US President Joe Biden imposed new vaccination mandates as part of a broad plan to put pressure on private companies, government agencies and schools to enact stricter vaccination and testing policies.

Joe Biden: Unvaccinated people hampering US vaccine drive

Gravitas | Water is gushing into subways and apartments in New York. There is water everywhere. The videos look straight out of a horror movie. New York has declared an emergency. WION's Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Flash flood devastate New York

Storm Ida has brought flash floods and heavy rain to New York City. The state has declared a flash flood emergency. The storm has battered Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New Jersey. The rare flash flood emergency raised a warning and urged the residents to move to higher grounds the remnants of the storm caused massive flooding.

Rainwater gushes into New York subway stations

Reports claimed the US undertook helicopter flights to extract people from the base and transported them directly to Kabul airport.

Eagle Base: US secret base outside Kabul airport revealed

Storm Ida: New York declares flash flood emergency

The Supreme Court did not take action early Wednesday on a request to block a Texas law prohibiting most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy, allowing the most restrictive abortion law in the nation to go into effect.

The law, known as Senate Bill 8, amounts to a nearly complete ban on abortion in Texas, one that will further fuel legal and political battles over the future of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established a constitutional right to abortion. The law makes no exceptions for pregnancies resulting from incest or rape.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heartbeat-bill-restrictive-texas-abortion-law-poised-to-take-effect-409788">'Heartbeat bill': Restrictive Texas abortion law poised to take effect</a>

An emergency application from abortion providers seeking to block the law remains pending, and the court is expected to rule on it shortly.

In the application, abortion providers wrote that the law “would immediately and catastrophically reduce abortion access in Texas, barring care for at least 85 percent of Texas abortion patients (those who are six weeks pregnant or greater) and likely forcing many abortion clinics ultimately to close.”

Supreme Court precedents forbid states from banning abortion before fetal viability, the point at which fetuses can sustain life outside the womb, or about 22 to 24 weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heartbeat-bill-texas-passes-strict-anti-abortion-law-386154">Heartbeat bill: Texas passes strict anti-abortion law</a>

But the Texas law was drafted to make it difficult to challenge in court. Usually, a lawsuit seeking to block a law because it is unconstitutional would name state officials as defendants. But the Texas law bars state officials from enforcing it and instead deputizes private individuals to sue anyone who performs the procedure or “aids and abets” it.

The patient may not be sued, but doctors, staff members at clinics, counselors, people who help pay for the procedure, even an Uber driver taking a patient to an abortion clinic are all potential defendants. Plaintiffs, who need not have any connection to the matter or show any injury from it, are entitled to $10,000 and their legal fees recovered if they win. Prevailing defendants are not entitled to legal fees.

In its next term, which starts in October, the Supreme Court is already set to decide whether Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established a constitutional right to abortion, should be overruled in a case from Mississippi concerning a state law banning abortions after 15 weeks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-leaders-call-for-end-on-abortion-barriers-390467">Global leaders call for end on abortion barriers</a>

The Texas and Mississippi laws are among many measures enacted by Republican-controlled state legislatures intended to test the durability of Roe and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, the 1992 decision that affirmed Roe’s core holding and said states may not impose an “undue burden” on the right to abortion before fetal viability.

The lawmakers behind the various state-based measures are betting that the Supreme Court’s recent shift to the right will lead it to sustain the new laws. The court now includes three members appointed by former President Donald Trump, who had vowed to name justices prepared to overrule Roe v. Wade.

One of them, Justice Brett Kavanaugh, replaced Justice Anthony Kennedy, a cautious supporter of abortion rights. Another, Justice Amy Coney Barrett, replaced Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who viewed access to abortion as essential to women’s autonomy and equality.

Senate Bill 8 was signed into law in May by Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican. It prohibits doctors from performing abortions if a fetal heartbeat is detected.

Such activity starts at around six weeks, before many women are even aware that they are pregnant.

The Supreme Court did not take action early Wednesday on a request to block a Texas law prohibiting most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy, allowing the most restrictive abortion law in the nation to go into effect.

The Supreme Court did not take action early Wednesday on a request to block a Texas law prohibiting most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy, allowing the most restrictive abortion law in the nation to go into effect. The law, known as Senate Bill 8, amounts to a nearly complete ban on abortion in Texas, one that will further fuel legal and political battles over the future of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established a constitutional right to abortion. The law makes no exceptions for pregnancies resulting from incest or rape. Also read | 'Heartbeat bill': Restrictive Texas abortion law poised to take effect An emergency application from abortion providers seeking to block the law remains pending, and the court is expected to rule on it shortly. In the application, abortion providers wrote that the law “would immediately and catastrophically reduce abortion access in Texas, barring care for at least 85 percent of Texas abortion patients (those who are six weeks pregnant or greater) and likely forcing many abortion clinics ultimately to close.” Supreme Court precedents forbid states from banning abortion before fetal viability, the point at which fetuses can sustain life outside the womb, or about 22 to 24 weeks. Also read | Heartbeat bill: Texas passes strict anti-abortion law But the Texas law was drafted to make it difficult to challenge in court. Usually, a lawsuit seeking to block a law because it is unconstitutional would name state officials as defendants. But the Texas law bars state officials from enforcing it and instead deputizes private individuals to sue anyone who performs the procedure or “aids and abets” it. The patient may not be sued, but doctors, staff members at clinics, counselors, people who help pay for the procedure, even an Uber driver taking a patient to an abortion clinic are all potential defendants. Plaintiffs, who need not have any connection to the matter or show any injury from it, are entitled to $10,000 and their legal fees recovered if they win. Prevailing defendants are not entitled to legal fees. In its next term, which starts in October, the Supreme Court is already set to decide whether Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established a constitutional right to abortion, should be overruled in a case from Mississippi concerning a state law banning abortions after 15 weeks. Also read | Global leaders call for end on abortion barriers The Texas and Mississippi laws are among many measures enacted by Republican-controlled state legislatures intended to test the durability of Roe and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, the 1992 decision that affirmed Roe’s core holding and said states may not impose an “undue burden” on the right to abortion before fetal viability. The lawmakers behind the various state-based measures are betting that the Supreme Court’s recent shift to the right will lead it to sustain the new laws. The court now includes three members appointed by former President Donald Trump, who had vowed to name justices prepared to overrule Roe v. Wade. One of them, Justice Brett Kavanaugh, replaced Justice Anthony Kennedy, a cautious supporter of abortion rights. Another, Justice Amy Coney Barrett, replaced Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who viewed access to abortion as essential to women’s autonomy and equality. Senate Bill 8 was signed into law in May by Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican. It prohibits doctors from performing abortions if a fetal heartbeat is detected. Such activity starts at around six weeks, before many women are even aware that they are pregnant.

Texas’ near-ban on abortions takes effect after Supreme Court fails to act

Tehran's foreign ministry says the resumption of nuclear talks with world powers will probably take another two to three months.

The European Union-led talks, which aims&nbsp;to get the US back into the 2015 agreement have&nbsp;been underway since April.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/before-talks-irans-supreme-leader-says-predatory-wolf-biden-no-different-from-trump-409148">Before talks, Iran's supreme leader says 'predatory wolf' Biden no different from Trump</a>

Donald Trump, former US president, abandoned the nuclear agreement in 2018 and imposed tough sanctions against Iran.&nbsp;In contrast, to Trump, his&nbsp;successor, Joe Biden, wants to reinstate Washington into the agreement.

The negotiations were previously paused on June 20, two days after&nbsp;ultraconservative&nbsp;Ebrahim Raisi won Iran's presidential election, with no date set for&nbsp;a resumption of dialogue.

On Wednesday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian appealed to his Iranian counterpart for "immediate resumption" of the Iran nuclear talks.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hardline-new-president-sworn-in-amid-stalled-nuclear-talks-403262">Iran's hardline new president sworn in amid stalled nuclear talks</a>

A French foreign ministry spokesman said that the minister stressed the importance and urgency of immediately getting back to negotiations, which have been suspended by Iran since June.&nbsp;

"We are not seeking to flee the negotiation table and the... government considers a real negotiation is a negotiation that produces palpable results allowing the rights of the Iranian nation to be guaranteed," Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said during an interview broadcast on Tuesday evening by state television.

He said that the Vienna talks are "one of the questions on the foreign policy and government agenda".

Adding that "the other party knows full well that a process of two to three months is required for the new government to establish itself and to start taking decisions."

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-raisi-set-to-focus-on-economy-and-nuclear-deal-402130">Iran's Raisi set to focus on economy and nuclear deal</a>

Raisi succeeded Hassan Rouhani, the principal architect of the 2015 agreement on Iran's side, as president in early August.&nbsp;After receiving parliamentary approval, his government was sworn in on August 26.

Under the 2015 deal,&nbsp;Iran was offered an easing of sanctions as compensation for UN-monitored restrictions on its nuclear programme.

However, after the re-imposition of sweeping sanctions following Trump's withdrawal from the deal three years ago, Iran&nbsp;in retaliation,&nbsp;effectively abandoned most of its commitments.

The Vienna talks include Iran along with Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, the other five remaining parties to the CPTPP deal.

While the United States takes part in the talks, it does not have direct contact with Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tehran's foreign ministry says the resumption of nuclear talks with world powers will probably take another two to three months. The European Union-led talks, which aims to get the US back into the 2015 agreement have been underway since April.

Tehran's foreign ministry says the resumption of nuclear talks with world powers will probably take another two to three months. The European Union-led talks, which aims to get the US back into the 2015 agreement have been underway since April. Also read | Before talks, Iran's supreme leader says 'predatory wolf' Biden no different from Trump Donald Trump, former US president, abandoned the nuclear agreement in 2018 and imposed tough sanctions against Iran. In contrast, to Trump, his successor, Joe Biden, wants to reinstate Washington into the agreement. The negotiations were previously paused on June 20, two days after ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi won Iran's presidential election, with no date set for a resumption of dialogue. On Wednesday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian appealed to his Iranian counterpart for "immediate resumption" of the Iran nuclear talks. Also read | Iran's hardline new president sworn in amid stalled nuclear talks A French foreign ministry spokesman said that the minister stressed the importance and urgency of immediately getting back to negotiations, which have been suspended by Iran since June. "We are not seeking to flee the negotiation table and the... government considers a real negotiation is a negotiation that produces palpable results allowing the rights of the Iranian nation to be guaranteed," Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said during an interview broadcast on Tuesday evening by state television. He said that the Vienna talks are "one of the questions on the foreign policy and government agenda". Adding that "the other party knows full well that a process of two to three months is required for the new government to establish itself and to start taking decisions." Also read | Iran's Raisi set to focus on economy and nuclear deal Raisi succeeded Hassan Rouhani, the principal architect of the 2015 agreement on Iran's side, as president in early August. After receiving parliamentary approval, his government was sworn in on August 26. Under the 2015 deal, Iran was offered an easing of sanctions as compensation for UN-monitored restrictions on its nuclear programme. However, after the re-imposition of sweeping sanctions following Trump's withdrawal from the deal three years ago, Iran in retaliation, effectively abandoned most of its commitments. The Vienna talks include Iran along with Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, the other five remaining parties to the CPTPP deal. While the United States takes part in the talks, it does not have direct contact with Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Tehran says talks on 2015 nuclear deal might not resume for 2-3 months

Texas is set to take effect a new law forbidding abortion after six weeks. Unless a court steps in, this legislation will come into effect on Wednesday.

In May, Republican Governor Greg Abbott signed the bill that would make Texas became one of&nbsp;a dozen states&nbsp;to ban abortion upon detection of the fetal heartbeat,&nbsp;which is usually around the sixth week of pregnancy.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heartbeat-bill-texas-passes-strict-anti-abortion-law-386154">Heartbeat bill: Texas passes strict anti-abortion law</a>

The so-called "Heartbeat bill" does not leave any exceptions for rape or incest and would make Texas one of the most difficult states to get an abortion in.

"Approximately 85 to 90 per cent of people who obtain abortion in Texas are at least six weeks into pregnancy, meaning this law would prohibit nearly all abortions in the state," the American Civil Liberties Union said.

A coalition of organisations including Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, the Center for Reproductive Rights, and others have petitioned the Supreme Court asking it to intervene and block the law's implementation.

Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision, has prevented other states from enacting regulations on abortion in the early stages of pregnancy. According to it, abortion can be performed as long as the fetus is not viable, typically until the 22nd and 24th week of pregnancy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-leaders-call-for-end-on-abortion-barriers-390467">Global leaders call for end on abortion barriers</a>

However, Texas's law is distinctive in that it allows the public to enforce the ban instead of just state officials, such as prosecutors and health departments.

The Texas law "creates a bounty hunting scheme that encourages the general public to bring costly and harassing lawsuits against anyone who they believe has violated the ban," the ACLU said.

"Anyone who successfully sues a health center worker, an abortion provider, or any person who helps someone access an abortion after six weeks will be rewarded with at least $10,000, to be paid by the person sued," it said.

"Anti-abortion groups in Texas have already set up online forms enlisting people to sue anyone they believe is violating the law and encouraging people to submit 'anonymous tips' on doctors, clinics, and others who violate the law," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-support-for-legal-abortion-went-mainstream-in-argentina-354020">How support for legal abortion went mainstream in Argentina</a>

The Center for Reproductive Rights president Nancy Northup says that the law forces women to leave the state during times of pandemics in order to receive constitutionally guaranteed healthcare.

"Many will not be able to afford to," Northup said. "It's cruel, unconscionable, and unlawful."

Plans Parenthood president Alexis McGill Johnson says the Supreme Court is being called upon to uphold 50 years of precedent and ensure Texans don't lose their constitutional right to abortion.

A case involving a Mississippi law that prohibits abortions after the 15th week of pregnancy, subject to medical necessity or severe fetal anomalies, will also be heard by the Supreme Court this fall.

It will be the first abortion case considered by the nation's high court since former president Donald Trump cemented a conservative majority on the nine-member panel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Texas is set to take effect a new law forbidding abortion after six weeks. Unless a court steps in, this legislation will come into effect on Wednesday. In May, Republican Governor Greg Abbott signed the bill that would make Texas became one of a dozen states to ban abortion upon detection of the fetal heartbeat, which is usually around the sixth week of pregnancy.

Texas is set to take effect a new law forbidding abortion after six weeks. Unless a court steps in, this legislation will come into effect on Wednesday. In May, Republican Governor Greg Abbott signed the bill that would make Texas became one of a dozen states to ban abortion upon detection of the fetal heartbeat, which is usually around the sixth week of pregnancy. Also read | Heartbeat bill: Texas passes strict anti-abortion law The so-called "Heartbeat bill" does not leave any exceptions for rape or incest and would make Texas one of the most difficult states to get an abortion in. "Approximately 85 to 90 per cent of people who obtain abortion in Texas are at least six weeks into pregnancy, meaning this law would prohibit nearly all abortions in the state," the American Civil Liberties Union said. A coalition of organisations including Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, the Center for Reproductive Rights, and others have petitioned the Supreme Court asking it to intervene and block the law's implementation. Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision, has prevented other states from enacting regulations on abortion in the early stages of pregnancy. According to it, abortion can be performed as long as the fetus is not viable, typically until the 22nd and 24th week of pregnancy. Also read | Global leaders call for end on abortion barriers However, Texas's law is distinctive in that it allows the public to enforce the ban instead of just state officials, such as prosecutors and health departments. The Texas law "creates a bounty hunting scheme that encourages the general public to bring costly and harassing lawsuits against anyone who they believe has violated the ban," the ACLU said. "Anyone who successfully sues a health center worker, an abortion provider, or any person who helps someone access an abortion after six weeks will be rewarded with at least $10,000, to be paid by the person sued," it said. "Anti-abortion groups in Texas have already set up online forms enlisting people to sue anyone they believe is violating the law and encouraging people to submit 'anonymous tips' on doctors, clinics, and others who violate the law," it said. Also read | How support for legal abortion went mainstream in Argentina The Center for Reproductive Rights president Nancy Northup says that the law forces women to leave the state during times of pandemics in order to receive constitutionally guaranteed healthcare. "Many will not be able to afford to," Northup said. "It's cruel, unconscionable, and unlawful." Plans Parenthood president Alexis McGill Johnson says the Supreme Court is being called upon to uphold 50 years of precedent and ensure Texans don't lose their constitutional right to abortion. A case involving a Mississippi law that prohibits abortions after the 15th week of pregnancy, subject to medical necessity or severe fetal anomalies, will also be heard by the Supreme Court this fall. It will be the first abortion case considered by the nation's high court since former president Donald Trump cemented a conservative majority on the nine-member panel. (With inputs from agencies)

'Heartbeat bill': Restrictive Texas abortion law poised to take effect

The Pentagon claimed to have taken out an ISIS bomber headed to the Kabul airport. But locals say the drone attack killed an Afghan engineer and his family. Did the US get the wrong man? WION's Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: US strike took out Afghan engineer?

American Defence Firm Blackwater is charging desperate Afghans $6,500/seat on a flight out of Kabul. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how some Americans are even exploiting a human tragedy.

Gravitas: American Defence firms exploits desperation of Afghans

As of Monday, the European Union removed five territories, including the United States&nbsp;from its list of countries that were earlier exempt from restrictions on non-essential travel during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Visitors from the United States and the five other countries will now likely face tighter controls, such as COVID-19 tests and quarantines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-set-to-propose-travel-restrictions-on-us-visitors-409454">EU set to propose travel restrictions on US visitors</a>

In addition to the US, Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have also been omitted from the list.

This list intends to standardise travel rules across the EU, but it does not bind the individual member states, which can still set their own border policies.

However, so far most EU members have followed Brussels' travel recommendation during the crisis.

Several EU countries, including Germany and Belgium, already categorise the United States as red and require testing and quarantines, while France and the Netherlands deem it safe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-origins-us-intelligence-community-says-it-was-not-developed-as-biological-weapon-408909">COVID-19 virus&nbsp;origins:&nbsp;US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon</a>

According to data from Our World in Data, average&nbsp;US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> cases in the week to August 28 numbered more than 450 per million people, up from under 40 when the European Union added the US to its list in mid-June.

According to the data, Israel, Kosovo, and Montenegro have an even higher rate of cases.

Non-EU visitors who have full <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">immunisations</a> are still allowed into the EU bloc, although testing and quarantines may apply, depending on the country of arrival.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-potential-covid-19-variant-of-concern-identified-in-south-africa-409448" hreflang="en">New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa</a>

With Canada, Japan, and New Zealand included on the EU safe list, now the number of safe countries is 17.&nbsp;COVID-19 issues in each country, as well as reciprocity, are heavily weighed in while assembling the list.

However, as Washington does not allow EU citizens to visit freely despite EU appeals, a&nbsp;division exists within the bloc over reciprocity and the growing number of US cases versus those that rely on tourism and would prefer not to restrict US visitor numbers.

According to a statement by the bloc, the list will be reviewed regularly and updated as needed.

(With inputs from agencies)

As of Monday, the European Union removed five territories, including the United States from its list of countries that were earlier exempt from restrictions on non-essential travel during the Coronavirus pandemic.

As of Monday, the European Union removed five territories, including the United States from its list of countries that were earlier exempt from restrictions on non-essential travel during the Coronavirus pandemic. Visitors from the United States and the five other countries will now likely face tighter controls, such as COVID-19 tests and quarantines. Also read | EU set to propose travel restrictions on US visitors In addition to the US, Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have also been omitted from the list. This list intends to standardise travel rules across the EU, but it does not bind the individual member states, which can still set their own border policies. However, so far most EU members have followed Brussels' travel recommendation during the crisis. Several EU countries, including Germany and Belgium, already categorise the United States as red and require testing and quarantines, while France and the Netherlands deem it safe. Also read | COVID-19 virus origins: US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon According to data from Our World in Data, average US COVID-19 cases in the week to August 28 numbered more than 450 per million people, up from under 40 when the European Union added the US to its list in mid-June. According to the data, Israel, Kosovo, and Montenegro have an even higher rate of cases. Non-EU visitors who have full immunisations are still allowed into the EU bloc, although testing and quarantines may apply, depending on the country of arrival. Also read | New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa With Canada, Japan, and New Zealand included on the EU safe list, now the number of safe countries is 17. COVID-19 issues in each country, as well as reciprocity, are heavily weighed in while assembling the list. However, as Washington does not allow EU citizens to visit freely despite EU appeals, a division exists within the bloc over reciprocity and the growing number of US cases versus those that rely on tourism and would prefer not to restrict US visitor numbers. According to a statement by the bloc, the list will be reviewed regularly and updated as needed. (With inputs from agencies)

EU drops US from list of Covid-safe countries for non-essential travel

An unvaccinated teacher in a California elementary school infected most of her students after contracting the Covid-19 Delta variant. The teacher took classes despite exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms.

Unvaccinated teacher infects students after contracting COVID-19

The European Union is set to advise member states that they should reintroduce travel restrictions for visitors from the United States, three EU officials said Sunday, as coronavirus infections and hospitalisations have surged in the US in recent weeks.

Starting Monday, the officials said, the United States will be removed from a “safe list” of countries whose residents can travel to the 27-nation bloc without additional restrictions, such as quarantine and testing requirements. The suggested restrictions, made by the European Council, will not be mandatory for member countries, and it will remain up to those countries to decide whether to impose them.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-virus-origins-us-intelligence-community-says-it-was-not-developed-as-biological-weapon-408909">COVID-19 virus&nbsp;origins:&nbsp;US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon</a>

Most European countries reopened their borders to Americans in June, more than a year after imposing a travel ban, hoping that Americans would visit this summer and help an ailing tourism industry bounce back.

In essence, the EU gave the United States a summertime pass to encourage tourism, despite the relatively high infection rates in parts of the country.

The threshold for being on the EU “safe travel” list is having fewer than 75 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> cases daily per 100,000 people over the previous 14 days. The United States has an infection rate well above that threshold, and COVID hospitalisations in the country climbed above 100,000 last week for the first time since January.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-potential-covid-19-variant-of-concern-identified-in-south-africa-409448" hreflang="en">New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa</a>

Yet while American tourists were able to travel to Europe this summer, the United States has remained closed to Europeans, drawing anger from Europeans and their leaders, who have expressed frustration at the lack of reciprocity.

Travellers from countries on the safe list can usually visit EU countries without quarantining by showing proof of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination</a> or a negative test, while those from countries not on that list are barred from visiting for nonessential reasons and can be subject to further testing and quarantine requirements.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pain-and-suffering-in-future-fauci-warns-us-against-covid-surge-402281">'Pain and suffering in future': Fauci warns US against Covid surge</a>

Most European countries reopened their economies this summer after vaccination campaigns picked up speed in recent months. Countries such as France and Italy, among others, have required proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test result for people to dine in restaurants, visit museums or attend concerts, making COVID passes a fixture of daily life.

The decision to urge the reimposition of travel restrictions on US travellers was first reported by Reuters. European officials who outlined the plan did so under condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to discuss the matter publicly before an announcement planned for Monday.

Other countries expected to be removed from the “safe list” include Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro and North Macedonia.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-americas-covid-crisis-walled-by-the-western-press-408899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The EU overtook the United States in vaccinations last month, with 64 per cent of the bloc’s residents having received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, compared with 60 per cent in the United States, according to Our World in Data.

The European Union is set to advise member states that they should reintroduce travel restrictions for visitors from the United States, three EU officials said Sunday, as coronavirus infections and hospitalisations have surged in the US in recent weeks.

The European Union is set to advise member states that they should reintroduce travel restrictions for visitors from the United States, three EU officials said Sunday, as coronavirus infections and hospitalisations have surged in the US in recent weeks. Starting Monday, the officials said, the United States will be removed from a “safe list” of countries whose residents can travel to the 27-nation bloc without additional restrictions, such as quarantine and testing requirements. The suggested restrictions, made by the European Council, will not be mandatory for member countries, and it will remain up to those countries to decide whether to impose them. Also read | COVID-19 virus origins: US intelligence community says it was 'not developed' as biological weapon Most European countries reopened their borders to Americans in June, more than a year after imposing a travel ban, hoping that Americans would visit this summer and help an ailing tourism industry bounce back. In essence, the EU gave the United States a summertime pass to encourage tourism, despite the relatively high infection rates in parts of the country. The threshold for being on the EU “safe travel” list is having fewer than 75 new COVID-19 cases daily per 100,000 people over the previous 14 days. The United States has an infection rate well above that threshold, and COVID hospitalisations in the country climbed above 100,000 last week for the first time since January. Also read | New potential COVID-19 variant of concern identified in South Africa Yet while American tourists were able to travel to Europe this summer, the United States has remained closed to Europeans, drawing anger from Europeans and their leaders, who have expressed frustration at the lack of reciprocity. Travellers from countries on the safe list can usually visit EU countries without quarantining by showing proof of vaccination or a negative test, while those from countries not on that list are barred from visiting for nonessential reasons and can be subject to further testing and quarantine requirements. Also read | 'Pain and suffering in future': Fauci warns US against Covid surge Most European countries reopened their economies this summer after vaccination campaigns picked up speed in recent months. Countries such as France and Italy, among others, have required proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test result for people to dine in restaurants, visit museums or attend concerts, making COVID passes a fixture of daily life. The decision to urge the reimposition of travel restrictions on US travellers was first reported by Reuters. European officials who outlined the plan did so under condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to discuss the matter publicly before an announcement planned for Monday. Other countries expected to be removed from the “safe list” include Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro and North Macedonia. The EU overtook the United States in vaccinations last month, with 64 per cent of the bloc’s residents having received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, compared with 60 per cent in the United States, according to Our World in Data.

EU set to propose travel restrictions on US visitors

Major General William Taylor said, 'US airstrike in Afghanistan killed two high-profile ISIS-K targets and injured another. Watch this report to know more.

News Alert: US conducted a drone strike against an IS-K member

In the face of growing demands of US President Joe Biden's resignation, a group of 69 Lawmakers from the US Senate and House of Representatives have put forth several crucial questions.

News Alert: United States Lawmakers question President Joe Biden

The evacuation from Kabul and the US Troop casualties have further intensified the political pressure on US President Joe Biden. The Biden administration has been blamed for being caught unaware by the sudden and violent attack on Kabul airport.

Republicans want Biden to pay a political price for the crisis

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council to discuss the chaotic situation in&nbsp;Afghanistan, diplomats said.

Guterres sent letters formally inviting the United States, Britain, France, Russia and China to meet on Monday, the diplomats told AFP.

Some member countries of the so-called P5 had been discussing the possibility of a meeting for a few days, they added.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-hunt-you-down-joe-biden-warns-kabul-bombers-vows-to-avenge-deaths-of-us-soldiers-408665">'Will hunt you down': Joe Biden warns Kabul bombers, vows to avenge deaths of US soldiers</a>

Russia was supposedly reticent but all of the five are expected to join, one diplomat said.

A spokesperson for Guterres confirmed the meeting, which will not include the current ten non-permanent members of the Security Council.

The full Security Council last met on&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;on August 16, a day after the Taliban swept to power in the country.

Monday's discussion comes as Britain and France work on a UN resolution on&nbsp;Afghanistan.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pentagon-says-threat-persists-after-suicide-bombings-at-kabul-airport-408668">Pentagon says threat persists after suicide bombings at Kabul airport</a>

The resolution would require the agreement of all five permanent members, each of which holds veto powers, but a text has not yet been shared, diplomats said.

Guterres ducked a question about what he hoped Monday's meeting would achieve.

"There are normal meetings that take place in the context of the work of the UN," he told reporters.

Guterres also condemned Thursday's bombings at Kabul airport, which killed dozens of Afghans as well as 13&nbsp;US servicemen and have been claimed by the Islamic State group.

"This incident underscores the volatility of the situation on the ground in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;but also strengthens our resolve as we continue to deliver urgent assistance across the country in support of the Afghan people," he said in a statement.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council to discuss the chaotic situation in Afghanistan, diplomats said.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday called a meeting of the permanent members of the Security Council to discuss the chaotic situation in Afghanistan, diplomats said. Guterres sent letters formally inviting the United States, Britain, France, Russia and China to meet on Monday, the diplomats told AFP. Some member countries of the so-called P5 had been discussing the possibility of a meeting for a few days, they added. ALSO READ | 'Will hunt you down': Joe Biden warns Kabul bombers, vows to avenge deaths of US soldiers Russia was supposedly reticent but all of the five are expected to join, one diplomat said. A spokesperson for Guterres confirmed the meeting, which will not include the current ten non-permanent members of the Security Council. The full Security Council last met on Afghanistan on August 16, a day after the Taliban swept to power in the country. Monday's discussion comes as Britain and France work on a UN resolution on Afghanistan. ALSO READ | Pentagon says threat persists after suicide bombings at Kabul airport The resolution would require the agreement of all five permanent members, each of which holds veto powers, but a text has not yet been shared, diplomats said. Guterres ducked a question about what he hoped Monday's meeting would achieve. "There are normal meetings that take place in the context of the work of the UN," he told reporters. Guterres also condemned Thursday's bombings at Kabul airport, which killed dozens of Afghans as well as 13 US servicemen and have been claimed by the Islamic State group. "This incident underscores the volatility of the situation on the ground in Afghanistan but also strengthens our resolve as we continue to deliver urgent assistance across the country in support of the Afghan people," he said in a statement.

Kabul blasts: UN chief calls Afghanistan meet for Security Council permanent five

The US and NATO forces have just seven days to evacuate all Afghans and leave the Kabul Airport. The US is bending to the Taliban's will. President Biden wants US forces to leave by August 31st - even when American allies are calling an extension. WION's Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: US & Allies have 7 days to evacuate all Afghans

Tropical Storm Henri was set to make landfall on the US east coast Sunday, with millions in New England and New York's Long Island preparing for flash flooding, violent winds and power outages. The US National Hurricane Center said in its 11:00 am (1500 GMT) advisory that Henri was 15 miles (25 kilometers) southeast of Montauk Point in New York state.

The storm, earlier downgraded from a hurricane, was heading east towards Rhode Island where it was due to hit land early afternoon, the center said. Forecasters warned of heavy rainfall and the risk of surging seas as the storm churned in the Atlantic, packing maximum sustained winds of 60 miles per hour, down from 75 mph earlier.

"There's still a lot to worry about. We're not out of harm's way," New York Governor Andrew Cuomo told reporters Sunday morning. As the surface layer of oceans warms due to climate change, cyclones are becoming more powerful and carry more water, posing an increasing threat to the world's coastal communities, scientists say. Storm surges amplified by rising seas can be especially devastating and forecasters warned Henri could bring surges of up to five feet in coastal areas.

A swath of the northeastern coastline, including New York City, was under alert as the storm approached. If Henri is upgraded again then it would be the first hurricane to hit New England in 30 years. On Long Island, home to the plush Hamptons villages where wealthy New Yorkers retreat in summer, some residents made last-minute rushes to boarded-up convenience stores to stock up on water and other supplies. But roads were generally quiet as residents prepared to ride out the storm at home.

"We know we're going to get tail-whipped by this thing," said Amy Pedatella, a 46-year-old property manager who spent Saturday securing seaside homes in the Hamptons. Nasty weather that preceded Henri late Saturday forced New York City to halt a star-studded Central Park concert billed as a "homecoming" for a metropolis hard hit by the pandemic.

The approaching then-hurricane had prompted Cuomo to announce a state of emergency and the deployment of 500 National Guard soldiers in anticipation of response efforts. Henri was anticipated to miss New York City by several miles, but still caused tropical storm conditions overnight. The National Weather Service said 1.94 inches of rain fell on Central Park between 10 pm and 11 pm Saturday, the wettest hour on record in New York City. An announcer cut off pop legend Barry Manilow mid-song to urge revelers to proceed swiftly but calmly to the nearest exit.

"I guess for safety it makes sense. I mean I can hear the thunder," said attendee Maria Fuentes.

'Dangerous'

The NHC warned of "a dangerous storm surge, hurricane conditions and flooding" in areas of southern New England and Long Island. Henri is expected to produce three to six inches of rain (7.5 to 15 centimeters) across the region, with isolated maximum totals near 10 inches, the NHC warned.

The heavy rainfall "may result in considerable flash, urban, and small stream flooding" as well as river flooding. High winds are expected to knock out electricity for hundreds of thousands of people across the region and delay countless flights. Officials in New England -- which includes Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont -- have warned people to get ready.

The last hurricane to make landfall onto New England was Hurricane Bob in 1991. That storm killed at least 17 people. It has been almost a decade since such severe weather threatened the region. "The last time we had hurricane watches issued for the area was for Hurricane Irene, back in late August of 2011," tweeted the National Weather Service in New York City. The last hurricane to make landfall in Long Island was Gloria in 1985. The warnings have reignited memories of Hurricane Sandy, a more powerful storm that knocked out power for much of Manhattan and flooded subways in 2012. The US PGA Tour postponed the final round of the Northern Trust tournament in suburban New York to Monday because of Henri.

Tropical Storm Henri was set to make landfall on the US east coast Sunday, with millions in New England and New York's Long Island preparing for flash flooding, violent winds and power outages.

Tropical Storm Henri was set to make landfall on the US east coast Sunday, with millions in New England and New York's Long Island preparing for flash flooding, violent winds and power outages. The US National Hurricane Center said in its 11:00 am (1500 GMT) advisory that Henri was 15 miles (25 kilometers) southeast of Montauk Point in New York state. The storm, earlier downgraded from a hurricane, was heading east towards Rhode Island where it was due to hit land early afternoon, the center said. Forecasters warned of heavy rainfall and the risk of surging seas as the storm churned in the Atlantic, packing maximum sustained winds of 60 miles per hour, down from 75 mph earlier. "There's still a lot to worry about. We're not out of harm's way," New York Governor Andrew Cuomo told reporters Sunday morning. As the surface layer of oceans warms due to climate change, cyclones are becoming more powerful and carry more water, posing an increasing threat to the world's coastal communities, scientists say. Storm surges amplified by rising seas can be especially devastating and forecasters warned Henri could bring surges of up to five feet in coastal areas. A swath of the northeastern coastline, including New York City, was under alert as the storm approached. If Henri is upgraded again then it would be the first hurricane to hit New England in 30 years. On Long Island, home to the plush Hamptons villages where wealthy New Yorkers retreat in summer, some residents made last-minute rushes to boarded-up convenience stores to stock up on water and other supplies. But roads were generally quiet as residents prepared to ride out the storm at home. "We know we're going to get tail-whipped by this thing," said Amy Pedatella, a 46-year-old property manager who spent Saturday securing seaside homes in the Hamptons. Nasty weather that preceded Henri late Saturday forced New York City to halt a star-studded Central Park concert billed as a "homecoming" for a metropolis hard hit by the pandemic. The approaching then-hurricane had prompted Cuomo to announce a state of emergency and the deployment of 500 National Guard soldiers in anticipation of response efforts. Henri was anticipated to miss New York City by several miles, but still caused tropical storm conditions overnight. The National Weather Service said 1.94 inches of rain fell on Central Park between 10 pm and 11 pm Saturday, the wettest hour on record in New York City. An announcer cut off pop legend Barry Manilow mid-song to urge revelers to proceed swiftly but calmly to the nearest exit. "I guess for safety it makes sense. I mean I can hear the thunder," said attendee Maria Fuentes. 'Dangerous' The NHC warned of "a dangerous storm surge, hurricane conditions and flooding" in areas of southern New England and Long Island. Henri is expected to produce three to six inches of rain (7.5 to 15 centimeters) across the region, with isolated maximum totals near 10 inches, the NHC warned. The heavy rainfall "may result in considerable flash, urban, and small stream flooding" as well as river flooding. High winds are expected to knock out electricity for hundreds of thousands of people across the region and delay countless flights. Officials in New England -- which includes Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont -- have warned people to get ready. The last hurricane to make landfall onto New England was Hurricane Bob in 1991. That storm killed at least 17 people. It has been almost a decade since such severe weather threatened the region. "The last time we had hurricane watches issued for the area was for Hurricane Irene, back in late August of 2011," tweeted the National Weather Service in New York City. The last hurricane to make landfall in Long Island was Gloria in 1985. The warnings have reignited memories of Hurricane Sandy, a more powerful storm that knocked out power for much of Manhattan and flooded subways in 2012. The US PGA Tour postponed the final round of the Northern Trust tournament in suburban New York to Monday because of Henri.

Tropical Storm Henri bears down on US east coast

According to the National Hurricane Center, fierce winds and heavy rains could batter the US East Coast with the arrival of Hurricane Henri, which could produce dangerous storm surge and flooding across the region.

Heavy winds and rains could batter the US East Coast with the arrival of Hurricane Henri

United States President Joe Biden hailed the India-US partnership as India celebrates its 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). Biden said that partnership between the nations is "more important than ever" and added that together the countries must show the world that "two great and diverse democracies" can deliver for people everywhere.

"In this moment of great challenges and opportunities, the partnership between India and the United States is more important than ever. Together, we must show the world that our two great and diverse democracies can deliver for people everywhere," read a statement published by the White House.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-necessary-to-make-full-use-of-indias-potential-says-pm-modi-405470">Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi</a>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of Independence Day. He remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors.&nbsp;

The White House's statement added, "On this day, August 15, 1947, India achieved its long journey toward independence, guided by Mahatma Gandhi’s message of truth and non-violence."

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pm-narendra-modi-remembers-freedom-fighters-honours-covid-19-warriors-and-olympians-during-independence-day-address-405485">PM Narendra Modi remembers freedom fighters, honours COVID-19 warriors and Olympians during Independence Day address</a>

"Today, that foundational commitment to respecting the will of the people through democracy continues to inspire the world and is the basis of the special bond between our two nations," it further added.&nbsp;

"Over the decades, the ties between our people, including a vibrant community of more than four million Indian-Americans, have sustained and strengthened our partnership," the statement added.&nbsp;

Watch PM Modi's address here:

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Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. <a href="https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs">https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs</a>
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"The friendship between our nations will continue to flourish and grow. I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and throughout the world, a safe and happy Indian Independence Day," the statement by White House oncluded.&nbsp;

United States President Joe Biden hailed the India-US partnership as India celebrates its 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). Biden said that partnership between the nations is "more important than ever" and added that together the countries must show the world that "two great and diverse democracies" can deliver for people everywhere.

United States President Joe Biden hailed the India-US partnership as India celebrates its 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). Biden said that partnership between the nations is "more important than ever" and added that together the countries must show the world that "two great and diverse democracies" can deliver for people everywhere. "In this moment of great challenges and opportunities, the partnership between India and the United States is more important than ever. Together, we must show the world that our two great and diverse democracies can deliver for people everywhere," read a statement published by the White House. ALSO READ | Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of Independence Day. He remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors. The White House's statement added, "On this day, August 15, 1947, India achieved its long journey toward independence, guided by Mahatma Gandhi’s message of truth and non-violence." IN PICS | PM Narendra Modi remembers freedom fighters, honours COVID-19 warriors and Olympians during Independence Day address "Today, that foundational commitment to respecting the will of the people through democracy continues to inspire the world and is the basis of the special bond between our two nations," it further added. "Over the decades, the ties between our people, including a vibrant community of more than four million Indian-Americans, have sustained and strengthened our partnership," the statement added. Watch PM Modi's address here: Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2021 × "The friendship between our nations will continue to flourish and grow. I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and throughout the world, a safe and happy Indian Independence Day," the statement by White House oncluded.

'Together, we must show the world...': US President Joe Biden's message on India's 75th Independence Day

Oregon in United States has declared a state of emergency as the Pacific north-west prepares for triple-digit temperatures just weeks after a deadly heatwave struck the region.

US: Oregon declares state of emergency as another ‘extreme heatwave’ looms

United States averaging 10,0000 new Coronavirus cases each day. In Florida, Delta variant drives a surge of COVID-19 cases. Watch this report to know more.

COVID-19 Update: US averaging 10,0000 new Coronavirus cases each day

The United States has decided to dramatically scale down its embassy in Kabul. 3,000 troops have been sent temporarily to aid the evacuation of the staff here.

US sends troops to Kabul to evacuate embassy staff

The United States Census Bureau has released the 2020 Census, a detailed report on how the country has changed since 2010. The census report shows an increase in the population of US metro areas and highlights a significant change in the nation's diversity — how people identify their race and ethnicity in the past decade.

The United States Census Bureau has released the 2020 Census, a detailed report on how the country has changed since 2010. The census report shows an increase in the population of US metro areas and highlights a significant change in the nation's diversity — how people identify their race and ethnicity in the past decade. The findings will act as a crucial point while redrawing the nation's political maps and the results are essential to determine the allocation of billions of dollars in federal funding. "We are excited to reach this milestone of delivering the first detailed statistics from the 2020 Census," said acting Census Bureau Director Ron Jarmin. "We appreciate the public’s patience as Census Bureau staff worked diligently to process these data and ensure it meets our quality standards," he added. ALSO READ | US is sending 3,000 troops to Kabul as 2,500 leave, journalist confronts Pentagon about the irony Here are the key takeaways from the 2020 census statistics: A decline in 'White' population for the first time As per the latest census, the number of US residents who identify themselves as 'White' has fallen for the first time as it decreased by 8.6 per cent between 2010 and 2020. This is a first since the earliest such data was taken in 1790. However, the 'White' population remained the largest race or ethnicity group in the United States, with 204.3 million people identifying as 'White' alone. A decade earlier people identifying as 'White' comprised 72.4 per cent. "As the country has grown, we have continued to evolve in how we measure the race and ethnicity of the people who live here," said Jones. A jump in the Asian-American population The data shows United States as an increasingly diverse country as the people who identify themselves as multiracial, Hispanic and Asian drove much of the population growth between 2010 and 2020. The Asian-American population jumped 35.5 per cent to include 20 million people (six per cent of the US population). As per the statistics, the American Indian and Alaska Native alone or in the combination group (9.7 million), and the Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone or in the combination group (1.6 million). Also read| Taliban advances in Afghanistan, US and Britain to evacuate embassies Growth in the adult population As per the 2020 Census, the adult (age 18 and older) population group grew 10.1% to 258.3 million people over the decade. However, the population of children under age 18 dropped from 74.2 million in 2010 to 73.1 million in 2020, a 1.4% decrease. "More than three-quarters, 77.9%, of the US population were age 18 and over," said Andrew Roberts, chief of the Sex and Age Statistics Branch in the Census Bureau's Population Division. "The adult population grew faster than the nation as a whole. By comparison, the population under age 18 was 73.1 million in 2020, a decline of 1.4% from the 2010 Census," he added. Urbanisation: Size and distribution of the population The data also sheds light on changes in the size and distribution of the population across the United States. One of the major findings are the fastest-growing cities across the US are in suburban areas. The population of U.S. metro areas grew by 9% from 2010 to 2020. The largest county in the US in 2020 remains Los Angeles County with over 10 million people and the largest city (incorporated place) in the United States in 2020 remains New York with 8.8 million people. The Villages, a retirement community in Florida, is the fastest-growing metro area in the country, the census said. (with inputs from agencies)

US 2020 Census shows decline in white population: Here are key takeaways from the report

The Census Bureau reported that the United States became more diverse and more urban over the past decade, and the non-Hispanic white population dropped for the first time on record.

United States: White population shrinking, low birth rate

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has stated that the United States is treating Pakistan differently as a result of Washington's strategic partnership with India.

He went on to say that the US sees Pakistan only as "useful" for cleaning up the "mess" it has left in Afghanistan. 
 
"Pakistan is just considered only to be useful in the context of somehow settling this mess which has been left behind after 20 years of trying to find a military solution when there was not one," Khan told foreign journalists at his home in Islamabad on Wednesday.

Recently, Pakistan's National Security Adviser, Moeed Yusuf, had stated that if the US continues to disregard Pakistan's leadership, the country has alternative choices.&nbsp;

Despite the importance of the troop withdrawal&nbsp;initiative, which attempts to put a stop to America's so-called "endless war," US President Joe Biden has not talked to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan since the latter took office.

Officials says the reason behind this is likely that Washington thinks Islamabad is pushing China and Russia's agendas at the expense of US interests in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

After US President Joe Biden announced the departure of American and NATO forces from Afghanistan by August 31, the Taliban have increased their attacks.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-are-normal-civilians-pakistan-cant-hunt-them-down-pm-imran-khan-401633">Also read | Taliban are 'normal civilians', Pakistan can't hunt them down: PM Imran Khan</a> 
 
As discussions between the fighters and the Afghan government have stagnated, and violence in Afghanistan has risen significantly, Washington has pressed Pakistan to use its influence over the Taliban to negotiate an elusive peace agreement.&nbsp;

Under the current circumstances, reaching a political settlement in Afghanistan appears to be difficult, Imran Khan said. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: What did the U.S. achieve in Afghanistan? Nothing

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-did-the-us-achieve-in-afghanistan-nothing-397095/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

When the Taliban commanders came to Pakistan, Khan said, he tried to encourage them to strike an agreement.&nbsp;

According to a journalist present at the discussion, Khan stated that since the US opted to form a strategic alliance with India, Washington has been treating Pakistan differently.

The US will pull out its military by August 31, 20 years after toppling the Taliban government in 2001.

But, as the US leaves, the Taliban today control more territory than at any point since then.

Khan said Pakistan had "made it very clear" that it does not want any American military bases in Pakistan after US forces exit Afghanistan.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has stated that the United States is treating Pakistan differently as a result of Washington's strategic partnership with India.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has stated that the United States is treating Pakistan differently as a result of Washington's strategic partnership with India. He went on to say that the US sees Pakistan only as "useful" for cleaning up the "mess" it has left in Afghanistan. "Pakistan is just considered only to be useful in the context of somehow settling this mess which has been left behind after 20 years of trying to find a military solution when there was not one," Khan told foreign journalists at his home in Islamabad on Wednesday. Recently, Pakistan's National Security Adviser, Moeed Yusuf, had stated that if the US continues to disregard Pakistan's leadership, the country has alternative choices. Despite the importance of the troop withdrawal initiative, which attempts to put a stop to America's so-called "endless war," US President Joe Biden has not talked to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan since the latter took office. Officials says the reason behind this is likely that Washington thinks Islamabad is pushing China and Russia's agendas at the expense of US interests in Afghanistan. After US President Joe Biden announced the departure of American and NATO forces from Afghanistan by August 31, the Taliban have increased their attacks. Also read | Taliban are 'normal civilians', Pakistan can't hunt them down: PM Imran Khan As discussions between the fighters and the Afghan government have stagnated, and violence in Afghanistan has risen significantly, Washington has pressed Pakistan to use its influence over the Taliban to negotiate an elusive peace agreement. Under the current circumstances, reaching a political settlement in Afghanistan appears to be difficult, Imran Khan said. Watch | Gravitas: What did the U.S. achieve in Afghanistan? Nothing When the Taliban commanders came to Pakistan, Khan said, he tried to encourage them to strike an agreement. According to a journalist present at the discussion, Khan stated that since the US opted to form a strategic alliance with India, Washington has been treating Pakistan differently. The US will pull out its military by August 31, 20 years after toppling the Taliban government in 2001. But, as the US leaves, the Taliban today control more territory than at any point since then. Khan said Pakistan had "made it very clear" that it does not want any American military bases in Pakistan after US forces exit Afghanistan. (With inputs from Agencies)

Snubbed Imran Khan rues: Pakistan good for US only to clean up Afghan mess, India a strategic ally

This charade doesn’t leave anyone safer. It’s gone on long enough.

American politicians often warn that if Iran obtains a nuclear weapon, it will spark a nuclear stampede across the Middle East. Allowing Tehran to get the bomb, Senator Robert Menendez, the current chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee,&nbsp;predicted&nbsp;in March 2020, could “set off a dangerous arms race in the region.” In an interview in December, President-elect Joe Biden&nbsp;cautioned&nbsp;that if Iran went nuclear, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt might too, “and the last goddamn thing we need in that part of the world is a buildup of nuclear capability.”

Such statements are so familiar that it’s easy to overlook their artifice. In warning that Iran could turn the Middle East nuclear, American politicians imply that the region is nuclear-free now. But it’s not. Israel already has nuclear weapons. You’d just never know it from America’s leaders, who have spent the last half-century feigning ignorance. This deceit undercuts America’s supposed commitment to nuclear nonproliferation, and it distorts the American debate over Iran. It’s time for the Biden administration to tell the truth.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-vows-to-israel-no-nuclear-weapon-for-iran-on-my-watch-394580">Biden vows to Israel: No nuclear weapon for Iran on my watch</a>

American officials began hiding the truth about Israeli nuclear weapons after Israeli leaders hid the truth from them. In the early 1960s, writes Avner Cohen in his book “The Worst Kept Secret,” Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion repeatedly told President John F. Kennedy that the reactor Israel was building in the desert town of Dimona “was for peaceful purposes only.” When the United States sent inspectors to the site, the Israelis&nbsp;concocted&nbsp;an elaborate ruse, which included building fake walls to conceal the elevators that led to an underground reprocessing plant. By decade’s end, the die was cast. The C.I.A. concluded that Israel already possessed nuclear warheads.

So Richard Nixon and Prime Minister Golda Meir&nbsp;hatched&nbsp;a deal. Neither Israel nor the United States would acknowledge that Israel had nuclear weapons, and Washington would not pressure Israel to submit them to international oversight. For 50 years now, American presidents have abided by the bargain. Scholars&nbsp;believe&nbsp;that when Israel tested a nuclear weapon in the Indian Ocean in 1979, the Carter administration covered it up. In 2009, when a journalist&nbsp;asked&nbsp;Barack Obama if he knew of “any country in the Middle East that has nuclear weapons,” Mr Obama responded, “I don’t want to speculate.”

Feigning ignorance about Israeli nuclear weapons makes a mockery of America’s efforts at nonproliferation. Mr Obama vowed to pursue a nuclear-free world. Yet to prevent public discussion of Israel’s arsenal, his administration&nbsp;helped squelch&nbsp;a United Nations conference on a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East. The Biden administration continues to impose punishing sanctions on Iran in an attempt to force its government to accept inspections&nbsp;more stringent&nbsp;than those required by the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. Meanwhile, Israel, which has never signed the NPT, permits no inspections at all.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-irans-raisi-extreme-committed-to-nuclear-programme-392707">Israel says Iran's Raisi extreme, committed to nuclear programme</a>

This hypocrisy leads many around the world to smirk when American diplomats claim to be defending the “rules-based order.” It also empowers those Iranians who claim Tehran has the right to match its regional rival.

Finally, the American government’s deceptive silence prevents a more honest debate at home about the dangers an Iranian nuclear weapon would pose. American politicians&nbsp;sometimes&nbsp;say&nbsp;an Iranian bomb would pose an “existential” threat to Israel. That’s a dubious claim, given that Israel possesses a nuclear deterrent it can&nbsp;deploy on air, land and sea. But many Americans find the claim plausible because,&nbsp;according to recent polling&nbsp;conducted by Shibley Telhami of the University of Maryland, barely 50 per cent know Israel has nuclear weapons. A higher percentage thinks Tehran has the bomb.

Even if an Iranian bomb wouldn’t existentially threaten Israel, the United States should still work to forestall one diplomatically. With&nbsp;negotiations with Tehran at risk of collapse, the Biden administration should commit to lifting the sanctions that are crippling Iran’s economy in return for verifiable limits on Iran’s nuclear capacity. But if those efforts fail — and the Biden administration faces pressure to wage war rather than allow Iran to gain the capacity to build a nuclear weapon — it’s crucial that Americans make an informed decision about the risk a nuclear Iran poses to America’s closest ally in the Middle East. That’s harder when the American government never publicly admits that Israel has the means to deter a nuclear attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-bennett-weighs-against-nuclear-talks-with-irans-hangmen-regime-392766">Israel PM Bennett weighs against nuclear talks with Iran's 'hangmen regime'</a>

The Biden administration is not going to force Israel to give up its nuclear weapons. But that doesn’t mean it must undermine America’s global credibility and deceive its people by denying reality. Perhaps a more honest American discussion of Israel’s nuclear arsenal will breathe new life into the distant dream of a nuclear-free Middle East. Even if that doesn’t happen, it will be bracing, after a half-century of lying by omission, simply to hear America’s leaders tell the truth.

This charade doesn’t leave anyone safer. It’s gone on long enough. American politicians often warn that if Iran obtains a nuclear weapon, it will spark a nuclear stampede across the Middle East.

This charade doesn’t leave anyone safer. It’s gone on long enough. American politicians often warn that if Iran obtains a nuclear weapon, it will spark a nuclear stampede across the Middle East. Allowing Tehran to get the bomb, Senator Robert Menendez, the current chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, predicted in March 2020, could “set off a dangerous arms race in the region.” In an interview in December, President-elect Joe Biden cautioned that if Iran went nuclear, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt might too, “and the last goddamn thing we need in that part of the world is a buildup of nuclear capability.” Such statements are so familiar that it’s easy to overlook their artifice. In warning that Iran could turn the Middle East nuclear, American politicians imply that the region is nuclear-free now. But it’s not. Israel already has nuclear weapons. You’d just never know it from America’s leaders, who have spent the last half-century feigning ignorance. This deceit undercuts America’s supposed commitment to nuclear nonproliferation, and it distorts the American debate over Iran. It’s time for the Biden administration to tell the truth. Also read | Biden vows to Israel: No nuclear weapon for Iran on my watch American officials began hiding the truth about Israeli nuclear weapons after Israeli leaders hid the truth from them. In the early 1960s, writes Avner Cohen in his book “The Worst Kept Secret,” Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion repeatedly told President John F. Kennedy that the reactor Israel was building in the desert town of Dimona “was for peaceful purposes only.” When the United States sent inspectors to the site, the Israelis concocted an elaborate ruse, which included building fake walls to conceal the elevators that led to an underground reprocessing plant. By decade’s end, the die was cast. The C.I.A. concluded that Israel already possessed nuclear warheads. So Richard Nixon and Prime Minister Golda Meir hatched a deal. Neither Israel nor the United States would acknowledge that Israel had nuclear weapons, and Washington would not pressure Israel to submit them to international oversight. For 50 years now, American presidents have abided by the bargain. Scholars believe that when Israel tested a nuclear weapon in the Indian Ocean in 1979, the Carter administration covered it up. In 2009, when a journalist asked Barack Obama if he knew of “any country in the Middle East that has nuclear weapons,” Mr Obama responded, “I don’t want to speculate.” Feigning ignorance about Israeli nuclear weapons makes a mockery of America’s efforts at nonproliferation. Mr Obama vowed to pursue a nuclear-free world. Yet to prevent public discussion of Israel’s arsenal, his administration helped squelch a United Nations conference on a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East. The Biden administration continues to impose punishing sanctions on Iran in an attempt to force its government to accept inspections more stringent than those required by the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. Meanwhile, Israel, which has never signed the NPT, permits no inspections at all. Also read | Israel says Iran's Raisi extreme, committed to nuclear programme This hypocrisy leads many around the world to smirk when American diplomats claim to be defending the “rules-based order.” It also empowers those Iranians who claim Tehran has the right to match its regional rival. Finally, the American government’s deceptive silence prevents a more honest debate at home about the dangers an Iranian nuclear weapon would pose. American politicians sometimes say an Iranian bomb would pose an “existential” threat to Israel. That’s a dubious claim, given that Israel possesses a nuclear deterrent it can deploy on air, land and sea. But many Americans find the claim plausible because, according to recent polling conducted by Shibley Telhami of the University of Maryland, barely 50 per cent know Israel has nuclear weapons. A higher percentage thinks Tehran has the bomb. Even if an Iranian bomb wouldn’t existentially threaten Israel, the United States should still work to forestall one diplomatically. With negotiations with Tehran at risk of collapse, the Biden administration should commit to lifting the sanctions that are crippling Iran’s economy in return for verifiable limits on Iran’s nuclear capacity. But if those efforts fail — and the Biden administration faces pressure to wage war rather than allow Iran to gain the capacity to build a nuclear weapon — it’s crucial that Americans make an informed decision about the risk a nuclear Iran poses to America’s closest ally in the Middle East. That’s harder when the American government never publicly admits that Israel has the means to deter a nuclear attack. Also read | Israel PM Bennett weighs against nuclear talks with Iran's 'hangmen regime' The Biden administration is not going to force Israel to give up its nuclear weapons. But that doesn’t mean it must undermine America’s global credibility and deceive its people by denying reality. Perhaps a more honest American discussion of Israel’s nuclear arsenal will breathe new life into the distant dream of a nuclear-free Middle East. Even if that doesn’t happen, it will be bracing, after a half-century of lying by omission, simply to hear America’s leaders tell the truth.

America needs to start telling the truth about Israel’s nukes

The US Senate approved <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a> historic $1.2 trillion&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;plan on Tuesday, paving the way for a major victory to the president if it wins final passage in the lower chamber&nbsp;of Congress.

Some seven weeks after the Democratic leader stood with senators from both parties hailing a preliminary agreement to fix the nation's roads, bridges, ports and internet connections, the deal arrived on the Senate floor needing just a simple majority to pass.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-backed-12-trillion-infrastructure-bill-passes-key-hurdle-404062">Biden-backed $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill passes key hurdle</a>

In the event, the package received rare bipartisan support among Washington's highly-polarized political elite, passing by 69 votes to 30 after winning the backing of a third of Republicans.

The measure now faces a make-or-break vote in the House of Representatives in the coming weeks, where its future is less certain as divisions have sprung up in the Democratic majority.

Democratic Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer credited Biden for winning approval of "the first major&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;package in over a decade on a bipartisan basis" after just seven months in office.

"It's been a long and winding road, but we have persisted," Schumer said. "The American people will now see the most robust injection of funds into&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;in decades."

The ambitious plan provides for $550 billion in new federal spending on transport&nbsp;infrastructure, but also for high-speed internet and efforts to fight climate change.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-senate-in-rare-saturday-session-on-1-trillion-infrastructure-bill-402098">US Senate in rare Saturday session on $1 trillion infrastructure bill</a>

The total price tag of the package, the equivalent of Spain's 2020 gross domestic product,&nbsp;relies on other public funds that already have been appropriated.

The passage looks less certain in the House of Representatives, however, where rifts have emerged within the narrow Democratic majority between the progressive and moderate wings.&nbsp;

Negotiations are likely to be drawn out, and a final vote in Congress may not come until the fall.

In a deeply divided Washington, the&nbsp;bill's approval would mark a resounding victory for Biden, a former senator who touts his ability to reach across the aisle.&nbsp;

Sweeping domestic agenda&nbsp;

The package is a primary element of Biden's sweeping domestic agenda aimed at transforming the United States with more than $4 trillion in federal spending.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/acknowledging-disagreements-biden-and-merkel-signal-warmer-us-german-ties-398544">Acknowledging disagreements, Biden and Merkel signal warmer US-German ties</a>

Democrats now are working on the next stage: a go-it-alone, $3.5 trillion budget framework that includes major investments in health, education, tackling climate change and expanding social welfare programs.

The budget resolution "will be the most consequential piece of legislation for working people, the elderly, the children, the sick and the poor since (president Franklin Delano Roosevelt) and the New Deal of the 1930s," independent Senator Bernie Sanders, chairman of the Budget Committee, said this week.&nbsp;

Democratic leaders intend to use a fast-track process known as reconciliation that allows budget-related legislation to pass by simple majority.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-senate-agrees-on-trillion-dollar-infrastructure-package-401313/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

With Republicans united against the broader budget&nbsp;bill, every Senate Democrat would need to support the package.

Biden has urged Congress to deliver on his priorities, saying in July that "we can't afford not to make these investments."

Making a last-minute plea for passage of the bipartisan&nbsp;bill&nbsp;over the weekend, the president tweeted that it represented a "historic, once-in-a-generation investment in our nation's&nbsp;infrastructure."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal is a historic, once-in-a-generation investment in our nation’s infrastructure. It will create good-paying, union jobs repairing our roads and bridges, replacing lead pipes, and building energy transmission lines. 
 
We can’t afford not to do it.
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1424025037829464068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Former Republican president Donald Trump however called it a "disgrace," noting the victory it would hand Biden, and threatened political reprisals against Republicans who voted for it.

In the wake of that threat, three Republican senators who participated in the&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;negotiations announced they would not vote to support for the plan, one of whom was absent from the session.&nbsp;

But top Republican Senator Mitch McConnell voted for it, aware of the program's huge popularity among voters tired of historic neglect of the nation's highways.&nbsp;

The US Senate approved Joe Biden's historic $1.2 trillion infrastructure plan on Tuesday, paving the way for a major victory to the president if it wins final passage in the lower chamber of Congress.

The US Senate approved Joe Biden's historic $1.2 trillion infrastructure plan on Tuesday, paving the way for a major victory to the president if it wins final passage in the lower chamber of Congress. Some seven weeks after the Democratic leader stood with senators from both parties hailing a preliminary agreement to fix the nation's roads, bridges, ports and internet connections, the deal arrived on the Senate floor needing just a simple majority to pass. Also read | Biden-backed $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill passes key hurdle In the event, the package received rare bipartisan support among Washington's highly-polarized political elite, passing by 69 votes to 30 after winning the backing of a third of Republicans. The measure now faces a make-or-break vote in the House of Representatives in the coming weeks, where its future is less certain as divisions have sprung up in the Democratic majority. Democratic Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer credited Biden for winning approval of "the first major infrastructure package in over a decade on a bipartisan basis" after just seven months in office. "It's been a long and winding road, but we have persisted," Schumer said. "The American people will now see the most robust injection of funds into infrastructure in decades." The ambitious plan provides for $550 billion in new federal spending on transport infrastructure, but also for high-speed internet and efforts to fight climate change. Also read | US Senate in rare Saturday session on $1 trillion infrastructure bill The total price tag of the package, the equivalent of Spain's 2020 gross domestic product, relies on other public funds that already have been appropriated. The passage looks less certain in the House of Representatives, however, where rifts have emerged within the narrow Democratic majority between the progressive and moderate wings. Negotiations are likely to be drawn out, and a final vote in Congress may not come until the fall. In a deeply divided Washington, the bill's approval would mark a resounding victory for Biden, a former senator who touts his ability to reach across the aisle. Sweeping domestic agenda The package is a primary element of Biden's sweeping domestic agenda aimed at transforming the United States with more than $4 trillion in federal spending. Also read | Acknowledging disagreements, Biden and Merkel signal warmer US-German ties Democrats now are working on the next stage: a go-it-alone, $3.5 trillion budget framework that includes major investments in health, education, tackling climate change and expanding social welfare programs. The budget resolution "will be the most consequential piece of legislation for working people, the elderly, the children, the sick and the poor since (president Franklin Delano Roosevelt) and the New Deal of the 1930s," independent Senator Bernie Sanders, chairman of the Budget Committee, said this week. Democratic leaders intend to use a fast-track process known as reconciliation that allows budget-related legislation to pass by simple majority. With Republicans united against the broader budget bill, every Senate Democrat would need to support the package. Biden has urged Congress to deliver on his priorities, saying in July that "we can't afford not to make these investments." Making a last-minute plea for passage of the bipartisan bill over the weekend, the president tweeted that it represented a "historic, once-in-a-generation investment in our nation's infrastructure." The Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal is a historic, once-in-a-generation investment in our nation’s infrastructure. It will create good-paying, union jobs repairing our roads and bridges, replacing lead pipes, and building energy transmission lines. We can’t afford not to do it. — President Biden (@POTUS) August 7, 2021 × Former Republican president Donald Trump however called it a "disgrace," noting the victory it would hand Biden, and threatened political reprisals against Republicans who voted for it. In the wake of that threat, three Republican senators who participated in the infrastructure negotiations announced they would not vote to support for the plan, one of whom was absent from the session. But top Republican Senator Mitch McConnell voted for it, aware of the program's huge popularity among voters tired of historic neglect of the nation's highways.

US Senate passes Biden's massive infrastructure bill

The US State Department has advised Americans to avoid all&nbsp;travel&nbsp;to&nbsp;France&nbsp;over&nbsp;rising <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus cases</a> in the country.

France&nbsp;is battling a fourth wave of the virus even though&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> hospitalisations are still way off previous highs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-imposes-new-covid-restrictions-to-curb-rising-cases-402767">France imposes new Covid restrictions to curb rising cases</a>

The State Department issued a "Level 4: Do Not&nbsp;Travel" advisory for&nbsp;France&nbsp;on Monday, based on a parallel warning from the US Centers for Disease Control, the country's top medical body.

"If you must&nbsp;travel&nbsp;to&nbsp;France, make sure you are fully vaccinated before&nbsp;travel," the CDC said.

France&nbsp;has recorded more than 6 million cases and 111,000 deaths in total, and daily cases have crept back up to around 20,000 a day while deaths remain low compared to the height of the pandemic.

A total of 74 million vaccine doses have been administered in&nbsp;France, according to the World Health Organization, and&nbsp;over&nbsp;55 per cent of the eligible population have received both vaccine doses.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-implements-covid-19-health-pass-despite-nationwide-protest-404232/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

It has also enforced a&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;pass for routine aspects of life.

Anger at President Emmanuel Macron's controversial plan to squeeze infections and encourage vaccinations has seen large protests recently, though polls have shown that a clear majority of French back the&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;pass, even including the extension this week to cafes and restaurants.

The US State Department has advised Americans to avoid all travel to France over rising coronavirus cases in the country. France is battling a fourth wave of the virus even though COVID-19 hospitalisations are still way off previous highs.

The US State Department has advised Americans to avoid all travel to France over rising coronavirus cases in the country. France is battling a fourth wave of the virus even though COVID-19 hospitalisations are still way off previous highs. Also read | France imposes new Covid restrictions to curb rising cases The State Department issued a "Level 4: Do Not Travel" advisory for France on Monday, based on a parallel warning from the US Centers for Disease Control, the country's top medical body. "If you must travel to France, make sure you are fully vaccinated before travel," the CDC said. France has recorded more than 6 million cases and 111,000 deaths in total, and daily cases have crept back up to around 20,000 a day while deaths remain low compared to the height of the pandemic. A total of 74 million vaccine doses have been administered in France, according to the World Health Organization, and over 55 per cent of the eligible population have received both vaccine doses. It has also enforced a Covid pass for routine aspects of life. Anger at President Emmanuel Macron's controversial plan to squeeze infections and encourage vaccinations has seen large protests recently, though polls have shown that a clear majority of French back the Covid pass, even including the extension this week to cafes and restaurants.

US warns citizens against travel to France over Covid concerns

Tresses swirl and fins shimmer as tens of people don tails and dive into a weekend of all things mermaid at the MerMagic convention in Manassas, Virginia, in the eastern United States. The convention is billed as the world's largest dedicated to mermaids and attracts enthusiasts from all walks -- or swims -- of life.

Part of our world: Mermaids mingle at US convention

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