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

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

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

After US, Canada receives mysterious packages of seeds from China

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

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

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

US Republicans worry China might use TikTok to meddle in election

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Keeping international borders sealed unsustainable Covid-19 strategy: WHO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

US reacts sharply to Russian mystery projectile

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4 Chinese nationals arrested by US for visa fraud

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

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

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

TikTok launches $200 Million fund in United States

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

US acts tough on China: Clamps down on Chinese researchers

In a tit-for-tat escalation between the two countries, China has ordered the closure of the US consulate in the south-western city of Chengdu. Watch report.

China asks US to shut consulate | Chengdu | Retaliation to Houston consulate closure

China is considering ordering the closure of the US consulate in the central city of Wuhan after Washington told China to shut its consulate in the city of Houston. Watch report.

US orders its Houston mission closure: China may shut US Wuhan consulate

American authorities on Tuesday appeared before the media to reveal an espionage campaign that knows no borders.

The press had its eyes on Li Xiaoyu and Dong Jiazhi, two former engineering students who are now wanted by the FBI.&nbsp;It is believed that these hackers were sponsored by China to steal coronavirus vaccine research, not just from China but&nbsp;from the world’s biggest biotech firms.&nbsp;

Hackers allegedly targeted technology companies and countries with high technology industries including Australia, Belgium, Germany, Japan, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States.

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The case against the Chinese hackers exposed&nbsp;a spying effort that dates back 10 years.&nbsp;The hackers reportedly had a range of targets which&nbsp;included companies in high tech manufacturing, gaming software development and pharmaceutical companies.

Dissidents, clergy and human rights activists in the United States, China and Hong Kong were also reportedly targeted. Hackers also took some of the projects for money but America believes some of these assignments came from the Chinese ministry of state security -&nbsp;China’s very own spy agency.

John Demers, assistant attorney general for national security, said: "First, and one we have&nbsp;seen for some time, China is using cyber intrusions as part of its rob, replicate and replace strategy for technological development. Second, and one that is perhaps less appreciated by the public and international partners, China is providing a haven for criminal hackers who, as in this case, are hacking in part for their gain, but willing to help the state and on call to do so."

The current whereabouts of these hackers is unknown&nbsp;but the United States claims the Chinese state is protecting them.

According to a report, Chinese intelligence services in some cases provided hacking tools to them with&nbsp;most work being done using common methods by breaching existing vulnerabilities within digital networks and now the same duo was targeting coronavirus research.

American investigators say the hackers broke into computer networks by researching and identifying company employees and customers. After breaking in they stole information from the pharma companies about the drugs they were developing. US officials believe the attempted breach could slow down research into the vaccine because the computer systems will need to be secured.

The world must pay heed to the warnings from America while there is no evidence of manipulation yet, US officials have been asking researchers to make sure that their data has not been corrupted.

American authorities on Tuesday appeared before the media to reveal an espionage campaign that knows no borders. The press had its eyes on Li Xiaoyu and Dong Jiazhi, two former engineering students who are now wanted by the FBI.

American authorities on Tuesday appeared before the media to reveal an espionage campaign that knows no borders. The press had its eyes on Li Xiaoyu and Dong Jiazhi, two former engineering students who are now wanted by the FBI. It is believed that these hackers were sponsored by China to steal coronavirus vaccine research, not just from China but from the world’s biggest biotech firms. Hackers allegedly targeted technology companies and countries with high technology industries including Australia, Belgium, Germany, Japan, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States. × The case against the Chinese hackers exposed a spying effort that dates back 10 years. The hackers reportedly had a range of targets which included companies in high tech manufacturing, gaming software development and pharmaceutical companies. Dissidents, clergy and human rights activists in the United States, China and Hong Kong were also reportedly targeted. Hackers also took some of the projects for money but America believes some of these assignments came from the Chinese ministry of state security - China’s very own spy agency. John Demers, assistant attorney general for national security, said: "First, and one we have seen for some time, China is using cyber intrusions as part of its rob, replicate and replace strategy for technological development. Second, and one that is perhaps less appreciated by the public and international partners, China is providing a haven for criminal hackers who, as in this case, are hacking in part for their gain, but willing to help the state and on call to do so." The current whereabouts of these hackers is unknown but the United States claims the Chinese state is protecting them. According to a report, Chinese intelligence services in some cases provided hacking tools to them with most work being done using common methods by breaching existing vulnerabilities within digital networks and now the same duo was targeting coronavirus research. American investigators say the hackers broke into computer networks by researching and identifying company employees and customers. After breaking in they stole information from the pharma companies about the drugs they were developing. US officials believe the attempted breach could slow down research into the vaccine because the computer systems will need to be secured. The world must pay heed to the warnings from America while there is no evidence of manipulation yet, US officials have been asking researchers to make sure that their data has not been corrupted.

How Chinese hackers targeted COVID-19 vaccine research

In quest to beat US in space, China launches independent unmanned mission to Mars

Daunting COVID-19 records that US will never forget

The US Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs has&nbsp;unanimously voted to approve a bill to ban federal employees from using China's video-sharing app TikTok on government-issued devices.&nbsp;

This bill was introduced by Republican Senator Josh Hawley and was approved&nbsp;on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Earlier, a report was released by the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee saying that the United States and its allies have not taken sufficient measures to counter Beijing's efforts at mass surveillance and censorship.&nbsp;

The 58-page long report warned&nbsp;against China's ''mounting influence'' which will transform into "digital authoritarianism" and very soon it will ''write the rules of the Internet as a leading tech superpower if necessary steps are not taken to halt its progress.''

“Three and a half years into the Trump administration, the United States is now on the precipice of losing the future of the cyber domain to China,'' the report stated.

''If China continues to perfect the tools of digital authoritarianism and is able to effectively implement them both domestically and abroad, then China, not the United States and its allies, will shape the digital environment in which most of the world operates.''&nbsp;

The report highlighted China’s use of biometric and facial recognition technology, big data analytics, internet censorship and surveillance of digital communications.

The US Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs has unanimously voted to approve a bill to ban federal employees from using China's video-sharing app TikTok on government-issued devices.

The US Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs has unanimously voted to approve a bill to ban federal employees from using China's video-sharing app TikTok on government-issued devices. This bill was introduced by Republican Senator Josh Hawley and was approved on Wednesday. Earlier, a report was released by the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee saying that the United States and its allies have not taken sufficient measures to counter Beijing's efforts at mass surveillance and censorship. The 58-page long report warned against China's ''mounting influence'' which will transform into "digital authoritarianism" and very soon it will ''write the rules of the Internet as a leading tech superpower if necessary steps are not taken to halt its progress.'' “Three and a half years into the Trump administration, the United States is now on the precipice of losing the future of the cyber domain to China,'' the report stated. ''If China continues to perfect the tools of digital authoritarianism and is able to effectively implement them both domestically and abroad, then China, not the United States and its allies, will shape the digital environment in which most of the world operates.'' The report highlighted China’s use of biometric and facial recognition technology, big data analytics, internet censorship and surveillance of digital communications.

US Senate Committee approves bill banning TikTok for federal employees

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