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Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent trip to the disputed Kuril Islands has once again strained relations between Moscow and Tokyo. Fresh off watching naval drills in nearby Sakhalin, the Russian president landed on the Russian-controlled chain, where Kremlin footage showed him touring a local fish processing plant and sampling caviar on Thursday (Aug 13).The visit sparked immediate outrage in Tokyo. Japan’s Foreign Minister, Toshimitsu Motegi, issued a sharp protest, reiterating that the four southernmost islands—known in Japan as the Northern Territories—are an "inherent part" of Japanese territory under international law."The Northern Territories... are an inherent part of Japan's territory both historically and under international law, and the government of Japan strongly protests this visit," Motegi said in a statement.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-killing-fantasies-17-year-old-indian-origin-teen-charged-with-murdering-mother-14-year-old-brother-in-us-shocking-chatgpt-angle-uncovered-1786600791700">'Family-killing fantasies': Indian origin teen charged with murdering mother, 14-year-old brother in US; Shocking ChatGPT angle uncovered</a><h2>Why does Japan have an issue with Putin visiting the Kuril Islands?</h2>The roots of the dispute trace back to the dying days of World War II. Just days after the US dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima in August 1945, the Soviet Union declared war on Japan and seized the archipelago. Around 17,000 Japanese residents were expelled, replaced over the decades by Russian settlers whose descendants make up the roughly 20,000 people living there today.That wartime clash has cast a long shadow. Because neither side could agree on who owns the islands—Iturup, Kunashir, Shikotan, and the Habomai islets—Russia and Japan have technically never signed a formal peace treaty to end World War II.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-to-target-nato-next-us-intel-warns-of-russian-limited-attack-1786178624293">Putin to target NATO next? US intel warns of Russian 'limited attack'</a><h2>Why it matters now</h2>While Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev briefly offered to return two of the smaller islands back in 1956, modern diplomacy has completely stalled. Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine pushed Tokyo to align firmly with Western sanctions, prompting Moscow to freeze talks and lean harder into strategic alliances with Beijing and Pyongyang.Stretching 1,300 kilometers from Hokkaido to the Kamchatka Peninsula, the chain acts as a gateway between the Pacific and the Sea of Okhotsk. Whoever controls them commands rich fishing grounds, valuable mineral deposits, and a crucial military stronghold in the North Pacific.

Vladimir Putin’s visit to the disputed Kuril Islands has reignited a decades-old territorial dispute with Japan. Tokyo has strongly protested the trip, insisting the four southernmost islands are Japanese territory. Here’s why the Kurils remain a major flashpoint between Moscow and Tokyo.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent trip to the disputed Kuril Islands has once again strained relations between Moscow and Tokyo. Fresh off watching naval drills in nearby Sakhalin, the Russian president landed on the Russian-controlled chain, where Kremlin footage showed him touring a local fish processing plant and sampling caviar on Thursday (Aug 13). The visit sparked immediate outrage in Tokyo. Japan’s Foreign Minister, Toshimitsu Motegi, issued a sharp protest, reiterating that the four southernmost islands—known in Japan as the Northern Territories—are an "inherent part" of Japanese territory under international law. "The Northern Territories... are an inherent part of Japan's territory both historically and under international law, and the government of Japan strongly protests this visit," Motegi said in a statement. Also read | 'Family-killing fantasies': Indian origin teen charged with murdering mother, 14-year-old brother in US; Shocking ChatGPT angle uncovered Why does Japan have an issue with Putin visiting the Kuril Islands? The roots of the dispute trace back to the dying days of World War II. Just days after the US dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima in August 1945, the Soviet Union declared war on Japan and seized the archipelago. Around 17,000 Japanese residents were expelled, replaced over the decades by Russian settlers whose descendants make up the roughly 20,000 people living there today. That wartime clash has cast a long shadow. Because neither side could agree on who owns the islands—Iturup, Kunashir, Shikotan, and the Habomai islets—Russia and Japan have technically never signed a formal peace treaty to end World War II. Also read | Putin to target NATO next? US intel warns of Russian 'limited attack' Why it matters now While Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev briefly offered to return two of the smaller islands back in 1956, modern diplomacy has completely stalled. Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine pushed Tokyo to align firmly with Western sanctions, prompting Moscow to freeze talks and lean harder into strategic alliances with Beijing and Pyongyang. Stretching 1,300 kilometers from Hokkaido to the Kamchatka Peninsula, the chain acts as a gateway between the Pacific and the Sea of Okhotsk. Whoever controls them commands rich fishing grounds, valuable mineral deposits, and a crucial military stronghold in the North Pacific.

Vladimir Putin’s visit to the disputed Kuril Islands has reignited a decades-old territorial dispute with Japan. Tokyo has strongly protested the trip, insisting the four southernmost islands are Japanese territory. Here’s why the Kurils remain a major flashpoint between Moscow and Tokyo.

Putin’s trip to the Kuril Islands reopens an 80-year-old wound; Japan 'strongly protests visit'. Here's why

A 17-year-old Indian origin teenager has been charged with murdering his mother and younger brother at their family home in Acton, Massachusetts, authorities said. The teen, identified as Arjun Aravind, faces two counts of murder in connection with the deaths of his mother, Sudha Venkatesan, 45, and his 14-year-old brother, Siddharth Aravind. He is also facing multiple assault and vehicle-related charges.<h2>Father raised alarm after losing contact</h2>The deaths came to light on Tuesday (Aug 11) evening after Arjun's father contacted the police for a welfare check. He had been unable to reach his wife and children, while a tutor who was expected at the house was also unable to get inside.Police responding to the Acton home found Siddharth on the first floor and Sudha in the finished basement. Both had suffered what authorities described as obvious trauma. Officials have not yet determined the exact cause or manner of death, and investigators have not disclosed whether a weapon was involved.According to authorities, Sudha was last seen alive when her husband left for work at around 7 am. Siddharth had gone to a recreational facility in the morning and returned home shortly after noon.<h2>Teen allegedly searched ChatGPT for family-killing fantasies</h2>Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said investigators had uncovered what she described as concerning behaviour by Arjun.According to Ryan, the teenager had used the internet and ChatGPT to search for theoretical ideas and fantasy stories involving the killing of his family.Authorities said some of the searches involved creating fictional characters and "gothic novel" style stories that appeared to relate to threats against his family. Officials have not said that these searches establish a motive for the killings.The investigation into what happened inside the home remains ongoing.<h2>Arjun found in mother's car</h2>Police said Arjun was not at the house when officers arrived. Investigators later determined that he had allegedly left in his mother's Honda Accord.A search was launched, and other law enforcement agencies were alerted. The vehicle was eventually spotted early Wednesday in a parking lot in Wayland after local police responded to a business alarm.Arjun was found inside the car and taken into custody without incident. He has also been charged with two counts each of assault and battery on a household or family member and assault and battery, along with unauthorised use of a vehicle and motor vehicle theft.Arjun was initially arraigned on some of the charges in juvenile court. Since Massachusetts juvenile courts do not have jurisdiction over murder charges, he is expected to face the murder and related assault charges separately in district court.Authorities have not disclosed which part of India the family originally came from.

A 17-year-old Indian-origin teenager has been charged with murdering his mother and 14-year-old brother at their Massachusetts home. Investigators say he had previously searched online and on ChatGPT for fictional stories and fantasies involving the killing of his family.

A 17-year-old Indian origin teenager has been charged with murdering his mother and younger brother at their family home in Acton, Massachusetts, authorities said. The teen, identified as Arjun Aravind, faces two counts of murder in connection with the deaths of his mother, Sudha Venkatesan, 45, and his 14-year-old brother, Siddharth Aravind. He is also facing multiple assault and vehicle-related charges. Father raised alarm after losing contact The deaths came to light on Tuesday (Aug 11) evening after Arjun's father contacted the police for a welfare check. He had been unable to reach his wife and children, while a tutor who was expected at the house was also unable to get inside. Police responding to the Acton home found Siddharth on the first floor and Sudha in the finished basement. Both had suffered what authorities described as obvious trauma. Officials have not yet determined the exact cause or manner of death, and investigators have not disclosed whether a weapon was involved. According to authorities, Sudha was last seen alive when her husband left for work at around 7 am. Siddharth had gone to a recreational facility in the morning and returned home shortly after noon. Teen allegedly searched ChatGPT for family-killing fantasies Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said investigators had uncovered what she described as concerning behaviour by Arjun. According to Ryan, the teenager had used the internet and ChatGPT to search for theoretical ideas and fantasy stories involving the killing of his family. Authorities said some of the searches involved creating fictional characters and "gothic novel" style stories that appeared to relate to threats against his family. Officials have not said that these searches establish a motive for the killings. The investigation into what happened inside the home remains ongoing. Arjun found in mother's car Police said Arjun was not at the house when officers arrived. Investigators later determined that he had allegedly left in his mother's Honda Accord. A search was launched, and other law enforcement agencies were alerted. The vehicle was eventually spotted early Wednesday in a parking lot in Wayland after local police responded to a business alarm. Arjun was found inside the car and taken into custody without incident. He has also been charged with two counts each of assault and battery on a household or family member and assault and battery, along with unauthorised use of a vehicle and motor vehicle theft. Arjun was initially arraigned on some of the charges in juvenile court. Since Massachusetts juvenile courts do not have jurisdiction over murder charges, he is expected to face the murder and related assault charges separately in district court. Authorities have not disclosed which part of India the family originally came from.

A 17-year-old Indian-origin teenager has been charged with murdering his mother and 14-year-old brother at their Massachusetts home. Investigators say he had previously searched online and on ChatGPT for fictional stories and fantasies involving the killing of his family.

'Family-killing fantasies': Indian origin teen charged with murdering mother, 14-year-old brother in US; Shocking ChatGPT angle uncovered

A woman in Jordan has been arrested for begging in downtown Amman after she was found with $46,600 in her possession, the Ministry of Social Development said on Wednesday (August 13). According to reports, earlier, the woman had been involved in professional begging and regularly converting collected money into foreign currency. Officials did not reveal her nationality or specify how long she had been collecting money in this manner. The woman was handed over to judicial authorities for legal action. The ministry cited the case as an opportunity to caution the public against giving money directly to street beggars, noting that some falsely claim illness or severe financial hardship to solicit funds. Instead, the ministry encouraged those wishing to help to donate through accredited charitable organisations. It also urged people to report suspected cases of begging to the authorities, adding that inspection teams were actively operating across the Kingdom.

The woman was handed over to judicial authorities for legal action. The ministry cited the case as an opportunity to caution the public against giving money directly to street beggars, noting that some falsely claim illness or severe financial hardship to solicit funds.

A woman in Jordan has been arrested for begging in downtown Amman after she was found with $46,600 in her possession, the Ministry of Social Development said on Wednesday (August 13). According to reports, earlier, the woman had been involved in professional begging and regularly converting collected money into foreign currency. Officials did not reveal her nationality or specify how long she had been collecting money in this manner. The woman was handed over to judicial authorities for legal action. The ministry cited the case as an opportunity to caution the public against giving money directly to street beggars, noting that some falsely claim illness or severe financial hardship to solicit funds. Instead, the ministry encouraged those wishing to help to donate through accredited charitable organisations. It also urged people to report suspected cases of begging to the authorities, adding that inspection teams were actively operating across the Kingdom.

The woman was handed over to judicial authorities for legal action. The ministry cited the case as an opportunity to caution the public against giving money directly to street beggars, noting that some falsely claim illness or severe financial hardship to solicit funds.

Jordan woman arrested for begging in Amman, found with $46,600 in cash

A new U.S. government energy report is putting renewed focus on the Strait of Hormuz, as shipping through one of the world’s most important energy corridors remains constrained and uncertainty continues over how quickly oil flows will return to normal. The U.S. Energy Information Administration, or EIA, said in its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook that it expects severe constraints on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz to persist through August, before traffic gradually increases beginning in September. The agency said reduced shipments through the waterway are expected to further draw down global oil inventories in the coming months.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-bears-responsibility-iran-wants-polluter-pays-rule-for-strait-of-hormuz-as-oil-slick-plagues-qeshm-1786582552036">'Who bears responsibility?': Iran wants 'polluter pays' rule for Strait of Hormuz as oil slick plagues Qeshm</a> The assessment comes as President Donald Trump has said the United States has “total control” of the Strait, while administration officials have pointed to improvements in the movement of oil from the region. The administration has also disputed some estimates of how limited current shipping traffic remains. The EIA report, however, focuses primarily on the economic consequences of the disruption and the expected pace of recovery rather than the question of who controls the waterway. The agency now forecasts Brent crude oil to average around $85 per barrel during the third quarter of 2026, $11 per barrel higher than it projected just one month ago. The EIA expects prices to ease to around $78 per barrel in the fourth quarter as shipping increases and more oil production comes back online.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-iran-s-crypto-network-after-strait-of-hormuz-attacks-offers-15m-bounty-for-intel-on-irgc-finance-1786150050092">US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance</a> For the full year, the EIA forecasts Brent crude at an average of approximately $87 per barrel in 2026. It expects prices to decline further in 2027, averaging around $69 per barrel as inventories rebuild and supplies recover. The Strait of Hormuz is particularly important because it connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, providing a crucial export route for major Middle Eastern energy producers. Disruptions there can therefore have consequences well beyond the region, affecting global oil supplies, shipping costs, and ultimately prices paid by consumers. The latest EIA outlook also suggests that some effects of the conflict could persist even after shipping conditions improve. Around 5.5 million barrels per day of Middle Eastern oil production was offline in July, equivalent to more than 5% of global oil consumption. Although much of that production is expected to return, the EIA forecasts that approximately 600,000 barrels per day could remain offline through the end of 2027 as some producers face difficulties restoring output to pre-conflict levels. The outlook represents another shift in expectations for an oil market that has changed rapidly as conditions around Hormuz have evolved. In July, the EIA had expected Brent to average about $74 per barrel during the third quarter. Its new forecast of roughly $85 illustrates how continued restrictions through the Strait have altered the supply picture. The central question now is how quickly normal commercial traffic can resume. The EIA expects conditions to begin improving in September, but its latest forecast makes clear that the economic consequences of the disruption could continue long after more ships begin moving through the Strait.&nbsp;

The agency now forecasts Brent crude oil to average around $85 per barrel during the third quarter of 2026, $11 per barrel higher than it projected just one month ago. The EIA expects prices to ease to around $78 per barrel in the fourth quarter as shipping increases.

A new U.S. government energy report is putting renewed focus on the Strait of Hormuz, as shipping through one of the world’s most important energy corridors remains constrained and uncertainty continues over how quickly oil flows will return to normal. The U.S. Energy Information Administration, or EIA, said in its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook that it expects severe constraints on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz to persist through August, before traffic gradually increases beginning in September. The agency said reduced shipments through the waterway are expected to further draw down global oil inventories in the coming months. Also read | 'Who bears responsibility?': Iran wants 'polluter pays' rule for Strait of Hormuz as oil slick plagues Qeshm The assessment comes as President Donald Trump has said the United States has “total control” of the Strait, while administration officials have pointed to improvements in the movement of oil from the region. The administration has also disputed some estimates of how limited current shipping traffic remains. The EIA report, however, focuses primarily on the economic consequences of the disruption and the expected pace of recovery rather than the question of who controls the waterway. The agency now forecasts Brent crude oil to average around $85 per barrel during the third quarter of 2026, $11 per barrel higher than it projected just one month ago. The EIA expects prices to ease to around $78 per barrel in the fourth quarter as shipping increases and more oil production comes back online. Also read | US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance For the full year, the EIA forecasts Brent crude at an average of approximately $87 per barrel in 2026. It expects prices to decline further in 2027, averaging around $69 per barrel as inventories rebuild and supplies recover. The Strait of Hormuz is particularly important because it connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, providing a crucial export route for major Middle Eastern energy producers. Disruptions there can therefore have consequences well beyond the region, affecting global oil supplies, shipping costs, and ultimately prices paid by consumers. The latest EIA outlook also suggests that some effects of the conflict could persist even after shipping conditions improve. Around 5.5 million barrels per day of Middle Eastern oil production was offline in July, equivalent to more than 5% of global oil consumption. Although much of that production is expected to return, the EIA forecasts that approximately 600,000 barrels per day could remain offline through the end of 2027 as some producers face difficulties restoring output to pre-conflict levels. The outlook represents another shift in expectations for an oil market that has changed rapidly as conditions around Hormuz have evolved. In July, the EIA had expected Brent to average about $74 per barrel during the third quarter. Its new forecast of roughly $85 illustrates how continued restrictions through the Strait have altered the supply picture. The central question now is how quickly normal commercial traffic can resume. The EIA expects conditions to begin improving in September, but its latest forecast makes clear that the economic consequences of the disruption could continue long after more ships begin moving through the Strait.

The agency now forecasts Brent crude oil to average around $85 per barrel during the third quarter of 2026, $11 per barrel higher than it projected just one month ago. The EIA expects prices to ease to around $78 per barrel in the fourth quarter as shipping increases.

New EIA report warns Strait of Hormuz disruptions could keep pressure on global oil markets

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 12) signed a national security presidential memorandum aimed at expanding the government’s ability to use cyber operations against “transnational criminal organisations” operating from abroad. The White House said the directive is intended to help federal law enforcement target foreign-based networks involved in ransomware attacks, financial fraud and other cyber-enabled crimes affecting Americans.According to a White House fact sheet, the memorandum instructs the administration to “leverage the capability and innovation of the private sector to help conduct these cyber operations under the direction, control, and authority of the US Government.”The directive creates a framework for private companies to work with federal, state, local, tribal and territorial agencies, as well as other private entities, to collect threat intelligence and propose cyber operations against designated criminal organisations.A key element of the memorandum assigns the Department of Homeland Security, through the Homeland Security Task Force’s National Coordination Center, to establish a program “to conduct specific cyber operations that disrupt foreign TCOs.” The initiative will be overseen jointly by DHS and the Department of Justice.Under federal supervision, vetted companies will be allowed to conduct “cyber surveillance operations” and “cyber effects operations” against approved targets.“Cyber effects includes the potential ​manipulation, disruption, denial, degradation, ​or destruction of ⁠information systems, networks, physical or virtual infrastructure controlled by information systems, or information resident thereon,” the memo reads.The memorandum defines cyber effects operations as including the “manipulation, disruption, denial, degradation, or destruction of information systems, networks, physical or virtual infrastructure controlled by information systems, or information resident thereon.”Companies participating in the program must maintain a bond or escrow of at least $1 million.The involvement of private firms in offensive cyber activities is not unprecedented, but it has long drawn scrutiny from cybersecurity experts and former officials. Critics have warned that outsourcing cyber operations could increase the risk of escalation, unintended consequences and coordination challenges across government agencies.The White House argues the new framework will strengthen the government’s ability to disrupt criminal organisations that exploit foreign jurisdictions to target Americans.

US President Donald Trump signed a memo allowing vetted private firms to join government-directed cyber operations, including surveillance and disruption, targeting foreign criminal networks.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 12) signed a national security presidential memorandum aimed at expanding the government’s ability to use cyber operations against “transnational criminal organisations” operating from abroad. The White House said the directive is intended to help federal law enforcement target foreign-based networks involved in ransomware attacks, financial fraud and other cyber-enabled crimes affecting Americans. According to a White House fact sheet, the memorandum instructs the administration to “leverage the capability and innovation of the private sector to help conduct these cyber operations under the direction, control, and authority of the US Government.” The directive creates a framework for private companies to work with federal, state, local, tribal and territorial agencies, as well as other private entities, to collect threat intelligence and propose cyber operations against designated criminal organisations. A key element of the memorandum assigns the Department of Homeland Security, through the Homeland Security Task Force’s National Coordination Center, to establish a program “to conduct specific cyber operations that disrupt foreign TCOs.” The initiative will be overseen jointly by DHS and the Department of Justice. Under federal supervision, vetted companies will be allowed to conduct “cyber surveillance operations” and “cyber effects operations” against approved targets. “Cyber effects includes the potential manipulation, disruption, denial, degradation, or destruction of ⁠information systems, networks, physical or virtual infrastructure controlled by information systems, or information resident thereon,” the memo reads. The memorandum defines cyber effects operations as including the “manipulation, disruption, denial, degradation, or destruction of information systems, networks, physical or virtual infrastructure controlled by information systems, or information resident thereon.” Companies participating in the program must maintain a bond or escrow of at least $1 million. The involvement of private firms in offensive cyber activities is not unprecedented, but it has long drawn scrutiny from cybersecurity experts and former officials. Critics have warned that outsourcing cyber operations could increase the risk of escalation, unintended consequences and coordination challenges across government agencies. The White House argues the new framework will strengthen the government’s ability to disrupt criminal organisations that exploit foreign jurisdictions to target Americans.

US President Donald Trump signed a memo allowing vetted private firms to join government-directed cyber operations, including surveillance and disruption, targeting foreign criminal networks.

Trump admin to use cyber attacks against foreign criminals? Here’s what new memo says

The secret operation that moved Donald Trump off an Air Force One aircraft during his visit to Turkey last month was triggered by intelligence pointing to a potentially serious threat against the US president, according to US officials cited by The New York Times and Reuters.<h2>What threats did Trump face in Türkiye?</h2>According to reports, US intel indicated that the threat to Trump's life was significant, to shocking levels. US intelligence reportedly indicated that not only were Iranian operatives targeting the US President, but they also knew where Trump was staying in Ankara, including the floor of the building. Officials also learned that someone near the NATO summit had been seen with a shoulder-fired missile.The intelligence was considered credible enough for the Secret Service to scramble an unusual plan to get Trump out of Turkey without revealing where he was.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/laura-loomer-shares-bizarre-exclusive-footage-of-how-trump-hid-in-a-catering-cart-to-escape-assassination-attempt-watch-1786502762330">Laura Loomer shares bizarre 'exclusive' footage of how Trump hid in a catering cart to escape assassination attempt | WATCH</a><h2>How Trump used the deception card to fool Iran</h2>The operation unfolded on July 8, the final day of Trump's NATO summit visit. Trump had publicly said he would leave Turkey aboard an older Air Force One aircraft "for old time's sake". He was even filmed boarding the plane, giving the impression that he would make the journey on it. But shortly afterwards, Trump was secretly moved from the aircraft using an airport catering truck and taken to a smaller C-32A military jet.The original Air Force One then departed carrying senior administration officials, White House staff, and journalists. In effect, it became a decoy. Trump later flew to Britain before eventually rejoining the presidential aircraft.<h2>Why was a missile threat taken so seriously?</h2>The exact source of the intelligence has not been disclosed. Reuters reported that officials believed the threat was credible and imminent, although there was no clear operational plan showing exactly how an attack would be carried out.One possibility raised by aviation expert Douglas Birkey was a heat-seeking missile capable of targeting an aircraft's engines. Such weapons can be difficult to detect because they do not necessarily emit the radio signals associated with some radar-guided systems.However, officials have not publicly confirmed what type of weapon, if any, was involved.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-trade-adviser-peter-navarro-slams-indians-claim-they-firebombed-him-online-over-brahmins-profiteering-remark-1786498920422">Trump's trade adviser Peter Navarro slams Indians, claims they ‘firebombed’ him online over ‘Brahmins profiteering’ remark | WATCH</a><h2>Why the secrecy was unusual</h2>US presidents have used secret routes, decoy aircraft, and other deception techniques before, particularly during visits to dangerous locations.What made Trump's Turkey operation unusual was that the deception extended to the journalists travelling with him. The press pool was allowed to believe Trump remained aboard the larger aircraft even after he had secretly left it.The ruse was maintained because officials believed revealing Trump's actual location could compromise his security while tensions with Iran were high.<h2>Iran has threatened Trump before</h2>The latest intelligence came against a backdrop of longstanding tensions between Trump and Iran.Trump has previously faced Iranian threats, including after the US killing of Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani in 2020. US authorities have also prosecuted an alleged murder-for-hire plot targeting Trump that they said was connected to Iranian operatives.The latest threat, however, was significant because it reportedly involved specific information about Trump's whereabouts during a major international summit.

Iranian operatives reportedly knew Trump's location in Ankara during the NATO summit. Here's how the US Secret Service secretly moved him to safety.

The secret operation that moved Donald Trump off an Air Force One aircraft during his visit to Turkey last month was triggered by intelligence pointing to a potentially serious threat against the US president, according to US officials cited by The New York Times and Reuters. What threats did Trump face in Türkiye? According to reports, US intel indicated that the threat to Trump's life was significant, to shocking levels. US intelligence reportedly indicated that not only were Iranian operatives targeting the US President, but they also knew where Trump was staying in Ankara, including the floor of the building. Officials also learned that someone near the NATO summit had been seen with a shoulder-fired missile. The intelligence was considered credible enough for the Secret Service to scramble an unusual plan to get Trump out of Turkey without revealing where he was. Also read | Laura Loomer shares bizarre 'exclusive' footage of how Trump hid in a catering cart to escape assassination attempt | WATCH How Trump used the deception card to fool Iran The operation unfolded on July 8, the final day of Trump's NATO summit visit. Trump had publicly said he would leave Turkey aboard an older Air Force One aircraft "for old time's sake". He was even filmed boarding the plane, giving the impression that he would make the journey on it. But shortly afterwards, Trump was secretly moved from the aircraft using an airport catering truck and taken to a smaller C-32A military jet. The original Air Force One then departed carrying senior administration officials, White House staff, and journalists. In effect, it became a decoy. Trump later flew to Britain before eventually rejoining the presidential aircraft. Why was a missile threat taken so seriously? The exact source of the intelligence has not been disclosed. Reuters reported that officials believed the threat was credible and imminent, although there was no clear operational plan showing exactly how an attack would be carried out. One possibility raised by aviation expert Douglas Birkey was a heat-seeking missile capable of targeting an aircraft's engines. Such weapons can be difficult to detect because they do not necessarily emit the radio signals associated with some radar-guided systems. However, officials have not publicly confirmed what type of weapon, if any, was involved. Also read | Trump's trade adviser Peter Navarro slams Indians, claims they ‘firebombed’ him online over ‘Brahmins profiteering’ remark | WATCH Why the secrecy was unusual US presidents have used secret routes, decoy aircraft, and other deception techniques before, particularly during visits to dangerous locations. What made Trump's Turkey operation unusual was that the deception extended to the journalists travelling with him. The press pool was allowed to believe Trump remained aboard the larger aircraft even after he had secretly left it. The ruse was maintained because officials believed revealing Trump's actual location could compromise his security while tensions with Iran were high. Iran has threatened Trump before The latest intelligence came against a backdrop of longstanding tensions between Trump and Iran. Trump has previously faced Iranian threats, including after the US killing of Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani in 2020. US authorities have also prosecuted an alleged murder-for-hire plot targeting Trump that they said was connected to Iranian operatives. The latest threat, however, was significant because it reportedly involved specific information about Trump's whereabouts during a major international summit.

Donald Trump's secret escape from Turkey was reportedly triggered by intelligence that Iranian operatives knew where the US President was staying in Ankara, including his floor. A possible shoulder-fired missile threat prompted the Secret Service to move Trump off Air Force One.

'For old time's sake': Iran knew Trump's exact location in Turkey? Full scale of assassination threat revealed

A new report by a UN Security Council body monitoring counter-terrorism sanctions has confirmed that al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) was responsible for the car bomb blast near the Red Fort in New Delhi in 2025. The biannual report from the Security Council’s monitoring team for sanctions on al-Qaeda and Islamic State, noted that both terror groups have “shown a sustained interest over many years in developing chemical and biological weapons.” Indian authorities had arrested three people, including a doctor, who had been tasked by an Islamic State cell abroad to develop ricin, a type of poison.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/150-years-of-vande-mataram-red-fort-to-witness-historic-independence-day-celebration-1786471437777">150 years of Vande Mataram: Red Fort to witness historic Independence Day celebration</a><h2>NIA's chargesheet</h2>In May this year, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet against 10 individuals in connection with the car bomb explosion near Red Fort on November 10, 2025, that named 10 accused linked to Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH), an affiliate of AQIS. The blast, involving a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, caused 11 fatalities, numerous injuries and significant damage to property.The NIA’s investigation identified Umar un-Nabi, a former assistant professor of medicine at Al-Falah University in Faridabad who died in the blast, as the primary perpetrator.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/snipers-nsg-anti-drone-systems-inside-delhi-s-massive-red-fort-security-plan-ahead-of-independence-day-1786270573200">Snipers, NSG, anti-drone systems: Inside Delhi’s massive Red Fort security plan ahead of Independence Day</a><h2>UNSC body's report</h2>The UN sanctions monitoring team’s report said, “The attack in November 2025 on the Red Fort in Delhi was officially attributed to AQIS. There was some concern about AQIS trying to exploit Bangladesh to establish cells there.”The report noted that AQIS has “continued to evolve from a fragmented group into a regional terrorist entity; it established logistics and financial networks, working in decentralised small, scattered cells instead of large units”.“The AQIS leadership reportedly remained in Kabul, having been issued tazkiras (national IDs), suggesting close cooperation between the Taliban and AQIS,” the report said.According to the report, AQIS formed the backbone of Ittihad-ul-Mujahideen Pakistan (IMP), which was reportedly responsible for multiple attacks, including a suicide bombing and detonation of a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device near a security post in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province on May 9 that resulted in 21 deaths.Both al-Qaeda and Islamic State have continued their efforts to develop chemical and biological weapons but have so far failed to overcome “associated technical challenges”, the report said. Instructions on developing such weapons have been widely shared within online terrorist communities, and in February this year, Islamic State’s English-language “Invade” magazine included instructions on developing botulinum toxin and cyanide.“ISIL-K has shown a particular interest, and over the past 12 months circulated instructions on developing the toxin ricin,” the report said, referring to Islamic State-Khorasan Province or the group’s affiliate focused on South and Central Asia.&nbsp;The report noted that al-Qaeda’s status and strength in Afghanistan “remained unchanged”. On April 28, al-Qaeda’s official media outlet, As-Sahab Media Foundation, published a statement supporting the Taliban and, for the first time, operations by the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) against Pakistan. “While Al-Qaida provided ideological guidance, training and support to TTP in the latter’s insurgency against Pakistan, this public statement was more direct,” the report stated.The report highlighted the “increased use of cryptocurrency by terrorist groups”, and recommended that the UN should explore the creation of a “dedicated ‘digital currency address’ field in the sanctions list in consultation with relevant Panels of Experts” to counter the phenomenon. ISIL-K is among the groups that have used cryptocurrency to raise funds.The report further highlighted the threat of “misuse of third parties” in terror financing cases and encouraged the implementation of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations for identifying the ultimate beneficial ownership in terrorism-related investigations.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A UN Security Council monitoring report has officially attributed the November 2025 Red Fort car blast to AQIS. The report warns of AQIS efforts to establish cells in Bangladesh, its expanding regional networks, terrorist financing through cryptocurrency 

A new report by a UN Security Council body monitoring counter-terrorism sanctions has confirmed that al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) was responsible for the car bomb blast near the Red Fort in New Delhi in 2025. The biannual report from the Security Council’s monitoring team for sanctions on al-Qaeda and Islamic State, noted that both terror groups have “shown a sustained interest over many years in developing chemical and biological weapons.” Indian authorities had arrested three people, including a doctor, who had been tasked by an Islamic State cell abroad to develop ricin, a type of poison. Also Read: 150 years of Vande Mataram: Red Fort to witness historic Independence Day celebration NIA's chargesheet In May this year, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet against 10 individuals in connection with the car bomb explosion near Red Fort on November 10, 2025, that named 10 accused linked to Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH), an affiliate of AQIS. The blast, involving a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, caused 11 fatalities, numerous injuries and significant damage to property.The NIA’s investigation identified Umar un-Nabi, a former assistant professor of medicine at Al-Falah University in Faridabad who died in the blast, as the primary perpetrator. Also Read: Snipers, NSG, anti-drone systems: Inside Delhi’s massive Red Fort security plan ahead of Independence Day UNSC body's report The UN sanctions monitoring team’s report said, “The attack in November 2025 on the Red Fort in Delhi was officially attributed to AQIS. There was some concern about AQIS trying to exploit Bangladesh to establish cells there.” The report noted that AQIS has “continued to evolve from a fragmented group into a regional terrorist entity; it established logistics and financial networks, working in decentralised small, scattered cells instead of large units”. “The AQIS leadership reportedly remained in Kabul, having been issued tazkiras (national IDs), suggesting close cooperation between the Taliban and AQIS,” the report said.According to the report, AQIS formed the backbone of Ittihad-ul-Mujahideen Pakistan (IMP), which was reportedly responsible for multiple attacks, including a suicide bombing and detonation of a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device near a security post in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province on May 9 that resulted in 21 deaths. Both al-Qaeda and Islamic State have continued their efforts to develop chemical and biological weapons but have so far failed to overcome “associated technical challenges”, the report said. Instructions on developing such weapons have been widely shared within online terrorist communities, and in February this year, Islamic State’s English-language “Invade” magazine included instructions on developing botulinum toxin and cyanide. “ISIL-K has shown a particular interest, and over the past 12 months circulated instructions on developing the toxin ricin,” the report said, referring to Islamic State-Khorasan Province or the group’s affiliate focused on South and Central Asia. The report noted that al-Qaeda’s status and strength in Afghanistan “remained unchanged”. On April 28, al-Qaeda’s official media outlet, As-Sahab Media Foundation, published a statement supporting the Taliban and, for the first time, operations by the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) against Pakistan. “While Al-Qaida provided ideological guidance, training and support to TTP in the latter’s insurgency against Pakistan, this public statement was more direct,” the report stated. The report highlighted the “increased use of cryptocurrency by terrorist groups”, and recommended that the UN should explore the creation of a “dedicated ‘digital currency address’ field in the sanctions list in consultation with relevant Panels of Experts” to counter the phenomenon. ISIL-K is among the groups that have used cryptocurrency to raise funds. The report further highlighted the threat of “misuse of third parties” in terror financing cases and encouraged the implementation of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations for identifying the ultimate beneficial ownership in terrorism-related investigations.

A UN Security Council monitoring report has officially attributed the November 2025 Red Fort car blast to AQIS. The report warns of AQIS efforts to establish cells in Bangladesh, its expanding regional networks, terrorist financing through cryptocurrency&nbsp;

UN Security Council body attributes Al-Qaeda involvement behind Red Fort blast that killed 11

Iran has called for environmental protection to be made a key part of any future arrangement governing the Strait of Hormuz, citing recent oil pollution along the country's southern coast. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei on Thursday (Aug 13) said videos showing oil contamination along the shores of Qeshm Island had emerged in recent days. He said preliminary evidence indicated that the pollution came from a foreign bulk carrier.According to Baqaei, contamination has been recorded at three coastal locations as well as across parts of the sea surface.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Footage filmed on Iran&#39;s Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz shows a significant oil spill on the island&#39;s Suza beach. Iranian authorities say they are investigating the cause of the spill. Approximate location: 26.771330, 56.056013<a href="https://x.com/GeoConfirmed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GeoConfirmed</a> <a href="https://t.co/yxh9wXLHqs">pic.twitter.com/yxh9wXLHqs</a>&mdash; Shayan Sardarizadeh (@Shayan86) <a href="https://x.com/Shayan86/status/2087472178786652520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran questions who will pay for the damage</h2>Baqaei argued that the incident was only one visible example of years of environmental degradation affecting the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. He said the damage to Iran's coastal areas over the decades had run into trillions of dollars and questioned who should be held responsible for the cost of repairing it.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Why must addressing the environmental condition of the Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding waters form an integral part of any future administration of the Strait? In recent days, videos have circulated showing oil pollution along the shores of Qeshm Island. This pollution… <a href="https://t.co/UpSWlqePvd">pic.twitter.com/UpSWlqePvd</a>&mdash; Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) <a href="https://x.com/IRIMFA_SPOX/status/2087641049858465917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Iranian official pointed to several possible parties, including countries that consume energy exported from the region, shipping insurers, as well as nations involved in military operations in the Gulf."As the country with the longest coastline along the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, Iran cannot remain indifferent," Baqaei said. He added that all parties benefiting from commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have both a legal and moral responsibility to address environmental damage in the region.<h2>Tehran links reopening of Strait to US demands</h2>The comments came as Iran continues to tie the future of the strategic waterway to wider political and security demands.Iran's newly appointed Supreme National Security Council chief Mohsen Rezaei said Tehran would not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz until the United States meets what he described as Iran's conditions.Rezaei said Washington must end the war and blockade, release Iran's frozen assets, and agree to a region-wide ceasefire covering Lebanon and Gaza. "Until all conditions are met, the Strait will remain closed," he said in a post on X.<h2>Why the Strait of Hormuz matters</h2>The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints, carrying a major share of global oil and gas shipments.Any prolonged disruption could affect energy markets, shipping routes and crude prices, while also increasing tensions between Iran, the United States and other regional powers. Commercial shipping is currently continuing under heightened security measures, but uncertainty remains high as diplomatic efforts focus on preventing a wider conflict and keeping the vital maritime route open.

Iran has demanded environmental safeguards be included in any future deal on the Strait of Hormuz, after oil pollution was reported along Qeshm Island. Tehran is also tying the reopening of the vital waterway to US concessions, including an end to the war and blockade.

Iran has called for environmental protection to be made a key part of any future arrangement governing the Strait of Hormuz, citing recent oil pollution along the country's southern coast. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei on Thursday (Aug 13) said videos showing oil contamination along the shores of Qeshm Island had emerged in recent days. He said preliminary evidence indicated that the pollution came from a foreign bulk carrier. According to Baqaei, contamination has been recorded at three coastal locations as well as across parts of the sea surface.

Iran has demanded environmental safeguards be included in any future deal on the Strait of Hormuz, after oil pollution was reported along Qeshm Island. Tehran is also tying the reopening of the vital waterway to US concessions, including an end to the war and blockade.

'Who bears responsibility?': Iran wants 'polluter pays' rule for Strait of Hormuz as oil slick plagues Qeshm

Latest News Today Live Updates: Two US soldiers were killed after an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter assigned to Fort Hood crashed near Salado in central Texas on Wednesday. Officials have not disclosed the mission the helicopter was carrying out, while an investigation into the cause is underway. Meanwhile, Iran has called for environmental safeguards in any future arrangement governing the Strait of Hormuz after reporting oil pollution along its southern coast. Tehran has also linked the reopening of the strategic waterway to demands on the United States, including ending the war and blockade, releasing frozen Iranian assets, and agreeing to a regional ceasefire covering Lebanon and Gaza.

Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen on Thursday claimed to have hit an Aramco refinery in southern Saudi Arabia with a drone attack and described the strike as successful, reported the group’s affiliated news agency Saba. The Aramco refinery was targeted with two drones, a military source was quoted as saying by Saba.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-attack-aramco-refinery-in-saudi-arabia-s-jizan-region-with-drones-1786643962330">READ MORE</a>

Houthis attack Aramco refinery in Saudi Arabia’s Jizan region with drones

The US defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, insisted a wave of reports describing deteriorating conditions and mental health struggles onboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln have been “completely misrepresented”, pushing back against growing congressional pressure over the ship’s record-breaking, nearly nine-month deployment. &nbsp;“We make sure every ship, every crew, every captain has everything we can provide them at every single moment,” Hegseth told reporters during a visit to Panama

Pete Hegseth dismisses reports of deteriorating conditions on USS Abraham Lincoln

The man who allegedly attacked Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal at a gurdwara near Maharashtra’s Nanded city on Thursday was serving as a ‘sewadar’ there for the last two years, and hails from Pune, police said. Earlier, police had said that the attacker was a member of the 'Nihang' order of Sikhs. During preliminary questioning, he referred to the drug menace in Punjab but his exact reasons for attacking Badal were yet to be ascertained, said Nanded Superintendent of Police Neelabh Rohan.

Man who attacked Sukhbir Singh Badal a ‘Pune resident, serving as sewadar at gurdwara’

The U.S. is preparing to send the aircraft carrier USS George Washington to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln as part of a previously scheduled rotation plan, according to U.S. officials familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

US Sending Fresh Aircraft Carrier to Middle East Amid Iran War Strain

Speaking at the Ratchnatmak Congress National Convention in Delhi Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the parliament Rahul Gandhi &nbsp;took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.“Our job is very simple and we can drive them crazy...I am telling you, (PM) Narendra Modi does not sleep at night,” Rahul said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-can-drive-them-crazy-modi-does-not-sleep-at-night-rahul-gandhi-attacks-pm-amit-shah-1786629682368">READ MORE</a>

'We can drive them crazy, Modi does not sleep at night': Rahul Gandhi attacks PM, Amit Shah

A fire broke out on a ferry boat running excursions for children in Turkey's Southern Fethiye district. Eleven passengers "affected by the smoke" have been sent to hospital, according to the Directorate General of Maritime Affairs.

Fire breaks out on ferry running excursions for children in Turkey, 11 hospitalised 

Investigators during a recent search operation at Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Prison reportedly recovered a mobile phone from former MP and Janata Dal (Secular) leader, Prajwal Revanna's jail cell that had dozens of pornographic videos saved in it.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mobile-phone-with-90-porn-videos-women-s-photos-recovered-from-prajwal-revanna-s-cell-1786624593073">READ MORE</a>

Mobile phone with 90 porn videos, women’s photos recovered from rape convict Prajwal Revanna's cell

: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke to Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal's wife, Harsimrat Kaur Badal, over the phone and inquired about his health following the attack on him at a gurdwara in Maharashtra's Nanded. PM Modi spoke to Harsimrat Kaur Badal and inquired about Sukhbir Badal's health after the SAD chief was attacked by a Nihang inside the gurdwara premises in Nanded, ANI reported, citing sources.&nbsp; Following the incident, Badal was taken to a hospital with an injury to his hand, Nanded Police said. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ordered an inquiry into the attack and sought details from the Nanded Superintendent of Police.

PM Modi calls Harsimrat Kaur, seeks update on SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal's health

Barely 48 hours before Independence Day, an interception on the India-Bangladesh border has ignited a major espionage investigation in West Bengal after a suspected Pakistani operative was caught carrying a map and photographs of Fort William- the Indian Army's Eastern Command headquarters.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistani-spy-held-near-india-bangladesh-border-with-fort-william-recon-material-isi-links-under-probe-1786624292513">Read More</a>

Pakistani spy held near India-Bangladesh border with Fort William recon material; ISI links under probe

After it was confirmed in a test that the pilot in command (PIC) of the Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi that encountered a sudden loss of altitude last week was on marijuana, and was also taking medicines for "sleep difficulty", according to the airline's internal flight safety report, the airlines has ordered a fresh mandatory dope test for all its pilots.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-orders-mandatory-dope-test-for-all-its-pilots-after-captain-tested-positive-1786620025442">Click here to read more</a>

Air India orders mandatory dope test for all its pilots after captain tests positive

Shiromani Akali Dal chief and former Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal was allegedly attacked by a Nihang with a kirpan, inside a gurdwara in the Mata Sahib Kaur area of Nanded, Maharashtra, on Thursday. The incident took place around 11 am, shortly after Badal arrived in Nanded from Punjab. He was on a personal visit and had been provided Z-plus security as per the scheduled security arrangements.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sad-chief-sukhbir-singh-badal-attacked-by-kirpan-in-maharashtra-rushed-to-hospital-1786614110448">Click here to read more</a>

SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal attacked by kirpan in Maharashtra, rushed to hospital

A senior Iranian official said on Thursday that the Strait of Hormuz remains under the control of the Islamic Republic after President Donald Trump claimed US control over the strategic waterway."Today, you see that the Strait of Hormuz is under the management and control of the Islamic Republic, and our country continues on its path in complete security," said Hossein Taeb, head of the paramilitary Basij forces affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guards, according to state television. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-challenges-trump-s-hormuz-claim-says-tehran-controls-strait-not-us-1786622171668">Read More</a>

Iran challenges Trump’s Hormuz claim; says US has no control over strait

The five-time champions have not announced a new coach as of now after Stephan Fleming parted ways recently, but retired Indian off-spinner Ravi Ashwin thinks a former England player could land the job. The absence of coach, according to Ashwin, hampers CSK's trade window deals as well with the franchise being linked to Hardik Pandya trade from Mumbai Indians.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-s-2019-odi-wc-winning-captain-eoin-morgan-to-be-next-csk-coach-ravi-ashwin-has-a-feeling-1786608226656">Read more</a>

England's 2019 ODI WC winning captain Eoin Morgan to be next CSK coach?

Both Houses of the Parliament - the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha was adjourned sine die on Aug 13 - resulting in the Monsoon Session being a complete washout. Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju addressed media after conclusion of Monsoon Session of Parliament. He said that it was not successful. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/56-inch-ka-chhota-bandar-vs-jharkhand-pe-jawab-do-protest-marks-last-day-of-monsoon-session-as-it-ends-in-washout-1786605256330">READ MORE</a>

Monsoon Session of Parliament ends

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Delhi: Opposition MPs, led by Congress MP Pawan Khera, protest with a toy monkey and sloganeer, &amp;#39;&amp;#39;56-inch ka chhota bandar, jaldi aao sadan ke andar&amp;#39;&amp;#39;, on the Parliament premises&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Source: ANI &lt;a href="https://t.co/ecelJmZoRk"&gt;pic.twitter.com/ecelJmZoRk&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; WION (@WIONews) &lt;a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2087779639737586088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;August 13, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Opposition stages protest in Parliament premises

A 17-year-old Indian-origin teenager has been charged with murdering his mother and 14-year-old brother at their Massachusetts home. Investigators say he had previously searched online and on ChatGPT for fictional stories and fantasies involving the killing of his family.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-killing-fantasies-17-year-old-indian-origin-teen-charged-with-murdering-mother-14-year-old-brother-in-us-shocking-chatgpt-angle-uncovered-1786600791700">Click here to read more</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786602571294.jpg?rect=(0,447,7058,5293)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="'Family-killing fantasies': Indian origin teen charged with murdering mother, 14-year-old brother in US; Shocking ChatGPT angle uncovered"></figure>

Days after Gen Z protest in India made waves forcing the country's education minister to resign over the paper leak in medical entrance examination, Gen Alpha, the generation next to the GenZs have also stepped up. In several states, Gen Alpha are protesting against the administration to demand better roads, schools and basic amenities. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-protest-wave-intensifies-from-bihar-to-maharashtra-gen-alpha-takes-to-street-demand-better-schools-1786509173866">READ MORE</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786595497078.png?rect=(0,0,1448,1086)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="India’s protest wave intensifies: From Bihar to Maharashtra, Gen Alpha takes to street, demand better schools"></figure>

From Bihar to Maharashtra, Gen Alpha takes to street, demand better schools

The pilot of the Air India Phuket-Delhi flight that suddenly lost altitude mid-air on August 4 reportedly slept for 30-35 minutes during the flight. This comes as an investigation continues into the incident in which 13 passengers and four crew members were injured when the plane suddenly dropped 300 feet in altitude.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-pilot-fell-asleep-during-phuket-delhi-flight-here-s-what-we-know-1786593726749">Read more.</a>

Air India pilot who consumed marijuana fell asleep during Phuket-Delhi flight? Here’s what we know

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (Aug 12) signed a national security presidential memorandum aimed at expanding the government’s ability to use cyber operations against “transnational criminal organisations” operating from abroad. The White House said the directive is intended to help federal law enforcement target foreign-based networks involved in ransomware attacks, financial fraud and other cyber-enabled crimes affecting Americans.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-to-use-cyber-attacks-against-foreign-criminals-here-s-what-new-memo-says-1786593169695">Read more.</a>

Bengaluru Police have urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities during Thursday's Karnataka bandh over the Cauvery water dispute. Schools, offices, shops, and public transport are expected to function, while police have warned against forced shutdowns.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-bandh-today-bengaluru-police-say-no-one-can-be-forced-to-participate-vow-to-deal-with-defaulters-firmly-and-appropriately-1786592749509">Click here to read</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786593524037.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=900&amp;imheight=675" alt="Karnataka Bandh today: Police issue BIG warning against forced participation, reveal what's open in Bengaluru"></figure>

Karnataka Bandh today: Police issue BIG warning against forced participation, reveal what's open in Bengaluru

Karnataka is facing a 12-hour bandh today (August 13), but the state is unlikely to come to a complete standstill. Here is where disruption is most likely. Here's what's open and what will remain closed during the statewide protest.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-bandh-tomorrow-what-s-open-what-s-closed-on-august-13-schools-transport-and-border-impact-decoded-1786518579218">Click here to read</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260812/image-1786518940637.jpg?rect=(0,263,5475,4101)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Karnataka Bandh today: What’s open, what’s closed on August 13? Schools, transport, and border impact decoded"></figure>

Karnataka Bandh today: What’s open, what’s closed on August 13? Schools, transport, and border impact decoded

Argentina football star Lionel Messi, after the recent death of his father, has hinted at the end of his career as well. Messi's father, Jorge, was a constant presence throughout his careeer including from the early days of Barcelona. The FIFA World Cup 2026 was the first event where Messi was without his father. The footballer, after scoring the opening goal of his hat-trick in the first match against Algeria, was ery emotional which he later described as "matter other than football."<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-to-retire-argentina-footballer-doesn-t-know-how-to-move-forward-after-death-of-his-father-1786593242942">Read more</a>

Lionel Messi to retire? Argentina footballer casts doubt on future after father's death

The annual Kanwar Yatra is over and it has left the holy city of Haridwar with over 7000 tonnes of garbage. The two-week ‘Kanwar Yatra’ in which approximately 48 million pilgrims participated was the the highest number on record. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/7-000-tonnes-of-garbage-bottles-of-urine-haridwar-launches-mega-cleanup-after-kanwar-yatra-1786588473541">FULL STORY</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786589004294.jpg?rect=(0,324,5112,3834)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="7,000 tonnes of garbage, bottles of urine: Haridwar launches mega cleanup after Kanwar Yatra"></figure>

7,000 tonnes of garbage, bottles of urine: Haridwar turns into waste heap after Kanwar Yatra

Two US soldiers were killed after an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter assigned to Fort Hood crashed near Salado, Texas. The Army has not revealed what mission the helicopter was carrying out, while investigators work to determine what caused the deadly crash.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-army-apache-helicopter-on-secret-mission-crashes-in-texas-killing-two-soldiers-1786580842413">Click here to read</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786581206910.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="US Army Apache helicopter crashes in Texas, killing two soldiers"></figure>

US Army Apache helicopter crashes in Texas, killing two soldiers

Iran has demanded environmental safeguards be included in any future deal on the Strait of Hormuz, after oil pollution was reported along Qeshm Island. Tehran is also tying the reopening of the vital waterway to US concessions, including an end to the war and blockade.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-bears-responsibility-iran-wants-polluter-pays-rule-for-strait-of-hormuz-as-oil-slick-plagues-qeshm-1786582552036">Click here to read</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260813/image-1786583021772.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=900&amp;imheight=675" alt="'Who bears responsibility?':Iran wants 'polluter pays' rule for Strait of Hormuz as oil slick plagues Qeshm"></figure>

Iran adds shocking new demand for Strait of Hormuz reopening: Who will pay?

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Latest News Today Live Updates: Two US soldiers were killed after an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter assigned to Fort Hood crashed near Salado in central Texas on Wednesday. Officials have not disclosed the mission the helicopter was carrying out, while an investigation into the cause is underway. Meanwhile, Iran has called for environmental safeguards in any future arrangement governing the Strait of Hormuz after reporting oil pollution along its southern coast. Tehran has also linked the reopening of the strategic waterway to demands on the United States, including ending the war and blockade, releasing frozen Iranian assets, and agreeing to a regional ceasefire covering Lebanon and Gaza.

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.

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Two US soldiers were killed after an Army Apache attack helicopter crashed in central Texas on Wednesday (Aug 12), military officials said. The AH-64E Apache helicopter, assigned to Fort Hood, went down near Salado, a town located about 80 miles (130 kilometres) north of Austin."An AH-64E Apache attack helicopter based at Fort Hood crashed today in Salado. Two soldiers are confirmed deceased," Fort Hood said in a statement. Military personnel remain at the crash site alongside local emergency responders as the investigation into the cause of the accident continues.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Two killed in a U.S. Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crash in a rural area near Salado, Texas. The helicopter was assigned to the U.S. Army&#39;s 1st Cavalry Division based at Fort Hood. “Our immediate priority is securing the site and supporting the initial response efforts,”… <a href="https://t.co/2PN498YAiE">pic.twitter.com/2PN498YAiE</a>&mdash; Breaking Aviation News &amp; Videos (@aviationbrk) <a href="https://x.com/aviationbrk/status/2087642278521127329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Helicopter on a secret mission?</h2>Officials have not disclosed what mission the helicopter was carrying out when it crashed. The identities of the two soldiers are also being withheld until their families have been notified. No additional injuries or damage on the ground were immediately reported.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/laura-loomer-shares-bizarre-exclusive-footage-of-how-trump-hid-in-a-catering-cart-to-escape-assassination-attempt-watch-1786502762330">Laura Loomer shares bizarre 'exclusive' footage of how Trump hid in a catering cart to escape assassination attempt | WATCH</a>The Apache is one of the US Army's primary attack helicopters and is widely used for combat, reconnaissance, and close air support missions.<h2>Helicopter accidents plague the USA</h2>The incident comes roughly two months after another deadly US military aviation accident, when a US Air Force B-52 bomber crashed in California, killing all eight people on board.In another shocking incident on August 4, US President Donald Trump's Marine One helicopter reportedly came too close to a commercial passenger aircraft while flying over Washington. The presidential helicopter came within less than a mile of a departing passenger aircraft after what was described as garbled communication with air traffic controllers. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation into what aviation authorities describe as a "loss of separation" event.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-s-helicopter-nearly-collide-with-a-passenger-jet-us-launches-probe-1785981732847">Did Trump's helicopter nearly collide with a passenger jet? US launches probe</a><h2>What happened to the Apache helicopter?</h2>Authorities have not indicated whether weather, mechanical failure, or any other factor may have contributed to Wednesday's crash. An official investigation is underway. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Two US soldiers were killed after an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter assigned to Fort Hood crashed near Salado, Texas. The Army has not revealed what mission the helicopter was carrying out, while investigators work to determine what caused the deadly crash.

Two US soldiers were killed after an Army Apache attack helicopter crashed in central Texas on Wednesday (Aug 12), military officials said. The AH-64E Apache helicopter, assigned to Fort Hood, went down near Salado, a town located about 80 miles (130 kilometres) north of Austin. "An AH-64E Apache attack helicopter based at Fort Hood crashed today in Salado. Two soldiers are confirmed deceased," Fort Hood said in a statement. Military personnel remain at the crash site alongside local emergency responders as the investigation into the cause of the accident continues.

Two US soldiers were killed after an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter assigned to Fort Hood crashed near Salado, Texas. The Army has not revealed what mission the helicopter was carrying out, while investigators work to determine what caused the deadly crash.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will leave her position at the end of August, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday, marking a significant change for the administration’s communications team less than three months before the 2026 midterm elections. Trump described Leavitt as ‘one of my most trusted aides’ and said she ‘will be departing her role at the end of the month so she can spend more time with her beautiful young children and family, a decision I totally understand and respect!’ Trump added that Leavitt will continue working with him as an outside adviser.&nbsp;Her departure comes at a difficult moment for the Trump administration, which is dealing with low approval ratings, the ongoing war with Iran and elevated gas prices. Polling has also shown that many Americans believe the president has not focused enough on the country’s most important issues. At 28, Leavitt became the youngest person ever to serve as White House press secretary. She was also the first woman to hold the demanding position while pregnant. After giving birth to her daughter, she returned to the White House briefing room last month following a short maternity leave.&nbsp;Leavitt previously worked in a junior position during Trump’s first administration. During his second term, however, she quickly became one of his most trusted and recognizable spokespeople. Known for her aggressive defense of Trump and his policies, Leavitt developed a reputation as a fierce defender of the president, regularly confronting reporters over tough questions while maintaining close relationships with more sympathetic media outlets.&nbsp;Away from the briefing room, Leavitt has also emphasised her role as a wife and mother. She has brought her toddler son Niko aboard Air Force One and to the Oval Office, appeared with her husband at White House events, baked an apple pie from scratch and shared moments with her newborn daughter, Viviana. But behind those carefully presented family moments was the reality of an exceptionally demanding job.&nbsp;“The truth is since returning to the White House after the birth of my daughter, I have felt in my heart that I cannot be the best mom my two young children deserve while devoting the constant time, energy, and attention required of the White House Press Secretary,” she wrote in a social media post Wednesday, describing the decision as “bittersweet.”Trump, who has frequently maintained that he is his own best spokesperson, has also placed significant demands on officials speaking for him.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/total-solar-eclipse-sweeps-europe-as-millions-turn-to-the-sky-1786559150413">Rare solar eclipse sweeps Europe as millions turn to the skies to witness celestial spectacle</a>

After Leavitt gave birth to her daughter on May 1, she took about a month away from the White House. During that period, Trump frequently called her and sometimes asked when she planned to return, according to a person familiar with the discussions. When her first child was born in July 2024, Leavitt took only four days off before returning to the campaign trail. Her return came just one day after Trump survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.&nbsp;“It kind of threw me right back to work much sooner than I would have probably expected or hoped,” she later said in an interview with Megyn Kelly. When Leavitt returned to the White House briefing room last month, she acknowledged that balancing the press secretary position with raising two young children was difficult. “But, she added at the time, “I view this as more than job, I view this as public service.”&nbsp;Before joining Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, Leavitt ran for Congress in her home state of New Hampshire after Trump’s first term but lost in the general election. Her work on the 2024 campaign quickly elevated her into Trump’s inner circle, where she became a trusted voice for the president. Her role may not end entirely with her departure from the White House. With the 2026 midterms approaching, Leavitt could remain an influential outside voice for Trump and the Republican Party. “President Trump has asked me to continue serving as a top advisor to him on the outside, and I will always remain a vocal advocate for MAGA and the Republican Party,” she wrote Wednesday.<h2>A vacancy at the podium</h2>Leavitt’s departure will leave the White House press operation searching for a new face at the briefing room podium.During her recent maternity leave, White House press briefings became less frequent, with officials including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio stepping in to address reporters.&nbsp;As of Wednesday afternoon, some White House staff members were reportedly unsure who would replace Leavitt.Finding a successor could be particularly difficult given Leavitt’s high profile and her role as one of the most visible women in the Trump administration. Leavitt has spent 18 months as press secretary, making her the second-longest-serving press secretary under Trump. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, now governor of Arkansas, served for nearly two years during Trump’s first term.&nbsp;Other Trump press secretaries have had significantly shorter tenures. Kayleigh McEnany served for eight months, Stephanie Grisham for 10 months and Sean Spicer for six months. The White House press operation has also experienced turnover during Trump’s second term. Taylor Budowich, who served as deputy chief of staff for communications, left after eight months. Leavitt’s deputies Harrison Fields and Abigail Jackson have also departed.&nbsp;White House communications director Steven Cheung praised Leavitt’s performance, calling her “been the best teammate.” “Although this is a sad day, we’re so happy for her and her family. It’s never ‘goodbye.’ It’s always ‘see you down the road,’” he wrote on X.

Karoline Leavitt is leaving her White House press secretary role at the end of August to spend more time with her family and advise Trump from outside

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will leave her position at the end of August, President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday, marking a significant change for the administration’s communications team less than three months before the 2026 midterm elections. Trump described Leavitt as ‘one of my most trusted aides’ and said she ‘will be departing her role at the end of the month so she can spend more time with her beautiful young children and family, a decision I totally understand and respect!’ Trump added that Leavitt will continue working with him as an outside adviser. Her departure comes at a difficult moment for the Trump administration, which is dealing with low approval ratings, the ongoing war with Iran and elevated gas prices. Polling has also shown that many Americans believe the president has not focused enough on the country’s most important issues. At 28, Leavitt became the youngest person ever to serve as White House press secretary. She was also the first woman to hold the demanding position while pregnant. After giving birth to her daughter, she returned to the White House briefing room last month following a short maternity leave. Leavitt previously worked in a junior position during Trump’s first administration. During his second term, however, she quickly became one of his most trusted and recognizable spokespeople. Known for her aggressive defense of Trump and his policies, Leavitt developed a reputation as a fierce defender of the president, regularly confronting reporters over tough questions while maintaining close relationships with more sympathetic media outlets. Away from the briefing room, Leavitt has also emphasised her role as a wife and mother. She has brought her toddler son Niko aboard Air Force One and to the Oval Office, appeared with her husband at White House events, baked an apple pie from scratch and shared moments with her newborn daughter, Viviana. But behind those carefully presented family moments was the reality of an exceptionally demanding job. “The truth is since returning to the White House after the birth of my daughter, I have felt in my heart that I cannot be the best mom my two young children deserve while devoting the constant time, energy, and attention required of the White House Press Secretary,” she wrote in a social media post Wednesday, describing the decision as “bittersweet.” Trump, who has frequently maintained that he is his own best spokesperson, has also placed significant demands on officials speaking for him. Also Read: Rare solar eclipse sweeps Europe as millions turn to the skies to witness celestial spectacle

Karoline Leavitt will leave as White House press secretary at the end of August to focus on her family while continuing as an outside Trump adviser

'One of my most trusted aides': Trump announces Karoline Leavitt’s departure as White House press secretary

A top adviser to the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday that Iran could “prolong” the war with the US until President Donald Trump is out of office. “We have to attain deterrence so that the enemy never dares to attack us, so we can live with security,” Mohammad Reza Naqdi told PBS in an interview.&nbsp;Naqdi served as coordinating deputy of the IRGC from 2019 to 2025, a senior position overlooking coordination across the organisation. He is now a senior adviser to the IRGC commander, a position that carries less command authority but still has access to the IRGC’s top leadership in the advisory role.&nbsp;“One way is to prolong this war until we get to the next term of the presidency and cause attrition so that if anyone else wants to attack Iran, they will know there is a cost,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panama-canal-fees-surge-container-ship-shells-out-4-million-to-jump-queue-1786558494375">Panama Canal fees surge; container ship shells out $4 million to jump queue</a><h2>‘Certainly, victory is on our side’</h2>&nbsp;On being asked if he believes Iran is currently in control of the war, Naqdi said, “Certainly, victory is on our side.”&nbsp;Washington is conducting a “war without strategy,” he said. “Every two or three days, they announce a new objective,” including the invasion of Kharg Island and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz,” Naqdi added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-gives-intelligence-services-broad-powers-amid-rising-hybrid-threats-security-lapses-1786548101127">Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses</a>&nbsp;“The longer this war lasts, the more experience we gain. We had never seen a real war to gain real experience to learn how to fight with America. In these five months, we have learned how,” Naqdi added.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘American military is weaker than what we perceived’</h2>&nbsp;“We have also seen how the American military is weaker than what we perceived.”&nbsp;Replying to why Iran was bombarding ships in the Strait of Hormuz, the IRGC adviser said if vessels are traveling through an area out of Iran’s control, “it could be that they’re transporting supplies for the enemy.”&nbsp;Questioned on Iran’s inventory of missiles, Naqdi said that Iran manufactures more of these weapons than it uses every day.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heaven-made-in-china-optical-shop-owner-learns-ai-painstakingly-gets-fame-as-video-goes-viral-1786540438553">Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral</a>&nbsp;“If there comes a day when Iran has no more missiles left, that’s when we will be even more dangerous for America. Because America has thousands of economic interests throughout the world, and all of them can be easily destroyed,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>Naqdi’s remarks seem to be response to Trump’s assertions</h2>&nbsp;Naqdi’s remarks came a day after Trump claimed that Iran’s economy was in severe distress and its situation was “not sustainable”.&nbsp;Trump said Iran was facing 300% inflation, its currency has “almost no value” and is facing difficulties in paying its soldiers. He also claimed Iranian troops were leaving, arguing that the situation was “not sustainable”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baloch-leader-thanks-indian-media-announces-push-for-recognition-of-republic-of-balochistan-1786479617334">Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’</a>&nbsp;“They’ve got 300% inflation. They have no value. Their currency has almost no value. They are not paying their soldiers. Their soldiers are leaving. So just keep that going. It’s not sustainable,” he said.&nbsp;He outlined three possible approaches for ending the conflict, including one of maintaining the current pressure and allowing Iran to fail economically.&nbsp;Naqdi’s attrition remarks seem to be a response to Trump’s assertions.

Mohammad Reza Naqdi, a senior adviser to the IRGC commander, said the US is conducting a war without strategy, as Washington announces a new objective every two or three days. He also claimed that Iran manufactures more missiles than it uses every day.

A top adviser to the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday that Iran could “prolong” the war with the US until President Donald Trump is out of office. “We have to attain deterrence so that the enemy never dares to attack us, so we can live with security,” Mohammad Reza Naqdi told PBS in an interview. Naqdi served as coordinating deputy of the IRGC from 2019 to 2025, a senior position overlooking coordination across the organisation. He is now a senior adviser to the IRGC commander, a position that carries less command authority but still has access to the IRGC’s top leadership in the advisory role. “One way is to prolong this war until we get to the next term of the presidency and cause attrition so that if anyone else wants to attack Iran, they will know there is a cost,” he said. Also Read: Panama Canal fees surge; container ship shells out $4 million to jump queue ‘Certainly, victory is on our side’ On being asked if he believes Iran is currently in control of the war, Naqdi said, “Certainly, victory is on our side.” Washington is conducting a “war without strategy,” he said. “Every two or three days, they announce a new objective,” including the invasion of Kharg Island and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz,” Naqdi added. Also Read: Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses “The longer this war lasts, the more experience we gain. We had never seen a real war to gain real experience to learn how to fight with America. In these five months, we have learned how,” Naqdi added. ‘American military is weaker than what we perceived’ “We have also seen how the American military is weaker than what we perceived.” Replying to why Iran was bombarding ships in the Strait of Hormuz, the IRGC adviser said if vessels are traveling through an area out of Iran’s control, “it could be that they’re transporting supplies for the enemy.” Questioned on Iran’s inventory of missiles, Naqdi said that Iran manufactures more of these weapons than it uses every day. Also Read: Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral “If there comes a day when Iran has no more missiles left, that’s when we will be even more dangerous for America. Because America has thousands of economic interests throughout the world, and all of them can be easily destroyed,” he said. Naqdi’s remarks seem to be response to Trump’s assertions Naqdi’s remarks came a day after Trump claimed that Iran’s economy was in severe distress and its situation was “not sustainable”. Trump said Iran was facing 300% inflation, its currency has “almost no value” and is facing difficulties in paying its soldiers. He also claimed Iranian troops were leaving, arguing that the situation was “not sustainable”. Also Read: Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’ “They’ve got 300% inflation. They have no value. Their currency has almost no value. They are not paying their soldiers. Their soldiers are leaving. So just keep that going. It’s not sustainable,” he said. He outlined three possible approaches for ending the conflict, including one of maintaining the current pressure and allowing Iran to fail economically. Naqdi’s attrition remarks seem to be a response to Trump’s assertions.

Mohammad Reza Naqdi, a senior adviser to the IRGC commander, said the US is conducting a war without strategy, as Washington announces a new objective every two or three days. He also claimed that Iran manufactures more missiles than it uses every day.

Iran could ‘prolong war’ until Trump is out of office, says IRGC adviser

A rare total solar eclipse swept across parts of Europe on August 12, briefly turning daylight dark in areas along the path of totality, while millions gathered across Spain and other regions to witness the celestial spectacle.

A rare total solar eclipse swept across parts of Europe on August 12, briefly turning daylight dark in areas along the path of totality, while millions gathered across Spain and other regions to witness the celestial spectacle.

Rare solar eclipse sweeps Europe as millions turn to the skies to witness celestial spectacle

Spanish officials on Wednesday declared that the sovereignty of its North African enclaves, Ceuta and Melilla, with Morocco is not up for negotiation. Spain's Foreign Ministry said Spain's territorial ​integrity "has not been, and ​will never be, discussed ⁠with anyone". This comes in response to a statement by Moroccan Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi, which raised sovereignty claims over the cities. It was the first prominent public push by Rabat for the enclaves since the massive border crisis in Ceuta in July, during which an estimated 72,000 migrants briefly crossed ⁠into the enclave. Around 96 people died in the border rush.&nbsp;Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles dismissed Morocco's claims, stating the enclaves are "super-Spanish and cannot be touched".&nbsp;"Ceuta and Melilla aren't just Spanish; they're super-Spanish and cannot be ​touched," Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles told reporters in Ceuta when asked about Ouahbi's comments. "Any attack on Ceuta and ‌Melilla is an attack on Spain as a whole. It must never happen again," she added, referring to the border crisis.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sam-altman-death-hoax-wikipedia-google-fake-edit-1786555390001">Sam Altman falsely declared dead on Wikipedia as Google briefly picks up fake edit</a>Spain has always maintained that Melilla and Ceuta have been integral Spanish territories since the 15th and 17th centuries, predating modern Moroccan boundaries. While Morocco regards Ceuta and Melilla as occupied by Spain, arguing that sovereignty over them should ultimately be transferred to Rabat. Despite differences in rhetoric, the Spanish government has largely praised Moroccan authorities for their cooperation. The official statement from both sides are that human trafficking networks engineered the crisis by weaponising social media to spread fake news.&nbsp;Separately, Morocco's Interior Ministry said in a statement that it had increased security in response to an online call for another mass crossing attempt on August 15. It warned that it would prosecute organisers ​and participants. Wednesday, "The ⁠ministry calls on everyone to remain vigilant and responsible and not to be drawn into such suspicious and misleading calls, given the risks they may pose to people's lives."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Spain rejects Morocco’s renewed sovereignty claims over Ceuta and Melilla, with Madrid declaring its territorial integrity is not up for negotiation.

Spanish officials on Wednesday declared that the sovereignty of its North African enclaves, Ceuta and Melilla, with Morocco is not up for negotiation. Spain's Foreign Ministry said Spain's territorial integrity "has not been, and will never be, discussed ⁠with anyone". This comes in response to a statement by Moroccan Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi, which raised sovereignty claims over the cities. It was the first prominent public push by Rabat for the enclaves since the massive border crisis in Ceuta in July, during which an estimated 72,000 migrants briefly crossed ⁠into the enclave. Around 96 people died in the border rush. Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles dismissed Morocco's claims, stating the enclaves are "super-Spanish and cannot be touched". "Ceuta and Melilla aren't just Spanish; they're super-Spanish and cannot be touched," Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles told reporters in Ceuta when asked about Ouahbi's comments. "Any attack on Ceuta and ‌Melilla is an attack on Spain as a whole. It must never happen again," she added, referring to the border crisis. Also Read: Sam Altman falsely declared dead on Wikipedia as Google briefly picks up fake edit Spain has always maintained that Melilla and Ceuta have been integral Spanish territories since the 15th and 17th centuries, predating modern Moroccan boundaries. While Morocco regards Ceuta and Melilla as occupied by Spain, arguing that sovereignty over them should ultimately be transferred to Rabat. Despite differences in rhetoric, the Spanish government has largely praised Moroccan authorities for their cooperation. The official statement from both sides are that human trafficking networks engineered the crisis by weaponising social media to spread fake news. Separately, Morocco's Interior Ministry said in a statement that it had increased security in response to an online call for another mass crossing attempt on August 15. It warned that it would prosecute organisers and participants. Wednesday, "The ⁠ministry calls on everyone to remain vigilant and responsible and not to be drawn into such suspicious and misleading calls, given the risks they may pose to people's lives."

Spain rejects Morocco’s renewed sovereignty claims over Ceuta and Melilla, with Madrid declaring its territorial integrity is not up for negotiation.

Spain rejects Morocco’s Ceuta, Melilla claims: ‘Super-Spanish and cannot be touched’

Commercial ships travelling through the Panama Canal are facing a surge in costs as they seek alternative routes because of maritime travel disruption due to the Iran war and falling water levels linked to the intense El Niño weather system.&nbsp;As per reports, a container ship paid $4 million to skip the queue at the Panama Canal, where wait times are now stretching more than a week to pass through the vital maritime choke point.&nbsp;The near-record high auction figure was reportedly paid by the owner of the vessel, the Seaspan Benefactor. The owner could not be identified because the auction data is private.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-gives-intelligence-services-broad-powers-amid-rising-hybrid-threats-security-lapses-1786548101127">Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses</a>&nbsp;Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US.&nbsp;<h2>Panama Canal Authority runs daily auctions for shipowners</h2>&nbsp;While shipping companies pay a flat fee to reserve a slot for transit through the canal, the Panama Canal Authority also runs daily auctions that allow shipowners to place bids to skip the queue.&nbsp;&nbsp;Starting bids open at about $15,000 for smaller cargo vessels and $55,000 for the largest ships, but these prices can shoot up during times of heavy congestion or high demand.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/heaven-made-in-china-optical-shop-owner-learns-ai-painstakingly-gets-fame-as-video-goes-viral-1786540438553">Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral</a>&nbsp;The $4 million transit fee was paid for Seaspan Benefactor, a 10,100 TEU (20-foot equivalent unit) vessel.&nbsp;Shipowners are willing to pay significantly higher prices at auction to avoid queues, as more vessels stay away from the Gulf and the Red Sea.&nbsp;&nbsp;The military conflict in the Middle East has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab, the narrow waterway between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa.&nbsp;<h2>Falling water levels amid El Niño a big concern</h2>&nbsp;Prices for travelling through the Panama Canal’s busiest shipping lanes have hit record highs at a time when water levels are falling amid the rapidly developing El Niño weather system.&nbsp;The Panama Canal Authority has said that it would impose limits in late August and early September on how low vessels can travel through the water, known as a ship’s draft, in an effort to keep traffic flowing.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baloch-leader-thanks-indian-media-announces-push-for-recognition-of-republic-of-balochistan-1786479617334">Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’</a>&nbsp;The Panama Canal is not the only crucial trade route affected by low water levels, amid growing international concern over the economic consequences of the climate emergency.&nbsp;Prolonged dry weather across Europe has led to record low water levels in the Rhine, with traders warning that it was not possible to book some cargo shipments on the river, forcing them to pay higher costs to transport goods by road and rail instead.The Rhine is one of Europe’s main arteries for transporting grain, fuel, minerals, and goods.&nbsp;

Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US.

Commercial ships travelling through the Panama Canal are facing a surge in costs as they seek alternative routes because of maritime travel disruption due to the Iran war and falling water levels linked to the intense El Niño weather system. As per reports, a container ship paid $4 million to skip the queue at the Panama Canal, where wait times are now stretching more than a week to pass through the vital maritime choke point. The near-record high auction figure was reportedly paid by the owner of the vessel, the Seaspan Benefactor. The owner could not be identified because the auction data is private. Also Read: Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US. Panama Canal Authority runs daily auctions for shipowners While shipping companies pay a flat fee to reserve a slot for transit through the canal, the Panama Canal Authority also runs daily auctions that allow shipowners to place bids to skip the queue. Starting bids open at about $15,000 for smaller cargo vessels and $55,000 for the largest ships, but these prices can shoot up during times of heavy congestion or high demand. Also Read: Heaven – Made in China: Optical shop owner learns AI painstakingly, gets fame as video goes viral The $4 million transit fee was paid for Seaspan Benefactor, a 10,100 TEU (20-foot equivalent unit) vessel. Shipowners are willing to pay significantly higher prices at auction to avoid queues, as more vessels stay away from the Gulf and the Red Sea. The military conflict in the Middle East has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab, the narrow waterway between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa. Falling water levels amid El Niño a big concern Prices for travelling through the Panama Canal’s busiest shipping lanes have hit record highs at a time when water levels are falling amid the rapidly developing El Niño weather system. The Panama Canal Authority has said that it would impose limits in late August and early September on how low vessels can travel through the water, known as a ship’s draft, in an effort to keep traffic flowing. Also Read: Baloch leader thanks Indian media, announces push for recognition of ‘Republic of Balochistan’ The Panama Canal is not the only crucial trade route affected by low water levels, amid growing international concern over the economic consequences of the climate emergency. Prolonged dry weather across Europe has led to record low water levels in the Rhine, with traders warning that it was not possible to book some cargo shipments on the river, forcing them to pay higher costs to transport goods by road and rail instead. The Rhine is one of Europe’s main arteries for transporting grain, fuel, minerals, and goods.

Ships are now waiting about 10 days for their turn to pass through the trade route linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The route is favoured by shippers, as it usually reduces cost and transit times, especially for large retailers and energy companies that trade between Asia and the US.

Panama Canal fees surge; container ship shells out $4 million to jump queue

In a bid to combat “birth tourism,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced the creation of a State Department task force. This comes amid US president Donald Trump seeking to end “birthright citizenship,” which gives US citizenship to anyone born on US soil.&nbsp;The US State Department in a statement released on Wednesday said that to "ensure nonimmigrant visas are used only for their lawful and intended purposes, and prevent their exploitation through birth tourism," it is establishing a new "birth tourism", prevention task force.&nbsp;<h2>What is the role of the task force?</h2>&nbsp;<ul><li>It will “review the activities of visa holders worldwide to identify instances of birth tourism, take action to revoke visas of those who engage in or facilitate it, and dismantle the networks that profit from this abuse”</li><li>The task force will analyse and connect information held across the Department and other federal agencies, including the DHS</li><li>Travel histories of individuals from all around the world will be examined</li><li>Notably more than 600 visas from foreign nationals across the globe has been revoked by the task force in past month</li></ul>&nbsp;Rubio in his statement said &nbsp;"Elaborate birth tourism rings are profiting off the exploitation of America's laws- coaching foreigners to defraud the US visa system, arranging travel and housing, and even forging documents, all to enable foreign nationals to obtain citizenship for their children."&nbsp;“The State Department will review the activity of visa holders, dismantle illegal birth tourism networks, and put an end to this heinous abuse of our nation’s laws," he added.&nbsp;The US administration has fought unsuccessfully in courts to end “birth tourism,” a word Trump administration phrase for foreign women coming to the United States with the intention of giving birth to a child on US soil in order to secure their child’s American citizenship.

The task force will “review the activities of visa holders worldwide to identify instances of birth tourism, take action to revoke visas of those who engage in or facilitate it, and dismantle the networks that profit from this abuse”.

In a bid to combat “birth tourism,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced the creation of a State Department task force. This comes amid US president Donald Trump seeking to end “birthright citizenship,” which gives US citizenship to anyone born on US soil. The US State Department in a statement released on Wednesday said that to "ensure nonimmigrant visas are used only for their lawful and intended purposes, and prevent their exploitation through birth tourism," it is establishing a new "birth tourism", prevention task force. What is the role of the task force? It will “review the activities of visa holders worldwide to identify instances of birth tourism, take action to revoke visas of those who engage in or facilitate it, and dismantle the networks that profit from this abuse” The task force will analyse and connect information held across the Department and other federal agencies, including the DHS Travel histories of individuals from all around the world will be examined Notably more than 600 visas from foreign nationals across the globe has been revoked by the task force in past month Rubio in his statement said "Elaborate birth tourism rings are profiting off the exploitation of America's laws- coaching foreigners to defraud the US visa system, arranging travel and housing, and even forging documents, all to enable foreign nationals to obtain citizenship for their children." “The State Department will review the activity of visa holders, dismantle illegal birth tourism networks, and put an end to this heinous abuse of our nation’s laws," he added. The US administration has fought unsuccessfully in courts to end “birth tourism,” a word Trump administration phrase for foreign women coming to the United States with the intention of giving birth to a child on US soil in order to secure their child’s American citizenship.

The task force will “review the activities of visa holders worldwide to identify instances of birth tourism, take action to revoke visas of those who engage in or facilitate it, and dismantle the networks that profit from this abuse”.

Rubio sets up task force to combat ‘birth tourism’, 600 visas revoked

A random edit on a Wikipedia page on August 12, 2026 falsely declared that Sam Altman, the chief executive officer of OpenAI, had died at the age of 41. The news left the tech world perplexed, as no major news outlet reported the update. Users from the social media platform X started to flag it as&nbsp;Google search briefly picked up the fake update.Soon Google undid the edit and the page was blocked. "Thanks for flagging - this is no longer appearing, and was not a manual change by Google. When people vandalise public info sources, this can affect the information that appears in Search," wrote Google on the social media platform X.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-lawsuit-truth-social-100000-advance-access-1786552735649">Trump sued over $100,000-a-month advance access to Truth Social posts</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">wft google?? <a href="https://t.co/acvXVnuIfc">https://t.co/acvXVnuIfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/1E7EtW1zeS">pic.twitter.com/1E7EtW1zeS</a>&mdash; X Freeze (@XFreeze) <a href="https://x.com/XFreeze/status/2087520140233482250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Google's automated systems continuously scrape public knowledge sources such as Wikipedia to update search summaries; it temporarily ingested the false edit and displayed a "date of death" next to his name. It once again brought back the Dead Internet Theory, discussed in the fringes of Reddit, that most online content, interactions, and accounts are completely automated. Ironically, the AI mogul himself also discussed it."I never took the dead internet theory that seriously, but it seems like there are really a lot of LLM-run Twitter accounts now," wrote Altman in a post.But the internet declared him dead, and AI picked it up, so Altman, when he figures out the development, will have time to contemplate his beliefs.&nbsp;

A vandalised Wikipedia page falsely declared OpenAI CEO Sam Altman dead at 41. Google briefly picked up the fake information before removing it.

A random edit on a Wikipedia page on August 12, 2026 falsely declared that Sam Altman, the chief executive officer of OpenAI, had died at the age of 41. The news left the tech world perplexed, as no major news outlet reported the update. Users from the social media platform X started to flag it as Google search briefly picked up the fake update. Soon Google undid the edit and the page was blocked. "Thanks for flagging - this is no longer appearing, and was not a manual change by Google. When people vandalise public info sources, this can affect the information that appears in Search," wrote Google on the social media platform X. Also Read: Trump sued over $100,000-a-month advance access to Truth Social posts

A vandalised Wikipedia page falsely declared OpenAI CEO Sam Altman dead at 41. Google briefly picked up the fake information before removing it.

Sam Altman falsely declared dead on Wikipedia as Google briefly picks up fake edit

A new dispute over the Golan Heights is putting Israel's control of the strategic Syrian territory back under the international spotlight. At the same time, Israel is facing accusations of fuelling environmental destruction in southern Lebanon where repeated fires have reportedly scorched forests, farmland and olive groves.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Lebanon, firefighters and residents accuse the Israeli military of triggering wildfires with its munitions and drones.&nbsp;&nbsp;Near Khiam in southern Lebanon, Israeli forces reportedly dropped flares over a wooded area, setting vegetation ablaze. When firefighters moved in to contain the flames, an Israeli drone strike landed nearby, allegedly forcing them to retreat.&nbsp;First responders and residents in other parts of southern Lebanon have reported similar incidents, describing fires in dry woodland, scrub and agricultural areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Environmental groups say the damage threatens forests and biodiversity already affected by years of conflict. Israel has previously said Hezbollah uses wooded areas as cover for fighters and tunnels. And the focus now shifts north to the Golan Heights. Colombia’s newly elected right-wing President, Abelardo de la Espriella has recognised Israeli sovereignty over Golan Heights. The South American country becomes only the second country after the United States to take that position. Syria has condemned the move as a violation of the United Nations charter. The UN considers Israel's annexation of the Golan Heights illegal under international law. Israel captured the territory from Syria during the 1967 six-day war. Syria attempted to retake it during the 1973 war but failed. Israel expanded its military presence beyond the Golan ceasefire line in 2024, following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. Israel says security and historical claims justify its control. The territory also carries enormous strategic value. The Golan Heights overlooks northern Israel and also provides a major vantage point into Syria with Damascus roughly 60 kilometres away. The plateau also sits near key water sources, including the Sea of Galilee and the Upper Jordan river basin, the main freshwater resources for Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly defended Israel's claim over Golan Heights. In a video post on X, Netanyahu said the Israeli flag would remain over Golan Heights because, in his words, “This is Israeli land.” Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has called Colombia's decision “historic” and said Israel will push other countries to recognise its sovereignty over the territory. The dispute comes as Israeli officials warn of growing security tensions with Syria, raising questions about the future of the Golan Heights and the wider region. Israeli diaspora affairs minister, in fact, just recently stated that a war with Syria is "inevitable" due to tensions near the border.

Israel captured the the Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 six-day war. Syria attempted to retake it during the 1973 war but failed. Israel expanded its military presence beyond the Golan ceasefire line in 2024, following the fall of Bashar al-Assad.

A new dispute over the Golan Heights is putting Israel's control of the strategic Syrian territory back under the international spotlight. At the same time, Israel is facing accusations of fuelling environmental destruction in southern Lebanon where repeated fires have reportedly scorched forests, farmland and olive groves. In Lebanon, firefighters and residents accuse the Israeli military of triggering wildfires with its munitions and drones. Near Khiam in southern Lebanon, Israeli forces reportedly dropped flares over a wooded area, setting vegetation ablaze. When firefighters moved in to contain the flames, an Israeli drone strike landed nearby, allegedly forcing them to retreat. First responders and residents in other parts of southern Lebanon have reported similar incidents, describing fires in dry woodland, scrub and agricultural areas.

Israel captured the the Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 six-day war. Syria attempted to retake it during the 1973 war but failed. Israel expanded its military presence beyond the Golan ceasefire line in 2024, following the fall of Bashar al-Assad.

Israel accused of deliberately starting wildfires in South Lebanon | Gravitas

US President Donald Trump’s secret departure from Turkey in a catering cart has sparked a wave of AI-generated memes and jokes online. After the NATO summit in Turkey on July 8, Trump was seen boarding the &nbsp;Air Force One but then he swapped the planes amid threat from Iran as per Israeli intelligence report. He confirmed that he was shifted in a catering cart in an unmarked military aircraft. The Washington Post first reported about the development. The original Air Force One continued its journey with journalists and some White House staff on board. It reportedly acted as a decoy to make it harder to identify Trump’s actual aircraft.<h2>Social media turns the incident into memes</h2>The unusual plane switch quickly became a joke online. Social media users imagined Trump hiding inside catering trucks, laundry carts and even food-service trolleys. Ron Filipkowski, editor-in-chief of MeidasTouch, shared an AI-generated image showing Trump lying inside a metal catering cart next to McDonald’s fries and Diet Coke. He joked: “Meidas has obtained footage of Trump hiding in the catering truck while switching planes.”<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260812/image-1786555977069.png"></figure>&nbsp;Another AI-generated image showed a flight attendant pushing a service cart through a crowded aircraft, with Trump supposedly sitting inside it. A parody account also shared an image of Trump peeking out of a McDonald’s truck parked next to Air Force One. The joke referred to Trump’s widely shared appearance at a McDonald’s drive-through during his 2024 presidential campaign.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://static.independent.co.uk/2026/08/11/11/10/HPaBAaWWUAENaQ6.jpeg?crop=1053.3,790,x118.3,y0&amp;width=1200&amp;height=900" alt="Trump's secret escape from Air Force One in Turkey turns into memes and jokes for social media | The Independent"></figure>

&nbsp;Another meme showed Trump being taken away from Air Force One inside a laundry cart, with his head appearing above a pile of towels. A parody of the movie Jaws showed a catering cart with the line: “We’re gonna need a bigger catering cart!” Another meme showed a catering truck painted like Air Force One, complete with the presidential seal. It called the vehicle “Food Truck One.”<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260812/image-1786556133217.png"></figure>&nbsp;One social media user also shared an AI picture of former President Obama saying that he never hid in a catering truck. Another user uses an image of Trump from the film Airplane! with the caption, “Now he really is that guy from Airplane!” This refers to the reported plane-switching operation and humorously connects Trump to the movie Airplane! Another AI image also showed former President Joe Biden seeing pictures of Trump in cart and having a hearty laugh.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260812/image-1786555658254.png"></figure>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260812/image-1786555494072.png"></figure>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260812/image-1786555572196.png"></figure>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260812/image-1786555539474.png"></figure>&nbsp; &nbsp;

Social media users mocked Trump’s reported secret plane switch in Turkey, with memes referencing Iran threats, airport catering carts and Obama and Biden

US President Donald Trump’s secret departure from Turkey in a catering cart has sparked a wave of AI-generated memes and jokes online. After the NATO summit in Turkey on July 8, Trump was seen boarding the Air Force One but then he swapped the planes amid threat from Iran as per Israeli intelligence report. He confirmed that he was shifted in a catering cart in an unmarked military aircraft. The Washington Post first reported about the development. The original Air Force One continued its journey with journalists and some White House staff on board. It reportedly acted as a decoy to make it harder to identify Trump’s actual aircraft. Social media turns the incident into memes The unusual plane switch quickly became a joke online. Social media users imagined Trump hiding inside catering trucks, laundry carts and even food-service trolleys. Ron Filipkowski, editor-in-chief of MeidasTouch, shared an AI-generated image showing Trump lying inside a metal catering cart next to McDonald’s fries and Diet Coke. He joked: “Meidas has obtained footage of Trump hiding in the catering truck while switching planes.” Another AI-generated image showed a flight attendant pushing a service cart through a crowded aircraft, with Trump supposedly sitting inside it. A parody account also shared an image of Trump peeking out of a McDonald’s truck parked next to Air Force One. The joke referred to Trump’s widely shared appearance at a McDonald’s drive-through during his 2024 presidential campaign.

Social media users mocked Trump’s reported secret plane switch in Turkey, with memes referencing Iran threats, airport catering carts and Obama and Biden

Trump’s secret plane switch sparks ‘catering cart’ memes online, AI Obama and Biden have the last laugh

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (August 12) claimed that the United States has "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz and said he intends to maintain control of the strategic waterway as negotiations with Iran over its reopening remain stalled.&nbsp;In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "The U.S.A. has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. I THINK WE WILL KEEP IT! Our Naval Blockade is being called, by everyone, 'A WALL OF STEEL,' and there is nothing Iran can do about it."&nbsp;Trump also claimed that Iran's military infrastructure had suffered severe damage. He ended his message with the phrase, "Praise be to Allah!"&nbsp;"All they have is FAKE NEWS and 300% INFLATION, and getting worse! Iran is all talk and no action, the Bully of the Middle East No Longer. Praise be to Allah! President DONALD J. TRUMP," he added.&nbsp;Trump has repeatedly said that Washington controls the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for energy and other commodity shipments through the Middle East.&nbsp;Iran, however, says it effectively controls a large part of the waterway and plans to impose a toll system in response to the US war launched by Trump on February 28.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-gives-intelligence-services-broad-powers-amid-rising-hybrid-threats-security-lapses-1786548101127">Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses</a>&nbsp;Trump made a similar claim on Tuesday while speaking to reporters. "We have total control over the Hormuz Strait right now. They don't have control. We have total control. We own it."&nbsp;The remarks came amid a prolonged confrontation over the strategic maritime passage. Nearly 20 per cent of global petroleum trade moves through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Trump's latest statement also came as Washington and Tehran continued behind-the-scenes diplomatic engagement. Representatives from both sides have held indirect discussions over measures to ease the Hormuz crisis and restore regular maritime traffic.&nbsp;Tehran has reportedly sought compensation for war-related damage linked to the US war launched by Trump on February 28, along with compensation for economic losses caused by sanctions. Trump has publicly rejected the demand.&nbsp;At the same time, the Trump administration has intensified economic pressure on Tehran by enforcing existing sanctions and warning that additional punitive measures could follow if Iran refuses to comply.Iranian representatives have accused Washington of using military pressure and economic measures to seek unilateral concessions during the negotiations.

US President Donald Trump has again claimed that the United States has “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, insisting Iran can do nothing to challenge the US naval blockade.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (August 12) claimed that the United States has "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz and said he intends to maintain control of the strategic waterway as negotiations with Iran over its reopening remain stalled. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "The U.S.A. has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. I THINK WE WILL KEEP IT! Our Naval Blockade is being called, by everyone, 'A WALL OF STEEL,' and there is nothing Iran can do about it." Trump also claimed that Iran's military infrastructure had suffered severe damage. He ended his message with the phrase, "Praise be to Allah!" "All they have is FAKE NEWS and 300% INFLATION, and getting worse! Iran is all talk and no action, the Bully of the Middle East No Longer. Praise be to Allah! President DONALD J. TRUMP," he added. Trump has repeatedly said that Washington controls the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for energy and other commodity shipments through the Middle East. Iran, however, says it effectively controls a large part of the waterway and plans to impose a toll system in response to the US war launched by Trump on February 28. Also Read: Germany gives intelligence services broad powers amid rising threats, security lapses Trump made a similar claim on Tuesday while speaking to reporters. "We have total control over the Hormuz Strait right now. They don't have control. We have total control. We own it." The remarks came amid a prolonged confrontation over the strategic maritime passage. Nearly 20 per cent of global petroleum trade moves through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump's latest statement also came as Washington and Tehran continued behind-the-scenes diplomatic engagement. Representatives from both sides have held indirect discussions over measures to ease the Hormuz crisis and restore regular maritime traffic. Tehran has reportedly sought compensation for war-related damage linked to the US war launched by Trump on February 28, along with compensation for economic losses caused by sanctions. Trump has publicly rejected the demand. At the same time, the Trump administration has intensified economic pressure on Tehran by enforcing existing sanctions and warning that additional punitive measures could follow if Iran refuses to comply. Iranian representatives have accused Washington of using military pressure and economic measures to seek unilateral concessions during the negotiations.

US President Donald Trump has again claimed that the United States has “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, insisting Iran can do nothing to challenge the US naval blockade.

'Nothing Iran can do': Trump again claims US has 'total control' over Hormuz

Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a landmark trilateral defence agreement known as the Mecca agreement on August 7 amid the US-Iran war and Israeli aggression in the region and disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed hope of the alliance growing and more countries joining the pact.&nbsp;Speaking to London-based Asharq Al-Awsat daily Erdogan said, "Our vision for it is not limited to the three countries, rather we aspire for it to grow, and perhaps appropriate conditions will emerge one day for all countries of the region to gather under its umbrella."&nbsp;According to Erdogan the pact was due to the "new circumstances" in the Middle East with regional players seeking to assume greater responsibility for their own security and stability.&nbsp;"Regional issues should be resolved by regional actors, and with this action, we consider that we have taken a first step toward achieving that goal," he said.&nbsp;"Resolving regional issues must be carried out away from formulas imposed from the outside. We know very well that solutions imported from abroad only bring disasters," he told the Saudi-owned newspaper.&nbsp;Turkey is hopeful of Egypt joining the pact in the next stage, according to Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who said only "a few technical issues" stood in the way.&nbsp;The historic Makkah Joint Defence Agreement was signed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.&nbsp;<h2>Why is the trilateral defence pact formed?</h2>&nbsp;The three nations are unified by similar concerns about the Shia revolutionary ideology of Iran, Israeli Zionist expansionism and failure of the US to contain the regional conflict. This is significant as Turkey has the second largest military in NATO, Saudi Arabia, one of the world's largest oil exporters, is home to two of the holiest sites of Islam, Mecca and Medina, and Pakistan is the only Islamic country armed with nuclear power.&nbsp;The pact follows a year of negotiation as Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan ​Fidan said that it favoured a broader regional agreement. It is a build-up on the Saudi-Pakistani pact, which treats an attack on either as an attack on both and encompasses “all military means”. Officials emphasise that this new platform is strictly defensive, intended to stabilise the region, and will not alter or undermine the prior international alliance commitments of any participant.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The three nations are unified by similar concerns about the Shia revolutionary ideology of Iran, Israeli Zionist expansionism and failure of the US to contain the regional conflict. 

Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a landmark trilateral defence agreement known as the Mecca agreement on August 7 amid the US-Iran war and Israeli aggression in the region and disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed hope of the alliance growing and more countries joining the pact. Speaking to London-based Asharq Al-Awsat daily Erdogan said, "Our vision for it is not limited to the three countries, rather we aspire for it to grow, and perhaps appropriate conditions will emerge one day for all countries of the region to gather under its umbrella." According to Erdogan the pact was due to the "new circumstances" in the Middle East with regional players seeking to assume greater responsibility for their own security and stability. "Regional issues should be resolved by regional actors, and with this action, we consider that we have taken a first step toward achieving that goal," he said. "Resolving regional issues must be carried out away from formulas imposed from the outside. We know very well that solutions imported from abroad only bring disasters," he told the Saudi-owned newspaper. Turkey is hopeful of Egypt joining the pact in the next stage, according to Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who said only "a few technical issues" stood in the way. The historic Makkah Joint Defence Agreement was signed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Why is the trilateral defence pact formed? The three nations are unified by similar concerns about the Shia revolutionary ideology of Iran, Israeli Zionist expansionism and failure of the US to contain the regional conflict. This is significant as Turkey has the second largest military in NATO, Saudi Arabia, one of the world's largest oil exporters, is home to two of the holiest sites of Islam, Mecca and Medina, and Pakistan is the only Islamic country armed with nuclear power. The pact follows a year of negotiation as Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said that it favoured a broader regional agreement. It is a build-up on the Saudi-Pakistani pact, which treats an attack on either as an attack on both and encompasses “all military means”. Officials emphasise that this new platform is strictly defensive, intended to stabilise the region, and will not alter or undermine the prior international alliance commitments of any participant.

The three nations are unified by similar concerns about the Shia revolutionary ideology of Iran, Israeli Zionist expansionism and failure of the US to contain the regional conflict.&nbsp;

'Our vision is not limited': Erdogan looks to expand regional defense pact

America wants to build a base on the Moon, and NASA wants ISRO on board. The reasons are clear. The United States needs to make the next era of lunar exploration bigger, faster and more cost-efficient. India has built its space programme around exactly that formula. Most importantly, it has already shown the world how to reach the Moon for a fraction of the cost.&nbsp;To sum it up in a nutshell, India has got more done, spent less, and above all, got the mission done, making India and ISRO extremely lucrative.&nbsp;NASA's Moon base programme invitation to ISRO is aimed at establishing a lasting human presence near the Moon's south pole by establishing humanity's first outpost. One that could prepare for crewed missions to Mars and drive lunar scientific breakthroughs.&nbsp;The invitation came during the ninth meeting of the India-US Civil Space Joint Working Group in Bengaluru. US Ambassador Sergio Gor called it a step towards deepening the US-India deep-space partnership.&nbsp;And Chandrayaan-3 explains why.&nbsp;In 2023, ISRO landed safely near the lunar south pole, a historic first, with a mission that cost roughly $75 million. Cheaper did not mean smaller. The mission delivered a landmark result and demonstrated the core strength of India's space model: engineering at a frugal cost, fast execution and the ability to turn limited resources into global-scale achievements.&nbsp;And that is exactly the kind of partner NASA perhaps needs now.&nbsp;Because a Moon base is not one mission. NASA envisions a permanent, habitable outpost where astronauts can live, work and conduct scientific research for extended periods. The base would be built through a series of crewed and uncrewed missions, with habitats, power systems, rovers and cargo operations developed over time.&nbsp;China also has a similar lunar ambition, targeting a crewed Moon landing before 2030 and the construction of an International Lunar Research Station at the Moon's south pole, running directly in a competitive space race alongside NASA's Artemis programme.&nbsp;And the development comes at a time when India is also building its first national space station, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station, with the first module planned for launch by 2028 and full completion targeted by 2035.&nbsp;India's maiden human spaceflight is targeted for 2027. And to ensure that Gaganyaan becomes a sustained space exploration mission, ISRO is also reportedly establishing a crew isolation facility and astronaut quarters in Sriharikota, where future astronauts will be trained and equipped for space travel.The location near the lunar south pole is also strategic. Scientists believe permanently shadowed craters there contain water ice, a potential source for life support and even future fuel production. Some elevated areas also receive near-continuous sunlight, making them valuable for solar power.But a permanent presence comes with a permanent bill.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-vijay-makes-tamil-nadu-state-song-mandatory-as-first-song-at-official-events-1786551341394">CM Vijay makes Tamil Nadu State Song mandatory as first song at official events</a>&nbsp;Habitats, power, rovers, cargo, life support, science and crewed flights will all have to work again and again. Every mission will cost money. Every failure will come at a high price.&nbsp;And that is where ISRO's experience becomes a strategic asset.&nbsp;India has shown it can build, launch and operate complex space missions without the budgets of the world's biggest space powers. It has also shown resilience. Chandrayaan-2 ended in partial success in 2019. Four years later, Chandrayaan-3 landed.&nbsp;NASA likely sees ISRO as a partner that brings technological sophistication but also something just as important for a long-term Moon programme: cost discipline and proven success.&nbsp;ISRO could also bring its experience in cost-effective mission design, reliable launch services and lunar science while in return gaining access to advanced expertise in habitats, life-support systems, in-situ resource utilisation and deep-space operations.&nbsp;India's participation would also push ISRO from robotic lunar exploration towards a role in sustained human presence on the Moon.&nbsp;So, the next space race may not be won simply by the country that can spend the most. It could also be won by the countries that can achieve the most with the least.

NASA is looking to partner with ISRO for its planned lunar base, seeing India's cost-effective space missions, Chandrayaan-3 success and growing human spaceflight capabilities as valuable assets for long-term Moon exploration.

America wants to build a base on the Moon, and NASA wants ISRO on board. The reasons are clear. The United States needs to make the next era of lunar exploration bigger, faster and more cost-efficient. India has built its space programme around exactly that formula. Most importantly, it has already shown the world how to reach the Moon for a fraction of the cost. To sum it up in a nutshell, India has got more done, spent less, and above all, got the mission done, making India and ISRO extremely lucrative. NASA's Moon base programme invitation to ISRO is aimed at establishing a lasting human presence near the Moon's south pole by establishing humanity's first outpost. One that could prepare for crewed missions to Mars and drive lunar scientific breakthroughs. The invitation came during the ninth meeting of the India-US Civil Space Joint Working Group in Bengaluru. US Ambassador Sergio Gor called it a step towards deepening the US-India deep-space partnership. And Chandrayaan-3 explains why. In 2023, ISRO landed safely near the lunar south pole, a historic first, with a mission that cost roughly $75 million. Cheaper did not mean smaller. The mission delivered a landmark result and demonstrated the core strength of India's space model: engineering at a frugal cost, fast execution and the ability to turn limited resources into global-scale achievements. And that is exactly the kind of partner NASA perhaps needs now. Because a Moon base is not one mission. NASA envisions a permanent, habitable outpost where astronauts can live, work and conduct scientific research for extended periods. The base would be built through a series of crewed and uncrewed missions, with habitats, power systems, rovers and cargo operations developed over time. China also has a similar lunar ambition, targeting a crewed Moon landing before 2030 and the construction of an International Lunar Research Station at the Moon's south pole, running directly in a competitive space race alongside NASA's Artemis programme. And the development comes at a time when India is also building its first national space station, the Bharatiya Antariksh Station, with the first module planned for launch by 2028 and full completion targeted by 2035. India's maiden human spaceflight is targeted for 2027. And to ensure that Gaganyaan becomes a sustained space exploration mission, ISRO is also reportedly establishing a crew isolation facility and astronaut quarters in Sriharikota, where future astronauts will be trained and equipped for space travel. The location near the lunar south pole is also strategic. Scientists believe permanently shadowed craters there contain water ice, a potential source for life support and even future fuel production. Some elevated areas also receive near-continuous sunlight, making them valuable for solar power. But a permanent presence comes with a permanent bill. Also Read: CM Vijay makes Tamil Nadu State Song mandatory as first song at official events Habitats, power, rovers, cargo, life support, science and crewed flights will all have to work again and again. Every mission will cost money. Every failure will come at a high price. And that is where ISRO's experience becomes a strategic asset. India has shown it can build, launch and operate complex space missions without the budgets of the world's biggest space powers. It has also shown resilience. Chandrayaan-2 ended in partial success in 2019. Four years later, Chandrayaan-3 landed. NASA likely sees ISRO as a partner that brings technological sophistication but also something just as important for a long-term Moon programme: cost discipline and proven success. ISRO could also bring its experience in cost-effective mission design, reliable launch services and lunar science while in return gaining access to advanced expertise in habitats, life-support systems, in-situ resource utilisation and deep-space operations. India's participation would also push ISRO from robotic lunar exploration towards a role in sustained human presence on the Moon. So, the next space race may not be won simply by the country that can spend the most. It could also be won by the countries that can achieve the most with the least.

NASA is looking to partner with ISRO for its planned lunar base, seeing India's cost-effective space missions, Chandrayaan-3's success and growing human spaceflight capabilities as valuable assets for long-term Moon exploration.

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Iran adds shocking new demand for Strait of Hormuz reopening: Who will pay?

Top News LIVE Updates | 'We can drive them crazy: Rahul attacks PM, Amit Shah

US Army Apache helicopter crashes in Texas, killing two soldiers

Trump announces Karoline Leavitt’s departure as White House press secretary

Iran could ‘prolong war’ until Trump is out of office, says IRGC adviser

Rare solar eclipse sweeps Europe as millions turn to the skies to witness celestial spectacle

Spain rejects Morocco’s Ceuta, Melilla claims, calls them ‘Super-Spanish"

Panama Canal fees surge; container ship shells out $4 million to jump queue

Rubio sets up task force to combat ‘birth tourism’, 600 visas revoked

Sam Altman falsely declared dead on Wikipedia, Google briefly picks up fake edit

Israel accused of deliberately starting wildfires in South Lebanon | Gravitas

Trump’s secret plane switch sparks ‘catering cart’ memes online

'Nothing Iran can do': Trump again claims US has 'total control' over Hormuz

'Our vision is not limited': Erdogan looks to expand regional defense pact

Cheap, fast, successful: Why NASA wants ISRO on the Moon

Trump sued over $100,000-a-month advance access to Truth Social posts

Jayme Leagh Franklin explains why she was holding her stomach beside Trump