Doctors at the Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC have found that infected children can spread the COVID-19 virus for weeks even though they themselves show no symptoms.

Study finds asymptomatic children can carry Coronavirus for weeks

France and Germany have quit talks on reforming the World Health Organization in frustration at attempts by the United States to lead the negotiations, despite its decision to leave the WHO.

The move is a setback for President Donald Trump as Washington, which holds the rotating chair of the G7, had hoped to issue a common roadmap for a sweeping overhaul of the WHO in September, two months before the US&nbsp;presidential election.

The Trump administration, which holds the rotating presidency of the G-7 this year, has accused WHO of bowing to pressure from China in its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/race-plays-a-role-in-severe-covid-19-illness-among-kids-study-finds-319012" hreflang="en">Race plays a role in severe COVID-19 illness among kids, study finds</a>

The WHO has dismissed his accusations. European governments have also criticised the WHO but do not go as far as the United States in their criticism, and the decision by Paris and Berlin to leave the talks follows tensions over what they say are Washington’s attempts to dominate the negotiations.

Germany's Health Ministry said the issue was discussed during a call of health ministers from the Group of Seven leading economies Thursday.

In a statement Saturday, the ministry said that in view of the United States' withdrawal from WHO, Germany and France currently see no mandate for the US to lead the WHO reform process for the G-7.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-marks-160000-covid-19-deaths-as-economic-relief-talks-fail-in-washington-318965" hreflang="en">US marks 160,000 COVID-19 deaths as economic relief talks fail in Washington</a>

“Nobody wants to be dragged into a reform process and getting an outline for it from a country which itself just left the WHO,” a senior European official involved in the talks said.

The German and French health ministries confirmed&nbsp;that the two countries were opposed to the United States leading the talks after announcing their intention to leave the organisation.

A spokesman for the Italian health ministry said that work on the reform document was still underway, adding however that Italy’s position was in line with Paris and Berlin.

Asked about the position of France and Germany, a senior Trump administration official said: “All members of the G7 explicitly supported the substance of the WHO reform ideas.”

“Notwithstanding, it is regrettable that Germany and France ultimately chose not to join the group in endorsing the roadmap,” he said.

A spokesman for the British government declined to comment on the latest developments but added that Britain supported the WHO and urged a reform of the body “to ensure it remains flexible and responsive”.

The talks on WHO reform began about four months ago. There have been nearly 20 teleconferences between health ministers from the Group of Seven industrialised nations, and dozens of meetings of diplomats and other officials.

A deal by the G7, which also includes Japan and Canada, would facilitate talks at the G20 and United Nations, where any changes would have to be agreed with China, Russia and other major governments not in the G7.

It is unclear whether a G7 summit in the United States, at which Trump hopes leaders will endorse the roadmap, will now go ahead in September as planned.

US&nbsp;officials have not said what reforms Washington has sought. But an initial reform roadmap proposed by Washington was seen by many of its allies as too critical, with one European official involved in the negotiations describing it as “rude”.

Despite changes to the original text, Washington’s push remained unacceptable, mainly to Germany, sources familiar with the negotiations said.

France and Germany have quit talks on reforming the World Health Organization in frustration at attempts by the United States to lead the negotiations, despite its decision to leave the WHO.

France and Germany have quit talks on reforming the World Health Organization in frustration at attempts by the United States to lead the negotiations, despite its decision to leave the WHO. The move is a setback for President Donald Trump as Washington, which holds the rotating chair of the G7, had hoped to issue a common roadmap for a sweeping overhaul of the WHO in September, two months before the US presidential election. The Trump administration, which holds the rotating presidency of the G-7 this year, has accused WHO of bowing to pressure from China in its handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Race plays a role in severe COVID-19 illness among kids, study finds The WHO has dismissed his accusations. European governments have also criticised the WHO but do not go as far as the United States in their criticism, and the decision by Paris and Berlin to leave the talks follows tensions over what they say are Washington’s attempts to dominate the negotiations. Germany's Health Ministry said the issue was discussed during a call of health ministers from the Group of Seven leading economies Thursday. In a statement Saturday, the ministry said that in view of the United States' withdrawal from WHO, Germany and France currently see no mandate for the US to lead the WHO reform process for the G-7. Also read: US marks 160,000 COVID-19 deaths as economic relief talks fail in Washington “Nobody wants to be dragged into a reform process and getting an outline for it from a country which itself just left the WHO,” a senior European official involved in the talks said. The German and French health ministries confirmed that the two countries were opposed to the United States leading the talks after announcing their intention to leave the organisation. A spokesman for the Italian health ministry said that work on the reform document was still underway, adding however that Italy’s position was in line with Paris and Berlin. Asked about the position of France and Germany, a senior Trump administration official said: “All members of the G7 explicitly supported the substance of the WHO reform ideas.” “Notwithstanding, it is regrettable that Germany and France ultimately chose not to join the group in endorsing the roadmap,” he said. A spokesman for the British government declined to comment on the latest developments but added that Britain supported the WHO and urged a reform of the body “to ensure it remains flexible and responsive”. The talks on WHO reform began about four months ago. There have been nearly 20 teleconferences between health ministers from the Group of Seven industrialised nations, and dozens of meetings of diplomats and other officials. A deal by the G7, which also includes Japan and Canada, would facilitate talks at the G20 and United Nations, where any changes would have to be agreed with China, Russia and other major governments not in the G7. It is unclear whether a G7 summit in the United States, at which Trump hopes leaders will endorse the roadmap, will now go ahead in September as planned. US officials have not said what reforms Washington has sought. But an initial reform roadmap proposed by Washington was seen by many of its allies as too critical, with one European official involved in the negotiations describing it as “rude”. Despite changes to the original text, Washington’s push remained unacceptable, mainly to Germany, sources familiar with the negotiations said.

Germany, France quit WHO reform talks amid tension with Washington

The United States has now announced its highest-level visit in four decades to Taiwan. This move by Washington can now anger China as tensions between the two nations continue to escalate. Watch report.

US builds on Taiwan ties: US highest-level visit to Taiwan | World News

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

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

The domestic intelligence and security service of the United States FBI is leading an inquiry into the Twitter hacking of major companies and individuals, as more Washington lawmakers raised alarms about the breach of high-profile accounts on the social media platform.

FBI probes mega Twitter hack

Washington, DC -- four decades after launching its drive for US statehood -- was poised to take a step toward becoming the 51st state as the House of Representatives on Friday is expected to approve its admission.

Though the initiative was likely to pass handily in the House, where Democrats hold the majority, Republicans for years have actively opposed creating a state that they predict would elect Democrats to Congress.

If it became a state, Washington would likely only have one lawmaker, not five.

The state would be named Washington, Douglass Commonwealth, after George Washington, the first US president, and Frederick Douglass, a former enslaved person turned famed abolitionist.

It would include the district’s current 700,000 residents, but not major federal buildings, the National Mall, memorials and the museums, which would be housed in a federal enclave.

Proponents say Washington’s inhabitants have no voice in the federal government, despite paying federal taxes.

Local anger over the district’s status flared up most recently during the coronavirus pandemic. Washington received $500 million for its pandemic response, compared to the $1.2 billion the federal government accorded to each of the 50 states.

Amid nationwide protests sparked by the killing of George Floyd, an African American man who died after a police officer kneeled against Floyd’s neck, Trump sent National Guard troops from 10 states, over the objection of the district’s mayor, to quell protests against racism and police brutality in the district.

To this end, Mayor Muriel Bowser at a press conference said, "Not only do we not have voting senators and our congresswoman not have the right to vote, the whims of a federal government can encroach on our even limited autonomy."

The last time the United States expanded was 1959, when Congress approved admitting Alaska and Hawaii as the 49th and 50th states, respectively, following congressional votes and the support of the president.

Washington, DC -- four decades after launching its drive for US statehood -- was poised to take a step toward becoming the 51st state as the House of Representatives on Friday is expected to approve its admission.

Washington, DC -- four decades after launching its drive for US statehood -- was poised to take a step toward becoming the 51st state as the House of Representatives on Friday is expected to approve its admission. Though the initiative was likely to pass handily in the House, where Democrats hold the majority, Republicans for years have actively opposed creating a state that they predict would elect Democrats to Congress. If it became a state, Washington would likely only have one lawmaker, not five. The state would be named Washington, Douglass Commonwealth, after George Washington, the first US president, and Frederick Douglass, a former enslaved person turned famed abolitionist. It would include the district’s current 700,000 residents, but not major federal buildings, the National Mall, memorials and the museums, which would be housed in a federal enclave. Proponents say Washington’s inhabitants have no voice in the federal government, despite paying federal taxes. Local anger over the district’s status flared up most recently during the coronavirus pandemic. Washington received $500 million for its pandemic response, compared to the $1.2 billion the federal government accorded to each of the 50 states. Amid nationwide protests sparked by the killing of George Floyd, an African American man who died after a police officer kneeled against Floyd’s neck, Trump sent National Guard troops from 10 states, over the objection of the district’s mayor, to quell protests against racism and police brutality in the district. To this end, Mayor Muriel Bowser at a press conference said, "Not only do we not have voting senators and our congresswoman not have the right to vote, the whims of a federal government can encroach on our even limited autonomy." The last time the United States expanded was 1959, when Congress approved admitting Alaska and Hawaii as the 49th and 50th states, respectively, following congressional votes and the support of the president.

US House expected to pass DC statehood bill in historic vote

NASA has decided to rename its Washington headquarters after Mary Jackson, its first black female engineer. Mary Jackson's story was told in an American hit film "Hidden Figures."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rhode-island-to-change-official-name-over-links-to-colonial-slavery-governor-signs-executive-orders-308381" hreflang="en">Rhode Island to change official name over links to colonial slavery; Governor signs executive orders</a>

"Mary W. Jackson was part of a group of very important women who helped NASA succeed in getting American astronauts into space," NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine said in a statement.

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📍 Welcome to the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building 
 
Today, Administrator <a href="https://twitter.com/JimBridenstine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JimBridenstine</a> announced that we’re naming our headquarters building in Washington, DC after our first African-American female engineer: <a href="https://t.co/znX2jXklRh">https://t.co/znX2jXklRh</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1275980031978856449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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📍 Welcome to the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building 
 
Today, Administrator <a href="https://twitter.com/JimBridenstine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JimBridenstine</a> announced that we’re naming our headquarters building in Washington, DC after our first African-American female engineer: <a href="https://t.co/znX2jXklRh">https://t.co/znX2jXklRh</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1275980031978856449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Mary never accepted the status quo, she helped break barriers and open opportunities for African Americans and women in the field of engineering and technology."

Jackson was recruited in 1951 by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, which in 1958 was succeeded by NASA. She began her career as a research mathematician and was later promoted to become the agency's first black female engineer.

<img alt="wkem" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eafdd60-d987-472a-86a7-0a81145a4aaa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_92.jpg" />

Jim Bridenstine announced that the new Mary W Jackson NASA headquarters building would be located on "Hidden Figures Way," which was renamed just last year.

"Hidden no more, we will continue to recognize the contributions of women, African Americans, and people of all backgrounds who have made NASA's successful history of exploration possible," Bridenstine said.

NASA's move comes weeks after protests in the US against systemic racism and racial inequality.

"NASA facilities across the country are named after people who dedicated their lives to push the frontiers of the aerospace industry," Bridenstine said.

"The nation is beginning to awaken to the greater need to honour the full diversity of people who helped pioneer our great nation."

(Inputs from AFP)

NASA has decided to rename its Washington headquarters after Mary Jackson, its first black female engineer. Mary Jackson's story was told in an American hit film "Hidden Figures.

NASA has decided to rename its Washington headquarters after Mary Jackson, its first black female engineer. Mary Jackson's story was told in an American hit film "Hidden Figures." Also read: Rhode Island to change official name over links to colonial slavery; Governor signs executive orders "Mary W. Jackson was part of a group of very important women who helped NASA succeed in getting American astronauts into space," NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine said in a statement. 📍 Welcome to the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building Today, Administrator @JimBridenstine announced that we’re naming our headquarters building in Washington, DC after our first African-American female engineer: https://t.co/znX2jXklRh — NASA (@NASA) June 25, 2020 📍 Welcome to the Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters building Today, Administrator @JimBridenstine announced that we’re naming our headquarters building in Washington, DC after our first African-American female engineer: https://t.co/znX2jXklRh — NASA (@NASA) June 25, 2020 × "Mary never accepted the status quo, she helped break barriers and open opportunities for African Americans and women in the field of engineering and technology." Jackson was recruited in 1951 by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, which in 1958 was succeeded by NASA. She began her career as a research mathematician and was later promoted to become the agency's first black female engineer. Jim Bridenstine announced that the new Mary W Jackson NASA headquarters building would be located on "Hidden Figures Way," which was renamed just last year. "Hidden no more, we will continue to recognize the contributions of women, African Americans, and people of all backgrounds who have made NASA's successful history of exploration possible," Bridenstine said. NASA's move comes weeks after protests in the US against systemic racism and racial inequality. "NASA facilities across the country are named after people who dedicated their lives to push the frontiers of the aerospace industry," Bridenstine said. "The nation is beginning to awaken to the greater need to honour the full diversity of people who helped pioneer our great nation." (Inputs from AFP)

NASA renames headquarters after Mary Jackson, the inspiration behind Oscar nominated film 'Hidden Figures'

Just about every business in town, from the gas station and auto-body shop to Don Juan's Mexican Kitchen, is accepting the wooden scrip in the small city of Tenino, Washington. The currency is about the thickness, size and flexibility of an index card and printed on the same 1890s-era press once printed the Depression currency and the local newspaper. It can't be used for alcohol, tobacco or marijuana.

Wash. town resurrects wooden money to aid economy

US President Donald Trump marked his 74th birthday on June 14 as protests continued to rage across the United States. Trump was seen returning to the White House for his birthday from West Point in New York where he was attending a graduation ceremony at the West Point military academy. Watch report.

Donald Trump's 74th birthday | Protestors against Trump in NYC, Washington

Members of the Washington DC National Guard have tested positive for coronavirus in the wake of their deployment during recent protests in the US capital. Watch report.

COVID-19 spreads to Washington National Guard: Number of infected guardsmen not known yet

A group of violent #BlackLivesMatter protesters in Washington DC vandalised a statue of Mahatma Gandhi outside the Indian Embassy. An investigation into the matter has been launched by the United States Park Police. Watch report.

Mahatma Gandhi statue vandalised at Indian embassy in Washington

The Pentagon has moved about 1,600 U.S. Army troops into the Washington, DC, region, the Pentagon said on Tuesday, after several nights of violent protests in the city.

"Active duty elements are postured on military bases in the National Capital Region but are not in Washington, D.C.," Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Rath Hoffman said in a statement.

He said the troops were on "heightened alert status" but "are not participating in defence support to civil authority operations."

Senior defence officials had said on Monday that units would be moving into the Washington region.

The troops include military police and those with engineering capabilities, along with an infantry battalion, Hoffman said.

The Pentagon has moved about 1,600 U.S. Army troops into the Washington, DC, region, the Pentagon said on Tuesday, after several nights of violent protests in the city.

The Pentagon has moved about 1,600 U.S. Army troops into the Washington, DC, region, the Pentagon said on Tuesday, after several nights of violent protests in the city. "Active duty elements are postured on military bases in the National Capital Region but are not in Washington, D.C.," Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Rath Hoffman said in a statement. He said the troops were on "heightened alert status" but "are not participating in defence support to civil authority operations." Senior defence officials had said on Monday that units would be moving into the Washington region. The troops include military police and those with engineering capabilities, along with an infantry battalion, Hoffman said.

Pentagon moves about 1,600 army troops into the Washington region

A fish processing vessel owned by American Seafoods now account for 86 cases of coronavirus.

In a statement released on Sunday, the company announced that crew members onboard one of their vessels, “American Dynasty” were tested for the deadly respiratory disease recently. The testing was conducted at the port of Bellingham in the US state of Washington, before the vessel took off for Seattle.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-question-authenticity-of-study-on-hydroxychloroquine-drugs-302287" hreflang="en">Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs</a>

The vessel can carry 142 crew members. Even though everybody was tested, the results of nine crew members is still being fetched, Reuters reported.

The seafood company is based in Seattle and is responsible for six fish processing vessels in the North Pacific Ocean. The company is touted as one of the largest processors of wild pacific hake, and wild Alaska pollock fish.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/us-has-lost-over-1-lakh-lives-40-million-jobs-due-to-covid-19-302254/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As coronavirus-induced hysteria hit the meat industry, over twenty plants in the United States were shut down recently after new clusters emerged at units across the country. Big corporations like McDonald’s and Smithfield Foods were recently sued for not adhering to health and safety measures to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-supremacists-or-antifa-or-multiple-theories-float-on-who-caused-violence-in-us-302348" hreflang="en">White supremacists or Antifa or _ ? Multiple theories float on who caused violence in US</a>

Based on numbers from May 31, the US state of Washington alone has 22,000 positive cases of coronavirus, with over 1.8 million infections across the country - the highest in the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact.

As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India.

(With inputs from Reuters)

A fish processing vessel owned by American Seafoods now account for 86 cases of coronavirus. In a statement released on Sunday, the company announced that crew members onboard one of their vessels, “American Dynasty” were tested for the deadly respiratory disease recently.

A fish processing vessel owned by American Seafoods now account for 86 cases of coronavirus. In a statement released on Sunday, the company announced that crew members onboard one of their vessels, “American Dynasty” were tested for the deadly respiratory disease recently. The testing was conducted at the port of Bellingham in the US state of Washington, before the vessel took off for Seattle. Also read: Scientists question authenticity of study on hydroxychloroquine drugs The vessel can carry 142 crew members. Even though everybody was tested, the results of nine crew members is still being fetched, Reuters reported. The seafood company is based in Seattle and is responsible for six fish processing vessels in the North Pacific Ocean. The company is touted as one of the largest processors of wild pacific hake, and wild Alaska pollock fish. As coronavirus-induced hysteria hit the meat industry, over twenty plants in the United States were shut down recently after new clusters emerged at units across the country. Big corporations like McDonald’s and Smithfield Foods were recently sued for not adhering to health and safety measures to contain the spread of coronavirus. Also read: White supremacists or Antifa or _ ? Multiple theories float on who caused violence in US Based on numbers from May 31, the US state of Washington alone has 22,000 positive cases of coronavirus, with over 1.8 million infections across the country - the highest in the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has left no country untouched from its impact and has triggered one of the biggest recessions in the history of modern civilisation. Most economic activity has been suspended and chains of supply have been disrupted causing trouble for all economies which are now reopening slowly to recover from the impact. As per now, no vaccine has been approved to contain the spread of COVID-19. The deadly virus continues to claim lives of people across the globe, with over 100,000 deaths in the United States alone. The number of cases are jumping rapidly in Brazil and India. (With inputs from Reuters)

American seafood company's vessel spawns a coronavirus cluster with 86 new cases

Demonstrations erupted in cities across the U.S. in response to the death of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, in the hands of Minneapolis police.

Protesters burn down buildings in Minneapolis

US Protests: Cities impose curfews, Washington calls in National Guards

Restaurants in Washington, D.C. prepped their patios and staff for a limited re-opening on Friday (May 29), when they will be allowed to offer outdoor seating for diners.

Washington, D.C. restaurants prepare to open for outdoor seating

Many people expressed concerns that their personal freedoms and constitutional rights were being curtailed in the fight to contain the pandemic.

US: Protests rally against Washington's stay-at-home orders

The US Senate convened for its first regular session in five weeks Monday in the heat of the coronavirus pandemic that has killed 68,000 Americans and left tens of millions jobless.

Lawmakers, who under new guidelines are encouraged but not required to wear face masks, are expected to address disputes over how to confront the outbreak and mitigate the devastating economic impacts.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/political-leaders-defy-their-own-by-breaking-self-made-coronavirus-protocols-296661" hreflang="en">Political leaders defy their own by breaking 'self-made' coronavirus protocols!</a>

The Senate, with 49 of its 100 members age 65 or older and therefore considered at higher risk, gavelled in for its first full session since March 25.

"Now the time has come for us to continue conducting our nation's business in ways that are only possible with senators here in the capital," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said.

"The Senate's going to be as smart and safe as we possibly can, and we are going to show up for work like the essential workers that we are."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-war-of-words-escalates-over-covid-19-origin-296648" hreflang="en">US-China war of words escalates over COVID-19 origin</a>

Republican McConnell did not wear a mask inside the chamber, but many lawmakers from both parties did. In hallways outside the chamber, nearly all senators, including McConnell, were wearing masks.

The 435-member House of Representatives opted not to return this week.

Democratic leaders who control that chamber delayed holding full sessions, citing ongoing health safety concerns and a warning by the congressional physician that the US capital had yet to sufficiently control new coronavirus cases.

Those who do return to Capitol Hill are advised by that doctor, Brian Monahan, to practice social distancing, wear masks, limit the number of in-office staff, screen visitors, use hand sanitizer, and avoid shaking hands.

The US Senate convened for its first regular session in five weeks Monday in the heat of the coronavirus pandemic that has killed 68,000 Americans and left tens of millions jobless.

The US Senate convened for its first regular session in five weeks Monday in the heat of the coronavirus pandemic that has killed 68,000 Americans and left tens of millions jobless. Lawmakers, who under new guidelines are encouraged but not required to wear face masks, are expected to address disputes over how to confront the outbreak and mitigate the devastating economic impacts. Also read: Political leaders defy their own by breaking 'self-made' coronavirus protocols! The Senate, with 49 of its 100 members age 65 or older and therefore considered at higher risk, gavelled in for its first full session since March 25. "Now the time has come for us to continue conducting our nation's business in ways that are only possible with senators here in the capital," Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said. "The Senate's going to be as smart and safe as we possibly can, and we are going to show up for work like the essential workers that we are." Also read: US-China war of words escalates over COVID-19 origin Republican McConnell did not wear a mask inside the chamber, but many lawmakers from both parties did. In hallways outside the chamber, nearly all senators, including McConnell, were wearing masks. The 435-member House of Representatives opted not to return this week. Democratic leaders who control that chamber delayed holding full sessions, citing ongoing health safety concerns and a warning by the congressional physician that the US capital had yet to sufficiently control new coronavirus cases. Those who do return to Capitol Hill are advised by that doctor, Brian Monahan, to practice social distancing, wear masks, limit the number of in-office staff, screen visitors, use hand sanitizer, and avoid shaking hands.

US senators, many in masks, return to Washington under new virus guidance

Two opera singers whose shows were cancelled due to coronavirus, find a different audience in the park.

Arias in open air as opera singers surprise Washington D.C. area park goers

North Korea's Supreme Leader&nbsp; Kim Jong-un is being treated at hospital which is designated as exclusive for the Kim family, South Korean media reported on Thursday citing local sources.

According to the DailyNK's report, Kim Jong-un underwent heart surgery at the Hyang San Hospital instead of a hospital in Pyongyang which is an exclusive hospital for the North Korean leader and his family.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-wish-him-well-trump-on-north-korean-leader-kim-jong-uns-ill-reports-293899"> 'I wish him well': Trump on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's ill reports</a>

The hospital was first established in 1994 after the death of Kim Il Sung, grandfather of North Korean leader. It was built with a belief that a hospital in the area would have saved Kim's grandfather.

As per the report, the hospital was made exclusive to the Kim family in 2004 to keep the leader and his family away from any kind of surveillance from the outside world.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-may-be-in-grave-danger-after-surgery-report-293728"> North Korea's Kim Jong Un may be in 'grave danger' after surgery — Report</a>

The doctor who did Kim's heart surgery is an expert of cardiovascular-related diseases and is trained in Germany. After his Germany medical program, he was designated as a cardiovascular specialist for Kim Jong-un, the report also claimed.

The report claims that the&nbsp;doctor is so prized by the leadership that he travels with his bodyguards and lives in a carefully guarded section of Pyongyang.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-kim-jong-uns-secret-illness-does-north-korea-have-a-successor-293872"> With Kim Jong un's 'secret illness', does North Korea have a successor?</a>

The medical equipments used in the hospital are also imported from Germany and Japan.

Earlier this month, Daily NK, an online media outlet run mostly by North Korean defectors, said Kim underwent a cardiovascular procedure&nbsp;and was recovering at a villa in North Phyongan province.

"Excessive smoking, obesity and fatigue were the direct causes of Kim's urgent cardiovascular treatment," it cited an unidentified source inside the country as saying.

The US media, citing an anonymous US official, said Washington was "monitoring intelligence" that Kim was in "grave danger" after undergoing surgery.

In a statement, a spokesman for the South's presidential Blue House said,&nbsp;"We have nothing to confirm and no special movement has been detected inside North Korea as of now."

(With inputs from agencies)

North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un is being treated at hospital which is designated as exclusive for the Kim family, South Korean media reported on Thursday citing local sources.

North Korea's Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un is being treated at hospital which is designated as exclusive for the Kim family, South Korean media reported on Thursday citing local sources. According to the DailyNK's report, Kim Jong-un underwent heart surgery at the Hyang San Hospital instead of a hospital in Pyongyang which is an exclusive hospital for the North Korean leader and his family. Also read: 'I wish him well': Trump on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's ill reports The hospital was first established in 1994 after the death of Kim Il Sung, grandfather of North Korean leader. It was built with a belief that a hospital in the area would have saved Kim's grandfather. As per the report, the hospital was made exclusive to the Kim family in 2004 to keep the leader and his family away from any kind of surveillance from the outside world. Also read: North Korea's Kim Jong Un may be in 'grave danger' after surgery — Report The doctor who did Kim's heart surgery is an expert of cardiovascular-related diseases and is trained in Germany. After his Germany medical program, he was designated as a cardiovascular specialist for Kim Jong-un, the report also claimed. The report claims that the doctor is so prized by the leadership that he travels with his bodyguards and lives in a carefully guarded section of Pyongyang. Also read: With Kim Jong un's 'secret illness', does North Korea have a successor? The medical equipments used in the hospital are also imported from Germany and Japan. Earlier this month, Daily NK, an online media outlet run mostly by North Korean defectors, said Kim underwent a cardiovascular procedure and was recovering at a villa in North Phyongan province. "Excessive smoking, obesity and fatigue were the direct causes of Kim's urgent cardiovascular treatment," it cited an unidentified source inside the country as saying. The US media, citing an anonymous US official, said Washington was "monitoring intelligence" that Kim was in "grave danger" after undergoing surgery. In a statement, a spokesman for the South's presidential Blue House said, "We have nothing to confirm and no special movement has been detected inside North Korea as of now." (With inputs from agencies)

Imported machines, Germany trained doctor - Inside of Kim Jong-un's exclusive hospital

China has announced that it will expel American journalists from three major US newspapers, in one of the communist government's biggest crackdowns on the foreign press and escalating a bitter row with Washington.

The decision, effective immediately, will require US nationals working for the New York Times, the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal to return their press accreditation within 10 days, if their credentials expire before the end of 2020.

The move came as the superpowers also feuded over the coronavirus pandemic, with US President Donald Trump provocatively branding it the "Chinese virus".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mind-your-own-business-china-to-trump-after-he-calls-covid-19-chinese-virus-287042">Mind your own business: China to Trump after he calls COVID-19 'Chinese virus'</a>

China said the expulsions were in retaliation for Washington's decision to cut the number of Chinese nationals allowed to work for its state-run media on American soil.

"In recent years, the US government has placed unwarranted restrictions on Chinese media agencies and personnel in the US, purposely made things difficult for their normal reporting assignments, and subjected them to growing discrimination and politically-motivated oppression," China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

The expulsions "are legitimate and justified self-defence in every sense,'' it added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-authorities-using-visas-as-weapons-against-foreign-press-report-283792">Chinese authorities using visas as weapons against foreign press: Report</a>

It said the journalists at the three newspapers must hand back their credentials within 10 days, and highlighted they would also not be able to work in the semi-autonomous cities of Hong Kong and Macau.

Beijing also ordered the papers, as well as Voice of America and Time magazine, to declare in writing their staff, finances, operations and real estate in China rules similar to those recently imposed on Chinese state media by Washington.

The foreign ministry said the measures "are entirely necessary and reciprocal" moves that China "is compelled to take in response to the unreasonable oppression the Chinese media organizations experience in the US".

Watch: China revokes 3 American Journalists of Wall Street Journal

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The row was ignited last month when the US reclassified Chinese state-run media operating in the United States as foreign missions.

China then expelled three other Wall Street Journal reporters, two Americans and one Australian, over what it deemed a racist headline by the US newspaper.

Those were the first outright expulsions by China of a foreign journalist since 1998, according to the Foreign Correspondents' Club of China.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said following the latest move against the three newspapers that China was wrong to equate state-run media, which answer to Beijing, and independent US news outlets that can freely report and ask critical questions.

"I regret China's decision today to further foreclose the world's ability to conduct the free press operations that, frankly, would be really good for the Chinese people in these incredibly challenging global times, where more information, more transparency are what will save lives," Pompeo said in a statment on Wednesday.

China has announced that it will expel American journalists from three major US newspapers, in one of the communist government's biggest crackdowns on the foreign press and escalating a bitter row with Washington.

China has announced that it will expel American journalists from three major US newspapers, in one of the communist government's biggest crackdowns on the foreign press and escalating a bitter row with Washington. The decision, effective immediately, will require US nationals working for the New York Times, the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal to return their press accreditation within 10 days, if their credentials expire before the end of 2020. The move came as the superpowers also feuded over the coronavirus pandemic, with US President Donald Trump provocatively branding it the "Chinese virus". Also read: Mind your own business: China to Trump after he calls COVID-19 'Chinese virus' China said the expulsions were in retaliation for Washington's decision to cut the number of Chinese nationals allowed to work for its state-run media on American soil. "In recent years, the US government has placed unwarranted restrictions on Chinese media agencies and personnel in the US, purposely made things difficult for their normal reporting assignments, and subjected them to growing discrimination and politically-motivated oppression," China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. The expulsions "are legitimate and justified self-defence in every sense,'' it added. Also read: Chinese authorities using visas as weapons against foreign press: Report It said the journalists at the three newspapers must hand back their credentials within 10 days, and highlighted they would also not be able to work in the semi-autonomous cities of Hong Kong and Macau. Beijing also ordered the papers, as well as Voice of America and Time magazine, to declare in writing their staff, finances, operations and real estate in China rules similar to those recently imposed on Chinese state media by Washington. The foreign ministry said the measures "are entirely necessary and reciprocal" moves that China "is compelled to take in response to the unreasonable oppression the Chinese media organizations experience in the US". Watch: China revokes 3 American Journalists of Wall Street Journal The row was ignited last month when the US reclassified Chinese state-run media operating in the United States as foreign missions. China then expelled three other Wall Street Journal reporters, two Americans and one Australian, over what it deemed a racist headline by the US newspaper. Those were the first outright expulsions by China of a foreign journalist since 1998, according to the Foreign Correspondents' Club of China. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said following the latest move against the three newspapers that China was wrong to equate state-run media, which answer to Beijing, and independent US news outlets that can freely report and ask critical questions. "I regret China's decision today to further foreclose the world's ability to conduct the free press operations that, frankly, would be really good for the Chinese people in these incredibly challenging global times, where more information, more transparency are what will save lives," Pompeo said in a statment on Wednesday.

China to expel US journalists, escalates bitter row with Washington

A pair of rockets hit an Iraqi base hosting US-led coalition and NATO troops, Iraq's military said Tuesday, the third attack on installations hosting foreign forces inside a week.&nbsp;

The rockets slammed into the Besmaya base south of Baghdad late Monday night, a statement by the military said, making no mention of casualties.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-33-rockets-target-us-uk-troops-in-iraq-286428">At least 33 rockets target US, UK troops in Iraq</a>

Spanish forces linked to the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group, as well as NATO training forces, are present in Besmaya.&nbsp;

The last week has seen a renewed spike in rockets hitting Iraqi bases hosting foreign forces, with three coalition troops killed on March 11 in a similar attack on the Taji air base, which was hit again on March 14.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-donald-trump-after-us-carried-air-strikes-in-iraq-286169">Iran warns Donald Trump after US carried air strikes in Iraq</a>

Since late October, there have been 24 rocket attacks on the US embassy in Baghdad or bases where foreign troops are deployed, killing a total of three American military personnel, one British soldier and one Iraqi soldier.

No attacks have been claimed but Washington has blamed Kataeb Hezbollah, a hardline faction in the Hashed al-Shaabi -- a military network incorporated into the Iraqi state.&nbsp;

The US has long insisted Baghdad should do more to reign in such factions and prevent them from targeting American troops and diplomats.

But Washington took a much tougher line in December after a US contractor was killed in a rocket attack, launching retaliatory airstrikes against Kataeb Hezbollah.

The faction's supporters then surrounded and briefly stormed the US embassy. Days later, Washington killed top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani and Hashed deputy chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis in a drone strike on Baghdad.

Outraged,&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;launched cruise missiles at the largest Iraqi base hosting US troops and the Iraqi parliament voted to oust all foreign forces from the country.&nbsp;

The parliamentary vote has yet to be implemented by a government.&nbsp;

A pair of rockets hit an Iraqi base hosting US-led coalition and NATO troops, Iraq's military said Tuesday, the third attack on installations hosting foreign forces inside a week.

A pair of rockets hit an Iraqi base hosting US-led coalition and NATO troops, Iraq's military said Tuesday, the third attack on installations hosting foreign forces inside a week. The rockets slammed into the Besmaya base south of Baghdad late Monday night, a statement by the military said, making no mention of casualties. Also read: At least 33 rockets target US, UK troops in Iraq Spanish forces linked to the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group, as well as NATO training forces, are present in Besmaya. The last week has seen a renewed spike in rockets hitting Iraqi bases hosting foreign forces, with three coalition troops killed on March 11 in a similar attack on the Taji air base, which was hit again on March 14. Also read: Iran warns Donald Trump after US carried air strikes in Iraq Since late October, there have been 24 rocket attacks on the US embassy in Baghdad or bases where foreign troops are deployed, killing a total of three American military personnel, one British soldier and one Iraqi soldier. No attacks have been claimed but Washington has blamed Kataeb Hezbollah, a hardline faction in the Hashed al-Shaabi -- a military network incorporated into the Iraqi state. The US has long insisted Baghdad should do more to reign in such factions and prevent them from targeting American troops and diplomats. But Washington took a much tougher line in December after a US contractor was killed in a rocket attack, launching retaliatory airstrikes against Kataeb Hezbollah. The faction's supporters then surrounded and briefly stormed the US embassy. Days later, Washington killed top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani and Hashed deputy chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis in a drone strike on Baghdad. Outraged, Iran launched cruise missiles at the largest Iraqi base hosting US troops and the Iraqi parliament voted to oust all foreign forces from the country. The parliamentary vote has yet to be implemented by a government.

Rockets hit Iraq base hosting US-led coalition: Military

European Union leaders on Thursday slammed the United States for imposing a unilateral travel ban for people coming from Europe for 30 days.

Coronavirus Pandemic: Donald Trump cancels trip to Nevada, Colorado

The Pentagon has downplayed the latest Taliban attacks in Afghanistan even after the United States carried out airstrikes against the group, making it the first US attack against Taliban after Washington signed a peace deal with the group just last week.

US downplays new Taliban attack, Pentagon rejects doubts over peace deal

The bilateral relations between the United States and China seem to have taken a turn for the worse. Washington has designated five Chinese media houses as not practitioners of journalism but as 'Foreign Mission'.

Your Story: US designates Chinese media houses as state operatives

China hits back at US department

According to a study by a US firm, human composting is&nbsp;be better for the environment than cremation.

The finding by Recompose proposes to find an eco-friendly solution to burial and cremation.

Recompose says it will offer the first human composting service in Washington state from next year. The US state has been undertaking livestock composting for several years.

The firm plans to find alternative choice to cremation and burial methods. According to the firm, composting allows saving at least a ton of carbon during cremation ensuring it is environmentally friendly.

Last year Washington Governor Jay Inslee had signed a bill allowing the composting of human remains within the state. The bill is set to take effect in May this year.

According to a report, Washington State University had conducted a trial using bodies given to it for research purpose.

The move allows the burial alternative which is reportedly less costly and environmentally friendly.

According to a study by a US firm, human composting is be better for the environment than cremation. The finding by Recompose proposes to find an eco-friendly solution to burial and cremation.

According to a study by a US firm, human composting is be better for the environment than cremation. The finding by Recompose proposes to find an eco-friendly solution to burial and cremation. Recompose says it will offer the first human composting service in Washington state from next year. The US state has been undertaking livestock composting for several years. The firm plans to find alternative choice to cremation and burial methods. According to the firm, composting allows saving at least a ton of carbon during cremation ensuring it is environmentally friendly. Last year Washington Governor Jay Inslee had signed a bill allowing the composting of human remains within the state. The bill is set to take effect in May this year. According to a report, Washington State University had conducted a trial using bodies given to it for research purpose. The move allows the burial alternative which is reportedly less costly and environmentally friendly.

Human composting better for the environment: Study

President Donald Trump said Monday the time has come to pursue trade negotiations with the European Union which he said imposes "incredible" barriers to US goods.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-imposes-record-75-billion-tariffs-on-european-union-256583">Also read: US imposes record $7.5 billion tariffs on EU goods, targeting Airbus, wine and whisky</a> 
 
"Europe has been treating us very badly," Trump said at a White House event with US state governors.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-would-tax-french-wine-in-response-to-digital-tax-245250">Also read: Trump threatens tariffs on French wine as he heads to G7</a>

After a reaching a series of trade deals with Canada, Mexico and Japan, and a phase-one agreement with China, Trump said, "The next thing could be Europe, where we talk to them very seriously."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-macron-over-digital-tax-on-us-tech-giants-threatens-reciprocal-action-against-french-wine-238733">Also read: Trump slams Macron over digital tax on US tech giants, threatens 'reciprocal action' against French wine</a> 
 
Relations between the two major economies have lingered for months in a tense truce.

Trump has imposed punishing tariffs on EU goods like French wine in a dispute over Airbus, and other goods in a confrontation over tax on digital giants like Google and Amazon.

But so far he has held off on threatened punitive duties on European cars aimed at forcing a change in trade policy. Trump reached a ceasefire with the EU in mid-2018, when the sides agreed to pursue negotiations -- talks that so far have not resulted in anything concrete.

Trump said he focused first on the dispute with China and renegotiating the continental free trade pact with Canada and Mexico because he "didn't want to do the whole world at one time."

But Monday he renewed his complaints about EU trade policy, even claiming improbably that the economic bloc "was really formed so they could treat us badly."&nbsp;

"They have barriers that are incredible," Trump said, adding, "They're ready for a deal."

President Donald Trump said Monday the time has come to pursue trade negotiations with the European Union which he said imposes "incredible" barriers to US goods.

President Donald Trump said Monday the time has come to pursue trade negotiations with the European Union which he said imposes "incredible" barriers to US goods. Also read: US imposes record $7.5 billion tariffs on EU goods, targeting Airbus, wine and whisky "Europe has been treating us very badly," Trump said at a White House event with US state governors. Also read: Trump threatens tariffs on French wine as he heads to G7 After a reaching a series of trade deals with Canada, Mexico and Japan, and a phase-one agreement with China, Trump said, "The next thing could be Europe, where we talk to them very seriously." Also read: Trump slams Macron over digital tax on US tech giants, threatens 'reciprocal action' against French wine Relations between the two major economies have lingered for months in a tense truce. Trump has imposed punishing tariffs on EU goods like French wine in a dispute over Airbus, and other goods in a confrontation over tax on digital giants like Google and Amazon. But so far he has held off on threatened punitive duties on European cars aimed at forcing a change in trade policy. Trump reached a ceasefire with the EU in mid-2018, when the sides agreed to pursue negotiations -- talks that so far have not resulted in anything concrete. Trump said he focused first on the dispute with China and renegotiating the continental free trade pact with Canada and Mexico because he "didn't want to do the whole world at one time." But Monday he renewed his complaints about EU trade policy, even claiming improbably that the economic bloc "was really formed so they could treat us badly." "They have barriers that are incredible," Trump said, adding, "They're ready for a deal."

Europe has been treating us very badly, time for 'very serious' trade negotiations: Donald Trump

American warplanes dropped more bombs on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-ghazni-province-276876">Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-bill-to-support-tibet-warns-sanctions-on-chinese-officials-for-interfering-in-dalai-lamas-succession-277317">US</a> Air Force, as Washington intensified attacks in the country amid withdrawal talks with the Taliban.

In 2019 alone, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-us-troops-diagnosed-with-traumatic-brain-injury-after-iran-strike-pentagon-277276">US </a>dropped 7,423 separate munitions on targets in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-ghazni-province-276876">Afghanistan</a>, where the US has been enmeshed in fighting several militant groups since it invaded the country following the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The figure published online by US Air Forces Central Command represents a dramatic surge in bombings in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;compared to the peak of President Barack Obama's "surge" in 2009 when 4,147 bombs were dropped.

Since President Donald Trump was elected in 2016

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/plane-crashes-in-afghanistans-ghazni-province-276876">Plane crashes in Afghanistan's Ghazni province</a>

the US has ramped up bombing runs over&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;as the White House removed earlier restrictions that provided greater oversight over air raids aimed at preventing civilian casualties.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bigger-challenges-lie-ahead-as-un-completes-73-years-173140">UN</a> and rights groups have repeatedly voiced concerns that the increase in airstrikes across the country by US and Afghan forces have resulted in a major upswing in civilian casualties.

During the first half of 2019 pro-government forces, including the US, killed 717 civilians, an increase of 31 percent from a year earlier, the UN reported last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-us-troops-diagnosed-with-traumatic-brain-injury-after-iran-strike-pentagon-277276">50 US troops diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after Iran strike: Pentagon</a>

Most of the deaths came from US and Afghan airstrikes, often in support of national forces on the ground, the report said.

The increase in bombings comes as Washington and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/taliban-must-agree-to-a-ceasefire-and-join-the-intra-afghan-peace-talks-215289">Taliban</a> continue to wrangle over a possible agreement that would see US troops begin to leave&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;in return for security guarantees.

The Taliban have been pushing to reach a withdrawal agreement with Washington by the end of January and are prepared to "scale down" military operations ahead of signing a deal, their chief spokesman said earlier this month.

The two sides had been negotiating an agreement for a year and were close to an announcement in September 2019 when US President Donald Trump abruptly declared the process "dead", citing Taliban violence.

Taliban sources said earlier this month they had offered to initiate a brief ceasefire of seven to 10 days in order to restart the talks formally, but there has been no announcement of the proposal by either party

American warplanes dropped more bombs on Afghanistan in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the US Air Force, as Washington intensified attacks in the country amid withdrawal talks with the Taliban.

American warplanes dropped more bombs on Afghanistan in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the US Air Force, as Washington intensified attacks in the country amid withdrawal talks with the Taliban. In 2019 alone, the US dropped 7,423 separate munitions on targets in Afghanistan, where the US has been enmeshed in fighting several militant groups since it invaded the country following the September 11, 2001 attacks. The figure published online by US Air Forces Central Command represents a dramatic surge in bombings in Afghanistan compared to the peak of President Barack Obama's "surge" in 2009 when 4,147 bombs were dropped. Since President Donald Trump was elected in 2016 Also read: Plane crashes in Afghanistan's Ghazni province the US has ramped up bombing runs over Afghanistan as the White House removed earlier restrictions that provided greater oversight over air raids aimed at preventing civilian casualties. The UN and rights groups have repeatedly voiced concerns that the increase in airstrikes across the country by US and Afghan forces have resulted in a major upswing in civilian casualties. During the first half of 2019 pro-government forces, including the US, killed 717 civilians, an increase of 31 percent from a year earlier, the UN reported last year. Also read: 50 US troops diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after Iran strike: Pentagon Most of the deaths came from US and Afghan airstrikes, often in support of national forces on the ground, the report said. The increase in bombings comes as Washington and the Taliban continue to wrangle over a possible agreement that would see US troops begin to leave Afghanistan in return for security guarantees. The Taliban have been pushing to reach a withdrawal agreement with Washington by the end of January and are prepared to "scale down" military operations ahead of signing a deal, their chief spokesman said earlier this month. The two sides had been negotiating an agreement for a year and were close to an announcement in September 2019 when US President Donald Trump abruptly declared the process "dead", citing Taliban violence. Taliban sources said earlier this month they had offered to initiate a brief ceasefire of seven to 10 days in order to restart the talks formally, but there has been no announcement of the proposal by either party

United States bombing of Afghanistan hits 10-year high: US Air Force

A charismatic Pashtun rights leader who repeatedly accused the powerful military of abuse has been arrested in Pakistan's northwestern city of Peshawar, police said Monday.

Manzoor Pashteen, chief of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-mp-accuses-officials-of-lying-about-clash-between-activists-military-222491">Pashtun Protection Movement</a> (PTM), appeared before a magistrate after being detained shortly after midnight, said police official Shiraz Khan.

Khan said Pashteen would be transferred to another district where he is wanted on charges including sedition, hate speech, incitement against the state, and criminal conspiracy.

The former veterinary student and his PTM have rattled the military since 2018 with calls to end alleged abuses by security forces targeting ethnic Pashtuns in the restive tribal areas along the border with Afghanistan.

The area, once plagued by militancy and unrest, is where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/meghan-markles-father-it-would-be-great-to-see-you-even-in-court-276878">Washington</a> believes Pakistan is providing safe haven to militant groups including the Afghan Taliban and Haqqani Network.

The army has carried out many operations in the region, and security across Pakistan has dramatically improved in recent years.

The military maintains a heavy presence there, however, and the PTM has tapped into festering anger over alleged abuses against Pashtuns -- including enforced disappearances and targeted killings.

The movement remains peaceful but has been notable for its direct verbal attacks on the armed forces in a country where such criticism is largely seen as a red line.

Islamabad and the military have repeatedly denied the claims and arrested PTM activists.

A far-reaching media blackout has kept news and images of peaceful PTM rallies off TV screens and front pages nationwide.

An opinion piece written by Pashteen in the New York Times in 2019 was censored in Pakistan.

In December 2018 a military spokesman warned that the army would use force against PTM if they "cross the line".

Mohsin Dawar, a PTM member of parliament from the North Waziristan tribal district, confirmed Pashteen's arrest to AFP.

"He has been charged in many cases including sedition," Dawar said, who along with another PTM MP was detained by authorities for months last year. &nbsp;

On Twitter, Dawar demanded Pashteen's immediate release and asked PTM supporters to "remain calm".

Pashtuns are a fiercely independent ethnic group that straddles both sides of the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

They account for roughly 15 percent of Pakistan's population, with a majority of the 30 million-strong group living in the northwest.

A charismatic Pashtun rights leader who repeatedly accused the powerful military of abuse has been arrested in Pakistan's northwestern city of Peshawar, police said Monday.

A charismatic Pashtun rights leader who repeatedly accused the powerful military of abuse has been arrested in Pakistan's northwestern city of Peshawar, police said Monday. Manzoor Pashteen, chief of the Pashtun Protection Movement (PTM), appeared before a magistrate after being detained shortly after midnight, said police official Shiraz Khan. Khan said Pashteen would be transferred to another district where he is wanted on charges including sedition, hate speech, incitement against the state, and criminal conspiracy. The former veterinary student and his PTM have rattled the military since 2018 with calls to end alleged abuses by security forces targeting ethnic Pashtuns in the restive tribal areas along the border with Afghanistan. The area, once plagued by militancy and unrest, is where Washington believes Pakistan is providing safe haven to militant groups including the Afghan Taliban and Haqqani Network. The army has carried out many operations in the region, and security across Pakistan has dramatically improved in recent years. The military maintains a heavy presence there, however, and the PTM has tapped into festering anger over alleged abuses against Pashtuns -- including enforced disappearances and targeted killings. The movement remains peaceful but has been notable for its direct verbal attacks on the armed forces in a country where such criticism is largely seen as a red line. Islamabad and the military have repeatedly denied the claims and arrested PTM activists. A far-reaching media blackout has kept news and images of peaceful PTM rallies off TV screens and front pages nationwide. An opinion piece written by Pashteen in the New York Times in 2019 was censored in Pakistan. In December 2018 a military spokesman warned that the army would use force against PTM if they "cross the line". Mohsin Dawar, a PTM member of parliament from the North Waziristan tribal district, confirmed Pashteen's arrest to AFP. "He has been charged in many cases including sedition," Dawar said, who along with another PTM MP was detained by authorities for months last year. On Twitter, Dawar demanded Pashteen's immediate release and asked PTM supporters to "remain calm". Pashtuns are a fiercely independent ethnic group that straddles both sides of the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan. They account for roughly 15 percent of Pakistan's population, with a majority of the 30 million-strong group living in the northwest.

Pakistan police arrest Pashtun rights leader critical of military

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu boarded a plane to Washington on Sunday, saying he would "make history" with U.S. President Donald Trump at their Washington meeting on Tuesday.

Netanyahu of Israel Leaves For Washington Saying 'Would Make History With Trump'

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