A wildfire in Southern California quickly spread across 12,000 acres Saturday, destroying at least one home and two structures and forcing 7,800 people to evacuate.

South California wildfire burns 12,000 acres of land; Hot condition to continue for next 3 days

Iran said Saturday it has arrested the head of a US-based "terrorist group" accused of being behind a deadly 2008 bombing in the southern city of Shiraz and of other, abortive attacks.

The group's "Jamshid Sharmahd, who was leading armed and sabotage operations inside Iran, is now in the powerful hands" of Iran's security forces, state television said in a report citing a statement from the intelligence ministry.

The statement did not elaborate on where or when the leader of the opposition royalist group known as the Kingdom Assembly of Iran, or Tondar (Farsi for Thunder), was arrested.

Also read-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-khamenei-rejects-talks-with-us-over-missile-nuclear-programmes-317295">Iran: Khamenei rejects talks with US over missile, nuclear programmes</a>

According to the statement, he had orchestrated the April 12, 2008 bombing in a packed mosque in Shiraz that killed 14 people and wounded 215.

Iran hanged three men convicted of the bombing in 2009, saying they had ties to the monarchist group.

It said they had been taking orders from an Iranian US-backed "CIA agent" to try to assassinate a high-ranking official in Iran.

They were 21-year old Mohsen Eslamian and Ali Asghar Pashtar, 20, both university students, as well as Rouzbeh Yahyazadeh, 32.

The three were found guilty of being "mohareb" (enemies of God) and "corruption on the earth" by a revolutionary court in Tehran.

Iran hanged two other convicted members of the group in 2010, who had "confessed to obtaining explosives and planning to assassinate officials".

The statement issued on Saturday said that Tondar had plotted several other "big operations" which failed.

It said that Tondar had planned to blow up a dam in Shiraz, use "cyanide bombs" at a Tehran book fair, and plant an explosive device at the mausoleum of the Islamic republic's founder, the late Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

It was not clear how Iran arrested the US-based Sharmahd.

Iran's intelligence ministry announced the arrest of a former opposition figure in similarly mysterious circumstances in October last year.

Ruhollah Zam, described as a "counter-revolutionary" by Iranian authorities, was sentenced to death last month over "corruption on earth".

Zam, who reportedly lived in exile in Paris, ran a channel on the Telegram messaging application called Amadnews and was accused of sparking unrest during anti-government protests last year.

Iran said Saturday it has arrested the head of a US-based "terrorist group" accused of being behind a deadly 2008 bombing in the southern city of Shiraz and of other, abortive attacks.

Iran said Saturday it has arrested the head of a US-based "terrorist group" accused of being behind a deadly 2008 bombing in the southern city of Shiraz and of other, abortive attacks. The group's "Jamshid Sharmahd, who was leading armed and sabotage operations inside Iran, is now in the powerful hands" of Iran's security forces, state television said in a report citing a statement from the intelligence ministry. The statement did not elaborate on where or when the leader of the opposition royalist group known as the Kingdom Assembly of Iran, or Tondar (Farsi for Thunder), was arrested. Also read-Iran: Khamenei rejects talks with US over missile, nuclear programmes According to the statement, he had orchestrated the April 12, 2008 bombing in a packed mosque in Shiraz that killed 14 people and wounded 215. Iran hanged three men convicted of the bombing in 2009, saying they had ties to the monarchist group. It said they had been taking orders from an Iranian US-backed "CIA agent" to try to assassinate a high-ranking official in Iran. They were 21-year old Mohsen Eslamian and Ali Asghar Pashtar, 20, both university students, as well as Rouzbeh Yahyazadeh, 32. The three were found guilty of being "mohareb" (enemies of God) and "corruption on the earth" by a revolutionary court in Tehran. Iran hanged two other convicted members of the group in 2010, who had "confessed to obtaining explosives and planning to assassinate officials". The statement issued on Saturday said that Tondar had plotted several other "big operations" which failed. It said that Tondar had planned to blow up a dam in Shiraz, use "cyanide bombs" at a Tehran book fair, and plant an explosive device at the mausoleum of the Islamic republic's founder, the late Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. It was not clear how Iran arrested the US-based Sharmahd. Iran's intelligence ministry announced the arrest of a former opposition figure in similarly mysterious circumstances in October last year. Ruhollah Zam, described as a "counter-revolutionary" by Iranian authorities, was sentenced to death last month over "corruption on earth". Zam, who reportedly lived in exile in Paris, ran a channel on the Telegram messaging application called Amadnews and was accused of sparking unrest during anti-government protests last year.

Iran says it has arrested head of US-based 'terrorist group'

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka.

In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated&nbsp;such as&nbsp;People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka.

On the face of it, the&nbsp;meeting was to discuss the coronavirus&nbsp;outbreak and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, one report stated that China was using this opportunity to cultivate a "bipartisan bond".

Allegedly, China has commissioned local pollsters to gauge voter sentiment, because China has invested billions of dollars in it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-using-buddhist-clergy-and-leaders-to-compromise-sri-lanka-elections-317068">Also read|&nbsp;China using Buddhist clergy and leaders to compromise Sri Lanka elections</a>

Sri Lanka has an external debt of $55 billion, and China accounts for 10 per cent of that debt. Until last year, it has invested $11 billion into Sri Lanka, out of which $8&nbsp;billion was just for the BRI. These investments in Sri Lanka are rapidly growing.

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In northern Sri Lanka, China has begun investing in rubber and team coconut cultivation. Both governments are reportedly discussing investment worth $30-40 million in the plantation industry.

Chinese money is now reaching the grassroots of the Sri Lankan economy, and other investing countries are losing their opportunities. The Quad nations such as the US, Japan and India haven't been able to get their projects off the ground.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-tried-to-steal-vaccine-research-from-us-university-investigators-316899">Also read|&nbsp;China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators</a>

Within months, the Sri Lankan government has sent mixed signals over two multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.The first being the elevated light railway system which was to be built by Japan. It was supposed to pass through parts of greater Colombo. However, the Sri Lankan government has put this project on hold.

The second project is the Colombo port project under which an expanded container terminal was to be built by Japan and India in partnership&nbsp;with Sri Lanka getting the majority ownership. However, the&nbsp;project has still not received a green light from the local government who&nbsp;apparently&nbsp;are hoping for a better deal.

Around 30 trade unions and employees of the Sri Lankan ports authority had gone on strike over the&nbsp;dea demanding the deal to be scrapped. However, the&nbsp;strike was called off.

Interestingly, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority is General R. M. Daya Ratnayake, a man appointed by the President and&nbsp;someone who has served as a post-war army chief.

The US, too, is facing something similar. American government&nbsp;offered a $480 million grant to Sri Lanka, which could be refused by the Sri Lankan government. Mahinda Rajapaksa had opposed the grant from America while his party was in opposition.

A committee was set up to look into it, who opposed the agreement, in their report to the President.

The Rajapaksas reportedly left the decision to his cabinet. Now, with the elections soon approaching, the views of the&nbsp;cabinet won't matter.

So, while India, Japan and the US are still unsure about their projects, China is the only country that has had all its projects approved in Sri Lanka.

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka. In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated such as People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka.

In recent years, China has cultivated a wide variety of political allies in Sri Lanka. In a video conference organised by China in June, various representatives of Sri Lanka's major political parties participated such as People's Front, United National Party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party and People's United Front of Sri Lanka. On the face of it, the meeting was to discuss the coronavirus outbreak and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, one report stated that China was using this opportunity to cultivate a "bipartisan bond". Allegedly, China has commissioned local pollsters to gauge voter sentiment, because China has invested billions of dollars in it. Also read| China using Buddhist clergy and leaders to compromise Sri Lanka elections Sri Lanka has an external debt of $55 billion, and China accounts for 10 per cent of that debt. Until last year, it has invested $11 billion into Sri Lanka, out of which $8 billion was just for the BRI. These investments in Sri Lanka are rapidly growing. × In northern Sri Lanka, China has begun investing in rubber and team coconut cultivation. Both governments are reportedly discussing investment worth $30-40 million in the plantation industry. Chinese money is now reaching the grassroots of the Sri Lankan economy, and other investing countries are losing their opportunities. The Quad nations such as the US, Japan and India haven't been able to get their projects off the ground. Also read| China tried to steal vaccine research from US university: Investigators Within months, the Sri Lankan government has sent mixed signals over two multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects.The first being the elevated light railway system which was to be built by Japan. It was supposed to pass through parts of greater Colombo. However, the Sri Lankan government has put this project on hold. The second project is the Colombo port project under which an expanded container terminal was to be built by Japan and India in partnership with Sri Lanka getting the majority ownership. However, the project has still not received a green light from the local government who apparently are hoping for a better deal. Around 30 trade unions and employees of the Sri Lankan ports authority had gone on strike over the dea demanding the deal to be scrapped. However, the strike was called off. Interestingly, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority is General R. M. Daya Ratnayake, a man appointed by the President and someone who has served as a post-war army chief. The US, too, is facing something similar. American government offered a $480 million grant to Sri Lanka, which could be refused by the Sri Lankan government. Mahinda Rajapaksa had opposed the grant from America while his party was in opposition. A committee was set up to look into it, who opposed the agreement, in their report to the President. The Rajapaksas reportedly left the decision to his cabinet. Now, with the elections soon approaching, the views of the cabinet won't matter. So, while India, Japan and the US are still unsure about their projects, China is the only country that has had all its projects approved in Sri Lanka.

How China is safeguarding its interests in Sri Lanka

President Donald Trump on Thursday raised the idea of delaying the Nov. 3 U.S. elections, an idea immediately rejected by both Democrats and his fellow Republicans in Congress - the sole branch of government with the authority to make such a change.

Can United States hold elections on schedule?

Hours after suggesting a possible delay in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday (July 30) said he did not want to postpone the vote, but remained concerned that millions of mail-in ballots would cause problems.

Donald Trump reiterates his worry about mail-in voting

The U.S. economy gained a whopping 4.8 million jobs in the month of June, bringing the unemployment rate to 11.1 percent

U.S economy gains 4.8 million jobs in June

A freight train derailed as it crossed an Arizona lake Wednesday morning, causing a massive fire and partial collapse of a more than 100-year-old rail bridge.

Freight train catches fire and derails in Arizona

The US ambassador in Brasilia warned of "consequences" if Brazil chooses Chinese telecoms company Huawei to develop its 5G network, in an interview published Wednesday.

"I wouldn't say there would be retaliation, but there would be consequences" if Brazil goes against US advice and picks the Chinese firm, Ambassador Todd Chapman told newspaper Globo.

Brazil is due to launch a tender next year for the project to develop the next generation of telecommunications technology in Latin America's most populous country, home to 212 million people.

The United States has been actively lobbying countries worldwide to boycott Huawei, arguing the firm could allow the Chinese government to spy on their data.

"At any time, the Chinese government could ask Huawei to send it information," Chapman said.

"There's no purely American company in the running. I'm not saying this to make a billion dollars. It's a matter of national security."

Other companies that have shown interest in Brazil's 5G tender include Sweden's Ericsson and Finland's Nokia.

Chapman also warned Brazil could scare away foreign investment by contracting a company that the US claims violates intellectual property rights and receives unfair state support that puts its competitors at a disadvantage.

"The US position is to alert our allies and friends, such as Brazil, so they know who they're working with," he said.

Chapman said the United States was prepared to help secure funds through the International Development Finance Corporation, a US government institution, to roll out 5G "for those who buy products from reliable suppliers."

The pressure is putting President Jair Bolsonaro's government in a bind.

Since taking office last year, the far-right leader has cultivated close ties with US President Donald Trump, whom he admires.

But China is Brazil's biggest trading partner.

The row comes amid what many analysts are describing as a "new Cold War" between the US and China.

Britain announced earlier this month it would remove Huawei equipment from its 5G network, bowing to pressure from Washington despite warnings of retaliation from Beijing.

The US ambassador in Brasilia warned of "consequences" if Brazil chooses Chinese telecoms company Huawei to develop its 5G network, in an interview published Wednesday.

The US ambassador in Brasilia warned of "consequences" if Brazil chooses Chinese telecoms company Huawei to develop its 5G network, in an interview published Wednesday. "I wouldn't say there would be retaliation, but there would be consequences" if Brazil goes against US advice and picks the Chinese firm, Ambassador Todd Chapman told newspaper Globo. Brazil is due to launch a tender next year for the project to develop the next generation of telecommunications technology in Latin America's most populous country, home to 212 million people. The United States has been actively lobbying countries worldwide to boycott Huawei, arguing the firm could allow the Chinese government to spy on their data. "At any time, the Chinese government could ask Huawei to send it information," Chapman said. "There's no purely American company in the running. I'm not saying this to make a billion dollars. It's a matter of national security." Other companies that have shown interest in Brazil's 5G tender include Sweden's Ericsson and Finland's Nokia. Chapman also warned Brazil could scare away foreign investment by contracting a company that the US claims violates intellectual property rights and receives unfair state support that puts its competitors at a disadvantage. "The US position is to alert our allies and friends, such as Brazil, so they know who they're working with," he said. Chapman said the United States was prepared to help secure funds through the International Development Finance Corporation, a US government institution, to roll out 5G "for those who buy products from reliable suppliers." The pressure is putting President Jair Bolsonaro's government in a bind. Since taking office last year, the far-right leader has cultivated close ties with US President Donald Trump, whom he admires. But China is Brazil's biggest trading partner. The row comes amid what many analysts are describing as a "new Cold War" between the US and China. Britain announced earlier this month it would remove Huawei equipment from its 5G network, bowing to pressure from Washington despite warnings of retaliation from Beijing.

Brazil may face 'consequences' if it gives Huawei 5G access: US

Donald Trump has suggested November's presidential election be postponed, saying increased postal voting could lead to fraud and inaccurate results. Watch report.

Fineprint: Donald Trump suggests to delay US elections 2020

US President Donald Trump has alleged that India, China and Russia do not take care of their air, while America does. He said this to justify his decision of withdrawing from the "one-sided, energy-destroying" Paris climate accord which would have made it a "non-competitive nation".

Trump, in his address on energy and the Permian Basin in Midland, Texas on Wednesday, said that by imposing punishing restrictions -- and beyond restrictions -- "the Washington radical-left, crazy Democrats" would also send countless American jobs, factories, industries to China and to other foreign polluting states.

"They want us to take care of our air, but China doesn't take care of its air. In all fairness, India doesn't take care of its air. Russia doesn't take care of its air. But we do. Not on my watch, it's not going to happen -- I can tell you that. Because as long as I'm President, we will always put America first. It's very simple," he said.

"For years and years, we put other countries first, and we now put America first. As we have seen in cities and towns across our nation, it's not just Texas oil that the radical Democrats want to destroy; they want to destroy our country," he said.

Such radical Democrats, he alleged, do not love the country in any way, shape or form.

Observing that he withdrew from the one-sided, energy-destroying Paris climate accord, he said this was a disaster and cost the US billions of dollars.

Trump said that under the last administration, America's energy industry was under relentless and unceasing attack.

"But the day I took the oath of office, we ended the war on American energy and we stopped the far-left assault on American energy workers," he said.

The US in November last year formally notified the UN of its withdrawal from the Paris climate accord, a global agreement in which President Trump's predecessor Barack Obama had played a key role.

Although Trump announced his decision to withdraw from the historic pact on June 1, 2017, the process began last year with the formal notification and the US will be out of the pact on November 4, 2020.

"It (Paris climate accord) would have made us a non-competitive nation. We cancelled the Obama administration's job-crushing clean power plan," he said as he listed some of the steps being taken by his administration.

"For the first time in nearly 70 years, we have become a net energy exporter. And the United States is now the number one producer of oil and natural gas on the face of the Earth. To ensure we maintain this dominant position long into the future, my administration is announcing today that export authorisations for American liquefied natural gas can now be extended through the year 2050," Trump added.

India is the fourth highest emitter of carbon dioxide in the world, accounting for 7 per cent of global emissions in 2017, according to the projection by the Global Carbon Project published in December, 2018.

The top four emitters in 2017, which covered 58 per cent of global emissions, were China (27 per cent), the US (15 per cent), the European Union (10 per cent) and India (7 per cent).

(with inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump has alleged that India, China and Russia do not take care of their air, while America does. He said this to justify his decision of withdrawing from the "one-sided, energy-destroying" Paris climate accord which would have made it a "non-competitive nation".

US President Donald Trump has alleged that India, China and Russia do not take care of their air, while America does. He said this to justify his decision of withdrawing from the "one-sided, energy-destroying" Paris climate accord which would have made it a "non-competitive nation". Trump, in his address on energy and the Permian Basin in Midland, Texas on Wednesday, said that by imposing punishing restrictions -- and beyond restrictions -- "the Washington radical-left, crazy Democrats" would also send countless American jobs, factories, industries to China and to other foreign polluting states. "They want us to take care of our air, but China doesn't take care of its air. In all fairness, India doesn't take care of its air. Russia doesn't take care of its air. But we do. Not on my watch, it's not going to happen -- I can tell you that. Because as long as I'm President, we will always put America first. It's very simple," he said. "For years and years, we put other countries first, and we now put America first. As we have seen in cities and towns across our nation, it's not just Texas oil that the radical Democrats want to destroy; they want to destroy our country," he said. Such radical Democrats, he alleged, do not love the country in any way, shape or form. Observing that he withdrew from the one-sided, energy-destroying Paris climate accord, he said this was a disaster and cost the US billions of dollars. Trump said that under the last administration, America's energy industry was under relentless and unceasing attack. "But the day I took the oath of office, we ended the war on American energy and we stopped the far-left assault on American energy workers," he said. The US in November last year formally notified the UN of its withdrawal from the Paris climate accord, a global agreement in which President Trump's predecessor Barack Obama had played a key role. Although Trump announced his decision to withdraw from the historic pact on June 1, 2017, the process began last year with the formal notification and the US will be out of the pact on November 4, 2020. "It (Paris climate accord) would have made us a non-competitive nation. We cancelled the Obama administration's job-crushing clean power plan," he said as he listed some of the steps being taken by his administration. "For the first time in nearly 70 years, we have become a net energy exporter. And the United States is now the number one producer of oil and natural gas on the face of the Earth. To ensure we maintain this dominant position long into the future, my administration is announcing today that export authorisations for American liquefied natural gas can now be extended through the year 2050," Trump added. India is the fourth highest emitter of carbon dioxide in the world, accounting for 7 per cent of global emissions in 2017, according to the projection by the Global Carbon Project published in December, 2018. The top four emitters in 2017, which covered 58 per cent of global emissions, were China (27 per cent), the US (15 per cent), the European Union (10 per cent) and India (7 per cent). (with inputs from agencies)

Trump takes a dig at India and China's air quality

The US on Thursday provided Pakistan 100 ventilators to help it fight the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed nearly 6,000 lives and infected over 277,000 people in the country.

The US embassy in Islamabad said in a statement that the shipment was handed over to Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority as a symbol of "working together to fight COVID-19".

The ventilators, provided through the US Agency for International Development, arrived in Islamabad on July 28 and will be deployed in hospitals across Pakistan, it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-pakistan-gears-up-to-celebrate-eid-car-wash-becomes-cleaning-centre-for-animals-317038">Also read:&nbsp;As Pakistan gears up to celebrate Eid, car wash becomes cleaning centre for animals</a>

"The arrival of these ventilators delivers on President Donald Trump's promise to Prime Minister Imran Khan to stand with the people of Pakistan and bring additional critically needed supplies and support to Pakistan's urgent response to the pandemic," the embassy said.

The first batch of 100 ventilators had arrived on July 3 and have already been delivered to hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout Pakistan.

"The United States is a proud partner with the Government of Pakistan to help stem the tide of this deadly pandemic and these ventilators will help with that fight," US Ambassador to Pakistan Paul W Jones said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-govt-gets-two-fatf-related-bills-passed-through-national-assembly-amid-opposition-protest-316981">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan govt gets two FATF-related bills passed through National Assembly amid opposition protest</a>

The ventilators can also be used to provide non-invasive respiratory therapy for patients before they become critically ill and help avoid the need for more extreme care. They can help treat a number of other respiratory ailments outside of the COVID-19 virus, including pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Through a specialised training programme developed with the National Disaster Management Authority and the Federal and Provincial Ministries of Health, and with funding from USAID, Pakistan will have a stronger arsenal with which to fight COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, said the embassy.

It said that the US-Pakistan partnership in the health sector was strengthening the country's ability to fight coronavirus by improving and expanding laboratory testing, disease monitoring, case tracking, infection prevention and control, and patient care.

The United States is contributing more than USD 28 million in new funding so far for COVID-19 response to this vital partnership that is growing every day, the embassy said.

A ventilator takes over the body's breathing process when disease has caused the lungs to fail. This gives the patient time to fight off the infection and recover.

Pakistan's coronavirus tally reached 277,402 with the detection of 1,114 new cases, with the nationwide death toll standing at 5,924, the Ministry of National Health Services said on Thursday.&nbsp;

The US on Thursday provided Pakistan 100 ventilators to help it fight the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed nearly 6,000 lives and infected over 277,000 people in the country.

The US on Thursday provided Pakistan 100 ventilators to help it fight the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed nearly 6,000 lives and infected over 277,000 people in the country. The US embassy in Islamabad said in a statement that the shipment was handed over to Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority as a symbol of "working together to fight COVID-19". The ventilators, provided through the US Agency for International Development, arrived in Islamabad on July 28 and will be deployed in hospitals across Pakistan, it said. Also read: As Pakistan gears up to celebrate Eid, car wash becomes cleaning centre for animals "The arrival of these ventilators delivers on President Donald Trump's promise to Prime Minister Imran Khan to stand with the people of Pakistan and bring additional critically needed supplies and support to Pakistan's urgent response to the pandemic," the embassy said. The first batch of 100 ventilators had arrived on July 3 and have already been delivered to hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout Pakistan. "The United States is a proud partner with the Government of Pakistan to help stem the tide of this deadly pandemic and these ventilators will help with that fight," US Ambassador to Pakistan Paul W Jones said. Also read: Pakistan govt gets two FATF-related bills passed through National Assembly amid opposition protest The ventilators can also be used to provide non-invasive respiratory therapy for patients before they become critically ill and help avoid the need for more extreme care. They can help treat a number of other respiratory ailments outside of the COVID-19 virus, including pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Through a specialised training programme developed with the National Disaster Management Authority and the Federal and Provincial Ministries of Health, and with funding from USAID, Pakistan will have a stronger arsenal with which to fight COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, said the embassy. It said that the US-Pakistan partnership in the health sector was strengthening the country's ability to fight coronavirus by improving and expanding laboratory testing, disease monitoring, case tracking, infection prevention and control, and patient care. The United States is contributing more than USD 28 million in new funding so far for COVID-19 response to this vital partnership that is growing every day, the embassy said. A ventilator takes over the body's breathing process when disease has caused the lungs to fail. This gives the patient time to fight off the infection and recover. Pakistan's coronavirus tally reached 277,402 with the detection of 1,114 new cases, with the nationwide death toll standing at 5,924, the Ministry of National Health Services said on Thursday.

US donates 100 ventilators to Pak to combat COVID-19 pandemic

Russia has been spreading misinformation about the coronavirus pandemic in the United States as election season nears, reports claim.

First reported by the New York Times, the report refers to declassified intelligence which claims that the Russian military intelligence, or the GRU, may have tied up with this resource centres like InfoRos to peddle misinformation regarding the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/joe-biden-warns-of-russian-election-meddling-after-receiving-intelligence-briefings-314175" hreflang="en">Joe Biden warns of Russian election meddling after receiving intelligence briefings</a>

Virus made in the USA?

The narrative pushed out by such agencies includes speculations of the virus being created by the US military, and claiming that Russia’s medical prowess could help the US.

Similar efforts were allegedly made by Russia in 2016, employing social media accounts and “bots” of the Internet Research Agency to pitch false information.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/putin-says-russian-navy-to-get-hypersonic-nuclear-strike-weapons-316099" hreflang="en">Putin says Russian Navy to get hypersonic nuclear strike weapons</a>

Just last week, US intelligence rang alarm bells by claiming that Russia, China, and Iran intend to interfere with the upcoming elections. To this, Democrats said there were no specifics, but that more information would be shared soon.

The pandemic is not the only swaying factor for misinformation.&nbsp; Allegedly, Russia is conducting an influence campaign in Eastern Europe to discredit the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Mandiant Threat Intelligence found that such campaigns were “aligned with Russian security interests”.

Recently, social media giant Facebook began labelling stories that emerge from state news outlets like RT and Sputnik.

Scattered across the web

InfoRos is where most of these reports were published. The site is currently controlled by the Russian government. Another web portal - OneWorld.Press was found to be pushing propaganda, and had ties to the GRU, the Russian equivalent of the CIA.

Besides false information on the pandemic, a think tank has been amplifying Russian narratives in the US, and is also currently under investigation by the FBI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/uk-says-there-is-no-evidence-of-russian-meddling-in-brexit-vote-315165" hreflang="en">UK says there is no evidence of Russian meddling in Brexit vote</a>

Called The Strategic Culture Foundation, it depends largely on the SVR, another Russian intelligence agency.

OneWorld.Press responded to NYT and claimed that this information was “categorically false” in a statement. It further claimed how people from the “deep state” were trying to make Trump lose in the upcoming elections.

Many officials told the publication that GRU’s psychological warfare anti - Unit 54777, may be behind the propaganda.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/russian-envoy-denies-moscow-helped-hackers-target-virus-vaccine-314353" hreflang="en">Russian envoy denies Moscow helped hackers target virus vaccine</a>

NYT found that between May to early June, 150 such articles with misleading information were published on websites like InfoRos, OneWorld, and Tass.

One of these claimed that the COVID-19 pandemic is an experiment to taint the world, while another claimed how the US was using the pandemic to impose its worldview. After Beijing claimed that COVID-19 was a biological weapon from the US, a publication ran this piece as well.

The EU DisinfoLab, a nonprofit organisation had earlier claimed that OneWorld and InfoRos have links to Russia.

Russia has been spreading misinformation about the coronavirus pandemic in the United States as election season nears, reports claim. First reported by the New York Times, the report refers to declassified intelligence which claims that the Russian military intelligence, or the GRU, may have tied up with this resource centres like InfoRos to peddle misinformation regarding the pandemic.

Russia has been spreading misinformation about the coronavirus pandemic in the United States as election season nears, reports claim. First reported by the New York Times, the report refers to declassified intelligence which claims that the Russian military intelligence, or the GRU, may have tied up with this resource centres like InfoRos to peddle misinformation regarding the pandemic. Also read: Joe Biden warns of Russian election meddling after receiving intelligence briefings Virus made in the USA? The narrative pushed out by such agencies includes speculations of the virus being created by the US military, and claiming that Russia’s medical prowess could help the US. Similar efforts were allegedly made by Russia in 2016, employing social media accounts and “bots” of the Internet Research Agency to pitch false information. Also read: Putin says Russian Navy to get hypersonic nuclear strike weapons Just last week, US intelligence rang alarm bells by claiming that Russia, China, and Iran intend to interfere with the upcoming elections. To this, Democrats said there were no specifics, but that more information would be shared soon. The pandemic is not the only swaying factor for misinformation. Allegedly, Russia is conducting an influence campaign in Eastern Europe to discredit the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Mandiant Threat Intelligence found that such campaigns were “aligned with Russian security interests”. Recently, social media giant Facebook began labelling stories that emerge from state news outlets like RT and Sputnik. Scattered across the web InfoRos is where most of these reports were published. The site is currently controlled by the Russian government. Another web portal - OneWorld.Press was found to be pushing propaganda, and had ties to the GRU, the Russian equivalent of the CIA. Besides false information on the pandemic, a think tank has been amplifying Russian narratives in the US, and is also currently under investigation by the FBI. Also read: UK says there is no evidence of Russian meddling in Brexit vote Called The Strategic Culture Foundation, it depends largely on the SVR, another Russian intelligence agency. OneWorld.Press responded to NYT and claimed that this information was “categorically false” in a statement. It further claimed how people from the “deep state” were trying to make Trump lose in the upcoming elections. Many officials told the publication that GRU’s psychological warfare anti - Unit 54777, may be behind the propaganda. Also read: Russian envoy denies Moscow helped hackers target virus vaccine NYT found that between May to early June, 150 such articles with misleading information were published on websites like InfoRos, OneWorld, and Tass. One of these claimed that the COVID-19 pandemic is an experiment to taint the world, while another claimed how the US was using the pandemic to impose its worldview. After Beijing claimed that COVID-19 was a biological weapon from the US, a publication ran this piece as well. The EU DisinfoLab, a nonprofit organisation had earlier claimed that OneWorld and InfoRos have links to Russia.

Are Russian intelligence agencies running a disinformation campaign to influence US voters?

The United States has recorded over 1,200 deaths due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours. The is the highest daily toll reported by the country since May, according to a Reuters tally.

The United States has recorded over 1,200 deaths due to coronavirus in the last 24 hours. The is the highest daily toll reported by the country since May, according to a Reuters tally. Also read: Four US states see record COVID-19 deaths, Latinos hit hard in California The US also reported over 64,000 new cases in one day. With the surge in cases on Tuesday, the total cases in the country stand at 4.38 million. Despite witnessing a decline in the rate of infections during the late springs, the US witnessed a surge in cases, particularly in southern and western states like California, Texas, Alabama and Florida. California and Florida account for 362 of the 1,227 new deaths. Arkansas, Montana and Oregon also had one-day record increases in COVID-19 fatalities. The US remains the worst-hit nation in terms of coronavirus pandemic and the country has witnessed almost 150,000 deaths due to the virus. Of the 20 countries with the biggest outbreak, the United States ranks sixth for deaths per capita, at 4.5 fatalities per 10,000 people. It is exceeded by the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Peru and Chile. (Inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus: US records over 1,200 deaths as death toll nears 150,000

After the United States, Canada has also received mysterious packages of seeds&nbsp;that appears to have come&nbsp;from China.

The Canadian food inspection agency is warning Canadians not to plant packages of “unsolicited” seeds.

The agency said in a statement that these seeds can contain invasive species and can be harmful to agricultural and natural areas.

“Do not plant seeds from unknown origins,” the CFIA wrote in the statement. “Unauthorized seeds could be the seeds of invasive plants, or carry plant pests, which can be harmful when introduced into Canada.”

In a tweet, the Ontario provincial police said the foreign seeds are typically sent from China or Taiwan.

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If you receive an unsolicited shipment of foreign seeds in the mail from China or Taiwan DO NOT plant or dispose of them. Call the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) at 519 691-1306 or 1 800 442-2342. Unsolicited seeds could be invasive &amp; threaten our environment. ^kj <a href="https://t.co/n5hvlFS1W8">pic.twitter.com/n5hvlFS1W8</a>
— OPP Central Region (@OPP_CR) <a href="https://twitter.com/OPP_CR/status/1288196183761068033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The CFIA is urging anyone who receives these seeds to contact their regional cfia office and keep the package until an inspector contacts you.

The US&nbsp;Department of Agriculture&nbsp; issued a similar warning on Tuesday, stating it’s believed the seeds are part of a “brushing scam,” in which a seller sends someone a cheap product or empty box, then uses that shipment information to create a fake review for the company, which can boost its rating on e-commerce sites.

<img alt="Packages of unidentified seeds which appear to have been mailed from China " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bcbca6d3-b78f-41d9-b81c-f1f64458f92d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2815%29_21.jpg" />

Packages of unidentified&nbsp;seeds&nbsp;which appear to have been mailed from China to US&nbsp;postal addresses are seen at the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) in Olympia, Washington/&nbsp;Reuters

USDA&nbsp;said it is collecting the seeds from those who’ve received them for further testing.

Beijing's relations with Canada and Washington have deteriorated this year to what experts say is their lowest level in decades over issues ranging from trade and technology to the coronavirus pandemic.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday China's postal service strictly abides by restrictions on sending&nbsp;seeds.

Records on the packages appear to have been falsified, according to checks by China's postal service, which has asked for them to be sent to China for investigation, he said at a daily news briefing.

US&nbsp;states, including Washington and Alabama, labeled the shipments as "agricultural smuggling." Photos distributed by state agriculture departments show&nbsp;seeds&nbsp;of different sizes, shapes and colors in white or yellow envelopes.

State officials said some packages were labeled as jewelry and may have contained Chinese writing. They asked recipients to keep the&nbsp;seeds&nbsp;in sealed plastic bags until authorities collect them.

After the United States, Canada has also received mysterious packages of seeds that appears to have come from China. The Canadian food inspection agency is warning Canadians not to plant packages of “unsolicited” seeds.

After the United States, Canada has also received mysterious packages of seeds that appears to have come from China. The Canadian food inspection agency is warning Canadians not to plant packages of “unsolicited” seeds. The agency said in a statement that these seeds can contain invasive species and can be harmful to agricultural and natural areas. “Do not plant seeds from unknown origins,” the CFIA wrote in the statement. “Unauthorized seeds could be the seeds of invasive plants, or carry plant pests, which can be harmful when introduced into Canada.” In a tweet, the Ontario provincial police said the foreign seeds are typically sent from China or Taiwan. If you receive an unsolicited shipment of foreign seeds in the mail from China or Taiwan DO NOT plant or dispose of them. Call the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) at 519 691-1306 or 1 800 442-2342. Unsolicited seeds could be invasive & threaten our environment. ^kj pic.twitter.com/n5hvlFS1W8 — OPP Central Region (@OPP_CR) July 28, 2020 × The CFIA is urging anyone who receives these seeds to contact their regional cfia office and keep the package until an inspector contacts you. The US Department of Agriculture issued a similar warning on Tuesday, stating it’s believed the seeds are part of a “brushing scam,” in which a seller sends someone a cheap product or empty box, then uses that shipment information to create a fake review for the company, which can boost its rating on e-commerce sites. Packages of unidentified seeds which appear to have been mailed from China to US postal addresses are seen at the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) in Olympia, Washington/ Reuters USDA said it is collecting the seeds from those who’ve received them for further testing. Beijing's relations with Canada and Washington have deteriorated this year to what experts say is their lowest level in decades over issues ranging from trade and technology to the coronavirus pandemic. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday China's postal service strictly abides by restrictions on sending seeds. Records on the packages appear to have been falsified, according to checks by China's postal service, which has asked for them to be sent to China for investigation, he said at a daily news briefing. US states, including Washington and Alabama, labeled the shipments as "agricultural smuggling." Photos distributed by state agriculture departments show seeds of different sizes, shapes and colors in white or yellow envelopes. State officials said some packages were labeled as jewelry and may have contained Chinese writing. They asked recipients to keep the seeds in sealed plastic bags until authorities collect them.

After US, Canada receives mysterious packages of seeds from China

A group of top Republican US&nbsp;Senators on Tuesday ramped up pressure on TikTok, asking the Trump administration to assess the threat that the popular Chinese-owned video sharing app might meddle in US&nbsp;elections.&nbsp;

In a letter dated Tuesday, Marco Rubio, Tom Cotton and other lawmakers cited alleged censorship by TikTok of sensitive content, including a video critical of China's treatment of its Uighur minority, as well as alleged attempts by Beijing to manipulate political discussions on social media apps.&nbsp;

"We are greatly concerned that the (Chinese Communist Party) could use its control over TikTok to distort or manipulate (political) conversations to sow discord among Americans and to achieve its preferred political outcomes," the lawmakers wrote in a letter to the Office of Director of National Intelligence (ODHI), the acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/japan-lawmakers-to-urge-government-to-put-curbs-on-tiktok-use-316682" hreflang="en">Japan lawmakers to urge government to put curbs on TikTok use</a>

A spokesperson for the company said that TikTok, though not a "go-to" for political news, was "proactively investing to safeguard our app" and taking cues from the experience of peers during the last election.

"TikTok already has a strict policy against disinformation, and we don't accept political ads," the person said, adding that content and moderation policies are led by a California-based team and aren't "influenced by any foreign government".&nbsp;

The FBI and DHS did not respond to requests for comment while an ODNI official confirmed receipt of the letter and said "we will respond accordingly."

Chinese foreign spokesman Wang Wenbin, speaking at a daily news conference in Beijing on Wednesday, said that China has no interest in the US&nbsp;election and urged certain people in the United States to stop "suppressing" Chinese companies.

The US&nbsp;lawmakers, joined by Republicans Ted Cruz, Joni Ernst Thom Tilis, Kevin Cramer and Rick Scott, asked the officials to say whether Beijing could amplify certain political views and conduct influence operations through the popular app, which is owned by Beijing ByteDance Technology Co.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/despite-ban-tiktoks-data-mapping-tools-can-still-fetch-user-information-316551" hreflang="en">Despite ban, TikTok's data mapping tools can still fetch user information</a>

"If evidence emerges of CCP electoral interference via TikTok, would ByteDance be eligible for sanctions" under an executive order on foreign electoral influence, the lawmakers asked.

TikTok is in the crosshairs of the Trump administration as U.S.-China ties have soured over the pandemic and Beijing’s move to curb freedoms in Hong Kong. This month, White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows said action was imminent to address national security risks posed by TikTok.

Trump's poll numbers have been sagging as he prepares to face Democrat Joe Biden in the November election. In 2019, special prosecutor Robert Mueller's report found extensive cases of Russian meddling that benefited the Trump campaign in the 2016 election.

A group of top Republican US Senators on Tuesday ramped up pressure on TikTok, asking the Trump administration to assess the threat that the popular Chinese-owned video sharing app might meddle in US elections.

A group of top Republican US Senators on Tuesday ramped up pressure on TikTok, asking the Trump administration to assess the threat that the popular Chinese-owned video sharing app might meddle in US elections. In a letter dated Tuesday, Marco Rubio, Tom Cotton and other lawmakers cited alleged censorship by TikTok of sensitive content, including a video critical of China's treatment of its Uighur minority, as well as alleged attempts by Beijing to manipulate political discussions on social media apps. "We are greatly concerned that the (Chinese Communist Party) could use its control over TikTok to distort or manipulate (political) conversations to sow discord among Americans and to achieve its preferred political outcomes," the lawmakers wrote in a letter to the Office of Director of National Intelligence (ODHI), the acting secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Also read: Japan lawmakers to urge government to put curbs on TikTok use A spokesperson for the company said that TikTok, though not a "go-to" for political news, was "proactively investing to safeguard our app" and taking cues from the experience of peers during the last election. "TikTok already has a strict policy against disinformation, and we don't accept political ads," the person said, adding that content and moderation policies are led by a California-based team and aren't "influenced by any foreign government". The FBI and DHS did not respond to requests for comment while an ODNI official confirmed receipt of the letter and said "we will respond accordingly." Chinese foreign spokesman Wang Wenbin, speaking at a daily news conference in Beijing on Wednesday, said that China has no interest in the US election and urged certain people in the United States to stop "suppressing" Chinese companies. The US lawmakers, joined by Republicans Ted Cruz, Joni Ernst Thom Tilis, Kevin Cramer and Rick Scott, asked the officials to say whether Beijing could amplify certain political views and conduct influence operations through the popular app, which is owned by Beijing ByteDance Technology Co. Also read: Despite ban, TikTok's data mapping tools can still fetch user information "If evidence emerges of CCP electoral interference via TikTok, would ByteDance be eligible for sanctions" under an executive order on foreign electoral influence, the lawmakers asked. TikTok is in the crosshairs of the Trump administration as U.S.-China ties have soured over the pandemic and Beijing’s move to curb freedoms in Hong Kong. This month, White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows said action was imminent to address national security risks posed by TikTok. Trump's poll numbers have been sagging as he prepares to face Democrat Joe Biden in the November election. In 2019, special prosecutor Robert Mueller's report found extensive cases of Russian meddling that benefited the Trump campaign in the 2016 election.

US Republicans worry China might use TikTok to meddle in election

US National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien has become the highest-ranking official close to President Donald Trump to test positive for Covid-19

US' National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien tests positive for COVID-19

The protests began after the killing of Floyd, a Black man, in the custody of the Minneapolis police. Floyd died after a white police officer ignored bystander shouts to take his knee off Floyd’s neck as Floyd repeatedly said he couldn’t breathe.

Black Lives Matter protests across US | Texas | Portland | Washington | Oakland

Keeping borders closed to halt the spread of COVID-19 is unsustainable, the World Health Organization said Monday, urging countries to adopt comprehensive strategies based on local knowledge of where the virus is spreading. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-tightens-coronavirus-restrictions-amid-fresh-outbreaks-316363">ALSO READ | Europe tightens coronavirus restrictions amid fresh outbreaks</a> 
 
Border closures and travel restrictions remain an important part of many countries' strategy to combat the novel coronavirus.

At the same time, rising cases in a range of countries in Europe and elsewhere that had loosened measures after appearing to get their outbreaks under control have spurred discussions of possible fresh border closures.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

But the UN health body warned that such measures can not be kept up indefinitely, and are also only useful when combined with a wide range of other measures to detect and break chains of transmission.

"Continuing to keep international borders sealed is not necessarily a sustainable strategy for the world's economy, for the world's poor, or for anybody else," Michael Ryan, WHO emergencies director, told journalists in a virtual briefing.

"It is going to be almost impossible for individual countries to keep their borders shut for the foreseeable future," he said, pointing out that "economies have to open up, people have to work, trade has to resume."

He acknowledged that when it comes to COVID-19, it is impossible to have a "global one size fits all policy" because outbreaks are developing differently in different countries.

While countries with rampant community transmission may need to use the blunt instrument of lockdowns to gain control of the situation, others should be burrowing down to get a clear overview of where and how the virus is spreading at a local level.

Don't 'release pressure'

They should be prepared to tighten or loosen measures accordingly, he said, warning against "releasing pressure" on the virus, which has killed some 650,000 people and infected 16.3 million worldwide.

"Release pressure on the virus and the numbers can creep back up."

Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's technical lead on COVID-19, said that instead of expecting drastic measures to keep the virus in check, people need to adapt their behaviours for the long haul.

"What we're going to have to figure out... is what our new normal looks like?" she told reporters.

"Our new normal includes physical distancing from others, (and) wearing masks where appropriate," she said.

"Our new normal includes us knowing where this virus is every day, where we live, where we work, where we want to travel."

Keeping borders closed to halt the spread of COVID-19 is unsustainable, the World Health Organization said Monday, urging countries to adopt comprehensive strategies based on local knowledge of where the virus is spreading.

Keeping borders closed to halt the spread of COVID-19 is unsustainable, the World Health Organization said Monday, urging countries to adopt comprehensive strategies based on local knowledge of where the virus is spreading. ALSO READ | Europe tightens coronavirus restrictions amid fresh outbreaks Border closures and travel restrictions remain an important part of many countries' strategy to combat the novel coronavirus. At the same time, rising cases in a range of countries in Europe and elsewhere that had loosened measures after appearing to get their outbreaks under control have spurred discussions of possible fresh border closures. But the UN health body warned that such measures can not be kept up indefinitely, and are also only useful when combined with a wide range of other measures to detect and break chains of transmission. "Continuing to keep international borders sealed is not necessarily a sustainable strategy for the world's economy, for the world's poor, or for anybody else," Michael Ryan, WHO emergencies director, told journalists in a virtual briefing. "It is going to be almost impossible for individual countries to keep their borders shut for the foreseeable future," he said, pointing out that "economies have to open up, people have to work, trade has to resume." He acknowledged that when it comes to COVID-19, it is impossible to have a "global one size fits all policy" because outbreaks are developing differently in different countries. While countries with rampant community transmission may need to use the blunt instrument of lockdowns to gain control of the situation, others should be burrowing down to get a clear overview of where and how the virus is spreading at a local level. Don't 'release pressure' They should be prepared to tighten or loosen measures accordingly, he said, warning against "releasing pressure" on the virus, which has killed some 650,000 people and infected 16.3 million worldwide. "Release pressure on the virus and the numbers can creep back up." Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's technical lead on COVID-19, said that instead of expecting drastic measures to keep the virus in check, people need to adapt their behaviours for the long haul. "What we're going to have to figure out... is what our new normal looks like?" she told reporters. "Our new normal includes physical distancing from others, (and) wearing masks where appropriate," she said. "Our new normal includes us knowing where this virus is every day, where we live, where we work, where we want to travel."

Keeping international borders sealed unsustainable Covid-19 strategy: WHO

Moderna's vaccine against COVID-19 could be rolled out by the end of this year, US&nbsp;officials said on Monday, after the drugmaker announced the start of a 30,000-subject trial to demonstrate it is safe and effective, the final hurdle prior to approval by global regulators. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-inc-to-begin-final-testing-stage-of-coronavirus-vaccine-on-30000-volunteers-in-july-305148">ALSO READ | Moderna Inc to begin final testing stage of coronavirus vaccine on 30,000 volunteers in July</a> 
 
The trial is the first such late-stage study under the Trump administration's program to speed development of measures against the novel coronavirus, adding to hope that an effective vaccine will help end the pandemic. Shares of Cambridge, Massachusetts-based Moderna rose 9%. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-signs-agreement-with-moderna-for-potential-covid-19-vaccine-306725">ALSO READ | Israel signs agreement with Moderna for potential COVID-19 vaccine</a>

Moderna has received nearly $1 billion from the U.S. government, which is helping to bankroll several vaccine candidates under its Operation Warp Speed program.

More than 150 coronavirus vaccine candidates are in various stages of development, with some two dozen prospects having advanced to human testing.

"Having a safe and effective vaccine distributed by the end of 2020 is a stretch goal, but it's the right goal for the American people," National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Francis Collins said in a release announcing the start of the large Phase III trial.

Manufacturers are ramping up production while testing is underway in order to respond as soon as possible to virus, which is still spreading rapidly around the world. COVID-19 has killed more about 650,000 people worldwide and battered economies.

Moderna could have tens of millions of doses ready when and if the vaccine is deemed safe and effective, Collins told reporters on a call.

The large late-stage trial is designed to evaluate the safety of Moderna's mRNA-1273 vaccine and determine if it can prevent symptomatic COVID-19 after two doses.

Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease official, said a readout from the trial could come by November, December, or even earlier. Fauci said he was "not particularly concerned" about the vaccine's safety after seeing data from earlier, smaller trials.

The study also seeks to determine whether the vaccine can prevent coronavirus-related deaths.

Trial volunteers will receive two injections about 28 days apart of either 100 micrograms of mRNA-1273 or a placebo.

Results of a small early-stage study published earlier this month showed volunteers who got two doses of Moderna's vaccine had levels of virus-killing antibodies that exceeded the average seen in people who had recovered from COVID-19.

Moderna said it remains on track to deliver about 500 million doses a year, and possibly up to 1 billion doses a year, beginning 2021.

Moderna's vaccine against COVID-19 could be rolled out by the end of this year, US officials said on Monday, after the drugmaker announced the start of a 30,000-subject trial to demonstrate it is safe and effective, the final hurdle prior to approval by global regulators.

Moderna's vaccine against COVID-19 could be rolled out by the end of this year, US officials said on Monday, after the drugmaker announced the start of a 30,000-subject trial to demonstrate it is safe and effective, the final hurdle prior to approval by global regulators. ALSO READ | Moderna Inc to begin final testing stage of coronavirus vaccine on 30,000 volunteers in July The trial is the first such late-stage study under the Trump administration's program to speed development of measures against the novel coronavirus, adding to hope that an effective vaccine will help end the pandemic. Shares of Cambridge, Massachusetts-based Moderna rose 9%. ALSO READ | Israel signs agreement with Moderna for potential COVID-19 vaccine Moderna has received nearly $1 billion from the U.S. government, which is helping to bankroll several vaccine candidates under its Operation Warp Speed program. More than 150 coronavirus vaccine candidates are in various stages of development, with some two dozen prospects having advanced to human testing. "Having a safe and effective vaccine distributed by the end of 2020 is a stretch goal, but it's the right goal for the American people," National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Francis Collins said in a release announcing the start of the large Phase III trial. Manufacturers are ramping up production while testing is underway in order to respond as soon as possible to virus, which is still spreading rapidly around the world. COVID-19 has killed more about 650,000 people worldwide and battered economies. Moderna could have tens of millions of doses ready when and if the vaccine is deemed safe and effective, Collins told reporters on a call. The large late-stage trial is designed to evaluate the safety of Moderna's mRNA-1273 vaccine and determine if it can prevent symptomatic COVID-19 after two doses. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease official, said a readout from the trial could come by November, December, or even earlier. Fauci said he was "not particularly concerned" about the vaccine's safety after seeing data from earlier, smaller trials. The study also seeks to determine whether the vaccine can prevent coronavirus-related deaths. Trial volunteers will receive two injections about 28 days apart of either 100 micrograms of mRNA-1273 or a placebo. Results of a small early-stage study published earlier this month showed volunteers who got two doses of Moderna's vaccine had levels of virus-killing antibodies that exceeded the average seen in people who had recovered from COVID-19. Moderna said it remains on track to deliver about 500 million doses a year, and possibly up to 1 billion doses a year, beginning 2021.

Moderna's COVID vaccine could be ready for use by year end: US 

The United States has recorded 55,187 new cases of coronavirus in last 24 hours on Sunday, as per Johns Hopkins University's real-time tally.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worldwide-coronavirus-cases-cross-16-million-death-toll-at-647846-316155" hreflang="en">Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 16 million, death toll at 647,846</a>

The US which is a worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic now has a total of 4,229,624 cases, the Baltimore-based university showed at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Monday).

The country witnessed 518 deaths on Sunday, bringing the death toll to 146,909.&nbsp;

Despite witnessing a decline in the rate of infections during the late springs, the US witnessed a surge in cases, particularly in southern and western states like California, Texas, Alabama and Florida.&nbsp;

The daily toll witnessed a decline in Sunday's figures. The United States was reporting over 60,000 cases for the past 12 days and daily death toll crossed 1,000.

Scientists agree that an increase in death rates follows the spike in infections by three to four weeks.

The United States has recorded 55,187 new cases of coronavirus in last 24 hours on Sunday, as per Johns Hopkins University's real-time tally. Also read: Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 16 million, death toll at 647,846 The US which is a worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic now has a total of 4,229,624 cases, the Baltimore-based university showed at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Monday).

The United States has recorded 55,187 new cases of coronavirus in last 24 hours on Sunday, as per Johns Hopkins University's real-time tally. Also read: Worldwide coronavirus cases cross 16 million, death toll at 647,846 The US which is a worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic now has a total of 4,229,624 cases, the Baltimore-based university showed at 8:30 pm (0030 GMT Monday). The country witnessed 518 deaths on Sunday, bringing the death toll to 146,909. Despite witnessing a decline in the rate of infections during the late springs, the US witnessed a surge in cases, particularly in southern and western states like California, Texas, Alabama and Florida. The daily toll witnessed a decline in Sunday's figures. The United States was reporting over 60,000 cases for the past 12 days and daily death toll crossed 1,000. Scientists agree that an increase in death rates follows the spike in infections by three to four weeks.

Coronavirus: US reports over 55,000 new cases; death toll nears 147,000

After the US ordered China to shutdown its consulate in Houston, China has retaliated. It wants the US to close its consulate in Chengdu. A decision that Chinese citizens celebrated - allegedly with fireworks near the American consulate. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: US-China consulate war: Why China shut down the Chengdu consulate

The Canadian government said on Saturday that it would not recognize the so-called 'referendum' for a separate Khalistan. A US-based separatist organization wants to conduct this referendum to demand separate Khalistan.

Canada rejects 'referendum' for separate Sikhs homeland by a US based Khalistani group

The US says Russia tested an anti-satellite weapon in space on July 15. The US says that Russia's actions are consistent with its doctrine to attack US space assets.

US reacts sharply to Russian mystery projectile

The US special representative for Iran on Sunday sought to rally Gulf allies as Washington tried to extend an arms embargo on Tehran, warning failure would "intensify" regional conflicts.

"I've spoken with leaders here in the Gulf and around the world -- no one believes that Iran should be able to freely buy and sell conventional weapons such as fighter jets... and various kinds of missiles," Brian Hook told journalists in an online briefing while on a visit to Qatar.

The United States has urged the UN Security Council to extend an arms embargo on Iran that expires in October.

The extension is opposed by veto-wielding Russia and China, which stand to gain major arms contracts from Iran.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-judiciary-says-passengers-on-harassed-airliner-can-sue-terrorist-us-military-in-iran-courts-315930">Also read:&nbsp;Iranian judiciary says passengers on 'harassed' airliner can sue 'terrorist' US military in Iran courts</a>

"If the Security Council fails to extend the arms embargo by October 18, Iran will be able to freely buy and sell these weapons," Hook said.

"Imagine what the region will look like if this happens, conflicts in places like Syria and Yemen will certainly intensify."

US arch-foe Iran is a key player on the side of the Syrian government in the country's conflict and is aligned with Huthi rebels in Yemen fighting the government, supported by a coalition led by US ally Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Washington has warned it could employ a disputed legal move to restore wide UN sanctions on Iran if the Security Council does not prolong a ban on conventional arms sales to the Islamic republic.

Iran is also at the heart of a dispute between Qatar and a Saudi-led quartet of regional countries that cut diplomatic, economic and travel ties with Doha in 2017.

Hook reiterated Washington's call for a resolution to the feud that saw Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain break with Qatar over accusations Doha was too close to Iran and backing radical Islamists. Qatar denies the allegations.

"The dispute has continued for too long and it ultimately harms our shared regional interests in stability prosperity and security," Hook said.

Kuwait has long led mediation efforts between Qatar and the quartet, but the country's ruler, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, travelled to the US on Thursday for medical treatment.

"I know that Kuwait has also invested a lot of time in this I should also add that we very much hope for the improved health of the emir of Kuwait," Hook said.&nbsp;

The US envoy will visit Kuwait on the next leg of his trip, having already visited Tunisia, a current member of the Security Council.

The US special representative for Iran on Sunday sought to rally Gulf allies as Washington tried to extend an arms embargo on Tehran, warning failure would "intensify" regional conflicts.

The US special representative for Iran on Sunday sought to rally Gulf allies as Washington tried to extend an arms embargo on Tehran, warning failure would "intensify" regional conflicts. "I've spoken with leaders here in the Gulf and around the world -- no one believes that Iran should be able to freely buy and sell conventional weapons such as fighter jets... and various kinds of missiles," Brian Hook told journalists in an online briefing while on a visit to Qatar. The United States has urged the UN Security Council to extend an arms embargo on Iran that expires in October. The extension is opposed by veto-wielding Russia and China, which stand to gain major arms contracts from Iran. Also read: Iranian judiciary says passengers on 'harassed' airliner can sue 'terrorist' US military in Iran courts "If the Security Council fails to extend the arms embargo by October 18, Iran will be able to freely buy and sell these weapons," Hook said. "Imagine what the region will look like if this happens, conflicts in places like Syria and Yemen will certainly intensify." US arch-foe Iran is a key player on the side of the Syrian government in the country's conflict and is aligned with Huthi rebels in Yemen fighting the government, supported by a coalition led by US ally Saudi Arabia. Washington has warned it could employ a disputed legal move to restore wide UN sanctions on Iran if the Security Council does not prolong a ban on conventional arms sales to the Islamic republic. Iran is also at the heart of a dispute between Qatar and a Saudi-led quartet of regional countries that cut diplomatic, economic and travel ties with Doha in 2017. Hook reiterated Washington's call for a resolution to the feud that saw Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain break with Qatar over accusations Doha was too close to Iran and backing radical Islamists. Qatar denies the allegations. "The dispute has continued for too long and it ultimately harms our shared regional interests in stability prosperity and security," Hook said. Kuwait has long led mediation efforts between Qatar and the quartet, but the country's ruler, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, travelled to the US on Thursday for medical treatment. "I know that Kuwait has also invested a lot of time in this I should also add that we very much hope for the improved health of the emir of Kuwait," Hook said. The US envoy will visit Kuwait on the next leg of his trip, having already visited Tunisia, a current member of the Security Council.

Iran arms embargo lapse would 'intensify' regional violence: US envoy

The United States recorded 68,212 new cases of coronavirus on Saturday, according to Johns Hopkins University's real-time tally.&nbsp;

The US remains world's worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic with 4,174,437 cases the Baltimore-based university said at 8:30 pm (0030 Sunday).

The country also witnessed 1,067 deaths due to the virus in the past 24 hours. This brings the country's death toll to 146,391.

Despite witnessing a decline in the rate of infections during the late springs, the US witnessed a surge in cases, particularly in southern and western states like California, Texas, Alabama and Florida.&nbsp;

For the past 12 days, the number of new cases being reported each day has topped 60,000. The daily deaths have increased to 1,000 since the past four days.&nbsp;

Scientists agree that an increase in death rates follows the spike in infections by three to four weeks.

The United States recorded 68,212 new cases of coronavirus on Saturday, according to Johns Hopkins University's real-time tally. The US remains world's worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic with 4,174,437 cases the Baltimore-based university said at 8:30 pm (0030 Sunday).

The United States recorded 68,212 new cases of coronavirus on Saturday, according to Johns Hopkins University's real-time tally. The US remains world's worst-hit country in terms of coronavirus pandemic with 4,174,437 cases the Baltimore-based university said at 8:30 pm (0030 Sunday). The country also witnessed 1,067 deaths due to the virus in the past 24 hours. This brings the country's death toll to 146,391. Despite witnessing a decline in the rate of infections during the late springs, the US witnessed a surge in cases, particularly in southern and western states like California, Texas, Alabama and Florida. For the past 12 days, the number of new cases being reported each day has topped 60,000. The daily deaths have increased to 1,000 since the past four days. Scientists agree that an increase in death rates follows the spike in infections by three to four weeks.

Coronavirus: US witnesses over 68,000 cases in past 24 hours

US' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says, "Students can return to classes". Mike Pence calls for school reopening at all levels.

US' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says, "Students can return to classes"

Democratic Party Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on Thursday admonished a Republican Congressman for allegedly hurling a sexist slur at her on the steps of US capitol.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez hits back at Republican Ted Yoho's derogatory slur | World News

The US has accused four Chinese citizens of visa fraud for lying about membership of China's armed forces.

4 Chinese nationals arrested by US for visa fraud

A small brief on the recent consular spat between US & China. Watch this video to get through this.

A small brief on the recent consular spat between US & China

TikTok launches $200 Million fund in United States. This fund has been invested to incentivise the content creation. Watch this video to know more.

TikTok launches $200 Million fund in United States

The animosity between the US and China is at an all-time high. The United States in particular has targetted China and Chinese nationals on several accounts. One of the accusations is that the Chinese researchers working in the US have hidden links to the Chinese military.

US acts tough on China: Clamps down on Chinese researchers

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