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The White House has launched an investigation into whether Chinese vehicle imports, pose national security risks. The probe has been initiated because Chinese smart vehicles could potentially gather information on US and send it back to China.

US calls Chinese vehicles 'security threat', warns Chinese EVs could collect data & send it back

Ahead of America's November Presidential Elections, President Joe Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump visited the Mexico-US border. In the high-stakes race to the white house, their visit will be an attempt to address the key issue of illegal immigration.

US President Biden & former President Trump's face off over migrant crisis, visit US-Mexico border

More than 100 Palestinians have been killed and some 700 others wounded after Israeli troops opened fire on hundreds waiting for food aid southwest of Gaza city. The ministry said the attack was part of Israel’s ongoing “genocidal war”. It called on the international community to “urgently intervene” to forge a ceasefire as “the only way to protect civilians”.

Israel war: Biden condemns killing of 100 Palestinians, says 'ceasefire talks will be complicated'

Biden & Trump visit US-Mexico border; face off over migrants crisis

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US President and ex-President visit US-Mexico border

US: Joe Biden, Donald Trump visit Texas border

US: Donald Trump visits US-Mexico border

Israel war: More than 100 Gazans killed, trampled in chaotic stampede while waiting for aid

US President Joe Biden announced an investigation Thursday into the national security risks posed by Chinese tech in cars, warning they could be used to collect sensitive data. Watch in for more details!

US probes security risks posed by Chinese tech in cars

US: Biden & Trump visit two border towns on the same day

President Joe Biden, on Thursday (Feb 29), said that the United States is looking into the competing claims made by Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas over the deadly incident in Gaza.&nbsp;

The Hamas-run health ministry has alleged that 112 Palestinians who were seeking food aid were killed after Israeli forces opened fire.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Israeli forces have claimed that a “violent gathering” erupted around the trucks delivering humanitarian aid prompting soldiers to fire warning shots and that their gunfire caused some 10 casualties out of the hundreds reported. It also said that some Palestinians were run over by the aid trucks.&nbsp;

<h2>Gaza ceasefire unlikely for now: Biden</h2>

On Thursday, the US president said that they were checking “competing versions” of the incident. “We’re checking that out right now,” said the US president.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel War: Gaza claims Israeli troops fire on crowd at food aid point

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He added, “There’s two competing versions of what happened. I don’t have an answer yet.”

Earlier this week, Biden said that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group would be possible to implement by Monday (March 4), but he is not so sure if that’s the case anymore.

“I know it will,” Biden told reporters when asked whether the incident would complicate the ceasefire talks, as he left the White House for a visit to the state of Texas to assess the situation at the US-Mexico border.

<h2>UN chief condemns deadly incident</h2>

United Nations chief&nbsp;Antonio Guterres condemned the deadly incident in Gaza.&nbsp;“The secretary-general condemns the incident today in northern Gaza in which more than a hundred people were reportedly killed or injured while seeking life-saving aid," said&nbsp;his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.&nbsp;

He added, "The desperate civilians in Gaza need urgent help, including those in the besieged north where the United Nations has not been able to deliver aid in more than a week."&nbsp;

<h2>White House mourns the loss of lives</h2>

After the deadly incident in Gaza, the White House released a statement saying that it was a “serious incident” and that they are “looking into the reports.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-70-people-killed-after-israel-fired-on-gazans-collecting-food-aid-hamas-run-health-ministry-695169">Hamas says 112 killed as fire opened on Gazans collecting food aid; IDF claims truck drove into Palestinians</a>

“We mourn the loss of innocent life and recognise the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where innocent Palestinians are just trying to feed their families,” said the White House.&nbsp;

It added, “This underscores the importance of expanding and sustaining the flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza, including through a potential temporary ceasefire.”

<h2>Italy calls for ‘immediate ceasefire’</h2>

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza and called on Israel to protect Palestinian civilians.&nbsp;

“The tragic deaths in Gaza demand an immediate ceasefire to facilitate more humanitarian aid, the release of hostages and the protection of civilians. We strongly urge Israel to protect the people in Gaza and to rigorously ascertain facts and responsibilities,” said Tajani, in a post on X.

Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, expressed her “deep dismay and concern” over the violence and called on Israel to “urgently ascertain the dynamics of the incident and relative responsibilities”.

<h2>Egypt condemns attack</h2>

“We condemn the inhumane Israeli targeting of…unarmed Palestinian civilians in the Nabulsi roundabout in the northern Gaza,” said the Egyptian foreign ministry, in a statement.&nbsp;

It added, “We consider targeting peaceful citizens rushing to pick up their share of aid a shameful crime and a flagrant violation of international law.”&nbsp;

<h2>Jordan condemns attack on Gazans&nbsp;</h2>

“We condemn the Israeli occupation forces’ brutal targeting of the gathering of Palestinians who were waiting for aid on the Nabulsi roundabout near Al-Rashid Street in Gaza,” said Jordan’s foreign ministry.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Ugly massacre’: Palestinian Authority</h2>

The office of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned what they called an “ugly massacre conducted by the Israeli occupation army this morning”.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-west-creating-real-risk-of-nuclear-war-695140">Putin warns West over 'real' risk of nuclear war, announces deployment of new hypersonic weapons</a>

“The killing of this large number of innocent civilian victims who risked their livelihood is an integral part of the genocidal war committed by the occupation government against our people,” said the presidential office, as quoted by Wafa news agency.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Life is draining out of Gaza’</h2>

Martin Griffiths, UN undersecretary for humanitarian affairs took to X and said he is “appalled at the reported killing and injury of hundreds of people during a transfer of aid supplies west of Gaza City.”

He added, “Life is draining out of Gaza at terrifying speed.”&nbsp;

The chief of the UN Palestinian aid agency (UNRWA)&nbsp;said&nbsp;Gaza has experienced “another day from hell” as the death toll according to the Hamas-run health ministry crossed the 30,000 mark.&nbsp;

"Gaza reaches an unprecedented reported death toll of 30,000 Palestinians killed, while an additional 100 people are reportedly killed and 700 injured when they were desperately trying to get lifesaving humanitarian aid from a convoy," said&nbsp;Philippe Lazzarini, in a post on X.&nbsp; 
 
He added, "Neither UNRWA nor any other UN agency were involved in this distribution. When will this madness end?"

The UN chief was also "appalled" by the reported death toll, said his spokesperson, adding "Tragically, an unknown number of people lie under rubble."

<h2>Belgium deputy PM ‘horrified’</h2>

Deputy Prime Minister of Belgium Petra De Sutter took to X and said she is “horrified” by the “news of today’s massacre on over 100 Palestinian citizens.”

She added, “Murdering people queueing for essential humanitarian aid? This is a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and fully goes against the (International Court of Justice’s) provisional measures.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

President Joe Biden, on Thursday (Feb 29), said that the United States is looking into the competing claims made by Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas over the deadly incident in Gaza.

President Joe Biden, on Thursday (Feb 29), said that the United States is looking into the competing claims made by Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas over the deadly incident in Gaza. The Hamas-run health ministry has alleged that 112 Palestinians who were seeking food aid were killed after Israeli forces opened fire. Meanwhile, the Israeli forces have claimed that a “violent gathering” erupted around the trucks delivering humanitarian aid prompting soldiers to fire warning shots and that their gunfire caused some 10 casualties out of the hundreds reported. It also said that some Palestinians were run over by the aid trucks. Gaza ceasefire unlikely for now: Biden On Thursday, the US president said that they were checking “competing versions” of the incident. “We’re checking that out right now,” said the US president. WATCH | Israel War: Gaza claims Israeli troops fire on crowd at food aid point He added, “There’s two competing versions of what happened. I don’t have an answer yet.” Earlier this week, Biden said that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group would be possible to implement by Monday (March 4), but he is not so sure if that’s the case anymore. “I know it will,” Biden told reporters when asked whether the incident would complicate the ceasefire talks, as he left the White House for a visit to the state of Texas to assess the situation at the US-Mexico border. UN chief condemns deadly incident United Nations chief Antonio Guterres condemned the deadly incident in Gaza. “The secretary-general condemns the incident today in northern Gaza in which more than a hundred people were reportedly killed or injured while seeking life-saving aid," said his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric. He added, "The desperate civilians in Gaza need urgent help, including those in the besieged north where the United Nations has not been able to deliver aid in more than a week." White House mourns the loss of lives After the deadly incident in Gaza, the White House released a statement saying that it was a “serious incident” and that they are “looking into the reports.” Also Read | Hamas says 112 killed as fire opened on Gazans collecting food aid; IDF claims truck drove into Palestinians “We mourn the loss of innocent life and recognise the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where innocent Palestinians are just trying to feed their families,” said the White House. It added, “This underscores the importance of expanding and sustaining the flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza, including through a potential temporary ceasefire.” Italy calls for ‘immediate ceasefire’ Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza and called on Israel to protect Palestinian civilians. “The tragic deaths in Gaza demand an immediate ceasefire to facilitate more humanitarian aid, the release of hostages and the protection of civilians. We strongly urge Israel to protect the people in Gaza and to rigorously ascertain facts and responsibilities,” said Tajani, in a post on X. Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, expressed her “deep dismay and concern” over the violence and called on Israel to “urgently ascertain the dynamics of the incident and relative responsibilities”. Egypt condemns attack “We condemn the inhumane Israeli targeting of…unarmed Palestinian civilians in the Nabulsi roundabout in the northern Gaza,” said the Egyptian foreign ministry, in a statement. It added, “We consider targeting peaceful citizens rushing to pick up their share of aid a shameful crime and a flagrant violation of international law.” Jordan condemns attack on Gazans “We condemn the Israeli occupation forces’ brutal targeting of the gathering of Palestinians who were waiting for aid on the Nabulsi roundabout near Al-Rashid Street in Gaza,” said Jordan’s foreign ministry. ‘Ugly massacre’: Palestinian Authority The office of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned what they called an “ugly massacre conducted by the Israeli occupation army this morning”. Also Read | Putin warns West over 'real' risk of nuclear war, announces deployment of new hypersonic weapons “The killing of this large number of innocent civilian victims who risked their livelihood is an integral part of the genocidal war committed by the occupation government against our people,” said the presidential office, as quoted by Wafa news agency. ‘Life is draining out of Gaza’ Martin Griffiths, UN undersecretary for humanitarian affairs took to X and said he is “appalled at the reported killing and injury of hundreds of people during a transfer of aid supplies west of Gaza City.” He added, “Life is draining out of Gaza at terrifying speed.” The chief of the UN Palestinian aid agency (UNRWA) said Gaza has experienced “another day from hell” as the death toll according to the Hamas-run health ministry crossed the 30,000 mark. "Gaza reaches an unprecedented reported death toll of 30,000 Palestinians killed, while an additional 100 people are reportedly killed and 700 injured when they were desperately trying to get lifesaving humanitarian aid from a convoy," said Philippe Lazzarini, in a post on X. He added, "Neither UNRWA nor any other UN agency were involved in this distribution. When will this madness end?" The UN chief was also "appalled" by the reported death toll, said his spokesperson, adding "Tragically, an unknown number of people lie under rubble." Belgium deputy PM ‘horrified’ Deputy Prime Minister of Belgium Petra De Sutter took to X and said she is “horrified” by the “news of today’s massacre on over 100 Palestinian citizens.” She added, “Murdering people queueing for essential humanitarian aid? This is a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and fully goes against the (International Court of Justice’s) provisional measures.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Biden says Israeli firing on Gazans that left dozens dead will ‘complicate’ ceasefire talks

Pressed by parents to pose in videos with make-up and skincare products, pre-teen girls dubbed "Sephora Kids" have taken TikTok by storm in a trend that some specialists brand a danger to children's mental and physical health.

American girls between the ages of eight and 12 are gaining thousands of followers on the video platform by modelling their make-up purchases.

The trend focuses particularly on products from the French high-street brand Sephora, championed by reality TV star Kim Kardashian's daughter, North West.

Gushing over pots of moisturiser or begging their parents to buy them anti-wrinkle cream, they pose in front of the mirror with their hair tied back, aping popular grown-up make-up tutorials.

Skin specialists warned that some of the products used in the kids' videos contain ingredients not suited to young skin, such as retinol.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/electronic-arts-announces-workforce-reduction-and-office-space-cutbacks-report-695052">Electronic Arts announces workforce reduction and office space cutbacks: Report</a>

"Many of the 'skin influencers' sometimes are more trusted than real physicians," US dermatologist Danilo Del Campo told AFP.

"This has led to an increase in consultations related to skin reactions and concerns resulting from the misuse of these products," he warned.

"Most parents do not realise there are any risks."

Parroting famous beauty influencers, the "Sephora kids" review products from high-end lines, such as moisturisers costing nearly 70 euros ($76).

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangs-heard-during-titan-submersible-search-to-be-heard-for-1st-time-in-new-documentary-695027">Bangs heard during Titan submersible search to be heard for 1st time in new documentary</a>

"How can these little girls spend like, my salary, really, in skincare?" said one Sephora salesperson in the United States, in a TikTok video.

<h2>'Self-esteem issues'</h2>

Del Campo warned young skin can be damaged by unsuitable ingredients.

He has also seen "self-esteem issues" among his child patients who "feel the need to correct perceived flaws that may not actually exist."

Employees at Sephora have complained about the behaviour of young customers in stores with videos showing make-up counters in disarray with spilt products.

Sephora, which is part of the LVMH luxury group, did not respond to requests to comment from AFP.

Michael Stora, a psychoanalyst specialising in online behaviour, said the girls in the videos are "not playing with dolls as you might expect at their age -- they are the dolls."

Some mothers in the videos defend the trend as just a "game" -- but Stora accused parents of the "fetishisation" of their offspring.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wendys-no-surge-pricing-on-orders-695047">Wendy's: No surge pricing on orders</a>

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Solene Delecourt, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley who specialises in social inequality, also believes the videos can "contribute to a very stereotypical representation of girls and women online".

"These are not women but little girls, and they are already subject to this intense social pressure," she said.

Delecourt released a study in the Nature journal this month which said that online images amplify gender bias, particularly against women.

And in recent months, TikTok and other social media platforms have come under fire over the impact of videos on young people.

In January, tech giants faced a grilling before the US Senate Judiciary Committee after being accused of not doing enough to thwart online dangers for children, including sexual predators and teen suicide.

 
&nbsp;

Pressed by parents to pose in videos with make-up and skincare products, pre-teen girls dubbed "Sephora Kids" have taken TikTok by storm in a trend that some specialists brand a danger to children's mental and physical health.

Pressed by parents to pose in videos with make-up and skincare products, pre-teen girls dubbed "Sephora Kids" have taken TikTok by storm in a trend that some specialists brand a danger to children's mental and physical health. American girls between the ages of eight and 12 are gaining thousands of followers on the video platform by modelling their make-up purchases. The trend focuses particularly on products from the French high-street brand Sephora, championed by reality TV star Kim Kardashian's daughter, North West. Gushing over pots of moisturiser or begging their parents to buy them anti-wrinkle cream, they pose in front of the mirror with their hair tied back, aping popular grown-up make-up tutorials. Skin specialists warned that some of the products used in the kids' videos contain ingredients not suited to young skin, such as retinol. Also Read | Electronic Arts announces workforce reduction and office space cutbacks: Report "Many of the 'skin influencers' sometimes are more trusted than real physicians," US dermatologist Danilo Del Campo told AFP. "This has led to an increase in consultations related to skin reactions and concerns resulting from the misuse of these products," he warned. "Most parents do not realise there are any risks." Parroting famous beauty influencers, the "Sephora kids" review products from high-end lines, such as moisturisers costing nearly 70 euros ($76). Also Read | Bangs heard during Titan submersible search to be heard for 1st time in new documentary "How can these little girls spend like, my salary, really, in skincare?" said one Sephora salesperson in the United States, in a TikTok video. 'Self-esteem issues' Del Campo warned young skin can be damaged by unsuitable ingredients. He has also seen "self-esteem issues" among his child patients who "feel the need to correct perceived flaws that may not actually exist." Employees at Sephora have complained about the behaviour of young customers in stores with videos showing make-up counters in disarray with spilt products. Sephora, which is part of the LVMH luxury group, did not respond to requests to comment from AFP. Michael Stora, a psychoanalyst specialising in online behaviour, said the girls in the videos are "not playing with dolls as you might expect at their age -- they are the dolls." Some mothers in the videos defend the trend as just a "game" -- but Stora accused parents of the "fetishisation" of their offspring. Watch | Wendy's: No surge pricing on orders × Solene Delecourt, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley who specialises in social inequality, also believes the videos can "contribute to a very stereotypical representation of girls and women online". "These are not women but little girls, and they are already subject to this intense social pressure," she said. Delecourt released a study in the Nature journal this month which said that online images amplify gender bias, particularly against women. And in recent months, TikTok and other social media platforms have come under fire over the impact of videos on young people. In January, tech giants faced a grilling before the US Senate Judiciary Committee after being accused of not doing enough to thwart online dangers for children, including sexual predators and teen suicide.

TikTok make-up influencers spark health warnings

Netizens are reacting with outrage at the&nbsp;footage of a security officer pulling out a gun at United States airman who immolated himself in front of Israel embassy in the country. Aaron Bushnell, the US airman set himself on fire to protest against Israeli actions in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Social media posts have been critical of the embassy guard, possibly a US police officer who trained his gun at Bushnell all the while he burned. Netizens said that the security person should have helped the airman.

Bushnell died after his self-immolation.

Before his death, he posted a video and spoke about why he planned to do what he eventually did.

"My name is Aaron Bushnell, I am an active-duty member of the United States Air Force and I will no longer be complicit in genocide," he said. “I am about to engage in an extreme act of protest but compared to what people have been experiencing in Palestine at the hands of their colonisers, it's not extreme at all. This is what our ruling class has decided will be normal," he wrote.

Watch | US, NATO ally reject France President Macron's intention to send troops to Ukraine

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Bushnell livestreamed the horrific incident on Twitch. The video was later taken down from the platform. It has been reported that he walked towards the Israeli embassy, poured inflammable liquid on himself and set himself on fire. He shouted "free Palestine" repeatedly.

Social media users reacted strongly against the securityperson who kept his gun trained at Bushnell.

“This guy pointing a gun at someone engulfed in flames is a metaphor for the innocent and vulnerable Palestinians dying in Gaza,” commented a user.

“I wondered how could someone hold a gun instead of getting a fire extinguisher or doing something to help,” said another.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-overseeing-trump-fraud-trial-receives-envelope-with-suspected-white-powder-sources-694917">Judge overseeing Trump fraud trial receives envelope with suspected white powder: Sources</a>

“This is so sad and painful to see a young man having to go to this extreme to make an obvious humanitarian point. And disgusting and disturbing to see a coward pointing his gun at a dying man instead of helping him,” said a comment.

“The notion of holding a gun to a person engulfed in flames evokes a profound sense of disgust. Such an image symbolizes an extreme disconnect from humanity's innate compassion, suggesting a scenario where protocols or fear override basic human empathy.” another user expressed in their comment.

(With inputs from agencies)

Netizens are reacting with outrage at the footage of a security officer pulling out a gun at United States airman who immolated himself in front of Israel embassy in the country.

Netizens are reacting with outrage at the footage of a security officer pulling out a gun at United States airman who immolated himself in front of Israel embassy in the country. Aaron Bushnell, the US airman set himself on fire to protest against Israeli actions in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Social media posts have been critical of the embassy guard, possibly a US police officer who trained his gun at Bushnell all the while he burned. Netizens said that the security person should have helped the airman. Bushnell died after his self-immolation. Before his death, he posted a video and spoke about why he planned to do what he eventually did. "My name is Aaron Bushnell, I am an active-duty member of the United States Air Force and I will no longer be complicit in genocide," he said. “I am about to engage in an extreme act of protest but compared to what people have been experiencing in Palestine at the hands of their colonisers, it's not extreme at all. This is what our ruling class has decided will be normal," he wrote. Watch | US, NATO ally reject France President Macron's intention to send troops to Ukraine × Bushnell livestreamed the horrific incident on Twitch. The video was later taken down from the platform. It has been reported that he walked towards the Israeli embassy, poured inflammable liquid on himself and set himself on fire. He shouted "free Palestine" repeatedly. Social media users reacted strongly against the securityperson who kept his gun trained at Bushnell. “This guy pointing a gun at someone engulfed in flames is a metaphor for the innocent and vulnerable Palestinians dying in Gaza,” commented a user. “I wondered how could someone hold a gun instead of getting a fire extinguisher or doing something to help,” said another. Also Read | Judge overseeing Trump fraud trial receives envelope with suspected white powder: Sources “This is so sad and painful to see a young man having to go to this extreme to make an obvious humanitarian point. And disgusting and disturbing to see a coward pointing his gun at a dying man instead of helping him,” said a comment. “The notion of holding a gun to a person engulfed in flames evokes a profound sense of disgust. Such an image symbolizes an extreme disconnect from humanity's innate compassion, suggesting a scenario where protocols or fear override basic human empathy.” another user expressed in their comment. (With inputs from agencies)

Outrage at security guard who pointed gun while US airman immolated self

Hunter Biden on Wednesday arrived to testify in private to the GOP-run House Oversight and Judiciary in their impeachment inquiry against his father, President Joe Biden. Hunter Biden said his father was never involved in his business.

Hunter Biden testifies behind closed doors in GOP impeachment inquiry

Recession in the US? This is a topic that has leading analysts divided. Fed’s mixed signals regarding rate cuts have prompted a debate on whether America is moving away or inching closer to recession.

Analysts divided: US recession outlook split

In response to a recent surge in asylum claims, Canada announced on Thursday (Feb 29) the immediate reinstatement of visas for Mexican nationals visiting the country.

"Mexican citizens will have to get a visa to come to Canada from now on," Immigration Minister Marc Miller said at a news conference and&nbsp;explained&nbsp;the need to preserve the viability of Canada's immigration and refugee system.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-men-kidnapped-32-migrants-in-mexico-for-extortion-president-says-676763" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-men-kidnapped-32-migrants-in-mexico-for-extortion-president-says-676763&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiespOz9NCEAxX8TWwGHTxQCdIQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1JRZwV_Ykl0QnloIlUXU0P" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-men-kidnapped-32-migrants-in-mexico-for-extortion-president-says-676763" target="_blank">Armed men kidnapped 32&nbsp;migrants&nbsp;in&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;for extortion</a>

While Mexican citizens will generally require a visa to enter Canada, there are exceptions. Those who have held a Canadian visa in the past decade or possess a valid visa for the United States can opt for a simplified electronic travel authorisation.

The decision comes as immigration data reveals a significant increase in refugee claims from Mexicans, constituting 17 per cent of all claims in Canada in 2023.&nbsp;

This surge contrasts sharply with the 260 claims recorded in 2016 when a previous visa requirement was lifted. However, most of the recent claims were either rejected or withdrawn by the applicants.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-migrant-caravan-in-mexico-heads-to-us-border-escalating-challenges-amid-blinkens-visit-673325" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-migrant-caravan-in-mexico-heads-to-us-border-escalating-challenges-amid-blinkens-visit-673325&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiespOz9NCEAxX8TWwGHTxQCdIQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2r8kjiy75qzPyNs_R50Bff" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-migrant-caravan-in-mexico-heads-to-us-border-escalating-challenges-amid-blinkens-visit-673325" target="_blank">Massive&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;caravan in&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;heads to US border</a>

Minister Miller highlighted that some Mexican nationals have been using Canada as a transit point to enter the United States. He acknowledged the comparatively lower numbers compared to migrants arriving at the US' southern border but emphasised the need to address the situation.

Notably, this reinstatement echoes a measure previously imposed in 2009 by a conservative government to curb a similar uptick. However, it was lifted in 2016 during Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's liberal administration.

The province of Quebec recently expressed concern about the situation, sending a letter to Prime Minister Trudeau, asserting that the migrant influx had reached a breaking point and urging&nbsp;immediate action to manage the flow.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mexico-agree-to-strengthen-efforts-to-curb-record-migration-674653" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mexico-agree-to-strengthen-efforts-to-curb-record-migration-674653&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiespOz9NCEAxX8TWwGHTxQCdIQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3RJXQzAWTCdUG0cd30isHT" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mexico-agree-to-strengthen-efforts-to-curb-record-migration-674653" target="_blank">US,&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;agree to strengthen efforts to curb record&nbsp;migration</a>

Minister Miller acknowledged the dissatisfaction expressed by the Mexican government in response to the newly reintroduced visa requirement.

"We attach great importance to our close ties with Mexico," he said. "Mexico is and will remain an important partner."

(With inputs from agencies)

In response to a recent surge in asylum claims, Canada announced on Thursday (Feb 29) the immediate reinstatement of visas for Mexican nationals visiting the country.

In response to a recent surge in asylum claims, Canada announced on Thursday (Feb 29) the immediate reinstatement of visas for Mexican nationals visiting the country. "Mexican citizens will have to get a visa to come to Canada from now on," Immigration Minister Marc Miller said at a news conference and explained the need to preserve the viability of Canada's immigration and refugee system. Also read: Armed men kidnapped 32 migrants in Mexico for extortion While Mexican citizens will generally require a visa to enter Canada, there are exceptions. Those who have held a Canadian visa in the past decade or possess a valid visa for the United States can opt for a simplified electronic travel authorisation. The decision comes as immigration data reveals a significant increase in refugee claims from Mexicans, constituting 17 per cent of all claims in Canada in 2023. This surge contrasts sharply with the 260 claims recorded in 2016 when a previous visa requirement was lifted. However, most of the recent claims were either rejected or withdrawn by the applicants. Also read: Massive migrant caravan in Mexico heads to US border Minister Miller highlighted that some Mexican nationals have been using Canada as a transit point to enter the United States. He acknowledged the comparatively lower numbers compared to migrants arriving at the US' southern border but emphasised the need to address the situation. Notably, this reinstatement echoes a measure previously imposed in 2009 by a conservative government to curb a similar uptick. However, it was lifted in 2016 during Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's liberal administration. The province of Quebec recently expressed concern about the situation, sending a letter to Prime Minister Trudeau, asserting that the migrant influx had reached a breaking point and urging immediate action to manage the flow. Also read: US, Mexico agree to strengthen efforts to curb record migration Minister Miller acknowledged the dissatisfaction expressed by the Mexican government in response to the newly reintroduced visa requirement. "We attach great importance to our close ties with Mexico," he said. "Mexico is and will remain an important partner." (With inputs from agencies)

Canada reinstates visa requirements for Mexican travellers

An Illinois state judge on Wednesday barred Donald Trump from appearing on the Illinois' Republican presidential primary ballot because of his role in the attack at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, but she delayed her ruling from taking effect in light of an expected appeal by the former U.S president.

Trump barred from Illinois ballot, Supreme Court accepts Trump's plea

Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of the now-bankrupt Cryptocurrency Exchange FTX, is seeking a lenient sentence after his conviction for fraud and conspiracy. His lawyer argued in a sentencing submission that Bankman-Fried should receive a prison term between 5-1/4 and 6-1/2 years, significantly lower than the maximum 110-year sentence he faces.

Sam Bankman-Fried lawyer requests lenient sentence

US Tech giant apple is looking to gain a foothold in the generative AI world. CEO Tim Cook on Wednesday said that the company would disclose more about its generative ai plans later this year.

Apple to reveal its generative AI plans later this year

Mitch McConnell to step down as Republican senate leader, to end tenure in November this year. Watch the video to know more.

US: Mitch McConnell to step down as Republican Senate leader

President Joe Biden is set to issue an executive order aimed at limiting the flow of sensitive US personal data abroad amid concerns of misuse by countries including China.

US to limit sales of Americans’ personal data to China, other adversaries

The US Supreme Court has agreed to hear former President Donald Trump claim of immunity from criminal prosecution as the Republican front runner facing allegations of overturning the 2020 Presidential elections.

US: SC hold Trump's Federal Election trial, Supreme Court to hear arguments in April

An Illinois state judge on Wednesday barred Donald Trump from appearing on the Illinois' Republican presidential primary ballot because of his role in the attack at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, but she delayed her ruling from taking effect in light of an expected appeal by the former US president.

US: Appeals court rejected Donald Trump's plea

The 81-year-old leader went through a medical checkup that drew on the expertise of 20 doctors but it did not involve a cognitive exam that is for Joe Biden the US president.

Biden 'fit for job' says White House doctor

US Supreme Court hold Trump's Federal Election trial, Supreme Court to hear arguments in April

US: Supreme Court to hear Trump's Presidential immunity claim

US President Joe Biden at the moment narrowly leads former president Donald Trump. However a majority of voters are still worried about Biden's age. According to a poll by Quinnipiac University 49% of registered voters support Biden and 45% back Trump but 67% of Voters said the 81-year-old president is too old to serve another term. Watch to know more!

US: 81-year-old Joe Biden 'fit for job' says White House doctor; age a top worry for voters

Idaho halted the execution of serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech on Wednesday after medical team members repeatedly failed to find a vein where they could establish an intravenous line to carry out the lethal injection.

US: Idaho fails to execute serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech

A close call unfolded in low-Earth orbit early Wednesday (Feb 28) as a US&nbsp;NASA spacecraft and a Russian satellite approached dangerously close to each other, narrowly averting a potential collision, NASA said.

Prior to the anticipated close pass, NASA issued a warning, indicating that both the space agency and the US&nbsp;Department of Defense were closely monitoring the trajectory of the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics (TIMED) mission spacecraft from NASA and Russia's Cosmos 2221 satellite.

<h2>Closest pass details</h2>

The non-maneuverable spacecraft were projected to reach their closest point at approximately 1:30 am&nbsp;EST at an altitude of around 373 miles (600 km), according to NASA's press release.

NASA later confirmed that the TIMED spacecraft and the Russian satellite successfully navigated past each other in orbit around 1:34 am&nbsp;EST, with the TIMED mission continuing to operate as usual.

Although a collision was not expected, NASA stressed on&nbsp;the significant risk of debris generation had the two spacecraft collided.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/fiery-red-supermassive-black-hole-found-when-universe-was-in-infancy-694718">Also read |&nbsp;Scientists find oldest fiery-red supermassive black hole from universe’s infancy</a>

While this encounter marked their closest approach based on current orbit predictions, the two spacecraft are slated to encounter each other again. Nevertheless, they are anticipated to gradually diverge in altitude over time.

NASA and the Department of Defense remain vigilant, continually monitoring the evolving situation to ensure the safety of assets in space.

The TIMED science mission, a core focus of NASA, delves into understanding the sun's impact on Earth's atmosphere. Amidst scientific activities, concerns mount over the proliferation of space debris, posing risks of potential collisions with operational satellites and spacecraft.

Also watch |&nbsp;NASA Chief says Aliens exist

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-chief-says-aliens-exist-this-world-636678/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The escalating presence of space debris, comprising remnants of rockets and defunct satellites, poses a growing threat in low-Earth orbit. Scientists have warned of the potential for catastrophic collisions as space traffic intensifies. In a recent incident in 2022, the International Space Station narrowly evaded debris from a Russian satellite, Cosmos 1408.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A close call unfolded in low-Earth orbit early Wednesday (Feb 28) as a US NASA spacecraft and a Russian satellite approached dangerously close to each other, narrowly averting a potential collision, NASA said.

A close call unfolded in low-Earth orbit early Wednesday (Feb 28) as a US NASA spacecraft and a Russian satellite approached dangerously close to each other, narrowly averting a potential collision, NASA said. Prior to the anticipated close pass, NASA issued a warning, indicating that both the space agency and the US Department of Defense were closely monitoring the trajectory of the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics (TIMED) mission spacecraft from NASA and Russia's Cosmos 2221 satellite. Closest pass details The non-maneuverable spacecraft were projected to reach their closest point at approximately 1:30 am EST at an altitude of around 373 miles (600 km), according to NASA's press release. NASA later confirmed that the TIMED spacecraft and the Russian satellite successfully navigated past each other in orbit around 1:34 am EST, with the TIMED mission continuing to operate as usual. Although a collision was not expected, NASA stressed on the significant risk of debris generation had the two spacecraft collided. Also read | Scientists find oldest fiery-red supermassive black hole from universe’s infancy While this encounter marked their closest approach based on current orbit predictions, the two spacecraft are slated to encounter each other again. Nevertheless, they are anticipated to gradually diverge in altitude over time. NASA and the Department of Defense remain vigilant, continually monitoring the evolving situation to ensure the safety of assets in space. The TIMED science mission, a core focus of NASA, delves into understanding the sun's impact on Earth's atmosphere. Amidst scientific activities, concerns mount over the proliferation of space debris, posing risks of potential collisions with operational satellites and spacecraft. Also watch | NASA Chief says Aliens exist The escalating presence of space debris, comprising remnants of rockets and defunct satellites, poses a growing threat in low-Earth orbit. Scientists have warned of the potential for catastrophic collisions as space traffic intensifies. In a recent incident in 2022, the International Space Station narrowly evaded debris from a Russian satellite, Cosmos 1408. (With inputs from agencies)

Close call: US spacecraft and Russian satellite avoid major collision

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