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United States&nbsp;on Wednesday (Sep 18) revealed that Iranian hackers had attempted to interfere in the 2024 election by sending stolen material from Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's campaign to people involved with Democratic President Joe Biden's re-election campaign.&nbsp;

This, according to US agencies, was part of Iran's broader effort to influence the US election and aimed to create discord and undermine confidence in the American electoral process.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1822}">Stolen materials</h2>

In a joint statement, the FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Office of the Director of National Intelligence said: "Iranian malicious cyber actors have continued their efforts since June to send stolen, non-public material associated with former President Trump's campaign to US media organisations".

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:247,&quot;w&quot;:699,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1934}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-meeting-modi-news-donald-trump-says-will-meet-fantastic-indian-pm-narendra-modi-next-week-759639">Trump meeting Modi: Donald Trump says will meet 'fantastic' Indian PM Narendra Modi next week</a>

"This malicious cyber activity is the latest example of Iran’s multi-pronged approach ... to stoke discord and undermine confidence in our electoral process," it added.

According to the agencies, there is currently no evidence that the recipients of the stolen material&nbsp;— the Biden campaign&nbsp;—&nbsp;replied or engaged with the hackers. They did not specify what the stolen material was.

They also revealed that the cyber attackers also approached some US media organisations with the information, but did not name the outlets.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:449,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2136}">Iran denies allegations</h2>

Tehran has, however, denied the allegations, labelling them "devoid" of credibility.

"Already devoid of any credibility and legitimacy, such allegations are fundamentally unfounded and wholly inadmissible," said Iran in a statement.

"Iran neither has any motive nor intent to interfere in the U.S. election; and, it therefore categorically repudiates such accusations."

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:194,&quot;w&quot;:667,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2035}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-consequential-presidents-get-shot-at-boasts-trump-after-second-assassination-attempt-759624">'Only consequential presidents get shot at,' boasts Trump after second assassination attempt</a>&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:629,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2316}">Trump campaign slams Democrats</h2>

Donald Trump's campaign on Wednesday alleged that the stolen material was "proof," that "the Iranians are actively interfering in the election to help Kamala Harris and Joe Biden."

This, as per Trump campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt, was "because they know President Trump will restore his tough sanctions and stand against their reign of terror."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

United States on Wednesday (Sep 18) revealed that Iranian hackers had attempted to interfere in the 2024 election by sending stolen material from Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's campaign to people involved with Democratic President Joe Biden's re-election campaign.

United States on Wednesday (Sep 18) revealed that Iranian hackers had attempted to interfere in the 2024 election by sending stolen material from Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's campaign to people involved with Democratic President Joe Biden's re-election campaign. This, according to US agencies, was part of Iran's broader effort to influence the US election and aimed to create discord and undermine confidence in the American electoral process. Stolen materials In a joint statement, the FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Office of the Director of National Intelligence said: "Iranian malicious cyber actors have continued their efforts since June to send stolen, non-public material associated with former President Trump's campaign to US media organisations". Also read | Trump meeting Modi: Donald Trump says will meet 'fantastic' Indian PM Narendra Modi next week "This malicious cyber activity is the latest example of Iran’s multi-pronged approach ... to stoke discord and undermine confidence in our electoral process," it added. According to the agencies, there is currently no evidence that the recipients of the stolen material — the Biden campaign — replied or engaged with the hackers. They did not specify what the stolen material was. They also revealed that the cyber attackers also approached some US media organisations with the information, but did not name the outlets. Iran denies allegations Tehran has, however, denied the allegations, labelling them "devoid" of credibility. "Already devoid of any credibility and legitimacy, such allegations are fundamentally unfounded and wholly inadmissible," said Iran in a statement. "Iran neither has any motive nor intent to interfere in the U.S. election; and, it therefore categorically repudiates such accusations." Also read | 'Only consequential presidents get shot at,' boasts Trump after second assassination attempt Trump campaign slams Democrats Donald Trump's campaign on Wednesday alleged that the stolen material was "proof," that "the Iranians are actively interfering in the election to help Kamala Harris and Joe Biden." This, as per Trump campaign press secretary Karoline Leavitt, was "because they know President Trump will restore his tough sanctions and stand against their reign of terror." (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian hackers tried to tip 2024 US Election by leaking Trump campaign secrets to Biden's team: FBI and DNI

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Minutes after Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah delivered his first speech in the aftermath of pager and walkie-talkie explosions, Israel launched a full-scale attack in Lebanon by targeting the militant group's targets.&nbsp;

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informed about the attack, adding that its aim was to 'bring security to northern Israel'.&nbsp;

"The IDF is currently striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon to degrade Hezbollah’s terrorist capabilities and infrastructure," IDF said.&nbsp;

"For decades, Hezbollah has weaponized civilian homes, dug tunnels beneath them and used civilians as human shields—having turned southern Lebanon into a war zone. The IDF is operating to bring security to northern Israel in order to enable the return of residents to their homes and achieve war goals," it added.&nbsp;

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⭕️The IDF is currently striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon to degrade Hezbollah’s terrorist capabilities and infrastructure. 
 
For decades, Hezbollah has weaponized civilian homes, dug tunnels beneath them and used civilians as human shields—having turned southern Lebanon into…
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1836769873042538964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Images and videos going viral on social media showed Israeli fighter jets breaking the sound barrier in the Lebanese territory, especially the capital city of Beirut.&nbsp;

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Over Beirut Now <a href="https://t.co/Dzcd5Xz5ws">https://t.co/Dzcd5Xz5ws</a> <a href="https://t.co/YkflrFEw4k">pic.twitter.com/YkflrFEw4k</a>
—  𝓂𝒶𝓇𝒾𝑜🇱🇧🇬🇧🇦🇪 (@MarioLeb79) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioLeb79/status/1836775929684631959?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in the day, IDF said it bombed&nbsp;six Hezbollah "terrorist infrastructure sites" and a weapons storage facility.

The air strikes hit Hezbollah targets in Chihine, Tayibe, Blida, Meiss El Jabal, Aitaroun and Kfarkela in southern Lebanon, as well as a Hezbollah weapons storage facility in the area of Khiam.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Lebanon walkie-talkie blasts: Hamas blames Israel for new wave of device explosions in Lebanon

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanon-walkie-talkie-blasts-hamas-blames-israel-for-new-wave-of-device-explosions-in-lebanon-760104/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>What did Nasrallah claim?</h2>

In his televised speech, Nasrallah stated that the planned explosions were a 'declaration of war', whilst adding that Hezbollah will&nbsp;prevent Tel Aviv&nbsp;from realising its new war objective to return Israeli citizens displaced from the border area in the north to their homes.

“Let me tell the Israeli government, the Israeli army and the Israeli people: You will not manage. I tell Prime Minister Netanyahu: You can do what you want, you will not manage," Nasrallah said.&nbsp;

"The only solution is to halt the aggression against the people of Gaza. No military escalation, no killings, no total war will return your settlers to the border area. You know it,” he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-chief-nasrallah-blames-israel-for-lebanon-blasts-calls-it-declaration-of-war-760175">Also read |&nbsp;Hezbollah chief Nasrallah blames Israel for Lebanon blasts, calls it 'declaration of war'</a>

Both Israel and Hezbollah have been flirting with an all-out war after the militant outfit's deputy leader Faud Shukr was killed in July by Israel in an air strike. The pager explosion saga may have been the final straw.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Minutes after Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah delivered his first speech in the aftermath of pager and walkie-talkie explosions, Israel launched a full-scale attack in Lebanon by targeting the militant group's targets.

Minutes after Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah delivered his first speech in the aftermath of pager and walkie-talkie explosions, Israel launched a full-scale attack in Lebanon by targeting the militant group's targets. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informed about the attack, adding that its aim was to 'bring security to northern Israel'. "The IDF is currently striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon to degrade Hezbollah’s terrorist capabilities and infrastructure," IDF said. "For decades, Hezbollah has weaponized civilian homes, dug tunnels beneath them and used civilians as human shields—having turned southern Lebanon into a war zone. The IDF is operating to bring security to northern Israel in order to enable the return of residents to their homes and achieve war goals," it added. ⭕️The IDF is currently striking Hezbollah targets in Lebanon to degrade Hezbollah’s terrorist capabilities and infrastructure. For decades, Hezbollah has weaponized civilian homes, dug tunnels beneath them and used civilians as human shields—having turned southern Lebanon into… — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) September 19, 2024 × Images and videos going viral on social media showed Israeli fighter jets breaking the sound barrier in the Lebanese territory, especially the capital city of Beirut. Over Beirut Now https://t.co/Dzcd5Xz5ws pic.twitter.com/YkflrFEw4k —  𝓂𝒶𝓇𝒾𝑜🇱🇧🇬🇧🇦🇪 (@MarioLeb79) September 19, 2024 × Over Beirut now pic.twitter.com/phCGd1w6Oa —  𝓂𝒶𝓇𝒾𝑜🇱🇧🇬🇧🇦🇪 (@MarioLeb79) September 19, 2024 × Earlier in the day, IDF said it bombed six Hezbollah "terrorist infrastructure sites" and a weapons storage facility. The air strikes hit Hezbollah targets in Chihine, Tayibe, Blida, Meiss El Jabal, Aitaroun and Kfarkela in southern Lebanon, as well as a Hezbollah weapons storage facility in the area of Khiam. Watch | Lebanon walkie-talkie blasts: Hamas blames Israel for new wave of device explosions in Lebanon What did Nasrallah claim? In his televised speech, Nasrallah stated that the planned explosions were a 'declaration of war', whilst adding that Hezbollah will prevent Tel Aviv from realising its new war objective to return Israeli citizens displaced from the border area in the north to their homes. “Let me tell the Israeli government, the Israeli army and the Israeli people: You will not manage. I tell Prime Minister Netanyahu: You can do what you want, you will not manage," Nasrallah said. "The only solution is to halt the aggression against the people of Gaza. No military escalation, no killings, no total war will return your settlers to the border area. You know it,” he added. Also read | Hezbollah chief Nasrallah blames Israel for Lebanon blasts, calls it 'declaration of war' Both Israel and Hezbollah have been flirting with an all-out war after the militant outfit's deputy leader Faud Shukr was killed in July by Israel in an air strike. The pager explosion saga may have been the final straw. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel launches fresh strikes in Lebanon after Hezbollah chief’s speech, jets break sound barrier over Beirut

US lawmakers on Wednesday (Sep 18) rejected a Republican-backed government funding proposal that would've kept the government running past November's presidential elections.

The bill which was aimed at preventing a government shutdown with a six-month extension of funding, was voted down 220-202 with some Republicans joining Democrats in opposing the measure, as reported.

The Republican plan included the SAVE Act, a controversial measure backed by former President Donald Trump. The act would require proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections, a proposal opposed by the Biden administration, which argues that non citizen voting is already illegal and rare.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:181,&quot;w&quot;:626,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2018}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-abstains-on-unga-resolution-demanding-israel-leave-palestinian-territory-in-a-year-759915">India abstains on UNGA resolution demanding Israel leave Palestinian territory in a year</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:217,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2054}">Trump calls for forced shutdown</h2>

This comes as former US President Donald Trump has called for a forced shutdown unless certain demands are met.

Ahead of the vote, taking to X, the Republican Party presidential candidate rallied fellow Republicans and said: "If Republicans don't get the SAVE Act, and every ounce of it, they should not agree to a Continuing Resolution in any way, shape, or form".

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:378,&quot;w&quot;:604,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2215}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-files-usd-100-mn-lawsuit-against-owner-of-ship-that-destroyed-baltimores-key-bridge-759921">US files $100 mn lawsuit against owner of ship that destroyed Baltimore's key bridge</a>

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:414,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2251}">When does the government funding end?</h2>

As per AFP, the government funding is due to expire at the end of September, and with this proposed extension, the deadline shutdown would have been pushed back to March 2025 — when the next US president would've been in the White House.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:530,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2367}">What does a shutdown mean?</h2>

A government shutdown in this scenario means the closure of federal services and the furlough of millions of federal workers.&nbsp;

If no agreement is reached, a government shutdown could occur just weeks before the November presidential election.&nbsp;

After the vote, in a statement, House Appropriations Committee ranking member Rosa DeLauro said: "Once again, the House Republican majority has failed at its most basic tasks."

"We have seven legislative days to keep the government open," DeLauro added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US lawmakers on Wednesday (Sep 18) rejected a Republican-backed government funding proposal that would've kept the government running past November's presidential elections.

US lawmakers on Wednesday (Sep 18) rejected a Republican-backed government funding proposal that would've kept the government running past November's presidential elections. The bill which was aimed at preventing a government shutdown with a six-month extension of funding, was voted down 220-202 with some Republicans joining Democrats in opposing the measure, as reported. The Republican plan included the SAVE Act, a controversial measure backed by former President Donald Trump. The act would require proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections, a proposal opposed by the Biden administration, which argues that non citizen voting is already illegal and rare. Also read | India abstains on UNGA resolution demanding Israel leave Palestinian territory in a year Trump calls for forced shutdown This comes as former US President Donald Trump has called for a forced shutdown unless certain demands are met. Ahead of the vote, taking to X, the Republican Party presidential candidate rallied fellow Republicans and said: "If Republicans don't get the SAVE Act, and every ounce of it, they should not agree to a Continuing Resolution in any way, shape, or form". Also read | US files $100 mn lawsuit against owner of ship that destroyed Baltimore's key bridge When does the government funding end? As per AFP, the government funding is due to expire at the end of September, and with this proposed extension, the deadline shutdown would have been pushed back to March 2025 — when the next US president would've been in the White House. What does a shutdown mean? A government shutdown in this scenario means the closure of federal services and the furlough of millions of federal workers. If no agreement is reached, a government shutdown could occur just weeks before the November presidential election. After the vote, in a statement, House Appropriations Committee ranking member Rosa DeLauro said: "Once again, the House Republican majority has failed at its most basic tasks." "We have seven legislative days to keep the government open," DeLauro added. (With inputs from agencies)

US government shutdown eminent? Lawmakers reject key six-month funding extension

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Venezuela's former opposition candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez said he was coerced into signing a letter effectively recognising his defeat in July's presidential election, which electoral authorities claim was won by President Nicolas Maduro.

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Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has condemned the recent pager and walkie-talkie attacks, calling them “a terrorist act” and a declaration of war against the people of Lebanon and the nation’s sovereignty. His strong statement highlights the escalating tensions and potential implications for regional stability.

Lebanon: Hezbollah Chief Breaks Silence, Says "This Could Be A Declaration Of War" | BREAKING

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Lebanon is in shock after Israel targeted Hezbollah's telecom devices, injuring and maiming thousands. The international community is condemning these attacks. Israel has not explicitly taken responsibility for attacks on Hezbollah's communication devices.

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Lebanon Blasts: Tensions High in Lebanon After Attack on Hezbollah's Communication Devices

Lessons learned from the Covid pandemic have left the world in a much better position to tackle the current mpox epidemic raging in Africa, according to the Gavi vaccine alliance.

The Covid catastrophe brought with it "important learnings, and those learnings were drawn upon", said Gavi chief Sania Nishtar.

"Those learnings cascaded into specific instruments that are now coming into play" against mpox, the former Pakistani health minister told AFP in an interview this week.

When Covid emerged in early 2020 and quickly began its deadly rampage around the globe, it revealed how completely unprepared the international community was to face such a global health crisis.&nbsp;

It also shone a light on glaring global vaccine inequity, as wealthy countries snapped up most doses, leaving Africa far behind.

Countries are still struggling to agree on a new pandemic treaty that could ensure the world is better prepared next time.

But Gavi, which works to swell vaccine access in poorer countries, has not waited for a global agreement to put in place measures to better position it to respond to emergencies, Nishtar said.

The organisation in June set up a $500-million First Response Fund, designed to make cash rapidly available for vaccines during health emergencies.

- 'Responsive' - 
"The learnings of Covid were that when the emergency hits, there wasn't money available," said Nishtar, who became the first woman to lead Gavi when she took the reins in March.&nbsp;

Gavi announced its first use of the fund on Wednesday, as it entered a deal with Danish drugmaker Bavarian Nordic to secure 500,000 doses of its MVA-BN mpox vaccine for use in African countries hit by the epidemic.

"We're drawing up to $50 million from the First Response Fund," Nishtar said, adding that the money would partially be used to cover the cost of the doses, and partially for overhead costs including for delivery and logistics.

"We're doing all we can to make sure that we can be as responsive and as quick as possible," she said.

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is caused by a virus transmitted to humans by infected animals but can also be passed from human to human through close physical contact.&nbsp;

It causes fever, muscular aches and large boil-like skin lesions, and can be deadly in some cases.

The World Health Organization declared an international emergency over mpox last month, concerned by the surge in cases of the new Clade 1b strain in the Democratic Republic of Congo, that spread to nearby countries.

Between January and the end of August, DRC had recorded nearly 22,000 cases and more than 700 deaths linked to the virus.

- 'Better scenario' - 
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has called for the continent to obtain 10 million doses. So far, it says just 3.6 million vaccines have been secured for Africa.

Last week, the World Health Organization gave the nod to the MVA-BN jab, for the first time pre-qualifying an mpox vaccine, paving the way for speeding up procurement by international organisations.

Nishtar said Gavi was "very glad to have moved very quickly".

She pointed out that just 35 days had passed between WHO's emergency declaration and Gavi's advance purchase deal for the MVA-BN doses, which "is as fast as you can get".

Gavi also decided in June to build a global stockpile of mpox vaccines, starting in 2026, as it has done for vaccines against cholera, Ebola, meningitis and yellow fever.&nbsp;

The organisation has also launched a vaccine production "accelerator" for Africa, capable of dishing out up to $1.2 billion over 10 years to speed up the expansion of vaccine manufacturing capabilities on the continent.

"All in all, we're in a much better scenario than we were with Covid," Nishtar said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Lessons learned from the Covid pandemic have left the world in a much better position to tackle the current mpox epidemic raging in Africa, according to the Gavi vaccine alliance.

Lessons learned from the Covid pandemic have left the world in a much better position to tackle the current mpox epidemic raging in Africa, according to the Gavi vaccine alliance. The Covid catastrophe brought with it "important learnings, and those learnings were drawn upon", said Gavi chief Sania Nishtar. "Those learnings cascaded into specific instruments that are now coming into play" against mpox, the former Pakistani health minister told AFP in an interview this week. When Covid emerged in early 2020 and quickly began its deadly rampage around the globe, it revealed how completely unprepared the international community was to face such a global health crisis. It also shone a light on glaring global vaccine inequity, as wealthy countries snapped up most doses, leaving Africa far behind. Countries are still struggling to agree on a new pandemic treaty that could ensure the world is better prepared next time. But Gavi, which works to swell vaccine access in poorer countries, has not waited for a global agreement to put in place measures to better position it to respond to emergencies, Nishtar said. The organisation in June set up a $500-million First Response Fund, designed to make cash rapidly available for vaccines during health emergencies. - 'Responsive' - "The learnings of Covid were that when the emergency hits, there wasn't money available," said Nishtar, who became the first woman to lead Gavi when she took the reins in March. Gavi announced its first use of the fund on Wednesday, as it entered a deal with Danish drugmaker Bavarian Nordic to secure 500,000 doses of its MVA-BN mpox vaccine for use in African countries hit by the epidemic. "We're drawing up to $50 million from the First Response Fund," Nishtar said, adding that the money would partially be used to cover the cost of the doses, and partially for overhead costs including for delivery and logistics. "We're doing all we can to make sure that we can be as responsive and as quick as possible," she said. Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is caused by a virus transmitted to humans by infected animals but can also be passed from human to human through close physical contact. It causes fever, muscular aches and large boil-like skin lesions, and can be deadly in some cases. The World Health Organization declared an international emergency over mpox last month, concerned by the surge in cases of the new Clade 1b strain in the Democratic Republic of Congo, that spread to nearby countries. Between January and the end of August, DRC had recorded nearly 22,000 cases and more than 700 deaths linked to the virus. - 'Better scenario' - The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has called for the continent to obtain 10 million doses. So far, it says just 3.6 million vaccines have been secured for Africa. Last week, the World Health Organization gave the nod to the MVA-BN jab, for the first time pre-qualifying an mpox vaccine, paving the way for speeding up procurement by international organisations. Nishtar said Gavi was "very glad to have moved very quickly". She pointed out that just 35 days had passed between WHO's emergency declaration and Gavi's advance purchase deal for the MVA-BN doses, which "is as fast as you can get". Gavi also decided in June to build a global stockpile of mpox vaccines, starting in 2026, as it has done for vaccines against cholera, Ebola, meningitis and yellow fever. The organisation has also launched a vaccine production "accelerator" for Africa, capable of dishing out up to $1.2 billion over 10 years to speed up the expansion of vaccine manufacturing capabilities on the continent. "All in all, we're in a much better scenario than we were with Covid," Nishtar said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Much better scenario': World better positioned against mpox than for Covid, says vaccine alliance

The daughter of former Iranian President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, Faezeh Hashemi Rafsanjani, 61, was arrested in September 2022 for allegedly encouraging people to join protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, who died after being detained for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women. She has been released from Tehran's Evin Prison after serving two years.

Faezeh Hashemi Rafsanjani, Daughter Of Former Iranian President, Released From Detention

Global condemnation continues to pour following the series of pagers and walkie-talkie attacks across Lebanon. Lebanon's Hezbollah has blamed Israel for the aggression caused by the cyber attack. Watch in for more details!

Lebanon Walkie-Talkie Blasts: Countries Around The World React To Lebanon Pager Attacks

Russia continues its offensive in Ukraine as the United Nations expresses concerns on Ukrainians facing a difficult winter ahead due to the devastated state of its energy infrastructure. Russia fired 42 drones and four missiles into Ukraine overnight on Thursday. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian Energy Infrastructure On The Brink Of Collapse

Israel allegedly carried out the pager explosions in Lebanon, killing nine people, while injuring thousands on Tuesday (Sep 17), much earlier than planned after concerns arose that some Hezbollah members had grown suspicious of the devices.&nbsp;

According to a report in Axios, the original Israeli plan was to detonate the devices when an all-out war was underway with the Iran-backed militant outfit.

However, when Tel Aviv got a whiff that its secret operation may have been uncovered, it took the call to prepone the plan and detonate the devices.&nbsp;Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave the go-ahead for the operation.

"It was a use it or lose it moment," one US official aware of the operation told the publication.&nbsp;

White House was reportedly made aware of the operation minutes before the pagers started exploding. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant called US&nbsp;Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and told him Israel was about to conduct an operation in Lebanon soon, but refused to give any specific details.

The pagers, reportedly manufactured by a Budapest-stationed BAC Consulting KFT BAC, based on the license of Taiwanese pager maker, Gold Apollo, were modified before being shipped to Lebanon.&nbsp;

The explosives were implanted near the battery with a remote activations switch, allowing for a coordinated detonation. Some reports claim that a beep was sent seconds before the attack, forcing the owners of the pagers to take them out, thereby injuring them more grievously.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Lebanon Hezbollah pagers explosion: Lebanese Information Minister Calls It 'An Israel Aggression'

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<h2>Biggest security breach</h2>

According to the militant outfit, it was one of&nbsp;the&nbsp;biggest ‘security breaches’ the group has faced since the Israel-Hamas war broke out.

"Israel will certainly receive its just punishment for this sinful aggression," Hezbollah said.&nbsp;

Iranian state media IRNA reported that Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon, Mojtaba Amani, was also injured in the explosions.&nbsp;

The attack has completely destroyed the telecommunication apparatus of Hezbollah, meaning the militant outfit might be at its weakest if Israel decides to escalate its military offensive in Lebanon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-were-the-deadly-hezbollah-pager-explosions-carried-out-in-lebanon-759700">Also read |&nbsp;Explained: How were the deadly Hezbollah pager explosions carried out in Lebanon?</a>

Notably, a day after the pager explosions, a number of walkie-talkies also exploded in the region, leading to aspersions that Israel had more up its sleeve.&nbsp;

According to Lebanon's health ministry, 20 people were killed and more than 450 were injured on Wednesday in Beirut's suburbs and the Bekaa Valley.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Israel allegedly carried out the pager explosions in Lebanon, killing nine people, while injuring thousands on Tuesday (Sep 17), much earlier than planned after concerns arose that some Hezbollah members had grown suspicious of the devices.

Israel allegedly carried out the pager explosions in Lebanon, killing nine people, while injuring thousands on Tuesday (Sep 17), much earlier than planned after concerns arose that some Hezbollah members had grown suspicious of the devices. According to a report in Axios, the original Israeli plan was to detonate the devices when an all-out war was underway with the Iran-backed militant outfit. However, when Tel Aviv got a whiff that its secret operation may have been uncovered, it took the call to prepone the plan and detonate the devices. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave the go-ahead for the operation. "It was a use it or lose it moment," one US official aware of the operation told the publication. White House was reportedly made aware of the operation minutes before the pagers started exploding. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant called US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and told him Israel was about to conduct an operation in Lebanon soon, but refused to give any specific details. The pagers, reportedly manufactured by a Budapest-stationed BAC Consulting KFT BAC, based on the license of Taiwanese pager maker, Gold Apollo, were modified before being shipped to Lebanon. The explosives were implanted near the battery with a remote activations switch, allowing for a coordinated detonation. Some reports claim that a beep was sent seconds before the attack, forcing the owners of the pagers to take them out, thereby injuring them more grievously. Watch: Lebanon Hezbollah pagers explosion: Lebanese Information Minister Calls It 'An Israel Aggression' Biggest security breach According to the militant outfit, it was one of the biggest ‘security breaches’ the group has faced since the Israel-Hamas war broke out. "Israel will certainly receive its just punishment for this sinful aggression," Hezbollah said. Iranian state media IRNA reported that Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon, Mojtaba Amani, was also injured in the explosions. The attack has completely destroyed the telecommunication apparatus of Hezbollah, meaning the militant outfit might be at its weakest if Israel decides to escalate its military offensive in Lebanon. Also read | Explained: How were the deadly Hezbollah pager explosions carried out in Lebanon? Notably, a day after the pager explosions, a number of walkie-talkies also exploded in the region, leading to aspersions that Israel had more up its sleeve. According to Lebanon's health ministry, 20 people were killed and more than 450 were injured on Wednesday in Beirut's suburbs and the Bekaa Valley. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Hezbollah pager explosions: Israel wanted to detonate devices later but was forced to act earlier. Know why

A Hong Kong man has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for wearing a T-shirt and a mask with a protest slogan deemed "seditious", marking the first person to be convicted under the new local national security law.&nbsp;

27-year-old Chu Kai-pong was sentenced on Thursday at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts, after pleading guilty earlier in the week to one count of “doing acts with seditious intention”.&nbsp;

The man was arrested a subway station in June wearing a T-shirt stating the phrase "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our times". He was also wearing a mask, that read "FDNOL", which abbreviates the slogan "Five demands, not one less."&nbsp;

Both these slogans were frequently heard in large-scale protests in Hong Kong during the months-long anti-government demonstrations in 2019.&nbsp;

The local media reported that the man was also carrying a box containing his excrement to use against people opposing his views.

<h2>'New national security law, Article 23'</h2>

The prison term given to the man is the first in Hong Kong under a new local national security law that was passed in March this year.&nbsp;

The law, also called Article 23, is an expansion of the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020.&nbsp;

The offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail under the new legislation, Article 23.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-arrests-six-for-sedition-under-new-security-law-726461">Also read:&nbsp;Hong Kong arrests six for sedition under new security law</a>

According to the critics, the law could further erode civil liberties in the city. Meanwhile, Beijing and Hong Kong have been defending it, saying that it was necessary for stability in the country.&nbsp;

Chu was arrested on June 12, the day marking the anniversary of a key date of the 2019 protests, when particularly large crowds took to the city's streets.

The court heard Chu told police he wore the T-shirt to remind people of the protests, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The man was jailed for three months earlier also in a separate incident for wearing a T-shirt with the same slogan, and for possession of other offensive items.

Watch |&nbsp;Ex-CIA officer jailed after pleading guilty to spying for China

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Chief Magistrate Victor So, who was picked by the government to hear national security cases, stated in his judgment that Chu intended to "reignite the ideas behind" the 2019 protests.

He further said that Chu “took advantage of a symbolic day with the intention to reignite the ideas behind the unrest”.

He said Chu "showed no remorse" after his previous conviction, and that the sentence reflected the "seriousness" of the sedition charge.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A Hong Kong man has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for wearing a T-shirt and a mask with a protest slogan deemed "seditious", marking the first person to be convicted under the new local national security law.

A Hong Kong man has been sentenced to 14 months in prison for wearing a T-shirt and a mask with a protest slogan deemed "seditious", marking the first person to be convicted under the new local national security law. 27-year-old Chu Kai-pong was sentenced on Thursday at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts, after pleading guilty earlier in the week to one count of “doing acts with seditious intention”. The man was arrested a subway station in June wearing a T-shirt stating the phrase "Liberate Hong Kong, revolution of our times". He was also wearing a mask, that read "FDNOL", which abbreviates the slogan "Five demands, not one less." Both these slogans were frequently heard in large-scale protests in Hong Kong during the months-long anti-government demonstrations in 2019. The local media reported that the man was also carrying a box containing his excrement to use against people opposing his views. 'New national security law, Article 23' The prison term given to the man is the first in Hong Kong under a new local national security law that was passed in March this year. The law, also called Article 23, is an expansion of the national security law imposed by Beijing in 2020. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in jail under the new legislation, Article 23. Also read: Hong Kong arrests six for sedition under new security law According to the critics, the law could further erode civil liberties in the city. Meanwhile, Beijing and Hong Kong have been defending it, saying that it was necessary for stability in the country. Chu was arrested on June 12, the day marking the anniversary of a key date of the 2019 protests, when particularly large crowds took to the city's streets. The court heard Chu told police he wore the T-shirt to remind people of the protests, Reuters reported. The man was jailed for three months earlier also in a separate incident for wearing a T-shirt with the same slogan, and for possession of other offensive items. Watch | Ex-CIA officer jailed after pleading guilty to spying for China × Chief Magistrate Victor So, who was picked by the government to hear national security cases, stated in his judgment that Chu intended to "reignite the ideas behind" the 2019 protests. He further said that Chu “took advantage of a symbolic day with the intention to reignite the ideas behind the unrest”. He said Chu "showed no remorse" after his previous conviction, and that the sentence reflected the "seriousness" of the sedition charge. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong man imprisoned for 14 months for wearing 'seditious' T-shirt

Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the testing of a new ballistic missile and upgraded strategic cruise missiles on 18 Sept. He positioned Pyongyang's ongoing missile expansion as a countermeasure to what he described as “the grave threat of outside forces.” This latest demonstration underscores North Korea’s defiance amid rising regional tensions.

North Korea Tests New Ballistic Missile’s ‘Explosive Power’ In Latest Provocative Move

Israel has proposed a framework for a new deal with the Hamas militants saying&nbsp;that it would end fighting in the Gaza Strip and&nbsp;offer&nbsp;safe passage out of the Palestinian&nbsp;enclave for the group's leader Yahya Sinwar and his associates if they release all hostages at once, according to a report by KAN, the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC).&nbsp;

According to the report, Israel has proposed that it would also release all Palestinian prisoners being held in Israeli jails, demilitarise the Gaza Strip, and place a new system of governance in Gaza.

The report stated that a government point man on the hostages, Gal Hirsch, told the families of hostages that the proposal was presented in a meeting with US officials from the White House and State Department last week.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Pager Blasts: Iran Accuses Israel of 'Mass Murder'

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The report, citing sources who met with Hirsch, said that the proposal is called a "safe passage deal".&nbsp;

<h2>'A secondary plan'</h2>

An anonymous Israeli official told Kan that the plan has been proposed as "Plan B".&nbsp;

“In light of the difficulties in the negotiations and the ticking clock on the lives of the hostages, we would like to propose a secondary plan that would shorten the stages, and allow for a faster deal,” the official reportedly said.&nbsp;

The official added, “This will happen if Sinwar leaves [Gaza] and brings about an end to the war. This will allow us to&nbsp;meet the goals of the war, and for the leadership of Hamas in Gaza to leave to a safe place.”

Notably, it is not the first time a proposal has come into the limelight to release all hostages in one go in return for a complete end of&nbsp;war.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel attacked southern Lebanon</h2>

As the war continues, Israel on Thursday (Sep 19) bombed specific locations in southern Lebanon in overnight attacks. The Israeli military said that they struck six Hezbollah "terrorist infrastructure sites" and a weapons storage facility.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-hezbollah-in-southern-lebanon-after-iran-backed-plot-to-assassinate-netanyahu-revealed-760078">Also read:&nbsp;Israel strikes seven Hezbollah sites in Lebanon after Iran-backed plot to assassinate Netanyahu revealed</a>

It comes just a day after pagers and walkie-talkies used by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah exploded, leading to Lebanon's deadliest day since cross-border fighting started nearly a year ago.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel has proposed a framework for a new deal with the Hamas militants saying that it would end fighting in the Gaza Strip and offer safe passage out of the Palestinian enclave for the group's leader Yahya Sinwar and his associates if they release all hostages at once, according to a report by KAN, the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC).

Israel has proposed a framework for a new deal with the Hamas militants saying that it would end fighting in the Gaza Strip and offer safe passage out of the Palestinian enclave for the group's leader Yahya Sinwar and his associates if they release all hostages at once, according to a report by KAN, the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (IPBC). According to the report, Israel has proposed that it would also release all Palestinian prisoners being held in Israeli jails, demilitarise the Gaza Strip, and place a new system of governance in Gaza. The report stated that a government point man on the hostages, Gal Hirsch, told the families of hostages that the proposal was presented in a meeting with US officials from the White House and State Department last week. Watch | Pager Blasts: Iran Accuses Israel of 'Mass Murder' × The report, citing sources who met with Hirsch, said that the proposal is called a "safe passage deal". 'A secondary plan' An anonymous Israeli official told Kan that the plan has been proposed as "Plan B". “In light of the difficulties in the negotiations and the ticking clock on the lives of the hostages, we would like to propose a secondary plan that would shorten the stages, and allow for a faster deal,” the official reportedly said. The official added, “This will happen if Sinwar leaves [Gaza] and brings about an end to the war. This will allow us to meet the goals of the war, and for the leadership of Hamas in Gaza to leave to a safe place.” Notably, it is not the first time a proposal has come into the limelight to release all hostages in one go in return for a complete end of war. Israel attacked southern Lebanon As the war continues, Israel on Thursday (Sep 19) bombed specific locations in southern Lebanon in overnight attacks. The Israeli military said that they struck six Hezbollah "terrorist infrastructure sites" and a weapons storage facility. Also read: Israel strikes seven Hezbollah sites in Lebanon after Iran-backed plot to assassinate Netanyahu revealed It comes just a day after pagers and walkie-talkies used by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah exploded, leading to Lebanon's deadliest day since cross-border fighting started nearly a year ago. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel proposes new deal seeking release of all hostages, ending war in Gaza: Report

More than 100 former Republican national security and foreign policy officials have thrown their support behind Kamala Harris for president, calling Donald Trump "unfit to serve."

This bipartisan group, as per reports, includes officials from the administrations of Ronald Reagan, both Bush presidencies, and even Trump himself, as well as some Democratic leaders.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:118,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1805}">Who signed the letter?</h2>

Prominent figures in the endorsement include former defence secretaries William Cohen and Chuck Hagel, and former CIA directors William Webster and Michael Hayden. Some of Trump's former staff, such as Mark Harvey and Elizabeth Neumann, also joined the endorsement.

The officials made their endorsement in a strongly worded joint letter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:262,&quot;w&quot;:670,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1949}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-hackers-tried-to-tip-2024-us-election-by-leaking-trump-campaign-secrets-to-bidens-team-fbi-and-dni-759946">Iranian hackers tried to tip 2024 US Election by leaking Trump campaign secrets to Biden's team: FBI and DNI</a>

"We believe that the president of the United States must be a principled, serious, and steady leader," they wrote.

They acknowledged potential policy disagreements with Harris but stressed her leadership qualities and readiness for office, traits they believe Trump lacks.

"We expect to disagree with Kamala Harris on many domestic and foreign policy issues, but we believe that she possesses the essential qualities to serve as president and Donald Trump does not. We therefore support her election to be president."

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:481,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2168}">Republicans speak out against Trump</h2>

The letter criticises Trump for fostering chaos in government, prioritising personal interests over national ones, and undermining US democracy—citing his role in the January 6 Capitol attack and his dealings with authoritarian leaders like Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-a-difference-in-political-leaning-tesla-spacex-workers-donate-to-harris-while-musk-backs-trump-760012">US election | A difference in political leaning: Tesla, SpaceX workers donate to Harris while Musk backs Trump</a>

"We firmly oppose the election of Donald Trump. As president, he promoted daily chaos in government, praised our enemies and undermined our allies, politicised the military and disparaged our veterans, prioritized his personal interest above American interests, and betrayed our values, democracy, and this country's founding document," added the letter.

The group also highlighted Democratic Party presidential candidate Harris'&nbsp;commitment to NATO, and Israel, and her willingness to work across the aisle, including a pledge to appoint Republicans to her administration.&nbsp;

This endorsement follows a growing trend of Republicans, like former congressperson Barbara Comstock and former Trump aides, crossing party lines to back Harris ahead of the election.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 100 former Republican national security and foreign policy officials have thrown their support behind Kamala Harris for president, calling Donald Trump "unfit to serve.

More than 100 former Republican national security and foreign policy officials have thrown their support behind Kamala Harris for president, calling Donald Trump "unfit to serve." This bipartisan group, as per reports, includes officials from the administrations of Ronald Reagan, both Bush presidencies, and even Trump himself, as well as some Democratic leaders. Who signed the letter? Prominent figures in the endorsement include former defence secretaries William Cohen and Chuck Hagel, and former CIA directors William Webster and Michael Hayden. Some of Trump's former staff, such as Mark Harvey and Elizabeth Neumann, also joined the endorsement. The officials made their endorsement in a strongly worded joint letter. Also read | Iranian hackers tried to tip 2024 US Election by leaking Trump campaign secrets to Biden's team: FBI and DNI "We believe that the president of the United States must be a principled, serious, and steady leader," they wrote. They acknowledged potential policy disagreements with Harris but stressed her leadership qualities and readiness for office, traits they believe Trump lacks. "We expect to disagree with Kamala Harris on many domestic and foreign policy issues, but we believe that she possesses the essential qualities to serve as president and Donald Trump does not. We therefore support her election to be president." Republicans speak out against Trump The letter criticises Trump for fostering chaos in government, prioritising personal interests over national ones, and undermining US democracy—citing his role in the January 6 Capitol attack and his dealings with authoritarian leaders like Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping. Also read | US election | A difference in political leaning: Tesla, SpaceX workers donate to Harris while Musk backs Trump "We firmly oppose the election of Donald Trump. As president, he promoted daily chaos in government, praised our enemies and undermined our allies, politicised the military and disparaged our veterans, prioritized his personal interest above American interests, and betrayed our values, democracy, and this country's founding document," added the letter. The group also highlighted Democratic Party presidential candidate Harris' commitment to NATO, and Israel, and her willingness to work across the aisle, including a pledge to appoint Republicans to her administration. This endorsement follows a growing trend of Republicans, like former congressperson Barbara Comstock and former Trump aides, crossing party lines to back Harris ahead of the election. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump 'unfit to serve': Over 100 Republican ex-officials endorse Kamala Harris' presidential bid

Faezeh Hashemi Rafsanjani, 61, was arrested in September 2022 for allegedly encouraging people to join protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, who died after being detained for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women.

China and Russia's coast guards are conducting joint drills near Russia’s Peter the Great Gulf, with exercises running from Monday to Friday. These maneuvers aim to strengthen maritime cooperation and security between the two nations amid growing regional tensions.

Russia-China: Coast Guards From China, Russia Hold Joint Drills

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68), a respiratory virus, is spreading across the United States (US) at an alarming rate, American media reported on Wednesday (Sept 18). The spread of EV-D68 has raised concerns about another possible increase in polio-like illnesses.

Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68), a respiratory virus, is spreading across the United States (US) at an alarming rate, American media reported on Wednesday (Sept 18). The spread of EV-D68 has raised concerns about another possible increase in polio-like illnesses. A report by NBC News said that wastewater samples detected a significant escalation in D68. Speaking to the network, an official from Wastewater Scan (a non-profit wastewater monitoring network) said, "We are detecting EV-D68 nucleic acids in wastewater across the country now, and the levels are increasing." What is EV-D68? According to the Cleveland Clinic, EV-D68 is a virus that causes respiratory illness similar to the common cold. The virus sometimes leads to severe breathing issues and outbreaks of neurological disease (acute flaccid myelitis) that causes paralysis. Also read | Big setback for polio eradication in Afghanistan: Taliban suspend virus vaccination campaigns, says UN Cleveland Clinic said that EV-D68 seems to be very common. "In fact, most people over the age of 5 have evidence of a previous infection," it added. Symptoms of EV-D68 include stuffy or runny nose, cough, fever, muscle pain, shortness of breath, and diarrhoea. EV-D68 is contagious and can spread through sneezing or coughing, sharing utensils, and touching contaminated surfaces and objects. Some people infected with the virus develop severe breathing problems or a nervous system disorder called acute flaccid myelitis (AFM). 13 cases of AFM reported so far The NBC News report said that EV-D68 started causing more serious problems in 2014, when the US, for the first time, saw a spike in AFM. That year, 120 kids were diagnosed. The report added that though a few dozen cases have been reported every year since then, large waves of AFM have followed an every-other-year pattern, spiking in 2016 (with 153 cases) and 2018 (with 238 cases). The pattern stopped in 2020 when the US went into lockdown due to Covid. In 2020, only 32 cases of AFM were seen. The spread of D68 picked up again in 2022 as lockdowns were lifted. So far in 2024, 13 AFM cases have been confirmed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (With inputs from agencies)

Virus EV-D68, which sometimes paralyses kids, is spreading across US: Reports

After making history by winning the prestigious Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival 2024, Payal Kapadia's film "All We Imagine as Light" has been shortlisted to represent France at the Oscars 2025. This marks another major milestone for the filmmaker, bringing international recognition to her work.

Cannes 2024 Winner 'All We Imagine As Light' Shortlisted For Oscars, To Release In India Soon

Khalistani terrorist,&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:15,&quot;w&quot;:188,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1902}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khalistani-separatist-pannun-sues-indian-government-in-us-court-over-alleged-assassination-plot-760023">Gurpatwant Singh Pannun</a>, has filed a civil lawsuit in a US federal district court against the Government of India. Pannun, the general counsel for pro-Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice, is seeking damages for an alleged plot to assassinate&nbsp;him on US soil last year.

The lawsuit filed on Tuesday also lists National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, former R&amp;AW chief Samant Goel, senior R&amp;AW officer Vikram Yadav, and Nikhil Gupta as defendants in the civil action suit.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2022}">Indian slams Pannun's case</h2>

India has labelled the civil suit filed by Pannun as&nbsp;"completely unwarranted". At a news briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs' spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "When these issues were first brought to our attention, we took action. There's a high-level committee engaged (in the probe)."

He said that the case "doesn't change our view" and also slammed Pannun. He said that the separatist leader's "antecedent" as belonging to an unlawful organisation "is well known".

India had designated Pannun a terrorist in 2020.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:332,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2219}">Summons sent to the Indian Consulate General of India</h2>

As per a post shared by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on his X account, a summon has been sent to the Indian Consulate General of India in New York. It gives the Indian Government and other defendants 21 days to file a response to the plaint.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:444,&quot;w&quot;:613,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2331}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-students-to-face-new-challenges-as-canada-slashes-international-study-permits-759995">Indian students to face new challenges as Canada slashes international study permits</a>

While Pannun's account is withheld in India, WION managed to obtain a copy of the summons he shared in the post. Take a look:

<img alt="Pannun summon" bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:526,&quot;w&quot;:1200,&quot;h&quot;:675,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2413}" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e546bc8-9287-4377-b7ac-dbe98387cdf8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20%2864%29.png" />

India, as per reports, is yet to respond to the summons.

The lawsuit, as per The Globe and Mail report quoting the separatist leader, seeks to hold the Indian government accountable for its alleged role in the assassination plot.&nbsp;

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:1306,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3193}">The alleged Gurpatwant Singh Pannun murder plot</h2>

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a US-Canada dual citizen of Indian descent, allegedly escaped an attempt on his life in June 2023.&nbsp;

America had earlier shared&nbsp;its concerns that an Indian government official was involved in the murder plot and even issued a "diplomatic warning" in December last year. The official, as per reports, was working with Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, and had asked him to pay a $15,000 upfront payment to a hitman to get Pannun killed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:1484,&quot;w&quot;:507,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:3371}" data-ved="2ahUKEwieqZKrwc6IAxUsn68BHSaECzUQxfQBKAB6BAgXEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nijjar-aide-warned-of-increased-threat-to-life-claims-separatist-753937" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/nijjar-aide-warned-of-increased-threat-to-life-claims-separatist-753937&amp;ved=2ahUKEwieqZKrwc6IAxUsn68BHSaECzUQxfQBKAB6BAgXEAE">Nijjar aide warned of 'increased threat to life', claims separatist Pannun</a>

The Washington Post, in April 2024, reported that the operation was conducted at the behest of Vikram Yadav, an officer with India's elite intelligence agency, the Research, and Analysis Wing (R&amp;AW), under the command of the then-R&amp;AW chief Samant Goel.&nbsp; 
 
The Ministry of External Affairs in India, which has launched a high-level inquiry into the matter, dismissed the report and said it makes "unwarranted and unsubstantiated imputations".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Khalistani terrorist, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has filed a civil lawsuit in a US federal district court against the Government of India. Pannun, the general counsel for pro-Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice, is seeking damages for an alleged plot to assassinate him on US soil last year.

Khalistani terrorist, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has filed a civil lawsuit in a US federal district court against the Government of India. Pannun, the general counsel for pro-Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice, is seeking damages for an alleged plot to assassinate him on US soil last year. The lawsuit filed on Tuesday also lists National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, former R&AW chief Samant Goel, senior R&AW officer Vikram Yadav, and Nikhil Gupta as defendants in the civil action suit. Indian slams Pannun's case India has labelled the civil suit filed by Pannun as "completely unwarranted". At a news briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs' spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "When these issues were first brought to our attention, we took action. There's a high-level committee engaged (in the probe)." He said that the case "doesn't change our view" and also slammed Pannun. He said that the separatist leader's "antecedent" as belonging to an unlawful organisation "is well known". India had designated Pannun a terrorist in 2020. Summons sent to the Indian Consulate General of India As per a post shared by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on his X account, a summon has been sent to the Indian Consulate General of India in New York. It gives the Indian Government and other defendants 21 days to file a response to the plaint. Also read | Indian students to face new challenges as Canada slashes international study permits While Pannun's account is withheld in India, WION managed to obtain a copy of the summons he shared in the post. Take a look: India, as per reports, is yet to respond to the summons. The lawsuit, as per The Globe and Mail report quoting the separatist leader, seeks to hold the Indian government accountable for its alleged role in the assassination plot. The alleged Gurpatwant Singh Pannun murder plot Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a US-Canada dual citizen of Indian descent, allegedly escaped an attempt on his life in June 2023. America had earlier shared its concerns that an Indian government official was involved in the murder plot and even issued a "diplomatic warning" in December last year. The official, as per reports, was working with Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, and had asked him to pay a $15,000 upfront payment to a hitman to get Pannun killed. Also read | Nijjar aide warned of 'increased threat to life', claims separatist Pannun The Washington Post, in April 2024, reported that the operation was conducted at the behest of Vikram Yadav, an officer with India's elite intelligence agency, the Research, and Analysis Wing (R&AW), under the command of the then-R&AW chief Samant Goel. The Ministry of External Affairs in India, which has launched a high-level inquiry into the matter, dismissed the report and said it makes "unwarranted and unsubstantiated imputations". (With inputs from agencies)

Khalistani terrorist Pannun sues India over alleged assassination plot, ‘completely unwarranted,’ says GOI

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Khalistani terrorist Pannun sues India over alleged assassination plot, ‘completely unwarranted,’ says GOI