Taiwan has finalized the purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets from American aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin in the biggest arms sale to the island country in years.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-cia-officer-arrested-for-giving-classified-information-to-china-321365">Former CIA officer arrested for giving classified information to China</a>

The $62 billion deal was finalised on Friday and is said to have angered China.&nbsp;

The United States Defense Department announced the details of the deal on its website on Friday saying that the US Air Force was given a contract to Lockheed Martin, the maker of the F-16, for 90 of the planes as part of US foreign military sales.

The Pentagon announced the contract without specifying the buyer, but a source familiar with the matter confirmed to AFP that it was Taiwan.

Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory, got a green signal from the US last year for the purchase of 66 new generation F-16s, which will allow it to modernize its defences.

The island country already has a fleet of F-16s purchased in 1992.

Beijing has warned Taiwan that it remains part of the country and will use force if Taipei ever formally moves towards declaring independence.

The arms deal comes as China portrayed its political muscle in Hong Kong and imposed the controversial security law on the international business hub. The move against Hong Kong has caused concern in Taiwan.

The humongous deal comes days after the highest level of talks between the US and Taiwan took place. The talks were the biggest since 1979 which provoked China.&nbsp;

Taiwan has finalized the purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets from American aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin in the biggest arms sale to the island country in years.

Taiwan has finalized the purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets from American aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin in the biggest arms sale to the island country in years. Also read: Former CIA officer arrested for giving classified information to China The $62 billion deal was finalised on Friday and is said to have angered China. The United States Defense Department announced the details of the deal on its website on Friday saying that the US Air Force was given a contract to Lockheed Martin, the maker of the F-16, for 90 of the planes as part of US foreign military sales. The Pentagon announced the contract without specifying the buyer, but a source familiar with the matter confirmed to AFP that it was Taiwan. Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory, got a green signal from the US last year for the purchase of 66 new generation F-16s, which will allow it to modernize its defences. The island country already has a fleet of F-16s purchased in 1992. Beijing has warned Taiwan that it remains part of the country and will use force if Taipei ever formally moves towards declaring independence. The arms deal comes as China portrayed its political muscle in Hong Kong and imposed the controversial security law on the international business hub. The move against Hong Kong has caused concern in Taiwan. The humongous deal comes days after the highest level of talks between the US and Taiwan took place. The talks were the biggest since 1979 which provoked China.

Taiwan finalizes purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets in biggest arms deal with US

In the United States, the massive wildfire burning in Northern California has resulted in rare and dangerous fire tornado's Watch report.

20,000 acres of land destroyed in California fire

US President Donald Trump on August 15 said to use the snapback technique, a day after the UN Security Council rejected an American resolution to extend an Iranian arms embargo. Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif later said “American snapback is illegal and unacceptable and the Americans know they cannot use snapback."

Iran Nuclear Deal: US has been humiliated at the UN, says Iran

A thermometer at Death Valley’s Furnace Creek in the Southern California desert has soared to 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.4 Celsius)

WION Dispatch:California shows highest global temperature in over 100 years | Climate Change

China on Monday slammed Washington for using "digital gunboat diplomacy" after US President Donald Trump ordered TikTok's Chinese owner ByteDance to sell its interest in the Musical.ly app it bought and merged with TikTok.

As tensions soar between the world's two biggest economies, Trump has claimed TikTok could be used by China to track the locations of federal employees, build dossiers on people for blackmail, and conduct corporate espionage.

The order issued late Friday builds on sweeping restrictions issued last week by Trump that TikTok and WeChat end all operations in the US.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-us-targets-china-tech-tiktok-rival-bigo-shifts-servers-from-hong-kong-321170">Also read:&nbsp;As US targets China tech, TikTok rival Bigo shifts servers from Hong Kong</a>

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on Monday said "freedom and security are merely excuses for some US politicians to pursue digital gunboat diplomacy" — referring to vessels used by Western imperial powers during the nineteenth century, which China considers a deeply humiliating period in its history.

TikTok — which is not available in China — has sought to distance itself from its Chinese owners.

Zhao said TikTok had done everything required by the US, including hiring only Americans as its top executives, hosting its servers in the US and making public its source code.&nbsp;

But the app has been "unable to escape the robbery through trickery undertaken by some people in the US based on bandit logic and political self-interest", Zhao said at a regular press conference.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alibaba-next-trump-is-looking-at-pressuring-other-chinese-companies-after-bytedance-320915">Also read:&nbsp;Alibaba next? Trump is looking at pressuring other Chinese companies after Bytedance</a>

ByteDance bought karaoke video app Musical.y from a Chinese rival about three years ago in a deal valued at nearly a billion dollars. It was incorporated into TikTok, which became a global sensation -- particularly among younger users.

The order, set to take effect in 90 days, retroactively prohibits the acquisition and bars ByteDance from having any interest in Musical.ly.

Trump ordered that any sale of interest in Musical.ly in the US had to be signed off on by the Committee on Foreign Investment, which is to be given access to ByteDance books.

TikTok appointed former Disney executive Kevin Mayer, an American, as its new chief executive in May, and also withdrew from Hong Kong shortly after China imposed a controversial new security law on the city.

China on Monday slammed Washington for using "digital gunboat diplomacy" after US President Donald Trump ordered TikTok's Chinese owner ByteDance to sell its interest in the Musical.

China on Monday slammed Washington for using "digital gunboat diplomacy" after US President Donald Trump ordered TikTok's Chinese owner ByteDance to sell its interest in the Musical.ly app it bought and merged with TikTok. As tensions soar between the world's two biggest economies, Trump has claimed TikTok could be used by China to track the locations of federal employees, build dossiers on people for blackmail, and conduct corporate espionage. The order issued late Friday builds on sweeping restrictions issued last week by Trump that TikTok and WeChat end all operations in the US. Also read: As US targets China tech, TikTok rival Bigo shifts servers from Hong Kong Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian on Monday said "freedom and security are merely excuses for some US politicians to pursue digital gunboat diplomacy" — referring to vessels used by Western imperial powers during the nineteenth century, which China considers a deeply humiliating period in its history. TikTok — which is not available in China — has sought to distance itself from its Chinese owners. Zhao said TikTok had done everything required by the US, including hiring only Americans as its top executives, hosting its servers in the US and making public its source code. But the app has been "unable to escape the robbery through trickery undertaken by some people in the US based on bandit logic and political self-interest", Zhao said at a regular press conference. Also read: Alibaba next? Trump is looking at pressuring other Chinese companies after Bytedance ByteDance bought karaoke video app Musical.y from a Chinese rival about three years ago in a deal valued at nearly a billion dollars. It was incorporated into TikTok, which became a global sensation -- particularly among younger users. The order, set to take effect in 90 days, retroactively prohibits the acquisition and bars ByteDance from having any interest in Musical.ly. Trump ordered that any sale of interest in Musical.ly in the US had to be signed off on by the Committee on Foreign Investment, which is to be given access to ByteDance books. TikTok appointed former Disney executive Kevin Mayer, an American, as its new chief executive in May, and also withdrew from Hong Kong shortly after China imposed a controversial new security law on the city.

China blasts US 'digital gunboat diplomacy' over TikTok

The United States Postal Service is popularly known for delivering mail despite snow, rain or heat, but it faces a new foe in President Donald Trump.

Ahead of the November 3 elections in which millions of voters are expected to cast ballots by mail due to the coronavirus, Trump has leveled an unprecedented attack at the USPS, opposing efforts to give the cash-strapped agency more money even as changes there have caused widespread delays in delivering letters and packages.

"They need that money in order to have the post office work so it can take all of these millions and millions of ballots," Trump told Fox News on Thursday, calling the money "fraudulent."

"But if they don't get those... that means you can't have universal mail-in voting."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-speaker-considering-recalling-congress-over-post-office-woes-320879">Also read:&nbsp;US House Speaker considering recalling Congress over Post Office woes</a>

On Saturday, Trump continued his assault on mail-in voting by telling reporters it would be a "catastrophe" and retweeting articles and comments alleging fraud.

The Democratic opposition has sharply condemned Trump's statements, with some lawmakers claiming that the president is plotting to snarl the post office to undermine voting, create uncertainty and win a second term.

"Pure Trump. He doesn't want an election," said Democratic challenger Joe Biden.

Biden's running mate, Senator Kamala Harris, tweeted: "We cannot let Donald Trump destroy the United States Postal Service."

Trump, asked by a reporter Saturday if he was trying to hobble the USPS, replied: "No, not at all."

But the concerns are unlikely to disappear.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-postal-service-watchdog-to-probe-service-woes-as-worries-rise-about-mail-ballots-320620">Also read:&nbsp;US Postal Service watchdog to probe service woes as worries rise about mail ballots</a>

Reflecting the escalating nature of the controversy, former president Barack Obama has also weighed in.

"What we've never seen before is a president say, 'I'm going to try to actively kneecap the Postal Service ... and I will be explicit about the reason I'm doing it,'" Obama said in a podcast with a former aide.

On Saturday, protesters gathered at the Washington home of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, blaring horns and banging pots in anger.

USPS spokesman David Partenheimer attributed changes at the agency to its poor financial state.

"We are not slowing down election mail or any other mail," he told AFP.

"The Postal Service is in a financially unsustainable position, stemming from substantial declines in mail volume and a broken business model," he explained.

"We face an impending liquidity crisis," Partenheimer said, calling on Congress and regulators to enact reforms.

Meanwhile, in Congress... 
The postal troubles come as Congress remains deadlocked over a new stimulus bill to follow the $2.2 trillion CARES Act package passed in March as the coronavirus crisis erupted.

Democrats have proposed giving the USPS billions of dollars in funding, and Trump -- after first saying he opposed that -- said Friday that perhaps some new funds could be included in a compromise.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://w3.cdn.anvato.net/player/prod/v3/anvload.html?key=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%3D" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On Saturday he blamed the Democrats again, telling reporters they "aren't approving proper funding for postal, and they're not approving the proper funding for this ridiculous thing that they want to do which is all mail-in voting."

"You're right, there has to be more resources, I agree," he said. &nbsp;

Trump said candidly in April that mail-in voting "doesn't work out well for Republicans" and has repeatedly described such ballots as prone to fraud.

Experts disagree.&nbsp;

A study this year by New York University's Brennan Center for Justice found that "it is... more likely for an American to be struck by lightning than to commit mail voting fraud."

In an interview, American Postal Workers Union President Mark Dimondstein blamed the nationwide slowdowns in mail deliveries on measures implemented by DeJoy, a Republican fundraiser appointed by Trump who took office in June and pledged to reform the agency.

Dimondstein said overtime has recently been reduced, meaning carriers leave distribution centers immediately rather than wait 10 or 15 minutes for delayed mail, as they previously did.

That, combined with the around 40,000 workers who have had to quarantine since March because of COVID-19, has created delays.

DeJoy -- defended by Trump as a "fantastic man" -- has "arbitrarily reduced hours of work of the employees, but the same work is still there to get done," Dimondstein said.

States act 
As concerns mount over the USPS's ability to handle the expected surge in ballots, states are working to ensure their residents' votes count.

Pennsylvania this week asked its supreme court to push back its deadline for accepting mail-in ballots.

In a court filing, it cited a letter from a USPS official to the state warning of "a risk that ballots requested near the deadline under state law will not be returned by mail in time to be counted under your laws."&nbsp;

The Washington Post reported on Friday similar notices were sent to 45 other states and the District of Columbia.

Jon Tester, a Democratic senator from Montana, also has asked DeJoy in writing to explain reports that the USPS was removing mailboxes from towns in the state.&nbsp;

Late Friday, a USPS spokesman told CNN that removal of mailboxes was being halted in 16 states, including Montana, and parts of two others.

Dimondstein said he hoped Trump's "brazen challenge to the democratic right -- that somehow he's going to starve this institution to suppress the vote -- somehow gives more impetus to Congress to react."&nbsp;

"Congress needs to act, and they need to act soon," he said.

The United States Postal Service is popularly known for delivering mail despite snow, rain or heat, but it faces a new foe in President Donald Trump. Ahead of the November 3 elections in which millions of voters are expected to cast ballots by mail due to the coronavirus, Trump has leveled an unprecedented attack at the USPS, opposing efforts to give the cash-strapped agency more money even as changes there have caused widespread delays in delivering letters and packages.

The United States Postal Service is popularly known for delivering mail despite snow, rain or heat, but it faces a new foe in President Donald Trump. Ahead of the November 3 elections in which millions of voters are expected to cast ballots by mail due to the coronavirus, Trump has leveled an unprecedented attack at the USPS, opposing efforts to give the cash-strapped agency more money even as changes there have caused widespread delays in delivering letters and packages. "They need that money in order to have the post office work so it can take all of these millions and millions of ballots," Trump told Fox News on Thursday, calling the money "fraudulent." "But if they don't get those... that means you can't have universal mail-in voting." Also read: US House Speaker considering recalling Congress over Post Office woes On Saturday, Trump continued his assault on mail-in voting by telling reporters it would be a "catastrophe" and retweeting articles and comments alleging fraud. The Democratic opposition has sharply condemned Trump's statements, with some lawmakers claiming that the president is plotting to snarl the post office to undermine voting, create uncertainty and win a second term. "Pure Trump. He doesn't want an election," said Democratic challenger Joe Biden. Biden's running mate, Senator Kamala Harris, tweeted: "We cannot let Donald Trump destroy the United States Postal Service." Trump, asked by a reporter Saturday if he was trying to hobble the USPS, replied: "No, not at all." But the concerns are unlikely to disappear. Also read: US Postal Service watchdog to probe service woes as worries rise about mail ballots Reflecting the escalating nature of the controversy, former president Barack Obama has also weighed in. "What we've never seen before is a president say, 'I'm going to try to actively kneecap the Postal Service ... and I will be explicit about the reason I'm doing it,'" Obama said in a podcast with a former aide. On Saturday, protesters gathered at the Washington home of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, blaring horns and banging pots in anger. USPS spokesman David Partenheimer attributed changes at the agency to its poor financial state. "We are not slowing down election mail or any other mail," he told AFP. "The Postal Service is in a financially unsustainable position, stemming from substantial declines in mail volume and a broken business model," he explained. "We face an impending liquidity crisis," Partenheimer said, calling on Congress and regulators to enact reforms. Meanwhile, in Congress... The postal troubles come as Congress remains deadlocked over a new stimulus bill to follow the $2.2 trillion CARES Act package passed in March as the coronavirus crisis erupted. Democrats have proposed giving the USPS billions of dollars in funding, and Trump -- after first saying he opposed that -- said Friday that perhaps some new funds could be included in a compromise. × On Saturday he blamed the Democrats again, telling reporters they "aren't approving proper funding for postal, and they're not approving the proper funding for this ridiculous thing that they want to do which is all mail-in voting." "You're right, there has to be more resources, I agree," he said. Trump said candidly in April that mail-in voting "doesn't work out well for Republicans" and has repeatedly described such ballots as prone to fraud. Experts disagree. A study this year by New York University's Brennan Center for Justice found that "it is... more likely for an American to be struck by lightning than to commit mail voting fraud." In an interview, American Postal Workers Union President Mark Dimondstein blamed the nationwide slowdowns in mail deliveries on measures implemented by DeJoy, a Republican fundraiser appointed by Trump who took office in June and pledged to reform the agency. Dimondstein said overtime has recently been reduced, meaning carriers leave distribution centers immediately rather than wait 10 or 15 minutes for delayed mail, as they previously did. That, combined with the around 40,000 workers who have had to quarantine since March because of COVID-19, has created delays. DeJoy -- defended by Trump as a "fantastic man" -- has "arbitrarily reduced hours of work of the employees, but the same work is still there to get done," Dimondstein said. States act As concerns mount over the USPS's ability to handle the expected surge in ballots, states are working to ensure their residents' votes count. Pennsylvania this week asked its supreme court to push back its deadline for accepting mail-in ballots. In a court filing, it cited a letter from a USPS official to the state warning of "a risk that ballots requested near the deadline under state law will not be returned by mail in time to be counted under your laws." The Washington Post reported on Friday similar notices were sent to 45 other states and the District of Columbia. Jon Tester, a Democratic senator from Montana, also has asked DeJoy in writing to explain reports that the USPS was removing mailboxes from towns in the state. Late Friday, a USPS spokesman told CNN that removal of mailboxes was being halted in 16 states, including Montana, and parts of two others. Dimondstein said he hoped Trump's "brazen challenge to the democratic right -- that somehow he's going to starve this institution to suppress the vote -- somehow gives more impetus to Congress to react." "Congress needs to act, and they need to act soon," he said.

Postal slowdown sparks claims of plot to undermine US vote

The United States called on Saturday for a transparent and credible investigation into the massive port blast in Beirut and said the country would only get financial support when Lebanese leaders commit to reforms.

The August 4 blast, which the authorities say was caused by more than 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate that had been unsafely stored at the port for years, killed 178 people, injured 6,000 and left 300,000 homeless.

“We can never go back to an era in which anything goes at the port or the borders of Lebanon that had to contribute to this situation,” said David Hale, U.S. Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs, after visiting the port.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/seismic-data-suggests-string-of-blasts-preceded-beirut-explosion-320805">Also watch:&nbsp;Seismic data suggests string of blasts preceded Beirut explosion</a>

He added that FBI agents would be arriving this weekend, at the invitation of Lebanon, to help investigate what led to the explosion.

The blast has fuelled anger at Lebanon’s ruling politicians who were already facing criticism over a financial meltdown that has sunk the currency, demolished the value of savings and left depositors unable to withdraw their money.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanon-beirut-to-get-50000-tonnes-of-food-un-food-aid-world-news-320260">Also watch:&nbsp;Lebanon: Beirut to get 50,000 tonnes of food | U.N food aid</a>

“When we see Lebanese leaders committed to real change, change in word and deed, America and its international partners will respond to systemic reforms with sustained financial support,” Hale said.&nbsp;

“The popular demand for real change could not be clearer.”

President Michel Aoun has said a probe will look into whether the cause of the blast was negligence, an accident or “external interference”.

“They won’t do a thing in an investigation and the whole world knows that,” said painter Mohammed Khodr, as he helped repair a restaurant damaged in the blast.

The heavily armed, Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah, which is listed as a terrorist organisation by the United States, said on Friday it would wait for results of the official Lebanese investigation into the blast.

The United States called on Saturday for a transparent and credible investigation into the massive port blast in Beirut and said the country would only get financial support when Lebanese leaders commit to reforms.

The United States called on Saturday for a transparent and credible investigation into the massive port blast in Beirut and said the country would only get financial support when Lebanese leaders commit to reforms. The August 4 blast, which the authorities say was caused by more than 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate that had been unsafely stored at the port for years, killed 178 people, injured 6,000 and left 300,000 homeless. “We can never go back to an era in which anything goes at the port or the borders of Lebanon that had to contribute to this situation,” said David Hale, U.S. Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs, after visiting the port. Also watch: Seismic data suggests string of blasts preceded Beirut explosion He added that FBI agents would be arriving this weekend, at the invitation of Lebanon, to help investigate what led to the explosion. The blast has fuelled anger at Lebanon’s ruling politicians who were already facing criticism over a financial meltdown that has sunk the currency, demolished the value of savings and left depositors unable to withdraw their money. Also watch: Lebanon: Beirut to get 50,000 tonnes of food | U.N food aid “When we see Lebanese leaders committed to real change, change in word and deed, America and its international partners will respond to systemic reforms with sustained financial support,” Hale said. “The popular demand for real change could not be clearer.” President Michel Aoun has said a probe will look into whether the cause of the blast was negligence, an accident or “external interference”. “They won’t do a thing in an investigation and the whole world knows that,” said painter Mohammed Khodr, as he helped repair a restaurant damaged in the blast. The heavily armed, Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah, which is listed as a terrorist organisation by the United States, said on Friday it would wait for results of the official Lebanese investigation into the blast.

US calls for credible probe into 'overwhelming' Beirut blast

United States has lost a bid to extent the United Nation's imposed arms embargo on Iran at United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Russia & China opposed the US bid to extend Iran arms ban.

US loses bid to extent the United Nation's imposed arms embargo on Iran at UNSC

Donald Trump said Saturday he will try a controversial "snapback" to force a return of UN sanctions against Iran, after the Security Council rejected Washington's bid to extend the arms embargo against the Islamic republic.

"We'll be doing a snapback," the president said, referring to the contested argument that the US remains a "participant" in the 2015 Iran nuclear deal — despite Trump's withdrawal from it — and therefore can force a return to sanctions if it sees Iran as being in violation of its terms.

The president added that the US will make its move next week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-may-probably-not-attend-putins-urgent-iran-summit-320868">Also read:&nbsp;Trump may 'probably not' attend Putin's 'urgent' Iran summit</a>

Washington's defeat at the Security Council on Friday highlighted its isolation on Iran since Trump withdrew from the accord in 2018.

Only two of the Council's 15 members voted in favor of the US resolution.&nbsp;

Washington's European allies all abstained, Russia and China voted against it, and Iran mocked the Trump administration for winning the support of just one other country, the Dominican Republic.

Trump argued Saturday that Iran was a "different ballgame" now, and that the country no longer has the funds to sponsor terror.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/edward-snowden-asks-to-return-to-the-us-trump-to-take-a-look-at-pardoning-320867">Also read:&nbsp;Edward Snowden asks to return to the US; Trump to 'take a look' at pardoning</a>

"Iran wants me to lose so badly" in November's presidential election, he added.

If Trump follows through, the snapback could plunge the Council into one of its worst-ever diplomatic crises, experts warn.&nbsp;

European allies have been skeptical on whether Washington can force sanctions and say the attempt may delegitimize the Security Council.

The embargo on conventional arms is due to expire on October 18.

Donald Trump said Saturday he will try a controversial "snapback" to force a return of UN sanctions against Iran, after the Security Council rejected Washington's bid to extend the arms embargo against the Islamic republic.

Donald Trump said Saturday he will try a controversial "snapback" to force a return of UN sanctions against Iran, after the Security Council rejected Washington's bid to extend the arms embargo against the Islamic republic. "We'll be doing a snapback," the president said, referring to the contested argument that the US remains a "participant" in the 2015 Iran nuclear deal — despite Trump's withdrawal from it — and therefore can force a return to sanctions if it sees Iran as being in violation of its terms. The president added that the US will make its move next week. Also read: Trump may 'probably not' attend Putin's 'urgent' Iran summit Washington's defeat at the Security Council on Friday highlighted its isolation on Iran since Trump withdrew from the accord in 2018. Only two of the Council's 15 members voted in favor of the US resolution. Washington's European allies all abstained, Russia and China voted against it, and Iran mocked the Trump administration for winning the support of just one other country, the Dominican Republic. Trump argued Saturday that Iran was a "different ballgame" now, and that the country no longer has the funds to sponsor terror. Also read: Edward Snowden asks to return to the US; Trump to 'take a look' at pardoning "Iran wants me to lose so badly" in November's presidential election, he added. If Trump follows through, the snapback could plunge the Council into one of its worst-ever diplomatic crises, experts warn. European allies have been skeptical on whether Washington can force sanctions and say the attempt may delegitimize the Security Council. The embargo on conventional arms is due to expire on October 18.

Trump says will try 'snapback' to force return of UN Iran sanctions

The US President Donald Trump is planning to sit out the emergency Iran summit that was proposed by the Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday.

On Friday, Putin called on the&nbsp;permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany to convene on Iran to avoid an escalation of tensions in the Gulf.

However, Trump, in his golf field news conference said,&nbsp;"I think we'll wait till after the election."

Labelling it is an "urgent issue", Putin called on to leaders of China, France,&nbsp;Britain, the United States, Germany and Iran to attend the summit to resolve the increasingly tense situations in Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/edward-snowden-asks-to-return-to-the-us-trump-to-take-a-look-at-pardoning-320867">Also read:&nbsp;Edward Snowden asks to return to the US; Trump to 'take a look' at pardoning</a>

"Discussions at the UN Security Council over the Iranian issue are becoming increasingly tense," Putin said, adding that Moscow's ally Iran was a target of "groundless accusations."

Trump's "probably" status of the invitation came after the Security Council&nbsp;rejected a US resolution to extend an Iranian arms embargo, in a move with huge repercussions for the Iran nuclear deal. Out of 15 members of the Security Council, only two voted in favour of this.

Since Trump pulled out and slapped unilateral sanctions on Iran under a campaign of "maximum pressure," Tehran has since taken small but escalating steps away from compliance with the nuclear accord as it presses for sanctions relief.

European allies of the United States -- who, along with Russia and China, signed the deal with Iran -- have voiced support for extending the 13-year-long conventional arms embargo, saying an expiry threatens stability in the Middle East.&nbsp;

However, the Iranian President&nbsp;Hassan Rouhani feels the US has "failed in this conspiracy with humiliation."

(With inputs from agencies)

The US President Donald Trump is planning to sit out the emergency Iran summit that was proposed by the Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday. On Friday, Putin called on the permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany to convene on Iran to avoid an escalation of tensions in the Gulf.

The US President Donald Trump is planning to sit out the emergency Iran summit that was proposed by the Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday. On Friday, Putin called on the permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany to convene on Iran to avoid an escalation of tensions in the Gulf. However, Trump, in his golf field news conference said, "I think we'll wait till after the election." Labelling it is an "urgent issue", Putin called on to leaders of China, France, Britain, the United States, Germany and Iran to attend the summit to resolve the increasingly tense situations in Iran. Also read: Edward Snowden asks to return to the US; Trump to 'take a look' at pardoning "Discussions at the UN Security Council over the Iranian issue are becoming increasingly tense," Putin said, adding that Moscow's ally Iran was a target of "groundless accusations." Trump's "probably" status of the invitation came after the Security Council rejected a US resolution to extend an Iranian arms embargo, in a move with huge repercussions for the Iran nuclear deal. Out of 15 members of the Security Council, only two voted in favour of this. Since Trump pulled out and slapped unilateral sanctions on Iran under a campaign of "maximum pressure," Tehran has since taken small but escalating steps away from compliance with the nuclear accord as it presses for sanctions relief. European allies of the United States -- who, along with Russia and China, signed the deal with Iran -- have voiced support for extending the 13-year-long conventional arms embargo, saying an expiry threatens stability in the Middle East. However, the Iranian President Hassan Rouhani feels the US has "failed in this conspiracy with humiliation." (With inputs from agencies)

Trump may 'probably not' attend Putin's 'urgent' Iran summit

A U.S. Navy aircraft carrier conducted exercises in the contested South China Sea on Friday, the U.S. navy said in a statement.

U.S. Navy conducts exercises in South China Sea

The United States said on Friday it had confiscated four Iranian fuel shipments that had been bound for Venezuela, disrupting a key supply line for both Tehran and Caracas as they defied U.S. sanctions.

U.S. says seized four Iranian oil tankers en route to Venezuela

Firefighters scrambled to protect thousands of homes from a wildfire racing through brush-covered mountains north of Los Angeles on Friday that caused hundreds of evacuations and burned 21 structures.

The blaze, dubbed the Lake Fire, swelled to over 17,000 acres (6,880 hectares), forcing up to 1,500 people from their houses after erupting on Wednesday afternoon in the Angeles National Forest.

Triple digit temperatures and single digit humidity fanned flames on Friday evening, and little let-up was expected over the weekend with an excessive heat warning in effect across Southern California.

"We saw extreme fire conditions," Los Angeles County Fire Department spokesman Frank Garrido said of the operation in steep canyons aided by firefighting helicopters.

The cause of the blaze was under investigation but human activity is likely to blame, said U.S. Forest Service spokesman Andrew Mitchell.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://w3.cdn.anvato.net/player/prod/v3/anvload.html?key=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%2FaXU9LzExNDQwNDY1L1dpb25ld3NfVmlkZW8vV2lvbmV3c19QcmVyb2xsJmRlc2NyaXB0aW9uX3VybD1bcGxhY2Vob2xkZXJdJmVudj12cCZpbXBsPXMmY29ycmVsYXRvcj0mdGZjZD0wJm5wYT0wJmdkZnBfcmVxPTEmb3V0cHV0PXZhc3Qmc3o9NjQweDQ4MCZ1bnZpZXdlZF9wb3NpdGlvbl9zdGFydD0xIn19LCJoZWFsdGhBbmFseXRpY3MiOnt9fSwiaHRtbDUiOnRydWV9" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

No casualties were reported but the blaze threatened 5,420 homes and other structures in communities about 40 miles (65 km) north of downtown Los Angeles where residents have been told to prepare for possible evacuations over the weekend, Garrido said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mercury-soars-in-california-as-apple-fire-sets-the-state-ablaze-317851">In pictures:&nbsp;Mercury soars in California as 'Apple Fire' sets the state ablaze</a>

Much of the area has not had a fire in 60-100 years, allowing flames to move swiftly through fuel-choked areas. 
Across the United States, fires have been less ferocious so far in 2020, burning around 1.4 million fewer acres than in the same period of 2019. Conditions are expected to worsen in California next month when Santa Ana winds arrive in the south and El Diablo winds pick up in the North.

In drought-stricken Colorado, the Pine Gulch Fire, burning near Grand Junction, about 190 miles west of Denver, has blackened over 73,000 acres in remote mountain terrain, making it the fourth-largest in the state`s history.

Firefighters scrambled to protect thousands of homes from a wildfire racing through brush-covered mountains north of Los Angeles on Friday that caused hundreds of evacuations and burned 21 structures.

Firefighters scrambled to protect thousands of homes from a wildfire racing through brush-covered mountains north of Los Angeles on Friday that caused hundreds of evacuations and burned 21 structures. The blaze, dubbed the Lake Fire, swelled to over 17,000 acres (6,880 hectares), forcing up to 1,500 people from their houses after erupting on Wednesday afternoon in the Angeles National Forest. Triple digit temperatures and single digit humidity fanned flames on Friday evening, and little let-up was expected over the weekend with an excessive heat warning in effect across Southern California. "We saw extreme fire conditions," Los Angeles County Fire Department spokesman Frank Garrido said of the operation in steep canyons aided by firefighting helicopters. The cause of the blaze was under investigation but human activity is likely to blame, said U.S. Forest Service spokesman Andrew Mitchell. × No casualties were reported but the blaze threatened 5,420 homes and other structures in communities about 40 miles (65 km) north of downtown Los Angeles where residents have been told to prepare for possible evacuations over the weekend, Garrido said. In pictures: Mercury soars in California as 'Apple Fire' sets the state ablaze Much of the area has not had a fire in 60-100 years, allowing flames to move swiftly through fuel-choked areas. Across the United States, fires have been less ferocious so far in 2020, burning around 1.4 million fewer acres than in the same period of 2019. Conditions are expected to worsen in California next month when Santa Ana winds arrive in the south and El Diablo winds pick up in the North. In drought-stricken Colorado, the Pine Gulch Fire, burning near Grand Junction, about 190 miles west of Denver, has blackened over 73,000 acres in remote mountain terrain, making it the fourth-largest in the state`s history.

'Extreme' California wildfire forces hundreds to evacuate

The U.S. Postal Service’s internal watchdog is investigating cost cutting that has slowed delivery and alarmed lawmakers ahead of a presidential election when up to half of U.S. voters could cast ballots by mail, a congressional aide said on Friday.

The Postal Service’s inspector general also will examine possible conflicts of interest involving new Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who has donated $2.7 million to President Donald Trump and his fellow Republicans, according to Saloni Sharma, a spokeswoman for Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren, who requested the investigation.

DeJoy owns millions of dollars in stock in Postal Service rivals and customers, according to a financial disclosure form filed by his wife.

The Inspector General’s Office is “conducting a body of work to address concerns raised,” spokeswoman Agapi Doulaveris said.

The investigation comes as the Postal Service is warning states there is “significant risk” voters will not have enough time to complete and return their ballots. The Postal Service late on Friday released letters it had sent to 46 states and the District of Columbia, after the Washington Post reported earlier on the extent of the warnings.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://w3.cdn.anvato.net/player/prod/v3/anvload.html?key=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%3D" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The warning highlighted the possibility that a meaningful number of mail votes in the Nov. 3 presidential election might go uncounted if they are returned too late.

“State and local election officials must understand and take into account our operational standards and recommended timelines,” Postal Service spokeswoman Martha Johnson said.

Election officials are bracing for a deluge of mail ballots as many states have made it easier to vote by mail to address concerns about public gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic.

Republican President Donald Trump said Thursday that he opposes additional funding to make mail voting easier.

Trump, who is trailing Democratic rival Joe Biden in opinion polls, has said without evidence that widespread mail voting could lead to fraud. However, public records show he has requested mail ballots for himself and his wife Melania before Florida’s Tuesday primary election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-presidential-election-trump-holds-up-coronavirus-aid-to-block-funding-for-mail-in-voting-320339">Also read:&nbsp;Ahead of presidential election, Trump holds up coronavirus aid to block funding for mail-in voting</a>

Evidence has shown that mail voting is as secure as any other method. Biden and other Democrats say Trump is trying to interfere with the election. Former Democratic President Barack Obama said he was worried that Trump was trying to “kneecap” the Postal Service.

The issue has taken on added urgency in recent weeks, as cost-cutting measures put in place by DeJoy have led to widespread mail delays.

Democratic congressional leaders and committee leaders sent a letter to Dejoy on Friday demanding an explanation for changes he is making at postal facilities.

Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, said on Friday that the changes could violate state laws against election tampering. She called for a criminal investigation.

Too little time?

The Postal Service has warned some states that allowing voters to request ballots less than a week before the election does not leave enough time to print the ballot, mail it to the voter and have it returned.

Half of the states allow voters to request an absentee ballot within seven days of an election. The Postal Service recommends that mail ballots should be completed and sent in by that point.

Ohio, Michigan and several other states with tight deadlines have so far not pushed them back.

Pennsylvania’s secretary of state asked the state Supreme Court to allow ballots to be counted if they are received up to three days after the Nov. 3 election, rather than on Election Day.

The Postal Service’s top lawyer, Thomas Marshall, also encouraged election officials to use its first-class mail service to ensure prompt delivery, rather than the cheaper and slower bulk-mail rate.

Marshall told Congress in a letter released Friday “we have ample capacity to handle the increased volume of Election Mail that will occur because of the pandemic.”

In past elections the Postal Service has given priority to all political and election mail, no matter the postage rate, according to workers and the service’s internal watchdog.

“If this letter aims to backtrack on that collaboration or the promise of prioritization of election mail, that would be very concerning,” said Tracy Wimmer, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of State, which oversees elections.

Roughly 0.25% of mail ballots were rejected in 2016 because they arrived too late, according to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.

The U.S. Postal Service’s internal watchdog is investigating cost cutting that has slowed delivery and alarmed lawmakers ahead of a presidential election when up to half of U.

The U.S. Postal Service’s internal watchdog is investigating cost cutting that has slowed delivery and alarmed lawmakers ahead of a presidential election when up to half of U.S. voters could cast ballots by mail, a congressional aide said on Friday. The Postal Service’s inspector general also will examine possible conflicts of interest involving new Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who has donated $2.7 million to President Donald Trump and his fellow Republicans, according to Saloni Sharma, a spokeswoman for Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren, who requested the investigation. DeJoy owns millions of dollars in stock in Postal Service rivals and customers, according to a financial disclosure form filed by his wife. The Inspector General’s Office is “conducting a body of work to address concerns raised,” spokeswoman Agapi Doulaveris said. The investigation comes as the Postal Service is warning states there is “significant risk” voters will not have enough time to complete and return their ballots. The Postal Service late on Friday released letters it had sent to 46 states and the District of Columbia, after the Washington Post reported earlier on the extent of the warnings. × The warning highlighted the possibility that a meaningful number of mail votes in the Nov. 3 presidential election might go uncounted if they are returned too late. “State and local election officials must understand and take into account our operational standards and recommended timelines,” Postal Service spokeswoman Martha Johnson said. Election officials are bracing for a deluge of mail ballots as many states have made it easier to vote by mail to address concerns about public gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic. Republican President Donald Trump said Thursday that he opposes additional funding to make mail voting easier. Trump, who is trailing Democratic rival Joe Biden in opinion polls, has said without evidence that widespread mail voting could lead to fraud. However, public records show he has requested mail ballots for himself and his wife Melania before Florida’s Tuesday primary election. Also read: Ahead of presidential election, Trump holds up coronavirus aid to block funding for mail-in voting Evidence has shown that mail voting is as secure as any other method. Biden and other Democrats say Trump is trying to interfere with the election. Former Democratic President Barack Obama said he was worried that Trump was trying to “kneecap” the Postal Service. The issue has taken on added urgency in recent weeks, as cost-cutting measures put in place by DeJoy have led to widespread mail delays. Democratic congressional leaders and committee leaders sent a letter to Dejoy on Friday demanding an explanation for changes he is making at postal facilities. Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, said on Friday that the changes could violate state laws against election tampering. She called for a criminal investigation. Too little time? The Postal Service has warned some states that allowing voters to request ballots less than a week before the election does not leave enough time to print the ballot, mail it to the voter and have it returned. Half of the states allow voters to request an absentee ballot within seven days of an election. The Postal Service recommends that mail ballots should be completed and sent in by that point. Ohio, Michigan and several other states with tight deadlines have so far not pushed them back. Pennsylvania’s secretary of state asked the state Supreme Court to allow ballots to be counted if they are received up to three days after the Nov. 3 election, rather than on Election Day. The Postal Service’s top lawyer, Thomas Marshall, also encouraged election officials to use its first-class mail service to ensure prompt delivery, rather than the cheaper and slower bulk-mail rate. Marshall told Congress in a letter released Friday “we have ample capacity to handle the increased volume of Election Mail that will occur because of the pandemic.” In past elections the Postal Service has given priority to all political and election mail, no matter the postage rate, according to workers and the service’s internal watchdog. “If this letter aims to backtrack on that collaboration or the promise of prioritization of election mail, that would be very concerning,” said Tracy Wimmer, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of State, which oversees elections. Roughly 0.25% of mail ballots were rejected in 2016 because they arrived too late, according to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.

US Postal Service watchdog to probe service woes as worries rise about mail ballots

In a move likely to further inflame tensions between the US and China. Taiwan formally signed an agreement to buy 66 of the latest model F-16 jets built by Lockheed Martin Corp.

US-Taiwan Defence Deal: Taiwan buys jets from Lockheed Martin

The United States opened schools and tried to resume in-person learning. Within two weeks - 97,000 students tested positive. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why this is not the right time to reopen schools.

Gravitas: Why schools shouldn't reopen right now

For years, US President Donald Trump promoted a claim that Barack Obama was not born in the America. Now he is making similar claims against Kamala Harris. The US President has suggested that Harris doesn't qualify to serve as Vice President. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Trump unleashes 'birther Conspiracy' against Kamala Harris

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has warned Russia and said that Russia would pay an enormous price if they were offering bounties to kill US soldiers.

Pompeo warns Russia against bounties on US soldiers

The training will allow the U.S. forces to integrate with their Polish-NATO Allies.

WION Fineprint: 'Defender Europe-20' kicks off in Poland | US-Polish troops | World

President Donald Trump's executive order banning China's TikTok could prevent U.S. app stores from offering the popular short-video app and make advertising on the platform illegal, according to a White House document seen by Reuters.&nbsp;

Trump signed an order last week prohibiting transactions with TikTok if its parent ByteDance does not reach a deal to divest it in 45 days. It did not specify the scope of the ban, stating only that the U.S. Department of Commerce would define which transactions would be barred at the end of the 45-day period.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/twitter-in-talks-with-tiktok-to-discuss-possible-merging-reports-319139" hreflang="en">Twitter in talks with TikTok to discuss possible merging: Reports</a>

The White House document, sent out to supporters last week, provides insight into the Trump administration's thinking. It shows the U.S. government is considering disrupting key aspects of TikTok's operations and funding, amid concerns over the safety of personal data that the app handles.&nbsp;

"Prohibited transactions may include, for example, agreements to make the TikTok app available on app stores ... purchasing advertising on TikTok, and accepting terms of service to download the TikTok app onto a user device," the document states.

A source familiar with the White House document verified its authenticity. TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Some technology industry experts said eliminating TikTok's ability to be offered on Apple Inc and Google owner Alphabet Inc's app stores, which in turn allow it to be downloaded on iPhone and Android smartphones, could cripple the app's growth.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/tiktok-threatens-legal-action-in-us-court-over-trumps-executive-order-318834" hreflang="en">TikTok threatens legal action in US court over Trump's executive order</a>

"That kills TikTok in the U.S," said James Lewis, a cyber security expert with the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies. "If they want to grow, these rules are a huge obstacle."&nbsp;

He added, though, that the U.S. government may not be able to prevent Americans from downloading TikTok from foreign websites.&nbsp;

Apple and Alphabet did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Following Trump's executive order last week, TikTok told advertisers it would continue to honor planned ad campaigns, refund any that it cannot fulfill, and work with major influencers to migrate to other platforms in the event of a ban. Some advertisers told Reuters they were drafting contingency plans and considering other apps for their marketing.

It is not clear whether Trump's order will be implemented. Microsoft Corp has been leading negotiations to acquire the North America, Australia and New Zealand operations of TikTok under the supervision of the Trump administration. A successful deal would make banning transactions with TikTok moot.

The White House document seen by Reuters is not clear on whether the United States would implement a similar crackdown on WeChat, the social media app owned by China's Tencent Holdings Ltd that Trump also sought to ban in an executive order on last week.&nbsp;

TikTok, which has said is exploring legal challenges to Trump's order, has 100 million active users in the United States, and is especially popular with teenagers. It has said U.S. user data is safely stored in the United States and Singapore, and that it would not hand over such information to the Chinese government.

President Donald Trump's executive order banning China's TikTok could prevent U.S. app stores from offering the popular short-video app and make advertising on the platform illegal, according to a White House document seen by Reuters.

President Donald Trump's executive order banning China's TikTok could prevent U.S. app stores from offering the popular short-video app and make advertising on the platform illegal, according to a White House document seen by Reuters. Trump signed an order last week prohibiting transactions with TikTok if its parent ByteDance does not reach a deal to divest it in 45 days. It did not specify the scope of the ban, stating only that the U.S. Department of Commerce would define which transactions would be barred at the end of the 45-day period. Also read: Twitter in talks with TikTok to discuss possible merging: Reports The White House document, sent out to supporters last week, provides insight into the Trump administration's thinking. It shows the U.S. government is considering disrupting key aspects of TikTok's operations and funding, amid concerns over the safety of personal data that the app handles. "Prohibited transactions may include, for example, agreements to make the TikTok app available on app stores ... purchasing advertising on TikTok, and accepting terms of service to download the TikTok app onto a user device," the document states. A source familiar with the White House document verified its authenticity. TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Some technology industry experts said eliminating TikTok's ability to be offered on Apple Inc and Google owner Alphabet Inc's app stores, which in turn allow it to be downloaded on iPhone and Android smartphones, could cripple the app's growth. Also read: TikTok threatens legal action in US court over Trump's executive order "That kills TikTok in the U.S," said James Lewis, a cyber security expert with the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies. "If they want to grow, these rules are a huge obstacle." He added, though, that the U.S. government may not be able to prevent Americans from downloading TikTok from foreign websites. Apple and Alphabet did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Following Trump's executive order last week, TikTok told advertisers it would continue to honor planned ad campaigns, refund any that it cannot fulfill, and work with major influencers to migrate to other platforms in the event of a ban. Some advertisers told Reuters they were drafting contingency plans and considering other apps for their marketing. It is not clear whether Trump's order will be implemented. Microsoft Corp has been leading negotiations to acquire the North America, Australia and New Zealand operations of TikTok under the supervision of the Trump administration. A successful deal would make banning transactions with TikTok moot. The White House document seen by Reuters is not clear on whether the United States would implement a similar crackdown on WeChat, the social media app owned by China's Tencent Holdings Ltd that Trump also sought to ban in an executive order on last week. TikTok, which has said is exploring legal challenges to Trump's order, has 100 million active users in the United States, and is especially popular with teenagers. It has said U.S. user data is safely stored in the United States and Singapore, and that it would not hand over such information to the Chinese government.

US ban on TikTok could cut it off from app stores, advertisers

Florida's Key West police arrested an 8-year-old boy with disabilities from his elementary school on a felony battery charge in December 2018, only to realize the boy's wrists were too small for the handcuffs.

The mother of the&nbsp;little boy,&nbsp;Bianca N. Digennaro,&nbsp;has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit over the incident. She believes her son was arrested and almost handcuffed after experiencing a mental health crisis at school. He has been diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.

“I refuse to let them make him a criminal,” she said in a press conference Tuesday.

Part of body-camera footage was&nbsp;released on Monday by civil rights attorney Ben Crump,&nbsp;who is representing the boy's mother.

In the clip police officers can be seen making statments such as&nbsp;“You understand this is very serious, OK?” and&nbsp;“You know where you’re going? You’re going to jail.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Unbelievable!! <a href="https://twitter.com/KWPOLICE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KWPOLICE</a> used “scared straight” tactics on 8yo boy with special needs. He's 3.5 ft tall and 64 lbs, but they thought it was appropriate to handcuff and transport him to an adult prison for processing!! He was so small the cuffs fell off his wrists! <a href="https://t.co/iSTlXdKas6">pic.twitter.com/iSTlXdKas6</a>
— Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/AttorneyCrump/status/1292671725214347264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The officer then instructs him to stand up and place his hands on a metal cabinet in the hallway of his elementary school for a pat-down. Quivering with tears, the boy puts his hands behind his back, but his wrists are so slight that the handcuffs keep slipping off.

<section>
Abandoning the cuffs, the officer tells the boy to put his hands in front of him as they escort him to the police car parked outside.

The case had been dismissed after a mental health evaluation was conducted on the boy, in conjunction with his attorney, and that determined it was in the child's best interest to dismiss the charges, based on the boy's age and mental evaluation.

The Key West Police Department defended the conduct of its officers in a brief statement.

“Based on the report, standard operating procedures were followed,” Key West Police Chief Sean T. Brandenburg said&nbsp;in a statement.

The two-minute clip had racked up more than 2 million views as of early Tuesday.&nbsp;
</section>

Florida's Key West police arrested an 8-year-old boy with disabilities from his elementary school on a felony battery charge in December 2018, only to realize the boy's wrists were too small for the handcuffs.

Florida's Key West police arrested an 8-year-old boy with disabilities from his elementary school on a felony battery charge in December 2018, only to realize the boy's wrists were too small for the handcuffs. The mother of the little boy, Bianca N. Digennaro, has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit over the incident. She believes her son was arrested and almost handcuffed after experiencing a mental health crisis at school. He has been diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder, depression, anxiety, and ADHD. “I refuse to let them make him a criminal,” she said in a press conference Tuesday. Part of body-camera footage was released on Monday by civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is representing the boy's mother. In the clip police officers can be seen making statments such as “You understand this is very serious, OK?” and “You know where you’re going? You’re going to jail.” Unbelievable!! @KWPOLICE used “scared straight” tactics on 8yo boy with special needs. He's 3.5 ft tall and 64 lbs, but they thought it was appropriate to handcuff and transport him to an adult prison for processing!! He was so small the cuffs fell off his wrists! pic.twitter.com/iSTlXdKas6 — Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) August 10, 2020 × The officer then instructs him to stand up and place his hands on a metal cabinet in the hallway of his elementary school for a pat-down. Quivering with tears, the boy puts his hands behind his back, but his wrists are so slight that the handcuffs keep slipping off. Abandoning the cuffs, the officer tells the boy to put his hands in front of him as they escort him to the police car parked outside. The case had been dismissed after a mental health evaluation was conducted on the boy, in conjunction with his attorney, and that determined it was in the child's best interest to dismiss the charges, based on the boy's age and mental evaluation. The Key West Police Department defended the conduct of its officers in a brief statement. “Based on the report, standard operating procedures were followed,” Key West Police Chief Sean T. Brandenburg said in a statement. The two-minute clip had racked up more than 2 million views as of early Tuesday.

US: Bodycam footage shows 8-year-old boy with disabilities arrested at school

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is considering a measure to block U.S. citizens and permanent residents from returning home

Trump administration considering banning re-entry of citizens who have COVID

Atrocities of the US police are out of bounds now and even 8-year-old kids are not spared. In an extremely distressing video posted on social media two Florida police officers can be seen handcuffing an eight-year-old. The incident is from December 14, 2018.

8-year-old arrested on felony charge in US | Handcuffed, booked and briefly jailed | World News

A gas explosion ripped through a Baltimore neighborhood on Monday, killing at least one person, injuring six and trapping children as the blast destroyed at least three homes, firefighters said.

Fire officials described it as a natural gas explosion but said the exact cause was under investigation.

The blast destroyed three brick row houses and ripped open the wall of another, spreading debris throughout the neighborhood. Rescuers picked through the rubble, searching for victims with their hands and tools, Baltimore City Fire Department spokeswoman Blair Adams told reporters at the scene.

One woman was killed and six people were hospitalized in serious condition, fire officials said.

"The scene remains extremely active," the Baltimore Fire Department wrote on Twitter after a late-afternoon news briefing. "We are working to continue removing &amp; clearing debris to determine if there are more victims. The cause remains under investigation."

Some of victims who were trapped earlier in the day were children, the Baltimore Firefighters IAFF Local 734 said on Twitter.

Neighbors responding to the blast dug through rubble and called out for victims. One neighbor told the Baltimore Sun he could hear shouts from trapped children.

"Come get us! We're stuck!" came the cries, Kevin Matthews told the Sun.

Matthews found one person buried from the neck down and another sheltering in a closet, the Sun said.

"You knew it was something catastrophic," Dean Jones told WBFF television about hearing the blast. "I didn't think. I didn't grab shoes. I took off running. I followed the smoke. I started yelling to come help."

Jones and several other neighbors freed at least one woman from the scene.

"Once they said a kid was in there, I lost it. I said I had to get in there now," Jones told WBAL television. "I am not a hero, I'm a human."

A gas explosion ripped through a Baltimore neighborhood on Monday, killing at least one person, injuring six and trapping children as the blast destroyed at least three homes, firefighters said.

A gas explosion ripped through a Baltimore neighborhood on Monday, killing at least one person, injuring six and trapping children as the blast destroyed at least three homes, firefighters said. Fire officials described it as a natural gas explosion but said the exact cause was under investigation. The blast destroyed three brick row houses and ripped open the wall of another, spreading debris throughout the neighborhood. Rescuers picked through the rubble, searching for victims with their hands and tools, Baltimore City Fire Department spokeswoman Blair Adams told reporters at the scene. One woman was killed and six people were hospitalized in serious condition, fire officials said. "The scene remains extremely active," the Baltimore Fire Department wrote on Twitter after a late-afternoon news briefing. "We are working to continue removing & clearing debris to determine if there are more victims. The cause remains under investigation." Some of victims who were trapped earlier in the day were children, the Baltimore Firefighters IAFF Local 734 said on Twitter. Neighbors responding to the blast dug through rubble and called out for victims. One neighbor told the Baltimore Sun he could hear shouts from trapped children. "Come get us! We're stuck!" came the cries, Kevin Matthews told the Sun. Matthews found one person buried from the neck down and another sheltering in a closet, the Sun said. "You knew it was something catastrophic," Dean Jones told WBFF television about hearing the blast. "I didn't think. I didn't grab shoes. I took off running. I followed the smoke. I started yelling to come help." Jones and several other neighbors freed at least one woman from the scene. "Once they said a kid was in there, I lost it. I said I had to get in there now," Jones told WBAL television. "I am not a hero, I'm a human."

Gas explosion tears through Baltimore homes, at least one person killed

The administration of US&nbsp;President Donald Trump is considering a measure to block U.S. citizens and permanent residents from returning home if they are suspected of being infected with the new coronavirus, a senior US&nbsp;official confirmed to Reuters.

The official said a draft regulation, which has not been finalized and could change, would give the government authorization to block individuals who could “reasonably” be believed to have contracted COVID-19 or other diseases.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/india-has-conducted-most-coronavirus-tests-after-us-donald-trump-319602" hreflang="en">India has conducted most coronavirus tests after US: Donald Trump</a>

Trump has instituted a series of sweeping immigration restrictions since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, suspending some legal immigration and allowing U.S. border authorities to rapidly deport migrants caught at the border without standard legal processes.

Reuters reported in May that U.S. government officials were concerned that dual U.S.-Mexico citizens might flee to the United States if the coronavirus outbreak in Mexico worsened, putting more stress on U.S. hospitals.

The draft regulation, which was first reported by The New York Times on Monday, would be issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has played a lead role in the pandemic response, the senior official told Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/donald-trump-briefly-evacuated-during-press-conference-after-shooting-outside-white-house-319589" hreflang="en">Donald Trump briefly evacuated during press conference after shooting outside White House</a>

A Trump pandemic task force was not expected to act on the proposal this week, although that timeline could change, the official said.

The United States leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths, with more than 5 million cases recorded and over 162,000 deaths, according to a Reuters tally.

Omar Jadwat, director of the American Civil Liberties Union’s immigrants’ rights project, said in a written statement that barring U.S. citizens from entering the country would be unconstitutional and "another grave error in a year that has already seen far too many."

The CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The administration of US President Donald Trump is considering a measure to block U.S. citizens and permanent residents from returning home if they are suspected of being infected with the new coronavirus, a senior US official confirmed to Reuters.

The administration of US President Donald Trump is considering a measure to block U.S. citizens and permanent residents from returning home if they are suspected of being infected with the new coronavirus, a senior US official confirmed to Reuters. The official said a draft regulation, which has not been finalized and could change, would give the government authorization to block individuals who could “reasonably” be believed to have contracted COVID-19 or other diseases. Also read: India has conducted most coronavirus tests after US: Donald Trump Trump has instituted a series of sweeping immigration restrictions since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, suspending some legal immigration and allowing U.S. border authorities to rapidly deport migrants caught at the border without standard legal processes. Reuters reported in May that U.S. government officials were concerned that dual U.S.-Mexico citizens might flee to the United States if the coronavirus outbreak in Mexico worsened, putting more stress on U.S. hospitals. The draft regulation, which was first reported by The New York Times on Monday, would be issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has played a lead role in the pandemic response, the senior official told Reuters. Also read: Donald Trump briefly evacuated during press conference after shooting outside White House A Trump pandemic task force was not expected to act on the proposal this week, although that timeline could change, the official said. The United States leads the world in both confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths, with more than 5 million cases recorded and over 162,000 deaths, according to a Reuters tally. Omar Jadwat, director of the American Civil Liberties Union’s immigrants’ rights project, said in a written statement that barring U.S. citizens from entering the country would be unconstitutional and "another grave error in a year that has already seen far too many." The CDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump weighs blocking US citizens coming home if coronavirus infection feared

US&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday said companies from China and other countries that do not comply with accounting standards will be delisted from U.S. stock exchanges as of the end of 2021.

Mnuchin and other officials recommended the move to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission last week to ensure that Chinese firms are held to the same standards as U.S. companies, prompting China to call for frank dialogue.

Mnuchin told a White House briefing the SEC was expected to adopt the recommendations. "As of the end of next year ... they all have to comply with the same exact accounting, or they will be delisted on the exchanges," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/us-china-trade-deal-what-were-the-key-issues-and-are-they-resolved-275073" hreflang="en">US China trade deal: What were the key issues and are they resolved?</a>

The recommendation is part of a push by the Trump administration to correct what it calls major imbalances in ties between the world's two largest economies. Tensions between the two countries have flared in past months over China's handling of the coronavirus outbreak, Hong Kong and human rights.

U.S. President Donald Trump said China was also failing to meet its commitments to buy more U.S. goods under a Phase 1 trade deal signed in January, although he said purchases should increase next year.

"We did a Phase 1 deal and it was a wonderful deal, and all of a sudden it means very little in the overall import of things," Trump told reporters.

He said increased purchases of U.S. goods required under the trade deal would "never pay for the loss of life in our country and all over the world."

Trump also repeated his calls for the World Trade Organization to stop treating China as a developing country, arguing that doing so gave Beijing unfair advantages over the United States and other countries.

China argues the classification is justified since many of its regions are still developing.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday said companies from China and other countries that do not comply with accounting standards will be delisted from U.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday said companies from China and other countries that do not comply with accounting standards will be delisted from U.S. stock exchanges as of the end of 2021. Mnuchin and other officials recommended the move to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission last week to ensure that Chinese firms are held to the same standards as U.S. companies, prompting China to call for frank dialogue. Mnuchin told a White House briefing the SEC was expected to adopt the recommendations. "As of the end of next year ... they all have to comply with the same exact accounting, or they will be delisted on the exchanges," he said. Also read: US China trade deal: What were the key issues and are they resolved? The recommendation is part of a push by the Trump administration to correct what it calls major imbalances in ties between the world's two largest economies. Tensions between the two countries have flared in past months over China's handling of the coronavirus outbreak, Hong Kong and human rights. U.S. President Donald Trump said China was also failing to meet its commitments to buy more U.S. goods under a Phase 1 trade deal signed in January, although he said purchases should increase next year. "We did a Phase 1 deal and it was a wonderful deal, and all of a sudden it means very little in the overall import of things," Trump told reporters. He said increased purchases of U.S. goods required under the trade deal would "never pay for the loss of life in our country and all over the world." Trump also repeated his calls for the World Trade Organization to stop treating China as a developing country, arguing that doing so gave Beijing unfair advantages over the United States and other countries. China argues the classification is justified since many of its regions are still developing.

Chinese firms that fail US accounting standards to be delisted as of 2022: Mnuchin

The US is set to withdraw almost 12,000 troops from Germany in what it described as a "strategic" repositioning of its forces in Europe.

U.S, European troops carry out training ops in Bavaria

US secret service agents shot and wounded a man who was apparently armed outside the White House. This comes after US President Donald Trump was seen briefly evacuating in the middle of a press conference. Watch report.

Security alert at White House | Trump briefly leaves a press conference in the middle

Huawei Technologies Co, which has been facing boycott globally for its alleged links with the Chinese government and the world growing wary of products coming out of China, might soon be unable to keep making chipsets in the face of pressure.

US at the forefront

US had been at the forefront of the anti-Huawei sentiment in terms of 5G connectivity, but in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and anti-China sentiment running strong, countries like the UK have also banned Huawei’s role in 5G networks and will work to phase out usage of company components over the next decade.

Due to this backlash, Huawei will halt the production of its flagship Kirin chipsets starting September 2020, first reported by magazine Caixin.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/amid-tensions-over-huawei-chinese-court-sentences-canadian-national-to-death-318573" hreflang="en">Amid tensions over Huawei, Chinese court sentences Canadian national to death</a>

With all eyes on China, Huawei’s suppliers are unable to keep up the production of chipsets, which is an important component of every smartphone. Richard Yu, the CEO of Huawei’s Consumer Business Unit revealed this news during the launch of the company’s new mobile called Mate 40.

US is pressurising governments across the world to boycott Huawei, claiming the company is handing out user data to the Chinese government, a claim which has staunchly denied by the company.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-will-eu-help-united-states-win-war-against-huawei-313524/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A trajectory of boycott

Similarly, the Chinese app TikTok has been placed under a lot of scrutiny. India became the first country to officially ban Chinese apps including TikTok and CamScanner after a border skirmish. The trend has been picked up by countries around the globe, who feel China needs to sidelined for hiding information about COVID-19 in its early stages, which could have prevented its transmission across the globe.

The US has upped the ante against the company, demanding the extradition of the company’s chief financial officer - Meng Wanzhou from Canada on charges of bank fraud.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/chinas-huawei-overtakes-samsung-as-top-smartphone-seller-316933" hreflang="en">China's Huawei overtakes Samsung as top smartphone seller</a>

In May 2020, US had issued orders to its software and manufacturing equipment suppliers to stop all business with the company, unless a license was first obtained.

"From September 15 onward, our flagship Kirin processors cannot be produced… Our AI-powered chips also cannot be processed. This is a huge loss for us”, the company chief announced, according to Caixin.

Huawei Technologies Co, which has been facing boycott globally for its alleged links with the Chinese government and the world growing wary of products coming out of China, might soon be unable to keep making chipsets in the face of pressure.

Huawei Technologies Co, which has been facing boycott globally for its alleged links with the Chinese government and the world growing wary of products coming out of China, might soon be unable to keep making chipsets in the face of pressure. US at the forefront US had been at the forefront of the anti-Huawei sentiment in terms of 5G connectivity, but in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and anti-China sentiment running strong, countries like the UK have also banned Huawei’s role in 5G networks and will work to phase out usage of company components over the next decade. Due to this backlash, Huawei will halt the production of its flagship Kirin chipsets starting September 2020, first reported by magazine Caixin. Also read: Amid tensions over Huawei, Chinese court sentences Canadian national to death With all eyes on China, Huawei’s suppliers are unable to keep up the production of chipsets, which is an important component of every smartphone. Richard Yu, the CEO of Huawei’s Consumer Business Unit revealed this news during the launch of the company’s new mobile called Mate 40. US is pressurising governments across the world to boycott Huawei, claiming the company is handing out user data to the Chinese government, a claim which has staunchly denied by the company. A trajectory of boycott Similarly, the Chinese app TikTok has been placed under a lot of scrutiny. India became the first country to officially ban Chinese apps including TikTok and CamScanner after a border skirmish. The trend has been picked up by countries around the globe, who feel China needs to sidelined for hiding information about COVID-19 in its early stages, which could have prevented its transmission across the globe. The US has upped the ante against the company, demanding the extradition of the company’s chief financial officer - Meng Wanzhou from Canada on charges of bank fraud. Also read: China's Huawei overtakes Samsung as top smartphone seller In May 2020, US had issued orders to its software and manufacturing equipment suppliers to stop all business with the company, unless a license was first obtained. "From September 15 onward, our flagship Kirin processors cannot be produced… Our AI-powered chips also cannot be processed. This is a huge loss for us”, the company chief announced, according to Caixin.

Huawei to halt production of flagship chipsets in September as pressure against company mounts

Amid the growing number of concerns in the United States, a new trend has surfaced in the country.&nbsp;According to a new research published on August 9, a record number of people are now giving up US citizenship.

In the first half of 2020, over 5,800 gave up their citizenship of the US, as compared to the 2,072 Americans who gave it up in all of 2019, as per data from Bambridge Accountants.

Major turmoil in the country

The US has been the stage of a lot of turmoil in 2020, as protests against racism intensified and continue to swell cities sporadically. Additionally, the ambivalent response to COVID-19 has made US the hardest-hit country in the entire world. The US has recorded 5 million cases of the virus alone.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/china-says-it-opposes-barbarous-hong-kong-sanctions-by-united-states-319003" hreflang="en">China says it opposes 'barbarous' Hong Kong sanctions by United States</a>

As per the firm’s data, the number of citizens giving up their citizenship of the country has shot up tremendously. To reach this conclusion they studied government data on citizenship, which is published every three months.

Alistair Bambridge told CNN that those who gave up their citizenship were mostly people who were already out of the States and those who had decided “they’ve had enough of everything”.

The central factors influencing people’s decisions to give up their citizenship may be primarily based on Trump’s mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, clubbed with political movements brewing in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/joe-biden-calls-trump-first-racist-president-of-the-united-states-315267" hreflang="en">Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States</a>

More than politics

Besides being dissatisfied with the contemporary socio-political landscape in the country, many have left the country due to taxes, as per Bambridge.

Citizens of the US who move to other countries have to file tax returns every year regardless of where they are.&nbsp; In addition, they also have to divulge details of their foreign bank accounts, investments, and pensions, among many other financial details.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/quantum-leap-united-states-unveils-blueprint-for-virtually-unhackable-internet-315799" hreflang="en">'Quantum' leap: United States unveils blueprint for virtually 'unhackable internet'</a>

Even though citizens are eligible to assert claim over $1.200 stimulus cheques, with $500 for each child, Bambridge believed the taxation system is simply “too much”.

In order to forego their citizenship of the US, Americans are required to pay $2,350 and physically appear at a US embassy in the country where they’re situated.

A high stake presidential election in November may further influence the rate of relinquishing citizenship among expat Americans. Bambridge believes the numbers will go up if Trump is re-elected.

Amid the growing number of concerns in the United States, a new trend has surfaced in the country. According to a new research published on August 9, a record number of people are now giving up US citizenship.

Amid the growing number of concerns in the United States, a new trend has surfaced in the country. According to a new research published on August 9, a record number of people are now giving up US citizenship. In the first half of 2020, over 5,800 gave up their citizenship of the US, as compared to the 2,072 Americans who gave it up in all of 2019, as per data from Bambridge Accountants. Major turmoil in the country The US has been the stage of a lot of turmoil in 2020, as protests against racism intensified and continue to swell cities sporadically. Additionally, the ambivalent response to COVID-19 has made US the hardest-hit country in the entire world. The US has recorded 5 million cases of the virus alone. Also read: China says it opposes 'barbarous' Hong Kong sanctions by United States As per the firm’s data, the number of citizens giving up their citizenship of the country has shot up tremendously. To reach this conclusion they studied government data on citizenship, which is published every three months. Alistair Bambridge told CNN that those who gave up their citizenship were mostly people who were already out of the States and those who had decided “they’ve had enough of everything”. The central factors influencing people’s decisions to give up their citizenship may be primarily based on Trump’s mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, clubbed with political movements brewing in the country. Also read: Joe Biden calls Trump 'first' racist president of the United States More than politics Besides being dissatisfied with the contemporary socio-political landscape in the country, many have left the country due to taxes, as per Bambridge. Citizens of the US who move to other countries have to file tax returns every year regardless of where they are. In addition, they also have to divulge details of their foreign bank accounts, investments, and pensions, among many other financial details. Also read: 'Quantum' leap: United States unveils blueprint for virtually 'unhackable internet' Even though citizens are eligible to assert claim over $1.200 stimulus cheques, with $500 for each child, Bambridge believed the taxation system is simply “too much”. In order to forego their citizenship of the US, Americans are required to pay $2,350 and physically appear at a US embassy in the country where they’re situated. A high stake presidential election in November may further influence the rate of relinquishing citizenship among expat Americans. Bambridge believes the numbers will go up if Trump is re-elected.

More Americans are relinquishing their US citizenship than ever before

US&nbsp;Attorney General William Barr mounted a partisan attack on the Democratic Party in an interview that aired Sunday, claiming the left believes in "tearing down the system" and pursues absolute victory as "a substitute for religion."

Barr also told a Fox News TV host he was worried that an increase in mail-in voting could lead to a contested presidential election in November, sounding in on an issue often raised by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump.

In an interview with conservative pundit Mark Levin, Barr said Democrats had pulled away from classic liberal values and now were akin to the "Rousseauian Revolutionary Party" aimed at destroying the institutions upon which the country was built.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/jeffery-epstein-co-conspirators-should-not-rest-easy-says-us-attorney-general-william-barr-242647" hreflang="en">Jeffery Epstein co-conspirators 'should not rest easy,' says US Attorney General William Barr</a>

"They're not interested in compromise, they're not interested in dialectic exchange of views. They're interested in total victory," Barr said of the left. "It's a secular religion. It's a substitute for a religion."&nbsp;

The comments come nearly two weeks after a contentious hearing before the House Judiciary Committee in which Barr denied accusations he was doing Trump's bidding by intervening in high-profile cases and sending federal agents into cities.

Barr has come under fire from Democratic lawmakers for sending federal officers to disperse protesters in Portland, Oregon, where some demonstrators have attacked a federal courthouse and others have gathered to speak out against racism and police brutality following the May 25 death of George Floyd.

Barr said police have been unfairly maligned and targeted with violent attacks during nationwide protests, and argued greater attention should be paid to a recent surge in violence in some cities that has led to numerous deaths of Black people.

He said he believed systemic racism existed, but that the "best example" was in education, with public schools consistently failing inner-city youth. He pointed to school choice - a policy endorsed by Trump - as one solution to the problem.&nbsp;

"I believe Black lives matter, but I believe all Black lives matter. I also believe that it's not just a matter of protecting their safety from physical harm, it's also providing economic opportunity, which this administration has done," Barr said.

Trump, who trails Democratic challenger Joe Biden in opinion polls, has raised questions about the integrity of the November election and he and his allies have proclaimed without evidence that expanded voting by mail - sought by many due to the coronavirus pandemic - will lead to widespread fraud.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/united-states-attorney-general-william-barr-recuses-himself-from-boeing-737-max-probe-justice-department-235216" hreflang="en">United States Attorney General William Barr has recused himself from Boeing 737 MAX probe: Justice Department</a>

When asked about the push to expand mail-in ballots, Barr said he was "very worried about it."&nbsp;

He said he was fine with "individual cases" where people that have difficulty making it to the polls apply for and receive a ballot in the mail.&nbsp;

"But the idea that you, without any request from the voter, will mail out your voting list, all these thousands and thousands of ballots, is scary because most of those mailings go to a lot of addresses where the people no longer live," Barr said. "They could easily create a situation where there's going to be a contested election."

US Attorney General William Barr mounted a partisan attack on the Democratic Party in an interview that aired Sunday, claiming the left believes in "tearing down the system" and pursues absolute victory as "a substitute for religion.

US Attorney General William Barr mounted a partisan attack on the Democratic Party in an interview that aired Sunday, claiming the left believes in "tearing down the system" and pursues absolute victory as "a substitute for religion." Barr also told a Fox News TV host he was worried that an increase in mail-in voting could lead to a contested presidential election in November, sounding in on an issue often raised by US President Donald Trump. In an interview with conservative pundit Mark Levin, Barr said Democrats had pulled away from classic liberal values and now were akin to the "Rousseauian Revolutionary Party" aimed at destroying the institutions upon which the country was built. Also read: Jeffery Epstein co-conspirators 'should not rest easy,' says US Attorney General William Barr "They're not interested in compromise, they're not interested in dialectic exchange of views. They're interested in total victory," Barr said of the left. "It's a secular religion. It's a substitute for a religion." The comments come nearly two weeks after a contentious hearing before the House Judiciary Committee in which Barr denied accusations he was doing Trump's bidding by intervening in high-profile cases and sending federal agents into cities. Barr has come under fire from Democratic lawmakers for sending federal officers to disperse protesters in Portland, Oregon, where some demonstrators have attacked a federal courthouse and others have gathered to speak out against racism and police brutality following the May 25 death of George Floyd. Barr said police have been unfairly maligned and targeted with violent attacks during nationwide protests, and argued greater attention should be paid to a recent surge in violence in some cities that has led to numerous deaths of Black people. He said he believed systemic racism existed, but that the "best example" was in education, with public schools consistently failing inner-city youth. He pointed to school choice - a policy endorsed by Trump - as one solution to the problem. "I believe Black lives matter, but I believe all Black lives matter. I also believe that it's not just a matter of protecting their safety from physical harm, it's also providing economic opportunity, which this administration has done," Barr said. Trump, who trails Democratic challenger Joe Biden in opinion polls, has raised questions about the integrity of the November election and he and his allies have proclaimed without evidence that expanded voting by mail - sought by many due to the coronavirus pandemic - will lead to widespread fraud. Also read: United States Attorney General William Barr has recused himself from Boeing 737 MAX probe: Justice Department When asked about the push to expand mail-in ballots, Barr said he was "very worried about it." He said he was fine with "individual cases" where people that have difficulty making it to the polls apply for and receive a ballot in the mail. "But the idea that you, without any request from the voter, will mail out your voting list, all these thousands and thousands of ballots, is scary because most of those mailings go to a lot of addresses where the people no longer live," Barr said. "They could easily create a situation where there's going to be a contested election."

US Attorney General Barr says the left wants to tear down system

us-1

Us, News on Us, stories on Us, articles on Us, Us stories at Wion, Us news, Us latest news

us 1