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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly condemned violence by Israeli settlers in the Palestinian villages of Qusra and Jalud in the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;In a rare criticism of Israeli settlers, Netanyahu called the attacks criminal acts and said they were harming Israel's image and interfering with the military.&nbsp;"I strongly condemn the criminal acts of violence committed in the villages of Qusra and Jalud by a handful of rioters who are violating the law, causing a grave injustice to the law-abiding Jewish community, interfering with the IDF in carrying out its missions, and harming Israel's standing in the world," Netanyahu said in a statement.&nbsp;His statement came after dozens of Israeli settlers attacked the Palestinian village of Qusra on Saturday following nearly three weeks of tension in the area.<h2>Settlers attack Palestinian villages</h2>Qusra residents and the Israeli military said dozens of settlers entered the village on Saturday. The settlers allegedly threw stones at residents and barricaded themselves inside a house while Palestinian residents were inside.&nbsp;The Israeli military said soldiers and border police were sent to the area after reports of violence involving Israeli settlers and Palestinians.&nbsp;"Following reports that Israeli rioters had arrived in the area and that violent clashes had occurred, including stone-hurling toward Palestinians and additional civilians".&nbsp;Security forces removed the settlers from the house and separated the two groups. They also confiscated vehicles that were suspected of being used to reach the area.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-strike-kills-27-in-kyiv-zelensky-says-military-weapons-stored-at-site-1788016021992">Russian strike kills 27 in Kyiv, Zelensky says military weapons stored at site</a><h2>Police investigation opened</h2>The Israeli military said the confiscated vehicles would be used as evidence in a police investigation that has been opened.&nbsp;It added that security forces were continuing to operate in the area to prevent further violence and restore order.&nbsp;"The security forces strongly condemn all forms of violence," it said.&nbsp;Tensions in Qusra had already been rising for several weeks. Earlier in August, a group of settlers began blocking supplies from reaching Palestinian homes on the outskirts of the village near Nablus.The move trapped residents inside their homes and drew unusually strong criticism from the US ambassador.&nbsp;Israeli forces continued to operate in the area in the following weeks, while settlers remained in the surrounding hills.&nbsp;Violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank has continued for years, often with little or no legal consequence. The attacks have increased in recent months.&nbsp;More than 500,000 Israelis live in settlements in the Palestinian territory, alongside around three million Palestinians. The settlements are illegal under international law. Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967.

Netanyahu has condemned settler violence in Qusra and Jalud, calling the attacks criminal acts that violate the law, interfere with the IDF and harm Israel’s standing in the world.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly condemned violence by Israeli settlers in the Palestinian villages of Qusra and Jalud in the occupied West Bank. In a rare criticism of Israeli settlers, Netanyahu called the attacks criminal acts and said they were harming Israel's image and interfering with the military. "I strongly condemn the criminal acts of violence committed in the villages of Qusra and Jalud by a handful of rioters who are violating the law, causing a grave injustice to the law-abiding Jewish community, interfering with the IDF in carrying out its missions, and harming Israel's standing in the world," Netanyahu said in a statement. His statement came after dozens of Israeli settlers attacked the Palestinian village of Qusra on Saturday following nearly three weeks of tension in the area. Settlers attack Palestinian villages Qusra residents and the Israeli military said dozens of settlers entered the village on Saturday. The settlers allegedly threw stones at residents and barricaded themselves inside a house while Palestinian residents were inside. The Israeli military said soldiers and border police were sent to the area after reports of violence involving Israeli settlers and Palestinians. "Following reports that Israeli rioters had arrived in the area and that violent clashes had occurred, including stone-hurling toward Palestinians and additional civilians". Security forces removed the settlers from the house and separated the two groups. They also confiscated vehicles that were suspected of being used to reach the area. Also Read: Russian strike kills 27 in Kyiv, Zelensky says military weapons stored at site Police investigation opened The Israeli military said the confiscated vehicles would be used as evidence in a police investigation that has been opened. It added that security forces were continuing to operate in the area to prevent further violence and restore order. "The security forces strongly condemn all forms of violence," it said. Tensions in Qusra had already been rising for several weeks. Earlier in August, a group of settlers began blocking supplies from reaching Palestinian homes on the outskirts of the village near Nablus. The move trapped residents inside their homes and drew unusually strong criticism from the US ambassador. Israeli forces continued to operate in the area in the following weeks, while settlers remained in the surrounding hills. Violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank has continued for years, often with little or no legal consequence. The attacks have increased in recent months. More than 500,000 Israelis live in settlements in the Palestinian territory, alongside around three million Palestinians. The settlements are illegal under international law. Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967.

Netanyahu has condemned settler violence in Qusra and Jalud, calling the attacks criminal acts that violate the law, interfere with the IDF and harm Israel’s standing in the world.

‘I strongly condemn’: Netanyahu slams Israeli settler violence in West Bank villages

Nepal is still trying to come to terms with the devastating floods that has killed 675 people left 2,500 missing. Rescue and search operations are still on at several places. In one such operation a 97-year-old woman has been rescued alive after remaining trapped beneath rubble for several hours.&nbsp;Guna Maya Bohara was trapped under debris of her care home after floodwaters and landslides damaged the building.&nbsp;Rescue personnel from the Nepal Police and Nepal Army launched an intensive operation after locating her beneath the wreckage. For four hours the team worked to carefully clear the debris and reached the elderly woman. She was eventually brought out alive with the help of an excavator.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shuddhikaran-row-tharoor-calls-it-deeply-entrenched-discriminatory-mindset-of-bjp-1788020195885">Shuddhikaran row: Tharoor calls it 'deeply entrenched, discriminatory mindset of BJP</a>&nbsp;Photos of 97-year-old Bohara sitting in an excavator bucket after being rescued from the rubble spread rapidly across social media. Still conscious and covered in mud, Bohara was hailed by relatives as looking like a battle-hardened warrior who had defied the odds to survive.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🇳🇵 MIRACLE IN NEPAL! A 105-YEAR-OLD WOMAN has reportedly been rescued alive after being trapped beneath the rubble of her home for around 24 HOURS. At 105, she survived what many would never survive. 🙏❤️ ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE. A TRUE MIRACLE! 🙌🇳🇵 <a href="https://t.co/AOBVJGTH0v">pic.twitter.com/AOBVJGTH0v</a>&mdash; American Nightmare 🇺🇸 (@thewakeninq) <a href="https://x.com/thewakeninq/status/2093240542855299541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Bohara is now recovering in hospital. She is unable to explain how she survived.Death toll rises&nbsp;As rescuers continue to search through mud, debris and damaged infrastructure for survivors, the death toll has reached 675 which is a sharp rise from what was estimated earlier.The US Geological Survey said the event was the deadliest disaster to hit Nepal since the 2015 earthquake.<h2>Pilgrims among the missing</h2>&nbsp;The tragedy has also affected people travelling to Mount Kailash in Tibet, a major pilgrimage destination. Several Hindu pilgrims from different countries were caught while returning from the pilgrimage. Sivaranjani Muthunathan, who was travelling with 56 others, described seeing a sudden wall of water and debris before the group scrambled to higher ground.&nbsp;

Photos of 97-year-old Bohara sitting in an excavator bucket after being rescued from the rubble spread rapidly across social media.

Nepal is still trying to come to terms with the devastating floods that has killed 675 people left 2,500 missing. Rescue and search operations are still on at several places. In one such operation a 97-year-old woman has been rescued alive after remaining trapped beneath rubble for several hours. Guna Maya Bohara was trapped under debris of her care home after floodwaters and landslides damaged the building. Rescue personnel from the Nepal Police and Nepal Army launched an intensive operation after locating her beneath the wreckage. For four hours the team worked to carefully clear the debris and reached the elderly woman. She was eventually brought out alive with the help of an excavator. ALSO READ: Shuddhikaran row: Tharoor calls it 'deeply entrenched, discriminatory mindset of BJP Photos of 97-year-old Bohara sitting in an excavator bucket after being rescued from the rubble spread rapidly across social media. Still conscious and covered in mud, Bohara was hailed by relatives as looking like a battle-hardened warrior who had defied the odds to survive.

Photos of 97-year-old Bohara sitting in an excavator bucket after being rescued from the rubble spread rapidly across social media.

Face of Nepal floods: 97-year-old pulled alive from rubble after hours-long operation

At least 27 people were killed after a Russian drone struck a warehouse near the western suburbs of Kyiv overnight, Ukrainian authorities said on Saturday. The attack caused a huge fire and triggered several explosions. Zelensky later said it was used to store ammunition for the military.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ukrainian prosecutors said the warehouse appeared to contain "explosive objects". They have opened an investigation into possible criminal negligence. Authorities have not given details about the facility or the material stored there.&nbsp;The attack was the second to hit a munitions depot near Kyiv in less than two months, and prompted angry calls from Ukrainian officials to stop storing munitions near residential areas.&nbsp;The incident comes as Russia and Ukraine have increased long-range attacks against each other in recent months. The strikes have caused fires and pushed civilian casualties to their highest levels since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-floods-reconstruction-bill-could-run-into-billions-of-dollars-says-foreign-minister-1788014337020">Nepal floods: Reconstruction bill could run into ‘billions of dollars’, says Foreign Minister</a><h3>Zelensky demands accountability</h3>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said those responsible for allowing ammunition to be stored near residential areas must be held accountable.&nbsp;"Those who allowed this to happen must be held accountable for their decisions... ammunition cannot be stored near homes or other residential areas," Zelensky said in a post on X.&nbsp;Zelensky later said the warehouse belonged to the Ukrainian military and contained shells, drones and other ammunition.&nbsp;"The first impact was on a place where ammunition was being stored that absolutely should not have been there, a depot of the Defence Forces. Detonation of shells, mines, other munitions, and drones. On a significant scale," Zelensky said in a video address.&nbsp;He again stressed that ammunition must not be stored close to homes or residential areas."There are regulations in place -– ammunition cannot be stored near homes or other residential areas. Appropriate conclusions will certainly be drawn," Zelensky said in a post on X.

A Russian drone strike on a warehouse near Kyiv killed at least 27 people, with President Volodymyr Zelensky saying the Ukrainian military had stored shells, drones and other ammunition at the site.

At least 27 people were killed after a Russian drone struck a warehouse near the western suburbs of Kyiv overnight, Ukrainian authorities said on Saturday. The attack caused a huge fire and triggered several explosions. Zelensky later said it was used to store ammunition for the military. Ukrainian prosecutors said the warehouse appeared to contain "explosive objects". They have opened an investigation into possible criminal negligence. Authorities have not given details about the facility or the material stored there. The attack was the second to hit a munitions depot near Kyiv in less than two months, and prompted angry calls from Ukrainian officials to stop storing munitions near residential areas. The incident comes as Russia and Ukraine have increased long-range attacks against each other in recent months. The strikes have caused fires and pushed civilian casualties to their highest levels since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Also Read: Nepal floods: Reconstruction bill could run into ‘billions of dollars’, says Foreign Minister Zelensky demands accountability Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said those responsible for allowing ammunition to be stored near residential areas must be held accountable. "Those who allowed this to happen must be held accountable for their decisions... ammunition cannot be stored near homes or other residential areas," Zelensky said in a post on X. Zelensky later said the warehouse belonged to the Ukrainian military and contained shells, drones and other ammunition. "The first impact was on a place where ammunition was being stored that absolutely should not have been there, a depot of the Defence Forces. Detonation of shells, mines, other munitions, and drones. On a significant scale," Zelensky said in a video address. He again stressed that ammunition must not be stored close to homes or residential areas. "There are regulations in place -– ammunition cannot be stored near homes or other residential areas. Appropriate conclusions will certainly be drawn," Zelensky said in a post on X.

A Russian drone strike on a warehouse near Kyiv killed at least 27 people, with President Volodymyr Zelensky saying the Ukrainian military had stored shells, drones and other ammunition at the site.

Russian strike kills 27 in Kyiv, Zelensky says military weapons stored at site

Young adults between 18 and 21, who are generally too young to legally gamble at most US casinos and sportsbooks, have traded an estimated $5.4 billion on Kalshi this year, according to a new CNN analysis. The surge highlights growing concerns about prediction markets, which have rapidly expanded in popularity and allow users to trade contracts tied to events ranging from sports and elections to culture and weather.&nbsp;Unlike traditional casinos and sportsbooks, which are largely regulated by individual states and typically require customers to be at least 21, prediction markets operate under federal financial-market rules. That means users can generally participate once they turn 18. The difference has prompted lawmakers, consumer advocates and addiction specialists to question whether prediction markets have created a loophole that exposes younger adults to financial risks and potentially harmful trading behavior.<h2>Sports and parlays dominate trading</h2>Sports and parlays, all-or-nothing combinations of bets that have become particularly popular among sports bettors, account for roughly 80% of Kalshi's overall trading volume. CNN's analysis estimates that users between 18 and 21 have traded approximately $3.9 billion across those categories this year alone. That figure could increase substantially as major sporting events continue to attract users.&nbsp;“Normally you’d have a big summer lull, but the World Cup changed that completely,” said Jonathan Michaels, who runs a gaming industry consulting firm. “Prediction markets will also see record numbers this fall with the football season, and that’ll certainly trickle down into college-age students.” Kalshi has recorded more than $173 billion in total trading volume so far this year, based on publicly available figures from Paradigm, a major investor in the prediction-market company.&nbsp;According to a Kalshi spokesperson, users aged 18 to 21 currently account for 3.14% of the company's overall trading volume.CNN has a partnership with Kalshi and uses its data to report on major events. CNN editorial employees are prohibited from trading on prediction markets. Kalshi declined to provide CNN with detailed figures on the amount traded or spent specifically by users aged 18 to 21.&nbsp;The company has previously highlighted several safeguards aimed at younger and potentially vulnerable users. These measures include deposit limits and warnings for accounts showing patterns associated with risky behaviour. Kalshi has also contributed $2 million to the National Council for Problem Gambling to support efforts aimed at addressing unhealthy trading and addiction.<h2>Prediction markets dominate the US</h2>Financial analysts estimated earlier this year that Kalshi controlled approximately 90% of the US prediction-market volume, making it by far the largest player in the sector. Polymarket, considered the second-largest US prediction market, declined to comment and has not publicly released trading or spending figures for users aged 18 to 21. The rapid growth of these platforms has also intensified a broader legal battle over whether sports-related prediction contracts should be treated as financial products or gambling.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-president-nitin-nabin-reprimands-three-delhi-mps-over-condoling-sajjan-kumar-s-death-1788008745797">BJP President Nitin Nabin reprimands three Delhi MPs over condoling Sajjan Kumar's death</a><h2>Legal battle over prediction markets continues</h2>Prediction platforms currently operate as federally regulated financial exchanges and, under their current regulatory framework, are generally outside state gaming laws and taxes. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) oversees these markets at the federal level. That regulatory structure is facing a major legal challenge, however. The effort has received support from 44 state attorneys general, dozens of Indian tribes and the casino industry.&nbsp;The American Gaming Association, which represents the casino industry, has long argued that sports contracts offered by prediction markets effectively function as unlicensed sportsbooks. The organization has pointed to Kalshi's trading figures among younger users as evidence of the concerns surrounding sports prediction contracts. “Most parents and grandparents don’t realize that the ‘prediction markets’ are offering a backdoor into sports-betting in jurisdictions where the legal betting age is 21,” AGA president Bill Miller told CNN. “This means their freshman son or daughter is prohibited from entering legal sportsbooks, but now they can just pull out their phone and use Kalshi to bet on football.”&nbsp;Supporters of prediction markets counter that the platforms are financial exchanges rather than traditional gambling operators. They also note that Americans can legally open brokerage accounts at 18 and trade stocks and other financial products that can involve significant financial risk.<h2>Calls grow for a 21+ trading age</h2>The debate has prompted some prediction-market operators to voluntarily impose a minimum age of 21, despite federal rules generally allowing participation from users aged 18 and older. Fanatics, the sports merchandising giant, launched a prediction platform last year with a 21+ requirement.&nbsp;A company spokesman previously told CNN, “We believe 21+ is the right age for any type of real-money activities.” Major sports organizations have also urged regulators to reconsider the current age requirement. The NCAA, NFL, NBA, PGA Tour and other sports leagues have called on the CFTC to increase the minimum age for prediction-market trading to 21. The agency rejected those calls and is moving toward federal regulations that would maintain the current 18+ eligibility standard.

Young adults aged 18-21 have traded an estimated $5.4 billion on Kalshi this year, raising concerns over sports betting, addiction and regulation

Young adults between 18 and 21, who are generally too young to legally gamble at most US casinos and sportsbooks, have traded an estimated $5.4 billion on Kalshi this year, according to a new CNN analysis. The surge highlights growing concerns about prediction markets, which have rapidly expanded in popularity and allow users to trade contracts tied to events ranging from sports and elections to culture and weather. Unlike traditional casinos and sportsbooks, which are largely regulated by individual states and typically require customers to be at least 21, prediction markets operate under federal financial-market rules. That means users can generally participate once they turn 18. The difference has prompted lawmakers, consumer advocates and addiction specialists to question whether prediction markets have created a loophole that exposes younger adults to financial risks and potentially harmful trading behavior. Sports and parlays dominate trading Sports and parlays, all-or-nothing combinations of bets that have become particularly popular among sports bettors, account for roughly 80% of Kalshi's overall trading volume. CNN's analysis estimates that users between 18 and 21 have traded approximately $3.9 billion across those categories this year alone. That figure could increase substantially as major sporting events continue to attract users. “Normally you’d have a big summer lull, but the World Cup changed that completely,” said Jonathan Michaels, who runs a gaming industry consulting firm. “Prediction markets will also see record numbers this fall with the football season, and that’ll certainly trickle down into college-age students.” Kalshi has recorded more than $173 billion in total trading volume so far this year, based on publicly available figures from Paradigm, a major investor in the prediction-market company. According to a Kalshi spokesperson, users aged 18 to 21 currently account for 3.14% of the company's overall trading volume. CNN has a partnership with Kalshi and uses its data to report on major events. CNN editorial employees are prohibited from trading on prediction markets. Kalshi declined to provide CNN with detailed figures on the amount traded or spent specifically by users aged 18 to 21. The company has previously highlighted several safeguards aimed at younger and potentially vulnerable users. These measures include deposit limits and warnings for accounts showing patterns associated with risky behaviour. Kalshi has also contributed $2 million to the National Council for Problem Gambling to support efforts aimed at addressing unhealthy trading and addiction. Prediction markets dominate the US Financial analysts estimated earlier this year that Kalshi controlled approximately 90% of the US prediction-market volume, making it by far the largest player in the sector. Polymarket, considered the second-largest US prediction market, declined to comment and has not publicly released trading or spending figures for users aged 18 to 21. The rapid growth of these platforms has also intensified a broader legal battle over whether sports-related prediction contracts should be treated as financial products or gambling. Also Read: BJP President Nitin Nabin reprimands three Delhi MPs over condoling Sajjan Kumar's death Legal battle over prediction markets continues Prediction platforms currently operate as federally regulated financial exchanges and, under their current regulatory framework, are generally outside state gaming laws and taxes. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) oversees these markets at the federal level. That regulatory structure is facing a major legal challenge, however. The effort has received support from 44 state attorneys general, dozens of Indian tribes and the casino industry. The American Gaming Association, which represents the casino industry, has long argued that sports contracts offered by prediction markets effectively function as unlicensed sportsbooks. The organization has pointed to Kalshi's trading figures among younger users as evidence of the concerns surrounding sports prediction contracts. “Most parents and grandparents don’t realize that the ‘prediction markets’ are offering a backdoor into sports-betting in jurisdictions where the legal betting age is 21,” AGA president Bill Miller told CNN. “This means their freshman son or daughter is prohibited from entering legal sportsbooks, but now they can just pull out their phone and use Kalshi to bet on football.” Supporters of prediction markets counter that the platforms are financial exchanges rather than traditional gambling operators. They also note that Americans can legally open brokerage accounts at 18 and trade stocks and other financial products that can involve significant financial risk. Calls grow for a 21+ trading age The debate has prompted some prediction-market operators to voluntarily impose a minimum age of 21, despite federal rules generally allowing participation from users aged 18 and older. Fanatics, the sports merchandising giant, launched a prediction platform last year with a 21+ requirement. A company spokesman previously told CNN, “We believe 21+ is the right age for any type of real-money activities.” Major sports organizations have also urged regulators to reconsider the current age requirement. The NCAA, NFL, NBA, PGA Tour and other sports leagues have called on the CFTC to increase the minimum age for prediction-market trading to 21. The agency rejected those calls and is moving toward federal regulations that would maintain the current 18+ eligibility standard.

Young adults aged 18-21 have traded billions on Kalshi this year, intensifying concerns over sports betting, addiction and prediction-market rules

Young adults under 21 trade billions on Kalshi amid explosive prediction market growth

Nepal may need billions of dollars to rebuild after the devastating floods that have caused widespread destruction, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said on Saturday (August 29). "The reconstruction and rehabilitation would entail perhaps billions of dollars," he told reporters in Kathmandu.&nbsp;Khanal said the government would first assess the damage before planning the reconstruction work. He also appealed to the international community for help.&nbsp;"We will do loss and damage research and then we plan, but I am reaching out to our international community for support".&nbsp;Three days after the disaster, the government was still focused on rescuing people and saving lives. Khanal said the scale of the destruction was already putting pressure on the government's resources."The urgency is on rescue and saving lives as much as we can", he said.&nbsp;Rescue teams have so far recovered 626 bodies, while more than 2,426 people remain missing across Nepal.<h2>Nepal seeks help to preserve bodies</h2>The government has also sought specialised support to identify and preserve the bodies recovered from the flood-hit areas.&nbsp;"We have reached out to our friends who can provide specific requirements, not only in the rescue," Khanal said.&nbsp;Many bodies have been recovered downstream after remaining in water for a long time. Officials are concerned that they could decompose quickly, making identification more difficult.&nbsp;"Hundreds of bodies have been found downstream, and there is a risk of fast decomposition because these bodies have been in water for a long time," Khanal said.&nbsp;Nepal does not have enough facilities to preserve a large number of bodies for a long period."Our own healthcare capacity is very limited to put these bodies in a frozen state for a long time," Khanal said.&nbsp;The government has therefore asked for refrigerators to preserve the bodies until families can identify and claim their loved ones.&nbsp;"So we've been asking to provide fridges until... we can locate the loved ones of these people who passed away in this disaster."&nbsp;Khanal said Nepal was also considering the use of freezer trucks to help preserve the bodies."The government was also considering bringing in "freezer trucks, like those where you can put perishable goods", he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-poster-in-tashkent-as-his-state-visit-to-uzbekistan-begins-1788012907824">PM Modi poster in Tashkent as his state visit to Uzbekistan begins</a><h2>DNA testing becomes major challenge</h2>Identifying the recovered bodies is another major challenge for the authorities. Nepal has limited forensic facilities for DNA testing and reporting.&nbsp;"We need forensic capability," he said. "DNA sampling, DNA testing and reporting -- we have very limited forensic capability in Nepal."&nbsp;The latest figures from the Nepal Police showed that the death toll from the Rasuwa Bhote Koshi flash floods had reached 669 by 4 PM on Saturday.&nbsp;Emergency teams working downstream have recovered bodies from several districts. Chitwan has reported the highest number, with 248 bodies recovered.&nbsp;Nawalparasi East has recorded 158 bodies, followed by Nawalparasi West with 75. Gorkha has reported 54 bodies, Dhading 49, Nuwakot 41, Tanahun 31 and Rasuwa 13.

Nepal's flood reconstruction could cost billions of dollars as the government seeks international help for rescue operations, body preservation and identification amid a rising death toll and thousands of missing people.

Nepal may need billions of dollars to rebuild after the devastating floods that have caused widespread destruction, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said on Saturday (August 29). "The reconstruction and rehabilitation would entail perhaps billions of dollars," he told reporters in Kathmandu. Khanal said the government would first assess the damage before planning the reconstruction work. He also appealed to the international community for help. "We will do loss and damage research and then we plan, but I am reaching out to our international community for support". Three days after the disaster, the government was still focused on rescuing people and saving lives. Khanal said the scale of the destruction was already putting pressure on the government's resources. "The urgency is on rescue and saving lives as much as we can", he said. Rescue teams have so far recovered 626 bodies, while more than 2,426 people remain missing across Nepal. Nepal seeks help to preserve bodies The government has also sought specialised support to identify and preserve the bodies recovered from the flood-hit areas. "We have reached out to our friends who can provide specific requirements, not only in the rescue," Khanal said. Many bodies have been recovered downstream after remaining in water for a long time. Officials are concerned that they could decompose quickly, making identification more difficult. "Hundreds of bodies have been found downstream, and there is a risk of fast decomposition because these bodies have been in water for a long time," Khanal said. Nepal does not have enough facilities to preserve a large number of bodies for a long period. "Our own healthcare capacity is very limited to put these bodies in a frozen state for a long time," Khanal said. The government has therefore asked for refrigerators to preserve the bodies until families can identify and claim their loved ones. "So we've been asking to provide fridges until... we can locate the loved ones of these people who passed away in this disaster." Khanal said Nepal was also considering the use of freezer trucks to help preserve the bodies. "The government was also considering bringing in "freezer trucks, like those where you can put perishable goods", he added. Also Read: PM Modi poster in Tashkent as his state visit to Uzbekistan begins DNA testing becomes major challenge Identifying the recovered bodies is another major challenge for the authorities. Nepal has limited forensic facilities for DNA testing and reporting. "We need forensic capability," he said. "DNA sampling, DNA testing and reporting -- we have very limited forensic capability in Nepal." The latest figures from the Nepal Police showed that the death toll from the Rasuwa Bhote Koshi flash floods had reached 669 by 4 PM on Saturday. Emergency teams working downstream have recovered bodies from several districts. Chitwan has reported the highest number, with 248 bodies recovered. Nawalparasi East has recorded 158 bodies, followed by Nawalparasi West with 75. Gorkha has reported 54 bodies, Dhading 49, Nuwakot 41, Tanahun 31 and Rasuwa 13.

Nepal's flood reconstruction could cost billions of dollars as the government seeks international help for rescue operations, body preservation and identification amid a rising death toll and thousands of missing people.

Nepal floods: Reconstruction bill could run into ‘billions of dollars’, says Foreign Minister

Oyo Nyimba, world's youngest reigning monarch of Uganda, died aged 34, his prime minster Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki announced on Friday (Aug 28). &nbsp;"I call upon all the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful during this profoundly difficult time. May His Majesty the King rest in eternal peace," said Akiiki while making the announcement.&nbsp;&nbsp;The monarch was reportedly on medical treatment abroad for an undisclosed condition.&nbsp;Uganda is a republic, ruled by a parliament and a nominally-elected head of state. Yoweri Museveni is the President since he took oath in 1986 but the country retains several traditional monarchies that still preside over their kingdoms. Though, their power is largely symbolic they wield considerable cultural and social influence.&nbsp;<h2>Who was Oyo Nyimba?</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV was the Uganda king of the traditional pre-colonial kingdom of Tooro</li><li>As one of Uganda's traditional monarchs, he was made the king of Tooro kingdom at the age of 3 in 1995</li><li>Oyo, who held Guinness World Record for the world's youngest reigning monarch, ruled over more than two million people</li><li>He was the 13th monarch of a kingdom that was founded in the early 19th Century</li></ul>&nbsp;The Tooro Kingdom follows a hereditary system in selecting its monarch. Oyo was not officially married, which immediately raised questions about the succession. But his prime minster Akiiki said "His Majesty leaves behind a Prince as his heir, whose identity will be formally revealed at the appropriate time, in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom."&nbsp;Oyo was popular and loved by is people. He is said to have promoted causes such as youth empowerment, education and climate conservation, as well as HIV/Aids awareness.&nbsp;

Oyo Nyimba who held Guinness World Record for the world's youngest reigning monarch, ruled over more than two million people.

Oyo Nyimba, world's youngest reigning monarch of Uganda, died aged 34, his prime minster Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki announced on Friday (Aug 28). "I call upon all the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful during this profoundly difficult time. May His Majesty the King rest in eternal peace," said Akiiki while making the announcement. The monarch was reportedly on medical treatment abroad for an undisclosed condition. Uganda is a republic, ruled by a parliament and a nominally-elected head of state. Yoweri Museveni is the President since he took oath in 1986 but the country retains several traditional monarchies that still preside over their kingdoms. Though, their power is largely symbolic they wield considerable cultural and social influence. Who was Oyo Nyimba? Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV was the Uganda king of the traditional pre-colonial kingdom of Tooro As one of Uganda's traditional monarchs, he was made the king of Tooro kingdom at the age of 3 in 1995 Oyo, who held Guinness World Record for the world's youngest reigning monarch, ruled over more than two million people He was the 13th monarch of a kingdom that was founded in the early 19th Century The Tooro Kingdom follows a hereditary system in selecting its monarch. Oyo was not officially married, which immediately raised questions about the succession. But his prime minster Akiiki said "His Majesty leaves behind a Prince as his heir, whose identity will be formally revealed at the appropriate time, in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom." Oyo was popular and loved by is people. He is said to have promoted causes such as youth empowerment, education and climate conservation, as well as HIV/Aids awareness.

Oyo Nyimba who held Guinness World Record for the world's youngest reigning monarch, ruled over more than two million people.

About Oyo Nyimba, world's youngest monarch who died aged 34

Nepal-Tibet floods LIVE updates: The death toll from devastating floods in Nepal has risen to 616 after a tsunami-like surge of water, ice and debris swept through the Himalayan region. Nearly 2,000 people are still unaccounted for, including 517 foreigners. The missing count rose sharply after Nepal’s disaster authority added 933 hydropower workers to the list.Across the border in Tibet, Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported seven deaths and 554 people missing. Indian authorities have also recovered seven bodies from rivers flowing out of Nepal, believed to be flood victims.<h2>Death toll feared to rise</h2>The number of casualties could increase as rescue teams continue searching through areas cut off by widespread destruction. The Red Cross said as many as 93,000 people may have been affected by Wednesday's disaster.Rescue efforts have been complicated by the threat of further flooding. The massive deluge of ice and mud created temporary lakes in the region, raising fears that another sudden release of water could endanger emergency teams.Nepali police ordered rescuers to move to safety after receiving information that "a water dam has burst again on the Tibetan side". In Tibet, authorities temporarily suspended rescue operations in the hardest-hit area of Gyirong over fears of renewed flooding before later saying the threat had eased.<h2>Hydropower workers among missing</h2>The disaster has hit an area containing major hydropower projects, with hundreds of workers among those missing or trapped.At the Trishuli 3A hydropower project, around 350 workers and residents were brought to safety, while efforts continued to reach more than 100 people trapped in the area.

Guna Maya Bohara was trapped under debris of her care home after floodwaters and landslides damaged the building.

97-year-old pulled alive from rubble after hours-long operation

Nepal may need billions of dollars to rebuild after the devastating floods that have caused widespread destruction, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said on Saturday. "The reconstruction and rehabilitation would entail perhaps billions of dollars," he told reporters in Kathmandu.

# 669 bodies recovered so far in flood-affected areas of Nepal, 2,371 people rescued# 4,854 police personnel deployed for rescue and search operations in flood-affected areas# According to police, the number of people injured and rescued in the floods has reached 2,371# As of 4 p.m. Saturday, 669 bodies have been recovered so far# 158 bodies recovered in Nawalparasi, 75 in Nawalparasi West, 54 in Gorkha, 49 in Dhading, 41 in Nuwakot, 31 in Tanhum, 248 in Chitwan, and 13 in Rasuwa# 27 police officers are still missing from flood-affected areas# The number of injured being treated in various hospitals in the Kathmandu Valley is 140.

Nepal Flood Update

Nepal Police have confirmed 616 bodies recovered so far from recent floods, with Chitwan reporting the highest toll at 233, followed by Nepal Police East region (158), Gorkha (48), Dhading (45), Nuwakot (41), Tanahun (31), and Rasuwa (13). On the injured and rescued front, Nuwakot recorded 1,622 people, Rasuwa 676, and Dhading 3. Additionally, 140 injured individuals have been treated and discharged from various hospitals across the Kathmandu Valley, according to updated police data.

Nepal Flood Death Toll Hits 616

114 Indians, 27 Chinese citizens, and 20 South Koreans were successfully evacuated by rescue teams after the devastating flood in Nepal that claimed over 500 lives.

Total rescued nationals from India, China and South Koreans

NTB is also coordinating with diplomatic missions seeking information and assistance regarding their nationals affected by the disaster. On 28 August, Abraham Tan, First Secretary (Political) at the High Commission of the Republic of Singapore, New Delhi, and Jenny Du Toit, Counsellor (Management) and Consul at the New Zealand High Commission, New Delhi, visited NTB to seek support in tracing Singaporean and New Zealand citizens whose whereabouts remain unconfirmed. NTB assured both representatives of its full cooperation and briefed them on the ongoing efforts by the Government of Nepal and relevant agencies to locate, rescue and evacuate affected travellers. The Board is facilitating information-sharing and coordination with concerned authorities and tourism stakeholders and will extend all possible assistance as verified information becomes available. NTB, Tourist Police and tourism stakeholders continue to monitor developments and support the government-led response, with priority given to establishing the safety and whereabouts of affected travellers and facilitating timely assistance and rescue operations. It is informed that the Kathmandu-Mugling road section is now fully operational, allowing normal movement along the route. Except for a few road sections affected by the floods in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Gorkha, road networks across the rest of the country are generally operational. Tourists and travellers are advised to check the latest road and weather conditions before starting their journey, particularly when travelling through or towards the affected districts, and to follow the guidance of local authorities and security agencies.

184 Tourists have been rescued, 3 in Contact with Authorities and 420 are still out of communication. 

A group of 21 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu who were stranded by severe floods in Nepal arrived in Chennai, where state ministers Narayanasamy Anand and D Sarathkumar personally received them upon their safe arrival. Tamil Nadu minister Anand said the state government is making all the arrangements to rescue missing pilgrims.

Nepal floods: 21 Tamil Nadu rescued pilgrims arrive in Chennai

Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel on Saturday (August 29, 2026) expressed gratitude towards India for support and solidarity following a devastating flash flood on August 26, which killed 626 people. In an X post, Mr Paudel also condoled the demise of Indian nationals in Nepal.

Nepal President express gratitude to India for 'generous support, solidarity' after flash floods

India is stepping up monitoring of its Himalayan regions bordering China and Nepal, days after deadly floods apparently triggered by a glacial collapse, authorities said on Saturday (August 29, 2026). “Since we share a border with Nepal, as a neighbour, and also have a similar geographic situation... we have asked our department to monitor all the glaciers and known glacial lakes in the region,” said Madan Kaushik, Uttarakhand’s State Disaster Management Minister. “We have asked our teams to be vigilant and monitor if a similar situation is emerging anywhere in the state,” he said.

India steps up glacier monitoring after Nepal flash floods

On the Nepal floods, Bihar Disaster Management Minister Ratnesh Sada said, "The government is looking into this. They are assessing the situation to identify exactly who is missing and from which districts. Arrangements are being made to locate and bring them back. The government is in contact with the Nepalese authorities regarding those stranded, urging that they be moved to safe locations."

Bihar Disaster Management Minister on Nepal floods

Nepal's disaster authority raised sharply the number of missing to 2,426 on Saturday and increased the death toll in the country to 626, three days after devastating floods struck.The list includes a large rise in Nepalis listed as missing, up from a total of 1,924 the previous night. The number of missing foreigners remains at 517, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority.

Number of missing in Nepal after flood rises to 2,426: disaster authority

Devastating floods in the Nepal-Tibet border region have killed at least 616 people, Nepali police said Saturday, three days after the disaster.Chinese state media had earlier confirmed seven dead, taking the total killed to at least 623 dead.

Nepal flood death toll rises to 616: police

The European Union on Friday promised two million euros ($2.3 mn) in aid for Nepal after devastating floods on the country's border with Tibet swept away entire villages, killing hundreds of people.European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X that the "immediate humanitarian aid" would help "deliver life-saving assistance to families and communities hit hardest."

EU pledges two million euros in Nepal flood aid

Canada said Friday it would provide CAN$5 million (US$ 3.6 million) in funding to help relief operations after devastating flooding in Nepal left hundreds dead and thousands missing."We are announcing that Canada is providing $5 million in humanitarian assistance to support emergency relief efforts in Nepal," Randeep Sarai, Canada's secretary of state for international development, told reporters.

Canada announces CAN$5 million in aid after Nepal flood

Nepal's disaster authority raised sharply the number of missing to 1,924 on Friday, two days after devastating floods that killed at least 579 in the country.The number of missing includes 517 foreigners, as well as 933 workers on hydropower projects on the rivers where a wall of water powered down on Wednesday morning, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority.

Number of missing in Nepal after flood rises to 1,924: disaster authority

Nepal-Tibet floods LIVE updates: Death toll from devastating floods in Nepal and Tibet rises to 616, around 2,000 remain missing as rescue teams battle difficult conditions and the threat of further flooding.

Nepal-Tibet floods LIVE updates: The death toll from devastating floods in Nepal has risen to 616 after a tsunami-like surge of water, ice and debris swept through the Himalayan region. Nearly 2,000 people are still unaccounted for, including 517 foreigners. The missing count rose sharply after Nepal’s disaster authority added 933 hydropower workers to the list. Across the border in Tibet, Chinese state news agency Xinhua reported seven deaths and 554 people missing. Indian authorities have also recovered seven bodies from rivers flowing out of Nepal, believed to be flood victims. Death toll feared to rise The number of casualties could increase as rescue teams continue searching through areas cut off by widespread destruction. The Red Cross said as many as 93,000 people may have been affected by Wednesday's disaster. Rescue efforts have been complicated by the threat of further flooding. The massive deluge of ice and mud created temporary lakes in the region, raising fears that another sudden release of water could endanger emergency teams. Nepali police ordered rescuers to move to safety after receiving information that "a water dam has burst again on the Tibetan side". In Tibet, authorities temporarily suspended rescue operations in the hardest-hit area of Gyirong over fears of renewed flooding before later saying the threat had eased. Hydropower workers among missing The disaster has hit an area containing major hydropower projects, with hundreds of workers among those missing or trapped. At the Trishuli 3A hydropower project, around 350 workers and residents were brought to safety, while efforts continued to reach more than 100 people trapped in the area.

Nepal-Tibet floods LIVE updates: Death toll from devastating floods in Nepal and Tibet rises to 616, around 2,000 remain missing as rescue teams battle difficult conditions and the threat of further flooding.

Nepal-Tibet floods LIVE updates: Nepal death toll crosses 600, nearly 2,500 remain missing

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged that US sanctions are putting significant pressure on the country’s economy, days after saying the latest measures from Washington would not achieve their intended goal. In an interview with Iranian state television late on Friday, Pezeshkian addressed claims that sanctions have little or no impact on Iran’s economy.&nbsp;"Some say sanctions have no effect at all; to those people, I really don't know what to say," Pezeshkian said. "We are in a war situation, and we must accept these wartime conditions," he added. The comments came days after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans aimed at intensifying economic pressure on Tehran. On Monday, Bessent described the strategy as ‘economic asphyxiation’ and warned that countries failing to cooperate with the US campaign could face serious consequences.&nbsp;The latest measures add to a sanctions framework imposed by the US and its allies since 2018. That year, then-US President Donald Trump withdrew from the international nuclear agreement with Tehran and subsequently restored sweeping sanctions against Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-plays-mine-games-over-hormuz-iranian-mines-gone-but-is-the-strait-safe-1788002525970">US plays ‘mine games’ over Hormuz: Iranian mines gone, but is the strait safe?</a><h2>Iran trade hit by sanctions</h2>Pezeshkian said Iran’s imports and exports have declined by between 25% and 35% in recent months, which he attributed to the growing pressure on the country’s trade and the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. The economic strain has also raised concerns about fuel supplies and domestic petrol prices. Pezeshkian said petrol prices should be adjusted to reflect the decline in trade and proposed increasing the price of fuel under Iran’s highest consumption quota.&nbsp;"We should raise the price of the third-tier quota... For example, from 5,000 tomans to 10,000 tomans," he said. Iran uses multiple fuel-pricing tiers to determine how much consumers pay for petrol. The issue is politically sensitive because the country is a major oil producer and has traditionally provided heavily subsidised fuel, keeping petrol prices among the lowest in the world. Iranian Vice President Mohammad Jafar Ghaempanah said on Wednesday that the US blockade had made it difficult for Tehran to import enough petrol to compensate for a shortfall in domestic production.<h2>Pezeshkian changes tone on sanctions</h2>Pezeshkian’s latest remarks appear to mark a shift from his position earlier in the week. On Wednesday, the Iranian president had dismissed the impact of the latest US sanctions, saying they would not succeed in changing Iran’s position. "We will stand firm against economic pressures, as we have done so far and will continue to do," Pezeshkian told state media. His latest comments, however, highlight the mounting economic challenges facing Iran as sanctions, restrictions on trade and fuel-supply concerns put additional pressure on the country’s economy.

Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian admits US sanctions are hurting the economy as Iran faces falling trade, fuel shortages and pressure on petrol prices

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged that US sanctions are putting significant pressure on the country’s economy, days after saying the latest measures from Washington would not achieve their intended goal. In an interview with Iranian state television late on Friday, Pezeshkian addressed claims that sanctions have little or no impact on Iran’s economy. "Some say sanctions have no effect at all; to those people, I really don't know what to say," Pezeshkian said. "We are in a war situation, and we must accept these wartime conditions," he added. The comments came days after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans aimed at intensifying economic pressure on Tehran. On Monday, Bessent described the strategy as ‘economic asphyxiation’ and warned that countries failing to cooperate with the US campaign could face serious consequences. The latest measures add to a sanctions framework imposed by the US and its allies since 2018. That year, then-US President Donald Trump withdrew from the international nuclear agreement with Tehran and subsequently restored sweeping sanctions against Iran. Also Read: US plays ‘mine games’ over Hormuz: Iranian mines gone, but is the strait safe? Iran trade hit by sanctions Pezeshkian said Iran’s imports and exports have declined by between 25% and 35% in recent months, which he attributed to the growing pressure on the country’s trade and the US naval blockade of Iranian ports. The economic strain has also raised concerns about fuel supplies and domestic petrol prices. Pezeshkian said petrol prices should be adjusted to reflect the decline in trade and proposed increasing the price of fuel under Iran’s highest consumption quota. "We should raise the price of the third-tier quota... For example, from 5,000 tomans to 10,000 tomans," he said. Iran uses multiple fuel-pricing tiers to determine how much consumers pay for petrol. The issue is politically sensitive because the country is a major oil producer and has traditionally provided heavily subsidised fuel, keeping petrol prices among the lowest in the world. Iranian Vice President Mohammad Jafar Ghaempanah said on Wednesday that the US blockade had made it difficult for Tehran to import enough petrol to compensate for a shortfall in domestic production. Pezeshkian changes tone on sanctions Pezeshkian’s latest remarks appear to mark a shift from his position earlier in the week. On Wednesday, the Iranian president had dismissed the impact of the latest US sanctions, saying they would not succeed in changing Iran’s position. "We will stand firm against economic pressures, as we have done so far and will continue to do," Pezeshkian told state media. His latest comments, however, highlight the mounting economic challenges facing Iran as sanctions, restrictions on trade and fuel-supply concerns put additional pressure on the country’s economy.

Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian admits US sanctions are hurting Iran’s economy as trade falls and fuel shortages raise concerns over petrol prices

Did Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian admit that US sanctions affecting Tehran's economy? Here's what he said

The United States says it has achieved a major breakthrough in the Strait of Hormuz. But the bigger question is whether Washington’s declaration that the crucial waterway is now free of Iranian sea mines matches the reality faced by commercial ships.US Central Command commander Adm. Brad Cooper on Thursday (Aug 27) claimed that American forces had cleared Iranian mines from internationally recognised shipping routes. “We have successfully cleared sea mines in the strait’s international shipping lanes that were laid months ago by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps,” he said.<h2>Did US really clear mines from Hormuz?</h2>The Pentagon’s confidence rests on an operation in which more than 200 mine-like objects were removed from the main shipping lane. However, according to an Axios report citing US officials, 11 of them were actually mines, with just a few properly deployed. That distinction matters when assessing how serious the threat was – and how much the operation has truly changed conditions.President Donald Trump offered an emphatic assessment: “That sucker is open. The Iranian response is very mild. They don’t want us to go back at them. That’s the whole ball game. The rest doesn’t matter,” he told Axios.<h2>Are US shipping claims overstated?</h2>But oil experts and tanker trackers remain sceptical of US claims that traffic has recovered as strongly as officials suggest. Washington says 20 to 30 tankers are now crossing the southern channel each night, carrying around 9 to 10 million barrels of oil. That is still only about half the pre-war volume.<h2>Iran rejects US control</h2>Iran, meanwhile, has rejected the idea that US military control guarantees lasting security. Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned: “In a region where we don’t sell oil, no one else will sell oil either.”He has also argued that the security of the Strait of Hormuz depends on the “absence” of US troops.The dispute exposes the larger problem. Clearing mines may reopen a physical passage, but does it make the Strait of Hormuz genuinely secure?With tankers still reportedly coming under attack and oil flows below normal levels, Washington’s declaration of victory may be premature. The real test will not be what US officials say has been cleared – but how many ships are willing to sail through the strait.

The US says it cleared Iranian sea mines from the Strait of Hormuz, but tanker trackers and experts question Washington’s claims, raising doubts over whether the key waterway is truly safe.

The United States says it has achieved a major breakthrough in the Strait of Hormuz. But the bigger question is whether Washington’s declaration that the crucial waterway is now free of Iranian sea mines matches the reality faced by commercial ships. US Central Command commander Adm. Brad Cooper on Thursday (Aug 27) claimed that American forces had cleared Iranian mines from internationally recognised shipping routes. “We have successfully cleared sea mines in the strait’s international shipping lanes that were laid months ago by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps,” he said. Did US really clear mines from Hormuz? The Pentagon’s confidence rests on an operation in which more than 200 mine-like objects were removed from the main shipping lane. However, according to an Axios report citing US officials, 11 of them were actually mines, with just a few properly deployed. That distinction matters when assessing how serious the threat was – and how much the operation has truly changed conditions. President Donald Trump offered an emphatic assessment: “That sucker is open. The Iranian response is very mild. They don’t want us to go back at them. That’s the whole ball game. The rest doesn’t matter,” he told Axios. Are US shipping claims overstated? But oil experts and tanker trackers remain sceptical of US claims that traffic has recovered as strongly as officials suggest. Washington says 20 to 30 tankers are now crossing the southern channel each night, carrying around 9 to 10 million barrels of oil. That is still only about half the pre-war volume. Iran rejects US control Iran, meanwhile, has rejected the idea that US military control guarantees lasting security. Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned: “In a region where we don’t sell oil, no one else will sell oil either.” He has also argued that the security of the Strait of Hormuz depends on the “absence” of US troops. The dispute exposes the larger problem. Clearing mines may reopen a physical passage, but does it make the Strait of Hormuz genuinely secure? With tankers still reportedly coming under attack and oil flows below normal levels, Washington’s declaration of victory may be premature. The real test will not be what US officials say has been cleared – but how many ships are willing to sail through the strait.

The US says it cleared Iranian sea mines from the Strait of Hormuz, but tanker trackers and experts question Washington’s claims, raising doubts over whether the key waterway is truly safe.

US plays ‘mine games’ over Hormuz: Iranian mines gone, but is the strait safe?

A minibus carrying churchgoers collided head-on with a truck in central Zimbabwe, killing at least 27 people, police said Saturday, in the latest deadly road crash to hit the country.The crash occurred at around 1830 GMT on Friday near Chivhu, about 140 kilometres (87 miles) south of the capital Harare, police said.The foreign-registered haulage truck was overtaking another vehicle when it collided with the minibus, which was carrying worshippers to a conference.Both vehicles were carrying an "unknown" number of passengers, police said. Seven people were injured in the crash.Footage shared on social media by public broadcaster ZBC showed the mangled minibus charred to a shell, with the truck coming to rest on the opposite side of the road.The crash occurred in a flat, remote stretch of road, with low vegetation lining the roadside and open terrain beyond.Traffic accidents are common in Zimbabwe, where roads are riddled with potholes due to years of underfunding and neglect, and driving standards can be poor.For everyday transport, many Zimbabweans rely on the privately run minibus taxis, known locally as kombi, but they are often criticised for overloading.In April, at least 18 people were killed when a minibus burst into flames on a highway in the south, while earlier that month a woman and her five children died when their vehicle collided with a haulage truck on another highway linking Zimbabwe and South Africa.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Footage shared on social media showed the mangled minibus charred to a shell, with the truck coming to rest on the opposite side of the road.

A minibus carrying churchgoers collided head-on with a truck in central Zimbabwe, killing at least 27 people, police said Saturday, in the latest deadly road crash to hit the country. The crash occurred at around 1830 GMT on Friday near Chivhu, about 140 kilometres (87 miles) south of the capital Harare, police said. The foreign-registered haulage truck was overtaking another vehicle when it collided with the minibus, which was carrying worshippers to a conference. Both vehicles were carrying an "unknown" number of passengers, police said. Seven people were injured in the crash. Footage shared on social media by public broadcaster ZBC showed the mangled minibus charred to a shell, with the truck coming to rest on the opposite side of the road. The crash occurred in a flat, remote stretch of road, with low vegetation lining the roadside and open terrain beyond. Traffic accidents are common in Zimbabwe, where roads are riddled with potholes due to years of underfunding and neglect, and driving standards can be poor. For everyday transport, many Zimbabweans rely on the privately run minibus taxis, known locally as kombi, but they are often criticised for overloading. In April, at least 18 people were killed when a minibus burst into flames on a highway in the south, while earlier that month a woman and her five children died when their vehicle collided with a haulage truck on another highway linking Zimbabwe and South Africa. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Footage shared on social media showed the mangled minibus charred to a shell, with the truck coming to rest on the opposite side of the road.

Zimbabwe crash: 27 churchgoers killed after minibus collides with truck

A leading Dutch drug and mental health institute has issued a “Red Alert” over ecstasy pills shaped like the head of US President Donald Trump, warning that the tablets could be potentially lethal. The Trimbos Institute said on Friday (Aug 28) that several of the pills had recently been submitted to a network of drug-testing centres in the Netherlands, where users can have substances checked before taking them.“Absolutely do not use these pills,” the institute warned.Images released by Trimbos showed tablets featuring a depiction of Trump’s head on one side. The other side carried the markings “NL” and “Trump”, separated by a vertical line. The pills were found in at least green and yellow colours.Warning over dangerous chemicalAccording to the institute, the tablets contain a high concentration of para-methoxymethamphetamine, or PMMA, a substance chemically similar to MDMA, the main active ingredient in ecstasy.Trimbos warned that PMMA can take longer to produce an effect than MDMA. That delay could prompt users to take additional pills, believing the first dose had not worked, increasing the risk of a potentially fatal overdose.The institute said use of the tablets “can lead to overheating with possibly deadly consequences.”Despite the warning, Trimbos spokesperson Anniek Groothuis said there had been no confirmed reports so far of serious illness or deaths linked to the Trump-shaped pills.“We do not know of any victims where PMMA was found in their blood,” she told The Associated Press.Ecstasy remains illegal in the Netherlands, although its use is widespread, particularly in clubs and at music festivals. A Dutch government report published in 2024 estimated that around 550,000 people had used the drug during the year.The pills are also not appearing for the first time. In 2017, German police seized thousands of orange ecstasy tablets moulded in the shape of Trump’s head.

Dutch health institute Trimbos has issued a “Red Alert” over Trump-shaped ecstasy pills containing high levels of PMMA, warning they could cause overheating and potentially deadly consequences.

A leading Dutch drug and mental health institute has issued a “Red Alert” over ecstasy pills shaped like the head of US President Donald Trump, warning that the tablets could be potentially lethal. The Trimbos Institute said on Friday (Aug 28) that several of the pills had recently been submitted to a network of drug-testing centres in the Netherlands, where users can have substances checked before taking them. “Absolutely do not use these pills,” the institute warned. Images released by Trimbos showed tablets featuring a depiction of Trump’s head on one side. The other side carried the markings “NL” and “Trump”, separated by a vertical line. The pills were found in at least green and yellow colours. Warning over dangerous chemical According to the institute, the tablets contain a high concentration of para-methoxymethamphetamine, or PMMA, a substance chemically similar to MDMA, the main active ingredient in ecstasy. Trimbos warned that PMMA can take longer to produce an effect than MDMA. That delay could prompt users to take additional pills, believing the first dose had not worked, increasing the risk of a potentially fatal overdose. The institute said use of the tablets “can lead to overheating with possibly deadly consequences.” Despite the warning, Trimbos spokesperson Anniek Groothuis said there had been no confirmed reports so far of serious illness or deaths linked to the Trump-shaped pills. “We do not know of any victims where PMMA was found in their blood,” she told The Associated Press. Ecstasy remains illegal in the Netherlands, although its use is widespread, particularly in clubs and at music festivals. A Dutch government report published in 2024 estimated that around 550,000 people had used the drug during the year. The pills are also not appearing for the first time. In 2017, German police seized thousands of orange ecstasy tablets moulded in the shape of Trump’s head.

Dutch health institute Trimbos has issued a “Red Alert” over Trump-shaped ecstasy pills containing high levels of PMMA, warning they could cause overheating and potentially deadly consequences.

Trump-shaped ecstasy pills trigger ‘Red Alert’ in Netherlands: ‘Absolutely do not use’

At least 27 people have been killed and dozens more wounded after a Russian drone attack triggered an explosion at a warehouse near Kyiv, Ukrainian officials said. “Unfortunately, as of now, 27 people are known to have died. And this figure may not be final. I offer my sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims,” said Tymur Tkachenko, head of the Kyiv region military administration. The death toll could rise as rescue and recovery operations continue, with officials warning that the number of casualties may not yet be final.&nbsp;Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russian drones struck a warehouse, triggering a powerful blast that caused widespread damage in the surrounding area. Zelensky did not provide specific details about the location of the facility but said authorities would launch an investigation into how ammunition was stored at the site.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-s-visit-will-give-fresh-direction-to-india-kyrgyzstan-strategic-ties-indian-envoy-birender-singh-yadav-says-1787997202775">PM Modi's visit will give ‘fresh direction’ to India–Kyrgyzstan strategic ties, Indian envoy Birender Singh Yadav says</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Russia’s defense ministry said its forces had struck an arms depot that was storing equipment used to manufacture drones. The conflicting accounts come as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues to see frequent drone and missile attacks, with civilian areas repeatedly at risk from explosions and falling debris.&nbsp;Ukrainian prosecutors said they had opened an investigation. "On Friday (28 August) at around 8:10 pm (1710 GMT), an unmanned aerial vehicle... fell on or struck the grounds of an enterprise in the town of Myla," the office of Ukraine's prosecutor general said."A large-scale fire broke out on the enterprise's grounds, and detonation began," it added. Russia launched at least two missiles and over 250 drones at Ukraine between late Friday (August 28) and early Saturday (August 29), as per the Ukrainian air force.

Russian drone attack near Kyiv kills at least 27 people and wounds dozens after a warehouse explosion. Ukraine launches an investigation

At least 27 people have been killed and dozens more wounded after a Russian drone attack triggered an explosion at a warehouse near Kyiv, Ukrainian officials said. “Unfortunately, as of now, 27 people are known to have died. And this figure may not be final. I offer my sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims,” said Tymur Tkachenko, head of the Kyiv region military administration. The death toll could rise as rescue and recovery operations continue, with officials warning that the number of casualties may not yet be final. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russian drones struck a warehouse, triggering a powerful blast that caused widespread damage in the surrounding area. Zelensky did not provide specific details about the location of the facility but said authorities would launch an investigation into how ammunition was stored at the site. Also Read: PM Modi's visit will give ‘fresh direction’ to India–Kyrgyzstan strategic ties, Indian envoy Birender Singh Yadav says Meanwhile, Russia’s defense ministry said its forces had struck an arms depot that was storing equipment used to manufacture drones. The conflicting accounts come as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues to see frequent drone and missile attacks, with civilian areas repeatedly at risk from explosions and falling debris. Ukrainian prosecutors said they had opened an investigation. "On Friday (28 August) at around 8:10 pm (1710 GMT), an unmanned aerial vehicle... fell on or struck the grounds of an enterprise in the town of Myla," the office of Ukraine's prosecutor general said. "A large-scale fire broke out on the enterprise's grounds, and detonation began," it added. Russia launched at least two missiles and over 250 drones at Ukraine between late Friday (August 28) and early Saturday (August 29), as per the Ukrainian air force.

Russian drone strikes near Kyiv triggered a warehouse explosion, killing at least 27 people and injuring dozens, Ukrainian officials said

Russia drone attack near Kyiv kills at least 27, several injured in warehouse explosion

Bishkek: India’s ambassador to Kyrgyzstan has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bishkek will give “fresh direction” to ties already raised to a strategic partnership, with the emphasis falling on defence cooperation, trade and physical connectivity.Ambassador Birender Singh Yadav, speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, pointed out that Modi’s third trip to the Kyrgyz Republic is “primarily to attend” the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) heads-of-state summit. On the sidelines, he will hold bilateral talks with President Sadyr Japarov. The two leaders, Yadav said, are expected to “review the full range of ties and set guidance for the next phase of engagement”.The relationship was elevated to a strategic partnership during Modi’s 2019 visit. “Since then,” Yadav said, “bilateral trade turnover has almost doubled over five to six years.” Defence and security cooperation and people-to-people contacts had also “expanded markedly”.On security, a 2019 memorandum of understanding created a joint working group on defence cooperation. “The group meets annually and has produced an agreed plan of action,” the ambassador said. Joint exercises and training programmes had increased, including “specialised counter-terrorism courses tailored to Kyrgyz requirements”.India also gifted two Bheeshma Arogya Maitri health cubes, portable medical units for disaster relief, during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit in April 2026. These steps, Yadav noted, sit within the SCO’s priorities of “countering terrorism, extremism and separatism, while also deepening the bilateral security partnership”.Trade remains modest in absolute terms but is growing. Yadav said turnover “has nearly doubled and is expected to rise further”. He welcomed the start of negotiations on a free-trade agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union as “a positive step”.Connectivity is the constraint. “There is indeed a challenge regarding direct physical connectivity,” Yadav said. “Both countries are promoting and availing the use of the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC) to provide a streamlined transport corridor for the flow of goods and services between the two nations and to the broader Central Asian region. We are confident that the optimum utilisation of the INSTC transport corridor will significantly help in enhancing our bilateral trade ties.”Indian PM left India on 29 August for a state visit to Uzbekistan before travelling to Bishkek for the SCO summit on 31 August–1 September, which marks the organisation’s 25th anniversary.

PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with President Sadyr Japarov. The two leaders are expected to “review the full range of ties and set guidance for the next phase of engagement”.

Bishkek: India’s ambassador to Kyrgyzstan has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Bishkek will give “fresh direction” to ties already raised to a strategic partnership, with the emphasis falling on defence cooperation, trade and physical connectivity. Ambassador Birender Singh Yadav, speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, pointed out that Modi’s third trip to the Kyrgyz Republic is “primarily to attend” the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) heads-of-state summit. On the sidelines, he will hold bilateral talks with President Sadyr Japarov. The two leaders, Yadav said, are expected to “review the full range of ties and set guidance for the next phase of engagement”. The relationship was elevated to a strategic partnership during Modi’s 2019 visit. “Since then,” Yadav said, “bilateral trade turnover has almost doubled over five to six years.” Defence and security cooperation and people-to-people contacts had also “expanded markedly”. On security, a 2019 memorandum of understanding created a joint working group on defence cooperation. “The group meets annually and has produced an agreed plan of action,” the ambassador said. Joint exercises and training programmes had increased, including “specialised counter-terrorism courses tailored to Kyrgyz requirements”. India also gifted two Bheeshma Arogya Maitri health cubes, portable medical units for disaster relief, during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit in April 2026. These steps, Yadav noted, sit within the SCO’s priorities of “countering terrorism, extremism and separatism, while also deepening the bilateral security partnership”. Trade remains modest in absolute terms but is growing. Yadav said turnover “has nearly doubled and is expected to rise further”. He welcomed the start of negotiations on a free-trade agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union as “a positive step”. Connectivity is the constraint. “There is indeed a challenge regarding direct physical connectivity,” Yadav said. “Both countries are promoting and availing the use of the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC) to provide a streamlined transport corridor for the flow of goods and services between the two nations and to the broader Central Asian region. We are confident that the optimum utilisation of the INSTC transport corridor will significantly help in enhancing our bilateral trade ties.” Indian PM left India on 29 August for a state visit to Uzbekistan before travelling to Bishkek for the SCO summit on 31 August–1 September, which marks the organisation’s 25th anniversary.

PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with President Sadyr Japarov. The two leaders are expected to “review the full range of ties and set guidance for the next phase of engagement”.

PM Modi's visit will give ‘fresh direction’ to India–Kyrgyzstan strategic ties, Indian envoy Birender Singh Yadav says

China on Friday (August 29) removed two senior military officers ‌from its supreme military command body, after investigations were launched against them over suspected serious violations of discipline and law. The removed officers are Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, who were senior PLA figures before their removal from their military careers. Zhang was second-in-command ​under President Xi Jinping as vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) along with being a member ⁠of the elite Politburo of China. On the other hand, Liu was a CMC member and chief of staff of ​the CMC's Joint Staff Department.<h3>What do we know about these military officers?</h3>After joining the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee in 2007, Gen. Zhang Youxia rose slowly through China’s political and military hierarchy. In 2012, he was appointed to the Central Military Commission (CMC), marked as the country’s top military decision-making body. After five years, he entered the 24-member Politburo, which oversees the party and central government and then became the CMC’s second-ranked vice chairman. After President Xi Jinping's third-term appointment in 2022 following a constitutional change, Zhang kept his CMC position and was promoted to first vice chairman, becoming China's highest-ranking military officer. While several senior military figures were removed as part of a widening anti-corruption campaign, Zhang, seen as close to Xi, had seemed to avoid the purge. That changed in January, when China's defence ministry said Zhang and fellow CMC member Liu Zhenli were suspected of "serious violations of discipline and the law", a phrase Chinese authorities typically use to refer to corruption.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-broadcaster-backtracks-on-9-11-terrorism-rule-after-backlash-1787991632252">Canadian broadcaster backtracks on 9/11 ‘terrorism’ rule after backlash</a><h3>Zhang's early career</h3>Zhang served as first-ranked vice chairman of the Central Military Commission. Born in Beijing, he is the son of General Zhang Zongxun. He joined the army in 1968, fighting in the 1979 Sino-Vietnamese War and the 1984 Battle of Laoshan, making him one of China's few serving generals with combat experience. He commanded the 13th Group Army in 2000, became vice commander of the Beijing Military Region in 2005, and led the Shenyang Military Region from 2007, joining the CCP Central Committee.&nbsp;Promoted to General in 2011, he headed the PLA General Armaments Department in 2012, then its successor CMC department in 2016. He became CMC vice chairman in 2017, rising to first-ranked vice chairman in 2022. In January 2026, Zhang was detained, becoming one of the highest-ranking officers to fall since the 1971 Lin Biao incident.<h3>Liu Zhenli</h3>He enlisted in the People's Liberation Army in September 1983 and joined the Chinese Communist Party in April 1984. In 1986, he took part in the Sino-Vietnamese conflicts (1979-1991), where he and his men defended their line against 36 separate assaults by the People's Army of Vietnam. He became chief of staff of the 65th Group Army in December 2009, its commander in February 2012, and commander of the 38th Group Army in March 2014. He transferred to the People's Armed Police in July 2015 as chief of staff, then became the first chief of staff of the reorganised PLA Ground Force in December 2015. He was made commander of the army in June 2021, and in September 2022 was appointed chief of staff of the CMC's Joint Staff Department. He was promoted to major general in December 2010, lieutenant general in July 2016, and general in July 2021.

Zhang was second-in-command ​under President Xi Jinping as vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), along with being a member ⁠of the elite Politburo of China. On the other hand, Liu was a CMC member and chief of staff of ​the CMC's Joint Staff Department.

China on Friday (August 29) removed two senior military officers ‌from its supreme military command body, after investigations were launched against them over suspected serious violations of discipline and law. The removed officers are Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, who were senior PLA figures before their removal from their military careers. Zhang was second-in-command under President Xi Jinping as vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC) along with being a member ⁠of the elite Politburo of China. On the other hand, Liu was a CMC member and chief of staff of the CMC's Joint Staff Department. What do we know about these military officers? After joining the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee in 2007, Gen. Zhang Youxia rose slowly through China’s political and military hierarchy. In 2012, he was appointed to the Central Military Commission (CMC), marked as the country’s top military decision-making body. After five years, he entered the 24-member Politburo, which oversees the party and central government and then became the CMC’s second-ranked vice chairman. After President Xi Jinping's third-term appointment in 2022 following a constitutional change, Zhang kept his CMC position and was promoted to first vice chairman, becoming China's highest-ranking military officer. While several senior military figures were removed as part of a widening anti-corruption campaign, Zhang, seen as close to Xi, had seemed to avoid the purge. That changed in January, when China's defence ministry said Zhang and fellow CMC member Liu Zhenli were suspected of "serious violations of discipline and the law", a phrase Chinese authorities typically use to refer to corruption. Also read: Canadian broadcaster backtracks on 9/11 ‘terrorism’ rule after backlash Zhang's early career Zhang served as first-ranked vice chairman of the Central Military Commission. Born in Beijing, he is the son of General Zhang Zongxun. He joined the army in 1968, fighting in the 1979 Sino-Vietnamese War and the 1984 Battle of Laoshan, making him one of China's few serving generals with combat experience. He commanded the 13th Group Army in 2000, became vice commander of the Beijing Military Region in 2005, and led the Shenyang Military Region from 2007, joining the CCP Central Committee. Promoted to General in 2011, he headed the PLA General Armaments Department in 2012, then its successor CMC department in 2016. He became CMC vice chairman in 2017, rising to first-ranked vice chairman in 2022. In January 2026, Zhang was detained, becoming one of the highest-ranking officers to fall since the 1971 Lin Biao incident. Liu Zhenli He enlisted in the People's Liberation Army in September 1983 and joined the Chinese Communist Party in April 1984. In 1986, he took part in the Sino-Vietnamese conflicts (1979-1991), where he and his men defended their line against 36 separate assaults by the People's Army of Vietnam. He became chief of staff of the 65th Group Army in December 2009, its commander in February 2012, and commander of the 38th Group Army in March 2014. He transferred to the People's Armed Police in July 2015 as chief of staff, then became the first chief of staff of the reorganised PLA Ground Force in December 2015. He was made commander of the army in June 2021, and in September 2022 was appointed chief of staff of the CMC's Joint Staff Department. He was promoted to major general in December 2010, lieutenant general in July 2016, and general in July 2021.

Zhang was second-in-command ​under President Xi Jinping as vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), along with being a member ⁠of the elite Politburo of China. On the other hand, Liu was a CMC member and chief of staff of ​the CMC's Joint Staff Department.

China removes top two military officers from Central Military Commission: Who are they?

Canada’s public broadcaster has changed its policy on describing the September 11, 2001, attacks, allowing its journalists to refer to the historic event as “terrorism” without directly attributing the term to a source. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation announced the shift on Friday (Aug 28), days after an internal language guideline triggered criticism ahead of the 25th anniversary of the attacks.Basem Boshra, CBC’s senior director of journalistic standards, said the broadcaster had previously required journalists to attribute the term when describing the 9/11 attacks. That rule has now been revised.“Direct attribution is not required for describing the historic events of 9/11 as terrorism,” Boshra wrote in a blog post.The earlier guidance drew criticism from politicians and senior US officials after reports said CBC staff had been instructed not to independently use the word “terrorism” in reference to the attacks.FBI Director Kash Patel called the guidance “an insult to the souls lost during our largest terrorist attack in US history”. The US ambassador to Canada also criticised the policy.<h2>CBC says it never denied 9/11 was terrorism</h2>Boshra said the broadcaster had never suggested that the September 11 attacks were anything other than acts of terrorism.“But to be clear, CBC News has never said what happened on Sept. 11, 2001, was not terrorism, as some commentators have stated in recent days,” he wrote.“We have reported fully and accurately on the reasons and motivations for those attacks as determined by police, governments and an independent commission. We’ve just made sure to do it with attribution.”Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre had demanded an apology and withdrawal of the earlier directive, saying: “To call 9/11 anything other than a terrorist attack is an appalling distortion of history.”<h2>Policy retained for new attacks</h2>Boshra said the specific rule on 9/11 had “become an impediment to clarity and public understanding”.However, CBC said it would continue requiring attribution when reporting on new acts of politically or ideologically motivated violence, leaving the broader journalistic standard on terrorism largely unchanged.

CBC has changed its policy after backlash, allowing journalists to describe the 9/11 attacks as “terrorism” without attribution ahead of the 25th anniversary.

Canada’s public broadcaster has changed its policy on describing the September 11, 2001, attacks, allowing its journalists to refer to the historic event as “terrorism” without directly attributing the term to a source. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation announced the shift on Friday (Aug 28), days after an internal language guideline triggered criticism ahead of the 25th anniversary of the attacks. Basem Boshra, CBC’s senior director of journalistic standards, said the broadcaster had previously required journalists to attribute the term when describing the 9/11 attacks. That rule has now been revised. “Direct attribution is not required for describing the historic events of 9/11 as terrorism,” Boshra wrote in a blog post. The earlier guidance drew criticism from politicians and senior US officials after reports said CBC staff had been instructed not to independently use the word “terrorism” in reference to the attacks. FBI Director Kash Patel called the guidance “an insult to the souls lost during our largest terrorist attack in US history”. The US ambassador to Canada also criticised the policy. CBC says it never denied 9/11 was terrorism Boshra said the broadcaster had never suggested that the September 11 attacks were anything other than acts of terrorism. “But to be clear, CBC News has never said what happened on Sept. 11, 2001, was not terrorism, as some commentators have stated in recent days,” he wrote. “We have reported fully and accurately on the reasons and motivations for those attacks as determined by police, governments and an independent commission. We’ve just made sure to do it with attribution.” Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre had demanded an apology and withdrawal of the earlier directive, saying: “To call 9/11 anything other than a terrorist attack is an appalling distortion of history.” Policy retained for new attacks Boshra said the specific rule on 9/11 had “become an impediment to clarity and public understanding”. However, CBC said it would continue requiring attribution when reporting on new acts of politically or ideologically motivated violence, leaving the broader journalistic standard on terrorism largely unchanged.

CBC has changed its policy after backlash, allowing journalists to describe the 9/11 attacks as “terrorism” without attribution ahead of the 25th anniversary.

Canadian broadcaster backtracks on 9/11 ‘terrorism’ rule after backlash

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is considering bringing hundreds of senior military personnel back to Marine Corps Base Quantico later this year for another major address, according to US officials. The potential gathering would come nearly a year after Hegseth ordered the country’s generals and admirals to assemble at Quantico on short notice. The unusual meeting, held last September without an initial explanation, surprised senior military officers and generated concern within the ranks.&nbsp;Hegseth used that event to outline his priorities for the Pentagon, including a rejection of policies from the previous administration that he characterizes as ‘woke’. He also stressed that the military should refocus on what he describes as its central mission: warfighting. “For too long, we have simply not done that. The military has been forced by foolish and reckless politicians to focus on the wrong things,” Hegseth said. “In many ways, this speech is about fixing decades of decay, some of it obvious, some of it hidden.”&nbsp;Hegseth is expected to use the same venue again to present his priorities, according to the officials. One official said the defense secretary could also announce a new set of directives for the armed forces. The exact date of the proposed gathering has not been determined, and it remains unclear whether every serving general and admiral would be required to attend. “We have nothing to announce at this time,” said Pentagon spokesman Joel Valdez.&nbsp;Since taking over as Pentagon chief last year, Hegseth has sought to reverse diversity and inclusion initiatives associated with the previous administration. He has argued that such policies undermined military standards and has advocated for a culture placing greater emphasis on physical fitness and military readiness rather than what he calls “wokeness.” His approach has drawn criticism from military experts and former officials, who argue that Hegseth is pushing the armed services in an increasingly partisan direction.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/x-uncovers-suspected-chinese-bot-farm-targeting-us-ai-and-data-center-debate-1787986800724">X exposes suspected Chinese influence campaign over AI, energy and data centers</a>&nbsp;The response from military officers at last year’s event was notably restrained. Hegseth and President Trump, who opened the gathering, received a polite but muted reaction, with officers largely remaining stone-faced during the presentations. Strict military regulations prohibit personnel from engaging in or encouraging political activity, a factor that shaped the atmosphere during the event. Trump used his lengthy address to defend the administration’s deployment of military forces to police American cities while also warning that further action could follow.&nbsp;“What they’ve done to San Francisco, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, they’re very unsafe places, and we’re going to straighten them out one by one,” Trump said. “And this is going to be a major part for some of the people in this room. That’s a war too. It’s a war from within.” It remains uncertain whether Trump will attend a potential second gathering at Quantico. During his address last year, Hegseth placed particular emphasis on military standards, saying service members would be evaluated on their physical fitness and appearance.&nbsp;“The era of unprofessional appearance is over,” Hegseth said. “No more beardos.” At the same time, the Pentagon released 11 memorandums detailing the administration’s priorities for the department. The measures included changes to fitness and grooming requirements. “When it comes to any job that requires physical power to perform in combat, those physical standards must be high and gender-neutral,” Hegseth said. “If that means no women qualify for some combat jobs, so be it.”

Pete Hegseth may gather hundreds of senior military leaders at Quantico again to outline Pentagon priorities, new directives, military standards and policies

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is considering bringing hundreds of senior military personnel back to Marine Corps Base Quantico later this year for another major address, according to US officials. The potential gathering would come nearly a year after Hegseth ordered the country’s generals and admirals to assemble at Quantico on short notice. The unusual meeting, held last September without an initial explanation, surprised senior military officers and generated concern within the ranks. Hegseth used that event to outline his priorities for the Pentagon, including a rejection of policies from the previous administration that he characterizes as ‘woke’. He also stressed that the military should refocus on what he describes as its central mission: warfighting. “For too long, we have simply not done that. The military has been forced by foolish and reckless politicians to focus on the wrong things,” Hegseth said. “In many ways, this speech is about fixing decades of decay, some of it obvious, some of it hidden.” Hegseth is expected to use the same venue again to present his priorities, according to the officials. One official said the defense secretary could also announce a new set of directives for the armed forces. The exact date of the proposed gathering has not been determined, and it remains unclear whether every serving general and admiral would be required to attend. “We have nothing to announce at this time,” said Pentagon spokesman Joel Valdez. Since taking over as Pentagon chief last year, Hegseth has sought to reverse diversity and inclusion initiatives associated with the previous administration. He has argued that such policies undermined military standards and has advocated for a culture placing greater emphasis on physical fitness and military readiness rather than what he calls “wokeness.” His approach has drawn criticism from military experts and former officials, who argue that Hegseth is pushing the armed services in an increasingly partisan direction. Also Read: X exposes suspected Chinese influence campaign over AI, energy and data centers The response from military officers at last year’s event was notably restrained. Hegseth and President Trump, who opened the gathering, received a polite but muted reaction, with officers largely remaining stone-faced during the presentations. Strict military regulations prohibit personnel from engaging in or encouraging political activity, a factor that shaped the atmosphere during the event. Trump used his lengthy address to defend the administration’s deployment of military forces to police American cities while also warning that further action could follow. “What they’ve done to San Francisco, Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, they’re very unsafe places, and we’re going to straighten them out one by one,” Trump said. “And this is going to be a major part for some of the people in this room. That’s a war too. It’s a war from within.” It remains uncertain whether Trump will attend a potential second gathering at Quantico. During his address last year, Hegseth placed particular emphasis on military standards, saying service members would be evaluated on their physical fitness and appearance. “The era of unprofessional appearance is over,” Hegseth said. “No more beardos.” At the same time, the Pentagon released 11 memorandums detailing the administration’s priorities for the department. The measures included changes to fitness and grooming requirements. “When it comes to any job that requires physical power to perform in combat, those physical standards must be high and gender-neutral,” Hegseth said. “If that means no women qualify for some combat jobs, so be it.”

As per report, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth may bring hundreds of senior military leaders to Quantico again to outline Pentagon priorities and issue new directives

Pete Hegseth may gather top military leaders again at Quantico? Here’s what report says

Days after the tragic Nepal floods thousands remain missing, with families awaiting news about their loved ones. While Nepal on Saturday upped the death toll to 626, China's Xinhua news agency early Saturday reported that across the border in Tibet only 7 deaths have been recorded, with 554 missing. The low number seems doubtful, especially given the scale of destruction the floods have left in their wake.Now, a video from Gyirong Port, a vital land border crossing between Tibet, China, and Rasuwa, Nepal is further raising questions about Beijing's censorship.The video in question is difficult to miss. It shows a wall of water and mud rushing through Gyirong Port as people run for safety and everything in its path is swept away.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-tibet-flood-disaster-death-toll-hits-586-over-2-400-missing-as-rescue-effort-faces-fresh-flood-threat-1787964592622">Nepal-Tibet flood disaster: Death toll hits 586, over 2,400 missing as rescue effort faces fresh flood threat</a>The footage, captured by CCTV cameras has quickly spread across social media and television screens around the world.In China, however, the same images have been far harder to find, reports BBC. Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A massive mudslide struck Gyirong Port on the China-Nepal border, with CCTV footage showing a wall of debris slamming through the crossing in seconds, tossing vehicles and buses. Nepal reports at least 8-16 dead with hundreds of travelers listed as missing, including 291… <a href="https://t.co/ZXfDIUaGsC">pic.twitter.com/ZXfDIUaGsC</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2092570543430000883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>China censoring visuals of Nepal-Tibet floods?</h2>So far, China's state-run media has shown only a single still image from the flooding. According to the report by BBC's Laura Bicker, finding the shocking video on China's heavily controlled internet has proved difficult. So has finding detailed first-hand accounts of a disaster that has killed hundreds and left many more missing.This is now drawing attention to the way Beijing manages information about Tibet, particularly during a major crisis.<h2>China's response is visible, but tightly controlled</h2>Beijing has mounted a large rescue operation in the affected region. Hundreds of emergency workers have been deployed, while President Xi Jinping chaired a meeting on the response.Chinese state media has also reported on rescue teams working in dangerous conditions, including specialists scaling mountains and crossing swollen rivers. Officials have warned about a barrier lake formed by debris that could overflow and trigger further flooding.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-floods-china-warns-artificial-lake-formed-after-mudslide-could-breach-send-more-floodwaters-downstream-death-toll-392-1787879651104">Nepal floods: China warns artificial lake formed after mudslide could breach, send more floodwaters downstream</a>But notably, beyond those official updates, there is little independent information available.There are few accounts from survivors in Tibet, almost no user-generated footage showing the flooding as it happened and little information from families searching for missing relatives.Foreign journalists, as per reports are facing trouble accessing Tibet. The access remains tightly controlled and requires government permission, making independent reporting during a fast-moving disaster particularly difficult.<h2>Why Tibet is especially sensitive for Beijing</h2>The information blackout is taking place against the backdrop of Tibet's complicated political history with Beijing.China brought Tibet under Communist rule in the 1950s after years of resistance to Chinese control. Beijing has since faced criticism over its policies in the region, while Tibetan groups abroad have accused the government of restricting religious and cultural freedoms.The Chinese government rejects those allegations and points instead to extensive investment in Tibet, including infrastructure and tourism development.Yet the region remains politically sensitive, and that sensitivity becomes especially visible when a major disaster draws international attention.<h2>Why is China censoring a natural disaster?</h2>One explanation for the limited coverage could be Beijing's longstanding emphasis on maintaining social stability.Local Communist Party officials moved quickly after the disaster, urging grassroots members to assist with relief work and provide emotional and psychological support to residents.One particularly striking instruction, BBC reports told party members to "make every effort to maintain social order and ensure stability and public confidence in the disaster areas".The directive also warned that officials who performed well would be rewarded, while those who failed would be held accountable.<h2>Videos and accounts disappearing online</h2>Advocacy group, International Campaign for Tibet has meanwhile praised emergency responders but said Chinese authorities were removing videos and first-hand accounts from social media.The group called on Beijing to "disclose complete and verifiable information about the damage and casualties".&nbsp;

A terrifying video showing floodwaters ripping through Gyirong Port has spread across the world. But inside China, the same footage is remarkably difficult to find, raising fresh questions about how Beijing is handling information from the disaster zone. Watch below.

Days after the tragic Nepal floods thousands remain missing, with families awaiting news about their loved ones. While Nepal on Saturday upped the death toll to 626, China's Xinhua news agency early Saturday reported that across the border in Tibet only 7 deaths have been recorded, with 554 missing. The low number seems doubtful, especially given the scale of destruction the floods have left in their wake. Now, a video from Gyirong Port, a vital land border crossing between Tibet, China, and Rasuwa, Nepal is further raising questions about Beijing's censorship. The video in question is difficult to miss. It shows a wall of water and mud rushing through Gyirong Port as people run for safety and everything in its path is swept away. Also read | Nepal-Tibet flood disaster: Death toll hits 586, over 2,400 missing as rescue effort faces fresh flood threat The footage, captured by CCTV cameras has quickly spread across social media and television screens around the world. In China, however, the same images have been far harder to find, reports BBC. Watch it here:

A terrifying video showing floodwaters ripping through Gyirong Port has spread across the world. But inside China, the same footage is remarkably difficult to find, raising fresh questions about how Beijing is handling information from the disaster zone. Watch below.

Watch | Terrifying video shows floodwaters ripping through Tibet's Gyirong Port, yet footage remains missing from China's social media

A teleprompter operator who worked for President Donald Trump has been directed to pay $172,000 after using details from upcoming speeches to make trades on a prediction market, a federal agency said Friday night. According to several media reports, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said Gabriel Perez used “material, nonpublic information” gained through his job to place “trades” on a prediction market, The CFTC stated that Perez was directed to pay the money he made in profits, $107,539.02, along with a civil penalty of $65,000. He has also been barred from trading on prediction markets for the next three years. The trades were made through Kalshi, which the CFTC noted cooperated with the investigation. “A Kalshi surveillance investigation caught a White House staffer engaging in prohibited trading activity. Today this individual was subjected to penalties by the CFTC and by our exchange,” Bobby DeNault, Kalshi’s lead lawyer, said in a post on social media platform X. “It doesn’t matter who you are: violate our rules or federal law, and you will face the consequences,” he also said, adding that the White House did not respond to an email seeking comment on Friday night. Calling it a case of insider trading, CFTC added that Perez traded presidential mention market contracts, reflecting words or phrases the President may use during his speeches.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/209-billion-for-venezuela-delcy-rodriguez-reveals-what-caracas-stands-to-gain-from-inside-trump-s-oil-deal-1787975072331">$209 billion for Venezuela? Delcy Rodriguez reveals what Caracas stands to gain from Trump's oil deal</a><h3>Exemplary cooperation</h3>Perez worked as a technical assistant to the president, having handled teleprompter duties for Trump since 2016. When announcing the fine and penalties on Friday, the CFTC pointed to what it described as Perez's "exemplary cooperation" throughout the case. Back in July, then-White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt condemned the online trading as an ethical violation, calling it deeply unfortunate and outright disgraceful. Perez was put on leave that same month, with Leavitt indicating at the time that he would no longer remain in his position.

The CFTC said Perez was directed to pay the money he made in profits, $107,539.02, along with a civil penalty of $65,000. He has also been barred from trading on prediction markets for the next three years.

A teleprompter operator who worked for President Donald Trump has been directed to pay $172,000 after using details from upcoming speeches to make trades on a prediction market, a federal agency said Friday night. According to several media reports, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said Gabriel Perez used “material, nonpublic information” gained through his job to place “trades” on a prediction market, The CFTC stated that Perez was directed to pay the money he made in profits, $107,539.02, along with a civil penalty of $65,000. He has also been barred from trading on prediction markets for the next three years. The trades were made through Kalshi, which the CFTC noted cooperated with the investigation. “A Kalshi surveillance investigation caught a White House staffer engaging in prohibited trading activity. Today this individual was subjected to penalties by the CFTC and by our exchange,” Bobby DeNault, Kalshi’s lead lawyer, said in a post on social media platform X. “It doesn’t matter who you are: violate our rules or federal law, and you will face the consequences,” he also said, adding that the White House did not respond to an email seeking comment on Friday night. Calling it a case of insider trading, CFTC added that Perez traded presidential mention market contracts, reflecting words or phrases the President may use during his speeches. Also read: $209 billion for Venezuela? Delcy Rodriguez reveals what Caracas stands to gain from Trump's oil deal Exemplary cooperation Perez worked as a technical assistant to the president, having handled teleprompter duties for Trump since 2016. When announcing the fine and penalties on Friday, the CFTC pointed to what it described as Perez's "exemplary cooperation" throughout the case. Back in July, then-White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt condemned the online trading as an ethical violation, calling it deeply unfortunate and outright disgraceful. Perez was put on leave that same month, with Leavitt indicating at the time that he would no longer remain in his position.

The CFTC said Perez was directed to pay the money he made in profits, $107,539.02, along with a civil penalty of $65,000. He has also been barred from trading on prediction markets for the next three years.

Trump's teleprompter operator fined $172,000 over insider trading on speeches

After Nepal’s U-turn on its stance on accepting foreign assistance, India has sent an 11-member team for medical and tunnel rescue operations. The team comprises doctors, paramedics, and reconnaissance personnel. The Reconnaissance operations to rescue the people trapped in the tunnel are expected to begin Saturday (Aug 29). This comes after the death toll crossed the 600 mark after the deadly floods near the Tibet border. As of now, 2,426 are reported missing, according to the country’s disaster agency. Meanwhile, China has confirmed that seven people were killed, while 554 remain missing in Tibet, bringing the total number of missing people to nearly 3,000.Nepal has also requested India and China to help construct 42 Bailey bridges to resume transport services in the flood-affected areas. These portable bridges can be assembled quickly without heavy machinery or special tools.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-nepal-tibet-floods-live-updates-nepal-death-toll-crosses-600-as-2-000-remain-missing-1787973546802">Nepal-Tibet floods LIVE updates: Nepal death toll crosses 600, nearly 2,500 remain missing</a>Earlier on Friday (Aug 28), Nepal’s foreign ministry said that it did not need foreign assistance for search and rescue operations despite help offered from several countries. Several foreign nationals are also reported missing in the disaster.“The offer for help is natural. Our security agencies are doing the search and rescue operation. For now we don’t require such help,” Lok Bahadur Chhetri, spokesperson for the foreign ministry.However, following international pressure, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said that the government is ready to take international assistance in cases where technical expertise is required for extremely complex physical structures.This comes after devastating floods swept through the Himalayan nation, leaving a massive trail of destruction. The US Geological Survey said the disaster was triggered by a glacial collapse, initially mistaken for a magnitude 4.4 earthquake. The resulting debris flow had “catastrophic” downstream impacts across Nepal and Tibet. Environmentalists have described the surge as being “like an inland tsunami”, travelling nearly 170 kilometres into Nepal.

After Nepal reversed its stance on foreign aid, India sent an 11-member rescue team as the flood death toll crossed 600 and nearly 3,000 people remained missing across Nepal and Tibet.

After Nepal’s U-turn on its stance on accepting foreign assistance, India has sent an 11-member team for medical and tunnel rescue operations. The team comprises doctors, paramedics, and reconnaissance personnel. The Reconnaissance operations to rescue the people trapped in the tunnel are expected to begin Saturday (Aug 29). This comes after the death toll crossed the 600 mark after the deadly floods near the Tibet border. As of now, 2,426 are reported missing, according to the country’s disaster agency. Meanwhile, China has confirmed that seven people were killed, while 554 remain missing in Tibet, bringing the total number of missing people to nearly 3,000. Nepal has also requested India and China to help construct 42 Bailey bridges to resume transport services in the flood-affected areas. These portable bridges can be assembled quickly without heavy machinery or special tools. Also read | Nepal-Tibet floods LIVE updates: Nepal death toll crosses 600, nearly 2,500 remain missing Earlier on Friday (Aug 28), Nepal’s foreign ministry said that it did not need foreign assistance for search and rescue operations despite help offered from several countries. Several foreign nationals are also reported missing in the disaster. “The offer for help is natural. Our security agencies are doing the search and rescue operation. For now we don’t require such help,” Lok Bahadur Chhetri, spokesperson for the foreign ministry. However, following international pressure, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal said that the government is ready to take international assistance in cases where technical expertise is required for extremely complex physical structures. This comes after devastating floods swept through the Himalayan nation, leaving a massive trail of destruction. The US Geological Survey said the disaster was triggered by a glacial collapse, initially mistaken for a magnitude 4.4 earthquake. The resulting debris flow had “catastrophic” downstream impacts across Nepal and Tibet. Environmentalists have described the surge as being “like an inland tsunami”, travelling nearly 170 kilometres into Nepal.

After Nepal reversed its stance on foreign aid, India sent an 11-member rescue team as the flood death toll crossed 600 and nearly 3,000 people remained missing across Nepal and Tibet.

India sends 11-member rescue team as Nepal seeks help to build 42 Bailey bridges

X, formerly known as Twitter, says it has uncovered a massive suspected Chinese bot farm that was allegedly conducting influence operations in the United States, including efforts to amplify criticism of artificial intelligence and data centers. The disclosure comes amid an increasingly heated national debate over the costs and benefits of rapidly expanding AI infrastructure. The issue has significant political implications, with Republicans increasingly divided over AI development and the construction of the massive data centers needed to support the technology.&nbsp;X’s Global Government Affairs account said the platform’s safety team identified a bot farm consisting of approximately 200,000 inauthentic Chinese accounts that were ‘involved in influence operations’. According to X, about 200 accounts within the network were identified as posting “in a manner that could manipulate a legitimate debate about American AI and energy policy.” The platform said posts from the accounts promoted claims that AI data centers are increasing household electricity bills and putting additional pressure on the US power grid.&nbsp;Other accounts allegedly shared AI-generated cartoons portraying data center developers as benefiting financially while ordinary Americans bear the costs. One image showed concerned citizens facing data center developers carrying bags of cash, accompanied by the caption, “Data centers get subsidized while we foot the bill!” Another image stated that “the AI industry is booming, but the costs are being borne by ordinary people.” The findings come after OpenAI announced earlier this summer that it had banned a "cluster of ChatGPT accounts that likely originated in China" that were allegedly being used to conduct a "covert influence operation" primarily aimed at US audiences.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-throws-out-9-11-attack-mastermind-khalid-sheikh-mohammed-s-fbi-confession-over-torture-concerns-1787985338771">Judge throws out 9/11 attack mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed's FBI confession over torture concerns</a>&nbsp;OpenAI said those accounts generated short comments and images that similarly promoted claims that AI development and data centers were increasing electricity demand and contributing to higher costs. The alleged influence campaigns emerged as the United States continues to debate the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure. Critics argue that the data centers needed to power AI systems can place additional pressure on electricity supplies, raise energy costs, create environmental concerns and potentially affect nearby property values.&nbsp;Supporters, however, argue that expanding AI data center capacity is important for U.S. national security and technological competitiveness. They also point to job creation, investment and increased tax revenue for communities hosting the facilities.The political debate intensified this week when President Donald Trump suggested at the White House that the AI industry needs “a little public relations help.” Trump pointed to a May Gallup poll showing that a majority of Americans oppose data centers being constructed in their communities.&nbsp;He argued that states and local communities should welcome data center projects because “the jobs are enormous, and the money paid, the taxes paid are just enormous.” "And if you don't take it, you're going to be left behind because there are plenty of places that want it," he added. At the same time, Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., has argued that China could benefit from excessive US concerns about AI development.&nbsp;Fetterman warned that China benefits from "overreaction" to "AI doomsdaying" as Washington and Beijing compete for leadership in artificial intelligence. Fetterman wrote that “AI supremacy and energy dominance underpins our national security.” Following the discovery of the suspected Chinese influence campaign, X’s Global Government Affairs team said the platform would continue taking action against accounts that violate its policies.&nbsp;“We take seriously any attempts to undermine the integrity of the global town square and suspend accounts that violate our Authenticity policy.” &nbsp;The platform added that it remains “committed to maintaining an open and authentic platform where people debate topics of public interest.” The allegations add another layer to the growing US debate over AI, energy consumption and data center expansion, while also highlighting concerns about foreign influence operations shaping online political discussions.

X says it uncovered a suspected Chinese bot farm pushing anti-AI and anti-data center narratives as the US debates energy costs and AI growth

X, formerly known as Twitter, says it has uncovered a massive suspected Chinese bot farm that was allegedly conducting influence operations in the United States, including efforts to amplify criticism of artificial intelligence and data centers. The disclosure comes amid an increasingly heated national debate over the costs and benefits of rapidly expanding AI infrastructure. The issue has significant political implications, with Republicans increasingly divided over AI development and the construction of the massive data centers needed to support the technology. X’s Global Government Affairs account said the platform’s safety team identified a bot farm consisting of approximately 200,000 inauthentic Chinese accounts that were ‘involved in influence operations’. According to X, about 200 accounts within the network were identified as posting “in a manner that could manipulate a legitimate debate about American AI and energy policy.” The platform said posts from the accounts promoted claims that AI data centers are increasing household electricity bills and putting additional pressure on the US power grid. Other accounts allegedly shared AI-generated cartoons portraying data center developers as benefiting financially while ordinary Americans bear the costs. One image showed concerned citizens facing data center developers carrying bags of cash, accompanied by the caption, “Data centers get subsidized while we foot the bill!” Another image stated that “the AI industry is booming, but the costs are being borne by ordinary people.” The findings come after OpenAI announced earlier this summer that it had banned a "cluster of ChatGPT accounts that likely originated in China" that were allegedly being used to conduct a "covert influence operation" primarily aimed at US audiences. Also Read: Judge throws out 9/11 attack mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed's FBI confession over torture concerns OpenAI said those accounts generated short comments and images that similarly promoted claims that AI development and data centers were increasing electricity demand and contributing to higher costs. The alleged influence campaigns emerged as the United States continues to debate the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure. Critics argue that the data centers needed to power AI systems can place additional pressure on electricity supplies, raise energy costs, create environmental concerns and potentially affect nearby property values. Supporters, however, argue that expanding AI data center capacity is important for U.S. national security and technological competitiveness. They also point to job creation, investment and increased tax revenue for communities hosting the facilities. The political debate intensified this week when President Donald Trump suggested at the White House that the AI industry needs “a little public relations help.” Trump pointed to a May Gallup poll showing that a majority of Americans oppose data centers being constructed in their communities. He argued that states and local communities should welcome data center projects because “the jobs are enormous, and the money paid, the taxes paid are just enormous.” "And if you don't take it, you're going to be left behind because there are plenty of places that want it," he added. At the same time, Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., has argued that China could benefit from excessive US concerns about AI development. Fetterman warned that China benefits from "overreaction" to "AI doomsdaying" as Washington and Beijing compete for leadership in artificial intelligence. Fetterman wrote that “AI supremacy and energy dominance underpins our national security.” Following the discovery of the suspected Chinese influence campaign, X’s Global Government Affairs team said the platform would continue taking action against accounts that violate its policies. “We take seriously any attempts to undermine the integrity of the global town square and suspend accounts that violate our Authenticity policy.” The platform added that it remains “committed to maintaining an open and authentic platform where people debate topics of public interest.” The allegations add another layer to the growing US debate over AI, energy consumption and data center expansion, while also highlighting concerns about foreign influence operations shaping online political discussions.

X says it uncovered a suspected Chinese bot farm targeting US debate over artificial intelligence, data centers, electricity costs and energy policy

X exposes suspected Chinese influence campaign over AI, energy and data centers

A military judge on Friday (Aug 18) threw out a confession that alleged September 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed gave to FBI agents nearly 20 years ago, ruling that the statements were not made voluntarily.The decision is another setback for the US government's long-running effort to bring Mohammed and his co-defendants to trial at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.Judge Lt. Col. Michael Schrama issued the ruling just days after setting June 2028 as the trial date for Mohammed and three other defendants.<h2>FBI statements suppressed</h2>According to the court order, which had not been publicly released, Schrama suppressed statements Mohammed made during a four-day FBI interrogation at Guantanamo in January 2007.The judge found that Mohammed's earlier treatment by the CIA had affected whether those later statements could be considered voluntary.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/9-11-mastermind-khalid-sheikh-mohammed-pushed-to-2028-after-more-than-two-decades-of-delays-guantanamo-bay-1787798298127">9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed to finally face trial in 2028, nearly 27 years after horrific attacks</a>Mohammed had been captured in 2003 and held in secret CIA facilities, where he was subjected to waterboarding and other interrogation techniques widely regarded as torture.Schrama found that the CIA's treatment had left Mohammed fearing that he would face severe mistreatment if he did not cooperate with interrogators. The judge also found that Mohammed had not been given a Miranda warning about his right to remain silent and had been told he could not speak to a lawyer.<h2>Prosecutors consider appeal</h2>The ruling could significantly affect the government's case, given the importance of Mohammed's statements to the prosecution.Rear Adm. Aaron C. Rugh, the prosecutor handling the case, told The New York Times that the government would decide "in the near future" whether to appeal the ruling.The decision has also prompted a sharp disagreement from one of the FBI agents who questioned Mohammed. Retired FBI agent Frank Pellegrino told CBS News that he believed Mohammed had confessed voluntarily. Pellegrino said he had made it clear that Mohammed did not have to speak to him. "Now, whether that fits within what is required legally, based on other activities, a court's got to decide that," Pellegrino said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-venezuela-oil-deal-65-billion-barrels-us-control-1787964008355">Trump claims 'biggest oil deal in world history' with Venezuela, says US will control majority of 65 billion barrels</a><h2>Trial already delayed for years</h2>Mohammed is accused of developing the plan to hijack commercial aircraft and use them in the September 11 attacks on the Pentagon and World Trade Center. He has been held at Guantanamo Bay along with other defendants while the case has been entangled in arguments over evidence, interrogation practices, and the military commission system.Schrama scheduled the trial for June 5, 2028, earlier this week. The latest ruling means another major evidentiary issue will now have to be dealt with before proceedings can begin.<h2>Death penalty remains possible</h2>Mohammed could face the death penalty if convicted. He and two other defendants agreed to plea deals in 2024 that would have allowed them to avoid capital punishment. Those agreements were later rejected after then-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin overruled them, and an appeals court subsequently overturned the plea arrangements. &nbsp;

A key piece of evidence in the long-delayed 9/11 case has been thrown out. A Guantanamo judge ruled that statements Khalid Sheikh Mohammed gave to FBI agents were not made voluntarily, dealing another setback to the prosecution.

A military judge on Friday (Aug 18) threw out a confession that alleged September 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed gave to FBI agents nearly 20 years ago, ruling that the statements were not made voluntarily. The decision is another setback for the US government's long-running effort to bring Mohammed and his co-defendants to trial at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Judge Lt. Col. Michael Schrama issued the ruling just days after setting June 2028 as the trial date for Mohammed and three other defendants. FBI statements suppressed According to the court order, which had not been publicly released, Schrama suppressed statements Mohammed made during a four-day FBI interrogation at Guantanamo in January 2007. The judge found that Mohammed's earlier treatment by the CIA had affected whether those later statements could be considered voluntary. Also read | 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed to finally face trial in 2028, nearly 27 years after horrific attacks Mohammed had been captured in 2003 and held in secret CIA facilities, where he was subjected to waterboarding and other interrogation techniques widely regarded as torture. Schrama found that the CIA's treatment had left Mohammed fearing that he would face severe mistreatment if he did not cooperate with interrogators. The judge also found that Mohammed had not been given a Miranda warning about his right to remain silent and had been told he could not speak to a lawyer. Prosecutors consider appeal The ruling could significantly affect the government's case, given the importance of Mohammed's statements to the prosecution. Rear Adm. Aaron C. Rugh, the prosecutor handling the case, told The New York Times that the government would decide "in the near future" whether to appeal the ruling. The decision has also prompted a sharp disagreement from one of the FBI agents who questioned Mohammed. Retired FBI agent Frank Pellegrino told CBS News that he believed Mohammed had confessed voluntarily. Pellegrino said he had made it clear that Mohammed did not have to speak to him. "Now, whether that fits within what is required legally, based on other activities, a court's got to decide that," Pellegrino said. Also read | Trump claims 'biggest oil deal in world history' with Venezuela, says US will control majority of 65 billion barrels Trial already delayed for years Mohammed is accused of developing the plan to hijack commercial aircraft and use them in the September 11 attacks on the Pentagon and World Trade Center. He has been held at Guantanamo Bay along with other defendants while the case has been entangled in arguments over evidence, interrogation practices, and the military commission system. Schrama scheduled the trial for June 5, 2028, earlier this week. The latest ruling means another major evidentiary issue will now have to be dealt with before proceedings can begin. Death penalty remains possible Mohammed could face the death penalty if convicted. He and two other defendants agreed to plea deals in 2024 that would have allowed them to avoid capital punishment. Those agreements were later rejected after then-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin overruled them, and an appeals court subsequently overturned the plea arrangements.

A key piece of evidence in the long-delayed 9/11 case has been thrown out. A Guantanamo judge ruled that statements Khalid Sheikh Mohammed gave to FBI agents were not made voluntarily, dealing another setback to the prosecution.

Judge throws out 9/11 attack mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed's FBI confession over torture concerns

US President Donald Trump on Friday (August 29) announced the creation of a "Space Academy" in order to train future civilian and military recruits for an arena where America faces rivalry with China. Addressing the Johnson Space Centre of NASA in Houston, Trump stated that the institution would be modelled on the famed US military academy at West Point. "It's called the U.S. Space Academy. That's a big deal," Trump said because he signed an executive order creating the new school. "It'll serve both the United States Space Force as well as NASA and the civilian spaceflight industry, and it'll attract, train, and graduate the very best of our nation."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/209-billion-for-venezuela-delcy-rodriguez-reveals-what-caracas-stands-to-gain-from-inside-trump-s-oil-deal-1787975072331">$209 billion for Venezuela? Delcy Rodriguez reveals what Caracas stands to gain from Trump's oil deal</a><h3>US Space Force as the sixth branch of the US armed forces</h3>Trump has applauded the US Space Force, crediting it as the sixth branch of the US armed forces that played an important role in the recent American military operations in Venezuela and Iran. However, he did not confirm the site of the new academy that will be built. During the same event, he awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honour to the astronauts of NASA's Artemis 2 mission, which completed a lunar flyby in April. The move reflects how space has increasingly become a strategic priority for major powers, both militarily and technologically. The US is currently in a race with China to put astronauts back on the Moon before the decade is out — more than five decades after the first Moon landing. Just last week, Trump spoke of ushering in a "golden age" of space exploration, signalling plans to ramp up rocket launches, including missions aimed at Mars and the Moon.

During the same event, he awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honour to the astronauts of NASA's Artemis 2 mission, which completed a lunar flyby in April. 

US President Donald Trump on Friday (August 29) announced the creation of a "Space Academy" in order to train future civilian and military recruits for an arena where America faces rivalry with China. Addressing the Johnson Space Centre of NASA in Houston, Trump stated that the institution would be modelled on the famed US military academy at West Point. "It's called the U.S. Space Academy. That's a big deal," Trump said because he signed an executive order creating the new school. "It'll serve both the United States Space Force as well as NASA and the civilian spaceflight industry, and it'll attract, train, and graduate the very best of our nation." Also read: $209 billion for Venezuela? Delcy Rodriguez reveals what Caracas stands to gain from Trump's oil deal US Space Force as the sixth branch of the US armed forces Trump has applauded the US Space Force, crediting it as the sixth branch of the US armed forces that played an important role in the recent American military operations in Venezuela and Iran. However, he did not confirm the site of the new academy that will be built. During the same event, he awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honour to the astronauts of NASA's Artemis 2 mission, which completed a lunar flyby in April. The move reflects how space has increasingly become a strategic priority for major powers, both militarily and technologically. The US is currently in a race with China to put astronauts back on the Moon before the decade is out — more than five decades after the first Moon landing. Just last week, Trump spoke of ushering in a "golden age" of space exploration, signalling plans to ramp up rocket launches, including missions aimed at Mars and the Moon.

During the same event, he awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honour to the astronauts of NASA's Artemis 2 mission, which completed a lunar flyby in April.&nbsp;

Donald Trump announces new 'US Space Academy' amid space race with China

Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodriguez on Friday (Aug 28) said that the oil agreement announced by US President Donald Trump could generate more than $209 billion in taxes for Venezuela. This comes as Caracas prepares to open 17 strategic oil fields to private operators, particularly US companies.Rodriguez described the arrangement as a major step towards reviving Venezuela's battered energy industry after years of underinvestment, mismanagement, and sanctions.In a statement shared on Telegram, Rodriguez said the agreement would bring more than $100 billion in investment into the country's oil sector. "The agreement will allow for a significant increase in oil production with the participation of private operators," Rodriguez said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-venezuela-oil-deal-65-billion-barrels-us-control-1787964008355">Trump claims 'biggest oil deal in world history' with Venezuela, says US will control majority of 65 billion barrels</a><h2>17 oil fields, 65 billion barrels</h2>According to Rodriguez, the plan covers 17 strategic fields with a proven potential of 65 billion barrels of oil. She said the investments would go towards recovering and modernising Venezuela's hydrocarbons industry and rebuilding strategic infrastructure."This initiative is the result of the strengthening of relations between Venezuela and the United States, and it will facilitate a significant flow of investment aimed at the recovery and reconstruction of strategic infrastructure for the development of our hydrocarbons industry," she said.Rodriguez noted that the project was expected to generate more than $209 billion in taxes for the Venezuelan state. She also linked the deal to broader economic and energy objectives, saying it could support Venezuela's economic growth while contributing to "the energy security of our hemisphere" and greater balance in international markets.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canada-trade-war-trump-orders-lake-ontario-renamed-lake-america-canada-hits-back-1787878478524">US-Canada trade war: Canada hits back as Trump orders Lake Ontario renamed 'Lake America'</a><h2>Trump seeks more Venezuelan oil</h2>Trump announced the agreement on Friday, saying the United States would secure majority control over more than 65 billion barrels of Venezuela's proven oil reserves through a partnership with private companies.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the arrangement as a win for both countries and said it could draw nearly $100 billion in private investment into Venezuela.Rubio also argued that increased Venezuelan production could help bring down gasoline prices in the United States.<h2>Venezuela seeks to revive oil output</h2>Venezuela has the world's largest proven oil reserves, but its production remains well below its potential. The country currently produces around 1.25 million barrels of crude a day.The proposed agreements are expected to be signed next week and would grant new exploration and production rights to several companies, with American firms expected to play a major role.

Venezuela has revealed what it stands to gain from the oil deal with the US. As Caracas prepares to open 17 strategic fields to private operators, the government says the deal could unlock a huge tax windfall.

Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodriguez on Friday (Aug 28) said that the oil agreement announced by US President Donald Trump could generate more than $209 billion in taxes for Venezuela. This comes as Caracas prepares to open 17 strategic oil fields to private operators, particularly US companies. Rodriguez described the arrangement as a major step towards reviving Venezuela's battered energy industry after years of underinvestment, mismanagement, and sanctions. In a statement shared on Telegram, Rodriguez said the agreement would bring more than $100 billion in investment into the country's oil sector. "The agreement will allow for a significant increase in oil production with the participation of private operators," Rodriguez said. Also read | Trump claims 'biggest oil deal in world history' with Venezuela, says US will control majority of 65 billion barrels 17 oil fields, 65 billion barrels According to Rodriguez, the plan covers 17 strategic fields with a proven potential of 65 billion barrels of oil. She said the investments would go towards recovering and modernising Venezuela's hydrocarbons industry and rebuilding strategic infrastructure. "This initiative is the result of the strengthening of relations between Venezuela and the United States, and it will facilitate a significant flow of investment aimed at the recovery and reconstruction of strategic infrastructure for the development of our hydrocarbons industry," she said. Rodriguez noted that the project was expected to generate more than $209 billion in taxes for the Venezuelan state. She also linked the deal to broader economic and energy objectives, saying it could support Venezuela's economic growth while contributing to "the energy security of our hemisphere" and greater balance in international markets. Also read | US-Canada trade war: Canada hits back as Trump orders Lake Ontario renamed 'Lake America' Trump seeks more Venezuelan oil Trump announced the agreement on Friday, saying the United States would secure majority control over more than 65 billion barrels of Venezuela's proven oil reserves through a partnership with private companies. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the arrangement as a win for both countries and said it could draw nearly $100 billion in private investment into Venezuela. Rubio also argued that increased Venezuelan production could help bring down gasoline prices in the United States. Venezuela seeks to revive oil output Venezuela has the world's largest proven oil reserves, but its production remains well below its potential. The country currently produces around 1.25 million barrels of crude a day. The proposed agreements are expected to be signed next week and would grant new exploration and production rights to several companies, with American firms expected to play a major role.

Venezuela has revealed what it stands to gain from the oil deal with the US. As Caracas prepares to open 17 strategic fields to private operators, the government says the deal could unlock a huge tax windfall.

$209 billion for Venezuela? Delcy Rodriguez reveals what Caracas stands to gain from Trump's oil deal

Latest News Today Live Updates:The United States has struck a deal with Caracas that would give it control of some 65 billion barrels of Venezuela’s proven oil reserves, President Donald Trump has announced, while reviving the OPEC nation’s battered energy industry. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the “historic transaction more than doubles American oil reserves” and “will substantially lower gas prices for all Americans”.Sustained gunfire and explosions rang out across several areas of Niger’s capital, Niamey, early on Saturday (August 29). Shots were heard around the city’s Diori Hamani international airport and near the presidential palace.Security forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir have stepped up surveillance after an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) believed to have originated from Pakistan was detected in the Rajouri sector on Friday (Aug 28), according to reports citing Army sources. The drone was spotted at around 8:05 pm (India time) over the general area of Behrooti, within the operational area of responsibility of the 22 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles.Price of compressed natural gas (CNG) has been hiked by Rs 3.89 from August 29, effective 6 am, Indraprastha Gas Limited said on Friday night. The new price of CNG, mostly used in autos, cabs, buses, and economy-focused personal cars, will stand at Rs 86.98 a kg in Delhi, where IGL is the operator.Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said regional countries have come to view dependence on the United States for security as a “strategic mistake” following recent military conflicts.Speaking at the 40th International Islamic Unity Conference on Friday, Araghchi also claimed Iran's domestically produced missiles had demonstrated their capabilities.He said Iran's adversaries launched a major conflict after previous efforts had failed, including attempts to weaken national unity, deepen internal divisions and use armed groups against the country.

Iran says regional reliance on US security was a 'strategic mistake'

Ukraine received information from the United States about CIA Director John Ratcliffe's recent meetings with Russian intelligence officials in Moscow, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday.Zelensky said Kyiv had discussed the meetings with US officials both before and after Ratcliffe's unannounced visit to Moscow on August 25.The Ukrainian president thanked Washington for sharing the information and praised what he described as the necessary tone used by US officials in their diplomatic engagement with Russia.

Zelensky says US briefed Kyiv on Ratcliffe's Moscow meetings

The FBI is moving away from an automatic hiring ban for applicants who have previously had sexual encounters with prostitutes, according to people familiar with the change.Under the revised approach, at least some candidates with such past experiences could be assessed on a broader range of factors rather than being immediately disqualified.The policy shift comes as federal law enforcement agencies evolve their recruitment standards. The FBI has previously relaxed its stance on applicants' past marijuana use, while some current and former agents have raised concerns that hiring requirements are being loosened as the bureau seeks to rebuild its workforce.

FBI eases hiring rules on applicants with past prostitution encounters

International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Mariano Grossi has urged all sides to show maximum military restraint after three separate drone incidents were reported at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine.The incidents occurred over two days earlier this week and injured two plant employees, according to the IAEA.The UN nuclear watchdog said the repeated drone incidents highlighted the continuing risks to nuclear safety posed by the war and the need to avoid actions that could further endanger the facility.

IAEA chief calls for restraint after drones hit Zaporizhzhia plant

The Israeli military said it killed three militants in an airstrike in the occupied West Bank on Friday, marking a rare use of air power in a territory where tensions have been rising.Israel frequently conducts ground raids in Palestinian towns, but its last airstrike in the West Bank was reported in February 2025. The latest strike targeted the Jenin area.The military identified one of those killed as Qais Bitawi, describing him as a Hamas operative linked to a dismantled militant network in Jenin. Palestinian Islamic Jihad's armed wing, however, said Bitawi and the two other men were its fighters.

Israel carries out rare West Bank airstrike, says 'three terrorists' killed

The BJP government in West Bengal has decided to remove the books written by former chief minister Mamata Banerjee from the state’s public libraries. Under the previous Trinamool Congress-led government, the party supremo’s books were mandatory in all government school libraries as well as state-run public libraries. &nbsp;

Once mandatory, Mamata Banerjee’s books to be removed from Bengal public libraries

The Goa Education Department has asked educational institutions to ensure a 500-metre drug-free zone around their campuses as per a Central recommendation, prompting the Opposition to question whether the government is shirking its responsibility. &nbsp;

Ensure drug-free zone: Goa govt tells schools; 'admission of unchecked sale of narcotics', says Congress

The Sri Lankan government has rejected concerns raised by a United Nations Special Rapporteur over the proposed extension of judges’ retirement ages, insisting that the 22nd Amendment is part of broader judicial reforms and is not intended to prolong the tenure of particular judges.

Sri Lanka reacts to UN concerns over judges’ retirement age extension

Rosatom, Russia's state-owned nuclear and atomic energy corporation, has announced to began construction of a nuclear power plant in Myanmar in 2027, following the signing of a contract for preliminary surveys. The announcement came after President Min Aung Hlaing's most recent visit to Moscow, during which he made an intensive effort to attract Russian energy investment.

Russia to Start Building Myanmar’s 1st Nuclear Power Plant Next Year

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including India's immediate neighbourhood, major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

Latest News Today Live Updates: The United States has struck a deal with Caracas that would give it control of some 65 billion barrels of Venezuela’s proven oil reserves, President Donald Trump has announced, while reviving the OPEC nation’s battered energy industry. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the “historic transaction more than doubles American oil reserves” and “will substantially lower gas prices for all Americans”. Sustained gunfire and explosions rang out across several areas of Niger’s capital, Niamey, early on Saturday (August 29). Shots were heard around the city’s Diori Hamani international airport and near the presidential palace. Security forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir have stepped up surveillance after an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) believed to have originated from Pakistan was detected in the Rajouri sector on Friday (Aug 28), according to reports citing Army sources. The drone was spotted at around 8:05 pm (India time) over the general area of Behrooti, within the operational area of responsibility of the 22 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. Price of compressed natural gas (CNG) has been hiked by Rs 3.89 from August 29, effective 6 am, Indraprastha Gas Limited said on Friday night. The new price of CNG, mostly used in autos, cabs, buses, and economy-focused personal cars, will stand at Rs 86.98 a kg in Delhi, where IGL is the operator. Stay with us for more latest news, breaking updates and developments as they unfold.

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including India's immediate neighbourhood, major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

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