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OpenAI on Tuesday (Aug 18) announced the launch of a ChatGPT version designed specifically for teenagers, adding tighter safeguards and parental controls as concerns grow over the risks of AI chatbots for young users. The new “ChatGPT for Teens” mode is aimed at users aged 13 to 17. OpenAI said it will restrict conversations involving high-risk subjects such as self-harm, violence and eating disorders, while also providing tools intended to support learning rather than simply giving students answers.The system is designed to activate automatically when OpenAI estimates that a user is under 18 or when they identify themselves as being between 13 and 17.Parents will have access to controls including “Quiet Hours”, allowing them to limit when their teenagers can use the service. They will also be able to manage selected settings and receive notifications if their child discusses certain sensitive subjects.OpenAI’s move comes as technology companies face growing scrutiny over the impact of digital platforms on children. Meta has introduced additional protections for teenagers on its services, while governments around the world are debating restrictions on social media use among minors.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-meta-hook-children-to-facebook-instagram-for-profit-29-us-states-take-tech-giant-to-trial-1787114577231">Did Meta ‘hook’ children to Facebook, Instagram for profit? 29 US states take tech giant to trial</a>For OpenAI, the issue carries particular significance. The company is already facing lawsuits alleging that ChatGPT contributed to harm involving children. Experts have also raised concerns about young people turning to conversational AI for emotional support or mental health advice.OpenAI said the new system is intended to make AI useful beyond traditional classroom settings.“We believe AI should expand educational opportunity, which is why we designed ChatGPT for Teens to support moments outside the classroom when help is not always available,” the company said.The teen-focused mode will include a study mode, homework reminders, quizzes and visual learning tools. A Pew Research Center study found that searching for information and getting homework help were among the most common uses of AI among US teenagers.OpenAI said age detection will combine self-reported information, account and behavioural signals and verification. If the system cannot confidently determine a user’s age, it will default to the safer setting. &nbsp;

OpenAI has launched ChatGPT for Teens with parental controls, age checks and safeguards on risky topics, while adding study tools for users aged 13-17 amid growing AI safety concerns.

OpenAI on Tuesday (Aug 18) announced the launch of a ChatGPT version designed specifically for teenagers, adding tighter safeguards and parental controls as concerns grow over the risks of AI chatbots for young users. The new “ChatGPT for Teens” mode is aimed at users aged 13 to 17. OpenAI said it will restrict conversations involving high-risk subjects such as self-harm, violence and eating disorders, while also providing tools intended to support learning rather than simply giving students answers. The system is designed to activate automatically when OpenAI estimates that a user is under 18 or when they identify themselves as being between 13 and 17. Parents will have access to controls including “Quiet Hours”, allowing them to limit when their teenagers can use the service. They will also be able to manage selected settings and receive notifications if their child discusses certain sensitive subjects. OpenAI’s move comes as technology companies face growing scrutiny over the impact of digital platforms on children. Meta has introduced additional protections for teenagers on its services, while governments around the world are debating restrictions on social media use among minors. Also read | Did Meta ‘hook’ children to Facebook, Instagram for profit? 29 US states take tech giant to trial For OpenAI, the issue carries particular significance. The company is already facing lawsuits alleging that ChatGPT contributed to harm involving children. Experts have also raised concerns about young people turning to conversational AI for emotional support or mental health advice. OpenAI said the new system is intended to make AI useful beyond traditional classroom settings. “We believe AI should expand educational opportunity, which is why we designed ChatGPT for Teens to support moments outside the classroom when help is not always available,” the company said. The teen-focused mode will include a study mode, homework reminders, quizzes and visual learning tools. A Pew Research Center study found that searching for information and getting homework help were among the most common uses of AI among US teenagers. OpenAI said age detection will combine self-reported information, account and behavioural signals and verification. If the system cannot confidently determine a user’s age, it will default to the safer setting.

OpenAI has launched ChatGPT for Teens with parental controls, age checks and safeguards on risky topics, while adding study tools for users aged 13-17 amid growing AI safety concerns.

ChatGPT for Teens? OpenAI rolls out new version with safety features – All you need to know

Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for elections to be held during wartime, in what is being seen as one of the biggest challenges to President Volodymyr Zelensky's leadership since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. "Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia," Fedorov, 35, said in a video posted on YouTube on Tuesday. He said Ukraine was fighting "precisely because we want to remain a free European state".Ukraine has been under martial law since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, with elections suspended under the wartime restrictions. Fedorov did not name Zelensky in the video. He was unexpectedly dismissed as defence minister last month, only six months after taking up the post. Zelensky has not publicly responded to his latest remarks.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-north-korean-troops-russia-ukraine-war-1786274276189">Zelensky claims Russia deploying up to 50,000 North Korean troops in Ukraine, seeks help from South Korea</a>Fedorov's dismissal triggered protests in several parts of Ukraine, with supporters calling for his reinstatement. He had gained popularity as defence minister for efforts to tackle corruption, improve the ministry's performance and use data to assess battlefield effectiveness.His removal was widely linked to tensions with army commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Syrskyi was also replaced within days, as protests over Fedorov's dismissal mounted.Fedorov was offered other government positions, including deputy prime minister for military innovation, but has said he would return only as defence minister.Hours before Fedorov released his video, Zelensky confirmed that he had nominated Yevhenii Khmara as defence minister for parliamentary approval. Khmara is a career intelligence official who has maintained a relatively low political profile.In his video, Fedorov did not outline any political ambitions of his own. Instead, he called for a "legal, safe, and realistic mechanism" to restore Ukraine's democratic process despite the continuing war. He also warned of a "systemic crisis of governance", saying the country was "scared of change", and identified corruption as one of the factors undermining Ukraine's war effort.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-sacks-ukraine-army-chief-oleksandr-syrskyi-offers-new-role-to-sacked-defence-minister-in-major-military-shake-up-1784685434535">Zelensky sacks Ukraine army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, offers new role to sacked defence minister in major military shake-up</a>Fedorov previously served as minister of digital transformation. In the early stages of Russia's invasion, he helped establish the volunteer "IT Army of Ukraine", which carried out cyber-attacks against Russian targets.He later led the Army of Drones fundraising campaign and introduced elements of gamification into Ukraine's war effort, including a system that awarded Ukrainian military units credits for successfully striking Russian targets.

Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov called for wartime elections to preserve democracy, directly challenging President Volodymyr Zelensky's leadership following his unexpected dismissal and subsequent public protests.

Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov has called for elections to be held during wartime, in what is being seen as one of the biggest challenges to President Volodymyr Zelensky's leadership since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. "Democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia," Fedorov, 35, said in a video posted on YouTube on Tuesday. He said Ukraine was fighting "precisely because we want to remain a free European state". Ukraine has been under martial law since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, with elections suspended under the wartime restrictions. Fedorov did not name Zelensky in the video. He was unexpectedly dismissed as defence minister last month, only six months after taking up the post. Zelensky has not publicly responded to his latest remarks. Also read: Zelensky claims Russia deploying up to 50,000 North Korean troops in Ukraine, seeks help from South Korea Fedorov's dismissal triggered protests in several parts of Ukraine, with supporters calling for his reinstatement. He had gained popularity as defence minister for efforts to tackle corruption, improve the ministry's performance and use data to assess battlefield effectiveness. His removal was widely linked to tensions with army commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Syrskyi was also replaced within days, as protests over Fedorov's dismissal mounted. Fedorov was offered other government positions, including deputy prime minister for military innovation, but has said he would return only as defence minister. Hours before Fedorov released his video, Zelensky confirmed that he had nominated Yevhenii Khmara as defence minister for parliamentary approval. Khmara is a career intelligence official who has maintained a relatively low political profile. In his video, Fedorov did not outline any political ambitions of his own. Instead, he called for a "legal, safe, and realistic mechanism" to restore Ukraine's democratic process despite the continuing war. He also warned of a "systemic crisis of governance", saying the country was "scared of change", and identified corruption as one of the factors undermining Ukraine's war effort. Also read: Zelensky sacks Ukraine army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, offers new role to sacked defence minister in major military shake-up Fedorov previously served as minister of digital transformation. In the early stages of Russia's invasion, he helped establish the volunteer "IT Army of Ukraine", which carried out cyber-attacks against Russian targets. He later led the Army of Drones fundraising campaign and introduced elements of gamification into Ukraine's war effort, including a system that awarded Ukrainian military units credits for successfully striking Russian targets.

Former Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov called for wartime elections to preserve democracy, directly challenging President Volodymyr Zelensky's leadership following his unexpected dismissal and subsequent public protests.

‘Democracy can’t be held hostage’: Sacked Ukraine minister calls for election amid war with Russia

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Wednesday (Aug 19) issued a 'Wanted' notice for Indian national Major Singh in his alleged involvement in a transnational criminal organisation and unlicensed firearms. The FBI said that Singh was allegedly involved with the "Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group" and "engaged in racketeering-influenced and corrupt organisations conspiracy; conspiracy to engage in the business of dealing in firearms without a license; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances; and distribution of controlled substances." The FBI statement further added that his group originated in the Punjab state of India and operated in the Central District of California and elsewhere. &nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-puts-rfk-jr-s-son-conor-on-most-wanted-list-for-fighting-in-ukraine-war-1786727435889">Putin puts RFK Jr's son Conor on most wanted list for fighting in Ukraine war</a><h2>Who is Major Singh?</h2>Major Singh is an Indian national whom US authorities have identified as an alleged associate of the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group (OCG). The legal noose around Singh tightened on June 25, earlier this year, when a federal arrest warrant was issued for him in the United States District Court, Central District of California, Los Angeles, California, after he was charged with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations Conspiracy and Conspiracy to Engage in the Business of Dealing in Firearms Without a License. &nbsp;According to FBI, he has black hair and black eyes, stands 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs approximately 182 pounds. He has used July 20, 1997, as his date of birth. The group is alleged by US authorities to have been involved in activities including drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, money laundering and other violent crimes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mea-issues-sharp-statement-after-indian-national-dies-in-iranian-drone-strike-at-kuwait-airport-1780489790647">Indian national killed at Kuwait airport; MEA condemns Iran's drone strike</a> Earlier in July, the FBI had placed Nitish Kaushal, an alleged operative of an India-linked criminal syndicate on its most wanted list. He too is an associate of the "Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group (OCG)", as part of an intensified American crackdown on global syndicates originating from India. According to US investigators, Kaushal is being sought for his suspected ties to the "Bhagwanpuria OCG", which authorities describe as a "transnational criminal organisation that originated in Punjab, India, and operated in the Central District of California and elsewhere." The FBI stated that the network is heavily involved in “murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking, extortion, weapons trafficking, money laundering, and human smuggling.” The latest crackdown comes as part of Trump 2.0's efforts in coordinated enforcement measures against alleged members and associates of the three organised crime groups.

FBI has issued a Wanted notice for Indian national Major Singh over alleged links to the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group. Singh faces charges including racketeering conspiracy and illegal firearms dealing.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Wednesday (Aug 19) issued a 'Wanted' notice for Indian national Major Singh in his alleged involvement in a transnational criminal organisation and unlicensed firearms. The FBI said that Singh was allegedly involved with the "Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group" and "engaged in racketeering-influenced and corrupt organisations conspiracy; conspiracy to engage in the business of dealing in firearms without a license; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances; and distribution of controlled substances." The FBI statement further added that his group originated in the Punjab state of India and operated in the Central District of California and elsewhere. Also Read: Putin puts RFK Jr's son Conor on most wanted list for fighting in Ukraine war Who is Major Singh? Major Singh is an Indian national whom US authorities have identified as an alleged associate of the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group (OCG). The legal noose around Singh tightened on June 25, earlier this year, when a federal arrest warrant was issued for him in the United States District Court, Central District of California, Los Angeles, California, after he was charged with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations Conspiracy and Conspiracy to Engage in the Business of Dealing in Firearms Without a License. According to FBI, he has black hair and black eyes, stands 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs approximately 182 pounds. He has used July 20, 1997, as his date of birth. The group is alleged by US authorities to have been involved in activities including drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, money laundering and other violent crimes. Also Read: Indian national killed at Kuwait airport; MEA condemns Iran's drone strike Earlier in July, the FBI had placed Nitish Kaushal, an alleged operative of an India-linked criminal syndicate on its most wanted list. He too is an associate of the "Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group (OCG)", as part of an intensified American crackdown on global syndicates originating from India. According to US investigators, Kaushal is being sought for his suspected ties to the "Bhagwanpuria OCG", which authorities describe as a "transnational criminal organisation that originated in Punjab, India, and operated in the Central District of California and elsewhere." The FBI stated that the network is heavily involved in “murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking, extortion, weapons trafficking, money laundering, and human smuggling.” The latest crackdown comes as part of Trump 2.0's efforts in coordinated enforcement measures against alleged members and associates of the three organised crime groups.

FBI has issued a Wanted notice for Indian national Major Singh over alleged links to the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria Organised Crime Group. Singh faces charges including racketeering conspiracy and illegal firearms dealing.

Who is Major Singh? Indian gangster in FBI's most wanted list

Bangladesh's chief prosecutor has asked the country's National Central Bureau (NCB) to take steps to secure an Interpol Red Notice against former army chief Gen (retd) Aziz Ahmed over a case of crimes against humanity linked to a 2013 crackdown.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-says-sheikh-hasina-s-india-media-appearance-hurt-ties-calls-it-an-affront-to-sovereignty-1785977377689">'Affront to our sovereignty': Bangladesh slams India over Sheikh Hasina's Delhi press conference</a>&nbsp;The chief prosecutor's office of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) sent a letter to the inspector general of police and the additional IGP in charge of the NCB at Police Headquarters, seeking necessary action in accordance with Interpol regulations.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dhaka-says-propitious-environment-needed-for-bangladesh-pm-rahman-s-india-visit-restates-hasina-extradition-demand-1786866065947">Dhaka says ‘propitious environment’ needed for Bangladesh PM Rahman’s India visit; restates Hasina extradition demand</a>&nbsp;The letter was signed by ICT Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam. Speaking to journalists on Wednesday (Aug 19), Aminul confirmed the move and said his office had established that Aziz was living abroad. The case concerns the crackdown on activists of Hefazat-e-Islam at Motijheel's Shapla Chattar and in Narayanganj on May 5-6, 2013. The allegations relate to genocide and crimes against humanity.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sheikh-hasina-first-public-appearance-since-ouster-bangladesh-return-1785679900145">Sheikh Hasina to make first public appearance since ouster, says 'I may be killed' ahead of Bangladesh return</a>&nbsp;Last month, ICT-2 accepted formal charges of genocide and crimes against humanity against former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, two journalists and 38 others in connection with the 2013 crackdown. The tribunal later issued arrest warrants against 30 accused who are believed to be absconding, including Aziz.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unnecessary-disputes-could-help-ousted-forces-make-comeback-bangladesh-pm-tarique-rahman-warns-ahead-of-sheikh-hasina-s-delhi-pc-1785921992619">‘Disputes could help ousted forces make comeback’: Bangladesh PM warns ahead of Sheikh Hasina’s Delhi PC</a>&nbsp;The request for an Interpol Red Notice is aimed at seeking international cooperation in locating and potentially securing the arrest of the former army chief, subject to the applicable Interpol procedures.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-sheikh-hasina-wants-to-return-to-bangladesh-despite-death-sentence-and-what-it-means-for-india-wion-decodes-1784188338609">Why Sheikh Hasina wants to return to Bangladesh despite death sentence —and what it means for India | WION Decodes</a>

Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal prosecutor requested an Interpol Red Notice for former army chief Gen (retd) Aziz Ahmed, who is currently living abroad, over alleged 2013 crimes against humanity.

Bangladesh's chief prosecutor has asked the country's National Central Bureau (NCB) to take steps to secure an Interpol Red Notice against former army chief Gen (retd) Aziz Ahmed over a case of crimes against humanity linked to a 2013 crackdown. Also read: 'Affront to our sovereignty': Bangladesh slams India over Sheikh Hasina's Delhi press conference The chief prosecutor's office of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) sent a letter to the inspector general of police and the additional IGP in charge of the NCB at Police Headquarters, seeking necessary action in accordance with Interpol regulations. Also read: Dhaka says ‘propitious environment’ needed for Bangladesh PM Rahman’s India visit; restates Hasina extradition demand The letter was signed by ICT Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam. Speaking to journalists on Wednesday (Aug 19), Aminul confirmed the move and said his office had established that Aziz was living abroad. The case concerns the crackdown on activists of Hefazat-e-Islam at Motijheel's Shapla Chattar and in Narayanganj on May 5-6, 2013. The allegations relate to genocide and crimes against humanity. Also read: Sheikh Hasina to make first public appearance since ouster, says 'I may be killed' ahead of Bangladesh return Last month, ICT-2 accepted formal charges of genocide and crimes against humanity against former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, two journalists and 38 others in connection with the 2013 crackdown. The tribunal later issued arrest warrants against 30 accused who are believed to be absconding, including Aziz.

Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal prosecutor requested an Interpol Red Notice for former army chief Gen (retd) Aziz Ahmed, who is currently living abroad, over alleged 2013 crimes against humanity.

Bangladesh seeks Interpol Red Notice for ex-army chief Aziz Ahmed. Details here

Meta is facing one of its biggest legal challenges yet as a coalition of 29 US states accuses the technology giant of deliberately designing Facebook and Instagram to keep children hooked, while downplaying the risks associated with its platforms. The closely watched trial began in a federal court in Oakland, California, on Tuesday (Aug 18). Four states, including California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey, are leading the case, alleging that Meta’s products contributed to anxiety, depression and other mental health problems among young users.The states also accuse Meta of violating federal law by collecting and using children’s personal information improperly.Opening the case for California, deputy attorney general Megan O’Neill alleged that Meta’s business model was to “hook the users, hold them for as long as they can, harvest their data, and then hide the truth from the public.”“It worked especially well for kids,” O’Neill told the eight-member jury.Meta rejected the allegations. The company’s lawyer, Paul Schmidt, acknowledged that some young people struggle with social media but argued that research does not establish a clear connection between adolescent social media use and poor wellbeing.“They don’t believe they’re going to do well if people don’t like their service,” Schmidt said, referring to Meta’s leadership.The case could have significant consequences for Facebook and Instagram. US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers will ultimately decide Meta’s liability, while jurors are expected to issue an advisory verdict.If Meta is found liable, the judge could impose civil penalties and order changes to the platforms. The states have proposed measures including removing likes and infinite scrolling, introducing time limits for younger users and strengthening restrictions on children under 13.Former Meta safety engineer Arturo Bejar, who has previously criticised the company’s child-safety measures, was the first witness called by the states.The trial is expected to last six weeks, with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram chief Adam Mosseri among those expected to testify. &nbsp;

Meta faces a landmark US trial as 29 states accuse Facebook and Instagram of deliberately ‘hooking’ children, harming their wellbeing and exploiting their data for profit.

Meta is facing one of its biggest legal challenges yet as a coalition of 29 US states accuses the technology giant of deliberately designing Facebook and Instagram to keep children hooked, while downplaying the risks associated with its platforms. The closely watched trial began in a federal court in Oakland, California, on Tuesday (Aug 18). Four states, including California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey, are leading the case, alleging that Meta’s products contributed to anxiety, depression and other mental health problems among young users. The states also accuse Meta of violating federal law by collecting and using children’s personal information improperly. Opening the case for California, deputy attorney general Megan O’Neill alleged that Meta’s business model was to “hook the users, hold them for as long as they can, harvest their data, and then hide the truth from the public.” “It worked especially well for kids,” O’Neill told the eight-member jury. Meta rejected the allegations. The company’s lawyer, Paul Schmidt, acknowledged that some young people struggle with social media but argued that research does not establish a clear connection between adolescent social media use and poor wellbeing. “They don’t believe they’re going to do well if people don’t like their service,” Schmidt said, referring to Meta’s leadership. The case could have significant consequences for Facebook and Instagram. US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers will ultimately decide Meta’s liability, while jurors are expected to issue an advisory verdict. If Meta is found liable, the judge could impose civil penalties and order changes to the platforms. The states have proposed measures including removing likes and infinite scrolling, introducing time limits for younger users and strengthening restrictions on children under 13. Former Meta safety engineer Arturo Bejar, who has previously criticised the company’s child-safety measures, was the first witness called by the states. The trial is expected to last six weeks, with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram chief Adam Mosseri among those expected to testify.

Meta faces a landmark US trial as 29 states accuse Facebook and Instagram of deliberately ‘hooking’ children, harming their wellbeing and exploiting their data for profit.

Did Meta ‘hook’ children to Facebook, Instagram for profit? 29 US states take tech giant to trial

The Donald Trump administration has imposed sanctions on two officials of the International Criminal Court, including ICC President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Aboudoulaye Seye, accusing the tribunal of overstepping its authority and threatening the sovereignty of nations.&nbsp;In a statement issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday (Aug 18), the US said the designations were part of its broader campaign against what it described as the ICC's "politicised" and "unaccountable" approach."The Trump Administration has been clear: the International Criminal Court (ICC) is a corrupt and fatally politicised supranational court that has maliciously abused its authority and exceeded its mandate. We will not tolerate its assault on state sovereignty," the statement said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trying-to-defend-bibi-trump-says-icc-campaign-is-about-netanyahu-as-us-pushes-countries-to-quit-court-1785563256103">'Trying to defend Bibi': Trump says ICC campaign is about Netanyahu as US pushes countries to quit court</a><h2>US accuses the ICC of exceeding its jurisdiction</h2>The administration said the sanctions were imposed under Section 1(a)(ii)(A) of Executive Order 14203, titled "Imposing Sanctions on the International Criminal Court."Washington accused the two officials of being directly involved in efforts by the ICC to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute officials from governments that have not accepted the court's jurisdiction."These individuals have directly engaged in efforts by the ICC to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute officials whose government has not consented to ICC jurisdiction," the US statement said.The administration further argued that the ICC has repeatedly sought to exercise authority over US nationals and people from other countries that have neither accepted its jurisdiction nor ratified the Rome Statute. "This sets a dangerous precedent for all nations," it added.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-immediate-threat-north-korea-blasts-us-south-korea-drills-despite-trump-s-surprise-cut-1787099559290">'Most immediate threat': North Korea blasts US-South Korea drills despite Trump's surprise cut</a><h2>Trump administration threatens further action</h2>The White House said its campaign against the ICC would continue and urged other countries to stop funding or participating in the court."Our whole-of-government campaign to dismantle the threat posed by the ICC to national sovereignty will be sweeping," the statement said, adding that Washington expected more countries to join the effort.The administration also warned that further measures could follow. "The ICC's ability to target American nationals and those of other non-States Parties must end," the statement said. It added that the US was prepared to take additional steps to "systematically dismantle the ICC" if necessary.

The Trump administration has escalated its confrontation with the International Criminal Court, sanctioning its president Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Aboudoulaye Seye. Washington has accused the tribunal of overreach and warned that more action could follow.

The Donald Trump administration has imposed sanctions on two officials of the International Criminal Court, including ICC President Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Aboudoulaye Seye, accusing the tribunal of overstepping its authority and threatening the sovereignty of nations. In a statement issued by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday (Aug 18), the US said the designations were part of its broader campaign against what it described as the ICC's "politicised" and "unaccountable" approach. "The Trump Administration has been clear: the International Criminal Court (ICC) is a corrupt and fatally politicised supranational court that has maliciously abused its authority and exceeded its mandate. We will not tolerate its assault on state sovereignty," the statement said. Also read | 'Trying to defend Bibi': Trump says ICC campaign is about Netanyahu as US pushes countries to quit court US accuses the ICC of exceeding its jurisdiction The administration said the sanctions were imposed under Section 1(a)(ii)(A) of Executive Order 14203, titled "Imposing Sanctions on the International Criminal Court." Washington accused the two officials of being directly involved in efforts by the ICC to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute officials from governments that have not accepted the court's jurisdiction. "These individuals have directly engaged in efforts by the ICC to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute officials whose government has not consented to ICC jurisdiction," the US statement said. The administration further argued that the ICC has repeatedly sought to exercise authority over US nationals and people from other countries that have neither accepted its jurisdiction nor ratified the Rome Statute. "This sets a dangerous precedent for all nations," it added. Also read | 'Most immediate threat': North Korea blasts US-South Korea drills despite Trump's surprise cut Trump administration threatens further action The White House said its campaign against the ICC would continue and urged other countries to stop funding or participating in the court. "Our whole-of-government campaign to dismantle the threat posed by the ICC to national sovereignty will be sweeping," the statement said, adding that Washington expected more countries to join the effort. The administration also warned that further measures could follow. "The ICC's ability to target American nationals and those of other non-States Parties must end," the statement said. It added that the US was prepared to take additional steps to "systematically dismantle the ICC" if necessary.

The Trump administration has escalated its confrontation with the International Criminal Court, sanctioning its president Tomoko Akane and senior trial lawyer Aboudoulaye Seye. Washington has accused the tribunal of overreach and warned that more action could follow.

US sanctions ICC officials, including President Tomoko Akane, vows to 'systematically dismantle' court

China has taken a major step forward in its push to build a reusable commercial space industry after startup LandSpace successfully landed the first stage of its Zhuque-3 rocket on Wednesday (Aug 18). The achievement puts LandSpace in a small group of private companies to have successfully recovered an orbital-class rocket booster, alongside SpaceX and Blue Origin. For China, the milestone marks progress in an area where the United States has built a significant lead.Why this matters: The ability to recover and fly boosters again is seen as crucial to lowering launch costs and making frequent satellite launches commercially viable.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/want-to-survive-the-apocalypse-this-swiss-firm-is-making-end-of-the-world-bunkers-for-billionaires-1787038088615">Want to survive the apocalypse? This Swiss firm is making end-of-the world bunkers for billionaires</a><h2>Second attempt ends in successful landing</h2>The 66.1-metre Zhuque-3 lifted off from the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Pilot Zone in northwestern China.Its nine-engine first stage separated after the launch and travelled back to a landing site in Gansu province, around 390 kilometres southeast of the launch pad, according to Chinese state media.The successful landing came on LandSpace's second attempt. The company's first reusable rocket attempt in December 2025 reached orbit but failed to complete the controlled landing.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">China launched the reusable rocket Zhuque-3 on Wednesday morning, achieving its first recovery of a rocket&#39;s first stage on land. <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Zhuque?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zhuque</a>-3 <a href="https://t.co/Sut9LgOoYs">pic.twitter.com/Sut9LgOoYs</a>&mdash; China Xinhua News (@XHNews) <a href="https://x.com/XHNews/status/2089871742068310332?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">MISSION SUCCESS | ZhuQue-3 Y2 Reusable Launch Vehicle Achieved Full Success in Orbital Insertion and First-Stage Recovery On August 19, 2026, at 07:35 (UTC+8), the ZhuQue-3 (ZQ-3) Y2 reusable launch vehicle lifted off from the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Pilot Zone.… <a href="https://t.co/fshijOxgtc">pic.twitter.com/fshijOxgtc</a>&mdash; LandSpace (@LandSpace_Tech) <a href="https://x.com/LandSpace_Tech/status/2089877715331809546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>China's answer to Falcon 9</h2>LandSpace has positioned Zhuque-3 as a Chinese competitor to Elon Musk's SpaceX Falcon 9. The rocket uses a stainless-steel structure, which the company says can withstand higher temperatures and could reduce manufacturing costs compared with the aluminium-lithium alloy used in Falcon 9.It is powered by methane and liquid oxygen, a combination LandSpace says burns more cleanly than Falcon 9's liquid oxygen and kerosene system.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baba-vanga-s-2026-prophecy-2-predictions-already-came-true-3-terrifying-ones-remain-first-human-alien-contact-world-war-3-and-putin-s-exit-1786169922573">Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside</a>For a one-time launch, Zhuque-3 can carry up to 14.2 tonnes into low Earth orbit, compared with 22.8 tonnes for Falcon 9, according to LandSpace. The company wants the Zhuque-3 booster to eventually be reused as many as 20 times.<h2>LandSpace eyes rapid reuse</h2>The next challenge is to prove that recovering a rocket can become a repeatable commercial operation. LandSpace says it plans to fly a recovered first-stage booster again within six months. That would be an important test of whether China can move beyond individual demonstration flights towards high-frequency launches.SpaceX has already made booster reuse routine, launching Falcon 9 rockets roughly three times a week and flying recovered boosters repeatedly.LandSpace is also seeking to raise 7.5 billion yuan, or about $1.11 billion, through a planned listing on Shanghai's STAR Market. Its updated prospectus says the company is targeting profitability by 2029.<h2>China steps closer to the reusable launch market</h2>Wednesday's landing was China's fourth attempt at recovering an orbital-class booster. The country has also been testing different recovery approaches. In July, China successfully demonstrated a net-based system for catching an experimental booster on a floating platform. &nbsp;&nbsp;

China's private space race has taken a major leap. LandSpace has successfully landed the first stage of its Zhuque-3 rocket, moving the country closer to routine reusable launches and putting a new challenger into the race with SpaceX.

China has taken a major step forward in its push to build a reusable commercial space industry after startup LandSpace successfully landed the first stage of its Zhuque-3 rocket on Wednesday (Aug 18). The achievement puts LandSpace in a small group of private companies to have successfully recovered an orbital-class rocket booster, alongside SpaceX and Blue Origin. For China, the milestone marks progress in an area where the United States has built a significant lead. Why this matters: The ability to recover and fly boosters again is seen as crucial to lowering launch costs and making frequent satellite launches commercially viable. Also read | Want to survive the apocalypse? This Swiss firm is making end-of-the world bunkers for billionaires Second attempt ends in successful landing The 66.1-metre Zhuque-3 lifted off from the Dongfeng Commercial Space Innovation Pilot Zone in northwestern China. Its nine-engine first stage separated after the launch and travelled back to a landing site in Gansu province, around 390 kilometres southeast of the launch pad, according to Chinese state media. The successful landing came on LandSpace's second attempt. The company's first reusable rocket attempt in December 2025 reached orbit but failed to complete the controlled landing.

China's private space race has taken a major leap. LandSpace has successfully landed the first stage of its Zhuque-3 rocket, moving the country closer to routine reusable launches and putting a new challenger into the race with SpaceX.

China lands reusable rocket booster, closes gap with SpaceX and Blue Origin

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 19) announced that he is lifting the 50 per cent tariffs on Canada for three days, that were set to hit Canada at midnight. Trump did not provide further details. The 50 per cent duties would have impacted about $20 billion worth of US imports from Canada, according to the US Trade Representative’s office. The import taxes would have hit products ranging from hockey sticks, to some building materials, liquors and certain kinds of clothing. The last-minute deal came after more than a week of furious meetings and technical talks. Canadian Prime Minister Carney has not commented on the matter yet.&nbsp;&nbsp;<blockquote>In a Truth Social post, Trump wrote: “I have paused the 50% Tariffs against Canada, that were scheduled to kick in tomorrow morning for a three day period, based on the fact that Canada and the U.S.A., subject to the finalization of documents, have a DEAL!”</blockquote>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-deploys-ai-to-track-china-tariff-evasion-india-dozens-of-countries-named-1786637664887">Trump admin deploys AI to track China tariff evasion; India, dozens of countries named</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260819/image-1787107253050.png"></figure>&nbsp;In another Truth Social post, Trump made a reference to Keystone XL pipeline, which he said “may be awoken from the grave!” Sharing an AI image, he said that this project was buried by former US President Joe Biden. The Keystone XL Pipeline (KXL) was a proposed 1,200-mile expansion of the existing Keystone Pipeline System and was designed to transport up to 830,000 barrels of crude oil per day from the oil sands of Alberta, Canada, directly to Nebraska, where it would connect to pipelines feeding US Gulf Coast refineries. Biden had halted the pipeline project, but the new deal between Canada and India, if finalised will include the revival of the Keystone XL pipeline.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-avoids-higher-us-tariff-secures-lower-10-rate-here-s-how-1784854529326">India avoids higher US tariff, secures lower 10% rate. Here's how</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260819/image-1787107477172.png"></figure>&nbsp;On Monday afternoon, Prime Minister Mark Carney described the talks with the Trump administration as “very delicate and intense” but did not provide any further details. Carney and Trump spoke later that afternoon, Carney’s office told NBC News. The prime minister previously said the threatened duties were a “direct violation” of the U.S.-Canada-Mexico Agreement, which Trump pursued and inked in his first term.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump paused planned 50% tariffs on Canadian imports for three days, saying the US and Canada had reached a deal pending final documents. The last-minute move followed intense talks with Mark Carney and could avert tariffs affecting about $20 billion in US imports from Canada.

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 19) announced that he is lifting the 50 per cent tariffs on Canada for three days, that were set to hit Canada at midnight. Trump did not provide further details. The 50 per cent duties would have impacted about $20 billion worth of US imports from Canada, according to the US Trade Representative’s office. The import taxes would have hit products ranging from hockey sticks, to some building materials, liquors and certain kinds of clothing. The last-minute deal came after more than a week of furious meetings and technical talks. Canadian Prime Minister Carney has not commented on the matter yet. In a Truth Social post, Trump wrote: “I have paused the 50% Tariffs against Canada, that were scheduled to kick in tomorrow morning for a three day period, based on the fact that Canada and the U.S.A., subject to the finalization of documents, have a DEAL!” Also Read: Trump admin deploys AI to track China tariff evasion; India, dozens of countries named In another Truth Social post, Trump made a reference to Keystone XL pipeline, which he said “may be awoken from the grave!” Sharing an AI image, he said that this project was buried by former US President Joe Biden. The Keystone XL Pipeline (KXL) was a proposed 1,200-mile expansion of the existing Keystone Pipeline System and was designed to transport up to 830,000 barrels of crude oil per day from the oil sands of Alberta, Canada, directly to Nebraska, where it would connect to pipelines feeding US Gulf Coast refineries. Biden had halted the pipeline project, but the new deal between Canada and India, if finalised will include the revival of the Keystone XL pipeline. Also Read: India avoids higher US tariff, secures lower 10% rate. Here's how On Monday afternoon, Prime Minister Mark Carney described the talks with the Trump administration as “very delicate and intense” but did not provide any further details. Carney and Trump spoke later that afternoon, Carney’s office told NBC News. The prime minister previously said the threatened duties were a “direct violation” of the U.S.-Canada-Mexico Agreement, which Trump pursued and inked in his first term.

Donald Trump paused planned 50% tariffs on Canadian imports for three days, saying the US and Canada had reached a deal pending final documents. The last-minute move followed intense talks with Mark Carney and could avert tariffs affecting about $20 billion in US imports from Canada.

'Subject to finalisation of...': Trump pauses 50% tariffs on Canada for 3 days

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry stated that it is pushing for an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and a regional ceasefire to be advanced concurrently as part of its ongoing mediation efforts to de-escalate tensions between the United States and Iran.&nbsp;

Qatari Foreign Ministry wants an agreement to open the Strait of Hormuz and then a ceasefire

Russia has threatened the UK with "consequences" after reports emerged that Ukraine used British-manufactured long-range drones to strike strategic targets and logistical hubs deep inside Russian territory. Moscow accuses London of direct escalation and fueling a proxy war, while the UK refuses to back down, vowing continued military support

Why is Russia threatening UK with ‘consequences’ over Ukraine drones

Pakistan’s ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has remained publicly silent after two of its coalition partners backed Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s call last week to create new administrative units or provinces, reopening a long-running debate over how the country should be governed.

Pakistan ruling party silent as two coalition allies back new provinces proposal

A person has died and hundreds have fallen ill with salmonella food poisoning in an outbreak that UK experts believe is linked to eating food made with imported eggs. The UK Health Security Agency has launched an investigation into the 207 cases it has seen in the past year, with most recorded in recent weeks.

One dead and hundreds ill in UK salmonella outbreak

The political buzz around Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) projecting its leader Vijay for a future Prime Ministerial role has intensified, with party minister Sarath Kumar throwing his weight behind the idea. Kumar backed Vijay for the top post, praising the actor-turned-politician for his commitment to public service and his efforts to work for people around the clock. His remarks come soon after TVK leader Aadhav Arjuna called for a Tamil Prime Minister, adding to speculation over the party’s ambitions beyond Tamil Nadu and its possible strategy for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

‘Vijay will be the next PM’: TVK leader Sarath Kumar backs 2029 push

Congress leader Sonia Gandhi is set to offer a personal account of her life, political journey and years as part of India’s influential Nehru-Gandhi family in a memoir due out in November.Publisher Alfred A. Knopf announced that Belonging: A Journey of Love will be released on November 10. The book is expected to examine the experience of marrying into one of India’s most prominent political families, as well as Gandhi’s own years in public life.“Much has been written about my family, but few narratives were able to reach into the truth of their motivations, their actions and even their very human failings,” Gandhi said in a statement released by Knopf.She described the memoir as a tribute to the “humanness” of her family and said it would also give readers her perspective on six decades of social and political change in India, a country she called her “belonging.”

Sonia Gandhi’s memoir ‘Belonging’ to explore life in Nehru-Gandhi family

Firefighters have managed to surround Belgium’s largest wildfire in a century, but authorities said Wednesday that the situation "remains complicated" as crews deal with several new flare-ups.The blaze, which is burning through the High Fens nature reserve, "has been encircled" and is no longer advancing east towards Germany, crisis cell spokesman Tony Hosmans said.The immediate priority is to bring the fire under control, with authorities hoping to use aerial support "if possible with aerial support", Hosmans said."The situation remains complicated due to a number of flare-ups that have occurred in various parts of the site," he added.

Belgium wildfire encircled, but fresh flare-ups keep firefighters battling

At least 25 people were killed in an overnight attack on a village in Nigeria’s central Plateau state, according to local officials and residents, sparking concerns that the violence could lead to retaliatory attacks in the restive region.The latest incident highlights the continuing security crisis in Plateau, where tensions between farmers and herders have frequently escalated into deadly clashes. Such confrontations have triggered cycles of revenge in the past, displacing residents and leaving communities devastated.

Nigeria's Plateau attack kills at least 25, fears of reprisals grow

The Pentagon is reassessing the US military footprint in the Middle East as damage to American bases from Iranian strikes raises questions about the future of the US presence in the region, The Washington Post reported. Officials are considering whether to reduce troop deployments in the Gulf and whether some damaged bases should be rebuilt in their previous form.&nbsp;The review, as per the report, is being led by the Pentagon's policy office, with the Joint Staff and US Central Command also examining the issue. A senior Pentagon official said Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth had not ordered a formal review, describing the effort as "prudent planning" to help guide decisions on rebuilding damaged facilities.

Pentagon reassesses US military presence in Middle East amid Iran war

Saima Wazed, daughter of ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has sought an independent investigation into the action that led to her being placed on indefinite leave as the World Health Organisation's Regional Director for South-East Asia.&nbsp;Wazed, who took charge in February 2024, has reportedly raised the issue with the WHO and Director General Tedros Ghebreyesus repeatedly over the past eight months, seeking transparency over the decision. Her latest communication, sent last month through her legal representatives, reportedly warned that she could pursue legal action.

Sheikh Hasina's daughter Saima Wazed seeks independent probe into WHO action

The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to invoke its exceptional powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to quash FIRs registered against students who participated in nationwide protests over the NEET-UG paper leak controversy.A three judge Bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant sought a list of FIRs in which only students had been named and said cases involving individuals with serious criminal antecedents would be considered separately. The court also said it would form a high powered committee to examine issues surrounding the protests.The development came after lawyers representing students raised concerns that police had not disclosed details or even FIR numbers in several cases. The government said investigations would focus on 2,873 people identified as having serious criminal backgrounds, while the remaining protesters were students. &nbsp;

Supreme Court agrees to quash FIRs against students over NEET protests

Nine people were killed and six others were wounded after a massive fire broke out at a hotel in Kolkata’s Mirza Ghalib Street early Wednesday (Aug 19). According to the fire department, the deceased were Bangladeshi nationals who were here for medical treatment. The incident happened around 2 am. Fire department personnel rushed to the site to launch rescue operations. The area has been cordoned off by the authorities.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nine-killed-six-injured-in-massive-fire-at-kolkata-hotel-1787107135582">Read more.&nbsp;</a>

Kolkata hotel fire: Bangladeshi nationals seeking medical treatment among killed

China's private space race has taken a major leap. LandSpace has successfully landed the first stage of its Zhuque-3 rocket, moving the country closer to routine reusable launches and putting a new challenger into the race with SpaceX.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/china-lands-reusable-rocket-booster-closes-gap-with-spacex-and-blue-origin-1787107670366">All you need to know</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260819/image-1787108075821.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)"></figure>

Maoist leader Azad alias Dana Keshab Rao was released on Tuesday after spending more than 15 years as an undertrial prisoner, following his acquittal in all 49 cases registered against him in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.Azad had spent 15 years, two months, and a few days in custody. A special court in Odisha pronounced the final judgment in his cases after the Supreme Court, in July 2025, directed the two states to dispose of all pending cases against him within a year.The 49 cases included allegations linked to Maoist violence, including the 2008 killing of Swami Lakshmanananda Saraswati and four others. The court acquitted Azad for lack of sufficient evidence. His lawyer said he had spent his youth in jail without being convicted and indicated that further legal action may be pursued over his prolonged detention.

Maoist leader Azad walks free after 15 years in jail, acquitted in 49 cases

Two ballistic missiles launched from Iran triggered a security alert in the UAE, but the real question is where they were headed. Abu Dhabi says the weapons were targeting maritime navigation, while Tehran has categorically denied firing missiles at the country.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-suspends-trade-with-iran-accuses-it-of-targeting-gulf-shipping-tehran-calls-claim-baseless-1787100695124">All you need to know</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260819/image-1787101235136.jpg?rect=(0,68,1065,799)"></figure>

UAE suspends trade with Iran, accuses it of targeting Gulf shipping; Tehran calls claim baseless

North Korea on Wednesday (Aug 19) denounced joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea as a direct threat to its security. Notably, Pyongyang's state media made no mention of US President Donald Trump's surprise decision to scale back the drills.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-immediate-threat-north-korea-blasts-us-south-korea-drills-despite-trump-s-surprise-cut-1787099559290">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260819/image-1787099817688.jpg?rect=(0,101,1598,1198)"></figure>

'Most immediate threat': North Korea blasts US-South Korea drills despite Trump's surprise cut

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

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

LIVE Updates | Latest India & World News Today: UAE accuses Iran of missile attack on Gulf shipping, North Korea condemns US-South Korea drills

The United Arab Emirates on Tuesday (Aug 18) accused Iran of launching two ballistic missiles towards the country, saying the weapons were aimed at maritime navigation in the Gulf. The UAE Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran. According to the ministry, one missile fell outside the UAE's territorial waters while the second came down inside them.A later assessment by the UAE said the missiles appeared to have been targeting shipping. "Assessments carried out showed that the two ballistic missiles detected coming from Iran were targeting maritime navigation and fell into the sea," the ministry said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/within-30-days-trump-top-envoy-jared-kushner-gives-timeline-for-hamas-disarmament-in-gaza-1787014649346">'Within 30 days': Trump top envoy Jared Kushner gives timeline for Hamas disarmament in Gaza</a><h2>Iran rejects UAE allegations</h2>Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has categorically denied that Tehran had fired a missile at the UAE. Baqaei said the allegation could undermine efforts to build trust among countries in the region. "This behaviour is contrary to the principle of good neighbourliness and disrupts ongoing efforts to strengthen trust between regional countries and prevent the escalation of insecurity in the region," he said.He also urged regional governments to refrain from what he called "baseless accusations" against Iran.The UAE's initial announcement came shortly after authorities sent a phone alert warning residents about a potential missile threat. The warning was lifted soon afterwards.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-firm-joins-rescue-race-as-oil-spill-from-russian-shadow-fleet-tanker-spreads-along-oman-s-coast-1786690658895">'Extremely challenging situation': UK firm joins rescue race as oil spill from Russian shadow fleet tanker spreads along Oman's coast</a><h2>UAE suspends dealings with Iran</h2>Amid the escalating tensions, the UAE later on Tuesday also announced the suspension of all trade and financial dealings with Iran until further notice.The latest incident comes as the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation between Iran and the United States. Iran has warned that the waterway will remain closed until it reaches a peace agreement with Washington.

Two ballistic missiles launched from Iran triggered a security alert in the UAE, but the real question is where they were headed. Abu Dhabi says the weapons were targeting maritime navigation, while Tehran has categorically denied firing missiles at the country.

The United Arab Emirates on Tuesday (Aug 18) accused Iran of launching two ballistic missiles towards the country, saying the weapons were aimed at maritime navigation in the Gulf. The UAE Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran. According to the ministry, one missile fell outside the UAE's territorial waters while the second came down inside them. A later assessment by the UAE said the missiles appeared to have been targeting shipping. "Assessments carried out showed that the two ballistic missiles detected coming from Iran were targeting maritime navigation and fell into the sea," the ministry said. Also read | 'Within 30 days': Trump top envoy Jared Kushner gives timeline for Hamas disarmament in Gaza Iran rejects UAE allegations Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei has categorically denied that Tehran had fired a missile at the UAE. Baqaei said the allegation could undermine efforts to build trust among countries in the region. "This behaviour is contrary to the principle of good neighbourliness and disrupts ongoing efforts to strengthen trust between regional countries and prevent the escalation of insecurity in the region," he said. He also urged regional governments to refrain from what he called "baseless accusations" against Iran. The UAE's initial announcement came shortly after authorities sent a phone alert warning residents about a potential missile threat. The warning was lifted soon afterwards. Also read | 'Extremely challenging situation': UK firm joins rescue race as oil spill from Russian shadow fleet tanker spreads along Oman's coast UAE suspends dealings with Iran Amid the escalating tensions, the UAE later on Tuesday also announced the suspension of all trade and financial dealings with Iran until further notice. The latest incident comes as the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation between Iran and the United States. Iran has warned that the waterway will remain closed until it reaches a peace agreement with Washington.

Two ballistic missiles launched from Iran triggered a security alert in the UAE, but the real question is where they were headed. Abu Dhabi says the weapons were targeting maritime navigation, while Tehran has categorically denied firing missiles at the country.

North Korea on Wednesday (Aug 19) denounced joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea as a direct threat to its security. Notably, Pyongyang's state media made no mention of US President Donald Trump's surprise decision to scale back the drills.A commentary published by the state-run Korean Central News Agency described the exercises as "the most immediate and open threat" to North Korea and regional security. The commentary, titled "We Will Exercise Our Right to Self-defence for Neutralizing Military Threat from Hostile Forces through More Transparent Action," repeated Pyongyang's long-standing accusation that the drills are rehearsals for an invasion.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-wartime-operational-control-transfer-us-1787060539278">South Korea to press ahead with wartime operational control transfer from US</a><h2>Pyongyang ignores Trump's decision</h2>The North Korean statement came after Trump ordered the Pentagon on Sunday to reduce the scale of the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, just one day before they were scheduled to begin.Trump described the exercises as "inappropriate and hostile" and has also spoken positively about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. He criticised South Korea for not backing his administration's war against Iran.Despite the change ordered by Trump, KCNA did not acknowledge the decision in its latest commentary. It also made no reference to Trump's stated interest in restarting talks with Kim.Trump said Monday that Kim had responded to his recent overtures, although he did not disclose details about the communication.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inane-senator-jack-reed-slams-trump-s-decision-to-downsize-us-south-korea-military-drills-1786979125833">'Inane’: Senator Jack Reed slams Trump’s decision to downsize US-South Korea military drills</a><h2>US troops remain in South Korea</h2>The United States maintains about 28,500 troops in South Korea, part of the longstanding US military presence established after the 1950-53 Korean War. The war ended with an armistice rather than a formal peace treaty, leaving the Korean Peninsula technically in a state of conflict.North Korea has consistently opposed US-South Korean military exercises, arguing that they threaten its security. Washington and Seoul, however, have maintained that the drills are defensive and designed to prepare their forces for a potential conflict.

Trump has scaled back the annual US-South Korea military drills, but North Korea is not backing down. Pyongyang has called the exercises an immediate threat to its security while making no mention of the US president's surprise decision.

North Korea on Wednesday (Aug 19) denounced joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea as a direct threat to its security. Notably, Pyongyang's state media made no mention of US President Donald Trump's surprise decision to scale back the drills. A commentary published by the state-run Korean Central News Agency described the exercises as "the most immediate and open threat" to North Korea and regional security. The commentary, titled "We Will Exercise Our Right to Self-defence for Neutralizing Military Threat from Hostile Forces through More Transparent Action," repeated Pyongyang's long-standing accusation that the drills are rehearsals for an invasion. Also read | South Korea to press ahead with wartime operational control transfer from US Pyongyang ignores Trump's decision The North Korean statement came after Trump ordered the Pentagon on Sunday to reduce the scale of the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, just one day before they were scheduled to begin. Trump described the exercises as "inappropriate and hostile" and has also spoken positively about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. He criticised South Korea for not backing his administration's war against Iran. Despite the change ordered by Trump, KCNA did not acknowledge the decision in its latest commentary. It also made no reference to Trump's stated interest in restarting talks with Kim. Trump said Monday that Kim had responded to his recent overtures, although he did not disclose details about the communication. Also read | 'Inane’: Senator Jack Reed slams Trump’s decision to downsize US-South Korea military drills US troops remain in South Korea The United States maintains about 28,500 troops in South Korea, part of the longstanding US military presence established after the 1950-53 Korean War. The war ended with an armistice rather than a formal peace treaty, leaving the Korean Peninsula technically in a state of conflict. North Korea has consistently opposed US-South Korean military exercises, arguing that they threaten its security. Washington and Seoul, however, have maintained that the drills are defensive and designed to prepare their forces for a potential conflict.

Trump has scaled back the annual US-South Korea military drills, but North Korea is not backing down. Pyongyang has called the exercises an immediate threat to its security while making no mention of the US president's surprise decision.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that Iran will not accept another temporary ceasefire with the United States and wants a permanent end to the nearly six-month war.&nbsp;“We told the mediators that we will not accept a ceasefire; the war must come to an end,” Araghchi told semi-official Fars News Agency. “We were saying that the war must end in such a way that it will not be repeated.”&nbsp;“Security in the Gulf countries must be collective security that includes economic dimensions,” Araghchi added.“Qatar, along with Pakistan, played a very important role and entered into mediation, and our relationship with them is at a very good stage,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-chief-rafael-grossi-says-agency-found-tonnes-of-nuclear-material-in-syria-1787067845191">IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says agency found ‘tonnes of nuclear material’ in Syria</a>&nbsp;The 60-day ceasefire negotiated between the US and Iran technically ended on Monday. The ceasefire did not hold for long after the signing of the memorandum of understanding, and both sides launched attacks and counterattacks. President Donald Trump on Monday said he had no timeline for a deal.&nbsp;“The enemies were seeking our surrender; they went after changing the regime, fragmentation, and internal unrest, but whatever plan they pursued, they became disappointed and were defeated,” Araghchi further told Fars News Agency.&nbsp;Trump said on Tuesday that there were “no talks or conversations going on, or scheduled” with Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-won-both-war-and-diplomacy-araghchi-says-conflict-completely-dispelled-notion-of-tehran-s-weakness-1787060840037">‘Iran won both war and diplomacy’: Araghchi says conflict ‘completely dispelled’ notion of Tehran’s weakness</a>&nbsp;Washington and Tehran had signed an interim memorandum on June 17 aimed at ending hostilities and paving the way for a broader agreement.&nbsp;<h2>Hegseth, Bessent ‘way out of their league’: Speaker Ghalibaf</h2>&nbsp;The speaker of Iran’s Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, attacked Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday, saying they are over their heads in the war with Iran.“Americans think squeezing Iran harder will win concessions that were never part of the agreement,” Ghalibaf wrote on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Last week, Bessent had threatened Iran with “never before seen” sanctions that would result in the “economic isolation of a country.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-t-beg-pakistan-strictly-warns-its-umrah-pilgrims-tells-them-to-fully-comply-with-saudi-laws-1786991746961">‘Don’t beg,’ Pakistan strictly warns its Umrah pilgrims, tells them to fully comply with Saudi laws</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Americans think squeezing Iran harder will win concessions that were never part of the agreement. Bessent and Hegseth are way out of their league. Stop waiting for the clown crew to pull a rabbit out of their hat and clean up the mess you made.&mdash; محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) <a href="https://x.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2089759296376480003?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“Bessent and Hegseth are way out of their league,” Ghalibaf said.&nbsp;“Stop waiting for the clown crew to pull a rabbit out of their hat and clean up the mess you made,” he added.Ghalibaf continues to ruffle the Trump administration on social media with his posts. Last week, Ghalibaf accused the administration of “theater diplomacy on loop” in regard to President Trump threatening massive attacks before backing off and saying negotiations are back on.&nbsp;Tehran has also begun shifting toward a “fully offensive” military posture after efforts to reach a permanent agreement stalled, a senior Iranian official told Reuters.

Washington and Tehran had signed an interim memorandum on June 17 aimed at ending hostilities and paving the way for a broader agreement. The ceasefire did not hold for long after the signing of the memorandum of understanding, and both sides launched attacks and counterattacks.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that Iran will not accept another temporary ceasefire with the United States and wants a permanent end to the nearly six-month war. “We told the mediators that we will not accept a ceasefire; the war must come to an end,” Araghchi told semi-official Fars News Agency. “We were saying that the war must end in such a way that it will not be repeated.” “Security in the Gulf countries must be collective security that includes economic dimensions,” Araghchi added. “Qatar, along with Pakistan, played a very important role and entered into mediation, and our relationship with them is at a very good stage,” he said. Also Read: IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says agency found ‘tonnes of nuclear material’ in Syria The 60-day ceasefire negotiated between the US and Iran technically ended on Monday. The ceasefire did not hold for long after the signing of the memorandum of understanding, and both sides launched attacks and counterattacks. President Donald Trump on Monday said he had no timeline for a deal. “The enemies were seeking our surrender; they went after changing the regime, fragmentation, and internal unrest, but whatever plan they pursued, they became disappointed and were defeated,” Araghchi further told Fars News Agency. Trump said on Tuesday that there were “no talks or conversations going on, or scheduled” with Iran. Also Read: ‘Iran won both war and diplomacy’: Araghchi says conflict ‘completely dispelled’ notion of Tehran’s weakness Washington and Tehran had signed an interim memorandum on June 17 aimed at ending hostilities and paving the way for a broader agreement. Hegseth, Bessent ‘way out of their league’: Speaker Ghalibaf The speaker of Iran’s Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, attacked Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday, saying they are over their heads in the war with Iran. “Americans think squeezing Iran harder will win concessions that were never part of the agreement,” Ghalibaf wrote on X. Last week, Bessent had threatened Iran with “never before seen” sanctions that would result in the “economic isolation of a country.” Also Read: ‘Don’t beg,’ Pakistan strictly warns its Umrah pilgrims, tells them to fully comply with Saudi laws

Washington and Tehran had signed an interim memorandum on June 17 aimed at ending hostilities and paving the way for a broader agreement. The ceasefire did not hold for long after the signing of the memorandum of understanding, and both sides launched attacks and counterattacks.

‘No ceasefire now, war must come to a permanent end,’ says Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

US President Donald Trump has been on a mission to mandate the requirement of a voter ID, to prevent non-citizens from voting in elections.&nbsp;Trump has now lauded India's voter ID system, renewing his appeal for the passage of the 'Save America Act'.&nbsp;Trump revealed that India's Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar had questioned his administration on how people can exercise their franchise in US polls without furnishing a voter ID.&nbsp;Highlighting India's case, Trump said, “India’s last election had 646,000,000 voters. Less than 1% voted by mail, and every single voter had to have a valid photo identity document.”&nbsp;While this legislation has been passed by the US House of Representatives on multiple occasions, it has failed to clear the Senate so far.&nbsp;This bill makes it compulsory for states to register only those people as voters who can prove their citizenship via documents such as passport, birth certificate, a government-issued ID or a military record showing place of birth.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Additionally, people will be able to cast their vote in federal elections only after producing a valid voter ID. While India's election process remains robust, with the EC issuing photo identity cards to voters since 1993, its decision to conduct a special intensive revision of electoral rolls has been drawing ire from the opposition. This is because a large number of voters are being deleted. Take Maharashtra for example. While the state has 9.78 crore registered voters, enumeration forms of over two crore voters have not been received. This implies that nearly 21% of the total voters will not feature on the draft electoral roll set to be published on August 24. On its part though, the EC has categorised these voters as absent, duplicate, deceased and permanently shifted. In the next phase of SIR, aggrieved persons can also file an appeal against their exclusion, or register as new voters if they have shifted to a new place. In India's national capital, the issue is more acute. As per data released by the chief electoral officer, at least one in three Delhi voters face the risk of deletion. This is because 33% of enumeration forms are yet to be submitted. This has now triggered a row with Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav accusing booth level officers of not distributing the enumeration forms in unauthorised colonies and villages. However, this allegation was debunked by EC, which claimed to have distributed SIR forms to all existing voters. While this may come across as a bureaucratic exercise, it can have serious implications from an electoral perspective. For instance, in this year's West Bengal assembly polls, a staggering 91 lakh voters were deleted. While 27 lakh voters challenged their exclusion, they were unable to exercise their franchise, as their appeals weren't heard in time. Apart from the legal argument, the SIR process raises another question. With India not even having a standard citizenship document, why is the onus on voters to furnish their as well as their parents' records? And if the discrepancy in the electoral rolls is so huge, how were these people allowed to vote for so many years? While the debate continues, it is clear that every eligible voter deserves to be included in the electoral roll.

The 'Save America Act' makes it compulsory for states to register only those people as voters who can prove their citizenship via documents such as passport, birth certificate, a government-issued ID or a military record showing place of birth. It has failed to clear the Senate so far.

US President Donald Trump has been on a mission to mandate the requirement of a voter ID, to prevent non-citizens from voting in elections. Trump has now lauded India's voter ID system, renewing his appeal for the passage of the 'Save America Act'. Trump revealed that India's Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar had questioned his administration on how people can exercise their franchise in US polls without furnishing a voter ID. Highlighting India's case, Trump said, “India’s last election had 646,000,000 voters. Less than 1% voted by mail, and every single voter had to have a valid photo identity document.” While this legislation has been passed by the US House of Representatives on multiple occasions, it has failed to clear the Senate so far. This bill makes it compulsory for states to register only those people as voters who can prove their citizenship via documents such as passport, birth certificate, a government-issued ID or a military record showing place of birth.

The 'Save America Act' makes it compulsory for states to register only those people as voters who can prove their citizenship via documents such as passport, birth certificate, a government-issued ID or a military record showing place of birth. It has failed to clear the Senate so far.

Trump lauds India's election system, rising anger in India at SIR exclusion | Gravitas

As the Asim Munir-led hybrid regime faces a growing legitimacy crisis, is the political scenario in Pakistan set to change yet again? In a big boost for the opposition, ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan secured a major relief From the country's supreme court after being in Lahore's Adiala jail for over three years. A three-member supreme court bench ordered the cricketer-turned-politician to be moved to Islamabad's Shifa International hospital for treatment until at least September 16. This came in wake of growing concerns over the health of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf founder.&nbsp;Khan will have to be transferred to the private hospital within 48 hours. The Pak SC also ordered the creation of a medical board for him comprising an eye specialist, a general physician, a cardiologist and Khan's personal physician Dr. Faisal Sultan. The court also made it clear that Sultan as well as the PTI founder's sister Dr. Uzma Khan will be associated with his treatment. This is not all. According to the court's order, the jail authorities have to facilitate weekly meetings with his family and regular calls with his UK-based sons.&nbsp;The cost of the treatment shall be borne by the ex-PM's family. However, is there a cover-up being attempted? Even as rumours about Khan's death have been doing the rounds, Pakistan's top court has chosen to gag the media. The Pakistan SC directed Khan's family and lawyers not to share his medical reports with the media. It further directed that no media talk, political activity or press conference will be held outside the hospital by anyone meeting Khan. According to the court, this order cannot be recalled if these directives are violated.&nbsp;This raises a key question. Is the Pakistani establishment trying to hide the reality of Khan's medical condition? Let's jog your memory back a little. In February this year, Imran Khan's lawyer informed the SC that he lost 85% of vision in his right eye. The PTI founder has been diagnosed with right central retinal vein occlusion, a medical condition which can cause permanent damage to eyesight if left untreated. His condition aggravated as he was merely given eye drops for three months, which resulted in no improvement. In August, Khan complained of fluctuating blood pressure, mental stress and headache, after which doctors recommended an angiography. Now, this comes in the backdrop of the party announcing a long march to Islamabad on September 27 which was supposed to be joined by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Sohail Afridi and nearly two million people.&nbsp;Last week, PTI workers hit the streets to demand the ex-PM's release as well as in protest against the rising corruption. Earlier on August 5, hundreds of PTI supporters gathered in Karachi to mark the third anniversary of his detention. A heavy contingent of riot police charged towards the demonstrators, fired tear gas, beat them and dragged them towards police vehicles. Now, the jail authorities presented a rather rosy picture Of the PTI founder's health in Pakistan's apex court. For instance, they claimed that his vision has returned to normal after treatment. They also added that medical officers visit him thrice in jail and check his vitals including blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation.&nbsp;According to the authorities, Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have met in jail 84 times so far. It is worth noting that the Asim Munir-led military establishment started a brutal crackdown on PTI after its party workers allegedly attacked military installations in May 2023. At present, Khan and Bushra Bibi are serving a 17-year jail term in the Toshakhana-II case. Besides this, the couple has also been convicted in the Toshakhana-I, Al-qadir trust and the unlawful marriage cases. After Khan was arrested, PTI accused Munir of rigging the 2024 general election. To begin with, PTI's candidates were barred From contesting on the party's name and 'bat' symbol. Despite this, PTI-linked independents emerged as the single-largest group with 93 seats.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-sc-orders-imran-khan-s-transfer-from-jail-to-hospital-curbs-media-amid-death-rumours-1787073359661/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-sc-orders-imran-khan-s-transfer-from-jail-to-hospital-curbs-media-amid-death-rumours-1787073359661/embed</a>&nbsp;If not for blatant rigging, PTI believes that the real seat tally was 180, whereas the ruling PMLN won only 17 seats in reality. At a time when Pak Army is batting for creation of more provinces, Is today's development a fresh bid by the Pak establishment to reach out to PTI? Does this also spell trouble for PMLN and PPP? One thing is clear though. Khan's resilience has put the Munir-led hybrid regime in a serious spot of bother.

 A three-member supreme court bench ordered the cricketer-turned-politician to be moved to Islamabad's Shifa International hospital for treatment until at least September 16

As the Asim Munir-led hybrid regime faces a growing legitimacy crisis, is the political scenario in Pakistan set to change yet again? In a big boost for the opposition, ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan secured a major relief From the country's supreme court after being in Lahore's Adiala jail for over three years. A three-member supreme court bench ordered the cricketer-turned-politician to be moved to Islamabad's Shifa International hospital for treatment until at least September 16. This came in wake of growing concerns over the health of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf founder. Khan will have to be transferred to the private hospital within 48 hours. The Pak SC also ordered the creation of a medical board for him comprising an eye specialist, a general physician, a cardiologist and Khan's personal physician Dr. Faisal Sultan. The court also made it clear that Sultan as well as the PTI founder's sister Dr. Uzma Khan will be associated with his treatment. This is not all. According to the court's order, the jail authorities have to facilitate weekly meetings with his family and regular calls with his UK-based sons. The cost of the treatment shall be borne by the ex-PM's family. However, is there a cover-up being attempted? Even as rumours about Khan's death have been doing the rounds, Pakistan's top court has chosen to gag the media. The Pakistan SC directed Khan's family and lawyers not to share his medical reports with the media. It further directed that no media talk, political activity or press conference will be held outside the hospital by anyone meeting Khan. According to the court, this order cannot be recalled if these directives are violated. This raises a key question. Is the Pakistani establishment trying to hide the reality of Khan's medical condition? Let's jog your memory back a little. In February this year, Imran Khan's lawyer informed the SC that he lost 85% of vision in his right eye. The PTI founder has been diagnosed with right central retinal vein occlusion, a medical condition which can cause permanent damage to eyesight if left untreated. His condition aggravated as he was merely given eye drops for three months, which resulted in no improvement. In August, Khan complained of fluctuating blood pressure, mental stress and headache, after which doctors recommended an angiography. Now, this comes in the backdrop of the party announcing a long march to Islamabad on September 27 which was supposed to be joined by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Sohail Afridi and nearly two million people. Last week, PTI workers hit the streets to demand the ex-PM's release as well as in protest against the rising corruption. Earlier on August 5, hundreds of PTI supporters gathered in Karachi to mark the third anniversary of his detention. A heavy contingent of riot police charged towards the demonstrators, fired tear gas, beat them and dragged them towards police vehicles. Now, the jail authorities presented a rather rosy picture Of the PTI founder's health in Pakistan's apex court. For instance, they claimed that his vision has returned to normal after treatment. They also added that medical officers visit him thrice in jail and check his vitals including blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation. According to the authorities, Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have met in jail 84 times so far. It is worth noting that the Asim Munir-led military establishment started a brutal crackdown on PTI after its party workers allegedly attacked military installations in May 2023. At present, Khan and Bushra Bibi are serving a 17-year jail term in the Toshakhana-II case. Besides this, the couple has also been convicted in the Toshakhana-I, Al-qadir trust and the unlawful marriage cases. After Khan was arrested, PTI accused Munir of rigging the 2024 general election. To begin with, PTI's candidates were barred From contesting on the party's name and 'bat' symbol. Despite this, PTI-linked independents emerged as the single-largest group with 93 seats. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-sc-orders-imran-khan-s-transfer-from-jail-to-hospital-curbs-media-amid-death-rumours-1787073359661/embed If not for blatant rigging, PTI believes that the real seat tally was 180, whereas the ruling PMLN won only 17 seats in reality. At a time when Pak Army is batting for creation of more provinces, Is today's development a fresh bid by the Pak establishment to reach out to PTI? Does this also spell trouble for PMLN and PPP? One thing is clear though. Khan's resilience has put the Munir-led hybrid regime in a serious spot of bother.

&nbsp;A three-member supreme court bench ordered the cricketer-turned-politician to be moved to Islamabad's Shifa International hospital for treatment until at least September 16

Pakistan SC orders Imran Khan's transfer from jail to hospital, curbs media amid 'death' rumours | Gravitas

A Jerusalem synagogue has been vandalised again.In an attack, Israeli police are reportedly investigating it as possible hate-crime vandalism. Just after midnight, a group of young people reportedly entered the grounds of Kol HaNeshama, a prominent Reform synagogue. They broke a window and entered the prayer hall, damaging artwork and ripping down Pride flags.At least three people were reportedly at the scene, while no congregants were inside at the time. Investigators are reportedly reviewing the footage of the incident and collecting fingerprints. Police have reportedly not identified any suspects, announced any arrests or disclosed a motive.The particular Jerusalem Reform synagogue has faced previous attacks over its support for the LGBTQ community. In 2018, a large rock was reportedly hurled into the synagogue's courtyard while more than 200 people were celebrating a Jewish holiday. In June 2023, the synagogue reported two break-ins within weeks. Intruders reportedly removed Pride flags and, during one incident, reportedly entered the sanctuary.Gilad Kariv, a Reform rabbi and lawmaker from Israel's Democrats party, condemned the latest attack and called those responsible “incited hooligans.” The Jerusalem deputy mayor, Yossi Havilio, called the vandalism part of a “wave of hate crimes against the LGBTQ community in Jerusalem” and urged police not to treat it as a prank.The attack came hours after an incident at Central Synagogue, a major Reform congregation in Manhattan, where a Shabbat service was disrupted while a congregant and a security guard were also attacked. So far, there is no indication that the two incidents are connected in any way

Kol HaNeshama synagogue in Jerusalem’s Baka neighbourhood was vandalised during Shabbat after youths broke in and tore down a Pride flag.

A Jerusalem synagogue has been vandalised again. In an attack, Israeli police are reportedly investigating it as possible hate-crime vandalism. Just after midnight, a group of young people reportedly entered the grounds of Kol HaNeshama, a prominent Reform synagogue. They broke a window and entered the prayer hall, damaging artwork and ripping down Pride flags. At least three people were reportedly at the scene, while no congregants were inside at the time. Investigators are reportedly reviewing the footage of the incident and collecting fingerprints. Police have reportedly not identified any suspects, announced any arrests or disclosed a motive. The particular Jerusalem Reform synagogue has faced previous attacks over its support for the LGBTQ community. In 2018, a large rock was reportedly hurled into the synagogue's courtyard while more than 200 people were celebrating a Jewish holiday. In June 2023, the synagogue reported two break-ins within weeks. Intruders reportedly removed Pride flags and, during one incident, reportedly entered the sanctuary. Gilad Kariv, a Reform rabbi and lawmaker from Israel's Democrats party, condemned the latest attack and called those responsible “incited hooligans.” The Jerusalem deputy mayor, Yossi Havilio, called the vandalism part of a “wave of hate crimes against the LGBTQ community in Jerusalem” and urged police not to treat it as a prank. The attack came hours after an incident at Central Synagogue, a major Reform congregation in Manhattan, where a Shabbat service was disrupted while a congregant and a security guard were also attacked. So far, there is no indication that the two incidents are connected in any way

Kol HaNeshama synagogue in Jerusalem’s Baka neighbourhood was vandalised during Shabbat after youths broke in and tore down a Pride flag.

Gravitas | Jerusalem's Reformist synagogue targeted for showing gay Pride flag

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that there are no ongoing talks between the US and Iran, and that no such talks are scheduled. He claimed that the Strait of Hormuz was open, while Iran said that the Strait of Hormuz is closed and is likely to remain closed until the US agrees with Iranian demands."There are no talks or conversations going on or scheduled with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Naval Blockade remains in full force and effect. The Hormuz Strait is open and operating. All water mines have been removed or detonated," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.&nbsp;This is in direct contradiction to Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and special envoy, who suggested there were “positive” and “active” talks between the US and Iran. Kushner told Fox News that “President Trump is going to be very patient... he doesn’t want to rush to a deal”.On Monday, Trump said that Iranian officials “want to make a deal, but they’re not going to make the kind of deal that I feel is necessary,” before repeating the key demand that Iran will never have nuclear weapons.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/satyendar-jain-arrested-delhi-jal-board-scam-1787068144297">AAP leader Satyendar Jain and 5 others arrested in alleged ₹1.94-crore Delhi Jal Board scam</a>A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Monday that Iran is looking to shift to a "fully offensive" military posture. Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Majed Al Ansari, stated that broader US-Iran negotiations cannot resume until Iran and Oman finalise a bilateral agreement regarding navigation rules through the Strait. While discussing with Fox News the stalled peace negotiations surrounding the US-Iran war, Trump stated, "If Oman gets in the way, we'll bomb the s** out of them."Meanwhile, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf ‌said in comments published by state ⁠media on ⁠Tuesday that the ‌Strait of Hormuz will ⁠remain closed until the ‌United States ‌meets ‌conditions ⁠of ⁠the interim deal with Iran, including ‌lifting the marine blockade and sanctions ‌as well as freeing ⁠Iran’s frozen assets.

Donald Trump denies ongoing US-Iran talks, contradicting envoy Jared Kushner, who said Washington and Tehran are engaged in “positive” and “active” conversations.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that there are no ongoing talks between the US and Iran, and that no such talks are scheduled. He claimed that the Strait of Hormuz was open, while Iran said that the Strait of Hormuz is closed and is likely to remain closed until the US agrees with Iranian demands. "There are no talks or conversations going on or scheduled with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Naval Blockade remains in full force and effect. The Hormuz Strait is open and operating. All water mines have been removed or detonated," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. This is in direct contradiction to Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and special envoy, who suggested there were “positive” and “active” talks between the US and Iran. Kushner told Fox News that “President Trump is going to be very patient... he doesn’t want to rush to a deal”. On Monday, Trump said that Iranian officials “want to make a deal, but they’re not going to make the kind of deal that I feel is necessary,” before repeating the key demand that Iran will never have nuclear weapons. Also Read: AAP leader Satyendar Jain and 5 others arrested in alleged ₹1.94-crore Delhi Jal Board scam A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Monday that Iran is looking to shift to a "fully offensive" military posture. Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Majed Al Ansari, stated that broader US-Iran negotiations cannot resume until Iran and Oman finalise a bilateral agreement regarding navigation rules through the Strait. While discussing with Fox News the stalled peace negotiations surrounding the US-Iran war, Trump stated, "If Oman gets in the way, we'll bomb the s** out of them." Meanwhile, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf ‌said in comments published by state ⁠media on ⁠Tuesday that the ‌Strait of Hormuz will ⁠remain closed until the ‌United States ‌meets ‌conditions ⁠of ⁠the interim deal with Iran, including ‌lifting the marine blockade and sanctions ‌as well as freeing ⁠Iran’s frozen assets.

Donald Trump denies ongoing US-Iran talks, contradicting envoy Jared Kushner, who said Washington and Tehran are engaged in “positive” and “active” conversations.

Trump denies US-Iran talks as Kushner says negotiations are active

Greek authorities suspect a mechanical failure caused a privately chartered Bell 206 helicopter to crash and explode on the island of Sifnos on Monday evening (Aug 17), killing all three occupants on board. The victims were identified as British newlyweds Alexander Cromie, 31, and Marie Ebert, 30, along with their 53-year-old pilot, Giorgos Raikos. Cromie served as a vice-president in private wealth solutions at the asset management firm Blackstone, while Ebert was a senior specialist at the consulting firm Bain &amp; Company. Both companies released statements expressing profound shock and sadness. Syros officials identified Raikos as a highly experienced former Air Force officer.&nbsp;"From a preliminary evaluation of the available material, there are signs of a possible malfunction in the performance of the helicopter's tail rotor," Greece's civil aviation authority said in a statement. The accident occurred near the village of Exambela as the helicopter approached a helipad adjacent to the Panayia tis Vrysis monastery, roughly 50 meters from inhabited homes. Local resident Antonis Zambelis noted how close the crash occurred to nearby residences, and Sifnos Mayor Maria Nadali expressed shock while coordinating emergency responses with local services.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/texas-helicopter-crash-two-us-army-soldiers-killed-in-texas-helicopter-crash-1786592756307">Texas helicopter crash: Two US Army soldiers killed in Texas helicopter crash</a>&nbsp;According to local witnesses, including Sifnos Deputy Mayor Manolis Fountolakis, the aircraft made an unusual noise in mid-air, suggesting a potential engine failure or propeller malfunction. CCTV footage captured the helicopter spiralling out of control before striking the ground and bursting into a fireball. Rescuers put out the resulting blaze and recovered the remains of all three victims.&nbsp;The Greek Transport Ministry stated that the crash is being investigated by the National Organisation for the Investigation of Air and Railway Accidents and Transport Safety, in coordination with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. Senior law enforcement officials have arrived on the island, and forensic tests will be conducted to confirm the official causes of death. Following the incident, Greece’s Civil Aviation Authority temporarily grounded all Bell 206 helicopters.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/helicopter-crashes-in-brazil-s-rio-de-janeiro-four-killed-1786258917519">Helicopter crashes in Brazil’s Rio De Janeiro, four killed</a>&nbsp;According to reporting by the news outlet The Guardian, a well-placed source said the investigation is focused on a possible engine failure. The report also highlighted that chartering private helicopters has gained popularity among tourists travelling between the Aegean and Ionian islands to avoid the several-hour ferry ride from Athens to remote destinations like Sifnos.

A chartered Bell 206 helicopter crash on Sifnos island killed British newlyweds Alexander Cromie and Marie Ebert alongside pilot Giorgos Raikos, as Greek authorities suspect a mechanical failure in the tail rotor.

Greek authorities suspect a mechanical failure caused a privately chartered Bell 206 helicopter to crash and explode on the island of Sifnos on Monday evening (Aug 17), killing all three occupants on board. The victims were identified as British newlyweds Alexander Cromie, 31, and Marie Ebert, 30, along with their 53-year-old pilot, Giorgos Raikos. Cromie served as a vice-president in private wealth solutions at the asset management firm Blackstone, while Ebert was a senior specialist at the consulting firm Bain & Company. Both companies released statements expressing profound shock and sadness. Syros officials identified Raikos as a highly experienced former Air Force officer. "From a preliminary evaluation of the available material, there are signs of a possible malfunction in the performance of the helicopter's tail rotor," Greece's civil aviation authority said in a statement. The accident occurred near the village of Exambela as the helicopter approached a helipad adjacent to the Panayia tis Vrysis monastery, roughly 50 meters from inhabited homes. Local resident Antonis Zambelis noted how close the crash occurred to nearby residences, and Sifnos Mayor Maria Nadali expressed shock while coordinating emergency responses with local services. Also read: Texas helicopter crash: Two US Army soldiers killed in Texas helicopter crash According to local witnesses, including Sifnos Deputy Mayor Manolis Fountolakis, the aircraft made an unusual noise in mid-air, suggesting a potential engine failure or propeller malfunction. CCTV footage captured the helicopter spiralling out of control before striking the ground and bursting into a fireball. Rescuers put out the resulting blaze and recovered the remains of all three victims. The Greek Transport Ministry stated that the crash is being investigated by the National Organisation for the Investigation of Air and Railway Accidents and Transport Safety, in coordination with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. Senior law enforcement officials have arrived on the island, and forensic tests will be conducted to confirm the official causes of death. Following the incident, Greece’s Civil Aviation Authority temporarily grounded all Bell 206 helicopters. Also read: Helicopter crashes in Brazil’s Rio De Janeiro, four killed According to reporting by the news outlet The Guardian, a well-placed source said the investigation is focused on a possible engine failure. The report also highlighted that chartering private helicopters has gained popularity among tourists travelling between the Aegean and Ionian islands to avoid the several-hour ferry ride from Athens to remote destinations like Sifnos.

A chartered Bell 206 helicopter crash on Sifnos island killed British newlyweds Alexander Cromie and Marie Ebert alongside pilot Giorgos Raikos, as Greek authorities suspect a mechanical failure in the tail rotor.

Helicopter crash kills British newlyweds and former Air Force pilot in Greece

UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi said on Tuesday that his agency found several tonnes of nuclear materials at a previously undeclared site dating from the rule of Syria’s previous government.Addressing a joint press conference with Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Damascus, the ⁠ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief said, “After your courageous decision to inform us that there was another place, another site where nuclear material had been stored, we were able to access this place... we are talking about a few tonnes of nuclear material that could be put to bad use.&nbsp;&nbsp;Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said UN atomic watchdog chief Rafael Grossi visited a site containing nuclear materials in the country, and his agency collected samples.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-won-both-war-and-diplomacy-araghchi-says-conflict-completely-dispelled-notion-of-tehran-s-weakness-1787060840037">‘Iran won both war and diplomacy’: Araghchi says conflict ‘completely dispelled’ notion of Tehran’s weakness</a>&nbsp;“On July 17, we sent an official letter to the agency, in which we declared of our own free will the presence of nuclear materials at an undeclared site within the legacy left by the former regime,” Shaibani said at the press conference, adding that Grossi and the agency team completed their site visit this morning and collected the necessary samples.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I’m currently in Syria, in the context of ongoing cooperation with the Syrian Government to clarify and resolve outstanding safeguards issues related to implementing its NPT Safeguards Agreement with the IAEA. We conducted the following activities: •⁠ ⁠Deir Ez-Zor site:… <a href="https://t.co/unvDU7J6uB">pic.twitter.com/unvDU7J6uB</a>&mdash; Rafael Mariano Grossi (@rafaelmgrossi) <a href="https://x.com/rafaelmgrossi/status/2089726053115715839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-t-beg-pakistan-strictly-warns-its-umrah-pilgrims-tells-them-to-fully-comply-with-saudi-laws-1786991746961">‘Don’t beg,’ Pakistan strictly warns its Umrah pilgrims, tells them to fully comply with Saudi laws</a>&nbsp;The nuclear material was not dangerous and would remain in Syrian custody, subject to the IAEA’s guarantees, he added.Asaad al-Shibani added that Syria has the right to use the material for civil and peaceful purposes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-rejects-trump-s-renewed-appeal-to-block-e-jean-carroll-award-1786975184644">Supreme Court rejects Trump’s renewed appeal to block E. Jean Carroll award</a>&nbsp;After the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Syria’s new authorities have committed to working with the United Nations’ nuclear ⁠watchdog to address the nuclear activities during decades of Assad family rule.&nbsp;Syria is not known to hold operational stockpiles ⁠of nuclear material for a weapons programme, but Israel bombed a suspected ⁠Syrian nuclear reactor in 2007 in the country’s eastern province of Deir al-Zor.

After the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Syria’s new authorities have committed to working with the United Nations’ nuclear ⁠watchdog to address the nuclear activities during decades of Assad family rule. The nuclear material was not dangerous.

UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi said on Tuesday that his agency found several tonnes of nuclear materials at a previously undeclared site dating from the rule of Syria’s previous government. Addressing a joint press conference with Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani in Damascus, the ⁠ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief said, “After your courageous decision to inform us that there was another place, another site where nuclear material had been stored, we were able to access this place... we are talking about a few tonnes of nuclear material that could be put to bad use. Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said UN atomic watchdog chief Rafael Grossi visited a site containing nuclear materials in the country, and his agency collected samples. Also Read: ‘Iran won both war and diplomacy’: Araghchi says conflict ‘completely dispelled’ notion of Tehran’s weakness “On July 17, we sent an official letter to the agency, in which we declared of our own free will the presence of nuclear materials at an undeclared site within the legacy left by the former regime,” Shaibani said at the press conference, adding that Grossi and the agency team completed their site visit this morning and collected the necessary samples.

After the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad in late 2024, Syria’s new authorities have committed to working with the United Nations’ nuclear ⁠watchdog to address the nuclear activities during decades of Assad family rule. The nuclear material was not dangerous.

IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says agency found ‘tonnes of nuclear material’ in Syria

The UAE has issued its first missile-related warning in several months, urging residents to move to safe locations after its air defence systems detected a potential threat targeting the country. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) said on X that the country's air defence systems had detected a missile threat. "UAE air defence systems detected a missile threat targeting the county. Please remain in a safe location and follow warnings and updates issued through official channels," the statement read.&nbsp;"UAE air defenses detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran toward the country, with the first falling outside the country's territorial waters, while the second fell within the territorial waters," said a statement posted by the defence ministry on X.&nbsp;The warning came a day after the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Iran and the United States, which was aimed at ending the fighting in the Middle East, expired on Monday. The UAE Interior Ministry also issued a separate alert, citing the "current situation" and "potential missile threats". It advised residents to seek shelter in the "closest secure building". The Emirati Defence Ministry separately confirmed that it had "detected a missile threat directed towards the country".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/creditability-and-robustness-of-india-s-election-system-well-established-globally-mea-1787063021026">'Credibility and robustness' of India's election system well established globally: MEA</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">UAE air defence systems detected a missile threat targeting the county. Please remain in a safe location and follow warnings and updates issued through official channels. <a href="https://t.co/aobFA9WRdw">pic.twitter.com/aobFA9WRdw</a>&mdash; NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) <a href="https://x.com/NCEMAUAE/status/2089728318149193837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The latest warning comes months after the previous missile alert in May. In June, residents received a false missile warning after a technical malfunction in the country's national early warning system mistakenly triggered emergency phone alerts. When the Middle East war began on February 28, the UAE was among the countries most heavily targeted by Iran, with nearly 3,000 missiles and drones directed at the country, more than against any other nation in the region. Following the implementation of the June memorandum between the two sides, which has now collapsed, the UAE reported no further attacks, even as other Gulf states continued to face attacks.<h2>What did the MoU say?</h2>US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed the agreement on June 17, seeking to halt more than three months of fighting that had killed thousands and disrupted commercial shipping across the Gulf. The conflict also severely affected oil and gas shipments through the region, raising concerns over global energy supplies and trade.

UAE issues a potential missile threat warning as air defences detect a target, urging residents to seek shelter amid renewed Middle East tensions

The UAE has issued its first missile-related warning in several months, urging residents to move to safe locations after its air defence systems detected a potential threat targeting the country. The National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) said on X that the country's air defence systems had detected a missile threat. "UAE air defence systems detected a missile threat targeting the county. Please remain in a safe location and follow warnings and updates issued through official channels," the statement read. "UAE air defenses detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran toward the country, with the first falling outside the country's territorial waters, while the second fell within the territorial waters," said a statement posted by the defence ministry on X. The warning came a day after the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Iran and the United States, which was aimed at ending the fighting in the Middle East, expired on Monday. The UAE Interior Ministry also issued a separate alert, citing the "current situation" and "potential missile threats". It advised residents to seek shelter in the "closest secure building". The Emirati Defence Ministry separately confirmed that it had "detected a missile threat directed towards the country". Also Read: 'Credibility and robustness' of India's election system well established globally: MEA

UAE warns residents of potential missile threats after air defences detect a threat, urging people to shelter in secure buildings and follow alerts

UAE accuses Iran of firing two ballistic missiles; issues advisory for citizens to take shelter

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is spreading faster than any previous epidemic of the disease and poses a risk of reaching additional countries, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned on Tuesday (Aug 18). Addressing an emergency meeting on the crisis, Tedros stated that the epidemic is "far from being under control" and noted that responders are still playing catch-up after the virus gained a significant head start. On Monday (Aug 17), the DRC reported that the outbreak, the 17th in the country's history, had become its deadliest, recording over 2,300 deaths out of nearly 5,000 cases. Although officially declared on May 15, the virus is believed to have been spreading undetected for several weeks prior.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-becomes-deadliest-in-dr-congo-s-history-1786979746847/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-becomes-deadliest-in-dr-congo-s-history-1786979746847/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The outbreak has impacted northern and eastern regions plagued by weak state presence, severe lack of health infrastructure, and decades of activity by numerous armed groups. The WHO emergency committee met for the second time since designating the situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, the agency's second-highest alert level.&nbsp;The WHO currently evaluates the public health risk as "very high" nationally within the DRC, "high" for neighbouring countries such as Uganda, and "low" for the remainder of Africa and globally. Cases have been documented across six DRC provinces, including areas near the South Sudan border, as well as in Uganda.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-explodes-in-dr-congo-death-toll-tops-2-000-across-five-provinces-1786617957184">Ebola Outbreak Explodes In DR Congo, Death Toll Tops 2,000 Across Five Provinces</a>&nbsp;Tedros reiterated that the risk of further national and international spread remains high due to the unprecedented speed of transmission. For comparison, the DRC's previous deadliest outbreak from 2018 to 2020 resulted in 2,299 deaths from 3,381 confirmed cases. The world's deadliest Ebola outbreak on record struck West Africa between 2013 and 2016, claiming over 11,300 lives, primarily across Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.

The World Health Organisation has warned that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is far from being under control, as health officials struggle with unlinked cases and rapid transmission.

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is spreading faster than any previous epidemic of the disease and poses a risk of reaching additional countries, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned on Tuesday (Aug 18). Addressing an emergency meeting on the crisis, Tedros stated that the epidemic is "far from being under control" and noted that responders are still playing catch-up after the virus gained a significant head start. On Monday (Aug 17), the DRC reported that the outbreak, the 17th in the country's history, had become its deadliest, recording over 2,300 deaths out of nearly 5,000 cases. Although officially declared on May 15, the virus is believed to have been spreading undetected for several weeks prior. https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebola-outbreak-becomes-deadliest-in-dr-congo-s-history-1786979746847/embed The outbreak has impacted northern and eastern regions plagued by weak state presence, severe lack of health infrastructure, and decades of activity by numerous armed groups. The WHO emergency committee met for the second time since designating the situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, the agency's second-highest alert level. The WHO currently evaluates the public health risk as "very high" nationally within the DRC, "high" for neighbouring countries such as Uganda, and "low" for the remainder of Africa and globally. Cases have been documented across six DRC provinces, including areas near the South Sudan border, as well as in Uganda. Also read: Ebola Outbreak Explodes In DR Congo, Death Toll Tops 2,000 Across Five Provinces Tedros reiterated that the risk of further national and international spread remains high due to the unprecedented speed of transmission. For comparison, the DRC's previous deadliest outbreak from 2018 to 2020 resulted in 2,299 deaths from 3,381 confirmed cases. The world's deadliest Ebola outbreak on record struck West Africa between 2013 and 2016, claiming over 11,300 lives, primarily across Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.

The World Health Organisation has warned that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is far from being under control, as health officials struggle with unlinked cases and rapid transmission.

‘Far from under control’: WHO chief issues warning over DR Congo Ebola outbreak

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday defended the credibility of India’s electoral system after US President Donald Trump cited India’s elections while renewing his call for mandatory photo identification for voters in the United States. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was asked about Trump’s comments during the ministry’s press briefing. Jaiswal said he had no specific response to Trump’s remarks but highlighted the global standing of India’s election machinery. "I have no specific comment to make on the remarks. I can say, however, that the credibility and robustness of India's election machinery are well-established facts globally," Jaiswal told reporters.<h2>What Trump said about India’s election system</h2>Trump referred to India’s Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar while making the case for stricter voter identification requirements in the US. The US president said Kumar had raised questions about how elections could be conducted without valid photo identification. Trump also cited the number of voters who participated in India’s last general election and pointed to the limited use of postal ballots.&nbsp;"Earlier this month, India's Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, asked our Administration. How can you have Elections in the US without a valid Photo ID? India's last Election had 646,000,000 Voters! Less than 1 per cent voted by mail, and every single Voter had to have a VALID Photo Identity Document. We need to pass THE SAVE AMERICA ACT, now!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social. Trump has been advocating for Congress to pass the SAVE America Act, a proposed measure focused on voter registration, proof of citizenship and identification requirements for federal elections.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burnham-says-uk-will-support-ukraine-100-after-russia-warning-over-kyiv-s-use-of-british-made-drones-1787060189422">Burnham says UK will support Ukraine ‘100%’ after Russia warning over Kyiv's use of British-made drones</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | Delhi: On US President Donald Trump praising India&#39;s election system and recalling Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar&#39;s remarks on the lack of voter identification in American polls, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, &quot;... I can say, however, that the… <a href="https://t.co/i7Z9M1ukdT">pic.twitter.com/i7Z9M1ukdT</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2089700384491385241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Trump administration backs voter ID push</h2>Trump’s comments came about a week after Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar met US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor. During the meeting, the two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in election management and training for election officials. Gor also backed Trump’s comments in a post on X, reiterating the US administration’s argument for voter identification requirements. “President Donald J. Trump is absolutely correct! 646 MILLION voters, every single one required an ID in India’s last election. Congress should pass THE SAVE AMERICA ACT!”&nbsp;According to the White House, the proposed legislation is intended to ensure that only US citizens participate in federal elections."American citizens -- and only American citizens -- should decide American elections," the White House said while describing the SAVE America Act as a "common sense, bipartisan bill."&nbsp;The White House said the proposed law would require voters to provide valid identification and proof of citizenship when registering for federal elections. It would also introduce tighter restrictions on mail-in voting, with exceptions for circumstances such as illness, disability, military service or travel. The administration has also said the legislation would require states to remove non-citizens from federal voter rolls. "If you want to register to vote in the United States, you have to be a citizen in the United States," the White House said.<h2>Congress hits back at Trump and Gyanesh Kumar</h2>The remarks also drew criticism from the Indian opposition. Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Pawan Khera directly addressed Trump in a post on X, taking a sarcastic swipe at the US president’s praise for India’s election machinery. "Dear @realDonaldTrump, please take Gyanesh Kumar Gupta to America. And keep him there. We will send our EVMs too by the next available flight. For all the insults and bullying you've sent our way, this is the least we can do for you. To SIR, With Love, from India," Khera wrote on X.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal backs India’s election machinery after Donald Trump cites India’s voter ID system while pushing the SAVE America Act

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday defended the credibility of India’s electoral system after US President Donald Trump cited India’s elections while renewing his call for mandatory photo identification for voters in the United States. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was asked about Trump’s comments during the ministry’s press briefing. Jaiswal said he had no specific response to Trump’s remarks but highlighted the global standing of India’s election machinery. "I have no specific comment to make on the remarks. I can say, however, that the credibility and robustness of India's election machinery are well-established facts globally," Jaiswal told reporters. What Trump said about India’s election system Trump referred to India’s Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar while making the case for stricter voter identification requirements in the US. The US president said Kumar had raised questions about how elections could be conducted without valid photo identification. Trump also cited the number of voters who participated in India’s last general election and pointed to the limited use of postal ballots. "Earlier this month, India's Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, asked our Administration. How can you have Elections in the US without a valid Photo ID? India's last Election had 646,000,000 Voters! Less than 1 per cent voted by mail, and every single Voter had to have a VALID Photo Identity Document. We need to pass THE SAVE AMERICA ACT, now!" Trump said in a post on Truth Social. Trump has been advocating for Congress to pass the SAVE America Act, a proposed measure focused on voter registration, proof of citizenship and identification requirements for federal elections. Also Read: Burnham says UK will support Ukraine ‘100%’ after Russia warning over Kyiv's use of British-made drones Watch the video here

MEA backs India’s election system after Trump cites Indian voter ID rules while pushing the SAVE America Act and stricter US voting requirements

'Credibility and robustness' of India's election system well established globally: MEA

South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday said that Seoul would proceed without disruption to finalise the transfer of wartime operational control from the US four-star general leading the Combined Forces Command. He also added that joint military drills between the US and South Korea are defensive in nature and do not reflect an intention to attack North Korea or escalate tension on the Korean Peninsula.The issue dates back to the Korean War, when the two sides signed an armistice instead of a formal peace treaty in 1953, meaning the two Korean sides technically remain at war. South Korea have been hosting US troops ever since. It is home to Camp Humphreys, the largest American military base outside the US. The two militaries train and operate together closely, including through large-scale annual exercises such as this week’s. The authority to direct South Korean forces has remained with the US command since then, if the war resumes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-israeli-strikes-syria-unnecessary-escalation-1787057317385">Israel strikes Syrian airbase; US calls strikes an ‘unnecessary escalation’</a>Seoul regained peacetime control of its military in 1994, but wartime control has remained with the US and reclaiming it has become a symbol of national sovereignty and one of the foremost security goals.&nbsp;“A strong alliance makes the foundation of security stronger, and strengthening our own capabilities increases our value and necessity as an ally,” said Lee in a cabinet meeting describing the alliance as mutually reinforcing.&nbsp;The response from Seoul, as per Yonhap, came after President Trump on Sunday ordered the Pentagon to "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea, calling them "costly" and sending a "hostile signal" to Pyongyang.&nbsp;During the briefing at the Oval Office, Trump said that the North Korean leader has responded to his order to the Pentagon but did not provide details. "You see, I’m actually making it much safer. Kim Jong-un has always treated me with great respect,” he said. “I understand him. He understands me.”Trump has previously suspended major US-South Korean military exercises in pursuit of diplomacy with Kim in 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung says Seoul will proceed with the wartime operational control transfer from US forces despite Trump’s call to reduce joint military drills.

South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday said that Seoul would proceed without disruption to finalise the transfer of wartime operational control from the US four-star general leading the Combined Forces Command. He also added that joint military drills between the US and South Korea are defensive in nature and do not reflect an intention to attack North Korea or escalate tension on the Korean Peninsula. The issue dates back to the Korean War, when the two sides signed an armistice instead of a formal peace treaty in 1953, meaning the two Korean sides technically remain at war. South Korea have been hosting US troops ever since. It is home to Camp Humphreys, the largest American military base outside the US. The two militaries train and operate together closely, including through large-scale annual exercises such as this week’s. The authority to direct South Korean forces has remained with the US command since then, if the war resumes. Also Read: Israel strikes Syrian airbase; US calls strikes an ‘unnecessary escalation’ Seoul regained peacetime control of its military in 1994, but wartime control has remained with the US and reclaiming it has become a symbol of national sovereignty and one of the foremost security goals. “A strong alliance makes the foundation of security stronger, and strengthening our own capabilities increases our value and necessity as an ally,” said Lee in a cabinet meeting describing the alliance as mutually reinforcing. The response from Seoul, as per Yonhap, came after President Trump on Sunday ordered the Pentagon to "substantially reduce" joint military exercises with South Korea, calling them "costly" and sending a "hostile signal" to Pyongyang. During the briefing at the Oval Office, Trump said that the North Korean leader has responded to his order to the Pentagon but did not provide details. "You see, I’m actually making it much safer. Kim Jong-un has always treated me with great respect,” he said. “I understand him. He understands me.” Trump has previously suspended major US-South Korean military exercises in pursuit of diplomacy with Kim in 2018.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung says Seoul will proceed with the wartime operational control transfer from US forces despite Trump’s call to reduce joint military drills.

South Korea to press ahead with wartime operational control transfer from US

A former Sri Lankan minister, Keheliya Rambukwella, was arrested on Tuesday (Aug 18) by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). He is accused of assisting in the theft of a centuries-old sacred “moonstone”, a heavy, carved circular granite rock that formed part of a symbolic stepping stone entrance to the palace of Veera Parakrama Narendrasinghe, the island's last Sinhala king who reigned until 1739.&nbsp;According to CIABOC, Rambukwella conspired, aided, and abetted the removal of the valuable historic artifact in December 2022 while serving as a minister, and subsequently obstructed police investigations into the matter.Additionally, CIABOC charged Rambukwella with using state funds to hire six individuals for his private business. "He conspired, aided and abetted the theft at a time when he was a minister," CIABOC said and as quoted in news agency AFP.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violent-protests-rock-sri-lanka-s-chabad-house-why-buddhist-monks-are-demanding-action-against-the-site-1787033839545">Buddhist monks lead violent protest against Jewish centre in Sri Lanka: What’s happening?</a>&nbsp;This arrest occurs alongside a separate ongoing court case involving the former health minister regarding the purchase of counterfeit medicines for state hospitals. Police informed the court that Rambukwella authorised the procurement of a life-saving cancer drug that was actually water. Multiple senior health ministry officials have also been indicted in connection with the pharmaceutical scam. "The drug had been issued to hospitals between July and September when patients reported adverse reactions triggering quality tests," an investigator had told AFP.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-new-centre-provides-services-for-israeli-and-jewish-travellers-1787051732580">Sri Lanka: new centre provides services for Israeli and Jewish travellers</a>&nbsp;At the time of the scam in February 2024, Rambukwella was the environment minister of the island nation. The supplier was to be paid a sum of $3.1 million but the transactions were paused after quality concerns were raised in the matter. Later, Rambukwella held the position of health minister during a severe national shortage of medicines, which followed Sri Lanka's bankruptcy declaration and its $46 billion foreign debt default in April 2022.

Former Sri Lankan Minister Keheliya Rambukwella was arrested on Tuesday (Aug 18) for allegedly aiding the theft of a centuries-old sacred moonstone from the palace of King Veera Parakrama Narendrasinghe.

A former Sri Lankan minister, Keheliya Rambukwella, was arrested on Tuesday (Aug 18) by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). He is accused of assisting in the theft of a centuries-old sacred “moonstone”, a heavy, carved circular granite rock that formed part of a symbolic stepping stone entrance to the palace of Veera Parakrama Narendrasinghe, the island's last Sinhala king who reigned until 1739. According to CIABOC, Rambukwella conspired, aided, and abetted the removal of the valuable historic artifact in December 2022 while serving as a minister, and subsequently obstructed police investigations into the matter. Additionally, CIABOC charged Rambukwella with using state funds to hire six individuals for his private business. "He conspired, aided and abetted the theft at a time when he was a minister," CIABOC said and as quoted in news agency AFP. Also read: Buddhist monks lead violent protest against Jewish centre in Sri Lanka: What’s happening? This arrest occurs alongside a separate ongoing court case involving the former health minister regarding the purchase of counterfeit medicines for state hospitals. Police informed the court that Rambukwella authorised the procurement of a life-saving cancer drug that was actually water. Multiple senior health ministry officials have also been indicted in connection with the pharmaceutical scam. "The drug had been issued to hospitals between July and September when patients reported adverse reactions triggering quality tests," an investigator had told AFP. Also read: Sri Lanka: new centre provides services for Israeli and Jewish travellers At the time of the scam in February 2024, Rambukwella was the environment minister of the island nation. The supplier was to be paid a sum of $3.1 million but the transactions were paused after quality concerns were raised in the matter. Later, Rambukwella held the position of health minister during a severe national shortage of medicines, which followed Sri Lanka's bankruptcy declaration and its $46 billion foreign debt default in April 2022.

Former Sri Lankan Minister Keheliya Rambukwella was arrested on Tuesday (Aug 18) for allegedly aiding the theft of a centuries-old sacred moonstone from the palace of King Veera Parakrama Narendrasinghe.

Former Sri Lankan minister arrested over theft of ancient artifact from last Sinhala king's palace

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has reaffirmed Britain’s unwavering support for Ukraine after Moscow warned London of 'consequences' over reports that British-made drones were used in recent Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory.Burnham said the UK would continue to stand firmly behind Kyiv despite the Russian warning, insisting that Britain was not prepared to abandon Ukraine during the ongoing war.&nbsp;"We are not fair-weather friends, we will be there in Ukraine's hour of need and that won't change," said Burnham. His comments came after the Russian embassy in London accused Britain of deliberately escalating the conflict. Moscow warned that increased British involvement in the war would result in a greater price for the UK, although it did not specify what form any response could take. Asked about the threat, Burnham maintained that Britain’s military assistance was intended to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia. "We are providing support so that Ukraine can defend itself and that's been the British position all the way through this conflict, by previous prime ministers, it remains the case with me".&nbsp;The latest dispute follows a significant increase in Ukrainian long-range attacks against targets inside Russia. Ukrainian forces have increasingly focused on oil refineries, logistics infrastructure and other facilities considered important to Moscow’s war effort. Russia has repeatedly criticised Britain’s military support for Ukraine, particularly its provision of advanced weapons and drone technology. British-made Storm Shadow missiles have also been supplied to Kyiv. The Russian embassy said London's actions will inevitably carry consequences for which it will have to answer, without elaborating on what Moscow meant by the warning.<h2>Ukraine intensifies deep strikes inside Russia</h2>Ukraine has stepped up attacks far beyond the front line in recent weeks, targeting locations around Moscow and other Russian regions. Russian officials said hundreds of Ukrainian drones were launched towards the Moscow region during the latest wave of attacks. Air defences intercepted many of them, while officials reported injuries and damage to infrastructure, including a Wildberries warehouse.&nbsp;On Saturday night, Russian authorities reported one of the largest drone assaults in recent memory, with hundreds of drones reportedly directed towards Moscow. Several deaths were reported across Russia. The attacks have also targeted oil and logistics infrastructure, with Kyiv seeking to disrupt Russia’s fuel supplies, military logistics and wider war economy. Ukraine has increasingly relied on domestically developed weapons alongside foreign-supplied systems. Its recent capabilities include long-range drones and the FP-5 Flamingo cruise missile.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-strait-of-hormuz-new-us-territory-iran-response-1787055242747">Trump declares Strait of Hormuz ‘new US territory’; Iran mocks ‘delusion’, vows to keep waterway closed</a><h2>British drones reportedly used in Russian strikes</h2>Two British companies are known to have produced drones supplied to Ukraine. A military source confirmed that UK-made drones had been used during recent attacks inside Russia, according to reports. The UK Ministry of Defence has not publicly confirmed operational details surrounding individual Ukrainian strikes, but Britain has substantially expanded its drone assistance to Kyiv.&nbsp;In April, the UK announced a major military aid package that included tens of thousands of drones, including long-range strike systems. Britain has described the equipment as part of its continuing effort to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s invasion. Burnham has also pledged to deepen technological cooperation with Kyiv. During a visit involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, he said Ukraine could count on Britain for as long as necessary and indicated that the UK would share its new “Stone Cloak” technology, designed to help counter Russian air-defence systems.<h2>Moscow warns of escalation</h2>Russia has previously accused Britain of becoming increasingly involved in Ukraine’s military operations. In 2024, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova claimed that drones using British components and configurations had been used to attack Russian territory, including a fuel depot in the Rostov region.&nbsp;The latest Russian warning reflects Moscow’s broader objections to Western military assistance for Ukraine. Russia has repeatedly argued that the supply of increasingly sophisticated weapons risks widening the conflict, while Britain and its allies maintain that Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russian aggression. The UK government has continued to reject Moscow’s threats and has reaffirmed its commitment to supplying Kyiv with military equipment. The Ministry of Defence said the UK was "committed to providing the equipment Ukraine needs to defend itself against [Russian President Vladimir] Putin's illegal invasion".<h2>Civilian casualties rise</h2>The escalation in long-range attacks comes as civilians continue to suffer on both sides of the border. United Nations officials said the previous month's civilian death toll in Ukraine reached 437, the highest monthly figure since May 2022. In the latest Russian attacks, 17 people were reported killed in Ukraine, including 10 people in the north-eastern village of Pechenihy. Homes, a cafe and a post office were among the locations hit.&nbsp;Three people were also reported killed in Sumy, two in Zaporizhzhia and two in Kherson. Russia has also reported civilian casualties from Ukrainian attacks. Russian officials said five people were killed in the Rostov region during a weekend strike. The growing use of long-range drones and missiles has increasingly brought the effects of the war into areas far from the front line.<h2>Wider concern over Russian hybrid threats</h2>Moscow’s warning to Britain comes amid growing concern across Europe about possible Russian hybrid activity. European governments have reported a series of incidents involving drones operating near sensitive military, industrial and transport facilities. Although Russian responsibility is not always established, officials in several countries have warned of a growing threat from hostile drone operations and other forms of hybrid warfare.&nbsp;German officials last week described the risk of hybrid attacks as “real” and “very acute” after a drone carrying explosives was reportedly found near Leipzig/Halle airport, a strategically important facility used by Germany and NATO allies. Berlin is also considering expanded powers for its intelligence agencies to respond to drone threats, including measures aimed at disrupting hostile actors. For Britain, however, the latest confrontation with Moscow has not changed its stated policy.&nbsp;Burnham told Zelensky during their recent meeting that he "can count on the UK for as long as it takes". The prime minister’s latest remarks underline London’s determination to maintain military and technological support for Ukraine despite Russia’s warning that deeper British involvement could lead to unspecified consequences.

UK PM Andy Burnham backs Ukraine 100% as Russia warns Britain of consequences over British-made drones reportedly used in strikes inside Russia

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has reaffirmed Britain’s unwavering support for Ukraine after Moscow warned London of 'consequences' over reports that British-made drones were used in recent Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory. Burnham said the UK would continue to stand firmly behind Kyiv despite the Russian warning, insisting that Britain was not prepared to abandon Ukraine during the ongoing war. "We are not fair-weather friends, we will be there in Ukraine's hour of need and that won't change," said Burnham. His comments came after the Russian embassy in London accused Britain of deliberately escalating the conflict. Moscow warned that increased British involvement in the war would result in a greater price for the UK, although it did not specify what form any response could take. Asked about the threat, Burnham maintained that Britain’s military assistance was intended to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia. "We are providing support so that Ukraine can defend itself and that's been the British position all the way through this conflict, by previous prime ministers, it remains the case with me". The latest dispute follows a significant increase in Ukrainian long-range attacks against targets inside Russia. Ukrainian forces have increasingly focused on oil refineries, logistics infrastructure and other facilities considered important to Moscow’s war effort. Russia has repeatedly criticised Britain’s military support for Ukraine, particularly its provision of advanced weapons and drone technology. British-made Storm Shadow missiles have also been supplied to Kyiv. The Russian embassy said London's actions will inevitably carry consequences for which it will have to answer, without elaborating on what Moscow meant by the warning. Ukraine intensifies deep strikes inside Russia Ukraine has stepped up attacks far beyond the front line in recent weeks, targeting locations around Moscow and other Russian regions. Russian officials said hundreds of Ukrainian drones were launched towards the Moscow region during the latest wave of attacks. Air defences intercepted many of them, while officials reported injuries and damage to infrastructure, including a Wildberries warehouse. On Saturday night, Russian authorities reported one of the largest drone assaults in recent memory, with hundreds of drones reportedly directed towards Moscow. Several deaths were reported across Russia. The attacks have also targeted oil and logistics infrastructure, with Kyiv seeking to disrupt Russia’s fuel supplies, military logistics and wider war economy. Ukraine has increasingly relied on domestically developed weapons alongside foreign-supplied systems. Its recent capabilities include long-range drones and the FP-5 Flamingo cruise missile. Also Read: Trump declares Strait of Hormuz ‘new US territory’; Iran mocks ‘delusion’, vows to keep waterway closed British drones reportedly used in Russian strikes Two British companies are known to have produced drones supplied to Ukraine. A military source confirmed that UK-made drones had been used during recent attacks inside Russia, according to reports. The UK Ministry of Defence has not publicly confirmed operational details surrounding individual Ukrainian strikes, but Britain has substantially expanded its drone assistance to Kyiv. In April, the UK announced a major military aid package that included tens of thousands of drones, including long-range strike systems. Britain has described the equipment as part of its continuing effort to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s invasion. Burnham has also pledged to deepen technological cooperation with Kyiv. During a visit involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, he said Ukraine could count on Britain for as long as necessary and indicated that the UK would share its new “Stone Cloak” technology, designed to help counter Russian air-defence systems. Moscow warns of escalation Russia has previously accused Britain of becoming increasingly involved in Ukraine’s military operations. In 2024, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova claimed that drones using British components and configurations had been used to attack Russian territory, including a fuel depot in the Rostov region. The latest Russian warning reflects Moscow’s broader objections to Western military assistance for Ukraine. Russia has repeatedly argued that the supply of increasingly sophisticated weapons risks widening the conflict, while Britain and its allies maintain that Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russian aggression. The UK government has continued to reject Moscow’s threats and has reaffirmed its commitment to supplying Kyiv with military equipment. The Ministry of Defence said the UK was "committed to providing the equipment Ukraine needs to defend itself against [Russian President Vladimir] Putin's illegal invasion". Civilian casualties rise The escalation in long-range attacks comes as civilians continue to suffer on both sides of the border. United Nations officials said the previous month's civilian death toll in Ukraine reached 437, the highest monthly figure since May 2022. In the latest Russian attacks, 17 people were reported killed in Ukraine, including 10 people in the north-eastern village of Pechenihy. Homes, a cafe and a post office were among the locations hit. Three people were also reported killed in Sumy, two in Zaporizhzhia and two in Kherson. Russia has also reported civilian casualties from Ukrainian attacks. Russian officials said five people were killed in the Rostov region during a weekend strike. The growing use of long-range drones and missiles has increasingly brought the effects of the war into areas far from the front line. Wider concern over Russian hybrid threats Moscow’s warning to Britain comes amid growing concern across Europe about possible Russian hybrid activity. European governments have reported a series of incidents involving drones operating near sensitive military, industrial and transport facilities. Although Russian responsibility is not always established, officials in several countries have warned of a growing threat from hostile drone operations and other forms of hybrid warfare. German officials last week described the risk of hybrid attacks as “real” and “very acute” after a drone carrying explosives was reportedly found near Leipzig/Halle airport, a strategically important facility used by Germany and NATO allies. Berlin is also considering expanded powers for its intelligence agencies to respond to drone threats, including measures aimed at disrupting hostile actors. For Britain, however, the latest confrontation with Moscow has not changed its stated policy. Burnham told Zelensky during their recent meeting that he "can count on the UK for as long as it takes". The prime minister’s latest remarks underline London’s determination to maintain military and technological support for Ukraine despite Russia’s warning that deeper British involvement could lead to unspecified consequences.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham vows to support Ukraine 100% after Russia warns Britain of consequences over British-made drones used in strikes

Burnham says UK will support Ukraine ‘100%’ after Russia warning over Kyiv's use of British-made drones

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that the US-Israeli war of aggression demonstrated Iran’s resilience and completely dispelled the global perception of the country being weak. Araghchi added that Tehran’s post-war foreign policy will be fundamentally different from the period before the conflict.&nbsp;In an interview aired on Iranian state TV, Araghchi said the war had fundamentally altered international perceptions of Iran and argued that the country had demonstrated resilience despite sustained pressure.“In my view, Iran’s foreign policy in the post-war period will be completely different from the period before the war. The perception of Iran as weak has been completely eliminated,” he said.&nbsp;Araghchi said the US initially sought Iran’s unconditional surrender but subsequently shifted its objectives.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-t-beg-pakistan-strictly-warns-its-umrah-pilgrims-tells-them-to-fully-comply-with-saudi-laws-1786991746961">‘Don’t beg,’ Pakistan strictly warns its Umrah pilgrims, tells them to fully comply with Saudi laws</a>&nbsp;“It was the second or third day of the war when Trump posted a tweet in two words: ‘Unconditional surrender’. And, well, they were seeking surrender. They became disappointed, then they pursued regime change; they became disappointed, then they pursued partition; they became disappointed, then they pursued internal unrest. Every plan that they could pursue, they pursued, and they were unsuccessful in bringing this war to a rapid conclusion.”&nbsp;Regarding negotiations with the US, Araqchi said President Masoud Pezeshkian had supported considering Washington’s request for talks as a possible way to find a path toward ending the war.&nbsp;<h2>‘We forced the enemy to accept our conditions’</h2>&nbsp;Araghchi said Iran had won both the war and diplomacy. “We won the war and we also won in diplomacy, and we forced the enemy to accept our conditions,” he said, adding that Iran’s military capabilities gave its diplomacy strength in the negotiations.&nbsp;Araghchi said Iran resisted for days against the “world’s largest apparent military,” alongside another army claiming military power.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/14-of-28-cms-face-serious-criminal-charges-4-192-cases-pending-against-mps-and-mlas-supreme-court-told-1787055416892">14 of 28 CMs face serious criminal charges; 4,192 cases pending against MPs and MLAs, Supreme Court told</a>&nbsp;He said the memorandum of understanding signed with the US contained “13 provisions in our favour and one in theirs”.&nbsp;“America is now begging to negotiate with us according to our conditions,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Israel sabotaging ceasefire deal with US’</h2>&nbsp;Araghchi accused Israel of actively sabotaging diplomacy, calling the country “the biggest opponent and obstacle” to the implementation of a ceasefire understanding with the US.&nbsp;“The biggest opponent and obstacle to the implementation of the memorandum of understanding was and is the Zionist regime [Israel],” Araghchi said, adding, “They did their best to prevent such an understanding from happening, they did their best to make this understanding fail, and they did their best to prevent it from being implemented, and they are still continuing this effort.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Araghchi claimed that several ambassadors had told him that almost all clauses of the MoU were in Iran’s favour.&nbsp;“We fought with authority and negotiated with authority,” Araghchi said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supreme-court-rejects-trump-s-renewed-appeal-to-block-e-jean-carroll-award-1786975184644">Supreme Court rejects Trump’s renewed appeal to block E. Jean Carroll award</a>&nbsp;Araghchi’s statement comes as US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and envoy Jared Kushner has reiterated Washington’s firm stance on Iran, stating that the American leader remains clear that Tehran cannot be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Tuesday that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the United States meets Tehran’s demands, including lifting a naval blockade.&nbsp;“I want to state clearly that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the American commitments stipulated in the memorandum of understanding are implemented,” Ghalibaf said in a speech broadcast on state television.&nbsp;

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the US initially sought Iran’s unconditional surrender but subsequently shifted its objectives. Araghchi added that Iran successfully resisted the “world’s largest apparent military,” alongside another army claiming military power.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that the US-Israeli war of aggression demonstrated Iran’s resilience and completely dispelled the global perception of the country being weak. Araghchi added that Tehran’s post-war foreign policy will be fundamentally different from the period before the conflict. In an interview aired on Iranian state TV, Araghchi said the war had fundamentally altered international perceptions of Iran and argued that the country had demonstrated resilience despite sustained pressure. “In my view, Iran’s foreign policy in the post-war period will be completely different from the period before the war. The perception of Iran as weak has been completely eliminated,” he said. Araghchi said the US initially sought Iran’s unconditional surrender but subsequently shifted its objectives. Also Read: ‘Don’t beg,’ Pakistan strictly warns its Umrah pilgrims, tells them to fully comply with Saudi laws “It was the second or third day of the war when Trump posted a tweet in two words: ‘Unconditional surrender’. And, well, they were seeking surrender. They became disappointed, then they pursued regime change; they became disappointed, then they pursued partition; they became disappointed, then they pursued internal unrest. Every plan that they could pursue, they pursued, and they were unsuccessful in bringing this war to a rapid conclusion.” Regarding negotiations with the US, Araqchi said President Masoud Pezeshkian had supported considering Washington’s request for talks as a possible way to find a path toward ending the war. ‘We forced the enemy to accept our conditions’ Araghchi said Iran had won both the war and diplomacy. “We won the war and we also won in diplomacy, and we forced the enemy to accept our conditions,” he said, adding that Iran’s military capabilities gave its diplomacy strength in the negotiations. Araghchi said Iran resisted for days against the “world’s largest apparent military,” alongside another army claiming military power. Also Read: 14 of 28 CMs face serious criminal charges; 4,192 cases pending against MPs and MLAs, Supreme Court told He said the memorandum of understanding signed with the US contained “13 provisions in our favour and one in theirs”. “America is now begging to negotiate with us according to our conditions,” he said. ‘Israel sabotaging ceasefire deal with US’ Araghchi accused Israel of actively sabotaging diplomacy, calling the country “the biggest opponent and obstacle” to the implementation of a ceasefire understanding with the US. “The biggest opponent and obstacle to the implementation of the memorandum of understanding was and is the Zionist regime [Israel],” Araghchi said, adding, “They did their best to prevent such an understanding from happening, they did their best to make this understanding fail, and they did their best to prevent it from being implemented, and they are still continuing this effort.” Araghchi claimed that several ambassadors had told him that almost all clauses of the MoU were in Iran’s favour. “We fought with authority and negotiated with authority,” Araghchi said. Also Read: Supreme Court rejects Trump’s renewed appeal to block E. Jean Carroll award Araghchi’s statement comes as US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and envoy Jared Kushner has reiterated Washington’s firm stance on Iran, stating that the American leader remains clear that Tehran cannot be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon. Meanwhile, Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Tuesday that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the United States meets Tehran’s demands, including lifting a naval blockade. “I want to state clearly that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the American commitments stipulated in the memorandum of understanding are implemented,” Ghalibaf said in a speech broadcast on state television.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the US initially sought Iran’s unconditional surrender but subsequently shifted its objectives. Araghchi added that Iran successfully resisted the “world’s largest apparent military,” alongside another army claiming military power.

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