Due to the grave threat that the climate catastrophe poses to the birds, the emperor penguin—the tallest and largest penguin in the world—has been formally listed as a threatened species by the US government.&nbsp;

The US Fish and Wildlife Service declared on Tuesday that the penguins, which are native to Antarctica and threaten almost complete extinction as a result of the loss of sea ice over the course of this century, had been added to the list of endangered species.

“Climate change is having a profound impact on species around the world and addressing it is a priority for the administration,” said Martha Williams, director of the Fish and Wildlife Service. “The listing of the emperor penguin serves as an alarm bell but also a call to action.”

Emperor penguins, which can reach heights of 4 feet, are renowned for their extreme approaches to raising their young. Pairs of males and females alternately shield their eggs from the freezing elements while the other searches for food. On land, penguins move with an almost hilariously ambling pace, yet in the water and on the sea ice, where they hunt for fish and crustaceans, they are deft hunters.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bali-offers-second-home-to-tourists-with-130000-in-bank-account-528470">Bali offers 'second home' to tourists with $130,000 in bank account</a>

The sea ice itself is crucial for the penguins' ability to rest, find shelter during their annual moult, and flee from predators. The penguins also depend on the waters surrounding and beneath the ice for food. However, as a result of global warming, sea ice is vanishing, endangering the penguins' habitat, while ocean acidification is diminishing the supply of krill, a key food source.

A recurring recurrence of events like the 2016 Halley Bay sea ice breakup that resulted in the death of more than 10,000 chicks from the second-largest recorded emperor colony poses a concern due to changes taking place in the Antarctic. The chicks drowned because they were not yet able to swim properly. The colony still hasn't recovered.&nbsp;

Since the 1970s, the population of the Point Géologie emperor penguin colony, which was depicted in the movie March of the Penguins, has decreased by over 50 per cent.

(with inputs from agencies)

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Due to the grave threat that the climate catastrophe poses to the birds, the emperor penguin—the tallest and largest penguin in the world—has been formally listed as a threatened species by the US government.

Due to the grave threat that the climate catastrophe poses to the birds, the emperor penguin—the tallest and largest penguin in the world—has been formally listed as a threatened species by the US government. The US Fish and Wildlife Service declared on Tuesday that the penguins, which are native to Antarctica and threaten almost complete extinction as a result of the loss of sea ice over the course of this century, had been added to the list of endangered species. “Climate change is having a profound impact on species around the world and addressing it is a priority for the administration,” said Martha Williams, director of the Fish and Wildlife Service. “The listing of the emperor penguin serves as an alarm bell but also a call to action.” Emperor penguins, which can reach heights of 4 feet, are renowned for their extreme approaches to raising their young. Pairs of males and females alternately shield their eggs from the freezing elements while the other searches for food. On land, penguins move with an almost hilariously ambling pace, yet in the water and on the sea ice, where they hunt for fish and crustaceans, they are deft hunters. Also Read: Bali offers 'second home' to tourists with $130,000 in bank account The sea ice itself is crucial for the penguins' ability to rest, find shelter during their annual moult, and flee from predators. The penguins also depend on the waters surrounding and beneath the ice for food. However, as a result of global warming, sea ice is vanishing, endangering the penguins' habitat, while ocean acidification is diminishing the supply of krill, a key food source. A recurring recurrence of events like the 2016 Halley Bay sea ice breakup that resulted in the death of more than 10,000 chicks from the second-largest recorded emperor colony poses a concern due to changes taking place in the Antarctic. The chicks drowned because they were not yet able to swim properly. The colony still hasn't recovered. Since the 1970s, the population of the Point Géologie emperor penguin colony, which was depicted in the movie March of the Penguins, has decreased by over 50 per cent. (with inputs from agencies)

Emperor penguins declared threatened species by US due to existential risk

Two people were killed and at least six were injured after gunman opened fire at a school in US city of St. Louis. Police officers rushed to the scene and fatally shot the gunman.

US: 40th school shooting incident in this year, at least six injured after former student opens fire

Day one of Harvey Weinstein's Los Angeles rape trial started with an accuser breaking down in tears while recounting the sexual assault. She was allegedly subjected to sexual assault by the former Hollywood Mogul.

US: Harvey Weinstein rape trial in Los Angeles, accuser tearfully recounts assault

A Russian court rejected U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner's appeal for a reduced sentence. The American was sent to prison for carrying Cannabis Oil. Neha Khanna tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Russian court rejects Brittney Griner's appeal

Security has been ramped up across polling stations in the US as voters begin casting early ballots in the midterm elections. Voting will fully commence on 8 November across the country.

People cast their ballots in secured boxes as early voting for US midterm election begins

United States has now accused China of meddling into its domestic affairs. US prosecutors said on Monday they have charged two Chinese nationals who were trying to obtain secret documents.

US prosecutors charge two Chinese nationals with spying for Huawei

A former U.S. military pilot and flight instructor who worked in China was arrested in Australia and faces extradition to the United States, Australian court documents and company records show.

Australian Federal Police arrested Daniel Edmund Duggan, 54, on Friday in the rural town of Orange in New South Wales, and he appeared in court there on the same day, court records show and two police sources and his lawyer confirmed.

His lawyer appeared by videoconference, and Duggan was denied bail and taken to the nearby Bathurst jail, two of the sources said.

Duggan is a former U.S. citizen and the federal police were acting on a U.S. request for his arrest ahead of likely formal extradition proceedings, said one of the police sources, who was not authorised to speak publicly.

Duggan's next court appearance will be in Sydney in November to consider any bail application. Details of the U.S. arrest warrant and the charges he faces are sealed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-struggling-to-find-naval-pilots-for-three-aircraft-carriers-report-521421">China facing shortage of 200 qualified fighter jet pilots for its 130 ship-borne aircraft: Report</a>

"An individual was arrested on 21 October 2022 pursuant to a request from the United States of America for their provisional arrest," a spokesman for the federal Attorney-General's Department said in a written statement to Reuters. "As the matter is before the courts, it would not be appropriate to comment further."

The arrest came the same week Britain warned dozens of former military pilots to stop working in China or face prosecution on national security grounds under new laws. Australia is also investigating reports some of its former fighter pilots have been approached to work in China.

An aviation source told Reuters that the FBI sought Duggan because of his work in China. His lawyer, Dennis Miralis of Nyman, Gibson and Miralis, said he could not comment.

Duggan moved to Australia after a decade in the U.S. military and started a business called Top Gun Tasmania, hiring former U.S. and British military pilots to offer tourists joyrides in fighter jets, company records show and aviation sources confirmed.

Duggan also flew ex-military aircraft in Australian air shows, three pilots told Reuters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-air-force-f-35a-crashes-in-florida-pilot-ejects-safely-probe-on-526961">US Air Force F-35A jet crashes in Florida, pilot ejects safely, probe on</a>

Top Gun Tasmania's website says Duggan flew Harrier jump jets in the U.S. Marines and was an air combat instructor.

He moved to Beijing in 2014 and soon after sold Top Gun Tasmania, filings in Australia for the company show.

Duggan's LinkedIn profile said he has been working in Qingdao, China, since 2017 as the managing director of AVIBIZ Limited, described as "a comprehensive aviation consultancy company with a focus on the fast growing and dynamic Chinese Aviation Industry".

Hong Kong company records show AVIBIZ Limited was registered there by Australian passport holder Daniel Edmund Duggan in 2017 and dissolved in 2020.

Duggan could not be immediately reached for comment.

Under Australia's extradition treaty with the United States, the U.S. government will have 60 days to make an extradition request. The treaty allows Australian citizens to be extradited.

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A former U.S. military pilot and flight instructor who worked in China was arrested in Australia and faces extradition to the United States, Australian court documents and company records show.

A former U.S. military pilot and flight instructor who worked in China was arrested in Australia and faces extradition to the United States, Australian court documents and company records show. Australian Federal Police arrested Daniel Edmund Duggan, 54, on Friday in the rural town of Orange in New South Wales, and he appeared in court there on the same day, court records show and two police sources and his lawyer confirmed. His lawyer appeared by videoconference, and Duggan was denied bail and taken to the nearby Bathurst jail, two of the sources said. Duggan is a former U.S. citizen and the federal police were acting on a U.S. request for his arrest ahead of likely formal extradition proceedings, said one of the police sources, who was not authorised to speak publicly. Duggan's next court appearance will be in Sydney in November to consider any bail application. Details of the U.S. arrest warrant and the charges he faces are sealed. ALSO READ: China facing shortage of 200 qualified fighter jet pilots for its 130 ship-borne aircraft: Report "An individual was arrested on 21 October 2022 pursuant to a request from the United States of America for their provisional arrest," a spokesman for the federal Attorney-General's Department said in a written statement to Reuters. "As the matter is before the courts, it would not be appropriate to comment further." The arrest came the same week Britain warned dozens of former military pilots to stop working in China or face prosecution on national security grounds under new laws. Australia is also investigating reports some of its former fighter pilots have been approached to work in China. An aviation source told Reuters that the FBI sought Duggan because of his work in China. His lawyer, Dennis Miralis of Nyman, Gibson and Miralis, said he could not comment. Duggan moved to Australia after a decade in the U.S. military and started a business called Top Gun Tasmania, hiring former U.S. and British military pilots to offer tourists joyrides in fighter jets, company records show and aviation sources confirmed. Duggan also flew ex-military aircraft in Australian air shows, three pilots told Reuters. ALSO READ: US Air Force F-35A jet crashes in Florida, pilot ejects safely, probe on Top Gun Tasmania's website says Duggan flew Harrier jump jets in the U.S. Marines and was an air combat instructor. He moved to Beijing in 2014 and soon after sold Top Gun Tasmania, filings in Australia for the company show. Duggan's LinkedIn profile said he has been working in Qingdao, China, since 2017 as the managing director of AVIBIZ Limited, described as "a comprehensive aviation consultancy company with a focus on the fast growing and dynamic Chinese Aviation Industry". Hong Kong company records show AVIBIZ Limited was registered there by Australian passport holder Daniel Edmund Duggan in 2017 and dissolved in 2020. Duggan could not be immediately reached for comment. Under Australia's extradition treaty with the United States, the U.S. government will have 60 days to make an extradition request. The treaty allows Australian citizens to be extradited. 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.

Former US military pilot who worked in China arrested in Australia, faces extradition

Trouble is mounting for the Trumps as former US President Donald Trump's family business may face fines of over 1.5 million US dollars, if found guilty.

US: Former President Donald Trump’s firm accused of hiding compensations

If the media chatter is to be believed, China is gearing up for a showdown with the United States over the neighbouring island nation of Taiwan. Reportedly, Chinese President Xi Jinping has re-appointed Zhang Youxia as the vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission.

If the media chatter is to be believed, China is gearing up for a showdown with the United States over the neighbouring island nation of Taiwan. Reportedly, Chinese President Xi Jinping has re-appointed Zhang Youxia as the vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission. Apart from retaining his position in the CMC, Zhang has also found a seat in the Central Committee, which is regarded as the country's top leadership body. All the announcements were made after the end of the 20th CPC Congress. However, what suggests that China is gearing up for an offensive is that Xi broke the unofficial retirement age rule while selecting Zhang. The unwritten retirement age in China is 68 which Xi has used as a baseline throughout most of his tenure. However, Zhang is 72 and comfortably crossed the mark. Zhang may be old but he compensates for it in a way not many in the Chinese military can do. He is a veteran of the 1979 Sino-Vietnamese war and one of the few People's Liberation Army (PLA) generals to have combat experience. According to reports, Xi is willing to utilise Zhang's expertise to the fullest when he takes on US and Taiwan. Zhang knows the ins and out's of CMC which is China's military command, responsible for the services of over two million active personnel in the PLA. The appointment also comes in the backdrop of speeches made by Xi at the Congress. On multiple occasions, he evoked the Taiwan issue and threatened the western countries from interfering in its internal problem. Read more: 'Will never renounce force', says Xi Jinping on Taiwan during the party congress “The resolution of the Taiwan issue is a matter for the Chinese people themselves, to be decided by the Chinese people," said Xi during his opening remarks. The CCP leader added that China reserves the option of “taking all measures necessary” against separatist forces. “We will continue to strive for peaceful reunification with the greatest sincerity and the utmost effort. But, we will never promise to renounce the use of force. And we reserve the option of taking all measures necessary.” While Zhang gets the extended run, other Chinese bureaucratic officials have not been as lucky. As reported by WION, on Sunday, Chen Quanguo, the former party secretary of Tibet and Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region was shown the door by Xi from the Central Committee, despite being only 66-years-old. Read more: Chen Quanguo, architect of the 'Uyghur genocide', ousted from China’s top leadership body (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Xi's new military appointment can spark a crisis with US-Taiwan: Reports

Let's take a pause from all the global developments and shift our focus to these cute, little canines - all dressed up in their celebrity-themed Halloween costumes gathered in New York from all over the country for a dog parade and other competitions.

Dogs dress in celebrity-themed costumes as they parade in New York for Halloween

The war between Russia and Ukraine has been going on for almost about eight months and in the latest as Russia annexed several Ukrainian towns and cities, its Defence Minister has held talks with his US counter part Lloyd Austin.

Lloyd Austin, Sergei Shoigu hold talks amid Russia-Ukraine conflict

In a show of solidarity for Iranian protestors facing a harsh government crackdown, demonstrators from all over the world have come to the streets in protest. This action was triggered by the murder of Mahsa Amini, 22, while in the care of Iran's morality police.

After being detained on 13&nbsp;September in Tehran for wearing "wrong apparel," Amini passed away three days later in the hospital. This death sparked waves of protests that resulted in the deaths of more than 200 people, including teenage females.

At the US&nbsp;National Mall, thousands of women and men of all ages — donning green, white and red, the colors of the Iran flag — chanted. "Be scared. Be scared. We are one in this," some shouted, ahead of the group's march to the White House. "Say her name! Mahsa!"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-again-rejects-ukraine-drone-claims-slams-west-over-provocative-approaches-527626">Iran rejects Ukraine drone claims yet again, slams West over 'provocative approaches'</a>

Iranians from all over the Washington, D.C., area attended the demonstrations, some of whom travelled from Toronto to participate. They were organised by grassroots activists from across the United States.

The largest concentration of Iranians outside of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-confirms-iranian-troops-assisting-russia-in-use-of-kamikaze-drones-527345">Iran</a> can be seen in Los Angeles, where a crowd of demonstrators formed a slow-moving procession along blocks of a closed downtown roadway. They waved hundreds of Iranian flags at the horizon, turning it into an undulating wave of red, white, and green as they yelled for the overthrow of the Iranian regime.

Nearly 40,000 people showed up in Berlin to offer support for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-sworn-in-as-italys-first-woman-prime-minister-527605">women</a> and activists who have been spearheading the movement in Iran for the past several weeks.

The Woman's Life Freedom Collective organised the demonstrations in Berlin, which started near the Victory Column in the Tiergarten park and continued as a march through the heart of the city.

Thousands of people showed up in Paris to support Iranian citizens.

Iranians, French feminist organisations, and politicians were among those who gathered at Republique Plaza in October before leading a march through eastern Paris.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a show of solidarity for Iranian protestors facing a harsh government crackdown, demonstrators from all over the world have come to the streets in protest. This action was triggered by the murder of Mahsa Amini, 22, while in the care of Iran's morality police.

In a show of solidarity for Iranian protestors facing a harsh government crackdown, demonstrators from all over the world have come to the streets in protest. This action was triggered by the murder of Mahsa Amini, 22, while in the care of Iran's morality police. After being detained on 13 September in Tehran for wearing "wrong apparel," Amini passed away three days later in the hospital. This death sparked waves of protests that resulted in the deaths of more than 200 people, including teenage females. At the US National Mall, thousands of women and men of all ages — donning green, white and red, the colors of the Iran flag — chanted. "Be scared. Be scared. We are one in this," some shouted, ahead of the group's march to the White House. "Say her name! Mahsa!" Also read | Iran rejects Ukraine drone claims yet again, slams West over 'provocative approaches' Iranians from all over the Washington, D.C., area attended the demonstrations, some of whom travelled from Toronto to participate. They were organised by grassroots activists from across the United States. The largest concentration of Iranians outside of Iran can be seen in Los Angeles, where a crowd of demonstrators formed a slow-moving procession along blocks of a closed downtown roadway. They waved hundreds of Iranian flags at the horizon, turning it into an undulating wave of red, white, and green as they yelled for the overthrow of the Iranian regime. Nearly 40,000 people showed up in Berlin to offer support for the women and activists who have been spearheading the movement in Iran for the past several weeks. The Woman's Life Freedom Collective organised the demonstrations in Berlin, which started near the Victory Column in the Tiergarten park and continued as a march through the heart of the city. Thousands of people showed up in Paris to support Iranian citizens. Iranians, French feminist organisations, and politicians were among those who gathered at Republique Plaza in October before leading a march through eastern Paris. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Thousands march in US, Europe to support Iran's anti-hijab protests

Cancer survivors and the people who have lost their loved ones to deadly diseases did the march.

US: 'Light the night' march for cancer survivors and those who lost loved ones to disease

In a rare high level contact between Russia and the United States, the defence secretaries of both countries held a telephonic conversation. During the phone call, the situation of Ukraine was discussed.

US, Russia Defence Ministers discuss Ukraine war, speak for the first time since May

Donald Trump will now have to testify before lawmakers probing the Capitol Hill Attack. The former US President has been subpoenaed by the lawmakers probing the 2021 attack.

US: Donald Trump ordered to testify in Capitol Assault Probe, must depose by November 14

Russia: Call was needed to clear up misunderstandings

The US Secretary of Defence Llyod Austin has spoken to his Russian counterpart Defence Minister Sergey Shoigu. According to the statement by the Pentagon, Llyod Austin emphasised the importance of maintaining the lines of communication even during the war in Ukraine.

US, Russia Defence Ministers hold call on Ukraine, security issues

Former US President Donald Trump’s ex adviser Steve Bannon has been sentenced to four months of prison for refusing to cooperate with lawmakers investigating last year’s US capital attack probe.

US: Steve Bannon sentenced for contempt of Congress for four months in prison

U.S President Joe Biden has predicted a final hour shift in favor of the Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections. This comes as he claimed that the party's weakest issue is economy and that has been showing signs of improvement however apart from the economy, one of the other hot topics of the upcoming polls are the abortion rights.

US President: Midterms to shift towards democrats, Fetterman has a slight lead

After months of demonstrations in Iran, the United States of America now wants to give voice to the protesters in the country. The Islamic Republic has been gripped by five weeks of demonstrations that erupted after the death in police custody of 22-year-old Mahasa Amini last month and the Iranian forces are now clamping down hard on these protesters.

Iran: Starlink may help citizens circumvent the regime's restrictions

Responding to layoff reports, Twitter has clarified that there are no plans for company-wide layoffs since it signed the deal to be acquired by billionaire Elon Musk.

World Business Watch | Reports: Musk considering layoffs, Twitter officials write email to employees

US is exploring the possibility of new export controls that would limit China's access to some powerful emerging computer technologies.

WION Business News | US eyes expanding China tech ban

The National Institutes of Health is now examining whether experiments performed at Boston University should have triggered a federal review, after scientists at the school tested strains they created of the Covid-19 virus combining the ancestral and Omicron variants.

US health officials probe Boston University’s Covid virus research

The Biden administration is discussing if the business ventures of Elon Musk - like the Twitter takeover - should be subjected to National Security reviews. This comes amid reports that Musk could cut 75% of Twitter's workforce. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Will US government scrutinise the Twitter takeover?

U.S. says Iranian troops were in Crimea helping Russian military attack Ukraine. Reports say Iranian drone experts are training Russian soldiers. But why is Iran helping Russia? What's in it for Tehran? Listen in to Priyanka Sharma.

Gravitas: U.S. says Iranian troops were in Crimea helping Russia attack Ukraine

On Friday, a district court in the United States sentenced Steve Bannon to four months in prison and a $6,500 fine for contempt of Congress following his refusal to cooperate with the lawmakers' investigation of the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021.&nbsp;

The ex-aide to former US president Donald Trump will not have to serve his sentence right away and has been allowed to remain free while he appeals his guilty verdict by US District Judge Carl Nichols. Bannon was found guilty on two charges which included refusing to testify or providing documents to the House of Representatives committee during the investigation of the attack.&nbsp;

Bannon chose not to testify during the hearing or address the judge prior to his sentencing. However did show up at the court and told the press gathered outside the courtroom “Remember, this illegitimate regime, their judgment day is on (November 8),” this statement was in reference to the upcoming mid-term election in the US.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-department-of-justice-demands-six-months-prison-term-for-steve-bannon-former-trump-aide-526185">Steve Bannon: US Justice Department seeks six-month prison term for former Trump aide</a>

According to reports, the Department of Justice had recommended a six-month sentence and a fine of $200,000 against Bannon citing his, “sustained, bad-faith contempt of Congress.” The memo sent by the department to the court also points out how, “By flouting the Select Committee's subpoena and its authority, the defendant exacerbated that assault.”&nbsp;

Similarly, the prosecutors had also sought a six-month sentence as Prosecutor J.P. Cooney during Friday’s hearing highlighting the importance of the case said, "Bannon&nbsp;is not above the law, and that's what makes this case important.” The prosecutors called two witnesses while Bannon's team called none.&nbsp;

The former Trump adviser’s attorney David Schoen said that Bannon did not comply with the subpoena after the former president invoked executive privilege, which does not allow some of the White House communications from being disclosed to the public.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-trump-aide-steve-bannon-found-guilty-of-contempt-of-congress-499886">Ex-Trump aide Steve Bannon found guilty of contempt of Congress</a>

However, the prosecutor argued, “He chose to hide behind fabricated claims of executive privilege and advice of counsel to thumb his nose at Congress.” Notably, Bannon during the attack on the US Capitol by Trump supporters was acting in an official capacity.

The defence also argued that he was being prosecuted for his political motives. However, the judge did not allow these assertions that Bannon relied on executive privilege and advice from his lawyers not to comply with the congressional subpoena.&nbsp;

Reports suggest that prior to the sentencing Judge Nichols asserted that the offence is subject to a minimum of one month in jail. The congressional subpoena reportedly&nbsp;sought any documents related to the former president or allies including Rudy Giuliani, or extremist far-right groups such as the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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On Friday, a district court in the United States sentenced Steve Bannon to four months in prison and a $6,500 fine for contempt of Congress following his refusal to cooperate with the lawmakers' investigation of the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021.

On Friday, a district court in the United States sentenced Steve Bannon to four months in prison and a $6,500 fine for contempt of Congress following his refusal to cooperate with the lawmakers' investigation of the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. The ex-aide to former US president Donald Trump will not have to serve his sentence right away and has been allowed to remain free while he appeals his guilty verdict by US District Judge Carl Nichols. Bannon was found guilty on two charges which included refusing to testify or providing documents to the House of Representatives committee during the investigation of the attack. Bannon chose not to testify during the hearing or address the judge prior to his sentencing. However did show up at the court and told the press gathered outside the courtroom “Remember, this illegitimate regime, their judgment day is on (November 8),” this statement was in reference to the upcoming mid-term election in the US. ALSO READ: Steve Bannon: US Justice Department seeks six-month prison term for former Trump aide According to reports, the Department of Justice had recommended a six-month sentence and a fine of $200,000 against Bannon citing his, “sustained, bad-faith contempt of Congress.” The memo sent by the department to the court also points out how, “By flouting the Select Committee's subpoena and its authority, the defendant exacerbated that assault.” Similarly, the prosecutors had also sought a six-month sentence as Prosecutor J.P. Cooney during Friday’s hearing highlighting the importance of the case said, "Bannon is not above the law, and that's what makes this case important.” The prosecutors called two witnesses while Bannon's team called none. The former Trump adviser’s attorney David Schoen said that Bannon did not comply with the subpoena after the former president invoked executive privilege, which does not allow some of the White House communications from being disclosed to the public. ALSO READ: Ex-Trump aide Steve Bannon found guilty of contempt of Congress However, the prosecutor argued, “He chose to hide behind fabricated claims of executive privilege and advice of counsel to thumb his nose at Congress.” Notably, Bannon during the attack on the US Capitol by Trump supporters was acting in an official capacity. The defence also argued that he was being prosecuted for his political motives. However, the judge did not allow these assertions that Bannon relied on executive privilege and advice from his lawyers not to comply with the congressional subpoena. Reports suggest that prior to the sentencing Judge Nichols asserted that the offence is subject to a minimum of one month in jail. The congressional subpoena reportedly sought any documents related to the former president or allies including Rudy Giuliani, or extremist far-right groups such as the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. (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.

US: Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon sentenced to four months in prison for contempt

The Department of Justice says that it needs more money to proceed with the January 6 investigation. They stressed that they need more than $34 million to fund the probe. The Congress has until December 16 to work on funding agreement.

US: 'Need more funds for January 6 probe,' says Department of Justice

The United States has said Iranian military trainers were in Crimea helping Russian forces operate Iranian-made drones to attack targets in Ukraine.

White House claims Iranian trainers helping Russia with drones

Diwali, not just a festival but an emotion for millions, will now be a public school holiday in New York City from 2023, the mayor announced on Thursday (October 21).

Eric Adams made the announcement along with New York Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar, who proposed the legislation to recognise 'Diwali' at NYC schools, CNN reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-of-texas-allegedly-sues-google-for-using-biometric-information-without-consent-527248">Also read |&nbsp;US State of Texas allegedly sues Google for using biometric information without 'consent'</a>

The mayor further said that the decision was a "long overdue" acknowledgement for the Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist communities.&nbsp;

Rajkumar said, "The time has come to recognise over 200,000 New Yorkers of the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and Jain faiths who celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights."

This time, the legislators switched out 'Anniversary Day,' or 'Brooklyn-Queen Day' for the Hindu festival Diwali. Rajkumar said 'Anniversary Day' was "an obscure and antiquated day," as compared to Diwali.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-gives-go-ahead-to-novavax-covid-booster-dose-526933">Also read |&nbsp;US gives go-ahead to Novavax Covid booster dose</a>

The assembly member noted that people said that there was no space for the festival to be put on the school calendar and&nbsp;now the new legislation has made space for it.&nbsp;

The Anniversary Day dates back to 1829, and schools have been observing a day since the mid-1990s.&nbsp;

The New York mayor during the conference said that the legislation will make students learn more about Diwali and its celebrations. CNN reported him as saying, "We're going to have them start talking about what it is to celebrate the Festival of Lights, and how do you turn a light on within yourself."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Diwali, not just a festival but an emotion for millions, will now be a public school holiday in New York City from 2023, the mayor announced on Thursday (October 21).

Diwali, not just a festival but an emotion for millions, will now be a public school holiday in New York City from 2023, the mayor announced on Thursday (October 21). Eric Adams made the announcement along with New York Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar, who proposed the legislation to recognise 'Diwali' at NYC schools, CNN reported. Also read | US State of Texas allegedly sues Google for using biometric information without 'consent' The mayor further said that the decision was a "long overdue" acknowledgement for the Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist communities. Rajkumar said, "The time has come to recognise over 200,000 New Yorkers of the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and Jain faiths who celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights." This time, the legislators switched out 'Anniversary Day,' or 'Brooklyn-Queen Day' for the Hindu festival Diwali. Rajkumar said 'Anniversary Day' was "an obscure and antiquated day," as compared to Diwali. Also read | US gives go-ahead to Novavax Covid booster dose The assembly member noted that people said that there was no space for the festival to be put on the school calendar and now the new legislation has made space for it. The Anniversary Day dates back to 1829, and schools have been observing a day since the mid-1990s. The New York mayor during the conference said that the legislation will make students learn more about Diwali and its celebrations. CNN reported him as saying, "We're going to have them start talking about what it is to celebrate the Festival of Lights, and how do you turn a light on within yourself." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Diwali' to be a public school holiday from 2023 in New York City, announces mayor

A boy from the US state of Nevada died after being exposed to an infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as a brain-eating amoeba, said local health officials. In a statement, Southern Nevada Health District indicated that the boy who lived in Las Vegas might have been infected during his visit to Lake Mead.&nbsp;

It added that the individual may have been exposed to the amoeba on the Arizona side of Lake Mead and began to develop symptoms a week later. According to reports, Naegleria fowleri enters through a person’s nose and can lead to inflammation, headache, fever, nausea and subsequently, seizures, coma and in some cases death.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/climate-change-will-shoot-up-cases-of-brain-eating-amoeba-heres-how-388610">Climate change will shoot up cases of brain-eating amoeba. Here's how</a>

While the officials did not identify the minor they confirmed that the patient was male, under the age of 18 and a resident of Nevada's Clark County. Furthermore, the country’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also reportedly confirmed that it was this particular amoeba which was the cause of the patient’s death, indicated the statement. It added that the infection is also “extremely rare, and almost always fatal”.&nbsp;

Reports also suggest that Naegleria fowleri is most active during summers and found in bodies of water that are above 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). Therefore, the CDC recommends swimmers protect themselves by holding their noses shut or wearing nose clips in warm freshwater and avoid digging or stirring up the sediment.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/deadly-brain-eating-amoeba-is-spreading-in-us-scientists-issue-warning-351357">Deadly brain-eating amoeba is spreading in US, scientists issue warning</a>

According to health officials, “The amoeba is naturally occurring, and there is no routine test for Naegleria fowleri. Previous water testing has shown that it is regularly found in freshwater bodies and though the risk is low, recreational water users should always assume there is a risk when they enter warm fresh water.” They also went on to assure that there is no danger of the amoeba getting into Las Vegas city’s drinking water.

 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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A boy from the US state of Nevada died after being exposed to an infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as a brain-eating amoeba, said local health officials.

A boy from the US state of Nevada died after being exposed to an infection caused by Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as a brain-eating amoeba, said local health officials. In a statement, Southern Nevada Health District indicated that the boy who lived in Las Vegas might have been infected during his visit to Lake Mead. It added that the individual may have been exposed to the amoeba on the Arizona side of Lake Mead and began to develop symptoms a week later. According to reports, Naegleria fowleri enters through a person’s nose and can lead to inflammation, headache, fever, nausea and subsequently, seizures, coma and in some cases death. ALSO READ: Climate change will shoot up cases of brain-eating amoeba. Here's how While the officials did not identify the minor they confirmed that the patient was male, under the age of 18 and a resident of Nevada's Clark County. Furthermore, the country’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also reportedly confirmed that it was this particular amoeba which was the cause of the patient’s death, indicated the statement. It added that the infection is also “extremely rare, and almost always fatal”. Reports also suggest that Naegleria fowleri is most active during summers and found in bodies of water that are above 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). Therefore, the CDC recommends swimmers protect themselves by holding their noses shut or wearing nose clips in warm freshwater and avoid digging or stirring up the sediment. ALSO READ: Deadly brain-eating amoeba is spreading in US, scientists issue warning According to health officials, “The amoeba is naturally occurring, and there is no routine test for Naegleria fowleri. Previous water testing has shown that it is regularly found in freshwater bodies and though the risk is low, recreational water users should always assume there is a risk when they enter warm fresh water.” They also went on to assure that there is no danger of the amoeba getting into Las Vegas city’s drinking water. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Boy dies after exposure to rare brain-eating amoeba, likely infected at Lake Mead

The United States on Thursday (October 20)&nbsp;unveiled criminal accusations against seven Chinese nationals who were accused of conducting a surveillance and harassment campaign against a US resident and his family, in an effort to deport them to China.&nbsp;

Quanzhong An, 55, of Roslyn, New York, his 34-year-old daughter Guangyang An and five others, are the seven people accused.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-family-appeals-for-justice-in-14-year-olds-death-who-was-sent-to-a-covid-quarantine-facility-527285">Also read |&nbsp;China: Family appeals for justice in 14-year-old's death who was sent to a Covid quarantine facility</a>

The Justice Department's most recent case focuses on China's alleged immigration programme, known as "Operation Fox Hunt," and it includes an eight-count indictment that was unsealed in a US district court.&nbsp;

China and the United States do not share an extradition agreement.

Quanzhong is the principal suspect and he along with his daughter was taken into custody. The former has been charged with conspiring with China's Provisional Commission for Discipline Inspection to intimidate and harass a Chinese man and his son who lived in the US.&nbsp;

The man and his son were identified as John Doe-1 and John Doe-2. To get John Doe-1 to come back to China, his relative was forced to come from here to the US for the scheme.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/chinas-new-era-dawns-in-manchester-527312">Also read |&nbsp;China’s new era dawns in Manchester</a>

The relative further told John Doe-2 that he was forced by the Chinese government&nbsp;to go there.&nbsp;

Another prosecution of the family was a writing campaign that "coming back and giving yourself in is the only way."

As per a New York state court, the father allegedly stole money from a Chinese employer and his son also made illicit gains.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The United States on Thursday (October 20) unveiled criminal accusations against seven Chinese nationals who were accused of conducting a surveillance and harassment campaign against a US resident and his family, in an effort to deport them to China.

The United States on Thursday (October 20) unveiled criminal accusations against seven Chinese nationals who were accused of conducting a surveillance and harassment campaign against a US resident and his family, in an effort to deport them to China. Quanzhong An, 55, of Roslyn, New York, his 34-year-old daughter Guangyang An and five others, are the seven people accused. Also read | China: Family appeals for justice in 14-year-old's death who was sent to a Covid quarantine facility The Justice Department's most recent case focuses on China's alleged immigration programme, known as "Operation Fox Hunt," and it includes an eight-count indictment that was unsealed in a US district court. China and the United States do not share an extradition agreement. Quanzhong is the principal suspect and he along with his daughter was taken into custody. The former has been charged with conspiring with China's Provisional Commission for Discipline Inspection to intimidate and harass a Chinese man and his son who lived in the US. The man and his son were identified as John Doe-1 and John Doe-2. To get John Doe-1 to come back to China, his relative was forced to come from here to the US for the scheme. Also read | China’s new era dawns in Manchester The relative further told John Doe-2 that he was forced by the Chinese government to go there. Another prosecution of the family was a writing campaign that "coming back and giving yourself in is the only way." As per a New York state court, the father allegedly stole money from a Chinese employer and his son also made illicit gains. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US charges seven Chinese nationals for running 'forced' repatriation campaign

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