A US federal appeals court late Tuesday (Mar 19) put back on hold a controversial&nbsp;law in Texas that would have allowed the state’s law enforcement officials to detain and deport migrants on charges of illegally entering the country from the US-Mexico border.

The Republican-backed law was frozen just hours after&nbsp;the US Supreme Court lifted the pause.

Texas ‘controversial’ law back on hold

Earlier in the day,&nbsp;the SCOTUS had decided to lift the pause on Texas' controversial immigration law.

But a three-judge panel at the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals voted 2-1 to overturn a previous ruling from a different panel which had&nbsp;put the law into effect.&nbsp;

The appeals court has also&nbsp;scheduled oral arguments over whether to block the law for Wednesday (Mar 20) morning, as the justices consider&nbsp;the legal challenges to it.

WATCH |&nbsp;US: Supreme Court allows Texas to enforce immigration law

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The apex court, with a six-to-three conservative majority, had rejected President Joe Biden administration’s bid to block the law.

The lift of the pause on the Texas Senate Bill 4 (SB4) would have immediately taken effect.&nbsp;

The conservative judges voting in favour of the bill did not immediately explain their arguments, but two of the three liberal justices – Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson – who opposed the decision said their rightwing colleagues had invited “further chaos and crisis in immigration enforcement”.

A report by the Associated Press, hours after the pause was lifted, reported no immediate effect as sheriffs and police chiefs who would put the law into effect were unsure about when, where and how migrants may be arrested.

<h2>White House, Mexico respond</h2>

Mexico’s foreign ministry in a sharply worded statement said that it would not “under any circumstances” accept anyone back who is ordered to leave the country under the state law and “categorically rejects” any state or local government enforcement of immigration laws.

The Mexican government also called the law “anti migrant” and said that it would lead to “family separation, discrimination and racial profiling.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-told-us-not-trying-to-push-him-out-amid-tensions-over-rafah-assault-plan-702081">Netanyahu told US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan</a>

The White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre said that the Texas law will cause chaos and confusion at the border.&nbsp;

“We fundamentally disagree with the Supreme Court’s order allowing Texas’s harmful and unconstitutional law to go into effect,” said Jean-Pierre.&nbsp;

She added, “SB4 will not only make communities in Texas less safe, it will also burden law enforcement and sow chaos and confusion at our southern border.”

<h2>Texas border enforcement law</h2>

Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott called the SCOTUS&nbsp;decision “a positive development".

SB4, signed by Abbott in December, makes illegal entry or re-entry into Texas a state crime, the violation of which can lead to penalties ranging from 180 days to 20 years in prison.&nbsp;

The law requires Texas magistrate judges to order migrants to return to Mexico who can be sentenced to 20 years in prison if they refuse to comply.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/texas-sued-by-us-justice-department-over-immigration-law-to-deport-illegal-immigrants-676519">Texas sued by US Justice Department over immigration law to deport illegal immigrants</a>

State officials thereby have the power&nbsp;to arrest, process and imprison people, a role which had long been reserved for federal authorities.

The Justice Department, back in January, sued the state of Texas and its governor&nbsp;to block the law which was supposed to take effect on March 5.&nbsp;

The DOJ argued that the law not only violates the Constitution and federal law which gives the government the power to regulate immigration, but also goes against the precedent set by a 2012 Supreme Court ruling. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A US federal appeals court late Tuesday (Mar 19) put back on hold a controversial law in Texas that would have allowed the state’s law enforcement officials to detain and deport migrants on charges of illegally entering the country from the US-Mexico border.

A US federal appeals court late Tuesday (Mar 19) put back on hold a controversial law in Texas that would have allowed the state’s law enforcement officials to detain and deport migrants on charges of illegally entering the country from the US-Mexico border. The Republican-backed law was frozen just hours after the US Supreme Court lifted the pause. Texas ‘controversial’ law back on hold Earlier in the day, the SCOTUS had decided to lift the pause on Texas' controversial immigration law. But a three-judge panel at the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals voted 2-1 to overturn a previous ruling from a different panel which had put the law into effect. The appeals court has also scheduled oral arguments over whether to block the law for Wednesday (Mar 20) morning, as the justices consider the legal challenges to it. WATCH | US: Supreme Court allows Texas to enforce immigration law The apex court, with a six-to-three conservative majority, had rejected President Joe Biden administration’s bid to block the law. The lift of the pause on the Texas Senate Bill 4 (SB4) would have immediately taken effect. The conservative judges voting in favour of the bill did not immediately explain their arguments, but two of the three liberal justices – Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson – who opposed the decision said their rightwing colleagues had invited “further chaos and crisis in immigration enforcement”. A report by the Associated Press, hours after the pause was lifted, reported no immediate effect as sheriffs and police chiefs who would put the law into effect were unsure about when, where and how migrants may be arrested. White House, Mexico respond Mexico’s foreign ministry in a sharply worded statement said that it would not “under any circumstances” accept anyone back who is ordered to leave the country under the state law and “categorically rejects” any state or local government enforcement of immigration laws. The Mexican government also called the law “anti migrant” and said that it would lead to “family separation, discrimination and racial profiling.” Also Read | Netanyahu told US not trying to push him out amid tensions over Rafah assault plan The White House press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre said that the Texas law will cause chaos and confusion at the border. “We fundamentally disagree with the Supreme Court’s order allowing Texas’s harmful and unconstitutional law to go into effect,” said Jean-Pierre. She added, “SB4 will not only make communities in Texas less safe, it will also burden law enforcement and sow chaos and confusion at our southern border.” Texas border enforcement law Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott called the SCOTUS decision “a positive development". SB4, signed by Abbott in December, makes illegal entry or re-entry into Texas a state crime, the violation of which can lead to penalties ranging from 180 days to 20 years in prison. The law requires Texas magistrate judges to order migrants to return to Mexico who can be sentenced to 20 years in prison if they refuse to comply. Also Read | Texas sued by US Justice Department over immigration law to deport illegal immigrants State officials thereby have the power to arrest, process and imprison people, a role which had long been reserved for federal authorities. The Justice Department, back in January, sued the state of Texas and its governor to block the law which was supposed to take effect on March 5. The DOJ argued that the law not only violates the Constitution and federal law which gives the government the power to regulate immigration, but also goes against the precedent set by a 2012 Supreme Court ruling. (With inputs from agencies)

Texas immigration law back on hold after a federal appeals court pauses SC decision

In a significant move that marks a victory for Detroit automakers, the Biden administration has announced a relaxation of proposed rules that would have imposed strict requirements on manufacturers regarding the production of electric vehicles (EVs). <o:p></o:p>

The decision, unveiled by the Department of Energy, comes after intense negotiations with automakers, who raised concerns about meeting aggressive targets for EV transition.<o:p></o:p>

Initially proposed regulations aimed to push EV market share to 67 per cent of all new cars sold by 2032, a stark increase from the less than 8 per cent recorded last year. <o:p></o:p>

However, the revised rules offer automakers more flexibility by slowing down the phase-out of existing regulations, which provided additional fuel-economy credits for EV sales. <o:p></o:p>

This adjustment is expected to ease pressure on manufacturers, particularly the Detroit Three – General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis – known for their reliance on gas-guzzling trucks and SUVs. <o:p></o:p>

The Biden administration's retreat on the stringent EV push is perceived as a strategic move, considering the political landscape leading up to the 2024 presidential election. <o:p></o:p>

With Michigan serving as a crucial battleground state and the heart of the US auto industry, President Biden aims to address concerns raised by opponents, including former President Donald Trump, who criticised policies that could jeopardise auto jobs and potentially benefit China's EV industry.<o:p></o:p>

Under the original proposal, automakers faced substantial fines for not meeting fuel-economy requirements, with estimates suggesting potential fines totalling $10.5 billion through 2032. <o:p></o:p>

General Motors would have encountered fines of $6.5 billion, followed by Stellantis with $3 billion, and Ford with $1 billion over the same period. <o:p></o:p>

The announcement of revised rules has been met with relief by industry stakeholders, including the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which expressed concerns that the earlier proposal could disincentivize EV production.<o:p></o:p>

While environmentalists have criticised the previous rules for assigning overly generous fuel-economy values to EVs, the latest adjustments aim to provide a more realistic assessment. <o:p></o:p>

For instance, the original proposal would have significantly reduced the "petroleum-equivalent fuel economy" ratings for EVs, which are crucial for offsetting the values of traditional gas-powered vehicles. <o:p></o:p>

The gradual reduction of equivalency ratings through 2030 offers automakers additional time to adapt to evolving regulations.<o:p></o:p>

The revised federal rules, which govern all automakers selling vehicles in the US, aim to strike a balance between promoting EV adoption and supporting the continued sale of combustion vehicles, including hybrids. <o:p></o:p>

Automakers such as Ford, Toyota, Stellantis, Honda, and Hyundai have reported increased sales of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles in recent months, indicating a growing market for electrified vehicles. <o:p></o:p>

However, not all stakeholders are pleased with the softened regulations. <o:p></o:p>

Climate action groups and electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla have urged the administration to uphold stricter rules, emphasising the importance of accelerating the transition to cleaner transportation. <o:p></o:p>

While the revised rules may provide temporary relief to automakers, advocates argue that stringent measures are necessary to drive meaningful improvements in overall fleet efficiency and reduce emissions.<o:p></o:p>

In response to the Energy Department's decision, Reuters cited Pete Huffman, a senior attorney at the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), who acknowledged the importance of eventually ending higher EV ratings. <o:p></o:p>

Huffman stated that the changes will curtail automakers' reliance on "phantom credits" and incentivise the production of more fuel-efficient vehicles, thereby contributing to environmental goals.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

In a significant move that marks a victory for Detroit automakers, the Biden administration has announced a relaxation of proposed rules that would have imposed strict requirements on manufacturers regarding the production of electric vehicles (EVs).

In a significant move that marks a victory for Detroit automakers, the Biden administration has announced a relaxation of proposed rules that would have imposed strict requirements on manufacturers regarding the production of electric vehicles (EVs). The decision, unveiled by the Department of Energy, comes after intense negotiations with automakers, who raised concerns about meeting aggressive targets for EV transition. Initially proposed regulations aimed to push EV market share to 67 per cent of all new cars sold by 2032, a stark increase from the less than 8 per cent recorded last year. However, the revised rules offer automakers more flexibility by slowing down the phase-out of existing regulations, which provided additional fuel-economy credits for EV sales. This adjustment is expected to ease pressure on manufacturers, particularly the Detroit Three – General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis – known for their reliance on gas-guzzling trucks and SUVs. The Biden administration's retreat on the stringent EV push is perceived as a strategic move, considering the political landscape leading up to the 2024 presidential election. With Michigan serving as a crucial battleground state and the heart of the US auto industry, President Biden aims to address concerns raised by opponents, including former President Donald Trump, who criticised policies that could jeopardise auto jobs and potentially benefit China's EV industry. Under the original proposal, automakers faced substantial fines for not meeting fuel-economy requirements, with estimates suggesting potential fines totalling $10.5 billion through 2032. General Motors would have encountered fines of $6.5 billion, followed by Stellantis with $3 billion, and Ford with $1 billion over the same period. The announcement of revised rules has been met with relief by industry stakeholders, including the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which expressed concerns that the earlier proposal could disincentivize EV production. While environmentalists have criticised the previous rules for assigning overly generous fuel-economy values to EVs, the latest adjustments aim to provide a more realistic assessment. For instance, the original proposal would have significantly reduced the "petroleum-equivalent fuel economy" ratings for EVs, which are crucial for offsetting the values of traditional gas-powered vehicles. The gradual reduction of equivalency ratings through 2030 offers automakers additional time to adapt to evolving regulations. The revised federal rules, which govern all automakers selling vehicles in the US, aim to strike a balance between promoting EV adoption and supporting the continued sale of combustion vehicles, including hybrids. Automakers such as Ford, Toyota, Stellantis, Honda, and Hyundai have reported increased sales of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles in recent months, indicating a growing market for electrified vehicles. However, not all stakeholders are pleased with the softened regulations. Climate action groups and electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla have urged the administration to uphold stricter rules, emphasising the importance of accelerating the transition to cleaner transportation. While the revised rules may provide temporary relief to automakers, advocates argue that stringent measures are necessary to drive meaningful improvements in overall fleet efficiency and reduce emissions. In response to the Energy Department's decision, Reuters cited Pete Huffman, a senior attorney at the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), who acknowledged the importance of eventually ending higher EV ratings. Huffman stated that the changes will curtail automakers' reliance on "phantom credits" and incentivise the production of more fuel-efficient vehicles, thereby contributing to environmental goals. (With inputs from Reuters)

Biden administration relaxes EV mileage rule, providing relief to automakers

North Korea has successfully tested a solid-fuel engine for a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile that could potentially hit the US territory of Guam.

According to state media, this marks progress in North Korea’s efforts to develop a more powerful and agile missile capable of hitting far-away targets in the region including Guam, where the US has a military base. 
&nbsp;

North Korea’s hypersonic missile development

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un guided the ground test of the solid-fuel engine, state news agency KCNA reported on Wednesday (Mar 20).&nbsp;

The test took place on Tuesday (Mar 19) morning at Sohae satellite launch station near the country’s west coast, said the report.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;North Korea: Kim Jong Un leads new war tank training in mock battle

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The strategic value of the new missile with an intermediate range is as important as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) targeting the US mainland and the “enemies know better about it,” Kim said, as per the state media.&nbsp;

Back in January,&nbsp;North Korea tested an intermediate-range hypersonic missile which it said involved a new solid-fuel engine.

The KCNA did not provide the specifics of the engine tested except to say that it was a “great success”.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-oversees-firing-drills-of-super-large-rocket-launchers-to-potentially-target-seoul-701669">North Korean leader oversees firing drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers to potentially target Seoul</a>

Tuesday’s test would allow the project to proceed under a timetable for completing the development of the new hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRMB), state media reported.&nbsp;

<h2>Live fire&nbsp;drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers</h2>

The developments come a day after Kim oversaw a live fire drill of nuclear-capable “super-large” multiple rocket launchers which are designed to target the South Korean capital Seoul.&nbsp;

The live fire drills on Monday (Mar 18) tested the “real war capabilities” of the 600-millimetre multiple rocket launchers and improve the operators’ combat readiness, state media reported.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-missiles-toward-sea-of-japan-as-blinken-attends-seoul-summit-701275">North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit</a>

North Korea claims to have tested a number of new missiles and weapons since 2022.

Starting late last year, Kim had repeatedly called on the military to ramp up war preparations to counter the US and South Korea.&nbsp;

On Monday, South Korean and Japanese militaries reported that North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was attending a democracy summit in Seoul.&nbsp;

The state media reports about the live firing drills of “super-large” rocket launchers and the progress in the development of a new hypersonic IRMB come days after the US and South Korea concluded their large-scale annual joint military drills.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea has successfully tested a solid-fuel engine for a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile that could potentially hit the US territory of Guam.

North Korea has successfully tested a solid-fuel engine for a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic missile that could potentially hit the US territory of Guam. According to state media, this marks progress in North Korea’s efforts to develop a more powerful and agile missile capable of hitting far-away targets in the region including Guam, where the US has a military base. North Korea’s hypersonic missile development North Korean leader Kim Jong Un guided the ground test of the solid-fuel engine, state news agency KCNA reported on Wednesday (Mar 20). The test took place on Tuesday (Mar 19) morning at Sohae satellite launch station near the country’s west coast, said the report. WATCH | North Korea: Kim Jong Un leads new war tank training in mock battle The strategic value of the new missile with an intermediate range is as important as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) targeting the US mainland and the “enemies know better about it,” Kim said, as per the state media. Back in January, North Korea tested an intermediate-range hypersonic missile which it said involved a new solid-fuel engine. The KCNA did not provide the specifics of the engine tested except to say that it was a “great success”. Also Read | North Korean leader oversees firing drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers to potentially target Seoul Tuesday’s test would allow the project to proceed under a timetable for completing the development of the new hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRMB), state media reported. Live fire drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers The developments come a day after Kim oversaw a live fire drill of nuclear-capable “super-large” multiple rocket launchers which are designed to target the South Korean capital Seoul. The live fire drills on Monday (Mar 18) tested the “real war capabilities” of the 600-millimetre multiple rocket launchers and improve the operators’ combat readiness, state media reported. Also Read | North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit North Korea claims to have tested a number of new missiles and weapons since 2022. Starting late last year, Kim had repeatedly called on the military to ramp up war preparations to counter the US and South Korea. On Monday, South Korean and Japanese militaries reported that North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles towards the Sea of Japan when US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was attending a democracy summit in Seoul. The state media reports about the live firing drills of “super-large” rocket launchers and the progress in the development of a new hypersonic IRMB come days after the US and South Korea concluded their large-scale annual joint military drills. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea claims progress in hypersonic missile that can target US territories like Guam military base

The US Department Of Energy (DOE) has significantly reduced its initial proposal for electric vehicle (EV) mileage rating cuts. The latest ruling offers a more gradual decrease, reaching a 65% reduction by 2030. This gives manufacturers more time to adjust and meet fuel economy requirements.

U.S. eases up on strict emission requirements for 2030

Republican U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump in an interview to GB News ( gbnews.com) drew outrage from the White House, Democrats and leaders of Jewish groups for saying Jewish Americans who vote for Democrats hate their religion and Israel.

US: Trump hurtles towards deadline to pay $454 million fraud penalty

A 25-year-old student hailing from Hyderabad, currently pursuing studies in the United States, has been reported missing since March 7th,&nbsp;and his family in India says they received a ransom demand.

Mohammed Abdul, originally from Nacharam, embarked on his educational journey to the US in May 2023 to pursue a Master's degree in IT from Cleveland University.

While residing in Cleveland, he maintained contact with his family until abruptly ceasing communication on March 7th, with his phone subsequently being switched off.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-more-girls-abandoned-than-boys-leading-to-rise-in-their-adoptions-child-rights-activists-tell-sc-702392">India: More girls abandoned than boys, leading to rise in their adoptions, child rights activists tell SC</a>

According to Mohammed Saleem, Abdul's father, the last interaction he had with his son was on the aforementioned date. Concerns escalated when Abdul's roommates in the US disclosed that they had lodged a missing person report with the Cleveland Police.&nbsp;

However, the situation took a distressing turn on March 19th, when Abdul's family received a ransom call from an unidentified individual. The caller alleged that Abdul had been abducted by a group involved in drug trafficking and demanded a ransom of USD 1,200 for his release.&nbsp;

Shockingly, the caller went further, threatening to sell Abdul's organs if the ransom wasn't paid.

Expressing his anguish, Saleem recounted his conversation with the anonymous caller, who refused any communication with Abdul and merely insisted on the payment.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/badaun-double-murder-case-key-updates-and-what-we-know-so-far-702345">Badaun double murder case: Key updates and what we know so far</a>

Amidst their distress, Abdul's parents implored the Central government to take prompt action to locate and ensure the safe return of their son.

Saleem also penned a letter to the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, seeking assistance in resolving this harrowing ordeal.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 25-year-old student hailing from Hyderabad, currently pursuing studies in the United States, has been reported missing since March 7th, and his family in India says they received a ransom demand.

A 25-year-old student hailing from Hyderabad, currently pursuing studies in the United States, has been reported missing since March 7th, and his family in India says they received a ransom demand. Mohammed Abdul, originally from Nacharam, embarked on his educational journey to the US in May 2023 to pursue a Master's degree in IT from Cleveland University. While residing in Cleveland, he maintained contact with his family until abruptly ceasing communication on March 7th, with his phone subsequently being switched off. Also read: India: More girls abandoned than boys, leading to rise in their adoptions, child rights activists tell SC According to Mohammed Saleem, Abdul's father, the last interaction he had with his son was on the aforementioned date. Concerns escalated when Abdul's roommates in the US disclosed that they had lodged a missing person report with the Cleveland Police. However, the situation took a distressing turn on March 19th, when Abdul's family received a ransom call from an unidentified individual. The caller alleged that Abdul had been abducted by a group involved in drug trafficking and demanded a ransom of USD 1,200 for his release. Shockingly, the caller went further, threatening to sell Abdul's organs if the ransom wasn't paid. Expressing his anguish, Saleem recounted his conversation with the anonymous caller, who refused any communication with Abdul and merely insisted on the payment. Also read: Badaun double murder case: Key updates and what we know so far Amidst their distress, Abdul's parents implored the Central government to take prompt action to locate and ensure the safe return of their son. Saleem also penned a letter to the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, seeking assistance in resolving this harrowing ordeal. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student missing in US for two weeks, family gets ransom call

The Supreme Court has allowed the state of Texas to enforce a law (Senate Bill 4) that gives the police broad powers to arrest migrants suspected of illegally crossing the border. Watch in for more details!

US elections: Biden, Obama & Pelosi to share a stage, ramps up re-election campaign

Former White House trade adviser Peter Navarro's prison sentence has begun. Navarro was Donald Trump's close Aide during the latter's presidential term...Watch the video for more details!

US: Ex-Trump aide Peter Navarro begins prison term in capitol hill riots case

Two former top US Generals have blamed the Biden Administration for the chaotic departure of US forces from Afghanistan. Watch to know more!

US: Former Top-Generals blame Biden administration for chaotic Kabul exit

Every year in the month of March thousands of visitors descend on the quad the University of Washington in Seattle to see the cherry blossom trees in full bloom. Watch to know more!

US: Cherry blossom season in Washington University

US: Ex-Generals blame Biden administration for chaotic Kabul exit

Ukraine is on the brink of a catastrophe. Russia has amped up its aggression on Ukraine. Moscow is adamant to capture Kyiv but to defend itself from the Russian troops Ukraine urgently awaits more weapons from the west...Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: US Defense Chief vows continued aid to Ukraine

Hours after the US Supreme Court had allowed the strict new immigration law to take effect, a federal appeals court late on Tuesday issued an order that again prevents Texas from arresting migrants suspected of entering the US legally. Our next report will get you the details.

US: Texas' new immigration law blocked

Race for White House: Biden, Obama & Pelosi to rally virtually with activists | World News | WION

US: Clock ticks for Trump to meet $454 million bond

The rift is widening between the United States and Israel over the prospects of a Rafah invasion. Addressing the Israeli Parliament Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposed the suggestion of the United States to refrain from a Rafah offensive. Netanyahu asserted that he is firm on extending the ground assault into Rafah which he termed as the last stronghold of the Palestinian militants.

Israel war: US and Israel do not see eye-to-eye on Rafah

Finland once again tops the World Happiness Report. The country is topping the list for the seventh year in a row.

World Happiness Report: Finland remains the world's happiest country for the seventh year in a row

President Joe Biden's administration on&nbsp;Wednesday (March 20)&nbsp;announced it&nbsp;is allocating nearly $20 billion to Intel in grants and loans to enhance semiconductor production in Arizona. Along with the $8.5 billion grant, Intel is also eligible for $11 billion in loans under the 2022-passed CHIPS and Science Act. This move aims to strengthen the semiconductor industry in the United States and lessen dependence on East Asian technology.

Speaking about the grant, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said, "This eight-and-a-half billion dollars will be the single biggest announcement of a grant to any chip's recipients. Last month, I set an aggressive goal for the CHIPS program that America would produce roughly 20% of the world's leading-edge chips by the end of the decade, and this announcement is going to put us on track to meet that goal."

<h2>Why does this matter?</h2>

The initiative comes from the $39 billion CHIPS and Science Act, signed into law on August 9, 2022, reflecting a strategic move to compete with China. However, obstacles like workforce expertise and factory delays pose challenges that need addressing. The act authorises and sets aside funding for&nbsp;"Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors" (CHIPS) in the United States.

<h2>Inside global chip wars</h2>

The race for computer chips signifies a geopolitical shift, with Southeast Asia emerging as a key player in the semiconductor supply chain. Companies are eager for federal subsidies to fuel advanced semiconductor production.

<h2>How important is this grant for Intel?</h2>

The&nbsp;grant comes as a blessing for Intel as it has not relived its glory days post-pandemic. Led by CEO Patrick Gelsinger, Intel aims to reclaim its technology lead and bolster US&nbsp;chip production. Gelsinger's ambitious plans include multiple production processes and a shift in Intel's business model towards foundry services. Commenting on the grant, Gelsinger said, "Today is a defining moment for the U.S. and Intel as we work to power the next great chapter of American semiconductor manufacturing innovation."

Intel's expansion campaign spans across various locations worldwide, driven by Gelsinger's advocacy for the CHIPS Act. Despite facing slowdown&nbsp;in computer sales post-pandemic, Intel remains committed to financing its expansion efforts.

President Joe Biden's administration on Wednesday (March 20) announced it is allocating nearly $20 billion to Intel in grants and loans to enhance semiconductor production in Arizona.

President Joe Biden's administration on Wednesday (March 20) announced it is allocating nearly $20 billion to Intel in grants and loans to enhance semiconductor production in Arizona. Along with the $8.5 billion grant, Intel is also eligible for $11 billion in loans under the 2022-passed CHIPS and Science Act. This move aims to strengthen the semiconductor industry in the United States and lessen dependence on East Asian technology. Speaking about the grant, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said, "This eight-and-a-half billion dollars will be the single biggest announcement of a grant to any chip's recipients. Last month, I set an aggressive goal for the CHIPS program that America would produce roughly 20% of the world's leading-edge chips by the end of the decade, and this announcement is going to put us on track to meet that goal." Why does this matter? The initiative comes from the $39 billion CHIPS and Science Act, signed into law on August 9, 2022, reflecting a strategic move to compete with China. However, obstacles like workforce expertise and factory delays pose challenges that need addressing. The act authorises and sets aside funding for "Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors" (CHIPS) in the United States. Inside global chip wars The race for computer chips signifies a geopolitical shift, with Southeast Asia emerging as a key player in the semiconductor supply chain. Companies are eager for federal subsidies to fuel advanced semiconductor production. How important is this grant for Intel? The grant comes as a blessing for Intel as it has not relived its glory days post-pandemic. Led by CEO Patrick Gelsinger, Intel aims to reclaim its technology lead and bolster US chip production. Gelsinger's ambitious plans include multiple production processes and a shift in Intel's business model towards foundry services. Commenting on the grant, Gelsinger said, "Today is a defining moment for the U.S. and Intel as we work to power the next great chapter of American semiconductor manufacturing innovation." Intel's expansion campaign spans across various locations worldwide, driven by Gelsinger's advocacy for the CHIPS Act. Despite facing slowdown in computer sales post-pandemic, Intel remains committed to financing its expansion efforts.

Biden allocates 'single biggest' multibillion-dollar grant to Intel to boost semiconductor production in US

The 2024 World Happiness Report is out, and for the seventh year in a row, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world.

World Happiness Report: US, Germany out of top 20 due to unhappy youth

Top former US Generals on Kabul withdrawal: Poor planning led to chaos

The top two former&nbsp;US generals who&nbsp;led the chaotic evacuation of US forces in Afghanistan as it fell to Taliban control in August 2021 squarely blamed the disastrous American exit on&nbsp;the Biden administration's inadequate planning and delayed orders. Earlier, the Biden administration had blamed its predecessor Trump administration, and their agreement with the Taliban for the disastrous exit of US forces from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The rare public testimony by the retired generals Mark Milley and Kenneth ‘Frank’ McKenzie Jr put out in public domain the&nbsp;discord and disagreements between the military leadership and the Biden administration during the final days of US' presence in Afghanistan.

<h2>US forces in Afghanistan were over three times short of adviced deployment</h2>

The US military had adviced maintaining a presence of at least 2,500 service members in Afghanistan to uphold stability in the wake of the Doha agreement that was signed between the Taliban and the United States.

General Milley told the US House Foreign Affairs Committee while referring to the situation in Afghanistan in the&nbsp;immediate days before August 14 when the Taliban took control of Kabul: "The Afghan security forces were collapsing in the various provincial capitals and although there were some still in and around Kabul, so the general situation at that point was 750 U.S. soldiers in-and-around the embassy."

These revelations contrast with an internal White House review, which cited constraints imposed by previous withdrawal agreements&nbsp;— such as the Trump-negotiated&nbsp;'Agreement for Bringing Peace to Afghanistan' signed between the United States and the Taliban in Doha — for the tumultuous&nbsp;Aug 14 withdrawal of the US forces.

Also watch |&nbsp;Top former US Generals testify on US troop's withdrawal from Afghanistan

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The review placed blame on the military, adding&nbsp;that top commanders had assured they had ample resources to handle the evacuation.

Thirteen US service members were killed in a suicide bombing at Kabul airport's Abbey Gate as the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. Taliban later said that a local Islamic State offshoot was responsible for the&nbsp;attack.

Thousands of Afghans and US citizens scrambled to board US military flights for evacuation amid the frenzy that took over Afghanistan as the Taliban displaced democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-taliban-have-put-afghan-clock-back-to-1990s-autocracy-un-report-603152">Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report</a>

Ultimately, over 130,000 civilians were rescued before the final US military aircraft departed.

"On August 14, the non-combatant evacuation operation decision was made by the Department of State," Milley recounted.

"But the State Department’s decision came too late. The fundamental mistake was the timing of the State Department – too slow and too late," he further said.

Milley, as the top highest-ranking military officer at the time, had advocated for maintaining a residual force to support Afghanistan's special forces and retain control of Bagram Air Base for critical leverage against Taliban advances.

(With inputs from agencies)

The top two former US generals who led the chaotic evacuation of US forces in Afghanistan as it fell to Taliban control in August 2021 squarely blamed the disastrous American exit on the Biden administration's inadequate planning and delayed orders.

The top two former US generals who led the chaotic evacuation of US forces in Afghanistan as it fell to Taliban control in August 2021 squarely blamed the disastrous American exit on the Biden administration's inadequate planning and delayed orders. Earlier, the Biden administration had blamed its predecessor Trump administration, and their agreement with the Taliban for the disastrous exit of US forces from Afghanistan. The rare public testimony by the retired generals Mark Milley and Kenneth ‘Frank’ McKenzie Jr put out in public domain the discord and disagreements between the military leadership and the Biden administration during the final days of US' presence in Afghanistan. US forces in Afghanistan were over three times short of adviced deployment The US military had adviced maintaining a presence of at least 2,500 service members in Afghanistan to uphold stability in the wake of the Doha agreement that was signed between the Taliban and the United States. General Milley told the US House Foreign Affairs Committee while referring to the situation in Afghanistan in the immediate days before August 14 when the Taliban took control of Kabul: "The Afghan security forces were collapsing in the various provincial capitals and although there were some still in and around Kabul, so the general situation at that point was 750 U.S. soldiers in-and-around the embassy." These revelations contrast with an internal White House review, which cited constraints imposed by previous withdrawal agreements — such as the Trump-negotiated 'Agreement for Bringing Peace to Afghanistan' signed between the United States and the Taliban in Doha — for the tumultuous Aug 14 withdrawal of the US forces. Also watch | Top former US Generals testify on US troop's withdrawal from Afghanistan × The review placed blame on the military, adding that top commanders had assured they had ample resources to handle the evacuation. Thirteen US service members were killed in a suicide bombing at Kabul airport's Abbey Gate as the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. Taliban later said that a local Islamic State offshoot was responsible for the attack. Thousands of Afghans and US citizens scrambled to board US military flights for evacuation amid the frenzy that took over Afghanistan as the Taliban displaced democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul. Also read | Explained | Taliban have put Afghan clock back to 1990s’ autocracy: UN report Ultimately, over 130,000 civilians were rescued before the final US military aircraft departed. "On August 14, the non-combatant evacuation operation decision was made by the Department of State," Milley recounted. "But the State Department’s decision came too late. The fundamental mistake was the timing of the State Department – too slow and too late," he further said. Milley, as the top highest-ranking military officer at the time, had advocated for maintaining a residual force to support Afghanistan's special forces and retain control of Bagram Air Base for critical leverage against Taliban advances. (With inputs from agencies)

'Too little, too late': Ex-US generals point to Biden admin's failures for Kabul's quick fall to Taliban

US: Top former Generals say failures of Biden administration drove fall of Kabul

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Cuba has accused the United States of stoking a protest where hundreds of people took to the streets across the island as well as the second-largest city Santiago in a rare public demonstration amid food shortages and blackouts.

The island nation’s foreign ministry summoned US ambassador Benjamin Ziff after Washington made remarks on the protests on Sunday (Mar 17).&nbsp;

<h2>US ambassador summoned</h2>

Cuba’s foreign ministry on Monday (Mar 18) said it had summoned Ziff and accused the US embassy in Havana of seeking to stoke a broader anti-government uprising.&nbsp;

Late Sunday, the US&nbsp;had said it was monitoring the protests and called on the Cuban government to “respect the human rights of the protesters and address the legitimate needs of the Cuban people.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cubans-stage-rare-power-and-food-protest-amid-blackouts-lack-of-essentials-701287">Cubans stage rare 'power and food' protest amid blackouts, lack of essentials</a>

In response, Cuba’s foreign ministry called US charge d’affaires Ziff to a meeting with deputy foreign minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío, “who formally conveyed his firm rejection of the government’s interventionist behavior and slanderous messages,” said the ministry.&nbsp;

Fernández de Cossío, speaking to The Associated Press, called the comments “disrespectful“ and an “open interference” in the country’s domestic affairs.&nbsp;

He also repeated the communist government’s long-standing accusation, blaming the US and its nearly six-and-a-half-decade-long embargo and sanctions against the island for the issues faced by its citizens.&nbsp;

The US State Department spokesperson&nbsp;said it was “absurd” to suggest Washington was behind the protests.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel took to X and seemingly pointed a finger at the US and said that despite its “interventionist messages and calls for chaos” it was unsuccessful.&nbsp;

“Mediocre politicians and networked terrorists lined up from South Florida to heat up the streets of #Cuba with interventionist messages and calls for chaos. They were left wanting,” said Diaz-Canel.&nbsp;

<h2>Cuba is witnessing rare protests. What's the issue?</h2>

The protest which took place late Sunday was a rare public show of discontent against Cuba’s communist government and was reportedly led by parents struggling to feed their children amid acute food shortages.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-rules-out-support-for-israels-rafah-assault-plan-amid-gaza-truce-talks-701657">US rules out support for Israel PM Netayahu's Rafah assault plan amid Gaza truce talks</a>

The protests erupted in at least five locations across the island and reportedly started when mothers showed up at a government building and said they could not provide food for their children.&nbsp;

Cuba is facing one of its worst economic and energy crises in years, with power cuts of up to 18 hours a day.

With summer approaching, it is reportedly becoming difficult to preserve what little food people have.&nbsp;

The Caribbean island nation appeared quiet on Monday, reported Reuters news agency, while the government said that it expects the blackouts to continue through the week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Cuba has accused the United States of stoking a protest where hundreds of people took to the streets across the island as well as the second-largest city Santiago in a rare public demonstration amid food shortages and blackouts.

Cuba has accused the United States of stoking a protest where hundreds of people took to the streets across the island as well as the second-largest city Santiago in a rare public demonstration amid food shortages and blackouts. The island nation’s foreign ministry summoned US ambassador Benjamin Ziff after Washington made remarks on the protests on Sunday (Mar 17). US ambassador summoned Cuba’s foreign ministry on Monday (Mar 18) said it had summoned Ziff and accused the US embassy in Havana of seeking to stoke a broader anti-government uprising. Late Sunday, the US had said it was monitoring the protests and called on the Cuban government to “respect the human rights of the protesters and address the legitimate needs of the Cuban people.” Also Read | Cubans stage rare 'power and food' protest amid blackouts, lack of essentials In response, Cuba’s foreign ministry called US charge d’affaires Ziff to a meeting with deputy foreign minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío, “who formally conveyed his firm rejection of the government’s interventionist behavior and slanderous messages,” said the ministry. Fernández de Cossío, speaking to The Associated Press, called the comments “disrespectful“ and an “open interference” in the country’s domestic affairs. He also repeated the communist government’s long-standing accusation, blaming the US and its nearly six-and-a-half-decade-long embargo and sanctions against the island for the issues faced by its citizens. The US State Department spokesperson said it was “absurd” to suggest Washington was behind the protests. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel took to X and seemingly pointed a finger at the US and said that despite its “interventionist messages and calls for chaos” it was unsuccessful. “Mediocre politicians and networked terrorists lined up from South Florida to heat up the streets of #Cuba with interventionist messages and calls for chaos. They were left wanting,” said Diaz-Canel. Cuba is witnessing rare protests. What's the issue? The protest which took place late Sunday was a rare public show of discontent against Cuba’s communist government and was reportedly led by parents struggling to feed their children amid acute food shortages. Also Read | US rules out support for Israel PM Netayahu's Rafah assault plan amid Gaza truce talks The protests erupted in at least five locations across the island and reportedly started when mothers showed up at a government building and said they could not provide food for their children. Cuba is facing one of its worst economic and energy crises in years, with power cuts of up to 18 hours a day. With summer approaching, it is reportedly becoming difficult to preserve what little food people have. The Caribbean island nation appeared quiet on Monday, reported Reuters news agency, while the government said that it expects the blackouts to continue through the week. (With inputs from agencies)

Cuba accuses US of stoking protests amid blackouts and food shortages, summons top diplomat

Donald Trump failed to secure a bond that would have allowed him to appeal a $454 million judgment against him in a New York civil fraud case without depositing the entire sum, his attorneys said on Monday (Mar 18).

The former US president needs to either come up with the money or post a bond in order to keep the state's authorities from seizing his properties as he appeals Justice Arthur Engoron's judgement from Feb 16 that ordered him and co-defendants to pay $464 million in penalties and interest for misstating property values to deceive lenders and insurers.

The Republican presidential candidate's attorneys argued that the judgment's sum was excessive and asked a mid-level state appeals court to postpone its execution in a court filing on Monday.

They stated that obtaining a total appeal bail would "effectively" require "cash reserves approaching $1 billion" and that doing so was "impossible."

They added that so far the defendants had approached 30 surety companies through four separate brokers in order to obtain a bond.

"Enforcing an impossible bond requirement as a condition of appeal would inflict manifest irreparable injury on Defendants," Trump's lawyers wrote.

The lawyers urged that instead, Trump be allowed to post a $100 million bond while he appeals the judgment.&nbsp;

If Trump loses his appeal and it turns out that he cannot afford the money, a bonding company would be responsible for any payout.

Trump's attorneys included a declaration from Gary Giulietti, an executive of the insurance brokerage firm the Lockton Companies, which Trump has hired in order to help him obtain a bond.

Giulietti in his statement wrote that a bond for the entire $464 million "is not possible under the circumstances presented." He also pointed out that many sureties would not issue bonds above $100 million and would only accept cash or securities as collateral, and not real estate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-appeals-e-jean-carrolls-833-million-verdict-in-defamation-case-698197">Also read: Donald Trump appeals $83.3mn award to E Jean Carroll in defamation case</a>

<h2>The judgment&nbsp;</h2>

The order by Judge Engoron has barred Trump and his sons from conducting business in New York: Trump for three years and his sons for two.

The former US president has also been barred from applying for loans from any New York chartered or registered financial institution during this period.

"Their complete lack of contrition and remorse borders on pathological," Engoron said of Trump and his two sons during the hearing.&nbsp;

Trump has denied any wrongdoing in the case.

Earlier this month, the former US President posted a $91.6 million bond to cover an $83.3 million defamation verdict for the writer E. Jean Carroll case who accused Trump of raping her decades ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump failed to secure a bond that would have allowed him to appeal a $454 million judgment against him in a New York civil fraud case without depositing the entire sum, his attorneys said on Monday (Mar 18).

Donald Trump failed to secure a bond that would have allowed him to appeal a $454 million judgment against him in a New York civil fraud case without depositing the entire sum, his attorneys said on Monday (Mar 18). The former US president needs to either come up with the money or post a bond in order to keep the state's authorities from seizing his properties as he appeals Justice Arthur Engoron's judgement from Feb 16 that ordered him and co-defendants to pay $464 million in penalties and interest for misstating property values to deceive lenders and insurers. The Republican presidential candidate's attorneys argued that the judgment's sum was excessive and asked a mid-level state appeals court to postpone its execution in a court filing on Monday. They stated that obtaining a total appeal bail would "effectively" require "cash reserves approaching $1 billion" and that doing so was "impossible." They added that so far the defendants had approached 30 surety companies through four separate brokers in order to obtain a bond. "Enforcing an impossible bond requirement as a condition of appeal would inflict manifest irreparable injury on Defendants," Trump's lawyers wrote. The lawyers urged that instead, Trump be allowed to post a $100 million bond while he appeals the judgment. If Trump loses his appeal and it turns out that he cannot afford the money, a bonding company would be responsible for any payout. Trump's attorneys included a declaration from Gary Giulietti, an executive of the insurance brokerage firm the Lockton Companies, which Trump has hired in order to help him obtain a bond. Giulietti in his statement wrote that a bond for the entire $464 million "is not possible under the circumstances presented." He also pointed out that many sureties would not issue bonds above $100 million and would only accept cash or securities as collateral, and not real estate. Also read: Donald Trump appeals $83.3mn award to E Jean Carroll in defamation case The judgment The order by Judge Engoron has barred Trump and his sons from conducting business in New York: Trump for three years and his sons for two. The former US president has also been barred from applying for loans from any New York chartered or registered financial institution during this period. "Their complete lack of contrition and remorse borders on pathological," Engoron said of Trump and his two sons during the hearing. Trump has denied any wrongdoing in the case. Earlier this month, the former US President posted a $91.6 million bond to cover an $83.3 million defamation verdict for the writer E. Jean Carroll case who accused Trump of raping her decades ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump fails to secure $454 million bond in New York fraud case, say his lawyers

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in South Korea on the first stop of a brief Asia tour also including the Philippines. Blinken met South Korean President and also attended the third Summit for Democracy on Monday. Watch in for more details!

Antony Blinken meets South Korean President, discusses North Korea

Construction has begun on the largest NATO base in Europe in Romania. The plan is to expand the Romanian Air Force 57th Air Base to include runways, hangars for aircraft, facilities for weapons, as well as accomodation to host up to 10,000 NATO soldiers and their families.

Gravitas: Putin's war petrifies NATO | US led bloc builds largest Europe base in Romania

The American Heart Association has announced that eating all your meals in a window of eight hours can lead to Cardovascular related death in the long run. This is based on some detailed research and a study of close to twenty thousand Americans. Here is the report.

Gravitas: Study reveals that intermittent fasting can lead to heart problems

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