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<p>Researchers have discovered that each bee follows its own highly consistent flight path. They also found that bees follow their path so precisely that they flew only centimetres from the path they had flown before. Bees' precision comes as they fix landmarks like trees, which help them to keep on track, while uniform areas such as cornfields lead to more variation. This research was done after tracking honey bees in the wild using a drone-based system.</p><p><br>The finding was discovered at the University of Freiburg, indicating that individual honey bees follow their own highly consistent flight routes, helping them to repeat with remarkable accuracy. The study was led by neurobiologist and behavioural biologist Prof. Dr Andrew Straw, using a drone to keep surveillance on honey bees travelling between their hive and a food source located nearly 120 meters away in an agricultural setting.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/can-ai-improve-access-to-mental-healthcare-without-replacing-human-connection-here-s-what-experts-say-1782226485177">Can AI improve access to mental healthcare without replacing human connection? Here's what experts say</a></p><h3>Fast Lock-On (FLO) Tracking method</h3><p>To track them, the scientist used a method called 'Fast Lock-On (FLO) Tracking'. The method involves attaching a small reflective marker to each bee and then using a computer on the drone to examine reflected light, identifying and tracking a bee within milliseconds after it flies.</p><p><br>The findings showed that individual honey bees tend to follow their own preferred flight routes and adhere to them with remarkable precision while travelling to and from food sources. Researchers also found evidence suggesting that bees rely on landmarks and other features of the surrounding environment to navigate their journeys.</p><p><br>"Our tracking system makes it possible for the first time to record high-resolution 3D flight paths of honey bees in natural landscapes," explains Straw. "Our recordings show that each bee has its own preferred route and flies it very precisely. You could almost say that each bee has its own personality."</p><p><br>For the study, scientists examined 255 flight paths recorded near Kaiserstuhl, Germany. The research site featured hedgerows, a cornfield and a tree positioned between the hive and the feeding area, making a straight-line route impossible. "We found a high degree of precision in the flight paths. Individual bees repeated their individual flight paths nearly exactly on several flights. They often fly just a few centimetres away from their previous paths," Straw emphasises.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>WATCH</strong>: https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-pitch-from-cheap-drugs-to-cutting-edge-pharma-1782394898572/embed</p><p><br>The bees displayed the highest level of route consistency when flying near prominent landmarks, especially the tree. In contrast, their flight paths varied the most over the cornfield, where the landscape provided fewer distinctive visual markers for navigation. "Our results suggest that visual landmarks aid the bees' navigation and increase the precision of their flight paths," explains Straw.</p><p><br>The discovery also sheds new light on the famous waggle dance, which is being used by honey bees to send a message about the location of food sources to other members of the colony. However, the directional information in the waggle dance can divert to around 30 degrees. "It was previously known that the directional information in the waggle dance is not entirely accurate," explains Straw. For food sources approximately 100 meters away, the directional information in the waggle dance can deviate by around 30 degrees.</p><p><br>The study suggests that the apparent imprecision of the honey bee waggle dance is not a reflection of poor navigational ability. Instead, bees demonstrate a high degree of accuracy when travelling to destinations they are already familiar with.</p><p><br>Researcher Straw noted that the findings show individual bees navigate known locations with remarkable precision. Even in areas where their routes varied the most, they strayed from their preferred flight paths by only a few degrees. According to the researchers, this indicates that the limitations of the waggle dance do not stem from weak navigation skills. Rather, bees are far more spatially accurate and better oriented than their dance-based communication alone would imply.</p>

Researchers found that honey bees follow individual preferred flight routes with remarkable accuracy when travelling to and from food sources. The study also suggests bees use landmarks and landscape features to navigate, helping them stay on course.

Researchers have discovered that each bee follows its own highly consistent flight path. They also found that bees follow their path so precisely that they flew only centimetres from the path they had flown before. Bees' precision comes as they fix landmarks like trees, which help them to keep on track, while uniform areas such as cornfields lead to more variation. This research was done after tracking honey bees in the wild using a drone-based system. The finding was discovered at the University of Freiburg, indicating that individual honey bees follow their own highly consistent flight routes, helping them to repeat with remarkable accuracy. The study was led by neurobiologist and behavioural biologist Prof. Dr Andrew Straw, using a drone to keep surveillance on honey bees travelling between their hive and a food source located nearly 120 meters away in an agricultural setting. Also read: Can AI improve access to mental healthcare without replacing human connection? Here's what experts say Fast Lock-On (FLO) Tracking method To track them, the scientist used a method called 'Fast Lock-On (FLO) Tracking'. The method involves attaching a small reflective marker to each bee and then using a computer on the drone to examine reflected light, identifying and tracking a bee within milliseconds after it flies. The findings showed that individual honey bees tend to follow their own preferred flight routes and adhere to them with remarkable precision while travelling to and from food sources. Researchers also found evidence suggesting that bees rely on landmarks and other features of the surrounding environment to navigate their journeys. "Our tracking system makes it possible for the first time to record high-resolution 3D flight paths of honey bees in natural landscapes," explains Straw. "Our recordings show that each bee has its own preferred route and flies it very precisely. You could almost say that each bee has its own personality." For the study, scientists examined 255 flight paths recorded near Kaiserstuhl, Germany. The research site featured hedgerows, a cornfield and a tree positioned between the hive and the feeding area, making a straight-line route impossible. "We found a high degree of precision in the flight paths. Individual bees repeated their individual flight paths nearly exactly on several flights. They often fly just a few centimetres away from their previous paths," Straw emphasises. WATCH: https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-s-pitch-from-cheap-drugs-to-cutting-edge-pharma-1782394898572/embed The bees displayed the highest level of route consistency when flying near prominent landmarks, especially the tree. In contrast, their flight paths varied the most over the cornfield, where the landscape provided fewer distinctive visual markers for navigation. "Our results suggest that visual landmarks aid the bees' navigation and increase the precision of their flight paths," explains Straw. The discovery also sheds new light on the famous waggle dance, which is being used by honey bees to send a message about the location of food sources to other members of the colony. However, the directional information in the waggle dance can divert to around 30 degrees. "It was previously known that the directional information in the waggle dance is not entirely accurate," explains Straw. For food sources approximately 100 meters away, the directional information in the waggle dance can deviate by around 30 degrees. The study suggests that the apparent imprecision of the honey bee waggle dance is not a reflection of poor navigational ability. Instead, bees demonstrate a high degree of accuracy when travelling to destinations they are already familiar with. Researcher Straw noted that the findings show individual bees navigate known locations with remarkable precision. Even in areas where their routes varied the most, they strayed from their preferred flight paths by only a few degrees. According to the researchers, this indicates that the limitations of the waggle dance do not stem from weak navigation skills. Rather, bees are far more spatially accurate and better oriented than their dance-based communication alone would imply.

<p>Researchers found that honey bees follow individual preferred flight routes with remarkable accuracy when travelling to and from food sources. The study also suggests bees use landmarks and landscape features to navigate, helping them stay on course.</p>

Do honey bees have their own unique flight routes? Scientists reveal surprising truth

<p>Seconds before the 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Venezuela, Android users received a warning from Google. The alert displayed the estimated magnitude of the earthquake and how far it was from the user’s location, offering them a tiny window in which they could reach a safe place. The foreshock was followed by an even bigger 7.5 magnitude aftershock 39 seconds later. The temblors have killed 164 people and injured nearly 1,000. People are now asking whether Google predicted the quake? It did not. Google’s Android Earthquake Alerts System detected the seismic activity and moments before the big one hit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The warning came only a few seconds before the earthquake, and this small timeframe is believed to have saved many lives. Users on X wrote that an alarm rang on their phone, after which they rushed outside. How does Google’s earthquake alert system work?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to Google, the system used the reach of Android’s platform to help detect earthquakes. Each Android phone is like a mini seismometer. As millions of other Android phones connect, they form the world’s largest earthquake detection network. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/164-dead-around-1-000-injured-after-powerful-quakes-aftershocks-rock-venezuela-1782384631734"><strong>164 dead, around 1,000 injured after powerful quakes, aftershocks rock Venezuela</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How does a phone detect an earthquake?</strong></h2><p><br>All smartphones are equipped with tiny accelerometers that can detect signals of an incoming earthquake. If it thinks it is an earthquake, it shoots a signal to Google’s earthquake detection server along with a rough idea of where it is happening. When the same signal is received from many phones, the server combines all the information to figure out if an earthquake is coming. Since the signals are sent roughly at the speed of light, which is faster than the speed of an earthquake, people receive the alerts before the earthquake finally strikes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-earthquake-twin-quake-strikes-caracas-buildings-collapse-residents-flee-in-panic-1782390432182/embed</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Seismology and disaster experts Dr Richard Allen, Dr Qingkai Kong and Dr Lucy Jones have together developed this approach to detecting earthquakes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>How Japan is detecting megaquakes</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Despite decades of studies, earthquakes remain impossible to predict. However, countries like Japan have come up with ways to detect the initial signals and alert people in time. It has an early warning system in place since around 2007, which warns people about the intensity of the incoming quake and the time it is expected to hit, as per the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) website. In 2022, the Headquarters for Earthquake Research Promotion (HERP) and the JMA upgraded this system to detect large mega-earthquakes. The "foreshock-based alert" is triggered when a magnitude 7.0 or higher earthquake has already occurred in key subduction zones.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Google’s Android Earthquake Alerts System warned people about the intensity of an earthquake that would soon hit their area, giving them precious seconds to escape to a safe location. Multiple Android phones work together to alert Google about the temblors.  

Seconds before the 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Venezuela, Android users received a warning from Google. The alert displayed the estimated magnitude of the earthquake and how far it was from the user’s location, offering them a tiny window in which they could reach a safe place. The foreshock was followed by an even bigger 7.5 magnitude aftershock 39 seconds later. The temblors have killed 164 people and injured nearly 1,000. People are now asking whether Google predicted the quake? It did not. Google’s Android Earthquake Alerts System detected the seismic activity and moments before the big one hit. The warning came only a few seconds before the earthquake, and this small timeframe is believed to have saved many lives. Users on X wrote that an alarm rang on their phone, after which they rushed outside. How does Google’s earthquake alert system work? According to Google, the system used the reach of Android’s platform to help detect earthquakes. Each Android phone is like a mini seismometer. As millions of other Android phones connect, they form the world’s largest earthquake detection network. Also Read: 164 dead, around 1,000 injured after powerful quakes, aftershocks rock Venezuela How does a phone detect an earthquake? All smartphones are equipped with tiny accelerometers that can detect signals of an incoming earthquake. If it thinks it is an earthquake, it shoots a signal to Google’s earthquake detection server along with a rough idea of where it is happening. When the same signal is received from many phones, the server combines all the information to figure out if an earthquake is coming. Since the signals are sent roughly at the speed of light, which is faster than the speed of an earthquake, people receive the alerts before the earthquake finally strikes. https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-earthquake-twin-quake-strikes-caracas-buildings-collapse-residents-flee-in-panic-1782390432182/embed Seismology and disaster experts Dr Richard Allen, Dr Qingkai Kong and Dr Lucy Jones have together developed this approach to detecting earthquakes. How Japan is detecting megaquakes Despite decades of studies, earthquakes remain impossible to predict. However, countries like Japan have come up with ways to detect the initial signals and alert people in time. It has an early warning system in place since around 2007, which warns people about the intensity of the incoming quake and the time it is expected to hit, as per the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) website. In 2022, the Headquarters for Earthquake Research Promotion (HERP) and the JMA upgraded this system to detect large mega-earthquakes. The "foreshock-based alert" is triggered when a magnitude 7.0 or higher earthquake has already occurred in key subduction zones.

<p>Google’s Android Earthquake Alerts System warned people about the intensity of an earthquake that would soon hit their area, giving them precious seconds to escape to a safe location. Multiple Android phones work together to alert Google about the temblors. &nbsp;</p>

How Google warned Venezuela of an earthquake using Android phones as seismometers

<p>A Super El Niño is ravaging the climate and causing unusual heatwaves this year from Asia to Europe. In India, the monsoon is making slow progress, resulting in soaring temperatures from north to south. The pattern is not new, and the heat is here to stay. It is now all about how nations adapt to these climate extremes. One nation stands out in offering practical solutions to beating the heat: Singapore. The densely populated, hot and humid tropical city-state can offer practical lessons for India, Europe, and other nations in managing extreme heat.</p><h2>Singapore's weather challenges</h2><p>Sitting close to the Strait of Malacca and the Malaysian Peninsula, Singapore often experiences high humidity, which limits evaporative cooling. Its urban density creates heat islands, while temperatures often rise faster than the global average. But over the years, through government initiatives and private-sector interventions, Singapore has built systematic, multi-layered approaches to managing the heat. These combine technology, urban planning, policy, and public behaviour, all heavily promoted by the government.</p><h2>'AC Nation': Singapore's strategies to beat the heat can be emulated by india and others</h2><p>Singapore is often referred to as an "AC nation" due to the widespread and efficient use of air conditioning. Air-conditioning penetration is high in homes, offices, shopping malls, and public housing. These are paired with energy efficiency rules, including the national "Go 25" campaign. Under this initiative, government buildings are mandated to keep air conditioners at 25°C or higher in order to reduce excess energy consumption and emissions while maintaining comfort. Private firms are encouraged to do the same.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/analysis-economic-toll-of-heatwaves-and-droughts-on-india-amid-europe-heatwave-1782378337441">Analysis: Economic toll of heatwaves and droughts on India amid Europe heatwave</a></p><h2>Cooling systems: chilled water and lowering emissions</h2><p>District cooling systems have been introduced in several parts of Singapore, using centralised chilled-water networks to serve multiple buildings efficiently.</p><p>For India, scaling efficient air-conditioning usage in public housing and commercial spaces through subsidies and standards such as Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) is one option. India can also launch a national campaign similar to Singapore's "Go 25" initiative, with incentives for compliance. Pilot district-cooling initiatives can be undertaken in dense urban clusters such as Mumbai and Delhi to avoid wasteful individual cooling units.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-omega-block-europe-heatwave-1782385542948">Omega Block is baking Europe, and humans have amplified it - How does it form and work?</a></p><h2>Hybrid cooling from fans</h2><p>Singapore uses large ceiling fans in busy public places such as hawker centres and food courts.</p><p>Studies by the University of California, Berkeley, and Singapore-based researchers have shown that raising air-conditioner settings from 24°C to 26.5°C while using fans can save around 30 to 33 per cent of energy consumption without compromising comfort.</p><p>Public buildings, schools, and homes promote fans as a first line of cooling or as a complement to air conditioning, while the government encourages fan usage over air conditioning wherever possible. India can mandate or subsidise energy-efficient ceiling and desk fans in new buildings, schools, offices, and low-income housing.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-heatwave-record-breaking-temperatures-trigger-nationwide-red-alert-1782376033585/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-heatwave-record-breaking-temperatures-trigger-nationwide-red-alert-1782376033585/embed</a></p><h2>A green nation: Singapore's aggressive urban greening and "city in nature" model</h2><p>Once largely covered by swamps and dense vegetation, Singapore undertook extensive tree planting, the creation of parks, and the development of vertical greenery over the past four decades. The Landscaping for Urban Spaces and High-Rises (LUSH) scheme, launched in 2009, has added hundreds of hectares of greenery across the city-state. Most households are within a 10-minute walk of a park. In a nation where land is limited, greenery acts as the lungs of the city, helping to reduce local temperatures through shade and evapotranspiration.</p><h2>Cool coatings and paints on buildings and roofs</h2><p>Singapore has conducted pilot projects across more than 130 Housing and Development Board (HDB) residential blocks to introduce cool-coating materials and reflective paints on buildings and rooftops. These help reflect heat and lower ambient temperatures.</p><p>India can take a leaf out of Singapore's book and accelerate urban forestry and vertical-greening mandates in new developments, particularly in high-density urban areas.</p><p>Cool roofs and reflective paints can be introduced, starting with government buildings, while private buildings can be incentivised to adopt similar measures. Integrating urban greening into India's Smart Cities Mission projects could deliver measurable cooling benefits.</p><p>Also read: <a href="Heatwave in France proves deadly as 40 drown; Eiffel Tower, Louvre close early">Heatwave in France proves deadly as 40 drown; Eiffel Tower, Louvre close early</a></p><h2>Climate-sensitive urban design and wind corridors: The quiet gamechangers of Singapore</h2><p>Singapore's building layouts, street orientation, and spacing are optimised to improve wind flow, enhance natural ventilation, and disperse heat. Added to this are shaded walkways, covered linkways, and public spaces designed using thermal modelling to improve outdoor comfort.</p><p>India can incorporate wind-corridor planning and shading analysis into master plans for cities such as Ahmedabad, Chennai and Lucknow. Shaded pedestrian networks can also be mandated in upcoming urban projects.</p><h2>The role of government: Singapore's public mandates, awareness, and heat-resilience policies</h2><p>These initiatives are actively promoted through government-led public campaigns that stress energy conservation, with the government leading by example in its own facilities.</p><p>Singapore's Heat Resilience and Performance Centre, along with related government agencies, helps coordinate heat-stress guidelines, vulnerability mapping, and preparedness measures.</p><p>The nation has also phased out high-Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants while providing incentives for retrofits and energy-efficient cooling systems. Energy efficiency is strongly emphasised in household appliances and building standards.</p><p>Similarly, India can strengthen nationwide heat-action plans through public mandates and awareness campaigns. Cooling centres can be developed in vulnerable areas during periods of extreme temperatures and integrated into plans of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and state disaster-management agencies. Big-data analysis and predictive modelling can be used for targeted interventions in high-density informal settlements and heat-prone urban zones.</p><h2>Singapore's green building certification system</h2><p>Academia-government research partnerships in Singapore have helped develop evidence-based policies on beating the heat. Recommendations include balancing population density with adequate green and blue spaces, and limiting excessive densification in already hot urban pockets.</p><p>India can prioritise low-cost, scalable measures first, such as fans, cool paints, tree planting, and public awareness, while gradually expanding efficient cooling infrastructure.</p><p>With its vast scale, India could adapt many of these measures through programmes such as the Smart Cities Mission, the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), or a dedicated National Urban Heat Resilience Mission focused on protecting vulnerable populations.</p><p>The urban poor, who often suffer the most during delayed monsoons and heatwaves, should be at the centre of such efforts.</p><p>These strategies can reduce both immediate heat stress and long-term energy and climate burdens. Implementation would require local customisation for India's diverse climates and governance structures, but the blueprint from a comparable dense, humid Asian success story is clear.</p>

As Super El Niño fuels heatwaves and delays the India monsoon, it's a good time to look at how countries are beating the heat. Singapore offers practical solutions through efficient cooling, urban greening, wind corridors, and heat-resilience policies. Here is a breakdown

A Super El Niño is ravaging the climate and causing unusual heatwaves this year from Asia to Europe. In India, the monsoon is making slow progress, resulting in soaring temperatures from north to south. The pattern is not new, and the heat is here to stay. It is now all about how nations adapt to these climate extremes. One nation stands out in offering practical solutions to beating the heat: Singapore. The densely populated, hot and humid tropical city-state can offer practical lessons for India, Europe, and other nations in managing extreme heat. Singapore's weather challenges Sitting close to the Strait of Malacca and the Malaysian Peninsula, Singapore often experiences high humidity, which limits evaporative cooling. Its urban density creates heat islands, while temperatures often rise faster than the global average. But over the years, through government initiatives and private-sector interventions, Singapore has built systematic, multi-layered approaches to managing the heat. These combine technology, urban planning, policy, and public behaviour, all heavily promoted by the government. 'AC Nation': Singapore's strategies to beat the heat can be emulated by india and others Singapore is often referred to as an "AC nation" due to the widespread and efficient use of air conditioning. Air-conditioning penetration is high in homes, offices, shopping malls, and public housing. These are paired with energy efficiency rules, including the national "Go 25" campaign. Under this initiative, government buildings are mandated to keep air conditioners at 25°C or higher in order to reduce excess energy consumption and emissions while maintaining comfort. Private firms are encouraged to do the same. Also read: Analysis: Economic toll of heatwaves and droughts on India amid Europe heatwave Cooling systems: chilled water and lowering emissions District cooling systems have been introduced in several parts of Singapore, using centralised chilled-water networks to serve multiple buildings efficiently. For India, scaling efficient air-conditioning usage in public housing and commercial spaces through subsidies and standards such as Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) is one option. India can also launch a national campaign similar to Singapore's "Go 25" initiative, with incentives for compliance. Pilot district-cooling initiatives can be undertaken in dense urban clusters such as Mumbai and Delhi to avoid wasteful individual cooling units. Also read: Omega Block is baking Europe, and humans have amplified it - How does it form and work? Hybrid cooling from fans Singapore uses large ceiling fans in busy public places such as hawker centres and food courts. Studies by the University of California, Berkeley, and Singapore-based researchers have shown that raising air-conditioner settings from 24°C to 26.5°C while using fans can save around 30 to 33 per cent of energy consumption without compromising comfort. Public buildings, schools, and homes promote fans as a first line of cooling or as a complement to air conditioning, while the government encourages fan usage over air conditioning wherever possible. India can mandate or subsidise energy-efficient ceiling and desk fans in new buildings, schools, offices, and low-income housing. https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-heatwave-record-breaking-temperatures-trigger-nationwide-red-alert-1782376033585/embed A green nation: Singapore's aggressive urban greening and "city in nature" model Once largely covered by swamps and dense vegetation, Singapore undertook extensive tree planting, the creation of parks, and the development of vertical greenery over the past four decades. The Landscaping for Urban Spaces and High-Rises (LUSH) scheme, launched in 2009, has added hundreds of hectares of greenery across the city-state. Most households are within a 10-minute walk of a park. In a nation where land is limited, greenery acts as the lungs of the city, helping to reduce local temperatures through shade and evapotranspiration. Cool coatings and paints on buildings and roofs Singapore has conducted pilot projects across more than 130 Housing and Development Board (HDB) residential blocks to introduce cool-coating materials and reflective paints on buildings and rooftops. These help reflect heat and lower ambient temperatures. India can take a leaf out of Singapore's book and accelerate urban forestry and vertical-greening mandates in new developments, particularly in high-density urban areas. Cool roofs and reflective paints can be introduced, starting with government buildings, while private buildings can be incentivised to adopt similar measures. Integrating urban greening into India's Smart Cities Mission projects could deliver measurable cooling benefits. Also read: Heatwave in France proves deadly as 40 drown; Eiffel Tower, Louvre close early Climate-sensitive urban design and wind corridors: The quiet gamechangers of Singapore Singapore's building layouts, street orientation, and spacing are optimised to improve wind flow, enhance natural ventilation, and disperse heat. Added to this are shaded walkways, covered linkways, and public spaces designed using thermal modelling to improve outdoor comfort. India can incorporate wind-corridor planning and shading analysis into master plans for cities such as Ahmedabad, Chennai and Lucknow. Shaded pedestrian networks can also be mandated in upcoming urban projects. The role of government: Singapore's public mandates, awareness, and heat-resilience policies These initiatives are actively promoted through government-led public campaigns that stress energy conservation, with the government leading by example in its own facilities. Singapore's Heat Resilience and Performance Centre, along with related government agencies, helps coordinate heat-stress guidelines, vulnerability mapping, and preparedness measures. The nation has also phased out high-Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants while providing incentives for retrofits and energy-efficient cooling systems. Energy efficiency is strongly emphasised in household appliances and building standards. Similarly, India can strengthen nationwide heat-action plans through public mandates and awareness campaigns. Cooling centres can be developed in vulnerable areas during periods of extreme temperatures and integrated into plans of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and state disaster-management agencies. Big-data analysis and predictive modelling can be used for targeted interventions in high-density informal settlements and heat-prone urban zones. Singapore's green building certification system Academia-government research partnerships in Singapore have helped develop evidence-based policies on beating the heat. Recommendations include balancing population density with adequate green and blue spaces, and limiting excessive densification in already hot urban pockets. India can prioritise low-cost, scalable measures first, such as fans, cool paints, tree planting, and public awareness, while gradually expanding efficient cooling infrastructure. With its vast scale, India could adapt many of these measures through programmes such as the Smart Cities Mission, the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), or a dedicated National Urban Heat Resilience Mission focused on protecting vulnerable populations. The urban poor, who often suffer the most during delayed monsoons and heatwaves, should be at the centre of such efforts. These strategies can reduce both immediate heat stress and long-term energy and climate burdens. Implementation would require local customisation for India's diverse climates and governance structures, but the blueprint from a comparable dense, humid Asian success story is clear.

<p>As Super El Niño fuels heatwaves and delays the India monsoon, it's a good time to look at how countries are beating the heat. Singapore offers practical solutions through efficient cooling, urban greening, wind corridors, and heat-resilience policies. Here is a breakdown</p>

‘AC Nation’: How Singapore beats the heat offers lesson for India, other nations facing Super El Niño, slow monsoon, heatwaves

<p>Our parents grew up in a world without smartphones, tablets, or social media. However, we can hardly imagine our lives without them. In today’s world, digital devices have become a part of everyday life. From educational apps to games and entertainment, many children are increasingly using these devices. While technology can help support learning, creativity, and communication, health experts warn that prolonged exposure to screens can have harmful effects for children.</p><p>The challenge has become even more distinct as dual-income households become increasingly common, where both parents are engaged in full-time professions. Many parents turn to phones and televisions to keep their young children occupied as they juggle multiple responsibilities. While the screens provide a breather for the parents, health professionals caution that excessive reliance on them may have unintended consequences for a child’s development.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-science-behind-why-you-keep-scrolling-and-how-it-rewires-your-brain-1781455009989"><strong>The science behind why you keep scrolling – and how it rewires your brain</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What health experts say</strong></h2><p>Speaking to WION, pediatricians highlighted the potential risks associated with excessive screen exposure during childhood.</p><p>Dr Sujatha Thyagarajan, Lead &amp; HOD - Pediatric Intensive Care and Pediatric Emergency, Aster Whitefield Hospital, said that during growing years, too much exposure to screens can hinder attention span, language learning, and sleep quality. It can also have an impact on social development and how kids manage their emotions.</p><p>“Children learn better when they do real-world stuff, get in physical play, and have face-to-face conversations,” Dr Thyagarajan said.</p><p>Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli, highlighted that excess screen exposure can also lower physical activity and reduce in-person contact, which is essential for emotional and cognitive growth of children.</p><p>“Little kids usually learn best by doing things in the real world, through play, and through direct human engagement, not just videos,” he said.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-impossible-balance-how-working-mothers-navigate-parenting-careers-and-family-life-1782210405382"><strong>The impossible balance: How working mothers navigate parenting, careers and family life</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How much screen time is recommended for children?</strong></h2><p>Health experts recommend that screen time for children below 2 years should only be limited to video calls. For kids aged 2-5 years, screen use should stay around an hour a day, under adult supervision.</p><p>Dr Nitin M, Consultant - Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru, explained, “Too much screen time stimulates the brain excessively and may harm a child’s development regarding attention span, language learning, and emotional control. In children younger than eighteen months, screen time should not exceed video chatting. However, between ages two and five years, good television programs should not exceed one hour daily.”</p><p>“For older children, the ‘right’ boundaries should make sure screens don’t interfere with sleep, exercise, homework, or family back and forth. Parental direction, plus balanced use, is the key part here, overall,” said Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wion-decodes-why-does-coffee-calm-some-people-instead-of-waking-them-up-here-s-what-science-says-1780995139137"><strong>WION Decodes | Why does coffee calm some people instead of waking them up? Here’s what science says</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Are educational apps really beneficial?</strong></h2><p>When asked whether applications that claim to be educational are helpful for young children, health experts stated that while they can support learning when used in moderation. However, they cautioned that not every app provides a learning experience.</p><p>“Educational apps can be beneficial, if they are well designed, and kind of age-appropriate, and also used in moderation. They can support learning by boosting skills like reading, mathematics, problem-solving, and even creativity with interactive activities,” Dr Shetty said.</p><p>He added, “But not every educational app really gives a solid learning experience. Some lean a lot on entertainment features, rewards, and repetitive tasks, which can make kids feel like they are being productive, yet still not really build deep understanding or critical thinking.”</p><p>Dr Thyagarajan highlighted that children learn best when getting hands-on exploration, playful imagination, story time, storytelling, plus actual conversation and social interaction.</p><p>“So, technology should be more like a complement to learning, not a stand-in for real human engagement, or for the everyday experiences outside the screen,” she said.</p>

As digital devices become an integral part of childhood, parents are increasingly grappling with questions about screen time, technology use and healthy habits. Here's what experts say.

Our parents grew up in a world without smartphones, tablets, or social media. However, we can hardly imagine our lives without them. In today’s world, digital devices have become a part of everyday life. From educational apps to games and entertainment, many children are increasingly using these devices. While technology can help support learning, creativity, and communication, health experts warn that prolonged exposure to screens can have harmful effects for children. The challenge has become even more distinct as dual-income households become increasingly common, where both parents are engaged in full-time professions. Many parents turn to phones and televisions to keep their young children occupied as they juggle multiple responsibilities. While the screens provide a breather for the parents, health professionals caution that excessive reliance on them may have unintended consequences for a child’s development. Also read | The science behind why you keep scrolling – and how it rewires your brain What health experts say Speaking to WION, pediatricians highlighted the potential risks associated with excessive screen exposure during childhood. Dr Sujatha Thyagarajan, Lead & HOD - Pediatric Intensive Care and Pediatric Emergency, Aster Whitefield Hospital, said that during growing years, too much exposure to screens can hinder attention span, language learning, and sleep quality. It can also have an impact on social development and how kids manage their emotions. “Children learn better when they do real-world stuff, get in physical play, and have face-to-face conversations,” Dr Thyagarajan said. Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli, highlighted that excess screen exposure can also lower physical activity and reduce in-person contact, which is essential for emotional and cognitive growth of children. “Little kids usually learn best by doing things in the real world, through play, and through direct human engagement, not just videos,” he said. Also read | The impossible balance: How working mothers navigate parenting, careers and family life How much screen time is recommended for children? Health experts recommend that screen time for children below 2 years should only be limited to video calls. For kids aged 2-5 years, screen use should stay around an hour a day, under adult supervision. Dr Nitin M, Consultant - Pediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru, explained, “Too much screen time stimulates the brain excessively and may harm a child’s development regarding attention span, language learning, and emotional control. In children younger than eighteen months, screen time should not exceed video chatting. However, between ages two and five years, good television programs should not exceed one hour daily.” “For older children, the ‘right’ boundaries should make sure screens don’t interfere with sleep, exercise, homework, or family back and forth. Parental direction, plus balanced use, is the key part here, overall,” said Dr Rakshay Shetty, Clinical Director, Pediatric Services Head, Pediatric Intensive Care Services, Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Marathahalli. Also read | WION Decodes | Why does coffee calm some people instead of waking them up? Here’s what science says Are educational apps really beneficial? When asked whether applications that claim to be educational are helpful for young children, health experts stated that while they can support learning when used in moderation. However, they cautioned that not every app provides a learning experience. “Educational apps can be beneficial, if they are well designed, and kind of age-appropriate, and also used in moderation. They can support learning by boosting skills like reading, mathematics, problem-solving, and even creativity with interactive activities,” Dr Shetty said. He added, “But not every educational app really gives a solid learning experience. Some lean a lot on entertainment features, rewards, and repetitive tasks, which can make kids feel like they are being productive, yet still not really build deep understanding or critical thinking.” Dr Thyagarajan highlighted that children learn best when getting hands-on exploration, playful imagination, story time, storytelling, plus actual conversation and social interaction. “So, technology should be more like a complement to learning, not a stand-in for real human engagement, or for the everyday experiences outside the screen,” she said.

<p>As digital devices become an integral part of childhood, parents are increasingly grappling with questions about screen time, technology use and healthy habits. Here's what experts say.</p>

How much screen time is too much for children? Experts reveal how digital devices affect young minds

<p>Europe’s heatwave could lead to major economic consequences, researchers have found. However, India is already suffering from it as temperatures have been soaring and the monsoon has remained stalled for nearly two weeks. According to a study by Climate Analytics, average household incomes drop by almost 3 per cent across Europe due to heat-and-drought events. For India, where a massive informal workforce exists, and sectors like agriculture heavily rely on the climate, the effects will be amplified manifold.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Much research shows that rising temperatures directly impact the pockets of the common man. A World Bank working paper analysed subnational data and found that even a rise of 1 degree Celsius can cause a significant rise in local poverty and inequality indices.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to a study by Emerging Investigators, there is a significant negative relationship between heat waves and household income. The researchers found that the strongest negative correlation existed between heat waves and agricultural income, meaning that the agricultural sector was severely impacted by heat waves.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/europe-s-heatwaves-threaten-to-push-127-million-into-poverty-by-2100-1782369833103"><strong>Europe's heatwaves threaten to push 127 million into poverty by 2100, study finds</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“A severe heatwave is not merely a climatic event; it is an economic shock that lowers productivity, damages crops, increases expenditure on food, electricity and healthcare, and steadily erodes the financial resilience of Indian households,” Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Rayat Bahra University, said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For nearly 90 per cent of India's workforce in the informal sector, such as construction workers, street vendors, and agricultural labourers, heat stress will lead them to miss work, meaning a complete loss of daily wages.&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Agricultural impact</strong></h2><p>The agricultural shock would be massive as extreme temperatures damage crop yields. Researchers from Cambridge estimate that record heatwaves put over 90 per cent of India's population at risk of losing income, going hungry, or facing severe health risks. With Super El Niño already having taken hold ot he the globe, droughts are expected. The monsoon in India was already delayed. The combined toll of heatwaves and droughts on agriculture could be immense.</p><h2><strong>Food costs</strong></h2><p><br>Food inflation is another fallout of extreme heat. As crops are damaged, the supply is heavily impacted. The rising prices will directly impact low-income families who spend the majority of their income on food. A 6–15 per cent spike in grain and vegetable prices directly threatens basic nutrition.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-records-its-hottest-june-day-beating-1957-and-1976-highs-who-warns-of-risk-to-lives-1782322982631"><strong>UK records its hottest June day, beating 1957 and 1976 highs; WHO warns of risk to lives</strong></a></p><h2><strong>GDP fall</strong></h2><p><br>India’s GDP is in direct line of attack of climate change. It is projected to see a 2.8 decline by 2050, which could severely depress the living standards of nearly half the country's population. States like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra are at a higher risk of witnessing this fall.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Electricity and water crisis</strong></h2><p><br>Increasing heat leads to a rise in demand for electricity, putting pressure on the grids. In this scenario, electric companies purchase expensive emergency fuel while passing on those costs to consumers in the form of surcharges. Heatwaves cause groundwater to deplete, forcing people to buy water from private tankers, putting additional pressure on their pockets.</p><h2><strong>Health costs</strong></h2><p><br>Extreme temperatures lead to heat stress, heatstroke, and a surge in vector-borne diseases. Families end up spending money on medical treatments, as public health facilities are strained. So while families from the informal sector are earning less during rising heat, they are forced to spend more on health and other utilities, dealing them a double blow.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

The European heatwave has sent alarm bells ringing for the world. India has been battling extreme heat conditions, with research earlier showing that 95% of the world's hottest countries are in India. Here is how global warming impacts India economically. 

Europe’s heatwave could lead to major economic consequences, researchers have found. However, India is already suffering from it as temperatures have been soaring and the monsoon has remained stalled for nearly two weeks. According to a study by Climate Analytics, average household incomes drop by almost 3 per cent across Europe due to heat-and-drought events. For India, where a massive informal workforce exists, and sectors like agriculture heavily rely on the climate, the effects will be amplified manifold. Much research shows that rising temperatures directly impact the pockets of the common man. A World Bank working paper analysed subnational data and found that even a rise of 1 degree Celsius can cause a significant rise in local poverty and inequality indices. According to a study by Emerging Investigators, there is a significant negative relationship between heat waves and household income. The researchers found that the strongest negative correlation existed between heat waves and agricultural income, meaning that the agricultural sector was severely impacted by heat waves. Also Read: Europe's heatwaves threaten to push 127 million into poverty by 2100, study finds “A severe heatwave is not merely a climatic event; it is an economic shock that lowers productivity, damages crops, increases expenditure on food, electricity and healthcare, and steadily erodes the financial resilience of Indian households,” Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar, Vice Chancellor, Rayat Bahra University, said. For nearly 90 per cent of India's workforce in the informal sector, such as construction workers, street vendors, and agricultural labourers, heat stress will lead them to miss work, meaning a complete loss of daily wages. Agricultural impact The agricultural shock would be massive as extreme temperatures damage crop yields. Researchers from Cambridge estimate that record heatwaves put over 90 per cent of India's population at risk of losing income, going hungry, or facing severe health risks. With Super El Niño already having taken hold ot he the globe, droughts are expected. The monsoon in India was already delayed. The combined toll of heatwaves and droughts on agriculture could be immense. Food costs Food inflation is another fallout of extreme heat. As crops are damaged, the supply is heavily impacted. The rising prices will directly impact low-income families who spend the majority of their income on food. A 6–15 per cent spike in grain and vegetable prices directly threatens basic nutrition. Also Read: UK records its hottest June day, beating 1957 and 1976 highs; WHO warns of risk to lives GDP fall India’s GDP is in direct line of attack of climate change. It is projected to see a 2.8 decline by 2050, which could severely depress the living standards of nearly half the country's population. States like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra are at a higher risk of witnessing this fall. Electricity and water crisis Increasing heat leads to a rise in demand for electricity, putting pressure on the grids. In this scenario, electric companies purchase expensive emergency fuel while passing on those costs to consumers in the form of surcharges. Heatwaves cause groundwater to deplete, forcing people to buy water from private tankers, putting additional pressure on their pockets. Health costs Extreme temperatures lead to heat stress, heatstroke, and a surge in vector-borne diseases. Families end up spending money on medical treatments, as public health facilities are strained. So while families from the informal sector are earning less during rising heat, they are forced to spend more on health and other utilities, dealing them a double blow.

<p>The European heatwave has sent alarm bells ringing for the world. India has been battling extreme heat conditions, with research earlier showing that 95% of the world's hottest countries are in India. Here is how global warming impacts India economically.&nbsp;</p>

Analysis: Economic toll of heatwaves and droughts on India amid Europe heatwave

<p>In a tragic incident, a 34-year-old man was swept away by powerful waves while sitting on seaside rocks at Goa's Baga Beach. The victim, identified as Ashpak Masali from the Bijapur district of Karnataka, was later found dead after a search operation. The incident has sparked renewed concerns about tourist safety.</p><p><br>The scene captured on a phone has gone on social media, reportedly showing Ashpak Masali sitting on seaside rocks for a moment and playing with the water seconds before being swept away by a large wave. According to several reports, the 34-year-old man had come to Goa for a holiday with his friend, a woman from Sangli.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">33-year-old Sahas Ashpak Masali from Karnataka&#39;s Bijapur was washed away by strong currents at Baga Beach in north Goa. The incident happened while he was sitting on a rock near the shoreline when rough sea conditions triggered a series of powerful waves. A search and rescue… <a href="https://t.co/E5kc3T7UUu">pic.twitter.com/E5kc3T7UUu</a></p>&mdash; Vani Mehrotra (@vani_mehrotra) <a href="https://x.com/vani_mehrotra/status/2069970899424706658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Both spent the day at Baga, where Masali reportedly consumed alcohol and later decided to sit on the rocks. The woman was capturing the moment of him sitting on the rocks. Later, he was shockingly engulfed by the powerful wave. “I was standing above on the rocks, and he was sitting closer to the waves. I told him don’t go… he had taken drinks,” said the woman.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-is-the-b-52-bomber-expected-to-remain-in-service-until-the-2050s-1782285156068">Why is the B-52 bomber expected to remain in service until the 2050s?</a></p><h3>Officials issued advisory</h3><p>Masali remained afloat for several minutes after entering the water, but the turbulent sea conditions eventually overwhelmed him. Following alerts raised by the woman and other witnesses, rescue efforts were launched immediately. However, his body was later found along the Baga beach shoreline. “His friends had warned him not to go and sit on the rocks, but he did not listen. He went and sat on the rocks,” said a police constable.</p><p><br>Meanwhile, Drishti Marine, the government-authorised beach safety agency, had already advised both residents and tourists to avoid entering the sea and to remain vigilant around beaches and waterfront areas during the monsoon season. Officials noted that rocky sections become particularly slippery during heavy rains, while warning signs caution visitors about the danger of strong waves dragging people into the sea or accidents occurring while taking photographs near the coastline.</p>

Officials noted that rocky sections become particularly slippery during heavy rains, while warning signs caution visitors about the danger of strong waves dragging people into the sea or accidents occurring while taking photographs near the coastline.

In a tragic incident, a 34-year-old man was swept away by powerful waves while sitting on seaside rocks at Goa's Baga Beach. The victim, identified as Ashpak Masali from the Bijapur district of Karnataka, was later found dead after a search operation. The incident has sparked renewed concerns about tourist safety. The scene captured on a phone has gone on social media, reportedly showing Ashpak Masali sitting on seaside rocks for a moment and playing with the water seconds before being swept away by a large wave. According to several reports, the 34-year-old man had come to Goa for a holiday with his friend, a woman from Sangli.

<p>Officials noted that rocky sections become particularly slippery during heavy rains, while warning signs caution visitors about the danger of strong waves dragging people into the sea or accidents occurring while taking photographs near the coastline.</p>

VIDEO: Seconds after playing with water, Karnataka man dies after powerful wave drags him off rocks at Goa's Baga beach

<p>US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jun 24) coined another nickname, this time for democrats. Sharpening his rhetoric on the Iran conflict, he accused Democrats of wanting to "lose the war" while revealing his new nickname for them: "DUMocrats". The POTUS also addressed reports on deals involving fees on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, describing the idea as "unacceptable".</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-m-not-going-to-be-bullied-trump-gets-in-to-shouting-match-with-republican-senator-over-iran-war-as-questions-grow-over-peace-deal-1782346277095"><strong>'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal</strong></a></p><h2><strong>DUMocrats: Trump slams opponents</strong></h2><p>Speaking to reporters during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said the United States was making strong progress in its negotiations with Iran and claimed Tehran was being forced to make major concessions.</p><p>"So we're doing great in our negotiations with Iran," Trump said. "Right in the middle of one of the key things which we're going to get anyway, we got... We had four Republican Senators and all Democrats. You know, Democrats they want to lose the war because they're stupid. That's why we call them DUMocrats, you know I no longer use the E. I've changed the E into a U. We call them DUMocrats they're dumb. Their policy is so bad," he said.</p><p>He added that the war was going "very well" and said the US was "winning by a lot."</p><p>"Iran is making very big concessions. We'll see what happens. But it's been very, very, very powerful. It's going very, very well," Trump said.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/financial-death-penalty-icc-judges-sue-trump-over-sanctions-linked-to-netanyahu-warrant-1782348337425"><strong>'Financial death penalty': ICC judges sue Trump over sanctions linked to Netanyahu warrant</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Trump rejects fees on travel through the Strait of Hormuz</strong></h2><p>Trump also said he would not accept any final Iran agreement that included tolls or fees on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil transit routes.</p><p>"Yeah it would be unacceptable to me because we have numerous straits that if you did that for them, you'd have to do it for other people. You have other straits, well, I wouldn't allow it there either. Yeah, it would be a game changer," he said when asked whether he would block such a provision.</p>

US President Donald Trump has coined a new nickname for Democrats, calling them "DUMocrats" and claiming they "want to lose the war," while insisting Iran is making major concessions in ongoing negotiations and rejecting any proposal to impose shipping fees in the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jun 24) coined another nickname, this time for democrats. Sharpening his rhetoric on the Iran conflict, he accused Democrats of wanting to "lose the war" while revealing his new nickname for them: "DUMocrats". The POTUS also addressed reports on deals involving fees on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, describing the idea as "unacceptable". Also read | 'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal DUMocrats: Trump slams opponents Speaking to reporters during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said the United States was making strong progress in its negotiations with Iran and claimed Tehran was being forced to make major concessions. "So we're doing great in our negotiations with Iran," Trump said. "Right in the middle of one of the key things which we're going to get anyway, we got... We had four Republican Senators and all Democrats. You know, Democrats they want to lose the war because they're stupid. That's why we call them DUMocrats, you know I no longer use the E. I've changed the E into a U. We call them DUMocrats they're dumb. Their policy is so bad," he said. He added that the war was going "very well" and said the US was "winning by a lot." "Iran is making very big concessions. We'll see what happens. But it's been very, very, very powerful. It's going very, very well," Trump said. Also read | 'Financial death penalty': ICC judges sue Trump over sanctions linked to Netanyahu warrant Trump rejects fees on travel through the Strait of Hormuz Trump also said he would not accept any final Iran agreement that included tolls or fees on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil transit routes. "Yeah it would be unacceptable to me because we have numerous straits that if you did that for them, you'd have to do it for other people. You have other straits, well, I wouldn't allow it there either. Yeah, it would be a game changer," he said when asked whether he would block such a provision.

<p>US President Donald Trump has coined a new nickname for Democrats, calling them "DUMocrats" and claiming they "want to lose the war," while insisting Iran is making major concessions in ongoing negotiations and rejecting any proposal to impose shipping fees in the Strait of Hormuz.</p>

'DUMocrats': Trump drops new nickname for Democrats during Iran war rant

<p>Europe is in the grips of a heatwave, with temperatures climbing to almost 41 degrees Celsius in some parts. France experienced its hottest day ever since records started in 1947, with more than half the country under a red heat alert. Spain reached its highest daily average since 1950, and UK is also witnessing record heat for June. The historic and deadly heatwave across Western and Central Europe is being driven by a powerful meteorological phenomenon known as an "Omega Block". It is a weather pattern which creates a massive, stationary heat dome with intensely hot air trapped over the continent.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A new study has found that the economic effects of extreme heat combined with drought are huge and a major trigger for the rise of poverty. An analysis by Climate Analytics shows average household incomes drop by almost 3 per cent across Europe due to heat-and-drought events. The regions hit hardest witness an even bigger reduction. The study reveals that the rising global temperatures will lead to income inequality and increase the risk of poverty for millions of people. The researcher focuses specifically on Europe, although a similar impact is expected globally, especially in the most vulnerable countries. It was published in Global Environmental Change as part of the ACCREU project.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-records-its-hottest-june-day-beating-1957-and-1976-highs-who-warns-of-risk-to-lives-1782322982631"><strong>UK records its hottest June day, beating 1957 and 1976 highs; WHO warns of risk to lives</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Global warming and climate change</strong></h2><p>Global temperatures are rising, and an increase of 2.7°C by 2100 will cause the average European household income to fall by 27 per cent. If humans are able to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as per the Paris Agreement commitment, it would fall to 7 per cent. In the former scenario, 127 million in Europe will be at risk of poverty, with the figure dropping to 60 million in a 1.5 degrees Celsius world.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.wionews.com/videos/killer-omega-heatwave-grips-europe-1782322956190/embed</p><h2><strong>Combined effects of heatwave and droughts much larger</strong></h2><p>Lead author of the study, Jessie Schleypen, says that the heatwave has affected “people’s health, livelihoods and ability to work.” The Senior Climate Change and Development Economist at Climate Analytics adds, “Where extreme heat coincides with drought, the damage can be much greater." The compound events "amplify economic losses experienced directly by European households, and they will become more frequent as global warming increases.”</p><h2><strong>Reduction in household income due to heatwave and droughts</strong></h2><p>The study analyses data from 2004 to 2022 and finds that heatwaves and droughts individually have a lesser impact than when they occur together. “On average, a heatwave in Europe will reduce household incomes by 0.7% and droughts by 1.8%. When they occur together – particularly in drought-stricken regions – the average income loss rises to nearly 3%,” the study states. The conditions worsen workers' health, reducing labour productivity and affecting crops, which causes a dip in food production. Critical services linked to water, such as transport and energy generation, also take a massive hit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The poorest will be at the greatest loss due to the economic inequalities caused by the events. “The poorest 20% will be affected the most, with incomes dropping 2% more than the rest of the population (4% vs 1.1-1.8%), further widening income inequality,” Schleypen says. In a 2.7 degrees Celsius world, Greece, Spain, Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus will likely be among the most affected countries.</p>

Climate change, marked by heatwaves and droughts, can lead to over 100 million Europeans being defined as poor by the year 2100. A study has shown the drastic economic effects of the increasing temperatures when Europe is battling a deadly heatwave.

Europe is in the grips of a heatwave, with temperatures climbing to almost 41 degrees Celsius in some parts. France experienced its hottest day ever since records started in 1947, with more than half the country under a red heat alert. Spain reached its highest daily average since 1950, and UK is also witnessing record heat for June. The historic and deadly heatwave across Western and Central Europe is being driven by a powerful meteorological phenomenon known as an "Omega Block". It is a weather pattern which creates a massive, stationary heat dome with intensely hot air trapped over the continent. A new study has found that the economic effects of extreme heat combined with drought are huge and a major trigger for the rise of poverty. An analysis by Climate Analytics shows average household incomes drop by almost 3 per cent across Europe due to heat-and-drought events. The regions hit hardest witness an even bigger reduction. The study reveals that the rising global temperatures will lead to income inequality and increase the risk of poverty for millions of people. The researcher focuses specifically on Europe, although a similar impact is expected globally, especially in the most vulnerable countries. It was published in Global Environmental Change as part of the ACCREU project. Also Read: UK records its hottest June day, beating 1957 and 1976 highs; WHO warns of risk to lives Global warming and climate change Global temperatures are rising, and an increase of 2.7°C by 2100 will cause the average European household income to fall by 27 per cent. If humans are able to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as per the Paris Agreement commitment, it would fall to 7 per cent. In the former scenario, 127 million in Europe will be at risk of poverty, with the figure dropping to 60 million in a 1.5 degrees Celsius world. https://www.wionews.com/videos/killer-omega-heatwave-grips-europe-1782322956190/embed Combined effects of heatwave and droughts much larger Lead author of the study, Jessie Schleypen, says that the heatwave has affected “people’s health, livelihoods and ability to work.” The Senior Climate Change and Development Economist at Climate Analytics adds, “Where extreme heat coincides with drought, the damage can be much greater." The compound events "amplify economic losses experienced directly by European households, and they will become more frequent as global warming increases.” Reduction in household income due to heatwave and droughts The study analyses data from 2004 to 2022 and finds that heatwaves and droughts individually have a lesser impact than when they occur together. “On average, a heatwave in Europe will reduce household incomes by 0.7% and droughts by 1.8%. When they occur together – particularly in drought-stricken regions – the average income loss rises to nearly 3%,” the study states. The conditions worsen workers' health, reducing labour productivity and affecting crops, which causes a dip in food production. Critical services linked to water, such as transport and energy generation, also take a massive hit. The poorest will be at the greatest loss due to the economic inequalities caused by the events. “The poorest 20% will be affected the most, with incomes dropping 2% more than the rest of the population (4% vs 1.1-1.8%), further widening income inequality,” Schleypen says. In a 2.7 degrees Celsius world, Greece, Spain, Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus will likely be among the most affected countries.

<p>Climate change, marked by heatwaves and droughts, can lead to over 100 million Europeans being defined as poor by the year 2100. A study has shown the drastic economic effects of the increasing temperatures when Europe is battling a deadly heatwave.</p>

Europe's heatwaves threaten to push 127 million into poverty by 2100, study finds

<p>Three Brazilian sisters have become a beacon of hope for scientists researching the secret to a long life after they set the Guinness World Record for the highest combined age of three living siblings. A team of scientists led by Mayana Zatz from the University of Sao Paulo are working on the DNA Longevo Project study, which aims to investigate the biological factors behind ageing. Experts believe that studying the siblings’ case could help in understanding why some people remain ​physically and cognitively resilient at exceptionally advanced ages.</p><p>Researchers believe genetics may hold many of the answers. The team hopes to uncover traits that help protect the body from the effects of ageing by studying nonagenarians and centenarians and comparing them with people who develop age-related health conditions earlier in life.</p><p>“Through ⁠DNA testing, we look for protective genes, and we know there are several of them,” said Zatz, ​who coordinates the university’s Human Genome Research Center. “The more people we have who live past 100, especially ​families with multiple centenarians, the more accurate our research will be in identifying them.”</p><p>The three sisters, Zulina de Deus Nunes, 103, Zoraide de ​Deus Mota, 104, and Levita de Deus Nunes, 109, were identified through LongeviQuest, an organisation that verifies age records around the world and partners with Guinness World Records. They reside in Rio de Janeiro.</p><p>Scientists believe that inherited factors may play a larger role in preserving health than environmental factors.</p><p>“When sisters reach that age, ‌there ⁠is clearly a strong genetic component,” said Ben Meyers, CEO of LongeviQuest. “But because they live near each other, they also have a support network, with family able to help when needed. There is definitely a community aspect as well.”</p><p>The three women have attributed their longevity to simple habits like following a healthy diet and an active lifestyle rather than any secret formula. Recalling their childhood, Zulina said that she spent a lot of time swimming and fishing in rivers. “Everything ⁠was fresh. We didn’t have a refrigerator,” she said.</p><p>Zoraide added, “Breastfeeding is incredibly important.”</p><p>Each sister followed a different path through life. Levita worked in crafts before joining a television network, Zoraide built a career in nursing while raising five children, and Zulina devoted herself to caring for her six children and family.</p><p>“I had a good childhood and adolescence. I can’t complain,” Levita said.</p><p>Researchers aim to determine how genetic traits may help preserve heart health, muscle strength and cognitive abilities as people grow older.</p><p>The study’s goal “is to reach 500 centenarians so we can draw more definitive conclusions about longevity,” said researcher ​Joao Paulo Guilherme, who works with Zatz.</p>

Three Brazilian sisters aged 103, 104 and 109 are helping scientists study longevity. Researchers hope their genes can reveal why some people remain healthy and mentally sharp past 100.

Three Brazilian sisters have become a beacon of hope for scientists researching the secret to a long life after they set the Guinness World Record for the highest combined age of three living siblings. A team of scientists led by Mayana Zatz from the University of Sao Paulo are working on the DNA Longevo Project study, which aims to investigate the biological factors behind ageing. Experts believe that studying the siblings’ case could help in understanding why some people remain physically and cognitively resilient at exceptionally advanced ages. Researchers believe genetics may hold many of the answers. The team hopes to uncover traits that help protect the body from the effects of ageing by studying nonagenarians and centenarians and comparing them with people who develop age-related health conditions earlier in life. “Through ⁠DNA testing, we look for protective genes, and we know there are several of them,” said Zatz, who coordinates the university’s Human Genome Research Center. “The more people we have who live past 100, especially families with multiple centenarians, the more accurate our research will be in identifying them.” The three sisters, Zulina de Deus Nunes, 103, Zoraide de Deus Mota, 104, and Levita de Deus Nunes, 109, were identified through LongeviQuest, an organisation that verifies age records around the world and partners with Guinness World Records. They reside in Rio de Janeiro. Scientists believe that inherited factors may play a larger role in preserving health than environmental factors. “When sisters reach that age, ‌there ⁠is clearly a strong genetic component,” said Ben Meyers, CEO of LongeviQuest. “But because they live near each other, they also have a support network, with family able to help when needed. There is definitely a community aspect as well.” The three women have attributed their longevity to simple habits like following a healthy diet and an active lifestyle rather than any secret formula. Recalling their childhood, Zulina said that she spent a lot of time swimming and fishing in rivers. “Everything ⁠was fresh. We didn’t have a refrigerator,” she said. Zoraide added, “Breastfeeding is incredibly important.” Each sister followed a different path through life. Levita worked in crafts before joining a television network, Zoraide built a career in nursing while raising five children, and Zulina devoted herself to caring for her six children and family. “I had a good childhood and adolescence. I can’t complain,” Levita said. Researchers aim to determine how genetic traits may help preserve heart health, muscle strength and cognitive abilities as people grow older. The study’s goal “is to reach 500 centenarians so we can draw more definitive conclusions about longevity,” said researcher Joao Paulo Guilherme, who works with Zatz.

<p>Three Brazilian sisters aged 103, 104 and 109 are helping scientists study longevity. Researchers hope their genes can reveal why some people remain healthy and mentally sharp past 100.</p>

What’s the secret to long life? Scientists believe three Brazilian sisters may hold the key

<p>&nbsp;</p><p><br>Nearly five decades after the Emergency was imposed in India, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has, for the first time, introduced the subject in a Class 9 textbook, describing it as one of the most significant challenges faced by Indian democracy. The chapter has been added to the newly developed Social Science textbook, Understanding Society: India and Beyond. The Emergency chapter, as per reports, examines the strengths, evolution and challenges of democratic governance in India.</p><h2><strong>The first time children will read about dark days of Emergency</strong></h2><p>According to an ANI report, an NCERT official confirmed that this is the first time a dedicated section on the Emergency has been included in a Class 9 textbook.</p><p>The move comes weeks after the country marked 50 years since the proclamation of the Emergency on June 25, 1975, a period widely regarded as one of the most controversial chapters in independent India's political history.</p><h2><strong>How the textbook describes Emergency</strong></h2><p>The textbook states that public dissatisfaction with the government led by then-prime minister Indira Gandhi had been rising in the early 1970s amid unemployment, inflation and allegations of misgovernance.</p><p>"One of the major challenges to democracy in India was recorded when an Emergency was imposed in 1975-77," the chapter says.</p><p>It further notes that a National Emergency was declared in June 1975 on the grounds of "internal disturbance".</p><p>"During this period, a majority of Fundamental Rights were suspended, the press was censored, and numerous political leaders and activists were arrested. Democratic institutions came under severe strain, and citizens' freedom was restricted," the book states.</p><h2><strong>Jayaprakash Narayan's role highlighted</strong></h2><p>The chapter also discusses the movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan, popularly known as Lok Nayak, and his role in mobilising students and citizens against the Emergency.&nbsp;<br>According to the textbook, mass movements in states such as Bihar and Gujarat played a crucial role in challenging the government during the period.</p><p>It adds that the lifting of the Emergency in 1977 and the subsequent general election demonstrated the resilience of India's democratic system. "The defeat of the ruling government demonstrated the strength of Indian democracy," the text reads.</p><h2><strong>Part of a broader discussion on democracy</strong></h2><p>Alongside the Emergency, the chapter states that the other challenges faced by democratic societies include fake news, misinformation, poverty, social discrimination, regionalism, gender inequality and violations of public norms.</p><p>NCERT has also introduced a new section titled "Democracy and You", aimed at helping students understand their role as active citizens in a democratic society.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

For the 1st time, NCERT has introduced a dedicated chapter on the 1975-77 Emergency in a Class 9 textbook, describing it as "one of the major challenges to democracy in India" and highlighting censorship, suspension of Fundamental Rights and the arrest of political leaders during the period.

Nearly five decades after the Emergency was imposed in India, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has, for the first time, introduced the subject in a Class 9 textbook, describing it as one of the most significant challenges faced by Indian democracy. The chapter has been added to the newly developed Social Science textbook, Understanding Society: India and Beyond. The Emergency chapter, as per reports, examines the strengths, evolution and challenges of democratic governance in India. The first time children will read about dark days of Emergency According to an ANI report, an NCERT official confirmed that this is the first time a dedicated section on the Emergency has been included in a Class 9 textbook. The move comes weeks after the country marked 50 years since the proclamation of the Emergency on June 25, 1975, a period widely regarded as one of the most controversial chapters in independent India's political history. How the textbook describes Emergency The textbook states that public dissatisfaction with the government led by then-prime minister Indira Gandhi had been rising in the early 1970s amid unemployment, inflation and allegations of misgovernance. "One of the major challenges to democracy in India was recorded when an Emergency was imposed in 1975-77," the chapter says. It further notes that a National Emergency was declared in June 1975 on the grounds of "internal disturbance". "During this period, a majority of Fundamental Rights were suspended, the press was censored, and numerous political leaders and activists were arrested. Democratic institutions came under severe strain, and citizens' freedom was restricted," the book states. Jayaprakash Narayan's role highlighted The chapter also discusses the movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan, popularly known as Lok Nayak, and his role in mobilising students and citizens against the Emergency. According to the textbook, mass movements in states such as Bihar and Gujarat played a crucial role in challenging the government during the period. It adds that the lifting of the Emergency in 1977 and the subsequent general election demonstrated the resilience of India's democratic system. "The defeat of the ruling government demonstrated the strength of Indian democracy," the text reads. Part of a broader discussion on democracy Alongside the Emergency, the chapter states that the other challenges faced by democratic societies include fake news, misinformation, poverty, social discrimination, regionalism, gender inequality and violations of public norms. NCERT has also introduced a new section titled "Democracy and You", aimed at helping students understand their role as active citizens in a democratic society.

<p>For the 1st time, NCERT has introduced a dedicated chapter on the 1975-77 Emergency in a Class 9 textbook, describing it as "one of the major challenges to democracy in India" and highlighting censorship, suspension of Fundamental Rights and the arrest of political leaders during the period.</p>

'Challenges to democracy in India': For first time, NCERT to teach Class 9 students about Emergency

<p>A female German politician is going viral for her courageous and daring statement made at the Bundestag, the federal parliament and primary legislative assembly of the country. Kathi Gebel called out an opposition MP who interrupted her by saying that he was “more sensitive than the clitoris”. Her words left everyone in the room dumbfounded and shocked. She called out the particular politician by saying, "The clitoris has 3000 nerve endings, and you are still more sensitive. To get to that point is quite something!"&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Her statement takes everyone by surprise, with some laughing and others simply surprised by what they just heard. Meanwhile, the particular politician she is addressing, who was apparently mocking her earlier, can be seen with the weirdest expression on his face. The incident happened back in March but is garnering attention now.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZw1II1M8kl/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kathi Gebel MdB (@genossin.gebel)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<p>The clip posted on her Instagram account has led to a flurry of reactions, mostly from women, who cannot help but applaud her for her bold choice of words in the parliament of the country, calling her "an absolute queen." One user commented, "You really have to be intelligent to say something like that off the cuff. Spot on." Another user commented on the male politician and wrote, "Him being so offended and not able to really wrap his brain around what was said is the best thing this year so far."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kathi Gebel later posted another video, apologising for getting anatomical facts about the female clitoris wrong. She shared links from Pubmed other medical journals. A user wrote, "She later posted an apology video...for spreading miss-information because it has more than 10'000 nerve endings.. absolute queen!"</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gebel also commented on her own video, and said, "I was almost sorry afterwards, he didn’t attend any plenary session that or the following week," referring to the male politician.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Gebel called out people who blame women for rape in another video</strong></h2><p>She describes herself as "Your 'Riot Barbie' in the Bundestag" and a "Spokesperson for Women's Policy" in her Insta bio. In another video, she received huge applause for taking down people who say women dressing provocatively are asking for it. She says, “Outside again? Maybe a... quick reminder. Her skirt is not too short, her outfit is not too trashy/sluttish, and if someone sees it differently, then maybe they are just a perverted jerk.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZfSyJxM33O/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kathi Gebel MdB (@genossin.gebel)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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German politician Kathi Gebel called out a politician in the parliament, saying he was more sensitive than the clitoris, the female sex organ. Her comments left everyone shocked and laughing. The video from the March incident is now going viral.    

A female German politician is going viral for her courageous and daring statement made at the Bundestag, the federal parliament and primary legislative assembly of the country. Kathi Gebel called out an opposition MP who interrupted her by saying that he was “more sensitive than the clitoris”. Her words left everyone in the room dumbfounded and shocked. She called out the particular politician by saying, "The clitoris has 3000 nerve endings, and you are still more sensitive. To get to that point is quite something!" Her statement takes everyone by surprise, with some laughing and others simply surprised by what they just heard. Meanwhile, the particular politician she is addressing, who was apparently mocking her earlier, can be seen with the weirdest expression on his face. The incident happened back in March but is garnering attention now.

<p>German politician Kathi Gebel called out a politician in the parliament, saying he was more sensitive than the clitoris, the female sex organ. Her comments left everyone shocked and laughing. The video from the March incident is now going viral. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

'Absolute queen': German politician Kathi Gebel shuts down MP with savage 'cl*****s' comeback

<p>A Dettol advertisement comparing "toxic men" to germs fell on its face after facing backlash in China, for showing a man seeking a "clean and untouched woman." The company has apologised and withdrawn the advert. The five-minute clip is basically a microdrama and was released on several platforms in May. It starts with a man in a relationship comparing his current partner to his ex. He says he found out that his former girlfriends had lived with another man previously. He starts recalling the times she was forward and open with physical contact. He then breaks up with her, saying it felt like receiving “secondhand service”. He then tells his friend that he wants a “clean and untouched” woman to marry. “I may not be a virgin, but my future wife has to be," the man says.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He then bumps into another woman. He says, “Thank goodness I met her. Clean and pure, never contaminated by a man. I've dated over a dozen girls, and I've finally found one who's pure... who hasn't done it before, you know?”</p><h2>&nbsp;</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Oh, Dettol, you really did this one dirty.<br><br>Dettol has upset the Chinese internet today over a bizarre ad campaign featuring a man looking for a woman who is &quot;clean&quot; enough to marry. At one point, he says: &quot;It’s okay if I’m not her first, but not when it comes to my future wife.… <a href="https://t.co/DRAs7vpmu6">pic.twitter.com/DRAs7vpmu6</a></p>&mdash; Manya Koetse (@manyapan) <a href="https://x.com/manyapan/status/2069052432529629254?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Chinese social media users slam Dettol ad</strong></h2><p>When his girlfriend finds out about his views on women, she starts seeing the misogyny in him. The woman then breaks up with him. The advert ends with the words: "A toxic man is just like these germs – you need Dettol to eliminate them completely to feel at ease." Chinese social media users are furious with the Dettol ad, which the company has now taken down amid calls for a boycott of the brand. "What a trashy advertisement. It's left me speechless," a user wrote on Chinese social media platform Weibo, with another adding, “I will never use Dettol again.”</p><h2><strong>Dettol responds to criticism of new ad</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Responding to the backlash, the company said that the idea behind the ad was to "challenge unequal gender attitudes and promote healthy, confident views on relationships and lifestyles". &nbsp;But the edited videos on social media have muddled up the real message of the advert, it added. The brand said the micro drama was produced by a third party, and it took “responsibility for any negligence in creating and reviewing the content of the advert”. It said: “We are well aware that true protection also lies in safeguarding the dignity of every individual and their right to be treated equally.”&nbsp;</p>

Dettol's new ad in China shows a man seeking a virgin and a “clean” wife. He tells his friend that he might not be a virgin, but his future wife has to be. The ad compares toxic men with germs towards the end. It has been taken down after people criticised the ad. 

A Dettol advertisement comparing "toxic men" to germs fell on its face after facing backlash in China, for showing a man seeking a "clean and untouched woman." The company has apologised and withdrawn the advert. The five-minute clip is basically a microdrama and was released on several platforms in May. It starts with a man in a relationship comparing his current partner to his ex. He says he found out that his former girlfriends had lived with another man previously. He starts recalling the times she was forward and open with physical contact. He then breaks up with her, saying it felt like receiving “secondhand service”. He then tells his friend that he wants a “clean and untouched” woman to marry. “I may not be a virgin, but my future wife has to be," the man says. He then bumps into another woman. He says, “Thank goodness I met her. Clean and pure, never contaminated by a man. I've dated over a dozen girls, and I've finally found one who's pure... who hasn't done it before, you know?”

<p>Dettol's new ad in China shows a man seeking a virgin and a “clean” wife. He tells his friend that he might not be a virgin, but his future wife has to be. The ad compares toxic men with germs towards the end. It has been taken down after people criticised the ad.&nbsp;</p>

Dettol takes down controversial ad about 'toxic men' and gender double standards

<p>Iran's IRGC Navy has warned vessels to strictly follow the routes announced by Tehran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, saying any movement outside those lanes is "dangerous" and prohibited. In a statement carried by Iranian state media, the force said some authorities had announced a new shipping route without consulting or coordinating with the Islamic Republic. It described that move as unacceptable and warned that ships should not attempt to pass through any route outside the one approved by Iran.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-m-not-going-to-be-bullied-trump-gets-in-to-shouting-match-with-republican-senator-over-iran-war-as-questions-grow-over-peace-deal-1782346277095"><strong>'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into a shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Iran rejects alternative shipping lanes</strong></h2><p>Tehran says recently announced routes through the Strait of Hormuz were introduced without its approval and are "unacceptable" and "dangerous".</p><p>"A few hours ago, without informing or coordinating with the Islamic Republic of Iran, some authorities announced a new route for ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which is unacceptable and completely dangerous," the IRGC statement said, according to Iranian state media. It added that "The only permitted route for passing through the Strait of Hormuz is the routes announced by the Islamic Republic of Iran."</p><p>The statement also stated that coordination with the IRGC Navy "through Channel 16" was a requirement "for passing through the Strait of Hormuz", while warning that "violating vessels will be dealt with."</p><h2><strong>What new route through the Strait of Hormuz is the IRGC referring to?</strong></h2><p>The United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO) recently introduced new evacuation routes to help move thousands of seafarers still stranded in the Gulf. Those routes include a passage close to the Omani coast for outgoing ships and another through Iranian waters for traffic in both directions.</p><p>IMO chief Arsenio Dominguez said the agency hopes to see around 50 vessels evacuated each day through the new lanes.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-big-oil-companies-of-gouging-american-customers-says-gasoline-prices-better-start-going-down-a-lot-faster-usa-ogas-price-today-1782274625910"><strong>Trump accuses big oil companies of 'gouging' American customers, says 'gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Hormuz traffic slowly rebounds</strong></h2><p>The warning comes at a sensitive moment for one of the world's busiest and most strategically important waterways.</p><p>According to maritime tracking data, after months of blockades, shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has finally started improving after Iran and the United States agreed to a memorandum of understanding on June 14. On Tuesday, Kpler recorded 25 commodity ship transits through the strait, with 17 more logged by Wednesday afternoon. That was down from 38 transits on Monday, but still above levels seen before the agreement.</p><p>Between March 1 and June 14, the same data showed fewer than 10 daily crossings on average. Since June 15, that number has climbed to about 22 ships per day. In normal times, roughly 120 vessels pass through the strait each day, carrying about a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas exports.</p><p>Large crude carriers have also begun moving more freely. Kpler data showed three very large crude carriers crossed on Wednesday, together transporting 4.1 million barrels of crude oil out of the Gulf. On Tuesday, five VLCCs crossed the strait, three of them loaded.<br><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</i></p>

Iran's IRGC Navy has warned vessels to use only Tehran-approved shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting newly announced evacuation routes and threatening action against ships that violate its instructions, even as traffic through the strategic waterway begins to recover.

Iran's IRGC Navy has warned vessels to strictly follow the routes announced by Tehran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, saying any movement outside those lanes is "dangerous" and prohibited. In a statement carried by Iranian state media, the force said some authorities had announced a new shipping route without consulting or coordinating with the Islamic Republic. It described that move as unacceptable and warned that ships should not attempt to pass through any route outside the one approved by Iran. Also read | 'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into a shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal Iran rejects alternative shipping lanes Tehran says recently announced routes through the Strait of Hormuz were introduced without its approval and are "unacceptable" and "dangerous". "A few hours ago, without informing or coordinating with the Islamic Republic of Iran, some authorities announced a new route for ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which is unacceptable and completely dangerous," the IRGC statement said, according to Iranian state media. It added that "The only permitted route for passing through the Strait of Hormuz is the routes announced by the Islamic Republic of Iran." The statement also stated that coordination with the IRGC Navy "through Channel 16" was a requirement "for passing through the Strait of Hormuz", while warning that "violating vessels will be dealt with." What new route through the Strait of Hormuz is the IRGC referring to? The United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO) recently introduced new evacuation routes to help move thousands of seafarers still stranded in the Gulf. Those routes include a passage close to the Omani coast for outgoing ships and another through Iranian waters for traffic in both directions. IMO chief Arsenio Dominguez said the agency hopes to see around 50 vessels evacuated each day through the new lanes. Also read | Trump accuses big oil companies of 'gouging' American customers, says 'gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster' Hormuz traffic slowly rebounds The warning comes at a sensitive moment for one of the world's busiest and most strategically important waterways. According to maritime tracking data, after months of blockades, shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has finally started improving after Iran and the United States agreed to a memorandum of understanding on June 14. On Tuesday, Kpler recorded 25 commodity ship transits through the strait, with 17 more logged by Wednesday afternoon. That was down from 38 transits on Monday, but still above levels seen before the agreement. Between March 1 and June 14, the same data showed fewer than 10 daily crossings on average. Since June 15, that number has climbed to about 22 ships per day. In normal times, roughly 120 vessels pass through the strait each day, carrying about a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Large crude carriers have also begun moving more freely. Kpler data showed three very large crude carriers crossed on Wednesday, together transporting 4.1 million barrels of crude oil out of the Gulf. On Tuesday, five VLCCs crossed the strait, three of them loaded. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>Iran's IRGC Navy has warned vessels to use only Tehran-approved shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting newly announced evacuation routes and threatening action against ships that violate its instructions, even as traffic through the strategic waterway begins to recover.</p>

'Violating vessels will be dealt with': IRGC warns ships to stick to designated routes in Strait of Hormuz as traffic picks up

<p>US President Donald Trump and his administration have been sued by three judges of the International Criminal Court over sanctions imposed on them last year. The ICC judges argue that the measures were illegal and designed to pressure the court through financial punishment. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Manhattan, was brought by judges Kimberly Prost of Canada, Solomy Balungi Bossa of Uganda and Reine Adelaide Sophie Alapini-Gansou of Benin. The judges said the sanctions were meant to coerce them and interfere with their judicial independence.</p><h2><strong>Did Trump try to punish ICC judges?</strong></h2><p>According to the complaint, the sanctions were intended to punish judges for decisions taken by the court, rather than respond to any genuine national emergency.</p><p>Last year, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on several ICC judges in a sharp escalation against the tribunal after it issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and after earlier proceedings involving alleged war crimes by US troops in Afghanistan.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-m-not-going-to-be-bullied-trump-gets-in-to-shouting-match-with-republican-senator-over-iran-war-as-questions-grow-over-peace-deal-1782346277095"><strong>'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into a shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What did these sanctions do?</strong></h2><p>The impact of sanctions is wide-ranging. The sanctions severely hamper individuals’ ability to carry out even routine financial transactions, as any bank with ties to the United States or that conducts transactions in dollars is expected to comply with the restrictions.</p><p>The judges also said the sanctions had severely disrupted their daily lives, describing the effect as the financial equivalent of a death sentence. They said they could no longer use credit cards, access banking services, book travel, or, in some cases, even obtain health insurance.</p><p>"Being subjected to such sanctions under IEEPA is tantamount to the financial death penalty. Due to the sanctions, Judges Prost, Bossa, and Alapini-Gansou are no longer able, among other ⁠things, to ​use credit cards; access banking services; use common online platforms, such as ​Amazon and Google; book travel; and in some cases, obtain health insurance," it said.</p><p>The ICC, based in The Hague and established in 2002, has jurisdiction over genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in its member states. But some major countries, including the United States, China, Russia and Israel, do not recognise its authority.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meloni-signals-truce-after-extraordinary-public-spat-with-trump-i-don-t-intend-to-keep-fuelling-this-dispute-1782265096024"><strong>Meloni signals truce after extraordinary public spat with Trump: 'I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>ICC judges slam ‘Sanctions Regime’</strong></h2><p>In their lawsuit, the judges said the sanctions exceeded the powers granted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA. They argued that the law was being stretched beyond its intended use because there was no true emergency or extraordinary threat that justified the penalties.</p><p>"The Sanctions Regime ... is designed to exert extra-judicial pressure on these judges and their colleagues on the ICC bench," the lawsuit said, adding that the purpose was to punish them for prior rulings and pressure them to change how they decide cases.</p><p>The complaint further claims that the sanctions prevent them from submitting evidence or legal arguments in current or future cases before the court.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Three International Criminal Court judges have sued Donald Trump and his administration, arguing that sanctions imposed against them amounted to a "financial death penalty" designed to punish judicial decisions and pressure the court. All you need to know.

US President Donald Trump and his administration have been sued by three judges of the International Criminal Court over sanctions imposed on them last year. The ICC judges argue that the measures were illegal and designed to pressure the court through financial punishment. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Manhattan, was brought by judges Kimberly Prost of Canada, Solomy Balungi Bossa of Uganda and Reine Adelaide Sophie Alapini-Gansou of Benin. The judges said the sanctions were meant to coerce them and interfere with their judicial independence. Did Trump try to punish ICC judges? According to the complaint, the sanctions were intended to punish judges for decisions taken by the court, rather than respond to any genuine national emergency. Last year, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on several ICC judges in a sharp escalation against the tribunal after it issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and after earlier proceedings involving alleged war crimes by US troops in Afghanistan. Also read | 'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into a shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal What did these sanctions do? The impact of sanctions is wide-ranging. The sanctions severely hamper individuals’ ability to carry out even routine financial transactions, as any bank with ties to the United States or that conducts transactions in dollars is expected to comply with the restrictions. The judges also said the sanctions had severely disrupted their daily lives, describing the effect as the financial equivalent of a death sentence. They said they could no longer use credit cards, access banking services, book travel, or, in some cases, even obtain health insurance. "Being subjected to such sanctions under IEEPA is tantamount to the financial death penalty. Due to the sanctions, Judges Prost, Bossa, and Alapini-Gansou are no longer able, among other ⁠things, to use credit cards; access banking services; use common online platforms, such as Amazon and Google; book travel; and in some cases, obtain health insurance," it said. The ICC, based in The Hague and established in 2002, has jurisdiction over genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in its member states. But some major countries, including the United States, China, Russia and Israel, do not recognise its authority. Also read | Meloni signals truce after extraordinary public spat with Trump: 'I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute' ICC judges slam ‘Sanctions Regime’ In their lawsuit, the judges said the sanctions exceeded the powers granted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA. They argued that the law was being stretched beyond its intended use because there was no true emergency or extraordinary threat that justified the penalties. "The Sanctions Regime ... is designed to exert extra-judicial pressure on these judges and their colleagues on the ICC bench," the lawsuit said, adding that the purpose was to punish them for prior rulings and pressure them to change how they decide cases. The complaint further claims that the sanctions prevent them from submitting evidence or legal arguments in current or future cases before the court.

<p>Three International Criminal Court judges have sued Donald Trump and his administration, arguing that sanctions imposed against them amounted to a "financial death penalty" designed to punish judicial decisions and pressure the court. All you need to know.</p>

'Financial death penalty': ICC judges sue Trump over sanctions linked to Netanyahu warrant

<p>US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jun 24) reportedly got into a heated shouting match with Republican Senator Bill Cassidy during a closed-door meeting with GOP lawmakers. The incident has once again exposed growing divisions within Trump's party over the administration's handling of the Iran conflict and the recently announced framework peace agreement.</p><p>The confrontation came just hours before the White House asked Congress to approve tens of billions of dollars to fund the war, even as the administration insists diplomacy is now moving forward.</p><h2><strong>What happened with Bill Cassidy?</strong></h2><p>According to multiple US media reports, the exchange began when Trump questioned why several Republicans had supported a Senate resolution seeking to curb his war powers in Iran.</p><p>"The President was wondering why people would vote for the War Powers Act," Cassidy later told reporters. The Louisiana senator said he used the opportunity to press Trump on the Iran agreement, arguing that lawmakers and the American public still lacked basic details about what had been negotiated.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meloni-signals-truce-after-extraordinary-public-spat-with-trump-i-don-t-intend-to-keep-fuelling-this-dispute-1782265096024"><strong>Meloni signals truce after extraordinary public spat with Trump: 'I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute'</strong></a></p><p>"I stood and said, 'You have not told the American people what's going on. It was supposed to last four weeks; it's lasted four months. Our original objectives have not been achieved, and I want to know what's going on,'" Cassidy said.</p><p>According to CNN, Trump interrupted Cassidy repeatedly, ordered him to sit down and at one point called him a "lunatic." Cassidy reportedly refused to back down, raising his own voice during the exchange.</p><p>"I didn't care to be interrupted," Cassidy said. "I felt like I was trying to get answers for the American people, and I'm not going to be bullied when I'm trying to get answers."</p><p>He added that fellow senators eventually urged him to sit down to calm the situation.</p><p>"I make no apologies for standing up to the president... I am sticking up for the American people, even if I'm speaking to the president," Cassidy said.</p><h2><strong>A 'memorable' difference of opinion</strong></h2><p>Several Republican senators later confirmed the confrontation. Senator Tommy Tuberville described it as "a difference of opinion on Iran," while Senator Jon Husted called the exchange "memorable." Senator John Cornyn jokingly remarked, "Quite the unity message," as he left the meeting.</p><p>The clash came a day after the Senate passed a largely symbolic resolution directing Trump to end the Iran war. Cassidy was one of four Republicans who joined Democrats in backing the measure.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-big-oil-companies-of-gouging-american-customers-says-gasoline-prices-better-start-going-down-a-lot-faster-usa-ogas-price-today-1782274625910"><strong>Trump accuses big oil companies of 'gouging' American customers, says 'gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Trump slams Senate vote on ending Iran war</strong></h2><p>Despite the criticism, Trump later dismissed the Senate vote while speaking to reporters at the White House.</p><p>"Iran sees that, they go, 'What's that all about?' Now you know, it's meaningless, right?" Trump said.</p><p>The political tensions unfolded as the administration formally requested nearly $70 billion in additional funding for the conflict, on top of the existing US military budget.</p><p>Meanwhile, negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue following the framework agreement reached earlier this week. The initial deal reopened shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, easing fears over global energy supplies and contributing to a decline in oil prices.</p><p>However, major questions remain unresolved. Critics have pointed to uncertainty over sanctions relief, Iran's nuclear programme, future inspections, financial incentives for Tehran, and the long-term security arrangements in Lebanon.</p><p><strong>Disclaimer: </strong><i>WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.</i></p>

A closed-door meeting between Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers turned into a shouting match after Senator Bill Cassidy demanded answers about the administration's Iran strategy and peace framework. Here's what happened.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Jun 24) reportedly got into a heated shouting match with Republican Senator Bill Cassidy during a closed-door meeting with GOP lawmakers. The incident has once again exposed growing divisions within Trump's party over the administration's handling of the Iran conflict and the recently announced framework peace agreement. The confrontation came just hours before the White House asked Congress to approve tens of billions of dollars to fund the war, even as the administration insists diplomacy is now moving forward. What happened with Bill Cassidy? According to multiple US media reports, the exchange began when Trump questioned why several Republicans had supported a Senate resolution seeking to curb his war powers in Iran. "The President was wondering why people would vote for the War Powers Act," Cassidy later told reporters. The Louisiana senator said he used the opportunity to press Trump on the Iran agreement, arguing that lawmakers and the American public still lacked basic details about what had been negotiated. Also read | Meloni signals truce after extraordinary public spat with Trump: 'I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute' "I stood and said, 'You have not told the American people what's going on. It was supposed to last four weeks; it's lasted four months. Our original objectives have not been achieved, and I want to know what's going on,'" Cassidy said. According to CNN, Trump interrupted Cassidy repeatedly, ordered him to sit down and at one point called him a "lunatic." Cassidy reportedly refused to back down, raising his own voice during the exchange. "I didn't care to be interrupted," Cassidy said. "I felt like I was trying to get answers for the American people, and I'm not going to be bullied when I'm trying to get answers." He added that fellow senators eventually urged him to sit down to calm the situation. "I make no apologies for standing up to the president... I am sticking up for the American people, even if I'm speaking to the president," Cassidy said. A 'memorable' difference of opinion Several Republican senators later confirmed the confrontation. Senator Tommy Tuberville described it as "a difference of opinion on Iran," while Senator Jon Husted called the exchange "memorable." Senator John Cornyn jokingly remarked, "Quite the unity message," as he left the meeting. The clash came a day after the Senate passed a largely symbolic resolution directing Trump to end the Iran war. Cassidy was one of four Republicans who joined Democrats in backing the measure. Also read | Trump accuses big oil companies of 'gouging' American customers, says 'gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster' Trump slams Senate vote on ending Iran war Despite the criticism, Trump later dismissed the Senate vote while speaking to reporters at the White House. "Iran sees that, they go, 'What's that all about?' Now you know, it's meaningless, right?" Trump said. The political tensions unfolded as the administration formally requested nearly $70 billion in additional funding for the conflict, on top of the existing US military budget. Meanwhile, negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue following the framework agreement reached earlier this week. The initial deal reopened shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, easing fears over global energy supplies and contributing to a decline in oil prices. However, major questions remain unresolved. Critics have pointed to uncertainty over sanctions relief, Iran's nuclear programme, future inspections, financial incentives for Tehran, and the long-term security arrangements in Lebanon. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

<p>A closed-door meeting between Donald Trump and Republican lawmakers turned into a shouting match after Senator Bill Cassidy demanded answers about the administration's Iran strategy and peace framework. Here's what happened.</p>

'I'm not going to be bullied': Trump gets into shouting match with Republican senator over Iran war as questions grow over peace deal

Germany’s F126 frigate, a massive 10,000-ton tactical surface combatant explicitly engineered to serve as NATO’s primary shield, neutralising modern undersea threats and anchoring global maritime defence lines.

NATO’s shield? How F126 frigate secures North Atlantic against quiet submarines

<p>Archaeologists have found a hidden Mayan city in Mexico that has remained hidden for more than 1,000 years. The site dotted with monuments, pyramids, and palaces has been named Minanbé. It was discovered deep inside the dense jungles of Campeche, in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. This marks the end of a project in which researchers mapped the central Maya lowlands. A team of Mexican and Slovenian researchers, led by archaeologist Ivan Šprajc, found the untouched wonder after approval from Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Mayan lowlands were home to nearly 11 million people during the Late Classic period (600 to 900 AD). A site west of Chactún, a major Maya centre that was revealed 13 years ago, was the site of the survey. Equipped with laser scan data from the air, known as LiDAR, the researchers set out for the northern section of the reserve. It was an arduous journey, and different methods had to be employed to make it possible. A five-kilometre path was cleared by the community of Constitución using machetes. They travelled on all-terrain vehicles before walking almost the same distance on foot as well.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The site was untouched, no signs of loot</strong></h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Šprajc admitted that accessing this region was harder than any other site. What surprised the researchers was that the site had not been looted, which stood in stark difference from the other discoveries made in the past three years. Ground survey was led by archaeologists Atasta Flores Esquivel, Israel Chato López, Quintín Hernández Gómez, and Vitan Vujanović. They found an urban centre spread over 15 hectares. There were plazas, terraces, palace buildings, religious structures, and wetlands with water channels.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/study-in-israel-shows-humans-stood-tall-in-front-of-climate-change-6-500-years-ago-1781959820322"><strong>Study in Israel shows humans stood tall in front of climate change 6,500 years ago</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A pyramid temple was the tallest structure, which stood nearly 42 feet high, and was found in extremely good condition, a first, says Vujanović. There is also a stone monument that has legible glyphs. But they did find broken altars, with one bearing hieroglyphic text that likely dates to the late 7th century. A carved stone known as Stela 1 shows a beheading scene. Fourteen other monuments carved with symbols and hieroglyphic text were also discovered.</p>

A Mayan city hidden in a jungle for 1,000 years, with temples still intact and readable texts, has been discovered in Mexico. Scientists took a tough journey to reach this point and were surprised to see that the monuments remained untouched all these years. 

Archaeologists have found a hidden Mayan city in Mexico that has remained hidden for more than 1,000 years. The site dotted with monuments, pyramids, and palaces has been named Minanbé. It was discovered deep inside the dense jungles of Campeche, in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. This marks the end of a project in which researchers mapped the central Maya lowlands. A team of Mexican and Slovenian researchers, led by archaeologist Ivan Šprajc, found the untouched wonder after approval from Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). The Mayan lowlands were home to nearly 11 million people during the Late Classic period (600 to 900 AD). A site west of Chactún, a major Maya centre that was revealed 13 years ago, was the site of the survey. Equipped with laser scan data from the air, known as LiDAR, the researchers set out for the northern section of the reserve. It was an arduous journey, and different methods had to be employed to make it possible. A five-kilometre path was cleared by the community of Constitución using machetes. They travelled on all-terrain vehicles before walking almost the same distance on foot as well.

<p>A Mayan city hidden in a jungle for 1,000 years, with temples still intact and readable texts, has been discovered in Mexico. Scientists took a tough journey to reach this point and were surprised to see that the monuments remained untouched all these years.&nbsp;</p>

Pristine Mayan city discovered inside Mexican jungle was hidden for 1,000 years

<p>China's secretive Shenlong space plane has once again sparked intrigue among space watchers after reportedly releasing an unidentified object while orbiting Earth. According to commercial space tracking firm LeoLabs, the object was detected on June 22 near Shenlong, which has been in orbit since launching on its fourth mission in February this year.</p><h2><strong>What did China release in space?</strong></h2><p>"At 02:30 UTC on 22 June 2026, LeoLabs detected an unknown object in the vicinity of the Chinese Shenlong reusable space plane," LeoLabs said in a post on X. After tracking the object across its global radar network, LeoLabs said it had “assessed with high confidence that it was released from the Chinese spaceplane."</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">At 02:30 UTC on 22 June 2026, LeoLabs detected an unknown object in the vicinity of the Chinese Shenlong reusable spaceplane. <br><br>This object did not correlate to any other object in our catalog. It was first observed by our Tracker radar in New Zealand. <a href="https://t.co/AEf4gbyJPr">pic.twitter.com/AEf4gbyJPr</a></p>&mdash; LeoLabs (@LeoLabs_Space) <a href="https://x.com/LeoLabs_Space/status/2069091413795414445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/did-cia-destroy-an-alien-message-newly-released-ufo-files-reveal-bizarre-1958-mystery-1781337303228"><strong>'Message from space': Did CIA destroy an alien message? Newly released UFO files reveal bizarre 1958 mystery</strong></a></p><p>The newly detected object has since been catalogued by the US Space Force, according to astrophysicist and satellite tracker Jonathan McDowell.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">USSF has cataloged a new object (69673) released from the Chinese spaceplane CSSHQ4 (2026-024A) which has been in orbit since Feb 7. Previous missions of the spaceplane have also released such objects, which may be small subsatellites such as cubesats</p>&mdash; Jonathan McDowell (@planet4589) <a href="https://x.com/planet4589/status/2069412042126098666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>What is Shenlong?</strong></h2><p>Shenlong, which translates to "Divine Dragon", is China's reusable space plane programme. Much like the US military's X-37B space plane, Shenlong launches atop a rocket but is designed to return and land on a runway like a conventional aircraft.</p><p>China has released very little information about the vehicle, and most details about it have emerged through satellite tracking and telescope observations conducted by independent researchers.</p><p>The space plane was launched on February 6 aboard a Long March 2F rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in the Gobi Desert. Beijing did not disclose the mission's objectives.</p><h2><strong>Not China's first mysterious deployment</strong></h2><p>According to Space, this is not the first time Shenlong has attracted attention for unusual activity in orbit.</p><p>In 2024, observers reported that the spacecraft may have deployed a small subsatellite or ejected an unnecessary piece of hardware before returning to Earth. Earlier missions also generated speculation after multiple objects appeared near the spacecraft, though some were later identified as launch-related debris.</p><p>Astronomers have additionally reported signs that Shenlong may deploy solar arrays while in orbit, suggesting it can remain operational for extended periods.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-world-s-largest-whale-graveyard-hidden-7km-beneath-the-indian-ocean-1781170611094"><strong>Scientists discover world's largest 'whale graveyard' hidden 7km beneath the Indian Ocean</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Why are experts watching closely?</strong></h2><p>According to SpaceNews, one possibility is that China is testing rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO), a capability that allows spacecraft to manoeuvre close to other satellites.</p><p>Wile such technology has legitimate civilian uses, including satellite inspection, servicing and refuelling, it also has military applications including tamper with adversary satellites in orbit.</p><p>China is not alone in developing such technologies. Russia has conducted similar manoeuvres with so-called inspector satellites, while the United States is also believed to be pursuing advanced orbital servicing and proximity-operation capabilities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

China's secretive Shenlong space plane has reportedly released an unidentified object while orbiting Earth, reigniting speculation about the true purpose of the reusable spacecraft. What mystery object did China release in space?

China's secretive Shenlong space plane has once again sparked intrigue among space watchers after reportedly releasing an unidentified object while orbiting Earth. According to commercial space tracking firm LeoLabs, the object was detected on June 22 near Shenlong, which has been in orbit since launching on its fourth mission in February this year. What did China release in space? "At 02:30 UTC on 22 June 2026, LeoLabs detected an unknown object in the vicinity of the Chinese Shenlong reusable space plane," LeoLabs said in a post on X. After tracking the object across its global radar network, LeoLabs said it had “assessed with high confidence that it was released from the Chinese spaceplane."

<p>China's secretive Shenlong space plane has reportedly released an unidentified object while orbiting Earth, reigniting speculation about the true purpose of the reusable spacecraft. What mystery object did China release in space?</p>

China's secretive Shenlong space plane releases mystery object in orbit. What is Beijing up to?

<p>In 1989, Earth crossed paths with an asteroid that missed us by only a few hours. It is one of the closest and most terrifying "near misses" in modern astronomical history. NASA has an Asteroid Watch program managed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), to monitor potential space rocks that could threaten Earth. Multiple asteroids cross near our planet daily; however, none pose a danger. The asteroid watch program officially began in 1998, and so nine years earlier, when a space rock came into Earth's orbit, scientists only got to learn about it after nine days had passed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Asteroid 4581 Asclepius was estimated to be about 1,000 feet in diameter. “An impact would have released a devastating amount of energy equivalent to about a gigaton of TNT, which is 67,000 times the energy output of the Hiroshima atomic bomb,” Harvard professor Avi Loeb told WION. A massive shock wave would have levelled cities, experts said.</p><h2><strong>So what exactly happened in 1989?&nbsp;</strong></h2><p><br>The asteroid flew past Earth on March 22, 1989, at a comfortable distance of 684,000 km, nearly twice the distance between our planet and the Moon. But this was not a hazardous event, even though in cosmic terms, this is still quite near. The orbits of Earth and asteroid 4581 Asclepius led them to travel through a common point in space, but at different times. The asteroid was at the same point in our orbit where Earth was just six hours ago.&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/apocalypse-an-inevitable-reality-for-humans-today-whether-caused-by-human-stupidity-or-divinity-1773227301958"><strong>Apocalypse an inevitable reality for humans today, whether caused by human stupidity or divinity</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Basically, the asteroid crossed a point in Earth's orbit, and our planet was in that spot just six hours earlier. Just a little bad timing would have been enough to send the asteroid flinging into our planet. The surprising thing is that nobody knew that the asteroid was there. Astronomers Henry Holt and Norman Thomas only discovered the close call at the Palomar Observatory on March 31, 1989. Humanity dodged a bullet, literally.</p><h2><strong>Effect of asteroid impact on Earth</strong></h2><p><br>Asteroid 4581 Asclepius was 1,000 feet in diameter, about the size of three football fields. It was travelling at a speed of 74,000 km/hr, which means an impact would have been catastrophic. It would have released energy equivalent to roughly 600 megatons of TNT. For comparison, the Tsar Bomba, or the RDS-220, the most powerful nuclear weapon ever made by man, yielded energy equivalent to 50 megatons of TNT. The asteroid would have gouged a crater nearly 10 kilometres wide, vapourised the immediate impact zone and generated a massive shock wave. If it had slammed into the ocean, tsunami waves hundreds of feet high would have been generated, wiping out coastlines.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/move-over-rapture-another-prophecy-claims-comet-will-end-the-world-in-2026-1758790270916"><strong>Rapture did not happen, but another world-ending event has been prophesied for 2026</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How does Asclepius compare to the dinosaur-killing asteroid?</strong></h2><p><br>The asteroid that struck the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, creating the massive Chicxulub crater, was roughly 10 kilometres in diameter, or nearly 50,000 feet. In comparison, Asclepius was only 1,000 feet, and so was a city-killer asteroid, while the Chicxulub Impactor was a "Planet-Rebooter."</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-bound-mission-caught-mars-in-a-completely-new-light-1779458912239"><strong>Asteroid-bound mission caught Mars in a completely new light</strong></a></p><h2><strong>How Asclepius changed asteroid watch</strong></h2><p><br>Asclepius miss served as a wake-up call, as before the Asteroid Watch program, only a handful of people observed near-Earth objects as an academic interest. Asclepius's movement past Earth led to a push for automated, computerised sky surveys and dedicated planetary defence initiatives. Today, we not only have a mission dedicated to looking out for the asteroids, but we also have plans to deflect potentially dangerous space rocks. The DART mission was one such test that slammed into the moonlet of an asteroid.</p>

Earth crossed paths with an asteroid and missed an impact by a tiny margin of six hours. No one knew it was about to happen, and scientists detected it only nine days later. This scare led to the push for programs to watch for hazardous asteroids.

In 1989, Earth crossed paths with an asteroid that missed us by only a few hours. It is one of the closest and most terrifying "near misses" in modern astronomical history. NASA has an Asteroid Watch program managed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Center for Near Earth Object Studies (CNEOS), to monitor potential space rocks that could threaten Earth. Multiple asteroids cross near our planet daily; however, none pose a danger. The asteroid watch program officially began in 1998, and so nine years earlier, when a space rock came into Earth's orbit, scientists only got to learn about it after nine days had passed. Asteroid 4581 Asclepius was estimated to be about 1,000 feet in diameter. “An impact would have released a devastating amount of energy equivalent to about a gigaton of TNT, which is 67,000 times the energy output of the Hiroshima atomic bomb,” Harvard professor Avi Loeb told WION. A massive shock wave would have levelled cities, experts said. So what exactly happened in 1989? The asteroid flew past Earth on March 22, 1989, at a comfortable distance of 684,000 km, nearly twice the distance between our planet and the Moon. But this was not a hazardous event, even though in cosmic terms, this is still quite near. The orbits of Earth and asteroid 4581 Asclepius led them to travel through a common point in space, but at different times. The asteroid was at the same point in our orbit where Earth was just six hours ago. Also Read: Apocalypse an inevitable reality for humans today, whether caused by human stupidity or divinity Basically, the asteroid crossed a point in Earth's orbit, and our planet was in that spot just six hours earlier. Just a little bad timing would have been enough to send the asteroid flinging into our planet. The surprising thing is that nobody knew that the asteroid was there. Astronomers Henry Holt and Norman Thomas only discovered the close call at the Palomar Observatory on March 31, 1989. Humanity dodged a bullet, literally. Effect of asteroid impact on Earth Asteroid 4581 Asclepius was 1,000 feet in diameter, about the size of three football fields. It was travelling at a speed of 74,000 km/hr, which means an impact would have been catastrophic. It would have released energy equivalent to roughly 600 megatons of TNT. For comparison, the Tsar Bomba, or the RDS-220, the most powerful nuclear weapon ever made by man, yielded energy equivalent to 50 megatons of TNT. The asteroid would have gouged a crater nearly 10 kilometres wide, vapourised the immediate impact zone and generated a massive shock wave. If it had slammed into the ocean, tsunami waves hundreds of feet high would have been generated, wiping out coastlines. Also Read: Rapture did not happen, but another world-ending event has been prophesied for 2026 How does Asclepius compare to the dinosaur-killing asteroid? The asteroid that struck the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, creating the massive Chicxulub crater, was roughly 10 kilometres in diameter, or nearly 50,000 feet. In comparison, Asclepius was only 1,000 feet, and so was a city-killer asteroid, while the Chicxulub Impactor was a "Planet-Rebooter." Also Read: Asteroid-bound mission caught Mars in a completely new light How Asclepius changed asteroid watch Asclepius miss served as a wake-up call, as before the Asteroid Watch program, only a handful of people observed near-Earth objects as an academic interest. Asclepius's movement past Earth led to a push for automated, computerised sky surveys and dedicated planetary defence initiatives. Today, we not only have a mission dedicated to looking out for the asteroids, but we also have plans to deflect potentially dangerous space rocks. The DART mission was one such test that slammed into the moonlet of an asteroid.

<p>Earth crossed paths with an asteroid and missed an impact by a tiny margin of six hours. No one knew it was about to happen, and scientists detected it only nine days later. This scare led to the push for programs to watch for hazardous asteroids.</p>

Earth dodged an asteroid by just 6 hours, crossing paths with a potential city-killer

<p>A report claims that US President Donald Trump has gained premature access to a weight loss drug by Eli Lilly. Retatrutide is a powerful new drug from the pharmaceutical company and is not available to the general public yet. However, STAT reported on Tuesday that a 79-year-old man has received access to the obesity drug through the Food and Drug Administration’s “compassionate use” program. People with serious or life-threatening medical issues are allowed access to experimental drugs as part of the program. While the report did not name the person, the report suggests it is likely someone with exceptional contacts.</p><h2><strong>Was the obesity drug for Trump? White House said this</strong></h2><p>Ranganath Muniyappa, a senior clinician at the National Institutes of Health, requested the drug for the patient in April. It was acquired for a diagnosis of refractory obesity with obstructive sleep apnea and pulmonary hypertension. It is characterised by high blood pressure in the lungs and is life-threatening. Top health officials reportedly attended to the request. STAT reached out to the WHite House to ask whether President Trump was the person the drug was requested for. It stated that White House spokesperson Kush Desai did not deny and referred STAT to the Department of Health and Human Services.&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-medical-checkup-22-doctors-white-house-record-1781265288182"><strong>Donald Trump's medical checkup involved 22 doctors, setting a White House record</strong></a></p><h2><strong>White House referred to the health memo, but the disease is not mentioned there</strong></h2><p>Desai told STAT to take a look at Trump's latest health evaluation report when asked if he had sleep apnea and pulmonary hypertension, claiming it mentioned that in there. However, the medical report does not say anything about the condition. When the outlet reached out to the HHS for the request for retatrutide and the identity of the patient, HHS spokesperson Emily Hilliard simply talked about the program. “Each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis based on the clinical circumstances and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-opens-succession-debate-as-health-report-leaves-questions-unanswered-1780343842468/embed</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Desai then stated on X while responding to STAT that the application was “not for the president.” The outlet said it contacted several federal agencies on Monday, but no one provided a direct and clear answer. The outlet reported quoting sources that the mystery patient previously took tirzepatide but experienced only moderate weight loss. Notably, Trump weighs nearly 108 kilograms and is termed overweight based on his height of 6 feet and 3 inches.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speculations about Trump's health have been doing the rounds ever since a red patch was seen on the skin of his hand. He has declared himself fully fit, but his occasional slurred speech and the habit of drifting away from topics have led to claims that he is not fully fit.&nbsp;</p>

A report says that an “influential” 79-year-old requested Eli Lilly's new obesity drug Retatrutide, which is not available to the public yet. The request drew the attention of top health officials, raising suspicion that Donald Trump could be the recipient.

A report claims that US President Donald Trump has gained premature access to a weight loss drug by Eli Lilly. Retatrutide is a powerful new drug from the pharmaceutical company and is not available to the general public yet. However, STAT reported on Tuesday that a 79-year-old man has received access to the obesity drug through the Food and Drug Administration’s “compassionate use” program. People with serious or life-threatening medical issues are allowed access to experimental drugs as part of the program. While the report did not name the person, the report suggests it is likely someone with exceptional contacts. Was the obesity drug for Trump? White House said this Ranganath Muniyappa, a senior clinician at the National Institutes of Health, requested the drug for the patient in April. It was acquired for a diagnosis of refractory obesity with obstructive sleep apnea and pulmonary hypertension. It is characterised by high blood pressure in the lungs and is life-threatening. Top health officials reportedly attended to the request. STAT reached out to the WHite House to ask whether President Trump was the person the drug was requested for. It stated that White House spokesperson Kush Desai did not deny and referred STAT to the Department of Health and Human Services. Also Read: Donald Trump's medical checkup involved 22 doctors, setting a White House record White House referred to the health memo, but the disease is not mentioned there Desai told STAT to take a look at Trump's latest health evaluation report when asked if he had sleep apnea and pulmonary hypertension, claiming it mentioned that in there. However, the medical report does not say anything about the condition. When the outlet reached out to the HHS for the request for retatrutide and the identity of the patient, HHS spokesperson Emily Hilliard simply talked about the program. “Each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis based on the clinical circumstances and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-opens-succession-debate-as-health-report-leaves-questions-unanswered-1780343842468/embed Desai then stated on X while responding to STAT that the application was “not for the president.” The outlet said it contacted several federal agencies on Monday, but no one provided a direct and clear answer. The outlet reported quoting sources that the mystery patient previously took tirzepatide but experienced only moderate weight loss. Notably, Trump weighs nearly 108 kilograms and is termed overweight based on his height of 6 feet and 3 inches. Speculations about Trump's health have been doing the rounds ever since a red patch was seen on the skin of his hand. He has declared himself fully fit, but his occasional slurred speech and the habit of drifting away from topics have led to claims that he is not fully fit.

<p>A report says that an “influential” 79-year-old requested Eli Lilly's new obesity drug Retatrutide, which is not available to the public yet. The request drew the attention of top health officials, raising suspicion that Donald Trump could be the recipient.</p>

A 79-year-old requested Eli Lilly's new obesity drug, and some think it is Donald Trump

<p>US President Donald Trump, in a social media post on Wednesday (Jun 24), announced that he has asked big oil companies to drop oil prices. Accusing major oil companies of overcharging consumers by failing to lower gasoline prices in line with the recent decline in crude oil prices, the POTUS said he had directed the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate the matter.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-supreme-court-makes-it-easier-to-deport-green-card-holders-what-does-it-mean-for-indians-wion-horizons-1782271724642"><strong>US Supreme Court makes it easier to deport Green Card holders: What does it mean for Indians? | WION Horizons</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Can Americans expect cheaper gasoline?</strong></h2><p>In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed that oil prices had fallen sharply, but consumers were not seeing comparable relief at fuel stations. This, he said, meant that American customers were being "gouged" by "big Oil Companies".</p><p>"The big Oil Companies are not dropping their price at the pump commensurate with the sharply lower prices they are paying for Oil. Those prices are dropping like a rock!" Trump wrote.</p><p>"In other words, customers are being 'gouged.' I have instructed the DOJ to immediately start looking into this. Gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster than what I'm seeing!" he added, signing off with his signature ‘President DJT’.</p><p>The oil industry has yet to publicly respond to Trump's allegations.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-asks-americans-if-ice-should-become-nice-in-unusual-rebranding-poll-says-media-would-go-totally-crazy-1782014525608"><strong>Trump asks Americans if ICE should become 'NICE' in unusual rebranding poll, says media would 'go totally crazy'</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Oil prices fall to lowest levels since start of Iran war</strong></h2><p>Trump's remarks come as oil prices extended losses to sit around their lowest levels since the early days of the Middle East crisis. According to an AFP report, at 0230 GMT, Brent crude price fell by 0.7 per cent to $76.56 a barrel.</p><p>Oil prices continue to fall as optimism persists about an eventual deal to end the war in West Asia.</p><p>On Monday, traffic through the Strait of Hormuz reached its highest level since the war began on February 28.</p><p>Global oil markets have experienced increased volatility in recent months amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia, supply disruptions, and concerns over global economic growth.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

With oil prices falling to their lowest levels since the start of the Iran conflict, Donald Trump has accused major oil companies of overcharging consumers and ordered the DoJ to investigate whether Americans are being denied the benefits of cheaper crude. Can US citizens expect cheaper fuel?

US President Donald Trump, in a social media post on Wednesday (Jun 24), announced that he has asked big oil companies to drop oil prices. Accusing major oil companies of overcharging consumers by failing to lower gasoline prices in line with the recent decline in crude oil prices, the POTUS said he had directed the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate the matter. Also read | US Supreme Court makes it easier to deport Green Card holders: What does it mean for Indians? | WION Horizons Can Americans expect cheaper gasoline? In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed that oil prices had fallen sharply, but consumers were not seeing comparable relief at fuel stations. This, he said, meant that American customers were being "gouged" by "big Oil Companies". "The big Oil Companies are not dropping their price at the pump commensurate with the sharply lower prices they are paying for Oil. Those prices are dropping like a rock!" Trump wrote. "In other words, customers are being 'gouged.' I have instructed the DOJ to immediately start looking into this. Gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster than what I'm seeing!" he added, signing off with his signature ‘President DJT’. The oil industry has yet to publicly respond to Trump's allegations. Also read | Trump asks Americans if ICE should become 'NICE' in unusual rebranding poll, says media would 'go totally crazy' Oil prices fall to lowest levels since start of Iran war Trump's remarks come as oil prices extended losses to sit around their lowest levels since the early days of the Middle East crisis. According to an AFP report, at 0230 GMT, Brent crude price fell by 0.7 per cent to $76.56 a barrel. Oil prices continue to fall as optimism persists about an eventual deal to end the war in West Asia. On Monday, traffic through the Strait of Hormuz reached its highest level since the war began on February 28. Global oil markets have experienced increased volatility in recent months amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia, supply disruptions, and concerns over global economic growth.

<p>With oil prices falling to their lowest levels since the start of the Iran conflict, Donald Trump has accused major oil companies of overcharging consumers and ordered the DoJ to investigate whether Americans are being denied the benefits of cheaper crude. Can US citizens expect cheaper fuel?</p>

Trump accuses big oil companies of 'gouging' American customers, says 'gasoline prices better start going down a lot faster'

<p>Bill Gates admitted to having multiple affairs at a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee earlier this month. The transcript was released on Tuesday, in which the Microsoft co-founder also said that he may have been around Jeffrey Epstein's victims. The 70-year-old said that his relationship with the late sex offender lasted three years and was strictly professional. For the first time, the names of the women Gates had affairs with were also released. He admitted to a relationship with Alice Jacobs Nesselrodt, a medical entrepreneur with a doctorate from Harvard Medical School, and Karima Nigmatulina, a Russian nuclear scientist. In total, he said he had three extramarital affairs.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He said that he told Melinda about the affairs with Nigmatulina and Mila Antonova, a Russian bridge player, before 2013. He also confessed to the one with Jacobs, although he said he couldn't remember when. He said the affair with Jacobs happened before 2010. Gates said that the news was "very distressing" for Melinda, but they "did not talk about getting divorced." Talking about his meeting with the Russian nuclear scientist, Gates said that they met through her work on "disease modelling and nuclear fission work", during which time she was working for a company called TerraPower, in which Gates was an investor. He said he had sex with Nigmatulina in London, and it is referenced in the Epstein Files.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bill-gates-deeply-sorry-for-epstein-ties-here-s-what-he-revealed-to-lawmakers-during-closed-door-hearing-1781137395532"><strong>Bill Gates faces Congress: What he may reveal about Jeffrey Epstein under oath</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Gates was unaware that Jacobs knew Epstein&nbsp;</strong></h2><p>The committee members told Gates that Dr Jacobs came in touch with Epstein in October 2009. She then introduced Epstein to Dr Boris Nikolic, one of his most trusted employees, who then became a close friend of Gates and was the key link between Epstein and Gates. He was asked about an email where Jacobs called Nikolic her "best friend". Gates said he wasn't aware that she knew Epstein. He said that he never talked about any of the three women with Epstein, and the sex offender likely learned about them through Nikolic.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/after-ties-with-epstein-it-is-revealed-bill-gates-was-accused-of-over-20-affairs-in-divorce-filings-report-1780324554696"><strong>After ties with Epstein, it is revealed Bill Gates was accused of over 20 affairs in divorce filings: Report</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Gates was introduced to Epstein by his confidante Nikolic</strong></h2><p>At the hearing, Gates was also asked if her had ever had a sexually transmitted disease. "I never had an STD," he said. Epstein Files released in January this year showed that Gates tried to secretly give his wife, Melinda, antibiotics for an STD. Gates was introduced to Epstein in 2011 by Nikolic and said that he was likely the one who told him about two of his extramarital affairs. “I think that Epstein, when he was writing emails to himself, took every potential negative thing he knew, and some that are completely false, and he put those into draft emails to himself,” Gates said. The hearing was primarily to know whether Gates had any other ties to the convicted sex offender.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The transcript of the closed-door interview of Bill Gates with the House Oversight Committee was released on Tuesday. It names the women he had an affair with for the first time, which includes a Russian nuclear scientist. 

Bill Gates admitted to having multiple affairs at a closed-door interview with the House Oversight Committee earlier this month. The transcript was released on Tuesday, in which the Microsoft co-founder also said that he may have been around Jeffrey Epstein's victims. The 70-year-old said that his relationship with the late sex offender lasted three years and was strictly professional. For the first time, the names of the women Gates had affairs with were also released. He admitted to a relationship with Alice Jacobs Nesselrodt, a medical entrepreneur with a doctorate from Harvard Medical School, and Karima Nigmatulina, a Russian nuclear scientist. In total, he said he had three extramarital affairs. He said that he told Melinda about the affairs with Nigmatulina and Mila Antonova, a Russian bridge player, before 2013. He also confessed to the one with Jacobs, although he said he couldn't remember when. He said the affair with Jacobs happened before 2010. Gates said that the news was "very distressing" for Melinda, but they "did not talk about getting divorced." Talking about his meeting with the Russian nuclear scientist, Gates said that they met through her work on "disease modelling and nuclear fission work", during which time she was working for a company called TerraPower, in which Gates was an investor. He said he had sex with Nigmatulina in London, and it is referenced in the Epstein Files. Also Read: Bill Gates faces Congress: What he may reveal about Jeffrey Epstein under oath Gates was unaware that Jacobs knew Epstein The committee members told Gates that Dr Jacobs came in touch with Epstein in October 2009. She then introduced Epstein to Dr Boris Nikolic, one of his most trusted employees, who then became a close friend of Gates and was the key link between Epstein and Gates. He was asked about an email where Jacobs called Nikolic her "best friend". Gates said he wasn't aware that she knew Epstein. He said that he never talked about any of the three women with Epstein, and the sex offender likely learned about them through Nikolic. Also Read: After ties with Epstein, it is revealed Bill Gates was accused of over 20 affairs in divorce filings: Report Gates was introduced to Epstein by his confidante Nikolic At the hearing, Gates was also asked if her had ever had a sexually transmitted disease. "I never had an STD," he said. Epstein Files released in January this year showed that Gates tried to secretly give his wife, Melinda, antibiotics for an STD. Gates was introduced to Epstein in 2011 by Nikolic and said that he was likely the one who told him about two of his extramarital affairs. “I think that Epstein, when he was writing emails to himself, took every potential negative thing he knew, and some that are completely false, and he put those into draft emails to himself,” Gates said. The hearing was primarily to know whether Gates had any other ties to the convicted sex offender.

<p>The transcript of the closed-door interview of Bill Gates with the House Oversight Committee was released on Tuesday. It names the women he had an affair with for the first time, which includes a Russian nuclear scientist.&nbsp;</p>

Bill Gates admits to affair with Russian nuclear scientist, two other women; transcript names all of them

<p>The US Supreme Court on Tuesday (Jun 23) handed the federal government broader powers to deny entry and deport green card holders accused of certain crimes. The court ruled that immigration officials do not have to meet a higher standard of proof when deciding whether a returning lawful permanent resident should be treated as someone seeking admission to the country. The ruling could have major implications for lawful permanent residents, including thousands of Indians living in the United States. It could affect about 6.7 million Indians who were in the US as of January 2026.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/green-card-applicants-should-go-home-new-us-citizenship-rule-may-hit-indians-hardest-check-how-you-could-be-affected-1779514161561"><strong>Green card applicants should go home? New US citizenship rule may hit Indians hardest; check how you could be affected</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What did the Supreme Court rule?</strong></h2><p>In a 6-3 decision in Blanche v. Lau, the court ruled that immigration authorities do not need to conclusively prove, using "clear and convincing evidence" that a returning Green Card holder committed a disqualifying crime before treating them as someone seeking admission into the country. Instead, border officials only need a "reason to believe" that the person may have committed a crime involving what US immigration law calls "moral turpitude".</p><p>"The Immigration and Nationality Act does not impose that requirement," Thomas wrote in the majority opinion issued following the ruling.</p><p>The ruling effectively lowers the burden on immigration authorities when deciding whether a returning permanent resident should be allowed back into the country.</p><p><i>So what exactly has changed? WION Decodes below.</i></p><h2><strong>What is a "crime involving moral turpitude"?</strong></h2><p>The phrase has long existed in US immigration law but remains broadly defined.</p><p>According to the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC), US immigration law uses the term "crime involving moral turpitude" (CIMT) to describe offences considered inherently dishonest, immoral, or harmful. However, notably, there is no single, universally accepted definition.</p><p>Traditionally, US immigration authorities and courts have treated crimes involving fraud, theft, forgery, serious assault, and offences involving an intent to cause significant bodily harm as CIMTs. Some crimes involving recklessness, malicious conduct, or sexual offences committed with lewd intent can also fall under the category.</p><p>According to immigration guidance, authorities generally look for factors such as:</p><ul><li>Intent to defraud another person</li><li>Intent to permanently deprive someone of property</li><li>Intent to cause serious bodily harm</li><li>Certain reckless or malicious actions</li><li>Sexual offences involving lewd intent</li><li><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-just-made-it-nearly-impossible-for-indians-to-work-in-the-us-here-s-how-us-hikes-h-1b-fee-to-100-000-or-90-lakh-1758336080621"><strong>Trump just made it nearly impossible for Indians to work in the US — Here's how</strong></a></li></ul><h2><strong>Blanche v. Lau: What was the case about?</strong></h2><p>The case involved Muk Choi Lau, a Chinese national and Green Card holder, who was stopped at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport in 2012 while returning from China. At the time, Lau was facing trademark counterfeiting charges in New Jersey. He was eventually allowed to be conditionally readmitted. Lau was later convicted, and immigration authorities sought to deport him.</p><p>However, Lau continues to argue that the offence did not qualify as a crime involving moral turpitude and challenged the government's actions. The Supreme Court ultimately sided with immigration authorities.</p><h2><strong>Why does this matter for Indians?</strong></h2><p>Indians make up one of the largest immigrant communities in the United States.</p><p>According to India's Ministry of External Affairs, around 6.7 million people of Indian origin and Indian citizens were living in the US as of January 2026. That includes roughly 3.77 million people of Indian origin and 2.31 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).</p><p>Data from the US Office of Homeland Security Statistics shows that 66,800 Indians received Green Cards in 2024, making India one of the largest sources of new lawful permanent residents.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rupee-slide-wars-and-more-indian-students-in-us-battle-currency-crisis-no-one-prepared-them-for-wion-horizons-1780044945428"><strong>Rupee slide, wars and more: Indian students in US battle currency crisis no one prepared them for | WION Horizons</strong></a></p><h2><strong>What are critics saying?</strong></h2><p>The court's three liberal justices dissented. In a dissent note, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson warned that the decision gives the government excessive power and weakens protections traditionally available to Green Card holders.</p><p>"I worry that the court has now handed the government a massive blank check," she wrote.</p><p>She further noted that "With today's decision, the Court allows the government to return an LPR to the status of 'seeking admission' upon his entry at the border, so long as the government is able to show later that he was eventually convicted. That sequencing undermines the plain terms and basic operation of the law."</p><p>Critics argue that lawful permanent residents, many of whom have lived and worked in the US for years, could now face greater uncertainty when travelling abroad if they have unresolved criminal allegations or past convictions.</p><h2><strong>Does this mean Indians and other immigrants can be automatically deported from the US?</strong></h2><p>No, the ruling does not mean Green Card holders can be deported automatically. However, it does make it easier for immigration authorities to deny entry and to strip lawful permanent resident (LPR) status from people as they arrive at U.S. ports of entry if and when criminal concerns arise.</p>

A new US Supreme Court ruling has made it easier for immigration authorities to deny entry to and deport Green Card holders accused of certain crimes. The move could affect millions of immigrants, including the large Indian diaspora in America. Here's all you need to know.

The US Supreme Court on Tuesday (Jun 23) handed the federal government broader powers to deny entry and deport green card holders accused of certain crimes. The court ruled that immigration officials do not have to meet a higher standard of proof when deciding whether a returning lawful permanent resident should be treated as someone seeking admission to the country. The ruling could have major implications for lawful permanent residents, including thousands of Indians living in the United States. It could affect about 6.7 million Indians who were in the US as of January 2026. Also read | Green card applicants should go home? New US citizenship rule may hit Indians hardest; check how you could be affected What did the Supreme Court rule? In a 6-3 decision in Blanche v. Lau, the court ruled that immigration authorities do not need to conclusively prove, using "clear and convincing evidence" that a returning Green Card holder committed a disqualifying crime before treating them as someone seeking admission into the country. Instead, border officials only need a "reason to believe" that the person may have committed a crime involving what US immigration law calls "moral turpitude". "The Immigration and Nationality Act does not impose that requirement," Thomas wrote in the majority opinion issued following the ruling. The ruling effectively lowers the burden on immigration authorities when deciding whether a returning permanent resident should be allowed back into the country. So what exactly has changed? WION Decodes below. What is a "crime involving moral turpitude"? The phrase has long existed in US immigration law but remains broadly defined. According to the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC), US immigration law uses the term "crime involving moral turpitude" (CIMT) to describe offences considered inherently dishonest, immoral, or harmful. However, notably, there is no single, universally accepted definition. Traditionally, US immigration authorities and courts have treated crimes involving fraud, theft, forgery, serious assault, and offences involving an intent to cause significant bodily harm as CIMTs. Some crimes involving recklessness, malicious conduct, or sexual offences committed with lewd intent can also fall under the category. According to immigration guidance, authorities generally look for factors such as: Intent to defraud another person Intent to permanently deprive someone of property Intent to cause serious bodily harm Certain reckless or malicious actions Sexual offences involving lewd intent Also read | Trump just made it nearly impossible for Indians to work in the US — Here's how Blanche v. Lau: What was the case about? The case involved Muk Choi Lau, a Chinese national and Green Card holder, who was stopped at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport in 2012 while returning from China. At the time, Lau was facing trademark counterfeiting charges in New Jersey. He was eventually allowed to be conditionally readmitted. Lau was later convicted, and immigration authorities sought to deport him. However, Lau continues to argue that the offence did not qualify as a crime involving moral turpitude and challenged the government's actions. The Supreme Court ultimately sided with immigration authorities. Why does this matter for Indians? Indians make up one of the largest immigrant communities in the United States. According to India's Ministry of External Affairs, around 6.7 million people of Indian origin and Indian citizens were living in the US as of January 2026. That includes roughly 3.77 million people of Indian origin and 2.31 million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Data from the US Office of Homeland Security Statistics shows that 66,800 Indians received Green Cards in 2024, making India one of the largest sources of new lawful permanent residents. Also read | Rupee slide, wars and more: Indian students in US battle currency crisis no one prepared them for | WION Horizons What are critics saying? The court's three liberal justices dissented. In a dissent note, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson warned that the decision gives the government excessive power and weakens protections traditionally available to Green Card holders. "I worry that the court has now handed the government a massive blank check," she wrote. She further noted that "With today's decision, the Court allows the government to return an LPR to the status of 'seeking admission' upon his entry at the border, so long as the government is able to show later that he was eventually convicted. That sequencing undermines the plain terms and basic operation of the law." Critics argue that lawful permanent residents, many of whom have lived and worked in the US for years, could now face greater uncertainty when travelling abroad if they have unresolved criminal allegations or past convictions. Does this mean Indians and other immigrants can be automatically deported from the US? No, the ruling does not mean Green Card holders can be deported automatically. However, it does make it easier for immigration authorities to deny entry and to strip lawful permanent resident (LPR) status from people as they arrive at U.S. ports of entry if and when criminal concerns arise.

<p>A new US Supreme Court ruling has made it easier for immigration authorities to deny entry to and deport Green Card holders accused of certain crimes. The move could affect millions of immigrants, including the large Indian diaspora in America. Here's all you need to know.</p>

US Supreme Court makes it easier to deport Green Card holders: What does it mean for Indians? | WION Horizons

<p>Baba Vanga is said to have predicted an alien invasion during a major sporting event. Now, a self-proclaimed psychic is piggybacking on that said prophecy and has predicted an alien invasion during a June 24 Football World Cup match. She has warned that thousands of people could be abducted on live television. Vó Bahiana is a Brazilian spiritualist with over 23 million followers on social media. She claims that the Brazil vs Scotland match in Florida will be the scene of this said alien invasion. She even shared an AI-generated video of the abductions. She says she dreamt twice of this event this month. Bahiana has said that several extraterrestrial spacecraft will descend on the stadium and abduct the players as well as fans. She claims one giant "mothership" will be at the helm of this event.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I have to tell you that I dreamed again about aliens invading the soccer field in Miami. And I clearly saw the players being carried off by the first ship that arrived," Bahiana said with tears in her eyes in an Instagram post. She claims that she was inside a spaceship in the dream. Later, the mothership came and took in thousands of people from the field. "I saw so much screaming, so much crying, so many tears, suffering," the self-proclaimed psychic said.&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/canadian-woman-asks-why-was-nora-fatehi-an-indian-performing-at-world-cup-1782102909319"><strong>Canadian woman asks why was Nora Fatehi, an 'Indian', performing at World Cup? Receives perfect response</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>She says the supposed aliens will use devices resembling enormous mechanical arms to abduct people at the game. Then a second craft carrying so-called "Reptilians" will arrive. According to conspiracy theories, Reptilians are a group of extraterrestrials who live on Earth like humans. Her prophecy has triggered a flurry of reactions, with most people mocking her for it.</p><h2><strong>Vó Bahiana enjoys major following because of her past predictions</strong></h2><p>"I am very terrified because it is the second time I am dreaming about this," she said. Bahaiana enjoys a huge following in Brazil and claims to have predicted some major events. Her supporters say she predicted the devastating floods in Brazil's Rio Grande do Sul state, and the deaths of musicians Chrystian and João Carneiro. While her followers believe her, the FBI and Department of Homeland Security have said they have no evidence suggesting any such event would take place.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There is renewed interest in UFOs and aliens ever since Donald Trump ordered the release of all the files gathered over decades. Three batches have since been released, detailing unexplained events and sightings. However, the US government has always maintained that there is no proof of extraterrestrials on Earth.</p>

Aliens will invade the June 24 Football World Cup match in Florida and abduct players and fans, according to Vó Bahiana, a self-proclaimed psychic from Brazil. She claims to have witnessed the scene unfold in her dreams. This is in line with a famous Baba Vanga prediction.

Baba Vanga is said to have predicted an alien invasion during a major sporting event. Now, a self-proclaimed psychic is piggybacking on that said prophecy and has predicted an alien invasion during a June 24 Football World Cup match. She has warned that thousands of people could be abducted on live television. Vó Bahiana is a Brazilian spiritualist with over 23 million followers on social media. She claims that the Brazil vs Scotland match in Florida will be the scene of this said alien invasion. She even shared an AI-generated video of the abductions. She says she dreamt twice of this event this month. Bahiana has said that several extraterrestrial spacecraft will descend on the stadium and abduct the players as well as fans. She claims one giant "mothership" will be at the helm of this event. "I have to tell you that I dreamed again about aliens invading the soccer field in Miami. And I clearly saw the players being carried off by the first ship that arrived," Bahiana said with tears in her eyes in an Instagram post. She claims that she was inside a spaceship in the dream. Later, the mothership came and took in thousands of people from the field. "I saw so much screaming, so much crying, so many tears, suffering," the self-proclaimed psychic said. Also Read: Canadian woman asks why was Nora Fatehi, an 'Indian', performing at World Cup? Receives perfect response

<p>Aliens will invade the June 24 Football World Cup match in Florida and abduct players and fans, according to Vó Bahiana, a self-proclaimed psychic from Brazil. She claims to have witnessed the scene unfold in her dreams. This is in line with a famous Baba Vanga prediction.</p>

Baba Vanga's prophecy of 'alien invasion at sporting event' revived by self-styled psychic - 'I saw so much screaming'

<p>Relations between Italy and the United States appeared to ease on Tuesday (Jun 23) after days of public tensions between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and US President Donald Trump. Speaking at an event in Rome, Meloni signalled that she wanted to move beyond the dispute, saying she had no intention of prolonging the row. "I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute," the Italian leader said, days after accusing Trump of inventing claims about their interactions during the recent G7 summit in France.</p><p>The clash marked one of the most visible rifts between Trump and a European leader long regarded as one of his closest political allies on the continent.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meloni-hits-back-at-trump-my-popularity-doesn-t-depend-on-you-1781975262122"><strong>Meloni hits back at Trump: ‘My popularity doesn’t depend on you’</strong></a></p><h2><strong>The Trump-Meloni public spat: What happened?</strong></h2><p>The dispute began after Trump, while speaking to Italian broadcaster La7, claimed that Meloni had repeatedly sought a photograph with him during the G7 gathering. According to Trump, the Italian prime minister had "begged" for a picture, and he agreed only because he "felt sorry for her."</p><p>Meloni swiftly rejected the claim, describing it as entirely "made up".</p><p>However, rather than backing down, Trump escalated the disagreement. In a post on Truth Social, he claimed Meloni had asked "over and over" for photographs throughout the summit and suggested she was attempting to improve ties with Washington for domestic political reasons. "Now, after the United States defeated Iran militarily, she wants to be friends again to get her 'numbers up.' No thanks!!!" Trump wrote.</p><p>He suggested that Meloni was doing "poorly in Italy" and suggested that the issue was linked to Italy's position during the conflict involving Iran. Trump also slammed her for refusing to let the United States use Italian "landing strips or runways" during the conflict with Iran.</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/italy-headed-for-early-elections-after-feud-with-trump-report-claims-meloni-is-fearing-drop-in-her-popularity-1782232560372/amp"><strong>Italy headed for early elections? After feud with Trump, report claims Meloni is fearing drop in her popularity</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Meloni's popularity 'none of your concern'</strong></h2><p>The comments triggered a sharp reaction in Italy. Meloni accused the US president of launching "constant, unprovoked... senseless" attacks and insisted that her standing with Italian voters had nothing to do with her relationship with Trump.</p><p>"Being your friend certainly has not helped it, nor does it depend on my relationship with you," she wrote, adding In any case, my popularity is none of your concern. I suggest you focus on yours."</p>

From G7 photo claims to accusations over Iran and domestic politics, the Trump-Meloni dispute became one of the most unexpected diplomatic dramas of the year. After days of tensions, Meloni is now calling for an end to the row. All you need to know. 

Relations between Italy and the United States appeared to ease on Tuesday (Jun 23) after days of public tensions between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and US President Donald Trump. Speaking at an event in Rome, Meloni signalled that she wanted to move beyond the dispute, saying she had no intention of prolonging the row. "I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute," the Italian leader said, days after accusing Trump of inventing claims about their interactions during the recent G7 summit in France. The clash marked one of the most visible rifts between Trump and a European leader long regarded as one of his closest political allies on the continent. Also read | Meloni hits back at Trump: ‘My popularity doesn’t depend on you’ The Trump-Meloni public spat: What happened? The dispute began after Trump, while speaking to Italian broadcaster La7, claimed that Meloni had repeatedly sought a photograph with him during the G7 gathering. According to Trump, the Italian prime minister had "begged" for a picture, and he agreed only because he "felt sorry for her." Meloni swiftly rejected the claim, describing it as entirely "made up". However, rather than backing down, Trump escalated the disagreement. In a post on Truth Social, he claimed Meloni had asked "over and over" for photographs throughout the summit and suggested she was attempting to improve ties with Washington for domestic political reasons. "Now, after the United States defeated Iran militarily, she wants to be friends again to get her 'numbers up.' No thanks!!!" Trump wrote. He suggested that Meloni was doing "poorly in Italy" and suggested that the issue was linked to Italy's position during the conflict involving Iran. Trump also slammed her for refusing to let the United States use Italian "landing strips or runways" during the conflict with Iran. Also read | Italy headed for early elections? After feud with Trump, report claims Meloni is fearing drop in her popularity Meloni's popularity 'none of your concern' The comments triggered a sharp reaction in Italy. Meloni accused the US president of launching "constant, unprovoked... senseless" attacks and insisted that her standing with Italian voters had nothing to do with her relationship with Trump. "Being your friend certainly has not helped it, nor does it depend on my relationship with you," she wrote, adding In any case, my popularity is none of your concern. I suggest you focus on yours."

<p>From G7 photo claims to accusations over Iran and domestic politics, the Trump-Meloni dispute became one of the most unexpected diplomatic dramas of the year. After days of tensions, Meloni is now calling for an end to the row. All you need to know.&nbsp;</p>

Meloni signals truce after extraordinary public spat with Trump: 'I don't intend to keep fuelling this dispute'

<p>Who gained or lost more from the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran will remain a topic of debate for years, but one thing is already beyond doubt: the biggest losers are the millions of Iranians who oppose the country’s iron-fisted theocratic rulers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The second paragraph of the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding on a ceasefire in the war makes it clear that Iran’s rulers need not fear American responses to the massive human rights violations that have kept the population in fear and the mullahs in power. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It says: “The United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran undertake to respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to refrain from interfering in each other’s internal affairs.” &nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-peace-deal-inside-the-14-point-mou-that-ended-over-108-days-of-war-wion-decodes-donald-trump-mojtaba-khamenei-benjamin-netanyahu-lebanon-1781513800001"><strong>US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This pledge is a 180-degree reversal of President Donald Trump’s initial stance of urging Iranians to rise up in revolt against their country’s leaders and overthrow them. It is difficult to think of a more radical act of interference in a country’s internal affairs.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Oddly, there has been little attention on the non-interference pact despite reports that thousands of Iranians had been detained after the start of the war on February 28. According to a U.N. group of experts, at least 156 people have been executed since late February, with many others tortured and denied access to lawyers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In January, security forces crushed mass demonstrations against the regime in one of the deadliest protest massacres in Middle Eastern history. Estimates of the death toll ranged from 3,117 by the government to 36,500 by human rights activists. Because the government shut down the internet during the crackdown and for weeks after, the precise figure will never be known. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-rebukes-trump-with-resolution-seeking-halt-to-iran-war-1782245350784"><strong>US Senate passes resolution calling for end to Trump's war with Iran</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A few days after the massacre, which prompted comparisons with the Chinese Communist Party’s crackdown on anti-government demonstrators at Peking’s Tiananmen Square in 1989, Trump posted on his Truth Social site: “Iranian Patriots. Keep protesting, take over your institutions. HELP IS ON ITS Way.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nobody was ever held to account for the Tiananmen Square slaughter, and no one will be held to account for the slaughter in Tehran, less so after the American non-interference pledge.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In its 2024 report on human rights around the world, the U.S. State Department noted that “the government did not take credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses.” &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Amnesty International’s comment on the memorandum is worth noting: “A framework agreement that temporarily halts fighting but ignores human rights risks becoming a shield behind which impunity and repression continue indefinitely.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At the end of the eight-minute video announcing the war, Trump told the “great, proud people of Iran that the hour of your freedom is at hand.“ &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>That was apparently based on the assumption that the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader and many of his top aides in the first of thousands of air strikes by American and Israeli aircraft and missiles would lead to the collapse of the state. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>That did not happen. What Washington had dubbed Operation Epic Fury turned into Operation Epic Miscalculation of what America’s awesome military could achieve. The war caused thousands of casualties, widespread destruction of civilian and industrial facilities and long-term degradation of Iranian military capabilities.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But enough was left for Iran to strike U.S. bases in allied Gulf States and close the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway which carries around 20 per cent of the world’s global oil supply, and about a quarter of liquefied natural gas. &nbsp;</p><p>The International Energy Agency called it the largest disruption of oil supply in history. It affected the economies of countries from one end of the world to the other.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Weeks of intense indirect mediation by Pakistan and Qatar led to agreement on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) providing for a 60-day ceasefire to allow for negotiations on a final peace agreement ending 47 years of enmity between the two countries.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A summit meeting in a luxury resort in Lucerne last weekend brought together leaders of the United States, Iran and the two mediating states, Pakistan and Qatar. The American team was headed by Vice President J.D. Vance who sounded pleased about the outcome and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>American officials now portray the opening of the Straits as an achievement and tend to omit mentioning that it was an international waterway open to traffic for decades – until the war prompted Iran to use it as an immensely powerful economic weapon. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A formal communique after the summit in Switzerland noted that “the two sides agreed on a road map aimed at reaching final agreement within 60 days. The timeline is so short that the third paragraph of the memorandum added the words “extendable with mutual consent.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The 2015 Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, took 20 months to negotiate. It involved the U.S., &nbsp;Britain, France, Russia, China and Germany and focused on nuclear non-proliferation and restrictions on Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for relief from economic sanctions. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018, arguing that the Iranians were cheating and the sanctions were not harsh enough. He re-imposed sanctions so stiff that Iran resumed its nuclear programme.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Whether the Trump-led deal now being worked out in “technical talks” will be an improvement over the JCPOA remains to be seen. Unlike the memorandum now under discussion, the JCPOA had no clause about interference in internal affairs. &nbsp;</p>

Nobody was ever held to account for the Tiananmen Square slaughter, and no one will be held to account for the slaughter in Tehran, less so after the American non-interference pledge.


Who gained or lost more from the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran will remain a topic of debate for years, but one thing is already beyond doubt: the biggest losers are the millions of Iranians who oppose the country’s iron-fisted theocratic rulers. The second paragraph of the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding on a ceasefire in the war makes it clear that Iran’s rulers need not fear American responses to the massive human rights violations that have kept the population in fear and the mullahs in power. It says: “The United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran undertake to respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to refrain from interfering in each other’s internal affairs.” Also read | US-Iran peace deal: Inside the 14-point MoU that ended over 108 days of war | WION Decodes This pledge is a 180-degree reversal of President Donald Trump’s initial stance of urging Iranians to rise up in revolt against their country’s leaders and overthrow them. It is difficult to think of a more radical act of interference in a country’s internal affairs. Oddly, there has been little attention on the non-interference pact despite reports that thousands of Iranians had been detained after the start of the war on February 28. According to a U.N. group of experts, at least 156 people have been executed since late February, with many others tortured and denied access to lawyers. In January, security forces crushed mass demonstrations against the regime in one of the deadliest protest massacres in Middle Eastern history. Estimates of the death toll ranged from 3,117 by the government to 36,500 by human rights activists. Because the government shut down the internet during the crackdown and for weeks after, the precise figure will never be known. Also read | US Senate passes resolution calling for end to Trump's war with Iran A few days after the massacre, which prompted comparisons with the Chinese Communist Party’s crackdown on anti-government demonstrators at Peking’s Tiananmen Square in 1989, Trump posted on his Truth Social site: “Iranian Patriots. Keep protesting, take over your institutions. HELP IS ON ITS Way.” Nobody was ever held to account for the Tiananmen Square slaughter, and no one will be held to account for the slaughter in Tehran, less so after the American non-interference pledge. In its 2024 report on human rights around the world, the U.S. State Department noted that “the government did not take credible steps to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses.” Amnesty International’s comment on the memorandum is worth noting: “A framework agreement that temporarily halts fighting but ignores human rights risks becoming a shield behind which impunity and repression continue indefinitely.” At the end of the eight-minute video announcing the war, Trump told the “great, proud people of Iran that the hour of your freedom is at hand.“ That was apparently based on the assumption that the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader and many of his top aides in the first of thousands of air strikes by American and Israeli aircraft and missiles would lead to the collapse of the state. That did not happen. What Washington had dubbed Operation Epic Fury turned into Operation Epic Miscalculation of what America’s awesome military could achieve. The war caused thousands of casualties, widespread destruction of civilian and industrial facilities and long-term degradation of Iranian military capabilities. But enough was left for Iran to strike U.S. bases in allied Gulf States and close the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway which carries around 20 per cent of the world’s global oil supply, and about a quarter of liquefied natural gas. The International Energy Agency called it the largest disruption of oil supply in history. It affected the economies of countries from one end of the world to the other. Weeks of intense indirect mediation by Pakistan and Qatar led to agreement on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) providing for a 60-day ceasefire to allow for negotiations on a final peace agreement ending 47 years of enmity between the two countries. A summit meeting in a luxury resort in Lucerne last weekend brought together leaders of the United States, Iran and the two mediating states, Pakistan and Qatar. The American team was headed by Vice President J.D. Vance who sounded pleased about the outcome and the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. American officials now portray the opening of the Straits as an achievement and tend to omit mentioning that it was an international waterway open to traffic for decades – until the war prompted Iran to use it as an immensely powerful economic weapon. A formal communique after the summit in Switzerland noted that “the two sides agreed on a road map aimed at reaching final agreement within 60 days. The timeline is so short that the third paragraph of the memorandum added the words “extendable with mutual consent.” The 2015 Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, took 20 months to negotiate. It involved the U.S., Britain, France, Russia, China and Germany and focused on nuclear non-proliferation and restrictions on Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for relief from economic sanctions. Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018, arguing that the Iranians were cheating and the sanctions were not harsh enough. He re-imposed sanctions so stiff that Iran resumed its nuclear programme. Whether the Trump-led deal now being worked out in “technical talks” will be an improvement over the JCPOA remains to be seen. Unlike the memorandum now under discussion, the JCPOA had no clause about interference in internal affairs.

<p>Nobody was ever held to account for the Tiananmen Square slaughter, and no one will be held to account for the slaughter in Tehran, less so after the American non-interference pledge.</p>

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