Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi demanded US "guarantees" that it will not withdraw again from a nuclear deal if it is revived ahead of his debut visit to the United Nations.

Iranian President Raisi demands US 'guarantees' on nuclear deal

American Express is looking to hire around 1,500 people for technology roles, shrugging off fears of an economic slowdown that has prompted other US financial companies to cut jobs in recent months.

World Business Watch: American Express to hire 1,500 tech staff by year-end

Wall Street’s major indexes ended a choppy session on Monday as investors looked to this week’s policy meeting at the Federal Reserve and how aggressively it will raise prices.

World Business Watch: Wall Street ends choppy session higher with firm focus on Fed

Taliban regime in Afghanistan on Monday (September 19) freed Mark Freirich, an American engineer in a prisoner swap. US in turn released Taliban-linked Afghan tribal leader Bashir Noorzai. US President Joe Biden granted clemency to the convicted drug smuggler who was detained since 2005.

Freirich was abducted in 2020 while working in Afghanistan. The prisoner exchange took place at Kabul airport.

Biden said Frerichs' release was the culmination of work by US officials and other governments. His administration has been under pressure from the families of Americans detained by hostile foreign governments and Biden says he wants to increase efforts for their release.

"Bringing the negotiations that led to Mark’s freedom to a successful resolution required difficult decisions, which I did not take lightly," Biden said in a statement, without confirming the release of Noorzai.

Reuters quoted an unnamed US official who said that Noorzai was given clemency by Biden.

Noorzai was detained under charges of drug smuggling of more than USD 50 million.

He was found guilty following a jury trial in New York in September 2008 and sentenced to life in prison in 2009.

Noorzai's lawyer had denied that his client was a drug dealer and argued that the charges should be dismissed because US&nbsp;officials duped him into believing he would not be arrested.

Frerichs is an engineer and US&nbsp;Navy veteran from Lombard, Illinois, who worked in Afghanistan for a decade on development projects. He was kidnapped in February 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Taliban regime in Afghanistan on Monday (September 19) freed Mark Freirich, an American engineer in a prisoner swap. US in turn released Taliban-linked Afghan tribal leader Bashir Noorzai.

Taliban regime in Afghanistan on Monday (September 19) freed Mark Freirich, an American engineer in a prisoner swap. US in turn released Taliban-linked Afghan tribal leader Bashir Noorzai. US President Joe Biden granted clemency to the convicted drug smuggler who was detained since 2005. Freirich was abducted in 2020 while working in Afghanistan. The prisoner exchange took place at Kabul airport. Biden said Frerichs' release was the culmination of work by US officials and other governments. His administration has been under pressure from the families of Americans detained by hostile foreign governments and Biden says he wants to increase efforts for their release. "Bringing the negotiations that led to Mark’s freedom to a successful resolution required difficult decisions, which I did not take lightly," Biden said in a statement, without confirming the release of Noorzai. Reuters quoted an unnamed US official who said that Noorzai was given clemency by Biden. Noorzai was detained under charges of drug smuggling of more than USD 50 million. He was found guilty following a jury trial in New York in September 2008 and sentenced to life in prison in 2009. Noorzai's lawyer had denied that his client was a drug dealer and argued that the charges should be dismissed because US officials duped him into believing he would not be arrested. Frerichs is an engineer and US Navy veteran from Lombard, Illinois, who worked in Afghanistan for a decade on development projects. He was kidnapped in February 2020. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Taliban release US engineer in a prisoner swap

A sharp rise in the cases of common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States, in 2021 has reportedly alarmed some health officials and sexual health advocates. According to the data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of infections has increased for several STDs including, gonorrhoea and syphilis while the cases of HIV have also surged.&nbsp;

The cases of infections like syphilis rose by 26% between 2020 and 2021, with the data indicating at least 52,354 cases of primary and secondary syphilis that were reported last year. This was the highest rate of infections recorded since 1991, while the total number of cases reached its highest since 1948. This is being compared to the 7% rise in syphilis infections between 2019 and 2020.&nbsp;

According to the data from CDC, the rate of syphilis infections is the greatest among American Indian and Alaska Native persons. While men who have sex with other men are disproportionately affected by these infections. There was an overall 4.4% of increase from 2020 to 2021, in the rates of the three common STDs including chlamydia and gonorrhoea.&nbsp;

Syphilis particularly can be a concerning infection, as the bacterial disease can surface as genital sores but can worsen over time with severe symptoms and death if left untreated. On the other hand, there was a 16% rise in the cases of HIV last year, reports indicate. “We must work collectively to rebuild, innovate, and expand STI prevention in the US – to close existing gaps, create lasting change and realize this vision,” said CDC’s director of STD prevention, Leandro Mena, in a statement.&nbsp; 
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CDC STD Director, Dr. Leandro Mena, opens <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STDConf22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STDConf22</a> by sharing key principles for turning the STI epidemic around: 
• Increase accountability – CDC &amp; STI programs can’t do it alone 
• Re-envision STI prevention services 
• Drive innovation <a href="https://t.co/X3ASvwDXDc">pic.twitter.com/X3ASvwDXDc</a>
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Mena’s remarks were made Monday, during the 2022 STD Prevention Conference, by the CDC and the National Coalition of STD Directors. The conference will be held virtually this year between September 19-22, during which experts reportedly discuss the ongoing epidemics, emerging research and new prevention efforts in the US.&nbsp;

The cases of syphilis had reached a historic low in the early 2000s, however, since then they have increased almost every year. Additionally, the global outbreak of monkeypox has worsened the situation already deteriorating situation and has further highlighted the gaps in the system concerning the diseases that spread mostly through sex. The executive director of the National Coalition of STD Directors, David Harvey has reportedly called the situation “out of control”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/std-cases-in-us-including-syphilis-rose-during-pandemic-cdc-report-470645">Cases of syphilis, other STDs rose in US during Covid pandemic: CDC report</a>

Mena said that experts are also working on new approaches, such as home-test kits for some STDs which would make it easier for people to know if they have any STDs and take necessary precautions to stop the spread of the infections.&nbsp;

During an interview, Mike Saag, an infectious disease expert at the University of Alabama in Birmingham said, “It’s pretty simple. More sexually transmitted infections occur when people are having more unprotected sex.” Reportedly, he indicated that the core part of any effort to stop the spread of STDs must encourage and increase the use of condoms.

Experts have also indicated that there can be several causes for this increase in STDs, some attributing it to inadequate funding which has led to less testing and prevention efforts and the spread may have gotten worse especially during the Covid-19 pandemic when there was a delay in diagnosis and treatment.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A sharp rise in the cases of common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States, in 2021 has reportedly alarmed some health officials and sexual health advocates.

A sharp rise in the cases of common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States, in 2021 has reportedly alarmed some health officials and sexual health advocates. According to the data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of infections has increased for several STDs including, gonorrhoea and syphilis while the cases of HIV have also surged. The cases of infections like syphilis rose by 26% between 2020 and 2021, with the data indicating at least 52,354 cases of primary and secondary syphilis that were reported last year. This was the highest rate of infections recorded since 1991, while the total number of cases reached its highest since 1948. This is being compared to the 7% rise in syphilis infections between 2019 and 2020. According to the data from CDC, the rate of syphilis infections is the greatest among American Indian and Alaska Native persons. While men who have sex with other men are disproportionately affected by these infections. There was an overall 4.4% of increase from 2020 to 2021, in the rates of the three common STDs including chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Syphilis particularly can be a concerning infection, as the bacterial disease can surface as genital sores but can worsen over time with severe symptoms and death if left untreated. On the other hand, there was a 16% rise in the cases of HIV last year, reports indicate. “We must work collectively to rebuild, innovate, and expand STI prevention in the US – to close existing gaps, create lasting change and realize this vision,” said CDC’s director of STD prevention, Leandro Mena, in a statement. CDC STD Director, Dr. Leandro Mena, opens #STDConf22 by sharing key principles for turning the STI epidemic around: • Increase accountability – CDC & STI programs can’t do it alone • Re-envision STI prevention services • Drive innovation pic.twitter.com/X3ASvwDXDc — CDC STD (@CDCSTD) September 19, 2022 × Mena’s remarks were made Monday, during the 2022 STD Prevention Conference, by the CDC and the National Coalition of STD Directors. The conference will be held virtually this year between September 19-22, during which experts reportedly discuss the ongoing epidemics, emerging research and new prevention efforts in the US. The cases of syphilis had reached a historic low in the early 2000s, however, since then they have increased almost every year. Additionally, the global outbreak of monkeypox has worsened the situation already deteriorating situation and has further highlighted the gaps in the system concerning the diseases that spread mostly through sex. The executive director of the National Coalition of STD Directors, David Harvey has reportedly called the situation “out of control”. ALSO READ: Cases of syphilis, other STDs rose in US during Covid pandemic: CDC report Mena said that experts are also working on new approaches, such as home-test kits for some STDs which would make it easier for people to know if they have any STDs and take necessary precautions to stop the spread of the infections. During an interview, Mike Saag, an infectious disease expert at the University of Alabama in Birmingham said, “It’s pretty simple. More sexually transmitted infections occur when people are having more unprotected sex.” Reportedly, he indicated that the core part of any effort to stop the spread of STDs must encourage and increase the use of condoms. Experts have also indicated that there can be several causes for this increase in STDs, some attributing it to inadequate funding which has led to less testing and prevention efforts and the spread may have gotten worse especially during the Covid-19 pandemic when there was a delay in diagnosis and treatment. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Out of control’: 26% rise in cases of syphilis and other STDs in US

United States&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken will seek to establish a new community of Atlantic countries on Tuesday by investing an additional $100 million in programmes that promote the environment and marine security, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;

Blinken will collaborate with counterparts from Angola, Brazil, Ghana, Portugal, and Senegal in New York for the UN General Assembly as part of a new alliance of about 10 nations, a senior State Department official said.&nbsp;

"The United States hopes to work with Atlantic countries to develop a new framework for regular Atlantic cooperation, through which our countries can establish and carry out a shared approach to advancing our shared goals in the region," the official said on condition of anonymity.

The programme comes at a time when President Joe Biden's administration is focusing more on international environmental cooperation, especially ocean health.&nbsp;

The Pacific is already a top concern for the government since it is thought that with China's rapid ascent, there could be war there.&nbsp;

The new Atlantic grouping, according to the official, will work to create a "sustainable ocean economy" and support ocean health, especially by addressing climate change and marine habitats.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-controlled-zaporizhzhia-region-may-stage-referendum-to-join-russia-in-coming-days-518094">Russia-controlled Zaporizhzhia region may stage referendum to join Russia in 'coming days'</a>

Additionally, it will consider how to strengthen marine governance, such as by enhancing collaboration on search and rescue missions and countering piracy.&nbsp;

The Biden administration will invest an additional $100 million in the endeavour the next year, subject to legislative approval, on top of the $400 million it currently spends a year on maritime activities in the Atlantic, the official said.&nbsp;

The project involves Brazil, where President Jair Bolsonaro — a business ally and longtime sceptic of climate change — is behind in the polls as he runs for re-election weeks before elections in the Atlantic giant.

(with inputs from agencies)

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United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will seek to establish a new community of Atlantic countries on Tuesday by investing an additional $100 million in programmes that promote the environment and marine security, as reported by AFP.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will seek to establish a new community of Atlantic countries on Tuesday by investing an additional $100 million in programmes that promote the environment and marine security, as reported by AFP. Blinken will collaborate with counterparts from Angola, Brazil, Ghana, Portugal, and Senegal in New York for the UN General Assembly as part of a new alliance of about 10 nations, a senior State Department official said. "The United States hopes to work with Atlantic countries to develop a new framework for regular Atlantic cooperation, through which our countries can establish and carry out a shared approach to advancing our shared goals in the region," the official said on condition of anonymity. The programme comes at a time when President Joe Biden's administration is focusing more on international environmental cooperation, especially ocean health. The Pacific is already a top concern for the government since it is thought that with China's rapid ascent, there could be war there. The new Atlantic grouping, according to the official, will work to create a "sustainable ocean economy" and support ocean health, especially by addressing climate change and marine habitats. Also Read: Russia-controlled Zaporizhzhia region may stage referendum to join Russia in 'coming days' Additionally, it will consider how to strengthen marine governance, such as by enhancing collaboration on search and rescue missions and countering piracy. The Biden administration will invest an additional $100 million in the endeavour the next year, subject to legislative approval, on top of the $400 million it currently spends a year on maritime activities in the Atlantic, the official said. The project involves Brazil, where President Jair Bolsonaro — a business ally and longtime sceptic of climate change — is behind in the polls as he runs for re-election weeks before elections in the Atlantic giant. (with inputs from agencies)

US proposes new Atlantic Ocean cooperation with $100 mn in  initiatives

Former President Donald Trump appeared to more fully embrace QAnon on Saturday, playing a song at a political rally in Ohio that prompted attendees to respond with a salute in reference to the cultlike conspiracy theory’s theme song.

While speaking in Youngstown in support of J.D. Vance, whom he has endorsed as Ohio’s Republican nominee for the Senate, Trump delivered a dark address about the decline of the U.S. over music that was all but identical to a song called “Wwg1wga” — an abbreviation for the QAnon slogan, “Where we go one, we go all.”

As Trump spoke, scores of people in the crowd raised fingers in the air in an apparent reference to the “1” in what they thought was the song’s title. It was the first time in the memory of some Trump aides that such a display had occurred at one of his rallies.

Aides to Trump said the song played at the rally was called “Mirrors,” and it was selected for use in a video that Trump played at conservative meeting CPAC and posted on his social media site, Truth Social. But it sounds strikingly like the QAnon theme song.

Taylor Budowich, a spokesperson for Trump, said, “The fake news, in a pathetic attempt to create controversy and divide America, is brewing up another conspiracy about a royalty-free song from a popular audio library platform.” 
 
Last week Trump posted an image of himself on Truth Social wearing a Q pin on his lapel and under a slogan reading “The Storm is Coming.” Adherents to QAnon believe that the “storm” is the moment when Trump will retake power after vanquishing his enemies, having them arrested and potentially executed on live TV. 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-storm-is-coming-donald-trump-amplifies-qanon-conspiracy-theories-516950">'The storm is coming': Donald Trump amplifies QAnon conspiracy theories</a> 
 
Trump’s speech in Ohio had an apocalyptic tone and seemed intended to delegitimize officials in the FBI and Justice Department who are involved in investigations into both his handling of sensitive government documents removed from the White House and the role that he and allies played in trying to overturn the 2020 election.

Addressing the conflict in Ukraine, Trump also warned that the United States “may end up in World War III.” Assailing reporters, as he often does, he said that there was “no fair press any longer” and repeated his frequent refrain that the news media is “truly the enemy of the people.”

Former President Donald Trump appeared to more fully embrace QAnon on Saturday, playing a song at a political rally in Ohio that prompted attendees to respond with a salute in reference to the cultlike conspiracy theory’s theme song.

Former President Donald Trump appeared to more fully embrace QAnon on Saturday, playing a song at a political rally in Ohio that prompted attendees to respond with a salute in reference to the cultlike conspiracy theory’s theme song. While speaking in Youngstown in support of J.D. Vance, whom he has endorsed as Ohio’s Republican nominee for the Senate, Trump delivered a dark address about the decline of the U.S. over music that was all but identical to a song called “Wwg1wga” — an abbreviation for the QAnon slogan, “Where we go one, we go all.” As Trump spoke, scores of people in the crowd raised fingers in the air in an apparent reference to the “1” in what they thought was the song’s title. It was the first time in the memory of some Trump aides that such a display had occurred at one of his rallies. Aides to Trump said the song played at the rally was called “Mirrors,” and it was selected for use in a video that Trump played at conservative meeting CPAC and posted on his social media site, Truth Social. But it sounds strikingly like the QAnon theme song. Taylor Budowich, a spokesperson for Trump, said, “The fake news, in a pathetic attempt to create controversy and divide America, is brewing up another conspiracy about a royalty-free song from a popular audio library platform.” Last week Trump posted an image of himself on Truth Social wearing a Q pin on his lapel and under a slogan reading “The Storm is Coming.” Adherents to QAnon believe that the “storm” is the moment when Trump will retake power after vanquishing his enemies, having them arrested and potentially executed on live TV. ALSO READ: 'The storm is coming': Donald Trump amplifies QAnon conspiracy theories Trump’s speech in Ohio had an apocalyptic tone and seemed intended to delegitimize officials in the FBI and Justice Department who are involved in investigations into both his handling of sensitive government documents removed from the White House and the role that he and allies played in trying to overturn the 2020 election. Addressing the conflict in Ukraine, Trump also warned that the United States “may end up in World War III.” Assailing reporters, as he often does, he said that there was “no fair press any longer” and repeated his frequent refrain that the news media is “truly the enemy of the people.”

Trump rally plays music resembling QAnon song, and crowds react

Last week, on Wednesday, an 89-year-old woman and her 12-year-old grandson were attacked by two pit bulls at their home west of Denver, said family members. The former succumbed to her injuries and passed away on Sunday while the latter has been released from the hospital and is recovering, the media reported on Monday.&nbsp;

According to the police, the two were attacked on September 15&nbsp;afternoon and when the officers arrived at the scene of the crime they saw blood outside, leading into the house. They found the woman in the backyard being mauled by the dogs and while they used stun guns and less-lethal shotguns the police were unable to separate the dogs from the victim without an additional number of officers.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pitbull-mauls-woman-to-death-owner-drops-off-dog-to-municipality-van-497358">Watch| Pitbull mauls woman to death, owner drops off dog to municipality van</a>

Reportedly the victims’ names have not been released. The boy managed to escape the attack and was seeking refuge at the neighbour’s house. Subsequently, they were both airlifted, and the boy was sent to a local children's hospital while the woman was admitted to the hospital with critical injuries. Both the dogs have since been euthanized, said the police. Notably, the City of Gold does not have any laws for banning certain breeds of dogs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Last week, on Wednesday, an 89-year-old woman and her 12-year-old grandson were attacked by two pit bulls at their home west of Denver, said family members. The former succumbed to her injuries and passed away on Sunday while the latter has been released from the hospital and is recovering, the media reported on Monday.

Last week, on Wednesday, an 89-year-old woman and her 12-year-old grandson were attacked by two pit bulls at their home west of Denver, said family members. The former succumbed to her injuries and passed away on Sunday while the latter has been released from the hospital and is recovering, the media reported on Monday. According to the police, the two were attacked on September 15 afternoon and when the officers arrived at the scene of the crime they saw blood outside, leading into the house. They found the woman in the backyard being mauled by the dogs and while they used stun guns and less-lethal shotguns the police were unable to separate the dogs from the victim without an additional number of officers. ALSO WATCH: Watch| Pitbull mauls woman to death, owner drops off dog to municipality van Reportedly the victims’ names have not been released. The boy managed to escape the attack and was seeking refuge at the neighbour’s house. Subsequently, they were both airlifted, and the boy was sent to a local children's hospital while the woman was admitted to the hospital with critical injuries. Both the dogs have since been euthanized, said the police. Notably, the City of Gold does not have any laws for banning certain breeds of dogs. (With inputs from agencies)

US: An 89-year-old woman dies after being mauled by pit bulls in Denver

Taking controversial remarks in a Sunday night television interview, President Biden said US forces will defend Taiwan in the events the island is attacked by china. It's his most explicit statement on the issue drawing an angry response from China.

Biden: US to defend Taiwan if China attacks

An American navy veteran detained in Afghanistan since 2020 was released by the Taliban in exchange for an ally who spent 17 years in a US jail for heroin smuggling.

WION Fineprint | Taliban, United States swap prisoners | Aghan druglord swapped for US Navy veteran

Iranian president Ibrahim Raisi has demanded guarantees from the United States that it will not withdraw again from a nuclear deal if revived. He said, he can't trust the United States.

'Can't trust the US,' says Iranian president Ibrahim Raisi on nuclear deal

Taking controversial remarks in a Sunday night television interview, President Biden said US forces will defend Taiwan in the events the island is attacked by China. It's his most explicit statement on the issue drawing an angry response from China.

US would defend Taiwan in 'unprecedented attack' says US President Joe Biden

The US has offered to break a truce between Armenia and Azerbaijan - the countries involved in violent clashes last week that killed 286 people on both sides. The US' Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday, hosted foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan on the sidelines of UNGA meet.

US' Antony Blinken hosts Azerbaijan, Armenia delegations

The world's largest economy, the United States of America is struggling with a 40-year high inflation. US federal reserve is poised to unleash another interest rate hike on Wednesday after the latest data showed a worrying US inflation picture.

World Business Watch: US Fed reserve set for another rate hike on Wednesday

Russia has completed installation of Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft on Sunday, on Launch Pad 31 (Vostok) of the Baikonur Space Center. A Soyuz-2.1a rocket carrying the Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft will blast off from the Baikonur space center in Kazakhstan on September 21.

Russia completes Soyuz MS-22 spacecraft installation at launchpad

The ties between United States and Russia are at their lowest due to the ongoing war in Ukraine but for their space program it seems the battle on the ground is not having any impact on the program.

US-Russia: Foes on ground, Friends in Space?

Texas governor has sent another busload of migrants to Kamala Harris's home in Washington DC. As per reports, 50 migrants have arrived including a month-old-baby.

US: 2nd batch of migrants sent to Kamala Harris's home; fight over border security takes ugly turn

US President Joe Biden has now stated that US forces will defend the Taiwan from the 'unprecedented attack' from China but would not encourage independence as it is Taiwan's own decision. WION's correspondent Susan Tehrani brings you more.

WION Dispatch | 'Will defend Taiwan but not encourage independence,' says Joe Biden

The Covid pandemic in the United States is over, according to US President Joe Biden in an interview&nbsp;on Sunday.

The remarks were indicative of the current state of much of US society, given that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepali-trader-dies-by-suicide-after-incurring-loss-due-to-china-border-blockade-517473">Covid restrictions</a> have been largely lifted nationwide and travel has returned to pre-pandemic levels.

"The pandemic is over. We still have a problem with Covid. We're still doing a lot of work on it..., but the pandemic is over," Biden told CBS news programme&nbsp;"60 Minutes" in an interview taped as he walked the floor of the Detroit Auto Show last week.

"If you notice, no one's wearing masks," Biden said, gesturing around the hall.

"Everybody seems to be in pretty good shape. And so I think it's changing."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-warned-of-investor-fallout-by-joe-biden-if-china-backs-russias-war-517490">Biden warns Jinping, says US forces would help defend Taiwan against China</a>

However, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-let-up-in-taking-back-ukrainian-towns-volodymyr-zelensky-517507">president's</a> comments come just a few weeks after his government requested billions of dollars in financing from Congress to continue its testing and vaccination operations through a projected fall wave.

The self-described "car guy" Biden's trip to Michigan last week raised awareness of the Detroit event, which is being conducted for the first time since 2019.

Biden emphasised recent legislation approved to promote US automakers' transition to electric vehicles in a keynote speech, as well as significant new investments in semiconductor production.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION live TV here:&nbsp;

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The Covid pandemic in the United States is over, according to US President Joe Biden in an interview on Sunday. The remarks were indicative of the current state of much of US society, given that Covid restrictions have been largely lifted nationwide and travel has returned to pre-pandemic levels.

The Covid pandemic in the United States is over, according to US President Joe Biden in an interview on Sunday. The remarks were indicative of the current state of much of US society, given that Covid restrictions have been largely lifted nationwide and travel has returned to pre-pandemic levels. "The pandemic is over. We still have a problem with Covid. We're still doing a lot of work on it..., but the pandemic is over," Biden told CBS news programme "60 Minutes" in an interview taped as he walked the floor of the Detroit Auto Show last week. "If you notice, no one's wearing masks," Biden said, gesturing around the hall. "Everybody seems to be in pretty good shape. And so I think it's changing." Also read | Biden warns Jinping, says US forces would help defend Taiwan against China However, the president's comments come just a few weeks after his government requested billions of dollars in financing from Congress to continue its testing and vaccination operations through a projected fall wave. The self-described "car guy" Biden's trip to Michigan last week raised awareness of the Detroit event, which is being conducted for the first time since 2019. Biden emphasised recent legislation approved to promote US automakers' transition to electric vehicles in a keynote speech, as well as significant new investments in semiconductor production. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION live TV here:

President Biden says COVID-19 pandemic in US 'is over'

A top Taliban official named Haji Bashir Noorzai has been released after decades in American custody and arrived in Kabul on Monday, according to a Taliban spokesperson.

He was one of the final Afghans detained at the Guantanamo Bay detention facility, according to sources in the Afghan state media.

According to the Taliban's acting foreign minister, the US freed the official on Monday in exchange for the Taliban releasing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-academy-award-winner-woody-allen-planning-to-retire-at-86-from-filmmaking-to-focus-on-first-novel-517392">American</a> engineer Mark Frerichs.

"Honorable Haji Bashir was released after two decades of imprisonment and arrived in Kabul today," said Mohammad Naeem, a Taliban spokesperson based in Doha, in a Tweet.

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The&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-world-leaders-wholl-be-attending-queen-elizabeth-iis-funeral-517300">Afghan</a> tribal chief named&nbsp;Bashir Noorzai was detained and accused of bringing more than $50 million worth of heroin into the United States.&nbsp;

Later, Noorzai's attorney denied that his client was a drug dealer and argued that the accusations against him should be dropped since American government agents had deceived him into thinking he would not be detained.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/where-is-masood-azhar-pakistan-says-ungoverned-spaces-within-afghanistan-safe-havens-for-terrorists-516731">Where is Masood Azhar? Pakistan says 'ungoverned spaces' in Afghanistan safe havens for terrorists</a>

At a press conference in Kabul, acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi informed the media that they had traded Frerichs on Monday morning and received Haji Bashir Noorzai, who had spent decades in American detention after being accused of drug offences.

Engineer Frerichs, a veteran of the U.S. Navy from Lombard, Illinois, spent ten years working on development projects in Afghanistan. He was kidnapped at the start of February 2020.

<img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb60c2a1-a51d-4d8c-9267-3f35ac0dd5d1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/mark1.jpg" />

Mark Frerichs, a contractor from Illinois, who was kidnapped in January 2020 in the Afghan capital, Kabul has now been released. AP

The swap raises pertinent questions on the Taliban-US re-engagement post&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/killing-of-al-qaeda-leader-taliban-claims-us-drones-used-pakistan-airspace-511105">Ayman al-Zawahiri's killing </a>in July. Additionally, US's bowing down to Taliban's demands and the Taliban's arm-twisting tactics also form important realms of discussion&nbsp;here.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A top Taliban official named Haji Bashir Noorzai has been released after decades in American custody and arrived in Kabul on Monday, according to a Taliban spokesperson.

A top Taliban official named Haji Bashir Noorzai has been released after decades in American custody and arrived in Kabul on Monday, according to a Taliban spokesperson. He was one of the final Afghans detained at the Guantanamo Bay detention facility, according to sources in the Afghan state media. According to the Taliban's acting foreign minister, the US freed the official on Monday in exchange for the Taliban releasing American engineer Mark Frerichs. "Honorable Haji Bashir was released after two decades of imprisonment and arrived in Kabul today," said Mohammad Naeem, a Taliban spokesperson based in Doha, in a Tweet. pic.twitter.com/pWCeTFApfX — AhmadullahMuttaqi.احمدالله متقي (@Ahmadmuttaqi01) September 19, 2022 × The Afghan tribal chief named Bashir Noorzai was detained and accused of bringing more than $50 million worth of heroin into the United States. Later, Noorzai's attorney denied that his client was a drug dealer and argued that the accusations against him should be dropped since American government agents had deceived him into thinking he would not be detained. Also read | Where is Masood Azhar? Pakistan says 'ungoverned spaces' in Afghanistan safe havens for terrorists At a press conference in Kabul, acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi informed the media that they had traded Frerichs on Monday morning and received Haji Bashir Noorzai, who had spent decades in American detention after being accused of drug offences. Engineer Frerichs, a veteran of the U.S. Navy from Lombard, Illinois, spent ten years working on development projects in Afghanistan. He was kidnapped at the start of February 2020. Mark Frerichs, a contractor from Illinois, who was kidnapped in January 2020 in the Afghan capital, Kabul has now been released. AP The swap raises pertinent questions on the Taliban-US re-engagement post Ayman al-Zawahiri's killing in July. Additionally, US's bowing down to Taliban's demands and the Taliban's arm-twisting tactics also form important realms of discussion here. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE here:

Engineer in exchange for narco-terrorist: Taliban-US prisoner swap raises questions over re-engagement

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi condemned what she described as an "illegal" attack by Azerbaijan on Armenia that sparked the worst fighting since their 2020 war. Pelosi was on a three-day visit to Yerevan.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi slams Azerbaijan's 'illegal' attacks during Armenia visit

Taiwanese journalist Paul Huang said that statements like what US President Joe Biden has made helps strengthen public confidence. However, he also said that immediately after the Ukraine war Taiwanese public confidence in US military collapsed.

'It helps strengthen public confidence,' Taiwan's Paul Huang on Biden's 'defend Taiwan' statement

The US vice president's house in Washington, DC, receives another busload of nearly 50 migrants, including a month-old infant, as part of the latest unannounced cross-country transfer by Republican-led states.

The Texas governor, considering most of them to be Venezuelan, dropped off the migrants outside of the Naval Observatory, the traditional residence of Kamala Harris, US Vice President. A similar group of migrants flew to Massachusetts, sent by the Florida governor.

With these transfers, Democratic politicians and immigrant activists demanded to look into possible human trafficking offences. The vice president accused the Republican elected leaders of playing games involving human lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-dont-dont-biden-warns-putin-to-not-use-nuclear-or-chemical-weapons-against-ukraine-517269">Also read |&nbsp;'Don't. Don't. Don't,' Biden warns Putin to not use nuclear or chemical weapons against Ukraine</a>

In conversation with Vice News, Harris said, "I think it is the height of irresponsibility much less, just frankly a dereliction of duty when you are an elected leader, to play those kinds of games with human life, and human beings, The Guardian reported.

Similar instances of sending migrants to other states and vice president's residences have occurred. Last week, Abbott, Texas's governor, sent three full buses to New York and also sent 100 migrants to Harris's residence on Thursday (Sept 15).

The two chartered planes sent to Massachusets by Florida's governor, including infants, prompted the island's residents to hustle to help with food and other necessities for this unexpected influx of people. Further, Florida's governor, DeSantis, stated that all American communities, not just those near the border with Mexico, should share the load, saying Biden's border strategy was a failure. Abbott also supported and claimed to have sent migrants to "sanctuary cities."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bidens-approval-rating-sees-a-jump-ahead-of-november-midterms-517013">Also read |&nbsp;Biden's approval rating sees a jump ahead of November midterms</a>

On the other hand, the president criticised the Republicans for using people as political props and stated that what they are doing was completely wrong.

According to several immigration organizations, these transfers are misled about their intended destinations, making Republican governors essentially traffickers. Racheal Rollins, US attorney for Massachusetts, promised to look into the matter for possible human trafficking.&nbsp;

Since April, Texas has bussed nearly 8,000 people to Washington, including Harris's residence, with 300 bussed to Chicago and over 2,000 to New York. Arizona also bused over 1,500 migrants to Washington.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US vice president's house in Washington, DC, receives another busload of nearly 50 migrants, including a month-old infant, as part of the latest unannounced cross-country transfer by Republican-led states.

The US vice president's house in Washington, DC, receives another busload of nearly 50 migrants, including a month-old infant, as part of the latest unannounced cross-country transfer by Republican-led states. The Texas governor, considering most of them to be Venezuelan, dropped off the migrants outside of the Naval Observatory, the traditional residence of Kamala Harris, US Vice President. A similar group of migrants flew to Massachusetts, sent by the Florida governor. With these transfers, Democratic politicians and immigrant activists demanded to look into possible human trafficking offences. The vice president accused the Republican elected leaders of playing games involving human lives. Also read | 'Don't. Don't. Don't,' Biden warns Putin to not use nuclear or chemical weapons against Ukraine In conversation with Vice News, Harris said, "I think it is the height of irresponsibility much less, just frankly a dereliction of duty when you are an elected leader, to play those kinds of games with human life, and human beings, The Guardian reported. Similar instances of sending migrants to other states and vice president's residences have occurred. Last week, Abbott, Texas's governor, sent three full buses to New York and also sent 100 migrants to Harris's residence on Thursday (Sept 15). The two chartered planes sent to Massachusets by Florida's governor, including infants, prompted the island's residents to hustle to help with food and other necessities for this unexpected influx of people. Further, Florida's governor, DeSantis, stated that all American communities, not just those near the border with Mexico, should share the load, saying Biden's border strategy was a failure. Abbott also supported and claimed to have sent migrants to "sanctuary cities." Also read | Biden's approval rating sees a jump ahead of November midterms On the other hand, the president criticised the Republicans for using people as political props and stated that what they are doing was completely wrong. According to several immigration organizations, these transfers are misled about their intended destinations, making Republican governors essentially traffickers. Racheal Rollins, US attorney for Massachusetts, promised to look into the matter for possible human trafficking. Since April, Texas has bussed nearly 8,000 people to Washington, including Harris's residence, with 300 bussed to Chicago and over 2,000 to New York. Arizona also bused over 1,500 migrants to Washington. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Republican-led states sends another group of migrants to VP Kamala Harris's residence & Massachusetts

The world's largest economy, the United States of America is struggling with a 40-year high inflation. US federal reserve is poised to unleash another interest rate hike after the latest data showed a worrying U.S inflation picture. An increase in the interest rate is expected on Wednesday.

US attempts to tackle 40-year-high inflation; hike in interest rate expected on Wednesday

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