Australia and the United States announced expanded military cooperation, including rotational deployments of all types of US military aircraft to Australia, a day after announcing a submarine deal denounced by China as intensifying a regional arms race. Watch this report for more details.

Australia and United States announce expanded military cooperation

What is Aukus? The United States, The United Kingdom and Australia have announced a new security pact to counter China. The US & the UK plan to arm Australia with nuclear-powered submarines. Palki Sharma tells you all that you need to know.

Gravitas: Is the West dumping Quad for Aukus?

With the US out of Afghanistan after 20 years, some experts say China and Pakistan are stepping in to provide both immediate support and the prospect of long-term investment for the Taliban acting government in Kabul. WION-VOA co-production brings you a report.

China, Pakistan sent food and humanitarian aid to Afghanistan

Will the new US-Australia-UK alliance sideline the QUAD? Has Europe lost out in the battle for dominance in the Indo-Pacific? Palki Sharma tells you how the world reacted to AUKUS.

Gravitas: What does AUKUS mean for India?

US medical experts will be meeting on&nbsp;Friday to debate and vote on the controversial question of giving out booster doses of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine to the general population.

President Joe Biden's administration announced in August a plan to roll out third shots to everyone, not just the immune compromised already able to receive them, starting from September 20. However, the&nbsp;experts have since expressed reservations about whether they are required, amid concerns over global inequity, the greater need to vaccinate the unvaccinated, and possible increased risk of side effects.

The skepticism extends to scientists at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), who struck a cautious tone in documents released ahead of Friday's meeting where an independent panel has been convened. "Overall, data indicate that currently US-licensed or authorised COVID-19 vaccines still afford protection against severe Covid-19 disease and death in the United States," the FDA said in a briefing document.

If the FDA panel votes yes, it will fall to another committee convened by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on September 22-23 to decide who should receive the booster first and when they should get it. The CDC has previously indicated it sees the elderly, nursing home residents and health care workers as likely first in line.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lanternfly-poses-threat-after-being-spotted-in-the-central-park-in-nyc-413620">Also read |&nbsp;Lanternfly poses threat after being spotted in the Central Park in NYC</a>

Two senior FDA officials signed on to a letter in The Lancet this week that said "booster doses for the general population are not appropriate at this stage in the pandemic."

Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a>a new study has revealed that the people who were administered Moderna’s Covid vaccine a year ago are more likely to contract coronavirus.</a>

Moderna is suggesting the usage of a Covid booster shot — which the World Health Organization (WHO) has protested. 
"It is promising to see clinical and real-world evidence adding to the growing body of data on the effectiveness of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine," Moderna CEO Stéphane Bancel said insisting on the need of a booster shot.&nbsp;

 
"The increased risk of breakthrough infections in COVE study participants who were vaccinated last year compared to more recently illustrates the impact of waning immunity and supports the need for a booster to maintain high levels of protection."

US medical experts will be meeting on Friday to debate and vote on the controversial question of giving out booster doses of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine to the general population.

US medical experts will be meeting on Friday to debate and vote on the controversial question of giving out booster doses of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine to the general population. President Joe Biden's administration announced in August a plan to roll out third shots to everyone, not just the immune compromised already able to receive them, starting from September 20. However, the experts have since expressed reservations about whether they are required, amid concerns over global inequity, the greater need to vaccinate the unvaccinated, and possible increased risk of side effects. The skepticism extends to scientists at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), who struck a cautious tone in documents released ahead of Friday's meeting where an independent panel has been convened. "Overall, data indicate that currently US-licensed or authorised COVID-19 vaccines still afford protection against severe Covid-19 disease and death in the United States," the FDA said in a briefing document. If the FDA panel votes yes, it will fall to another committee convened by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on September 22-23 to decide who should receive the booster first and when they should get it. The CDC has previously indicated it sees the elderly, nursing home residents and health care workers as likely first in line. Also read | Lanternfly poses threat after being spotted in the Central Park in NYC Two senior FDA officials signed on to a letter in The Lancet this week that said "booster doses for the general population are not appropriate at this stage in the pandemic." Meanwhile, a new study has revealed that the people who were administered Moderna’s Covid vaccine a year ago are more likely to contract coronavirus. Moderna is suggesting the usage of a Covid booster shot — which the World Health Organization (WHO) has protested. "It is promising to see clinical and real-world evidence adding to the growing body of data on the effectiveness of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine," Moderna CEO Stéphane Bancel said insisting on the need of a booster shot. "The increased risk of breakthrough infections in COVE study participants who were vaccinated last year compared to more recently illustrates the impact of waning immunity and supports the need for a booster to maintain high levels of protection."

US medical experts to vote on Pfizer COVID-19 boosters

The USA has reportedly asked United Nations Security Council to extend sanctions waiver for more than a dozen top Taliban officials to travel abroad for discussions on Afghanistan's stability. Foreign Policy has reported that this request has come just over a month when US warned that UN sanctions on Taliban leaders' travel would be reimposed if the Taliban did not desist from perpetrating violence in Afghanistan.

Taliban has since come to power in Afghanistan and has solidified its grip on almost the entire country.

As per the media report, the waiver on Taliban leaders travel was to end on September 20. But now the US has requested it be extended to December 22.

Moreover, US requests that Taliban leaders be allowed to withdraw money from their frozen accounts for the purpose of their travel. However, as per the note, the travel should be to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan.

USA or the international community has not formally recognised the Taliban regime in Afghanistan yet. On Friday, International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that its engagement in Afghanistan will remain suspended till there is some clarity among countries about recognition to the Taliban regime.

The USA has reportedly asked United Nations Security Council to extend sanctions waiver for more than a dozen top Taliban officials to travel abroad for discussions on Afghanistan's stability.

The USA has reportedly asked United Nations Security Council to extend sanctions waiver for more than a dozen top Taliban officials to travel abroad for discussions on Afghanistan's stability. Foreign Policy has reported that this request has come just over a month when US warned that UN sanctions on Taliban leaders' travel would be reimposed if the Taliban did not desist from perpetrating violence in Afghanistan. Taliban has since come to power in Afghanistan and has solidified its grip on almost the entire country. As per the media report, the waiver on Taliban leaders travel was to end on September 20. But now the US has requested it be extended to December 22. Moreover, US requests that Taliban leaders be allowed to withdraw money from their frozen accounts for the purpose of their travel. However, as per the note, the travel should be to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan. USA or the international community has not formally recognised the Taliban regime in Afghanistan yet. On Friday, International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that its engagement in Afghanistan will remain suspended till there is some clarity among countries about recognition to the Taliban regime.

US requests UN to extend waiver on Taliban travel ban: Report

Due to unauthorised trespassing and accidents at the location, Hawaii's iconic Haiku Stairs, often known as the "Stairway to Heaven," will be removed.

The stairwell was constructed by the United States.

Despite being closed to the public for nearly 30 years, the Navy in the 1940s is now known to have the best views in Hawaii.

Its 3,922 stairs lead up a mountain in Kaneohe, on the island of Oahu's eastern shore.

Visitors aren't allowed on the stairs, but that hasn't stopped individuals from wandering onto the trail, often climbing residential fences and wandering through backyards to gain access.&nbsp;

The stairwell was permanently closed to the public in 1987.

Hikers, YouTubers, adrenaline seekers, and other tourists snuck inside the site despite the closure.

There have been countless injuries there over the years, the most recent being a 24-year-old who was airlifted out in April after injuring his knee.&nbsp;

There is currently a $1,000 fine for those caught trespassing at the stairs.

(With inputs from agencies)

Due to unauthorised trespassing and accidents at the location, Hawaii's iconic Haiku Stairs, often known as the "Stairway to Heaven," will be removed. The stairwell was constructed by the United States.

Due to unauthorised trespassing and accidents at the location, Hawaii's iconic Haiku Stairs, often known as the "Stairway to Heaven," will be removed. The stairwell was constructed by the United States. Despite being closed to the public for nearly 30 years, the Navy in the 1940s is now known to have the best views in Hawaii. Its 3,922 stairs lead up a mountain in Kaneohe, on the island of Oahu's eastern shore. Visitors aren't allowed on the stairs, but that hasn't stopped individuals from wandering onto the trail, often climbing residential fences and wandering through backyards to gain access. The stairwell was permanently closed to the public in 1987. Hikers, YouTubers, adrenaline seekers, and other tourists snuck inside the site despite the closure. There have been countless injuries there over the years, the most recent being a 24-year-old who was airlifted out in April after injuring his knee. There is currently a $1,000 fine for those caught trespassing at the stairs. (With inputs from agencies)

'Stairway to heaven': Hawaii's famous Haiku Stairs will likely be removed

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken took down a tweet in which he declared the US would "stand with the people of Hong Kong," accusing Beijing of undermining the city's long-term political stability.

He sent the statement after seven opposition district councillors in Hong Kong were disqualified this week after officials declared their oaths to be invalid.&nbsp;

On September 16, Blinken tweeted his disapproval in a direct manner. 
 
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On the same day, US State Department spokesman Ned Price tweeted the same message, which was also deleted.

A day later, Blinken sent a more moderate tweet, removing the US offer to stand with Hong Kong residents and the obvious exhortation to Beijing to listen to the voices of all Hong Kong residents.&nbsp;

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The PRC’s disqualification of seven pro-democracy district councilors undermines the ability of people in Hong Kong to participate in their governance. Governments should serve the people they represent. Decreasing representation goes against the spirit of Hong Kong’s Basic Law.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1438615977680322563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken took down a tweet in which he declared the US would "stand with the people of Hong Kong," accusing Beijing of undermining the city's long-term political stability.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken took down a tweet in which he declared the US would "stand with the people of Hong Kong," accusing Beijing of undermining the city's long-term political stability. He sent the statement after seven opposition district councillors in Hong Kong were disqualified this week after officials declared their oaths to be invalid. On September 16, Blinken tweeted his disapproval in a direct manner. On the same day, US State Department spokesman Ned Price tweeted the same message, which was also deleted. A day later, Blinken sent a more moderate tweet, removing the US offer to stand with Hong Kong residents and the obvious exhortation to Beijing to listen to the voices of all Hong Kong residents. The PRC’s disqualification of seven pro-democracy district councilors undermines the ability of people in Hong Kong to participate in their governance. Governments should serve the people they represent. Decreasing representation goes against the spirit of Hong Kong’s Basic Law. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) September 16, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

'US would stand with people of Hong Kong', tweets Blinken; later deletes it

After US, Australia and Britain announced the establishment of a new security partnership for the Indo-Pacific region, China lashed out at the move saying that "countries should not build exclusionary blocs targeting or harming the interests of third parties."

"In particular, they should shake off their cold war mentality and ideological prejudice," the Chinese embassy in Washington said.

The deal which involves helping Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines to guard against future threats was announced jointly by US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and UK PM Boris Johnson.

PM Morrison said that the submarines would be built in Adelaide in close cooperation with the United States and Britain and that Australia will continue to meet its nuclear non-proliferation obligations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-nuclear-vessels-prohibited-from-entering-new-zealand-prime-minister-ardern-413371">Also Read:&nbsp;Australian nuclear vessels prohibited from entering New Zealand, says&nbsp;Prime Minister Ardern</a>

"Our world is becoming more complex, especially here in our region, the Indo-Pacific. It affects us all. The future of the Indo-Pacific will impact all our futures to make these challenges, to help deliver the security and stability our region needs, we must now take our partnership to a new level," PM Scott Morrison said while announcing the deal.

"A partnership that seeks to engage, not to exclude, to contribute, not take; and to enable and empower, not to control or coerce," the Australian PM added.

None of the three leaders however mentioned China and US officials said that move was not aimed at countering Beijing. However, US President Biden in his speech said that the new trilateral partnership was meant to address the current environment in the region.

"Today, we're taking another historic step to deepen and formalise cooperation among all three of our nations because we all recognise the imperative of ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific over the long term," Biden said.

"We need to be able to address both the current strategic environment in the region and how it may evolve because the future of each of our nations and indeed the world depends on a free and open Indo-Pacific," the US president added.

(With inputs from Agencies)

After US, Australia and Britain announced the establishment of a new security partnership for the Indo-Pacific region, China lashed out at the move saying that "countries should not build exclusionary blocs targeting or harming the interests of third parties.

After US, Australia and Britain announced the establishment of a new security partnership for the Indo-Pacific region, China lashed out at the move saying that "countries should not build exclusionary blocs targeting or harming the interests of third parties." "In particular, they should shake off their cold war mentality and ideological prejudice," the Chinese embassy in Washington said. The deal which involves helping Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines to guard against future threats was announced jointly by US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and UK PM Boris Johnson. PM Morrison said that the submarines would be built in Adelaide in close cooperation with the United States and Britain and that Australia will continue to meet its nuclear non-proliferation obligations. Also Read: Australian nuclear vessels prohibited from entering New Zealand, says Prime Minister Ardern "Our world is becoming more complex, especially here in our region, the Indo-Pacific. It affects us all. The future of the Indo-Pacific will impact all our futures to make these challenges, to help deliver the security and stability our region needs, we must now take our partnership to a new level," PM Scott Morrison said while announcing the deal. "A partnership that seeks to engage, not to exclude, to contribute, not take; and to enable and empower, not to control or coerce," the Australian PM added. None of the three leaders however mentioned China and US officials said that move was not aimed at countering Beijing. However, US President Biden in his speech said that the new trilateral partnership was meant to address the current environment in the region. "Today, we're taking another historic step to deepen and formalise cooperation among all three of our nations because we all recognise the imperative of ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific over the long term," Biden said. "We need to be able to address both the current strategic environment in the region and how it may evolve because the future of each of our nations and indeed the world depends on a free and open Indo-Pacific," the US president added. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Cold war mentality': China lashes out at US, Australia, UK nuclear submarine deal

To refrain China's Influence in Indo-Pacific a news partnership has been set up that is United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. Watch this video for more details.

AUKUS' to counter China's influence in Indo-Pacific

A new predator has been spotted in New York City, known as the lanternfly.&nbsp;

New York residence Damian Biollo went to Hudson Yards with his wife to meet up with a drawing group, when he noticed something out of context and quite beautiful.&nbsp;

At that moment, Mr Biollo knew that he was in the presence of something insidious. After two attempts, he managed to squash it.

As a software engineer who follows a lot of naturalists online, Mr Biollo correctly identified what he was looking at as a spotted lanternfly.&nbsp;

The invasive pest from Asia had arrived in the United States seven years ago and in New York City last year. After arriving, it immediately landed in the Most Wanted list of local environmentalists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-day-for-preservation-of-ozone-layer-significance-and-history-413606">Also read |&nbsp;International day for preservation of ozone layer: Significance and history</a>

“I spent 10 minutes stomping around and looking for them, and I killed eight," Mr Biollo was quoted by the New York Times. He further added that “I honestly felt like I was in a twisted video game. I killed eight and I thought maybe I could get to a high score of 10.”

The beautiful yet tiny creature with two pairs of wings, of which, the front set a pale grey elegantly dotted in black, and the backset smaller and accented in bright red, was a problem because of many reasons.&nbsp;

The creature zealously feeds on the sap of more than 70 plant species, leaving them susceptible to disease and destruction from other natural antagonists, threatening to set back the fight against climate change.

In Pennsylvania, the issue is taken so seriously that the state issued a Spotted lanternfly order of quarantine and treatment.&nbsp;

This imposes fines and even potential criminal penalties on anyone who intentionally moves the bug, at any stage of its life, from one sort of location to another via “recreational vehicles, tractors, mowers, grills” as well as “tarps, mobile homes, tile, stone, deck boards” or “fire pits.”

The last time the city faced a threat of this kind was approximately 15 years ago, when the Asian long-horned beetle made its incursions, having entered the country in wooden packing materials.

Half of the trees in New York were vulnerable to it, and the invasion resulted in huge deforestation.&nbsp;

First sighted in Brooklyn in 1996, the beetle was not fully eradicated from the city until 23 years later.

Researchers are currently working on different methods to permanently control the spotted lanternfly population.&nbsp;

A new predator has been spotted in New York City, known as the lanternfly. New York residence Damian Biollo went to Hudson Yards with his wife to meet up with a drawing group, when he noticed something out of context and quite beautiful.

A new predator has been spotted in New York City, known as the lanternfly. New York residence Damian Biollo went to Hudson Yards with his wife to meet up with a drawing group, when he noticed something out of context and quite beautiful. At that moment, Mr Biollo knew that he was in the presence of something insidious. After two attempts, he managed to squash it. As a software engineer who follows a lot of naturalists online, Mr Biollo correctly identified what he was looking at as a spotted lanternfly. The invasive pest from Asia had arrived in the United States seven years ago and in New York City last year. After arriving, it immediately landed in the Most Wanted list of local environmentalists. Also read | International day for preservation of ozone layer: Significance and history “I spent 10 minutes stomping around and looking for them, and I killed eight," Mr Biollo was quoted by the New York Times. He further added that “I honestly felt like I was in a twisted video game. I killed eight and I thought maybe I could get to a high score of 10.” The beautiful yet tiny creature with two pairs of wings, of which, the front set a pale grey elegantly dotted in black, and the backset smaller and accented in bright red, was a problem because of many reasons. The creature zealously feeds on the sap of more than 70 plant species, leaving them susceptible to disease and destruction from other natural antagonists, threatening to set back the fight against climate change. In Pennsylvania, the issue is taken so seriously that the state issued a Spotted lanternfly order of quarantine and treatment. This imposes fines and even potential criminal penalties on anyone who intentionally moves the bug, at any stage of its life, from one sort of location to another via “recreational vehicles, tractors, mowers, grills” as well as “tarps, mobile homes, tile, stone, deck boards” or “fire pits.” The last time the city faced a threat of this kind was approximately 15 years ago, when the Asian long-horned beetle made its incursions, having entered the country in wooden packing materials. Half of the trees in New York were vulnerable to it, and the invasion resulted in huge deforestation. First sighted in Brooklyn in 1996, the beetle was not fully eradicated from the city until 23 years later. Researchers are currently working on different methods to permanently control the spotted lanternfly population.

Lanternfly poses threat after being spotted in the Central Park in NYC

China dispatched four warships near Alaska last month. The US Coast Guard claims they remained outside America's territorial waters. Was Beijing sending a message to Washington ahead of the QUAD summit? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Chinese warships near Alaska

The US negotiator on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has said that President Ashraf Ghani’s abrupt exit scuttled a deal for the Taliban to hold off entering Kabul and negotiate a political transition.

US envoy Khalilzad says Ghani exit scuttled Afghan power-sharing

The EU complained on Thursday it was kept out of the loop on a new military partnership between the US, UK and Australia, as Brussels laid out its own strategy for the Indo-Pacific.

Washington, London and Canberra unveiled the alliance on Wednesday in what was seen as a move to counter China's rising might.&nbsp;

The announcement has fuelled fears that Europe is being cut out by Washington, with EU capitals still smarting over the way the US handled the withdrawal from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/awkward-aukus-joe-biden-forgets-scott-morrisons-name-calls-him-that-fellow-down-under-413487" hreflang="en">Awkward Aukus: Joe Biden forgets Scott Morrison's name, calls him 'that fellow down under'</a>

The agreement to provide a nuclear submarine fleet to Australia sparked fury in EU member France, which saw its earlier multi-billion dollar deal with Canberra scrapped.&nbsp;

"We regret not having being informed, not having been part of these talks," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said.&nbsp;

"I understand how disappointed the French government will be."

But he insisted that ties with Washington had still improved dramatically since President Joe Biden replaced Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The new alliance between the US, Britain and Australia -- dubbed AUKUS -- overshadowed Borrell's own announcement detailing a new Indo-Pacific strategy for the EU.

"The AUKUS security partnership further demonstrates the need for a common EU approach in a region of strategic interest," European Council chief Charles Michel wrote on Twitter, adding that EU leaders would discuss it at a meeting in October. &nbsp;

The 27-nation bloc is looking to strengthen ties in the vast region where it says it is "already the top investor, the leading development cooperation partner and one of the biggest trading partners".&nbsp;

Part of the plan would include "exploring ways to ensure enhanced naval deployments by EU Member States to help protect the sea lines of communication and freedom of navigation", a statement said.

The could anger China, which denied a request from a German frigate to make a port call in Shanghai this week.

But Borrell insisted the strategy was "one of cooperation, not confrontation" with China.&nbsp;

The statement appeared aimed at drawing a line between the EU and Washington's approach of pressing its allies to take an increasingly tough approach towards China in the region.&nbsp;

Borrell said Australia's decision to turn its back on France in favour of the American-British pact would not harm EU ties with Canberra as the two sides look to negotiate a free trade deal.&nbsp;

"We want to foster cooperation with countries such as Australia," Borrell said.&nbsp;

"Trade agreements with Australia will continue down their path." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The EU complained on Thursday it was kept out of the loop on a new military partnership between the US, UK and Australia, as Brussels laid out its own strategy for the Indo-Pacific.

The EU complained on Thursday it was kept out of the loop on a new military partnership between the US, UK and Australia, as Brussels laid out its own strategy for the Indo-Pacific. Washington, London and Canberra unveiled the alliance on Wednesday in what was seen as a move to counter China's rising might. The announcement has fuelled fears that Europe is being cut out by Washington, with EU capitals still smarting over the way the US handled the withdrawal from Afghanistan. Also read | Awkward Aukus: Joe Biden forgets Scott Morrison's name, calls him 'that fellow down under' The agreement to provide a nuclear submarine fleet to Australia sparked fury in EU member France, which saw its earlier multi-billion dollar deal with Canberra scrapped. "We regret not having being informed, not having been part of these talks," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. "I understand how disappointed the French government will be." But he insisted that ties with Washington had still improved dramatically since President Joe Biden replaced Donald Trump. The new alliance between the US, Britain and Australia -- dubbed AUKUS -- overshadowed Borrell's own announcement detailing a new Indo-Pacific strategy for the EU. "The AUKUS security partnership further demonstrates the need for a common EU approach in a region of strategic interest," European Council chief Charles Michel wrote on Twitter, adding that EU leaders would discuss it at a meeting in October. The 27-nation bloc is looking to strengthen ties in the vast region where it says it is "already the top investor, the leading development cooperation partner and one of the biggest trading partners". Part of the plan would include "exploring ways to ensure enhanced naval deployments by EU Member States to help protect the sea lines of communication and freedom of navigation", a statement said. The could anger China, which denied a request from a German frigate to make a port call in Shanghai this week. But Borrell insisted the strategy was "one of cooperation, not confrontation" with China. The statement appeared aimed at drawing a line between the EU and Washington's approach of pressing its allies to take an increasingly tough approach towards China in the region. Borrell said Australia's decision to turn its back on France in favour of the American-British pact would not harm EU ties with Canberra as the two sides look to negotiate a free trade deal. "We want to foster cooperation with countries such as Australia," Borrell said. "Trade agreements with Australia will continue down their path."

EU 'not informed' on US, UK and Australia alliance

The US Soccer Federation said that it has offered identical contract proposals to the respective men's and women's players associations, in an effort to bring the two parties under one collective bargaining agreement (CBA) structure.

US Soccer offers men and women 'identical' contracts as part of efforts to end gender pay dispute

According to the Indian Foreign Ministry, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the first-ever in-person summit of Quad leaders in the US on September 24.

'PM Modi to attend first in-person Quad summit', says Indian Foreign Ministry

Four elite American gymnasts testified about the abuse they had suffered by former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar and their feelings of betrayal by investigators, including from the FBI which they say let them down.

US: Gymnasts blast FBI, Olympic committee for mishandling Nassar investigation

The US, UK, and Australia have announced a new trilateral security partnership aimed at confronting China, which will include helping Australia to build nuclear-powered submarines.

AUKUS partnership will enable Australia to get nuclear submarines

The US, Britain, and Australia have announced a new trilateral security alliance 'AUKUS' in a joint virtual appearance amid China’s growing influence over the Indo-Pacific region.

AUKUS: UK, US & Australia Australia launch new alliance to counter China

In a bid to counter China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region the United States, United Kingdom and Australia have established a new security partnership 'AUKUS' in a joint virtual appearance.

US, UK & Australia forge AUKUS alliance to counter China

A heart patient from Alabama died after 43 hospitals turned him down over lack of special ICU beds. US hospitals have been pushed to the brink by unvaccinated Americans. Despite a glut of jabs, why are so many Americans unvaccinated? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Alabama patient dies after 43 hospitals turn him down

US Secy of State, Antony Blinken was grilled on last US airstrike on Kabul. The senators have asked if the man killed was an ISIS-K operative or an aid worker.

US Secy of State, Antony Blinken  grilled on last US airstrike in Kabul

The new Taliban governor of Helmand, a province in the south of Afghanistan, has urged western countries to come back to the country but with money instead of guns.

A month after Taliban took control of Afghanistan, Talib Mawlawi, a local of Helmand, has asked foreign governments to sit and interact with Taliban in non-war conditions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-leaders-abdul-ghani-baradar-and-khalil-ur-rahman-haqqani-involved-in-a-major-dispute-report-413277" hreflang="en">Taliban leaders Baradar and Haqqani involved in a major dispute: Report</a>

"We faced each other in battle, we didn’t get to know each other in normal times,"&nbsp;Mawlawi said. "Now you can win our hearts and make us happy if you recognise this government."

His statement has come as reports are surfacing about an economic collapse in the province, much like the rest of the country. Like all other Taliban leaders, Mawlawi is also asking world leaders to come in Afghanistan with their financial aid and help bridge the gap between the poor and rich.

"All those foreign countries invaded and killed our women and our children and our old people, and destroyed everything," he said. "Now the international community should help us with humanitarian aid and focus on developing education, business and trade."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/talibans-takeover-of-afghanistan-nears-one-month-413289">WATCH |</a>

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He also reiterated that Taliban have successfully brought peace to the region — Hemland has been observing civil fights between the Afghan forces and Taliban militants for the past two decades. "The international community helps the countries that have the support of their civilians. We have brought security, and we have the support of our people, so they should help us and recognise our government."

Meanwhile, Hemland is still awaiting decision on whether or not high schools will reopen for girls. As of now, girls are seen coming to colleges and universities with a stricter dress code and are allowed to study only in segregated classrooms. "The government recommended them not to come as free as they were before, they should wear burqa or Arabic hijab."

The new Taliban governor of Helmand, a province in the south of Afghanistan, has urged western countries to come back to the country but with money instead of guns.

The new Taliban governor of Helmand, a province in the south of Afghanistan, has urged western countries to come back to the country but with money instead of guns. A month after Taliban took control of Afghanistan, Talib Mawlawi, a local of Helmand, has asked foreign governments to sit and interact with Taliban in non-war conditions. Also read | Taliban leaders Baradar and Haqqani involved in a major dispute: Report "We faced each other in battle, we didn’t get to know each other in normal times," Mawlawi said. "Now you can win our hearts and make us happy if you recognise this government." His statement has come as reports are surfacing about an economic collapse in the province, much like the rest of the country. Like all other Taliban leaders, Mawlawi is also asking world leaders to come in Afghanistan with their financial aid and help bridge the gap between the poor and rich. "All those foreign countries invaded and killed our women and our children and our old people, and destroyed everything," he said. "Now the international community should help us with humanitarian aid and focus on developing education, business and trade." WATCH | He also reiterated that Taliban have successfully brought peace to the region — Hemland has been observing civil fights between the Afghan forces and Taliban militants for the past two decades. "The international community helps the countries that have the support of their civilians. We have brought security, and we have the support of our people, so they should help us and recognise our government." Meanwhile, Hemland is still awaiting decision on whether or not high schools will reopen for girls. As of now, girls are seen coming to colleges and universities with a stricter dress code and are allowed to study only in segregated classrooms. "The government recommended them not to come as free as they were before, they should wear burqa or Arabic hijab."

Afghanistan: Helmand's Taliban governor asks western nations to return with 'money, not guns'

Elite US gymnast Simone Biles testified before the Senate about the abuse she suffered at the hands of the disgraced former team doctor, Larry Nassar.

Simone Biles testifies at senate hearing

U.S. Secretary of State, Blinken has said that Washington will 'reassess' its relationship with Pakistan, in light of its involvement in Afghanistan. Palki Sharma gets you the key highlights from his testimony.

Gravitas: The Blinken Testimony: Key highlights

US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken has admitted that he does not know whether a person killed in a U.S. drone strike in Kabul was an ISIS-K member or an aid worker, and that the Biden administration is still looking into the matter.

US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken says US drone strike under probe

The United States government has spent $5.7 billion in the last three months to treat the unvaccinated Covid patients in different hospitals of the country, said a new analysis published on Tuesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This study has taken the most recent data into account as numerous people were hospitalised in August due to unprecedented rise in coronavirus cases. The authors of the study estimate it to be accounted for $3.7 billion of preventable spending alone.

Watch:&nbsp;United Kingdom to launch booster programme

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The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) made the data analysis on the basis of information from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and studies on health care costs, that say each preventable hospitalisation due to Covid costs about $20,000. &nbsp;

As per the analysis of data from the US Department of Health and Human Services and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the US saw 287,000 preventable Covid hospitalisations from June to August. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/covid-hospitalisation-crisis-reaches-fever-pitch-in-southern-icus-413112" hreflang="en">Covid hospitalisation crisis reaches fever pitch in southern ICUs</a>

The authors of the study used “preventable” hospitalisations to refer to such incidents where unvaccinated adults were provided Covid treatment primarily, while also accounting for any post-vaccination infections that would have been expected if this population had been vaccinated.&nbsp;

The United States government has spent $5.7 billion in the last three months to treat the unvaccinated Covid patients in different hospitals of the country, said a new analysis published on Tuesday.

The United States government has spent $5.7 billion in the last three months to treat the unvaccinated Covid patients in different hospitals of the country, said a new analysis published on Tuesday. This study has taken the most recent data into account as numerous people were hospitalised in August due to unprecedented rise in coronavirus cases. The authors of the study estimate it to be accounted for $3.7 billion of preventable spending alone. Watch: United Kingdom to launch booster programme × The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) made the data analysis on the basis of information from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and studies on health care costs, that say each preventable hospitalisation due to Covid costs about $20,000. As per the analysis of data from the US Department of Health and Human Services and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the US saw 287,000 preventable Covid hospitalisations from June to August. Also Read: Covid hospitalisation crisis reaches fever pitch in southern ICUs The authors of the study used “preventable” hospitalisations to refer to such incidents where unvaccinated adults were provided Covid treatment primarily, while also accounting for any post-vaccination infections that would have been expected if this population had been vaccinated.

For treating unvaccinated Covid patients, US spent $5.7 bn in 3 months: Study  

A 73-year-old man from Alabama, US, died due to cardiac arrest after he couldn’t secure an ICU bed in 43 hospitals across three states as they were already filled up by Covid patients.

Ray DeMonia, an antique dealer, died on September 1 in a Mississippi hospital, about 322 kilometres from his home because there were no cardiac ICU beds nearby, his daughter Raven DeMonia told The Washington Post.

DeMonia went to Cullman Regional Medical Center on August 23 because he was having heart problems, she said.

Raven said her mother got a call from the hospital staff about 12 hours after he was admitted, saying that the staff had called 43 hospitals and were unable to find a “specialized cardiac ICU bed.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that Alabama has one of the highest rates of new cases, with 541 per 100,000 testing positive&nbsp;in the last week.

In DeMonia’s obituary, the family urged everyone to get vaccinated to prevent others from being denied facilities due to a lack of resources.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-us-states-nearly-out-of-icu-beds-as-fresh-surge-of-covid-19-cases-stretch-hospitals-409717">5 US states nearly out of ICU beds as fresh surge of COVID-19 cases stretch hospitals</a>

“In honour of Ray, please get vaccinated if you have not, in an effort to free up resources for non-Covid related emergencies,” the obituary read.

According to Johns Hopkins University, the ICU capacity in Alabama has been at maximum in recent weeks, with COVID-19 patients occupying about half of the intensive care beds.

Dr Scott Harris, the head of the Alabama Department of Public Health, last week said the state was continuing to experience “a real crisis” with ICU bed capacity.

“The numbers aren’t great. But the numbers at least have not continued to go up,” he was quoted as saying by local media.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 73-year-old man from Alabama, US, died due to cardiac arrest after he couldn’t secure an ICU bed in 43 hospitals across three states as they were already filled up by Covid patients.

A 73-year-old man from Alabama, US, died due to cardiac arrest after he couldn’t secure an ICU bed in 43 hospitals across three states as they were already filled up by Covid patients. Ray DeMonia, an antique dealer, died on September 1 in a Mississippi hospital, about 322 kilometres from his home because there were no cardiac ICU beds nearby, his daughter Raven DeMonia told The Washington Post. DeMonia went to Cullman Regional Medical Center on August 23 because he was having heart problems, she said. Raven said her mother got a call from the hospital staff about 12 hours after he was admitted, saying that the staff had called 43 hospitals and were unable to find a “specialized cardiac ICU bed.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that Alabama has one of the highest rates of new cases, with 541 per 100,000 testing positive in the last week. In DeMonia’s obituary, the family urged everyone to get vaccinated to prevent others from being denied facilities due to a lack of resources. Also read | 5 US states nearly out of ICU beds as fresh surge of COVID-19 cases stretch hospitals “In honour of Ray, please get vaccinated if you have not, in an effort to free up resources for non-Covid related emergencies,” the obituary read. According to Johns Hopkins University, the ICU capacity in Alabama has been at maximum in recent weeks, with COVID-19 patients occupying about half of the intensive care beds. Dr Scott Harris, the head of the Alabama Department of Public Health, last week said the state was continuing to experience “a real crisis” with ICU bed capacity. “The numbers aren’t great. But the numbers at least have not continued to go up,” he was quoted as saying by local media. (With inputs from agencies)

Cardiac patient dies after failing to get ICU bed in 43 US hospitals occupied by COVID patients

After getting left behind in the infamous chaotic evacuations of the US from Afghanistan, dozens of dogs have found a new home and the handlers too. &nbsp;

The dogs are being kept in a makeshift training centre at Kabul airport. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As per the new handlers, most of these animals were used by American forces as sniffer dogs. They have been trained to unearth explosives.

Watch | Afghans need urgent assistance: UN High Commissioner Filippo Grandi&nbsp;

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However, it is still unclear about who are the real owners of these dogs. &nbsp;&nbsp;

They seem to be the remnants of the two-decade American intervention, which resulted in the hasty evacuation of the several Afghans and other people, who fled the country fearing the dreadful Taliban rule after it took over the country. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The officials of the company, which is handling security at the airport, are taking care of these dogs at their training centre. They are feeding and training them as well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-cash-crunch-fleeing-afghans-sell-possessions-at-kabuls-busy-bazaars-412774" hreflang="en">Amid cash crunch, fleeing Afghans sell possessions at Kabul's busy bazaars</a>&nbsp;

The centre is housed in two converted shipping containers separated by a weed-strewn strip of earth. It faces hangars that were used for US planes and military equipment. &nbsp;

Handler Hewad Azizi, who works for the company, told AFP, "When I saw (the soldiers leaving) I went to save the dogs." &nbsp;

Soon, these dogs may be put to work as the airport gradually reopens. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

After getting left behind in the infamous chaotic evacuations of the US from Afghanistan, dozens of dogs have found a new home and the handlers too. The dogs are being kept in a makeshift training centre at Kabul airport.

After getting left behind in the infamous chaotic evacuations of the US from Afghanistan, dozens of dogs have found a new home and the handlers too. The dogs are being kept in a makeshift training centre at Kabul airport. As per the new handlers, most of these animals were used by American forces as sniffer dogs. They have been trained to unearth explosives. Watch | Afghans need urgent assistance: UN High Commissioner Filippo Grandi × However, it is still unclear about who are the real owners of these dogs. They seem to be the remnants of the two-decade American intervention, which resulted in the hasty evacuation of the several Afghans and other people, who fled the country fearing the dreadful Taliban rule after it took over the country. The officials of the company, which is handling security at the airport, are taking care of these dogs at their training centre. They are feeding and training them as well. Also Read: Amid cash crunch, fleeing Afghans sell possessions at Kabul's busy bazaars The centre is housed in two converted shipping containers separated by a weed-strewn strip of earth. It faces hangars that were used for US planes and military equipment. Handler Hewad Azizi, who works for the company, told AFP, "When I saw (the soldiers leaving) I went to save the dogs." Soon, these dogs may be put to work as the airport gradually reopens. (With inputs from agencies)

After missing on evacuation, Afghan ‘dogs of war’ finally find new abode

US Secy of State, Antony Blinken has defended the US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. Blinken said that the Biden had made the big decisions.

US Secy of State, Antony Blinken defends US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan

Hospitals in the southern United States are running dangerously low on space in intensive care units, as the delta variant has led to spikes in coronavirus cases not seen since last year’s deadly winter wave.

One in four hospitals now reports more than 95% of ICU beds occupied — up from 1 in 5 last month. Experts say it can become difficult to maintain standards of care for the sickest patients in hospitals where all or nearly all ICU beds are occupied.

In June, when COVID-19 cases were at their lowest level, less than 1 in 10 hospitals had dangerously high occupancy rates.

In Alabama, all ICU beds are currently occupied. In recent days, dozens of patients in the state have needed beds that were not available, according to data published by the Department of Health and Human Services.

“It means they’re in the waiting room, some are in the back of ambulances, things of that nature,” said Jeannie Gaines, a spokesperson for the Alabama Hospital Association.

In Texas, 169 hospitals have ICUs that are more than 95% full, up from 69 in June. There are only about 700 intensive care beds remaining across the entire state, according to recent data.

Hospitals in Houston constructed overflow tents last month to handle the influx of patients, and the rate of hospitalizations in the state is now 40% higher than when the tents were built.

Twenty-four hospitals in Florida reported having more ICU patients last week than available beds.

During past surges, hospitals have been forced to improvise by having staff care for more patients than usual or by setting up temporary intensive care beds in other wings of the hospital.

Patients with critical conditions besides COVID, like heart attacks or strokes, can also have worse health outcomes when most beds are full.

Unvaccinated Americans are 10 times more likely to be hospitalized with COVID than the vaccinated, according to a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Several of the states with the highest rates of ICU occupancy, including Alabama and Mississippi, are also among those with the lowest vaccination rates.

“Our biggest concerns are our low vaccination rates,” said Dr. Scott Harris, Alabama’s state health officer. “That’s the reason we’re in the situation that we’re in. Virtually all of our deaths are people who are unvaccinated.”

Hospitalizations among children under 18 are also higher than ever during this wave of the virus, driven largely by surges among children in the least vaccinated states.

Hospitals in the southern United States are running dangerously low on space in intensive care units, as the delta variant has led to spikes in coronavirus cases not seen since last year’s deadly winter wave.

Hospitals in the southern United States are running dangerously low on space in intensive care units, as the delta variant has led to spikes in coronavirus cases not seen since last year’s deadly winter wave. One in four hospitals now reports more than 95% of ICU beds occupied — up from 1 in 5 last month. Experts say it can become difficult to maintain standards of care for the sickest patients in hospitals where all or nearly all ICU beds are occupied. In June, when COVID-19 cases were at their lowest level, less than 1 in 10 hospitals had dangerously high occupancy rates. In Alabama, all ICU beds are currently occupied. In recent days, dozens of patients in the state have needed beds that were not available, according to data published by the Department of Health and Human Services. “It means they’re in the waiting room, some are in the back of ambulances, things of that nature,” said Jeannie Gaines, a spokesperson for the Alabama Hospital Association. In Texas, 169 hospitals have ICUs that are more than 95% full, up from 69 in June. There are only about 700 intensive care beds remaining across the entire state, according to recent data. Hospitals in Houston constructed overflow tents last month to handle the influx of patients, and the rate of hospitalizations in the state is now 40% higher than when the tents were built. Twenty-four hospitals in Florida reported having more ICU patients last week than available beds. During past surges, hospitals have been forced to improvise by having staff care for more patients than usual or by setting up temporary intensive care beds in other wings of the hospital. Patients with critical conditions besides COVID, like heart attacks or strokes, can also have worse health outcomes when most beds are full. Unvaccinated Americans are 10 times more likely to be hospitalized with COVID than the vaccinated, according to a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Several of the states with the highest rates of ICU occupancy, including Alabama and Mississippi, are also among those with the lowest vaccination rates. “Our biggest concerns are our low vaccination rates,” said Dr. Scott Harris, Alabama’s state health officer. “That’s the reason we’re in the situation that we’re in. Virtually all of our deaths are people who are unvaccinated.” Hospitalizations among children under 18 are also higher than ever during this wave of the virus, driven largely by surges among children in the least vaccinated states.

Covid hospitalisation crisis reaches fever pitch in southern ICUs

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