California experienced its hottest summer on record this year as the climate crisis caused deadly heatwaves and intense wildfires in the state and across the western parts of America.&nbsp;

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and Utah, totalling 18.4 per cent of the contiguous US also endured record hot summers.&nbsp;

Sixteen other states recorded a top-five warmest summer.

Across the lower 48 states, the average temperature in June, July and August was 76F, 2.6F above average.

This slightly exceeds that of the Dust Bowl summer of 1936.

The west faced historic heatwaves this summer, with cities across the typically cool Pacific north-west hitting their highest temperatures on record.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drone-strike-may-have-killed-aid-worker-children-and-not-isis-k-militants-reports-412228">Also read |&nbsp;US drone strike may have killed aid worker, children, and not ISIS-K militants: Reports</a>

Early summer heatwave killed hundreds of people in Oregon and Washington.

Also, nearly 500 people in Canada’s westernmost province lost their lives. Experts also warned that the heat had probably also killed more than 1 billion marine animals along Canada’s Pacific coast.

In the US, the heat strained the power grid and forced schools, businesses, outdoor pools, COVID-19 testing sites and mobile vaccination units to close.&nbsp;

A detailed scientific analysis has revealed that the heatwave would have been virtually impossible without human-caused climate change.

Thom Porter, the Cal Fire chief, last month said, "There is fire activity happening in California that we have never seen before. The critical thing for the public to know is evacuate early".&nbsp;

He further added, "Every acre can and will burn someday in this state.”

California experienced its hottest summer on record this year as the climate crisis caused deadly heatwaves and intense wildfires in the state and across the western parts of America.

California experienced its hottest summer on record this year as the climate crisis caused deadly heatwaves and intense wildfires in the state and across the western parts of America. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and Utah, totalling 18.4 per cent of the contiguous US also endured record hot summers. Sixteen other states recorded a top-five warmest summer. Across the lower 48 states, the average temperature in June, July and August was 76F, 2.6F above average. This slightly exceeds that of the Dust Bowl summer of 1936. The west faced historic heatwaves this summer, with cities across the typically cool Pacific north-west hitting their highest temperatures on record. Also read | US drone strike may have killed aid worker, children, and not ISIS-K militants: Reports Early summer heatwave killed hundreds of people in Oregon and Washington. Also, nearly 500 people in Canada’s westernmost province lost their lives. Experts also warned that the heat had probably also killed more than 1 billion marine animals along Canada’s Pacific coast. In the US, the heat strained the power grid and forced schools, businesses, outdoor pools, COVID-19 testing sites and mobile vaccination units to close. A detailed scientific analysis has revealed that the heatwave would have been virtually impossible without human-caused climate change. Thom Porter, the Cal Fire chief, last month said, "There is fire activity happening in California that we have never seen before. The critical thing for the public to know is evacuate early". He further added, "Every acre can and will burn someday in this state.”

States across American west see hottest summer on record

US Vice President Kamala Harris has paid tribute to all passengers and crew members on board Flight 93 who died when the flight crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

9/11 Attack Anniversary: US Vice President Kamala Harris pays tribute to those on Flight 93

In 2001, George W. Bush had declared: "Either you are with us or you are with the terrorists." 20 years later, America's war on terrorism has ended in crushing defeat. The Taliban is announcing its win - by going after rivals and threatening women. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: 20 years after 9/11: Here is how the Taliban is celebrating its victory

Families of the nearly 3,000 people who died on September 11 are gathering at memorial events in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, DC to mark the 20th anniversary of the horrific attack.

US: Memorial service in remembrance of 9/11 terror attack victims

US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping got on a 90-minute call. The two were talking for the first time in 7 months, and for the 2nd time since Biden's inauguration. Reports say Biden requested the call. Palki Sharma tells you why.

Gravitas: Biden dials Xi Jinping for the first time in 7 months

September 11 marks the 20th year of the deadly 9/11 attacks in the US. Here are glimpses of some of the commemoration ceremonies.

US: Moments of silence to commemorate timings of 9/11 terror attack

America's Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry would travel to India next week, during which the two countries would launch the Climate Action and Finance Mobilisation Dialogue, the State Department has said.

As part of America's efforts to engage with international counterparts on actions to address the climate crisis, the State Department said Kerry will meet with Indian counterparts and private sector leaders to discuss efforts to raise global climate ambition and speed up India's clean energy transition.

"During his visit, the United States and India will launch the Climate Action and Finance Mobilisation Dialogue (CAFMD), one of the two main tracks of the US-India Agenda 2030 Partnership that

President (Joe) Biden and Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi announced at the Leaders Summit on Climate in April 2021,? the State Department said on Friday.

Kerry will bolster the US' bilateral and multilateral climate efforts ahead of the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which will be held from October 31 to November 12, 2021, in Glasgow, United Kingdom, the media release said.&nbsp;

America's Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry would travel to India next week, during which the two countries would launch the Climate Action and Finance Mobilisation Dialogue, the State Department has said.

America's Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry would travel to India next week, during which the two countries would launch the Climate Action and Finance Mobilisation Dialogue, the State Department has said. As part of America's efforts to engage with international counterparts on actions to address the climate crisis, the State Department said Kerry will meet with Indian counterparts and private sector leaders to discuss efforts to raise global climate ambition and speed up India's clean energy transition. "During his visit, the United States and India will launch the Climate Action and Finance Mobilisation Dialogue (CAFMD), one of the two main tracks of the US-India Agenda 2030 Partnership that President (Joe) Biden and Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi announced at the Leaders Summit on Climate in April 2021,? the State Department said on Friday. Kerry will bolster the US' bilateral and multilateral climate efforts ahead of the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which will be held from October 31 to November 12, 2021, in Glasgow, United Kingdom, the media release said.

India and US to launch Climate Action and Finance Mobilisation Dialogue

On the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, residents of Kabul reflect on the last two decades. Some Afghans claim that these years didn't change much on the ground, others say that the US abandoned them. WION's Anas Mallick brings you a ground report.

Kabul residents react on 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks

Although the air attacks from Yemen's Houthi rebels continue, the US has removed its most advanced missile defence system and Patriot batteries from Saudi Arabia in recent weeks. The revelation was made by the satellite images analysed by AP. &nbsp;

As America's Gulf Arab allies nervously watched the chaotic US troops withdrawal from war-torn Afghanistan, the redeployment of the defences from Prince Sultan Air Base outside Riyadh was carried out. It also included the last-minute evacuations from Kabul airport. &nbsp;

Watch | Afghanistan: UN condemns Taliban's response to peaceful protest

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The tens of thousands of US forces still remain across the Arabian Peninsula to check Iran threat. But Gulf Arab nations worry about the future plans of the US as its military perceives a growing threat in Asia that requires those missile defences. &nbsp;&nbsp;

With the negotiations appearing to be stalled in Vienna over Iran's collapsed nuclear deal with world powers, tensions remain high raising the danger of future confrontations in the region. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-gets-countrys-richest-man-as-pm-amid-economic-turmoil-412310" hreflang="en">Lebanon gets country’s richest man as PM amid economic turmoil</a>

Prince Sultan Air Base is located some 115 kilometers (70 miles) southeast of Riyadh. It has hosted several thousand US troops since a 2019 missile-and-drone attack on the heart of the kingdom's oil production. &nbsp;

Though claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels, the attack appears to have been carried out by Iran, say experts and physical debris left behind. Tehran has denied launching the attack. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Although the air attacks from Yemen's Houthi rebels continue, the US has removed its most advanced missile defence system and Patriot batteries from Saudi Arabia in recent weeks.

Although the air attacks from Yemen's Houthi rebels continue, the US has removed its most advanced missile defence system and Patriot batteries from Saudi Arabia in recent weeks. The revelation was made by the satellite images analysed by AP. As America's Gulf Arab allies nervously watched the chaotic US troops withdrawal from war-torn Afghanistan, the redeployment of the defences from Prince Sultan Air Base outside Riyadh was carried out. It also included the last-minute evacuations from Kabul airport. Watch | Afghanistan: UN condemns Taliban's response to peaceful protest × The tens of thousands of US forces still remain across the Arabian Peninsula to check Iran threat. But Gulf Arab nations worry about the future plans of the US as its military perceives a growing threat in Asia that requires those missile defences. With the negotiations appearing to be stalled in Vienna over Iran's collapsed nuclear deal with world powers, tensions remain high raising the danger of future confrontations in the region. Also Read: Lebanon gets country’s richest man as PM amid economic turmoil Prince Sultan Air Base is located some 115 kilometers (70 miles) southeast of Riyadh. It has hosted several thousand US troops since a 2019 missile-and-drone attack on the heart of the kingdom's oil production. Though claimed by Yemen's Houthi rebels, the attack appears to have been carried out by Iran, say experts and physical debris left behind. Tehran has denied launching the attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Even as Houthi attacks continue, US removes missile defences in Saudi Arabia

United States President Joe Biden’s latest aggressive push to inoculate more people, including those showing resistance to the COVID-19 vaccine, has sparked a backlash from the Republicans, who have threatened to approach the court against the move.

“Have at it,” a defiant Biden told reporters on Friday when asked about legal challenges to the strict vaccination rules that would affect tens of millions of American workers.

The US is in the midst of the Delta variant outbreak with cases surging across various states. As per reports, around 80 million eligible Americans have not yet gotten the shot against a disease that has left around 650,000 people dead in the United States.

Asserting that he was fed with rising Delta cases, the 78-year-old president said, “We’ve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin. And your refusal has cost all of us. So, please, do the right thing.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-recorded-highest-new-covid-19-cases-worldwide-in-past-week-who-401286">US recorded highest new COVID-19 cases worldwide in past week: WHO</a>

Biden’s plan mandates vaccinations for all federal employees and contractors and businesses with more than 100 employees. Companies could face fines if they do not adhere to the directive.

Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz said that while he supports the vaccine, people have the right of personal choice.

Watch&nbsp;

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"The federal government has no authority to force businesses in Texas and across the country to mandate their employees get vaccinated," Cruz was quoted by news agency AFP as saying.

"It is cruel and burdensome to impose this authoritarian mandate. While I support the vaccine and have received it, Americans have the right to exercise personal choice when it comes to their health,” he added.

The Republican National Committee, governors of a number of Republican-ruled states and conservative private legal groups, announced plans to mount legal challenges to the vaccination mandates.

"See you in court," said Kristi Noem, the Republican governor of South Dakota. "South Dakota will stand up to defend freedom."

The Texas Department of State Health Services on Thursday reported 23,700 new confirmed cases of the virus as well as 5,907 new probable cases. The state additionally reported 408 more fatalities attributed to the Delta variant-fuelled disease.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden’s latest aggressive push to inoculate more people, including those showing resistance to the COVID-19 vaccine, has sparked a backlash from the Republicans, who have threatened to approach the court against the move.

United States President Joe Biden’s latest aggressive push to inoculate more people, including those showing resistance to the COVID-19 vaccine, has sparked a backlash from the Republicans, who have threatened to approach the court against the move. “Have at it,” a defiant Biden told reporters on Friday when asked about legal challenges to the strict vaccination rules that would affect tens of millions of American workers. The US is in the midst of the Delta variant outbreak with cases surging across various states. As per reports, around 80 million eligible Americans have not yet gotten the shot against a disease that has left around 650,000 people dead in the United States. Asserting that he was fed with rising Delta cases, the 78-year-old president said, “We’ve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin. And your refusal has cost all of us. So, please, do the right thing.” Also read | US recorded highest new COVID-19 cases worldwide in past week: WHO Biden’s plan mandates vaccinations for all federal employees and contractors and businesses with more than 100 employees. Companies could face fines if they do not adhere to the directive. Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz said that while he supports the vaccine, people have the right of personal choice. Watch "The federal government has no authority to force businesses in Texas and across the country to mandate their employees get vaccinated," Cruz was quoted by news agency AFP as saying. "It is cruel and burdensome to impose this authoritarian mandate. While I support the vaccine and have received it, Americans have the right to exercise personal choice when it comes to their health,” he added. The Republican National Committee, governors of a number of Republican-ruled states and conservative private legal groups, announced plans to mount legal challenges to the vaccination mandates. "See you in court," said Kristi Noem, the Republican governor of South Dakota. "South Dakota will stand up to defend freedom." The Texas Department of State Health Services on Thursday reported 23,700 new confirmed cases of the virus as well as 5,907 new probable cases. The state additionally reported 408 more fatalities attributed to the Delta variant-fuelled disease. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden’s aggressive vaccine mandate sparks backlash from Republicans

US President Joe Biden on Thursday announced sweeping new federal vaccine requirements that would affect a total of 100 million Americans. Biden sharply criticised the 80 million Americans who are still not vaccinated.

Joe Biden announces sweeping measures to vaccinate Americans

September 11 is the 20th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, with commemoration ceremonies being held in New York, Pennsylvania and near Washington. In 2001, Justin Tirelli, fire and emergency medical services captain at the Arlington County Fire Department in Virginia, had been on the job only a few months. On September 11th, he was called to work after a plane crashed into the Pentagon. WION-VOA co-production brings you this report.

September 11, 2001: A turning point in American history

The US Justice Department has sued Texas over a new state law that bans most abortions, arguing that it was enacted “in open defiance of the Constitution.”

US Justice Department sues Texas over state's new abortion law

Some 200 passengers, including US citizens, left&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;airport on Thursday, on the first flight carrying foreigners out of the Afghan capital since a US-led evacuation ended on August 30.

The flight to Doha comes as the Taliban continue their transition from insurgents to governing power, less than a month after they marched into&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;and ousted former president Ashraf Ghani.

Thursday afternoon's Qatar Airways flight took some 200 people from&nbsp;Kabul's airport&nbsp;the first since a mammoth, chaotic airlift of more than 120,000 people came to a dramatic close with the US pullout.

An Afghan-American dual citizen, waiting to board the flight with his family, said the US State Department had called him in the morning and told him to go to the airport.

"We got in contact with the State Department, they gave me a call this morning and said to go to the airport," the father, who asked not to be named, told AFP.

In the days that followed the Taliban's blitz, the airport had become a tragic symbol of desperation among Afghans terrified of the militants' return to power&nbsp;with thousands of people crowding around its gates daily, and some even clinging to jets as they took off.

More than 100 people were killed, including 13 US troops, in a suicide attack on August 26 near the airport that was claimed by the Islamic State group's local chapter.

Waiting with suitcases

Footage broadcast by Al Jazeera TV on Thursday showed families including women, children and elderly people waiting with suitcases at the airport for their turn to leave.

It was not immediately clear whether any countries other than Qatar had played a role in organising the airlift.

Qatar has acted as the central intermediary between the Taliban and the international community in recent years, and numerous countries, including the United States, have relocated their embassies from&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;to Doha in the aftermath of the Taliban takeover.

"We are very appreciative of the Qataris," one man told the channel, giving his nationality as Canadian.

Away from the airport, there was a noticeably stronger Taliban presence on the streets of&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;as armed fighters -- including special forces in military fatigues -- stood guard on street corners and manned checkpoints, according to AFP journalists.

Protest ban

Qatar's special envoy to Afghanistan, Mutlaq al-Qahtani, called it a "historic day" for the airport.

He also said it marked a major step on the road to "reopening ... the airport to international flights, but it may be gradual".

Most of the early Afghan evacuees were desperate to flee fearing Taliban reprisals for having worked with foreign powers during the 20-year, US-led occupation.

The United States has repeatedly pledged to continue working to evacuate any American citizens still in Afghanistan after last month's airlift ended.

Earlier Thursday, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said only around 100 Americans remained in Afghanistan.

"It's right around 100 right now and we're working to get those American citizens who want to depart out of the country, as well as legal permanent residents and other key partners," Psaki told MSNBC.

The Taliban have said they will not prevent anyone who wishes to from leaving the country, even as they have urged skilled Afghans, such as doctors and engineers, to remain.

The Islamist hardliners have pledged&nbsp;a more moderate brand of rule than in their notoriously oppressive 1996-2001 reign. However, they have shown clear signs that they will not tolerate opposition.&nbsp;

Earlier this week armed Taliban militants dispersed&nbsp;hundreds of protesters in cities across Afghanistan, including&nbsp;Kabul, Faizabad&nbsp;in the northeast and in Herat in the west, where two people were shot dead.

Late Wednesday, they moved to snuff out any further civil unrest, saying protests would need prior authorisation from the justice ministry, adding that no demonstrations were allowed "for the time being".

One protest organiser told AFP rallies in&nbsp;Kabul&nbsp;had been cancelled because of the overnight ban.

Promises of inclusion

A Taliban interim government, drawn exclusively from loyalist ranks, formally began work this week with established hardliners in all key posts and no women despite previous promises of an inclusive administration for all Afghans.

All the top positions have been handed to key leaders from the movement and in particular the Haqqani network -- the most violent Taliban faction, known for devastating attacks.

The dreaded Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice&nbsp;previously responsible for arresting and punishing people for failing to follow the movement's restrictive interpretation of sharia is being reinstated.

Some 200 passengers, including US citizens, left Kabul airport on Thursday, on the first flight carrying foreigners out of the Afghan capital since a US-led evacuation ended on August 30.

Some 200 passengers, including US citizens, left Kabul airport on Thursday, on the first flight carrying foreigners out of the Afghan capital since a US-led evacuation ended on August 30. The flight to Doha comes as the Taliban continue their transition from insurgents to governing power, less than a month after they marched into Kabul and ousted former president Ashraf Ghani. Thursday afternoon's Qatar Airways flight took some 200 people from Kabul's airport the first since a mammoth, chaotic airlift of more than 120,000 people came to a dramatic close with the US pullout. An Afghan-American dual citizen, waiting to board the flight with his family, said the US State Department had called him in the morning and told him to go to the airport. "We got in contact with the State Department, they gave me a call this morning and said to go to the airport," the father, who asked not to be named, told AFP. In the days that followed the Taliban's blitz, the airport had become a tragic symbol of desperation among Afghans terrified of the militants' return to power with thousands of people crowding around its gates daily, and some even clinging to jets as they took off. More than 100 people were killed, including 13 US troops, in a suicide attack on August 26 near the airport that was claimed by the Islamic State group's local chapter. Waiting with suitcases Footage broadcast by Al Jazeera TV on Thursday showed families including women, children and elderly people waiting with suitcases at the airport for their turn to leave. It was not immediately clear whether any countries other than Qatar had played a role in organising the airlift. Qatar has acted as the central intermediary between the Taliban and the international community in recent years, and numerous countries, including the United States, have relocated their embassies from Kabul to Doha in the aftermath of the Taliban takeover. "We are very appreciative of the Qataris," one man told the channel, giving his nationality as Canadian. Away from the airport, there was a noticeably stronger Taliban presence on the streets of Kabul as armed fighters -- including special forces in military fatigues -- stood guard on street corners and manned checkpoints, according to AFP journalists. Protest ban Qatar's special envoy to Afghanistan, Mutlaq al-Qahtani, called it a "historic day" for the airport. He also said it marked a major step on the road to "reopening ... the airport to international flights, but it may be gradual". Most of the early Afghan evacuees were desperate to flee fearing Taliban reprisals for having worked with foreign powers during the 20-year, US-led occupation. The United States has repeatedly pledged to continue working to evacuate any American citizens still in Afghanistan after last month's airlift ended. Earlier Thursday, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said only around 100 Americans remained in Afghanistan. "It's right around 100 right now and we're working to get those American citizens who want to depart out of the country, as well as legal permanent residents and other key partners," Psaki told MSNBC. The Taliban have said they will not prevent anyone who wishes to from leaving the country, even as they have urged skilled Afghans, such as doctors and engineers, to remain. The Islamist hardliners have pledged a more moderate brand of rule than in their notoriously oppressive 1996-2001 reign. However, they have shown clear signs that they will not tolerate opposition. Earlier this week armed Taliban militants dispersed hundreds of protesters in cities across Afghanistan, including Kabul, Faizabad in the northeast and in Herat in the west, where two people were shot dead. Late Wednesday, they moved to snuff out any further civil unrest, saying protests would need prior authorisation from the justice ministry, adding that no demonstrations were allowed "for the time being". One protest organiser told AFP rallies in Kabul had been cancelled because of the overnight ban. Promises of inclusion A Taliban interim government, drawn exclusively from loyalist ranks, formally began work this week with established hardliners in all key posts and no women despite previous promises of an inclusive administration for all Afghans. All the top positions have been handed to key leaders from the movement and in particular the Haqqani network -- the most violent Taliban faction, known for devastating attacks. The dreaded Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice previously responsible for arresting and punishing people for failing to follow the movement's restrictive interpretation of sharia is being reinstated.

First evacuation flight takes off from Kabul since US troop withdrawal

Three spy chiefs, three meetings, one agenda- Afghanistan. Palki Sharma tells you why top security and espionage officials from the US, UK and Russia are making a beeline for New Delhi.

Gravitas: US, UK & Russia dispatch their spy chiefs to India

Antony Blinken visited Germany to discuss a joint strategy on how to engage with the Taliban. Will the US embrace, arrest or ignore the blacklisted ministers? What is the cost of America's 'pragmatic' engagement? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: How will US deal with blacklisted Taliban ministers?

Several leading US&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;on Thursday cut their forecasts for the third quarter, citing lower bookings and increased cancelations due to the&nbsp;latest&nbsp;wave&nbsp;of&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;infections.

After a better than expected July, American&nbsp;Airlines&nbsp;"experienced softness in August" in bookings and an increase in cancellations, attributed "to the rise in&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;cases associated with the delta variant," the company said in a securities filing.

American now expects third-quarter revenues to be 24 to 28 percent lower than the comparable period of 2019, worse than the July estimater for a drop of about 20 percent.

United&nbsp;Airlines&nbsp;also lowered projections, saying it "has seen in the last few weeks a deceleration in customer bookings for travel compared to previous estimations due to the recent spike in&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;cases associated with the Delta variant."&nbsp;

Despite the&nbsp;drag&nbsp;from&nbsp;the recent rise in infections, "the current spike in cases has been significantly less impactful to date than prior spikes and is expected to be temporary in nature," United said&nbsp;in a securities filing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-extends-covid-curbs-in-tokyo-till-september-end-411864">Also read |&nbsp;Japan extends Covid curbs in Tokyo till September end</a>

"Based on demand patterns following prior waves of&nbsp;Covid-19, the Company expects bookings to begin to recover once cases peak."

After suffering through a devastating 2020 due to&nbsp;Covid-19, US&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;have partially recovered thanks to the progress on vaccinations and an uptick in domestic travel.

However, business travel and international travel remain well below their pre-pandemic levels and are not expected to fully recover before 2022 or later.

Delta Air Lines, Southwest&nbsp;Airlines&nbsp;and JetBlue&nbsp;Airlines&nbsp;also lowered some forecasts in securities filings, citing similar dynamics.&nbsp;

Executives&nbsp;from&nbsp;leading carriers are scheduled to present at an investor conference later Thursday.

Several leading US airlines on Thursday cut their forecasts for the third quarter, citing lower bookings and increased cancelations due to the latest wave of Covid-19 infections.

Several leading US airlines on Thursday cut their forecasts for the third quarter, citing lower bookings and increased cancelations due to the latest wave of Covid-19 infections. After a better than expected July, American Airlines "experienced softness in August" in bookings and an increase in cancellations, attributed "to the rise in Covid-19 cases associated with the delta variant," the company said in a securities filing. American now expects third-quarter revenues to be 24 to 28 percent lower than the comparable period of 2019, worse than the July estimater for a drop of about 20 percent. United Airlines also lowered projections, saying it "has seen in the last few weeks a deceleration in customer bookings for travel compared to previous estimations due to the recent spike in Covid-19 cases associated with the Delta variant." Despite the drag from the recent rise in infections, "the current spike in cases has been significantly less impactful to date than prior spikes and is expected to be temporary in nature," United said in a securities filing. Also read | Japan extends Covid curbs in Tokyo till September end "Based on demand patterns following prior waves of Covid-19, the Company expects bookings to begin to recover once cases peak." After suffering through a devastating 2020 due to Covid-19, US airlines have partially recovered thanks to the progress on vaccinations and an uptick in domestic travel. However, business travel and international travel remain well below their pre-pandemic levels and are not expected to fully recover before 2022 or later. Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airlines also lowered some forecasts in securities filings, citing similar dynamics. Executives from leading carriers are scheduled to present at an investor conference later Thursday.

US airlines warn of drag from latest Covid-19 wave

The first commercial flight from Qatar Airways has arrived in Kabul. Taliban authorities have agreed to allow 200 Americans and several other foreign nationals still in Afghanistan to leave the country.

First commercial flight arrives at Kabul airport

Taliban authorities have agreed to allow 200 Americans and several other foreign nationals still in Afghanistan to leave the country, one week after US troops and government officials completed their evacuation operation from the country. WION's Anas Mallick brings you a report.

Taliban agrees to allow 200 Americans and other foreigners to leave Afghanistan

In US, labour unions of various airlines are planning strikes. Strikes will be held over fatigue and overscheduling.

Labour unions of various airlines plan strikes in US

A research study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has claimed that adults under 45 years old who consumed cannabis within the last 30 days suffered from nearly double the number of heart attacks than the adults who didn’t smoke up.

The research, published by Canadian Medical Association Journal, raises eyebrows of many as there has been a movement across the world, including the US&nbsp;and Canada, to legalise the use, distribution and production of cannabis for personal use.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-authorises-export-of-dried-cannabis-flowers-400240">Colombia authorises export of dried cannabis flowers</a>

The research notes, “With cannabis use on the rise, thanks in part to the pandemic, and legalization across the US continuing, its potential health risks have become an important area of research.”

The researchers also discovered that consuming cannabis in other ways was also linked to an elevated risk of heart attacks.

“Additionally, this association was consistent across different forms of cannabis consumption, including smoking, vaporization, and other methods such as edibles," study co-author Dr Karim Ladha, clinician-scientist and staff anesthesiologist at St. Michael's Hospital and the University of Toronto in Canada, said in a statement.

"This suggests that no method of consumption is safer than another in this regard,” he said.

The researchers analysed health data from over 33,000 adults ages 18 to 44 who were part of the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention surveys in 2017 and 2018.

Of the 17 per cent of adults who reported using cannabis within the previous month, 1.3 per cent later had a heart attack while only 0.8per cent of non-cannabis users reported the same.

“Some people assume that consuming cannabis is safe and can’t harm your body, but that is incorrect," Ladha later told CNN.

“There’s increasing evidence that this could potentially be harmful to you, both in the short term and the long term,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A research study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has claimed that adults under 45 years old who consumed cannabis within the last 30 days suffered from nearly double the number of heart attacks than the adults who didn’t smoke up.

A research study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has claimed that adults under 45 years old who consumed cannabis within the last 30 days suffered from nearly double the number of heart attacks than the adults who didn’t smoke up. The research, published by Canadian Medical Association Journal, raises eyebrows of many as there has been a movement across the world, including the US and Canada, to legalise the use, distribution and production of cannabis for personal use. Also read | Colombia authorises export of dried cannabis flowers The research notes, “With cannabis use on the rise, thanks in part to the pandemic, and legalization across the US continuing, its potential health risks have become an important area of research.” The researchers also discovered that consuming cannabis in other ways was also linked to an elevated risk of heart attacks. “Additionally, this association was consistent across different forms of cannabis consumption, including smoking, vaporization, and other methods such as edibles," study co-author Dr Karim Ladha, clinician-scientist and staff anesthesiologist at St. Michael's Hospital and the University of Toronto in Canada, said in a statement. "This suggests that no method of consumption is safer than another in this regard,” he said. The researchers analysed health data from over 33,000 adults ages 18 to 44 who were part of the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention surveys in 2017 and 2018. Of the 17 per cent of adults who reported using cannabis within the previous month, 1.3 per cent later had a heart attack while only 0.8per cent of non-cannabis users reported the same. “Some people assume that consuming cannabis is safe and can’t harm your body, but that is incorrect," Ladha later told CNN. “There’s increasing evidence that this could potentially be harmful to you, both in the short term and the long term,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Smoking cannabis could double risk of heart attack, claims study

Boeing's management is under threat. A US judge ruled that Boeing's board of directors must face a lawuit from shareholdres.

Boeing's management under threat after ruling that Boeing must face lawsuit from shareholders

Lashing out at the US, China deployed fighter jets on Wednesday after a frontline American warship sailed past a reef close to the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea (SCS). &nbsp;&nbsp;

China called the incident the “biggest destroyer of peace”. The SCS is one of the world’s busiest maritime trade lanes. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Calling it a part of Freedom of Navigation Operation (FONOP), the US navy’s destroyer USS Benfold sailed past the Mischief Reef, located close to Spratly Islands, on Wednesday. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US President Joe Biden tours hurricane hit areas in America

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The Mischief Reef is ring-shaped and located some 250km from the Philippines coast. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement, Lt Mark Langford, deputy public affairs officer, US 7th Fleet, said, “On September 8, USS Benfold (DDG 65) asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the Spratly Islands, consistent with international law. This FONOP upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea. USS Benfold demonstrated that Mischief Reef, a low-tide elevation in its natural state, is not entitled to a territorial sea under international law.” &nbsp;

Issuing a strong statement against the US warship’s movements in the SCS, China’s People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) southern theatre command (STC) spokesperson, Tian Junli, said the operation was carried out without the approval of the Chinese government.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-airstrikes-potentially-killed-over-40000-civilians-since-911-says-report-411636" hreflang="en">US airstrikes potentially killed over 40,000 civilians since 9/11, says report</a>

Carrying out follow-up surveillance, the PLA air force issued a warning to warship, he said. “The US’s serious violation of China’s sovereignty and security is another ironclad evidence of its aggressive navigation hegemony and militarisation of the South China Sea,” Junli added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Lashing out at the US, China deployed fighter jets on Wednesday after a frontline American warship sailed past a reef close to the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea (SCS).

Lashing out at the US, China deployed fighter jets on Wednesday after a frontline American warship sailed past a reef close to the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea (SCS). China called the incident the “biggest destroyer of peace”. The SCS is one of the world’s busiest maritime trade lanes. Calling it a part of Freedom of Navigation Operation (FONOP), the US navy’s destroyer USS Benfold sailed past the Mischief Reef, located close to Spratly Islands, on Wednesday. Watch: US President Joe Biden tours hurricane hit areas in America × The Mischief Reef is ring-shaped and located some 250km from the Philippines coast. In a statement, Lt Mark Langford, deputy public affairs officer, US 7th Fleet, said, “On September 8, USS Benfold (DDG 65) asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the Spratly Islands, consistent with international law. This FONOP upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea. USS Benfold demonstrated that Mischief Reef, a low-tide elevation in its natural state, is not entitled to a territorial sea under international law.” Issuing a strong statement against the US warship’s movements in the SCS, China’s People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) southern theatre command (STC) spokesperson, Tian Junli, said the operation was carried out without the approval of the Chinese government. Also Read: US airstrikes potentially killed over 40,000 civilians since 9/11, says report Carrying out follow-up surveillance, the PLA air force issued a warning to warship, he said. “The US’s serious violation of China’s sovereignty and security is another ironclad evidence of its aggressive navigation hegemony and militarisation of the South China Sea,” Junli added. (With inputs from agencies)

China lashes out, deploys fighter jets after US warship sails past Mischief Reef in South China Sea

US President Joe Biden continued his tour of damage caused by Hurricane Ida, traveling to New York and New Jersey to see the first-hand devastation caused by the massive storm inflicted on the Northeast.

Biden tours flood-hit area, calls for action on climate change

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