<p>The Senate has confirmed civil rights attorney Nusrat Choudhury to become the first Muslim woman to serve as a federal judge in the history of the United States, reported the Associated Press.</p>

<p>Following a party-line vote on Thursday&nbsp;(June 15), she will start her lifetime appointment in Brooklyn, New York.</p>

<p>She is the legal director of the Illinois chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which applauded the confirmation. She worked at the national ACLU office from 2008 to 2020, spending seven of those years as the deputy director of the ACLU Racial Justice Programme.</p>

<p>The ACLU referred to her in a tweet as a "trailblazing civil rights lawyer".</p>

<h2><strong>Who is she?</strong></h2>

<p>She made history as the first Muslim-American woman and Bangladeshi-American to be a federal judge, according to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-New York, who made the recommendation.</p>

<p>“Nusrat Choudhury is a shining example of the American Dream,” Schumer said in a statement.</p>

<p>“She is the daughter of immigrant parents, a graduate of Columbia, Princeton, and Yale Law School, and has dedicated her career to making sure all people can have their voices heard in court,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-meets-bill-gates-regards-him-as-old-friend-605165">Xi Jinping meets Bill Gates, addresses him as an 'old friend'</a></p>

<p>Her bio on the ACLU’s website says: “Nusrat helped secure the first federal court ruling striking down the US government’s no-fly list procedures for violating due process.</p>

<p>“She filed litigation to challenge the NYPD’s unjustified and discriminatory profiling of Muslims for surveillance, which resulted in a court-ordered settlement agreement, and to secure public records about the FBI’s racial and ethnic mapping program.”</p>

<p>Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, abstained from the vote because she supports criminal justice reform. Her prior comments, he claimed in a statement, raise concerns about her capacity to be objective towards law enforcement officials, as reported by the Guardian.</p>

<p>Choudhury served as a legal clerk in New York City for Judges Barrington Parker Jr. of the 2nd US&nbsp;Circuit Court of Appeals and US&nbsp;District Judge Denise L&nbsp;Cote.</p>

<p>She was a member of the Presidential Task Force on Strengthening Public Confidence in the American Justice System.</p>

<p>Her selection adhered to Joe Biden's pledge to prioritise diversity in background, ethnicity, and gender in his judicial appointments.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;The US and Papua New Guinea sign a defence pact</strong></p>

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<p>Zahid Quraishi, the first federal Muslim judge in the country, was confirmed by the Senate to serve as a district court judge in New Jersey two years ago. On September 11, 2001, Quraishi started working for a New York legal firm. Later, he joined the legal department of the Army and served throughout two Iraqi deployments.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Senate has confirmed civil rights attorney Nusrat Choudhury to become the first Muslim woman to serve as a federal judge in the history of the United States, reported the Associated Press.

The Senate has confirmed civil rights attorney Nusrat Choudhury to become the first Muslim woman to serve as a federal judge in the history of the United States, reported the Associated Press. Following a party-line vote on Thursday (June 15), she will start her lifetime appointment in Brooklyn, New York. She is the legal director of the Illinois chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which applauded the confirmation. She worked at the national ACLU office from 2008 to 2020, spending seven of those years as the deputy director of the ACLU Racial Justice Programme. The ACLU referred to her in a tweet as a "trailblazing civil rights lawyer". Who is she? She made history as the first Muslim-American woman and Bangladeshi-American to be a federal judge, according to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-New York, who made the recommendation. “Nusrat Choudhury is a shining example of the American Dream,” Schumer said in a statement. “She is the daughter of immigrant parents, a graduate of Columbia, Princeton, and Yale Law School, and has dedicated her career to making sure all people can have their voices heard in court,” he added. Also read | Xi Jinping meets Bill Gates, addresses him as an 'old friend' Her bio on the ACLU’s website says: “Nusrat helped secure the first federal court ruling striking down the US government’s no-fly list procedures for violating due process. “She filed litigation to challenge the NYPD’s unjustified and discriminatory profiling of Muslims for surveillance, which resulted in a court-ordered settlement agreement, and to secure public records about the FBI’s racial and ethnic mapping program.” Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, abstained from the vote because she supports criminal justice reform. Her prior comments, he claimed in a statement, raise concerns about her capacity to be objective towards law enforcement officials, as reported by the Guardian. Choudhury served as a legal clerk in New York City for Judges Barrington Parker Jr. of the 2nd US Circuit Court of Appeals and US District Judge Denise L Cote. She was a member of the Presidential Task Force on Strengthening Public Confidence in the American Justice System. Her selection adhered to Joe Biden's pledge to prioritise diversity in background, ethnicity, and gender in his judicial appointments. Also watch | The US and Papua New Guinea sign a defence pact Zahid Quraishi, the first federal Muslim judge in the country, was confirmed by the Senate to serve as a district court judge in New Jersey two years ago. On September 11, 2001, Quraishi started working for a New York legal firm. Later, he joined the legal department of the Army and served throughout two Iraqi deployments. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US Senate confirms Nusrat Choudhury as first Muslim woman federal judge

The pact finalising the joint manufacturing is anticipated to be unveiled during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's State visit next week. General Electric, located in the United States, would be able to construct engines for military aircraft on Indian territory under the terms of the agreement, which the Biden Administration is ready to sign.

India's HAL will produce engines as a licensed manufacturer

A momentous chapter in the history of these two great democracies. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his highly anticipated four-day state visit to the United States on Monday, the world eagerly awaits the dawn of a new era of partnership between the world's oldest and largest democracies. Modi joins an exclusive group of leaders, including Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela who have twice addressed a joint meeting of the US Congress in the past.

Narendra Modi`s US Visit: A watershed moment for India-US ties

New Delhi keen to get the know-how to make aircraft engines

India aims to produce over 350 fighter jets over next two decades

As part of a larger agreement that may see New Delhi issuing a credit line worth several billion dollars to Cairo. According to sources, India is considering a proposal to start barter trading in items like fertiliser and gas with Egypt.

Indian PM Modi likely to visit Egypt on way back from US

As attacks on Indian diplomatic properties are increasing due to a rise in kalistani nationalism, the national investigation agency is already looking into the attack on the Indian High Commission in Britain. Terror investigating agency to investigate recent incidents of vandalism on its missions in Canada and the United States.

India's terror-investigation agency to probe attacks on Indian Consulates

Blinken will hold meetings in China on June 18-19 and may meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, sources said. He will be the highest-ranking U.S. government official to visit China since President Joe Biden took office in January 2021, and the first secretary of state in five years.

Blinken heads to Beijing hoping to calm fears of a US-China break

India and US are likely to sign some very crucial defence deals during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States which begins next week, according to reports. What are these deals and how will they strengthen India-US bilateral ties and consolidate India’s position in the Indo-Pacific region? Watch Vikram Chandra in conversation with Meera Shankar, Former Ambassador to the United States, and Trisha Ray, Deputy Director, Centre for Security, Strategy, and Technology, ORF.

'India-US fighter jet pact will be crucial'

India and US are likely to sign some very crucial defence deals during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States which begins next week, according to reports. What are these deals and how will they strengthen India-US bilateral ties and consolidate India’s position in the Indo-Pacific region? Watch Vikram Chandra in conversation with Meera Shankar, Former Ambassador to the United States, and Trisha Ray, Deputy Director, Centre for Security, Strategy and Technology, ORF

PM Modi’s US visit: What’s on the agenda?

Shortly before setting out for Beijing, Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday emphasised the importance of the US and China establishing better lines of communication. He will be the highest-ranking member of the Biden administration to visit China.

Blinken stresses on better US-China communications as he heads to Beijing

<p>German authorities have arrested an American man after he allegedly assaulted two female tourists also from the United States near southern Germany’s Neuschwanstein castle and pushed them down a steep slope. The incident led to the death of one woman, said the local officials on Thursday (June 15).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the incident so far?</strong></h2>

<p>The incident took place on Wednesday afternoon near one of Germany’s most popular tourist sights, Neuschwanstein Castle’s Marienbruecke which is a bridge over a gorge close to the castle. As per the officials, a 30-year-old man allegedly attempted to sexually assault two women and is said to have pushed both of them off a steep slope.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the police said that the 30-year-old man met the two female tourists, ages 21 and 22, on a hiking path, he then went on to lure them onto a hidden trail that leads to a viewpoint. He then “physically attacked” the 21-year-old and the 22-year-old intervened and he choked her and pushed her down a steep slope.</p>

<p>After the incident, the 21-year-old woman was taken to a hospital by helicopter but succumbed to what is being described as serious injuries. Meanwhile, her 22-year-old companion who was described as “responsive” is still in the hospital but details about her injuries or condition were not immediately known. According to prosecutors, the 22-year-old remained hospitalised as of Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“According to the current state of knowledge, an attempted sexual offence to the detriment of the 21-year-old must be assumed,” said the local officials. The police also said that the 21-year-old was also pushed down the slope and fell nearly 50 metres.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Where is&nbsp;the suspect?</strong></h2>

<p>Police in the German state of Bavaria later said that the alleged attacker is a 30-year-old US national who had fled the scene after the crime, but was later caught and is in custody. The suspect is also said to be an American tourist, as per the police. The authorities have not identified the victims as well as the suspect.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 30-year-old man, as per police, is currently in jail after a judge in nearby Kempten issued an arrest warrant on Thursday and ordered them to keep him in custody pending a potential indictment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country’s criminal police have taken over the investigation and are looking into suspicion of murder, attempted murder and a sexual offence. However, their investigation is reportedly being hampered due to the steep terrain where the alleged attack took place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police as well as the prosecutors are in the midst of reconstructing exactly how the incident took place, said officials. Neuschwanstein castle is located in the German state of Bavaria and close to the Austrian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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German authorities have arrested an American man after he allegedly assaulted two female tourists also from the United States near southern Germany’s Neuschwanstein castle and pushed them down a steep slope.

German authorities have arrested an American man after he allegedly assaulted two female tourists also from the United States near southern Germany’s Neuschwanstein castle and pushed them down a steep slope. The incident led to the death of one woman, said the local officials on Thursday (June 15). What do we know about the incident so far? The incident took place on Wednesday afternoon near one of Germany’s most popular tourist sights, Neuschwanstein Castle’s Marienbruecke which is a bridge over a gorge close to the castle. As per the officials, a 30-year-old man allegedly attempted to sexually assault two women and is said to have pushed both of them off a steep slope. In a statement, the police said that the 30-year-old man met the two female tourists, ages 21 and 22, on a hiking path, he then went on to lure them onto a hidden trail that leads to a viewpoint. He then “physically attacked” the 21-year-old and the 22-year-old intervened and he choked her and pushed her down a steep slope. After the incident, the 21-year-old woman was taken to a hospital by helicopter but succumbed to what is being described as serious injuries. Meanwhile, her 22-year-old companion who was described as “responsive” is still in the hospital but details about her injuries or condition were not immediately known. According to prosecutors, the 22-year-old remained hospitalised as of Thursday. “According to the current state of knowledge, an attempted sexual offence to the detriment of the 21-year-old must be assumed,” said the local officials. The police also said that the 21-year-old was also pushed down the slope and fell nearly 50 metres. Where is the suspect? Police in the German state of Bavaria later said that the alleged attacker is a 30-year-old US national who had fled the scene after the crime, but was later caught and is in custody. The suspect is also said to be an American tourist, as per the police. The authorities have not identified the victims as well as the suspect. The 30-year-old man, as per police, is currently in jail after a judge in nearby Kempten issued an arrest warrant on Thursday and ordered them to keep him in custody pending a potential indictment. The country’s criminal police have taken over the investigation and are looking into suspicion of murder, attempted murder and a sexual offence. However, their investigation is reportedly being hampered due to the steep terrain where the alleged attack took place. The police as well as the prosecutors are in the midst of reconstructing exactly how the incident took place, said officials. Neuschwanstein castle is located in the German state of Bavaria and close to the Austrian border. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany: US woman killed in attack near Neuschwanstein castle, suspect arrested

US regulators are alleging violations against crypto exchanges. Traditional banks have limited their work with cryptocurrency. Is US trying to kill cryptocurrency? Mohammad Saleh reports.

Gravitas: US regulators crackdown on cryptocurrency exchanges

Wuhan virus has often been used as a synonym for Covid-19. As the entire world & many of the reports claimed the leak of the virus from China's Wuhan Laboratory. But many kinds of research were conducted on Coronavirus before the outbreak. An independent watchdog agency found that U.S. taxpayer funds flowed to Chinese entities for a research.

Did US taxpayers fund $2M worth of research in Wuhan before the COVID-19 outbreak?

Federal prosecutors have made a surprising move in the case of alleged crypto fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried. Prosecutors are seeking to drop five charges against alleged crypto fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried. These charges, including bribery of a foreign government official, have come under scrutiny following a Bahamas court ruling.

Prosecutors move to remove five charges against Sam Bankman-Fried | World Business Watch

China has launched 41 low earth orbit satellites into space. What are low earth orbit satellites? Is China using them for espionage? Mohammad Saleh reports.

Gravitas: China's spy satellites spook US Military

<p><meta charset="utf-8" />A man in Illinois is facing firearms charges in a&nbsp;freak case after he accidentally shot himself in the leg while in sleep. He reportedly was dreaming about a burglary that led to the episode, <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/illinois-man-charged-shooting-dream-police-say-rcna89176">NBC News </a>reported.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The incident took place on April 10, when deputies said they responded to a report of a Lake Barrington resident with a gunshot wound. When deputies arrived at the site, they found 62-year-old Mark Dicara with a gunshot wound on his leg, <a href="https://www.lakecountyil.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=3572">the Lake County Sheriff's Office said in a release.</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">A tourniquet was immediately applied to Dicara's leg, as there was significant amount of blood loss.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">When cops interrogated him, they found that Dicara had a dream about someone breaking into his house. In the dream, he shoots at the burglar&nbsp;with his .357 Magnum revolver.</p>

<p dir="ltr">But, what unfolded was bizarre. Dicara shot himself instead reportedly and woke up in pain, the release stated. He was later rushed to a local hospital for treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">''The round discharged from the firearm went through Dicara's leg and lodged itself into the bedding. Fortunately, the round did not travel through a shared wall with Dicara's neighbours,'' the release said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The police also confirmed during the interrogation that an attempted burglary did not take place at Dicara's residence, and there was no intruder in his property.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-soldier-open-fires-at-colleagues-at-military-base-arrested-604155">Japanese soldier opens fire at colleagues at military base, two dead</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">Dicara was arrested on a warrant on Monday&nbsp; (June 12), and was released after signing $150,000 bond, the sheriff's office said. He was additionally charged with possessing a firearm with a revoked Firearm Owners Identification, and reckless discharge of a firearm, the sheriff's office said in a statement.</p>

<p>The state of Illinois mandates <a href="https://isp.illinois.gov/Foid/Foid">gun owners to have a Firearm Owners Identification</a> card to legally keep firearms or ammunition, according to state police. He is expected to appear in court on June 29 next.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Denver shooting incident: Gun violence continues to polarise the US</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>US gun killings compared with other countries</strong></h2>

<p>Data from the CDC shows that homicides accounted for 19,384 deaths in 2020 or 43 per cent&nbsp;of all deaths. The statistic indicates a 75 per cent rise over the previous ten years and a 34 per cent increase from 2019.&nbsp;The statistics show that in the US, a firearm claims&nbsp;close to 53 lives&nbsp;per day. The research also reveals that 79 per cent&nbsp;of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/celebratory-gunshots-gone-wrong-man-dies-of-heart-attack-after-shooting-guest-548770">homicides</a>&nbsp;were committed using firearms.</p>

<h2><strong>Rise in mass shootings in the US</strong></h2>

<p>Data from Washington-based&nbsp;<em>Gun Violence Archive</em>&nbsp;shows that&nbsp;there were more than 600 mass shootings in the United States in 2022 alone, more than twice the 336 mass shootings that were reported four years prior. As defined broadly, a mass shooting is any occurrence in which four or more people—excluding the shooter—are shot or killed.</p>

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A man in Illinois is facing firearms charges in a freak case after he accidentally shot himself in the leg while in sleep. He reportedly was dreaming about a burglary that led to the episode, NBC News reported.

A man in Illinois is facing firearms charges in a freak case after he accidentally shot himself in the leg while in sleep. He reportedly was dreaming about a burglary that led to the episode, NBC News reported. The incident took place on April 10, when deputies said they responded to a report of a Lake Barrington resident with a gunshot wound. When deputies arrived at the site, they found 62-year-old Mark Dicara with a gunshot wound on his leg, the Lake County Sheriff's Office said in a release. A tourniquet was immediately applied to Dicara's leg, as there was significant amount of blood loss. When cops interrogated him, they found that Dicara had a dream about someone breaking into his house. In the dream, he shoots at the burglar with his .357 Magnum revolver. But, what unfolded was bizarre. Dicara shot himself instead reportedly and woke up in pain, the release stated. He was later rushed to a local hospital for treatment. ''The round discharged from the firearm went through Dicara's leg and lodged itself into the bedding. Fortunately, the round did not travel through a shared wall with Dicara's neighbours,'' the release said. The police also confirmed during the interrogation that an attempted burglary did not take place at Dicara's residence, and there was no intruder in his property. Also read | Japanese soldier opens fire at colleagues at military base, two dead Dicara was arrested on a warrant on Monday (June 12), and was released after signing $150,000 bond, the sheriff's office said. He was additionally charged with possessing a firearm with a revoked Firearm Owners Identification, and reckless discharge of a firearm, the sheriff's office said in a statement. The state of Illinois mandates gun owners to have a Firearm Owners Identification card to legally keep firearms or ammunition, according to state police. He is expected to appear in court on June 29 next. Also watch | Denver shooting incident: Gun violence continues to polarise the US US gun killings compared with other countries Data from the CDC shows that homicides accounted for 19,384 deaths in 2020 or 43 per cent of all deaths. The statistic indicates a 75 per cent rise over the previous ten years and a 34 per cent increase from 2019. The statistics show that in the US, a firearm claims close to 53 lives per day. The research also reveals that 79 per cent of homicides were committed using firearms. Rise in mass shootings in the US Data from Washington-based Gun Violence Archive shows that there were more than 600 mass shootings in the United States in 2022 alone, more than twice the 336 mass shootings that were reported four years prior. As defined broadly, a mass shooting is any occurrence in which four or more people—excluding the shooter—are shot or killed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Freak case: US man accidentally shoots himself in sleep while dreaming about burglary, charged

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to make his first state visit to Washington in nine years next week. The trip comes as the United States and India increase cooperation in critical emerging technologies. Matt Dibble has the story for Voice of America.

WION-VOA Co-Production: Indian PM Modi to begin US tour on June 21

<p>US Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) in a 7-2 decision and kept intact a law that seeks to keep Native American children with tribal families.&nbsp;The court ruled that the law in cases of adoption involving American Indian children does not&nbsp;unlawfully impose federal mandates on areas traditionally regulated by states. &nbsp;</p>

<p>ICWA established federal standards for the removal of Native children from their families and required state courts to inform tribes when an American Indian child is removed from their home outside of a reservation.</p>

<p>The Act has been a significant law for over 45 years, enacted after a congressional investigation revealed that a significant number of Native children had been taken from their tribal homes and placed with non-Native families and institutions without tribal connections.</p>

<h2><strong>Why was the Act challenged?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The law was challenged by Chad and Jennifer Brackeen, along with other non-Native prospective adoptive couples, who argued that ICWA violated the Constitution by racially discriminating and compelling the state to enforce federal mandates.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, in the case before the court, the state of Texas and several families adopting American Indian children challenged the law, arguing that it encroached on state autonomy.</p>

<p>In its Thursday ruling, the court did not decide whether the law unconstitutionally discriminates based on race when it comes to placing children in Native foster and adoptive homes.</p>

<p>The court determined that the challengers, including prospective adoptive parents and the state of Texas, lacked standing to sue as they had not suffered concrete harm, reported NPR media portal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-harvard-medical-school-morgue-manager-indicted-for-stealing-selling-human-remains-604855">Ex-Harvard Medical School morgue manager indicted for stealing, selling human remains</a></p>

<p>In her majority opinion, Justice Amy Coney Barrett stated, "The bottom line is that we reject all of petitioners' challenges to the statute, some on the merits and others for lack of standing."</p>

<p>Justice Samuel Alito, joined by Justice Clarence Thomas, dissented, criticising the court for disregarding the best interests of the vulnerable children involved and undermining the division of federal and state authority.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealands-biggest-meth-bust-with-drug-hidden-in-maple-syrup-bottles-six-arrested-604782">New Zealand's biggest meth bust with drug hidden in maple syrup bottles, six arrested</a></p>

<h2>Native Americans — political not racial group</h2>

<p>The Supreme Court rejected the arguments by the challengers, citing longstanding precedent that classifies Native Americans as a political rather than racial group. This decision is seen as a victory for Native American tribal leaders and advocates who argued that ICWA protects Native children and tribal communities.</p>

<h2><strong>ICWA background</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (ICWA) was enacted by Congress after extensive hearings revealed that public and private agencies had forcibly removed hundreds of thousands of American Indian children from their families.</p>

<p>These children were then placed in institutions or with families unrelated to their tribes. The tribes considered these actions a threat to their existence, prompting Congress to pass ICWA.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK MPs publish Partygate report&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The law also implemented a framework for foster and adoption placements and prioritises placement with extended family members, followed by other tribal members, and if neither is available, placement with a different tribal family.</p>

<h2>Biden administration's take&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Biden administration, like previous ones, defended the law, citing historical precedents that define ICWA's classifications based on tribal connections rather than race. The court agreed with the tribes, leaving the law intact.</p>

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US Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) in a 7-2 decision and kept intact a law that seeks to keep Native American children with tribal families.

US Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) in a 7-2 decision and kept intact a law that seeks to keep Native American children with tribal families. The court ruled that the law in cases of adoption involving American Indian children does not unlawfully impose federal mandates on areas traditionally regulated by states. ICWA established federal standards for the removal of Native children from their families and required state courts to inform tribes when an American Indian child is removed from their home outside of a reservation. The Act has been a significant law for over 45 years, enacted after a congressional investigation revealed that a significant number of Native children had been taken from their tribal homes and placed with non-Native families and institutions without tribal connections. Why was the Act challenged? The law was challenged by Chad and Jennifer Brackeen, along with other non-Native prospective adoptive couples, who argued that ICWA violated the Constitution by racially discriminating and compelling the state to enforce federal mandates. However, in the case before the court, the state of Texas and several families adopting American Indian children challenged the law, arguing that it encroached on state autonomy. In its Thursday ruling, the court did not decide whether the law unconstitutionally discriminates based on race when it comes to placing children in Native foster and adoptive homes. The court determined that the challengers, including prospective adoptive parents and the state of Texas, lacked standing to sue as they had not suffered concrete harm, reported NPR media portal. Also Read | Ex-Harvard Medical School morgue manager indicted for stealing, selling human remains In her majority opinion, Justice Amy Coney Barrett stated, "The bottom line is that we reject all of petitioners' challenges to the statute, some on the merits and others for lack of standing." Justice Samuel Alito, joined by Justice Clarence Thomas, dissented, criticising the court for disregarding the best interests of the vulnerable children involved and undermining the division of federal and state authority. Also Read | New Zealand's biggest meth bust with drug hidden in maple syrup bottles, six arrested Native Americans — political not racial group The Supreme Court rejected the arguments by the challengers, citing longstanding precedent that classifies Native Americans as a political rather than racial group. This decision is seen as a victory for Native American tribal leaders and advocates who argued that ICWA protects Native children and tribal communities. ICWA background The Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (ICWA) was enacted by Congress after extensive hearings revealed that public and private agencies had forcibly removed hundreds of thousands of American Indian children from their families. These children were then placed in institutions or with families unrelated to their tribes. The tribes considered these actions a threat to their existence, prompting Congress to pass ICWA. Watch | UK MPs publish Partygate report × The law also implemented a framework for foster and adoption placements and prioritises placement with extended family members, followed by other tribal members, and if neither is available, placement with a different tribal family. Biden administration's take The Biden administration, like previous ones, defended the law, citing historical precedents that define ICWA's classifications based on tribal connections rather than race. The court agreed with the tribes, leaving the law intact. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

US Supreme Court upholds law ensuring protections to Native American children in adoption

Several US federal government agencies have been hit in a global hacking campaign. The country's cyber watchdog agency says that the hackers exploited a vulnerability in a widely used file-transfer software. The statement by the cybersecurity and infrastructure security agency added to a growing list of entities in the US, UK and other countries whose systems were infiltrated. British energy giant shell, the Johns Hopkins University, the Johns Hopkins health system and the university system of Georgia were also hit.

U.S. govt agencies hit in global hacking spree; Entities in UK & other nations also targeted

In Washington's efforts to outflank China in the Pacific have resulted in a landmark security pact signed between the US and Papua New Guinea now the US military can develop and operate out of buses and bases in Papua New Guinea. With Papua New Guinea's agreement, the US will be able to station troops and vessels at six key ports and airports including Lombrum Naval Base on Manus Island and facilities in the capital Port of Moresby.

The US and Papua New Guinea sign a defence pact

The United States deployed a nuclear-powered submarine capable of carrying about 150 tomahawk missiles to South Korea a day after North Korea resumed missile tests in protests of the US-South Korean live fire drills. The USS Michigan's arrival in South Korea is the first of its kind in six years. It is part of a recent bilateral agreement on enhancing regular visibility of the US strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula which is in response to North Korea's advancing nuclear program.

The US deploys nuclear submarine to South Korea

The key question is whether the United States is facing a local crisis as a result of Thursday's meeting between Cuban counterpart Miguel Dias Canal and Iranian President Brian Rice in Havana. Bryce's visit coincides with Cuba's efforts to strengthen ties with important but far-off allies like Russia and China.

Iranian President Raisi meets Cuban counterpart Miguel Diaz-Canel

In a major boost for India's military infrastructure, the government has reportedly approved the purchase of US long range drones - the MQ-9 Reaper. According to the reports, this followed a Defence Council meeting headed by India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

India-US Armed Drones deal sealed, India to buy 31 drones from America | World News | WION

Western states are far from implementation of plans to ship US-made F-16 planes to Ukraine, and a lot of work is yet to be done for that, US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley said.

US: West far from shipping F-16 jets

<p>United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (June 16) presented a report on what he described as 'concerning trends' in human trafficking. The report has elicited denunciation of the scourge of human trafficking, forced labour and growing problem of boys and young men caught up in the trade.</p>

<p>Blinken blasted the rise in forced labour as worldwide supply chains were disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Exploitative employers use a host of tactics to take advantage of lower-paid and more vulnerable workers," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to State Department anti-trafficking official Cindy Dyer, "Traffickers have leveraged pandemic-related economic hardships, increased global youth unemployment and international travel restrictions&nbsp;to manipulate victims."&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Blinken's presentation, Dyer said such schemes have become "a multibillion-dollar industry" in recent years. &nbsp;During his speech, Blinken also drew attention to rise in labour trafficking using online scams.</p>

<p>The annual 188-country State Department report reveals how traffickers in Myanmar, Malaysia, Ghana and Turkey, among other countries, deceived adults and children around the world with fake job offers posted online.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Countries that Washington says are actively engaged in trafficking have been listed in the report. They include Afghanistan, China, Cuba, Eritrea, North Korea, Russia, Iran, Syria, Turkmenistan and Sudan.</p>

<p>Countries which appear on such list can potentially be punished with US sanctions or any US aid to these countries can be revoked.</p>

<p>According to Dyer, China is "engaging in a policy or pattern of trafficking."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The PRC is actually taking efforts to try to make it more difficult for us to determine if their supply chain is clean for us to determine if forced labor is occurring," she said, using an acronym for China's official name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are aggressively monitoring this," she added, just days before Blinken is set to depart on a rescheduled visit to Beijing. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Trafficking of young boys</strong></h2>

<p>Blinken emphasised that trafficking of young boys has seen sharp increase in recent years.</p>

<p>"The percentage of boys identified as victims of human trafficking rose fivefold&nbsp;between 2004 and 2020," Blinken said, citing a UN report -- a higher proportion than among girls, women or men. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"For years, there's been a widely held (perception) -- but incorrectly -- that trafficking affects exclusively female victims. This false perception has had some quite frankly devastating, intangible consequences" as fewer resources are allocated to support boys caught up in human trafficking, he said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition, "many boys frequently are less likely to seek services and self-identify," according to Dyer. "And what's even more troubling is that when they do, services are not always available for them."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (June 16) presented a report on what he described as 'concerning trends' in human trafficking. The report has elicited denunciation of the scourge of human trafficking, forced labour and growing problem of boys and young men caught up in the trade.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday (June 16) presented a report on what he described as 'concerning trends' in human trafficking. The report has elicited denunciation of the scourge of human trafficking, forced labour and growing problem of boys and young men caught up in the trade. Blinken blasted the rise in forced labour as worldwide supply chains were disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. "Exploitative employers use a host of tactics to take advantage of lower-paid and more vulnerable workers," he said. According to State Department anti-trafficking official Cindy Dyer, "Traffickers have leveraged pandemic-related economic hardships, increased global youth unemployment and international travel restrictions to manipulate victims." After Blinken's presentation, Dyer said such schemes have become "a multibillion-dollar industry" in recent years. During his speech, Blinken also drew attention to rise in labour trafficking using online scams. The annual 188-country State Department report reveals how traffickers in Myanmar, Malaysia, Ghana and Turkey, among other countries, deceived adults and children around the world with fake job offers posted online. Countries that Washington says are actively engaged in trafficking have been listed in the report. They include Afghanistan, China, Cuba, Eritrea, North Korea, Russia, Iran, Syria, Turkmenistan and Sudan. Countries which appear on such list can potentially be punished with US sanctions or any US aid to these countries can be revoked. According to Dyer, China is "engaging in a policy or pattern of trafficking." "The PRC is actually taking efforts to try to make it more difficult for us to determine if their supply chain is clean for us to determine if forced labor is occurring," she said, using an acronym for China's official name. "We are aggressively monitoring this," she added, just days before Blinken is set to depart on a rescheduled visit to Beijing.  Trafficking of young boys Blinken emphasised that trafficking of young boys has seen sharp increase in recent years. "The percentage of boys identified as victims of human trafficking rose fivefold between 2004 and 2020," Blinken said, citing a UN report -- a higher proportion than among girls, women or men.  "For years, there's been a widely held (perception) -- but incorrectly -- that trafficking affects exclusively female victims. This false perception has had some quite frankly devastating, intangible consequences" as fewer resources are allocated to support boys caught up in human trafficking, he said.  In addition, "many boys frequently are less likely to seek services and self-identify," according to Dyer. "And what's even more troubling is that when they do, services are not always available for them." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Human trafficking report in US underlines forced labour, trafficking of boys

The US has released its annual report on human trafficking, the report says online scams that trap people into forced labour schemes. Young boys face an increasing risk of being trafficked. Watch the video to know more.

US Human Trafficking report shows uptick in forced labour schemes related to Covid-19 | WION

<p>Visitors at&nbsp;Destin's beach on Sunday were taken aback by the amazing sight of a young black bear cub playing in the waters to cool down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Social media users shared videos of the amazing sight of a bear taking a cool dip in the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The young&nbsp;cub surprised beachgoers by making its way from the deep water to a packed beach, generating a flurry of internet activity.</p>

<p>The young&nbsp;bear's amazing swimming abilities are seen in one video, which led an onlooker to jokingly comment, "I guess he's on vacation, too!" The cub joyously splashes about in the knee-deep water as it approaches the shore while curious onlookers watch in awe. People in the throng are clearly shocked as they shout, "It's a bear!"</p>

<p>On Facebook, Jennifer Majors Smith, who now calls Nashville home but was on vacation with her family in the Florida Panhandle, posted many videos of the amazing experience. "Never have I ever...seen a black bear swim up out of the Gulf Coast and onto the beach," she wrote, "and I'm from Pensacola."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A bear just swam from way out in the ocean to shore in Destin. Insane. <a href="https://twitter.com/spann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@spann</a> <a href="https://t.co/v033ep7FFa">pic.twitter.com/v033ep7FFa</a></p>
— Cdawg (@cbcpa79) <a href="https://twitter.com/cbcpa79/status/1667944135184076800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The young bear left the Florida beach where he was having fun and went straight towards the sand dunes, disappearing from view near a condominium.</p>

<h2><strong>Bear antics stun people in the US&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A Connecticut bakery's garage was broken into by a hungry black bear last month, who ate 60 cupcakes before leaving as terrified staff helplessly watched.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the bear arrived on Wednesday, the staff at Taste by Spellbound in the town of Avon were busy packing a van with cakes for delivery.</p>

<p>According to the state environmental office, between 1,000 and 1,200 black bears reside in Connecticut, and 158 sightings were reported in 169 towns and cities last year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/polar-bear-kills-a-woman-and-child-in-alaska-know-whats-pushing-the-arctic-animal-to-attack-humans-lately-554062">Polar bear kills woman and child in Alaska. Know what's pushing the arctic animal to attack humans</a></p>

<p>Bakery owner Miriam Stephens said in an Instagram post that she overheard Maureen Williams "screaming bloody murder" and shouted that a bear had broken into the garage.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ex-President Donald Trump is not allowed to communicate with witnesses</strong></p>

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<p>The bakery owner also wrote a detailed caption explaining the incident.</p>

<p>“Okay. Here’s the real story. We have a loading garage in the back of our Avon shop for our Transit. Maureen was loading it with the last items before I was to leave. She was on the West Hartford side of the van, looked up and saw a bear staring at her from the South Windsor side. All of a sudden we hear her screaming bloody murder and then yelling ‘there’s a bear in the garage!’ She ran into the kitchen as fast as she could and slammed the door that goes into the loading area and held it tight. The bear then MOVED one of our fridges in front of the door. We all were stunned for a second trying to figure out what to do while she held the door shut. I immediately called 911. Lisa then had a brilliant idea to go out the front and get in her car to drive around back and she started beeping her horn like a crazy person. She finally got him out and Maureen ran to the garage to close it as fast as she could,” Stephens wrote.</p>

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Visitors at Destin's beach on Sunday were taken aback by the amazing sight of a young black bear cub playing in the waters to cool down. Social media users shared videos of the amazing sight of a bear taking a cool dip in the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Visitors at Destin's beach on Sunday were taken aback by the amazing sight of a young black bear cub playing in the waters to cool down. Social media users shared videos of the amazing sight of a bear taking a cool dip in the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The young cub surprised beachgoers by making its way from the deep water to a packed beach, generating a flurry of internet activity. The young bear's amazing swimming abilities are seen in one video, which led an onlooker to jokingly comment, "I guess he's on vacation, too!" The cub joyously splashes about in the knee-deep water as it approaches the shore while curious onlookers watch in awe. People in the throng are clearly shocked as they shout, "It's a bear!" On Facebook, Jennifer Majors Smith, who now calls Nashville home but was on vacation with her family in the Florida Panhandle, posted many videos of the amazing experience. "Never have I ever...seen a black bear swim up out of the Gulf Coast and onto the beach," she wrote, "and I'm from Pensacola." A bear just swam from way out in the ocean to shore in Destin. Insane. @spann pic.twitter.com/v033ep7FFa — Cdawg (@cbcpa79) June 11, 2023 × The young bear left the Florida beach where he was having fun and went straight towards the sand dunes, disappearing from view near a condominium. Bear antics stun people in the US A Connecticut bakery's garage was broken into by a hungry black bear last month, who ate 60 cupcakes before leaving as terrified staff helplessly watched. When the bear arrived on Wednesday, the staff at Taste by Spellbound in the town of Avon were busy packing a van with cakes for delivery. According to the state environmental office, between 1,000 and 1,200 black bears reside in Connecticut, and 158 sightings were reported in 169 towns and cities last year. Also read | Polar bear kills woman and child in Alaska. Know what's pushing the arctic animal to attack humans Bakery owner Miriam Stephens said in an Instagram post that she overheard Maureen Williams "screaming bloody murder" and shouted that a bear had broken into the garage. Also watch | Ex-President Donald Trump is not allowed to communicate with witnesses The bakery owner also wrote a detailed caption explaining the incident. “Okay. Here’s the real story. We have a loading garage in the back of our Avon shop for our Transit. Maureen was loading it with the last items before I was to leave. She was on the West Hartford side of the van, looked up and saw a bear staring at her from the South Windsor side. All of a sudden we hear her screaming bloody murder and then yelling ‘there’s a bear in the garage!’ She ran into the kitchen as fast as she could and slammed the door that goes into the loading area and held it tight. The bear then MOVED one of our fridges in front of the door. We all were stunned for a second trying to figure out what to do while she held the door shut. I immediately called 911. Lisa then had a brilliant idea to go out the front and get in her car to drive around back and she started beeping her horn like a crazy person. She finally got him out and Maureen ran to the garage to close it as fast as she could,” Stephens wrote. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Watch | Bear beats the heat, takes a dip in Florida beach

<p>A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Wednesday (June 14) introduced legislation to safeguard Americans' data from being used by adversaries of the United States. The group consists of six senators and two members of the House of Representatives. This legislation represents the latest push from US lawmakers to address concerns about Americans' data being used by foreign-owned tech platforms like TikTok.</p>

<p>Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, a Democrat, said the bill "would turn off the tap of data to unfriendly nations, stop TikTok from sending Americans’ personal information to China, and allow nations with strong privacy protections to strengthen their relationships."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 55% people rely on TikTok and Snapchat for news, report finds</strong></p>

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<p>TikTok is used by more than 150 Americans. Many US lawmakers have voiced concerns that Chinese-owned TikTok poses a serious security risk as far as American users' data is concerned. The lawmakers have also sounded the alarm over China's influence over the app.</p>

<p>TikTok has denied all such allegations from US political circles. It says that there is no improper data use involved and the company has spent $1.5 billion on data security measures.</p>

<h2><strong>The legislation</strong></h2>

<p>The latest bill moved by the lawmakers will direct the Commerce Department to identify categories of personal data that could harm US national security. It also directs it to create a&nbsp;list of high-risk countries where sensitive data exports would be blocked.</p>

<p>The bill will also seek to regulate exports of personal data by data brokers and firms like TikTok directly to restricted foreign governments. The legislation will apply export control penalties to senior executives who knew or should have known that employees were directed to illegally export Americans’ personal data.</p>

<p>In the month of March, a US House Committee voted to give US President Joe Biden the power to ban the Chinese video-sharing app&nbsp;TikTok. That legislation, however, has not moved forward.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/serbian-dancing-lady-real-or-fake-know-the-truth-behind-the-mysterious-creepy-viral-tiktok-video-604003">Serbian Dancing Lady: Real or Fake? Know the truth behind the mysterious &amp; creepy viral TikTok video</a></strong></p>

<p>Last month, TikTok sued to block a planned ban by Montana, the first US&nbsp;state to bar the popular short-video sharing service.</p>

<p>Warner said the likelihood of courts overturning Montana's ban made it essential for Congress to pass legislation to give the president new powers to ban or impose restrictions on TikTok and other foreign-owned apps.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Wednesday (June 14) introduced legislation to safeguard Americans' data from being used by adversaries of the United States.

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Wednesday (June 14) introduced legislation to safeguard Americans' data from being used by adversaries of the United States. The group consists of six senators and two members of the House of Representatives. This legislation represents the latest push from US lawmakers to address concerns about Americans' data being used by foreign-owned tech platforms like TikTok. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, a Democrat, said the bill "would turn off the tap of data to unfriendly nations, stop TikTok from sending Americans’ personal information to China, and allow nations with strong privacy protections to strengthen their relationships." Watch | 55% people rely on TikTok and Snapchat for news, report finds × TikTok is used by more than 150 Americans. Many US lawmakers have voiced concerns that Chinese-owned TikTok poses a serious security risk as far as American users' data is concerned. The lawmakers have also sounded the alarm over China's influence over the app. TikTok has denied all such allegations from US political circles. It says that there is no improper data use involved and the company has spent $1.5 billion on data security measures. The legislation The latest bill moved by the lawmakers will direct the Commerce Department to identify categories of personal data that could harm US national security. It also directs it to create a list of high-risk countries where sensitive data exports would be blocked. The bill will also seek to regulate exports of personal data by data brokers and firms like TikTok directly to restricted foreign governments. The legislation will apply export control penalties to senior executives who knew or should have known that employees were directed to illegally export Americans’ personal data. In the month of March, a US House Committee voted to give US President Joe Biden the power to ban the Chinese video-sharing app TikTok. That legislation, however, has not moved forward. Also Read | Serbian Dancing Lady: Real or Fake? Know the truth behind the mysterious & creepy viral TikTok video Last month, TikTok sued to block a planned ban by Montana, the first US state to bar the popular short-video sharing service. Warner said the likelihood of courts overturning Montana's ban made it essential for Congress to pass legislation to give the president new powers to ban or impose restrictions on TikTok and other foreign-owned apps. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: Lawmakers want new law to guard TikTok user data

<p>The Biden administration has initiated secret discussions with Iran to secure the release of American prisoners detained by Tehran as well as to contain the country's expanding nuclear programme, reported the Wall Street Journal citing individuals familiar with the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As these talks resumed, the US also authorised the transfer of 2.5 billion euros (which is equivalent to $2.7 billion) by the Iraqi government for Iranian electricity and gas imports. The amount had been previously frozen due to American economic sanctions.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran's demands for prisoner release, access to trapped funds</strong></h2>

<p>In return for the release of prisoners and limitations on nuclear work, reports said Iran is seeking access to billions of dollars in Iranian energy revenue currently held abroad due to US sanctions.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lg-reviews-amarnath-yatra-arrangements-in-pahalgam-over-60k-troops-to-be-deployed-for-security-604339">India: LG reviews Amarnath Yatra arrangements in Pahalgam, over 60k troops to be deployed for security</a></p>

<p>Iranian officials have consistently linked the potential release of prisoners to gaining access to $7 billion in Iranian funds held in South Korea. They have also demanded access to billions of dollars held in Iraq, intended for gas and oil deliveries.</p>

<h2><strong>Transfer of funds 'routine', unrelated to discussions: US officials&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>US officials stated that the fund transfer of 2.5 billion euros by the Iraqi government was a routine process and they are not connected to the ongoing discussions. According to reports, similar transfers have been made in the past. The only difference is that this time the funds were released in euros rather than local currencies.</p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that US President Joe Biden had previously promised to revive an international nuclear agreement that imposed restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. However, in November, he declared that such a deal was no longer feasible.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shark-that-ate-russian-tourist-on-camera-to-be-mummified-put-on-display-604333">Shark that ate Russian tourist on camera to be mummified, put on display</a></p>

<p>Under former president Donald Trump, the Iran Nuclear Deal or the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was&nbsp;revoked unilaterally by the US in May 2018. At the time, Trump termed the nuke deal with Iran as the “most horrible deal ever”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Indirect contact between US, Iranian officials</strong></h2>

<p>The initial discussions were made between senior US officials and officials from Iran in New York in the month of December last year. Following those discussions, the White House representatives have made multiple trips to Oman for further indirect contacts, according to media reports quoting sources.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK Police seek motive for Nottingham murders, man arrested after police finds three dead</strong></p>

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<p>WSJ report said that Omani officials have served as intermediaries often between US and Iran in order to facilitate communication between the two warring sides.</p>

<h2><strong>Balancing act for Biden administration</strong></h2>

<p>The current diplomatic effort aims to manage escalating tensions between Iran and US. This is especially crucial as Iran has allegedly ramped up its supply of drones to Russia to back Moscow in its war on Ukraine which has been waging on for over a year now. Other points of infliction are Iran's continued uranium enrichment activities along with the seizure of oil tankers in the Persian Gulf.</p>

<h2>Political considerations, opposition to nuke deal&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The discussions with Iran will also be keenly watched by American voters back home. Therefore, the Biden administration is cautious about thrusting negotiations with Iran into the spotlight as the presidential campaign approaches.</p>

<p>Any formal agreement or even an informal understanding, which seems more likely, could trigger a review in Congress. Both Republicans and some Democrats strongly oppose a nuclear deal with Iran.</p>

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The Biden administration has initiated secret discussions with Iran to secure the release of American prisoners detained by Tehran as well as to contain the country's expanding nuclear programme, reported the Wall Street Journal citing individuals familiar with the matter.

The Biden administration has initiated secret discussions with Iran to secure the release of American prisoners detained by Tehran as well as to contain the country's expanding nuclear programme, reported the Wall Street Journal citing individuals familiar with the matter. As these talks resumed, the US also authorised the transfer of 2.5 billion euros (which is equivalent to $2.7 billion) by the Iraqi government for Iranian electricity and gas imports. The amount had been previously frozen due to American economic sanctions. Iran's demands for prisoner release, access to trapped funds In return for the release of prisoners and limitations on nuclear work, reports said Iran is seeking access to billions of dollars in Iranian energy revenue currently held abroad due to US sanctions. Also Read | India: LG reviews Amarnath Yatra arrangements in Pahalgam, over 60k troops to be deployed for security Iranian officials have consistently linked the potential release of prisoners to gaining access to $7 billion in Iranian funds held in South Korea. They have also demanded access to billions of dollars held in Iraq, intended for gas and oil deliveries. Transfer of funds 'routine', unrelated to discussions: US officials US officials stated that the fund transfer of 2.5 billion euros by the Iraqi government was a routine process and they are not connected to the ongoing discussions. According to reports, similar transfers have been made in the past. The only difference is that this time the funds were released in euros rather than local currencies. It is pertinent to note that US President Joe Biden had previously promised to revive an international nuclear agreement that imposed restrictions on Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. However, in November, he declared that such a deal was no longer feasible. Also Read | Shark that ate Russian tourist on camera to be mummified, put on display Under former president Donald Trump, the Iran Nuclear Deal or the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was revoked unilaterally by the US in May 2018. At the time, Trump termed the nuke deal with Iran as the “most horrible deal ever”. Indirect contact between US, Iranian officials The initial discussions were made between senior US officials and officials from Iran in New York in the month of December last year. Following those discussions, the White House representatives have made multiple trips to Oman for further indirect contacts, according to media reports quoting sources. Watch | UK Police seek motive for Nottingham murders, man arrested after police finds three dead × WSJ report said that Omani officials have served as intermediaries often between US and Iran in order to facilitate communication between the two warring sides. Balancing act for Biden administration The current diplomatic effort aims to manage escalating tensions between Iran and US. This is especially crucial as Iran has allegedly ramped up its supply of drones to Russia to back Moscow in its war on Ukraine which has been waging on for over a year now. Other points of infliction are Iran's continued uranium enrichment activities along with the seizure of oil tankers in the Persian Gulf. Political considerations, opposition to nuke deal The discussions with Iran will also be keenly watched by American voters back home. Therefore, the Biden administration is cautious about thrusting negotiations with Iran into the spotlight as the presidential campaign approaches. Any formal agreement or even an informal understanding, which seems more likely, could trigger a review in Congress. Both Republicans and some Democrats strongly oppose a nuclear deal with Iran. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Biden administration holds quiet talks with Iran to free US prisoners, curb nuke programme

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Zelensky thanks Poland for Ukraine's NATO bid, Russia bans gender reassignment surgery, US federal reserve pauses rate hikes, Cut Russia missile components: Zelensky's appeal, Over 7,500 Ukrainian troops killed or wounded: Russia.

Zelensky thanks Poland for Ukraine's NATO bid | Russia bans gender reassignment surgery

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US Senate confirms Nusrat Choudhury as first Muslim woman federal judge

India's HAL will produce engines as a licensed manufacturer

Narendra Modi`s US Visit: A watershed moment for India-US ties

New Delhi keen to get the know-how to make aircraft engines

India aims to produce over 350 fighter jets over next two decades

Indian PM Modi likely to visit Egypt on way back from US

India's terror-investigation agency to probe attacks on Indian Consulates

Blinken heads to Beijing hoping to calm fears of a US-China break

'India-US fighter jet pact will be crucial'

PM Modi’s US visit: What’s on the agenda?

Blinken stresses on better US-China communications as he heads to Beijing

Germany: US woman killed in attack near Neuschwanstein castle, suspect arrested

Gravitas: US regulators crackdown on cryptocurrency exchanges

Gravitas: US regulators crackdown on cryptocurrency exchanges

Did US taxpayers fund $2M worth of research in Wuhan before the COVID-19 outbreak?

Prosecutors move to remove five charges against Sam Bankman-Fried | World Business Watch

Gravitas: China's spy satellites spook US Military

Freak case: US man accidentally shoots himself in sleep while dreaming about burglary, charged

WION-VOA Co-Production: Indian PM Modi to begin US tour on June 21

US Supreme Court upholds law ensuring protections to Native American children in adoption

U.S. govt agencies hit in global hacking spree; Entities in UK & other nations also targeted

The US and Papua New Guinea sign a defence pact

The US deploys nuclear submarine to South Korea

Iranian President Raisi meets Cuban counterpart Miguel Diaz-Canel