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US Justice Department launched a legal battle against TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, on Friday (Aug 2), accusing the social media platform of violating children's privacy laws.

The lawsuit is the latest move by the Biden administration to increase pressure on TikTok.

The US government said TikTok violated the ‘Children's Online Privacy Protection Act’ that involve services aimed at children to get parental approval to collect personal information from users under age 13.

Notably, the Chinese-owned short-video platform boasts around 170 million US users, and presently is fighting a new law that would force ByteDance to divest TikTok's US assets by Jan 19 or face a ban.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-fights-back-bytedance-appeals-to-overturn-unconstitutional-potential-ban-in-us-733665" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-fights-back-bytedance-appeals-to-overturn-unconstitutional-potential-ban-in-us-733665&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9lcWemtiHAxX9VmwGHU33Hd0QFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2LDUGsiOqK-0pnS1FBTJIH&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-fights-back-bytedance-appeals-to-overturn-unconstitutional-potential-ban-in-us-733665" target="_blank">TikTok&nbsp;fights back: ByteDance appeals against potential ban in US</a>

Amidst escalating tensions, US has taken another step against TikTok and its parent company. The lawsuit stems from fears that the platform is a medium for the Chinese government to collect sensitive American data and influence public opinion through content manipulation.

The suit states it is aimed at putting an end to TikTok's unlawful massive-scale invasions of children's privacy.

Representative Frank Pallone, the top Democrat on the Energy and Commerce Committee, said the suit "underscores the importance of divesting TikTok from Chinese Communist Party control. We simply cannot continue to allow our adversaries to harvest vast troves of Americans’ sensitive data."

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Frank Pallone further stated&nbsp;that the lawsuit "highlights the need to dissociate from TikTok from Chinese Communist Party control. We cannot allow our adversaries to continue harvesting large amounts of Americans’ sensitive data."

While TikTok on Friday said, it disagrees "with these allegations, many of which relate to past events and practices that are factually inaccurate or have been addressed."

As per the Department of Justice, TikTok on purpose permitted children to create regular TikTok accounts, and then create and share short-form videos and messages with adults and others on the regular TikTok platform.

TikTok collected personal information from these children without obtaining consent from their parents.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-ban-on-tiktok-to-help-us-authorities-win-legal-case-against-chinese-app-says-top-us-official-715969" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-ban-on-tiktok-to-help-us-authorities-win-legal-case-against-chinese-app-says-top-us-official-715969&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj9lcWemtiHAxX9VmwGHU33Hd0QFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0I1umQNGoT7oeuR7Dzi-9S&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-ban-on-tiktok-to-help-us-authorities-win-legal-case-against-chinese-app-says-top-us-official-715969" target="_blank">India's ban on&nbsp;TikTok&nbsp;to help US authorities win legal case&nbsp;</a>

The FTC is seeking penalties of up to $51,744 per violation per day from TikTok for improperly collecting data, which could potentially amount to billions of dollars if TikTok is found liable.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Justice Department launched a legal battle against TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, on Friday (Aug 2), accusing the social media platform of violating children's privacy laws.

US Justice Department launched a legal battle against TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, on Friday (Aug 2), accusing the social media platform of violating children's privacy laws. The lawsuit is the latest move by the Biden administration to increase pressure on TikTok. The US government said TikTok violated the ‘Children's Online Privacy Protection Act’ that involve services aimed at children to get parental approval to collect personal information from users under age 13. Notably, the Chinese-owned short-video platform boasts around 170 million US users, and presently is fighting a new law that would force ByteDance to divest TikTok's US assets by Jan 19 or face a ban. Also read: TikTok fights back: ByteDance appeals against potential ban in US Amidst escalating tensions, US has taken another step against TikTok and its parent company. The lawsuit stems from fears that the platform is a medium for the Chinese government to collect sensitive American data and influence public opinion through content manipulation. The suit states it is aimed at putting an end to TikTok's unlawful massive-scale invasions of children's privacy. Representative Frank Pallone, the top Democrat on the Energy and Commerce Committee, said the suit "underscores the importance of divesting TikTok from Chinese Communist Party control. We simply cannot continue to allow our adversaries to harvest vast troves of Americans’ sensitive data." × Frank Pallone further stated that the lawsuit "highlights the need to dissociate from TikTok from Chinese Communist Party control. We cannot allow our adversaries to continue harvesting large amounts of Americans’ sensitive data." While TikTok on Friday said, it disagrees "with these allegations, many of which relate to past events and practices that are factually inaccurate or have been addressed." As per the Department of Justice, TikTok on purpose permitted children to create regular TikTok accounts, and then create and share short-form videos and messages with adults and others on the regular TikTok platform. TikTok collected personal information from these children without obtaining consent from their parents. Also read: India's ban on TikTok to help US authorities win legal case The FTC is seeking penalties of up to $51,744 per violation per day from TikTok for improperly collecting data, which could potentially amount to billions of dollars if TikTok is found liable. (With inputs from agencies)

US sues TikTok over privacy violations involving children under 13

United States (US) Vice President Kamala Harris has secured enough votes to be named the official Democratic presidential nominee, the Democratic National Committee said on Friday (Aug 2).

United States (US) Vice President Kamala Harris has secured enough votes to be named the official Democratic presidential nominee, the Democratic National Committee said on Friday (Aug 2). Her nomination took place via a virtual vote. Harris was the only candidate on the ballot for the five-day electronic vote after 4,000 delegates -- the grassroots activists and politicians allocated during the primary process -- signed petitions backing her candidacy. Harris reacts: I'm honoured Sealing the Democratic nomination for the presidential election, Harris, 59, said she was honoured. "I am honoured to be the presumptive Democratic nominee for president of the United States," she said. Also read | Kamala Harris dares Donald Trump to debate: 'Say it to my face!' In the two weeks since President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid, Harris has gained full control of the Democratic party. A report by the news agency AFP said that Harris already smashed fundraising records, packed arenas, and wiped out her rival and former US President Donald Trump's polling leads over Biden, creating momentum that she hopes she can ride through the convention to the White House. The upcoming rally On Tuesday (Aug 6), Harris will hold her first rally with her new vice presidential nominee in Philadelphia, launching a four-day battleground tour that also includes Michigan and Arizona. The location of the first stop suggests Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has moved to the top of a short list of running mates, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Also watch | Trump questions if Kamala Harris is 'Indian' or 'Black' × After Philadelphia, Harris and her vice presidential pick will travel to six other locations including western Wisconsin, Detroit and Las Vegas, the campaign said. The list of candidates under consideration for potential running mates includes Shapiro, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, US Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg. (With inputs from agencies)

US presidential election: Kamala Harris has enough votes to secure Democratic nomination

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Iran on Friday (Aug 2) claimed the United States knew and greenlighted Israel's supposed killing of&nbsp;Hamas leader&nbsp;Ismail Haniyeh. The claim was made by Iran's Intelligence Minister&nbsp;Ismail Khatib during an event organised to honour&nbsp;Haniyeh's death.&nbsp;

“Martyr Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination took place at the hands of the usurping Zionists with the United States’ greenlight,” the minister was quoted as saying by Iranian state media.

At the time of his death,&nbsp;Haniyeh was visiting Tehran&nbsp;to attend the inauguration ceremony of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

“The assassination once again put the Zionist regime’s bestial nature on display,” Khatib added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjaqfbi59aHAxUuKkQIHRiIOdAQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-provide-more-arms-to-israel-amid-triple-threat-of-hamas-iran-and-hezbollah-746467" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-provide-more-arms-to-israel-amid-triple-threat-of-hamas-iran-and-hezbollah-746467&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjaqfbi59aHAxUuKkQIHRiIOdAQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">US to provide more arms to Israel amid triple threat of Hamas, Iran and Hezbollah ?</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Hossein Salami, issued a stern warning to the Jewish nation on Friday, saying, "enemies of the nation, especially the Zionist gang and its supporters,” should expect revenge from the resistance.

Earlier in the day,&nbsp;Haniyeh's dead body was buried in Qatar, two days after his killing. Hundreds of people gathered for the funeral in Doha, waving Palestinian flags and raising chants.

Hamas and Iran have both accused Israel of carrying out the assassination and have pledged to retaliate against their foe. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the death nor denied it.

<h2>Biden tough on Israel</h2>

Meanwhile, reports have emerged claiming US President Joe Biden has demanded Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu must stop escalating tensions in the region and work towards a peace deal in Gaza.

As per a report in Axios, Biden is frustrated with Israel's actions in Lebanon and Iran over the past week and is seeking instant de-escalation.

Watch:West Asia Crisis: Iran and its proxies plan retaliation attack against Israel

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The Biden&nbsp;administration is also reportedly furious because Netanyahu kept the US president&nbsp;in the dark about the two major killings in Beirut and Tehran.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Iran on Friday (Aug 2) claimed the United States knew and greenlighted Israel's supposed killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. The claim was made by Iran's Intelligence Minister Ismail Khatib during an event organised to honour Haniyeh's death.

Iran on Friday (Aug 2) claimed the United States knew and greenlighted Israel's supposed killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. The claim was made by Iran's Intelligence Minister Ismail Khatib during an event organised to honour Haniyeh's death. “Martyr Ismail Haniyeh’s assassination took place at the hands of the usurping Zionists with the United States’ greenlight,” the minister was quoted as saying by Iranian state media. At the time of his death, Haniyeh was visiting Tehran to attend the inauguration ceremony of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. “The assassination once again put the Zionist regime’s bestial nature on display,” Khatib added. Also read: US to provide more arms to Israel amid triple threat of Hamas, Iran and Hezbollah ? Meanwhile, the commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Hossein Salami, issued a stern warning to the Jewish nation on Friday, saying, "enemies of the nation, especially the Zionist gang and its supporters,” should expect revenge from the resistance. Earlier in the day, Haniyeh's dead body was buried in Qatar, two days after his killing. Hundreds of people gathered for the funeral in Doha, waving Palestinian flags and raising chants. Hamas and Iran have both accused Israel of carrying out the assassination and have pledged to retaliate against their foe. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the death nor denied it. Biden tough on Israel Meanwhile, reports have emerged claiming US President Joe Biden has demanded Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must stop escalating tensions in the region and work towards a peace deal in Gaza. As per a report in Axios, Biden is frustrated with Israel's actions in Lebanon and Iran over the past week and is seeking instant de-escalation. Watch:West Asia Crisis: Iran and its proxies plan retaliation attack against Israel × The Biden administration is also reportedly furious because Netanyahu kept the US president in the dark about the two major killings in Beirut and Tehran. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Iran claims US greenlighted Israel's killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh

Italian boxer Angela Carini has issued an apology to her Algerian opponent, Imane Khelif, following a highly controversial conclusion to their Olympic boxing match.

Paris Olympics 2024: Angela Carini apologises for controversial Olympic bout against Imane Khelif

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Headlines of the hour: - Biden, Harris meet freed Americans - Iran, allies plan action against Israel: Reports - US announces new military deployments - Trump seeks recusal of Hush money judge - IAF begins rescue ops in Kedarnath - US recognises Maduro's opponent as winner - US launches Nvidia antitrust probe - IOC hits back after gender row erupts

US recognises Maduro's opponent as winner | Trump seeks recusal of Hush Money judge

A US judge has thrown out a Republican National Committee lawsuit accusing Alphabet's Google of intentionally misdirecting the political party's email messages to users' spam folders.

Google wins major lawsuit against Republican National Committee

US President Joe Biden is considering sending more defences for Israel as the Middle Eastern nation faces the triple threat of Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran, according to a CNN report.

Biden held a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Aug 1) where he said the US would&nbsp;“support Israel’s defence against threats,” which would include “new defensive US military deployments".&nbsp;

"President Biden spoke today with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel. The President reaffirmed his commitment to Israel’s security against all threats from Iran, including its proxy terrorist groups Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis," read the readout of the call.&nbsp;

Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the call as the duo called on Tel Aviv to de-escalate "broader tensions" in the region.&nbsp;

The statement did not detail what new deployments would be made but according to reports, the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group which includes&nbsp;the aircraft carrier, destroyers and other warships, could be moved into the&nbsp;Gulf of Aden or the Red Sea.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hamas-chief-haniyehs-assassination-iran-orders-attack-on-israel-report-746163" target="_blank">Watch |&nbsp;Hamas chief Haniyeh’s assassination: Iran orders attack on Israel: Report</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hamas-chief-haniyehs-assassination-iran-orders-attack-on-israel-report-746163/embed" width="560"></iframe>

Washington is especially wary after Iranian Supreme Leader&nbsp;Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said avenging Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh's blood was their 'duty' and vowed retaliation against Israel.&nbsp;

“The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime martyred our dear guest in our house and made us bereaved,"&nbsp;Khamenei said.&nbsp;

“We consider it our duty to avenge his blood in this bitter and difficult incident that happened in the territory of the Islamic Republic,” he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-haniyeh-was-killed-by-bomb-hidden-two-months-ago-in-tehran-guesthouse-746338">Also read |&nbsp;Hamas chief Haniyeh was killed by bomb hidden two months ago in Tehran guesthouse: Report</a>

Notably, both Hamas and Tehran have claimed that Israel is responsible for the assassination. Tel Aviv has neither acknowledged nor rejected Iran or Hamas' claims. However, a New York Times report claimed that Israel had&nbsp;briefed the United States and other Western governments on the details of the operation in the immediate aftermath.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu said Israel remained on "very high alert" after its attacks against the adversaries sparked fears of a wider war on multiple fronts.&nbsp;

“Israel is on a very high alert for all scenarios, both in defence and offence,” he said in an update released by the prime minister’s office, adding that Israeli forces will “exact a very high price for any act of aggression against us from any arena.”

Washington expects the Iranian attack to be similar to the barrage of&nbsp;ballistic missiles and drones it launched against Israel on April 13.&nbsp;However, there is anticipation that the attack could be larger and more complicated, including the possibility of a coordinated attack with Iranian proxies from multiple directions.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden is considering sending more defences for Israel as the Middle Eastern nation faces the triple threat of Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran, according to a CNN report.

US President Joe Biden is considering sending more defences for Israel as the Middle Eastern nation faces the triple threat of Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran, according to a CNN report. Biden held a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Aug 1) where he said the US would “support Israel’s defence against threats,” which would include “new defensive US military deployments". "President Biden spoke today with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel. The President reaffirmed his commitment to Israel’s security against all threats from Iran, including its proxy terrorist groups Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis," read the readout of the call. Vice President Kamala Harris also joined the call as the duo called on Tel Aviv to de-escalate "broader tensions" in the region. The statement did not detail what new deployments would be made but according to reports, the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group which includes the aircraft carrier, destroyers and other warships, could be moved into the Gulf of Aden or the Red Sea. Watch | Hamas chief Haniyeh’s assassination: Iran orders attack on Israel: Report Washington is especially wary after Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said avenging Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh's blood was their 'duty' and vowed retaliation against Israel. “The criminal and terrorist Zionist regime martyred our dear guest in our house and made us bereaved," Khamenei said. “We consider it our duty to avenge his blood in this bitter and difficult incident that happened in the territory of the Islamic Republic,” he added. Also read | Hamas chief Haniyeh was killed by bomb hidden two months ago in Tehran guesthouse: Report Notably, both Hamas and Tehran have claimed that Israel is responsible for the assassination. Tel Aviv has neither acknowledged nor rejected Iran or Hamas' claims. However, a New York Times report claimed that Israel had briefed the United States and other Western governments on the details of the operation in the immediate aftermath. Meanwhile, Netanyahu said Israel remained on "very high alert" after its attacks against the adversaries sparked fears of a wider war on multiple fronts. “Israel is on a very high alert for all scenarios, both in defence and offence,” he said in an update released by the prime minister’s office, adding that Israeli forces will “exact a very high price for any act of aggression against us from any arena.” Washington expects the Iranian attack to be similar to the barrage of ballistic missiles and drones it launched against Israel on April 13. However, there is anticipation that the attack could be larger and more complicated, including the possibility of a coordinated attack with Iranian proxies from multiple directions. (With inputs from agencies)

US to provide more arms to Israel amid triple threat of Hamas, Iran and Hezbollah ?

The head of Hamas' military wing, Mohammed Deif, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza last month, the Israeli military said on Thursday, a day after the group's political leader was assassinated in Tehran.

Israel-Hamas war: IDF announces that Deif was killed on July 13

US&nbsp;president Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris greeted&nbsp;Former US Marine Paul Whelan and journalist Evan Gershkovich as they stepped off the plane at&nbsp;Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Thursday (Aug 2).

“I’m home,” Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich told his colleagues after stepping off the plane.

Around a dozen Wall Street Journal employees gathered on the tarmac in solidarity with their returning colleague.

Celebrating the release, President Biden said&nbsp;“It feels wonderful. It’s been a long time coming. I was absolutely confident we could get it done. I meant it when I said — alliances make a difference. They stepped up and took a chance for us, and it mattered a lot."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-criticises-bidens-decision-on-whelan-and-gershkovich-exchange-746425">Trump criticises Biden's decision on Gershkovich and Whelan exchange</a>

Speaking on the tarmac after the released Americans landed in US, Vice President Kamala Harris said it was “an incredible day.”

“I’m very thankful for our president and his efforts, especially concerning these families and individuals. His ability to bring our allies together on many issues, and particularly this one, has been significant,” Harris said.

Russia on Thursday (August 1) released imprisoned Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan as part of a major prisoner swap with the United States.

The men were jailed in Russia on espionage charges that they and the US deny.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-hails-release-of-wsj-reporter-evan-gershkovich-other-prisoners-from-russia-brutal-ordeal-is-over-746379">Biden hails release of Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva from Russia: ‘Brutal ordeal is over’</a>

The prisoners were flown to Turkey's capital Ankara from Russia, the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway and Belarus under the complex deal, the Turkish presidency said.

During an earlier White House briefing with the families of the US citizens incarcerated in Russia, President Joe Biden said, "Today, three American citizens and one American green-card holder who were unjustly imprisoned in Russia are finally coming home: Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza.

"The deal that secured their freedom was a feat of diplomacy. All told, we’ve negotiated the release of 16 people from Russia—including five Germans and seven Russian citizens who were political prisoners in their own country," the statement said.

Hailing the move, Harris said, "&nbsp;Over many years, President Biden and I and our team have engaged in complex diplomatic negotiations to bring these wrongfully detained Americans home. &nbsp;We never stopped fighting for their release. &nbsp;And today, in spite of all of their suffering, it gives me great comfort to know that their horrible ordeal is finally over."

<h2>Putin welcomes Russians returning to Moscow after prisoner swap</h2>

Russian nationals involved in a historic&nbsp;prisoner swap with Western countries arrived in Moscow late on Thursday and were greeted at the airport by President Vladimir Putin, according to Russian news agencies.

The agencies reported that the eight returnees would all be presented with state awards and quoted Putin as saying that their "homeland had not forgotten them, not for a single minute".

<h2>Obama lauds Biden for US-Russia prisoner swap&nbsp;</h2>

Former president Barack Obama applauded Biden's “skill and persistence” alongside that of vice president Kamala Harris and US' allies.

“It’s a tremendous diplomatic achievement, and we’re grateful that they’ll be back home with their families where they belong,” he wrote on X.

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Thanks to the skill and persistence of <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a>, and our allies, Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza are being released from Russian custody. It’s a tremendous diplomatic achievement, and we’re grateful that they’ll be back home with their…
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1819060394633150658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

US president Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris greeted Former US Marine Paul Whelan and journalist Evan Gershkovich as they stepped off the plane at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Thursday (Aug 2).

US president Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris greeted Former US Marine Paul Whelan and journalist Evan Gershkovich as they stepped off the plane at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Thursday (Aug 2). “I’m home,” Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich told his colleagues after stepping off the plane. Around a dozen Wall Street Journal employees gathered on the tarmac in solidarity with their returning colleague. Celebrating the release, President Biden said “It feels wonderful. It’s been a long time coming. I was absolutely confident we could get it done. I meant it when I said — alliances make a difference. They stepped up and took a chance for us, and it mattered a lot." Also read: Trump criticises Biden's decision on Gershkovich and Whelan exchange Speaking on the tarmac after the released Americans landed in US, Vice President Kamala Harris said it was “an incredible day.” “I’m very thankful for our president and his efforts, especially concerning these families and individuals. His ability to bring our allies together on many issues, and particularly this one, has been significant,” Harris said. Russia on Thursday (August 1) released imprisoned Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan as part of a major prisoner swap with the United States. The men were jailed in Russia on espionage charges that they and the US deny. Also read: Biden hails release of Gershkovich, Whelan and Kurmasheva from Russia: ‘Brutal ordeal is over’ The prisoners were flown to Turkey's capital Ankara from Russia, the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway and Belarus under the complex deal, the Turkish presidency said. During an earlier White House briefing with the families of the US citizens incarcerated in Russia, President Joe Biden said, "Today, three American citizens and one American green-card holder who were unjustly imprisoned in Russia are finally coming home: Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza. "The deal that secured their freedom was a feat of diplomacy. All told, we’ve negotiated the release of 16 people from Russia—including five Germans and seven Russian citizens who were political prisoners in their own country," the statement said. Hailing the move, Harris said, " Over many years, President Biden and I and our team have engaged in complex diplomatic negotiations to bring these wrongfully detained Americans home. We never stopped fighting for their release. And today, in spite of all of their suffering, it gives me great comfort to know that their horrible ordeal is finally over." Putin welcomes Russians returning to Moscow after prisoner swap Russian nationals involved in a historic prisoner swap with Western countries arrived in Moscow late on Thursday and were greeted at the airport by President Vladimir Putin, according to Russian news agencies. The agencies reported that the eight returnees would all be presented with state awards and quoted Putin as saying that their "homeland had not forgotten them, not for a single minute". Obama lauds Biden for US-Russia prisoner swap Former president Barack Obama applauded Biden's “skill and persistence” alongside that of vice president Kamala Harris and US' allies. “It’s a tremendous diplomatic achievement, and we’re grateful that they’ll be back home with their families where they belong,” he wrote on X. Thanks to the skill and persistence of @POTUS, @VP, and our allies, Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza are being released from Russian custody. It’s a tremendous diplomatic achievement, and we’re grateful that they’ll be back home with their… — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) August 1, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Freed Americans return home following historic prisoner swap; Biden, Harris greet them at airport

Nigeria prepared for nationwide protests over the cost of living on Thursday with authorities warning about attempts to copy the violent demonstrations in Kenya that forced the government to backtrack on new taxes.

Nigeria Protests: At least 3 killed in violent clashes

Russia on Thursday (August 1) released incarcerated Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan as part of a major prisoner swap with the United States, Bloomberg reported while citing people familiar with the situation.&nbsp;

The men were&nbsp;jailed in Russia on espionage charges that they and the US deny.

The prisoners were flown to Turkey's capital Ankara from Russia, the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway and Belarus under the complex deal, the Turkish presidency said.

"Eight Russian citizens who were detained and imprisoned in a series of NATO countries, were returned home," Russia's state-run news agencies quoted the FSB as saying in a statement.

It added: "The Russians were exchanged for a group of people who were acting in the interests of foreign states to the detriment of the security of the Russian Federation."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-evan-gershkovich-the-us-journalist-arrested-in-russia-for-espionage-577732">Who is Evan Gershkovich, the US journalist arrested in Russia for espionage</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Russia prisoner exchange: West's side of bargain</h2>

Under the deal, the US and its allies returned prisoners to Russia that they hold, the Bloomberg report added while citing people familiar with the matter. The Kremlin released the dissident Vladimir Kara-Murza as part of the agreement.

An activist with dual Russian-British citizenship, Kara-Murza, 42, campaigned against Vladimir Putin's rule and was sentenced to 25 years in prison in April last year on treason charges.

For months, Washington and other Western capitals were negotiating with Moscow for the release of Gershkovich and Whelan. Both of them have been designated as wrongly detained by the US State Department.

In total, 10 Russians — including two minors — were exchanged for 16 Westerners and Russians imprisoned in Russia, according to a statement released by the Turkish presidency.

This was the first exchange between Russia and the West since star US basketball player Brittney Griner returned home in return for convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout in December 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Thursday (August 1) released incarcerated Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan as part of a major prisoner swap with the United States, Bloomberg reported while citing people familiar with the situation.

Russia on Thursday (August 1) released incarcerated Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan as part of a major prisoner swap with the United States, Bloomberg reported while citing people familiar with the situation. The men were jailed in Russia on espionage charges that they and the US deny. The prisoners were flown to Turkey's capital Ankara from Russia, the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway and Belarus under the complex deal, the Turkish presidency said. "Eight Russian citizens who were detained and imprisoned in a series of NATO countries, were returned home," Russia's state-run news agencies quoted the FSB as saying in a statement. It added: "The Russians were exchanged for a group of people who were acting in the interests of foreign states to the detriment of the security of the Russian Federation." Also read | Who is Evan Gershkovich, the US journalist arrested in Russia for espionage Russia prisoner exchange: West's side of bargain Under the deal, the US and its allies returned prisoners to Russia that they hold, the Bloomberg report added while citing people familiar with the matter. The Kremlin released the dissident Vladimir Kara-Murza as part of the agreement. An activist with dual Russian-British citizenship, Kara-Murza, 42, campaigned against Vladimir Putin's rule and was sentenced to 25 years in prison in April last year on treason charges. For months, Washington and other Western capitals were negotiating with Moscow for the release of Gershkovich and Whelan. Both of them have been designated as wrongly detained by the US State Department. In total, 10 Russians — including two minors — were exchanged for 16 Westerners and Russians imprisoned in Russia, according to a statement released by the Turkish presidency. This was the first exchange between Russia and the West since star US basketball player Brittney Griner returned home in return for convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout in December 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia releases US journalist Evan Gershkovich, ex-marine Paul Whelan in biggest prisoner swap since Cold War

US and Russia agreed to a prisoners swap on Thursday (Aug 1) under which&nbsp;Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan returned to the US late in the evening. Both the president and the vice president are expected to greet them at Joint Base Andrews. In other news, a NYT report has claimed that Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in a bomb blast in Tehran, Iran.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-harris-to-welcome-freed-americans-arriving-from-russia-746431">Biden and Harris to welcome freed Americans arriving from Russia</a>

US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris welcomed and greeted the American prisoners freed from Russian custody after they returned to the country, late on Thursday evening.&nbsp;<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447037-untitled-design-30.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-criticises-bidens-decision-on-whelan-and-gershkovich-exchange-746425">Trump criticises Biden's decision on Gershkovich and Whelan exchange</a>

Donald Trump has criticised President Joe Biden's decision of the recent prisoner swap with Moscow, which secured the release of American journalist Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan from Russian custody.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440476-presidential-election.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-haniyeh-was-killed-by-bomb-hidden-two-months-ago-in-tehran-guesthouse-746338">Hamas chief Haniyeh was killed by bomb hidden two months ago in Tehran guesthouse: Report</a>

Ismail Haniyeh, the Doha-based political bureau chief of Hamas, was assassinated using an explosive device that was smuggled into the guesthouse he was staying at in Tehran, Iran, according to a report in the New York Times.

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/04/10/424269-wion-images-2024-04-10t210750713.png?imwidth=400" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lifted-800-million-out-of-poverty-simply-by-smartphone-un-746446">India lifted 800 million out of poverty 'simply by smartphones': UN</a>

India has lifted 800 million out of poverty in the last five to six years, simply by the use of smartphones, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Dennis Francis said on Thursday (Aug 1).

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/11/16217-000_del6442757%25252520%2525281%252529-20161227093230.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Watch |&nbsp;Wayanad landslides: At least 298 killed, over 200 others injured

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US and Russia agreed to a prisoners swap on Thursday (Aug 1) under which Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan returned to the US late in the evening.

US and Russia agreed to a prisoners swap on Thursday (Aug 1) under which Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan returned to the US late in the evening. Both the president and the vice president are expected to greet them at Joint Base Andrews. In other news, a NYT report has claimed that Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh was killed in a bomb blast in Tehran, Iran. Click on headlines to read more: Biden and Harris to welcome freed Americans arriving from Russia US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris welcomed and greeted the American prisoners freed from Russian custody after they returned to the country, late on Thursday evening. Trump criticises Biden's decision on Gershkovich and Whelan exchange Donald Trump has criticised President Joe Biden's decision of the recent prisoner swap with Moscow, which secured the release of American journalist Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan from Russian custody. Hamas chief Haniyeh was killed by bomb hidden two months ago in Tehran guesthouse: Report Ismail Haniyeh, the Doha-based political bureau chief of Hamas, was assassinated using an explosive device that was smuggled into the guesthouse he was staying at in Tehran, Iran, according to a report in the New York Times. India lifted 800 million out of poverty 'simply by smartphones': UN India has lifted 800 million out of poverty in the last five to six years, simply by the use of smartphones, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) President Dennis Francis said on Thursday (Aug 1). Watch | Wayanad landslides: At least 298 killed, over 200 others injured ×

Morning news brief: Freed Americans return home, Hamas chief Haniyeh killed in blast, and more

Turkey is coordinating an extensive prisoner swap between Russia and Belarus on one side and the United States, Germany and Slovenia on the other. US reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US marine Paul Whelan are among 26 prisoners released.

US-Russia prisoner swap: Three freed Americans land on US soil | 26 prisoners released in swap

A 17-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of three young girls in a knife attack on Thursday (Aug 2). The incident shocked the nation and led to two nights of violent protests.

The accused identified as Axel Rudakubana first appeared at Liverpool Magistrates' Court over Monday's &nbsp;(July 29) incident at a "Taylor Swift yoga and dance workshop" summer vacation event for children in the seaside town of Southport.

Rudakubana is charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and one of possession of a bladed article.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/southport-stabbing-teen-suspect-appeared-in-court-starmer-announces-new-national-security-reforms-746424">Southport stabbing: Teen suspect appeared in court; Starmer announces new national security reforms</a>

His case was later heard at Liverpool Crown Court, where he sat in the dock with his face covered by a grey sweatshirt and did not speak to confirm his name.

It may be mentioned here, large protest broke out in Southport, in England's northwest, on Tuesday (July 30) after false information was spread on social media that the suspect in the stabbings was a radical Islamist migrant, with anti-immigrant protesters descending on Southport town from elsewhere.

Police informed that the attack was not related to terrorism and confirmed that the suspect, born in Britain, is not connected to any particular origins or external factors.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed plans for a new "national capability" to address the resulting unrest.

The new measures include sharing intelligence, using facial recognition technology more widely, and issuing criminal behaviour orders to prevent troublemakers from moving around, according to the prime minister.

Starmer recently held a meeting with police chiefs nationwide to talk about ways to stop the violence that broke out after Monday's killings.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/riots-erupt-in-southport-after-3-kids-die-in-mass-stabbing-incident-at-swift-themed-event-50-officers-injured-746017" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/riots-erupt-in-southport-after-3-kids-die-in-mass-stabbing-incident-at-swift-themed-event-50-officers-injured-746017&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjn6JyOtdWHAxVNUGwGHapbBgAQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw22Be798d_yKL4jZPCZws4O&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/riots-erupt-in-southport-after-3-kids-die-in-mass-stabbing-incident-at-swift-themed-event-50-officers-injured-746017" target="_blank">Riots erupt in&nbsp;Southport&nbsp;over death of 3 kids in mass stabbing</a>

Starmer urged social media companies on Thursday to enforce the law regarding disinformation. 
"It's also a crime, and it's happening on your premises," Starmer stated, referring to the spread of false information online that contributed to the violence.

On Wednesday night outside Downing Street, protesters hurled bottles at police while chanting "Stop the boats," referring to the small vessels used by irregular migrants crossing the Channel.

In Hartlepool, located in northeast England, demonstrators ignited police cars and hurled objects at officers. Authorities reported making eight arrests.

Hartlepool police mentioned that officers were targeted with "missiles, glass bottles, and eggs," resulting in minor injuries to several officers.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 17-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of three young girls in a knife attack on Thursday (Aug 2). The incident shocked the nation and led to two nights of violent protests.

A 17-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of three young girls in a knife attack on Thursday (Aug 2). The incident shocked the nation and led to two nights of violent protests. The accused identified as Axel Rudakubana first appeared at Liverpool Magistrates' Court over Monday's (July 29) incident at a "Taylor Swift yoga and dance workshop" summer vacation event for children in the seaside town of Southport. Rudakubana is charged with three counts of murder, 10 counts of attempted murder and one of possession of a bladed article. Also read: Southport stabbing: Teen suspect appeared in court; Starmer announces new national security reforms His case was later heard at Liverpool Crown Court, where he sat in the dock with his face covered by a grey sweatshirt and did not speak to confirm his name. It may be mentioned here, large protest broke out in Southport, in England's northwest, on Tuesday (July 30) after false information was spread on social media that the suspect in the stabbings was a radical Islamist migrant, with anti-immigrant protesters descending on Southport town from elsewhere. Police informed that the attack was not related to terrorism and confirmed that the suspect, born in Britain, is not connected to any particular origins or external factors. Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed plans for a new "national capability" to address the resulting unrest. The new measures include sharing intelligence, using facial recognition technology more widely, and issuing criminal behaviour orders to prevent troublemakers from moving around, according to the prime minister. Starmer recently held a meeting with police chiefs nationwide to talk about ways to stop the violence that broke out after Monday's killings. Also read: Riots erupt in Southport over death of 3 kids in mass stabbing Starmer urged social media companies on Thursday to enforce the law regarding disinformation. "It's also a crime, and it's happening on your premises," Starmer stated, referring to the spread of false information online that contributed to the violence. On Wednesday night outside Downing Street, protesters hurled bottles at police while chanting "Stop the boats," referring to the small vessels used by irregular migrants crossing the Channel. In Hartlepool, located in northeast England, demonstrators ignited police cars and hurled objects at officers. Authorities reported making eight arrests. Hartlepool police mentioned that officers were targeted with "missiles, glass bottles, and eggs," resulting in minor injuries to several officers. (With inputs from agencies)

UK knife attack: 17-year-old male charged with murder of 3 girls

Headlines of the hour: - Biden, Harris meet freed Americans - Iran, allies plan action against Israel: Reports - US announces new military deployments - Trump seeks recusal of Hush money judge - IAF begins rescue ops in Kedarnath - US recognises Maduro's opponent as winner - Paris 2024: PV Sindhu knocked out

Biden, Harris meet freed Americans | IAF's rescue ops in Kedarnath

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday (Aug 2) morning started the rescue operation in Kedarnath in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand after a cloudburst left pilgrims stranded on the landslide-ravaged trek. IAF's Chinook and MI17 helicopters were pressed into service to evacuate more than 500 pilgrims.

IAF's Chinook, MI17 start rescue operations in Kedarnath after cloudburst strands pilgrims

Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Iran's capital Tehran, was buried in&nbsp;Qatar on Friday (Aug&nbsp;2).&nbsp;Thousands of people gathered at Qatar's largest mosque, where&nbsp;Haniyeh's casket, draped in a Palestinian flag, was taken before leaving again for burial in Lusail, north of Doha.

India's astronaut designates Shubhanshu Shukla and Prashant Balakrishnan Nair will commence their training at NASA's Johnson Space Center, in Houston, Texas, this week.&nbsp;

In other news from around the world, the Kremlin said on Friday that Vadim Krasikov, freed by Germany in&nbsp;Thursday's prisoner swap deal with the West, is an operative with Russia's FSB security service.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-leader-ismail-haniyeh-buried-in-qatar-after-he-was-assassinated-746678">Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh buried in Qatar after he was assassinated</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447183-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=400" />

Thousands of mourners and supporters bid farewell on Friday in Qatar (Aug 2) to Hamas' political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh following his assassination in Iran's capital Tehran.&nbsp;Thousands of people gathered at Qatar's largest mosque, where&nbsp;Haniyeh's casket, draped in a Palestinian flag, was taken before leaving again for burial in Lusail, north of Doha.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-astronauts-group-captain-shukla-nair-chosen-to-train-at-nasa-746660">Indian astronauts Group Captain Shukla, Nair chosen to train at NASA&nbsp;</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447172-whatsapp-image-2024-08-02-at-203807.jpeg?imwidth=400" />

India's astronaut designates and Indian Air Force Test pilots, Group Captains Shubhanshu Shukla and Prashant Balakrishnan Nair will commence their training at NASA's Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/east-west-prisoner-swap-kremlin-says-vadim-krasikov-freed-by-germany-is-fsb-operative-746607">East-West prisoner swap: Kremlin says Vadim Krasikov, freed by Germany, is FSB operative</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447140-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=400" />

The Kremlin on Friday (Aug 2) said that Vadim Krasikov, freed by Germany in&nbsp;Thursday's prisoner swap deal with the West, is an operative with Russia's FSB security service. Addressing a press conference,&nbsp;Kremlin spokesperson&nbsp;Dmitry Peskov said, "Krasikov is an FSB employee."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-supreme-court-rejects-pleas-seeking-probe-into-electoral-bonds-scheme-746574">India's Supreme Court rejects pleas seeking probe into electoral bonds scheme</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/21/419957-untitled-design-6.png?imwidth=400" />

India's top court on Friday (Aug 2) rejected petitions seeking a detailed investigation under judicial supervision into an alleged scam of using electoral bonds (EBs). The political funding tool was introduced in 2017 but was scrapped in February by the Supreme Court of India as it was declared "unconstitutional."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hu-xijin-china-bans-ex-editor-of-nationalist-tabloid-global-times-from-social-media-but-why-746594">Hu Xijin: China 'bans' ex-editor of nationalist tabloid Global Times from social media, but why?</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447134-hu.png?imwidth=400" />

Global Times, the Chinese-state-owned tabloid, is one of the most nationalist supporters of President Xi Jinping's regime, but one of its editors has now been 'banned' from social media, according to reports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-blocks-access-to-instagram-without-stating-reason-746568">Turkey blocks access to Instagram without stating reason</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447117-untitled-design.png?imwidth=400" />

Turkey has blocked access to the social media platform Instagram, the country's&nbsp;national communications authority said on Friday (Aug 2). The government blocked Instagram&nbsp;without stating a reason. It is also not yet known the duration for which the ban would last, a report by the news agency Reuters said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-largest-illegal-porn-ring-busted-449-arrested-for-crimes-including-child-pornography-746565">Taiwan's largest illegal porn ring busted, 449 arrested for crimes including child pornography</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447115-telegram.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Taiwanese law enforcement authorities have arrested 449 people after busting its largest illegal pornography ring. Those arrested engaged in making, selling, or possessing child pornography as well as recordings of women in restrooms. Out of those arrested, 178 were buyers of the explicit content.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yet-another-hoarding-collapse-three-vehicles-crushed-in-maharashtras-thane-amid-heavy-rains-watch-746636">Yet another hoarding collapse: Three vehicles crushed in&nbsp;Maharashtra's Thane amid heavy rains, watch</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447157-capture.JPG?imwidth=400" />

In what came as a striking reminder of Mumbai&nbsp;hoarding collapse horror, another hoarding came crashing&nbsp;down in&nbsp;Maharashtra's Thane district Friday morning (Aug 2). At least three vehicles were crushed in the accident, with no reports of injuries so far.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-jeremy-renner-reveals-he-blew-up-avengers-group-chat-as-robert-downey-jr-returned-to-mcu-746673">Jeremy Renner reveals he 'blew up' Avengers group chat as Robert Downey Jr returned to MCU</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447181-your-paragraph-text-2024-08-02t212708036.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Looks like Robert Downey Jr's return to the&nbsp;Avengers&nbsp;as Doctor Doom has surprised not just fans but also his former fellow&nbsp;Avengers&nbsp;actors. Robert's return was revealed at the San Diego Comic-Con last month. He had famously played Iron Man previously in MCU. But it seems, Jeremy Renner was not in the knowing about Robert's new role.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-hockey-%E2%80%98chak-de-moment%E2%80%99-for-india-at-paris-olympics-2024-as-they-stun-australia-for-first-time-in-52-years-746650">Paris Olympics 2024: India beat Australia for first time in 52 years in men's hockey, finish second in Group B</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/02/447166-paris-olympics-2024-india-beat-australia-for-first-time-in-52-years-in-hockey.jpg?imwidth=400" />

India’s men’s hockey team had their ‘Chak de moment’ at the Paris Olympics 2024 after&nbsp;they beat Australia (3-2) for the first time in 52 years in the Summer Games. Skipper Harmanpreet Singh scored a brace, including the second and the third goal, to lead India to a second-place finish in their Group B with ten points from five contested matches.&nbsp;

Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Iran's capital Tehran, was buried in Qatar on Friday (Aug 2). Thousands of people gathered at Qatar's largest mosque, where Haniyeh's casket, draped in a Palestinian flag, was taken before leaving again for burial in Lusail, north of Doha.

Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Iran's capital Tehran, was buried in Qatar on Friday (Aug 2). Thousands of people gathered at Qatar's largest mosque, where Haniyeh's casket, draped in a Palestinian flag, was taken before leaving again for burial in Lusail, north of Doha. India's astronaut designates Shubhanshu Shukla and Prashant Balakrishnan Nair will commence their training at NASA's Johnson Space Center, in Houston, Texas, this week. In other news from around the world, the Kremlin said on Friday that Vadim Krasikov, freed by Germany in Thursday's prisoner swap deal with the West, is an operative with Russia's FSB security service. Click on the headlines to read more: Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh buried in Qatar after he was assassinated Thousands of mourners and supporters bid farewell on Friday in Qatar (Aug 2) to Hamas' political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh following his assassination in Iran's capital Tehran. Thousands of people gathered at Qatar's largest mosque, where Haniyeh's casket, draped in a Palestinian flag, was taken before leaving again for burial in Lusail, north of Doha. Indian astronauts Group Captain Shukla, Nair chosen to train at NASA India's astronaut designates and Indian Air Force Test pilots, Group Captains Shubhanshu Shukla and Prashant Balakrishnan Nair will commence their training at NASA's Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, this week. East-West prisoner swap: Kremlin says Vadim Krasikov, freed by Germany, is FSB operative The Kremlin on Friday (Aug 2) said that Vadim Krasikov, freed by Germany in Thursday's prisoner swap deal with the West, is an operative with Russia's FSB security service. Addressing a press conference, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, "Krasikov is an FSB employee." India's Supreme Court rejects pleas seeking probe into electoral bonds scheme India's top court on Friday (Aug 2) rejected petitions seeking a detailed investigation under judicial supervision into an alleged scam of using electoral bonds (EBs). The political funding tool was introduced in 2017 but was scrapped in February by the Supreme Court of India as it was declared "unconstitutional." Hu Xijin: China 'bans' ex-editor of nationalist tabloid Global Times from social media, but why? Global Times, the Chinese-state-owned tabloid, is one of the most nationalist supporters of President Xi Jinping's regime, but one of its editors has now been 'banned' from social media, according to reports. Turkey blocks access to Instagram without stating reason Turkey has blocked access to the social media platform Instagram, the country's national communications authority said on Friday (Aug 2). The government blocked Instagram without stating a reason. It is also not yet known the duration for which the ban would last, a report by the news agency Reuters said. Taiwan's largest illegal porn ring busted, 449 arrested for crimes including child pornography Taiwanese law enforcement authorities have arrested 449 people after busting its largest illegal pornography ring. Those arrested engaged in making, selling, or possessing child pornography as well as recordings of women in restrooms. Out of those arrested, 178 were buyers of the explicit content. Yet another hoarding collapse: Three vehicles crushed in Maharashtra's Thane amid heavy rains, watch In what came as a striking reminder of Mumbai hoarding collapse horror, another hoarding came crashing down in Maharashtra's Thane district Friday morning (Aug 2). At least three vehicles were crushed in the accident, with no reports of injuries so far. Jeremy Renner reveals he 'blew up' Avengers group chat as Robert Downey Jr returned to MCU Looks like Robert Downey Jr's return to the Avengers as Doctor Doom has surprised not just fans but also his former fellow Avengers actors. Robert's return was revealed at the San Diego Comic-Con last month. He had famously played Iron Man previously in MCU. But it seems, Jeremy Renner was not in the knowing about Robert's new role. Paris Olympics 2024: India beat Australia for first time in 52 years in men's hockey, finish second in Group B India’s men’s hockey team had their ‘Chak de moment’ at the Paris Olympics 2024 after they beat Australia (3-2) for the first time in 52 years in the Summer Games. Skipper Harmanpreet Singh scored a brace, including the second and the third goal, to lead India to a second-place finish in their Group B with ten points from five contested matches.

Top 10 world news: Ismail Haniyeh buried in Qatar; Indian astronauts Shukla, Nair to train at NASA; and more

The United States recognised Edmundo Gonzalez, the opposition candidate, as the winner of Venezuela's disputed presidential election, rejecting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's claim of victory.

"Given the overwhelming evidence, it is quite clear to United States and to the Venezuelan people that Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia won the most votes in Venezuela's July 28 presidential election," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement on Thursday (Aug 1).

The announcement from Washington only extended congratulations to Gonzalez for a "successful campaign," marking the closest the US has come since Sunday’s contested election to recognising him as the new leader of Venezuela.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-election-president-nicolas-maduro-wins-third-term-745123" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-election-president-nicolas-maduro-wins-third-term-745123&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj82Y3irtWHAxXMSWwGHcb8DsUQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1OVNTlA9BedP5mEKlEqE6L&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-election-president-nicolas-maduro-wins-third-term-745123" target="_blank">President Nicolas Maduro wins third term, opposition rejects result</a>

It is worth mentioning here, the dispute over the presidential election results has sparked protests in the country.&nbsp;

Venezuela's electoral council proclaimed Maduro, who has been in power since 2013, the winner of the July 28 election with 51% of the vote.

However the country's opposition articulate that its tally of about 90% of the votes shows that Gonzalez received more than double the support of the current president, in line with independent polling conducted before the contest.

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The opposition also released complete tallies on a public website, while the government has so far not shared any information beyond a national total of votes for each candidate.

Notably, Blinken's statement on Thursday did not threaten new sanctions on Venezuela but did hint at possible disciplinary action.

According to a Reuters report Washington was considering fresh sanctions in response to the disputed election.

"We fully support the process of re-establishing democratic norms in Venezuela and stand ready to consider ways to bolster it jointly with our international partners," Blinken said.

Blinken also urge that opposition leaders be protected and kept safe.

"Law enforcement and security forces should not become an instrument of political violence used against citizens exercising their democratic rights," said the US Secretary of State.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/venezuela-accelerates-shift-to-cryptocurrency-amid-return-of-oil-sanctions-714056" target="_blank">Venezuela accelerates shift to cryptocurrency amid return of oil sanctions</a>

Meanwhile on Thursday, the presidents of Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia called for Venezuela to release detailed voting tallies amid the dispute over the presidential election results.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States recognised Edmundo Gonzalez, the opposition candidate, as the winner of Venezuela's disputed presidential election, rejecting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's claim of victory.

The United States recognised Edmundo Gonzalez, the opposition candidate, as the winner of Venezuela's disputed presidential election, rejecting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's claim of victory. "Given the overwhelming evidence, it is quite clear to United States and to the Venezuelan people that Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia won the most votes in Venezuela's July 28 presidential election," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement on Thursday (Aug 1). The announcement from Washington only extended congratulations to Gonzalez for a "successful campaign," marking the closest the US has come since Sunday’s contested election to recognising him as the new leader of Venezuela. Also read: President Nicolas Maduro wins third term, opposition rejects result It is worth mentioning here, the dispute over the presidential election results has sparked protests in the country. Venezuela's electoral council proclaimed Maduro, who has been in power since 2013, the winner of the July 28 election with 51% of the vote. However the country's opposition articulate that its tally of about 90% of the votes shows that Gonzalez received more than double the support of the current president, in line with independent polling conducted before the contest. × The opposition also released complete tallies on a public website, while the government has so far not shared any information beyond a national total of votes for each candidate. Notably, Blinken's statement on Thursday did not threaten new sanctions on Venezuela but did hint at possible disciplinary action. According to a Reuters report Washington was considering fresh sanctions in response to the disputed election. "We fully support the process of re-establishing democratic norms in Venezuela and stand ready to consider ways to bolster it jointly with our international partners," Blinken said. Blinken also urge that opposition leaders be protected and kept safe. "Law enforcement and security forces should not become an instrument of political violence used against citizens exercising their democratic rights," said the US Secretary of State. Also read | Venezuela accelerates shift to cryptocurrency amid return of oil sanctions Meanwhile on Thursday, the presidents of Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia called for Venezuela to release detailed voting tallies amid the dispute over the presidential election results. (With inputs from agencies)

US recognises Maduro’s rival Edmundo Gonzalez as winner of Venezuela election

As international pressure on the South American leader to be "transparent" with the vote results grows, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has pledged to make public all of the vote tallies from a contentious election that took place over the weekend.

Anti-Maduro protests in Venezuela: Opposition under fear of arrest, SC accpets audit elections

Thousands of mourners and supporters bid farewell&nbsp;to Hamas' political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh&nbsp;on Friday in Qatar (Aug 2) following his assassination in Iran's capital Tehran.&nbsp;Thousands of people gathered at Qatar's largest mosque, where&nbsp;Haniyeh's casket, draped in a Palestinian flag, was taken before leaving again for burial in Lusail, north of Doha, a report by the news agency AFP said.

Haniyeh's death&nbsp;was one in a series of killings of senior Hamas figures as the war in Gaza between Hamas and Israel nears its 11th month. He had played a key role in mediated talks aimed at ending the war.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-haniyeh-was-killed-by-bomb-hidden-two-months-ago-in-tehran-guesthouse-746338">Hamas chief Haniyeh was killed by bomb hidden two months ago in Tehran guesthouse: Report</a>

Hamas and Iran have both accused Israel of carrying out the assassination and have pledged to retaliate against their foe. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the death nor denied it.

<h2>Who attended the funeral?</h2>

Haniyeh's funeral was attended by Khaled Meshaal, who is tipped to be the new Hamas leader. The funeral was also attended by other top officials of the Palestinian militant group&nbsp;Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.

Speaking at the&nbsp;mosque, where Haniyeh's body was laid for prayers, Meshaal said his death would only make the group more determined to continue its fight for a free Palestine.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Who is Khaled Meshaal, set to be the next Hamas chief?

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"Palestine will remain from the river to the sea...and the Zionists (Israel) have no place on the land of Palestine, regardless of how many they kill of us," Meshaal said and pointed out that Haniyeh's death was a big loss to the movement&nbsp;but it would not alter their course.

"Our enemies don't learn the lesson, they have been killing our leaders for over 100 years, what happened? When a leader ascends (to heaven) another leader comes," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Killing of Haniyeh doesn't help truce talks: Biden</h2>

In the United States (US),&nbsp;President Joe Biden said Haniyeh's killing was not helpful to international efforts to secure a ceasefire in the war in Gaza.

"It doesn't help," President Biden told reporters on Thursday when asked if the action ruined the chances of a truce.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of mourners and supporters bid farewell to Hamas' political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh on Friday in Qatar (Aug 2) following his assassination in Iran's capital Tehran.

Thousands of mourners and supporters bid farewell to Hamas' political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh on Friday in Qatar (Aug 2) following his assassination in Iran's capital Tehran. Thousands of people gathered at Qatar's largest mosque, where Haniyeh's casket, draped in a Palestinian flag, was taken before leaving again for burial in Lusail, north of Doha, a report by the news agency AFP said. Haniyeh's death was one in a series of killings of senior Hamas figures as the war in Gaza between Hamas and Israel nears its 11th month. He had played a key role in mediated talks aimed at ending the war. Also read | Hamas chief Haniyeh was killed by bomb hidden two months ago in Tehran guesthouse: Report Hamas and Iran have both accused Israel of carrying out the assassination and have pledged to retaliate against their foe. Israel has not claimed responsibility for the death nor denied it. Who attended the funeral? Haniyeh's funeral was attended by Khaled Meshaal, who is tipped to be the new Hamas leader. The funeral was also attended by other top officials of the Palestinian militant group Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. Speaking at the mosque, where Haniyeh's body was laid for prayers, Meshaal said his death would only make the group more determined to continue its fight for a free Palestine. Also watch | Gravitas: Who is Khaled Meshaal, set to be the next Hamas chief? × "Palestine will remain from the river to the sea...and the Zionists (Israel) have no place on the land of Palestine, regardless of how many they kill of us," Meshaal said and pointed out that Haniyeh's death was a big loss to the movement but it would not alter their course. "Our enemies don't learn the lesson, they have been killing our leaders for over 100 years, what happened? When a leader ascends (to heaven) another leader comes," he added. Killing of Haniyeh doesn't help truce talks: Biden In the United States (US), President Joe Biden said Haniyeh's killing was not helpful to international efforts to secure a ceasefire in the war in Gaza. "It doesn't help," President Biden told reporters on Thursday when asked if the action ruined the chances of a truce. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh buried in Qatar after he was assassinated

Over 300 people have died and around 200 are still missing after massive landslides struck the hilly areas near Meppadi in Kerala's Wayanad. Watch in for more details!

Wayanad landslides: Over 300 killed, more than 200 others injured

Andy Murray said he was retiring "on my terms" as his trophy-filled career came to an emotional end at the Paris Olympics on Thursday, closing another chapter on tennis's golden generation.

Paris Olympics 2024: Andy Murray bows out of tennis with Paris Olympics defeat

Southeast Asia has experienced a dramatic economic shift. For the first time in a decade, it has attracted more foreign direct investment, or FDI, than China. The reversal is largely attributed to escalating manufacturing costs and increased tariffs in China.

Southeast Asia surpasses china in FDI for first time in a decade

Former United States President Donald Trump took a shot at his successor, Joe Biden following&nbsp;the recent prisoner swap with Moscow,&nbsp;which secured the release of American journalist Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan from Russian custody. Trump called the&nbsp;massive prisoner exchange&nbsp;a victory for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

<h2>'A win for Putin': Trump</h2>

In an interview with Fox&nbsp;Business Network, taped on&nbsp;Thursday and broadcast on Friday (Aug 2), Trump said, "Well as usual, it was a win for Putin or any other country that deals with us. But we got somebody back, so I’m never going to be challenging that."&nbsp;

He added, "This deal that was made today, I think it’s wonderful that Evan’s coming back. I think it’s great. But these deals are so bad. These deals are going to lead to tremendous kidnappings."&nbsp;

Even though the prisoner swap is being celebrated as the biggest multi-country exchange since the Cold War, Trump has blamed Biden for mishandling the high-stakes compromise and failing to bring Americans home.&nbsp;

<h2>Trump calls for additional info about the exchange</h2>

Earlier, the&nbsp;former president also called for additional information about the prisoner exchange and highlighted what he sees as failures in the current administration's diplomatic strategy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-releases-us-journalist-evan-gershkovich-in-major-prisoner-swap-report-746308">Russia frees US journalist Gershkovich in biggest prisoner swap since Cold War</a>

Following the release of Gershkovich and Whelan, White House officials clarified that the deal did not involve any cash exchange. However, this statement did not satisfy the GOP presidential candidate, who took to Truth Social to confront the disagreement with unfounded claims.

"So when are they going to release the details of the prisoner swap with Russia? How many people do we get versus them? Are we also paying them cash? Are they giving us cash (Please withdraw that question, because I’m sure the answer is NO)? Are we releasing murderers, killers, or thugs? Just curious because we never make good deals, at anything, but especially hostage swaps. Our “negotiators” are always an embarrassment to us! I got back many hostages, and gave the opposing Country NOTHING – and never any cash. To do so is bad precedent for the future. That’s the way it should be, or this situation will get worse and worse. They are extorting the United States of America. They’re calling the trade “complex” – That’s so nobody can figure out how bad it is!,” Trump wrote.

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So when are they going to release the details of the prisoner swap with Russia? How many people do we get versus them? Are we also paying them cash? Are they giving us cash (Please withdraw that question, because I’m sure the answer is NO)? Are we releasing murderers, killers, or…
— Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrumpDailyPosts/status/1819067304891895885?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Gershkovich and Whelan were&nbsp;among 24 prisoners from the US, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Russia, and Belarus&nbsp;released as part of a prisoner exchange managed by Turkish intelligence.

<h2>Joe Biden retorts</h2>

The reporters briefly questioned Biden about Trump's claim regarding cash flow, and the proposal that he could have secured the prisoners' release from Russia without making concessions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/timeline-prisoner-swaps-between-russia-and-the-us-in-recent-decades-746357">Timeline: Prisoner swaps between Russia and the US in recent decades</a>

In response, Biden taking&nbsp;a jibe at Trump&nbsp;said, “Why didn’t he do it when he was president?”

It may be mentioned here, that Whelan's brother, David, had earlier criticised Trump for ignoring Paul's case and only addressing it after it gained media limelight.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former United States President Donald Trump took a shot at his successor, Joe Biden following the recent prisoner swap with Moscow, which secured the release of American journalist Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan from Russian custody.

Former United States President Donald Trump took a shot at his successor, Joe Biden following the recent prisoner swap with Moscow, which secured the release of American journalist Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan from Russian custody. Trump called the massive prisoner exchange a victory for Russian President Vladimir Putin. 'A win for Putin': Trump In an interview with Fox Business Network, taped on Thursday and broadcast on Friday (Aug 2), Trump said, "Well as usual, it was a win for Putin or any other country that deals with us. But we got somebody back, so I’m never going to be challenging that." He added, "This deal that was made today, I think it’s wonderful that Evan’s coming back. I think it’s great. But these deals are so bad. These deals are going to lead to tremendous kidnappings." Even though the prisoner swap is being celebrated as the biggest multi-country exchange since the Cold War, Trump has blamed Biden for mishandling the high-stakes compromise and failing to bring Americans home. Trump calls for additional info about the exchange Earlier, the former president also called for additional information about the prisoner exchange and highlighted what he sees as failures in the current administration's diplomatic strategy. Also read: Russia frees US journalist Gershkovich in biggest prisoner swap since Cold War Following the release of Gershkovich and Whelan, White House officials clarified that the deal did not involve any cash exchange. However, this statement did not satisfy the GOP presidential candidate, who took to Truth Social to confront the disagreement with unfounded claims. "So when are they going to release the details of the prisoner swap with Russia? How many people do we get versus them? Are we also paying them cash? Are they giving us cash (Please withdraw that question, because I’m sure the answer is NO)? Are we releasing murderers, killers, or thugs? Just curious because we never make good deals, at anything, but especially hostage swaps. Our “negotiators” are always an embarrassment to us! I got back many hostages, and gave the opposing Country NOTHING – and never any cash. To do so is bad precedent for the future. That’s the way it should be, or this situation will get worse and worse. They are extorting the United States of America. They’re calling the trade “complex” – That’s so nobody can figure out how bad it is!,” Trump wrote. So when are they going to release the details of the prisoner swap with Russia? How many people do we get versus them? Are we also paying them cash? Are they giving us cash (Please withdraw that question, because I’m sure the answer is NO)? Are we releasing murderers, killers, or… — Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) August 1, 2024 × Gershkovich and Whelan were among 24 prisoners from the US, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Russia, and Belarus released as part of a prisoner exchange managed by Turkish intelligence. Joe Biden retorts The reporters briefly questioned Biden about Trump's claim regarding cash flow, and the proposal that he could have secured the prisoners' release from Russia without making concessions. Also read | Timeline: Prisoner swaps between Russia and the US in recent decades In response, Biden taking a jibe at Trump said, “Why didn’t he do it when he was president?” It may be mentioned here, that Whelan's brother, David, had earlier criticised Trump for ignoring Paul's case and only addressing it after it gained media limelight. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump criticises Biden's decision on Gershkovich and Whelan exchange, calls it 'win for Putin'

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