<p>The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed. The joint raid was conducted by Washington and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Last night, during a partnered US and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four US&nbsp;servicemembers and one working dog wounded,” said the CENTCOM, in a statement. The targeted ISIS senior leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed during the raid, it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the three military personnel and the working dog are receiving treatment at the US medical facility in Iraq, said the CENTCOM. A report by CNN, citing a military official familiar with the operation, said that the three servicemen and the working dog are in stable condition, while the fourth member sustained minor injuries and has returned to duty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes days after the US military, in a statement had also announced the killing of “Ibrahim Al Qahtani, an ISIS official associated with planning ISIS detention center attacks,” It added, that raid also led to the “seizure of multiple weapons, ammo, and a suicide belt.” The statement posted on Twitter, five days after the raid was conducted, also said that there are more than 10,000 ISIS detainees being held in Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington leads the international coalition which leads the battle against IS in the region and also conducts periodic raids and strikes which target the group and its members. Earlier this month, the US military-led coalition forces and partner forces conducted 43 operations against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. It added, “No US forces were injured or killed in these operations.”<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM), on Friday (February 17) said four American military personnel and one working dog were injured during a raid targeting ISIS senior leader in northeastern Syria, who was killed. The joint raid was conducted by Washington and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the region. “Last night, during a partnered US and Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) helicopter raid in northeastern Syria, an explosion on target resulted in four US servicemembers and one working dog wounded,” said the CENTCOM, in a statement. The targeted ISIS senior leader, identified as Hamza al-Homsi, was killed during the raid, it added. While the three military personnel and the working dog are receiving treatment at the US medical facility in Iraq, said the CENTCOM. A report by CNN, citing a military official familiar with the operation, said that the three servicemen and the working dog are in stable condition, while the fourth member sustained minor injuries and has returned to duty. This comes days after the US military, in a statement had also announced the killing of “Ibrahim Al Qahtani, an ISIS official associated with planning ISIS detention center attacks,” It added, that raid also led to the “seizure of multiple weapons, ammo, and a suicide belt.” The statement posted on Twitter, five days after the raid was conducted, also said that there are more than 10,000 ISIS detainees being held in Syria. Washington leads the international coalition which leads the battle against IS in the region and also conducts periodic raids and strikes which target the group and its members. Earlier this month, the US military-led coalition forces and partner forces conducted 43 operations against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. It added, “No US forces were injured or killed in these operations.” 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.

Senior ISIS leader killed, four American troops, dog wounded after helicopter raid in Syria: US military

President Joe Biden stated on Thursday that he plans to meet with President Xi Jinping of China about what the US believes to be a Chinese surveillance balloon that was shot down by an American fighter jet earlier this month after flying over the US.

U.S. President Joe Biden defends taking down aerial objects

The US Marines will consider expanding the use of self-detonating drones, in the Indo-Pacific region, indicating these weapons could be deployed against Chinese warships at sea in a Taiwan crisis.

US to consider Indo-Pacific anti-ship drone, with eye on China

The U.S. brought its most advanced fighter jet, the F-35, to India for the first time this week. It also brought along F-16s, Super Hornets & B-1B bombers. Is US trying to woo India away from Russia with display of F-35s & B-1B bombers at Aero India 2023? Watch here.

Is US trying to woo India away from Russia with display of F-35s & B-1B bombers at Aero India 2023?

Hundreds of people were forced to evacuate the town of east Palestine, Ohio, after a freight train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed earlier this month. The derailed tanker further led to an explosion causing a major fire and pushing officials to immediately evacuate thousands of residents.

U.S. cargo train derails, causes massive fires

<p>The United States has registered a significant rise in the use of Plan B emergency contraception, also known as the “morning-after” pill over the past five years while demand for other forms of contraception like birth control pills and condoms has reduced, according to an analysis of market research data by the Financial Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over 15 million units of Plan B medication were sold last year, according to a Financial Times research, an increase of roughly 59 per cent&nbsp;from 2018. According to Symphony Health, a data supplier, during that time period, sale of condoms decreased by around 18 per cent while new prescriptions for oral contraceptive pills decreased by almost 15 per cent.</p>

<p>The data, which are estimates based on commercial insurance claims, retail sales, and other parameters,&nbsp;were cited by health experts as showing significant changes in how Americans access reproductive health services in light of the growing restrictions on abortion rights, following the Supreme Court's decision of overturning Roe v. Wade last year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-quest-for-male-birth-control-from-condoms-to-vasectomy-to-the-pill-562617">The quest for male birth control: from vasectomy to condoms to ‘the pill’</a></p>

<p>In addition, there has been a drop in in-person doctor visits as a result of greater over-the-counter availability to Plan B emergency contraception at pharmacies.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the Plan B, single-dose medication?</strong></h2>

<p>With the help of the hormone levonorgestrel, the single-dose drug Plan B delays ovulation. It works best when taken three days after unprotected intercourse and can reduce the likelihood of becoming pregnant by 75 per cent&nbsp;to 89 per cent.&nbsp;According to a healthcare provider, Planned Parenthood, who spoke to the Finacial Times,&nbsp;it is less effective than typical birth control pills, which when taken correctly may be up to 98 per cent&nbsp;effective.</p>

<p>Plan B is not recommended for normal contraception, although the US Food and Drug Administration has not said that there are any additional health concerns connected with using the drug than there are with taking conventional birth control tablets.</p>

<p>Rising dependence on emergency contraception rather than more conventional methods, particularly among young individuals, according to many health experts, should be combated by boosting education and outreach efforts as well as eliminating barriers to all types of birth control. They note the rising prevalence of STDs in the US and claim that Plan B is less effective than other methods of birth control.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Male contraceptive pill gets closer to reality</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-male-contraceptive-pill-gets-closer-to-reality-562852/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Yet, they contend that at a time when abortion facilities are expanding, requests from some conservative groups to restrict access to Plan B should be rejected.</p>

<p>“The answer is not to restrict Plan B but to open up the doors to other types of contraception and make it easier for people to access information,” said Dr Kate White, a gynecologist and associate professor at Boston University Chobanian &amp; Avedisian School of Medicine, who spoke to the Financial Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Young people are no longer willing to habitually trust medical advice, according to White, especially when friends or family have had negative experiences with intrauterine device discomfort or adverse effects from contraceptive pills, she said.</p>

<h2><strong>Where do other methods of contraception stand?</strong></h2>

<p>Standard birth control pills and IUDs, which are small devices placed into a woman's uterus to prevent conception, are only accessible in the US with a prescription, usually following a doctor's visit. Plan B, on the other hand, may normally be purchased over the counter for between $40 and $50, as reported by the Financial Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fewer women are obtaining yearly gynaecological check-ups,&nbsp;which is another factor contributing to the rising dependence on Plan B.</p>

<p>According to Symphony Health statistics, the number of women with commercial insurance who saw a gynaecologist for a preventative yearly appointment last year decreased to 3.7 million in the 11 months leading up to the end of November from 5.9 million for the entire year.</p>

<p>COVID-19 and updated cervical cancer screening recommendations that increased the suggested age to begin Pap tests.</p>

<p>Plan B, which was approved for over-the-counter access in 2013, has experienced a massive increase in public awareness as a result of the Supreme Court decision last year, which prompted a rush of Republican-led states to restrict abortion access.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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The United States has registered a significant rise in the use of Plan B emergency contraception, also known as the “morning-after” pill over the past five years while demand for other forms of contraception like birth control pills and condoms has reduced, according to an analysis of market research data by the Financial Times.

The United States has registered a significant rise in the use of Plan B emergency contraception, also known as the “morning-after” pill over the past five years while demand for other forms of contraception like birth control pills and condoms has reduced, according to an analysis of market research data by the Financial Times. Over 15 million units of Plan B medication were sold last year, according to a Financial Times research, an increase of roughly 59 per cent from 2018. According to Symphony Health, a data supplier, during that time period, sale of condoms decreased by around 18 per cent while new prescriptions for oral contraceptive pills decreased by almost 15 per cent. The data, which are estimates based on commercial insurance claims, retail sales, and other parameters, were cited by health experts as showing significant changes in how Americans access reproductive health services in light of the growing restrictions on abortion rights, following the Supreme Court's decision of overturning Roe v. Wade last year. ALSO READ | The quest for male birth control: from vasectomy to condoms to ‘the pill’ In addition, there has been a drop in in-person doctor visits as a result of greater over-the-counter availability to Plan B emergency contraception at pharmacies. What is the Plan B, single-dose medication? With the help of the hormone levonorgestrel, the single-dose drug Plan B delays ovulation. It works best when taken three days after unprotected intercourse and can reduce the likelihood of becoming pregnant by 75 per cent to 89 per cent. According to a healthcare provider, Planned Parenthood, who spoke to the Finacial Times, it is less effective than typical birth control pills, which when taken correctly may be up to 98 per cent effective. Plan B is not recommended for normal contraception, although the US Food and Drug Administration has not said that there are any additional health concerns connected with using the drug than there are with taking conventional birth control tablets. Rising dependence on emergency contraception rather than more conventional methods, particularly among young individuals, according to many health experts, should be combated by boosting education and outreach efforts as well as eliminating barriers to all types of birth control. They note the rising prevalence of STDs in the US and claim that Plan B is less effective than other methods of birth control. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Male contraceptive pill gets closer to reality Yet, they contend that at a time when abortion facilities are expanding, requests from some conservative groups to restrict access to Plan B should be rejected. “The answer is not to restrict Plan B but to open up the doors to other types of contraception and make it easier for people to access information,” said Dr Kate White, a gynecologist and associate professor at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, who spoke to the Financial Times. Young people are no longer willing to habitually trust medical advice, according to White, especially when friends or family have had negative experiences with intrauterine device discomfort or adverse effects from contraceptive pills, she said. Where do other methods of contraception stand? Standard birth control pills and IUDs, which are small devices placed into a woman's uterus to prevent conception, are only accessible in the US with a prescription, usually following a doctor's visit. Plan B, on the other hand, may normally be purchased over the counter for between $40 and $50, as reported by the Financial Times. Fewer women are obtaining yearly gynaecological check-ups, which is another factor contributing to the rising dependence on Plan B. According to Symphony Health statistics, the number of women with commercial insurance who saw a gynaecologist for a preventative yearly appointment last year decreased to 3.7 million in the 11 months leading up to the end of November from 5.9 million for the entire year. COVID-19 and updated cervical cancer screening recommendations that increased the suggested age to begin Pap tests. Plan B, which was approved for over-the-counter access in 2013, has experienced a massive increase in public awareness as a result of the Supreme Court decision last year, which prompted a rush of Republican-led states to restrict abortion access. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Upsurge in demand for morning-after pill as abortion restrictions persist

<p>Susan Wojcicki, CEO of YouTube and one of the original Google employees, said on Thursday that she is exiting&nbsp;from the company that was started&nbsp;in her garage 25 years ago.&nbsp;She made the announcement in a personal update on the video-sharing website. Youtube insider Neal Mohan will replace&nbsp;Wojcicki. The shift of leadership occurs as Netflix and TikTok, a popular app for short videos, compete for viewer attention with YouTube.</p>

<p>One of the most famous women in tech, Wojcicki, 54, said she will focus on “family, health, and personal projects” as per Reuters. She&nbsp;previously held the position of senior vice president for ad products at&nbsp;Google&nbsp;and became the CEO of YouTube in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today, after nearly 25 years at <a href="https://twitter.com/Google?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Google</a>, I’m stepping back to start a new chapter. I'm inspired every day by creators around the world who bring people together on <a href="https://twitter.com/YouTube?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YouTube</a>. It's been an honor to have a front row seat to this incredible community. <a href="https://t.co/063sYalPzX">https://t.co/063sYalPzX</a></p>
— Susan Wojcicki (@SusanWojcicki) <a href="https://twitter.com/SusanWojcicki/status/1626279709825978369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Who is Neal Mohan? The new CEO of YouTube to replace&nbsp;Susan Wojcicki</strong></h2>

<p>In 2008, Neal Mohan joined Google, which owns YouTube. He graduated from Stanford. He also served as the company's chief product officer before to taking the helm as CEO of YouTube, as reported by the Mint.</p>

<p>Mohan had previously worked for Microsoft and is a member of the boards of Stitch Fix and 23andMe, two companies that specialise in genomics and biotechnology.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ai-comes-up-with-40000-toxic-chemicals-in-6-hours-scientists-warn-could-be-used-to-make-biological-weapons-561636">AI comes up with 40,000 toxic chemicals in 6 hours; scientists warn could be used to make biological weapons</a></p>

<p>Mohan and Wojcicki have worked closely for almost 15 years. He joined <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/microsofts-bing-chatbot-denying-obvious-facts-scolding-users-562695">Google</a> in 2007 as part of the DoubleClick acquisition and eventually rose to the position of senior vice president of Display and Video Ads. In 2015, he was appointed chief product officer of YouTube.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/SusanWojcicki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SusanWojcicki</a> for all your amazing work over the years to make YouTube home for so many creators ♥️ <a href="https://t.co/T2t2NUqRsW">pic.twitter.com/T2t2NUqRsW</a></p>
— YouTube Creators (@YouTubeCreators) <a href="https://twitter.com/YouTubeCreators/status/1626267163685265410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“He has a wonderful sense for our product, our business, our creator and user communities, and our employees. Neal will be a terrific leader for YouTube," Wojcicki said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Mark Zuckerberg's security allowance hiked amid massive layoffs</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mark-zuckerbergs-security-allowance-hiked-amid-massive-layoffs-562660/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"With all, we’re doing across Shorts, streaming, and subscriptions, together with the promises of AI, YouTube’s most exciting opportunities are ahead, and Neal is the right person to lead us," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


Susan Wojcicki, CEO of YouTube and one of the original Google employees, said on Thursday that she is exiting from the company that was started in her garage 25 years ago.

Susan Wojcicki, CEO of YouTube and one of the original Google employees, said on Thursday that she is exiting from the company that was started in her garage 25 years ago. She made the announcement in a personal update on the video-sharing website. Youtube insider Neal Mohan will replace Wojcicki. The shift of leadership occurs as Netflix and TikTok, a popular app for short videos, compete for viewer attention with YouTube. One of the most famous women in tech, Wojcicki, 54, said she will focus on “family, health, and personal projects” as per Reuters. She previously held the position of senior vice president for ad products at Google and became the CEO of YouTube in 2014. Today, after nearly 25 years at @Google, I’m stepping back to start a new chapter. I'm inspired every day by creators around the world who bring people together on @YouTube. It's been an honor to have a front row seat to this incredible community. https://t.co/063sYalPzX — Susan Wojcicki (@SusanWojcicki) February 16, 2023 × Who is Neal Mohan? The new CEO of YouTube to replace Susan Wojcicki In 2008, Neal Mohan joined Google, which owns YouTube. He graduated from Stanford. He also served as the company's chief product officer before to taking the helm as CEO of YouTube, as reported by the Mint. Mohan had previously worked for Microsoft and is a member of the boards of Stitch Fix and 23andMe, two companies that specialise in genomics and biotechnology. ALSO READ | AI comes up with 40,000 toxic chemicals in 6 hours; scientists warn could be used to make biological weapons Mohan and Wojcicki have worked closely for almost 15 years. He joined Google in 2007 as part of the DoubleClick acquisition and eventually rose to the position of senior vice president of Display and Video Ads. In 2015, he was appointed chief product officer of YouTube. thank you @SusanWojcicki for all your amazing work over the years to make YouTube home for so many creators ♥️ pic.twitter.com/T2t2NUqRsW — YouTube Creators (@YouTubeCreators) February 16, 2023 × “He has a wonderful sense for our product, our business, our creator and user communities, and our employees. Neal will be a terrific leader for YouTube," Wojcicki said. ALSO WATCH | Mark Zuckerberg's security allowance hiked amid massive layoffs "With all, we’re doing across Shorts, streaming, and subscriptions, together with the promises of AI, YouTube’s most exciting opportunities are ahead, and Neal is the right person to lead us," she added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Who is Neal Mohan? Indian-American to replace YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki as she steps down

The top level diplomats and military officers from around the world gathered for the world's largest Global Security Conference in the German city of Munich. The security conference is annual gathering that is focused on defence and diplomacy.

Munich Security Conference: Russia-Ukraine war, U.S.-China tensions in focus at summit

Germany: Global Security Conference in Munich; Blinken, Harris leading U.S. delegation

Becoming world's four biggest accountancy firm to slash jobs in the US. Reports say that KPMG is cutting close to 2% of its workforce in the country, this will be the turbulent macro-economic environment that has pressured consumers.

KPMG to cut 2% staff in US, several financial firms slash jobs

A mass shooting at the Michigan State University in the United States left three people dead and several injured. Among the survivors was a 21-year-old girl who has survived the Sandy Hook school massacre in 2012. Priyanka Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Another mass shooting rocks U.S.

The 19-year-old White man who killed 10 people in a racist mass shooting at a grocery store in a predominantly black area, Buffalo, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Buffalo mass shooter sentenced to life without parole, apologises for market rampage

US: Buffalo mass shooter sentenced to life, judge says 'No mercy'

After the United States sanctioned six Chinese companies linked to China suspected surveillance balloon program, China has now accused US of flying high altitude balloons over its Xinjiang and Tibet regions.

U.S.-China Ballooning Controversy: Beijing says US balloons flew over Xinjiang, Tibet

The race for the U.S. Presidential elections scheduled to be held in 2024 has heated up. In the race, the Indian-origin Republican leader Nikki Haley launched her Presidential bid

Indian-American Nikki Haley kicks-off U.S. Presidential Campaign for 2024

U.S. Secretary of State is expected to hold a meeting with China's top diplomat Wang Yi at the Munich security conference. But if not some experts even predict the March G-20 foreign ministers meet in India would be another opportunity..

US, China weigh first meeting since balloon controversy

U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to visit Poland this month to mark the one year anniversary of the Ukraine war. Biden will meet with Polish President Andrzej Duda during his visit.

Biden to visit Poland to mark first anniversary of Ukraine war

U.S. military helicopter crashes on highway at Harvest, Alabama. Black flames & smoke rises from the UH-60 Black Hawk.

Fatal Helicopter Crash

WION examines global issues with in-depth analysis and brings you a quick round-up of all the top headlines and breakings from all across the world.

WION Speed News: China calls on U.S. to manage differences over spy balloon

<p>An investigation by an independent commission recently has unearthed the dirty face of child abuse at the hands of Catholic clergy in Portugal. The horrifying testimonies of the survivors become the ground of the commission's inquiry. The commission with the help of a large network of victims was able to make a deeper cut into finding out the ongoing paedophilia in the staunchly Catholic country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Portuguese inquiry which was commissioned by the church revealed that there are about 5,000 children who have become victims of child abuse since 1950. The report comes after the testimony of over 500 survivors last year.&nbsp;Commission head, Pedro Strecht, responded to the inquiry findings saying “This testimony allows us to establish a much larger network of victims, at least 4,815."&nbsp;</p>

<p>To do away with this gruesome malice, the country's bishop will reportedly convene in March. As per reports, the time for the majority of the offenders has passed its limit for bringing about the charges but 25 of these cases have been transferred to the prosecution service.</p>

<h2><strong>Victims' voices&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Many victims have come forward to unlock their pain in front of the commission and recount the horror they have lived. A 43-year-old woman, who spoke on the condition of anonymity has alleged that a priest raped her during confession when she was just a 17-year-old novice nun.</p>

<p>The woman revealed that she kept it a secret for a long time because of her deep-seated fear of speaking out against the clergies in a largely Catholic country. At one point, she said she mustered up the courage to bring culprits to justice but no one did anything to help her.</p>

<p>She expressed her anger saying that a bishop asking for forgiveness for his sins does not hold any meaning for her. “We don’t know if they mean it," she said adding, “The church needs to cleanse itself."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><b>But this is not just Europe...</b></h2>

<p>The child abuse cases which has now come to light in Portugal are nothing new as these accusations have been emerging every now and then from all across the world. Data exposes the magnanimity of the situation which can make anyone sit up and notice. The United States, too, have its own share of the burden when it comes to tackling these child abuse scandals carried out by the priests and the Catholic churches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For instance, the legal bearing of the lawsuits got pretty real for the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego. As per reports, now the diocese may soon become bankrupt as it stares down “staggering" legal costs thanks to about 400 lawsuits against its priests for allegedly sexually abusing children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Diocese in a statement said that a whopping $550 million in legal charges are against priests who are not presently serving.</p>

<p>All these cases, as per Diocese, were filed after a 2019 bill which make it possible for child sexual abuse victims in California to no longer face deadlines to file civil claims. At the time, California State Representative Dawn Addis in her remarks said that it's "time to end this arbitrary and cruel time limit on justice."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the new law?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Under the previous law, minor sexual assault survivors only had until their 40th birthday to seek justice in civil court however with the new bill the time limit is now dropped. It has opened floodgates as most of the alleged abuses were reportedly cited in the suits that took place 50 to 75 years ago. These child abuse victims just do not come forward by that age sometimes. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The data suggests that in New York, nearly 11,000 cases were filed in state courts seeking to hold Catholic dioceses responsible for sexual abuse by clergy.&nbsp;And it is interesting to note that like in California mass sexual abuse litigations are being filed all across US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 23 states, along with two territories and Washington, D.C., have passed laws that suspend statutes of limitations for sexual-abuse victims. However, there is one more loophole, the way the bankruptcy claims-filing procedures are.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The loopholes in the&nbsp;Bankruptcy filings&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Judges who look at these filings in the Bankruptcy courts sometimes set up their own deadlines. This becomes an issue because when the victim misses the deadline they get nothing or they get only some of the claim from the accumulated amounts for unknown claimants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In December 2019, Pope Francis in a bid to crack down on sexual abuse cases abolished the rule of pontifical secrecy. The changes let go of a practice of keeping silent on those who report sexual abuse or allege they have been a victim. At the time, Pope Francis vowed zero tolerance saying he will come down heavily on stopping the abuse. Even so, there are growing voices which continues to call for more to put an end to it all.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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An investigation by an independent commission recently has unearthed the dirty face of child abuse at the hands of Catholic clergy in Portugal. The horrifying testimonies of the survivors become the ground of the commission's inquiry.

An investigation by an independent commission recently has unearthed the dirty face of child abuse at the hands of Catholic clergy in Portugal. The horrifying testimonies of the survivors become the ground of the commission's inquiry. The commission with the help of a large network of victims was able to make a deeper cut into finding out the ongoing paedophilia in the staunchly Catholic country. The Portuguese inquiry which was commissioned by the church revealed that there are about 5,000 children who have become victims of child abuse since 1950. The report comes after the testimony of over 500 survivors last year. Commission head, Pedro Strecht, responded to the inquiry findings saying “This testimony allows us to establish a much larger network of victims, at least 4,815." To do away with this gruesome malice, the country's bishop will reportedly convene in March. As per reports, the time for the majority of the offenders has passed its limit for bringing about the charges but 25 of these cases have been transferred to the prosecution service. Victims' voices Many victims have come forward to unlock their pain in front of the commission and recount the horror they have lived. A 43-year-old woman, who spoke on the condition of anonymity has alleged that a priest raped her during confession when she was just a 17-year-old novice nun. The woman revealed that she kept it a secret for a long time because of her deep-seated fear of speaking out against the clergies in a largely Catholic country. At one point, she said she mustered up the courage to bring culprits to justice but no one did anything to help her. She expressed her anger saying that a bishop asking for forgiveness for his sins does not hold any meaning for her. “We don’t know if they mean it," she said adding, “The church needs to cleanse itself." But this is not just Europe... The child abuse cases which has now come to light in Portugal are nothing new as these accusations have been emerging every now and then from all across the world. Data exposes the magnanimity of the situation which can make anyone sit up and notice. The United States, too, have its own share of the burden when it comes to tackling these child abuse scandals carried out by the priests and the Catholic churches. For instance, the legal bearing of the lawsuits got pretty real for the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego. As per reports, now the diocese may soon become bankrupt as it stares down “staggering" legal costs thanks to about 400 lawsuits against its priests for allegedly sexually abusing children. The Diocese in a statement said that a whopping $550 million in legal charges are against priests who are not presently serving. All these cases, as per Diocese, were filed after a 2019 bill which make it possible for child sexual abuse victims in California to no longer face deadlines to file civil claims. At the time, California State Representative Dawn Addis in her remarks said that it's "time to end this arbitrary and cruel time limit on justice." What is the new law? Under the previous law, minor sexual assault survivors only had until their 40th birthday to seek justice in civil court however with the new bill the time limit is now dropped. It has opened floodgates as most of the alleged abuses were reportedly cited in the suits that took place 50 to 75 years ago. These child abuse victims just do not come forward by that age sometimes. The data suggests that in New York, nearly 11,000 cases were filed in state courts seeking to hold Catholic dioceses responsible for sexual abuse by clergy. And it is interesting to note that like in California mass sexual abuse litigations are being filed all across US. A total of 23 states, along with two territories and Washington, D.C., have passed laws that suspend statutes of limitations for sexual-abuse victims. However, there is one more loophole, the way the bankruptcy claims-filing procedures are. The loopholes in the Bankruptcy filings Judges who look at these filings in the Bankruptcy courts sometimes set up their own deadlines. This becomes an issue because when the victim misses the deadline they get nothing or they get only some of the claim from the accumulated amounts for unknown claimants. In December 2019, Pope Francis in a bid to crack down on sexual abuse cases abolished the rule of pontifical secrecy. The changes let go of a practice of keeping silent on those who report sexual abuse or allege they have been a victim. At the time, Pope Francis vowed zero tolerance saying he will come down heavily on stopping the abuse. Even so, there are growing voices which continues to call for more to put an end to it all. 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.

EXPLAINED: The ugly face of Child sexual abuse in Catholic church

The US Congressional Budget Office warned that the federal government would be at risk of a payment default as soon as July if politicians fail to raise the debt limit.

US likely to face debt-ceiling crisis this July, warns CBO

The Republicans in the United States House of Representatives are continuing with their investigations into the dealings of U.S. President Joe Biden's family. Now, they have made their very first official request for documents related to Joe Biden's son.

U.S. President Joe Biden's brother Jim Biden under GOP scanner

<p>The Chinese balloon, which was shot down after it crossed the continental United States, was on its way to Guam and Hawaii, however, it was blown off course by prevailing winds, claimed a US official on Wednesday.</p>

<p>On February 4, the US military shot down the balloon which was accused of being a surveillance device being used by Beijing, even though it claimed it was a civilian research vessel.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>China charges US of flowing balloons over Xinjiang, Tibet</strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, diplomatic friction between China and the United States worsened after Beijing charged the latter with flying high-altitude balloons over the Xinjiang and Tibet regions and threatened to take measures against the US entities which have undermined the sovereignty of China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Beijing and Washington have been involved in a tussle over the flying balloons after a Chinese balloon was shot down by the US military as it claimed it to be a spy device flowing over the coast of South Carolina.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Beijing claimed the balloon to be a civilian research vessel which had veered off mistakenly and stated that Washington had overreacted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-adds-6-chinese-entities-linked-with-balloon-program-to-trade-blacklist-560798">US adds 6 Chinese entities, linked with spy balloon programme, to trade blacklist</a></p>

<p>This week, China claimed that, since May 2022, US balloons have entered its airspace more than 10 times without permission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Without the approval of relevant Chinese authorities, it has illegally flown at least 10 times over China's territorial airspace, including over Xinjiang, Tibet and other provinces," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin while speaking at a press conference on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The allegations made by the White House have been disputed by China.</p>

<p>Six Chinese entities, which are related to the suspected surveillance balloon programme of Beijing, have been added to an export blacklist by Washington.</p>

<p>"The US has abused force, overreacted, escalated the situation, and used this as a pretext to illegally sanction Chinese companies and institutions," said Wang.</p>

<p>"China is firmly opposed to this and will take countermeasures against relevant U.S. entities that undermine China's sovereignty and security in accordance with the law," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is mulling over holding a meeting with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi in Munich this week, reports suggest.</p>

<p>Later on Wednesday, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman said that they have not stopped communication with China, however, she did not&nbsp;reveal any details of future high-level meetings.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Spy Balloon Row: White House says, 'US not sure about the objects it shot down'</strong></p>

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<p>"We hope when conditions make sense that we will be seeing each other face-to-face again. No announcements today," she added.</p>

<p>"They have now said that there have been a gazillion balloons by the US over China. That is absolutely not true. There are no U.S. government balloons over China," she said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Chinese balloon, which was shot down after it crossed the continental United States, was on its way to Guam and Hawaii, however, it was blown off course by prevailing winds, claimed a US official on Wednesday.

The Chinese balloon, which was shot down after it crossed the continental United States, was on its way to Guam and Hawaii, however, it was blown off course by prevailing winds, claimed a US official on Wednesday. On February 4, the US military shot down the balloon which was accused of being a surveillance device being used by Beijing, even though it claimed it was a civilian research vessel. China charges US of flowing balloons over Xinjiang, Tibet On Wednesday, diplomatic friction between China and the United States worsened after Beijing charged the latter with flying high-altitude balloons over the Xinjiang and Tibet regions and threatened to take measures against the US entities which have undermined the sovereignty of China. Beijing and Washington have been involved in a tussle over the flying balloons after a Chinese balloon was shot down by the US military as it claimed it to be a spy device flowing over the coast of South Carolina. However, Beijing claimed the balloon to be a civilian research vessel which had veered off mistakenly and stated that Washington had overreacted. ALSO READ | US adds 6 Chinese entities, linked with spy balloon programme, to trade blacklist This week, China claimed that, since May 2022, US balloons have entered its airspace more than 10 times without permission. "Without the approval of relevant Chinese authorities, it has illegally flown at least 10 times over China's territorial airspace, including over Xinjiang, Tibet and other provinces," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin while speaking at a press conference on Wednesday. The allegations made by the White House have been disputed by China. Six Chinese entities, which are related to the suspected surveillance balloon programme of Beijing, have been added to an export blacklist by Washington. "The US has abused force, overreacted, escalated the situation, and used this as a pretext to illegally sanction Chinese companies and institutions," said Wang. "China is firmly opposed to this and will take countermeasures against relevant U.S. entities that undermine China's sovereignty and security in accordance with the law," he added. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is mulling over holding a meeting with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi in Munich this week, reports suggest. Later on Wednesday, US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman said that they have not stopped communication with China, however, she did not reveal any details of future high-level meetings. WATCH | Spy Balloon Row: White House says, 'US not sure about the objects it shot down' "We hope when conditions make sense that we will be seeing each other face-to-face again. No announcements today," she added. "They have now said that there have been a gazillion balloons by the US over China. That is absolutely not true. There are no U.S. government balloons over China," she said. (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

Destroyed Chinese balloon aimed for Guam, Hawaii, claims US official

Check out what's happening around the world.

WION Speed News: Buffalo mass shooter sentenced to life; 1 killed, 3 wounded in Texas mall shooting

<p>Many people suffer from chronic constipation issues and it becomes painful for them to tackle it, especially if they do not wish to take any medicine. These difficulties can arise because of many reasons including bad food habits or some other clinical problem. However, in a major relief, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has now cleared a pill, Vibrant, which may help ease chronic constipation and that too without the use of any medicine. How?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before understanding how the pill works on our body and how the pill addresses constipation issues, it is important to know about Colonic Motility as dysfunction of this can lead to constipation and other colon-related issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-student-under-house-arrest-for-cricitising-ukraine-war-heres-what-she-says-562149">Russian student under house arrest for cricitising Ukraine war. Here's what she says</a></p>

<h2><strong>What is Colon and Colonic Motility Dysfunction?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The colon is an organ in the gastrointestinal tract which plays a crucial role in regulating the defecation process and maintaining the consistency of stools. However, in the case of Colonic Motility Dysfunction, bowel habits may sometimes alter which leads to constipation, diarrhoea or in certain cases, intermittent abdominal cramping.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-turkey-quake-broke-an-olive-grove-into-two-creating-a-984-feet-valley-562124">The Turkey quake broke an olive grove into two, creating a 984-feet valley</a></p>

<h2><strong>How does the therapy work?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The drug authority gave clearance to the pill, Vibrant, in the month of August 2022. However, the treatment was up until not available to doctors for a prescription. That hurdle is also now crossed this week. The pill's main function is to provide stimulation to colonic mobility which eventually leads to a smooth bowel movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ben Feldman, Chief Marketing Officer of Vibrant Gastro, the company which manufactured the pill, told Health, “The pills stimulate specialized nerve cells in the gut called mechanosensory cells."&nbsp;</p>

<p>This therapy is even more welcomed in the United States as a total of 16 per cent of people in the country are believed to the affected by Chronic constipation. This pill mechanically stimulates the colon from the inside and does not contain any medicine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/designer-babies-how-far-is-too-far-562161">'Designer' babies: How far is too far?</a></p>

<p>Feldman said that the pre-programmed timing of the mechanical stimulation is thought to "improve colonic motility by leveraging the body’s biological clock." Giving more details about the pill, the chief commercial officer for Vibrant Gastro,&nbsp;Cathy Collis,&nbsp;said that when the pill is in activation mode there are little vibrations for three seconds on, and three seconds off.</p>

<p>Once the stimulation part is done, the pill is automatically expelled from the body during the bowel movement. The technology in the pill helps one to track the capsule while it’s in your body.&nbsp;</p>

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Many people suffer from chronic constipation issues and it becomes painful for them to tackle it, especially if they do not wish to take any medicine. These difficulties can arise because of many reasons including bad food habits or some other clinical problem.

Many people suffer from chronic constipation issues and it becomes painful for them to tackle it, especially if they do not wish to take any medicine. These difficulties can arise because of many reasons including bad food habits or some other clinical problem. However, in a major relief, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has now cleared a pill, Vibrant, which may help ease chronic constipation and that too without the use of any medicine. How? Before understanding how the pill works on our body and how the pill addresses constipation issues, it is important to know about Colonic Motility as dysfunction of this can lead to constipation and other colon-related issues. Also Read | Russian student under house arrest for cricitising Ukraine war. Here's what she says What is Colon and Colonic Motility Dysfunction? The colon is an organ in the gastrointestinal tract which plays a crucial role in regulating the defecation process and maintaining the consistency of stools. However, in the case of Colonic Motility Dysfunction, bowel habits may sometimes alter which leads to constipation, diarrhoea or in certain cases, intermittent abdominal cramping. Also Read | The Turkey quake broke an olive grove into two, creating a 984-feet valley How does the therapy work? The drug authority gave clearance to the pill, Vibrant, in the month of August 2022. However, the treatment was up until not available to doctors for a prescription. That hurdle is also now crossed this week. The pill's main function is to provide stimulation to colonic mobility which eventually leads to a smooth bowel movement. Ben Feldman, Chief Marketing Officer of Vibrant Gastro, the company which manufactured the pill, told Health, “The pills stimulate specialized nerve cells in the gut called mechanosensory cells." This therapy is even more welcomed in the United States as a total of 16 per cent of people in the country are believed to the affected by Chronic constipation. This pill mechanically stimulates the colon from the inside and does not contain any medicine. Watch | 'Designer' babies: How far is too far? Feldman said that the pre-programmed timing of the mechanical stimulation is thought to "improve colonic motility by leveraging the body’s biological clock." Giving more details about the pill, the chief commercial officer for Vibrant Gastro, Cathy Collis, said that when the pill is in activation mode there are little vibrations for three seconds on, and three seconds off. Once the stimulation part is done, the pill is automatically expelled from the body during the bowel movement. The technology in the pill helps one to track the capsule while it’s in your body. 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.

FDA approves a 'first-of-its-kind' vibrating pill to relieve chronic constipation

As Americans continue to feel burdened by higher costs for rental, housing and food, U.S. consumer prices they have accelerated last month and has given a rise to possibilities that Federal Reserve was far from causing its interest rates hiking rates.

U.S. inflation slows to 6.4% in January, smaller fall in CPI than expected | World Business Watch

US President Joe Biden had a telephonic conversation with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi after a jumbo deal between Air India and Boeing. During the interaction, PM Modi expressed satisfaction at the deepening of India-US global strategic partnership.

Air India to buy over 200 Boeing planes, deal is biggest in aviation history

The race for 2024 Presidential elections has begun and in the latest former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has announced a candidature for the 2024 Republican Presidential nomination. The news was expected as for a week now, she's hinting the announcement.

US: Nikki Haley to run for 2024 Presidential polls, will challenge former boss Donald Trump

The White House has said that there was no indication that the three flying objects that were shot down over US and Canada by the US military are linked to alleged Chinese flying. It was further said that the aerial objects may turn out to be balloons connected to Benign commercial or research efforts.

Spy Balloon Row: White House says, 'US not sure about the objects it shot down'

Russia is continuing to pour a large number of people into the fight, they are ill-trained and ill-equipped, says US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin while addressing NATO defence ministers meet.

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin addresses NATO Defence Ministers meet

<p>The record-breaking $2.04 billion&nbsp;lottery, the highest in US history, has finally revealed its sole winner. As shared&nbsp;on its Twitter handle, California Lottery officials announced at a news conference on Tuesday (February 14) that Edwin Castro had won the Powerball jackpot and has chosen to receive the $997.6 million payoff in one lump sum, as reported by the New York Times.&nbsp;The press conference revealed just the name of the winner and nothing more. As reported by CNN, Castro bought the winning ticket in Altadena, California, in the first few days of November, matching all six drawn numbers.</p>

<p>The disclosure laws in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-record-204bn-powerball-jackpot-has-been-won-by-someone-in-south-california-532422">California</a> make it mandatory for a lottery winner's name and other relevant information to be publicly revealed, but&nbsp;with some conditions in place.&nbsp;As reported by&nbsp;USA Today&nbsp;the state laws only allow disclosure of full name, the name and location of the retailer that sold the winning ticket, the date jackpot was won, and the amount.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Edwin Castro from California was revealed to be the winner of the $2.04 billion Powerball lottery, the largest jackpot in history <a href="https://t.co/O6BqIv9PTX">pic.twitter.com/O6BqIv9PTX</a></p>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1625804615156633600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The winner has one year from the draw date to come forward and claim the reward, according to the lottery's administrators. Castro declined to make a public appearance as reported by USA Today.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Business News | US Powerball jackpot soars to $1.9 billion, largest in history</strong></p>

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<p>"As you might imagine, anyone would like to largely remain private. We offer our sincere congratulations on this unbelievable and historic win," California Lottery Director Alva Johnson said at Tuesday's press conference.</p>

<p>The officials then read the lottery winner's written statement, in which he expressed his shock and ecstasy at winning.</p>

<h2><strong>History of America's Powerball</strong></h2>

<p>The Powerball jackpot, announced in November 2022, was the biggest-ever lottery, beating&nbsp;the US$1.6 billion prize which went unclaimed.</p>

<p>After the announcement of the&nbsp;winning ticket, the service centre that sold the golden ticket received a Powerball bonus of US$1 million.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bruce-springsteen-adds-18-cities-to-2023-us-tour-562327">Bruce Springsteen adds 18 cities to 2023 US tour</a></p>

<p>Powerball is played in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, according to&nbsp;USA Today. Each ticket is priced at US$2.&nbsp;One in 292.2 million people have a chance of winning the Powerball jackpot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The multi-state lottery known as Lotto America first ran in 1988, the same year that Powerball debuted. On April 19, 1992, the name of the game and its inaugural drawing were both changed to Powerball.</p>

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The record-breaking $2.04 billion lottery, the highest in US history, has finally revealed its sole winner. As shared on its Twitter handle, California Lottery officials announced at a news conference on Tuesday (February 14) that Edwin Castro had won the Powerball jackpot and has chosen to receive the $997.

The record-breaking $2.04 billion lottery, the highest in US history, has finally revealed its sole winner. As shared on its Twitter handle, California Lottery officials announced at a news conference on Tuesday (February 14) that Edwin Castro had won the Powerball jackpot and has chosen to receive the $997.6 million payoff in one lump sum, as reported by the New York Times. The press conference revealed just the name of the winner and nothing more. As reported by CNN, Castro bought the winning ticket in Altadena, California, in the first few days of November, matching all six drawn numbers. The disclosure laws in California make it mandatory for a lottery winner's name and other relevant information to be publicly revealed, but with some conditions in place. As reported by USA Today the state laws only allow disclosure of full name, the name and location of the retailer that sold the winning ticket, the date jackpot was won, and the amount. Edwin Castro from California was revealed to be the winner of the $2.04 billion Powerball lottery, the largest jackpot in history pic.twitter.com/O6BqIv9PTX — Reuters (@Reuters) February 15, 2023 × The winner has one year from the draw date to come forward and claim the reward, according to the lottery's administrators. Castro declined to make a public appearance as reported by USA Today. Also watch | WION Business News | US Powerball jackpot soars to $1.9 billion, largest in history "As you might imagine, anyone would like to largely remain private. We offer our sincere congratulations on this unbelievable and historic win," California Lottery Director Alva Johnson said at Tuesday's press conference. The officials then read the lottery winner's written statement, in which he expressed his shock and ecstasy at winning. History of America's Powerball The Powerball jackpot, announced in November 2022, was the biggest-ever lottery, beating the US$1.6 billion prize which went unclaimed. After the announcement of the winning ticket, the service centre that sold the golden ticket received a Powerball bonus of US$1 million. Also read | Bruce Springsteen adds 18 cities to 2023 US tour Powerball is played in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, according to USA Today. Each ticket is priced at US$2. One in 292.2 million people have a chance of winning the Powerball jackpot. The multi-state lottery known as Lotto America first ran in 1988, the same year that Powerball debuted. On April 19, 1992, the name of the game and its inaugural drawing were both changed to Powerball. 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.

Powerball lottery result announced: California's Edwin Castro wins the $2.04 billion jackpot

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Destroyed Chinese balloon aimed for Guam, Hawaii, claims US official