The USA has reportedly asked United Nations Security Council to extend sanctions waiver for more than a dozen top Taliban officials to travel abroad for discussions on Afghanistan's stability. Foreign Policy has reported that this request has come just over a month when US warned that UN sanctions on Taliban leaders' travel would be reimposed if the Taliban did not desist from perpetrating violence in Afghanistan.

Taliban has since come to power in Afghanistan and has solidified its grip on almost the entire country.

As per the media report, the waiver on Taliban leaders travel was to end on September 20. But now the US has requested it be extended to December 22.

Moreover, US requests that Taliban leaders be allowed to withdraw money from their frozen accounts for the purpose of their travel. However, as per the note, the travel should be to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan.

USA or the international community has not formally recognised the Taliban regime in Afghanistan yet. On Friday, International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that its engagement in Afghanistan will remain suspended till there is some clarity among countries about recognition to the Taliban regime.

The USA has reportedly asked United Nations Security Council to extend sanctions waiver for more than a dozen top Taliban officials to travel abroad for discussions on Afghanistan's stability.

The USA has reportedly asked United Nations Security Council to extend sanctions waiver for more than a dozen top Taliban officials to travel abroad for discussions on Afghanistan's stability. Foreign Policy has reported that this request has come just over a month when US warned that UN sanctions on Taliban leaders' travel would be reimposed if the Taliban did not desist from perpetrating violence in Afghanistan. Taliban has since come to power in Afghanistan and has solidified its grip on almost the entire country. As per the media report, the waiver on Taliban leaders travel was to end on September 20. But now the US has requested it be extended to December 22. Moreover, US requests that Taliban leaders be allowed to withdraw money from their frozen accounts for the purpose of their travel. However, as per the note, the travel should be to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan. USA or the international community has not formally recognised the Taliban regime in Afghanistan yet. On Friday, International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that its engagement in Afghanistan will remain suspended till there is some clarity among countries about recognition to the Taliban regime.

US requests UN to extend waiver on Taliban travel ban: Report

Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old US girl who commands more than 200,000 Instagram followers&nbsp;has been reported missing by her family and a police search is currently underway in the US. Petito&nbsp;was on a road trip with her fiance Brian Laundrie who returned home alone without her on September 1 and is refusing to speak with the authorities. Gabby was reported missing by her parents on September 11. Police are investigating the mysterious disappearance.

<img alt="Gabby Petito" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cc762c08-9a01-4b4f-ab08-096c9f0f6697" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/gaby%201.JPG" />

(Gabby Petito)

Petito started a road trip with Laundrie in June this year. As per media reports they planned to visit national parks on US West Coast. Petito was in regular contact with her family on her road trip. But her family lost contact with her in last week of August.

Brain Laundrie, her fiance returned to Florida home shared by the couple on September 1. Gabby was not with him. He has been refusing to speak with the police and is "person of interest" in the case.&nbsp;

<img alt="Gabby Brian" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bf87340c-e30b-4059-856d-2ecdd2460f2a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Gabby%20Brian.JPG" />

(Gabby's dated Instagram pic with her fiance Brian Laundrie)

On August 12, police in Utah had found the couple arguing on road in their car with Gabby in tears. When asked, she told the police that it was a personal matter. No arrests were made at the time. The police official has been quoted in media reports to say that both of them said that they loved each other and were engaged to be married. They did not want to press charges against each other.

<img alt="Gaby Petito" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8e642d6-0b93-417e-a212-4dbe2f87317d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/gaby%202.JPG" />

Petito's family is now strongly urging Laundrie and his family to help them find her but Laundrie's lawyer has reportedly said that the family would like to stay in the background.

Petitos' lawyer has said that her family did not believe that the last message they received from Gabby was sent by her. Contents of the message have not been divulged.

Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old US girl who commands more than 200,000 Instagram followers has been reported missing by her family and a police search is currently underway in the US.

Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old US girl who commands more than 200,000 Instagram followers has been reported missing by her family and a police search is currently underway in the US. Petito was on a road trip with her fiance Brian Laundrie who returned home alone without her on September 1 and is refusing to speak with the authorities. Gabby was reported missing by her parents on September 11. Police are investigating the mysterious disappearance. (Gabby Petito) Petito started a road trip with Laundrie in June this year. As per media reports they planned to visit national parks on US West Coast. Petito was in regular contact with her family on her road trip. But her family lost contact with her in last week of August. Brain Laundrie, her fiance returned to Florida home shared by the couple on September 1. Gabby was not with him. He has been refusing to speak with the police and is "person of interest" in the case. (Gabby's dated Instagram pic with her fiance Brian Laundrie) On August 12, police in Utah had found the couple arguing on road in their car with Gabby in tears. When asked, she told the police that it was a personal matter. No arrests were made at the time. The police official has been quoted in media reports to say that both of them said that they loved each other and were engaged to be married. They did not want to press charges against each other. Petito's family is now strongly urging Laundrie and his family to help them find her but Laundrie's lawyer has reportedly said that the family would like to stay in the background. Petitos' lawyer has said that her family did not believe that the last message they received from Gabby was sent by her. Contents of the message have not been divulged.

Gabby Petito: Mystery deepens as US girl, 22, goes missing on a road trip with fiancé

Leaders of the Republican Party in US Congress on Tuesday continued withholding support to increasing US debt ceiling. The efforts to raise the debt ceiling have been initiated by the Democratic Party.

Last week, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned that the government will run out of money next month unless lawmakers take action. Banking groups have urged Congress to act to prevent "irreparable harm" to US economy.

Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said Democrats will have to resolve the issue on their own.

"The Democratic leaders have every tool and procedure they need to handle the debt limit on a partisan basis, just like they are choosing to handle everything else," McConnell said on the Senate floor.

Congress is currently considering a $1.2 trillion infrastructure plan that has the backing of Democrats and some Republicans.&nbsp;

Also on their agenda is a massive social spending plan costing $3.5 trillion over 10 years, which has only garnered the support of Democrats who plan to pay for it with tax increases on corporations and the wealthiest Americans.

McConnell objects to what he called a "massive reckless tax and spending spree."&nbsp;

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy called for raising the debt ceiling in an interview with CNBC.&nbsp;

"I think it's scary for consumer confidence and for confidence in US businesses and potential credit ratings if we don't make sure that we raise that debt ceiling," Jassy said.

The Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA), American Bankers Association and other industry groups said in a letter to congressional leaders that defaulting "on our existing obligations would be irresponsible and do irreparable harm to the US economy and taxpayers."

Even "a short-term delay would cause serious harm at a time when our economy continues to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic," the letter read.

USA's debt and deficit have increased during Covid-19 pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

Leaders of the Republican Party in US Congress on Tuesday continued withholding support to increasing US debt ceiling. The efforts to raise the debt ceiling have been initiated by the Democratic Party.

Leaders of the Republican Party in US Congress on Tuesday continued withholding support to increasing US debt ceiling. The efforts to raise the debt ceiling have been initiated by the Democratic Party. Last week, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned that the government will run out of money next month unless lawmakers take action. Banking groups have urged Congress to act to prevent "irreparable harm" to US economy. Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said Democrats will have to resolve the issue on their own. "The Democratic leaders have every tool and procedure they need to handle the debt limit on a partisan basis, just like they are choosing to handle everything else," McConnell said on the Senate floor. Congress is currently considering a $1.2 trillion infrastructure plan that has the backing of Democrats and some Republicans. Also on their agenda is a massive social spending plan costing $3.5 trillion over 10 years, which has only garnered the support of Democrats who plan to pay for it with tax increases on corporations and the wealthiest Americans. McConnell objects to what he called a "massive reckless tax and spending spree." Amazon CEO Andy Jassy called for raising the debt ceiling in an interview with CNBC. "I think it's scary for consumer confidence and for confidence in US businesses and potential credit ratings if we don't make sure that we raise that debt ceiling," Jassy said. The Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA), American Bankers Association and other industry groups said in a letter to congressional leaders that defaulting "on our existing obligations would be irresponsible and do irreparable harm to the US economy and taxpayers." Even "a short-term delay would cause serious harm at a time when our economy continues to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic," the letter read. USA's debt and deficit have increased during Covid-19 pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Republicans continue withholding support to US debt ceiling increase

US Prsident Joe Biden on Tuesday denied a media report that Chinese President Xi Jinping turned down an offer last week for a face-to-face meeting.

The Financial Times cited multiple people briefed on a 90-minute call between the two leaders last week as saying Xi did not take Biden up on the offer and instead insisted that Washington adopt a less strident tone toward Beijing.

"It's not true," Biden said when asked by reporters if he was disappointed that Xi did not want to meet with him.

Jake Sullivan, Biden's National Security Advisor said earlier on Tuesday that the report was "not an accurate portrayal of the call. Period"

A source who was among those briefed on the call confirmed the report was accurate.

"Xi apparently intimated that the tone and atmosphere of the relationship needed to be improved first," the source told Reuters.

There was no immediate response from Chinese embassy in Washington.

The Financial Times quoted one of its sources as saying Biden had floated the summit as one of several possibilities for follow-on engagement with Xi, and he had not expected an immediate response.

It cited one US official as saying that while Xi did not engage with the idea of a summit, the White House believed that was partly due to concerns about COVID-19.

The G20 summit in Italy in October has been talked about as a possible venue for a face-to-face meeting, but Xi has not left China since the outbreak of the pandemic early last year.

In his statement, Sullivan added: "As we’ve said, the Presidents discussed the importance of being able to have private discussions between the two leaders, and we’re going to respect that."

The call between Biden and Xi was their first in seven months and they discussed the need to ensure that competition between the world's two largest economies does not veer into conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Prsident Joe Biden on Tuesday denied a media report that Chinese President Xi Jinping turned down an offer last week for a face-to-face meeting. The Financial Times cited multiple people briefed on a 90-minute call between the two leaders last week as saying Xi did not take Biden up on the offer and instead insisted that Washington adopt a less strident tone toward Beijing.

US Prsident Joe Biden on Tuesday denied a media report that Chinese President Xi Jinping turned down an offer last week for a face-to-face meeting. The Financial Times cited multiple people briefed on a 90-minute call between the two leaders last week as saying Xi did not take Biden up on the offer and instead insisted that Washington adopt a less strident tone toward Beijing. "It's not true," Biden said when asked by reporters if he was disappointed that Xi did not want to meet with him. Jake Sullivan, Biden's National Security Advisor said earlier on Tuesday that the report was "not an accurate portrayal of the call. Period" A source who was among those briefed on the call confirmed the report was accurate. "Xi apparently intimated that the tone and atmosphere of the relationship needed to be improved first," the source told Reuters. There was no immediate response from Chinese embassy in Washington. The Financial Times quoted one of its sources as saying Biden had floated the summit as one of several possibilities for follow-on engagement with Xi, and he had not expected an immediate response. It cited one US official as saying that while Xi did not engage with the idea of a summit, the White House believed that was partly due to concerns about COVID-19. The G20 summit in Italy in October has been talked about as a possible venue for a face-to-face meeting, but Xi has not left China since the outbreak of the pandemic early last year. In his statement, Sullivan added: "As we’ve said, the Presidents discussed the importance of being able to have private discussions between the two leaders, and we’re going to respect that." The call between Biden and Xi was their first in seven months and they discussed the need to ensure that competition between the world's two largest economies does not veer into conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden says Xi Jinping did not turn down meeting offer

The White House on Monday announced that the first in-person Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan's leaders' summit will take place on September 24 in Washington. The summit marks a major milestone and coming of age for the grouping which has been in works for some time now. For the summit, US President Joe Biden will be hosting Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga and Indian PM Narendra Modi.

A White House statement said, "The Biden-Harris Administration has made elevating the Quad a priority, as seen through the first-ever Quad Leaders-level engagement in March, which was virtual, and now this Summit, which will be in-person".&nbsp;

March 12th saw the first Quad summit, but that happened virtually amid the Covid pandemic. The key outcome of the summit was Quad Covid vaccine initiative. Quad vaccine initiative will see Covid vaccines developed in the US being manufactured in India. This will be financed by Japan and US and supported by Australia.

The White House statement highlighted that "hosting the leaders of the Quad demonstrates the Biden-Harris Administration’s priority of engaging in the Indo-Pacific, including through new multilateral configurations to meet the challenges of the 21st century." Indo-Pacific as a vision is being back by India and US among other countries in the region. Many countries in Europe have also issued their papers on the visions and how to support it.

The statement pointed that the focus of the summit will be on "deepening our ties and advancing practical cooperation" on areas such as "combatting COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, partnering on emerging technologies and cyberspace, and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific." Quad first came into existence after the 2004 tsunami and saw some formalization in 2007. At that time Australia had issues. Since 2019, Quad has had regular conversations at the foreign ministers' level.

The announcement by White House confirms Indian PM Modi's US visit. He is expected to hold bilateral talks with US President Biden on September 23, the first in-person meet between the 2 leaders since the change of guard in Washington. On 25th he will be travelling to New York for the United Nations General Assembly. During his address he will be focusing on UN reforms, climate change, Covid crisis and vaccines, counter-terror and some references can be expected on Afghanistan as well.

The White House on Monday announced that the first in-person Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan's leaders' summit will take place on September 24 in Washington.

The White House on Monday announced that the first in-person Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan's leaders' summit will take place on September 24 in Washington. The summit marks a major milestone and coming of age for the grouping which has been in works for some time now. For the summit, US President Joe Biden will be hosting Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga and Indian PM Narendra Modi. A White House statement said, "The Biden-Harris Administration has made elevating the Quad a priority, as seen through the first-ever Quad Leaders-level engagement in March, which was virtual, and now this Summit, which will be in-person". March 12th saw the first Quad summit, but that happened virtually amid the Covid pandemic. The key outcome of the summit was Quad Covid vaccine initiative. Quad vaccine initiative will see Covid vaccines developed in the US being manufactured in India. This will be financed by Japan and US and supported by Australia. The White House statement highlighted that "hosting the leaders of the Quad demonstrates the Biden-Harris Administration’s priority of engaging in the Indo-Pacific, including through new multilateral configurations to meet the challenges of the 21st century." Indo-Pacific as a vision is being back by India and US among other countries in the region. Many countries in Europe have also issued their papers on the visions and how to support it. The statement pointed that the focus of the summit will be on "deepening our ties and advancing practical cooperation" on areas such as "combatting COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, partnering on emerging technologies and cyberspace, and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific." Quad first came into existence after the 2004 tsunami and saw some formalization in 2007. At that time Australia had issues. Since 2019, Quad has had regular conversations at the foreign ministers' level. The announcement by White House confirms Indian PM Modi's US visit. He is expected to hold bilateral talks with US President Biden on September 23, the first in-person meet between the 2 leaders since the change of guard in Washington. On 25th he will be travelling to New York for the United Nations General Assembly. During his address he will be focusing on UN reforms, climate change, Covid crisis and vaccines, counter-terror and some references can be expected on Afghanistan as well.

First in person Quad leaders' Summit on September 24: White House

A US Air Force base was given the all-clear Friday, facility officials said, lifting a four-hour lockdown following reports of an active shooter.

The Ohio base shut down at roughly 9:25 pm (0125 GMT Friday) with security forces sweeping the three-storey National Air and Space Intelligence Center.

Installation Commander Colonel Patrick Miller&nbsp;told local media WHIOTV that two people reported hearing a single gunshot in the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, prompting the search.

"At the end of the night, we did not find a threat,"&nbsp;Miller said.&nbsp;

The base's official account tweeted shortly before 2 am that they had been "given the All Clear. Lockdown has been lifted".

Miller added roughly 100 people barricaded themselves in rooms during the incident.

The facility's loudspeakers -- which had been blaring for several hours so loudly it could be heard outside the base -- broadcast the all-clear, according to WHIOTV.

A US Air Force base was given the all-clear Friday, facility officials said, lifting a four-hour lockdown following reports of an active shooter. The Ohio base shut down at roughly 9:25 pm (0125 GMT Friday) with security forces sweeping the three-storey National Air and Space Intelligence Center.

A US Air Force base was given the all-clear Friday, facility officials said, lifting a four-hour lockdown following reports of an active shooter. The Ohio base shut down at roughly 9:25 pm (0125 GMT Friday) with security forces sweeping the three-storey National Air and Space Intelligence Center. Installation Commander Colonel Patrick Miller told local media WHIOTV that two people reported hearing a single gunshot in the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, prompting the search. "At the end of the night, we did not find a threat," Miller said. The base's official account tweeted shortly before 2 am that they had been "given the All Clear. Lockdown has been lifted". Miller added roughly 100 people barricaded themselves in rooms during the incident. The facility's loudspeakers -- which had been blaring for several hours so loudly it could be heard outside the base -- broadcast the all-clear, according to WHIOTV.

US air base gives all-clear after active shooter reports

When Americans honor the nearly 3,000 killed in the September 11, 2001 Al-Qaeda attacks on the 20th anniversary on Saturday, a grim shadow will lurk in the background, that of attacks mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, who has yet to be tried and convicted for the heinous crime.&nbsp;

Mohammed, who boasted to interrogators of designing and managing the 9/11 plot&nbsp;sits in a cell in a high-security camp on the US naval base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.&nbsp;

He has been here for 15 years, as the attempt to hold him accountable in a US military war court plods on in fits and starts, stuck on whether his being tortured by the CIA renders his boastful confessions inadmissible.

He remains, after the now-dead Osama Bin Laden, the most reviled figure tied to the 9/11 attacks.&nbsp;

Ali Soufan, a former FBI agent who investigated the attacks, calls Mohammed a "wild-eyed killer" whose "demented" plotting set him apart from others in Al-Qaeda.

Imagination and managerial skills

Most people know him by the photograph taken of his capture, his thick body clothed in a nightshirt, wearing a thick moustache and disheveled hair.&nbsp;

Appearing in the Guantanamo military courtroom for the first time in over 18 months this week, Mohammed was thinner, with a long, greying red-dyed beard, wearing more traditional Pakistani dress.

He walked in easily, chatting with a fellow defendant in the death-penalty case, and knelt on a small carpet between the tables for prayers.&nbsp;

The official 9/11 Commission report and a Senate report about the CIA's torture program describe the 56-year-old "KSM" as a capable and bloodthirsty lieutenant of bin Laden.

A Pakistani citizen, he was raised in Kuwait. He learned English well enough to study mechanical engineering at a US university.&nbsp;

By the time he graduated in 1986, he was already a Muslim hard-liner.&nbsp;

Working for the Qatar government in the early 1990s, Mohammed appears to have been inspired to action by a nephew, Ramzi Yousef, who undertook the bombing of New York's World Trade Center in 1993. After that, the two joined hands with a plan to blow up US-bound jetliners flying from the Philippines.&nbsp;

Yousef was arrested in Pakistan after the first attempt failed, while Mohammed lay low in Qatar before relocating to Pakistan in 1996 to evade a US search.

It was then that he first proposed the 9/11 attacks to bin Laden.&nbsp;

"Highly educated and equally comfortable in a government office or a terrorist safehouse, KSM applied his imagination, technical aptitude, and managerial skills to hatching and planning an extraordinary array of terrorist schemes," the 9/11 Commission report said.

Waterboarding

After the attacks, Mohammed was captured in Rawalpindi, Pakistan in March 2003 and taken by the CIA to a black site in Poland for interrogation.&nbsp;

Over four weeks, he was subjected to waterboarding 183 times, as well as to sleep deprivation, repeated slamming against a wall, "rectal rehydration," and other harsh techniques.

The Senate report described him as deeply resistant, frustrating interrogators with lies and fabrications, while giving up relatively general information.&nbsp;

But following his transfer to Guantanamo in September 2006, he proudly confessed to the military court and compared himself to George Washington, fighting to escape oppression.

"I was responsible for the 9/11 operation, from A to Z," he said.

He also claimed responsibility for 30 other operations, including Al-Qaeda-linked bombings in Bali and Kenya, and said he personally murdered the kidnapped US journalist Daniel Pearl, who was beheaded in Pakistan in 2002.

The 9/11 report called his plotting "theater, a spectacle of destruction with KSM as the self-cast star -- the superterrorist."

But the length of the proceedings may have worn him down.&nbsp;

In 2017, Mohammed's lawyers were in discussions to plead guilty in exchange for a life sentence. That deal never developed, reportedly because of opposition high in the government. &nbsp;

'Legendary figure'

In the court this week, Mohammed appeared confident and unapologetic, animatedly talking to his attorneys, defying the judge's requirement to wear a mask, and waving to two journalists in the glassed-in viewing gallery at the back of the court.

Attorneys say he almost certainly knows of the Taliban recapturing control of Afghanistan, hailed as a great victory by Al-Qaeda.

"He is definitely considered as a legendary figure and one of the masterminds behind 9/11," Tore Hamming, a Danish specialist on militant Islam, told AFP.

"That said, it is not like KSM is often discussed, but occasionally he features in written and visual productions," he added.

When Americans honor the nearly 3,000 killed in the September 11, 2001 Al-Qaeda attacks on the 20th anniversary on Saturday, a grim shadow will lurk in the background, that of attacks mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, who has yet to be tried and convicted for the heinous crime.

When Americans honor the nearly 3,000 killed in the September 11, 2001 Al-Qaeda attacks on the 20th anniversary on Saturday, a grim shadow will lurk in the background, that of attacks mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, who has yet to be tried and convicted for the heinous crime. Mohammed, who boasted to interrogators of designing and managing the 9/11 plot sits in a cell in a high-security camp on the US naval base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He has been here for 15 years, as the attempt to hold him accountable in a US military war court plods on in fits and starts, stuck on whether his being tortured by the CIA renders his boastful confessions inadmissible. He remains, after the now-dead Osama Bin Laden, the most reviled figure tied to the 9/11 attacks. Ali Soufan, a former FBI agent who investigated the attacks, calls Mohammed a "wild-eyed killer" whose "demented" plotting set him apart from others in Al-Qaeda. Imagination and managerial skills Most people know him by the photograph taken of his capture, his thick body clothed in a nightshirt, wearing a thick moustache and disheveled hair. Appearing in the Guantanamo military courtroom for the first time in over 18 months this week, Mohammed was thinner, with a long, greying red-dyed beard, wearing more traditional Pakistani dress. He walked in easily, chatting with a fellow defendant in the death-penalty case, and knelt on a small carpet between the tables for prayers. The official 9/11 Commission report and a Senate report about the CIA's torture program describe the 56-year-old "KSM" as a capable and bloodthirsty lieutenant of bin Laden. A Pakistani citizen, he was raised in Kuwait. He learned English well enough to study mechanical engineering at a US university. By the time he graduated in 1986, he was already a Muslim hard-liner. Working for the Qatar government in the early 1990s, Mohammed appears to have been inspired to action by a nephew, Ramzi Yousef, who undertook the bombing of New York's World Trade Center in 1993. After that, the two joined hands with a plan to blow up US-bound jetliners flying from the Philippines. Yousef was arrested in Pakistan after the first attempt failed, while Mohammed lay low in Qatar before relocating to Pakistan in 1996 to evade a US search. It was then that he first proposed the 9/11 attacks to bin Laden. "Highly educated and equally comfortable in a government office or a terrorist safehouse, KSM applied his imagination, technical aptitude, and managerial skills to hatching and planning an extraordinary array of terrorist schemes," the 9/11 Commission report said. Waterboarding After the attacks, Mohammed was captured in Rawalpindi, Pakistan in March 2003 and taken by the CIA to a black site in Poland for interrogation. Over four weeks, he was subjected to waterboarding 183 times, as well as to sleep deprivation, repeated slamming against a wall, "rectal rehydration," and other harsh techniques. The Senate report described him as deeply resistant, frustrating interrogators with lies and fabrications, while giving up relatively general information. But following his transfer to Guantanamo in September 2006, he proudly confessed to the military court and compared himself to George Washington, fighting to escape oppression. "I was responsible for the 9/11 operation, from A to Z," he said. He also claimed responsibility for 30 other operations, including Al-Qaeda-linked bombings in Bali and Kenya, and said he personally murdered the kidnapped US journalist Daniel Pearl, who was beheaded in Pakistan in 2002. The 9/11 report called his plotting "theater, a spectacle of destruction with KSM as the self-cast star -- the superterrorist." But the length of the proceedings may have worn him down. In 2017, Mohammed's lawyers were in discussions to plead guilty in exchange for a life sentence. That deal never developed, reportedly because of opposition high in the government. 'Legendary figure' In the court this week, Mohammed appeared confident and unapologetic, animatedly talking to his attorneys, defying the judge's requirement to wear a mask, and waving to two journalists in the glassed-in viewing gallery at the back of the court. Attorneys say he almost certainly knows of the Taliban recapturing control of Afghanistan, hailed as a great victory by Al-Qaeda. "He is definitely considered as a legendary figure and one of the masterminds behind 9/11," Tore Hamming, a Danish specialist on militant Islam, told AFP. "That said, it is not like KSM is often discussed, but occasionally he features in written and visual productions," he added.

Khalid Sheikh Mohammed: the defiant 'mass murderer' of 9/11

The first in-person summit of the leaders of the Quad countries is likely to take place in Washington on September 24 with a focus to chart a new roadmap for expanding the overall cooperation in diverse areas, diplomatic sources said on Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga are expected to deliberate extensively to give a new momentum to the functioning of the Quad at the summit, they said.

Modi is likely to travel to Washington during which he is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly in New York and hold a bilateral meeting with President Biden besides participating in the Quad Summit on September 24, according to sources.

However, there is no official announcement about Modi's visit as well as on the Quad summit from the Indian side.

India and the US held a series of meetings as part of preparations for Modi's visit to the US and it is learnt that the issue also figured during Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's recent visit to Washington.

The US has been looking at convening the in-person summit of the leaders of Quad to boost practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as well as to send a strong signal about Washington's commitment to the grouping.

In March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending a subtle message to China.

The last time Modi visited the US was in September 2019 when he and then US President Donald Trump addressed the Howdy Modi event in Houston.

The first in-person summit of the leaders of the Quad countries is likely to take place in Washington on September 24 with a focus to chart a new roadmap for expanding the overall cooperation in diverse areas, diplomatic sources said on Thursday.

The first in-person summit of the leaders of the Quad countries is likely to take place in Washington on September 24 with a focus to chart a new roadmap for expanding the overall cooperation in diverse areas, diplomatic sources said on Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga are expected to deliberate extensively to give a new momentum to the functioning of the Quad at the summit, they said. Modi is likely to travel to Washington during which he is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly in New York and hold a bilateral meeting with President Biden besides participating in the Quad Summit on September 24, according to sources. However, there is no official announcement about Modi's visit as well as on the Quad summit from the Indian side. India and the US held a series of meetings as part of preparations for Modi's visit to the US and it is learnt that the issue also figured during Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's recent visit to Washington. The US has been looking at convening the in-person summit of the leaders of Quad to boost practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as well as to send a strong signal about Washington's commitment to the grouping. In March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending a subtle message to China. The last time Modi visited the US was in September 2019 when he and then US President Donald Trump addressed the Howdy Modi event in Houston.

First in-person Quad summit likely in Washington on Sep 24: Diplomatic sources

After consultations with partners on how to show a united front to the hardline new administration in Afghanistan, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken cautioned that the Taliban would have to earn legitimacy from the rest of the world.&nbsp;

"The Taliban seek international legitimacy. Any legitimacy — any support — will have to be earned, " Blinken told reporters at the US air base in Ramstein, Germany, after leading a 20-nation ministerial meeting on the Afghan crisis.

Standing beside him, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said the international community expected the Taliban to respect human rights, especially women's rights, to allow humanitarian supplies into the country, and to let individuals who wanted to leave to do so.

Maas stated that the talks on Wednesday were "the beginning point for international coordination" in dealing with the Taliban.

The virtual summit was attended by European allies as well as Pakistan, a long-time Taliban supporter.

Initial reactions showed that the new administration could have trouble gaining the international support that the new authorities so sorely need to prevent a financial crisis.

The interior minister is Sirajuddin Haqqani, who is wanted by the FBI for questioning.

The declaration came just hours after the Taliban shot their weapons into the air to disperse protestors in Kabul's capital and arrested several journalists, marking the second time in less than a week that harsh measures were employed to disperse a demonstration.&nbsp;

The US State Department expressed concern that the Cabinet consisted solely of Taliban, no women, and individuals with a questionable track record, but stated that the new administration's actions would be judged.

Maas stated that Germany is prepared to provide humanitarian aid through the United Nations and that it will continue to communicate with the Taliban in order to guarantee the departure of former employees and others from Afghanistan.

He went on to say that any commitment beyond that would be contingent on the Taliban's actions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After consultations with partners on how to show a united front to the hardline new administration in Afghanistan, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken cautioned that the Taliban would have to earn legitimacy from the rest of the world.

After consultations with partners on how to show a united front to the hardline new administration in Afghanistan, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken cautioned that the Taliban would have to earn legitimacy from the rest of the world. "The Taliban seek international legitimacy. Any legitimacy — any support — will have to be earned, " Blinken told reporters at the US air base in Ramstein, Germany, after leading a 20-nation ministerial meeting on the Afghan crisis. Standing beside him, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said the international community expected the Taliban to respect human rights, especially women's rights, to allow humanitarian supplies into the country, and to let individuals who wanted to leave to do so. Maas stated that the talks on Wednesday were "the beginning point for international coordination" in dealing with the Taliban. The virtual summit was attended by European allies as well as Pakistan, a long-time Taliban supporter. Initial reactions showed that the new administration could have trouble gaining the international support that the new authorities so sorely need to prevent a financial crisis. The interior minister is Sirajuddin Haqqani, who is wanted by the FBI for questioning. The declaration came just hours after the Taliban shot their weapons into the air to disperse protestors in Kabul's capital and arrested several journalists, marking the second time in less than a week that harsh measures were employed to disperse a demonstration. The US State Department expressed concern that the Cabinet consisted solely of Taliban, no women, and individuals with a questionable track record, but stated that the new administration's actions would be judged. Maas stated that Germany is prepared to provide humanitarian aid through the United Nations and that it will continue to communicate with the Taliban in order to guarantee the departure of former employees and others from Afghanistan. He went on to say that any commitment beyond that would be contingent on the Taliban's actions. (With inputs from agencies)

Any legitimacy, any support 'will have to be earned': Blinken to Taliban

Workers have deployed containment booms and skimmer devices as they attempt to contain a sizable oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico discovered after Hurricane Ida roared through the area, the US Coast Guard said Sunday.&nbsp;

The spill is in waters off Port Fourchon, Louisiana -- near where Ida made landfall -- in a region that is a major hub of the US petrochemical industry.&nbsp;

An oil slick now extends more than a dozen miles through the warm waters of the Gulf but has yet to reach shore, the Houston Chronicle reported.

The Coast Guard in Louisiana said it had been informed of a spill in that area and was responding, but provided few details.

Talos Energy, a Texas firm specializing in offshore oil and gas exploration, has dispatched clean-up vessels and divers to the site. The company, which had operated in the area of the spill until 2017, insisted that its equipment was not the cause of the leak.

The response team "identified a non-Talos owned 12 (inch) pipeline displaced from its original trench location, which appears to be bent and open ended," the company said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Additionally, two non-Talos owned 4 (inch) lines have been identified in the vicinity that are open ended and appear to be previously abandoned."

Talos said it is using booms and skimmers to clean up the area.

Packing winds of up to 150 miles (240 kilometers) per hour, Ida roared through Louisiana last Sunday, causing catastrophic damage, according to local authorities.&nbsp;

Downgraded later to tropical storm status, Ida nonetheless retained rare power as it rumbled through the US Northeast, leaving dozens dead.

It was in the petroleum-rich Gulf of Mexico that, in 2010, an explosion ripped through the Deepwater Horizon oil platform, touching off the worst oil spill in history.&nbsp;

Workers have deployed containment booms and skimmer devices as they attempt to contain a sizable oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico discovered after Hurricane Ida roared through the area, the US Coast Guard said Sunday.

Workers have deployed containment booms and skimmer devices as they attempt to contain a sizable oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico discovered after Hurricane Ida roared through the area, the US Coast Guard said Sunday. The spill is in waters off Port Fourchon, Louisiana -- near where Ida made landfall -- in a region that is a major hub of the US petrochemical industry. An oil slick now extends more than a dozen miles through the warm waters of the Gulf but has yet to reach shore, the Houston Chronicle reported. The Coast Guard in Louisiana said it had been informed of a spill in that area and was responding, but provided few details. Talos Energy, a Texas firm specializing in offshore oil and gas exploration, has dispatched clean-up vessels and divers to the site. The company, which had operated in the area of the spill until 2017, insisted that its equipment was not the cause of the leak. The response team "identified a non-Talos owned 12 (inch) pipeline displaced from its original trench location, which appears to be bent and open ended," the company said in a statement. "Additionally, two non-Talos owned 4 (inch) lines have been identified in the vicinity that are open ended and appear to be previously abandoned." Talos said it is using booms and skimmers to clean up the area. Packing winds of up to 150 miles (240 kilometers) per hour, Ida roared through Louisiana last Sunday, causing catastrophic damage, according to local authorities. Downgraded later to tropical storm status, Ida nonetheless retained rare power as it rumbled through the US Northeast, leaving dozens dead. It was in the petroleum-rich Gulf of Mexico that, in 2010, an explosion ripped through the Deepwater Horizon oil platform, touching off the worst oil spill in history.

Crews work to contain oil spill in Gulf after Ida's passage

It is the skyscraper that replaced the Twin Towers in New York's skyline. Inaugurated in 2014, the One World Trade Center has become a symbol of resilience after the horror of 9/11.&nbsp;

Commonly referred to as the "Freedom Tower," it is America's tallest building at 1,776 feet (541 meters) and an emblem of the US economic capital.

From its conception, the tower had to testify to New York's durability -- looking to the future despite the tragedy -- according to one of its architects, Kenneth Lewis.

As harrowing as the images were of the Twin Towers collapsing to the ground on September 11, 2001, no one questioned replacing them with another skyscraper, situated right next "Ground Zero."

For the architects at SOM, which builds skyscrapers around the world, it was an opportunity to realize concepts that they had been thinking about for years.

"We were thinking it's the beginning of the millennium, we were thinking that this had to be the next generation of buildings, both in terms of safety, as well as environmental impact," recalled Lewis.

Evacuation time

Among the most nightmarish images from 9/11 are those of people jumping to their deaths from the towers to escape the blaze.

The architects launched ideas about how to evacuate people other than from the stairs. Inventors came back with a giant chute, and a zip wire, with a parachutist demonstrating the latter, Lewis remembers.

"It was the scariest thing," he says. "We just couldn't imagine someone who might be a little bit overweight or a little bit afraid taking a jump out the window."

In the end, the only solution was to shield the heart of the building with reinforced concrete, "broad enough that people can get out of there," he explained.

The architects implemented safety standards on One WTC that have since become standard for skyscrapers.

They include wide stairwells to allow a quick evacuation of the 104-storey tower, a signaling light to alert aircraft, fire-resistant cameras and communication tools on every floor to allow rescuers to constantly monitor the situation.

"We had a goal, which was an hour evacuation total time to evacuate the whole building," said Lewis. 
Firefighters were invited to planning meetings. It was they who suggested a back-up system capable of compensating for the failure of emergency generators on 9/11 to provide electricity long enough to evacuate the building.

"They had been through such trauma, they had to be a part of the solutions we were coming up with," said Lewis. 
Fire was not the only concern: in the fall of 2001, several anonymous letters containing anthrax were sent to some media and politicians, killing five people.

"We started to think about the filtering system and the air quality," Lewis explained.

"Think of a worst-case scenario and then what would that mean, and then prepare for it," he added, explaining their methodology.

'Transformative moment'

Almost 20 years later and the pandemic has left One WTC and most of Manhattan's prestigious towers empty for months.

"People were thinking we were going to come back much quicker than we have," admitted Lewis.

"We were immediately looking at the types of filtration systems that are in there these buildings, and most new buildings have high efficiency filters, particulate filters that also deal with viruses."

But if the office towers have not yet regained their pre-pandemic occupancy rate, their preeminence in New York's skyline cannot be called into question.

A tower of some 600 apartments is under construction in Brooklyn and will become the first "super-skyscraper" outside Manhattan when it is completed next year.&nbsp;

Around 20 other skyscrapers are in the works across New York.

As well as the environment, the mental health of the occupants of these buildings is now also a priority, said Lewis.

"We're in 2021 and we're talking about well-being and incorporating that into the spaces we're doing, creating outdoor spaces that people can work in, rooftop terraces that are really workspaces, meeting spaces.

"It really is a transformative moment," he said.

In the meantime, One WTC is on the way to becoming as iconic as its predecessors.

While the 9/11 Memorial symbolises "the void" created by the attacks, the "Freedom Tower" tower represents "the positive," according to Lewis.

"A place of innovation and new thinking and modern ideas of safety and security," he said.

It is the skyscraper that replaced the Twin Towers in New York's skyline. Inaugurated in 2014, the One World Trade Center has become a symbol of resilience after the horror of 9/11.

It is the skyscraper that replaced the Twin Towers in New York's skyline. Inaugurated in 2014, the One World Trade Center has become a symbol of resilience after the horror of 9/11. Commonly referred to as the "Freedom Tower," it is America's tallest building at 1,776 feet (541 meters) and an emblem of the US economic capital. From its conception, the tower had to testify to New York's durability -- looking to the future despite the tragedy -- according to one of its architects, Kenneth Lewis. As harrowing as the images were of the Twin Towers collapsing to the ground on September 11, 2001, no one questioned replacing them with another skyscraper, situated right next "Ground Zero." For the architects at SOM, which builds skyscrapers around the world, it was an opportunity to realize concepts that they had been thinking about for years. "We were thinking it's the beginning of the millennium, we were thinking that this had to be the next generation of buildings, both in terms of safety, as well as environmental impact," recalled Lewis. Evacuation time Among the most nightmarish images from 9/11 are those of people jumping to their deaths from the towers to escape the blaze. The architects launched ideas about how to evacuate people other than from the stairs. Inventors came back with a giant chute, and a zip wire, with a parachutist demonstrating the latter, Lewis remembers. "It was the scariest thing," he says. "We just couldn't imagine someone who might be a little bit overweight or a little bit afraid taking a jump out the window." In the end, the only solution was to shield the heart of the building with reinforced concrete, "broad enough that people can get out of there," he explained. The architects implemented safety standards on One WTC that have since become standard for skyscrapers. They include wide stairwells to allow a quick evacuation of the 104-storey tower, a signaling light to alert aircraft, fire-resistant cameras and communication tools on every floor to allow rescuers to constantly monitor the situation. "We had a goal, which was an hour evacuation total time to evacuate the whole building," said Lewis. Firefighters were invited to planning meetings. It was they who suggested a back-up system capable of compensating for the failure of emergency generators on 9/11 to provide electricity long enough to evacuate the building. "They had been through such trauma, they had to be a part of the solutions we were coming up with," said Lewis. Fire was not the only concern: in the fall of 2001, several anonymous letters containing anthrax were sent to some media and politicians, killing five people. "We started to think about the filtering system and the air quality," Lewis explained. "Think of a worst-case scenario and then what would that mean, and then prepare for it," he added, explaining their methodology. 'Transformative moment' Almost 20 years later and the pandemic has left One WTC and most of Manhattan's prestigious towers empty for months. "People were thinking we were going to come back much quicker than we have," admitted Lewis. "We were immediately looking at the types of filtration systems that are in there these buildings, and most new buildings have high efficiency filters, particulate filters that also deal with viruses." But if the office towers have not yet regained their pre-pandemic occupancy rate, their preeminence in New York's skyline cannot be called into question. A tower of some 600 apartments is under construction in Brooklyn and will become the first "super-skyscraper" outside Manhattan when it is completed next year. Around 20 other skyscrapers are in the works across New York. As well as the environment, the mental health of the occupants of these buildings is now also a priority, said Lewis. "We're in 2021 and we're talking about well-being and incorporating that into the spaces we're doing, creating outdoor spaces that people can work in, rooftop terraces that are really workspaces, meeting spaces. "It really is a transformative moment," he said. In the meantime, One WTC is on the way to becoming as iconic as its predecessors. While the 9/11 Memorial symbolises "the void" created by the attacks, the "Freedom Tower" tower represents "the positive," according to Lewis. "A place of innovation and new thinking and modern ideas of safety and security," he said.

'Freedom Tower' - the skyscraper symbolising New York's resilience

For Heather Bauer, 9/11 anniversaries are about something other than the fallen Twin Towers, smoking wreckage at the Pentagon, and a crashed airliner in a Pennsylvania field.

Instead of the accepted version of events -- that Al-Qaeda conducted the attacks -- she believes the US government was primarily responsible. That is among falsehoods being promoted at various events to mark the 20th anniversary of September 11.

"I question absolutely everything now, and I wonder how much or what we have been told of history is even really true," Bauer told AFP. That includes Covid-19, which she does not believe exists.

Bauer, a Wisconsin homemaker, was 14 when the attacks left nearly 3,000 people dead.

She believed the official narrative for years, but after falling into QAnon conspiracy theories, she looked again at the 9/11 story. She now thinks the attacks were orchestrated to justify the war in Iraq that followed in 2003.

She is a devoted adherent of the 9/11 truther movement. Its members tirelessly discuss online what they see as evidence that the Twin Towers fell because of controlled demolition techniques, not because commercial planes flew into them.

Those claims were developed in incredible detail over the past 20 years, and have been debunked just as minutely by documentarians and journalists.&nbsp;

The general idea, including the oft-cited "jet fuel can't melt steel beams" argument, is to prove that some entity must have planted explosives in the towers, because they could not have collapsed so neatly from being hit by planes.

'Uniquely conspiratorial country'

In-person conferences planned by the truther community for the 20th anniversary of 9/11 will also discuss the origins of the coronavirus pandemic and vaccines.

The 17th edition of the "9/11 Truth Film Festival" will take place at an Oakland, California theater and be streamed online, featuring two documentaries related to the pandemic, including "Plandemic," a debunked documentary rife with falsehoods about the virus.

Carol Brouillet, the event's organizer and founder of the Northern California 9/11 Truth Alliance, said: "We have so much that we want to cover, and only eight hours."

The amount of 9/11 truther content is, as Brouillet said, enormous.&nbsp;

One of the festival's speakers, Ken Jenkins, alone has produced dozens of 9/11 DVDs, according to the event's webpage.

Conspiracy theories over 9/11 were the first to benefit from widespread internet access, spreading much faster than previous alternative interpretations of history, including about John F. Kennedy's assassination, and the Moon landings.

"America is a uniquely conspiratorial country," said Garrett Graff, a journalist and author of a book on the subject.

With the internet, he said, 9/11 truth theories were able to not only have a greater and faster reach than previous conspiracies, but also enabled those who believed in them to network far more effectively.

'Anthrax to the pandemic'

"9/11 conspiracies arrived at the precise moment where social media and online media like YouTube really began to allow people to spread these ideas in big and colorful and compelling ways," he added. 
Like Brouillet's group, the Lawyers' Committee for 9/11 Inquiry will hold a conference on the 20th anniversary, and will feature a Covid-19 discussion.

The event is named "From 9/11-Anthrax to the Pandemic," in reference to letters containing the poisonous substance sent to journalists and politicians over several weeks in September 2001.

For Mick Harrison, an Indiana lawyer and the committee's litigation director, the connection between the anthrax in 2001 and the Covid-19 virus today is clear.

"Because we researched the history of US work on bioweapons for the anthrax case, we're now concerned that there may be an ongoing problem with the use of bioweapons in this country," Harrison said.

Asked about why they are fighting to overturn an established 20-year-old narrative, Bauer and Harrison both said they saw it as a civic duty.

"I'm trying to make this country better by making its government more democratic, more accountable, more transparent," Harrison said.

"9/11 is a big problem in that regard, because we still don't know the truth about what happened."

For Heather Bauer, 9/11 anniversaries are about something other than the fallen Twin Towers, smoking wreckage at the Pentagon, and a crashed airliner in a Pennsylvania field.

For Heather Bauer, 9/11 anniversaries are about something other than the fallen Twin Towers, smoking wreckage at the Pentagon, and a crashed airliner in a Pennsylvania field. Instead of the accepted version of events -- that Al-Qaeda conducted the attacks -- she believes the US government was primarily responsible. That is among falsehoods being promoted at various events to mark the 20th anniversary of September 11. "I question absolutely everything now, and I wonder how much or what we have been told of history is even really true," Bauer told AFP. That includes Covid-19, which she does not believe exists. Bauer, a Wisconsin homemaker, was 14 when the attacks left nearly 3,000 people dead. She believed the official narrative for years, but after falling into QAnon conspiracy theories, she looked again at the 9/11 story. She now thinks the attacks were orchestrated to justify the war in Iraq that followed in 2003. She is a devoted adherent of the 9/11 truther movement. Its members tirelessly discuss online what they see as evidence that the Twin Towers fell because of controlled demolition techniques, not because commercial planes flew into them. Those claims were developed in incredible detail over the past 20 years, and have been debunked just as minutely by documentarians and journalists. The general idea, including the oft-cited "jet fuel can't melt steel beams" argument, is to prove that some entity must have planted explosives in the towers, because they could not have collapsed so neatly from being hit by planes. 'Uniquely conspiratorial country' In-person conferences planned by the truther community for the 20th anniversary of 9/11 will also discuss the origins of the coronavirus pandemic and vaccines. The 17th edition of the "9/11 Truth Film Festival" will take place at an Oakland, California theater and be streamed online, featuring two documentaries related to the pandemic, including "Plandemic," a debunked documentary rife with falsehoods about the virus. Carol Brouillet, the event's organizer and founder of the Northern California 9/11 Truth Alliance, said: "We have so much that we want to cover, and only eight hours." The amount of 9/11 truther content is, as Brouillet said, enormous. One of the festival's speakers, Ken Jenkins, alone has produced dozens of 9/11 DVDs, according to the event's webpage. Conspiracy theories over 9/11 were the first to benefit from widespread internet access, spreading much faster than previous alternative interpretations of history, including about John F. Kennedy's assassination, and the Moon landings. "America is a uniquely conspiratorial country," said Garrett Graff, a journalist and author of a book on the subject. With the internet, he said, 9/11 truth theories were able to not only have a greater and faster reach than previous conspiracies, but also enabled those who believed in them to network far more effectively. 'Anthrax to the pandemic' "9/11 conspiracies arrived at the precise moment where social media and online media like YouTube really began to allow people to spread these ideas in big and colorful and compelling ways," he added. Like Brouillet's group, the Lawyers' Committee for 9/11 Inquiry will hold a conference on the 20th anniversary, and will feature a Covid-19 discussion. The event is named "From 9/11-Anthrax to the Pandemic," in reference to letters containing the poisonous substance sent to journalists and politicians over several weeks in September 2001. For Mick Harrison, an Indiana lawyer and the committee's litigation director, the connection between the anthrax in 2001 and the Covid-19 virus today is clear. "Because we researched the history of US work on bioweapons for the anthrax case, we're now concerned that there may be an ongoing problem with the use of bioweapons in this country," Harrison said. Asked about why they are fighting to overturn an established 20-year-old narrative, Bauer and Harrison both said they saw it as a civic duty. "I'm trying to make this country better by making its government more democratic, more accountable, more transparent," Harrison said. "9/11 is a big problem in that regard, because we still don't know the truth about what happened."

Twenty years on, pandemic gives 9/11 conspiracists fresh impetus

In what can be said to be further and stronger criticism of USA's hasty retreat from Afghanistan, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace suggested that US was no longer a superpower. His comments have come just days after total withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.

The strong words came as he gave an interview to Spectator magazine.

On being asked whether situation in Afghanistan revealed limitations of UK's power, Wallace said,"“It is obvious that Britain is not a superpower"

He then shifted focus to the US.

“But a superpower that is also not prepared to stick at something isn’t probably a superpower either. It is certainly not a global force, it’s just a big power," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blame-for-afghanistan-lies-on-president-biden-says-911-era-nypd-commissioner-410532">Blame for Afghanistan 'lies on President Biden', says 9/11-era NYPD commissioner&nbsp;</a>

The hasty retreat from Afghanistan has put USA and especially President Joe Biden on a defensive foot in light of the global criticism. The US has entered Afghanistan and fought against Taliban. But the same regime came back to power after US withdrawal.

This is not the first time the British defence secretary expressed his disapproval of American manoeuvres in Afghanistan. In mid-August, when theh Taliban were making lightning advance across the country, Wallace said that Donald Trump's peace deal with Taliban in 2020 was "a mistake".

In what can be said to be further and stronger criticism of USA's hasty retreat from Afghanistan, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace suggested that US was no longer a superpower.

In what can be said to be further and stronger criticism of USA's hasty retreat from Afghanistan, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace suggested that US was no longer a superpower. His comments have come just days after total withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan. The strong words came as he gave an interview to Spectator magazine. On being asked whether situation in Afghanistan revealed limitations of UK's power, Wallace said,"“It is obvious that Britain is not a superpower" He then shifted focus to the US. “But a superpower that is also not prepared to stick at something isn’t probably a superpower either. It is certainly not a global force, it’s just a big power," he said. Also Read | Blame for Afghanistan 'lies on President Biden', says 9/11-era NYPD commissioner The hasty retreat from Afghanistan has put USA and especially President Joe Biden on a defensive foot in light of the global criticism. The US has entered Afghanistan and fought against Taliban. But the same regime came back to power after US withdrawal. This is not the first time the British defence secretary expressed his disapproval of American manoeuvres in Afghanistan. In mid-August, when theh Taliban were making lightning advance across the country, Wallace said that Donald Trump's peace deal with Taliban in 2020 was "a mistake".

US no longer a superpower, suggests UK defence secretary

China on Tuesday slammed USA's policy of intervention and called it 'arbitrary' one that was "doomed to fail"

"The US withdrawal shows that the policy of arbitrary military intervention and imposition of one’s values and social systems on other countries is doomed to fail,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, said.

The words came just hours after completion of US withdrawal from Afghanistan. China appeared to welcome US exit and said that withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan after a 20-year conflict signalled the country has "turned a new page", after Beijing criticised Washington's chaotic exit.

China has repeatedly slammed what it sees as a hasty and ill-planned US withdrawal and has said it is ready to deepen "friendly and cooperative" relations with the Taliban following their takeover.

On Tuesday, soon after completion of US military withdrawal, Taliban fighters were seen<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-taliban-engages-in-celebratory-gunfire-as-us-troops-leave-2-fighters-die-due-to-gunshot-wound-409556"> engaging in celebratory gunfire in Kabul</a>

"Afghanistan has been able to free itself of foreign military occupation," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a regular briefing.&nbsp;

"The Afghan people have ushered in a new beginning for national peace and reconstruction, and Afghanistan has turned a new page."&nbsp;

China's embassy in Kabul remains operational, although Beijing began evacuating Chinese citizens from the country months ago as security deteriorated.

But Beijing has not yet recognised the Taliban as the de facto government, and is wary of the militant group providing support to Muslim-minority Uyghur separatists looking to infiltrate its sensitive border region of Xinjiang.

"We hope that Afghanistan will form an open, inclusive and broadly representative government... and resolutely crack down on all kinds of terrorist forces," Wang said.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Tuesday slammed USA's policy of intervention and called it 'arbitrary' one that was "doomed to fail" "The US withdrawal shows that the policy of arbitrary military intervention and imposition of one’s values and social systems on other countries is doomed to fail,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, said.

China on Tuesday slammed USA's policy of intervention and called it 'arbitrary' one that was "doomed to fail" "The US withdrawal shows that the policy of arbitrary military intervention and imposition of one’s values and social systems on other countries is doomed to fail,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, said. The words came just hours after completion of US withdrawal from Afghanistan. China appeared to welcome US exit and said that withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan after a 20-year conflict signalled the country has "turned a new page", after Beijing criticised Washington's chaotic exit. China has repeatedly slammed what it sees as a hasty and ill-planned US withdrawal and has said it is ready to deepen "friendly and cooperative" relations with the Taliban following their takeover. On Tuesday, soon after completion of US military withdrawal, Taliban fighters were seen engaging in celebratory gunfire in Kabul "Afghanistan has been able to free itself of foreign military occupation," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a regular briefing. "The Afghan people have ushered in a new beginning for national peace and reconstruction, and Afghanistan has turned a new page." China's embassy in Kabul remains operational, although Beijing began evacuating Chinese citizens from the country months ago as security deteriorated. But Beijing has not yet recognised the Taliban as the de facto government, and is wary of the militant group providing support to Muslim-minority Uyghur separatists looking to infiltrate its sensitive border region of Xinjiang. "We hope that Afghanistan will form an open, inclusive and broadly representative government... and resolutely crack down on all kinds of terrorist forces," Wang said. (With inputs from agencies)

China slams USA's 'arbitrary' intervention policy after Afghan exit

A US Congressional committee probing January 6 Capitol Hill attack has asked &nbsp;35 telephone, email and social media companies to preserve records which can be relevant to its investigation. Reuters quoted source to say that these records include those of US President Donald Trump, Ivanka Trump and Donald Trump Jr.

In a statement revealing the data preservation requests, a spokesperson for the House of Representatives' Jan. 6 investigation committee, led by Democrat Bennie Thompson, said it had "sent letters to 35 private-sector entities, including telecommunications, email, and social media companies, instructing them to preserve records" which could be "relevant" to the committee's inquiry.

"The Select Committee is at this point gathering facts, not alleging wrongdoing by any individual," the statement added.

This marked the House committee's latest round of requests after last week ordering federal agencies and social media companies to hand over records related to the violence and the events leading up to it.

Trump supporters stormed the Capitol as Congress was meeting to certify Biden's victory. Nearly 600 people have been arrested in connection with the attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

A US Congressional committee probing January 6 Capitol Hill attack has asked 35 telephone, email and social media companies to preserve records which can be relevant to its investigation.

A US Congressional committee probing January 6 Capitol Hill attack has asked 35 telephone, email and social media companies to preserve records which can be relevant to its investigation. Reuters quoted source to say that these records include those of US President Donald Trump, Ivanka Trump and Donald Trump Jr. In a statement revealing the data preservation requests, a spokesperson for the House of Representatives' Jan. 6 investigation committee, led by Democrat Bennie Thompson, said it had "sent letters to 35 private-sector entities, including telecommunications, email, and social media companies, instructing them to preserve records" which could be "relevant" to the committee's inquiry. "The Select Committee is at this point gathering facts, not alleging wrongdoing by any individual," the statement added. This marked the House committee's latest round of requests after last week ordering federal agencies and social media companies to hand over records related to the violence and the events leading up to it. Trump supporters stormed the Capitol as Congress was meeting to certify Biden's victory. Nearly 600 people have been arrested in connection with the attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Capitol Hill attack: Congress committee asks telecom companies to preserve Trump's call records

Recently, a heartbreaking moment soon turned into a camera-ready moment for some visitors to Cape Cod.&nbsp;

This happened in the Stellwagen Bank national marine sanctuary waters where the decomposing carcass of a year-old humpback calf proved to be an unimaginably heartbreaking sight for some people on a whale-watching cruise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/experts-believe-heatwave-killed-1-billion-marine-animals-on-canada-coast-396890">Experts believe heatwave killed 1 billion marine animals on Canada coast</a>

However, soon, when two large great white sharks appeared and started eating the remains, it became a photographic opportunity and a rare sighting for shark researchers.

The crew of Captain John Boats posted a short video clip on Facebook showing the apex predators, one of which is 18-foot feasting on the carcass.&nbsp;Peter Corkeron a&nbsp;whale expert,&nbsp;at the New England Aquarium's, describes it as one of the biggest smorgasbord&nbsp;(or&nbsp;feast) a shark could dream of.

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Boat captain John Goggin told the Boston Herald that people on board were excited and that a lot of people were exclaiming 'Oh my God!' and 'Wow!'.

According to researchers funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa), eight great whites appeared over the next two days, along with blue sharks and a variety of seabirds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/marine-animals-thought-extinct-for-273-million-years-found-in-pacific-ocean-384121">Marine animals thought extinct for 273 million years found in Pacific Ocean!</a>

They then tagged five new great whites with the Massachusetts division of marine fisheries' assistance. The researchers were already familiar with six of those that turned up to feed.&nbsp;

Another&nbsp;video posted by a Noaa-funded group shows a tourist boat in the background of this encounter. According to them, the carcass would provide nourishment to marine creatures for months to come.

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The Center for Coastal Studies, a non-profit from Provincetown, Massachusetts identified that the humpback was an unnamed male calf born in 2020 to an adult whale named Venom.

Scientists and whale watchers off the coast of Massachusetts and CSS scientists were familiar with this individual, the group said in a Facebook post. Although at this time, they don't know what caused his death.&nbsp;

According to them, the fact that an individual has died is a sad event, but recording these occurrences is essential for long-term population studies.&nbsp;In addition, they say that these efforts are also required to unravel the current unusual humpback whale mortality phenomenon occurring along the Atlantic coast.

Recently, a heartbreaking moment soon turned into a camera-ready moment for some visitors to Cape Cod. This happened in the Stellwagen Bank national marine sanctuary waters where the decomposing carcass of a year-old humpback calf proved to be an unimaginably heartbreaking sight for some people on a whale-watching cruise.

Recently, a heartbreaking moment soon turned into a camera-ready moment for some visitors to Cape Cod. This happened in the Stellwagen Bank national marine sanctuary waters where the decomposing carcass of a year-old humpback calf proved to be an unimaginably heartbreaking sight for some people on a whale-watching cruise. Also read | Experts believe heatwave killed 1 billion marine animals on Canada coast However, soon, when two large great white sharks appeared and started eating the remains, it became a photographic opportunity and a rare sighting for shark researchers. The crew of Captain John Boats posted a short video clip on Facebook showing the apex predators, one of which is 18-foot feasting on the carcass. Peter Corkeron a whale expert, at the New England Aquarium's, describes it as one of the biggest smorgasbord (or feast) a shark could dream of. × Boat captain John Goggin told the Boston Herald that people on board were excited and that a lot of people were exclaiming 'Oh my God!' and 'Wow!'. According to researchers funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa), eight great whites appeared over the next two days, along with blue sharks and a variety of seabirds. Also read | Marine animals thought extinct for 273 million years found in Pacific Ocean! They then tagged five new great whites with the Massachusetts division of marine fisheries' assistance. The researchers were already familiar with six of those that turned up to feed. Another video posted by a Noaa-funded group shows a tourist boat in the background of this encounter. According to them, the carcass would provide nourishment to marine creatures for months to come. × The Center for Coastal Studies, a non-profit from Provincetown, Massachusetts identified that the humpback was an unnamed male calf born in 2020 to an adult whale named Venom. Scientists and whale watchers off the coast of Massachusetts and CSS scientists were familiar with this individual, the group said in a Facebook post. Although at this time, they don't know what caused his death. According to them, the fact that an individual has died is a sad event, but recording these occurrences is essential for long-term population studies. In addition, they say that these efforts are also required to unravel the current unusual humpback whale mortality phenomenon occurring along the Atlantic coast.

Great white sharks feast on a whale carcass in Cape Cod, video goes viral

Russia on Monday appealed USA to release Afghan central bank reserves. The money and assets have been blocked after the Taliban took over power in Kabul earlier this month.

"If our Western colleagues are actually worried about the fate of the Afghan people, then we must not create additional problems for them by freezing gold and foreign exchange reserves," said the Kremlin's envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov.

He said that the United States must urgently unfreeze these events. He was speaking on the state-run Rossiya 24 network. He said that the assets must be unfrozen &nbsp;"to bolster the rate of the collapsing national currency".

Kabulov said that if this was not done, the new authorities will turn to "the trafficking of illegal opiates" and "sell on the black market the weapons" abandoned by the Afghan army and the United States.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/should-have-informed-us-taliban-condemn-arbitrary-us-drone-strike-claim-civilians-killed-409410">‘Should have informed us’: Taliban condemn ‘arbitrary’ US drone strike, claim civilians killed</a>

The Afghan central bank's gross reserves totalled $9.4 billion at the end of April, according to the IMF. The majority of these funds are held outside of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Washington has indicated that the Taliban will not have access to assets held in the United States, without specifying the total amount there.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has long been the world's largest producer of opium and heroin, with profits from the illicit trade helping fund the Taliban.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Monday appealed USA to release Afghan central bank reserves. The money and assets have been blocked after the Taliban took over power in Kabul earlier this month.

Russia on Monday appealed USA to release Afghan central bank reserves. The money and assets have been blocked after the Taliban took over power in Kabul earlier this month. "If our Western colleagues are actually worried about the fate of the Afghan people, then we must not create additional problems for them by freezing gold and foreign exchange reserves," said the Kremlin's envoy to Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov. He said that the United States must urgently unfreeze these events. He was speaking on the state-run Rossiya 24 network. He said that the assets must be unfrozen "to bolster the rate of the collapsing national currency". Kabulov said that if this was not done, the new authorities will turn to "the trafficking of illegal opiates" and "sell on the black market the weapons" abandoned by the Afghan army and the United States. Also Read | ‘Should have informed us’: Taliban condemn ‘arbitrary’ US drone strike, claim civilians killed The Afghan central bank's gross reserves totalled $9.4 billion at the end of April, according to the IMF. The majority of these funds are held outside of Afghanistan. Washington has indicated that the Taliban will not have access to assets held in the United States, without specifying the total amount there. Afghanistan has long been the world's largest producer of opium and heroin, with profits from the illicit trade helping fund the Taliban. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia appeals USA to release Afghan central bank reserves

North America led an uptick in cases of Covid-19 around the world this week, recording the most new cases and deaths.

North America saw increase in Covid cases this week. It led increase in Covid cases around the world this week. North America recorded most new cases and deaths.

The number of new daily cases around the world increased by two percent to 656,800, according to an AFP tally to Thursday.

Since mid-June, pandemic has gained ground owing to highly contagious Delta variant. The variant has become prominent in most countries.

The confirmed cases only reflect a fraction of the actual number of infections, with varying counting practices and levels of testing in different countries.

Flare up in North America

This week the situation continued to worsen in the United States and Canada, which saw a 12 percent increase in new daily cases. The situation also deteriorated in Oceania where cases increased by 20 percent.

The number of new cases increased by four percent in Europe but was unchanged in Africa, with a one percent decrease in Asia and a seven percent decrease in the Middle East.

Biggest spike

On a country basis, Ethiopia saw the biggest increase, with 62 percent more cases. Germany followed with a 50 percent increase, while Serbia had 49 percent more, Sri Lanka 41 percent more and Bulgaria 35 percent more.

Biggest drops

Indonesia saw the biggest drop in the number of cases, with a 27 percent plunge, followed by Morocco with minus 26 percent, Botswana minus 24 percent, Libya minus 24 percent and Nepal minus 23 percent.

US bears the brunt

The United States remained by far the country with the most new cases with 155,300 on average every day, an increase of 12 percent. Iran followed with 35,100, a decrease of eight percent and the United Kingdom 33,800, an increase of 11 percent.

On a per capita basis the country that recorded the most new cases this week was Kosovo with 783 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Georgia with 774, and Montenegro 699.

(With inputs from agencies)

North America led an uptick in cases of Covid-19 around the world this week, recording the most new cases and deaths. North America saw increase in Covid cases this week.

North America led an uptick in cases of Covid-19 around the world this week, recording the most new cases and deaths. North America saw increase in Covid cases this week. It led increase in Covid cases around the world this week. North America recorded most new cases and deaths. The number of new daily cases around the world increased by two percent to 656,800, according to an AFP tally to Thursday. Since mid-June, pandemic has gained ground owing to highly contagious Delta variant. The variant has become prominent in most countries. The confirmed cases only reflect a fraction of the actual number of infections, with varying counting practices and levels of testing in different countries. Flare up in North America This week the situation continued to worsen in the United States and Canada, which saw a 12 percent increase in new daily cases. The situation also deteriorated in Oceania where cases increased by 20 percent. The number of new cases increased by four percent in Europe but was unchanged in Africa, with a one percent decrease in Asia and a seven percent decrease in the Middle East. Biggest spike On a country basis, Ethiopia saw the biggest increase, with 62 percent more cases. Germany followed with a 50 percent increase, while Serbia had 49 percent more, Sri Lanka 41 percent more and Bulgaria 35 percent more. Biggest drops Indonesia saw the biggest drop in the number of cases, with a 27 percent plunge, followed by Morocco with minus 26 percent, Botswana minus 24 percent, Libya minus 24 percent and Nepal minus 23 percent. US bears the brunt The United States remained by far the country with the most new cases with 155,300 on average every day, an increase of 12 percent. Iran followed with 35,100, a decrease of eight percent and the United Kingdom 33,800, an increase of 11 percent. On a per capita basis the country that recorded the most new cases this week was Kosovo with 783 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, followed by Georgia with 774, and Montenegro 699. (With inputs from agencies)

USA bears the brunt of the Covid pandemic

Two US congressmen revealed on Tuesday (local time) that they violated official orders against travel to Kabul. The two congressmen, Democratic Seth Moulton and Republican Peter Meijer are Iraq war veterans. The revelation elicited an angry reaction from Democratic leader of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi.

"Today with @RepMeijer I visited Kabul airport to conduct oversight on the evacuation," said Moulton. The two men are veterans of the Iraq war.

"We did this visit in secret to reduce risks and impact on the mission and we insisted on leaving in a plane that was not full, in a seat designated for crew so that we didn’t take a seat from someone else," Moulton continued on Twitter late Tuesday.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nearly-100-afghan-evacuees-may-have-ties-with-islamic-state-reports-408262">Nearly 100 Afghan evacuees may have ties with Islamic State: Reports</a>

Kabul airport is still witnessing scenes of chaos as huge crowds are trying to board the flights going out of Afghanistan. More than 80,000 people have been evacuated since August 14.

Time is running out to save the rest, with an August 31 deadline set by US President Joe Biden looming, and the Taliban saying they will refuse to extend it.&nbsp;

The two representatives flew to the Middle East on their own and then traveled on a military plane from a US-allied country to Kabul, all without coordinating with US diplomats or military command, American media reported.

The goal of the operation was to push Biden to extend the August 31 evacuation cutoff date, according to the two men.

"After talking with commanders on the ground and seeing the situation here, it is obvious that because we started the evacuation so late, that no matter what we do, we won’t get everyone out on time, even by September 11," Moulton tweeted.

Biden said Tuesday during a press conference that the United States would meet the August 31 deadline but stressed that meeting that cutoff would depend on cooperation from the Taliban.

The United States deployed fresh troops to help with evacuations. But that 6,000-plus contingent, as well as hundreds of US officials, 600 Afghan troops and the equipment, will have to be flown out.

Despite the harrowing scenes at Kabul airport, the Taliban have ruled out any extension to next Tuesday's deadline to pull out foreign troops, describing it as "a red line."

(With inputs from agencies)

Two US congressmen revealed on Tuesday (local time) that they violated official orders against travel to Kabul. The two congressmen, Democratic Seth Moulton and Republican Peter Meijer are Iraq war veterans.

Two US congressmen revealed on Tuesday (local time) that they violated official orders against travel to Kabul. The two congressmen, Democratic Seth Moulton and Republican Peter Meijer are Iraq war veterans. The revelation elicited an angry reaction from Democratic leader of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi. "Today with @RepMeijer I visited Kabul airport to conduct oversight on the evacuation," said Moulton. The two men are veterans of the Iraq war. "We did this visit in secret to reduce risks and impact on the mission and we insisted on leaving in a plane that was not full, in a seat designated for crew so that we didn’t take a seat from someone else," Moulton continued on Twitter late Tuesday. Also Read | Nearly 100 Afghan evacuees may have ties with Islamic State: Reports Kabul airport is still witnessing scenes of chaos as huge crowds are trying to board the flights going out of Afghanistan. More than 80,000 people have been evacuated since August 14. Time is running out to save the rest, with an August 31 deadline set by US President Joe Biden looming, and the Taliban saying they will refuse to extend it. The two representatives flew to the Middle East on their own and then traveled on a military plane from a US-allied country to Kabul, all without coordinating with US diplomats or military command, American media reported. The goal of the operation was to push Biden to extend the August 31 evacuation cutoff date, according to the two men. "After talking with commanders on the ground and seeing the situation here, it is obvious that because we started the evacuation so late, that no matter what we do, we won’t get everyone out on time, even by September 11," Moulton tweeted. Biden said Tuesday during a press conference that the United States would meet the August 31 deadline but stressed that meeting that cutoff would depend on cooperation from the Taliban. The United States deployed fresh troops to help with evacuations. But that 6,000-plus contingent, as well as hundreds of US officials, 600 Afghan troops and the equipment, will have to be flown out. Despite the harrowing scenes at Kabul airport, the Taliban have ruled out any extension to next Tuesday's deadline to pull out foreign troops, describing it as "a red line." (With inputs from agencies)

US lawmakers violate orders, travel to Kabul during airlift

The world of diplomacy is filled with the usual diplomatic tussle. The sparring diplomats try tricks in their games of one-upmanship. But addling with abilities of rival diplomats with spycraft and equipment? Well, such things don't come out in public when they are actually happening.

The latest intrigue is about the so-called 'Havana Syndrome', back in the news due to delay in US Vice-President Kamala Harris' flight from Singapore to Vietnam. On Wednesday, Harris' flight was delayed for three hours after reports that someone in Vietnam suffered from Havana Syndrome.

What is the Havana Syndrome?

The first case was observed in 2016 when a US intelligence agent in US embassy in Havana complained of vertigo, ear pain, tinnitus. As per report in Politico, the doctor said that the agent had inner ear damage likely caused due to projected energy device.

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Diplomats and their families in Cuba complained of complained of nosebleeds, migraines and nausea.

They said that the complaints started after experiencing piercing sounds at night

Since then similar complaints have been reported from US officials in China, Russia and inside the United States.

In July the New Yorker reported that since President Joe Biden took office this year, about two dozen US intelligence officers, diplomats and other government officials in Austria have reported problems similar to the Havana syndrome.

Are these piercing sounds natural? Or are they projected by agents of rival countries who want to impair abilities of US agents and diplomats is still being ascertained

What exactly is causing the Havana Syndrome?&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the US appeared still unsure as to the exact cause of the syndrome.

The director of national intelligence said she had convened a meeting with top cabinet officials and other experts Friday to discuss the problem, which has led to unproven allegations that Russians or others used sonic or other high-intensity electronic devices to physically harm US diplomats in Cuba, China and other countries.

The world of diplomacy is filled with the usual diplomatic tussle. The sparring diplomats try tricks in their games of one-upmanship. But addling with abilities of rival diplomats with spycraft and equipment?

The world of diplomacy is filled with the usual diplomatic tussle. The sparring diplomats try tricks in their games of one-upmanship. But addling with abilities of rival diplomats with spycraft and equipment? Well, such things don't come out in public when they are actually happening. The latest intrigue is about the so-called 'Havana Syndrome', back in the news due to delay in US Vice-President Kamala Harris' flight from Singapore to Vietnam. On Wednesday, Harris' flight was delayed for three hours after reports that someone in Vietnam suffered from Havana Syndrome. What is the Havana Syndrome? The first case was observed in 2016 when a US intelligence agent in US embassy in Havana complained of vertigo, ear pain, tinnitus. As per report in Politico, the doctor said that the agent had inner ear damage likely caused due to projected energy device. × Diplomats and their families in Cuba complained of complained of nosebleeds, migraines and nausea. They said that the complaints started after experiencing piercing sounds at night Since then similar complaints have been reported from US officials in China, Russia and inside the United States. In July the New Yorker reported that since President Joe Biden took office this year, about two dozen US intelligence officers, diplomats and other government officials in Austria have reported problems similar to the Havana syndrome. Are these piercing sounds natural? Or are they projected by agents of rival countries who want to impair abilities of US agents and diplomats is still being ascertained What exactly is causing the Havana Syndrome? Earlier this month, the US appeared still unsure as to the exact cause of the syndrome. The director of national intelligence said she had convened a meeting with top cabinet officials and other experts Friday to discuss the problem, which has led to unproven allegations that Russians or others used sonic or other high-intensity electronic devices to physically harm US diplomats in Cuba, China and other countries.

Havana Syndrome strikes again? What is it exactly?

Far-right and left-wing protests turned violent due to clashes on Sunday (August 22) in Portland, USA. At least one man was arrested for firing a gun at demonstrators. Nobody was hurt in the exchange of gunfire.

By Sunday evening, there was no word as to the injuries caused in brawls in which opposing sides were seen dousing each other in what appeared bear spray. Car windows of rivals were smashed.

Police Chief Chuck Lovell said during a briefing on Friday (August 20) that officers would not necessarily intervene to break up fights between the groups.

Portland has become a magnet for clashes between political extremists since last year.

Sunday's competing protests came on the anniversary of a clash that grew violent between right-wing and leftist crowds in downtown Portland, where a succession of street demonstrations last year followed the murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by a Minneapolis police officer on May 25, 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

Far-right and left-wing protests turned violent due to clashes on Sunday (August 22) in Portland, USA. At least one man was arrested for firing a gun at demonstrators.

Far-right and left-wing protests turned violent due to clashes on Sunday (August 22) in Portland, USA. At least one man was arrested for firing a gun at demonstrators. Nobody was hurt in the exchange of gunfire. By Sunday evening, there was no word as to the injuries caused in brawls in which opposing sides were seen dousing each other in what appeared bear spray. Car windows of rivals were smashed. Police Chief Chuck Lovell said during a briefing on Friday (August 20) that officers would not necessarily intervene to break up fights between the groups. Portland has become a magnet for clashes between political extremists since last year. Sunday's competing protests came on the anniversary of a clash that grew violent between right-wing and leftist crowds in downtown Portland, where a succession of street demonstrations last year followed the murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by a Minneapolis police officer on May 25, 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Far-right, far-left protests turn violent in Portland

USA spent trillions of dollars in Afghanistan, its soldiers spent countless hours in training what was Afghan National Army. But the situation unravelled in surprisingly short time and Taliban came back to power. Now, to add to the embarrassment, videos of Taliban fighters wearing US uniforms and driving Humvees left behind by the US soldiers and retreating Afghan armymen are putting the US in a tight spot.

Taliban has seized huge amounts of weaponry, equipment and ammunition from Afghan armed forces. All of this had been supplied by the USA in last two decades.

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More than 100 Humvees captured in Mazar sharif.Dostum and its troops were fleeing to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tajikistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tajikistan</a> but couldn't get the permission,later <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> ask them if they could surrendered instead being killed.<a href="https://t.co/1LDHdig5iT">pic.twitter.com/1LDHdig5iT</a>
— Spoils of war (@SpoilOfWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpoilOfWar/status/1427011818325696514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Videos of Taliban fighters parading in US-made armored vehicles, wielding US-supplied firearms and climbing on American Black Hawk helicopters after the defeat of Afghan government forces have embarrassed the White House.

The videos are doing rounds on social media. Taliban fighters can be seen carrying M4 an M18 assault rifles and M24 sniper weapons, driving around in the iconic US Humvees and, in one video, apparently wearing US-style special forces tactical uniforms.

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Taliban fighters ride on top of a U.S.-made Humvee previously used by Afghan security services in the streets of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a> (📸 via <a href="https://twitter.com/ShehabAgency?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShehabAgency</a>) <a href="https://t.co/IkBMhdDXUs">pic.twitter.com/IkBMhdDXUs</a>
— ℳℴhamed Keita (@ModKeita) <a href="https://twitter.com/ModKeita/status/1427049651245568010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The images are underpinning a political attack on President Joe Biden for alleged mishandling of the US withdrawal from the country after 20 years of war.

Afghan forces conceded Kabul last weekend without a fight. This happened despite two decades of training and tens of billions of dollars from the US. Most of the equipment has been seized from Afghan soldiers

"We don't have a complete picture, obviously, of where every article of defense materials has gone. But certainly, a fair amount of it has fallen into the hands of the Taliban," said White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Tuesday.

'Botched withdrawal'

"Obviously, we don't have a sense that they are going to readily hand it over to us," he said. 
Republicans seized on the admission to pounce on Biden.

"Thanks to Biden's botched withdrawal, the Taliban is better equipped today than they ever have been," said Republican national chair Ronna McDaniel.

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Taliban enjoying the $400,000 Humvee we left them <a href="https://t.co/OjjjEbbd4Q">pic.twitter.com/OjjjEbbd4Q</a>
— Ethan Klein (@h3h3productions) <a href="https://twitter.com/h3h3productions/status/1427716692084289542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to official figures, the US military supplied the Afghan army with more than 7,000 machine guns, 4,700 Humvees and 20,000 grenades in recent years.

The Afghans have also received artillery and reconnaissance drones from Washington, as well as more than 200 aircraft, both fixed-wing and helicopters.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said Wednesday that the department is looking at the issue.

Limited threat

"We obviously don't want to see our equipment in the hands of those who would act against our interests, or the interests of the Afghan people," Kirby told reporters.

"There are numerous policy choices that can be made, up to and including destruction," he said, without giving specifics.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

(Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of these visuals)

USA spent trillions of dollars in Afghanistan, its soldiers spent countless hours in training what was Afghan National Army. But the situation unravelled in surprisingly short time and Taliban came back to power.

USA spent trillions of dollars in Afghanistan, its soldiers spent countless hours in training what was Afghan National Army. But the situation unravelled in surprisingly short time and Taliban came back to power. Now, to add to the embarrassment, videos of Taliban fighters wearing US uniforms and driving Humvees left behind by the US soldiers and retreating Afghan armymen are putting the US in a tight spot. Taliban has seized huge amounts of weaponry, equipment and ammunition from Afghan armed forces. All of this had been supplied by the USA in last two decades. More than 100 Humvees captured in Mazar sharif.Dostum and its troops were fleeing to #Tajikistan but couldn't get the permission,later #Taliban ask them if they could surrendered instead being killed.pic.twitter.com/1LDHdig5iT — Spoils of war (@SpoilOfWar) August 15, 2021 × Videos of Taliban fighters parading in US-made armored vehicles, wielding US-supplied firearms and climbing on American Black Hawk helicopters after the defeat of Afghan government forces have embarrassed the White House. The videos are doing rounds on social media. Taliban fighters can be seen carrying M4 an M18 assault rifles and M24 sniper weapons, driving around in the iconic US Humvees and, in one video, apparently wearing US-style special forces tactical uniforms. Taliban fighters ride on top of a U.S.-made Humvee previously used by Afghan security services in the streets of #Kabul (📸 via @ShehabAgency) pic.twitter.com/IkBMhdDXUs — ℳℴhamed Keita (@ModKeita) August 15, 2021 × The images are underpinning a political attack on President Joe Biden for alleged mishandling of the US withdrawal from the country after 20 years of war. Afghan forces conceded Kabul last weekend without a fight. This happened despite two decades of training and tens of billions of dollars from the US. Most of the equipment has been seized from Afghan soldiers "We don't have a complete picture, obviously, of where every article of defense materials has gone. But certainly, a fair amount of it has fallen into the hands of the Taliban," said White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Tuesday. 'Botched withdrawal' "Obviously, we don't have a sense that they are going to readily hand it over to us," he said. Republicans seized on the admission to pounce on Biden. "Thanks to Biden's botched withdrawal, the Taliban is better equipped today than they ever have been," said Republican national chair Ronna McDaniel. Taliban enjoying the $400,000 Humvee we left them pic.twitter.com/OjjjEbbd4Q — Ethan Klein (@h3h3productions) August 17, 2021 × According to official figures, the US military supplied the Afghan army with more than 7,000 machine guns, 4,700 Humvees and 20,000 grenades in recent years. The Afghans have also received artillery and reconnaissance drones from Washington, as well as more than 200 aircraft, both fixed-wing and helicopters. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said Wednesday that the department is looking at the issue. Limited threat "We obviously don't want to see our equipment in the hands of those who would act against our interests, or the interests of the Afghan people," Kirby told reporters. "There are numerous policy choices that can be made, up to and including destruction," he said, without giving specifics. (With inputs from agencies) (Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of these visuals)

Videos of Taliban with US equipment embarrass White House

The US said on Wednesday that it plans to make Covid vaccine booster shots widely available September 20 onwards. The decision has been taken in view of rise in infections due to Delta variant and also due to the data indicating diminishing protection from vaccines over time.

The officials are prepared to give third shot to Americans who completed their inoculation at least 8 months ago. &nbsp;

Initial booster doses will be given to Americans who received the two-dose vaccines, but U.S. health officials said they anticipate that people who received the single-dose Johnson &amp; Johnson shot, the other COVID-19 vaccine approved in the United States, will also need boosters. The United States did not begin administering J&amp;J shots until March.

The booster shots initially will focus upon healthcare workers, nursing home residents and older people, among the first groups to be vaccinated in late 2020 and early 2021, top U.S. health officials said in a joint statement.

The US said on Wednesday that it plans to make Covid vaccine booster shots widely available September 20 onwards. The decision has been taken in view of rise in infections due to Delta variant and also due to the data indicating diminishing protection from vaccines over time.

The US said on Wednesday that it plans to make Covid vaccine booster shots widely available September 20 onwards. The decision has been taken in view of rise in infections due to Delta variant and also due to the data indicating diminishing protection from vaccines over time. The officials are prepared to give third shot to Americans who completed their inoculation at least 8 months ago. Initial booster doses will be given to Americans who received the two-dose vaccines, but U.S. health officials said they anticipate that people who received the single-dose Johnson & Johnson shot, the other COVID-19 vaccine approved in the United States, will also need boosters. The United States did not begin administering J&J shots until March. The booster shots initially will focus upon healthcare workers, nursing home residents and older people, among the first groups to be vaccinated in late 2020 and early 2021, top U.S. health officials said in a joint statement.

US to begin offering COVID-19 vaccine booster shots in September

Iran's new President Ebrahim Raisi said on Monday that "defeat" of US in Afghanistan was a chance for peace in the war-wrecked country

"The military defeat and the US withdrawal from Afghanistan should offer an opportunity to restore life, security and lasting peace in that country," Raisi said, quoted by his office.

The statement was issued after the Taliban took control of Kabul. The statement didn't mention Taliban or fall of Kabul.

Raisi, during an exchange with Iran's outgoing foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, said Iran wanted good relations with neighbouring Afghanistan and was "closely monitoring the evolution of events" there.

The foreign ministry later said Zarif had met China's special envoy to Afghanistan, Yue Xiaoyong, and discussed "the issue of persons displaced during the latest events in Afghanistan and their arrival en masse in neighbouring countries".

Iran shares a 900-kilometre (560-mile) border with Afghanistan. It already hosts nearly 3.5 million Afghans, according to the UN's refugee agency.

The interior ministry's border affairs chief, Hossein Ghassemi, said on Sunday that efforts were underway in three provinces bordering Afghanistan to set up temporary accommodation for a potential influx of Afghan refugees.

They would, "once conditions improve, be repatriated", he told the official IRNA news agency.

Analysts say Tehran is taking a pragmatic stance on the Taliban's resurgence, but many Iranians have painful memories of the hardline Sunni group's rule in the late 1990s.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's new President Ebrahim Raisi said on Monday that "defeat" of US in Afghanistan was a chance for peace in the war-wrecked country "The military defeat and the US withdrawal from Afghanistan should offer an opportunity to restore life, security and lasting peace in that country," Raisi said, quoted by his office.

Iran's new President Ebrahim Raisi said on Monday that "defeat" of US in Afghanistan was a chance for peace in the war-wrecked country "The military defeat and the US withdrawal from Afghanistan should offer an opportunity to restore life, security and lasting peace in that country," Raisi said, quoted by his office. The statement was issued after the Taliban took control of Kabul. The statement didn't mention Taliban or fall of Kabul. Raisi, during an exchange with Iran's outgoing foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, said Iran wanted good relations with neighbouring Afghanistan and was "closely monitoring the evolution of events" there. The foreign ministry later said Zarif had met China's special envoy to Afghanistan, Yue Xiaoyong, and discussed "the issue of persons displaced during the latest events in Afghanistan and their arrival en masse in neighbouring countries". Iran shares a 900-kilometre (560-mile) border with Afghanistan. It already hosts nearly 3.5 million Afghans, according to the UN's refugee agency. The interior ministry's border affairs chief, Hossein Ghassemi, said on Sunday that efforts were underway in three provinces bordering Afghanistan to set up temporary accommodation for a potential influx of Afghan refugees. They would, "once conditions improve, be repatriated", he told the official IRNA news agency. Analysts say Tehran is taking a pragmatic stance on the Taliban's resurgence, but many Iranians have painful memories of the hardline Sunni group's rule in the late 1990s. (With inputs from agencies)

US 'defeat' in Afghanistan is a chance for lasting peace: Iran

The chaos and utter collapse of Afghan government power in Afghanistan has strongly drawn attention to the way US fought its longest war and the apparent speedy exit that was followed by rapid gains by Taliban. The insurgent group entered Kabul on Sunday. It was believed that the national capital would hold on against Taliban for weeks but the matter came to a head in mere days and hours.

The rapid deterioration of Afghan situation has not only damaged US President's political stature but has also raised questions at US policies. The war against Taliban appears long lost an analysis has begun as to where things went wrong.

Where did Pentagon go wrong?

<h2>Wrong equipments in hands of not competent enough soldiers</h2>

<img alt="Afghanistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c891cf36-d97f-4f5d-80fd-c88db855c9b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9J227X.jpg" />

After toppling the Taliban in the aftermath of 9/11 attacks in 2001, the US started building an Afghan army in its own image. USD 83 billion were spent to set up and arm the Afghan army

However, the US model meant huge dependence on air support and high-tech communication network. Such an approach was less likely to be effective in a country where only 30 per cent of population has access to reliable electricity supply.

Airplanes, helicopters, drones, armored vehicles, night-vision goggles: the United States spared no expense in equipping the Afghan army. It recently even provided the Afghans with the latest Black Hawk attack helicopters.&nbsp;

However, many Afghans who were part of the army were illiterate young men and the infrastructure in the country could not support the cutting edge military tech that was being used.

<h2>Pull out of US military contractors</h2>

<img alt="Afghanistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e2be3964-36b1-40b0-9beb-5203253926dc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_6U5BK.jpg" />

In addition to the pullout of US troops, it was also decided to withdraw US contractors who played a key role in supporting US logistics.

"We built an air force that depended on contractors for maintenance and then pulled the contractors," Ronald Neumann, a former US ambassador to Kabul under President George W. Bush, told NPR public radio

<h2>Unpaid and unfed</h2>

<img alt="Afghanistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b6c1e973-ade5-48c2-93ea-54a27b76bc21" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9J227Y.jpg" />

Worse, the salaries of the Afghan army had been paid for years by the Pentagon. But from the moment the American army announced its planned withdrawal in April, responsibility for those payments fell on the Kabul government.

Numerous Afghan soldiers have complained on social media that they not only have not been paid in months, in many instances their units were no longer receiving food or supplies -- not even ammunition.

The rapid US withdrawal provided a final blow.

"We profoundly shocked the Afghan army and morale by pulling out and pulling our air cover," said Neumann.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-afghanistan-crisis-taliban-has-broken-shackles-of-slavery-says-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-405858">CLICK HERE to see LIVE updates on Afghan crisis</a>

<h2>Overestmation of Afghan army capabilities</h2>

Capabilities of the Afghan army were seriously overestimated, according to John Sopko, the US special inspector general for Afghanistan reconstruction (SIGAR).

Each time he tried to evaluate the Afghan army, he said, "the US military changed the goalposts, and made it easier to show success. And then finally, when they couldn't even do that, they classified the assessment tool. 
"So they knew how bad the Afghan military was."

His office's latest report to Congress, filed last week, said that "advanced weapons systems, vehicles and logistics used by Western militaries were beyond the capabilities of the largely illiterate and uneducated Afghan force."

<h2>Exaggerated numbers</h2>

Pentagon repeatedly stressed on what it said was numerical advantage of the Afghan forces -- supposedly with 300,000 men in the army and the police -- over the Taliban, estimated to number some 70,000.

But those army numbers were greatly inflated, according to the Combating Terrorism Center at the prestigious US Military Academy at West Point, New York.&nbsp;

As of July 2020, by its own estimate, the 300,000 included only 185,000 army troops or special operations forces under Defense Ministry control, with police and other security personnel making up the rest.&nbsp;

And barely 60 percent of the Afghan army troops were trained fighters, the West Point analysts said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-an-air-of-despair-surrounding-the-end-of-20-year-war-405996">Afghanistan: An air of despair surrounding the end of 20-year war</a>

A more accurate estimate of the army's fighting strength -- once the 8,000 air force personnel are taken out of the equation -- is 96,000, they concluded.&nbsp;

The SIGAR report said desertions have always been a problem for the Afghan army.

It found that in 2020, the Afghan army had to replace 25 percent of its force each year -- largely because of desertions -- and that American soldiers working with the Afghans came to see this rate as "normal."

<h2>Unkept and half-hearted promises</h2>

In spite of USA's repeated assurances of support after the pullout, it was never explained how this would be done logistically.

In May, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke of helping Afghan air force through an approach he called "over the horizon" logistics.

That vague concept implied the use of virtual training sessions with video conferencing on the Zoom platform -- an approach that seems illusory given the need for the Afghans to have computers or smartphones with well-functioning wi-fi connections.

All these factors and more culminated into what is decisively appearing to be a Taliban victory in Afghanistan.

It is often said that keeping Kabul is tougher than winning it. But the Taliban appear to currently have a firm grip on power.

(With inputs from agencies)

The chaos and utter collapse of Afghan government power in Afghanistan has strongly drawn attention to the way US fought its longest war and the apparent speedy exit that was followed by rapid gains by Taliban.

The chaos and utter collapse of Afghan government power in Afghanistan has strongly drawn attention to the way US fought its longest war and the apparent speedy exit that was followed by rapid gains by Taliban. The insurgent group entered Kabul on Sunday. It was believed that the national capital would hold on against Taliban for weeks but the matter came to a head in mere days and hours. The rapid deterioration of Afghan situation has not only damaged US President's political stature but has also raised questions at US policies. The war against Taliban appears long lost an analysis has begun as to where things went wrong. Where did Pentagon go wrong? Wrong equipments in hands of not competent enough soldiers After toppling the Taliban in the aftermath of 9/11 attacks in 2001, the US started building an Afghan army in its own image. USD 83 billion were spent to set up and arm the Afghan army However, the US model meant huge dependence on air support and high-tech communication network. Such an approach was less likely to be effective in a country where only 30 per cent of population has access to reliable electricity supply. Airplanes, helicopters, drones, armored vehicles, night-vision goggles: the United States spared no expense in equipping the Afghan army. It recently even provided the Afghans with the latest Black Hawk attack helicopters. However, many Afghans who were part of the army were illiterate young men and the infrastructure in the country could not support the cutting edge military tech that was being used. Pull out of US military contractors In addition to the pullout of US troops, it was also decided to withdraw US contractors who played a key role in supporting US logistics. "We built an air force that depended on contractors for maintenance and then pulled the contractors," Ronald Neumann, a former US ambassador to Kabul under President George W. Bush, told NPR public radio Unpaid and unfed Worse, the salaries of the Afghan army had been paid for years by the Pentagon. But from the moment the American army announced its planned withdrawal in April, responsibility for those payments fell on the Kabul government. Numerous Afghan soldiers have complained on social media that they not only have not been paid in months, in many instances their units were no longer receiving food or supplies -- not even ammunition. The rapid US withdrawal provided a final blow. "We profoundly shocked the Afghan army and morale by pulling out and pulling our air cover," said Neumann. CLICK HERE to see LIVE updates on Afghan crisis Overestmation of Afghan army capabilities Capabilities of the Afghan army were seriously overestimated, according to John Sopko, the US special inspector general for Afghanistan reconstruction (SIGAR). Each time he tried to evaluate the Afghan army, he said, "the US military changed the goalposts, and made it easier to show success. And then finally, when they couldn't even do that, they classified the assessment tool. "So they knew how bad the Afghan military was." His office's latest report to Congress, filed last week, said that "advanced weapons systems, vehicles and logistics used by Western militaries were beyond the capabilities of the largely illiterate and uneducated Afghan force." Exaggerated numbers Pentagon repeatedly stressed on what it said was numerical advantage of the Afghan forces -- supposedly with 300,000 men in the army and the police -- over the Taliban, estimated to number some 70,000. But those army numbers were greatly inflated, according to the Combating Terrorism Center at the prestigious US Military Academy at West Point, New York. As of July 2020, by its own estimate, the 300,000 included only 185,000 army troops or special operations forces under Defense Ministry control, with police and other security personnel making up the rest. And barely 60 percent of the Afghan army troops were trained fighters, the West Point analysts said. Also Read: Afghanistan: An air of despair surrounding the end of 20-year war A more accurate estimate of the army's fighting strength -- once the 8,000 air force personnel are taken out of the equation -- is 96,000, they concluded. The SIGAR report said desertions have always been a problem for the Afghan army. It found that in 2020, the Afghan army had to replace 25 percent of its force each year -- largely because of desertions -- and that American soldiers working with the Afghans came to see this rate as "normal." Unkept and half-hearted promises In spite of USA's repeated assurances of support after the pullout, it was never explained how this would be done logistically. In May, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke of helping Afghan air force through an approach he called "over the horizon" logistics. That vague concept implied the use of virtual training sessions with video conferencing on the Zoom platform -- an approach that seems illusory given the need for the Afghans to have computers or smartphones with well-functioning wi-fi connections. All these factors and more culminated into what is decisively appearing to be a Taliban victory in Afghanistan. It is often said that keeping Kabul is tougher than winning it. But the Taliban appear to currently have a firm grip on power. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Where did US go wrong in fight against Taliban?

Eliud Kipchoge produced a marathon masterclass and the USA edged China at the top of the Tokyo&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;medals table as the curtain fell on the biggest sports event since the pandemic on Sunday.

After Kipchoge's marathon win for Kenya, the United States scored victories in volleyball, track cycling, and basketball to top the tally with 39 gold medals, just one ahead of China.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-paris-saint-germain-is-a-possibility-admits-lionel-messi-403996" hreflang="en">Football: Paris Saint-Germain is a 'possibility', admits Lionel Messi</a>

The 339th and final gold medal went to Serbia's men's water polo team, capping a Games that were in serious danger of cancellation after they became the first postponed&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;last year.

Thirty-three sports have been contested across 16 days in largely empty stadiums, with fans barred over coronavirus risks and athletes living in strict biosecure conditions.

"Some were already speaking of 'Ghost Games',"&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;chief Thomas Bach told an International Olympic Committee session ahead of the closing ceremony on Sunday.

"What we have seen here is that on the contrary, the athletes have brought soul to the Olympic Games."

The&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;were plagued by low Japanese support over fears they would become a super-spreader event but officials maintained that a record haul of 27 gold medals, putting Japan third on the table, has won hearts.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-2020-tokyo-games-in-the-shadow-of-the-pandemic-403963" hreflang="en">Olympics 2020: Tokyo Games in the shadow of the pandemic</a>

"We believe our athletes' earnest spirit and all-out performance moved people," said Tsuyoshi Fukui, chef de mission for the Japanese team.

Britain finished fourth with 22 golds and the Russian Olympic Committee, the team for Russian athletes after Russia were banned for systematic doping, were fifth with 20.

Eliud Kipchoge produced a marathon masterclass and the USA edged China at the top of the Tokyo Olympics medals table as the curtain fell on the biggest sports event since the pandemic on Sunday.

Eliud Kipchoge produced a marathon masterclass and the USA edged China at the top of the Tokyo Olympics medals table as the curtain fell on the biggest sports event since the pandemic on Sunday. After Kipchoge's marathon win for Kenya, the United States scored victories in volleyball, track cycling, and basketball to top the tally with 39 gold medals, just one ahead of China. ALSO READ: Football: Paris Saint-Germain is a 'possibility', admits Lionel Messi The 339th and final gold medal went to Serbia's men's water polo team, capping a Games that were in serious danger of cancellation after they became the first postponed Olympics last year. Thirty-three sports have been contested across 16 days in largely empty stadiums, with fans barred over coronavirus risks and athletes living in strict biosecure conditions. "Some were already speaking of 'Ghost Games'," Olympics chief Thomas Bach told an International Olympic Committee session ahead of the closing ceremony on Sunday. "What we have seen here is that on the contrary, the athletes have brought soul to the Olympic Games." The Olympics were plagued by low Japanese support over fears they would become a super-spreader event but officials maintained that a record haul of 27 gold medals, putting Japan third on the table, has won hearts. ALSO READ: Olympics 2020: Tokyo Games in the shadow of the pandemic "We believe our athletes' earnest spirit and all-out performance moved people," said Tsuyoshi Fukui, chef de mission for the Japanese team. Britain finished fourth with 22 golds and the Russian Olympic Committee, the team for Russian athletes after Russia were banned for systematic doping, were fifth with 20.

Tokyo 2020: USA top medal table as pandemic-defying Olympics close

The rampant United States swept past Japan to their seventh straight women's basketball crown Sunday, with Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi collecting their fifth Olympic gold medals to cap remarkable careers.

Brittney Griner scored a game-high 30 points with five rebounds and two assists as the hosts were overpowered 90-75 by a team that stretched their Olympic win streak to 55 games dating back to their last defeat in the 1992 semis.

They went to half-time with a 50-39 lead and there was no stopping them, with a valiant Japan settling for second place and a best-ever Olympic finish.

Beating the Americans in Saitama was always going to be a huge ask, with the USA one of the most dominant teams in Olympic sporting history.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ioc-chief-thomas-bach-calls-tokyo-olympics-2020-very-successful-403923" hreflang="en">IOC chief Thomas Bach calls Tokyo Olympics 2020 'very successful'</a>

They had won eight out of the past nine Olympic titles heading into the final.&nbsp;

Their only blemishes in the history of the tournament were a silver behind the Soviet Union at the inaugural event in 1976 and bronze in 1992.&nbsp;

"It really is hard to wrap your head around it, to grasp what it is," said Bird on her fifth gold, as &nbsp;US soccer star fiancée Megan Rapinoe watched on in Saitama Super Arena.

"Twenty years of staying true to the game, making sure you're at the top of your game, so much sacrifice."

Bird, 40, and Taurasi, 39, both scored early buckets as the US raced to a 13-point lead against a nervous Japan, closing out the first quarter with a 23-14 advantage and Griner already into double digits.

Japan stabilized and began making some shots but they again struggled with Griner's 6ft 7ins (2.01 metres) height in the paint as the US picked her out repeatedly and she went 9-of-10 from the floor.

They took a 50-39 lead into the second half and built it into a 75-56 edge heading into the final stretch, with A'ja Wilson contributing 19 points and five assists for the game.

Japan were led by Maki Takada with 17 points, but the US successfully restricted the dangerous Rui Machida to just six assists, after she made an incredible 18 in the semi-finals to set a new Olympic women's game record.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-2020-clowns-and-propaganda-best-quotes-of-the-tokyo-games-403914" hreflang="en">Olympics 2020: Clowns and propaganda - best quotes of the Tokyo Games</a>

The Americans' seventh title equalled the longest ever streak by a team in any Olympic sport -- matching the feat of the US men's basketball team between 1936 and 1968.

Bird, who has won four WNBA titles with the Seattle Storm, and Taurasi, who has led the&nbsp;Phoenix Mercury&nbsp;to three WNBA championships, have been front and centre during the past five.

The pair won their first gold at Athens in 2004 as two of the youngest players on a team that also featured Dawn Staley, who claimed three gold as a player and is now the national coach.

"We've ignored the 'five gold' talk because we just want to be in the moment, and we want to really enjoy our last&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;and make it about the team," said Tuarasi.

"It's a lot of time on the court, it's a lot of time away from your family, and we've been able to do it together (her and Bird) which means probably more than any medal that we've won."

The rampant United States swept past Japan to their seventh straight women's basketball crown Sunday, with Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi collecting their fifth Olympic gold medals to cap remarkable careers.

The rampant United States swept past Japan to their seventh straight women's basketball crown Sunday, with Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi collecting their fifth Olympic gold medals to cap remarkable careers. Brittney Griner scored a game-high 30 points with five rebounds and two assists as the hosts were overpowered 90-75 by a team that stretched their Olympic win streak to 55 games dating back to their last defeat in the 1992 semis. They went to half-time with a 50-39 lead and there was no stopping them, with a valiant Japan settling for second place and a best-ever Olympic finish. Beating the Americans in Saitama was always going to be a huge ask, with the USA one of the most dominant teams in Olympic sporting history. ALSO READ: IOC chief Thomas Bach calls Tokyo Olympics 2020 'very successful' They had won eight out of the past nine Olympic titles heading into the final. Their only blemishes in the history of the tournament were a silver behind the Soviet Union at the inaugural event in 1976 and bronze in 1992. "It really is hard to wrap your head around it, to grasp what it is," said Bird on her fifth gold, as US soccer star fiancée Megan Rapinoe watched on in Saitama Super Arena. "Twenty years of staying true to the game, making sure you're at the top of your game, so much sacrifice." Bird, 40, and Taurasi, 39, both scored early buckets as the US raced to a 13-point lead against a nervous Japan, closing out the first quarter with a 23-14 advantage and Griner already into double digits. Japan stabilized and began making some shots but they again struggled with Griner's 6ft 7ins (2.01 metres) height in the paint as the US picked her out repeatedly and she went 9-of-10 from the floor. They took a 50-39 lead into the second half and built it into a 75-56 edge heading into the final stretch, with A'ja Wilson contributing 19 points and five assists for the game. Japan were led by Maki Takada with 17 points, but the US successfully restricted the dangerous Rui Machida to just six assists, after she made an incredible 18 in the semi-finals to set a new Olympic women's game record. ALSO READ: Olympics 2020: Clowns and propaganda - best quotes of the Tokyo Games The Americans' seventh title equalled the longest ever streak by a team in any Olympic sport -- matching the feat of the US men's basketball team between 1936 and 1968. Bird, who has won four WNBA titles with the Seattle Storm, and Taurasi, who has led the Phoenix Mercury to three WNBA championships, have been front and centre during the past five. The pair won their first gold at Athens in 2004 as two of the youngest players on a team that also featured Dawn Staley, who claimed three gold as a player and is now the national coach. "We've ignored the 'five gold' talk because we just want to be in the moment, and we want to really enjoy our last Olympics and make it about the team," said Tuarasi. "It's a lot of time on the court, it's a lot of time away from your family, and we've been able to do it together (her and Bird) which means probably more than any medal that we've won."

Tokyo Olympics: All-conquering US win seventh straight women's Olympic basketball title

The top US stock regulator on Friday announced new reporting requirements for Chinese shell companies listed on American exchanges. This was in response to Beijing's crackdown on big business.

Beijing has recently taken steps to tighten leash on major corporations in entertainment, ride-hailing, education and online shopping, including cybersecurity checks on firms planning to raise money in foreign markets

In a move he said was aimed at protecting American investors, Gary Gensler, head of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), called for new disclosures including to "prominently and clearly" state whether they have permission to list overseas.

These requirements focus on offshore shell companies known as Variable Interest Entities (VIEs).

"I worry that average investors may not realize that they hold stock in a shell company rather than a China-based operating company," Gensler said in a statement.&nbsp;

"In light of the recent developments in China and the overall risks with the China-based VIE structure, I have asked staff to seek certain disclosures from offshore issuers associated with China-based operating companies."

He also said he asked SEC staff for "targeted additional reviews of filings for companies with significant China-based operations," but gave no details on how those would be determined.

China's new rules have roiled markets in recent days and caused some firms to shelve plans for initial stock offerings.

Ride-hailing giant Didi Chuxing defied authorities and went ahead with its IPO only to face a backlash when Beijing ordered the app to be removed from stores over cybersecurity concerns.

The top US stock regulator on Friday announced new reporting requirements for Chinese shell companies listed on American exchanges. This was in response to Beijing's crackdown on big business.

The top US stock regulator on Friday announced new reporting requirements for Chinese shell companies listed on American exchanges. This was in response to Beijing's crackdown on big business. Beijing has recently taken steps to tighten leash on major corporations in entertainment, ride-hailing, education and online shopping, including cybersecurity checks on firms planning to raise money in foreign markets In a move he said was aimed at protecting American investors, Gary Gensler, head of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), called for new disclosures including to "prominently and clearly" state whether they have permission to list overseas. These requirements focus on offshore shell companies known as Variable Interest Entities (VIEs). "I worry that average investors may not realize that they hold stock in a shell company rather than a China-based operating company," Gensler said in a statement. "In light of the recent developments in China and the overall risks with the China-based VIE structure, I have asked staff to seek certain disclosures from offshore issuers associated with China-based operating companies." He also said he asked SEC staff for "targeted additional reviews of filings for companies with significant China-based operations," but gave no details on how those would be determined. China's new rules have roiled markets in recent days and caused some firms to shelve plans for initial stock offerings. Ride-hailing giant Didi Chuxing defied authorities and went ahead with its IPO only to face a backlash when Beijing ordered the app to be removed from stores over cybersecurity concerns.

US asks for more disclosure from Chinese firms amid Beijing's crackdown

Two rockets were fired at Baghdad's fortified Green Zone on Thursday. AFP quoted security sources to say that there was not any casualty or damage. The Green Zone houses US embassy. Iraqi interior ministry said that one rocket hit the ground near the Al-Rahman Mosque in the capital's Mansur district, which borders the Green Zone

The attack took place at dawn when Prime Minister &nbsp;Mustafa al-Kadhemi was flying home from Washington after White House talks. During his visit, US President Joe Biden announced end to US combay operations in Iraq.

In recent months, attacks on US interests in Baghdad has been a daily affair. These attacks have been blamed on pro-Iran armed groups within Iraq's security apparatus.

But the attacks had died down in the weeks running up to Kadhemi's Washington visit during which he had faced pressure from hardliners to secure a firm withdrawal date for all remaining US troops.

There had been just one attack since the first week of July, a Saturday drone strike targeting an airbase in Iraqi Kurdistan, which also caused no casualties or damage.

Biden said US relations with Iraq would enter a new phase with American troops exiting combat operations in the country by year-end.

Amid the threat of resurgence of the Islamic State group and Iran's powerful influence in Baghdad, Biden stressed that Washington remains "committed to our security cooperation" while Kadhemi reaffirmed the two countries' "strategic partnership".

But, in a shift that comes as the United States pulls out of Afghanistan, the US leader confirmed that the 2,500 US troops still in Iraq won't be fighting by year-end.

His announcement was welcomed by the Conquest Alliance, the political wing of Iraq's Hashed-al-Shaabi paramilitary network, which is dominated by pro-Iran groups, but not by hardline factions which fear the change will be purely nominal.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two rockets were fired at Baghdad's fortified Green Zone on Thursday. AFP quoted security sources to say that there was not any casualty or damage. The Green Zone houses US embassy.

Two rockets were fired at Baghdad's fortified Green Zone on Thursday. AFP quoted security sources to say that there was not any casualty or damage. The Green Zone houses US embassy. Iraqi interior ministry said that one rocket hit the ground near the Al-Rahman Mosque in the capital's Mansur district, which borders the Green Zone The attack took place at dawn when Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi was flying home from Washington after White House talks. During his visit, US President Joe Biden announced end to US combay operations in Iraq. In recent months, attacks on US interests in Baghdad has been a daily affair. These attacks have been blamed on pro-Iran armed groups within Iraq's security apparatus. But the attacks had died down in the weeks running up to Kadhemi's Washington visit during which he had faced pressure from hardliners to secure a firm withdrawal date for all remaining US troops. There had been just one attack since the first week of July, a Saturday drone strike targeting an airbase in Iraqi Kurdistan, which also caused no casualties or damage. Biden said US relations with Iraq would enter a new phase with American troops exiting combat operations in the country by year-end. Amid the threat of resurgence of the Islamic State group and Iran's powerful influence in Baghdad, Biden stressed that Washington remains "committed to our security cooperation" while Kadhemi reaffirmed the two countries' "strategic partnership". But, in a shift that comes as the United States pulls out of Afghanistan, the US leader confirmed that the 2,500 US troops still in Iraq won't be fighting by year-end. His announcement was welcomed by the Conquest Alliance, the political wing of Iraq's Hashed-al-Shaabi paramilitary network, which is dominated by pro-Iran groups, but not by hardline factions which fear the change will be purely nominal. (With inputs from agencies)

Rockets fired near US embassy in Baghdad

It didn't go as expected&nbsp;as US champion Simone Biles withdrew from the competition after her first event, however, Sunisa Lee, Grace McCallum, and Jordan Chiles competed for their third consecutive Olympic gold medal in the group competition.&nbsp;

Simone Biles, the best gymnast, withdrew from the Olympic final with a "medical issue" after only one event. She displayed a poor vault that saw her bailout and got a 13.766 mark for her endeavours prior to leaving the floor. She got back to the floor however was out very quickly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-simone-biles-withdraws-from-womens-gymnastics-team-all-around-final-400973" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Simone Biles withdraws from women's gymnastics team all-around final</a>

While Team USA went into the final as the gold-medal top choice, the meet ended up being a nail-biter without&nbsp;Simone Biles.&nbsp;

After falling behind on the vault and the bars, Team USA made a solid rebound push on the equilibrium pillar with&nbsp;an extraordinary effort from its three leftover gymnasts — Grace McCallum, Jordan Chiles, and Suni Lee.&nbsp;

They figured out how to sneak past the Russian Olympic Committee to momentarily hold a 0.1-point lead in the third rotation, at the end of the day, they tumbled off in the last rotation on the floor.&nbsp;

Angelina&nbsp;Melnikova scored 13.966 and the ROC have won the women's team all-around by a 3.432-point edge, bringing an end to United States' 11-year dominance. That was an 11.641-point swing from five years prior when the US won the gold fleeing.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-tokyo-battles-surge-in-coronavirus-cases-as-tropical-storm-nepartak-barrels-towards-japan-400966" hreflang="en">Olympics: Tokyo battles surge in coronavirus cases as tropical storm Nepartak barrels towards Japan</a>

Great Britain arrived at the podium interestingly since 1928, the first run through women's contended in gymnastics at the Olympics. They turned into the first country other than the United States, Romania, China or the Soviet Union, Russia to arrive at the podium in this event since East Germany at Seoul 1988.

All things considered, the ROC featured by Angelina Melnikova, Viktoriia Listunova, and Vladislava Urazova procured its first gold medal&nbsp;since 1988, when the nation had taken part in the summer games as the Soviet Union.

It didn't go as expected as US champion Simone Biles withdrew from the competition after her first event, however, Sunisa Lee, Grace McCallum, and Jordan Chiles competed for their third consecutive Olympic gold medal in the group competition.

It didn't go as expected as US champion Simone Biles withdrew from the competition after her first event, however, Sunisa Lee, Grace McCallum, and Jordan Chiles competed for their third consecutive Olympic gold medal in the group competition. Simone Biles, the best gymnast, withdrew from the Olympic final with a "medical issue" after only one event. She displayed a poor vault that saw her bailout and got a 13.766 mark for her endeavours prior to leaving the floor. She got back to the floor however was out very quickly. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Simone Biles withdraws from women's gymnastics team all-around final While Team USA went into the final as the gold-medal top choice, the meet ended up being a nail-biter without Simone Biles. After falling behind on the vault and the bars, Team USA made a solid rebound push on the equilibrium pillar with an extraordinary effort from its three leftover gymnasts — Grace McCallum, Jordan Chiles, and Suni Lee. They figured out how to sneak past the Russian Olympic Committee to momentarily hold a 0.1-point lead in the third rotation, at the end of the day, they tumbled off in the last rotation on the floor. Angelina Melnikova scored 13.966 and the ROC have won the women's team all-around by a 3.432-point edge, bringing an end to United States' 11-year dominance. That was an 11.641-point swing from five years prior when the US won the gold fleeing. ALSO READ: Olympics: Tokyo battles surge in coronavirus cases as tropical storm Nepartak barrels towards Japan Great Britain arrived at the podium interestingly since 1928, the first run through women's contended in gymnastics at the Olympics. They turned into the first country other than the United States, Romania, China or the Soviet Union, Russia to arrive at the podium in this event since East Germany at Seoul 1988. All things considered, the ROC featured by Angelina Melnikova, Viktoriia Listunova, and Vladislava Urazova procured its first gold medal since 1988, when the nation had taken part in the summer games as the Soviet Union.

Tokyo Olympics: Russia Olympic Committee wins women's team gold in artistic Gymnastics

As it seeks to manage an increasingly testy relationship, the Biden administration has mapped out a strategy of confronting China on points of dispute, while leaving the door open for cooperation against global threats.

On Monday, China seemed to slam the door on the idea that the two countries could collaborate one day and clash the next.

Talks with Deputy Secretary of State Wendy R. Sherman — the highest-ranking administration official to visit China so far — began with a barrage of public criticism from the Chinese side and ended with little sign that the two combative powers were closer to narrowing their disagreements.

“The relationship between the United States and the PRC is a complex one, and our policy is very complex as a result,” Sherman said in a telephone interview after the meetings, referring to the People’s Republic of China. “We believe our relationship can tolerate that nuance.”

The meetings, held in the northeastern Chinese city of Tianjin, covered the range of disputes between the two countries, she said. Many of them are acrimonious, defying easy resolution.

They included human rights, quickly narrowing political freedoms in Hong Kong and what Sherman called “the horrifying actions taking place in Xinjiang,” the largely Muslim region in western China where hundreds of thousands have passed through detention camps and re-education centers.

Sherman also raised China’s demands over Taiwan, its military operations in the South China Sea, and the accusations last week by the United States and other nations that China’s Ministry of State Security was behind the hacking of Microsoft email systems and possibly other cyberattacks.

“This is very serious — that the Ministry of State Security would assist criminals to hack Microsoft and potentially others,” she said, adding that many countries had joined the United States in saying that “such behavior is absolutely irresponsible, reckless and has no place in our world.”

China, at least publicly, gave no ground, saying that the United States had no right to lecture the Chinese government or anyone else. Even before Sherman had finished her meetings, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a series of six acrid statements from the first official she met, Xie Feng, the vice foreign minister who oversees relations with the United States.

Xie accused the United States of committing genocide against Native Americans and botching the response to the coronavirus pandemic, which has left 620,000 Americans dead.

The Biden administration’s policies are nothing but a “thinly veiled attempt to contain and suppress China,” Xie told Sherman, according to a summary of his comments that the Chinese foreign ministry sent to reporters on Monday before the Americans could emerge to provide their own account.

“It seems that a whole-of-government and whole-of-society campaign is being waged to bring China down,” Xie told Sherman, according to the summaries of his comments, which were also issued on the Chinese foreign ministry website.

Sherman’s meetings offered the latest gauge of how the Biden administration’s strategy is working. So far, at least, it has done little to temper China’s behavior. Xie’s remarks underscored the anger that has been building in China toward the United States, undermining the chances that the approach will gain ground.

After a second meeting — with China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi — Sherman indicated that the two sides had discussed global and regional problems where the two governments might be able work in concert, including North Korea and nuclear proliferation. She sounded a note of caution about any concrete progress, though, adding that she had not come to the talks expecting instant results.

“We were quite direct with each other on the areas of great difference,” she said.

“On areas where we have common interests and there are great global interests, we had very substantive discussions, shared some ideas,” Sherman said. “We will have to see where that goes.”

Drew Thompson, a former director for China in the U.S. Defense Department, said that the underlying intent behind Sherman’s visit appeared to be ensuring that sharpening differences did not spiral into dangerous standoffs.

“Beijing is taking a maximalist approach to the U.S.-China relationship, issuing lists of demands, insisting Washington reverse policies and actions,” said Thompson, who is now a researcher at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore.

“The primary objective for Washington has turned to deepening understanding of China’s positions, reducing the potential for misperception, and avoiding miscalculation that could lead to outright conflict,” he said.

The tone on Monday echoed the opening of high-level talks between senior Chinese and Biden administration officials in March, when Beijing’s top foreign policy official, Yang Jiechi, delivered a 16-minute lecture, accusing the Americans of arrogance and hypocrisy. The contentious start with the Biden administration has surprised officials in China, who thought that relations had hit bottom during the last year of the Trump presidency and thus could only improve with the new president.

Xie told the Chinese news media after his meeting that he had passed along to Sherman two sets of demands, including lifting visa restrictions on Communist Party members, rescinding sanctions on Chinese officials and no longer designating major Chinese news outlets in the United States as foreign agents. All of those were put in place during Donald Trump’s presidency, but President Joe Biden has not moved to repeal any of them.

While Biden has largely avoided the heated ideological sparring with the Chinese Communist Party that the Trump administration pursued in its final year, relations remain strained.

Washington has tried to draw in allies to press Beijing on many of these issues. Sherman’s travel also took her to Japan, South Korea and Mongolia as part of efforts to rebuild regional ties that were strained under Trump.

And the Chinese government has bristled at calls from the United States, the World Health Organization and others for a new examination of whether the coronavirus may have slipped out of a lab in China, igniting the pandemic.

Last week, Chinese officials said they were “extremely shocked” by a WHO proposal to take a fresh look at the lab leak theory. A report in March from an initial WHO inquiry said that it was “extremely unlikely” that the coronavirus had jumped into the wider population after escaping from a laboratory.

Sherman said she had pressed China to cooperate with the international investigation into the spread of COVID. “I’ll let them speak for themselves,” she said, “but from my perspective, I certainly didn’t get the answer I wanted or hoped for.”

China’s more combative tone appears to flow from the top. The country’s leader, Xi Jinping, has signaled growing impatience with criticism and demands from Washington, especially over what Beijing deems internal issues like Hong Kong and Xinjiang.

Beijing has retaliated against sanctions over Hong Kong and Xinjiang with its own against Western politicians, rights groups and academics.

“We’ll never accept insufferably arrogant lecturing from those ‘master teachers!’” Xi said in a speech on July 1 commemorating 100 years since the founding of the Chinese Communist Party.

As it seeks to manage an increasingly testy relationship, the Biden administration has mapped out a strategy of confronting China on points of dispute, while leaving the door open for cooperation against global threats.

As it seeks to manage an increasingly testy relationship, the Biden administration has mapped out a strategy of confronting China on points of dispute, while leaving the door open for cooperation against global threats. On Monday, China seemed to slam the door on the idea that the two countries could collaborate one day and clash the next. Talks with Deputy Secretary of State Wendy R. Sherman — the highest-ranking administration official to visit China so far — began with a barrage of public criticism from the Chinese side and ended with little sign that the two combative powers were closer to narrowing their disagreements. “The relationship between the United States and the PRC is a complex one, and our policy is very complex as a result,” Sherman said in a telephone interview after the meetings, referring to the People’s Republic of China. “We believe our relationship can tolerate that nuance.” The meetings, held in the northeastern Chinese city of Tianjin, covered the range of disputes between the two countries, she said. Many of them are acrimonious, defying easy resolution. They included human rights, quickly narrowing political freedoms in Hong Kong and what Sherman called “the horrifying actions taking place in Xinjiang,” the largely Muslim region in western China where hundreds of thousands have passed through detention camps and re-education centers. Sherman also raised China’s demands over Taiwan, its military operations in the South China Sea, and the accusations last week by the United States and other nations that China’s Ministry of State Security was behind the hacking of Microsoft email systems and possibly other cyberattacks. “This is very serious — that the Ministry of State Security would assist criminals to hack Microsoft and potentially others,” she said, adding that many countries had joined the United States in saying that “such behavior is absolutely irresponsible, reckless and has no place in our world.” China, at least publicly, gave no ground, saying that the United States had no right to lecture the Chinese government or anyone else. Even before Sherman had finished her meetings, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a series of six acrid statements from the first official she met, Xie Feng, the vice foreign minister who oversees relations with the United States. Xie accused the United States of committing genocide against Native Americans and botching the response to the coronavirus pandemic, which has left 620,000 Americans dead. The Biden administration’s policies are nothing but a “thinly veiled attempt to contain and suppress China,” Xie told Sherman, according to a summary of his comments that the Chinese foreign ministry sent to reporters on Monday before the Americans could emerge to provide their own account. “It seems that a whole-of-government and whole-of-society campaign is being waged to bring China down,” Xie told Sherman, according to the summaries of his comments, which were also issued on the Chinese foreign ministry website. Sherman’s meetings offered the latest gauge of how the Biden administration’s strategy is working. So far, at least, it has done little to temper China’s behavior. Xie’s remarks underscored the anger that has been building in China toward the United States, undermining the chances that the approach will gain ground. After a second meeting — with China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi — Sherman indicated that the two sides had discussed global and regional problems where the two governments might be able work in concert, including North Korea and nuclear proliferation. She sounded a note of caution about any concrete progress, though, adding that she had not come to the talks expecting instant results. “We were quite direct with each other on the areas of great difference,” she said. “On areas where we have common interests and there are great global interests, we had very substantive discussions, shared some ideas,” Sherman said. “We will have to see where that goes.” Drew Thompson, a former director for China in the U.S. Defense Department, said that the underlying intent behind Sherman’s visit appeared to be ensuring that sharpening differences did not spiral into dangerous standoffs. “Beijing is taking a maximalist approach to the U.S.-China relationship, issuing lists of demands, insisting Washington reverse policies and actions,” said Thompson, who is now a researcher at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore. “The primary objective for Washington has turned to deepening understanding of China’s positions, reducing the potential for misperception, and avoiding miscalculation that could lead to outright conflict,” he said. The tone on Monday echoed the opening of high-level talks between senior Chinese and Biden administration officials in March, when Beijing’s top foreign policy official, Yang Jiechi, delivered a 16-minute lecture, accusing the Americans of arrogance and hypocrisy. The contentious start with the Biden administration has surprised officials in China, who thought that relations had hit bottom during the last year of the Trump presidency and thus could only improve with the new president. Xie told the Chinese news media after his meeting that he had passed along to Sherman two sets of demands, including lifting visa restrictions on Communist Party members, rescinding sanctions on Chinese officials and no longer designating major Chinese news outlets in the United States as foreign agents. All of those were put in place during Donald Trump’s presidency, but President Joe Biden has not moved to repeal any of them. While Biden has largely avoided the heated ideological sparring with the Chinese Communist Party that the Trump administration pursued in its final year, relations remain strained. Washington has tried to draw in allies to press Beijing on many of these issues. Sherman’s travel also took her to Japan, South Korea and Mongolia as part of efforts to rebuild regional ties that were strained under Trump. And the Chinese government has bristled at calls from the United States, the World Health Organization and others for a new examination of whether the coronavirus may have slipped out of a lab in China, igniting the pandemic. Last week, Chinese officials said they were “extremely shocked” by a WHO proposal to take a fresh look at the lab leak theory. A report in March from an initial WHO inquiry said that it was “extremely unlikely” that the coronavirus had jumped into the wider population after escaping from a laboratory. Sherman said she had pressed China to cooperate with the international investigation into the spread of COVID. “I’ll let them speak for themselves,” she said, “but from my perspective, I certainly didn’t get the answer I wanted or hoped for.” China’s more combative tone appears to flow from the top. The country’s leader, Xi Jinping, has signaled growing impatience with criticism and demands from Washington, especially over what Beijing deems internal issues like Hong Kong and Xinjiang. Beijing has retaliated against sanctions over Hong Kong and Xinjiang with its own against Western politicians, rights groups and academics. “We’ll never accept insufferably arrogant lecturing from those ‘master teachers!’” Xi said in a speech on July 1 commemorating 100 years since the founding of the Chinese Communist Party.

Biden’s China strategy meets resistance at the negotiating table

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