The latest Congressional report on Afghanistan has revealed that Pakistan has for a long period played an active role in Afghan affairs. The report accuses Pakistan of playing a "disruptive and destabilising" role in offering support to the Taliban.&nbsp;

"Pakistan has long played an active and, by many accounts, disruptive and destabilising role in Afghan affairs, including through the provision of active and passive support to the Taliban. Many observers see the Taliban's takeover (of Afghanistan) as a substantive triumph for Pakistan, bolstering its influence in Afghanistan and advancing its decades-long efforts to limit Indian influence there," the report read.&nbsp;

Prepared by independent subject area experts, the bipartisan Congressional Research Service said that if other countries such as Pakistan, Russia, China, or US partners such as Qatar begin to accept the Taliban, it could lead to the isolation of US.

This could further weaken its leverage and give the Taliban greater opportunities to evade US pressure.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-and-local-taliban-terror-group-on-road-to-peace-agree-to-one-month-ceasefire-427875">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan and local Taliban terror group on road to peace; agree to one-month ceasefire</a>

Pakistani officials have claimed that their influence over the Taliban is 'limited.'&nbsp;

"More broadly, despite some implicitly pro-Taliban statements from top Pakistani officials, the Taliban's takeover may present challenges and complications for Pakistan," states the report.

The report further highlights how the acceptance of the Taliban could pose serious challenges for US policymakers.

"A less oppositional US approach towards the Taliban could allow for greater US access to, and perhaps influence over, the group and events in Afghanistan. Engagement with a Taliban government that acts in support of some US interests and against others could compel US policymakers to weigh and prioritise those interests, posing a difficult challenge," the report said.

The Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August after the withdrawal of American forces which started on May 1.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The latest Congressional report on Afghanistan has revealed that Pakistan has for a long period played an active role in Afghan affairs. The report accuses Pakistan of playing a "disruptive and destabilising" role in offering support to the Taliban.

The latest Congressional report on Afghanistan has revealed that Pakistan has for a long period played an active role in Afghan affairs. The report accuses Pakistan of playing a "disruptive and destabilising" role in offering support to the Taliban. "Pakistan has long played an active and, by many accounts, disruptive and destabilising role in Afghan affairs, including through the provision of active and passive support to the Taliban. Many observers see the Taliban's takeover (of Afghanistan) as a substantive triumph for Pakistan, bolstering its influence in Afghanistan and advancing its decades-long efforts to limit Indian influence there," the report read. Prepared by independent subject area experts, the bipartisan Congressional Research Service said that if other countries such as Pakistan, Russia, China, or US partners such as Qatar begin to accept the Taliban, it could lead to the isolation of US. This could further weaken its leverage and give the Taliban greater opportunities to evade US pressure. Also read | Pakistan and local Taliban terror group on road to peace; agree to one-month ceasefire Pakistani officials have claimed that their influence over the Taliban is 'limited.' "More broadly, despite some implicitly pro-Taliban statements from top Pakistani officials, the Taliban's takeover may present challenges and complications for Pakistan," states the report. The report further highlights how the acceptance of the Taliban could pose serious challenges for US policymakers. "A less oppositional US approach towards the Taliban could allow for greater US access to, and perhaps influence over, the group and events in Afghanistan. Engagement with a Taliban government that acts in support of some US interests and against others could compel US policymakers to weigh and prioritise those interests, posing a difficult challenge," the report said. The Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August after the withdrawal of American forces which started on May 1. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congress report accuses Pakistan of playing 'disruptive and destabilising' role in Afghan affairs

In what can be called a blessing for several Indian-Americans, the United States has finally agreed to provide automatic work authorisation permits to the spouses of numerous H-1B visa holders. &nbsp;

On behalf of immigrant spouses, the American Immigration Lawyers' Association had filed a lawsuit. In this case, the settlement has been reached by the Department of Homeland Security, reported PTI. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Now, the spouses of H-1B and L-2 visa holders will no longer have to apply for work authorisation or need an employment authorisation document as proof to work in the country. &nbsp;

Jon Wasden from the association said, "This (H-4 visa holders) is a group that always met the regulatory test for automatic extension of EADs (employment authorisation documents), but the agency previously prohibited them from that benefit and forced them to wait for reauthorisation. People were suffering. They were losing their high-paying jobs for absolutely no legitimate reason causing harm to them and US businesses." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wikileaks-founder-julian-assange-to-tie-knot-with-partner-stella-moris-in-belmarsh-jail-428605" hreflang="en">WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to tie knot with partner Stella Moris in Belmarsh jail</a>

"Although this is a giant achievement, the parties' agreement will further result in a massive change in position for the USCIS, which now recognises that L-2 spouses enjoy automatic work authorisation incident to status, meaning these spouses of executive and managers will no longer have to apply for employment authorisation prior to working in the United States," the association said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called a blessing for several Indian-Americans, the United States has finally agreed to provide automatic work authorisation permits to the spouses of numerous H-1B visa holders.

In what can be called a blessing for several Indian-Americans, the United States has finally agreed to provide automatic work authorisation permits to the spouses of numerous H-1B visa holders. On behalf of immigrant spouses, the American Immigration Lawyers' Association had filed a lawsuit. In this case, the settlement has been reached by the Department of Homeland Security, reported PTI. Also Read: Temporary victory? US court blocks National Archives from sharing Trump records with riots panel Now, the spouses of H-1B and L-2 visa holders will no longer have to apply for work authorisation or need an employment authorisation document as proof to work in the country. Jon Wasden from the association said, "This (H-4 visa holders) is a group that always met the regulatory test for automatic extension of EADs (employment authorisation documents), but the agency previously prohibited them from that benefit and forced them to wait for reauthorisation. People were suffering. They were losing their high-paying jobs for absolutely no legitimate reason causing harm to them and US businesses." Also Read: WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange to tie knot with partner Stella Moris in Belmarsh jail "Although this is a giant achievement, the parties' agreement will further result in a massive change in position for the USCIS, which now recognises that L-2 spouses enjoy automatic work authorisation incident to status, meaning these spouses of executive and managers will no longer have to apply for employment authorisation prior to working in the United States," the association said. (With inputs from agencies)

H-1B visa holders’ spouses to get automatic work authorisation permits in US

Inflation across a variety of products in the US, which are consumed on a daily basis hit their highest point in more than 30 years, the labor department reported. The consumer price index rose 6.2 per cent from a year ago. This is the most since December 1990.&nbsp;

Inflation has been a matter of concern since the pandemic has hit the globe. The Bureau for Labour Statistics said that rising prices for food, shelter, used cars and trucks and new vehicles were the top contributors.

Based on monthly basis, the CPI increased 0.9 per cent against the 0.6 per cent estimate.&nbsp;

Meat, fish and eggs rose more than any other food related stuff. Also, petrol prices are at seven-year highs. Almost every sector saw some price inflation, except for airfares and alcoholic beverages.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inflation-pandemic-pushing-people-into-poverty-in-pakistan-404665">Also read |&nbsp;Inflation, pandemic pushing people into poverty in Pakistan</a>

Fuel prices soared 12.3 per cent for the month. Energy prices overall rose 4.8 per cent in October and are up 30 per cent for the one year.

Used vehicle prices again were a big contributor as they rose by 2.5 per cent on the month and 26.4 per cent for the year. New vehicle prices were up 1.4 per cent and 9.8 per cent, respectively.

The labor department revealed that there were also massive shortage of staff which prompted employers to raise wages in several sectors.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-wpi-inflation-rose-in-august-over-costlier-manufactured-goods-412956">Also read |&nbsp;India's WPI inflation rose in August over costlier manufactured goods</a>

Shelter costs increased by 0.5 per cent.

Seema Shah, chief strategist at Principal Global Investors was quoted by CNBC as saying, "Inflation is clearly getting worse before it gets better, while the significant rise in shelter prices is adding to concerning evidence of a broadening in inflation pressures."

Inflation across a variety of products in the US, which are consumed on a daily basis hit their highest point in more than 30 years, the labor department reported.

Inflation across a variety of products in the US, which are consumed on a daily basis hit their highest point in more than 30 years, the labor department reported. The consumer price index rose 6.2 per cent from a year ago. This is the most since December 1990. Inflation has been a matter of concern since the pandemic has hit the globe. The Bureau for Labour Statistics said that rising prices for food, shelter, used cars and trucks and new vehicles were the top contributors. Based on monthly basis, the CPI increased 0.9 per cent against the 0.6 per cent estimate. Meat, fish and eggs rose more than any other food related stuff. Also, petrol prices are at seven-year highs. Almost every sector saw some price inflation, except for airfares and alcoholic beverages. Also read | Inflation, pandemic pushing people into poverty in Pakistan Fuel prices soared 12.3 per cent for the month. Energy prices overall rose 4.8 per cent in October and are up 30 per cent for the one year. Used vehicle prices again were a big contributor as they rose by 2.5 per cent on the month and 26.4 per cent for the year. New vehicle prices were up 1.4 per cent and 9.8 per cent, respectively. The labor department revealed that there were also massive shortage of staff which prompted employers to raise wages in several sectors. Also read | India's WPI inflation rose in August over costlier manufactured goods Shelter costs increased by 0.5 per cent. Seema Shah, chief strategist at Principal Global Investors was quoted by CNBC as saying, "Inflation is clearly getting worse before it gets better, while the significant rise in shelter prices is adding to concerning evidence of a broadening in inflation pressures."

US: Prices surge by 6.2 per cent; biggest inflation rate in three decades

A boy in US state of Alabama, who was born at 21 weeks of pregnancy, has created a world record for being the earliest premature baby to survive. &nbsp;

Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Curtis Means was 132 days premature on July 5, 2020. He weighed only 14.8 ounces, reported the Associated Press. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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The Guinness World Records and UAB Hospital announced on Wednesday that he had broken the world record. Curtis had a twin sister, C’Asya, who died one day after birth. &nbsp;

Premature babies have a far greater chance of health complications and not surviving long after birth, explained Dr Brian Sims. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-tells-michigan-state-to-pay-626-mn-to-flint-residents-over-contaminated-water-supply-428507" hreflang="en">US judge tells Michigan state to pay $626 mn to Flint residents over contaminated water supply</a>

In a statement from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, which runs the hospital where the boy was born, Sims said, “We typically advise for compassionate care in situations of such extremely preterm births. This allows the parents to hold their babies and cherish what little time they may have together.” &nbsp;

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8b60f52-76da-4a6f-911e-4939a4f9f5d7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/US%20baby%202.jpg" />

“Being able to finally take Curtis home and surprise my older children with their younger brother is a moment I will always remember,” Michelle Butler, mother of the child said. &nbsp;

Curtis still needs a feeding tube and supplemental oxygen, but he is in way better health now. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A boy in US state of Alabama, who was born at 21 weeks of pregnancy, has created a world record for being the earliest premature baby to survive. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Curtis Means was 132 days premature on July 5, 2020.

A boy in US state of Alabama, who was born at 21 weeks of pregnancy, has created a world record for being the earliest premature baby to survive. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Curtis Means was 132 days premature on July 5, 2020. He weighed only 14.8 ounces, reported the Associated Press. Also Read: Moderna's Covid jab patent row deepens as US NIH looks to defend co-owner claim The Guinness World Records and UAB Hospital announced on Wednesday that he had broken the world record. Curtis had a twin sister, C’Asya, who died one day after birth. Premature babies have a far greater chance of health complications and not surviving long after birth, explained Dr Brian Sims. Also Read: US judge tells Michigan state to pay $626 mn to Flint residents over contaminated water supply In a statement from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, which runs the hospital where the boy was born, Sims said, “We typically advise for compassionate care in situations of such extremely preterm births. This allows the parents to hold their babies and cherish what little time they may have together.” “Being able to finally take Curtis home and surprise my older children with their younger brother is a moment I will always remember,” Michelle Butler, mother of the child said. Curtis still needs a feeding tube and supplemental oxygen, but he is in way better health now. (With inputs from agencies)

Boy in US state of Alabama sets record as most premature baby to survive

In an unexpected declaration at the COP26 climate meeting in Glasgow, China and the United States agreed to increase climate cooperation over the next decade.

In a joint declaration, the world's two largest CO2 emitters promised to act.

The countries declared an agreement to redouble efforts to combat climate change with "concrete steps" in an official joint statement released at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | UN: 80% of people displaced by climate change are women | COP26 Climate Summit

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-80-of-people-displaced-by-climate-change-are-women-cop26-climate-summit-428257/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-cautious-over-fulfilling-un-climate-fund-pledges-414349">Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges</a>

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The two most carbon-polluting countries said their agreement calls for "enhanced climate action in the 2020s" based on the 2015 Paris climate agreement guidelines, including a new stronger emission reduction target in 2025.

The pact also asks for "concrete and realistic" rules on decarbonisation, methane emissions reduction, and deforestation prevention. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-climate-poses-emerging-threat-to-financial-system-422957">US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system</a>

"Both sides recognise that there is a gap between the current effort and the Paris Agreement goals, so we will jointly strengthen climate action," China’s climate envoy Xie Zhenhua said in announcing the agreement on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Xie stated that the agreement will include "specific measures" for further action this decade, and that both nations will "operate on the finalisation of the Paris Agreement rulebook" at the UN climate summit in Glasgow.&nbsp;

The United States and China are responsible for around 40% of global carbon pollution.

According to US climate envoy John Kerry, the nations also agreed to limit methane emissions, and the deal with China was a show of support for a successful United Nations climate conference.&nbsp;

Last week, US President Joe Biden stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping had "walked away" from the climate catastrophe by failing to attend the COP26 session.

China retaliated at the time, but relations appear to have warmed up ahead of long-awaited bilateral talks next week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In an unexpected declaration at the COP26 climate meeting in Glasgow, China and the United States agreed to increase climate cooperation over the next decade. In a joint declaration, the world's two largest CO2 emitters promised to act.

In an unexpected declaration at the COP26 climate meeting in Glasgow, China and the United States agreed to increase climate cooperation over the next decade. In a joint declaration, the world's two largest CO2 emitters promised to act. The countries declared an agreement to redouble efforts to combat climate change with "concrete steps" in an official joint statement released at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow. Watch | UN: 80% of people displaced by climate change are women | COP26 Climate Summit Also read | Johnson cautious over fulfilling UN climate fund pledges The two most carbon-polluting countries said their agreement calls for "enhanced climate action in the 2020s" based on the 2015 Paris climate agreement guidelines, including a new stronger emission reduction target in 2025. The pact also asks for "concrete and realistic" rules on decarbonisation, methane emissions reduction, and deforestation prevention. Also read | US warns climate poses ‘emerging threat’ to financial system "Both sides recognise that there is a gap between the current effort and the Paris Agreement goals, so we will jointly strengthen climate action," China’s climate envoy Xie Zhenhua said in announcing the agreement on Wednesday. Xie stated that the agreement will include "specific measures" for further action this decade, and that both nations will "operate on the finalisation of the Paris Agreement rulebook" at the UN climate summit in Glasgow. The United States and China are responsible for around 40% of global carbon pollution. According to US climate envoy John Kerry, the nations also agreed to limit methane emissions, and the deal with China was a show of support for a successful United Nations climate conference. Last week, US President Joe Biden stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping had "walked away" from the climate catastrophe by failing to attend the COP26 session. China retaliated at the time, but relations appear to have warmed up ahead of long-awaited bilateral talks next week. (With inputs from agencies)

COP26: US and China issue joint pledge to boost climate co-operation

A $626 million settlement has been awarded by a federal judge in the US on Wednesday against the state of Michigan to residents of the city of Flint. Their drinking water had been poisoned by lead. &nbsp;

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One of the largest civil settlements in Michigan's history, the payment will mainly go to people, who were children at the time of the water crisis in the former industrial city. It will also benefit adults, who can prove their illnesses were caused by lead poisoning. &nbsp;

In the ruling, while finalising the amount, US District Judge Judith Levy said, "The settlement reached here is a remarkable achievement for many reasons, not the least of which is that it sets forth a comprehensive compensation programme and timeline that is consistent for every qualifying participant." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modernas-covid-jab-patent-row-deepens-as-us-nih-looks-to-defend-co-owner-claim-428421" hreflang="en">Moderna's Covid jab patent row deepens as US NIH looks to defend co-owner claim</a>

After 18 months of tough negotiations, the agreement was first reached in August 2020. The most of the payment will come from Michigan, while a small portion will be paid by the city of Flint and an engineering company. &nbsp;

In the city, at least 12 people had from Legionnaires' disease, which is an infection caused by the initial contamination of the water. Many city residents continue to drink bottled water to this day. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

A $626 million settlement has been awarded by a federal judge in the US on Wednesday against the state of Michigan to residents of the city of Flint. Their drinking water had been poisoned by lead.

A $626 million settlement has been awarded by a federal judge in the US on Wednesday against the state of Michigan to residents of the city of Flint. Their drinking water had been poisoned by lead. Also Read: After AUKUS row, Harris, Macron look forward to closer US-French cooperation One of the largest civil settlements in Michigan's history, the payment will mainly go to people, who were children at the time of the water crisis in the former industrial city. It will also benefit adults, who can prove their illnesses were caused by lead poisoning. In the ruling, while finalising the amount, US District Judge Judith Levy said, "The settlement reached here is a remarkable achievement for many reasons, not the least of which is that it sets forth a comprehensive compensation programme and timeline that is consistent for every qualifying participant." Also Read: Moderna's Covid jab patent row deepens as US NIH looks to defend co-owner claim After 18 months of tough negotiations, the agreement was first reached in August 2020. The most of the payment will come from Michigan, while a small portion will be paid by the city of Flint and an engineering company. In the city, at least 12 people had from Legionnaires' disease, which is an infection caused by the initial contamination of the water. Many city residents continue to drink bottled water to this day. (With inputs from agencies)

US judge tells Michigan state to pay $626 mn to Flint residents over contaminated water supply

Ahead of a virtual meeting with US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping has said that the Asia-Pacific region must not return to the tensions of the Cold War era. In a recorded video message to a CEO forum on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit hosted by New Zealand, the Chinese president said that the attempts to draw ideological lines or form small circles on geopolitical grounds were bound to fail.

"The Asia-Pacific region cannot and should not relapse into the confrontation and division of the Cold War era," Xi said.

By this, Xi was referring to US efforts with regional allies and partners including the Quad grouping with India, Japan and Australia. &nbsp;

Tensions between China and the US have escalated in the recent years as US has raised its concerns&nbsp;about Beijing’s actions in the South China Sea. US has also expressed&nbsp;its stance on Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Taiwan.&nbsp;China's military on&nbsp;Tuesday said that&nbsp;it conducted a combat readiness patrol in the direction of the Taiwan Strait.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-us-and-china-issue-joint-pledge-to-boost-climate-co-operation-428371">Also read |&nbsp;COP26: US and China issue joint pledge to boost climate co-operation</a>

Meanwhile, in what came as an unexpected declaration at the COP26 climate meeting, China and the US agreed to increase climate cooperation over the next decade. In a joint declaration, the world's two largest CO2 emitters promised to act.

The countries declared an agreement to redouble efforts to combat climate change with "concrete steps" in an official joint statement released at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow.&nbsp;

As of now, no date has been announced for the Xi-Biden meeting. However, a person briefed on the matter said that it was expected to be as soon as next week.

The week-long annual forum is being conducted online by New Zealand as the&nbsp;host.&nbsp;

Ahead of a virtual meeting with US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping has said that the Asia-Pacific region must not return to the tensions of the Cold War era.

Ahead of a virtual meeting with US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping has said that the Asia-Pacific region must not return to the tensions of the Cold War era. In a recorded video message to a CEO forum on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit hosted by New Zealand, the Chinese president said that the attempts to draw ideological lines or form small circles on geopolitical grounds were bound to fail. "The Asia-Pacific region cannot and should not relapse into the confrontation and division of the Cold War era," Xi said. By this, Xi was referring to US efforts with regional allies and partners including the Quad grouping with India, Japan and Australia. Tensions between China and the US have escalated in the recent years as US has raised its concerns about Beijing’s actions in the South China Sea. US has also expressed its stance on Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Taiwan. China's military on Tuesday said that it conducted a combat readiness patrol in the direction of the Taiwan Strait. Also read | COP26: US and China issue joint pledge to boost climate co-operation Meanwhile, in what came as an unexpected declaration at the COP26 climate meeting, China and the US agreed to increase climate cooperation over the next decade. In a joint declaration, the world's two largest CO2 emitters promised to act. The countries declared an agreement to redouble efforts to combat climate change with "concrete steps" in an official joint statement released at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow. As of now, no date has been announced for the Xi-Biden meeting. However, a person briefed on the matter said that it was expected to be as soon as next week. The week-long annual forum is being conducted online by New Zealand as the host.

Asia-Pacific region should not return to Cold War tensions, warns Xi Jinping at APEC

The US Justice Department is suing the very famous Uber Technologies Inc over allegations of overcharging disabled passengers. The department has also asked a federal court to order compliance with anti-discrimination law.

It has been claimed that Uber's "wait time" fees are discriminatory against disabled passengers as they need more than two minutes to get into a car. The lawsuit was filed in US District Court in San Francisco and it challenges an April 2016 Uber policy of charging passengers for waiting time.&nbsp;

"People with disabilities deserve equal access to all areas of community life, including the private transportation services provided by companies like Uber," said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uber-must-classify-drivers-as-employees-not-contractors-dutch-court-412860">Also read |&nbsp;Uber must classify drivers as employees, not contractors: Dutch court&nbsp;</a>

As a response, Uber has said that it disagreed that its policies were in violation of the ADA. A spokesperson said that the company had been in talks with the DoJ before the "surprising and disappointing" lawsuit.

He further added that the wait time fees were "never intended for riders who are ready at their designated pickup location but need more time to get into the car."

He revealed that Uber has a policy of refunding wait time fees for disabled riders whenever they alert the firm. "After a recent change last week, now any rider who certifies they are disabled will have fees automatically waived," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Justice Department is suing the very famous Uber Technologies Inc over allegations of overcharging disabled passengers. The department has also asked a federal court to order compliance with anti-discrimination law.

The US Justice Department is suing the very famous Uber Technologies Inc over allegations of overcharging disabled passengers. The department has also asked a federal court to order compliance with anti-discrimination law. It has been claimed that Uber's "wait time" fees are discriminatory against disabled passengers as they need more than two minutes to get into a car. The lawsuit was filed in US District Court in San Francisco and it challenges an April 2016 Uber policy of charging passengers for waiting time. "People with disabilities deserve equal access to all areas of community life, including the private transportation services provided by companies like Uber," said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division in a statement. Also read | Uber must classify drivers as employees, not contractors: Dutch court As a response, Uber has said that it disagreed that its policies were in violation of the ADA. A spokesperson said that the company had been in talks with the DoJ before the "surprising and disappointing" lawsuit. He further added that the wait time fees were "never intended for riders who are ready at their designated pickup location but need more time to get into the car." He revealed that Uber has a policy of refunding wait time fees for disabled riders whenever they alert the firm. "After a recent change last week, now any rider who certifies they are disabled will have fees automatically waived," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Uber sued for overcharging disabled people; 'wait time' fees discriminatory, says US Justice Department

A US judge Tuesday ordered white house records that could implicate former president Donald Trump in the January 6 attack on the capitol. They will be released to a congressional committee despite the ex-leader's attempts to keep them secret.

US judge orders white house records that could implicate former president Donald Trump

China’s new and third aircraft carrier whose technology could potentially rival US could be launched “roughly in three to six months”, a report by a Washington-based think tank has stated after analysing recent satellite images.

In images provided by Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the carrier —which is simply known as the Type 003 —was seen on the edge of completion on October 23, in the Jiangnan shipyard in Shanghai.

The CSIS has said that the installation of the carrier’s main external components including the vessel’s catapults, which will assist with launching aircraft, is nearing completion.

Work on other military vessels at Jiangnan appears to have slowed as the shipyard works to fill commercial orders, it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-steer-chinas-future-xi-is-rewriting-its-past-427513">To steer China’s future, Xi is rewriting its past</a>

Only a few additional items -- such as radar and weapon systems -- remain to be installed before the vessel can slip into the Yangtze River, the analysts said.

The new launchers will allow China to launch a wider variety of planes from the Type 003 faster and with more ammunition.

“The inclusion of catapults on the Type 003 is a major leap forward for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). China’s two existing aircraft carriers, the&nbsp;Liaoning&nbsp;and&nbsp;Shandong, rely on less advanced ski jump-style takeoff systems,” the analysts said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-uses-fake-us-aircraft-carrier-navy-ships-for-missile-target-practice-427621">China uses fake US aircraft carrier Navy ships for missile target practice</a>

“The Type 003’s new Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery (CATOBAR) launch system will enable the PLAN to launch fixed-wing aircraft with heavier payloads and more fuel, as well as larger aircraft that have a lower thrust-to-weight ratio. Most CATOBAR systems are steam driven, but it is widely rumored that China has developed an electromagnetic launch system similar to the one developed for the US Navy’s new Gerald R. Ford class of carriers,” they added.

Matthew Funaiole, senior fellow at the CSIS's China Project, said Type 003 would be the Chinese military's “first foray into a modern aircraft carrier.”

“This is a pretty significant step forward. They’ve really committed to building out a carrier program, and they continue to push the boundaries of what they're able to do,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

China’s new and third aircraft carrier whose technology could potentially rival US could be launched “roughly in three to six months”, a report by a Washington-based think tank has stated after analysing recent satellite images.

China’s new and third aircraft carrier whose technology could potentially rival US could be launched “roughly in three to six months”, a report by a Washington-based think tank has stated after analysing recent satellite images. In images provided by Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the carrier —which is simply known as the Type 003 —was seen on the edge of completion on October 23, in the Jiangnan shipyard in Shanghai. The CSIS has said that the installation of the carrier’s main external components including the vessel’s catapults, which will assist with launching aircraft, is nearing completion. Work on other military vessels at Jiangnan appears to have slowed as the shipyard works to fill commercial orders, it added. Also read | To steer China’s future, Xi is rewriting its past Only a few additional items -- such as radar and weapon systems -- remain to be installed before the vessel can slip into the Yangtze River, the analysts said. The new launchers will allow China to launch a wider variety of planes from the Type 003 faster and with more ammunition. “The inclusion of catapults on the Type 003 is a major leap forward for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). China’s two existing aircraft carriers, the Liaoning and Shandong, rely on less advanced ski jump-style takeoff systems,” the analysts said. Also read | China uses fake US aircraft carrier Navy ships for missile target practice “The Type 003’s new Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery (CATOBAR) launch system will enable the PLAN to launch fixed-wing aircraft with heavier payloads and more fuel, as well as larger aircraft that have a lower thrust-to-weight ratio. Most CATOBAR systems are steam driven, but it is widely rumored that China has developed an electromagnetic launch system similar to the one developed for the US Navy’s new Gerald R. Ford class of carriers,” they added. Matthew Funaiole, senior fellow at the CSIS's China Project, said Type 003 would be the Chinese military's “first foray into a modern aircraft carrier.” “This is a pretty significant step forward. They’ve really committed to building out a carrier program, and they continue to push the boundaries of what they're able to do,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

China’s new aircraft carrier, rivalling US, could be launched in 3 to 6 months: Analysts

Iran sets conditions for the return of the United States to the nuclear deal, ahead of the long-awaited resumption of nuclear talks later this month.

Iran sets conditions ahead of resumption of Nuclear talks

Emotional reunions were held at airports across the United States on Monday as the country fully reopened to many vaccinated international travelers for the first time since the coronavirus emerged.

US airports amassed with people longing to meet their families

The United States is accepting fully vaccinated travellers at airports and land borders, doing away with a COVID-19 restriction that dates back to the Trump administration.

US ends 20 months of travel restrictions, opens borders to foreign visitors

Coronavirus cases have been surging all across Europe. While speaking to CBS News, WHO top official, Dr Hans Kluge has warned that the United States should pay close attention. "If you look at the last four weeks, the hospitalisations have doubled," he said.&nbsp;

Kluge further stated that the vaccination uptake has plateaued in several parts of Europe. "At the same time, there's a relaxation of the public health and social measures, which is a cocktail for what we see: a fourth wave," he said.

Europe has seen a surge&nbsp;of more than 50 per cent&nbsp;new cases over the last month. With this, the World Health Organization has warned the region could see another half-million death by February.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-once-again-at-epicentre-of-coronavirus-pandemic-who-426681">Also read |&nbsp;Europe once again at epicentre of coronavirus pandemic: WHO</a>

He termed vaccines as a "game-changer", however, he mentioned that they are not enough alone. He urged people to mask up and focus on handwashing, especially in indoor ventilation.

Meanwhile, Europe, once again, has been deemed as the epicentre of the deadly virus.&nbsp;

Kluge earlier said that hospitalisations have increased in countries with lower vaccination rates. "We must change our tactics, from reacting to surges of COVID-19, to preventing them from happening in the first place," the European chief of WHO said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-lifts-covid-19-restrictions-opens-door-to-international-travellers-427794/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Recently, Germany's daily infection rate hit its highest recorded level since the beginning of the pandemic.

Britain is the hardest country hit with the virus with over 141,600 total fatalities and 9.2 million cases.&nbsp;

Coronavirus cases have been surging all across Europe. While speaking to CBS News, WHO top official, Dr Hans Kluge has warned that the United States should pay close attention.

Coronavirus cases have been surging all across Europe. While speaking to CBS News, WHO top official, Dr Hans Kluge has warned that the United States should pay close attention. "If you look at the last four weeks, the hospitalisations have doubled," he said. Kluge further stated that the vaccination uptake has plateaued in several parts of Europe. "At the same time, there's a relaxation of the public health and social measures, which is a cocktail for what we see: a fourth wave," he said. Europe has seen a surge of more than 50 per cent new cases over the last month. With this, the World Health Organization has warned the region could see another half-million death by February. Also read | Europe once again at epicentre of coronavirus pandemic: WHO He termed vaccines as a "game-changer", however, he mentioned that they are not enough alone. He urged people to mask up and focus on handwashing, especially in indoor ventilation. Meanwhile, Europe, once again, has been deemed as the epicentre of the deadly virus. Kluge earlier said that hospitalisations have increased in countries with lower vaccination rates. "We must change our tactics, from reacting to surges of COVID-19, to preventing them from happening in the first place," the European chief of WHO said. Recently, Germany's daily infection rate hit its highest recorded level since the beginning of the pandemic. Britain is the hardest country hit with the virus with over 141,600 total fatalities and 9.2 million cases.

As COVID-19 cases surge in Europe, WHO top official urges US to pay attention

Speaking in Glasglow at COP26 Climate Summit, Former US President Barack Obama called on young people to "stay angry" in the fight against climate change. He took a dig at Donald Trump for pulling out of the Paris accord & lauded the 2015 agreement.

COP26 Summit: Former US President Obama lauds 2015 Paris agreement, slams Trump

The new US special representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West, has stated that he plans on visiting India as a part of his ongoing trip. "I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people," West wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

The first stop of his trip is Brussels, where he aims at consulting with Allies and partners.

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An honor to be in Brussels today to consult with Allies and the EU on the way forward in Afghanistan. Visited <a href="https://twitter.com/NATO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NATO</a> HQ’s 9/11 memorial and recalled Allies’ historic invocation of Article V. <a href="https://t.co/C31nwMbEpQ">pic.twitter.com/C31nwMbEpQ</a>
— U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1457785730097311749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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1/2 It is an honor to assume the role of U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan. I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people. <a href="https://t.co/o8Q9orMBU0">https://t.co/o8Q9orMBU0</a>
— U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1457515834683924487?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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During a press conference, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price revealed that West will also visit Russia and Pakistan. Price said, "Together with our partners, he will continue to make clear the expectations that we have of the Taliban and of any future Afghanistan government."

He further said that at Brussels, West had an opportunity to meet with the NAC. "He also engaged in a press call earlier this morning," Price added.

When asked if West will be visiting Afghanistan, the State Spokesperson replied: "There are no plans to do that."

In October, West became the new US ambassador to Afghanistan after replacing Zalmay Khalilzad.&nbsp;The former ambassador stepped down less than two months after the chaotic US departure from Afghanistan and Taliban control of the nation.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that Khalilzad will be replaced by his deputy, Tom West. He further informed that West will work closely with the US embassy, which is currently situated in Doha, on US interests in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The new US special representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West, has stated that he plans on visiting India as a part of his ongoing trip. "I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people," West wrote on Twitter.

The new US special representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West, has stated that he plans on visiting India as a part of his ongoing trip. "I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people," West wrote on Twitter. The first stop of his trip is Brussels, where he aims at consulting with Allies and partners. An honor to be in Brussels today to consult with Allies and the EU on the way forward in Afghanistan. Visited @NATO HQ’s 9/11 memorial and recalled Allies’ historic invocation of Article V. pic.twitter.com/C31nwMbEpQ — U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) November 8, 2021 × 1/2 It is an honor to assume the role of U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan. I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people. https://t.co/o8Q9orMBU0 — U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) November 8, 2021 × During a press conference, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price revealed that West will also visit Russia and Pakistan. Price said, "Together with our partners, he will continue to make clear the expectations that we have of the Taliban and of any future Afghanistan government." He further said that at Brussels, West had an opportunity to meet with the NAC. "He also engaged in a press call earlier this morning," Price added. When asked if West will be visiting Afghanistan, the State Spokesperson replied: "There are no plans to do that." In October, West became the new US ambassador to Afghanistan after replacing Zalmay Khalilzad. The former ambassador stepped down less than two months after the chaotic US departure from Afghanistan and Taliban control of the nation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that Khalilzad will be replaced by his deputy, Tom West. He further informed that West will work closely with the US embassy, which is currently situated in Doha, on US interests in Afghanistan.

US envoy for Afghanistan to visit India as a part of his ongoing trip

New York officials on Monday announced plans to close six state prisons early next year, one of the largest such closings by the state as its prisoner population continues to decline.

With the closings, Gov. Kathy Hochul is following the lead of her predecessor, Andrew Cuomo, who shut 18 prisons during his nearly 11 years in office amid a series of criminal justice reforms that reduced New York’s prison population to its lowest level since 1984.

Prison closings have typically been contentious in New York because the facilities are major employers in the upstate communities where many of them have shut down, even as criminal justice reform advocates view the moves as the fruits of long-running efforts to end mass incarceration.

But the closings announced Monday coincide with a heated political debate over the effect of left-leaning measures on public safety, with New York’s Democrats still reeling from their losses in elections across the state last week.

Republicans were quick to attack Hochul, a Democrat from the Buffalo area, over the decision, portraying it as an affront to prison officers, and seeking to tie the closings to measures like changes to the state’s bail laws that have been used as a cudgel against Democrats.

“Closing prisons is an idea that might appeal to liberal voters in a primary, but it’s of no benefit to upstate communities and represents yet another step backward on public safety,” said Will Barclay, the Republican minority leader in the state Assembly.

The closings announced Monday were tied to this year’s state budget, which was negotiated in March between Cuomo and the Democrats who control the state Legislature.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/orchestrated-influx-poland-blocks-migrants-at-belarus-border-as-it-warns-of-an-armed-escalation-427860">Also read |&nbsp;'Orchestrated influx': Poland blocks migrants at Belarus border as it warns of an 'armed' escalation</a>

It was unclear whether Hochul would follow through with the moves when she took office in August, but she hinted last month that she was exploring the possibility of using some of the facilities for other purposes.

“I want to get creative with this,” Hochul said then. “I don’t know if something can be used as a substance abuse treatment center. We don’t need as many prisons.”

State officials said Monday that the state would work to “reuse” the closed prisons, but did not offer details.

The closings come as the state’s prison population has dropped to 31,469, a 56% decline from a peak of 72,773 in 1999. The sharp decrease is partly a result of the dismantling of the state’s strict 1970s-era drug law and laws that allow early release for nonviolent offenders.

The six prisons that will close are well under capacity: Taken together, they can fit up to 3,253 people, but now house just 1,420, all of whom will be transferred to other facilities before closing in March 2022.

The move is expected to save taxpayers $142 million, officials said, adding that the closings would not result in layoffs. Instead, the state will work to shift the roughly 1,700 workers who are employed at the six prisons to other facilities or agencies.

Michael Powers, the president of the New York State Correctional Officers Police Benevolent Association, said the union opposed the closings, adding that the state was saving money while doing little to protect correction officers who, he said, had suffered an increase in violent attacks.

“Where is the reinvestment in the facilities to make these prisons safer working environments?” Powers said. “At some point, the state needs to realise that these choices are more than just buildings and tax-saving measures, these are life-altering decisions that upend lives and destroy communities.”

State officials picked the six prisons, most of which are upstate, after analysing factors that included their proximity to other facilities where staff members could be moved and whether they were in parts of the state where previous closings had already affected the local economy. Also taken into account was recent state legislation passed by Democrats that is meant to curb the use of solitary confinement and limit the number of people who are sent back to prison for technical parole violations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capitol-hill-violence-investigation-committee-issues-subpoenas-to-top-trump-lieutenants-427861">Also read |&nbsp;Capitol Hill violence: Investigation committee issues subpoenas to top Trump lieutenants</a>

The largest of the six prisons being closed is Downstate Correctional Facility, a maximum-security prison in Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley, which can fit up to 1,221 people, but is operating at 56% capacity. The smallest is the Rochester Correctional Facility, which holds up to 70 individuals.

State Sen. Peter Harckham, a Westchester County Democrat, said he hoped the money saved through the closings would be reinvested in drug-treatment options for prisoners, one driver of reincarceration.

“If we want to end the revolving door of people going in and out of prisons and end recidivism, we have to seriously address substance-use disorder and mental health issues, while folks are incarcerated,” Harckham said.

Two prisons are to be closed in the North Country region, where six other prisons have closed since 2019, including two earlier this year, resulting in the loss of hundreds of jobs.

On Monday, Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican who represents most of the area, urged Hochul to “reverse course,” saying that the closings would “devastate our region.”

“Targeting multiple North Country prisons is an attack on the hardworking residents of the North Country,” Stefanik said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-covid-19-cases-surge-in-europe-who-top-official-urges-us-to-pay-attention-427863">Also read |&nbsp;As COVID-19 cases surge in Europe, WHO top official urges US to pay attention</a>

Criminal justice activists welcomed the closings, but nonetheless said Hochul should use her clemency powers to release more individuals, and urged the Legislature to pass legislation that would lead to additional releases.

“Without these measures, and despite these closures, thousands will continue to needlessly languish behind bars,” said Jose Saldana, the director of the Release Aging People in Prison Campaign. “Tens of thousands of Black and Latinx families are counting on New York’s leaders to bring their loved ones home.”

New York will have 44 state prisons after the closings announced Monday take effect in March.

When he became governor in 2011, Cuomo closed seven prisons, including two in New York City, calling it a priority for a state traversing a fiscal crisis and declaring that “an incarceration program is not an employment program.”

New York officials on Monday announced plans to close six state prisons early next year, one of the largest such closings by the state as its prisoner population continues to decline.

New York officials on Monday announced plans to close six state prisons early next year, one of the largest such closings by the state as its prisoner population continues to decline. With the closings, Gov. Kathy Hochul is following the lead of her predecessor, Andrew Cuomo, who shut 18 prisons during his nearly 11 years in office amid a series of criminal justice reforms that reduced New York’s prison population to its lowest level since 1984. Prison closings have typically been contentious in New York because the facilities are major employers in the upstate communities where many of them have shut down, even as criminal justice reform advocates view the moves as the fruits of long-running efforts to end mass incarceration. But the closings announced Monday coincide with a heated political debate over the effect of left-leaning measures on public safety, with New York’s Democrats still reeling from their losses in elections across the state last week. Republicans were quick to attack Hochul, a Democrat from the Buffalo area, over the decision, portraying it as an affront to prison officers, and seeking to tie the closings to measures like changes to the state’s bail laws that have been used as a cudgel against Democrats. “Closing prisons is an idea that might appeal to liberal voters in a primary, but it’s of no benefit to upstate communities and represents yet another step backward on public safety,” said Will Barclay, the Republican minority leader in the state Assembly. The closings announced Monday were tied to this year’s state budget, which was negotiated in March between Cuomo and the Democrats who control the state Legislature. Also read | 'Orchestrated influx': Poland blocks migrants at Belarus border as it warns of an 'armed' escalation It was unclear whether Hochul would follow through with the moves when she took office in August, but she hinted last month that she was exploring the possibility of using some of the facilities for other purposes. “I want to get creative with this,” Hochul said then. “I don’t know if something can be used as a substance abuse treatment center. We don’t need as many prisons.” State officials said Monday that the state would work to “reuse” the closed prisons, but did not offer details. The closings come as the state’s prison population has dropped to 31,469, a 56% decline from a peak of 72,773 in 1999. The sharp decrease is partly a result of the dismantling of the state’s strict 1970s-era drug law and laws that allow early release for nonviolent offenders. The six prisons that will close are well under capacity: Taken together, they can fit up to 3,253 people, but now house just 1,420, all of whom will be transferred to other facilities before closing in March 2022. The move is expected to save taxpayers $142 million, officials said, adding that the closings would not result in layoffs. Instead, the state will work to shift the roughly 1,700 workers who are employed at the six prisons to other facilities or agencies. Michael Powers, the president of the New York State Correctional Officers Police Benevolent Association, said the union opposed the closings, adding that the state was saving money while doing little to protect correction officers who, he said, had suffered an increase in violent attacks. “Where is the reinvestment in the facilities to make these prisons safer working environments?” Powers said. “At some point, the state needs to realise that these choices are more than just buildings and tax-saving measures, these are life-altering decisions that upend lives and destroy communities.” State officials picked the six prisons, most of which are upstate, after analysing factors that included their proximity to other facilities where staff members could be moved and whether they were in parts of the state where previous closings had already affected the local economy. Also taken into account was recent state legislation passed by Democrats that is meant to curb the use of solitary confinement and limit the number of people who are sent back to prison for technical parole violations. Also read | Capitol Hill violence: Investigation committee issues subpoenas to top Trump lieutenants The largest of the six prisons being closed is Downstate Correctional Facility, a maximum-security prison in Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley, which can fit up to 1,221 people, but is operating at 56% capacity. The smallest is the Rochester Correctional Facility, which holds up to 70 individuals. State Sen. Peter Harckham, a Westchester County Democrat, said he hoped the money saved through the closings would be reinvested in drug-treatment options for prisoners, one driver of reincarceration. “If we want to end the revolving door of people going in and out of prisons and end recidivism, we have to seriously address substance-use disorder and mental health issues, while folks are incarcerated,” Harckham said. Two prisons are to be closed in the North Country region, where six other prisons have closed since 2019, including two earlier this year, resulting in the loss of hundreds of jobs. On Monday, Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican who represents most of the area, urged Hochul to “reverse course,” saying that the closings would “devastate our region.” “Targeting multiple North Country prisons is an attack on the hardworking residents of the North Country,” Stefanik said. Also read | As COVID-19 cases surge in Europe, WHO top official urges US to pay attention Criminal justice activists welcomed the closings, but nonetheless said Hochul should use her clemency powers to release more individuals, and urged the Legislature to pass legislation that would lead to additional releases. “Without these measures, and despite these closures, thousands will continue to needlessly languish behind bars,” said Jose Saldana, the director of the Release Aging People in Prison Campaign. “Tens of thousands of Black and Latinx families are counting on New York’s leaders to bring their loved ones home.” New York will have 44 state prisons after the closings announced Monday take effect in March. When he became governor in 2011, Cuomo closed seven prisons, including two in New York City, calling it a priority for a state traversing a fiscal crisis and declaring that “an incarceration program is not an employment program.”

Why New York is closing 6 prisons?

Thousands of people gathered on the streets of Los Angeles to protest COVID-19 vaccination mandates on Monday as the city began enforcing some of the nation’s strictest vaccination verification rules for businesses.

US: Thousands protest COVID-19 vaccination mandates in Los Angeles

The US Law enforcement officials have seized an estimated $6 million in ransom payments and the justice department has charged two suspects over a damaging July ransomware attack on an American company.

US recovers $6 million in ransom payments and charges two men over major cyberattack

After lifting travel restrictions for much of the world's population first imposed in early 2020 to address the spread of COVID-19, the United States is expecting a flood of international visitors crossing its borders by air and by land on Monday.

World Business Watch: US braces for surge of vaccinated international travellers

Israel's Foreign Minister Yair Lapid distanced the government from the NSO Group, a firm blacklisted this week by the United States over alleged misuse of its phone-hacking spyware.

Israeli foreign minister Yair Lapid distances government from blacklisted NSO Group

US President Joe Biden hailed Congress’ passage of his $1 trillion infrastructure package as a “monumental step forward for the nation” after months of tough negotiations.

US Prez Biden hails passage of infrastructure bill as ‘monumental step forward’

The very prestigious Ivy League universities in the US - Brown, Cornell and Columbia University had to evacuate parts of their campuses after receiving bomb threats. However, later, it turned out to be a false threat.

This comes just a few days after a bomb threat was reported in another Ivy league University in Connecticut - Yale. As of now, not clear if the threats are connected. No suspect has been publicly identified as connected to any of the calls.

"CornellALERT for the Ithaca campus: Avoid central campus. Evacuate areas in or nearby the Law School, Goldwin Smith, Upson Hall and Kennedy Hall. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available," Cornell University stated on Twitter. After five hours, the university said that the law enforcement has concluded a search at the Ithaca campus and no credible threats were found. "It is safe to resume all normal activities," said the University.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pantomime-election-us-president-joe-biden-slams-nicaragua-election-as-sham-427539">Also read |&nbsp;'Pantomime election': US President Joe Biden slams Nicaragua election as 'sham'</a>

Columbia said that it issued "a campus-wide emergency alert" after receiving threats to school buildings.&nbsp;

The university, which is based in New York, warned students to avoid the area while the investigation was ongoing. However, it later said that the threat was deemed "not credible."

A report by CBS News states that Brown University in Rhode Island was also one of those to receive a threat. To ensure the safety of people at the campus, it "evacuated several buildings near the university's college green." The buildings were only reopened after it was concluded that it is safe.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/confusing-biden-takes-a-dig-at-reporters-on-explaining-supply-chain-disruptions-427451">Also read |&nbsp;'Confusing': Biden takes a dig at reporters on 'explaining' supply chain disruptions</a>

On November 5, New Haven police said that they received a call to their non-emergency line and the caller reportedly said that 40 bombs had been placed around the Yale University campus.&nbsp;

Students were evacuated from dormitories and classrooms. The Yale theatre and the Yale University Art Gallery were also emptied. Students were only allowed back in after all the security checks were done.&nbsp;

New Haven Police, Yale Police, Connecticut State Police and the FBI are investigating the same.&nbsp;

The very prestigious Ivy League universities in the US - Brown, Cornell and Columbia University had to evacuate parts of their campuses after receiving bomb threats.

The very prestigious Ivy League universities in the US - Brown, Cornell and Columbia University had to evacuate parts of their campuses after receiving bomb threats. However, later, it turned out to be a false threat. This comes just a few days after a bomb threat was reported in another Ivy league University in Connecticut - Yale. As of now, not clear if the threats are connected. No suspect has been publicly identified as connected to any of the calls. "CornellALERT for the Ithaca campus: Avoid central campus. Evacuate areas in or nearby the Law School, Goldwin Smith, Upson Hall and Kennedy Hall. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available," Cornell University stated on Twitter. After five hours, the university said that the law enforcement has concluded a search at the Ithaca campus and no credible threats were found. "It is safe to resume all normal activities," said the University. Also read | 'Pantomime election': US President Joe Biden slams Nicaragua election as 'sham' Columbia said that it issued "a campus-wide emergency alert" after receiving threats to school buildings. The university, which is based in New York, warned students to avoid the area while the investigation was ongoing. However, it later said that the threat was deemed "not credible." A report by CBS News states that Brown University in Rhode Island was also one of those to receive a threat. To ensure the safety of people at the campus, it "evacuated several buildings near the university's college green." The buildings were only reopened after it was concluded that it is safe. Also read | 'Confusing': Biden takes a dig at reporters on 'explaining' supply chain disruptions On November 5, New Haven police said that they received a call to their non-emergency line and the caller reportedly said that 40 bombs had been placed around the Yale University campus. Students were evacuated from dormitories and classrooms. The Yale theatre and the Yale University Art Gallery were also emptied. Students were only allowed back in after all the security checks were done. New Haven Police, Yale Police, Connecticut State Police and the FBI are investigating the same.

Various Ivy League universities evacuate buildings after bomb threats

While former US President Barack Obama will hold a roundtable and meetings with key leaders at the COP26 summit, the It Takes Roots (ITR) delegation will be highlighting the 'Monster of Militarism' and the contradictions of his legacy of militarism.

This includes greater military expansion into the Pacific, the expansion of drone warfare and the use of military interventions on water protectors fighting against the Dakota Action Pipeline. The ITR represents over 60 frontline communities leaders and organisers.&nbsp;

It believes that if one is addressing climate change, then they require to end the military-industrial complex.

One of the speakers at the protests will be Alejandra M. Lyons of the SouthWest Organising Project (SWOP). "I am attending COP26 to represent New Mexico and to tell our world leaders that we are not a sacrifice zone. Our land and water must be protected as well as the rights of future Nuevo Mexican generations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/glasgow-protests-protesters-perform-a-zombie-die-in-over-200-events-planned-worldwide-427579">Also read |&nbsp;Glasgow protests: Protesters perform a zombie die-in; over 200 events planned worldwide</a>

"We need to hold the US military accountable in this climate conversation no matter how much power they hold in our state," Lyons said.

Obama's speech will put the threat of climate change into a broader context, said Obama spokeswoman Hannah Hankins in a statement.&nbsp;

She further added that Obama will be speaking on important progress made&nbsp;since the Paris agreement took effect. Also, he will be highlighting the leadership of young people around the globe. With this, the former President will call for more bold action going forward by the governments, the private sector, philanthropy, and civil society.

The Scottish city hosted the COP26 climate summit a few days ago. Though pledges were made by global leaders to reduce carbon emissions, experts say that much more was needed to have been done.

(With inputs from agencies)

While former US President Barack Obama will hold a roundtable and meetings with key leaders at the COP26 summit, the It Takes Roots (ITR) delegation will be highlighting the 'Monster of Militarism' and the contradictions of his legacy of militarism.

While former US President Barack Obama will hold a roundtable and meetings with key leaders at the COP26 summit, the It Takes Roots (ITR) delegation will be highlighting the 'Monster of Militarism' and the contradictions of his legacy of militarism. This includes greater military expansion into the Pacific, the expansion of drone warfare and the use of military interventions on water protectors fighting against the Dakota Action Pipeline. The ITR represents over 60 frontline communities leaders and organisers. It believes that if one is addressing climate change, then they require to end the military-industrial complex. One of the speakers at the protests will be Alejandra M. Lyons of the SouthWest Organising Project (SWOP). "I am attending COP26 to represent New Mexico and to tell our world leaders that we are not a sacrifice zone. Our land and water must be protected as well as the rights of future Nuevo Mexican generations. Also read | Glasgow protests: Protesters perform a zombie die-in; over 200 events planned worldwide "We need to hold the US military accountable in this climate conversation no matter how much power they hold in our state," Lyons said. Obama's speech will put the threat of climate change into a broader context, said Obama spokeswoman Hannah Hankins in a statement. She further added that Obama will be speaking on important progress made since the Paris agreement took effect. Also, he will be highlighting the leadership of young people around the globe. With this, the former President will call for more bold action going forward by the governments, the private sector, philanthropy, and civil society. The Scottish city hosted the COP26 climate summit a few days ago. Though pledges were made by global leaders to reduce carbon emissions, experts say that much more was needed to have been done. (With inputs from agencies)

Former US President Barack Obama to face ITR protests at COP26 summit

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