<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/factbox-clash-between-trump-us-house-democrats-shifts-into-courts-228730">US House Democrats</a> said they plan to pass a $4.5 billion aid package aimed at addressing the migrant surge along the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-closure-of-us-mexico-border-next-week-to-stem-asylum-surge-206626">US-Mexico border</a> later on Tuesday, citing an urgency to act following reports of poor conditions facing young children at overcrowded facilities.

"This week we have to solve the humanitarian crisis," Hakeem Jeffries, the House of Representatives Democratic Caucus chairman, told reporters, predicting that the funding package would pass the House with a "strong Democratic vote."

Lawmakers were rushing to add language before the vote to mandate better health and nutrition standards at border facilities.&nbsp;

That came after some liberal Democrats expressed alarm that not enough was being done to improve conditions at the border, where the number of migrants apprehended surged in May to the highest level since 2006.

Last week, the Associated Press reported on squalid conditions facing migrant children being detained by US authorities, including a lack of access to food, beds and hygiene products such as soap and toothpaste.

Republican US President Donald Trump, despite having requested the $4.5 billion border aid package, on Monday night threatened to veto the House bill, saying the provisions added by Democrats - who control the chamber - would make the country "less safe."

But Jeffries said he expected Trump to sign the bill into law despite his threat, citing the president's recent reversals on other issues such as tariffs.

"There is no decency to having these children subjected to these horrific conditions," Jeffries said.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, seeking to galvanize her caucus, told them the House would need a strong vote to prevail.

"A vote against this bill is a vote for Donald Trump and his inhumane, outside-the-circle of civilized attitude toward the children," she said at a closed-door Tuesday morning meeting, according to a senior Democratic aide.

Democratic leaders said they would add language to protect the health of migrants in the custody of US Border Patrol agents, including standards for medical care and nutrition.&nbsp;

The bill's language would also set a three-month limit for any unaccompanied child migrant to spend at an intake shelter unless notice is given.

It was unclear whether the changes would be enough for some Democrats who fear the Trump administration could use some of the money for other purposes, such as deportations of migrants.

Representative Ilhan Omar said she objected to $155 million in the bill that would go to US marshals, a law enforcement agency within the Department of Justice.

"There's no good outcome here," said Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has compared the detention centres for undocumented immigrants at the border to "concentration camps."&nbsp;

She said she is worried over whether the funding will "go to the places that we need it to go."

The House legislation would also reinstate hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras that was cut off by the Trump administration.

The Republican-majority Senate was proceeding with its own, bipartisan, $4.6 billion versions of the legislation and was expected to vote soon.

US House Democrats said they plan to pass a $4.5 billion aid package aimed at addressing the migrant surge along the US-Mexico border later on Tuesday, citing an urgency to act following reports of poor conditions facing young children at overcrowded facilities.

US House Democrats said they plan to pass a $4.5 billion aid package aimed at addressing the migrant surge along the US-Mexico border later on Tuesday, citing an urgency to act following reports of poor conditions facing young children at overcrowded facilities. "This week we have to solve the humanitarian crisis," Hakeem Jeffries, the House of Representatives Democratic Caucus chairman, told reporters, predicting that the funding package would pass the House with a "strong Democratic vote." Lawmakers were rushing to add language before the vote to mandate better health and nutrition standards at border facilities. That came after some liberal Democrats expressed alarm that not enough was being done to improve conditions at the border, where the number of migrants apprehended surged in May to the highest level since 2006. Last week, the Associated Press reported on squalid conditions facing migrant children being detained by US authorities, including a lack of access to food, beds and hygiene products such as soap and toothpaste. Republican US President Donald Trump, despite having requested the $4.5 billion border aid package, on Monday night threatened to veto the House bill, saying the provisions added by Democrats - who control the chamber - would make the country "less safe." But Jeffries said he expected Trump to sign the bill into law despite his threat, citing the president's recent reversals on other issues such as tariffs. "There is no decency to having these children subjected to these horrific conditions," Jeffries said. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, seeking to galvanize her caucus, told them the House would need a strong vote to prevail. "A vote against this bill is a vote for Donald Trump and his inhumane, outside-the-circle of civilized attitude toward the children," she said at a closed-door Tuesday morning meeting, according to a senior Democratic aide. Democratic leaders said they would add language to protect the health of migrants in the custody of US Border Patrol agents, including standards for medical care and nutrition. The bill's language would also set a three-month limit for any unaccompanied child migrant to spend at an intake shelter unless notice is given. It was unclear whether the changes would be enough for some Democrats who fear the Trump administration could use some of the money for other purposes, such as deportations of migrants. Representative Ilhan Omar said she objected to $155 million in the bill that would go to US marshals, a law enforcement agency within the Department of Justice. "There's no good outcome here," said Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has compared the detention centres for undocumented immigrants at the border to "concentration camps." She said she is worried over whether the funding will "go to the places that we need it to go." The House legislation would also reinstate hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras that was cut off by the Trump administration. The Republican-majority Senate was proceeding with its own, bipartisan, $4.6 billion versions of the legislation and was expected to vote soon.

United States House Democrats rush to pass border aid bill before July 4, Trump vows veto

San Francisco on Tuesday became the first major US city to effectively ban the sale and manufacture of electronic cigarettes, as concerns grow over a sharp rise in vaping among youths.

The city's legislature unanimously approved an ordinance suspending the sale in shops or online of e-cigarette products that lack approval by federal health authorities. No such approvals currently exist. &nbsp;

Backers said the ban was necessary due to the "significant public health consequences" of a "dramatic surge" in e-cigarette use among teenagers.

But the move triggered a swift backlash from critics who say it could drive former smokers back to conventional cigarettes.

US health authorities are alarmed by the rise in popularity of e-cigarettes, battery-powered devices that enable users to inhale addictive nicotine liquids that are often fruit flavoured.&nbsp;

The potential health consequences of vaping, including fears it could stunt adolescent development, remain largely unknown, in part because the practice is so new.

The number of young Americans using e-cigarettes grew by 1.5 million in 2018, with about 3.6 million middle and high school students using vaping products.&nbsp;

San Francisco is home to market-leading e-cigarette maker Juul.

City Attorney Dennis Herrera, who co-sponsored the ban, said it closed a loophole that the federal US Food and Drug Administration should have tackled long ago.

"E-cigarettes are a product that, by law, are not allowed on the market without FDA review," he said in a statement after the second and final vote to implement the ban.

"For some reason, the FDA has so far refused to follow the law. If the federal government is not going to act, San Francisco will."

Deadly cigarettes

The city's mayor London Breed has 10 days to sign the legislation which she has said she will do with the ban due to take effect seven months later.

"We need to take action to protect the health of San Francisco's youth and prevent the next generation of San Franciscans from becoming addicted to these products," Breed said in a statement Tuesday ahead of the vote.

She added that e-cigarette companies were "targeting our kids in their advertising and getting them hooked on addictive nicotine products."

But critics say the legislation will make it harder for people seeking alternatives to regular cigarettes.

E-cigarettes do not contain the cancer-causing products found in tobacco.&nbsp;

An editorial in the Los Angeles Times noted that regular cigarettes were still for sale in San Francisco, arguing that "it's bad public health policy to come down harder on the lesser of two tobacco evils."

Juul said in a statement following the vote that the ban would "drive former adult smokers who successfully switched to vapour products back to deadly cigarettes, deny the opportunity to switch for current adult smokers, and create a thriving black market."

The manufacturer called instead for stricter regulation and enforcement including proof-of-age identification.

Increase risk

Traditional "Big Tobacco" companies have increasingly marketed "smoke-free" products like e-cigarettes as far less harmful alternatives to the deadly habit they have long been peddling.

But experts point out that it took decades to determine that smoking tobacco which accounts for more than seven million premature deaths worldwide every year is truly dangerous.&nbsp;

The San Francisco ordinance text said that nicotine exposure during adolescence "can harm the developing brain" and "can also increase the risk for future addiction to other drugs."

It would introduce fines of up $1,000 for each violation by vendors.

Unlike an e-cigarette ban in force in Singapore, the San Francisco legislation does not restrict the use of vaping products only sales, manufacturing and distribution.

Recreational cannabis use has been legal for adults in California since January last year.

San Francisco on Tuesday became the first major US city to effectively ban the sale and manufacture of electronic cigarettes, as concerns grow over a sharp rise in vaping among youths.

San Francisco on Tuesday became the first major US city to effectively ban the sale and manufacture of electronic cigarettes, as concerns grow over a sharp rise in vaping among youths. The city's legislature unanimously approved an ordinance suspending the sale in shops or online of e-cigarette products that lack approval by federal health authorities. No such approvals currently exist. Backers said the ban was necessary due to the "significant public health consequences" of a "dramatic surge" in e-cigarette use among teenagers. But the move triggered a swift backlash from critics who say it could drive former smokers back to conventional cigarettes. US health authorities are alarmed by the rise in popularity of e-cigarettes, battery-powered devices that enable users to inhale addictive nicotine liquids that are often fruit flavoured. The potential health consequences of vaping, including fears it could stunt adolescent development, remain largely unknown, in part because the practice is so new. The number of young Americans using e-cigarettes grew by 1.5 million in 2018, with about 3.6 million middle and high school students using vaping products. San Francisco is home to market-leading e-cigarette maker Juul. City Attorney Dennis Herrera, who co-sponsored the ban, said it closed a loophole that the federal US Food and Drug Administration should have tackled long ago. "E-cigarettes are a product that, by law, are not allowed on the market without FDA review," he said in a statement after the second and final vote to implement the ban. "For some reason, the FDA has so far refused to follow the law. If the federal government is not going to act, San Francisco will." Deadly cigarettes The city's mayor London Breed has 10 days to sign the legislation which she has said she will do with the ban due to take effect seven months later. "We need to take action to protect the health of San Francisco's youth and prevent the next generation of San Franciscans from becoming addicted to these products," Breed said in a statement Tuesday ahead of the vote. She added that e-cigarette companies were "targeting our kids in their advertising and getting them hooked on addictive nicotine products." But critics say the legislation will make it harder for people seeking alternatives to regular cigarettes. E-cigarettes do not contain the cancer-causing products found in tobacco. An editorial in the Los Angeles Times noted that regular cigarettes were still for sale in San Francisco, arguing that "it's bad public health policy to come down harder on the lesser of two tobacco evils." Juul said in a statement following the vote that the ban would "drive former adult smokers who successfully switched to vapour products back to deadly cigarettes, deny the opportunity to switch for current adult smokers, and create a thriving black market." The manufacturer called instead for stricter regulation and enforcement including proof-of-age identification. Increase risk Traditional "Big Tobacco" companies have increasingly marketed "smoke-free" products like e-cigarettes as far less harmful alternatives to the deadly habit they have long been peddling. But experts point out that it took decades to determine that smoking tobacco which accounts for more than seven million premature deaths worldwide every year is truly dangerous. The San Francisco ordinance text said that nicotine exposure during adolescence "can harm the developing brain" and "can also increase the risk for future addiction to other drugs." It would introduce fines of up $1,000 for each violation by vendors. Unlike an e-cigarette ban in force in Singapore, the San Francisco legislation does not restrict the use of vaping products only sales, manufacturing and distribution. Recreational cannabis use has been legal for adults in California since January last year.

San Francisco first major United States city to ban e-cigarette sales

Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell said Tuesday the US central bank will be closely scrutinizing Facebook's newly announced <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/creating-g7-task-force-to-ensure-facebooks-libra-governed-by-regulations-france-229231">cryptocurrency Libra</a> with an eye toward potentially regulating the virtual coin.

Powell became the latest official to voice concern over the global virtual currency unveiled last week by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-world-first-facebook-to-give-data-on-hate-speech-suspects-to-french-courts-230477">Facebook</a> and an array of partners which aims to lower transaction costs and bring more services to people without access to the banking system.

"We're looking at it very carefully," Powell said at an event sponsored by the Council on Foreign Relations. "Given the possible scale of it, I think that our expectations from a consumer protection standpoint, from a regulatory standpoint, are going to be very, very high."

The Libra coin plan, backed by financial and nonprofit partners, represents an ambitious new initiative for the world's biggest social network with the potential to bring crypto-money out of the shadows and into the mainstream.

But the plan has already prompted calls in Europe for close regulatory scrutiny and several US lawmakers have said they more information from Facebook.

Several analysts have said the new currency could create a regulatory conundrum due to the global reach of Facebook, which has more than two billion users.

Powell, speaking at the forum in New York, said that "authority for overseeing Libra is going to be in a number of places but I think the big picture is we're going to be looking really carefully at it."

Facebook said the new virtual coin would be overseen by a nonprofit Libra Association based in Geneva which would maintain a real-world asset reserve to keep its value stable.

Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell said Tuesday the US central bank will be closely scrutinizing Facebook's newly announced cryptocurrency Libra with an eye toward potentially regulating the virtual coin.

Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell said Tuesday the US central bank will be closely scrutinizing Facebook's newly announced cryptocurrency Libra with an eye toward potentially regulating the virtual coin. Powell became the latest official to voice concern over the global virtual currency unveiled last week by Facebook and an array of partners which aims to lower transaction costs and bring more services to people without access to the banking system. "We're looking at it very carefully," Powell said at an event sponsored by the Council on Foreign Relations. "Given the possible scale of it, I think that our expectations from a consumer protection standpoint, from a regulatory standpoint, are going to be very, very high." The Libra coin plan, backed by financial and nonprofit partners, represents an ambitious new initiative for the world's biggest social network with the potential to bring crypto-money out of the shadows and into the mainstream. But the plan has already prompted calls in Europe for close regulatory scrutiny and several US lawmakers have said they more information from Facebook. Several analysts have said the new currency could create a regulatory conundrum due to the global reach of Facebook, which has more than two billion users. Powell, speaking at the forum in New York, said that "authority for overseeing Libra is going to be in a number of places but I think the big picture is we're going to be looking really carefully at it." Facebook said the new virtual coin would be overseen by a nonprofit Libra Association based in Geneva which would maintain a real-world asset reserve to keep its value stable.

United States Federal to look 'carefully' at Facebook virtual coin Libra

A look at United States-China trade war in 10 dates

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-bombings-death-toll-from-terror-attack-rises-to-310-40-people-arrested-212788">Sri Lanka</a> is likely to raise $2 billion through 5-year and 10-year sovereign bonds launched on Monday, two government officials told Reuters, as the Indian Ocean island nation tapped global capital markets for the second time in three months.

The South Asian nation's decision to capitalise on favourable market conditions comes two months after suicide bombers killed more than 250 people in attacks at churches and luxury hotels on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/multiple-blasts-in-sri-lanka-churches-hit-during-easter-sunday-mass-212200">Easter Sunday</a>.&nbsp;

That attack has badly dented the Sri Lankan economy, in particular deterring many thousands of foreign tourists from coming to the island.

"We are planning to raise $500 million from 5-year bonds and $1.5 billion through 10-year bonds," said a senior government official, who declined to be identified because he is not authorised to talk to media.

"Both bonds have been oversubscribed three times during the day's book building process in Asia and Europe alone. We are waiting for US markets to finalise the deal."

A senior finance ministry official also said the total size of the bond borrowing will be $2 billion.

A source who is aware of the deal said the price of 5-year bonds had tightened to near 6.4% from the initial price guidance of 6.6%, while 10-year bond price also got tightened to 7.6% from the initial price guidance of 7.8%.

The sale is part of plans to raise funds via sovereign bonds, as the government seeks new funds to repay loans that are maturing.

In March, Sri Lanka sold $1 billion in five-year bonds with a coupon of 6.85 per cent and $1.4 billion in 10-year bonds with a coupon of 7.85 per cent and the borrowing costs were lower than originally predicted.

The 10-year bond sold in March last traded at 7.302% and the five-year bond last traded at 6.258%, Refinitiv data showed.

BOC International, Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, HSBC, JPMorgan, SMBC Nikko and Standard Chartered Bank, who were the lead managers for the $2.4 billion borrowings in March, are the joint book runners for the bond sale.

The sale of new global sovereign bonds comes as Sri Lanka is struggling to repay foreign loans, with a record $5.9 billion due this year, including $2.6 billion in the first quarter and more than $1.2 billion in the second, central bank data showed.

All three major rating agencies downgraded Sri Lanka's debt after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-mps-defy-president-maithripala-sirisena-to-resume-easter-attack-probe-226346">President Maithripala Sirisena</a> sacked his prime minister in October and replaced him with pro-China former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, though that decision was later reversed.

But the seven-week-long crisis hurt the rupee and drove sovereign bond yields higher, straining state finances.

Sri Lanka is unlikely to hit its full-year economic growth target of 3-4% following the bombings, junior finance minister Eran Wickramaratne told Reuters last month. A Reuters poll has forecast growth to slump to its lowest in nearly two decades this year.

Sri Lanka is likely to raise $2 billion through 5-year and 10-year sovereign bonds launched on Monday, two government officials told Reuters, as the Indian Ocean island nation tapped global capital markets for the second time in three months.

Sri Lanka is likely to raise $2 billion through 5-year and 10-year sovereign bonds launched on Monday, two government officials told Reuters, as the Indian Ocean island nation tapped global capital markets for the second time in three months. The South Asian nation's decision to capitalise on favourable market conditions comes two months after suicide bombers killed more than 250 people in attacks at churches and luxury hotels on Easter Sunday. That attack has badly dented the Sri Lankan economy, in particular deterring many thousands of foreign tourists from coming to the island. "We are planning to raise $500 million from 5-year bonds and $1.5 billion through 10-year bonds," said a senior government official, who declined to be identified because he is not authorised to talk to media. "Both bonds have been oversubscribed three times during the day's book building process in Asia and Europe alone. We are waiting for US markets to finalise the deal." A senior finance ministry official also said the total size of the bond borrowing will be $2 billion. A source who is aware of the deal said the price of 5-year bonds had tightened to near 6.4% from the initial price guidance of 6.6%, while 10-year bond price also got tightened to 7.6% from the initial price guidance of 7.8%. The sale is part of plans to raise funds via sovereign bonds, as the government seeks new funds to repay loans that are maturing. In March, Sri Lanka sold $1 billion in five-year bonds with a coupon of 6.85 per cent and $1.4 billion in 10-year bonds with a coupon of 7.85 per cent and the borrowing costs were lower than originally predicted. The 10-year bond sold in March last traded at 7.302% and the five-year bond last traded at 6.258%, Refinitiv data showed. BOC International, Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, HSBC, JPMorgan, SMBC Nikko and Standard Chartered Bank, who were the lead managers for the $2.4 billion borrowings in March, are the joint book runners for the bond sale. The sale of new global sovereign bonds comes as Sri Lanka is struggling to repay foreign loans, with a record $5.9 billion due this year, including $2.6 billion in the first quarter and more than $1.2 billion in the second, central bank data showed. All three major rating agencies downgraded Sri Lanka's debt after President Maithripala Sirisena sacked his prime minister in October and replaced him with pro-China former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, though that decision was later reversed. But the seven-week-long crisis hurt the rupee and drove sovereign bond yields higher, straining state finances. Sri Lanka is unlikely to hit its full-year economic growth target of 3-4% following the bombings, junior finance minister Eran Wickramaratne told Reuters last month. A Reuters poll has forecast growth to slump to its lowest in nearly two decades this year.

Sri Lanka likely to raise $2 billion via sovereign bonds: Government officials

At 3:50 pm on June 28, 1919 crowds erupted in joy and salvos of celebratory gunfire rang ou, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-world-war-i-shaped-the-20th-century-and-beyond-176601">Treaty of Versailles</a> had just been signed. World War I was finally over.

Signed at the Palace of Versailles outside Paris, the text set out 440 punishing articles that crippled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/yazidis-sue-germany-for-failing-to-repatriate-islamic-state-fighters-for-trial-222540">Germany</a> economically and morally.

Although the treaty was intended to leave the war's aggressor too weak to pose a new threat, its harsh terms eventually led the world into another global conflict just 20 years later.

Victors cheered&nbsp;

The fountains at France's former royal residence were in operation for the signing ceremony for the first time since war broke out in 1914.

The crowd of soldiers and civilians gathered outside the vast palace cheered the leaders of the victor nations as they arrived, France's Georges Clemenceau, Britain's David Lloyd George and America's Thomas Woodrow Wilson.

The Big Three had dominated the peace talks that opened in Paris in January, two months after Germany capitulated and signed an armistice in November 1918.&nbsp;

The negotiations had been difficult, with Clemenceau less open than his US and British allies to compromise and insisting, "Germany will pay."

Berlin was not invited, informed only in May of the harsh terms of a settlement that blamed Germany for a conflict that had bled Europe dry.

On June 17 the Allies gave Germany five days to agree or face renewed fighting. Chancellor Philipp Scheidemann resigned in protest but the new government had to accept.

Business-like

The signing ceremony was in the palace's Hall of Mirrors, where the German Empire was proclaimed in 1871, on the defeat of France.

It was programmed for the exact same day five years previously that Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated -- the event that sparked World War I.

On entering the crowded room, Clemenceau went up to a group of French soldiers whose faces had been badly mutilated in the conflict.

"You have suffered a lot, but here is your reward," he reportedly said, gesturing towards the table in the centre of the room where the documents were waiting to be signed.

The event was "business-like" and over in 37 minutes, The New York Times reported.

After being opened, "there was merely a succession of delegates advancing to the table on which the conventions had been laid and signing their names."&nbsp;

There were 27 delegations representing 32 powers.&nbsp;

First to step forward to sign were the two German representatives, led by Foreign Minister Hermann Mueller.

"Mueller's face and neck were flushed crimson, and it was evident that both Germans felt keenly the position in which they were placed," the New York Times said.&nbsp;

The Allies followed, starting with Wilson.&nbsp;

"Hardly was the ink on the final signature dry when the old palace of Versailles ... shook from the concussion of the guns in the park outside that announced in salvos that the Germans had capitulated," the newspaper said.

Punishing terms&nbsp;

The terms were crippling for Germany, which had to accept a "war guilt" clause that made it responsible for paying out war damages.

The treaty redrew the map of Europe, Germany losing around 15 per cent of its territory and 10 per cent of its population along with all its colonies.

The country was split by the Danzig corridor, which fell under Polish rule, and the regions of Alsace and Lorraine were returned to France.

Its coal-rich Saarland, bordering France, was placed under an international mandate for 15 years. The adjoining Rhineland was demilitarised.

Military service was abolished and German ground troops were limited to 100,000 men, its navy also restricted and an air force forbidden.&nbsp;

The treaty also created the League of Nations -- the precursor to the United Nations -- although Germany was initially excluded.

Humiliation, anger&nbsp;

Germany was humiliated, the harshness of the treaty causing shock and anger among its people.

The reparations demanded by the Allies set in 1921, were around 132 billion German gold marks (more than $30 billion at the time), although this was later reduced.

But Germany struggled to pay and descended into economic chaos and hyperinflation.

The resentment fuelled nationalism and provided a breeding ground for the rising Nazis, whose leader Adolf Hitler came to power in 1933 refusing to continue paying the reparations.

Europe would soon be at war again.

At 3:50 pm on June 28, 1919 crowds erupted in joy and salvos of celebratory gunfire rang ou, the Treaty of Versailles had just been signed. World War I was finally over.

At 3:50 pm on June 28, 1919 crowds erupted in joy and salvos of celebratory gunfire rang ou, the Treaty of Versailles had just been signed. World War I was finally over. Signed at the Palace of Versailles outside Paris, the text set out 440 punishing articles that crippled Germany economically and morally. Although the treaty was intended to leave the war's aggressor too weak to pose a new threat, its harsh terms eventually led the world into another global conflict just 20 years later. Victors cheered The fountains at France's former royal residence were in operation for the signing ceremony for the first time since war broke out in 1914. The crowd of soldiers and civilians gathered outside the vast palace cheered the leaders of the victor nations as they arrived, France's Georges Clemenceau, Britain's David Lloyd George and America's Thomas Woodrow Wilson. The Big Three had dominated the peace talks that opened in Paris in January, two months after Germany capitulated and signed an armistice in November 1918. The negotiations had been difficult, with Clemenceau less open than his US and British allies to compromise and insisting, "Germany will pay." Berlin was not invited, informed only in May of the harsh terms of a settlement that blamed Germany for a conflict that had bled Europe dry. On June 17 the Allies gave Germany five days to agree or face renewed fighting. Chancellor Philipp Scheidemann resigned in protest but the new government had to accept. Business-like The signing ceremony was in the palace's Hall of Mirrors, where the German Empire was proclaimed in 1871, on the defeat of France. It was programmed for the exact same day five years previously that Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated -- the event that sparked World War I. On entering the crowded room, Clemenceau went up to a group of French soldiers whose faces had been badly mutilated in the conflict. "You have suffered a lot, but here is your reward," he reportedly said, gesturing towards the table in the centre of the room where the documents were waiting to be signed. The event was "business-like" and over in 37 minutes, The New York Times reported. After being opened, "there was merely a succession of delegates advancing to the table on which the conventions had been laid and signing their names." There were 27 delegations representing 32 powers. First to step forward to sign were the two German representatives, led by Foreign Minister Hermann Mueller. "Mueller's face and neck were flushed crimson, and it was evident that both Germans felt keenly the position in which they were placed," the New York Times said. The Allies followed, starting with Wilson. "Hardly was the ink on the final signature dry when the old palace of Versailles ... shook from the concussion of the guns in the park outside that announced in salvos that the Germans had capitulated," the newspaper said. Punishing terms The terms were crippling for Germany, which had to accept a "war guilt" clause that made it responsible for paying out war damages. The treaty redrew the map of Europe, Germany losing around 15 per cent of its territory and 10 per cent of its population along with all its colonies. The country was split by the Danzig corridor, which fell under Polish rule, and the regions of Alsace and Lorraine were returned to France. Its coal-rich Saarland, bordering France, was placed under an international mandate for 15 years. The adjoining Rhineland was demilitarised. Military service was abolished and German ground troops were limited to 100,000 men, its navy also restricted and an air force forbidden. The treaty also created the League of Nations -- the precursor to the United Nations -- although Germany was initially excluded. Humiliation, anger Germany was humiliated, the harshness of the treaty causing shock and anger among its people. The reparations demanded by the Allies set in 1921, were around 132 billion German gold marks (more than $30 billion at the time), although this was later reduced. But Germany struggled to pay and descended into economic chaos and hyperinflation. The resentment fuelled nationalism and provided a breeding ground for the rising Nazis, whose leader Adolf Hitler came to power in 1933 refusing to continue paying the reparations. Europe would soon be at war again.

100 years since the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-visit-south-korea-as-pompeo-raises-hope-for-new-north-korea-talks-after-letter-230158">Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India.

Congressman Eliot L Engel, Chairman of House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in a letter urged Pompeo to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential.

"I am deeply concerned by the inconsistencies between the administration's rhetoric and actions toward India, which are further exacerbated by the lack of a confirmed assistant secretary more than two years into this administration's term," Engel said in his letter to Pompeo.

H said tensions have increased over each side's tariff policies, starting with the US "Section 232" tariffs on steel and aluminum.

There is a growing view that the administration is attempting to coerce India into complying with the US demands on a variety of issues, rather than negotiating with them as a strategic partner, Engel said.

Watch:&nbsp;Mike Pompeo to arrive in India on Tuesday; all eyes on strengthening defence ties

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mike-pompeo-to-arrive-in-india-on-tuesday-all-eyes-on-strengthening-defence-ties-230156/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The threats to strip India of its privileges under the Generalized System of Preferences in the middle of the country's general election has furthered the notion that the administration sees the India relationship as a transactional one. And the decision to end waivers related to the US sanctions on Iran could alienate India when we need to be working with our partners to prevent destabilising Iranian activities," he said.

According to the top head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the administration's policies have not only failed to advance the US objectives, but have also introduced significant friction in its partnership with New Delhi.&nbsp;

The trade concerns are real, and the United States must continue to work with the Indian government on market access and other important issues like international child abduction and human rights, he said.&nbsp;

"But the administration must also demonstrate a predictable, coherent, and consistent strategy that strengthens the US-India cooperation, especially in areas where our interests and values align. It's critical that American engagement support those in India who seek to further strengthen India's ties to the United States," Engel demanded.

The measure and strength of bilateral relationships, he argued, cannot be boiled down to trade deficits and tariffs.

The inconsistent US approach toward India risks setting back the strategic partnership that the two countries have worked for decades to cultivate, he added.&nbsp;

"I urge you to use your visit to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential," Engel said.&nbsp;

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India.

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India. Congressman Eliot L Engel, Chairman of House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in a letter urged Pompeo to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential. "I am deeply concerned by the inconsistencies between the administration's rhetoric and actions toward India, which are further exacerbated by the lack of a confirmed assistant secretary more than two years into this administration's term," Engel said in his letter to Pompeo. H said tensions have increased over each side's tariff policies, starting with the US "Section 232" tariffs on steel and aluminum. There is a growing view that the administration is attempting to coerce India into complying with the US demands on a variety of issues, rather than negotiating with them as a strategic partner, Engel said. Watch: Mike Pompeo to arrive in India on Tuesday; all eyes on strengthening defence ties "The threats to strip India of its privileges under the Generalized System of Preferences in the middle of the country's general election has furthered the notion that the administration sees the India relationship as a transactional one. And the decision to end waivers related to the US sanctions on Iran could alienate India when we need to be working with our partners to prevent destabilising Iranian activities," he said. According to the top head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the administration's policies have not only failed to advance the US objectives, but have also introduced significant friction in its partnership with New Delhi. The trade concerns are real, and the United States must continue to work with the Indian government on market access and other important issues like international child abduction and human rights, he said. "But the administration must also demonstrate a predictable, coherent, and consistent strategy that strengthens the US-India cooperation, especially in areas where our interests and values align. It's critical that American engagement support those in India who seek to further strengthen India's ties to the United States," Engel demanded. The measure and strength of bilateral relationships, he argued, cannot be boiled down to trade deficits and tariffs. The inconsistent US approach toward India risks setting back the strategic partnership that the two countries have worked for decades to cultivate, he added. "I urge you to use your visit to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential," Engel said.

Lack of predictability, coherence in India-US strategic ties: Congressman tells Pompeo ahead of visit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-again-denies-columnists-rape-allegations-says-shes-not-my-type-230149">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> will visit South Korea this weekend after an exchange of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-sent-me-birthday-wishes-it-was-a-friendly-letter-trump-230119">letters with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un boosted</a> hopes for a resumption of talks aimed at ending North Korea's nuclear program.

Trump is set to arrive in South Korea for a two-day visit on Saturday and will meet President Moon Jae-in on Sunday, following a summit of G20 leaders in Japan, Moon's spokeswoman, Ko Min-jung, said on Monday.

The announcement came hours after US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he hoped a letter Trump sent to Kim could pave the way for a revival of talks that have been stalled since a failed second summit between Trump and Kim in February.

Trump and Moon would have "in-depth discussions on ways to work together to foster lasting peace," Ko told a news briefing.

Trump told reporters at the White House that Kim had sent him birthday wishes. "It was just a very friendly letter both ways. We have a very good relationship," he said.

Pompeo, who spoke of Trump's letter to Kim before leaving Washington on Sunday for a trip to the Middle East and Asia, said Washington was ready to resume talks with North Korea immediately.

Watch:&nbsp;Kim Jong-un receives excellent letter from Trump

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-jong-un-receives-excellent-letter-from-trump-229786/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I'm hopeful that this will provide a good foundation for us to begin ... these important discussions with the North Koreans," Pompeo told reporters.

Trump is considering a visit to the demilitarized zone (DMZ) separating the two Koreas, a South Korean official said.

A Trump administration official briefing reporters on a conference call said Trump had no plans to meet Kim during his visit to South Korea, and declined to comment when asked whether Trump would travel to the DMZ.

Trump wanted to go to the DMZ on a 2017 trip to South Korea but heavy fog prevented it. Kim and Moon held their historic first summit in the DMZ last year.

Trump and Kim held their first, groundbreaking summit in Singapore in June last year, agreeing to establish new relations and work towards the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula.

But a second summit in Vietnam in February collapsed when the two sides were unable to bridge differences between US&nbsp;demands for denuclearisation and North Korean demands for sanctions relief.

The director of the US&nbsp;Defense Intelligence Agency, Lieutenant General Robert Ashley, told Fox News on Monday that the intelligence community continued to assess that Kim Jong Un was not ready to give up his nuclear weapons.

Stephen Biegun, the US&nbsp;special envoy for North Korea, said on Wednesday that Washington had no preconditions for talks but that progress would require meaningful and verifiable North Korean steps to denuclearise.

The State Department said Biegun, who led working-level talks with North Korea in the run-up to the Hanoi summit, would visit Seoul from Thursday until Sunday for meetings with South Korean officials.

'Excellent'

Tension mounted last month when North Korea test-fired a series of short-range ballistic missiles, although Trump and South Korea both played down the tests.

One June 11, Trump said he had received a very warm, "beautiful" letter from Kim, adding he thought something positive would happen.

North Korea's state news agency, KCNA, said on Sunday that Kim had received a letter from Trump, which he described as being "of excellent content", but did not disclose any details.

KCNA said Kim "would seriously contemplate the interesting content".

Shin Beom-chul, a senior fellow at the Asian Institute for Policy Studies in Seoul, said Trump may have proposed a new round of working-level talks but that a major breakthrough was unlikely for now.

"North Korea has to show what the final state of denuclearisation would look like and what road map it has toward that end, but it's not desirable to reopen talks just to manage the situation after recent weapons tests," Shin told Reuters.

Pompeo, who will also be in Seoul for Trump's visit, did not discuss the contents of the president's letter, but said Washington had been working to lay foundations for discussions.

"I think we're in a better place," he said.

Asked if working-level discussions would begin soon, Pompeo said,&nbsp;"I think the remarks you saw out of North Korea this morning suggest that may well be a very good possibility. We're ready to go, we're literally prepared to go at a moment's notice if the North Koreans indicate that they're prepared for those discussions."

Joseph Yun, Biegun's predecessor as special envoy for North Korea, told a panel discussion at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies that he expected there to be a third summit between Trump and Kim and it would probably take place "sooner rather than later."

Victor Cha, a former White House official involved in past negotiations with North Korea, told the same event he expected Trump to go to the DMZ and noted Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to North Korea last week.

"Whenever you see high-level letter and then the Chinese and North Koreans meeting, that's kind of like the set-up for a third meeting," he said.

"The question is, is he going to make a big statement at the DMZ ... is he going to do it with President Moon. Are there going to be other surprises? This president likes surprises."

US President Donald Trump will visit South Korea this weekend after an exchange of letters with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un boosted hopes for a resumption of talks aimed at ending North Korea's nuclear program.

US President Donald Trump will visit South Korea this weekend after an exchange of letters with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un boosted hopes for a resumption of talks aimed at ending North Korea's nuclear program. Trump is set to arrive in South Korea for a two-day visit on Saturday and will meet President Moon Jae-in on Sunday, following a summit of G20 leaders in Japan, Moon's spokeswoman, Ko Min-jung, said on Monday. The announcement came hours after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he hoped a letter Trump sent to Kim could pave the way for a revival of talks that have been stalled since a failed second summit between Trump and Kim in February. Trump and Moon would have "in-depth discussions on ways to work together to foster lasting peace," Ko told a news briefing. Trump told reporters at the White House that Kim had sent him birthday wishes. "It was just a very friendly letter both ways. We have a very good relationship," he said. Pompeo, who spoke of Trump's letter to Kim before leaving Washington on Sunday for a trip to the Middle East and Asia, said Washington was ready to resume talks with North Korea immediately. Watch: Kim Jong-un receives excellent letter from Trump "I'm hopeful that this will provide a good foundation for us to begin ... these important discussions with the North Koreans," Pompeo told reporters. Trump is considering a visit to the demilitarized zone (DMZ) separating the two Koreas, a South Korean official said. A Trump administration official briefing reporters on a conference call said Trump had no plans to meet Kim during his visit to South Korea, and declined to comment when asked whether Trump would travel to the DMZ. Trump wanted to go to the DMZ on a 2017 trip to South Korea but heavy fog prevented it. Kim and Moon held their historic first summit in the DMZ last year. Trump and Kim held their first, groundbreaking summit in Singapore in June last year, agreeing to establish new relations and work towards the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula. But a second summit in Vietnam in February collapsed when the two sides were unable to bridge differences between US demands for denuclearisation and North Korean demands for sanctions relief. The director of the US Defense Intelligence Agency, Lieutenant General Robert Ashley, told Fox News on Monday that the intelligence community continued to assess that Kim Jong Un was not ready to give up his nuclear weapons. Stephen Biegun, the US special envoy for North Korea, said on Wednesday that Washington had no preconditions for talks but that progress would require meaningful and verifiable North Korean steps to denuclearise. The State Department said Biegun, who led working-level talks with North Korea in the run-up to the Hanoi summit, would visit Seoul from Thursday until Sunday for meetings with South Korean officials. 'Excellent' Tension mounted last month when North Korea test-fired a series of short-range ballistic missiles, although Trump and South Korea both played down the tests. One June 11, Trump said he had received a very warm, "beautiful" letter from Kim, adding he thought something positive would happen. North Korea's state news agency, KCNA, said on Sunday that Kim had received a letter from Trump, which he described as being "of excellent content", but did not disclose any details. KCNA said Kim "would seriously contemplate the interesting content". Shin Beom-chul, a senior fellow at the Asian Institute for Policy Studies in Seoul, said Trump may have proposed a new round of working-level talks but that a major breakthrough was unlikely for now. "North Korea has to show what the final state of denuclearisation would look like and what road map it has toward that end, but it's not desirable to reopen talks just to manage the situation after recent weapons tests," Shin told Reuters. Pompeo, who will also be in Seoul for Trump's visit, did not discuss the contents of the president's letter, but said Washington had been working to lay foundations for discussions. "I think we're in a better place," he said. Asked if working-level discussions would begin soon, Pompeo said, "I think the remarks you saw out of North Korea this morning suggest that may well be a very good possibility. We're ready to go, we're literally prepared to go at a moment's notice if the North Koreans indicate that they're prepared for those discussions." Joseph Yun, Biegun's predecessor as special envoy for North Korea, told a panel discussion at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies that he expected there to be a third summit between Trump and Kim and it would probably take place "sooner rather than later." Victor Cha, a former White House official involved in past negotiations with North Korea, told the same event he expected Trump to go to the DMZ and noted Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to North Korea last week. "Whenever you see high-level letter and then the Chinese and North Koreans meeting, that's kind of like the set-up for a third meeting," he said. "The question is, is he going to make a big statement at the DMZ ... is he going to do it with President Moon. Are there going to be other surprises? This president likes surprises."

Trump to visit South Korea as Pompeo raises hope for new North Korea talks after letter

The US-based research arm of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-executive-asks-canada-to-quash-us-extradition-request-230152">China's Huawei Technologies</a> Co Ltd - Futurewei Technologies Inc - has moved to separate its operations from its corporate parent since the US government in May put Huawei on a trade blacklist, according to two people familiar with the matter.

Futurewei has banned Huawei employees from its offices, moved Futurewei employees to a new IT system and forbidden them from using the Huawei name or logo in communications, a Futurewei employee told Reuters on condition of anonymity. Huawei will continue to own Futurewei, the employee said.

Milton Frazier, Futurewei’s general counsel, declined to comment on the separation or the strategy behind it, referring questions to Huawei spokesman Chase Skinner. Skinner did not answer questions about the effort.

The division of operations, which has not been previously reported, comes as many US&nbsp;universities have halted research partnerships with Huawei in reaction to US&nbsp;government allegations that the company poses a national security threat. Many universities are also rethinking their partnerships with other Chinese firms.

Huawei is among the world’s largest telecommunications equipment manufacturers. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-files-lawsuit-against-us-commerce-dept-over-seized-equipment-filing-229447">The Commerce Department</a> in May placed the firm on its “entity list” of organizations that pose security risks. The Justice Department earlier filed charges against the firm alleging theft of trade secrets and other crimes.

Futurewei is Huawei’s US-based research and development arm. The firm employs hundreds of people at offices in Silicon Valley and the greater Seattle, Chicago and Dallas areas, according to its workers’ LinkedIn pages. Futurewei has filed more than 2,100 patents in such areas as telecommunications, 5G cellular networks, and video and camera technologies, according to data from the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Until now, Futurewei’s operations have been largely indistinguishable from Huawei, the Futurewei employee said. Futurewei had no separate brand or even a website, the employee said, and its staff often identified themselves as Huawei employees.

Both companies have conducted a wide range of research partnerships and grant programs with US&nbsp;universities.

Last year, 26 members of Congress sent a letter to Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, warning that Huawei’s partnerships with at least 50 US&nbsp;universities “may pose a significant threat to national security.”

The fear is that Huawei is using university partnerships to scoop up research in areas such as artificial intelligence, telecommunications and robotics, which could be used in hacking or spying operations or to give Chinese companies an edge over US&nbsp;competitors.

Some universities are struggling with whether they can continue partnerships with Futurewei - which is not on the government’s entity list - even as they suspend funding and research arrangements with Huawei.

The University of California-Berkeley, for instance, is allowing researchers to keep working with Futurewei after suspending all funding and information exchanges with Huawei in May, according to guidance to faculty from Berkeley research chief Randy Katz.

Berkeley also suspended funding from Futurewei but continues to allow Futurewei employees to participate in research reviews under certain restrictions, Katz wrote to faculty. Berkeley staff and students now can work only with Futurewei employees who are US&nbsp;citizens or legal permanent residents and who agree in writing not to share certain sensitive information with Huawei.

Companies on the entity list are banned from buying parts and components from American firms without US&nbsp;government approval. Most universities have also consulted the list when making decisions on grants or partnerships, said Tobin Smith, of the Association of American Universities.

Katz said he issued his guidance on Futurewei out of an "abundance of caution" to ensure researchers don't break laws that prevent sharing sensitive US&nbsp;technology with entity-listed companies. After consulting with the Commerce Department, Berkeley determined that Futurewei was not covered by the same restrictions as Huawei, Katz wrote to faculty.

“Nevertheless, the US&nbsp;government may take other actions against Futurewei,” he wrote.

The Commerce Department could not legally place Futurewei on the entity list because it is a US&nbsp;company, the agency said in a statement. Commerce spokesman Ari Schaffer did not answer questions on whether and how the agency regulates university research partnerships with entity-list companies or their US&nbsp;subsidiaries.

There's nothing illegal about colleges taking grant money or conducting research with such companies, said Erick Robinson, head of the China practice at law firm Dunlap, Bennett &amp; Ludwig. What's prohibited, he said, is any transfer of "essential confidential technology" to Huawei by any person or organization.

'Futurewei is Huawei'

The US&nbsp;Justice Department in January announced charges against Huawei and an executive in connection with an alleged scheme to mislead banks and the United States about its business activities in Iran, which is under US&nbsp;sanctions. Prosecutors also charged the company with stealing robotic technology from T-Mobile US Inc. The company pleaded not guilty in both cases.

The crackdown on Huawei comes amid an escalating US-China trade war, in which the transfer of US&nbsp;technology and intellectual property to Chinese companies has been a point of contention.

In addition to Berkeley, the list of universities that have partnered with Huawei or Futurewei includes Stanford, Princeton and Columbia universities, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of Michigan and the University of Texas at Austin.

Congressman Jim Banks, an Indiana Republican who signed the letter warning about Huawei’s university partnerships, said any move to separate the operations of Futurewei and Huawei would not resolve those concerns.

“Futurewei is Huawei," Banks told Reuters.

Banks introduced a bill in March called the “Protect Our Universities Act” that would allow government agencies to restrict or cancel federal funding for any sensitive research project carried out with companies that pose a threat of espionage.

The bill names Huawei and several other Chinese technology companies as threats, along with any company owned or controlled by the governments of China, Russia, North Korea or Iran.

Josh Hawley, a republican senator from Missouri, last week introduced a similar bill with the same name aimed at addressing the “threat of foreign government influence and threats to academic research integrity”.

Dilemma on campus

UC Berkeley has received nearly $8 million from the two firms in the past two years, said UC Berkeley spokesman Dan Mogoluf. Katz, Berkeley's research chief, said the school would reconsider its moratorium on taking money from Futurewei if the University of California's Office of the President, gives its blessing.

The office, which oversees 10 public universities including Berkeley, said in a statement that it wants to balance security concerns with maintaining an "open academic environment" for international scholars.

At Stanford, Dean of Research Kathryn Moler said the university "paused" new funding agreements from Huawei and Futurewei in December but has continued working with the firms under existing arrangements. Moler did not answer questions about whether Stanford continues to accept money from the firms and declined to comment on whether it would lift its moratorium on new Futurewei funding if it separates its operations from Huawei.

Stanford computer science professor John Ousterhout said his lab was getting $500,000 annually from Futurewei and had been in talks to boost that to $2 million when he learned of the moratorium.

"I'm not here to defend Huawei. It's quite possible that Huawei has done some seriously bad things," Ousterhout said. But universities, he said, "should not be a law enforcement tool or foreign policy enforcement tool."

Andrew Chien, a University of Chicago professor who lost Huawei funding, said the computer science community needs to "grow up" and acknowledge the kind of security risks that have long been managed by colleagues in such disciplines as physics, whose work has military applications.

"Computing has become so central and so important - and so dangerous," he said. "We're beyond the point where you can deny that."

The US-based research arm of China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd - Futurewei Technologies Inc - has moved to separate its operations from its corporate parent since the US government in May put Huawei on a trade blacklist, according to two people familiar with the matter.

The US-based research arm of China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd - Futurewei Technologies Inc - has moved to separate its operations from its corporate parent since the US government in May put Huawei on a trade blacklist, according to two people familiar with the matter. Futurewei has banned Huawei employees from its offices, moved Futurewei employees to a new IT system and forbidden them from using the Huawei name or logo in communications, a Futurewei employee told Reuters on condition of anonymity. Huawei will continue to own Futurewei, the employee said. Milton Frazier, Futurewei’s general counsel, declined to comment on the separation or the strategy behind it, referring questions to Huawei spokesman Chase Skinner. Skinner did not answer questions about the effort. The division of operations, which has not been previously reported, comes as many US universities have halted research partnerships with Huawei in reaction to US government allegations that the company poses a national security threat. Many universities are also rethinking their partnerships with other Chinese firms. Huawei is among the world’s largest telecommunications equipment manufacturers. The Commerce Department in May placed the firm on its “entity list” of organizations that pose security risks. The Justice Department earlier filed charges against the firm alleging theft of trade secrets and other crimes. Futurewei is Huawei’s US-based research and development arm. The firm employs hundreds of people at offices in Silicon Valley and the greater Seattle, Chicago and Dallas areas, according to its workers’ LinkedIn pages. Futurewei has filed more than 2,100 patents in such areas as telecommunications, 5G cellular networks, and video and camera technologies, according to data from the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Until now, Futurewei’s operations have been largely indistinguishable from Huawei, the Futurewei employee said. Futurewei had no separate brand or even a website, the employee said, and its staff often identified themselves as Huawei employees. Both companies have conducted a wide range of research partnerships and grant programs with US universities. Last year, 26 members of Congress sent a letter to Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, warning that Huawei’s partnerships with at least 50 US universities “may pose a significant threat to national security.” The fear is that Huawei is using university partnerships to scoop up research in areas such as artificial intelligence, telecommunications and robotics, which could be used in hacking or spying operations or to give Chinese companies an edge over US competitors. Some universities are struggling with whether they can continue partnerships with Futurewei - which is not on the government’s entity list - even as they suspend funding and research arrangements with Huawei. The University of California-Berkeley, for instance, is allowing researchers to keep working with Futurewei after suspending all funding and information exchanges with Huawei in May, according to guidance to faculty from Berkeley research chief Randy Katz. Berkeley also suspended funding from Futurewei but continues to allow Futurewei employees to participate in research reviews under certain restrictions, Katz wrote to faculty. Berkeley staff and students now can work only with Futurewei employees who are US citizens or legal permanent residents and who agree in writing not to share certain sensitive information with Huawei. Companies on the entity list are banned from buying parts and components from American firms without US government approval. Most universities have also consulted the list when making decisions on grants or partnerships, said Tobin Smith, of the Association of American Universities. Katz said he issued his guidance on Futurewei out of an "abundance of caution" to ensure researchers don't break laws that prevent sharing sensitive US technology with entity-listed companies. After consulting with the Commerce Department, Berkeley determined that Futurewei was not covered by the same restrictions as Huawei, Katz wrote to faculty. “Nevertheless, the US government may take other actions against Futurewei,” he wrote. The Commerce Department could not legally place Futurewei on the entity list because it is a US company, the agency said in a statement. Commerce spokesman Ari Schaffer did not answer questions on whether and how the agency regulates university research partnerships with entity-list companies or their US subsidiaries. There's nothing illegal about colleges taking grant money or conducting research with such companies, said Erick Robinson, head of the China practice at law firm Dunlap, Bennett & Ludwig. What's prohibited, he said, is any transfer of "essential confidential technology" to Huawei by any person or organization. 'Futurewei is Huawei' The US Justice Department in January announced charges against Huawei and an executive in connection with an alleged scheme to mislead banks and the United States about its business activities in Iran, which is under US sanctions. Prosecutors also charged the company with stealing robotic technology from T-Mobile US Inc. The company pleaded not guilty in both cases. The crackdown on Huawei comes amid an escalating US-China trade war, in which the transfer of US technology and intellectual property to Chinese companies has been a point of contention. In addition to Berkeley, the list of universities that have partnered with Huawei or Futurewei includes Stanford, Princeton and Columbia universities, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of Michigan and the University of Texas at Austin. Congressman Jim Banks, an Indiana Republican who signed the letter warning about Huawei’s university partnerships, said any move to separate the operations of Futurewei and Huawei would not resolve those concerns. “Futurewei is Huawei," Banks told Reuters. Banks introduced a bill in March called the “Protect Our Universities Act” that would allow government agencies to restrict or cancel federal funding for any sensitive research project carried out with companies that pose a threat of espionage. The bill names Huawei and several other Chinese technology companies as threats, along with any company owned or controlled by the governments of China, Russia, North Korea or Iran. Josh Hawley, a republican senator from Missouri, last week introduced a similar bill with the same name aimed at addressing the “threat of foreign government influence and threats to academic research integrity”. Dilemma on campus UC Berkeley has received nearly $8 million from the two firms in the past two years, said UC Berkeley spokesman Dan Mogoluf. Katz, Berkeley's research chief, said the school would reconsider its moratorium on taking money from Futurewei if the University of California's Office of the President, gives its blessing. The office, which oversees 10 public universities including Berkeley, said in a statement that it wants to balance security concerns with maintaining an "open academic environment" for international scholars. At Stanford, Dean of Research Kathryn Moler said the university "paused" new funding agreements from Huawei and Futurewei in December but has continued working with the firms under existing arrangements. Moler did not answer questions about whether Stanford continues to accept money from the firms and declined to comment on whether it would lift its moratorium on new Futurewei funding if it separates its operations from Huawei. Stanford computer science professor John Ousterhout said his lab was getting $500,000 annually from Futurewei and had been in talks to boost that to $2 million when he learned of the moratorium. "I'm not here to defend Huawei. It's quite possible that Huawei has done some seriously bad things," Ousterhout said. But universities, he said, "should not be a law enforcement tool or foreign policy enforcement tool." Andrew Chien, a University of Chicago professor who lost Huawei funding, said the computer science community needs to "grow up" and acknowledge the kind of security risks that have long been managed by colleagues in such disciplines as physics, whose work has military applications. "Computing has become so central and so important - and so dangerous," he said. "We're beyond the point where you can deny that."

Huawei's US research arm builds separate identity

Chinese equipment provider Huawei has proposed to sign an agreement, including "no back door", with the Indian government to allay any security concerns it may have regarding its network equipment. The company is facing heat in the Indian market following the ban of Huawei in the US market, which has been followed by Australia and Japan. However, some countries are yet to take a decision.

Huawei ready for 'no back door' pact

An Illinois man who prosecutors described as obsessed with serial killers was found guilty on Monday of the kidnapping and decapitation murder of a Chinese graduate student two years ago and could now face the death penalty.

A US District Court jury in Peoria deliberated for less than two hours before convicting Brendt Christensen, 29, of all charges in the disappearance and death of Yingying Zhang, a 26-year-old student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Zhang was reported missing on June 9, 2017, two months after coming from southeastern China to study photosynthesis and crop production at the university. Her remains have never been found, but prosecutors said her DNA was matched to the blood later found in three spots inside Christensen's bedroom.

The case has been closely watched by Chinese media, Chinese government officials and Chinese students studying in the United States. Relatives publicly appealed to US President Donald Trump for additional resources to help find Zhang two months after she vanished.

Federal prosecutors trying Christensen under US kidnapping laws have said they planned to seek the death penalty if he was found guilty.

Investigators were led to Christensen through surveillance video footage captured in Urbana, 130 miles (210 km) south of Chicago, showing Zhang getting into a black car that later was traced to the defendant.

Prosecutors said Christensen took Zhang to his apartment, where she fought for her life as he bludgeoned her with a baseball bat, raped her and stabbed her in the neck before cutting off her head.

Details of the crime, including the decapitation, were revealed by Christensen himself in conversations with his then-girlfriend secretly recorded for FBI agents investigating the case before his arrest, according to trial testimony.

Father's statement of thanks

Defence lawyers conceded during the trial that their client had killed Zhang, though they disputed particulars in prosecutors' account of events.

During closing arguments on Monday, Assistant US Attorney Eugene Miller told jurors that Christensen had spent up to six months planning the murder and had chosen Zhang because she was small of stature and appeared an easy target.

"He raped her, he murdered her, and then spent the next three weeks trying to cover up the crime," Miller said.

In their own summation on Monday, Christensen's lawyers suggested they hoped to persuade the jury to spare his life during the penalty phase of the trial, which was set to begin July 8.

"This is not the ultimate decision. You have to realize there's more," attorney Elisabeth Pollock told jurors.

Christensen, a onetime master's student at the university, sat expressionless in court as he was pronounced guilty on the charge of kidnapping resulting in death, as well as two counts of lying to federal investigators, capping an eight-day trial.

Earlier in the trial, prosecutors characterized Christensen as having a fascination with serial killers, including Ted Bundy, who murdered dozens of women during the 1970s.

The victim's father, Ronggao Zhang, read a statement outside the courthouse on Monday on behalf of the family thanking the jury for "this step towards justice."

"We have missed Yingying tremendously in the past two years," he said. "As of today, we still could not imagine how we could live the rest of our lives without her."

An Illinois man who prosecutors described as obsessed with serial killers was found guilty on Monday of the kidnapping and decapitation murder of a Chinese graduate student two years ago and could now face the death penalty.

An Illinois man who prosecutors described as obsessed with serial killers was found guilty on Monday of the kidnapping and decapitation murder of a Chinese graduate student two years ago and could now face the death penalty. A US District Court jury in Peoria deliberated for less than two hours before convicting Brendt Christensen, 29, of all charges in the disappearance and death of Yingying Zhang, a 26-year-old student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Zhang was reported missing on June 9, 2017, two months after coming from southeastern China to study photosynthesis and crop production at the university. Her remains have never been found, but prosecutors said her DNA was matched to the blood later found in three spots inside Christensen's bedroom. The case has been closely watched by Chinese media, Chinese government officials and Chinese students studying in the United States. Relatives publicly appealed to US President Donald Trump for additional resources to help find Zhang two months after she vanished. Federal prosecutors trying Christensen under US kidnapping laws have said they planned to seek the death penalty if he was found guilty. Investigators were led to Christensen through surveillance video footage captured in Urbana, 130 miles (210 km) south of Chicago, showing Zhang getting into a black car that later was traced to the defendant. Prosecutors said Christensen took Zhang to his apartment, where she fought for her life as he bludgeoned her with a baseball bat, raped her and stabbed her in the neck before cutting off her head. Details of the crime, including the decapitation, were revealed by Christensen himself in conversations with his then-girlfriend secretly recorded for FBI agents investigating the case before his arrest, according to trial testimony. Father's statement of thanks Defence lawyers conceded during the trial that their client had killed Zhang, though they disputed particulars in prosecutors' account of events. During closing arguments on Monday, Assistant US Attorney Eugene Miller told jurors that Christensen had spent up to six months planning the murder and had chosen Zhang because she was small of stature and appeared an easy target. "He raped her, he murdered her, and then spent the next three weeks trying to cover up the crime," Miller said. In their own summation on Monday, Christensen's lawyers suggested they hoped to persuade the jury to spare his life during the penalty phase of the trial, which was set to begin July 8. "This is not the ultimate decision. You have to realize there's more," attorney Elisabeth Pollock told jurors. Christensen, a onetime master's student at the university, sat expressionless in court as he was pronounced guilty on the charge of kidnapping resulting in death, as well as two counts of lying to federal investigators, capping an eight-day trial. Earlier in the trial, prosecutors characterized Christensen as having a fascination with serial killers, including Ted Bundy, who murdered dozens of women during the 1970s. The victim's father, Ronggao Zhang, read a statement outside the courthouse on Monday on behalf of the family thanking the jury for "this step towards justice." "We have missed Yingying tremendously in the past two years," he said. "As of today, we still could not imagine how we could live the rest of our lives without her."

US jury convicts man of Chinese graduate student's kidnap-murder

Authorities in Texas reported seven migrant deaths on Monday, including those of a woman, two babies and a toddler, showing the danger of extreme summer heat as Central American families surge across the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-15000-soldiers-deployed-on-us-border-mexico-army-chief-230133">US-Mexico border</a>.

The woman and three children may have been dead for days before they were found by US Border Patrol near the Rio Grande in South Texas on Sunday, according to a local law enforcement official, who asked not to be named.

They are thought to have died from heat exposure and dehydration in an area about 18 miles (29 km) east of McAllen.

To the west, US Border Patrol agents in the Del Rio area recovered the bodies of two men on ranchland near Carrizo Springs after anonymous calls on June 19 and June 20 alerted them to lost <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-asks-un-for-more-suppoprt-to-tackle-central-american-migrants-228816">migrants</a>, the agency said in a statement.

Another decomposed body was found June 20 on the riverbank of the Rio Grande near Normandy.

"The extreme temperatures during this time of year can be fatal,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Raul Ortiz.

Arrests of undocumented migrants reached their highest monthly level since 2006 in May, with more than 60 % of those apprehended either children or families, many seeking asylum.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-how-does-the-situation-on-the-us-mexico-border-compare-with-the-past-225130">Trump administration</a> has set limits on how many people can claim asylum each day at ports of entry. With months-long waits for interviews, migrant families are instead attempting sometimes risky border crossings to make their claims.

Smugglers put migrants' lives at risk by dropping them off in desolate areas or sending them across the Rio Grande in makeshift rafts.

Increased fencing and security in many areas means migrants who have been deported, and are seeking to evade capture, often take dangerous routes to re-enter the United States.

A six-year-old girl from India died earlier this month from heat stroke in western Arizona after smugglers left a group of migrants in a remote desert location.

Three children and a Honduran man are believed to have died in April when their raft overturned on the Rio Grande near Del Rio. Water rescues at the popular crossing point have soared.

Border Patrol reported 283 migrant fatalities on the border in 2018. Human rights activists say the number is far higher as the remains of many migrants are never found and the agency's data does not include all deaths registered by local authorities.

Authorities in Texas reported seven migrant deaths on Monday, including those of a woman, two babies and a toddler, showing the danger of extreme summer heat as Central American families surge across the US-Mexico border.

Authorities in Texas reported seven migrant deaths on Monday, including those of a woman, two babies and a toddler, showing the danger of extreme summer heat as Central American families surge across the US-Mexico border. The woman and three children may have been dead for days before they were found by US Border Patrol near the Rio Grande in South Texas on Sunday, according to a local law enforcement official, who asked not to be named. They are thought to have died from heat exposure and dehydration in an area about 18 miles (29 km) east of McAllen. To the west, US Border Patrol agents in the Del Rio area recovered the bodies of two men on ranchland near Carrizo Springs after anonymous calls on June 19 and June 20 alerted them to lost migrants, the agency said in a statement. Another decomposed body was found June 20 on the riverbank of the Rio Grande near Normandy. "The extreme temperatures during this time of year can be fatal,” said Del Rio Sector Chief Patrol Agent Raul Ortiz. Arrests of undocumented migrants reached their highest monthly level since 2006 in May, with more than 60 % of those apprehended either children or families, many seeking asylum. The Trump administration has set limits on how many people can claim asylum each day at ports of entry. With months-long waits for interviews, migrant families are instead attempting sometimes risky border crossings to make their claims. Smugglers put migrants' lives at risk by dropping them off in desolate areas or sending them across the Rio Grande in makeshift rafts. Increased fencing and security in many areas means migrants who have been deported, and are seeking to evade capture, often take dangerous routes to re-enter the United States. A six-year-old girl from India died earlier this month from heat stroke in western Arizona after smugglers left a group of migrants in a remote desert location. Three children and a Honduran man are believed to have died in April when their raft overturned on the Rio Grande near Del Rio. Water rescues at the popular crossing point have soared. Border Patrol reported 283 migrant fatalities on the border in 2018. Human rights activists say the number is far higher as the remains of many migrants are never found and the agency's data does not include all deaths registered by local authorities.

Seven migrant deaths reported in 'extreme heat' along US border

A Turkish court on Tuesday lifted the house arrest of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-consulate-employee-in-turkey-charged-with-espionage-194446">US consulate</a> staffer charged with terrorism offences, just days before President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggis-killers-will-pay-the-price-says-turkish-president-228875">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> is due to meet US counterpart Donald Trump, an embassy official told AFP.

Mete Canturk is one of three consulate staffers arrested for links to a group accused of an attempted coup in 2016.&nbsp;

Canturk, a Turkish citizen, still faces trial and is barred from leaving the country, with his next hearing set for October 2.&nbsp;

US charge d'affaires Jeffrey Hovenier welcomed the decision to release him from house arrest.

"We continue to see no evidence to support the charges brought against him and we reiterate our call for this process as well as other processes involving our unjustly detained staff to be resolved quickly, transparently and fairly," said Hovenier.

Relations between Ankara and Washington have been strained over several issues, including Turkey's purchase of a Russian missile defence system and US support for a Kurdish militia in Syria.

Erdogan is due to meet Trump this week on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan.&nbsp;

A Turkish-American former NASA scientist, Serkan Golge, detained in Turkey for nearly three years on similar terrorism charges, was released in May.&nbsp;

Another Istanbul consulate staffer, Metin Topuz, who also faces espionage charges, is due back in court this week.

A third staffer, Hamza Ulucay, from the Adana consulate, has already been sentenced to 4.5 years for "aiding a terror organisation".

They are suspected of links to US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen, whom Ankara blames for orchestrating the failed coup.

A Turkish court on Tuesday lifted the house arrest of a US consulate staffer charged with terrorism offences, just days before President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is due to meet US counterpart Donald Trump, an embassy official told AFP.

A Turkish court on Tuesday lifted the house arrest of a US consulate staffer charged with terrorism offences, just days before President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is due to meet US counterpart Donald Trump, an embassy official told AFP. Mete Canturk is one of three consulate staffers arrested for links to a group accused of an attempted coup in 2016. Canturk, a Turkish citizen, still faces trial and is barred from leaving the country, with his next hearing set for October 2. US charge d'affaires Jeffrey Hovenier welcomed the decision to release him from house arrest. "We continue to see no evidence to support the charges brought against him and we reiterate our call for this process as well as other processes involving our unjustly detained staff to be resolved quickly, transparently and fairly," said Hovenier. Relations between Ankara and Washington have been strained over several issues, including Turkey's purchase of a Russian missile defence system and US support for a Kurdish militia in Syria. Erdogan is due to meet Trump this week on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan. A Turkish-American former NASA scientist, Serkan Golge, detained in Turkey for nearly three years on similar terrorism charges, was released in May. Another Istanbul consulate staffer, Metin Topuz, who also faces espionage charges, is due back in court this week. A third staffer, Hamza Ulucay, from the Adana consulate, has already been sentenced to 4.5 years for "aiding a terror organisation". They are suspected of links to US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen, whom Ankara blames for orchestrating the failed coup.

Turkey court lifts house arrest on United States consulate staffer

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on June 24, imposing additional economic sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

Apparently, it’s in retaliation to shooting down of the US Drone by Iran over its airspace last week, which has left the US red-faced, wargaming all options on the table from military retaliation to additional curbs, sanctions, talks and possibly another deal.&nbsp;

The US claims to have exercised restraints after ordering cyber attacks on Iranian missiles, which Iran denies to have any effect. The immediate trigger was a strike on merchant ships, for which the US blamed Iran.

No conclusive evidence appeared to confirm it to be a hostile act by Iran. It makes Strait of Hormuz another flashpoint in the global arena, more so when Iran finds support from some of the US competitors.&nbsp;

These triggers are only a by-product of greater US agenda to contain the behaviour of Iran’, where Israel and Saudi Arabia are direct beneficiaries because Iran has no capability to strike the mainland of the US. &nbsp;

Earlier US Presidents like Clinton and Obama did not consider striking Iran as a worthwhile option, instead the US worked very hard to get Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) signed in 2015 with Iran (commonly known as Iran nuclear deal), even at the cost of differing with some of its allies and strategic partners.&nbsp;

It’s a subject of discussion in hindsight, as to why President Trump found it necessary to pull out of it and re-impose sanctions on Iran to moderate its behaviour, to help some of its allies? Did he have a better plan to achieve what the US wanted to or it was just an election promise; hence a domestic compulsion?&nbsp;

JCPoA was signed to reach an end state, wherein Iran gives up the means to make nuclear weapons and the United States and allies agree to reduce sanctions on Iran in return. The Republicans were not too happy with JCPoA at that time and made it an election issue.&nbsp;

The IAEA had not reported any conclusive breach of the agreement by Iran, which implies that it was workable, with some suspicion, minor allegations and counter allegations. President Trump delivered his election promise by walking out of the deal. Additional sanctions were imposed based on the narrative of the US and Israel that Iran was enriching Uranium beyond the agreed limit.&nbsp;

The fresh wish list of the US and Israel which they want Iran to follow seems to be a tall order for any meaningful negotiations. It includes ceasing its nuclear weapon programme, uranium enrichment and nuclear-capable ballistic missile systems permanently, under international verification with unqualified access to international inspectors.&nbsp;

It also desired Iran to pull out completely from Syria, end its support to Houthi militants in Yemen, Taliban in Afghanistan and allow disarming of Shia militants in Iraq. It also wanted Iran to cease backing Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza and Palestinians.&nbsp;

Regime change in Iran due to economic pressure could also have been its unstated desire. With no such restrictions on Saudi Arabia, Iran refused to accept the new conditions, which it viewed as a threat to the survival of Shia community, more so when the US is continuing to increase the military strength of its arch-rival Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

The rhetoric, provocative speeches, renewed sanctions and efforts to curtail their oil exports, have not worked so far. In my opinion, Iran has shown no signs that it&nbsp;will&nbsp;buckle under US pressure so far. People in Iran may/may not be happy with President Rouhani, but when it comes to taking an anti-American position, they will stand with him, because ‘Hate America’ sentiments are very strong in Iran and further economic hardship to them will make it even stronger.

Will sanctions and other measures (short of war) change Iran's behaviour is questionable, if it did not do so in North Korea. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Possibility of US-Iran conflict&nbsp;

The US will like to step up economic, diplomatic and information warfare to include electronic and cyber war. &nbsp;The sabre rattling may not end up in conventional war. The US has past experiences of starting a conflict in Middle-East, but later finding conflict termination difficult, leading to more chaos. With such bitter experience, it may not start it again. Iran is not a threat to its mainland; hence during the run-up to the election, President Trump may not like to get entangled in one more flashpoint for someone else, besides North Korea, South China Sea and the ongoing trade war with China. The war will push an alliance of China, Russia, Iran, North Korea and Pakistan, besides creating a problem of strategic balancing for its allies. The rhetoric will soon be seen following a US-North Korean downward curve.&nbsp;

The Iranian actions also seem to indicate impatience. Even if Iran feels that it's been pushed to the wall, I see no justification in threatening the world with 60 days ultimatum to commence dangerous level of enrichment, if the deal is not protected by then. It seems to be an overreaction when other partners of the deal like the EU have not walked out of it and criticised US action.&nbsp;

The economic strangulation of Iran may not work, if China and some other countries defy sanctions and start questioning the efficacy of CAATSA being US-centric, at the cost of some of the core interests of other countries like energy security.&nbsp;

Global implications of instability in the Gulf&nbsp;

A disturbed Gulf region and Strait of Hormuz has affected the oil flow adversely, and the most affected countries are China, India and Japan. The threatened air space has increased the distance of all the commercial flights, earlier routed over this region, resulting in extra fuel consumption and time delays. President Trump’s idea of prioritising US military hardware sale to Saudi Arabia over the further probe into Jamal Khashoggi’s murder will embolden Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

The rise in oil prices resulting in further downslide in the global economy will be a natural outcome. These side-effects of sanctions make Iran different from the effects of sanctions on North Korea in near similar circumstances.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
Impact on India&nbsp;

Iran had been the third largest supplier of crude to India. The crude oil supplied by Iran was the cheapest for India, as it&nbsp;had agreed to accept payment in rupee terms. Any alternate arrangement will force India to buy oil in dollar terms, causing a heavy drain in foreign exchange. Most refineries in India are designed to refine crude from Gulf countries. India does not have enough refineries for US shale oil; hence it will have to be purchased at a much higher cost and that too in dollar terms, which will push the cost of oil products even more, which will be a challenge for India. &nbsp;

These incidents will affect Indian investment in Chabahar port of Iran adversely. The development of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) linking India with CAR countries and Russia will be adversely affected by the US sanctions. The commercial traffic to Afghanistan and beyond through INSTC will also be affected by instability in Iran. The Indian Diaspora in the Gulf region will also be insecure.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on June 24, imposing additional economic sanctions on Iran. Apparently, it’s in retaliation to shooting down of the US Drone by Iran over its airspace last week, which has left the US red-faced, wargaming all options on the table from military retaliation to additional curbs, sanctions, talks and possibly another deal.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on June 24, imposing additional economic sanctions on Iran. Apparently, it’s in retaliation to shooting down of the US Drone by Iran over its airspace last week, which has left the US red-faced, wargaming all options on the table from military retaliation to additional curbs, sanctions, talks and possibly another deal. The US claims to have exercised restraints after ordering cyber attacks on Iranian missiles, which Iran denies to have any effect. The immediate trigger was a strike on merchant ships, for which the US blamed Iran. No conclusive evidence appeared to confirm it to be a hostile act by Iran. It makes Strait of Hormuz another flashpoint in the global arena, more so when Iran finds support from some of the US competitors. These triggers are only a by-product of greater US agenda to contain the behaviour of Iran’, where Israel and Saudi Arabia are direct beneficiaries because Iran has no capability to strike the mainland of the US. Earlier US Presidents like Clinton and Obama did not consider striking Iran as a worthwhile option, instead the US worked very hard to get Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) signed in 2015 with Iran (commonly known as Iran nuclear deal), even at the cost of differing with some of its allies and strategic partners. It’s a subject of discussion in hindsight, as to why President Trump found it necessary to pull out of it and re-impose sanctions on Iran to moderate its behaviour, to help some of its allies? Did he have a better plan to achieve what the US wanted to or it was just an election promise; hence a domestic compulsion? JCPoA was signed to reach an end state, wherein Iran gives up the means to make nuclear weapons and the United States and allies agree to reduce sanctions on Iran in return. The Republicans were not too happy with JCPoA at that time and made it an election issue. The IAEA had not reported any conclusive breach of the agreement by Iran, which implies that it was workable, with some suspicion, minor allegations and counter allegations. President Trump delivered his election promise by walking out of the deal. Additional sanctions were imposed based on the narrative of the US and Israel that Iran was enriching Uranium beyond the agreed limit. The fresh wish list of the US and Israel which they want Iran to follow seems to be a tall order for any meaningful negotiations. It includes ceasing its nuclear weapon programme, uranium enrichment and nuclear-capable ballistic missile systems permanently, under international verification with unqualified access to international inspectors. It also desired Iran to pull out completely from Syria, end its support to Houthi militants in Yemen, Taliban in Afghanistan and allow disarming of Shia militants in Iraq. It also wanted Iran to cease backing Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza and Palestinians. Regime change in Iran due to economic pressure could also have been its unstated desire. With no such restrictions on Saudi Arabia, Iran refused to accept the new conditions, which it viewed as a threat to the survival of Shia community, more so when the US is continuing to increase the military strength of its arch-rival Saudi Arabia. The rhetoric, provocative speeches, renewed sanctions and efforts to curtail their oil exports, have not worked so far. In my opinion, Iran has shown no signs that it will buckle under US pressure so far. People in Iran may/may not be happy with President Rouhani, but when it comes to taking an anti-American position, they will stand with him, because ‘Hate America’ sentiments are very strong in Iran and further economic hardship to them will make it even stronger. Will sanctions and other measures (short of war) change Iran's behaviour is questionable, if it did not do so in North Korea. Possibility of US-Iran conflict The US will like to step up economic, diplomatic and information warfare to include electronic and cyber war. The sabre rattling may not end up in conventional war. The US has past experiences of starting a conflict in Middle-East, but later finding conflict termination difficult, leading to more chaos. With such bitter experience, it may not start it again. Iran is not a threat to its mainland; hence during the run-up to the election, President Trump may not like to get entangled in one more flashpoint for someone else, besides North Korea, South China Sea and the ongoing trade war with China. The war will push an alliance of China, Russia, Iran, North Korea and Pakistan, besides creating a problem of strategic balancing for its allies. The rhetoric will soon be seen following a US-North Korean downward curve. The Iranian actions also seem to indicate impatience. Even if Iran feels that it's been pushed to the wall, I see no justification in threatening the world with 60 days ultimatum to commence dangerous level of enrichment, if the deal is not protected by then. It seems to be an overreaction when other partners of the deal like the EU have not walked out of it and criticised US action. The economic strangulation of Iran may not work, if China and some other countries defy sanctions and start questioning the efficacy of CAATSA being US-centric, at the cost of some of the core interests of other countries like energy security. Global implications of instability in the Gulf A disturbed Gulf region and Strait of Hormuz has affected the oil flow adversely, and the most affected countries are China, India and Japan. The threatened air space has increased the distance of all the commercial flights, earlier routed over this region, resulting in extra fuel consumption and time delays. President Trump’s idea of prioritising US military hardware sale to Saudi Arabia over the further probe into Jamal Khashoggi’s murder will embolden Saudi Arabia. The rise in oil prices resulting in further downslide in the global economy will be a natural outcome. These side-effects of sanctions make Iran different from the effects of sanctions on North Korea in near similar circumstances. Impact on India Iran had been the third largest supplier of crude to India. The crude oil supplied by Iran was the cheapest for India, as it had agreed to accept payment in rupee terms. Any alternate arrangement will force India to buy oil in dollar terms, causing a heavy drain in foreign exchange. Most refineries in India are designed to refine crude from Gulf countries. India does not have enough refineries for US shale oil; hence it will have to be purchased at a much higher cost and that too in dollar terms, which will push the cost of oil products even more, which will be a challenge for India. These incidents will affect Indian investment in Chabahar port of Iran adversely. The development of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) linking India with CAR countries and Russia will be adversely affected by the US sanctions. The commercial traffic to Afghanistan and beyond through INSTC will also be affected by instability in Iran. The Indian Diaspora in the Gulf region will also be insecure. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Iran has shown no signs of buckling under US pressure

&nbsp;Acting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-nominates-mark-esper-as-secretary-of-defence-white-house-229378">US Defense Secretary Mark Esper</a> will be ready to update European allies on tensions with Iran as he heads to NATO headquarters this week during his inaugural trip as Pentagon chief, a senior US official said.

Esper, whose first full day in the Pentagon was on Monday, led the Army until the surprise resignation of Patrick Shanahan as acting defence secretary last week. Esper is now the third person in six months to work at the defence secretary's desk.

His first week coincides with a previously scheduled NATO defence ministerial meeting, where the focus will be on other pre-planned discussions - including an approaching end to the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty between the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bats-for-extension-of-arms-reduction-treaty-with-us-204412">United States and Russia</a>.

But Kathryn Wheelbarger, an acting assistant defence secretary, said Pentagon officials would raise Iran during one of the NATO sessions on Wednesday or Thursday.

"We are prepared to provide an update to the (NATO) alliance," Wheelbarger said, briefing reporters ahead of the trip.

"It's very important to the (Defense) Department and the US government as a whole that we make sure our allies are as cognizant, and that we are as transparent on this issue, as possible."

The US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stop-bombing-killing-in-syrias-idlib-us-president-donald-trump-223729">President Donald Trump</a> nearly waged military strikes on Iran last week after it shot down a US drone and on Monday announced new sanctions targeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior Iranian officials.

Trump, who withdrew from a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran despite objections from European allies, wants to force Tehran to open talks on its nuclear and missile programs and its activities in the Middle East.

Iran has so far refused and instead warned it is ready to enrich uranium to a higher level if Europe cannot shield Tehran from US sanctions. Iran denies US accusations that it has also repeatedly carried out attacks on oil tankers in recent weeks.

France, Britain and Germany have sent an official diplomatic warning to Iran about the serious consequences Tehran faces if it scales back its compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal, two European diplomats said on Monday.

Nato Speed-Dating

For many NATO allies, this week's NATO defence ministerial will be a chance to get a sense of Esper and the direction he'll take the Pentagon.

It will be a similar opportunity for Esper, who sent guidance to US forces on Monday saying the Pentagon's priorities, including goals like strengthening US alliances - remained unchanged.

"A NATO ministerial is a good way to get to know key partners, kind of like diplomatic speed-dating," said Derek Chollet, a former senior Pentagon official during the Obama administration.

Chollet said allies would be closely watching for hints about the kind of role Esper will play, including whether he might be like Jim Mattis, Trump's first defence secretary who was a strong advocate for NATO and was seen as a moderating influence on the US president.

Mattis, who resigned in December over policy differences with Trump, brought Esper into the job.

One European diplomat joked: "Jim Mattis is not someone we can clone, as much as we’d like to, but Esper is talked about positively."

"Everyone will want to make a good impression and to get some time because he is the new face of the Pentagon," the diplomat said. 
&nbsp;

Acting US Defense Secretary Mark Esper will be ready to update European allies on tensions with Iran as he heads to NATO headquarters this week during his inaugural trip as Pentagon chief, a senior US official said.

Acting US Defense Secretary Mark Esper will be ready to update European allies on tensions with Iran as he heads to NATO headquarters this week during his inaugural trip as Pentagon chief, a senior US official said. Esper, whose first full day in the Pentagon was on Monday, led the Army until the surprise resignation of Patrick Shanahan as acting defence secretary last week. Esper is now the third person in six months to work at the defence secretary's desk. His first week coincides with a previously scheduled NATO defence ministerial meeting, where the focus will be on other pre-planned discussions - including an approaching end to the 1987 Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty between the United States and Russia. But Kathryn Wheelbarger, an acting assistant defence secretary, said Pentagon officials would raise Iran during one of the NATO sessions on Wednesday or Thursday. "We are prepared to provide an update to the (NATO) alliance," Wheelbarger said, briefing reporters ahead of the trip. "It's very important to the (Defense) Department and the US government as a whole that we make sure our allies are as cognizant, and that we are as transparent on this issue, as possible." The US President Donald Trump nearly waged military strikes on Iran last week after it shot down a US drone and on Monday announced new sanctions targeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior Iranian officials. Trump, who withdrew from a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran despite objections from European allies, wants to force Tehran to open talks on its nuclear and missile programs and its activities in the Middle East. Iran has so far refused and instead warned it is ready to enrich uranium to a higher level if Europe cannot shield Tehran from US sanctions. Iran denies US accusations that it has also repeatedly carried out attacks on oil tankers in recent weeks. France, Britain and Germany have sent an official diplomatic warning to Iran about the serious consequences Tehran faces if it scales back its compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal, two European diplomats said on Monday. Nato Speed-Dating For many NATO allies, this week's NATO defence ministerial will be a chance to get a sense of Esper and the direction he'll take the Pentagon. It will be a similar opportunity for Esper, who sent guidance to US forces on Monday saying the Pentagon's priorities, including goals like strengthening US alliances - remained unchanged. "A NATO ministerial is a good way to get to know key partners, kind of like diplomatic speed-dating," said Derek Chollet, a former senior Pentagon official during the Obama administration. Chollet said allies would be closely watching for hints about the kind of role Esper will play, including whether he might be like Jim Mattis, Trump's first defence secretary who was a strong advocate for NATO and was seen as a moderating influence on the US president. Mattis, who resigned in December over policy differences with Trump, brought Esper into the job. One European diplomat joked: "Jim Mattis is not someone we can clone, as much as we’d like to, but Esper is talked about positively." "Everyone will want to make a good impression and to get some time because he is the new face of the Pentagon," the diplomat said.

Iran in focus as new Pentagon chief heads to  North Atlantic Treaty Organization

Nearly 250 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-limits-protections-for-some-migrant-children-223410">migrant children</a> have been relocated to children's shelters from an overcrowded Texas border patrol station where attorneys said they had been held for weeks in dirty conditions without adequate food and water.

Evelyn Stauffer, a spokeswoman for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-demand-closure-of-migrant-detention-center-in-florida-218289">Department of Health and Human Services</a> (HHS), said 249 children from the facility at Clint, Texas were being transferred to shelters run by the agency by Tuesday.

Attorneys last week raised alarm after they were given access to the Clint station near El Paso and said they had found more than 300 children detained in squalid conditions.

The group of lawyers said they saw toddlers without diapers being cared for by unrelated children. Detained children lacked adequate food, clean clothes, toothbrushes and showers and some children slept on concrete floors, they said. The conditions were first reported by the Associated Press.

Just 30 children remained at the facility near El Paso on Monday, according to Elizabeth Lopez-Sandoval, spokeswoman for Representative Veronica Escobar. Children not sent to the HHS shelters were being moved to a tent facility designed for family detention, Lopez-Sandoval said.

US law requires children who cross the border without a parent or legal guardian to stay in border patrol's short-term holding facilities for no longer than 72 hours and to be moved to HHS shelters as quickly as possible.

Stauffer said children were waiting too long in the border facilities, which are "not designed to care for children."

"This is a direct result of the unprecedented number of arriving children," she said.

Stauffer said the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) had referred nearly 10,000 children to HHS in May, one of the highest monthly totals in the history of the programme.

The attorneys visited the Clint facility last week to monitor compliance with the Flores agreement, a decades-old legal settlement that establishes how long migrant children can be detained and the conditions of their detention.

Last week, the government argued in federal court that it meets the standard of providing "safe and sanitary" conditions for migrant children without providing toothbrushes and soap.

Nearly 250 migrant children have been relocated to children's shelters from an overcrowded Texas border patrol station where attorneys said they had been held for weeks in dirty conditions without adequate food and water.

Nearly 250 migrant children have been relocated to children's shelters from an overcrowded Texas border patrol station where attorneys said they had been held for weeks in dirty conditions without adequate food and water. Evelyn Stauffer, a spokeswoman for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), said 249 children from the facility at Clint, Texas were being transferred to shelters run by the agency by Tuesday. Attorneys last week raised alarm after they were given access to the Clint station near El Paso and said they had found more than 300 children detained in squalid conditions. The group of lawyers said they saw toddlers without diapers being cared for by unrelated children. Detained children lacked adequate food, clean clothes, toothbrushes and showers and some children slept on concrete floors, they said. The conditions were first reported by the Associated Press. Just 30 children remained at the facility near El Paso on Monday, according to Elizabeth Lopez-Sandoval, spokeswoman for Representative Veronica Escobar. Children not sent to the HHS shelters were being moved to a tent facility designed for family detention, Lopez-Sandoval said. US law requires children who cross the border without a parent or legal guardian to stay in border patrol's short-term holding facilities for no longer than 72 hours and to be moved to HHS shelters as quickly as possible. Stauffer said children were waiting too long in the border facilities, which are "not designed to care for children." "This is a direct result of the unprecedented number of arriving children," she said. Stauffer said the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) had referred nearly 10,000 children to HHS in May, one of the highest monthly totals in the history of the programme. The attorneys visited the Clint facility last week to monitor compliance with the Flores agreement, a decades-old legal settlement that establishes how long migrant children can be detained and the conditions of their detention. Last week, the government argued in federal court that it meets the standard of providing "safe and sanitary" conditions for migrant children without providing toothbrushes and soap.

United States relocates hundreds of migrant children from overcrowded border station

The first stage of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-economy-first-approach-to-mideast-peace-built-on-big-money-projects-229587">Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan</a> will be launched on Tuesday at a conference the White House touts as a bid to begin drumming up $50 billion in investment but which Palestinians deride as an "economy first" approach doomed to fail.

The two-day international meeting in Bahrain, led by Trump’s son-in-law, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jared-kushner-visits-middle-east-to-press-us-peace-plan-222381">Jared Kushner</a>, has been billed as the first part of Washington's long-delayed broader political blueprint to revive the moribund Israeli-Palestinian peace process, which will be unveiled at a later date.

But neither the Israeli nor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/even-if-netanyahu-goes-the-israeli-palestinian-conflict-will-continue-204653">Palestinian governments</a> will attend the curtain-raising event in the Bahraini capital, Manama.

There will be close scrutiny as to whether attendees such as Saudi Arabia and other wealthy Gulf Arab states show any interest in making actual donations to a US plan that has already elicited bitter criticism from Palestinians and many others in the Arab world.

Bahrain, a close American ally and home to the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, has been making preparations for weeks.

Although the conference is supposed to focus on economics, Gulf Arab states hope their presence will also show their solidarity with the Trump administration over its hardline against Iran, a senior Gulf diplomat said on condition of anonymity.

Under the plan, donor nations and investors would contribute about $50 billion over 10 years, with $28 billion going to the Palestinian territories - the Israeli-occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip - as well as $7.5 billion to Jordan, $9 billion to Egypt and $6 billion for Lebanon.

Among 179 proposed infrastructure and business, projects is a $5 billion transport corridor to connect the West Bank and Gaza.

"I laugh when they attack this as the ‘deal of the century,’" Kushner told Reuters, referring to the lofty nickname that Trump’s peace plan has assumed over the past two years.

"This is going to be the ‘opportunity of the century’ if they have the courage to pursue it."

Kushner, a senior Trump adviser who like his father-in-law comes from the world of New York real estate, is presenting his plan in a pair of pamphlets filled with graphs and statistics that resemble an investment prospectus.

But pushing back against critics who accuse Kushner of trying to forge a strictly “economic peace,” he told Reuters last week: “A lot of past attempts have failed. Calm down ... and keep an open mind.”

Peace to Prosperity

Even so, expectations for success are low. The Trump team concedes that the economic plan - billed "Peace to Prosperity" - will be implemented only if a political solution to one of the world’s most intractable conflicts is reached.

Any such solution would have to settle long-standing issues such as the status of Jerusalem, mutually agreed borders, satisfying Israel's security concerns and Palestinian demands for statehood, and the fate of Israel's settlements and military presence in territory Palestinians want to build that state.

In an interview with Al Jazeera set to air on Tuesday, Kushner offered a rare glimpse into the possible political contours of the plan, saying a deal would not adhere to the Arab Peace Initiative, a Saudi-led plan that has been the Arab consensus on the necessary elements for a Palestinian deal since 2002.

"I think we all have to recognise that if there ever is a deal, it's not going to be along the lines of the Arab Peace Initiative. It will be somewhere between the Arab Peace Initiative and between the Israeli position," Kushner told Al Jazeera.

The Arab Peace Initiative offers Israel normal ties with the Arab world in exchange for a Palestinian state drawn along borders that predate Israel's capture of territory in a 1967 war and a fair solution for Palestinian refugees. Israel has rejected some of the initiative's main provisions.

Hanging over the entire initiative are persistent questions about whether the Trump team plans to abandon the "two-state solution," a long-standing principle of Middle East peacemaking that involves the creation of an independent Palestinian state.

But the Trump team has consistently refused to commit to it.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a close Trump ally, has his own domestic problems, facing an election, and possible corruption charges after a long-running police investigation. He denies any wrongdoing.

"We'll hear the American proposition, hear it fairly and with openness," Netanyahu said on Sunday. Although no Israeli government ministers will attend, an Israeli business delegation is expected.

Palestinian leaders have boycotted the workshop, and are refusing to engage with the White House - accusing it of pro-Israel bias after a series of recent Trump decisions. Kushner told Reuters that "some" Palestinian businessmen would be present.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, whose Palestinian Authority exercises limited self-rule in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, was scathing about its prospects of success.

"Money is important. The economy is important. But politics are more important. The political solution is more important," he said.

Hamas, the Islamist militant group that controls Gaza, has found itself in rare agreement with its arch-rival Abbas. "The Palestinian people only and no one else can represent the Palestinian cause," Hamas official Mushir al-Masri said.

Kushner insists, however, that the economic plan is intended to help draw Palestinians back to the negotiating table by showcasing the benefits a peace deal could bring.

Kushner said that even without the Israeli and Palestinian governments represented, the presence of Israeli business executives and journalists with their Arab counterparts would be significant at a time of rising tensions with Iran.

"People realize that the real threat to that region is Iran and their aggression, and Israel and a lot of the other Arab states have a lot more in common today than they did before," he said.

David Makovsky, a Washington-based Middle East expert, agreed that although the principal focus of the event was the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, "Iran is higher on the chain of interest right now."

However, Makovsky, whom the White House has invited as an observer, said of the Trump-Kushner plan: "No one believes you can solve this thing economically without addressing the political issues."

The first stage of President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan will be launched on Tuesday at a conference the White House touts as a bid to begin drumming up $50 billion in investment but which Palestinians deride as an "economy first" approach doomed to fail.

The first stage of President Donald Trump's Middle East peace plan will be launched on Tuesday at a conference the White House touts as a bid to begin drumming up $50 billion in investment but which Palestinians deride as an "economy first" approach doomed to fail. The two-day international meeting in Bahrain, led by Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, has been billed as the first part of Washington's long-delayed broader political blueprint to revive the moribund Israeli-Palestinian peace process, which will be unveiled at a later date. But neither the Israeli nor Palestinian governments will attend the curtain-raising event in the Bahraini capital, Manama. There will be close scrutiny as to whether attendees such as Saudi Arabia and other wealthy Gulf Arab states show any interest in making actual donations to a US plan that has already elicited bitter criticism from Palestinians and many others in the Arab world. Bahrain, a close American ally and home to the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, has been making preparations for weeks. Although the conference is supposed to focus on economics, Gulf Arab states hope their presence will also show their solidarity with the Trump administration over its hardline against Iran, a senior Gulf diplomat said on condition of anonymity. Under the plan, donor nations and investors would contribute about $50 billion over 10 years, with $28 billion going to the Palestinian territories - the Israeli-occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip - as well as $7.5 billion to Jordan, $9 billion to Egypt and $6 billion for Lebanon. Among 179 proposed infrastructure and business, projects is a $5 billion transport corridor to connect the West Bank and Gaza. "I laugh when they attack this as the ‘deal of the century,’" Kushner told Reuters, referring to the lofty nickname that Trump’s peace plan has assumed over the past two years. "This is going to be the ‘opportunity of the century’ if they have the courage to pursue it." Kushner, a senior Trump adviser who like his father-in-law comes from the world of New York real estate, is presenting his plan in a pair of pamphlets filled with graphs and statistics that resemble an investment prospectus. But pushing back against critics who accuse Kushner of trying to forge a strictly “economic peace,” he told Reuters last week: “A lot of past attempts have failed. Calm down ... and keep an open mind.” Peace to Prosperity Even so, expectations for success are low. The Trump team concedes that the economic plan - billed "Peace to Prosperity" - will be implemented only if a political solution to one of the world’s most intractable conflicts is reached. Any such solution would have to settle long-standing issues such as the status of Jerusalem, mutually agreed borders, satisfying Israel's security concerns and Palestinian demands for statehood, and the fate of Israel's settlements and military presence in territory Palestinians want to build that state. In an interview with Al Jazeera set to air on Tuesday, Kushner offered a rare glimpse into the possible political contours of the plan, saying a deal would not adhere to the Arab Peace Initiative, a Saudi-led plan that has been the Arab consensus on the necessary elements for a Palestinian deal since 2002. "I think we all have to recognise that if there ever is a deal, it's not going to be along the lines of the Arab Peace Initiative. It will be somewhere between the Arab Peace Initiative and between the Israeli position," Kushner told Al Jazeera. The Arab Peace Initiative offers Israel normal ties with the Arab world in exchange for a Palestinian state drawn along borders that predate Israel's capture of territory in a 1967 war and a fair solution for Palestinian refugees. Israel has rejected some of the initiative's main provisions. Hanging over the entire initiative are persistent questions about whether the Trump team plans to abandon the "two-state solution," a long-standing principle of Middle East peacemaking that involves the creation of an independent Palestinian state. But the Trump team has consistently refused to commit to it. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a close Trump ally, has his own domestic problems, facing an election, and possible corruption charges after a long-running police investigation. He denies any wrongdoing. "We'll hear the American proposition, hear it fairly and with openness," Netanyahu said on Sunday. Although no Israeli government ministers will attend, an Israeli business delegation is expected. Palestinian leaders have boycotted the workshop, and are refusing to engage with the White House - accusing it of pro-Israel bias after a series of recent Trump decisions. Kushner told Reuters that "some" Palestinian businessmen would be present. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, whose Palestinian Authority exercises limited self-rule in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, was scathing about its prospects of success. "Money is important. The economy is important. But politics are more important. The political solution is more important," he said. Hamas, the Islamist militant group that controls Gaza, has found itself in rare agreement with its arch-rival Abbas. "The Palestinian people only and no one else can represent the Palestinian cause," Hamas official Mushir al-Masri said. Kushner insists, however, that the economic plan is intended to help draw Palestinians back to the negotiating table by showcasing the benefits a peace deal could bring. Kushner said that even without the Israeli and Palestinian governments represented, the presence of Israeli business executives and journalists with their Arab counterparts would be significant at a time of rising tensions with Iran. "People realize that the real threat to that region is Iran and their aggression, and Israel and a lot of the other Arab states have a lot more in common today than they did before," he said. David Makovsky, a Washington-based Middle East expert, agreed that although the principal focus of the event was the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, "Iran is higher on the chain of interest right now." However, Makovsky, whom the White House has invited as an observer, said of the Trump-Kushner plan: "No one believes you can solve this thing economically without addressing the political issues."

In Bahrain, United States to launch economic part of Mideast peace plan amid skepticism

Focus on defence, security, trade and boosting strategic ties during Pompeo's 3-day visit to India

Oil prices rose on Monday to extend gains from last week, bolstered as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-not-trying-to-set-up-negotiation-with-iran-trump-220237">tensions remain high between Iran and the United States</a> after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said "significant" sanctions would be announced on Tehran.

Brent futures were up 26 cents, or 0.4%, at $65.46 a barrel by 0544 GMT. 
West Texas Intermediate crude was up 40 cents, or 0.7%, at $57.83 a barrel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-attacks-on-oil-tankers-very-minor-228446">US President Donald Trump</a> said last week that he called off a military strike to retaliate for Iran's downing of an unmanned US drone, and he said on Sunday that he was not seeking war with Iran.

But Pompeo also said "significant" sanctions on Iran would be announced on Monday aimed at further choking off resources that Tehran uses to fund its activities in the region.

"There's a very firm tone to trading on well above average volumes," said Michael McCarthy, chief market strategist at CMC Markets in Sydney.

"We've got concerns about the sanctions against Iran, (but) we are seeing a better demand picture because of the actions of central banks, which is benefiting all commodities ... and we have got a weaker US dollar."

Oil is usually priced in dollars, so a weaker greenback makes it cheaper for holders of other currencies.

The US Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates soon to bolster the US economy, while the European Central Bank President Mario Draghi last week called for additional stimulus to boost growth.

Oil prices surged last week after Iran shot down a drone that the United States claimed was in international airspace and Tehran said was over its territory.

Amid the escalating tensions, Brent racked up a gain of about 5% last week, its first weekly gain in five weeks, and WTI jumped about 10%, its biggest weekly percentage gain since December 2016.

Trump said he had aborted a military strike on Iran because such a response to Tehran's downing of the unmanned US surveillance drone would have caused a disproportionate loss of life.

Iranian officials told Reuters that Tehran had received a message from Trump through Oman overnight warning that a US attack on Iran was imminent.

Meanwhile, US energy companies last week increased the number of oil rigs operating for the first time in three weeks.

Companies added one oil rig in the week to June 21, bringing the total count to 789, Baker Hughes said in a closely followed report on Friday.

Oil prices rose on Monday to extend gains from last week, bolstered as tensions remain high between Iran and the United States after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said "significant" sanctions would be announced on Tehran.

Oil prices rose on Monday to extend gains from last week, bolstered as tensions remain high between Iran and the United States after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said "significant" sanctions would be announced on Tehran. Brent futures were up 26 cents, or 0.4%, at $65.46 a barrel by 0544 GMT. West Texas Intermediate crude was up 40 cents, or 0.7%, at $57.83 a barrel. US President Donald Trump said last week that he called off a military strike to retaliate for Iran's downing of an unmanned US drone, and he said on Sunday that he was not seeking war with Iran. But Pompeo also said "significant" sanctions on Iran would be announced on Monday aimed at further choking off resources that Tehran uses to fund its activities in the region. "There's a very firm tone to trading on well above average volumes," said Michael McCarthy, chief market strategist at CMC Markets in Sydney. "We've got concerns about the sanctions against Iran, (but) we are seeing a better demand picture because of the actions of central banks, which is benefiting all commodities ... and we have got a weaker US dollar." Oil is usually priced in dollars, so a weaker greenback makes it cheaper for holders of other currencies. The US Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates soon to bolster the US economy, while the European Central Bank President Mario Draghi last week called for additional stimulus to boost growth. Oil prices surged last week after Iran shot down a drone that the United States claimed was in international airspace and Tehran said was over its territory. Amid the escalating tensions, Brent racked up a gain of about 5% last week, its first weekly gain in five weeks, and WTI jumped about 10%, its biggest weekly percentage gain since December 2016. Trump said he had aborted a military strike on Iran because such a response to Tehran's downing of the unmanned US surveillance drone would have caused a disproportionate loss of life. Iranian officials told Reuters that Tehran had received a message from Trump through Oman overnight warning that a US attack on Iran was imminent. Meanwhile, US energy companies last week increased the number of oil rigs operating for the first time in three weeks. Companies added one oil rig in the week to June 21, bringing the total count to 789, Baker Hughes said in a closely followed report on Friday.

Oil prices extend gains, United States-Iran tensions in focus

Upcoming peace talks between the United States and the Taliban will focus on working out a timeline for the withdrawal of US-led troops from Afghanistan and on Taliban guarantee militants won't plot attacks from Afghan soil, sources said on Monday.

The seventh round of talks between the warring sides begins on Saturday in Qatar's capital of Doha, where US and Taliban negotiators have been trying to hammer out a deal to end to the 18-year-long war since October.

"Once the timetable for foreign force withdrawal is announced, then talks will automatically enter the next stage," said Sohail Shaheen, a spokesman for the Taliban's political office in Doha.

"We don't need to wait for the completion of the withdrawal, both withdrawal and talks can move forward simultaneously."

The focus of the talks has been a Taliban demand for the withdrawal of the US and other foreign forces and a US demand the Taliban guarantee that Afghanistan will not be used as a base for militant attacks.

Two other main issues in the process are a ceasefire and talks between the rival Afghan sides - the insurgents and the Western-backed government.

But the Taliban has long refused to talk to the Afghan government, denouncing it as foreign "puppet", and fighting has seen no let-up.

Two other sources with knowledge of the talks said the sixth round in May ended with unease on both sides, but since then informal meeting had taken place to work out what can be agreed on.

The US special envoy for peace in Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, has also held informal meetings with the Taliban leadership in Doha.

"Based on my recent visits to Afghanistan and Qatar, I believe all sides want rapid progress," Khalilzad said on Twitter.

Khalilzad, an Afghan-born American diplomat has been leading the talks to secure a political settlement with the hardline Islamist group that now controls more Afghan territory than at any time since being toppled in 2001 by US-led forces.

About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. Some US forces carry out counter-terrorism operations.

At least 3,804 civilians were killed in the war last year, according to the United Nations. Thousands of Afghan soldiers, police and Taliban were also killed.

Nevertheless, the Taliban leader vowed this month to sustain the fight until their objectives were reached.

In March, a draft agreement was reached on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for a commitment by the Taliban to cut ties with militant groups such as al Qaeda.

A Taliban source said both sides were expecting some clarity and results on the prime issues in the new round talks.

"A ceasefire and intra-Afghan talks will not be discussed during the seventh round," said the Taliban source, who declined to be identified.

Some Afghan government officials side fear the United States and the Taliban will strike a deal on the withdrawal of foreign forces, enabling the United States to get out of an unpopular war but leaving government forces to battle on alone.

Upcoming peace talks between the United States and the Taliban will focus on working out a timeline for the withdrawal of US-led troops from Afghanistan and on Taliban guarantee militants won't plot attacks from Afghan soil, sources said on Monday.

Upcoming peace talks between the United States and the Taliban will focus on working out a timeline for the withdrawal of US-led troops from Afghanistan and on Taliban guarantee militants won't plot attacks from Afghan soil, sources said on Monday. The seventh round of talks between the warring sides begins on Saturday in Qatar's capital of Doha, where US and Taliban negotiators have been trying to hammer out a deal to end to the 18-year-long war since October. "Once the timetable for foreign force withdrawal is announced, then talks will automatically enter the next stage," said Sohail Shaheen, a spokesman for the Taliban's political office in Doha. "We don't need to wait for the completion of the withdrawal, both withdrawal and talks can move forward simultaneously." The focus of the talks has been a Taliban demand for the withdrawal of the US and other foreign forces and a US demand the Taliban guarantee that Afghanistan will not be used as a base for militant attacks. Two other main issues in the process are a ceasefire and talks between the rival Afghan sides - the insurgents and the Western-backed government. But the Taliban has long refused to talk to the Afghan government, denouncing it as foreign "puppet", and fighting has seen no let-up. Two other sources with knowledge of the talks said the sixth round in May ended with unease on both sides, but since then informal meeting had taken place to work out what can be agreed on. The US special envoy for peace in Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, has also held informal meetings with the Taliban leadership in Doha. "Based on my recent visits to Afghanistan and Qatar, I believe all sides want rapid progress," Khalilzad said on Twitter. Khalilzad, an Afghan-born American diplomat has been leading the talks to secure a political settlement with the hardline Islamist group that now controls more Afghan territory than at any time since being toppled in 2001 by US-led forces. About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. Some US forces carry out counter-terrorism operations. At least 3,804 civilians were killed in the war last year, according to the United Nations. Thousands of Afghan soldiers, police and Taliban were also killed. Nevertheless, the Taliban leader vowed this month to sustain the fight until their objectives were reached. In March, a draft agreement was reached on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for a commitment by the Taliban to cut ties with militant groups such as al Qaeda. A Taliban source said both sides were expecting some clarity and results on the prime issues in the new round talks. "A ceasefire and intra-Afghan talks will not be discussed during the seventh round," said the Taliban source, who declined to be identified. Some Afghan government officials side fear the United States and the Taliban will strike a deal on the withdrawal of foreign forces, enabling the United States to get out of an unpopular war but leaving government forces to battle on alone.

United States,Taliban aim to firm up date for foreign force exit from Afghanistan

An international detergent brand has come under fire for an advertisement questioning gender stereotypes in the conservative patriarchal country, with critics denouncing the company for allegedly insulting Islam.

The commercial for Ariel soap, owned by US-based Proctor &amp; Gamble, calls for women to break free of conservatives norms and pursue careers.

In the ad, several women representing different professions including a journalist and doctor are seen pushing dirty sheets hanging on a clothesline off the screen.

The sheets are printed with common refrains used to reinforce the oppression of women in Pakistan, including the question "What will people say?", which heralds scandal every time a woman chooses to challenge gender norms.

The commercial ends with a close-up shot of the Pakistan women's cricket team captain Bismah Maroof saying: "Stay within the house... these are not only sentences but stains".

Social media was abuzz on the issue, with conservatives lambasting its message using the hashtag "#BoycottAriel" on Twitter.

"They (are) insulting Islamic teaching in their advertising," wrote Binte Suleman on Twitter, while Raja Moazzam added: "Please take action against these liberals, who (are) promoting liberalism in Pakistan".

Others called for Pakistani regulators to have the commercial officially censored and removed.

The company did not immediately respond to requests for comment by AFP.

Women in Pakistan have fought for decades to secure their rights.&nbsp;

Much of society live under a patriarchal, outdated code of so-called "honour" that systemises the oppression of women who defy tradition by, for example, choosing their own husband or working outside the home.

Women also face what activists have called pervasive violence against them by men, routine discrimination in the workplace, and public harassment, with few women daring to walk alone outside of their homes.

The Ariel advert is not the first time a major company has faced backlash in the country over its stance on women's rights.

Ride-sharing app Careem came in for its share when it released a lighthearted ad earlier this year showing a runaway bride, the caption reading: "If you want to run away from your wedding, book a Careem bike!"

Critics filed a legal petition against the ad, calling it an "unethical promotional campaign".

And in 2016 Pakistani mobile company QMobile was criticised after an ad which showed a female cricketer defying her father's wishes and leaving home to pursue her dreams of playing internationally.

The ad has branded a conspiracy against Pakistani values, with some commentators taking particular exception to "vulgar" footage of the cricketer running up to bowl.&nbsp;

An international detergent brand has come under fire for an advertisement questioning gender stereotypes in the conservative patriarchal country, with critics denouncing the company for allegedly insulting Islam.

An international detergent brand has come under fire for an advertisement questioning gender stereotypes in the conservative patriarchal country, with critics denouncing the company for allegedly insulting Islam. The commercial for Ariel soap, owned by US-based Proctor & Gamble, calls for women to break free of conservatives norms and pursue careers. In the ad, several women representing different professions including a journalist and doctor are seen pushing dirty sheets hanging on a clothesline off the screen. The sheets are printed with common refrains used to reinforce the oppression of women in Pakistan, including the question "What will people say?", which heralds scandal every time a woman chooses to challenge gender norms. The commercial ends with a close-up shot of the Pakistan women's cricket team captain Bismah Maroof saying: "Stay within the house... these are not only sentences but stains". Social media was abuzz on the issue, with conservatives lambasting its message using the hashtag "#BoycottAriel" on Twitter. "They (are) insulting Islamic teaching in their advertising," wrote Binte Suleman on Twitter, while Raja Moazzam added: "Please take action against these liberals, who (are) promoting liberalism in Pakistan". Others called for Pakistani regulators to have the commercial officially censored and removed. The company did not immediately respond to requests for comment by AFP. Women in Pakistan have fought for decades to secure their rights. Much of society live under a patriarchal, outdated code of so-called "honour" that systemises the oppression of women who defy tradition by, for example, choosing their own husband or working outside the home. Women also face what activists have called pervasive violence against them by men, routine discrimination in the workplace, and public harassment, with few women daring to walk alone outside of their homes. The Ariel advert is not the first time a major company has faced backlash in the country over its stance on women's rights. Ride-sharing app Careem came in for its share when it released a lighthearted ad earlier this year showing a runaway bride, the caption reading: "If you want to run away from your wedding, book a Careem bike!" Critics filed a legal petition against the ad, calling it an "unethical promotional campaign". And in 2016 Pakistani mobile company QMobile was criticised after an ad which showed a female cricketer defying her father's wishes and leaving home to pursue her dreams of playing internationally. The ad has branded a conspiracy against Pakistani values, with some commentators taking particular exception to "vulgar" footage of the cricketer running up to bowl.

Pakistani outrage bubbles as detergent advertisement promotes women's rights

U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton on Sunday warned Iran saying that"Neither Iran nor any other hostile actor should mistake U.S. prudence and discretion for weakness," Bolton said. "No one has granted them a hunting license in the Middle East." Watch full video to know more.

US national security advisor John Bolton warns Iran

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he was not seeking war with Tehran after a senior<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-urges-international-community-to-urge-iran-to-de-escalate-229802"> Iranian military commander</a> warned any conflict in the Gulf region could spread uncontrollably and threaten the lives of US troops.

Tensions remain high between longtime foes Iran and the United States after Trump said on Friday that he called off a military strike to retaliate for Iran's downing of an unmanned US drone out of concern it would have been a disproportionate response.

"I'm not looking for war," Trump said on NBC's Meet the Press program.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo repeated to reporters on Sunday that Washington was prepared to negotiate with Tehran with no preconditions.

"They know precisely where to find us," said Pompeo, who is traveling to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to "ensure we're strategically aligned" with those countries, which are regional rivals of Iran.

Trump has said he will impose further sanctions on Iran beginning on Monday, but has also indicated that he would be prepared to seek a deal to bolster its flagging economy, an apparent move to defuse tensions.

"I think they want to negotiate. And I think they want to make a deal. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-war-would-spread-across-gulf-threaten-us-troops-229757">And my deal is nuclear</a>. Look, they're not going to have a nuclear weapon," he added.

"I don't think they like the position they're in. Their economy is, is absolutely broken."

Iran played down the impact of any new US sanctions. They were "just propaganda, as all sanctions ... have been imposed and there are no more sanctions left," state-run news agency IRIB quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying.

Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons and refers to a fatwa or religious decree issued in the early 2000s by Iran's top authority Ayatollah Ali Khamenei that bans the development or use of nuclear weapons.

Last year Trump withdrew the United States from a 2015 accord between Iran and world powers that curbed Tehran's nuclear program in exchange for easing sanctions. Relations in the region have worsened significantly since then.

Diplomacy&nbsp;

Diplomatic efforts are underway to ease tensions following attacks on oil tankers in the Gulf in recent weeks that the United States blames on Iran and the shooting down of the American drone last week.

Andrew Murrison, Britain's minister for the Middle East and North Africa, said on Sunday that he had "open, frank and constructive" talks with Iranian government representatives in Tehran.

"I reiterated the UK's assessment that Iran almost certainly bears responsibility for recent attacks on tankers in the Gulf of Oman," and called for such activity to stop, Murrison said.

A senior adviser to Khamenei said Iran may scale back compliance with its nuclear deal soon unless European countries shield it from U.S. sanctions through a trade mechanism.

"If Europeans don't take measures within the 60-day deadline, we will take new steps," the semi-official ISNA news agency quoted the official, Kamal Kharazi, as saying. Tehran announced a deadline of 60 days in May.

Iran has said it would respond firmly to any threat and warned on Sunday of the risks of a military confrontation.

"If a conflict breaks out in the region, no country would be able to manage its scope and timing," Major General Gholamali Rashid said, according to the semi-official Fars news agency.

"The American government must act responsibly to protect the lives of American troops by avoiding misconduct in the region."

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani accused the Americans of stoking tensions in the Gulf through what Iran has called the violation of its airspace by the U.S. military drone, Fars reported.

Washington said the aircraft was targeted in international air space in "an unprovoked attack".

'Hunting license'

A hawk in Trump's administration, national security adviser John Bolton, sought to maintain military pressure on Iran.

"Neither Iran nor any other hostile actor should mistake U.S. prudence and discretion for weakness. No one has granted them a hunting license in the Middle East," Bolton said during a visit to Israel.

US ally Israel, which Islamic Iran refuses to recognise and has itself long-threatened strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities, signalled to back Trump administration's stance.

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he was not seeking war with Tehran after a senior Iranian military commander warned any conflict in the Gulf region could spread uncontrollably and threaten the lives of US troops.

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he was not seeking war with Tehran after a senior Iranian military commander warned any conflict in the Gulf region could spread uncontrollably and threaten the lives of US troops. Tensions remain high between longtime foes Iran and the United States after Trump said on Friday that he called off a military strike to retaliate for Iran's downing of an unmanned US drone out of concern it would have been a disproportionate response. "I'm not looking for war," Trump said on NBC's Meet the Press program. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo repeated to reporters on Sunday that Washington was prepared to negotiate with Tehran with no preconditions. "They know precisely where to find us," said Pompeo, who is traveling to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to "ensure we're strategically aligned" with those countries, which are regional rivals of Iran. Trump has said he will impose further sanctions on Iran beginning on Monday, but has also indicated that he would be prepared to seek a deal to bolster its flagging economy, an apparent move to defuse tensions. "I think they want to negotiate. And I think they want to make a deal. And my deal is nuclear. Look, they're not going to have a nuclear weapon," he added. "I don't think they like the position they're in. Their economy is, is absolutely broken." Iran played down the impact of any new US sanctions. They were "just propaganda, as all sanctions ... have been imposed and there are no more sanctions left," state-run news agency IRIB quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying. Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons and refers to a fatwa or religious decree issued in the early 2000s by Iran's top authority Ayatollah Ali Khamenei that bans the development or use of nuclear weapons. Last year Trump withdrew the United States from a 2015 accord between Iran and world powers that curbed Tehran's nuclear program in exchange for easing sanctions. Relations in the region have worsened significantly since then. Diplomacy Diplomatic efforts are underway to ease tensions following attacks on oil tankers in the Gulf in recent weeks that the United States blames on Iran and the shooting down of the American drone last week. Andrew Murrison, Britain's minister for the Middle East and North Africa, said on Sunday that he had "open, frank and constructive" talks with Iranian government representatives in Tehran. "I reiterated the UK's assessment that Iran almost certainly bears responsibility for recent attacks on tankers in the Gulf of Oman," and called for such activity to stop, Murrison said. A senior adviser to Khamenei said Iran may scale back compliance with its nuclear deal soon unless European countries shield it from U.S. sanctions through a trade mechanism. "If Europeans don't take measures within the 60-day deadline, we will take new steps," the semi-official ISNA news agency quoted the official, Kamal Kharazi, as saying. Tehran announced a deadline of 60 days in May. Iran has said it would respond firmly to any threat and warned on Sunday of the risks of a military confrontation. "If a conflict breaks out in the region, no country would be able to manage its scope and timing," Major General Gholamali Rashid said, according to the semi-official Fars news agency. "The American government must act responsibly to protect the lives of American troops by avoiding misconduct in the region." Iranian President Hassan Rouhani accused the Americans of stoking tensions in the Gulf through what Iran has called the violation of its airspace by the U.S. military drone, Fars reported. Washington said the aircraft was targeted in international air space in "an unprovoked attack". 'Hunting license' A hawk in Trump's administration, national security adviser John Bolton, sought to maintain military pressure on Iran. "Neither Iran nor any other hostile actor should mistake U.S. prudence and discretion for weakness. No one has granted them a hunting license in the Middle East," Bolton said during a visit to Israel. US ally Israel, which Islamic Iran refuses to recognise and has itself long-threatened strikes against Iran's nuclear facilities, signalled to back Trump administration's stance.

Iran warns of risk of conflict, Trump sees scope for deal

One nominee was flagged for his relationship with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-russia-election-probe-amounted-to-treason-206153">Russia</a>, another for his alleged ties to white supremacist groups, and several others for criticizing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-rally-trump-says-russia-probe-backers-tried-to-steal-power-illegally-206396">Donald Trump</a> before he became US president.

These are the revelations from a trove of vetting documents published by the news site Axios on Sunday that examine the backgrounds of people considered for, and whom in some cases received, appointments to Trump's administration after his 2017 inauguration.

The documents show that the Trump administration was well aware of allegations of inappropriate relationships that dogged some of his initial cabinet members, many of whom have since resigned or been forced out.

Energy executive Rex Tillerson's relationship with Russia was said to "go deep," but he was nonetheless made Secretary of State, a position he held until Trump fired him last year.

And the administration was well aware of the "allegations of cosiness with big energy companies" surrounding former Oklahoma attorney general Scott Pruitt, but Trump still named him chief of the Environmental Protection Agency.&nbsp;

Pruitt resigned last July following a series of ethics scandals.

Axios did not publish the dossiers in full but described them as "political vetting forms" that were standard for top White House officials.

The trove also includes the dossiers of a host of people who didn't get the jobs they were considered for but nonetheless stayed close to Trump.

A document on the "foreign entanglements" of former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, compiled as part of his vetting for Secretary of State, ran 25 pages. He didn't get the job but is now Trump's personal lawyer.

Former Kansas secretary of state Kris Kobach had "white supremacy" flagged as a vulnerability when he was being vetted for homeland security chief based on allegations from political opponents.&nbsp;

Trump didn't end up nominating him for that job but later tasked Kobach with investigating alleged voter fraud.

While he's well-known for hitting back at his critics, the documents show that Trump also hired people who had previously made critical comments about him.

Mick Mulvaney once called Trump "not a very good person," but today he is the White House's chief of staff.

One nominee was flagged for his relationship with Russia, another for his alleged ties to white supremacist groups, and several others for criticizing Donald Trump before he became US president.

One nominee was flagged for his relationship with Russia, another for his alleged ties to white supremacist groups, and several others for criticizing Donald Trump before he became US president. These are the revelations from a trove of vetting documents published by the news site Axios on Sunday that examine the backgrounds of people considered for, and whom in some cases received, appointments to Trump's administration after his 2017 inauguration. The documents show that the Trump administration was well aware of allegations of inappropriate relationships that dogged some of his initial cabinet members, many of whom have since resigned or been forced out. Energy executive Rex Tillerson's relationship with Russia was said to "go deep," but he was nonetheless made Secretary of State, a position he held until Trump fired him last year. And the administration was well aware of the "allegations of cosiness with big energy companies" surrounding former Oklahoma attorney general Scott Pruitt, but Trump still named him chief of the Environmental Protection Agency. Pruitt resigned last July following a series of ethics scandals. Axios did not publish the dossiers in full but described them as "political vetting forms" that were standard for top White House officials. The trove also includes the dossiers of a host of people who didn't get the jobs they were considered for but nonetheless stayed close to Trump. A document on the "foreign entanglements" of former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, compiled as part of his vetting for Secretary of State, ran 25 pages. He didn't get the job but is now Trump's personal lawyer. Former Kansas secretary of state Kris Kobach had "white supremacy" flagged as a vulnerability when he was being vetted for homeland security chief based on allegations from political opponents. Trump didn't end up nominating him for that job but later tasked Kobach with investigating alleged voter fraud. While he's well-known for hitting back at his critics, the documents show that Trump also hired people who had previously made critical comments about him. Mick Mulvaney once called Trump "not a very good person," but today he is the White House's chief of staff.

Leaked documents show 'red flags' of Donald Trump officials

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-meet-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-in-vietnam-on-february-27-28-trump-in-state-of-the-union-address-195467">US President Donald Trump</a> said on Sunday that if he could have one "do-over," it would be "personnel" decisions, including naming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-again-blasts-us-attorney-general-sessions-166716">former Senator Jeff Sessions</a> as his first US attorney general.

"I would say if I had one do-over, it would be, I would not have appointed Jeff Sessions to be attorney general ... That was the biggest mistake," Trump said in an interview aired on Sunday with NBC's 'Meet the Press' program.

After almost three years of investigations, Trump's presidency is still clouded by questions surrounding Russian interference to boost his candidacy in the 2016 US elections and his subsequent efforts to impede inquiries into the matter.

Sessions, formerly a Republican senator from Alabama, was one of the earliest Trump administration casualties of the Russian election meddling scandal, which continues to be investigated by committees of the US Congress.

In February 2016, Sessions became the first serving senator to endorse Trump when the New York reality TV star and real estate developer was still a presidential candidate.

Russian intelligence organizations a month later began a cyber campaign aimed at interfering with the 2016 presidential election, according to US intelligence agencies.

During the campaign, Sessions, a close Trump adviser, met with Russian Ambassador Sergei Kislyak. Several others in Trump's inner circle met with Russians during this period, too.

In late July 2016, the FBI began investigating Russian meddling in the election.

After Trump's stunning election victory, Sessions was rewarded for his loyalty by being nominated as the top US law enforcement official and head of the Justice Department.

In January 2017 in Senate confirmation hearings, Sessions said that during the campaign he had no communication with Russians. A month later, he was confirmed as attorney general.

Only two months afterwards Sessions' campaign ties to Kislyak were reported. Democrats accused him of lying to Congress.

In March 2017, Sessions recused himself from the ongoing investigation into Russian interference in the elections, infuriating Trump, who thereafter frequently attacked Sessions.

In May 2017, Special Counsel Robert Mueller was appointed to take over the Russia probe from the FBI.

In November 2018, after months of being publicly ridiculed by Trump, Sessions resigned. He was replaced briefly by Matthew Whitaker until William Barr was confirmed to the job of the attorney general. On Barr, Trump said, "He's brought sanity back."

Mueller's 448-page final report, released in mid-April, found insufficient evidence to establish that the Trump campaign engaged in a criminal conspiracy with Moscow, despite numerous contacts between the campaign and Russia.

The report also described attempts by Trump to impede Mueller's investigation but stopped short of declaring that he committed a crime.

Asked on Sunday if he had read the Mueller report, Trump said, "I read much of it ... I read the conclusion." He again called the allegations that his campaign worked with the Kremlin "a hoax."

Trump told NBC: "I'll be honest with you, nobody even mentions Russia anymore since the Mueller report."

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that if he could have one "do-over," it would be "personnel" decisions, including naming former Senator Jeff Sessions as his first US attorney general.

US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that if he could have one "do-over," it would be "personnel" decisions, including naming former Senator Jeff Sessions as his first US attorney general. "I would say if I had one do-over, it would be, I would not have appointed Jeff Sessions to be attorney general ... That was the biggest mistake," Trump said in an interview aired on Sunday with NBC's 'Meet the Press' program. After almost three years of investigations, Trump's presidency is still clouded by questions surrounding Russian interference to boost his candidacy in the 2016 US elections and his subsequent efforts to impede inquiries into the matter. Sessions, formerly a Republican senator from Alabama, was one of the earliest Trump administration casualties of the Russian election meddling scandal, which continues to be investigated by committees of the US Congress. In February 2016, Sessions became the first serving senator to endorse Trump when the New York reality TV star and real estate developer was still a presidential candidate. Russian intelligence organizations a month later began a cyber campaign aimed at interfering with the 2016 presidential election, according to US intelligence agencies. During the campaign, Sessions, a close Trump adviser, met with Russian Ambassador Sergei Kislyak. Several others in Trump's inner circle met with Russians during this period, too. In late July 2016, the FBI began investigating Russian meddling in the election. After Trump's stunning election victory, Sessions was rewarded for his loyalty by being nominated as the top US law enforcement official and head of the Justice Department. In January 2017 in Senate confirmation hearings, Sessions said that during the campaign he had no communication with Russians. A month later, he was confirmed as attorney general. Only two months afterwards Sessions' campaign ties to Kislyak were reported. Democrats accused him of lying to Congress. In March 2017, Sessions recused himself from the ongoing investigation into Russian interference in the elections, infuriating Trump, who thereafter frequently attacked Sessions. In May 2017, Special Counsel Robert Mueller was appointed to take over the Russia probe from the FBI. In November 2018, after months of being publicly ridiculed by Trump, Sessions resigned. He was replaced briefly by Matthew Whitaker until William Barr was confirmed to the job of the attorney general. On Barr, Trump said, "He's brought sanity back." Mueller's 448-page final report, released in mid-April, found insufficient evidence to establish that the Trump campaign engaged in a criminal conspiracy with Moscow, despite numerous contacts between the campaign and Russia. The report also described attempts by Trump to impede Mueller's investigation but stopped short of declaring that he committed a crime. Asked on Sunday if he had read the Mueller report, Trump said, "I read much of it ... I read the conclusion." He again called the allegations that his campaign worked with the Kremlin "a hoax." Trump told NBC: "I'll be honest with you, nobody even mentions Russia anymore since the Mueller report."

Trump admits his 'biggest mistake' was handing Jeff Sessions the attorney general job

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-confident-china-trade-talks-will-not-be-hurt-over-iran-oil-sanctions-214566">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> met Monday with the king of Saudi Arabia as he sought to coordinate with allies over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/trouble-in-the-gulf-as-us-iran-dispute-threatens-to-escalate-into-serious-conflict-220323">soaring tensions with Iran</a>.

On a day trip scheduled after Iran shot down a US drone, Pompeo flew into the Red Sea city of Jeddah and met with King Salman at his palace.

"You are a dear friend," the king told Pompeo as he shook hands with the top US diplomat and his aides.

Pompeo is later due to meet the powerful crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, before flying for talks in the United Arab Emirates, US officials said.

Both Saudi and Emirati leaders advocate a tough US approach against regional rival Iran, whose downing of the unmanned drone prompted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-warns-iran-of-imminent-attack-229251">President Donald Trump</a> to order a military strike before changing his mind.

Pompeo, speaking to reporters as he left Washington, called Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates "two great allies in the challenge that Iran presents".

"We'll be talking with them about how to make sure that we are all strategically aligned and how we can build out a global coalition," Pompeo said.

He said the United States sought a coalition "not only throughout the Gulf states but in Asia and in Europe that understands this challenge and that is prepared to push back against the world's largest state sponsor of terror".

But the hawkish US stance has drawn limited support among its allies in Europe, which still support a denuclearisation deal negotiated under former president Barack Obama from which Trump pulled out last year, triggering tensions.

Iran says that the US drone encroached its airspace -- a charge that Washington denies -- and accuses Washington of waging economic warfare by unilaterally imposing sanctions, including trying to stop all its oil exports.

The US point man on Iran, Brian Hook, on Monday held his own talks in Oman, which has often served as a go-between for Washington and Tehran.

Pompeo's trip comes despite growing controversy inside the United States over the Trump administration's cosy relationship with Mohammed bin Salman after US-based dissident writer Jamal Khashoggi was killed and dismembered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul last year.

Pompeo used rare emergency powers, citing Iran as a threat, to authorise $8.1 billion in weapons sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, despite concerns in the US Congress that the arms will go to kill civilians in the devastating war in Yemen.

Pompeo added the Middle East stops on his way to a previously scheduled visit to India.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met Monday with the king of Saudi Arabia as he sought to coordinate with allies over soaring tensions with Iran. On a day trip scheduled after Iran shot down a US drone, Pompeo flew into the Red Sea city of Jeddah and met with King Salman at his palace.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met Monday with the king of Saudi Arabia as he sought to coordinate with allies over soaring tensions with Iran. On a day trip scheduled after Iran shot down a US drone, Pompeo flew into the Red Sea city of Jeddah and met with King Salman at his palace. "You are a dear friend," the king told Pompeo as he shook hands with the top US diplomat and his aides. Pompeo is later due to meet the powerful crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, before flying for talks in the United Arab Emirates, US officials said. Both Saudi and Emirati leaders advocate a tough US approach against regional rival Iran, whose downing of the unmanned drone prompted President Donald Trump to order a military strike before changing his mind. Pompeo, speaking to reporters as he left Washington, called Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates "two great allies in the challenge that Iran presents". "We'll be talking with them about how to make sure that we are all strategically aligned and how we can build out a global coalition," Pompeo said. He said the United States sought a coalition "not only throughout the Gulf states but in Asia and in Europe that understands this challenge and that is prepared to push back against the world's largest state sponsor of terror". But the hawkish US stance has drawn limited support among its allies in Europe, which still support a denuclearisation deal negotiated under former president Barack Obama from which Trump pulled out last year, triggering tensions. Iran says that the US drone encroached its airspace -- a charge that Washington denies -- and accuses Washington of waging economic warfare by unilaterally imposing sanctions, including trying to stop all its oil exports. The US point man on Iran, Brian Hook, on Monday held his own talks in Oman, which has often served as a go-between for Washington and Tehran. Pompeo's trip comes despite growing controversy inside the United States over the Trump administration's cosy relationship with Mohammed bin Salman after US-based dissident writer Jamal Khashoggi was killed and dismembered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul last year. Pompeo used rare emergency powers, citing Iran as a threat, to authorise $8.1 billion in weapons sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, despite concerns in the US Congress that the arms will go to kill civilians in the devastating war in Yemen. Pompeo added the Middle East stops on his way to a previously scheduled visit to India.

Mike Pompeo meets Saudi king Mohammed bin Salman on Iran crisis

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-you-need-to-know-about-mirage-2000-fighter-jets-which-destroyed-terror-camps-across-loc-199785">Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)</a> has delivered 150th gun bay door for the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet manufactured at its facility in Bengaluru.

The aerospace major had awarded HAL the contract in 2007. The Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet is a twin-engine supersonic all-weather, carrier-capable multirole combat jet delivering cutting-edge, next-generation multi-role strike fighter capability.

HAL has been Boeing's long-term supplier in India for over 25 years. "This delivery of the 150th gun bay door for the Super Hornet demonstrates that Indian suppliers are an integral part of Boeing's global supply chain," said Boeing India's President Salil Gupte.

"This milestone is yet another endorsement of our commitment to India, which is well recognised today because we have been investing and making in India for several years now," he said in a statement.

"Our investments in India are robust and ongoing, spanning technology, hi-tech innovation, production capacity, establishing a supply chain network, and developing skilling centres for aerospace manufacturing in India."HAL's Chairman and Managing Director R Madhavan said.

"HAL is committed to strengthening aerospace manufacturing in India. This delivery is not just an important milestone for HAL, but also for Boeing and the Indian industry. We thank Boeing for their support and commitment to Make in India."

Boeing has offered to build a 21st-century aerospace ecosystem in India for manufacturing the F/A-18 Super Hornet with Indian partners, HAL and Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS).&nbsp;

This production will create thousands of jobs and hundreds of suppliers in India, similar to the largest Boeing aerospace ecosystem that exists in the United States, to help realise the Make in India vision to its full potential.

&nbsp;Boeing`s sourcing from India now stands at one billion dollars with over 160 existing industrial partners.&nbsp;

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered 150th gun bay door for the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet manufactured at its facility in Bengaluru. The aerospace major had awarded HAL the contract in 2007.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered 150th gun bay door for the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet manufactured at its facility in Bengaluru. The aerospace major had awarded HAL the contract in 2007. The Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet is a twin-engine supersonic all-weather, carrier-capable multirole combat jet delivering cutting-edge, next-generation multi-role strike fighter capability. HAL has been Boeing's long-term supplier in India for over 25 years. "This delivery of the 150th gun bay door for the Super Hornet demonstrates that Indian suppliers are an integral part of Boeing's global supply chain," said Boeing India's President Salil Gupte. "This milestone is yet another endorsement of our commitment to India, which is well recognised today because we have been investing and making in India for several years now," he said in a statement. "Our investments in India are robust and ongoing, spanning technology, hi-tech innovation, production capacity, establishing a supply chain network, and developing skilling centres for aerospace manufacturing in India."HAL's Chairman and Managing Director R Madhavan said. "HAL is committed to strengthening aerospace manufacturing in India. This delivery is not just an important milestone for HAL, but also for Boeing and the Indian industry. We thank Boeing for their support and commitment to Make in India." Boeing has offered to build a 21st-century aerospace ecosystem in India for manufacturing the F/A-18 Super Hornet with Indian partners, HAL and Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS). This production will create thousands of jobs and hundreds of suppliers in India, similar to the largest Boeing aerospace ecosystem that exists in the United States, to help realise the Make in India vision to its full potential. Boeing`s sourcing from India now stands at one billion dollars with over 160 existing industrial partners.

Indian suppliers are an integral part of global supply chain: Boeing

Iranian lawmakers chanted "Death to America" during a parliament session on Sunday after a speaker accused the United States of being the "real world terrorist", reported news agency Reuters.

The development comes amid escalating tension with Washington following the downing of an unmanned US drone.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday he aborted a military strike to retaliate for the drone incident because it could have killed 150 people, and signalled he was open to talks with Tehran.

Iran said on Saturday it would respond firmly to any threat against it.

"America is the real terrorist in the world by spreading chaos in countries, giving advanced weapons to terrorist groups, causing insecurity, and still it says 'Come, let's negotiate'," the parliament's deputy speaker, Masoud Pezeshkian, said at the start of a session broadcast live on state radio.

"Death to America," chanted many lawmakers.

The chants, often repeated since the 1979 Islamic revolution which toppled the US-backed Shah, came weeks after Trump said in a US television interview: "They (Iranians) haven't screamed 'death to America' lately."

(With inputs from Reuters)

Iranian lawmakers chanted "Death to America" during a parliament session on Sunday after a speaker accused the United States of being the "real world terrorist", reported news agency Reuters.

Iranian lawmakers chanted "Death to America" during a parliament session on Sunday after a speaker accused the United States of being the "real world terrorist", reported news agency Reuters. The development comes amid escalating tension with Washington following the downing of an unmanned US drone. US President Donald Trump said on Friday he aborted a military strike to retaliate for the drone incident because it could have killed 150 people, and signalled he was open to talks with Tehran. Iran said on Saturday it would respond firmly to any threat against it. "America is the real terrorist in the world by spreading chaos in countries, giving advanced weapons to terrorist groups, causing insecurity, and still it says 'Come, let's negotiate'," the parliament's deputy speaker, Masoud Pezeshkian, said at the start of a session broadcast live on state radio. "Death to America," chanted many lawmakers. The chants, often repeated since the 1979 Islamic revolution which toppled the US-backed Shah, came weeks after Trump said in a US television interview: "They (Iranians) haven't screamed 'death to America' lately." (With inputs from Reuters)

Iran lawmakers chant 'Death to America' as US called 'terrorist'

The United States launched cyber attacks against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vows-new-iran-sanctions-tehran-warns-us-against-attack-229649">Iranian missile control systems</a> and a spy network this week after Tehran downed an American surveillance drone, US media reported on Saturday.

US President Donald Trump ordered a retaliatory military strike against Iran after the drone shootdown but then called it off, saying the response wouldn't be "proportionate" and instead pledged new sanctions on the country.

But after the drone's downing, Trump secretly authorized <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-putting-additional-sanctions-on-iran-says-trump-military-action-still-on-table-229601">US Cyber Command</a> to carry out a retaliatory cyber attack on Iran, The Washington Post reported.

The attack crippled computers used to control rocket and missile launches, according to the Post, which cited people familiar with the matter.

Yahoo cited two former intelligence officials as saying the US targeted a spying group responsible for tracking ships in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, where Washington has blamed Iran for two recent mine attacks on oil tankers.

The Post said the strikes, which caused no casualties, had been planned for weeks and were first proposed as a response to the tanker attacks.

US defence officials refused to confirm the reports.&nbsp;

"As a matter of policy and for operational security, we do not discuss cyberspace operations, intelligence or planning," Defense Department spokeswoman Heather Babb told.

Tensions are high between the US and Iran once again following Trump's move more than one year ago to leave a multinational accord curbing Iran's nuclear ambition.

His administration has instead imposed a robust slate of punitive economic sanctions designed to choke off Iranian oil sales and cripple its economy.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Trump said the US would put "major" new sanctions on Iran next week.

Tehran said it shot down the US drone on Thursday after it violated Iranian airspace -- something Washington denies.

Meanwhile, Iran has denied responsibility for the tanker attacks, and a top military official on Saturday pledged to "set fire to the interests of America and its allies" if the US attacks.

These cyber attacks aren't the first time the US and Iran have duelled online.

The Stuxnet virus, discovered in 2010, is believed to have been engineered by Israel and the US to damage nuclear facilities in Iran.

And Tehran is believed to have stepped up its own cyber capabilities in the face of US efforts to isolate the Islamic republic.

The United States launched cyber attacks against Iranian missile control systems and a spy network this week after Tehran downed an American surveillance drone, US media reported on Saturday.

The United States launched cyber attacks against Iranian missile control systems and a spy network this week after Tehran downed an American surveillance drone, US media reported on Saturday. US President Donald Trump ordered a retaliatory military strike against Iran after the drone shootdown but then called it off, saying the response wouldn't be "proportionate" and instead pledged new sanctions on the country. But after the drone's downing, Trump secretly authorized US Cyber Command to carry out a retaliatory cyber attack on Iran, The Washington Post reported. The attack crippled computers used to control rocket and missile launches, according to the Post, which cited people familiar with the matter. Yahoo cited two former intelligence officials as saying the US targeted a spying group responsible for tracking ships in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, where Washington has blamed Iran for two recent mine attacks on oil tankers. The Post said the strikes, which caused no casualties, had been planned for weeks and were first proposed as a response to the tanker attacks. US defence officials refused to confirm the reports. "As a matter of policy and for operational security, we do not discuss cyberspace operations, intelligence or planning," Defense Department spokeswoman Heather Babb told. Tensions are high between the US and Iran once again following Trump's move more than one year ago to leave a multinational accord curbing Iran's nuclear ambition. His administration has instead imposed a robust slate of punitive economic sanctions designed to choke off Iranian oil sales and cripple its economy. On Saturday, Trump said the US would put "major" new sanctions on Iran next week. Tehran said it shot down the US drone on Thursday after it violated Iranian airspace -- something Washington denies. Meanwhile, Iran has denied responsibility for the tanker attacks, and a top military official on Saturday pledged to "set fire to the interests of America and its allies" if the US attacks. These cyber attacks aren't the first time the US and Iran have duelled online. The Stuxnet virus, discovered in 2010, is believed to have been engineered by Israel and the US to damage nuclear facilities in Iran. And Tehran is believed to have stepped up its own cyber capabilities in the face of US efforts to isolate the Islamic republic.

US launched cyber attacks on Iran after drone shootdown: Reports

All Indian operators, in consultation with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), on Saturday, decided to avoid the affected part of Iranian airspace to ensure safe travel for the passengers, news agency ANI reported. All flights will be re-routed suitably.

Air India CMD Ashwani Lohani said, "No substantial effect on Air India flights. Details being worked out for rerouting incoming flights," ANI reported.

This comes shortly after Etihad Airways announced the suspension of operations through Iranian airspace over the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, news agency Reuters reported, adding that the airline will use alternative flight paths on a number of routes to and from its home base of Abu Dhabi until further notice.

United States Federal Aviation Administration on Thursday issued an emergency order prohibiting US operators from flying in an overseas area of Tehran-controlled airspace over the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman.

Some other international airlines are taking related precautions too.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-airways-qantas-lufthansa-suspend-flights-over-strait-of-hormuz-229327">Some of the world's leading carriers</a> including British Airways, Qantas and Singapore Airlines on Friday suspended flights over the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran-US tensions flared over the downing of a drone, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

The suspensions affected thousands of passengers and came after the Federal Aviation Administration in the United States issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), "prohibiting US-registered aircraft from operating over the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman".&nbsp;

Tehran on Saturday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-its-airspace-is-fully-safe-and-secure-report-229574">its airspace was safe</a>, state media reported quoting Iran's Civil Aviation Organization.

"Iran-controlled airspace over the Persian Gulf and other flight routes are completely safe," its spokesman, Reza Jafarzadeh, was quoted as saying.

This comes at the time when tensions seem to escalate between Tehran and Washington.

Earlier in the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firing-one-bullet-towards-iran-will-set-fire-to-americas-interests-iran-229490">Iran warned of tough retaliation</a> in case United States resorts to any form of aggression against the Islamic republic.

"Firing one bullet towards Iran will set fire to the interests of America and its allies", armed forces general staff spokesman Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi told the Tasnim news agency.

"Today, the situation in the region is to Iran’s advantage.

President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States was "cocked &amp; loaded" to strike Iran but pulled back at the last minute as it would not have been a "proportionate" response to Tehran's shooting down of an unmanned US drone.

Watch: Is a US-Iran conflict imminent?

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The downing of the drone - which Tehran insists violated its airspace, a claim Washington denies - has seen tensions between the two countries spike after a series of attacks on oil tankers the US has blamed on Iran.

Trump later stated that he aborted retaliatory strike to spare Iranian lives.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

All Indian operators, in consultation with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), on Saturday, decided to avoid the affected part of Iranian airspace to ensure safe travel for the passengers, news agency ANI reported.

All Indian operators, in consultation with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), on Saturday, decided to avoid the affected part of Iranian airspace to ensure safe travel for the passengers, news agency ANI reported. All flights will be re-routed suitably. Air India CMD Ashwani Lohani said, "No substantial effect on Air India flights. Details being worked out for rerouting incoming flights," ANI reported. This comes shortly after Etihad Airways announced the suspension of operations through Iranian airspace over the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, news agency Reuters reported, adding that the airline will use alternative flight paths on a number of routes to and from its home base of Abu Dhabi until further notice. United States Federal Aviation Administration on Thursday issued an emergency order prohibiting US operators from flying in an overseas area of Tehran-controlled airspace over the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman. Some other international airlines are taking related precautions too. All Indian operators in consultation with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have decided to avoid the affected part of Iranian Airspace to ensure safe travel for the passengers. They will re-route flights suitably. pic.twitter.com/XwxeTRbfgC — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2019 × Some of the world's leading carriers including British Airways, Qantas and Singapore Airlines on Friday suspended flights over the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran-US tensions flared over the downing of a drone, news agency AFP reported. The suspensions affected thousands of passengers and came after the Federal Aviation Administration in the United States issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), "prohibiting US-registered aircraft from operating over the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman". Tehran on Saturday said that its airspace was safe, state media reported quoting Iran's Civil Aviation Organization. "Iran-controlled airspace over the Persian Gulf and other flight routes are completely safe," its spokesman, Reza Jafarzadeh, was quoted as saying. This comes at the time when tensions seem to escalate between Tehran and Washington. Earlier in the day, Iran warned of tough retaliation in case United States resorts to any form of aggression against the Islamic republic. "Firing one bullet towards Iran will set fire to the interests of America and its allies", armed forces general staff spokesman Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi told the Tasnim news agency. "Today, the situation in the region is to Iran’s advantage. President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States was "cocked & loaded" to strike Iran but pulled back at the last minute as it would not have been a "proportionate" response to Tehran's shooting down of an unmanned US drone. Watch: Is a US-Iran conflict imminent? × The downing of the drone - which Tehran insists violated its airspace, a claim Washington denies - has seen tensions between the two countries spike after a series of attacks on oil tankers the US has blamed on Iran. Trump later stated that he aborted retaliatory strike to spare Iranian lives. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid US-Tehran tensions, Indian airlines decide to avoid part of Iranian airspace

US President Donald Trump said Saturday he will impose additional <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firing-one-bullet-towards-iran-will-set-fire-to-americas-interests-iran-229490">sanctions on Iran</a> in an effort to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons, adding that military action was still a possibility.

Trump, who was speaking to reporters at the White House, made his comments after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-aborted-retaliatory-strike-to-spare-iranian-lives-229374">recently calling off military action</a> against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-firmly-confront-any-aggression-or-threat-by-america-iran-229442">Iran to retaliate</a> for the downing of a US&nbsp;military drone.

"We are putting additional sanctions on Iran," Trump said. "In some cases we are going slowly, but in other cases we are moving rapidly."

The president said military action "is always on the table" against Iran.

But Trump also indicated he was open to reversing the escalation, adding he was willing to quickly reach a deal with Iran that he said would bolster the country's flagging economy.

"We will call it 'Let's make Iran great again.'"

Trump spoke to reporters as he prepared to depart Washington for the presidential retreat Camp David, where he said he would be deliberating on Iran.

Watch: Trump says, 'not looking for war with Iran'

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Iran said on Saturday it would respond firmly to any US&nbsp;threat, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported, amid escalating tension between Tehran and Washington over the shooting down of an unmanned US&nbsp;drone by the Islamic Republic.

On Thursday, an Iranian missile destroyed a US&nbsp;Global Hawk surveillance drone. Tehran repeated on Saturday that the drone was shot down over its territory. Washington said the incident had occurred in international airspace.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said on Friday he aborted a military strike to retaliate because it could have killed 150 people, and signalled he was open to talks with Tehran.

"Regardless of any decision they (US&nbsp;officials) make ... we will not allow any of Iran's borders to be violated. Iran will firmly confront any aggression or threat by America," Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi told Tasnim.

Worries about a confrontation between Iran and the United States have mounted despite Trump saying that he has no appetite to go to war with Iran. Tehran has also said it is not seeking a war but has warned of a "crushing" response if attacked.

"Any mistake by Iran's enemies, in particular America and its regional allies, would be like firing at a powder keg that will burn America, its interests and its allies to the ground," the senior spokesman of Iran's Armed Forces, Abolfazl Shekarchi, told Tasnim on Saturday.

A senior commander of the elite Revolutionary Guards struck a similarly defiant note, in comments quoted by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

"This is our response to a violation of Iranian space and if the violation is repeated then our response will be repeated," said Brigadier General Amirali Hajizadeh, head of the Guards' aerospace division.

"It's possible that this infringement of the Americans was carried out by a general or some operators."

Iran's Foreign Ministry summoned a diplomatic representative of the United Arab Emirates on Saturday because the UAE allowed the drone that was shot down to be launched from a US&nbsp;military base on its territory, the Fars news agency reported.

US President Donald Trump said Saturday he will impose additional sanctions on Iran in an effort to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons, adding that military action was still a possibility.

US President Donald Trump said Saturday he will impose additional sanctions on Iran in an effort to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons, adding that military action was still a possibility. Trump, who was speaking to reporters at the White House, made his comments after recently calling off military action against Iran to retaliate for the downing of a US military drone. "We are putting additional sanctions on Iran," Trump said. "In some cases we are going slowly, but in other cases we are moving rapidly." The president said military action "is always on the table" against Iran. But Trump also indicated he was open to reversing the escalation, adding he was willing to quickly reach a deal with Iran that he said would bolster the country's flagging economy. "We will call it 'Let's make Iran great again.'" Trump spoke to reporters as he prepared to depart Washington for the presidential retreat Camp David, where he said he would be deliberating on Iran. Watch: Trump says, 'not looking for war with Iran' Iran said on Saturday it would respond firmly to any US threat, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported, amid escalating tension between Tehran and Washington over the shooting down of an unmanned US drone by the Islamic Republic. On Thursday, an Iranian missile destroyed a US Global Hawk surveillance drone. Tehran repeated on Saturday that the drone was shot down over its territory. Washington said the incident had occurred in international airspace. US President Donald Trump said on Friday he aborted a military strike to retaliate because it could have killed 150 people, and signalled he was open to talks with Tehran. "Regardless of any decision they (US officials) make ... we will not allow any of Iran's borders to be violated. Iran will firmly confront any aggression or threat by America," Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi told Tasnim. Worries about a confrontation between Iran and the United States have mounted despite Trump saying that he has no appetite to go to war with Iran. Tehran has also said it is not seeking a war but has warned of a "crushing" response if attacked. "Any mistake by Iran's enemies, in particular America and its regional allies, would be like firing at a powder keg that will burn America, its interests and its allies to the ground," the senior spokesman of Iran's Armed Forces, Abolfazl Shekarchi, told Tasnim on Saturday. A senior commander of the elite Revolutionary Guards struck a similarly defiant note, in comments quoted by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA). "This is our response to a violation of Iranian space and if the violation is repeated then our response will be repeated," said Brigadier General Amirali Hajizadeh, head of the Guards' aerospace division. "It's possible that this infringement of the Americans was carried out by a general or some operators." Iran's Foreign Ministry summoned a diplomatic representative of the United Arab Emirates on Saturday because the UAE allowed the drone that was shot down to be launched from a US military base on its territory, the Fars news agency reported.

'We are putting additional sanctions on Iran,' says Trump; military action still on table

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