said, "we ask our brothers and sisters in Christ to consider whether they have given to Caesar what belongs only to God: their unconditional loyalty."

The editorial praised the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-unveils-development-at-arak-reactor-amid-us-sanctions-pressure-269852">Trump administration</a>'s judicial appointment, "advocacy of life, family, and religious liberty." But it said, "It is one thing to praise his accomplishments; it is another to excuse and deny his obvious misuses of power.

Dalrymple pledged to open up a "serious discussion about how our activity as Christians shapes our activity as citizens" in 2020. He declined to be interviewed until after the Christmas holiday.

Evangelical Christians make up about 25 pet cent&nbsp;of the US&nbsp;population. According to a Pew Research poll from last January, 69 per cent&nbsp;of white evangelicals approved of the job Trump is doing, compared with 48 pet cent&nbsp;of white mainline Protestants and 12 per cent&nbsp;of black Protestants.

On January&nbsp;3, Trump will hold an "Evangelicals for Trump coalition launch" in Miami.

Graham's son Franklin had slammed the original Christianity Today editorial and said his father knew, believed in and voted for Trump, an endorsement that other family members dispute. Dozens of evangelical leaders signed a letter criticizing the magazine's impeachment call, and Trump said on Twitter he would stop reading the publication.

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....have a Radical Left nonbeliever, who wants to take your religion &amp; your guns, than Donald Trump as your President. No President has done more for the Evangelical community, and it’s not even close. You’ll not get anything from those Dems on stage. I won’t be reading ET again!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1207997319821615105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Christianity Today was founded in 1956, and its current impact in the evangelical community is limited, said Greg Carey, a New Testament professor at Lancaster Seminary in Pennsylvania. “Like other traditional media, their platform has fragmented, so I’m skeptical that they have the real punch to change a movement.”

Still, the way <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-tells-jewish-americans-he-is-israels-best-friend-266897">Trump</a> and others have pushed back showed the outlet is being heard. “There are those who feel that a crack in that foundation (of evangelical support of Trump) is a threat” that needs to be patched, Carey said.

For evangelicals who have doubts about Trump's conduct in office and the church's embrace of the president, "having an institutional voice that has some respect gives them cover to voice their opinion," Carey said.

Christianity Today, the magazine founded by the late Reverend Billy Graham, renewed its criticism of President Donald Trump in a new editorial that cited his "misuses of power" and asked fellow Christians to examine their loyalty to him, days after a controversial editorial that called for his impeachment.

Christianity Today, the magazine founded by the late Reverend Billy Graham, renewed its criticism of President Donald Trump in a new editorial that cited his "misuses of power" and asked fellow Christians to examine their loyalty to him, days after a controversial editorial that called for his impeachment. The 130,000-circulation magazine, which has 4.3 million monthly website viewers, in its editorial last week cited Trump's "profoundly immoral" conduct in office, drawing immediate criticism from Trump and dozens of evangelical leaders. Evangelicals have been a bedrock of support for the Republican president, and the magazine noted in its new editorial, published Sunday, that Trump "has done a lot of good for causes we all care about." But the magazine's president, Timothy Dalrymple, wrote in the editorial, headlined "The Flag in the Whirlwind," that evangelicals' embrace of Trump means being tied to his "rampant immorality, greed, and corruption; his divisiveness and race-baiting; his cruelty and hostility to immigrants and refugees." "With profound love and respect," Dalrymple said, "we ask our brothers and sisters in Christ to consider whether they have given to Caesar what belongs only to God: their unconditional loyalty." The editorial praised the Trump administration's judicial appointment, "advocacy of life, family, and religious liberty." But it said, "It is one thing to praise his accomplishments; it is another to excuse and deny his obvious misuses of power. Dalrymple pledged to open up a "serious discussion about how our activity as Christians shapes our activity as citizens" in 2020. He declined to be interviewed until after the Christmas holiday. Evangelical Christians make up about 25 pet cent of the US population. According to a Pew Research poll from last January, 69 per cent of white evangelicals approved of the job Trump is doing, compared with 48 pet cent of white mainline Protestants and 12 per cent of black Protestants. On January 3, Trump will hold an "Evangelicals for Trump coalition launch" in Miami. Graham's son Franklin had slammed the original Christianity Today editorial and said his father knew, believed in and voted for Trump, an endorsement that other family members dispute. Dozens of evangelical leaders signed a letter criticizing the magazine's impeachment call, and Trump said on Twitter he would stop reading the publication. ....have a Radical Left nonbeliever, who wants to take your religion & your guns, than Donald Trump as your President. No President has done more for the Evangelical community, and it’s not even close. You’ll not get anything from those Dems on stage. I won’t be reading ET again! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 20, 2019 × Christianity Today was founded in 1956, and its current impact in the evangelical community is limited, said Greg Carey, a New Testament professor at Lancaster Seminary in Pennsylvania. “Like other traditional media, their platform has fragmented, so I’m skeptical that they have the real punch to change a movement.” Still, the way Trump and others have pushed back showed the outlet is being heard. “There are those who feel that a crack in that foundation (of evangelical support of Trump) is a threat” that needs to be patched, Carey said. For evangelicals who have doubts about Trump's conduct in office and the church's embrace of the president, "having an institutional voice that has some respect gives them cover to voice their opinion," Carey said.

Christianity Today again slams Trump, raises issue of 'unconditional loyalty'

It is "more important than anything" to keep up the momentum for talks between the United States and North&nbsp;Korea,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korean President Moon Jae-in told Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has set a year-end <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-to-visit-seoul-as-deadline-looms-for-stalled-north-korea-talks-268219">deadline</a> for the United States to change what it says is a policy of hostility amid a stalemate in efforts to make progress on their pledge to end the North's nuclear programme and establish lasting peace.

North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump have met three times since June 2018, but there has been no substantive progress in dialogue while the North demanded crushing international sanctions be lifted first.

On Saturday, state media said the United States would "pay dearly" for taking issue with the North's human rights record and said Washington's "malicious words" would only aggravate tensions on the&nbsp;Korean Peninsula.

China is North&nbsp;Korea's most important diplomatic backer and trading partner, and Moon took his message about the significance of talks straight to Xi.

"It is more important than anything to keep up the momentum for dialogue between North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and the United States," Moon said, according to his spokeswoman Ko Min-jung who was present at the meeting in Beijing's Great Hall of the People.

Ko cited Xi as saying that many people are concerned about the tense situation on the&nbsp;Korean peninsula.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-japan-south-korea-prepare-for-trilateral-summit-amid-tensions-269632">China and&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea</a>&nbsp;should gather strength to help North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and the United States sustain the momentum for dialogue," she cited Xi as saying.

Earlier, Moon's office quoted him as saying that the suspension of US-North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;talks and rising tensions was not beneficial for&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea, China or North&nbsp;Korea.

New impetus

Xi told Moon that China supports&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea's efforts to improve ties with North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and inject new impetus into promoting peace talks, China's Foreign Ministry said.

China and&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;both advocate that the&nbsp;Korean peninsula issue be resolved through dialogue and consultation and are a "firm force for maintaining stability and promoting talks", the ministry paraphrased Xi as saying.

Moon is visiting China for a trilateral meeting between him, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in the&nbsp;southwestern city of Chengdu.

Though various economic matters will also be on the agenda - as well as tensions between Seoul and Tokyo - North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;appears likely to dominate the agenda.

US&nbsp;special envoy for North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;Stephen Biegun met with two senior Chinese diplomats during his two-day visit to Beijing last week, following a similar meeting in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and Japan days earlier, as diplomats make last-ditch attempts to prevent new confrontation.

Beijing, jointly with Moscow, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-china-make-un-proposal-to-ease-sanctions-against-nuclear-armed-north-korea-268814">proposed</a> last week that the United Nations Security Council lift some sanctions in what it calls an attempt to break the current deadlock and seek to build support.

But it's unclear whether Beijing can convince Seoul and Tokyo to break ranks from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-us-commandos-practice-raiding-enemy-facility-as-north-korea-tensions-rise-269734">Washington</a>, which has made its opposition clear and can veto any resolution.

Though&nbsp;South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;sees China as instrumental in reviving negotiations, it has so far sidestepped questions on whether it supports the new proposal by Beijing and Moscow.

For its part, Japan has historically been a staunch supporter of sanctions against North&nbsp;Korea.

Japan Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Naoki Okada, speaking to reporters after Abe held his own meeting with Xi in Beijing, said Xi had asked Japan to support the joint Chinese-Russian proposal.

But Japan considers easing sanctions on North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;"still premature", Okada said.

It is "more important than anything" to keep up the momentum for talks between the United States and North Korea, South Korean President Moon Jae-in told Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday.

It is "more important than anything" to keep up the momentum for talks between the United States and North Korea, South Korean President Moon Jae-in told Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday. North Korea has set a year-end deadline for the United States to change what it says is a policy of hostility amid a stalemate in efforts to make progress on their pledge to end the North's nuclear programme and establish lasting peace. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump have met three times since June 2018, but there has been no substantive progress in dialogue while the North demanded crushing international sanctions be lifted first. On Saturday, state media said the United States would "pay dearly" for taking issue with the North's human rights record and said Washington's "malicious words" would only aggravate tensions on the Korean Peninsula. China is North Korea's most important diplomatic backer and trading partner, and Moon took his message about the significance of talks straight to Xi. "It is more important than anything to keep up the momentum for dialogue between North Korea and the United States," Moon said, according to his spokeswoman Ko Min-jung who was present at the meeting in Beijing's Great Hall of the People. Ko cited Xi as saying that many people are concerned about the tense situation on the Korean peninsula. "China and South Korea should gather strength to help North Korea and the United States sustain the momentum for dialogue," she cited Xi as saying. Earlier, Moon's office quoted him as saying that the suspension of US-North Korea talks and rising tensions was not beneficial for South Korea, China or North Korea. New impetus Xi told Moon that China supports South Korea's efforts to improve ties with North Korea and inject new impetus into promoting peace talks, China's Foreign Ministry said. China and South Korea both advocate that the Korean peninsula issue be resolved through dialogue and consultation and are a "firm force for maintaining stability and promoting talks", the ministry paraphrased Xi as saying. Moon is visiting China for a trilateral meeting between him, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang in the southwestern city of Chengdu. Though various economic matters will also be on the agenda - as well as tensions between Seoul and Tokyo - North Korea appears likely to dominate the agenda. US special envoy for North Korea Stephen Biegun met with two senior Chinese diplomats during his two-day visit to Beijing last week, following a similar meeting in South Korea and Japan days earlier, as diplomats make last-ditch attempts to prevent new confrontation. Beijing, jointly with Moscow, proposed last week that the United Nations Security Council lift some sanctions in what it calls an attempt to break the current deadlock and seek to build support. But it's unclear whether Beijing can convince Seoul and Tokyo to break ranks from Washington, which has made its opposition clear and can veto any resolution. Though South Korea sees China as instrumental in reviving negotiations, it has so far sidestepped questions on whether it supports the new proposal by Beijing and Moscow. For its part, Japan has historically been a staunch supporter of sanctions against North Korea. Japan Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Naoki Okada, speaking to reporters after Abe held his own meeting with Xi in Beijing, said Xi had asked Japan to support the joint Chinese-Russian proposal. But Japan considers easing sanctions on North Korea "still premature", Okada said.

US-North Korea talks 'more important than anything', South Korea tells China

After the United States supported a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-condemns-north-korea-rights-abuses-pyongyang-rejects-resolution-269093">UN resolution </a>on human rights violations in North Korea, Pyongyang warned Washington would "pay dearly" for its stand in this issue.&nbsp;

A North Korean foreign ministry spokesperson said US's "malicious words" would only escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula, reported state news agency KCNA. &nbsp;

The statement said if Washington dared to claim human rights concerns to the North's system of government, it would "pay dearly".&nbsp;

In an annual resolution, the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday condemned North Korea's "long-standing and ongoing" violations of human rights, which was sponsored by a dozen countries, including the US.&nbsp;

The comments from North Korean ministry comes after US special envoy for North Korea, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-biegun-to-north-korea-were-here-you-know-how-to-reach-us-268526">Stephen Biegun</a>, publicly urged the nation on Monday to resume talks.

The tensions between Pyongyang and Washington rose in recent months after North Korea threatened a "Christmas gift" to the United States if it doesn't offer concessions by the end of 2019.&nbsp;

Lately, North Korea has also conducted a series of weapon tests which some experts regard as the preparation of an intercontinental ballistic missile test, which could destroy US President Donald Trump's argument that he has deescalated risks from the region.&nbsp;

(with inputs from Reuters and AFP)

After the United States supported a UN resolution on human rights violations in North Korea, Pyongyang warned Washington would "pay dearly" for its stand in this issue.

After the United States supported a UN resolution on human rights violations in North Korea, Pyongyang warned Washington would "pay dearly" for its stand in this issue. A North Korean foreign ministry spokesperson said US's "malicious words" would only escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula, reported state news agency KCNA. The statement said if Washington dared to claim human rights concerns to the North's system of government, it would "pay dearly". In an annual resolution, the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday condemned North Korea's "long-standing and ongoing" violations of human rights, which was sponsored by a dozen countries, including the US. The comments from North Korean ministry comes after US special envoy for North Korea, Stephen Biegun, publicly urged the nation on Monday to resume talks. The tensions between Pyongyang and Washington rose in recent months after North Korea threatened a "Christmas gift" to the United States if it doesn't offer concessions by the end of 2019. Lately, North Korea has also conducted a series of weapon tests which some experts regard as the preparation of an intercontinental ballistic missile test, which could destroy US President Donald Trump's argument that he has deescalated risks from the region. (with inputs from Reuters and AFP)

US could 'pay dearly' for citing violations of human rights: North Korea

Fresh signals of the United States and China closing in on phase one of the trade deal were given after US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-work-out-preliminary-trade-deal-with-united-states-not-afraid-of-retaliating-chinese-president-jinping-263827">Xi Jinping </a>undertook a telephonic conversation on Friday.

After the phone call, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/had-good-talk-with-chinese-president-xi-formal-signing-is-being-arranged-donald-trump-269409">Trump </a>tweeted that he had a "very good talk" with Jinping over the trade deal. He also said that China has already started making large scale purchases of agricultural and other products from China.&nbsp;

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Had a very good talk with President Xi of China concerning our giant Trade Deal. China has already started large scale purchaes of agricultural product &amp; more. Formal signing being arranged. Also talked about North Korea, where we are working with China, &amp; Hong Kong (progress!).
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1208045488156614659?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Had a very good talk with President Xi of China concerning our giant Trade Deal. China has already started large scale purchaes of agricultural product &amp; more. Formal signing being arranged. Also talked about North Korea, where we are working with China, &amp; Hong Kong (progress!)," Trump tweeted.

Jinping also welcomed the talks with the US President and said that phase one of the trade truce will benefit both the nations and the entire world.

Both the US and China have finalised phase one of the deal on the "principle of equality and mutual respect for each other", Jinping said.&nbsp;

The phase one the deal is expected to see China boost US imports of agricultural and other goods, while, the US, in return, will ease massive tariffs against the imports of the Asian giant.&nbsp;

Jinping also said that trade between both the countries will help in making "significant contributions to the stability and development of China-US relations and the advancement of the world economy," reported Chinese state news agency Xinhua.&nbsp;

However, Xinhua's report added that Jinping expressed "serious concerns" over US's recent stance on Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet. &nbsp;

Jinping "noted that the US behaviours have interfered in China's internal affairs and harmed China's interests, which is detrimental to the mutual trust and bilateral cooperation," Xinhua said.&nbsp;

The Chinese president hopes Washington "pay high attention and attach great importance to China's concerns," the report added.

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

&nbsp;

Fresh signals of the United States and China closing in on phase one of the trade deal were given after US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping undertook a telephonic conversation on Friday.

Fresh signals of the United States and China closing in on phase one of the trade deal were given after US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping undertook a telephonic conversation on Friday. After the phone call, Trump tweeted that he had a "very good talk" with Jinping over the trade deal. He also said that China has already started making large scale purchases of agricultural and other products from China. Had a very good talk with President Xi of China concerning our giant Trade Deal. China has already started large scale purchaes of agricultural product & more. Formal signing being arranged. Also talked about North Korea, where we are working with China, & Hong Kong (progress!). — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 20, 2019 × "Had a very good talk with President Xi of China concerning our giant Trade Deal. China has already started large scale purchaes of agricultural product & more. Formal signing being arranged. Also talked about North Korea, where we are working with China, & Hong Kong (progress!)," Trump tweeted. Jinping also welcomed the talks with the US President and said that phase one of the trade truce will benefit both the nations and the entire world. Both the US and China have finalised phase one of the deal on the "principle of equality and mutual respect for each other", Jinping said. The phase one the deal is expected to see China boost US imports of agricultural and other goods, while, the US, in return, will ease massive tariffs against the imports of the Asian giant. Jinping also said that trade between both the countries will help in making "significant contributions to the stability and development of China-US relations and the advancement of the world economy," reported Chinese state news agency Xinhua. However, Xinhua's report added that Jinping expressed "serious concerns" over US's recent stance on Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet. Jinping "noted that the US behaviours have interfered in China's internal affairs and harmed China's interests, which is detrimental to the mutual trust and bilateral cooperation," Xinhua said. The Chinese president hopes Washington "pay high attention and attach great importance to China's concerns," the report added. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Donald Trump, Xi Jinping give positive signals on trade deal after phone call