Minneapolis Federal Reserve President Neel Kashkari said many US economic sectors faced rapidly rising prices and were struggling to adjust to reopening after the shutdown.

World Business Watch: Fed's Kashkari says many US sectors struggling to adjust to reopening

The Western United States is battling multiple wildfires and record-breaking heat for the past few days. At least 70 large wildfires burning across the drought-hit western US have engulfed more than one million acres in flames.

Firefighters battle at least 70 wildfires burning across Western US

Putting several rumours to rest, the US has formally accused China of hacking into the servers of Microsoft. On Monday, the White House condemned the Chinese government for leading "malicious cyber activity".

"The compromise and exploitation of the Microsoft Exchange server undermined the security and integrity of thousands of computers and networks worldwide," the Council of the European Union said in a published statement Monday. "This irresponsible and harmful behaviour resulted in security risks and significant economic loss for our government institutions and private companies, and has shown significant spill-over and systemic effects for our security, economy and society at large."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/technology/windows-11-is-now-official-here-is-all-you-need-to-know-393867" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/technology/windows-11-is-now-official-here-is-all-you-need-to-know-393867&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjZ1NuJle_xAhXczzgGHXHpDB4QFjAIegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0y340PLl3YK-PY_kiEXH_N" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/windows-11-is-now-official-here-is-all-you-need-to-know-393867" target="_blank">Windows 11 is now official. Here is all you need to know</a>

Experts claim that the hackers who penetrated the systems of Microsoft were identified by the US government, and it was revealed that these criminals had ties to China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS).

White House claims that these hackers with ties to MSS started manipulating the flaw in Microsoft’s Exchange Software in January, and used it to hack into the software. The hack is believed to be a part of China’s larger conventional spying operations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/microsoft-says-new-breach-discovered-in-probe-of-suspected-solarwinds-hackers-394118">Microsoft says new breach discovered in probe of suspected SolarWinds hackers</a>

"In some cases, we’re aware where [People’s Republic of China] government-affiliated cyber operators have conducted ransomware operations against private companies that have included ransom demands of millions of dollars," the official told local media on condition of anonymity.

While China has not yet commented on the issue, Microsoft has praised the joint statements. "Attributions like these will help the international community ensure those behind indiscriminate attacks are held accountable,"&nbsp;Tom Burt said. "Transparency is critical if we’re to combat the rising cyberattacks we see across the planet against individuals, organizations and nations."

Putting several rumours to rest, the US has formally accused China of hacking into the servers of Microsoft. On Monday, the White House condemned the Chinese government for leading "malicious cyber activity".

Putting several rumours to rest, the US has formally accused China of hacking into the servers of Microsoft. On Monday, the White House condemned the Chinese government for leading "malicious cyber activity". "The compromise and exploitation of the Microsoft Exchange server undermined the security and integrity of thousands of computers and networks worldwide," the Council of the European Union said in a published statement Monday. "This irresponsible and harmful behaviour resulted in security risks and significant economic loss for our government institutions and private companies, and has shown significant spill-over and systemic effects for our security, economy and society at large." Also read | Windows 11 is now official. Here is all you need to know Experts claim that the hackers who penetrated the systems of Microsoft were identified by the US government, and it was revealed that these criminals had ties to China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS). White House claims that these hackers with ties to MSS started manipulating the flaw in Microsoft’s Exchange Software in January, and used it to hack into the software. The hack is believed to be a part of China’s larger conventional spying operations. Also read | Microsoft says new breach discovered in probe of suspected SolarWinds hackers "In some cases, we’re aware where [People’s Republic of China] government-affiliated cyber operators have conducted ransomware operations against private companies that have included ransom demands of millions of dollars," the official told local media on condition of anonymity. While China has not yet commented on the issue, Microsoft has praised the joint statements. "Attributions like these will help the international community ensure those behind indiscriminate attacks are held accountable," Tom Burt said. "Transparency is critical if we’re to combat the rising cyberattacks we see across the planet against individuals, organizations and nations."

US formally accuses China of hacking Microsoft

In Los Angeles, dozens of people were arrested after a chaotic and sometimes violent demonstration by anti-transgender protesters who targeted a Koreatown spa. It has a trans-inclusive policy allowing trans women to use women’s facilities.

On Saturday, the protests completed two weekends of violent protests this month in the streets around Wi Spa. It is a neighbourhood that has found itself at the heart of a right-wing media storm over an alleged incident where a customer filmed herself complaining about a trans woman in the women’s area of the spa.

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Amber Hooper and Chloe watched the violence at the previous Wi Spa protest and were shocked. They came today from OC to represent their community. “We just want the violence to stop,” Chloe said. “Trans rights are human rights,” Amber said. <a href="https://t.co/YlWo47d1mu">pic.twitter.com/YlWo47d1mu</a>
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Just got thrown to the ground by right-wing anti-pedophile protesters as a crowd coverged on me and chased me. They threw water at me and screamed about Jesus and said to grab my phone. Police would not let me through the police line but after I got thrown on the ground they did. <a href="https://t.co/LDGqkua3fi">pic.twitter.com/LDGqkua3fi</a>
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&nbsp;

The protestors called for a boycott of Wi Spa and chanted baseless claims about paedophilia. Women were seen carrying a sign that read, &nbsp;“protect female spaces” and “It’s worse in women’s shelters”.

A Los Angeles police department spokesperson said that the police made several dozen arrests for failure to disperse after declaring an unlawful assembly shortly after 11 am.

LAPD also fired rubber bullets at trans rights demonstrators from a close distance. This comes despite a recent judge's rule restricting the department’s use of certain “less lethal” projectile launchers against protesters.&nbsp;

In Los Angeles, dozens of people were arrested after a chaotic and sometimes violent demonstration by anti-transgender protesters who targeted a Koreatown spa. It has a trans-inclusive policy allowing trans women to use women’s facilities.

In Los Angeles, dozens of people were arrested after a chaotic and sometimes violent demonstration by anti-transgender protesters who targeted a Koreatown spa. It has a trans-inclusive policy allowing trans women to use women’s facilities. On Saturday, the protests completed two weekends of violent protests this month in the streets around Wi Spa. It is a neighbourhood that has found itself at the heart of a right-wing media storm over an alleged incident where a customer filmed herself complaining about a trans woman in the women’s area of the spa. Amber Hooper and Chloe watched the violence at the previous Wi Spa protest and were shocked. They came today from OC to represent their community. “We just want the violence to stop,” Chloe said. “Trans rights are human rights,” Amber said. pic.twitter.com/YlWo47d1mu — Lois Beckett (@loisbeckett) July 17, 2021 × Just got thrown to the ground by right-wing anti-pedophile protesters as a crowd coverged on me and chased me. They threw water at me and screamed about Jesus and said to grab my phone. Police would not let me through the police line but after I got thrown on the ground they did. pic.twitter.com/LDGqkua3fi — Lois Beckett (@loisbeckett) July 17, 2021 × The protestors called for a boycott of Wi Spa and chanted baseless claims about paedophilia. Women were seen carrying a sign that read, “protect female spaces” and “It’s worse in women’s shelters”. A Los Angeles police department spokesperson said that the police made several dozen arrests for failure to disperse after declaring an unlawful assembly shortly after 11 am. LAPD also fired rubber bullets at trans rights demonstrators from a close distance. This comes despite a recent judge's rule restricting the department’s use of certain “less lethal” projectile launchers against protesters.

Protestors arrested in Los Angeles as anti-trans protest outside spa turns violent

The Biden administration has lashed out at Iran for accusing it of delaying a proposed prisoner swap to force a quick resumption of indirect nuclear talks.

The State Department slammed as 'outrageous' comments made by Iran's deputy foreign minister, who alleged the US and Britain were holding the swap 'hostage' to the negotiations over salvaging the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA.

In a pair of tweets from his verified account, Abbas Aragchi said the nuclear talks in Vienna could not resume until Iran's hardline president-elect is inaugurated in early August.

"We're in a transition period as a democratic transfer of power is underway in our capital," he said.

"The nuclear talks must thus obviously await our new administration. This is what every democracy demands," Aragchi said. He added that the US and Britain 'need to understand this and stop linking a humanitarian exchange ready to be implemented with the JCPOA'.

"Keeping such an exchange hostage to political aims achieves neither," said Aragchi, who is Iran's chief negotiator at the Vienna talks.&nbsp;"10 prisoners on all sides may be released tomorrow if US &amp; UK fulfill their part of deal."

A sixth round of nuclear talks ended last month without agreement ahead of Iran's presidential election won by Ebrahim Raisi.

The US has repeatedly said it is ready for a seventh round as soon as Iran is ready while also calling for the immediate release of American citizens detained in Iran.

In response to Aragchi's remarks, State Department spokesman Ned Price categorically rejected the claim, denied there was already an agreement on a swap, and said the US was prepared to continue talks on prisoners even while waiting for the resumption of the nuclear negotiations.

"These comments are an outrageous effort to deflect blame for the current impasse on a potential mutual return to compliance with the JCPOA," Price said.

"We stand ready to return to Vienna to complete work on a mutual return to the JCPOA once Iran has made the necessary decisions."

Price called Aragchi's reference to the possible imminent release of 10 prisoners on all sides 'just another cruel effort to raise the hopes of their families.'&nbsp;"If Iran were truly interested in making a humanitarian gesture, it would simply release the detainees immediately," he said.

The Biden administration has lashed out at Iran for accusing it of delaying a proposed prisoner swap to force a quick resumption of indirect nuclear talks. The State Department slammed as 'outrageous' comments made by Iran's deputy foreign minister, who alleged the US and Britain were holding the swap 'hostage' to the negotiations over salvaging the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA.

The Biden administration has lashed out at Iran for accusing it of delaying a proposed prisoner swap to force a quick resumption of indirect nuclear talks. The State Department slammed as 'outrageous' comments made by Iran's deputy foreign minister, who alleged the US and Britain were holding the swap 'hostage' to the negotiations over salvaging the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA. In a pair of tweets from his verified account, Abbas Aragchi said the nuclear talks in Vienna could not resume until Iran's hardline president-elect is inaugurated in early August. "We're in a transition period as a democratic transfer of power is underway in our capital," he said. "The nuclear talks must thus obviously await our new administration. This is what every democracy demands," Aragchi said. He added that the US and Britain 'need to understand this and stop linking a humanitarian exchange ready to be implemented with the JCPOA'. "Keeping such an exchange hostage to political aims achieves neither," said Aragchi, who is Iran's chief negotiator at the Vienna talks. "10 prisoners on all sides may be released tomorrow if US & UK fulfill their part of deal." A sixth round of nuclear talks ended last month without agreement ahead of Iran's presidential election won by Ebrahim Raisi. The US has repeatedly said it is ready for a seventh round as soon as Iran is ready while also calling for the immediate release of American citizens detained in Iran. In response to Aragchi's remarks, State Department spokesman Ned Price categorically rejected the claim, denied there was already an agreement on a swap, and said the US was prepared to continue talks on prisoners even while waiting for the resumption of the nuclear negotiations. "These comments are an outrageous effort to deflect blame for the current impasse on a potential mutual return to compliance with the JCPOA," Price said. "We stand ready to return to Vienna to complete work on a mutual return to the JCPOA once Iran has made the necessary decisions." Price called Aragchi's reference to the possible imminent release of 10 prisoners on all sides 'just another cruel effort to raise the hopes of their families.' "If Iran were truly interested in making a humanitarian gesture, it would simply release the detainees immediately," he said.

US hits Iran for delay in nuclear, prisoner swap talks

Three of the Democratic state lawmakers, who fled Texas to stymie a Republican-backed effort to impose broad new voting restrictions, have tested positive for COVID-19, the Texas House's Democratic caucus has said.

One lawmaker tested positive on Friday and the other two did so on Saturday, the caucus said in a statement. It said all three were fully vaccinated against the disease.

It didn't release their names or conditions to 'respect the privacy of Members and their personal health'.&nbsp;"This is a sober reminder that Covid is still with us, and though vaccinations offer tremendous protection, we still must take necessary precautions," caucus Chairman Chris Turner said in the statement, adding that the caucus was conferring with health experts in Texas to get additional guidance. Turner didn't immediately reply to a message seeking further information about the outbreak.

More than 50 Texas lawmakers arrived in Washington on Monday after leaving their home state on a private charter flight.&nbsp;They received criticism from Republicans and others after a photo showed them mask-less on the plane, though federal pandemic guidelines don't require masks to be worn on private aircraft.

The Democrats left the state to deny the Republican-controlled Legislature the necessary quorum to pass a bill that would place new restrictions on voting in Texas.

Members of the caucus have met with Vice President Kamala Harris, but it was not immediately known whether the three, who contracted COVID-19 did so. Harris' office said it would issue a statement later on Saturday.

Texas House Speaker Dade McPhelan, a Republican, issued a statement saying he and his wife were praying for the health and safety of the sick lawmakers.

"My staff has reached out to Dr&nbsp;John Hellerstedt, Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, and his epidemiology team for any additional guidance on protocols for those exposed to COVID-19 post-vaccination," Phelan wrote.&nbsp;

Three of the Democratic state lawmakers, who fled Texas to stymie a Republican-backed effort to impose broad new voting restrictions, have tested positive for COVID-19, the Texas House's Democratic caucus has said.

Three of the Democratic state lawmakers, who fled Texas to stymie a Republican-backed effort to impose broad new voting restrictions, have tested positive for COVID-19, the Texas House's Democratic caucus has said. One lawmaker tested positive on Friday and the other two did so on Saturday, the caucus said in a statement. It said all three were fully vaccinated against the disease. It didn't release their names or conditions to 'respect the privacy of Members and their personal health'. "This is a sober reminder that Covid is still with us, and though vaccinations offer tremendous protection, we still must take necessary precautions," caucus Chairman Chris Turner said in the statement, adding that the caucus was conferring with health experts in Texas to get additional guidance. Turner didn't immediately reply to a message seeking further information about the outbreak. More than 50 Texas lawmakers arrived in Washington on Monday after leaving their home state on a private charter flight. They received criticism from Republicans and others after a photo showed them mask-less on the plane, though federal pandemic guidelines don't require masks to be worn on private aircraft. The Democrats left the state to deny the Republican-controlled Legislature the necessary quorum to pass a bill that would place new restrictions on voting in Texas. Members of the caucus have met with Vice President Kamala Harris, but it was not immediately known whether the three, who contracted COVID-19 did so. Harris' office said it would issue a statement later on Saturday. Texas House Speaker Dade McPhelan, a Republican, issued a statement saying he and his wife were praying for the health and safety of the sick lawmakers. "My staff has reached out to Dr John Hellerstedt, Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, and his epidemiology team for any additional guidance on protocols for those exposed to COVID-19 post-vaccination," Phelan wrote.

3 Texas Democrats who fled elections bill vote get Covid 

Facebook&nbsp;on Saturday defended&nbsp;itself against US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's assertion that the social media platform is "killing people" by allowing misinformation about coronavirus&nbsp;vaccines to proliferate, saying the facts tell a different story.

"The data shows that 85% of&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;users in the&nbsp;US&nbsp;have been or want to be vaccinated against COVID-19,"&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;said in a corporate blog post by Guy Rosen, a company vice president. "President Biden’s goal was for 70% of Americans to be vaccinated by July 4.&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;is not the reason this goal was missed."

COVID-19 misinformation has spread during the pandemic on social media sites including&nbsp;Facebook, Twitter and Alphabet Inc-owned YouTube. Researchers and lawmakers have long accused&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;of&nbsp;failing&nbsp;to police harmful content on&nbsp;its&nbsp;platforms.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unprecedented-spate-in-us-shootings-leave-several-dead-multiple-injured-398771">Also read |&nbsp;Unprecedented spate in US shootings leave several dead, multiple injured&nbsp;</a>

"They're killing people. ... Look, the only pandemic we have is among the unvaccinated. And they're killing people," Biden told reporters at the White House on Friday when asked about misinformation and what his message was to social media platforms such as&nbsp;Facebook.

The company has introduced rules against making specific false claims about COVID-19 and vaccines for it, and&nbsp;says&nbsp;it provides people with reliable information on these topics.

The Delta variant of the coronavirus&nbsp;is now the dominant strain worldwide, accompanied by a surge of deaths around the United States almost entirely among unvaccinated people, U.S. officials said on Friday.

American cases of COVID-19 states are up 70% over the previous&nbsp;week and deaths are up 26%, with outbreaks occurring in parts of the country with low&nbsp;vaccination&nbsp;rates.

Facebook on Saturday defended itself against US President Joe Biden's assertion that the social media platform is "killing people" by allowing misinformation about coronavirus vaccines to proliferate, saying the facts tell a different story.

Facebook on Saturday defended itself against US President Joe Biden's assertion that the social media platform is "killing people" by allowing misinformation about coronavirus vaccines to proliferate, saying the facts tell a different story. "The data shows that 85% of Facebook users in the US have been or want to be vaccinated against COVID-19," Facebook said in a corporate blog post by Guy Rosen, a company vice president. "President Biden’s goal was for 70% of Americans to be vaccinated by July 4. Facebook is not the reason this goal was missed." COVID-19 misinformation has spread during the pandemic on social media sites including Facebook, Twitter and Alphabet Inc-owned YouTube. Researchers and lawmakers have long accused Facebook of failing to police harmful content on its platforms. Also read | Unprecedented spate in US shootings leave several dead, multiple injured "They're killing people. ... Look, the only pandemic we have is among the unvaccinated. And they're killing people," Biden told reporters at the White House on Friday when asked about misinformation and what his message was to social media platforms such as Facebook. The company has introduced rules against making specific false claims about COVID-19 and vaccines for it, and says it provides people with reliable information on these topics. The Delta variant of the coronavirus is now the dominant strain worldwide, accompanied by a surge of deaths around the United States almost entirely among unvaccinated people, U.S. officials said on Friday. American cases of COVID-19 states are up 70% over the previous week and deaths are up 26%, with outbreaks occurring in parts of the country with low vaccination rates.

Facebook says it should not be blamed for US failing to meet vaccine goals

In several shootings across the US,&nbsp;multiple people were killed and dozens injured. Gun violence was reported in Portland (Oregon), Houston&nbsp;(Philadelphia), Sacramento&nbsp;(California)&nbsp;and Washington, DC.

In Washington, DC, a six-year-old girl died in an attack late on Friday. In the incident, three men and two women were also injured, cops said.

Portland (Oregon) seems to have witnessed an unprecedented surge in&nbsp;gun violence and associated homicides&nbsp;in the past six months.&nbsp;On Saturday,&nbsp;the city saw around four shootings where two people were killed and seven injured, some critically.&nbsp;

Calling the rash of&nbsp;shootings,&nbsp;a 'pandemic',&nbsp;Mayor Ted Wheeler&nbsp;said he would push hard for more officers and resources for the Portland Police Bureau. The department&nbsp;lost 125 sworn officers&nbsp;last&nbsp;year and&nbsp;also&nbsp;faces news rounds of retiring officers in coming months.&nbsp;

In the Old Sacramento tourist district in Sacramento, California,&nbsp;two men were killed and four others were hospitalised with injuries in Friday night's violence, officials said.

In Philadelphia, a 27-year-old man was killed in&nbsp;gunfire in the city's East Falls neighbourhood&nbsp;around 2 am on&nbsp;Saturday, according to NBC Philadelphia.

It was one of several incidents reported in the city from Friday night to Saturday morning, the news station reported. In an&nbsp;altercation between two men in the city’s Queen Village neighbourhood, one person died.

In Maryland,&nbsp;cops fatally shot a 21-year-old outside a McDonald's restaurant after an 'armed standoff’,&nbsp;a news release from&nbsp;the Montgomery County Police Department said.&nbsp;

Incident occurred on&nbsp;Friday night when police officers responded to a call about a customer who ordered food but was not moving through the drive-thru lane at the McDonald's in Gaithersburg.&nbsp;

After spotting&nbsp;handgun in man’s car,&nbsp;additional officers were called to secure the area and McDonald's staff was evacuated.&nbsp;

An 'armed standoff' ensued, where cops tried&nbsp;to negotiate&nbsp;with the driver for 30 minutes.&nbsp;"Circumstances that are still under investigation led to officers firing their weapons and the driver was&nbsp;shot,"&nbsp;the news release said.&nbsp;

Although&nbsp;officers&nbsp;tried to provide&nbsp;aid to the driver&nbsp;before being&nbsp;taken to a hospital, he was pronounced dead&nbsp;later, police said.

(With inputs from agencies)

In several shootings across the US, multiple people were killed and dozens injured. Gun violence was reported in Portland (Oregon), Houston (Philadelphia), Sacramento (California) and Washington, DC.

In several shootings across the US, multiple people were killed and dozens injured. Gun violence was reported in Portland (Oregon), Houston (Philadelphia), Sacramento (California) and Washington, DC. In Washington, DC, a six-year-old girl died in an attack late on Friday. In the incident, three men and two women were also injured, cops said. Portland (Oregon) seems to have witnessed an unprecedented surge in gun violence and associated homicides in the past six months. On Saturday, the city saw around four shootings where two people were killed and seven injured, some critically. Calling the rash of shootings, a 'pandemic', Mayor Ted Wheeler said he would push hard for more officers and resources for the Portland Police Bureau. The department lost 125 sworn officers last year and also faces news rounds of retiring officers in coming months. In the Old Sacramento tourist district in Sacramento, California, two men were killed and four others were hospitalised with injuries in Friday night's violence, officials said. In Philadelphia, a 27-year-old man was killed in gunfire in the city's East Falls neighbourhood around 2 am on Saturday, according to NBC Philadelphia. It was one of several incidents reported in the city from Friday night to Saturday morning, the news station reported. In an altercation between two men in the city’s Queen Village neighbourhood, one person died. In Maryland, cops fatally shot a 21-year-old outside a McDonald's restaurant after an 'armed standoff’, a news release from the Montgomery County Police Department said. Incident occurred on Friday night when police officers responded to a call about a customer who ordered food but was not moving through the drive-thru lane at the McDonald's in Gaithersburg. After spotting handgun in man’s car, additional officers were called to secure the area and McDonald's staff was evacuated. An 'armed standoff' ensued, where cops tried to negotiate with the driver for 30 minutes. "Circumstances that are still under investigation led to officers firing their weapons and the driver was shot," the news release said. Although officers tried to provide aid to the driver before being taken to a hospital, he was pronounced dead later, police said. (With inputs from agencies)

Unprecedented spate in US shootings leave several dead, multiple injured 

Vivek Murthy, the US surgeon general, defended the renewal of the mask mandate in Los Angeles on Sunday, saying that other areas may have to follow.&nbsp;

The city of Los Angeles is the only US city that has reinstated its indoor mask mandate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mandatory-indoor-mask-use-returns-to-los-angeles-398414">Mandatory indoor mask use returns to Los Angeles</a>

Expressing his concern for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> outlook in the fall, Murthy said that amid a surge of cases of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-is-the-fastest-covid-19-variant-and-will-pick-off-the-most-vulnerable-who-393278">Delta variant</a>, a highly&nbsp;transmissible&nbsp;variant of coronavirus, he&nbsp;expected other areas to follow suit.

"In areas where there are low numbers of vaccinated people, or where cases are rising, it's very reasonable for counties to take more mitigation measures like the mask rules you see coming out in LA, and I anticipate that will happen in other parts of the country," Murthy told ABC.

After months of decline, during the past two weeks, there has been an unprecedented 135 per cent increase in COVID-19 cases in the US, with increases seen in nearly every state. LA has also experienced a significant increase.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/half-of-hospitalised-covid-19-patients-develop-organ-complications-irrespective-of-age-study-398395">&nbsp;Half of hospitalised COVID-19 patients develop organ complications irrespective of age: Study</a>

According to Hilda Solis, a Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors member, in the last few days, they have had almost 1,900 cases, while over 460 patients were admitted to their intensive-care units (ICUs).

"This is very disturbing, and of course, as responsible elected officials, we have to do something," she added.

Health officials are working to reassure the public that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a> are safe and effective, but vaccine skepticism, driven by misinformation, has grown in many places.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's director, Rochelle Walensky, reports that almost 97 per cent of those hospitalised in June were unvaccinated.

According to available figures, only about 48 per cent of Americans are fully vaccinated, while for those&nbsp;aged 18 and older, the figure stands at 68 per cent.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haunted-by-past-virus-surges-california-leans-on-masks-and-vaccines-398553">Haunted by past virus surges, California leans on masks and vaccines</a>

Due to the emergence of the Delta variant and the lag in vaccinations, Murthy says that he is extremely worried about the prospects for the fall, particularly as unvaccinated children under 12 are set to return to school and adults plan to return to working from the office.

"What I worry about," he said, "is that we still have millions of people in our country who are not vaccinated. We have to still protect our children under 12 who don't have a vaccine."

The US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> and other administration officials have also harshly criticised social media platforms for spreading misinformation about coronavirus.

Murthy, while talking to CNN, said that these, "platforms have to recognize they played a major role in the increase in speed and scale with which misinformation is spreading."

(With inputs from agencies)

Vivek Murthy, the US surgeon general, defended the renewal of the mask mandate in Los Angeles on Sunday, saying that other areas may have to follow. The city of Los Angeles is the only US city that has reinstated its indoor mask mandate.

Vivek Murthy, the US surgeon general, defended the renewal of the mask mandate in Los Angeles on Sunday, saying that other areas may have to follow. The city of Los Angeles is the only US city that has reinstated its indoor mask mandate. Also read | Mandatory indoor mask use returns to Los Angeles Expressing his concern for the COVID-19 outlook in the fall, Murthy said that amid a surge of cases of the Delta variant, a highly transmissible variant of coronavirus, he expected other areas to follow suit. "In areas where there are low numbers of vaccinated people, or where cases are rising, it's very reasonable for counties to take more mitigation measures like the mask rules you see coming out in LA, and I anticipate that will happen in other parts of the country," Murthy told ABC. After months of decline, during the past two weeks, there has been an unprecedented 135 per cent increase in COVID-19 cases in the US, with increases seen in nearly every state. LA has also experienced a significant increase. Also read | Half of hospitalised COVID-19 patients develop organ complications irrespective of age: Study According to Hilda Solis, a Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors member, in the last few days, they have had almost 1,900 cases, while over 460 patients were admitted to their intensive-care units (ICUs). "This is very disturbing, and of course, as responsible elected officials, we have to do something," she added. Health officials are working to reassure the public that vaccines are safe and effective, but vaccine skepticism, driven by misinformation, has grown in many places. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's director, Rochelle Walensky, reports that almost 97 per cent of those hospitalised in June were unvaccinated. According to available figures, only about 48 per cent of Americans are fully vaccinated, while for those aged 18 and older, the figure stands at 68 per cent. Also read | Haunted by past virus surges, California leans on masks and vaccines Due to the emergence of the Delta variant and the lag in vaccinations, Murthy says that he is extremely worried about the prospects for the fall, particularly as unvaccinated children under 12 are set to return to school and adults plan to return to working from the office. "What I worry about," he said, "is that we still have millions of people in our country who are not vaccinated. We have to still protect our children under 12 who don't have a vaccine." The US President Joe Biden and other administration officials have also harshly criticised social media platforms for spreading misinformation about coronavirus. Murthy, while talking to CNN, said that these, "platforms have to recognize they played a major role in the increase in speed and scale with which misinformation is spreading." (With inputs from agencies)

US surgeon general defends Los Angeles' reinstatement of indoor mask mandate

In a joint effort, a couple of charities have rescued two&nbsp;Syrian brown bears&nbsp;from a Lebanese zoo where they were kept in inhumane conditions.

According to the UK-based Bear Conservation group, a&nbsp;relatively smaller subspecies of the endangered brown bear, this species is no longer found in the wild in Syria or Lebanon.

The two rescued bears named Homer and Ulysses&nbsp;are both 18 years old and weigh 130 kilos (280 pounds).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/diapers-and-rags-lebanon-crisis-plunges-women-into-period-poverty-395140">Diapers and rags: Lebanon crisis plunges women into period poverty</a>

Jason Meir, Director of animal rights association, Animals Lebanon, says that these&nbsp;bears were most likely imported from eastern Europe.

The rescued bears have been&nbsp;living in a zoo near the southern city of Tyre, from where they were rescued after convincing the owner. A statement by the animal rights association, Animals Lebanon, said that the bears were kept in small cement cages for more than 10 years of their lives.&nbsp;

They were scheduled to leave Beirut on Sunday evening and will be flown to the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Colorado, US.

While these bears were supposed to travel to the US in 2019, banking restrictions due to the economic crisis in Lebanon followed by the coronavirus pandemic delayed the rescue.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-out-for-good-lebanese-teachers-flee-as-financial-crisis-builds-396821">School's out for good? Lebanese teachers flee as financial crisis builds</a>

An organisation involved in the relocation, Four Paws, says that in addition to malnutrition, the bears are suffering from extreme stress.

When the organisation first met them in November 2019, they found the bears confined in small cages that were no longer than a ping-pong table, with little or no food, water, and inadequate shelter.&nbsp;

Meir from&nbsp;Animals Lebanon tells of another 30 lions, tigers, and bears that still live as exotic pets or are kept in private zoos in the Mediterranean country.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a joint effort, a couple of charities have rescued two Syrian brown bears from a Lebanese zoo where they were kept in inhumane conditions. According to the UK-based Bear Conservation group, a relatively smaller subspecies of the endangered brown bear, this species is no longer found in the wild in Syria or Lebanon.

In a joint effort, a couple of charities have rescued two Syrian brown bears from a Lebanese zoo where they were kept in inhumane conditions. According to the UK-based Bear Conservation group, a relatively smaller subspecies of the endangered brown bear, this species is no longer found in the wild in Syria or Lebanon. The two rescued bears named Homer and Ulysses are both 18 years old and weigh 130 kilos (280 pounds). Also read | Diapers and rags: Lebanon crisis plunges women into period poverty Jason Meir, Director of animal rights association, Animals Lebanon, says that these bears were most likely imported from eastern Europe. The rescued bears have been living in a zoo near the southern city of Tyre, from where they were rescued after convincing the owner. A statement by the animal rights association, Animals Lebanon, said that the bears were kept in small cement cages for more than 10 years of their lives. They were scheduled to leave Beirut on Sunday evening and will be flown to the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Colorado, US. While these bears were supposed to travel to the US in 2019, banking restrictions due to the economic crisis in Lebanon followed by the coronavirus pandemic delayed the rescue. Also read | School's out for good? Lebanese teachers flee as financial crisis builds An organisation involved in the relocation, Four Paws, says that in addition to malnutrition, the bears are suffering from extreme stress. When the organisation first met them in November 2019, they found the bears confined in small cages that were no longer than a ping-pong table, with little or no food, water, and inadequate shelter. Meir from Animals Lebanon tells of another 30 lions, tigers, and bears that still live as exotic pets or are kept in private zoos in the Mediterranean country. (With inputs from agencies)

Two rescued bears make their way from Lebanon to the US

On Thursday, the director-general of the World Health Organization Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said it had been "premature" to dismiss the possibility that a lab leak had spawned the pandemic.

'Covid lab leak theory as credible as natural origins explanation', says US

A chemical leak at a Houston-area water park left dozens suffering from minor skin irritation and respiratory issues, authorities said.

Twenty-nine people were taken to local hospitals following the incident at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown in Spring on Saturday, the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office tweeted.

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HCFMO HAZMAT has been requested to assist <a href="https://twitter.com/Springfdtx?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Springfdtx</a> with a chemical incident at Hurricane Harbor Splashtown. 29 people are going through decon. HCFMO hazmat is on scene working to identify the cause of the incident. More info as soon as availabl. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hounews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hounews</a> <a href="https://t.co/a7v8T3DXwc">pic.twitter.com/a7v8T3DXwc</a>
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Thirty-nine others declined to be taken to a hospital after undergoing decontamination procedures.&nbsp;KPRC-TV reports that some of those who became sick were children, including a three-year-old, who was hospitalised in stable condition.

The chemicals involved included hypochlorite solution and 35 per cent sulfuric acid, officials said. "The safety of our guests and team member is always our highest priority and the park was immediately cleared as we try to determine a cause," Hurricane Harbor Splashtown spokesperson Rosie Shepard said in a statement, according to news outlets. "Out of an abundance of caution, the park has been closed for the day."

Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident, which they said was contained to one attraction at the park. 
"Grateful for the swift action from first responders today at Splashtown," Houston's chief elected official, Lina Hidalgo, tweeted.

"We've issued a closure order to investigate and ensure the park meets all requirements before reopening again."&nbsp;

A chemical leak at a Houston-area water park left dozens suffering from minor skin irritation and respiratory issues, authorities said. Twenty-nine people were taken to local hospitals following the incident at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown in Spring on Saturday, the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office tweeted.

A chemical leak at a Houston-area water park left dozens suffering from minor skin irritation and respiratory issues, authorities said. Twenty-nine people were taken to local hospitals following the incident at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown in Spring on Saturday, the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office tweeted. HCFMO HAZMAT has been requested to assist @Springfdtx with a chemical incident at Hurricane Harbor Splashtown. 29 people are going through decon. HCFMO hazmat is on scene working to identify the cause of the incident. More info as soon as availabl. #hounews pic.twitter.com/a7v8T3DXwc — @hcfmo (@hcfmo) July 17, 2021 × Thirty-nine others declined to be taken to a hospital after undergoing decontamination procedures. KPRC-TV reports that some of those who became sick were children, including a three-year-old, who was hospitalised in stable condition. The chemicals involved included hypochlorite solution and 35 per cent sulfuric acid, officials said. "The safety of our guests and team member is always our highest priority and the park was immediately cleared as we try to determine a cause," Hurricane Harbor Splashtown spokesperson Rosie Shepard said in a statement, according to news outlets. "Out of an abundance of caution, the park has been closed for the day." Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident, which they said was contained to one attraction at the park. "Grateful for the swift action from first responders today at Splashtown," Houston's chief elected official, Lina Hidalgo, tweeted. "We've issued a closure order to investigate and ensure the park meets all requirements before reopening again."

US: Dozens treated after chemical leak at Texas water park

Top US scientist Anthony Fauci on Saturday blasted commentators who sound an anti-vaccination theme, saying America might still be battling smallpox and polio if today's kind of misinformation existed back then.

The comments from the country's leading infectious disease expert reflected mounting frustration over the sharp slowdown in the COVID-19 vaccination rate in the United States, even as the disease has been surging in states with low rates.

It also came days after President Joe Biden expressed his own visible frustration, saying social media that carry widely heard misinformation about vaccines are "killing people."

Fauci was responding to a CNN interviewer who asked if he thought "we could have defeated the measles or eradicated polio if you had Fox News, night after night, warning people about these vaccine issues that are just bunk."

Fauci said: "We probably would still have smallpox and we probably would still have polio ... if we had the kind of false information that's being spread."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dreamers-programme-deemed-unlawful-by-us-federal-judge-biden-says-deeply-disappointed-398708">Also read |&nbsp;'Dreamers' programme deemed unlawful by US Federal Judge, Biden says 'deeply disappointed'</a>

Initial vaccine scepticism in many areas has increasingly evolved into outright hostility, a message magnified by baseless conspiracy theories regularly aired on Fox and other conservative networks.

"Maybe it doesn't work and they're simply not telling you that," Tucker Carlson, one of Fox's most popular commentators, said recently.

The vaccines have instead proved extraordinarily effective. Officials in Maryland, for example, said that not one of the people who died of the disease last month in the state had been vaccinated.

To suggestions of sending vaccine educators door-to-door to encourage people to get the jab, Fox commentator Charlie Hurt said, "They've become like the Taliban."

Conservative politicians have increasingly echoed former President Donald Trump's mockery of Covid precautions.&nbsp;

Door-to-door educators, suggested Representative Madison Cawthorn of North Carolina, might instead come and take people's guns -- or their Bibles.

After an initial burst of vaccinations around the country, the pace has slowed sharply.

Biden's announced goal of having 70 per cent of adults vaccinated by July 4 fell short by about three points, and the vaccination rate has slowed further since then, even as the disease's Delta variant has spread rapidly.

A few Republicans have sought to place blame for the disease's ravages and economic dislocations on the widely respected Fauci himself.&nbsp;

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has introduced the so-called Fire Fauci Act, calling for his salary to be reduced to zero and requiring the Senate to confirm a replacement. The bill is not expected to go anywhere.

Fauci was asked on CNN about T-shirts being sold by a political action group linked to Florida governor Ron DeSantis that say "Don't Fauci My Florida."

He appeared genuinely perplexed.

"Taking an individual who stands for public health, for truth... and to use my name in a derogatory way to prevent people from doing things that's for the benefit of their own health, go figure that one out.

"That doesn't make any sense at all," he said, shaking his head.

Top US scientist Anthony Fauci on Saturday blasted commentators who sound an anti-vaccination theme, saying America might still be battling smallpox and polio if today's kind of misinformation existed back then.

Top US scientist Anthony Fauci on Saturday blasted commentators who sound an anti-vaccination theme, saying America might still be battling smallpox and polio if today's kind of misinformation existed back then. The comments from the country's leading infectious disease expert reflected mounting frustration over the sharp slowdown in the COVID-19 vaccination rate in the United States, even as the disease has been surging in states with low rates. It also came days after President Joe Biden expressed his own visible frustration, saying social media that carry widely heard misinformation about vaccines are "killing people." Fauci was responding to a CNN interviewer who asked if he thought "we could have defeated the measles or eradicated polio if you had Fox News, night after night, warning people about these vaccine issues that are just bunk." Fauci said: "We probably would still have smallpox and we probably would still have polio ... if we had the kind of false information that's being spread." Also read | 'Dreamers' programme deemed unlawful by US Federal Judge, Biden says 'deeply disappointed' Initial vaccine scepticism in many areas has increasingly evolved into outright hostility, a message magnified by baseless conspiracy theories regularly aired on Fox and other conservative networks. "Maybe it doesn't work and they're simply not telling you that," Tucker Carlson, one of Fox's most popular commentators, said recently. The vaccines have instead proved extraordinarily effective. Officials in Maryland, for example, said that not one of the people who died of the disease last month in the state had been vaccinated. To suggestions of sending vaccine educators door-to-door to encourage people to get the jab, Fox commentator Charlie Hurt said, "They've become like the Taliban." Conservative politicians have increasingly echoed former President Donald Trump's mockery of Covid precautions. Door-to-door educators, suggested Representative Madison Cawthorn of North Carolina, might instead come and take people's guns -- or their Bibles. After an initial burst of vaccinations around the country, the pace has slowed sharply. Biden's announced goal of having 70 per cent of adults vaccinated by July 4 fell short by about three points, and the vaccination rate has slowed further since then, even as the disease's Delta variant has spread rapidly. A few Republicans have sought to place blame for the disease's ravages and economic dislocations on the widely respected Fauci himself. Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene has introduced the so-called Fire Fauci Act, calling for his salary to be reduced to zero and requiring the Senate to confirm a replacement. The bill is not expected to go anywhere. Fauci was asked on CNN about T-shirts being sold by a political action group linked to Florida governor Ron DeSantis that say "Don't Fauci My Florida." He appeared genuinely perplexed. "Taking an individual who stands for public health, for truth... and to use my name in a derogatory way to prevent people from doing things that's for the benefit of their own health, go figure that one out. "That doesn't make any sense at all," he said, shaking his head.

US might 'still have polio' if media back then opposed vaccine, says Fauci

A man was arrested by police in the United States&nbsp;for allegedly trying to throw an&nbsp;alligator onto the roof of a building after stealing it from a miniature golf course.&nbsp;

32-year-old&nbsp;William Hodge&nbsp;was&nbsp;taken into custody&nbsp;around 3 am&nbsp;on&nbsp;Thursday. He was&nbsp;charged with possessing and injuring an alligator, burglary of an unoccupied dwelling, criminal mischief and petty theft,&nbsp;said&nbsp;the docket of his court case.&nbsp;

The accused first&nbsp;allegedly hopped the Congo River Golf's fence, a miniature golf course in the area to&nbsp;steal an alligator from an enclosure on the course, a Washington Examiner report said.&nbsp;

Hodge&nbsp;then allegedly took the alligator to&nbsp;a bar and liquor store,&nbsp;Metz Lounges,&nbsp;and&nbsp;tried to throw it onto the roof&nbsp;by grabbing it by the tail.&nbsp;

After only hitting the awning of the bar, the accused took it by the tail again. This time, he&nbsp;put it over his shoulder&nbsp;and&nbsp;threw it&nbsp;on&nbsp;the ground,&nbsp;and stomped on it twice,&nbsp;the police&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

When&nbsp;Daytona Beach police officer Molly Billue&nbsp;asked Hodge what he was doing&nbsp;by&nbsp;throwing the alligator in the air, he said&nbsp;he was 'teaching it a lesson'.&nbsp;

The alligator is alive, but it seems to be unclear if it sustained any injuries in the attack.&nbsp;

A man was arrested by police in the United States for allegedly trying to throw an alligator onto the roof of a building after stealing it from a miniature golf course.

A man was arrested by police in the United States for allegedly trying to throw an alligator onto the roof of a building after stealing it from a miniature golf course. 32-year-old William Hodge was taken into custody around 3 am on Thursday. He was charged with possessing and injuring an alligator, burglary of an unoccupied dwelling, criminal mischief and petty theft, said the docket of his court case. The accused first allegedly hopped the Congo River Golf's fence, a miniature golf course in the area to steal an alligator from an enclosure on the course, a Washington Examiner report said. Hodge then allegedly took the alligator to a bar and liquor store, Metz Lounges, and tried to throw it onto the roof by grabbing it by the tail. After only hitting the awning of the bar, the accused took it by the tail again. This time, he put it over his shoulder and threw it on the ground, and stomped on it twice, the police said. When Daytona Beach police officer Molly Billue asked Hodge what he was doing by throwing the alligator in the air, he said he was 'teaching it a lesson'. The alligator is alive, but it seems to be unclear if it sustained any injuries in the attack.

US man arrested for trying to throw alligator onto roof to teach a 'lesson'

The US government is now investigating a series of health incidents that involve its diplomats and other administrative staff in Vienna. Since President Joe Biden took office in January, more than 20 officials have reported symptoms similar to Havana Syndrome, which is a mystery brain illness.

The US government is now investigating a series of health incidents that involve its diplomats and other administrative staff in Vienna. Since President Joe Biden took office in January, more than 20 officials have reported symptoms similar to Havana Syndrome, which is a mystery brain illness. Even though the syndrome is unexplained, US scientists say that it is most probably caused by directed microwave radiation, First discovered in Cuba in 2016-17, the US and Canadian diplomats have complained of symptoms ranging from dizziness, loss of balance, hearing loss, and anxiety to something they described as "cognitive fog". Also read | US: Dozens treated after chemical leak at Texas water park In the year 2019, a US academic study found "brain abnormalities" in the diplomats who had fallen ill. However, Cuba dismissed the report. Also, the US accused Cuba of carrying out "sonic attacks", which is strongly denied. The cases in Vienna were first highlighted by the New Yorker magazine on Friday. They were later confirmed by the US State Department, as it said that it was "vigorously investigating"

'Havana syndrome': Mystery illness affects Vienna US diplomats

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden will host Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi at the White House on July 26, the White House said on Friday. 
 
The visit will highlight the strategic partnership between the two countries and advance bilateral cooperation under a 2008 agreement that governed the withdrawal of US&nbsp;troops from Iraq, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said. 
 
Psaki listed areas of shared interest, such as energy and health and said Biden looked forward to strengthening cooperation with Iraq on "security issues to include joint efforts to ensure the enduring defeat" of the Islamic State militant group. 
 
Psaki made no reference to Iran, which exercises influence in neighboring Iraq through its close relations with the Baghdad government and by backing Shi'ite militia forces that mount attacks on military facilities hosting US&nbsp;forces. 
 
A senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard commander urged Iraqi Shi'ite militias to step up attacks on US&nbsp;targets during a meeting in Baghdad last week, three militia sources and two Iraqi security sources familiar with the gathering said.

US President Joe Biden will host Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi at the White House on July 26, the White House said on Friday. The visit will highlight the strategic partnership between the two countries and advance bilateral cooperation under a 2008 agreement that governed the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said.

US President Joe Biden will host Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi at the White House on July 26, the White House said on Friday. The visit will highlight the strategic partnership between the two countries and advance bilateral cooperation under a 2008 agreement that governed the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said. Psaki listed areas of shared interest, such as energy and health and said Biden looked forward to strengthening cooperation with Iraq on "security issues to include joint efforts to ensure the enduring defeat" of the Islamic State militant group. Psaki made no reference to Iran, which exercises influence in neighboring Iraq through its close relations with the Baghdad government and by backing Shi'ite militia forces that mount attacks on military facilities hosting US forces. A senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard commander urged Iraqi Shi'ite militias to step up attacks on US targets during a meeting in Baghdad last week, three militia sources and two Iraqi security sources familiar with the gathering said.

Biden to host Iraq's prime minister at White House on July 26

More than two dozen F-22 stealth fighters are being sent by the&nbsp;United States Air Force&nbsp;for&nbsp;an exercise in the western Pacific this month. This&nbsp;large deployment of the powerful jets seems to be&nbsp;to&nbsp;send a strong message to China.&nbsp;

In Operation Pacific Iron 2021&nbsp;this month&nbsp;at&nbsp;Guam and Tinian islands,&nbsp;around&nbsp;25 F-22s Raptors from the Hawaii Air National Guard and&nbsp;Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, will&nbsp;be&nbsp;deployed, said&nbsp;Pacific Air Forces in Hawaii this week&nbsp;as per a&nbsp;CNN report.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pacific Air Forces&nbsp;commander&nbsp;Gen Ken Wilsbach&nbsp;said,&nbsp;"We have never had this many Raptors deployed together in the Pacific Air Forces area of operations."&nbsp;The world's most advanced fighter aircraft, the F-22s are fifth-generation combat jets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the US government on Friday issued a business advisory on Hong Kong warning companies of "growing risks" that "could adversely affect businesses and individuals operating in Hong Kong."&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Biden administration also imposed sanctions against seven Chinese officials over China's crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

However, China's foreign ministry lashed out against the US government asserting that it was "purely China's internal affairs".&nbsp;

"The United States should abide by international law and basic norms of international relations, stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs in any way," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao&nbsp;Lijian&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

"China will respond firmly and forcefully to the measures taken by the United States," it added.&nbsp;

The US advisory mentioned risks involved with data privacy and the lack of access to information while mentioning Apple Daily newspaper which was shut by authorities.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden had said earlier that the situation in Hong Kong has been "deteriorating" while adding that the Chinese government has not been keeping its commitment on Hong Kong.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

More than two dozen F-22 stealth fighters are being sent by the United States Air Force for an exercise in the western Pacific this month. This large deployment of the powerful jets seems to be to send a strong message to China.

More than two dozen F-22 stealth fighters are being sent by the United States Air Force for an exercise in the western Pacific this month. This large deployment of the powerful jets seems to be to send a strong message to China. In Operation Pacific Iron 2021 this month at Guam and Tinian islands, around 25 F-22s Raptors from the Hawaii Air National Guard and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, will be deployed, said Pacific Air Forces in Hawaii this week as per a CNN report. Pacific Air Forces commander Gen Ken Wilsbach said, "We have never had this many Raptors deployed together in the Pacific Air Forces area of operations." The world's most advanced fighter aircraft, the F-22s are fifth-generation combat jets. Meanwhile, the US government on Friday issued a business advisory on Hong Kong warning companies of "growing risks" that "could adversely affect businesses and individuals operating in Hong Kong." The Biden administration also imposed sanctions against seven Chinese officials over China's crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong. However, China's foreign ministry lashed out against the US government asserting that it was "purely China's internal affairs". "The United States should abide by international law and basic norms of international relations, stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs in any way," China's foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said. "China will respond firmly and forcefully to the measures taken by the United States," it added. The US advisory mentioned risks involved with data privacy and the lack of access to information while mentioning Apple Daily newspaper which was shut by authorities. US President Joe Biden had said earlier that the situation in Hong Kong has been "deteriorating" while adding that the Chinese government has not been keeping its commitment on Hong Kong. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid rising tensions with China, US to send F-22 fighter jets to the Pacific  

The Pulitzer Prize-winning Indian photojournalist, Danish Siddiqui was killed in a Taliban strike when he was on a reporting trip along with Afghan security personnel.

Kandahar: India condemns killing of journalist Danish Siddiqui at UNSC

The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits fell to a 16-month low-level last week as the labor market gains traction, but worker shortages and bottlenecks in the supply chain are frustrating efforts by businesses to ramp up production to meet strong demand for goods and services.

World Business Watch: US weekly jobless claims at 16-month low, shortages hamper manufacturing

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a directive to operators of all Boeing 737 series airplanes to conduct inspections to address possible failures of cabin altitude pressure switches.

World Business Watch: FAA orders checks on 9,300 Boeing 737 planes for possible switch failures

A brutal start to the wildfire season in the western United States and Canada worsened Thursday as a massive Oregon blaze exploded in dry, windy conditions and a new California blaze threatened communities devastated by the 2018 Camp Fire.

A brutal start to the wildfire season in the western United States and Canada worsened Thursday as a massive Oregon blaze exploded in dry, windy conditions and a new California blaze threatened communities devastated by the 2018 Camp Fire. Wildfire officials raised their preparedness level to the highest tier -- the earliest such move in a decade -- and Canada's military joined evacuation efforts, as the region reels from the effects of consecutive heat waves that experts say have been worsened by global warming. "This fire is going to continue to grow -- the extremely dry vegetation and weather are not in our favour," said Joe Hessel, who is leading a team tackling Oregon's 227,000-acre Bootleg Fire. We have 15 large wildfires burning over 360,000 acres w/5,000+ firefighters addressing the fires throughout Oregon & Washington. Get the most updated information about wildfires burning in the Pacific NW, please check: https://t.co/C2sliXNvCa pic.twitter.com/lGMvcBmXcR — Forest Service NW (@ForestServiceNW) July 15, 2021 × Burning through the equivalent of 130,000 soccer fields, the Bootleg Fire some 250 miles south of Portland is the largest active blaze in the US, bellowing heavy smoke visible from space that is blanketing parts of neighbouring Washington and Idaho. Firefighters have been dispatched from as far away as San Francisco to tackle the massive blaze, which is showing "extreme" growth through drought-affected brush and due to hot, dry and breezy conditions. It began more than a week ago and is just seven per cent contained, has destroyed 21 homes and threatening almost 2,000 more. Also read | Wildfire ravages Canada amid record heat The inferno is just one of around 70 large fires burning some one million acres (400,000 hectares) in the US alone. 'Deja vu' The governor of the northwestern state of Montana on Wednesday declared a statewide wildland fire emergency. And in California, the newly ignited Dixie Fire began ripping through land near the town of Paradise which was razed by the notorious 2018 Camp Fire -- the deadliest in the state's modern history, killing 86 people. "The fire started just a couple of miles [away], on the same road, as the Camp Fire in 2018," David Little of the North Valley Community Foundation, set up to help Camp Fire victims, told the Los Angeles Times. "It's really a sense of deja vu that's uneasy." The Dixie Fire doubled in size overnight and was zero per cent contained, but was moving away from populated areas such as Paradise. Elsewhere in California the much larger Beckwourth Complex -- a combination of two blazes sparked by lightning last week -- neared 100,000 acres Thursday. Last year was the worst in California's modern history by acres burnt, but 2021 is currently outpacing even that record destruction. The fire season is starting earlier and ending later each year, while much of the state is in the grip of a severe multi-year drought. In Canada, the armed forces are now participating in wildfire evacuations in British Columbia for the first time since the fires began, a military source told AFP. Air quality alerts have been issued in many parts of British Columbia due to smoke from forest fires. As of Thursday afternoon, the province had 309 fires, 23 of which started in the last two days. Scientists say heatwaves arriving in the western US and Canada in late June would have been "virtually impossible" without human-caused climate change. Human activity has driven global temperatures up, stoking increasingly fierce storms, extreme heatwaves, droughts and wildfires.

'Extreme' wildfires and heavy smoke grip western US and Canada

According to a US study, the Chinese military is facing a lack of domestic innovation and corruption in its defence industry. The report by the Rand Corporation identified China as the “clear pacing threat” to the US in terms of investment in military capabilities but found that much of its progress was the result of intellectual property theft, foreign acquisitions and joint ventures.

US Study: Chinese army faces problems in weapons innovation, relying on foreign acquisitions

German Chancellor Angela Merkel is in the United States for probably the last time before she leaves office. A number of topics were under discussion during talks at the White House, such as the Nord Stream 2 project, COVID-19 travel restrictions and ongoing concerns over Russia and China.

Biden welcomes 'great friend' Merkel to the White House

RBI has banned Mastercard for violating data-storage laws. When does the ban kick in? Which banks does it impact? Will it impact existing customers too? Will domestic card companies benefit from this decision? Palki Sharma answers all your questions.

Gravitas: Explained: India's Mastercard Ban

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