With a new US school year beginning, President Joe Biden on Wednesday warned governors who oppose student mask requirements that they could face legal action for intimidating educators seeking to protect children against Covid-19.

In the latest political flashpoint over the coronavirus pandemic, Republican governors in Florida and Texas, two of the country's largest states, have rejected recommendations by health authorities to require that students wear masks when they return to the classroom.

Florida's Board of Education raised eyebrows when it voted this week to slap punishments on two school districts that instituted mask mandates in defiance of Governor Ron DeSantis.

Biden did not mention DeSantis by name, but his comments in a White House address appeared squarely aimed at the governor, who is believed to harbor presidential ambitions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-under-taliban-in-kabul-the-pakistan-connection-406584">Also read |&nbsp;Life under Taliban in Kabul &amp; the Pakistan connection</a>

"Unfortunately... some politicians are trying to turn public safety measures,&nbsp;that is, children wearing masks in school, into political disputes for their own political gain," Biden said. "They're setting a dangerous tone."

As a response, the president said he instructed Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to use "legal action, if appropriate, against governors who are trying to block and intimidate local school officials and educators."

"If you aren't going to fight Covid-19, at least get out of the way of everyone else who's trying."

Biden also slammed protesters who have interrupted school board meetings, singling out angry parents in Tennessee who he said threatened doctors and nurses making the case for masking children in schools.

"The intimidation and threats we're seeing across the country are wrong. They're unacceptable," Biden said.

The United States is facing a resurgence of Covid-19 infections, as the Delta variant spreads.

Along with fierce opposition to mask mandates in certain quarters, the country's mass vaccination program also faces some resistance, particularly in politically conservative regions in the South and Midwest.

With a new US school year beginning, President Joe Biden on Wednesday warned governors who oppose student mask requirements that they could face legal action for intimidating educators seeking to protect children against Covid-19.

With a new US school year beginning, President Joe Biden on Wednesday warned governors who oppose student mask requirements that they could face legal action for intimidating educators seeking to protect children against Covid-19. In the latest political flashpoint over the coronavirus pandemic, Republican governors in Florida and Texas, two of the country's largest states, have rejected recommendations by health authorities to require that students wear masks when they return to the classroom. Florida's Board of Education raised eyebrows when it voted this week to slap punishments on two school districts that instituted mask mandates in defiance of Governor Ron DeSantis. Biden did not mention DeSantis by name, but his comments in a White House address appeared squarely aimed at the governor, who is believed to harbor presidential ambitions. Also read | Life under Taliban in Kabul & the Pakistan connection "Unfortunately... some politicians are trying to turn public safety measures, that is, children wearing masks in school, into political disputes for their own political gain," Biden said. "They're setting a dangerous tone." As a response, the president said he instructed Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to use "legal action, if appropriate, against governors who are trying to block and intimidate local school officials and educators." "If you aren't going to fight Covid-19, at least get out of the way of everyone else who's trying." Biden also slammed protesters who have interrupted school board meetings, singling out angry parents in Tennessee who he said threatened doctors and nurses making the case for masking children in schools. "The intimidation and threats we're seeing across the country are wrong. They're unacceptable," Biden said. The United States is facing a resurgence of Covid-19 infections, as the Delta variant spreads. Along with fierce opposition to mask mandates in certain quarters, the country's mass vaccination program also faces some resistance, particularly in politically conservative regions in the South and Midwest.

Biden warns of action against governors opposing school mask mandates

President Joe Biden's approval rating dropped by 7 percentage points and hit its lowest level so far. According to the latest Rasmussen Reports survey, 45% of likely voters approve of the job Biden is doing and some 54% disapprove of Biden. This came after his decision on the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.

President Joe Biden's approval rating drops, hit its lowest level so far

An administration official revealed Tuesday that the US has blocked almost $9.5 billion in assets belonging to the Afghan central bank and halted cash shipments to the country in an effort to prevent a Taliban-led government from obtaining the funds.&nbsp;

According to the person, any central bank assets held by the Afghan government in the United States will not be available to the Taliban, which is still on the Treasury Department's sanctions list.&nbsp;

According to Afghan authorities, including the bank's acting governor, Ajmal Ahmady, who has fled Kabul, the majority of the assets are held outside of Afghanistan, potentially placing them beyond of reach of the Taliban militants.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-currency-drops-to-a-record-low-as-taliban-take-over-406361">Also read | Afghanistan's currency drops to a record low as Taliban take over</a> 
 
“Given that the Taliban are still on international sanction lists, it is expected (confirmed?) that such assets will be frozen and not accessible to Taliban,” Ahmady said in a Twitter thread on Wednesday.

“We can say the accessible funds to the Taliban are perhaps 0.1-0.2% of Afghanistan’s total international reserves. Not much,” he added.&nbsp;

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First, total DAB reserves were approximately $9.0 billion as of last week. 
 
But this does not mean that DAB held $9.0 billion physically in our vault. 
 
As per international standards, most assets are held in safe, liquid assets such as Treasuries and gold <a href="https://t.co/onpttXyTv7">https://t.co/onpttXyTv7</a>
— Ajmal Ahmady (@aahmady) <a href="https://twitter.com/aahmady/status/1427883011207467009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Taliban said on Saturday that the treasury, public facilities and government offices were the property of the nation and “should be strictly guarded.”

The most recent <a href="https://dab.gov.af/sites/default/files/2021-08/Monthly%20Financial%20statement%20%20for%20the%20month%20of%20Jawza%20%201400%20%28English%29%20%20.pdf">financial statement posted online </a>shows DAB holds total assets of about $10 billion, including $1.3 billion-worth of gold reserves and $362 million in foreign currency cash reserves, based on currency conversion rates on June 21, the date of the report. Ahmady estimated total reserves stood at $9 billion last week. 
 
The Taliban are unable to obtain cash due to US sanctions. According to two persons acquainted with the situation, the great bulk of DAB's assets are not now held in Afghanistan.

 
The US Treasury Department did not respond to a request for comment.&nbsp;

An administration official revealed Tuesday that the US has blocked almost $9.5 billion in assets belonging to the Afghan central bank and halted cash shipments to the country in an effort to prevent a Taliban-led government from obtaining the funds.

An administration official revealed Tuesday that the US has blocked almost $9.5 billion in assets belonging to the Afghan central bank and halted cash shipments to the country in an effort to prevent a Taliban-led government from obtaining the funds. According to the person, any central bank assets held by the Afghan government in the United States will not be available to the Taliban, which is still on the Treasury Department's sanctions list. According to Afghan authorities, including the bank's acting governor, Ajmal Ahmady, who has fled Kabul, the majority of the assets are held outside of Afghanistan, potentially placing them beyond of reach of the Taliban militants. Also read | Afghanistan's currency drops to a record low as Taliban take over “Given that the Taliban are still on international sanction lists, it is expected (confirmed?) that such assets will be frozen and not accessible to Taliban,” Ahmady said in a Twitter thread on Wednesday. “We can say the accessible funds to the Taliban are perhaps 0.1-0.2% of Afghanistan’s total international reserves. Not much,” he added. First, total DAB reserves were approximately $9.0 billion as of last week. But this does not mean that DAB held $9.0 billion physically in our vault. As per international standards, most assets are held in safe, liquid assets such as Treasuries and gold https://t.co/onpttXyTv7 — Ajmal Ahmady (@aahmady) August 18, 2021 × The Taliban said on Saturday that the treasury, public facilities and government offices were the property of the nation and “should be strictly guarded.” The most recent financial statement posted online shows DAB holds total assets of about $10 billion, including $1.3 billion-worth of gold reserves and $362 million in foreign currency cash reserves, based on currency conversion rates on June 21, the date of the report. Ahmady estimated total reserves stood at $9 billion last week. The Taliban are unable to obtain cash due to US sanctions. According to two persons acquainted with the situation, the great bulk of DAB's assets are not now held in Afghanistan. The US Treasury Department did not respond to a request for comment.

US chokes Taliban funds, freezes $9.5 billion of Afghan central bank

US officials say that they are in contact with Taliban and that they are making sure that flight operations in Kabul remain safe.

US officials say that they are making sure that flight operations in Kabul remain safe

California is the world's largest producer of Almonds, but this year the industry is struggling to fulfill the basic domestic demand amid a historic drought. Almonds are California's top agricultural export.

California: Climate change is threatening world's largest Almond producer

Members of the US&nbsp;Congress, including many of President Joe Biden's fellow Democrats, said on Tuesday they were increasingly frustrated with events in Afghanistan, vowing to investigate what went wrong. 
 
"The events of recent days have been the culmination of a series of mistakes made by Republican and Democratic administrations over the past 20 years," Senator Bob Menendez, Democratic chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said in a statement. 
 
"We are now witnessing the horrifying result of many years of policy and intelligence failures," Menendez said. 
 
Menendez said his committee would hold a hearing on US&nbsp;policy towards Afghanistan, including negotiations between former Republican President Donald Trump's administration and the Taliban and the Biden's administration's execution of the withdrawal. 
 
Committee Republicans said they wanted Secretary of State Antony Blinken to testify, "to understand why the State Department was so ill prepared for the contingencies unfolding before us," according to a letter sent to Menendez. 
 
"Updates from the State Department have been inconsistent, lacked important detail, and not be responsive to Members and the American people," the Republicans wrote. 
 
The date of the hearing was not immediately announced. 
 
Senator Mark Warner, the Democratic Intelligence Committee chairman, had said on Monday he intended to work with other committees "to ask tough but necessary questions" about why the United States was not better prepared for the collapse of the Afghan government. 
 
Republicans continued their harsh criticism of Biden's policies. 
 
"The security and humanitarian crisis now unfolding in Afghanistan could have been avoided if you had done any planning," Republicans on the House of Representatives Armed Services Committee wrote in a letter to the White House on Tuesday.

Members of the US Congress, including many of President Joe Biden's fellow Democrats, said on Tuesday they were increasingly frustrated with events in Afghanistan, vowing to investigate what went wrong.

Members of the US Congress, including many of President Joe Biden's fellow Democrats, said on Tuesday they were increasingly frustrated with events in Afghanistan, vowing to investigate what went wrong. "The events of recent days have been the culmination of a series of mistakes made by Republican and Democratic administrations over the past 20 years," Senator Bob Menendez, Democratic chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said in a statement. "We are now witnessing the horrifying result of many years of policy and intelligence failures," Menendez said. Menendez said his committee would hold a hearing on US policy towards Afghanistan, including negotiations between former Republican President Donald Trump's administration and the Taliban and the Biden's administration's execution of the withdrawal. Committee Republicans said they wanted Secretary of State Antony Blinken to testify, "to understand why the State Department was so ill prepared for the contingencies unfolding before us," according to a letter sent to Menendez. "Updates from the State Department have been inconsistent, lacked important detail, and not be responsive to Members and the American people," the Republicans wrote. The date of the hearing was not immediately announced. Senator Mark Warner, the Democratic Intelligence Committee chairman, had said on Monday he intended to work with other committees "to ask tough but necessary questions" about why the United States was not better prepared for the collapse of the Afghan government. Republicans continued their harsh criticism of Biden's policies. "The security and humanitarian crisis now unfolding in Afghanistan could have been avoided if you had done any planning," Republicans on the House of Representatives Armed Services Committee wrote in a letter to the White House on Tuesday.

US lawmakers to probe Biden administration over Afghanistan

A US agency has launched an investigation into Tesla's "self-driving" Autopilot system after a series of crashes led to the death of one woman and injured 17 people. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Is Tesla's Autopilot causing cars to crash?

A defiant Joe Biden defended his decision to hastily pull out American troops from Afghanistan. The US president shifted blame to the Afghan leadership, saying there is no right time to withdraw. Molly Gambhir tells you what Biden got wrong in his speech.

Gravitas: Biden defends pull-out, blames Afghan army

According to the US drugs regulator, a cybersecurity flaw in software designed by BlackBerry Ltd could put at risk cars and medical equipment that use it and expose highly sensitive systems to attackers. The software is used by automakers like Volkswagen in many critical functions including the Advanced Driver Assistance System.

Cybersecurity flaw in software designed by BlackBerry Ltd could put cars, medical equipment at risk

Former US President Donald Trump called for his successor Joe Biden to resign over the swift takeover of Afghanistan by Taliban militants, as US troops withdrew from the country after nearly 20 years on the ground.

Trump calls on Biden to resign over unfolding crisis in Afghanistan

The lightning advance of the Taliban in retaking the country has led Afghan Americans, former generals and leading statesmen to blame President Joe Biden for a hasty US withdrawal. Former US President Donald Trump has also criticized Biden's actions.

Backlash grows against US President Joe Biden for withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan

Acknowledging Afghan government collapsed more quickly than expected, US President Joe Biden suggested in a much-awaited televised address from the White House that they lacked will to stand up to the Taliban.&nbsp;

After several days of silence on the momentous developments, Biden said, "The truth is, this did unfold more quickly than we had anticipated."&nbsp;

Putting the blame squarely with Afghan military and civilian leadership, Biden said, "We gave them every tool they could need. We provided close air support. What we could not provide is the will to fight for their future."&nbsp;

Biden added, "So what’s happened? Afghanistan political leaders gave up and fled the country. The Afghan military collapsed, sometimes without trying to fight."&nbsp;

The US troops should not be fighting or dying in a war that Afghan forces are not willing to fight for themselves, said the president.&nbsp;

"We spent over a trillion dollars. We trained and equipped an Afghan military force of some 300,000 strong. Incredibly well equipped. A force larger in size than the militaries of many of our NATO allies," he emphasised. &nbsp;

"I am president of the United States of America and the buck stops with me," Biden said.&nbsp;

The president also passed scathing criticism on now-ousted Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani, who he said ignored his advice on greater unity among leaders and the pursuit of a diplomatic solution.&nbsp;

Commenting on the scenes of mayhem unfolding in Kabul, Biden said he was "deeply saddened" and promised to "speak out" on the rights of women under Taliban rule.&nbsp;

The US president is facing a torrent of criticism over the chaotic end to two decades of US-led military intervention.&nbsp;

Insisting he did not regret pulling out US troops, Biden said, "I stand squarely behind my decision. After 20 years, I've learned the hard way that there was never a good time to withdraw US forces."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Acknowledging Afghan government collapsed more quickly than expected, US President Joe Biden suggested in a much-awaited televised address from the White House that they lacked will to stand up to the Taliban.

Acknowledging Afghan government collapsed more quickly than expected, US President Joe Biden suggested in a much-awaited televised address from the White House that they lacked will to stand up to the Taliban. After several days of silence on the momentous developments, Biden said, "The truth is, this did unfold more quickly than we had anticipated." Putting the blame squarely with Afghan military and civilian leadership, Biden said, "We gave them every tool they could need. We provided close air support. What we could not provide is the will to fight for their future." Biden added, "So what’s happened? Afghanistan political leaders gave up and fled the country. The Afghan military collapsed, sometimes without trying to fight." The US troops should not be fighting or dying in a war that Afghan forces are not willing to fight for themselves, said the president. "We spent over a trillion dollars. We trained and equipped an Afghan military force of some 300,000 strong. Incredibly well equipped. A force larger in size than the militaries of many of our NATO allies," he emphasised. "I am president of the United States of America and the buck stops with me," Biden said. The president also passed scathing criticism on now-ousted Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani, who he said ignored his advice on greater unity among leaders and the pursuit of a diplomatic solution. Commenting on the scenes of mayhem unfolding in Kabul, Biden said he was "deeply saddened" and promised to "speak out" on the rights of women under Taliban rule. The US president is facing a torrent of criticism over the chaotic end to two decades of US-led military intervention. Insisting he did not regret pulling out US troops, Biden said, "I stand squarely behind my decision. After 20 years, I've learned the hard way that there was never a good time to withdraw US forces." (With inputs from agencies)

US president Biden pins blame for Afghanistan debacle on Ghani govt 

Kabul has fallen and most of Afghanistan is under the Taliban's control. Thousands of Afghans are making desperate attempts to leave the country. Top Afghan leaders have also fled. However, the big question is where is Ashraf Ghani? Earlier reports mentioned that Ghani had left for Tajikistan following the Taliban's capture of Kabul.

Reports: Tajikistan refused permission to Ashraf Ghani's aircraft

The United States insists that the mission in Afghanistan was a success, even after the Taliban's blitz to Kabul. Did the US downplay the threat of Taliban invasion? Or was it disconnected from the ground reality? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: America's capitulation hands Kabul to Taliban

A total of 127 people landed at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu on Tuesday morning. These people, who include 118 Nepalis and nine Indians, were evacuated to Kuwait from Afghanistan on Monday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Brigadier General Santosh Ballave Poudyal, spokesperson, Nepali Army told WION that all evacuees have been taken to an isolation centre in Kathmandu and COVID protocols will be followed. &nbsp;

“The Nepali Government has given the responsibility to take these evacuees from airport to Radha Soami Satsang Beas COVID-19 Isolation Centre, Samakhusi. So, PCR and Antigen Tests will be carried out and accordingly, people will be sent to home isolation,” Poudyal told WION. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a tweet, Nepal Foreign Ministry confirmed, “Arrival of Nepali nationals from Afghanistan has started. 118 of them have arrived at Kathmandu airport by a chartered aircraft via Kuwait this morning.” &nbsp;

Earlier, Nepal Government had requested the international community to keep Nepali nationals living in Kabul, Afghanistan in a safe place and help their repatriation home. &nbsp;

“It is an honour for us to be able to welcome the first flight to Kathmandu safely, among are Nepalese, who have worked in US Embassy in Kabul. We are extremely grateful for their services,” US Embassy in Nepal said in a tweet.&nbsp;

The Manpower Association in Kathmandu claims that there are about 15,000 Nepalis in Afghanistan, while the government has record of only 1,500. &nbsp;

A special US Air force flight took 385 Nepalis working at the US embassy to Doha on Sunday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While, 87 Nepalis working at the British embassy were flown out of Kabul by the British government on Sunday. As many as 470 Nepalis working as security guard in UN Office, UNHCR, IOM and other UN related agencies are waiting for a flight at a hotel in Kabul. &nbsp;

More than 120 Nepalis working at the Canadian and German embassies are being rescued by a US Air Force plane.&nbsp;

In addition to above, preparations are on to rescue 62 Nepalis working at the Japanese embassy in Kabul and they will be brought to Kathmandu within 72 hours. &nbsp;

This comes as Taliban took control of the presidential palace, soon after president Ashraf Ghani fled the country.

A total of 127 people landed at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu on Tuesday morning. These people, who include 118 Nepalis and nine Indians, were evacuated to Kuwait from Afghanistan on Monday.

A total of 127 people landed at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu on Tuesday morning. These people, who include 118 Nepalis and nine Indians, were evacuated to Kuwait from Afghanistan on Monday. Brigadier General Santosh Ballave Poudyal, spokesperson, Nepali Army told WION that all evacuees have been taken to an isolation centre in Kathmandu and COVID protocols will be followed. “The Nepali Government has given the responsibility to take these evacuees from airport to Radha Soami Satsang Beas COVID-19 Isolation Centre, Samakhusi. So, PCR and Antigen Tests will be carried out and accordingly, people will be sent to home isolation,” Poudyal told WION. In a tweet, Nepal Foreign Ministry confirmed, “Arrival of Nepali nationals from Afghanistan has started. 118 of them have arrived at Kathmandu airport by a chartered aircraft via Kuwait this morning.” Earlier, Nepal Government had requested the international community to keep Nepali nationals living in Kabul, Afghanistan in a safe place and help their repatriation home. “It is an honour for us to be able to welcome the first flight to Kathmandu safely, among are Nepalese, who have worked in US Embassy in Kabul. We are extremely grateful for their services,” US Embassy in Nepal said in a tweet. The Manpower Association in Kathmandu claims that there are about 15,000 Nepalis in Afghanistan, while the government has record of only 1,500. A special US Air force flight took 385 Nepalis working at the US embassy to Doha on Sunday. While, 87 Nepalis working at the British embassy were flown out of Kabul by the British government on Sunday. As many as 470 Nepalis working as security guard in UN Office, UNHCR, IOM and other UN related agencies are waiting for a flight at a hotel in Kabul. More than 120 Nepalis working at the Canadian and German embassies are being rescued by a US Air Force plane. In addition to above, preparations are on to rescue 62 Nepalis working at the Japanese embassy in Kabul and they will be brought to Kathmandu within 72 hours. This comes as Taliban took control of the presidential palace, soon after president Ashraf Ghani fled the country.

127 people including 118 Nepalis return to Kathmandu from Afghanistan

The United States has laid out conditions for recognising a Taliban government. The US state department has said that the Taliban government will be recognised if it respects human rights, including women’s rights.

US lays out conditions for recognising a new government in Afghanistan

Comparisons were drawn between the US' evacuation of its staff from Kabul to the US'exodus of its staff from Vietnam's Saigon in 1975 which remains America's biggest military defeat.

US choppers evacuate staff from Kabul the way it did in Saigon in 1975

As Taliban took control over Afghanistan, millions of Afghans evacuated from the country. Hundreds of US embassy personnel also relocated to airport facility.

Kabul airport overwhelmed amid evacuations of Afghans after Taliban's siege in country

The war was over in Afghanistan, said a spokesman for the Taliban's political office on Sunday&nbsp;in an interview with Al Jazeera TV. &nbsp;

The spokesman also called for peaceful relations with the international community. Mohammad Naeem, spokesman for the group, said the Taliban did not want to live in isolation and the type of rule and the form of regime would be clear soon. &nbsp;

Naeem added, the group has respected women's and minorities' rights and freedom of expression within Sharia law. The group is also ready to have a dialogue with all Afghan figures and will guarantee them necessary protection. &nbsp;

After Taliban insurgents entered Kabul on Sunday, President Ashraf Ghani left the country saying he wanted to avoid bloodshed. It brought the group close to taking over the country two decades after they were overthrown by a US-led invasion. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden and other top officials were left stunned by the pace of the Taliban's nearly complete takeover of Afghanistan. The planned withdrawal of US forces has now become a mission to ensure a safe evacuation. &nbsp;

The Afghan government's rapid collapse and the ensuing chaos raised several questions. While referring to the Afghan military, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told CNN, "We've seen that that force has been unable to defend the country, and that has happened more quickly than we anticipated." &nbsp;

Several netizens also said the images of US helicopters circling the Kabul embassy evoked the humiliating departure of its personnel from Vietnam many years ago. &nbsp;

A US State Department official also said the country’s flag is no longer flying at embassy amid evacuations from the capital. Nearly all embassy personnel have been relocated to the city's international airport. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The war was over in Afghanistan, said a spokesman for the Taliban's political office on Sunday in an interview with Al Jazeera TV. The spokesman also called for peaceful relations with the international community.

The war was over in Afghanistan, said a spokesman for the Taliban's political office on Sunday in an interview with Al Jazeera TV. The spokesman also called for peaceful relations with the international community. Mohammad Naeem, spokesman for the group, said the Taliban did not want to live in isolation and the type of rule and the form of regime would be clear soon. Naeem added, the group has respected women's and minorities' rights and freedom of expression within Sharia law. The group is also ready to have a dialogue with all Afghan figures and will guarantee them necessary protection. After Taliban insurgents entered Kabul on Sunday, President Ashraf Ghani left the country saying he wanted to avoid bloodshed. It brought the group close to taking over the country two decades after they were overthrown by a US-led invasion. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden and other top officials were left stunned by the pace of the Taliban's nearly complete takeover of Afghanistan. The planned withdrawal of US forces has now become a mission to ensure a safe evacuation. The Afghan government's rapid collapse and the ensuing chaos raised several questions. While referring to the Afghan military, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told CNN, "We've seen that that force has been unable to defend the country, and that has happened more quickly than we anticipated." Several netizens also said the images of US helicopters circling the Kabul embassy evoked the humiliating departure of its personnel from Vietnam many years ago. A US State Department official also said the country’s flag is no longer flying at embassy amid evacuations from the capital. Nearly all embassy personnel have been relocated to the city's international airport. (With inputs from agencies)

'War is over in Afghanistan', says Taliban as US is stunned by Ghani govt’s collapse

WION's correspondent Jodie Cohen highlights the concerns of US withdrawal from Afghanistan after 20 long years and its implications. Watch the report to know what lies ahead after the withdrawal of the strongest military force from Afghanistan.

Afghanistan's Collapse: Did US intelligence get it wrong?

The remnants of Storm&nbsp;Fred&nbsp;were moving across the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday&nbsp;and were expected to strengthen into a tropical storm overnight, potentially dropping several inches of rain on the Florida Panhandle and southern Alabama early next week.

The storm was about 510 miles&nbsp;south-southeast of Mobile, Alabama on Saturday and moving west-northwest at 35 miles&nbsp;per hour, according to the Miami-based National Hurricane Center.

It was expected to turn northwest overnight and had a 90 per cent chance of re-strengthening into a tropical storm within the next 48 hours, the NHC said in a Saturday evening advisory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-kabul-descended-in-chaos-india-was-ready-for-unsc-meet-on-afghanistan-on-sunday-405889">Also read |&nbsp;As Kabul descended in chaos, India was ready for UNSC meet on Afghanistan on Sunday</a>

"Fred&nbsp;is forecast to regenerate as a tropical cyclone over the Gulf of Mexico tonight or on Sunday, and bring a risk of tropical storm conditions to portions of the northern Gulf coast, especially from coastal Mississippi to the Florida Panhandle beginning on Monday," the forecaster said in a statement.

The storm was expected to drop 3 to 7 inches&nbsp;of rain with maximum isolated totals of 10 inches on the Florida Big Bend and Panhandle by Tuesday.

Fred&nbsp;pummeled the Dominican Republic and grazed the north coast of Cuba on Thursday before moving over the Gulf, leaving thousands in the Dominican Republic without power or running water.

The remnants of Storm Fred were moving across the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday and were expected to strengthen into a tropical storm overnight, potentially dropping several inches of rain on the Florida Panhandle and southern Alabama early next week.

The remnants of Storm Fred were moving across the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday and were expected to strengthen into a tropical storm overnight, potentially dropping several inches of rain on the Florida Panhandle and southern Alabama early next week. The storm was about 510 miles south-southeast of Mobile, Alabama on Saturday and moving west-northwest at 35 miles per hour, according to the Miami-based National Hurricane Center. It was expected to turn northwest overnight and had a 90 per cent chance of re-strengthening into a tropical storm within the next 48 hours, the NHC said in a Saturday evening advisory. Also read | As Kabul descended in chaos, India was ready for UNSC meet on Afghanistan on Sunday "Fred is forecast to regenerate as a tropical cyclone over the Gulf of Mexico tonight or on Sunday, and bring a risk of tropical storm conditions to portions of the northern Gulf coast, especially from coastal Mississippi to the Florida Panhandle beginning on Monday," the forecaster said in a statement. The storm was expected to drop 3 to 7 inches of rain with maximum isolated totals of 10 inches on the Florida Big Bend and Panhandle by Tuesday. Fred pummeled the Dominican Republic and grazed the north coast of Cuba on Thursday before moving over the Gulf, leaving thousands in the Dominican Republic without power or running water.

Storm Fred expected to strengthen as it aims for Florida Panhandle

US safety officials opened a preliminary investigation into&nbsp;Tesla's Autopilot after identifying 11 crashes involving the driver assistance system, officials said Monday.

The incidents dating back to 2018 included one fatal crash and seven that resulted in injuries, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Tesla's directions to drivers &nbsp;requires "active driver supervision" behind the wheel, but critics, including in Congress, have said Autopilot can be easily fooled and have called for NHTSA to take action.

US safety officials opened a preliminary investigation into Tesla's Autopilot after identifying 11 crashes involving the driver assistance system, officials said Monday.

US safety officials opened a preliminary investigation into Tesla's Autopilot after identifying 11 crashes involving the driver assistance system, officials said Monday. The incidents dating back to 2018 included one fatal crash and seven that resulted in injuries, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Tesla's directions to drivers requires "active driver supervision" behind the wheel, but critics, including in Congress, have said Autopilot can be easily fooled and have called for NHTSA to take action.

US opens probe of Tesla Autopilot after 11 crashes: Agency

Taliban stunned several global leaders as they easily took over the capital city of Kabul on Sunday after conquering Mazar-e-sharif and Jalalabad overnight on Saturday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/war-is-over-in-afghanistan-says-taliban-as-us-is-stunned-by-ghani-govts-collapse-405864" hreflang="en">'War is over in Afghanistan', says Taliban as US is stunned by Ghani govt’s collapse</a>

After Taliban militants&nbsp;entered Kabul on Sunday, President Ashraf Ghani left the country saying he wanted to avoid bloodshed. It brought the group close to taking over the country two decades after they were overthrown by a US-led invasion. &nbsp;

Many countries have spoken against the Taliban's takeover and are now sending military flights to rescue nationals from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden released a statement before the Taliban entered the city of Kabul. It read: "One more year, or five more years, of US military presence would not have made a difference if the Afghan military cannot or will not hold its own country."

"And an endless American presence in the middle of another country’s civil conflict was not acceptable to me."

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Full statement from President Biden on Afghanistan: <a href="https://t.co/vkcW5UCE4h">pic.twitter.com/vkcW5UCE4h</a>
— Natasha Bertrand (@NatashaBertrand) <a href="https://twitter.com/NatashaBertrand/status/1426639588253126657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After the Taliban entered the capital city, the Biden administration was&nbsp;stunned at&nbsp;the&nbsp;pace of the group's advance. While referring to the Afghan military, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "We've seen that that force has been unable to defend the country, and that has happened more quickly than we anticipated." &nbsp;

European Union Commission's Vice President Margaritis Schina expressed his concerns on Afghanistan, saying: "The clock has run out on how long we can wait to adopt the complete overhaul of Europe’s migration and asylum rules we need."

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If there is one thing that the situation in Afghanistan and the actions of Belarus have shown, it is that the clock has run out on how long we can wait to adopt the complete overhaul of Europe’s migration and asylum rules we need. 
 
Τoday ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/LaStampa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaStampa</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/1U3WV9jD7i">https://t.co/1U3WV9jD7i</a>
— Margaritis Schinas (@MargSchinas) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargSchinas/status/1426830971656146945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India has decided not to shut its&nbsp;embassy in Kabul and as per sources close to PTI, the government has kept a fleet of C-17 Globemaster military transport aircraft on standby to undertake evacuation missions.&nbsp;

"The government is closely monitoring fast-paced developments in Afghanistan. We will not put the lives of our staff at the Indian Embassy in Kabul at any risk," said a source told PTI.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taliban-have-won-rise-and-fall-of-afghan-president-ashraf-ghani-405867" hreflang="en">'Taliban have won': Rise and fall of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani</a>

British PM Boris Johnson vowed to never turn his back on Afghanistan.

"What we must do now is not turn our backs on Afghanistan," he stressed, adding that Britain could be "extremely proud" of its role in the country, especially in advancing girls' education, gains that are now imperilled by the Taliban advance.

We must not&nbsp;abandon Afghanistan, he stressed, adding that Britain can take great pride in its role in the country, particularly in the advancement of girls' education, gains now threatened by the Taliban's advance.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres expressed his concern "about the future of women and girls, whose hard-won rights must be protected" in a statement. The UNSC is set to meet on Monday and will discuss the situation in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Taliban stunned several global leaders as they easily took over the capital city of Kabul on Sunday after conquering Mazar-e-sharif and Jalalabad overnight on Saturday.

Taliban stunned several global leaders as they easily took over the capital city of Kabul on Sunday after conquering Mazar-e-sharif and Jalalabad overnight on Saturday. ALSO READ: 'War is over in Afghanistan', says Taliban as US is stunned by Ghani govt’s collapse After Taliban militants entered Kabul on Sunday, President Ashraf Ghani left the country saying he wanted to avoid bloodshed. It brought the group close to taking over the country two decades after they were overthrown by a US-led invasion. Many countries have spoken against the Taliban's takeover and are now sending military flights to rescue nationals from Afghanistan. US President Joe Biden released a statement before the Taliban entered the city of Kabul. It read: "One more year, or five more years, of US military presence would not have made a difference if the Afghan military cannot or will not hold its own country." "And an endless American presence in the middle of another country’s civil conflict was not acceptable to me." Full statement from President Biden on Afghanistan: pic.twitter.com/vkcW5UCE4h — Natasha Bertrand (@NatashaBertrand) August 14, 2021 × After the Taliban entered the capital city, the Biden administration was stunned at the pace of the group's advance. While referring to the Afghan military, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "We've seen that that force has been unable to defend the country, and that has happened more quickly than we anticipated." European Union Commission's Vice President Margaritis Schina expressed his concerns on Afghanistan, saying: "The clock has run out on how long we can wait to adopt the complete overhaul of Europe’s migration and asylum rules we need." If there is one thing that the situation in Afghanistan and the actions of Belarus have shown, it is that the clock has run out on how long we can wait to adopt the complete overhaul of Europe’s migration and asylum rules we need. Τoday ⁦@LaStampa⁩ https://t.co/1U3WV9jD7i — Margaritis Schinas (@MargSchinas) August 15, 2021 × India has decided not to shut its embassy in Kabul and as per sources close to PTI, the government has kept a fleet of C-17 Globemaster military transport aircraft on standby to undertake evacuation missions. "The government is closely monitoring fast-paced developments in Afghanistan. We will not put the lives of our staff at the Indian Embassy in Kabul at any risk," said a source told PTI. IN PICS| 'Taliban have won': Rise and fall of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani British PM Boris Johnson vowed to never turn his back on Afghanistan. "What we must do now is not turn our backs on Afghanistan," he stressed, adding that Britain could be "extremely proud" of its role in the country, especially in advancing girls' education, gains that are now imperilled by the Taliban advance. We must not abandon Afghanistan, he stressed, adding that Britain can take great pride in its role in the country, particularly in the advancement of girls' education, gains now threatened by the Taliban's advance. United Nations chief Antonio Guterres expressed his concern "about the future of women and girls, whose hard-won rights must be protected" in a statement. The UNSC is set to meet on Monday and will discuss the situation in Afghanistan.

Shock and awe: World expresses concern as Taliban enter Kabul

The US government has opened a formal investigation into Tesla’s Autopilot partially automated driving system after a series of collisions with parked emergency vehicles.

The investigation covers 765,000 vehicles, almost everything that Tesla has sold in the US since the start of the 2014 model year. Of the crashes identified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as part of the investigation, 17 people were injured and one was killed.

NHTSA says it has identified 11 crashes since 2018 in which Teslas on Autopilot or Traffic-Aware Cruise Control have hit vehicles at scenes where first responders have used flashing lights, flares, an illuminated arrow board or cones warning of hazards. The agency announced the action Monday in a posting on its website.

The investigation covers Tesla’s entire current model lineup, the Models Y, X, S and 3 from the 2014 through 2021 model years.

The National Transportation Safety Board, which also has investigated some of the Tesla crashes, has recommended that NHTSA and Tesla limit Autopilot’s use to areas where it can safely operate. The NTSB also recommended that NHTSA require Tesla to have a better system to make sure drivers are paying attention. NHTSA has not taken action on any of the recommendations. The NTSB has no enforcement powers and can only make recommendations to other federal agencies such as NHTSA.

Autopilot has frequently been misused by Tesla drivers, who have been caught driving drunk or even riding in the back seat while a car rolled down a California highway.

The agency has sent investigative teams to 31 crashes involving partially automated driver-assist systems since June of 2016. Such systems can keep a vehicle centred in its lane and a safe distance from vehicles in front of it. Of those crashes, 25 involved Tesla Autopilot of which 10 deaths were reported, according to data released by the agency.

Tesla and other manufacturers warn that drivers using the systems must be ready to intervene at all times. Teslas using the system have crashed into semis crossing in front of them, stopped emergency vehicles and a roadway barrier.

A message was left early Monday seeking comment from Tesla, which has disbanded its media relations office.

The crashes into emergency vehicles cited by NHTSA began on Jan. 22, 2018, in Culver City, California, near Los Angeles when a Tesla using Autopilot struck a parked firetruck that was parked partially in the travel lanes with its lights flashing. Crews were handling another crash at the time.

Since then, the agency said there were crashes in Laguna Beach, California; Norwalk, Connecticut; Cloverdale, Indiana; West Bridgewater, Massachusetts; Cochise County, Arizona; Charlotte, North Carolina, Montgomery County, Texas; Lansing, Michigan; and Miami, Florida.

“The investigation will assess the technologies and methods used to monitor, assist and enforce the driver’s engagement with the dynamic driving task during Autopilot operation,” NHTSA said in its investigation documents.

In addition, the probe will cover object and event detection by the system, as well as where it is allowed to operate. NHTSA says it will examine “contributing circumstances” to the crashes, as well as similar crashes.

An investigation could lead to a recall or other enforcement action by NHTSA.

“NHTSA reminds the public that no commercially available motor vehicles today are capable of driving themselves,” the agency said in a statement. “Every available vehicle requires a human driver to be in control at all times, and all state laws hold human drivers responsible for the operation of their vehicles.”

The agency said it has “robust enforcement tools” to protect the public and investigate potential safety issues, and it will act when it finds evidence “of noncompliance or an unreasonable safety risk.”

In June NHTSA ordered all automakers to report any crashes involving fully autonomous vehicles or partially automated driver-assist systems.

The measures show the agency has started to take a tougher stance on automated vehicle safety than in the past. It has been reluctant to issue any regulations of the new technology for fear of hampering the adoption of the potentially life-saving systems.

Shares of Tesla Inc., based in Palo Alto, California, fell nearly 2% before the opening bell.

The US government has opened a formal investigation into Tesla’s Autopilot partially automated driving system after a series of collisions with parked emergency vehicles.

The US government has opened a formal investigation into Tesla’s Autopilot partially automated driving system after a series of collisions with parked emergency vehicles. The investigation covers 765,000 vehicles, almost everything that Tesla has sold in the US since the start of the 2014 model year. Of the crashes identified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as part of the investigation, 17 people were injured and one was killed. NHTSA says it has identified 11 crashes since 2018 in which Teslas on Autopilot or Traffic-Aware Cruise Control have hit vehicles at scenes where first responders have used flashing lights, flares, an illuminated arrow board or cones warning of hazards. The agency announced the action Monday in a posting on its website. The investigation covers Tesla’s entire current model lineup, the Models Y, X, S and 3 from the 2014 through 2021 model years. The National Transportation Safety Board, which also has investigated some of the Tesla crashes, has recommended that NHTSA and Tesla limit Autopilot’s use to areas where it can safely operate. The NTSB also recommended that NHTSA require Tesla to have a better system to make sure drivers are paying attention. NHTSA has not taken action on any of the recommendations. The NTSB has no enforcement powers and can only make recommendations to other federal agencies such as NHTSA. Autopilot has frequently been misused by Tesla drivers, who have been caught driving drunk or even riding in the back seat while a car rolled down a California highway. The agency has sent investigative teams to 31 crashes involving partially automated driver-assist systems since June of 2016. Such systems can keep a vehicle centred in its lane and a safe distance from vehicles in front of it. Of those crashes, 25 involved Tesla Autopilot of which 10 deaths were reported, according to data released by the agency. Tesla and other manufacturers warn that drivers using the systems must be ready to intervene at all times. Teslas using the system have crashed into semis crossing in front of them, stopped emergency vehicles and a roadway barrier. A message was left early Monday seeking comment from Tesla, which has disbanded its media relations office. The crashes into emergency vehicles cited by NHTSA began on Jan. 22, 2018, in Culver City, California, near Los Angeles when a Tesla using Autopilot struck a parked firetruck that was parked partially in the travel lanes with its lights flashing. Crews were handling another crash at the time. Since then, the agency said there were crashes in Laguna Beach, California; Norwalk, Connecticut; Cloverdale, Indiana; West Bridgewater, Massachusetts; Cochise County, Arizona; Charlotte, North Carolina, Montgomery County, Texas; Lansing, Michigan; and Miami, Florida. “The investigation will assess the technologies and methods used to monitor, assist and enforce the driver’s engagement with the dynamic driving task during Autopilot operation,” NHTSA said in its investigation documents. In addition, the probe will cover object and event detection by the system, as well as where it is allowed to operate. NHTSA says it will examine “contributing circumstances” to the crashes, as well as similar crashes. An investigation could lead to a recall or other enforcement action by NHTSA. “NHTSA reminds the public that no commercially available motor vehicles today are capable of driving themselves,” the agency said in a statement. “Every available vehicle requires a human driver to be in control at all times, and all state laws hold human drivers responsible for the operation of their vehicles.” The agency said it has “robust enforcement tools” to protect the public and investigate potential safety issues, and it will act when it finds evidence “of noncompliance or an unreasonable safety risk.” In June NHTSA ordered all automakers to report any crashes involving fully autonomous vehicles or partially automated driver-assist systems. The measures show the agency has started to take a tougher stance on automated vehicle safety than in the past. It has been reluctant to issue any regulations of the new technology for fear of hampering the adoption of the potentially life-saving systems. Shares of Tesla Inc., based in Palo Alto, California, fell nearly 2% before the opening bell.

US opens formal probe into Tesla Autopilot system

Trump blames Biden for Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, seeks his resignation

The US military has secured the perimeter of Kabul airport as its diplomats were being evacuated from war-torn Afghanistan amid the Taliban takeover. Commercial flights have mostly been suspended, stranding hundreds of Afghans and other foreign nationals.

US secures Kabul airport to evacuate staff from country

The United States will only recognise a future government in Afghanistan if it upholds basic rights of its people and keeps terrorists out of the country, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday. &nbsp;

On being asked to comment over media reports that China was ready to recognise the Taliban as a legitimate government, the top US diplomat said, “A government that doesn’t uphold the basic rights of its people, including women and girls; that harbours terrorist groups that have designs on the United States or allies and partners — certainly, that’s not going to happen.”&nbsp;

He appearing on US television channels on Sunday to comment over the developments in Afghanistan. The secretary of state warned that international assistance to a Taliban-led government in Kabul “will not be forthcoming, sanctions will not be lifted and their ability to travel won’t happen.” &nbsp;

When the interviewer implied that his statement sounds like a no to recognition, the diplomat said, “It’s incumbent on the international community, including the United States, to do everything we can using every tool that we have — economic, diplomatic, political — to ensure (those) rights are sustained.”&nbsp;

Blinken was also reminded by the&nbsp;interviewer&nbsp;that in a recent statement, US President Joe Biden insisted that the Kabul government would not fall, and asked him how he could “get this so wrong.”&nbsp;

The United States will only recognise a future government in Afghanistan if it upholds basic rights of its people and keeps terrorists out of the country, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday.

The United States will only recognise a future government in Afghanistan if it upholds basic rights of its people and keeps terrorists out of the country, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday. On being asked to comment over media reports that China was ready to recognise the Taliban as a legitimate government, the top US diplomat said, “A government that doesn’t uphold the basic rights of its people, including women and girls; that harbours terrorist groups that have designs on the United States or allies and partners — certainly, that’s not going to happen.” He appearing on US television channels on Sunday to comment over the developments in Afghanistan. The secretary of state warned that international assistance to a Taliban-led government in Kabul “will not be forthcoming, sanctions will not be lifted and their ability to travel won’t happen.” When the interviewer implied that his statement sounds like a no to recognition, the diplomat said, “It’s incumbent on the international community, including the United States, to do everything we can using every tool that we have — economic, diplomatic, political — to ensure (those) rights are sustained.” Blinken was also reminded by the interviewer that in a recent statement, US President Joe Biden insisted that the Kabul government would not fall, and asked him how he could “get this so wrong.”

US to recognise a future Afghan govt only if it upholds basic rights: Blinken 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken blamed Afghan forces for the Taliban’s takeover. He forcefully defended the administration’s decision to withdraw the military from Afghanistan after 20 years of war.

US Secretary of State Blinken says Afghan troops haven't been able to defend country

As India celebrates Independence Day on Sunday, reactions from different world leaders pour in. From US&nbsp;president&nbsp;Joe Biden to Bhutan’s Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, several leaders from around the world have shared their wishes.&nbsp;

On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, US&nbsp;President Joe Biden&nbsp;said,&nbsp;“I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and throughout the world, a safe and happy Indian Independence Day.”&nbsp;

Biden added,&nbsp;“In this moment of great challenges and opportunities, the partnership between India and the United States is more important than ever. Together, we must show the world that our two great and diverse democracies can deliver for people everywhere. And as we do, the friendship between our nations will continue to flourish and grow.”&nbsp;

The president also said, “In the&nbsp;past year, our nations have come together in new ways as we tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, including working in partnership with Japan and Australia—through the Quad—to expand global manufacturing of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines and to strengthen our&nbsp;'last-mile'&nbsp;coordination to reach people throughout the Indo-Pacific.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

US&nbsp;secretary of state Antony&nbsp;Blinken&nbsp;said, “On behalf of the government and people of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to the people of India on your 75th Independence Day.”&nbsp;

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I take this occasion to convey our appreciation to the government and people of India, particularly the Embassy of India team here, for the support during these difficult times. 
 
I offer my warmest wishes on this special occasion. Happy Independence Day.<a href="https://t.co/Tx2sJHk4rp">https://t.co/Tx2sJHk4rp</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZKoTDPdHsB">pic.twitter.com/ZKoTDPdHsB</a>
— PM Bhutan (@PMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMBhutan/status/1426626438761881600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India’s&nbsp;neighbours, such as Bhutan, have also congratulated the country on the memorable day.&nbsp;Bhutan's Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, said, “I take this occasion to convey our appreciation to the government and people of India, particularly the Embassy of India team here, for the support during these difficult times.&nbsp;I offer my warmest wishes on this special occasion. Happy Independence Day.”&nbsp;

As India celebrates Independence Day on Sunday, reactions from different world leaders pour in. From US president Joe Biden to Bhutan’s Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, several leaders from around the world have shared their wishes.

As India celebrates Independence Day on Sunday, reactions from different world leaders pour in. From US president Joe Biden to Bhutan’s Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, several leaders from around the world have shared their wishes. On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, US President Joe Biden said, “I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and throughout the world, a safe and happy Indian Independence Day.” Biden added, “In this moment of great challenges and opportunities, the partnership between India and the United States is more important than ever. Together, we must show the world that our two great and diverse democracies can deliver for people everywhere. And as we do, the friendship between our nations will continue to flourish and grow.” The president also said, “In the past year, our nations have come together in new ways as we tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, including working in partnership with Japan and Australia—through the Quad—to expand global manufacturing of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines and to strengthen our 'last-mile' coordination to reach people throughout the Indo-Pacific.” US secretary of state Antony Blinken said, “On behalf of the government and people of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to the people of India on your 75th Independence Day.” I take this occasion to convey our appreciation to the government and people of India, particularly the Embassy of India team here, for the support during these difficult times. I offer my warmest wishes on this special occasion. Happy Independence Day.https://t.co/Tx2sJHk4rp pic.twitter.com/ZKoTDPdHsB — PM Bhutan (@PMBhutan) August 14, 2021 × India’s neighbours, such as Bhutan, have also congratulated the country on the memorable day. Bhutan's Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, said, “I take this occasion to convey our appreciation to the government and people of India, particularly the Embassy of India team here, for the support during these difficult times. I offer my warmest wishes on this special occasion. Happy Independence Day.”

World leaders congratulate India on Independence Day 

As luck would have it, a man in&nbsp;South Carolina in the United States&nbsp;is claiming&nbsp;to have won&nbsp;second lottery prize in just as many weeks.&nbsp;

The winner&nbsp;from Grand Strand first claimed a&nbsp;$40,000 prize on July 16 and then&nbsp;the&nbsp;next one of&nbsp;$3 million on&nbsp;July 27.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement, the&nbsp;South Carolina Education Lottery said on Wednesday,&nbsp;“The man had&nbsp;purchased both Mega Millions Quick Pick tickets from a Murphy USA gas station in Myrtle Beach.”&nbsp;

The newly-turned&nbsp;millionaire used to&nbsp;shop at a nearby Walmart and&nbsp;also&nbsp;drop by Murphy USA afterwards&nbsp;to&nbsp;fill&nbsp;gas&nbsp;and play the lotto,&nbsp;the winner&nbsp;told lottery officials.&nbsp;

He said,&nbsp;"I couldn't believe it.&nbsp;My family was&nbsp;also&nbsp;shocked when I broke the news."&nbsp;

In both&nbsp;the&nbsp;cases,&nbsp;the man&nbsp;missed the jackpot by just&nbsp;a&nbsp;number. Still, he&nbsp;is quite a&nbsp;lucky guy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the South Carolina Education Lottery,&nbsp;"The odds of winning $40,000 playing Mega Millions are 1 in 931,001, and the odds of winning $3 million are about 1 in 13 million."&nbsp;

As luck would have it, a man in South Carolina in the United States is claiming to have won second lottery prize in just as many weeks. The winner from Grand Strand first claimed a $40,000 prize on July 16 and then the next one of $3 million on July 27.

As luck would have it, a man in South Carolina in the United States is claiming to have won second lottery prize in just as many weeks. The winner from Grand Strand first claimed a $40,000 prize on July 16 and then the next one of $3 million on July 27. In a statement, the South Carolina Education Lottery said on Wednesday, “The man had purchased both Mega Millions Quick Pick tickets from a Murphy USA gas station in Myrtle Beach.” The newly-turned millionaire used to shop at a nearby Walmart and also drop by Murphy USA afterwards to fill gas and play the lotto, the winner told lottery officials. He said, "I couldn't believe it. My family was also shocked when I broke the news." In both the cases, the man missed the jackpot by just a number. Still, he is quite a lucky guy. According to the South Carolina Education Lottery, "The odds of winning $40,000 playing Mega Millions are 1 in 931,001, and the odds of winning $3 million are about 1 in 13 million."

As good as it gets: Lucky US man wins two lotteries in a gap of 11 days  

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