The Japanese government spent at least $42.8 billion (a record 6.35 trillion yen) in the month of October to bolster the country’s currency, the yen, said a report released by the country’s Ministry of Finance, on Monday. This also comes after the government spent 2.8 trillion yen ($20 billion) in September amid the currency’s decline for almost 32-year-lows.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that the Japanese government started buying the yen last month, a first since 1998, to counter the sharp decline of the currency against the dollar. The finance ministry report disclosed the data for the period between September 29 to October 27, however, does not indicate the number of times the government intervened.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, in September, Japanese Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki had talked about the government’s move to buy the yen, a first in over two decades, while repeatedly implying that he would not tolerate any speculative moves in the yen.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-announces-260bn-stimulus-package-to-combat-rising-inflation-529139">Japan PM announces $260bn stimulus package to combat rising inflation</a>

However, reports suggest that despite these actions and warnings currency has continued to hover near the 150 yen level and have attributed this to the increasing gap between the Bank of Japan, the country’s central bank and their ultra-loose monetary policy and tightening by most other large central banks across the world.&nbsp;

This comes amid global concern about the strength of the dollar this year with the US Federal Reserve’s push to increase interest rates to combat inflation in the country attracting larger investments in dollar-denominated assets while the BoJ is reportedly keeping interest rates near zero. On October 21, the yen hit a 32-year intraday low of 151.93 yen to the dollar, said&nbsp;reports.

Meanwhile, the country’s top currency official, Masato Kanda, suggested that the government with its almost $1.3 trillion in foreign reserves has a “limitless” amount of funds to conduct interventions, said a report by Financial Times. On the other hand, analysts have questioned the effectiveness of such unilateral actions while others have expressed caution about this move increasing market volatility.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-after-fall-in-tax-revenues-government-launches-competition-to-encourage-alcohol-consumption-507929">Please drink more: As tax revenues fall, Japan launches competition to encourage alcohol consumption</a>

As of Monday evening in Tokyo, the yen was nearly 148.57 per dollar. As interest rates continue to widen between the US and Japan the yen is expected to stay under downward pressure against the dollar. However, a report by Bloomberg citing economist Atsushi Takeda at Itochu Research Institute speculates that the US Federal Reserve may be approaching its peak on rate hikes which should ease some pressure on the yen.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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The Japanese government spent at least $42.8 billion (a record 6.35 trillion yen) in the month of October to bolster the country’s currency, the yen, said a report released by the country’s Ministry of Finance, on Monday.

The Japanese government spent at least $42.8 billion (a record 6.35 trillion yen) in the month of October to bolster the country’s currency, the yen, said a report released by the country’s Ministry of Finance, on Monday. This also comes after the government spent 2.8 trillion yen ($20 billion) in September amid the currency’s decline for almost 32-year-lows. Reports suggest that the Japanese government started buying the yen last month, a first since 1998, to counter the sharp decline of the currency against the dollar. The finance ministry report disclosed the data for the period between September 29 to October 27, however, does not indicate the number of times the government intervened. Earlier this year, in September, Japanese Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki had talked about the government’s move to buy the yen, a first in over two decades, while repeatedly implying that he would not tolerate any speculative moves in the yen. ALSO READ: Japan PM announces $260bn stimulus package to combat rising inflation However, reports suggest that despite these actions and warnings currency has continued to hover near the 150 yen level and have attributed this to the increasing gap between the Bank of Japan, the country’s central bank and their ultra-loose monetary policy and tightening by most other large central banks across the world. This comes amid global concern about the strength of the dollar this year with the US Federal Reserve’s push to increase interest rates to combat inflation in the country attracting larger investments in dollar-denominated assets while the BoJ is reportedly keeping interest rates near zero. On October 21, the yen hit a 32-year intraday low of 151.93 yen to the dollar, said reports. Meanwhile, the country’s top currency official, Masato Kanda, suggested that the government with its almost $1.3 trillion in foreign reserves has a “limitless” amount of funds to conduct interventions, said a report by Financial Times. On the other hand, analysts have questioned the effectiveness of such unilateral actions while others have expressed caution about this move increasing market volatility. ALSO READ: Please drink more: As tax revenues fall, Japan launches competition to encourage alcohol consumption As of Monday evening in Tokyo, the yen was nearly 148.57 per dollar. As interest rates continue to widen between the US and Japan the yen is expected to stay under downward pressure against the dollar. However, a report by Bloomberg citing economist Atsushi Takeda at Itochu Research Institute speculates that the US Federal Reserve may be approaching its peak on rate hikes which should ease some pressure on the yen. (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.

Japanese government spent more than $40 billion to bolster the yen in October

The first attempt to do a countrywide count of abortions after the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision found that in the first two months following the decision, legal abortions decreased by more than 10,000, or nearly 6%, throughout the US.

According to thorough calculations done by a group of academics and abortion providers, legal abortions in 13 states—mostly in the South—banned or severely limited abortion during those months, with the number of abortions performed there falling to almost zero.

The number of legal abortions decreased by one-third in the nine additional states that imposed significant new abortion restrictions. On average, there were 22,000 fewer abortions in states with bans and limitations in July and August compared to the pre-decision baseline month of April.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-to-decide-on-race-based-admissions-in-top-universities-529720">US Supreme Court to decide on race-based admissions in top universities</a>

The number of abortions climbed by around 12,000, or 11%, in states where the procedure remained legal. That implies that almost 50% of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-adopts-new-womens-protection-law-revised-for-the-first-time-in-decades-529589">women</a> who were unable to obtain abortions in states with laws went to another state to do so, as reported by The New York Times.&nbsp;

However, despite such increases, it appears that the new state legislation have prohibited thousands of abortions.

WATCH |&nbsp;US: Early voting in states like Florida, Texas &amp; California&nbsp;

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This&nbsp;data comes from WeCount, a new organisation run by the Society of Family Planning, an organisation that backs abortion rights. From clinics, hospitals, and telemedicine providers all around the United States, it is gathering statistics on abortions.

It gathered comprehensive data on abortions from 79% of the country's abortion providers, who were in charge of 82% of all abortions prior to the court's Dobbs ruling. To approximate the missing data, researchers made changes based on state statistics and historical patterns.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-a-call-away-after-uk-and-wales-new-zealand-launches-telemedicine-services-for-abortion-529118">Just a call away: After UK and Wales, New Zealand launches telemedicine services for abortion</a>

It normally takes years to compile and publish comprehensive data on the number of abortions carried out in the United States. WeCount was developed to deliver more real-time data from a wider range of suppliers.

WeCount also discovered that the number of abortions performed nationwide increased in the two months following the Supreme Court's draught decision's leak but before Roe was overturned. This finding may be a sign that some pregnant women were getting abortions earlier than they otherwise would have or that clinics were increasing their capacity in anticipation of bans.

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The first attempt to do a countrywide count of abortions after the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision found that in the first two months following the decision, legal abortions decreased by more than 10,000, or nearly 6%, throughout the US.

The first attempt to do a countrywide count of abortions after the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision found that in the first two months following the decision, legal abortions decreased by more than 10,000, or nearly 6%, throughout the US. According to thorough calculations done by a group of academics and abortion providers, legal abortions in 13 states—mostly in the South—banned or severely limited abortion during those months, with the number of abortions performed there falling to almost zero. The number of legal abortions decreased by one-third in the nine additional states that imposed significant new abortion restrictions. On average, there were 22,000 fewer abortions in states with bans and limitations in July and August compared to the pre-decision baseline month of April. Also read | US Supreme Court to decide on race-based admissions in top universities The number of abortions climbed by around 12,000, or 11%, in states where the procedure remained legal. That implies that almost 50% of women who were unable to obtain abortions in states with laws went to another state to do so, as reported by The New York Times. However, despite such increases, it appears that the new state legislation have prohibited thousands of abortions. WATCH | US: Early voting in states like Florida, Texas & California × This data comes from WeCount, a new organisation run by the Society of Family Planning, an organisation that backs abortion rights. From clinics, hospitals, and telemedicine providers all around the United States, it is gathering statistics on abortions. It gathered comprehensive data on abortions from 79% of the country's abortion providers, who were in charge of 82% of all abortions prior to the court's Dobbs ruling. To approximate the missing data, researchers made changes based on state statistics and historical patterns. Also read | Just a call away: After UK and Wales, New Zealand launches telemedicine services for abortion It normally takes years to compile and publish comprehensive data on the number of abortions carried out in the United States. WeCount was developed to deliver more real-time data from a wider range of suppliers. WeCount also discovered that the number of abortions performed nationwide increased in the two months following the Supreme Court's draught decision's leak but before Roe was overturned. This finding may be a sign that some pregnant women were getting abortions earlier than they otherwise would have or that clinics were increasing their capacity in anticipation of bans. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Data shows legal abortions fell by 6% in two months after overturning Roe v. Wade

The man accused of breaking into US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's home in San Francisco and hitting her husband with a hammer was raised in Canada, later became a nudist activist there, and promoted far-right conspiracy theories before being connected to the attack, according to family members who spoke to CNN.&nbsp;

According to his stepfather Gene DePape, David DePape, the 42-year-old suspect charged with attempting to kill Paul Pelosi, was born and raised in Powell River, British Columbia, but moved to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-obama-boosts-democratic-star-power-to-crucial-us-senate-election-in-georgia-529296">California</a> around 20 years ago to pursue a romantic relationship.

Gene DePape (stepfather) and Mark DePape (uncle), told CNN that he has since become distant from his family. However, news articles in the San Francisco Chronicle mentioned David DePape because he shared a three-bedroom Victorian apartment in Berkeley with Oxane "Gypsy" Taub, a well-known nudist campaigner, her three kids, and her fiancé Jaymz Smith.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paul-pelosi-undergoes-successful-skull-surgery-biden-calls-attack-despicable-529299">Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable'</a>

At a wedding they intended to hold on the steps of San Francisco's city hall, Smith and Taub had requested DePape, who was described as a hemp jewellery artisan, to be the best man.

Taub was found guilty of a number of offences, including attempted kidnapping and stalking, last year.

DePape said he also went to the streets with activists who opposed a successful attempt to outlaw public nudity in San Francisco. DePape was listed years ago in voting records as a supporter of the Green Party.

Gene DePape and Mark DePape claimed that David recently kept up a Facebook account with numerous postings filled with conspiracies.

The account, which was deleted by Facebook's owner Meta on Friday, contained links to My Pillow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-testing-free-speech-limits-forms-content-moderation-council-for-twitter-529278">CEO</a> Mike Lindell's videos that made the erroneous assertion that Democratic challenger Joe Biden will defeat Republican President Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election.

He also allegedly had a blog with the domain godisloving.wordpress.com, which was also disabled on Friday and where he often posted rants about the "ruling class."

According to San Francisco police, DePape committed a targeted act on Friday when he allegedly broke into the 82-year-old Pelosis' house. He allegedly struck Paul Pelosi with a hammer while yelling, "Where is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-in-talks-to-acquire-us-made-tomahawk-cruise-missiles-529124">Nancy</a>, where is Nancy?"

The speaker wasn't at home at the time; instead, she was in Washington, DC, where she always travels with a security detail.

After telling the intruder that he had to use the restroom, Pelosi called 911 on his phone, which was charging there, and requested that cops come check on him, according to Politico.

At around 2.30 am on Friday, when police arrived at the Pelosis' home, they saw Paul Pelosi and DePape both grabbing at a hammer. Officers immediately arrested DePape, who had apparently planned to tie up Paul Pelosi until the speaker of the House returned home.

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The man accused of breaking into US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's home in San Francisco and hitting her husband with a hammer was raised in Canada, later became a nudist activist there, and promoted far-right conspiracy theories before being connected to the attack, according to family members who spoke to CNN.

The man accused of breaking into US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's home in San Francisco and hitting her husband with a hammer was raised in Canada, later became a nudist activist there, and promoted far-right conspiracy theories before being connected to the attack, according to family members who spoke to CNN. According to his stepfather Gene DePape, David DePape, the 42-year-old suspect charged with attempting to kill Paul Pelosi, was born and raised in Powell River, British Columbia, but moved to California around 20 years ago to pursue a romantic relationship. Gene DePape (stepfather) and Mark DePape (uncle), told CNN that he has since become distant from his family. However, news articles in the San Francisco Chronicle mentioned David DePape because he shared a three-bedroom Victorian apartment in Berkeley with Oxane "Gypsy" Taub, a well-known nudist campaigner, her three kids, and her fiancé Jaymz Smith. Also read | Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable' At a wedding they intended to hold on the steps of San Francisco's city hall, Smith and Taub had requested DePape, who was described as a hemp jewellery artisan, to be the best man. Taub was found guilty of a number of offences, including attempted kidnapping and stalking, last year. DePape said he also went to the streets with activists who opposed a successful attempt to outlaw public nudity in San Francisco. DePape was listed years ago in voting records as a supporter of the Green Party. Gene DePape and Mark DePape claimed that David recently kept up a Facebook account with numerous postings filled with conspiracies. The account, which was deleted by Facebook's owner Meta on Friday, contained links to My Pillow CEO Mike Lindell's videos that made the erroneous assertion that Democratic challenger Joe Biden will defeat Republican President Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election. He also allegedly had a blog with the domain godisloving.wordpress.com, which was also disabled on Friday and where he often posted rants about the "ruling class." According to San Francisco police, DePape committed a targeted act on Friday when he allegedly broke into the 82-year-old Pelosis' house. He allegedly struck Paul Pelosi with a hammer while yelling, "Where is Nancy, where is Nancy?" The speaker wasn't at home at the time; instead, she was in Washington, DC, where she always travels with a security detail. After telling the intruder that he had to use the restroom, Pelosi called 911 on his phone, which was charging there, and requested that cops come check on him, according to Politico. At around 2.30 am on Friday, when police arrived at the Pelosis' home, they saw Paul Pelosi and DePape both grabbing at a hammer. Officers immediately arrested DePape, who had apparently planned to tie up Paul Pelosi until the speaker of the House returned home. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Who is David DePape, Paul Pelosi's alleged attacker?

Russia's Foreign Minister&nbsp;Sergei Lavrov in an interview on Sunday took a jibe at US President Joe Biden by saying he&nbsp;hoped that the American leader had the intelligence to handle a major conflict akin to the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.&nbsp;

Lavrov said there were "similarities" to the 1962 Cuban missile crisis,&nbsp;partly because Russia was now threatened by Western armaments in Ukraine.

"I hope that in today's situation, President Joe Biden will have more opportunities to understand who gives orders and how," Lavrov said with a faint smile. "This situation is very disturbing."

"The difference is that in the distant 1962, Khrushchev and Kennedy found the strength to show responsibility and wisdom, and now we do not see such readiness on the part of Washington and its satellites," Lavrov said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-urges-russia-to-reverse-decision-to-suspend-grain-deal-529655">EU urges Russia to reverse its decision of suspending Ukraine grain deal</a>

An inquiry for comment made outside of business hours was not immediately answered by White House representatives.&nbsp;

The worst standoff between Moscow and the West since the Cuban crisis&nbsp;has been brought on by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

After the Bay of Pigs invasion, a US-backed attempt by Cuban exiles to overturn communist authority that was foiled by Cuba, and the US deployment of missiles in Italy and Turkey, US&nbsp;President John F. Kennedy learned that Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev had put nuclear missiles on Cuba.

When the US military dropped depth charges around a Soviet submarine on October 27, 1962, the submarine's skipper attempted to detonate a nuclear bomb. The world was on the verge of a nuclear conflict.&nbsp;

Later on the same day, Kennedy quietly agreed to swap removing all missiles from Cuba for Khrushchev's removal of all missiles from Turkey. The crisis was resolved, but it served as a cautionary tale about the dangers of superpower competition during the Cold War.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in an interview on Sunday took a jibe at US President Joe Biden by saying he hoped that the American leader had the intelligence to handle a major conflict akin to the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in an interview on Sunday took a jibe at US President Joe Biden by saying he hoped that the American leader had the intelligence to handle a major conflict akin to the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. Lavrov said there were "similarities" to the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, partly because Russia was now threatened by Western armaments in Ukraine. "I hope that in today's situation, President Joe Biden will have more opportunities to understand who gives orders and how," Lavrov said with a faint smile. "This situation is very disturbing." "The difference is that in the distant 1962, Khrushchev and Kennedy found the strength to show responsibility and wisdom, and now we do not see such readiness on the part of Washington and its satellites," Lavrov said. Also Read: EU urges Russia to reverse its decision of suspending Ukraine grain deal An inquiry for comment made outside of business hours was not immediately answered by White House representatives. The worst standoff between Moscow and the West since the Cuban crisis has been brought on by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. After the Bay of Pigs invasion, a US-backed attempt by Cuban exiles to overturn communist authority that was foiled by Cuba, and the US deployment of missiles in Italy and Turkey, US President John F. Kennedy learned that Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev had put nuclear missiles on Cuba. When the US military dropped depth charges around a Soviet submarine on October 27, 1962, the submarine's skipper attempted to detonate a nuclear bomb. The world was on the verge of a nuclear conflict. Later on the same day, Kennedy quietly agreed to swap removing all missiles from Cuba for Khrushchev's removal of all missiles from Turkey. The crisis was resolved, but it served as a cautionary tale about the dangers of superpower competition during the Cold War. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russian foreign minister needles Biden by bringing up Cuban missile crisis

Early voting is underway in several US states. As of now, Florida has highest voter turnout with over 2.2 million. According to reports, over 17 million have already voted.

US: Early voting in states like Florida, Texas & California

US lawmakers have slammed the Wall Street executives over their plan to attend Hong Kong Summit. As per experts, US presence could be used to increase foreign investment.

WION Fineprint| Wall Street slammed over plan to attend Hong Kong Summit

U.S. is the largest arms supplier in the world. American military equipment and technologies are state of the art and always in demand. U.S. happily supplies to meet that demand – even if it comes from nations in conflict, or repressive regimes. There's always the bugle of 'democratic values' used by the US, but is U.S. promoting peace Or fuelling conflicts? to keep its defence industrial complex thriving?

U.S: Fuelling conflicts by arming the world?

Ahead of the elections that could cost his Democrats their Congressional majority, President Joe Biden voted in the US midterm elections on Saturday.

Biden voted in his hometown of Wilmington in the eastern state of Delaware with the help of his granddaughter Natalie, who was doing so for the first time.

The president left the voting place with an "I Voted" sticker on his lapel while donning his signature aviator sunglasses and a navy blue coat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-unhappy-about-twitter-takeover-by-musk-529453">Ukraine unhappy about Twitter takeover by Musk</a>

Biden cast his vote just a few days after House Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paul-pelosi-undergoes-successful-skull-surgery-biden-calls-attack-despicable-529299">Nancy Pelosi's husband</a> was attacked at their California home.

The president criticised the heated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/newly-appointed-zulu-monarch-formally-handed-certificate-of-recognition-by-s-african-president-529492">political atmosphere</a> in the country, which he claimed was made worse by the ex-president Donald Trump's and his supporters' bogus allegations that the most recent election had been rigged.

"It's one thing to condemn the violence," Biden told reporters. "But you can't condemn the violence unless you condemn those people who continue to argue the election was not real, that it's being stolen."

If nothing majorly unexpected happens, the November vote appears to be in line with the historical trend of midterm elections being unfavourable to the ruling party.

Numerous Americans have already <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-obama-boosts-democratic-star-power-to-crucial-us-senate-election-in-georgia-529296">voted</a> early, either in-person at a polling place or by mail.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ahead of the elections that could cost his Democrats their Congressional majority, President Joe Biden voted in the US midterm elections on Saturday. Biden voted in his hometown of Wilmington in the eastern state of Delaware with the help of his granddaughter Natalie, who was doing so for the first time.

Ahead of the elections that could cost his Democrats their Congressional majority, President Joe Biden voted in the US midterm elections on Saturday. Biden voted in his hometown of Wilmington in the eastern state of Delaware with the help of his granddaughter Natalie, who was doing so for the first time. The president left the voting place with an "I Voted" sticker on his lapel while donning his signature aviator sunglasses and a navy blue coat. Also read | Ukraine unhappy about Twitter takeover by Musk Biden cast his vote just a few days after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband was attacked at their California home. The president criticised the heated political atmosphere in the country, which he claimed was made worse by the ex-president Donald Trump's and his supporters' bogus allegations that the most recent election had been rigged. "It's one thing to condemn the violence," Biden told reporters. "But you can't condemn the violence unless you condemn those people who continue to argue the election was not real, that it's being stolen." If nothing majorly unexpected happens, the November vote appears to be in line with the historical trend of midterm elections being unfavourable to the ruling party. Numerous Americans have already voted early, either in-person at a polling place or by mail. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden votes early in Delaware for US midterm elections

The oldest prisoner at Guantanamo Bay prison, Saifullah Paracha has been released and sent back to Pakistan after nearly 20 years.&nbsp;

Pakistan's foreign ministry reportedly confirmed the news of the release. In a statement, the ministry said, "We are glad that a Pakistani citizen detained abroad is finally reunited with his family." Paracha returned to Pakistan on October 29.&nbsp;

Two years after the 11 September 2001 attacks on the US, Paracha, now 75, was detained on suspicion of financing&nbsp;the terrorist group al-Qaeda. Although he was only suspected, Paracha always insisted on being innocent and was never charged.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-recounting-traumatic-memories-of-911-facts-you-didnt-know-about-the-september-attack-515074">Also read |&nbsp;US: Recounting traumatic memories of 9/11, facts you didn't know about the September attack&nbsp;</a>

Paracha's lawyer, Clive Stafford-Smith, questioned why his release took so long despite being cleared for a release for over a year now.&nbsp;

In a conversation with BBC, Smith said, "He's been cleared for release [for] well over a year... he used to hum to me The Eagles song Hotel California, where you can [according to the lyrics] check out 'but you can never leave'."

Further adding, he said that Guantanamo is an embarrassment to the US. He said he still has four clients who are certified for release.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;9/11 Terror Attack: Accused may not get death penalty

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Paracha was completing his studies in the US when the attack took place. He was detained in Thailand in July 2003, after an American FBI sting operation. The authorities&nbsp;accused him of connecting with some of the senior members of the group including the chief leader Osama bin Laden and Khalid Sheikh Mohammed.&nbsp;

After spending 14 months in US military prison in Afghanistan, he was sent to Guantanamo.&nbsp;

The United States had detained hundreds of individuals it characterised as illegal combatants.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/third-tower-was-also-brought-down-on-911-the-conspiracy-theories-and-importance-of-tower-seven-412317">Also read |&nbsp;'Third tower also collapsed on 9/11': The conspiracy theories and importance of Tower Seven</a>

The current US President Joe Biden is under great pressure to release uncharged prisoners and to continue legal proceedings against those alleged to have close ties with the terrorist group al-Qaeda.&nbsp;

The Biden administration last year allowed the release of Paracha and two others.

The chief operator for the 9/11 attack Khalid Mohammed is still imprisoned.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The oldest prisoner at Guantanamo Bay prison, Saifullah Paracha has been released and sent back to Pakistan after nearly 20 years. Pakistan's foreign ministry reportedly confirmed the news of the release.

The oldest prisoner at Guantanamo Bay prison, Saifullah Paracha has been released and sent back to Pakistan after nearly 20 years. Pakistan's foreign ministry reportedly confirmed the news of the release. In a statement, the ministry said, "We are glad that a Pakistani citizen detained abroad is finally reunited with his family." Paracha returned to Pakistan on October 29. Two years after the 11 September 2001 attacks on the US, Paracha, now 75, was detained on suspicion of financing the terrorist group al-Qaeda. Although he was only suspected, Paracha always insisted on being innocent and was never charged. Also read | US: Recounting traumatic memories of 9/11, facts you didn't know about the September attack Paracha's lawyer, Clive Stafford-Smith, questioned why his release took so long despite being cleared for a release for over a year now. In a conversation with BBC, Smith said, "He's been cleared for release [for] well over a year... he used to hum to me The Eagles song Hotel California, where you can [according to the lyrics] check out 'but you can never leave'." Further adding, he said that Guantanamo is an embarrassment to the US. He said he still has four clients who are certified for release. Watch | 9/11 Terror Attack: Accused may not get death penalty Paracha was completing his studies in the US when the attack took place. He was detained in Thailand in July 2003, after an American FBI sting operation. The authorities accused him of connecting with some of the senior members of the group including the chief leader Osama bin Laden and Khalid Sheikh Mohammed. After spending 14 months in US military prison in Afghanistan, he was sent to Guantanamo. The United States had detained hundreds of individuals it characterised as illegal combatants. Also read | 'Third tower also collapsed on 9/11': The conspiracy theories and importance of Tower Seven The current US President Joe Biden is under great pressure to release uncharged prisoners and to continue legal proceedings against those alleged to have close ties with the terrorist group al-Qaeda. The Biden administration last year allowed the release of Paracha and two others. The chief operator for the 9/11 attack Khalid Mohammed is still imprisoned. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Guantanamo's oldest serving prisoner, a 9/11 attack suspect, released after two decades

As President Joe Biden returns&nbsp;for his granddaughter's wedding, Vice President Kamala Harris will represent the United States at the third of three Asian summits in Bangkok next month, the White House announced on Friday.

On 11 November, according to the White House, Biden will go to Egypt for the annual UN climate conference before continuing on to Cambodia for the East Asia Summit and Bali for the Group of 20.

He will not, however, be present at the APEC summit, which will be held in the Thai capital on November 18–19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paul-pelosi-undergoes-successful-skull-surgery-biden-calls-attack-despicable-529299">Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable'</a>

As an alternative, Harris will go and then take a trip to the Philippines, a longtime ally of the US.

The White House said in a statement that her visit would "re-affirm and strengthen the US-Philippines Alliance and underscore the breadth of our cooperation as friends, partners and allies."

According to the White House Historical Association, Naomi Biden, the eldest granddaughter of former Vice President Joe Biden, revealed earlier this year that she would marry on November 19 on the South Lawn of the White House, making it&nbsp;the 19th wedding to ever take place there.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-obama-boosts-democratic-star-power-to-crucial-us-senate-election-in-georgia-529296">Barack Obama campaigns for Democrats in Georgia ahead of midterms</a>

When Thailand replaces Cambodia as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which hosts the biennial East Asia Summit, Biden will probably have the opportunity to travel to Thailand in 2023.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As President Joe Biden returns for his granddaughter's wedding, Vice President Kamala Harris will represent the United States at the third of three Asian summits in Bangkok next month, the White House announced on Friday.

As President Joe Biden returns for his granddaughter's wedding, Vice President Kamala Harris will represent the United States at the third of three Asian summits in Bangkok next month, the White House announced on Friday. On 11 November, according to the White House, Biden will go to Egypt for the annual UN climate conference before continuing on to Cambodia for the East Asia Summit and Bali for the Group of 20. He will not, however, be present at the APEC summit, which will be held in the Thai capital on November 18–19. Also read | Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable' As an alternative, Harris will go and then take a trip to the Philippines, a longtime ally of the US. The White House said in a statement that her visit would "re-affirm and strengthen the US-Philippines Alliance and underscore the breadth of our cooperation as friends, partners and allies." According to the White House Historical Association, Naomi Biden, the eldest granddaughter of former Vice President Joe Biden, revealed earlier this year that she would marry on November 19 on the South Lawn of the White House, making it the 19th wedding to ever take place there. Also read | Barack Obama campaigns for Democrats in Georgia ahead of midterms When Thailand replaces Cambodia as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which hosts the biennial East Asia Summit, Biden will probably have the opportunity to travel to Thailand in 2023. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Vice President Harris to take Biden's place at the final of three summits in Asia

The race for the midterm election in the United States is heating up and Barack Obama is trying to do something he couldn't during two terms of Presidency - that is to help Democrats succeed in national midterm elections.

As US Senate race heats up Barack Obama campaigns for Democrats

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband was attacked with a hammer after an intruder walked into their home on Friday. The attack stoked fear about about political violence ahead of the November midterm elections. Her husband was taken to a San Francisco hospital where he went for a skull fracture.

US: Nancy Pelosi's husband attacked; intruder screams 'Where is Nancy?'

In a close battle for the US&nbsp;Senate in Georgia&nbsp;that may determine whether the party maintains control of the chamber after the 2019 midterm elections, Democrats turned to former President Barack Obama for support.

Obama, a two-term Democrat&nbsp;who left office in 2017, campaigned in Atlanta for Senator Raphael Warnock, who is up against Republican candidate Herschel Walker, who is sponsored by Donald Trump. According to polls, Warnock and Walker's Republican opponent are in a statistical tie.

Obama urged the over 5,000 supporters in the crowd to cast their votes on 8 November.

"I am here to tell you tuning out is not an option. Despair is not an option," he said.

"The fundamental question you should be asking yourself right now is: 'Who will fight for you?'"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paul-pelosi-undergoes-successful-skull-surgery-biden-calls-attack-despicable-529299">Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable'</a>

The largely African-American crowd that jammed the arena just outside Atlanta chanted&nbsp;Obama's signature slogan: "Yes we can" as he spoke.

Republicans are focusing heavily on taking over Georgia because they only need to gain one seat to take over the Senate. President Joe Biden, Warnock, and Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff were all elected in the typically conservative Georgia two years ago, indicating the beginnings of a political shift.

Obama also visited to support Stacey Abrams, a Democrat running against Republican Brian Kemp for governor. In that game, Abrams has routinely lagged Kemp.

Democrats are growing more concerned about the Senate contest at the time of his travel. Walker, a former football star at the University of Georgia who has been hounded by inquiries about his tumultuous personal life, had been losing ground to Warnock in the polls to Walker for months.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-firm-will-build-polands-first-nuclear-power-plant-529294">US firm will build Poland's first nuclear power plant</a>

Walker has since reduced the gap. Chuck Schumer, the leading Democrat in the Senate, was overheard by a television camera microphone on Thursday informing President Biden that the Georgia election was "going downhill."

Obama slammed Walker by equating him to the former President Donald Trump. Obama stated, "It seems to me he's a celebrity who wants to be a politician," Obama said. "And we've seen how that goes."

Warnock's unexpected victory two years ago depended heavily on a surge of Black voters, and Obama's visit was mostly intended to encourage same population to turn out once more.

The Georgia Secretary of State's office reports that a record number of early voters have cast ballots in Georgia. By Friday, more than 1.25 million voters had cast ballots, far more than had done so at this point in 2018, the year of the most recent midterm election (730,706).

Beginning with this appearance, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-bird-is-freed-musk-memes-flood-the-internet-after-twitter-takeover-529109">Obama</a> will visit the battleground states of Wisconsin, Michigan, Nevada, and Pennsylvania as part of a five-state tour. That final visit will be with Biden, who has refrained from campaigning in certain crucial battlegrounds due to his issues with low public support, on the Saturday before the Nov. 8 midterm elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a close battle for the US Senate in Georgia that may determine whether the party maintains control of the chamber after the 2019 midterm elections, Democrats turned to former President Barack Obama for support.

In a close battle for the US Senate in Georgia that may determine whether the party maintains control of the chamber after the 2019 midterm elections, Democrats turned to former President Barack Obama for support. Obama, a two-term Democrat who left office in 2017, campaigned in Atlanta for Senator Raphael Warnock, who is up against Republican candidate Herschel Walker, who is sponsored by Donald Trump. According to polls, Warnock and Walker's Republican opponent are in a statistical tie. Obama urged the over 5,000 supporters in the crowd to cast their votes on 8 November. "I am here to tell you tuning out is not an option. Despair is not an option," he said. "The fundamental question you should be asking yourself right now is: 'Who will fight for you?'" Also read | Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable' The largely African-American crowd that jammed the arena just outside Atlanta chanted Obama's signature slogan: "Yes we can" as he spoke. Republicans are focusing heavily on taking over Georgia because they only need to gain one seat to take over the Senate. President Joe Biden, Warnock, and Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff were all elected in the typically conservative Georgia two years ago, indicating the beginnings of a political shift. Obama also visited to support Stacey Abrams, a Democrat running against Republican Brian Kemp for governor. In that game, Abrams has routinely lagged Kemp. Democrats are growing more concerned about the Senate contest at the time of his travel. Walker, a former football star at the University of Georgia who has been hounded by inquiries about his tumultuous personal life, had been losing ground to Warnock in the polls to Walker for months. Also read | US firm will build Poland's first nuclear power plant Walker has since reduced the gap. Chuck Schumer, the leading Democrat in the Senate, was overheard by a television camera microphone on Thursday informing President Biden that the Georgia election was "going downhill." Obama slammed Walker by equating him to the former President Donald Trump. Obama stated, "It seems to me he's a celebrity who wants to be a politician," Obama said. "And we've seen how that goes." Warnock's unexpected victory two years ago depended heavily on a surge of Black voters, and Obama's visit was mostly intended to encourage same population to turn out once more. The Georgia Secretary of State's office reports that a record number of early voters have cast ballots in Georgia. By Friday, more than 1.25 million voters had cast ballots, far more than had done so at this point in 2018, the year of the most recent midterm election (730,706). Beginning with this appearance, Obama will visit the battleground states of Wisconsin, Michigan, Nevada, and Pennsylvania as part of a five-state tour. That final visit will be with Biden, who has refrained from campaigning in certain crucial battlegrounds due to his issues with low public support, on the Saturday before the Nov. 8 midterm elections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Barack Obama campaigns for Democrats in Georgia ahead of midterms

US: Early voting in states like Florida, Texas

The Iranian protests that were triggered by the murder of a young lady in police custody will be the focus of the United Nations next week as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-firm-will-build-polands-first-nuclear-power-plant-529294">US</a> looks for ways to support genuine, independent investigations into human rights violations in Iran.

A note outlining the event, seen by Reuters, states that the US and Albania will hold a non-formal UN Security Council meeting on Wednesday. Shirin Ebadi, the Iranian campaigner and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, and Nazanin Boniadi, an actress, are scheduled to speak.

"The meeting will highlight the ongoing repression of women and girls and members of religious and ethnic minority groups in&nbsp;Iran," the note said. "It will identify opportunities to promote credible, independent investigations into the&nbsp;Iranian government's human rights violations and abuses."

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Other UN&nbsp;member states and rights organisations are welcome to the meeting, which will also feature independent UN&nbsp;investigator Javaid Rehman on the subject of human rights in Iran.

Since the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman, in police custody last month, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-us-bothered-about-iran-sending-drones-to-russia-is-us-scared-of-an-iran-russia-alliance-529178">Iran</a> has been rocked by protests. One of the most audacious challenges to the clerical regime since the 1979 revolution, the unrest has evolved into a popular revolt by Iranians from all societal strata.

Iran blames its foreign adversaries and their agents for the protests and turmoil.

The United States and its allies, according to Iran's ambassador to the UN in New York, have abused their influence "to pursue their political agenda."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Iranian protests that were triggered by the murder of a young lady in police custody will be the focus of the United Nations next week as the US looks for ways to support genuine, independent investigations into human rights violations in Iran.

The Iranian protests that were triggered by the murder of a young lady in police custody will be the focus of the United Nations next week as the US looks for ways to support genuine, independent investigations into human rights violations in Iran. A note outlining the event, seen by Reuters, states that the US and Albania will hold a non-formal UN Security Council meeting on Wednesday. Shirin Ebadi, the Iranian campaigner and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, and Nazanin Boniadi, an actress, are scheduled to speak. "The meeting will highlight the ongoing repression of women and girls and members of religious and ethnic minority groups in Iran," the note said. "It will identify opportunities to promote credible, independent investigations into the Iranian government's human rights violations and abuses." Also read | Unusually warm autumn in Europe raises climate concerns; UN warns of 'irreversible' climate breakdown Other UN member states and rights organisations are welcome to the meeting, which will also feature independent UN investigator Javaid Rehman on the subject of human rights in Iran. Since the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman, in police custody last month, Iran has been rocked by protests. One of the most audacious challenges to the clerical regime since the 1979 revolution, the unrest has evolved into a popular revolt by Iranians from all societal strata. Iran blames its foreign adversaries and their agents for the protests and turmoil. The United States and its allies, according to Iran's ambassador to the UN in New York, have abused their influence "to pursue their political agenda." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US aims to put UN's spotlight on human rights violations, repression in Iran next week

In Oklahoma, a house fire claimed the lives of eight people, including six children, and authorities said on&nbsp;Friday that they were looking into a murder-suicide angle.&nbsp;

Fire firefighters were called to the location on&nbsp;Thursday around 4 p.m. when the fire&nbsp;broke out in Broken Arrow, which is near Tulsa.

Rescue&nbsp;crews discovered two adults and six children, aged&nbsp;1 to 13 inside.&nbsp;

“At this time we do not believe that any of the victims died from the fire, however the final determination for the cause of death will be made by the medical examiner," Broken Arrow Fire Chief Jeremy Moore said in a news briefing on Friday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paul-pelosi-undergoes-successful-skull-surgery-biden-calls-attack-despicable-529299">Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable'</a>

Two individuals were discovered dead in the home on Friday, according to Broken Arrow Police Chief Brandon Berryhill, and are being looked into as potential suspects in the murder-suicide.

Prior to notifying the victims' next of kin, the identities of the victims were not made public.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plane-engine-catches-fire-just-when-it-was-about-to-take-off-from-delhi-airport-529367">Firefighters</a> discovered smoke and flames in the home's back yard when they arrived, according to Moore.

“It did become obvious to all the fire personnel on scene that this was a crime scene, and so once the initial fire was knocked down, our crews moved to preserve the evidence, to preserve the crime scene for our fire investigators and the police department,” Moore said.

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In Oklahoma, a house fire claimed the lives of eight people, including six children, and authorities said on Friday that they were looking into a murder-suicide angle.

In Oklahoma, a house fire claimed the lives of eight people, including six children, and authorities said on Friday that they were looking into a murder-suicide angle. Fire firefighters were called to the location on Thursday around 4 p.m. when the fire broke out in Broken Arrow, which is near Tulsa. Rescue crews discovered two adults and six children, aged 1 to 13 inside. “At this time we do not believe that any of the victims died from the fire, however the final determination for the cause of death will be made by the medical examiner," Broken Arrow Fire Chief Jeremy Moore said in a news briefing on Friday. Also read | Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable' Two individuals were discovered dead in the home on Friday, according to Broken Arrow Police Chief Brandon Berryhill, and are being looked into as potential suspects in the murder-suicide. Prior to notifying the victims' next of kin, the identities of the victims were not made public. Firefighters discovered smoke and flames in the home's back yard when they arrived, according to Moore. “It did become obvious to all the fire personnel on scene that this was a crime scene, and so once the initial fire was knocked down, our crews moved to preserve the evidence, to preserve the crime scene for our fire investigators and the police department,” Moore said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Six children die in suspected murder-suicide case at Oklahoma home

The growing Chinese aggression in the region has worried Japan and has now led to a potential hardening stunts in terms of how Japan pursues its defence sector. According to media reports, Japan is in the final stages of sealing a deal with the United States to purchase its Tomahawk cruise missiles.

Japan to buy US' Tomahawk cruise missile?

It is less than two weeks ahead of midterm elections in the United States. Voters are sounding off about their issues ahead of the polls and the country's number one issue is inflation, our correspondent Susan Tehrani decodes further from New York.

US Midterm Elections: Residents struggle to pay bills, financial hardship grips citizens

A report by the Wall Street Journal citing Congressional documents, including internal memos, emails, cables,&nbsp;showed how China used its “zero-Covid policy” to not only control its citizens but also subject these similar “inhumane practices” to United States diplomats in Beijing.&nbsp;

Documents submitted to the US State Department over the past two years detail Beijing’s mistreatment of foreign-service officers and their families assigned to the US Embassy and consulates in China. They allege that during their time in quarantine they were separated from their families for months.&nbsp;

Reportedly, they were forced to undergo months of quarantine, multiple and unnecessary medical tests as well as use China’s “health” app which was supposedly used to monitor and control them.&nbsp;

In early 2020,&nbsp;US evacuated at least 1,300 diplomats and their families from China after Covid first hit and communicated a list of demands over the summer saying that the State refuses to let “authoritarian governments use Covid as an excuse to mistreat or monitor diplomats,” said the report. However, Beijing refused to comply with the demands set by the US and in September they signed a “limited waiver of inviolability.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ready-to-find-ways-to-cooperate-with-us-says-xi-jinping-ahead-of-possible-indonesia-meet-with-biden-528853">China ready to find ways to cooperate with US, says Xi Jinping ahead of possible Indonesia meet with Biden</a>

The waiver reportedly&nbsp;let China impose a mandatory 14-day quarantine, and require three Covid tests (pre-departure, upon arrival at the airport and on the 13th day in quarantine).&nbsp;If tested positive they were taken to a “hospital” until recovered.&nbsp;

The acting chief of the China mission, in a 97-page memo, sent on January 7, 2022, reportedly detailed how&nbsp;upon arrival they were sent to China-selected hotels which they believed to be “government-run”. Citing Congressional aides, the report says that at least 30 individuals were “imprisoned” for weeks while the State has told the WSJ there were 16 people. They were also frustrated at the State’s lack of response and eventually turned to Congress.&nbsp;

The adults and children over the age of 14 were asked to quarantine separately which caused one of the teenagers&nbsp;mental health problems. The rooms had “not been cleaned in months”, and were mouldy and “unhealthy” said the memo. It also alleged that the results of their Covid tests were being altered “to achieve an additional level of control” as several families which had tested negative on arrival were suddenly testing positive and were taken not to the hospital but to “fever clinics”.&nbsp;

These so-called fever clinics, according to the report, were “small, dirty rooms” with doors locked and barred windows. Upon arrival, they were “required to undergo nasal and throat swabs, to provide sputum, urine and stool samples, and to submit to EKGs and CT scans,” said the report citing the memo. They also believe they were being monitored and the Chinese were collecting intelligence as well as their DNA.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-united-states-planning-to-accelerate-the-plans-to-store-upgraded-nukes-in-europe-528891">Is United States accelerating plans to upgrade its nukes at NATO bases in Europe?</a>

Citing the memo the report also said one family spent at least 69 days in a fever clinic which provided no soap, toilet paper, towels, laundry service, or even potable water with minimal food (largely soup). Detainees would have to wait for care packages and reported a notable weight loss.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the children of the family had to be “forcibly restrained” as the staff reportedly used adult-sized nasal swabs and caused nosebleeds multiple times due to repeated testing, while the parents reported ongoing trauma, said the WSJ.&nbsp;

Reportedly another family of five at the clinic for nearly two months in 2021 was cumulatively subjected to 159 throat, nose and blood tests. The test results would take weeks or months on end, during which they were denied urgent medical care.&nbsp;

The report refers to the story of a two-year-old mentioned in the memo who got injured and it took his family 12 hours to find any clinic that would agree to stitch up the wound. Another diplomat who faced severe stomach pain and alerted the Embassy was asked to stay put and was later diagnosed with appendicitis.&nbsp;

During this time the memo also alleged that the Chinese health app which was supposedly a “contact-tracing tool” was being used to monitor their movement and employ changing definitions to target diplomats in a bid to increase the duration of their quarantine. The report citing the documents said that the senior leaders of the State were aware of this treatment.&nbsp;

However, the State Department officials told WSJ, “This issue has been resolved. Since March, 609 U.S. officials and family members have arrived in (China), and none have been placed in a fever hospital.” Three people during the post-travel quarantine were also evacuated to avoid the fever clinics, they added.&nbsp;

They also told WSJ that now they provide an Embassy letter outlining diplomatic rights which reportedly allows diplomats to quarantine at their residences and not compel them to go to these facilities and also does not permit separation of children from their parents which China has agreed to define as under the age of 18. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/simply-untrue-china-denies-allegations-of-illegal-police-station-in-netherlands-528896">‘Simply untrue’: China denies allegations of running ‘illegal’ police station in Netherlands</a>

US senator Jim Risch had raised these allegations of abuse in a letter to the Secretary of State Antony Blinken in which he noted that China’s conduct “potentially violates the internationally recognized human rights of U.S. diplomats, and poses a serious national security risk,” said the report.&nbsp;

Earlier this year in September, the issue was also raised by two other US congress members and China swiftly dismissed their complaints. At the time, Beijing’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said they use a “science-based and effective epidemic prevention protocol” for both Chinese and people entering China “without discrimination”.&nbsp;

She added that such statements by US lawmakers were “absurd and completely groundless,” and show signs of “China phobia.” The Chinese spokesperson also said that she was unaware of the previously mentioned 16 Americans or how the congress members arrived at that number adding that it was “even more nonsense to say that China obtained intelligence from the U.S. through quarantine.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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A report by the Wall Street Journal citing Congressional documents, including internal memos, emails, cables, showed how China used its “zero-Covid policy” to not only control its citizens but also subject these similar “inhumane practices” to United States diplomats in Beijing.

A report by the Wall Street Journal citing Congressional documents, including internal memos, emails, cables, showed how China used its “zero-Covid policy” to not only control its citizens but also subject these similar “inhumane practices” to United States diplomats in Beijing. Documents submitted to the US State Department over the past two years detail Beijing’s mistreatment of foreign-service officers and their families assigned to the US Embassy and consulates in China. They allege that during their time in quarantine they were separated from their families for months. Reportedly, they were forced to undergo months of quarantine, multiple and unnecessary medical tests as well as use China’s “health” app which was supposedly used to monitor and control them. In early 2020, US evacuated at least 1,300 diplomats and their families from China after Covid first hit and communicated a list of demands over the summer saying that the State refuses to let “authoritarian governments use Covid as an excuse to mistreat or monitor diplomats,” said the report. However, Beijing refused to comply with the demands set by the US and in September they signed a “limited waiver of inviolability.” ALSO READ: China ready to find ways to cooperate with US, says Xi Jinping ahead of possible Indonesia meet with Biden The waiver reportedly let China impose a mandatory 14-day quarantine, and require three Covid tests (pre-departure, upon arrival at the airport and on the 13th day in quarantine). If tested positive they were taken to a “hospital” until recovered. The acting chief of the China mission, in a 97-page memo, sent on January 7, 2022, reportedly detailed how upon arrival they were sent to China-selected hotels which they believed to be “government-run”. Citing Congressional aides, the report says that at least 30 individuals were “imprisoned” for weeks while the State has told the WSJ there were 16 people. They were also frustrated at the State’s lack of response and eventually turned to Congress. The adults and children over the age of 14 were asked to quarantine separately which caused one of the teenagers mental health problems. The rooms had “not been cleaned in months”, and were mouldy and “unhealthy” said the memo. It also alleged that the results of their Covid tests were being altered “to achieve an additional level of control” as several families which had tested negative on arrival were suddenly testing positive and were taken not to the hospital but to “fever clinics”. These so-called fever clinics, according to the report, were “small, dirty rooms” with doors locked and barred windows. Upon arrival, they were “required to undergo nasal and throat swabs, to provide sputum, urine and stool samples, and to submit to EKGs and CT scans,” said the report citing the memo. They also believe they were being monitored and the Chinese were collecting intelligence as well as their DNA. ALSO READ: Is United States accelerating plans to upgrade its nukes at NATO bases in Europe? Citing the memo the report also said one family spent at least 69 days in a fever clinic which provided no soap, toilet paper, towels, laundry service, or even potable water with minimal food (largely soup). Detainees would have to wait for care packages and reported a notable weight loss. Meanwhile, the children of the family had to be “forcibly restrained” as the staff reportedly used adult-sized nasal swabs and caused nosebleeds multiple times due to repeated testing, while the parents reported ongoing trauma, said the WSJ. Reportedly another family of five at the clinic for nearly two months in 2021 was cumulatively subjected to 159 throat, nose and blood tests. The test results would take weeks or months on end, during which they were denied urgent medical care. The report refers to the story of a two-year-old mentioned in the memo who got injured and it took his family 12 hours to find any clinic that would agree to stitch up the wound. Another diplomat who faced severe stomach pain and alerted the Embassy was asked to stay put and was later diagnosed with appendicitis. During this time the memo also alleged that the Chinese health app which was supposedly a “contact-tracing tool” was being used to monitor their movement and employ changing definitions to target diplomats in a bid to increase the duration of their quarantine. The report citing the documents said that the senior leaders of the State were aware of this treatment. However, the State Department officials told WSJ, “This issue has been resolved. Since March, 609 U.S. officials and family members have arrived in (China), and none have been placed in a fever hospital.” Three people during the post-travel quarantine were also evacuated to avoid the fever clinics, they added. They also told WSJ that now they provide an Embassy letter outlining diplomatic rights which reportedly allows diplomats to quarantine at their residences and not compel them to go to these facilities and also does not permit separation of children from their parents which China has agreed to define as under the age of 18. ALSO READ: ‘Simply untrue’: China denies allegations of running ‘illegal’ police station in Netherlands US senator Jim Risch had raised these allegations of abuse in a letter to the Secretary of State Antony Blinken in which he noted that China’s conduct “potentially violates the internationally recognized human rights of U.S. diplomats, and poses a serious national security risk,” said the report. Earlier this year in September, the issue was also raised by two other US congress members and China swiftly dismissed their complaints. At the time, Beijing’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said they use a “science-based and effective epidemic prevention protocol” for both Chinese and people entering China “without discrimination”. She added that such statements by US lawmakers were “absurd and completely groundless,” and show signs of “China phobia.” The Chinese spokesperson also said that she was unaware of the previously mentioned 16 Americans or how the congress members arrived at that number adding that it was “even more nonsense to say that China obtained intelligence from the U.S. through quarantine.” (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.

Did China use its 'zero-Covid policy' to 'harass' US diplomats in Beijing?

Husband of Nancy Pelosi, the top Democratic Party member who is also Speaker of US House of Representatives, was assaulted by an intruder who broke into their house in San Francisco. The attack, which took place on Friday (October 28) left him in need of hospital treatment.

"Early this morning, an assailant broke into the Pelosi residence in San Francisco and violently assaulted Mr. Pelosi," the spokesman of Democratic leader&nbsp;Nancy Pelosi's office, Drew Hammill, said in a statement.

"The assailant is in custody and the motivation for the attack is under investigation. Mr. Pelosi was taken to the hospital, where he is receiving excellent medical care and is expected to make a full recovery."

It was not immediately clear if the attack on Mr Pelosi was politically motivated. Nancy Pelosi was not in San Francisco when the attack occurred.

The attack caps a tumultuous year for her 82-year-old venture capitalist husband, who was convicted of drunk driving after an accident in May and sentenced to five days in jail.

"The speaker and her family are grateful to the first responders and medical professionals involved, and request privacy at this time," Hammill said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Husband of Nancy Pelosi, the top Democratic Party member who is also Speaker of US House of Representatives, was assaulted by an intruder who broke into their house in San Francisco.

Husband of Nancy Pelosi, the top Democratic Party member who is also Speaker of US House of Representatives, was assaulted by an intruder who broke into their house in San Francisco. The attack, which took place on Friday (October 28) left him in need of hospital treatment. "Early this morning, an assailant broke into the Pelosi residence in San Francisco and violently assaulted Mr. Pelosi," the spokesman of Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi's office, Drew Hammill, said in a statement. "The assailant is in custody and the motivation for the attack is under investigation. Mr. Pelosi was taken to the hospital, where he is receiving excellent medical care and is expected to make a full recovery." It was not immediately clear if the attack on Mr Pelosi was politically motivated. Nancy Pelosi was not in San Francisco when the attack occurred. The attack caps a tumultuous year for her 82-year-old venture capitalist husband, who was convicted of drunk driving after an accident in May and sentenced to five days in jail. "The speaker and her family are grateful to the first responders and medical professionals involved, and request privacy at this time," Hammill 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 ×

Top US Democrat Nancy Pelosi's husband attacked with hammer at home

Three Indian students&nbsp;died in a car crash in western Massachusetts when the automobile they were riding in collided with another vehicle.

Prem Kumar Reddy Goda, 27, Sai Narasimha Patamsetti, 22, and Pavani Gullapally, 22, died at the site of the collision, according to a statement released on Thursday by the Berkshire District Attorney's Office.

The accident is being looked into by local and state authorities in Massachusetts.

A car travelling north and a car travelling south<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-at-least-15-killed-40-injured-after-bus-accident-in-madhya-pradesh-527604"> collided </a>at around 5:30 in the morning. Manoj Reddy Donda, 23, Sridhar Reddy Chinthakunta, 22, Vijith Reddy Gummala, 23, and Hima Ishwarya Siddireddy, 22, were the other four passengers in the vehicle. They were taken to Berkshire Medical Center for treatment.

Six international college students studying at the University of New Haven and one at Sacred Heart University were identified by law enforcement as being in the car.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hot-mic-captures-schumer-telling-biden-that-democrats-in-georgia-are-going-downhill-529036">Hot mic captures Schumer telling Biden that Democrats in Georgia are 'going downhill'</a>

Armando Bautista-Cruz, 46, the driver and only occupant of the second car, was taken to Fairview Medical Center for treatment.

The State Police Detective Unit notified the decedents' family members and/or designated representatives, as well as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-now-in-charge-of-twitter-fires-ceo-parag-agarwal-other-top-executives-report-529012">New York</a> Consulate General of India.

The collision's circumstances are being looked into by the Sheffield Police Department and the State Police Detective Unit attached to the Berkshire District Attorney's Office, and they are asking anyone with information to get in touch with the authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Three Indian students died in a car crash in western Massachusetts when the automobile they were riding in collided with another vehicle. Prem Kumar Reddy Goda, 27, Sai Narasimha Patamsetti, 22, and Pavani Gullapally, 22, died at the site of the collision, according to a statement released on Thursday by the Berkshire District Attorney's Office.

Three Indian students died in a car crash in western Massachusetts when the automobile they were riding in collided with another vehicle. Prem Kumar Reddy Goda, 27, Sai Narasimha Patamsetti, 22, and Pavani Gullapally, 22, died at the site of the collision, according to a statement released on Thursday by the Berkshire District Attorney's Office. The accident is being looked into by local and state authorities in Massachusetts. A car travelling north and a car travelling south collided at around 5:30 in the morning. Manoj Reddy Donda, 23, Sridhar Reddy Chinthakunta, 22, Vijith Reddy Gummala, 23, and Hima Ishwarya Siddireddy, 22, were the other four passengers in the vehicle. They were taken to Berkshire Medical Center for treatment. Six international college students studying at the University of New Haven and one at Sacred Heart University were identified by law enforcement as being in the car. Also read | Hot mic captures Schumer telling Biden that Democrats in Georgia are 'going downhill' Armando Bautista-Cruz, 46, the driver and only occupant of the second car, was taken to Fairview Medical Center for treatment. The State Police Detective Unit notified the decedents' family members and/or designated representatives, as well as the New York Consulate General of India. The collision's circumstances are being looked into by the Sheffield Police Department and the State Police Detective Unit attached to the Berkshire District Attorney's Office, and they are asking anyone with information to get in touch with the authorities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Three Indian students, all in their 20s, killed in road accident in western Massachusetts

With fewer than two weeks until the midterm elections, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was overheard on a hot mic on Thursday warning President Joe Biden that the Georgia Senate race was "going south."

"The state where we're going downhill is Georgia," Schumer said of Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock's highly charged reelection bid. "It's hard to believe that they will go for Herschel Walker."

At Syracuse, New York, where the president was promoting his party's economic plan, Schumer and Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand were recorded giving him their honest assessment. Warnock, who is still the pastor of the illustrious Ebenezer Baptist Church, has had trouble winning reelection to his position against Trump-backed candidate and former Heisman Trophy winner Herschel Walker. The weighted polling average from FiveThirtyEight indicates that Walker is gaining ground while Warnock maintains a slim lead.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-now-in-charge-of-twitter-fires-ceo-parag-agarwal-other-top-executives-report-529012">Elon Musk now in charge of Twitter, fires CEO Parag Agrawal, other top executives: Report</a>

Additionally, the leader of the Senate Democrats was heard telling Biden that John Fetterman's weak debate performance "didn't harm us too badly." Mehmet Oz, a former TV physician, is Fetterman's opponent in the race to flip a seat. However, the election has become more competitive as Oz's campaign attacks Fetterman's health following his stroke in May. Fetterman was upfront during the discussion about how his ongoing recuperation would cause him to suffer, and that is exactly what happened.

According to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahsa-amini-death-us-believes-russia-advising-iran-on-how-to-suppress-protest-528696">Schumer</a>, the party is "gathering up momentum" in Nevada, where Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto has been more and more exposed to the challenge of former Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt.

Even while they have boosted the expected number of Republican House seats well beyond the number required to flip that house, many still believe that the Senate majority is too close to call. The longest-ever equally divided Senate may continue through the incoming Congress in January.

(With inputs from agencies)

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With fewer than two weeks until the midterm elections, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was overheard on a hot mic on Thursday warning President Joe Biden that the Georgia Senate race was "going south.

With fewer than two weeks until the midterm elections, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was overheard on a hot mic on Thursday warning President Joe Biden that the Georgia Senate race was "going south." "The state where we're going downhill is Georgia," Schumer said of Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock's highly charged reelection bid. "It's hard to believe that they will go for Herschel Walker." At Syracuse, New York, where the president was promoting his party's economic plan, Schumer and Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand were recorded giving him their honest assessment. Warnock, who is still the pastor of the illustrious Ebenezer Baptist Church, has had trouble winning reelection to his position against Trump-backed candidate and former Heisman Trophy winner Herschel Walker. The weighted polling average from FiveThirtyEight indicates that Walker is gaining ground while Warnock maintains a slim lead. Also read | Elon Musk now in charge of Twitter, fires CEO Parag Agrawal, other top executives: Report Additionally, the leader of the Senate Democrats was heard telling Biden that John Fetterman's weak debate performance "didn't harm us too badly." Mehmet Oz, a former TV physician, is Fetterman's opponent in the race to flip a seat. However, the election has become more competitive as Oz's campaign attacks Fetterman's health following his stroke in May. Fetterman was upfront during the discussion about how his ongoing recuperation would cause him to suffer, and that is exactly what happened. According to Schumer, the party is "gathering up momentum" in Nevada, where Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto has been more and more exposed to the challenge of former Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt. Even while they have boosted the expected number of Republican House seats well beyond the number required to flip that house, many still believe that the Senate majority is too close to call. The longest-ever equally divided Senate may continue through the incoming Congress in January. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hot mic captures Schumer telling Biden that Democrats in Georgia are 'going downhill'

North Korea is now inching close to a nuclear test, the US, Japan and South Korea have warned of 'unprecedented response'. The Deputy Foreign Ministers of all the three nations said they would ramp up defence in the region.

Possible North Korean nuke test worries the world; US, allies vows 'unprecedented response'

A night full of colours and music and an important social message - the US Capitol hosted a drag queen race with three pillars of the LGBTQ+ community - self expression, acceptance and high fashion. Watch the video to know more about it.

Drag queens don high heels in 35th Washington race; thousands dress to run for cause

Less than two weeks ahead of the midterm elections in the United States, voters are telling their about their issues - number one being inflation. Watch the video to know more about the issue through the voters.

US Midterms 2022: Inflation tops voter concern, residents struggle to pay bills

US: Election day is 12 day away but the Democrats are already feeling the heat. Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer told US President Joe Biden that the Democrats are going downhill in the US Senate race in Georgia. The two chatted on the tarmac after Biden touched down New York.

US: Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer caught on hot mic ahead of midterms

The White House says the Biden administration supports the people of Iran and their right to peaceful protests and that there may be cooperation between Iran and Russia in cracking down on Iranian protesters. VOA Senior Diplomatic Correspondent Cindy Saine reports.

WION-VOA Co-Production: U.S. says Russia may be advising Iran on suppressing protests

US President Joe Biden and Israeli President Isaac Herzog held talks focused on Iran. The leaders discussed Tehran's nuclear program and the accusations around its drone supply to Russia.

WION Dispatch: Biden meets Israeli counterpart; leaders discuss Tehran's nuclear programme

Leaked emails & diplomatic cables from China have revealed how Beijing used Covid protocols to harass & monitor American diplomats. Scores of them were apparently imprisoned & spent weeks in locked rooms under squalid conditions. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Shocking revelations: How China 'abused' American Diplomats

#Gravitas | Have you heard about the #BlackoutChallenge? It encourages people to choke themselves until they pass out due to lack of oxygen. The mother of a 10-yr-old-girl recently sued TikTok for causing her death. A U.S. court has dismissed the lawsuit as 'wrongful'. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Did this Viral TikTok trend cause a girl's death?

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US: Nancy Pelosi's husband attacked; intruder screams 'Where is Nancy?'

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Top US Democrat Nancy Pelosi's husband attacked with hammer at home

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Hot mic captures Schumer telling Biden that Democrats in Georgia are 'going downhill'