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For centuries, ships have followed the same maritime route between Asia and Europe. Now, China wants to open a completely different route across the top of the world. As Arctic ice retreats, Beijing is turning a once-impenetrable frozen frontier into a potential new trade corridor.And the prize is enormous.&nbsp;A route that could slash sailing times between China and Europe, reduce dependence on crowded maritime chokepoints, and give China a new strategic link to the western markets.&nbsp;China calls it the “Ice Silk Road.” &nbsp;And if the route proves commercially viable, it could do more than shorten a voyage. It could redraw the map of global shipping.&nbsp;According to a Financial Times report, Chinese container shipping company Sea Legend is preparing to launch a regular service through the Arctic, linking Ningbo on China’s east coast with Felixstowe in Britain.The weekly service will travel along Russia’s northern coastline through the northern sea route.&nbsp;Sea Legend chose the name “Ice Silk Road” as a modern reference to the ancient Silk Road that connected China with Europe.The route could cut the usual 40-day sailing time between the two ports by roughly half. Interest in the North Sea route is growing. The route recorded 23 transits last summer, up from 15 in 2024. Climate change is helping open the passage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Research from the University of Southampton found that peak winter Arctic Sea ice fell 5.8 percent between 2024 and 2025, the largest decline on record. And the strategic attraction is clear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ships can potentially avoid major chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, where security threats have repeatedly disrupted shipping since February this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Arctic boom is also driving demand for specialized vessels.Maritime data shows that 167 ice-class ships were built last year the highest number in more than a decade. At least another 164 are due to be built this year. The United States is also aiming to increase its presence in the Arctic, directly challenging Moscow and Beijing.Russia already dominates the region with more than 40 icebreakers and a growing military footprint. In October last year, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an agreement with Finnish President Alexander Stubb to expand America’s fleet of icebreakers. Icebreakers are specialized vessels designed to cut through ice-covered waters, ensuring safe navigation for other ships. Under the deal, the U.S. Coast Guard will acquire up to eleven cutting-edge icebreakers to strengthen national security in the Arctic. The Arctic region covers nearly one-sixth of the earth’s landmass. And the region is estimated to hold nearly 20 percent of the world’s undiscovered oil and gas reserves, making it one of the most resource-rich and politically sensitive zones on earth. But the Arctic remains an unforgiving environment. Crews must navigate shifting ice and extreme weather, sometimes without reliable GPS. A vessel can become trapped if icebreaker support is unavailable. And unlike major global shipping lanes, the Arctic has limited infrastructure for emergencies. Salvage, firefighting, medical assistance, and rescue can be extremely difficult when something goes wrong.For China, the ice silk road offers speed and strategic reach. For global shipping, it represents something far bigger, the possibility of a new trade highway emerging from a rapidly changing Arctic.

Chinese container shipping company Sea Legend is preparing to launch a regular service through the Arctic, linking Ningbo on China’s east coast with Felixstowe in Britain. The weekly service will travel along Russia’s northern coastline through the northern sea route.

For centuries, ships have followed the same maritime route between Asia and Europe. Now, China wants to open a completely different route across the top of the world. As Arctic ice retreats, Beijing is turning a once-impenetrable frozen frontier into a potential new trade corridor. And the prize is enormous. A route that could slash sailing times between China and Europe, reduce dependence on crowded maritime chokepoints, and give China a new strategic link to the western markets. China calls it the “Ice Silk Road.” And if the route proves commercially viable, it could do more than shorten a voyage. It could redraw the map of global shipping. According to a Financial Times report, Chinese container shipping company Sea Legend is preparing to launch a regular service through the Arctic, linking Ningbo on China’s east coast with Felixstowe in Britain. The weekly service will travel along Russia’s northern coastline through the northern sea route. Sea Legend chose the name “Ice Silk Road” as a modern reference to the ancient Silk Road that connected China with Europe. The route could cut the usual 40-day sailing time between the two ports by roughly half. Interest in the North Sea route is growing. The route recorded 23 transits last summer, up from 15 in 2024. Climate change is helping open the passage. Research from the University of Southampton found that peak winter Arctic Sea ice fell 5.8 percent between 2024 and 2025, the largest decline on record. And the strategic attraction is clear. Ships can potentially avoid major chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, where security threats have repeatedly disrupted shipping since February this year.

Chinese container shipping company Sea Legend is preparing to launch a regular service through the Arctic, linking Ningbo on China’s east coast with Felixstowe in Britain. The weekly service will travel along Russia’s northern coastline through the northern sea route.

Why China’s ‘Ice Silk Road’ could rewrite global shipping | Gravitas

When the Taj Mahal was being built, the Mughal Empire was still ruling large parts of India. The Renaissance was still unfolding in Europe, and Shakespeare was still more than a century away from being born.&nbsp;But some fish swimming in North American waters today could be even older than all of that.A new study says Michigan’s lake sturgeon may live for as long as 427 years, turning these already famous "living dinosaurs" into some of the oldest freshwater animals on the planet.&nbsp;Researchers from Michigan and Wisconsin reached that estimate after analysing 44 years of data from five lake sturgeon populations in the Great Lakes.&nbsp;They repeatedly captured, measured, marked and released the fish, then tracked their growth when they encountered the same animals again years later.&nbsp;Unlike humans, lake sturgeon continue growing throughout their lives. Researchers used those growth patterns to estimate how long it would take a fish to reach a particular size.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wall-street-firms-pay-up-to-100-000-for-early-access-to-trump-s-truth-social-posts-1786464730321">Wall Street firms pay up to $100,000 for early access to Trump’s Truth Social posts</a>&nbsp;According to the study, a 63-inch male could live between 90 and 279 years. For females, the estimate stretches even further. A 71-inch female could live anywhere from 99 to 427 years.&nbsp;Earlier research had placed their maximum age at about 150 years.&nbsp;For perspective, Greenland sharks can live for up to 512 years, making them the longest-lived vertebrates known to science.&nbsp;And lake sturgeon themselves have been around for roughly 150 million years, long before humans ever appeared.

A new study estimates that Michigan’s lake sturgeon can live for up to 427 years, making them among the oldest freshwater animals known and far older than previously believed.

When the Taj Mahal was being built, the Mughal Empire was still ruling large parts of India. The Renaissance was still unfolding in Europe, and Shakespeare was still more than a century away from being born. But some fish swimming in North American waters today could be even older than all of that. A new study says Michigan’s lake sturgeon may live for as long as 427 years, turning these already famous "living dinosaurs" into some of the oldest freshwater animals on the planet. Researchers from Michigan and Wisconsin reached that estimate after analysing 44 years of data from five lake sturgeon populations in the Great Lakes. They repeatedly captured, measured, marked and released the fish, then tracked their growth when they encountered the same animals again years later. Unlike humans, lake sturgeon continue growing throughout their lives. Researchers used those growth patterns to estimate how long it would take a fish to reach a particular size. Also Read: Wall Street firms pay up to $100,000 for early access to Trump’s Truth Social posts According to the study, a 63-inch male could live between 90 and 279 years. For females, the estimate stretches even further. A 71-inch female could live anywhere from 99 to 427 years. Earlier research had placed their maximum age at about 150 years. For perspective, Greenland sharks can live for up to 512 years, making them the longest-lived vertebrates known to science. And lake sturgeon themselves have been around for roughly 150 million years, long before humans ever appeared.

A new study estimates that Michigan’s lake sturgeon can live for up to 427 years, making them among the oldest freshwater animals known and far older than previously believed.

Some Great Lakes fish could be upward of 400 years old: Study | Gravitas

Pakistan on Tuesday said that the US and Iran are close to a “some sort of” arrangement. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif signalled “things are shaping up again in favour of a peace arrangement or a deal" in an interview with Bloomberg. These comments offered another glimmer of hope as the US and Iran both are seeking reparation from each other.&nbsp;“The signals in the last two to three days are that we are close to some sort of an arrangement,” added Asif without providing any details. The comments came as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was meeting Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Tehran on Tuesday.&nbsp;Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson told a briefing earlier on Tuesday that separate discussions between Oman and Iran over management of ⁠the Strait of Hormuz and opening a channel were at a “critical juncture.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-denies-frequent-contact-fed-chair-kevin-warsh-interest-rates-1786457727700">Trump denies frequent contact with Fed Chair Kevin Warsh amid pressure over interest rates</a>There had been no response from either the US or Iran either confirming or denying Asif's comments. Despite tentative signs of progress in diplomacy, there were reports of new attacks on shipping in the Gulf of Oman and the Red Sea, highlighting the widening threat to maritime trade.Earlier today, a Panama-flagged container vessel named Vela Nova was struck by a missile fired from a US helicopter off the coast of Pakistan.The WSJ reported that the US military struck it after its crew ignored ⁠warnings from personnel working to enforce a naval blockade on Iranian ports. Four other crew members were killed in a suspected attack by Houthis ​on a small cargo vessel in the Bab ​el-Mandeb strait, said Yemen's Transport Ministry. The Houthis have not claimed the attack. They have maintained a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea since July 20, in response to what they described as a Saudi siege.&nbsp;Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said on Saturday that the strait won’t reopen until Washington lifts its naval blockade and sanctions, withdraws American forces from the region, pays war reparations, and releases frozen Iranian assets. The council also called for an end to US attacks on Iran’s regional allies. Trump traded barbs, saying that “If there’s damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages.” He also claimed that Hormuz is under US control.

Pakistan says the US and Iran may be nearing a deal as talks over the Strait of Hormuz reach a critical stage amid fresh attacks on Gulf shipping.

Pakistan on Tuesday said that the US and Iran are close to a “some sort of” arrangement. Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif signalled “things are shaping up again in favour of a peace arrangement or a deal" in an interview with Bloomberg. These comments offered another glimmer of hope as the US and Iran both are seeking reparation from each other. “The signals in the last two to three days are that we are close to some sort of an arrangement,” added Asif without providing any details. The comments came as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was meeting Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Tehran on Tuesday. Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson told a briefing earlier on Tuesday that separate discussions between Oman and Iran over management of ⁠the Strait of Hormuz and opening a channel were at a “critical juncture.” Also Read: Trump denies frequent contact with Fed Chair Kevin Warsh amid pressure over interest rates There had been no response from either the US or Iran either confirming or denying Asif's comments. Despite tentative signs of progress in diplomacy, there were reports of new attacks on shipping in the Gulf of Oman and the Red Sea, highlighting the widening threat to maritime trade. Earlier today, a Panama-flagged container vessel named Vela Nova was struck by a missile fired from a US helicopter off the coast of Pakistan. The WSJ reported that the US military struck it after its crew ignored ⁠warnings from personnel working to enforce a naval blockade on Iranian ports. Four other crew members were killed in a suspected attack by Houthis on a small cargo vessel in the Bab el-Mandeb strait, said Yemen's Transport Ministry. The Houthis have not claimed the attack. They have maintained a maritime embargo against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea since July 20, in response to what they described as a Saudi siege. Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said on Saturday that the strait won’t reopen until Washington lifts its naval blockade and sanctions, withdraws American forces from the region, pays war reparations, and releases frozen Iranian assets. The council also called for an end to US attacks on Iran’s regional allies. Trump traded barbs, saying that “If there’s damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages.” He also claimed that Hormuz is under US control.

Pakistan says the US and Iran may be nearing a deal as talks over the Strait of Hormuz reach a critical stage amid fresh attacks on Gulf shipping.

Pakistan says US, Iran close to ‘some sort of arrangement’ despite shipping attacks

Wall Street companies have started subscribing to Donald Trump’s Truth Social posts for instant access, just days after Trump Media and Technology launched a new product offering early updates from the US President before they reach the general public.&nbsp;Trump Media, which owns Truth Social, said it has signed more than 10 customer agreements, mainly with high-frequency trading companies. The company said the customers are willing to pay between $60,000 and $100,000 a month for access to the Truth Social data feed, known as an application programming interface (API).&nbsp;"Our new Truth API product is already generating revenue, with more than ten customer agreements signed to date," interim CEO Kevin McGurn said in a press release, without identifying the customers.&nbsp;Trump has frequently moved markets through his social media posts. His latest Truth Social product now allows companies to pay for early access to his updates, giving Wall Street firms a potential advantage over ordinary users.&nbsp;For high-frequency trading systems, milliseconds can carry significant financial value. Their algorithms scan for signals to buy or sell assets, and regular traders may see the information only after the market has already reacted.&nbsp;Trump remains Truth Social’s most-followed and influential poster. He often announces policy decisions on the platform, sometimes even before members of his own administration know about them.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-andras-baka-viktor-orban-critic-chosen-as-hungary-s-new-president-1786462841529">Who is Andras Baka? Viktor Orban critic chosen as Hungary's new president</a>&nbsp;Instant access to announcements on tariffs, national security and executive orders could trigger sharp movements in oil, bonds, stocks and other assets.<h2>Truth Social faces financial losses</h2>Trump launched Truth Social in 2022 after Twitter banned him. The platform, which was later renamed X, had removed Trump from the service.&nbsp;Truth Social has not achieved widespread success beyond providing a platform for Trump’s policy updates. Trump Media reported a loss of $238.1 million for the quarter ended June 30.&nbsp;The company attributed much of the shortfall to declines in non-cash assets. These included more than $190 million in losses from "digital assets, digital assets pledged, and equity securities."&nbsp;Trump Media also said on Monday that it remains well-positioned to complete its proposed merger with nuclear-fusion company TAE Technologies in 2026.&nbsp;Democratic lawmakers criticised the arrangement and described it as a “shocking abuse of the office of the President”. They also called on the Securities and Exchange Commission to determine whether the arrangement violates federal securities laws.

The early access gives Wall Street trading firms Trump’s market-moving Truth Social posts milliseconds before the general public, allowing their algorithms to react faster to potential market shifts.

Wall Street companies have started subscribing to Donald Trump’s Truth Social posts for instant access, just days after Trump Media and Technology launched a new product offering early updates from the US President before they reach the general public. Trump Media, which owns Truth Social, said it has signed more than 10 customer agreements, mainly with high-frequency trading companies. The company said the customers are willing to pay between $60,000 and $100,000 a month for access to the Truth Social data feed, known as an application programming interface (API). "Our new Truth API product is already generating revenue, with more than ten customer agreements signed to date," interim CEO Kevin McGurn said in a press release, without identifying the customers. Trump has frequently moved markets through his social media posts. His latest Truth Social product now allows companies to pay for early access to his updates, giving Wall Street firms a potential advantage over ordinary users. For high-frequency trading systems, milliseconds can carry significant financial value. Their algorithms scan for signals to buy or sell assets, and regular traders may see the information only after the market has already reacted. Trump remains Truth Social’s most-followed and influential poster. He often announces policy decisions on the platform, sometimes even before members of his own administration know about them. Also Read: Who is Andras Baka? Viktor Orban critic chosen as Hungary's new president Instant access to announcements on tariffs, national security and executive orders could trigger sharp movements in oil, bonds, stocks and other assets. Truth Social faces financial losses Trump launched Truth Social in 2022 after Twitter banned him. The platform, which was later renamed X, had removed Trump from the service. Truth Social has not achieved widespread success beyond providing a platform for Trump’s policy updates. Trump Media reported a loss of $238.1 million for the quarter ended June 30. The company attributed much of the shortfall to declines in non-cash assets. These included more than $190 million in losses from "digital assets, digital assets pledged, and equity securities." Trump Media also said on Monday that it remains well-positioned to complete its proposed merger with nuclear-fusion company TAE Technologies in 2026. Democratic lawmakers criticised the arrangement and described it as a “shocking abuse of the office of the President”. They also called on the Securities and Exchange Commission to determine whether the arrangement violates federal securities laws.

The early access gives Wall Street trading firms Trump’s market-moving Truth Social posts milliseconds before the general public, allowing their algorithms to react faster to potential market shifts.

Wall Street firms pay up to $100,000 for early access to Trump’s Truth Social posts

Luigi Mangione's state murder trial over the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson will begin with jury selection on September 8, Judge Gregory Carro confirmed on Tuesday at what is expected to be the final pretrial hearing. Carro had previously set September 8 as the start date for the trial, which is expected to last between six and eight weeks. The judge said the proceedings would move ahead even if some outstanding motions remain unresolved.&nbsp;The decision clears the way for one of the most closely watched criminal trials in New York to enter its jury-selection phase next month. The jury will remain anonymous, a precaution used in some high-profile cases where jurors could face public pressure, harassment or threats. Mangione, 28, is charged in New York state court with second-degree murder, possession of a forged instrument and six weapons-related counts in connection with Thompson's fatal shooting in December 2024. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. He also faces a separate federal case and is scheduled to stand trial on federal stalking charges in January 2027.<h2>Anonymous jury for high-profile trial</h2>During Tuesday's hearing, Carro directed prosecutors and defense lawyers to work together on a questionnaire for prospective jurors. The identities of the selected jurors will be kept confidential, reflecting the extraordinary public attention surrounding the case.&nbsp;More than 84 media organisations have expressed interest in covering the proceedings, according to the judge. To accommodate the expected crowds, the court will provide an overflow room where journalists and members of the public can watch the trial. The anonymous-jury decision comes as authorities prepare for intense scrutiny of every stage of the proceedings.<h2>Mangione appears in court</h2>Mangione appeared in court on Tuesday wearing a gray suit, with his wrists shackled in front of him. He looked toward the gallery before taking his seat at the defense table. Around two dozen members of the public attended the hearing, with some wearing shirts expressing support for Mangione. The strong public interest is expected to continue through jury selection and the trial itself.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-andras-baka-viktor-orban-critic-chosen-as-hungary-s-new-president-1786462841529">Who is Andras Baka? Viktor Orban critic chosen as Hungary's new president</a><h2>Defense challenges media access</h2>Mangione's lawyers had raised concerns in letters submitted before Tuesday's hearing about whether the court and prosecutors were placing excessive restrictions on access to the trial for journalists and members of the public. Carro rejected those arguments during the hearing, describing the defense claims as “reckless mischaracterizations” and 'without merit'.&nbsp;The judge acknowledged that accommodating the large number of media organisations interested in covering the case would reduce the number of members of the public who could sit inside the courtroom. However, he said the public would continue to have access to the proceedings through the arrangements made by the court.<h2>What happens next?</h2>The immediate focus will now shift to jury selection, which is scheduled to begin September 8. Potential jurors will be questioned as prosecutors and defense lawyers seek to identify people who can fairly evaluate the evidence without being influenced by the intense publicity surrounding the case. The trial itself is expected to run for six to eight weeks.

Luigi Mangione's state murder trial over Brian Thompson's killing begins September 8 with an anonymous jury amid intense media and public interest

Luigi Mangione's state murder trial over the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson will begin with jury selection on September 8, Judge Gregory Carro confirmed on Tuesday at what is expected to be the final pretrial hearing. Carro had previously set September 8 as the start date for the trial, which is expected to last between six and eight weeks. The judge said the proceedings would move ahead even if some outstanding motions remain unresolved. The decision clears the way for one of the most closely watched criminal trials in New York to enter its jury-selection phase next month. The jury will remain anonymous, a precaution used in some high-profile cases where jurors could face public pressure, harassment or threats. Mangione, 28, is charged in New York state court with second-degree murder, possession of a forged instrument and six weapons-related counts in connection with Thompson's fatal shooting in December 2024. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. He also faces a separate federal case and is scheduled to stand trial on federal stalking charges in January 2027. Anonymous jury for high-profile trial During Tuesday's hearing, Carro directed prosecutors and defense lawyers to work together on a questionnaire for prospective jurors. The identities of the selected jurors will be kept confidential, reflecting the extraordinary public attention surrounding the case. More than 84 media organisations have expressed interest in covering the proceedings, according to the judge. To accommodate the expected crowds, the court will provide an overflow room where journalists and members of the public can watch the trial. The anonymous-jury decision comes as authorities prepare for intense scrutiny of every stage of the proceedings. Mangione appears in court Mangione appeared in court on Tuesday wearing a gray suit, with his wrists shackled in front of him. He looked toward the gallery before taking his seat at the defense table. Around two dozen members of the public attended the hearing, with some wearing shirts expressing support for Mangione. The strong public interest is expected to continue through jury selection and the trial itself. Also Read: Who is Andras Baka? Viktor Orban critic chosen as Hungary's new president Defense challenges media access Mangione's lawyers had raised concerns in letters submitted before Tuesday's hearing about whether the court and prosecutors were placing excessive restrictions on access to the trial for journalists and members of the public. Carro rejected those arguments during the hearing, describing the defense claims as “reckless mischaracterizations” and 'without merit'. The judge acknowledged that accommodating the large number of media organisations interested in covering the case would reduce the number of members of the public who could sit inside the courtroom. However, he said the public would continue to have access to the proceedings through the arrangements made by the court. What happens next? The immediate focus will now shift to jury selection, which is scheduled to begin September 8. Potential jurors will be questioned as prosecutors and defense lawyers seek to identify people who can fairly evaluate the evidence without being influenced by the intense publicity surrounding the case. The trial itself is expected to run for six to eight weeks.

Luigi Mangione's state murder trial will begin September 8 with an anonymous jury over the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson

Luigi Mangione’s state murder trial set to begin with jury selection on September 8

India has never lacked aspiring doctors; the NEET exam draws hundreds of thousands of hopefuls every year. But the path from that exam to a medical degree, and often a visa stamp, is anything but linear. While postgraduate students heading abroad tend to face a relatively clearer process, it's those just entering the system who confront the real maze of decisions.&nbsp;Foreign universities do not ask for a NEET scorecard as part of their admissions process a student can be accepted into a strong international programme without ever submitting a NEET result. But recognition to practice medicine back home in India is governed entirely separately, by the National Medical Commission. Under the NMC's regulations, Indian citizens intending to obtain a primary medical qualification from an institution outside India, on or after May 2018, must mandatorily qualify NEET-UG. The NEET result itself is treated as the Eligibility Certificate for this purpose, valid for three years from the date the result is declared.&nbsp;The real complexity comes after graduation. Returning students currently must clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination to obtain a licence to practice in India. Under the NMC's National Exit Test Regulations, 2023, this exam is expected to eventually be replaced by the National Exit Test, a single, unified licensing exam meant to apply equally to graduates of Indian and foreign medical institutions alike.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/planning-to-study-or-work-in-the-us-one-missing-document-could-now-cost-indians-their-us-visa-or-green-card-1785996613542">Planning to study or work in the US? One missing document could now cost Indians their US visa or green card</a>&nbsp;Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance, a student loan firm, says interest in this space has never been higher. "We get a lot of queries asking whether NEET is required for healthcare courses abroad. The students we typically work with have already completed their graduation in India, and many have already cleared NEET at that stage. But for studying abroad more broadly, NEET is not always the deciding factor it's assumed to be. For students who plan to eventually work in India, however, it absolutely is."&nbsp;While Prodigy Finance does not currently support undergraduate programmes, Kapoor says students still have real options. "Platforms like NovaGrad exist precisely for this reason from scholarships to shortlisting the right university, whether it's undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate study, all of that information can be gathered in one place."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-scrap-60-day-grace-period-for-h1b-visa-holders-what-impact-will-it-have-on-indian-professionals-1786208927296">US to scrap 60-day grace period for H1B visa holders, what impact will it have on Indian professionals?</a>&nbsp;NovaGrad makes the distinction just as clear: NEET isn't needed for admission abroad, but it becomes essential the moment a student plans to return and practice in India. And here's the part that surprises most families the actual NEET score itself doesn't matter to the international university at all. Whether a student scored high or just cleared the minimum makes no difference to their acceptance abroad.&nbsp;That last point is worth repeating, because it's so often misunderstood. A low NEET score doesn't close the door to a strong international medical education; it only affects whether that degree can later be used to practice in India. For families weighing this decision, the real question isn't whether NEET can be avoided. It's where the student genuinely sees their medical career unfolding in India or abroad, and building the right plan around that answer from the start.

A low NEET score doesn't block studying medicine abroad, it determines whether you can practice in India. Here is how NMC rules work.

India has never lacked aspiring doctors; the NEET exam draws hundreds of thousands of hopefuls every year. But the path from that exam to a medical degree, and often a visa stamp, is anything but linear. While postgraduate students heading abroad tend to face a relatively clearer process, it's those just entering the system who confront the real maze of decisions. Foreign universities do not ask for a NEET scorecard as part of their admissions process a student can be accepted into a strong international programme without ever submitting a NEET result. But recognition to practice medicine back home in India is governed entirely separately, by the National Medical Commission. Under the NMC's regulations, Indian citizens intending to obtain a primary medical qualification from an institution outside India, on or after May 2018, must mandatorily qualify NEET-UG. The NEET result itself is treated as the Eligibility Certificate for this purpose, valid for three years from the date the result is declared. The real complexity comes after graduation. Returning students currently must clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination to obtain a licence to practice in India. Under the NMC's National Exit Test Regulations, 2023, this exam is expected to eventually be replaced by the National Exit Test, a single, unified licensing exam meant to apply equally to graduates of Indian and foreign medical institutions alike. Also read: Planning to study or work in the US? One missing document could now cost Indians their US visa or green card Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance, a student loan firm, says interest in this space has never been higher. "We get a lot of queries asking whether NEET is required for healthcare courses abroad. The students we typically work with have already completed their graduation in India, and many have already cleared NEET at that stage. But for studying abroad more broadly, NEET is not always the deciding factor it's assumed to be. For students who plan to eventually work in India, however, it absolutely is." While Prodigy Finance does not currently support undergraduate programmes, Kapoor says students still have real options. "Platforms like NovaGrad exist precisely for this reason from scholarships to shortlisting the right university, whether it's undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate study, all of that information can be gathered in one place." Also read: US to scrap 60-day grace period for H1B visa holders, what impact will it have on Indian professionals? NovaGrad makes the distinction just as clear: NEET isn't needed for admission abroad, but it becomes essential the moment a student plans to return and practice in India. And here's the part that surprises most families the actual NEET score itself doesn't matter to the international university at all. Whether a student scored high or just cleared the minimum makes no difference to their acceptance abroad. That last point is worth repeating, because it's so often misunderstood. A low NEET score doesn't close the door to a strong international medical education; it only affects whether that degree can later be used to practice in India. For families weighing this decision, the real question isn't whether NEET can be avoided. It's where the student genuinely sees their medical career unfolding in India or abroad, and building the right plan around that answer from the start.

A low NEET score doesn't block studying medicine abroad; it determines whether you can practice in India. Here is how NMC rules work.

Do you need NEET to study medicine abroad? Myths vs reality

Hungarian lawmakers on Tuesday elected former Supreme Court chief Andras Baka, a prominent critic of Viktor Orban who was removed from office during the former prime minister's rule, as the country's next president. Baka's election comes at a politically significant moment for Hungary, after the contested removal last month of former President Tamas Sulyok, an ally of Orban.&nbsp;The change is part of a broader political transition under pro-European conservative Prime Minister Peter Magyar, whose government is seeking to weaken Orban's lingering influence over Hungary's state institutions. Parliament, where Magyar's ruling Tisza party holds a two-thirds majority, elected the 73-year-old Baka with 140 votes in favour and six against. Tisza nominated Baka for the largely ceremonial presidency on Saturday.&nbsp;Magyar praised Baka's record, saying his career served "as an example of commitment to the democratic rule of law and constitutional principles" as Hungary needs to be "guided back onto the path of the rule of law and constitutional governance".<h2>Why Baka's election matters</h2>Baka's appointment carries strong symbolic significance because of his long-running conflict with the institutional changes introduced under Orban. The former judge served for 17 years at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg and became one of the most prominent judicial figures to challenge policies implemented during Orban's rule. His election therefore represents more than a change in Hungary's largely ceremonial presidency. Supporters of Magyar's government see Baka as a figure who could help restore confidence in the country's judicial independence and constitutional institutions after years of criticism over Orban's governance.<h2>Baka's history with Orban's government</h2>Baka has a long history of challenging decisions made during Orban's rule. After Hungary's transition to democracy, Baka briefly served as a lawmaker after being elected in 1990 on the Hungarian Democratic Forum (MDF) party list.He subsequently spent 17 years as a judge at the European Court of Human Rights, serving from 1991 to 2008.In 2009, Baka was nominated to head Hungary's Supreme Court.&nbsp;His tenure, however, ended abruptly in 2012 after he criticised legislation introduced under Orban that lowered the mandatory retirement age for judges from 70 to 62. Baka described the move as a judicial purge. The European Union and the United States criticised the retirement-age measure as illegal. In 2016, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that Baka's dismissal violated his freedom of expression.&nbsp;His legal battle against the Hungarian government's decision has since become an important part of the debate over judicial independence and the rule of law in Hungary. "His nomination also carries a symbolic meaning, given that Baka went all the way to prove that what happened to him was not really in line with European Union norms," analyst Bulcsu Zsiga of the Centre for Fair Political Analysis told AFP.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-denies-frequent-contact-fed-chair-kevin-warsh-interest-rates-1786457727700">Trump denies frequent contact with Fed Chair Kevin Warsh amid pressure over interest rates</a><h2>How long will Baka serve?</h2>Magyar has indicated that Baka could serve only part of the standard presidential term. The prime minister has linked the presidency to his broader plan to replace the Basic Law adopted during the Orban era with a new constitution.Magyar has said the replacement constitution should be drafted through extensive public participation.&nbsp;He has estimated that the process could take between one and one and a half years and has promised to begin public consultations next month. If that process moves forward, Baka's presidency could therefore become part of a larger constitutional transition rather than simply a conventional change of head of state.<h2>What Baka's presidency means for Hungary</h2>Baka's election marks a striking reversal from the period in which he was removed from Hungary's highest judicial office after challenging an Orban-era judicial reform. Now, the same judge who took his case to Europe's highest human rights court has been chosen to become Hungary's head of state under a government promising to restore democratic institutions. For Magyar, the appointment provides a powerful symbol of the political transformation promised during his election campaign.&nbsp;For Orban's supporters, however, the change represents another step in what they regard as an aggressive dismantling of the previous government's institutional legacy. Baka's presidency is therefore likely to be closely watched as Hungary enters a potentially far-reaching period of constitutional and political reform.

Hungary elects former Supreme Court chief Andras Baka as president as Peter Magyar seeks to restore rule of law and roll back Viktor Orban's legacy

Hungarian lawmakers on Tuesday elected former Supreme Court chief Andras Baka, a prominent critic of Viktor Orban who was removed from office during the former prime minister's rule, as the country's next president. Baka's election comes at a politically significant moment for Hungary, after the contested removal last month of former President Tamas Sulyok, an ally of Orban. The change is part of a broader political transition under pro-European conservative Prime Minister Peter Magyar, whose government is seeking to weaken Orban's lingering influence over Hungary's state institutions. Parliament, where Magyar's ruling Tisza party holds a two-thirds majority, elected the 73-year-old Baka with 140 votes in favour and six against. Tisza nominated Baka for the largely ceremonial presidency on Saturday. Magyar praised Baka's record, saying his career served "as an example of commitment to the democratic rule of law and constitutional principles" as Hungary needs to be "guided back onto the path of the rule of law and constitutional governance". Why Baka's election matters Baka's appointment carries strong symbolic significance because of his long-running conflict with the institutional changes introduced under Orban. The former judge served for 17 years at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg and became one of the most prominent judicial figures to challenge policies implemented during Orban's rule. His election therefore represents more than a change in Hungary's largely ceremonial presidency. Supporters of Magyar's government see Baka as a figure who could help restore confidence in the country's judicial independence and constitutional institutions after years of criticism over Orban's governance. Baka's history with Orban's government Baka has a long history of challenging decisions made during Orban's rule. After Hungary's transition to democracy, Baka briefly served as a lawmaker after being elected in 1990 on the Hungarian Democratic Forum (MDF) party list. He subsequently spent 17 years as a judge at the European Court of Human Rights, serving from 1991 to 2008. In 2009, Baka was nominated to head Hungary's Supreme Court. His tenure, however, ended abruptly in 2012 after he criticised legislation introduced under Orban that lowered the mandatory retirement age for judges from 70 to 62. Baka described the move as a judicial purge. The European Union and the United States criticised the retirement-age measure as illegal. In 2016, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that Baka's dismissal violated his freedom of expression. His legal battle against the Hungarian government's decision has since become an important part of the debate over judicial independence and the rule of law in Hungary. "His nomination also carries a symbolic meaning, given that Baka went all the way to prove that what happened to him was not really in line with European Union norms," analyst Bulcsu Zsiga of the Centre for Fair Political Analysis told AFP. Also Read: Trump denies frequent contact with Fed Chair Kevin Warsh amid pressure over interest rates How long will Baka serve? Magyar has indicated that Baka could serve only part of the standard presidential term. The prime minister has linked the presidency to his broader plan to replace the Basic Law adopted during the Orban era with a new constitution. Magyar has said the replacement constitution should be drafted through extensive public participation. He has estimated that the process could take between one and one and a half years and has promised to begin public consultations next month. If that process moves forward, Baka's presidency could therefore become part of a larger constitutional transition rather than simply a conventional change of head of state. What Baka's presidency means for Hungary Baka's election marks a striking reversal from the period in which he was removed from Hungary's highest judicial office after challenging an Orban-era judicial reform. Now, the same judge who took his case to Europe's highest human rights court has been chosen to become Hungary's head of state under a government promising to restore democratic institutions. For Magyar, the appointment provides a powerful symbol of the political transformation promised during his election campaign. For Orban's supporters, however, the change represents another step in what they regard as an aggressive dismantling of the previous government's institutional legacy. Baka's presidency is therefore likely to be closely watched as Hungary enters a potentially far-reaching period of constitutional and political reform.

Hungary elects Orban critic Andras Baka as president as Peter Magyar pushes reforms to dismantle the former PM's institutional legacy

Who is Andras Baka? Viktor Orban critic chosen as Hungary's new president

US President Donald Trump has pushed back on claims of constant dialogue with Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh. He confirmed that the two speak sporadically after the Wall Street Journal reported that the conversations had been frequent. Trump said that story was wrong and he and Warsh had been in touch “one time, briefly, a few days ago.” This comes as, over the past week, the White House has been targeting Fed Governor Lisa Cook to remove her over unverified mortgage fraud allegations.&nbsp;“I spoke to him one time, briefly, a few days ago, just a conversation. They made it sound like I live and breathe, you know, I speak to Kevin all the time, every time.” Responding to the questions of Federal Reserve Interest Rates, Trump said that they should be lower. “I know what he'd like to do, but he has to run it. He's got a board,” Trump said. “If it was up to him, it would be different, but he's got a board.”The recent reports cast doubt about the independence of the central bank. Trump had been on the tail of former Fed Chair Jerome Powell, and had openly criticised him for not delivering a rate cut. He then engineered the appointment of Kevin Warsh, who was supposed to deliver him the desired rate cut. But following the weak employment data of July, &nbsp;futures markets see about a 75 per cent chance of a quarter-point rate increase by the midterms.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-prices-surge-hormuz-deal-falters-gold-4400-1786451425044">Oil surges 5% as Iran-Hormuz deal falters; gold hits two-month high above $4,400</a>Now the White House is putting extreme pressure to fire Governor Lisa Cook, who is serving a 14-year term on the Fed’s Board. It is unclear whether Trump and Warsh's conversation happened before or after the call. It is unusual for a President to have direct contact with the Fed Chair. Trump had met Powell only once since his return to office in January 2025.&nbsp;The headline US inflation stands at 3.5 per cent in June, a significant cooling from the 4.2 per cent, which is still above the 2 per cent target. Ahead of this week's consumer and producer price inflation ​reports, the biggest influences on Fed thinking, it is hard to predict what the Fed is considering. A rate cut could create further inflationary pressure amid a weak employment outlook.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump denied frequent conversations with Fed Chair Kevin Warsh as the White House pressures the Fed over interest rates and Governor Lisa Cook.

US President Donald Trump has pushed back on claims of constant dialogue with Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh. He confirmed that the two speak sporadically after the Wall Street Journal reported that the conversations had been frequent. Trump said that story was wrong and he and Warsh had been in touch “one time, briefly, a few days ago.” This comes as, over the past week, the White House has been targeting Fed Governor Lisa Cook to remove her over unverified mortgage fraud allegations. “I spoke to him one time, briefly, a few days ago, just a conversation. They made it sound like I live and breathe, you know, I speak to Kevin all the time, every time.” Responding to the questions of Federal Reserve Interest Rates, Trump said that they should be lower. “I know what he'd like to do, but he has to run it. He's got a board,” Trump said. “If it was up to him, it would be different, but he's got a board.” The recent reports cast doubt about the independence of the central bank. Trump had been on the tail of former Fed Chair Jerome Powell, and had openly criticised him for not delivering a rate cut. He then engineered the appointment of Kevin Warsh, who was supposed to deliver him the desired rate cut. But following the weak employment data of July, futures markets see about a 75 per cent chance of a quarter-point rate increase by the midterms. Also Read: Oil surges 5% as Iran-Hormuz deal falters; gold hits two-month high above $4,400 Now the White House is putting extreme pressure to fire Governor Lisa Cook, who is serving a 14-year term on the Fed’s Board. It is unclear whether Trump and Warsh's conversation happened before or after the call. It is unusual for a President to have direct contact with the Fed Chair. Trump had met Powell only once since his return to office in January 2025. The headline US inflation stands at 3.5 per cent in June, a significant cooling from the 4.2 per cent, which is still above the 2 per cent target. Ahead of this week's consumer and producer price inflation reports, the biggest influences on Fed thinking, it is hard to predict what the Fed is considering. A rate cut could create further inflationary pressure amid a weak employment outlook.

Donald Trump denied frequent conversations with Fed Chair Kevin Warsh as the White House pressures the Fed over interest rates and Governor Lisa Cook.

Trump denies frequent contact with Fed Chair Kevin Warsh amid pressure over interest rates

The death toll from Monday’s 7.4 magnitude devastating earthquake in Colombia rose to 213 on Tuesday, with over 900 people injured, and around 3,000 still missing as rescue workers search for any signs of life in the rubble of collapsed buildings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Most casualties were reported from the western cities of Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdo. The Colombian mayors also reported 165 buildings collapsed in the 7.4-magnitude earthquake.&nbsp;The earthquake has left a trail of destruction across the South American country.&nbsp;The number of confirmed deaths as a result of the earthquake has reached at least 213, as per the Association of Mayors.&nbsp;As per reports, 95 deaths have been confirmed in Cali, 66 in Pereira, 38 in the department of Valle del Cauca, excluding Cali, 9 in Quibdó, and 5 in Manizales.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-helicopter-opens-fire-on-panama-flagged-ship-breaking-blockade-of-iran-1786456732550">: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’</a><h2>‘Cali and Pereira most affected, people still trapped’</h2>&nbsp;Cali and Pereira “present the most critical situation, with collapsed structures and people trapped,” said a report released by the Colombian Association of Capital Cities on Tuesday morning.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Bogotá and Medellín, the two largest and most populous cities in the country, have not reported serious damage and continue to keep their verification protocols active, it added.&nbsp;&nbsp;The earthquake struck San José del Palmar in the mountainous region of Chocó, with tremors hurtling through the capital Bogotá and several other densely populated cities, including Pereira and Cali.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-turns-around-iran-s-demand-for-compensation-back-on-it-says-tehran-must-pay-for-those-killed-wounded-1786381999140">Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded</a>&nbsp;Colombia’s President Abelardo de la Espriella, who was only inaugurated on Friday, swiftly declared a state of national emergency, as international leaders pledged to bolster rescue and aid operations on the ground.&nbsp;<h2>Paramedics struggle to keep pace with emergency needs</h2>&nbsp;Nearly 24 hours after the earthquake first struck Colombia, paramedics are struggling to keep pace with emergency needs.&nbsp;The quake struck at a depth of around 96 km (60 miles), causing widespread destruction across the coffee-growing region. It had its epicentre about three miles east of San José del Palmar, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mojtaba-khamenei-appoints-iran-s-6-new-military-commanders-fills-up-vacant-posts-1786391474930">Mojtaba Khamenei appoints Iran’s 6 new military commanders, fills up vacant posts</a>&nbsp;Multi-storey buildings were reduced to rubble in Pereira and Cali, while part of a historic cathedral tower in Manizales was damaged.&nbsp;Emergency workers, assisted by police, soldiers and volunteers, continued rescue efforts.<h2>Part of a hospital collapses in Cali</h2>&nbsp;In Cali, dozens of buildings were destroyed or left dangerously unstable. Some parts of a hospital, including floors housing paediatric units, collapsed, trapping patients and forcing around 600 others to receive treatment outdoors.&nbsp;<h2>Colombian govt deploys troops for emergency response &nbsp;</h2>Colombia's military published footage on its social media accounts on Tuesday, showing the deployment of personnel, medical equipment and emergency supplies as authorities stepped up their response to the devastating earthquake.&nbsp;&nbsp;Defence Ministry footage showed troops loading cargo planes and preparing campaign beds for displaced residents and emergency workers. President Abelardo De La Espriella was also seen meeting soldiers before boarding a helicopter. The deployment comes as rescue teams continue searching collapsed buildings for survivors in hard-hit cities, including Pereira, Cali, Quibdo, and Manizales.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As per reports, 95 deaths have been confirmed in Cali, 66 in Pereira, 38 in the department of Valle del Cauca, excluding Cali, 9 in Quibdó, and 5 in Manizales. The Colombian mayors said 165 buildings had collapsed in the 7.4-magnitude earthquake. 

The death toll from Monday’s 7.4 magnitude devastating earthquake in Colombia rose to 213 on Tuesday, with over 900 people injured, and around 3,000 still missing as rescue workers search for any signs of life in the rubble of collapsed buildings. Most casualties were reported from the western cities of Cali, Pereira, Manizales, and Quibdo. The Colombian mayors also reported 165 buildings collapsed in the 7.4-magnitude earthquake. The earthquake has left a trail of destruction across the South American country. The number of confirmed deaths as a result of the earthquake has reached at least 213, as per the Association of Mayors. As per reports, 95 deaths have been confirmed in Cali, 66 in Pereira, 38 in the department of Valle del Cauca, excluding Cali, 9 in Quibdó, and 5 in Manizales. Also Read: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’ ‘Cali and Pereira most affected, people still trapped’ Cali and Pereira “present the most critical situation, with collapsed structures and people trapped,” said a report released by the Colombian Association of Capital Cities on Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, Bogotá and Medellín, the two largest and most populous cities in the country, have not reported serious damage and continue to keep their verification protocols active, it added. The earthquake struck San José del Palmar in the mountainous region of Chocó, with tremors hurtling through the capital Bogotá and several other densely populated cities, including Pereira and Cali. Also Read: Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded Colombia’s President Abelardo de la Espriella, who was only inaugurated on Friday, swiftly declared a state of national emergency, as international leaders pledged to bolster rescue and aid operations on the ground. Paramedics struggle to keep pace with emergency needs Nearly 24 hours after the earthquake first struck Colombia, paramedics are struggling to keep pace with emergency needs. The quake struck at a depth of around 96 km (60 miles), causing widespread destruction across the coffee-growing region. It had its epicentre about three miles east of San José del Palmar, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). Also Read: Mojtaba Khamenei appoints Iran’s 6 new military commanders, fills up vacant posts Multi-storey buildings were reduced to rubble in Pereira and Cali, while part of a historic cathedral tower in Manizales was damaged. Emergency workers, assisted by police, soldiers and volunteers, continued rescue efforts. Part of a hospital collapses in Cali In Cali, dozens of buildings were destroyed or left dangerously unstable. Some parts of a hospital, including floors housing paediatric units, collapsed, trapping patients and forcing around 600 others to receive treatment outdoors. Colombian govt deploys troops for emergency response Colombia's military published footage on its social media accounts on Tuesday, showing the deployment of personnel, medical equipment and emergency supplies as authorities stepped up their response to the devastating earthquake. Defence Ministry footage showed troops loading cargo planes and preparing campaign beds for displaced residents and emergency workers. President Abelardo De La Espriella was also seen meeting soldiers before boarding a helicopter. The deployment comes as rescue teams continue searching collapsed buildings for survivors in hard-hit cities, including Pereira, Cali, Quibdo, and Manizales.

As per reports, 95 deaths have been confirmed in Cali, 66 in Pereira, 38 in the department of Valle del Cauca, excluding Cali, 9 in Quibdó, and 5 in Manizales. The Colombian mayors said 165 buildings had collapsed in the 7.4-magnitude earthquake.&nbsp;

Colombia earthquake death toll rises to 213; over 3,000 missing as rescuers race against time

Meta and TikTok have agreed to strengthen fact-checking of content related to migrant crossings into Spain following a massive rush to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco late last month, European Union tech chief Henna Virkkunen said. The move comes after a surge in migration-related content online, including viral videos that encouraged would-be migrants to attempt the dangerous crossing.&nbsp;Virkkunen said the purpose of the new measures is to prevent criminal networks from using false information to lure potential migrants into attempting to cross the border, a phenomenon that has previously resulted in deaths. Meta and TikTok agreed with the European Union to establish an "ad-hoc escalation and cooperation mechanism with fact-checkers" under crisis protocols, according to Virkkunen's post on X.&nbsp;The European Commission and Europol, the European Union's pan-European police force, are now discussing the situation with the two social media companies on a daily basis, the post said. Virkkunen also held discussions with Spanish Digital Economy Minister Oscar Lopez on measures to prevent dangerous border crossings and reduce the loss of life.<h2>More than 70,000 migrants rushed towards Ceuta</h2>More than 70,000 would-be migrants reportedly flooded towards Ceuta in a mass rush on July 30. The incident resulted in nearly 100 deaths, highlighting the dangers faced by migrants attempting to reach the Spanish territory from Morocco. Officials have been increasingly concerned about the role of social media in encouraging such attempts, particularly when misleading information or videos create the impression that entering Ceuta is easier or safer than it actually is.&nbsp;A handful of viral videos reportedly encouraged would-be migrants to make the attempt. One of the videos was posted by a Spanish news outlet as part of coverage intended to highlight the pressure caused by migration. The spread of such material has raised concerns that content created for news or informational purposes can potentially be misinterpreted or exploited by criminal networks seeking to organise or encourage migration attempts.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-helicopter-opens-fire-on-panama-flagged-ship-breaking-blockade-of-iran-1786456732550">US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’</a><h2>EU steps up pressure on social media platforms</h2>The agreement with Meta and TikTok represents a broader effort by European authorities to respond quickly when online content contributes to a migration crisis. Under the new crisis mechanism, fact-checkers will be able to escalate potentially harmful or misleading content and coordinate with the platforms more rapidly.&nbsp;The European Commission and Europol are expected to continue monitoring developments and communicating with Meta and TikTok as the situation evolves. The focus is particularly on content that could provide false information about border conditions, crossing routes or the likelihood of successfully entering Spanish territory. The EU has previously placed increasing pressure on major technology platforms to address illegal content, disinformation and risks associated with their services.<h2>Social media's role under scrutiny</h2>The Ceuta incident has renewed debate over whether social media platforms can inadvertently facilitate dangerous migration attempts.Videos can quickly reach large audiences and may be shared without context, allowing false claims about border security or crossing conditions to spread.EU officials are particularly concerned about criminal networks exploiting these platforms to distribute misleading information and encourage people to undertake dangerous journeys.The new fact-checking arrangement with Meta and TikTok is intended to enable authorities and platforms to react more quickly during similar crises.For European officials, the immediate priority is to prevent misinformation from contributing to further mass crossings and avoidable deaths.

Meta and TikTok agree to fact-check Spain border content after a deadly Ceuta migrant rush. Know the EU's new measures and social media concerns

Meta and TikTok have agreed to strengthen fact-checking of content related to migrant crossings into Spain following a massive rush to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco late last month, European Union tech chief Henna Virkkunen said. The move comes after a surge in migration-related content online, including viral videos that encouraged would-be migrants to attempt the dangerous crossing. Virkkunen said the purpose of the new measures is to prevent criminal networks from using false information to lure potential migrants into attempting to cross the border, a phenomenon that has previously resulted in deaths. Meta and TikTok agreed with the European Union to establish an "ad-hoc escalation and cooperation mechanism with fact-checkers" under crisis protocols, according to Virkkunen's post on X. The European Commission and Europol, the European Union's pan-European police force, are now discussing the situation with the two social media companies on a daily basis, the post said. Virkkunen also held discussions with Spanish Digital Economy Minister Oscar Lopez on measures to prevent dangerous border crossings and reduce the loss of life. More than 70,000 migrants rushed towards Ceuta More than 70,000 would-be migrants reportedly flooded towards Ceuta in a mass rush on July 30. The incident resulted in nearly 100 deaths, highlighting the dangers faced by migrants attempting to reach the Spanish territory from Morocco. Officials have been increasingly concerned about the role of social media in encouraging such attempts, particularly when misleading information or videos create the impression that entering Ceuta is easier or safer than it actually is. A handful of viral videos reportedly encouraged would-be migrants to make the attempt. One of the videos was posted by a Spanish news outlet as part of coverage intended to highlight the pressure caused by migration. The spread of such material has raised concerns that content created for news or informational purposes can potentially be misinterpreted or exploited by criminal networks seeking to organise or encourage migration attempts. Also Read: US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’ EU steps up pressure on social media platforms The agreement with Meta and TikTok represents a broader effort by European authorities to respond quickly when online content contributes to a migration crisis. Under the new crisis mechanism, fact-checkers will be able to escalate potentially harmful or misleading content and coordinate with the platforms more rapidly. The European Commission and Europol are expected to continue monitoring developments and communicating with Meta and TikTok as the situation evolves. The focus is particularly on content that could provide false information about border conditions, crossing routes or the likelihood of successfully entering Spanish territory. The EU has previously placed increasing pressure on major technology platforms to address illegal content, disinformation and risks associated with their services. Social media's role under scrutiny The Ceuta incident has renewed debate over whether social media platforms can inadvertently facilitate dangerous migration attempts. Videos can quickly reach large audiences and may be shared without context, allowing false claims about border security or crossing conditions to spread. EU officials are particularly concerned about criminal networks exploiting these platforms to distribute misleading information and encourage people to undertake dangerous journeys. The new fact-checking arrangement with Meta and TikTok is intended to enable authorities and platforms to react more quickly during similar crises. For European officials, the immediate priority is to prevent misinformation from contributing to further mass crossings and avoidable deaths.

Meta and TikTok will fact-check Spain border content after a deadly Ceuta migrant rush, as the EU targets misinformation and criminal networks

Ceuta migrant crisis: Meta, TikTok agree to fact-check border content after nearly 100 deaths

US forces opened fire on a Panama-flagged ship that tried to run the American blockade of Iranian ports early Tuesday, a US official said, stepping up enforcement as the Trump administration attempts to squeeze the regime economically. The Panama-flagged vessel had reportedly ignored warnings from US forces as it tried to breach the blockade of an Iranian port.&nbsp;The helicopter then fired at the ship’s rudder in the Gulf of Oman, sparking a fire on board, which was later extinguished.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-turns-around-iran-s-demand-for-compensation-back-on-it-says-tehran-must-pay-for-those-killed-wounded-1786381999140">Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said it received a report of an incident involving a container ship and military forces in the Gulf of Oman. Maritime security sources said the vessel was believed to have been struck by a missile off the coast of Pakistan.&nbsp;There were no immediate reports of any casualties in the incident, which took place before dawn on Tuesday, but the official said the ship appeared to be trying to transfer its crew to another civilian vessel after the attack.&nbsp;Earlier, British maritime risk management group Vanguard and a separate maritime security source reported that a Panama-flagged container vessel named Vela Nova was struck by a missile fired from a helicopter while transiting through the Gulf of Oman about 71 nautical miles from the coast of Pakistan.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mojtaba-khamenei-appoints-iran-s-6-new-military-commanders-fills-up-vacant-posts-1786391474930">Mojtaba Khamenei appoints Iran’s 6 new military commanders, fills up vacant posts</a>&nbsp;“The missile struck the vessel, causing a fire that was subsequently extinguished,” said Vanguard’s initial report on the incident, adding that all 17 crew were accounted for.&nbsp;The location of the incident is significant, since the Gulf of Oman servesias a crucial shipping route linking the Arabian Sea with the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;The Vela Nova is registered to Golden Valley Marine Investment in Liberia and operated by Doris Shipping &amp; Trading in Turkey.&nbsp;Charlie Brown, senior adviser to United Against a Nuclear Iran, told the Washington Post that the Vela Nova had recently called at Mumbai alongside vessels linked to Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bangladesh-pm-restates-request-for-hasina-extradition-in-talks-with-indian-envoy-1786373569990">Bangladesh PM restates request for Hasina extradition in talks with Indian envoy</a>&nbsp;He said the ship had been alongside the Zyra and Enzo 2, which were subsequently associated with Port Klang.Brown claimed the Zyra had switched from the Iranian flag to what he described as a “false Comoros flag”, raising questions over whether reflagging was being used to obscure Iranian connections.&nbsp;The disabling of the Vela Nova near the blockade line highlights heightened scrutiny of shipping with potential links to Tehran, he added.&nbsp;US Central Command has not confirmed that American forces carried out the reported attack.Meanwhile, the UKMTO advised vessels to consider the latest maritime security information and maintain awareness of the evolving situation.

The Panama-flagged vessel had reportedly ignored warnings from US forces as it tried to breach the blockade of an Iranian port. The helicopter then fired at the ship’s rudder in the Gulf of Oman, sparking a fire on board, which was later extinguished.

US forces opened fire on a Panama-flagged ship that tried to run the American blockade of Iranian ports early Tuesday, a US official said, stepping up enforcement as the Trump administration attempts to squeeze the regime economically. The Panama-flagged vessel had reportedly ignored warnings from US forces as it tried to breach the blockade of an Iranian port. The helicopter then fired at the ship’s rudder in the Gulf of Oman, sparking a fire on board, which was later extinguished. Also Read: Trump turns around Iran’s demand for compensation back on it, says Tehran must pay for those killed, wounded The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said it received a report of an incident involving a container ship and military forces in the Gulf of Oman. Maritime security sources said the vessel was believed to have been struck by a missile off the coast of Pakistan. There were no immediate reports of any casualties in the incident, which took place before dawn on Tuesday, but the official said the ship appeared to be trying to transfer its crew to another civilian vessel after the attack. Earlier, British maritime risk management group Vanguard and a separate maritime security source reported that a Panama-flagged container vessel named Vela Nova was struck by a missile fired from a helicopter while transiting through the Gulf of Oman about 71 nautical miles from the coast of Pakistan. Also Read: Mojtaba Khamenei appoints Iran’s 6 new military commanders, fills up vacant posts “The missile struck the vessel, causing a fire that was subsequently extinguished,” said Vanguard’s initial report on the incident, adding that all 17 crew were accounted for. The location of the incident is significant, since the Gulf of Oman servesias a crucial shipping route linking the Arabian Sea with the Strait of Hormuz. The Vela Nova is registered to Golden Valley Marine Investment in Liberia and operated by Doris Shipping & Trading in Turkey. Charlie Brown, senior adviser to United Against a Nuclear Iran, told the Washington Post that the Vela Nova had recently called at Mumbai alongside vessels linked to Iran. Also Read: Bangladesh PM restates request for Hasina extradition in talks with Indian envoy He said the ship had been alongside the Zyra and Enzo 2, which were subsequently associated with Port Klang. Brown claimed the Zyra had switched from the Iranian flag to what he described as a “false Comoros flag”, raising questions over whether reflagging was being used to obscure Iranian connections. The disabling of the Vela Nova near the blockade line highlights heightened scrutiny of shipping with potential links to Tehran, he added. US Central Command has not confirmed that American forces carried out the reported attack. Meanwhile, the UKMTO advised vessels to consider the latest maritime security information and maintain awareness of the evolving situation.

The Panama-flagged vessel had reportedly ignored warnings from US forces as it tried to breach the blockade of an Iranian port. The helicopter then fired at the ship’s rudder in the Gulf of Oman, sparking a fire on board, which was later extinguished.

US helicopter opens fire on Panama-flagged ship ‘breaking blockade of Iran’

Brent crude futures and US crude futures both rose about 5 per cent on Monday as hope for a potential deal to open the Strait of Hormuz faltered. Oil prices briefly soared to $90 per barrel earlier Tuesday, hitting an intraday high of $90.02. Prices have since pared gains slightly to fluctuate between $87 and $89. Similarly, spot gold hit a two-month high earlier today, climbing above $4,400 an ounce for the first time since early June. The precious metal touched an intraday peak of $4,434.84 per ounce before paring some gains to trade in the $4,380 to $4,390 range.&nbsp;Iran has issued six strict preconditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. They want Washington to completely "correct its behaviour", no hostile language, absolute cessation of US and allied military aggression, Iran and its regional network across Lebanon, Palestine, Yemen, and Iraq; lifting of blockade and troop withdrawl, war reparation, removal of all "cruel and illegal" economic and political sanctions and asset release.US President Donald Trump responded to Iran's new demands of the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, seeking compensation for the damages to US army and bases done by Iran.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-assembly-anti-neet-resolution-centre-abolish-exam-1786446372416">NEET is against 'social justice, equality, and rights of states': Tamil Nadu Assembly passes anti-NEET resolution</a>“We’re going to ask for money for the damage they’ve done over a 50-year period. So if there’s damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages,” said Trump.&nbsp;"So if there's damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages,” and that “Also, with respect to the Iran negotiations, Iran should be responsible for the damages and death caused to the people of Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza!”The opening price of gold futures on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, was 0.6 per cent higher than Monday's opening price. This indicates that the precious metal is returning to its status of safe haven following a weak US labour report showing an unexpected loss of 23,000 jobs in July. The upcoming consumer price data due ​on Wednesday and producer price data on Thursday will provide further clues on the Fed's policy ​outlook. According to the CME FedWatch Tool. FEDWATCH on Monday, traders are currently pricing a 48 per cent chance of an interest-rate hike in September. An interest rate hike will put downward pressure on Gold prices.

Brent and US crude futures rose about 5% as hopes of reopening the Strait of Hormuz faded, while gold climbed above $4,400 following a weak US labour report.

Brent crude futures and US crude futures both rose about 5 per cent on Monday as hope for a potential deal to open the Strait of Hormuz faltered. Oil prices briefly soared to $90 per barrel earlier Tuesday, hitting an intraday high of $90.02. Prices have since pared gains slightly to fluctuate between $87 and $89. Similarly, spot gold hit a two-month high earlier today, climbing above $4,400 an ounce for the first time since early June. The precious metal touched an intraday peak of $4,434.84 per ounce before paring some gains to trade in the $4,380 to $4,390 range. Iran has issued six strict preconditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. They want Washington to completely "correct its behaviour", no hostile language, absolute cessation of US and allied military aggression, Iran and its regional network across Lebanon, Palestine, Yemen, and Iraq; lifting of blockade and troop withdrawl, war reparation, removal of all "cruel and illegal" economic and political sanctions and asset release. US President Donald Trump responded to Iran's new demands of the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, seeking compensation for the damages to US army and bases done by Iran. Also Read: NEET is against 'social justice, equality, and rights of states': Tamil Nadu Assembly passes anti-NEET resolution “We’re going to ask for money for the damage they’ve done over a 50-year period. So if there’s damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages,” said Trump. "So if there's damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages,” and that “Also, with respect to the Iran negotiations, Iran should be responsible for the damages and death caused to the people of Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza!” The opening price of gold futures on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, was 0.6 per cent higher than Monday's opening price. This indicates that the precious metal is returning to its status of safe haven following a weak US labour report showing an unexpected loss of 23,000 jobs in July. The upcoming consumer price data due on Wednesday and producer price data on Thursday will provide further clues on the Fed's policy outlook. According to the CME FedWatch Tool. FEDWATCH on Monday, traders are currently pricing a 48 per cent chance of an interest-rate hike in September. An interest rate hike will put downward pressure on Gold prices.

Brent and US crude futures rose about 5% as hopes of reopening the Strait of Hormuz faded, while gold climbed above $4,400 following a weak US labour report.

Oil surges 5% as Iran-Hormuz deal falters; gold hits two-month high above $4,400

Lebanon’s parliament on Tuesday (August 11) approved a law abolishing the death penalty, making the country the first in the Middle East to formally end capital punishment. “The draft law aimed at abolishing the death penalty in Lebanon was approved,” the speaker of parliament’s office announced.&nbsp;Lebanon last executed in 2004. Justice Minister Adel Nassar described the abolition as “historic” and said the threat of capital punishment had previously prevented Beirut from securing the extradition of suspects from countries that had outlawed the practice.&nbsp;Ramzi Kaiss, Lebanon researcher at Human Rights Watch, welcomed the decision and described it as “a monumental step for human rights in the country, representing a clear break from a cruel and arbitrary sentence that should never be imposed,” AFP reported.&nbsp;The parliament passed the abolition as part of a series of bills scheduled for discussion during the current legislative session. The package also includes a general amnesty law that lawmakers have debated for several years.<h2>Lebanon breaks with regional execution trend</h2>The decision assumes greater significance as the Middle East continues to record some of the highest numbers of executions in the world. The region largely remains undemocratic, while most democracies have either significantly reduced capital executions or abolished the practice.&nbsp;According to Amnesty International’s global report, Death Sentences and Executions 2025, Iran carried out more than 2,159 executions in 2025. It marked Iran’s highest annual execution total since 1981. Saudi Arabia carried out 356 death penalties during the same period, while Yemen recorded 51 executions and the United Arab Emirates recorded three.&nbsp;With the abolition, Lebanon will join 113 countries that have fully abolished capital punishment in law for all crimes, according to Amnesty International data.<h2>Where India stands on capital punishment</h2>India’s legal framework retains the death penalty for extreme offences, but courts apply capital punishment under strict judicial doctrines and statutory safeguards. Indian courts classify such cases under the “Rarest of Rare” doctrine.&nbsp;Since 2000, India has executed only eight individuals, highlighting the limited use of capital punishment and New Delhi’s approach towards executions.

Lebanon has abolished the death penalty, becoming the first Middle Eastern country to formally end capital punishment as executions remain prevalent across the region.

Lebanon’s parliament on Tuesday (August 11) approved a law abolishing the death penalty, making the country the first in the Middle East to formally end capital punishment. “The draft law aimed at abolishing the death penalty in Lebanon was approved,” the speaker of parliament’s office announced. Lebanon last executed in 2004. Justice Minister Adel Nassar described the abolition as “historic” and said the threat of capital punishment had previously prevented Beirut from securing the extradition of suspects from countries that had outlawed the practice. Ramzi Kaiss, Lebanon researcher at Human Rights Watch, welcomed the decision and described it as “a monumental step for human rights in the country, representing a clear break from a cruel and arbitrary sentence that should never be imposed,” AFP reported. The parliament passed the abolition as part of a series of bills scheduled for discussion during the current legislative session. The package also includes a general amnesty law that lawmakers have debated for several years. Lebanon breaks with regional execution trend The decision assumes greater significance as the Middle East continues to record some of the highest numbers of executions in the world. The region largely remains undemocratic, while most democracies have either significantly reduced capital executions or abolished the practice. According to Amnesty International’s global report, Death Sentences and Executions 2025, Iran carried out more than 2,159 executions in 2025. It marked Iran’s highest annual execution total since 1981. Saudi Arabia carried out 356 death penalties during the same period, while Yemen recorded 51 executions and the United Arab Emirates recorded three. With the abolition, Lebanon will join 113 countries that have fully abolished capital punishment in law for all crimes, according to Amnesty International data. Where India stands on capital punishment India’s legal framework retains the death penalty for extreme offences, but courts apply capital punishment under strict judicial doctrines and statutory safeguards. Indian courts classify such cases under the “Rarest of Rare” doctrine. Since 2000, India has executed only eight individuals, highlighting the limited use of capital punishment and New Delhi’s approach towards executions.

Lebanon has abolished the death penalty, becoming the first Middle Eastern country to formally end capital punishment as executions remain prevalent across the region.

Lebanon ends death penalty, becomes first in Middle East; where does region stand?

Following a summer marked by repeated intense heatwaves, French homebuyers and tenants are increasingly weighing heat resistance when searching for property, according to real estate professionals. Features like shutters, air conditioning, and protection from direct sunlight have moved up buyers' priority lists.&nbsp;In Paris, this summer's high temperatures made top-floor apartments beneath the city's zinc-roofed Haussmann buildings especially uncomfortable. Joseph Denke, an estate agent with FredeLion in Paris, told news agency AFP that indoor heat on these upper floors can become nearly unbearable, and noted that buyers have grown wary of south-facing units and apartments without cross-ventilation. One prospective buyer, 30-year-old Camille Couturier, cited concerns about a studio with windows on only one side, noting that heatwaves now arrive as early as May or June and that he wants a home he can comfortably live in over the next decade or more, without being forced to leave due to heat.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-heatwave-record-breaking-temperatures-trigger-nationwide-red-alert-1782376033585/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-heatwave-record-breaking-temperatures-trigger-nationwide-red-alert-1782376033585/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Research from Pouget Consultants and IGNES found that roughly half of French homes function as heat traps. A separate June survey of 1,750 users of the classified platform Leboncoin found that 80% had experienced discomfort during extreme heat, and a third said they'd consider relocating if heatwaves intensified further. Leboncoin's marketing director, Sophie Bourg, told AFP that summer comfort has become a recognised factor in housing decisions nationally. France's national weather service has said summers are expected to keep getting hotter due to climate change, with the country facing its fifth heatwave of the season this week.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heatwave-in-france-proves-deadly-as-40-drown-eiffel-tower-louvre-close-early-1782236812664">Heatwave in France proves deadly as 40 drown; Eiffel Tower, Louvre close early</a>&nbsp;Buyers are now also asking about orientation, floor level, shading, nearby trees, and nighttime ventilation, according to Yann Jehanno of the Laforet agency network, who spoke to AFP. Some listings have reportedly struggled to sell due to heat concerns, such as one Paris apartment cited by agent Christian Tokoto that lacks windows on both sides. Air conditioning, once uncommon in France, is now seen as a strong selling point, particularly in buildings where installing units is difficult, according to PAP chief executive Laetitia Caron. While no mass relocation trend has emerged yet, Bourg said "climatic comfort" is now a genuinely new factor shaping where people choose to live, alongside traditional considerations like location and opportunity. Jehanno added that climate-related risks are making long-term mortgage planning more difficult for buyers.

Heatwaves are reshaping French real estate as buyers look for summer comfort, shuttered facades, and homes protected against extreme heat.

Following a summer marked by repeated intense heatwaves, French homebuyers and tenants are increasingly weighing heat resistance when searching for property, according to real estate professionals. Features like shutters, air conditioning, and protection from direct sunlight have moved up buyers' priority lists. In Paris, this summer's high temperatures made top-floor apartments beneath the city's zinc-roofed Haussmann buildings especially uncomfortable. Joseph Denke, an estate agent with FredeLion in Paris, told news agency AFP that indoor heat on these upper floors can become nearly unbearable, and noted that buyers have grown wary of south-facing units and apartments without cross-ventilation. One prospective buyer, 30-year-old Camille Couturier, cited concerns about a studio with windows on only one side, noting that heatwaves now arrive as early as May or June and that he wants a home he can comfortably live in over the next decade or more, without being forced to leave due to heat. https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-heatwave-record-breaking-temperatures-trigger-nationwide-red-alert-1782376033585/embed Research from Pouget Consultants and IGNES found that roughly half of French homes function as heat traps. A separate June survey of 1,750 users of the classified platform Leboncoin found that 80% had experienced discomfort during extreme heat, and a third said they'd consider relocating if heatwaves intensified further. Leboncoin's marketing director, Sophie Bourg, told AFP that summer comfort has become a recognised factor in housing decisions nationally. France's national weather service has said summers are expected to keep getting hotter due to climate change, with the country facing its fifth heatwave of the season this week. Also read: Heatwave in France proves deadly as 40 drown; Eiffel Tower, Louvre close early Buyers are now also asking about orientation, floor level, shading, nearby trees, and nighttime ventilation, according to Yann Jehanno of the Laforet agency network, who spoke to AFP. Some listings have reportedly struggled to sell due to heat concerns, such as one Paris apartment cited by agent Christian Tokoto that lacks windows on both sides. Air conditioning, once uncommon in France, is now seen as a strong selling point, particularly in buildings where installing units is difficult, according to PAP chief executive Laetitia Caron. While no mass relocation trend has emerged yet, Bourg said "climatic comfort" is now a genuinely new factor shaping where people choose to live, alongside traditional considerations like location and opportunity. Jehanno added that climate-related risks are making long-term mortgage planning more difficult for buyers.

Heatwaves are reshaping French real estate as buyers look for summer comfort, shuttered facades, and homes protected against extreme heat.

Too hot to handle: How rising temperature is influencing France’s homebuyers | WION Decodes

While August 15 is etched in global history as the day India shed two centuries of British colonial rule in 1947, it also serves as a landmark date for national sovereignty across several continents. From the Korean Peninsula to the Arabian Gulf and Central Africa, these five nations mark August 15 as their defining moment of liberation, sovereign statehood, or national identity.<h2>South Korea</h2>August 15 is commemorated as Gwangbokjeol, translated as "The Day the Light Returned," marking its official liberation from 35 years of Japanese colonial occupation in 1945. Following the Allied victory in World War II, Imperial Japan surrendered, bringing an end to decades of forced assimilation and political suppression across the Korean Peninsula. Three years later, on August 15, 1948, the Republic of Korea was formally established as a democratic government in Seoul. Today, South Koreans honour the date with official state ceremonies, national flag-raising events, and vibrant cultural parades across the country.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-gears-up-for-80th-independence-day-celebrations-1786370419680/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-gears-up-for-80th-independence-day-celebrations-1786370419680/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>North Korea</h2>The country shares the same historical roots of anti-colonial liberation on August 15, observing the date as Chogukhaebangui Nal (Liberation Day). Like its southern neighbour, North Korea marks the end of Japanese rule in 1945, achieved through Allied operations and native resistance movements. Although post-war division along the 38th parallel eventually split the peninsula into two distinct geopolitical entities, August 15 remains one of the few historic milestones recognised on both sides of the border. In Pyongyang, the holiday is commemorated with mass state rallies, flower-laying ceremonies at national monuments, and military tributes.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vande-mataram-to-echo-from-red-fort-for-first-time-as-gen-z-takes-centre-stage-on-independence-day-1786415225398">Vande Mataram to echo from Red Fort for first time as Gen Z takes centre stage on Independence Day</a><h2>Republic of the Congo</h2>Located in Central Africa, the Republic of the Congo gained full independence from French colonial rule on August 15, 1960. Frequently referred to as Congo-Brazzaville to distinguish it from the neighbouring Democratic Republic of the Congo, the nation spent decades under French Equatorial Africa administration. Following sustained political advocacy and an overarching wave of decolonisation sweeping the African continent in 1960, the country severed formal ties with France under its first president, Fulbert Youlou. Every year, Congolese citizens celebrate their national holiday with public parades, community feasts, and traditional music in the capital city of Brazzaville.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-80th-independence-day-from-1947-to-2026-how-the-country-s-map-changed-over-80-years-1786422165717">India’s 80th Independence Day: From 1947 to 2026 - How the country's map changed over 80 years</a><h2>Bahrain</h2>On August 15, 1971, Bahrain formally declared its full independence from Great Britain, terminating decades of British protectorate treaties in the Persian Gulf. The decision followed a United Nations survey that overwhelmingly confirmed the Bahraini population's desire for an independent Arab state rather than integration with neighbouring powers. While August 15 marks the official signing of the treaty ending British control, Bahrain officially celebrates its National Day on December 16 to coincide with the ascension of the late Emir Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Nevertheless, August 15 stands as the actual legal date when modern Bahrain achieved sovereign statehood.<h2>Liechtenstein</h2>August 15 is the official National Day (Staatsfeiertag) of Liechtenstein, a tradition established in 1940. Though the tiny Alpine principality gained its sovereignty from the German Confederation in 1866, government leaders selected August 15 to combine the Feast of the Assumption, which is a major Catholic holiday, with the birthday of Prince Franz Josef II on August 16. Today, the nation marks the day with public festivities, speeches, a massive fireworks display over Vaduz, and an open celebration hosted at Vaduz Castle by the Reigning Prince.&nbsp;

India isn't alone on August 15. Learn how South Korea, North Korea, Congo, Bahrain, and Liechtenstein share this historic date for their independence.

While August 15 is etched in global history as the day India shed two centuries of British colonial rule in 1947, it also serves as a landmark date for national sovereignty across several continents. From the Korean Peninsula to the Arabian Gulf and Central Africa, these five nations mark August 15 as their defining moment of liberation, sovereign statehood, or national identity. South Korea August 15 is commemorated as Gwangbokjeol, translated as "The Day the Light Returned," marking its official liberation from 35 years of Japanese colonial occupation in 1945. Following the Allied victory in World War II, Imperial Japan surrendered, bringing an end to decades of forced assimilation and political suppression across the Korean Peninsula. Three years later, on August 15, 1948, the Republic of Korea was formally established as a democratic government in Seoul. Today, South Koreans honour the date with official state ceremonies, national flag-raising events, and vibrant cultural parades across the country. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-gears-up-for-80th-independence-day-celebrations-1786370419680/embed North Korea The country shares the same historical roots of anti-colonial liberation on August 15, observing the date as Chogukhaebangui Nal (Liberation Day). Like its southern neighbour, North Korea marks the end of Japanese rule in 1945, achieved through Allied operations and native resistance movements. Although post-war division along the 38th parallel eventually split the peninsula into two distinct geopolitical entities, August 15 remains one of the few historic milestones recognised on both sides of the border. In Pyongyang, the holiday is commemorated with mass state rallies, flower-laying ceremonies at national monuments, and military tributes. Also read: Vande Mataram to echo from Red Fort for first time as Gen Z takes centre stage on Independence Day Republic of the Congo Located in Central Africa, the Republic of the Congo gained full independence from French colonial rule on August 15, 1960. Frequently referred to as Congo-Brazzaville to distinguish it from the neighbouring Democratic Republic of the Congo, the nation spent decades under French Equatorial Africa administration. Following sustained political advocacy and an overarching wave of decolonisation sweeping the African continent in 1960, the country severed formal ties with France under its first president, Fulbert Youlou. Every year, Congolese citizens celebrate their national holiday with public parades, community feasts, and traditional music in the capital city of Brazzaville. Also read: India’s 80th Independence Day: From 1947 to 2026 - How the country's map changed over 80 years Bahrain On August 15, 1971, Bahrain formally declared its full independence from Great Britain, terminating decades of British protectorate treaties in the Persian Gulf. The decision followed a United Nations survey that overwhelmingly confirmed the Bahraini population's desire for an independent Arab state rather than integration with neighbouring powers. While August 15 marks the official signing of the treaty ending British control, Bahrain officially celebrates its National Day on December 16 to coincide with the ascension of the late Emir Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Nevertheless, August 15 stands as the actual legal date when modern Bahrain achieved sovereign statehood. Liechtenstein August 15 is the official National Day (Staatsfeiertag) of Liechtenstein, a tradition established in 1940. Though the tiny Alpine principality gained its sovereignty from the German Confederation in 1866, government leaders selected August 15 to combine the Feast of the Assumption, which is a major Catholic holiday, with the birthday of Prince Franz Josef II on August 16. Today, the nation marks the day with public festivities, speeches, a massive fireworks display over Vaduz, and an open celebration hosted at Vaduz Castle by the Reigning Prince.

India isn't alone on August 15. Learn how South Korea, North Korea, Congo, Bahrain, and Liechtenstein share this historic date for their independence.

Not Just India: 5 other nations that celebrate Independence Day on August 15

In recent weeks, Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen carried out several attacks in response to the US-Israeli war against the Islamic Republic. In the latest such strike, the Tihamah, a Tanzania-flagged small cargo and multipurpose vessel, was attacked in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait on Tuesday (Aug 11). Yemeni coastguard and government sources said two Pakistani and one Indonesian crew member were killed when the ship was sailing from Salalah in Oman towards Djibouti. Houthis haven't immediately claimed responsibility, but this is becoming a pattern. In recent months, the Houthis allegedly disrupted the movement of several vessels in the Red Sea, while also renewing the missile and drone strikes that have become an aspect of the Iran war. After a lull, the attacks began in late March following the US and Israeli strikes against Iran. More specifically, Saudi-linked shipping was targeted since mid-July. This follows the Houthi naval blockade on Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, which they called a response to the alleged Saudi siege of Yemen, an allegation rejected by the Arab kingdom.<h2>Saudi-flagged or Saudi-linked vessels a key target of Houthis</h2>The last few weeks have seen the Houthis using missiles, drones and unmanned surface vessels (USVs), that disproportionately target Saudi-linked ships. The aim is to threaten vessel traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This has led to increased war-risk premiums and the rerouting of some vessels. Shipping traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz has fallen sharply amid the wider regional conflict.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-runs-away-from-houthi-battlefield-refrains-from-deploying-army-against-houthis-1786383048120/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-runs-away-from-houthi-battlefield-refrains-from-deploying-army-against-houthis-1786383048120/embed</a><h2>Key commercial vessel incidents in recent months allegedly involving Houthis</h2>On July 22, the Saudi-flagged tanker Encelia and the Saudi-linked vessel Layla were targeted by the Houthis, who claimed to have carried out the attacks because the vessels had violated their blockade. Encelia was hit in the Red Sea, causing a fire at the bow. There were no reported casualties and the crew was safe. On July 22, the Saudi-linked vessel NCC Masa was hit while sailing in the Red Sea, damaging its hull. The ship resumed its journey after the attack, with the vessel and crew reported to be safe.On July 28, the Saudi-flagged oil tanker NCC Ghazal was attacked using what was reported to be ballistic missiles.&nbsp;The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), a British maritime security organisation that monitors shipping incidents, reported that a tanker had heard an explosion in the Red Sea. The crew was reported to be safe.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mecca-deal-cracks-in-24-hours-pakistan-runs-away-from-houthi-battlefield-gravitas-1786384312713">Mecca deal cracks in 24 hours, Pakistan runs away from Houthi battlefield | Gravitas</a><h2>India-flagged vessel targeted by Houthis</h2>On 4 August, the India-flagged MSV Faize Noore Oliya, &nbsp;carrying commercial goods, was struck by a projectile near Yemeni waters, south of the Al Hudaydah area. The vessel capsized and sank, but all 14 crew members- 13 Indians and one Yemeni - &nbsp;were rescued by Yemeni authorities and coastguard, and brought to Mokha. The Houthis did not immediately claim the attack, but Yemen's internationally recognised government blamed the group.On 5 August, the Saudi-flagged tanker NCC Wafa was targeted in a missile strike near Yanbu in the northern Red Sea, north of the main Bab el-Mandeb zone. The same day, the Houthis also said they had targeted the Saudi oil vessel Daisy in the Gulf of Aden with a ballistic missile. The vessel was forced to turn back, while a blast was reported nearby, with minor or possible shockwave damage, reports had said, which added that the crew safe.<h2>Tihamah attack is the first major Houthi attack that led to fatalities</h2>The attack on Tihamah on Tuesday is the first reported incident in this latest escalation to result in fatalities among a commercial vessel's crew. Reports said the vessel suffered heavy damage, with a possible follow-up strike raising concerns about the safety of rescue efforts. The Houthis haven't claimed the attack at the time of writing.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-pakistani-killed-in-houthi-attack-in-test-for-iran-war-mediator-1786445563468">Two Pakistani killed in Houthi attack in test for Iran war mediator</a><h2>Houthi actions are rising in the broader war zone</h2>Beyond the incidents mentioned above, the Houthis have claimed additional attacks on Saudi-linked vessels as part of their blockade.Earlier in March, the Houthis resumed missile and drone strikes targeting Israel. The group launched its first attacks on Israel since the Gaza ceasefire on 28 March, saying the strikes were in support of Iran during the US-Israeli war. Some of the missiles and drones have been intercepted or failed to hit their targets. There have also been reports alleging that Iran has been coordinating with the Houthis, including reports of Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) advisers arriving in Sanaa.<h2>Houthis target Saudi oil infrastructure</h2>There have been reports of attacks affecting Saudi Aramco-related sites in Jizan and Yanbu in late July. A drone strike was reported against a refinery complex in Jazan in early August. Some of these attacks were successfully intercepted or thwarted.&nbsp;Houthi attacks have also increased inside Yemen, targeting government-held areas such as the port city of Mokha. On August 9, a Houthi attack there killed at least seven people, including four military personnel and three civilians, and wounded about 30 others. The attack involved ballistic missiles and drones. The Houthis said they were targeting Saudi troop concentrations and weapons depots. But the Yemeni military said civilian areas and infrastructure were also hit.<h2>Red Sea made into a strategic leverage point by Iran via the Houthis</h2>The resumption of Houthi involvement is widening the Iran-US-Israel war into a conflict that increasingly involves Saudi Arabia. This has complicated commercial vessel traffic, given the blockades and confrontation between US-led forces and Iranian forces around the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz elevated the strategic significance of Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb routes for some energy shipments, both of which are accessible to the Houthis and vulnerable to attack.The situation has effectively created two major maritime pressure points in the region. Iran's disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz had increased the importance of alternative routes through the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb. The Houthi blockade of Saudi-linked shipping threatens those alternative routes. This gives the Houthis a significant ability to exert pressure on regional shipping and energy flows, while also providing Iran with an additional strategic lever in the wider conflict.

Iran-backed Houthis escalated attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb, particularly targeting Saudi-linked ships. The Tihamah attack that killed three crew members is a major turning point, as it involves Pakistani casualties, amid the wider Iran-US-Israel war.

In recent weeks, Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen carried out several attacks in response to the US-Israeli war against the Islamic Republic. In the latest such strike, the Tihamah, a Tanzania-flagged small cargo and multipurpose vessel, was attacked in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait on Tuesday (Aug 11). Yemeni coastguard and government sources said two Pakistani and one Indonesian crew member were killed when the ship was sailing from Salalah in Oman towards Djibouti. Houthis haven't immediately claimed responsibility, but this is becoming a pattern. In recent months, the Houthis allegedly disrupted the movement of several vessels in the Red Sea, while also renewing the missile and drone strikes that have become an aspect of the Iran war. After a lull, the attacks began in late March following the US and Israeli strikes against Iran. More specifically, Saudi-linked shipping was targeted since mid-July. This follows the Houthi naval blockade on Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea, which they called a response to the alleged Saudi siege of Yemen, an allegation rejected by the Arab kingdom. Saudi-flagged or Saudi-linked vessels a key target of Houthis The last few weeks have seen the Houthis using missiles, drones and unmanned surface vessels (USVs), that disproportionately target Saudi-linked ships. The aim is to threaten vessel traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This has led to increased war-risk premiums and the rerouting of some vessels. Shipping traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz has fallen sharply amid the wider regional conflict. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-runs-away-from-houthi-battlefield-refrains-from-deploying-army-against-houthis-1786383048120/embed Key commercial vessel incidents in recent months allegedly involving Houthis On July 22, the Saudi-flagged tanker Encelia and the Saudi-linked vessel Layla were targeted by the Houthis, who claimed to have carried out the attacks because the vessels had violated their blockade. Encelia was hit in the Red Sea, causing a fire at the bow. There were no reported casualties and the crew was safe. On July 22, the Saudi-linked vessel NCC Masa was hit while sailing in the Red Sea, damaging its hull. The ship resumed its journey after the attack, with the vessel and crew reported to be safe. On July 28, the Saudi-flagged oil tanker NCC Ghazal was attacked using what was reported to be ballistic missiles. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), a British maritime security organisation that monitors shipping incidents, reported that a tanker had heard an explosion in the Red Sea. The crew was reported to be safe. Also read: Mecca deal cracks in 24 hours, Pakistan runs away from Houthi battlefield | Gravitas India-flagged vessel targeted by Houthis On 4 August, the India-flagged MSV Faize Noore Oliya, carrying commercial goods, was struck by a projectile near Yemeni waters, south of the Al Hudaydah area. The vessel capsized and sank, but all 14 crew members- 13 Indians and one Yemeni - were rescued by Yemeni authorities and coastguard, and brought to Mokha. The Houthis did not immediately claim the attack, but Yemen's internationally recognised government blamed the group. On 5 August, the Saudi-flagged tanker NCC Wafa was targeted in a missile strike near Yanbu in the northern Red Sea, north of the main Bab el-Mandeb zone. The same day, the Houthis also said they had targeted the Saudi oil vessel Daisy in the Gulf of Aden with a ballistic missile. The vessel was forced to turn back, while a blast was reported nearby, with minor or possible shockwave damage, reports had said, which added that the crew safe. Tihamah attack is the first major Houthi attack that led to fatalities The attack on Tihamah on Tuesday is the first reported incident in this latest escalation to result in fatalities among a commercial vessel's crew. Reports said the vessel suffered heavy damage, with a possible follow-up strike raising concerns about the safety of rescue efforts. The Houthis haven't claimed the attack at the time of writing. Also read: Two Pakistani killed in Houthi attack in test for Iran war mediator Houthi actions are rising in the broader war zone Beyond the incidents mentioned above, the Houthis have claimed additional attacks on Saudi-linked vessels as part of their blockade. Earlier in March, the Houthis resumed missile and drone strikes targeting Israel. The group launched its first attacks on Israel since the Gaza ceasefire on 28 March, saying the strikes were in support of Iran during the US-Israeli war. Some of the missiles and drones have been intercepted or failed to hit their targets. There have also been reports alleging that Iran has been coordinating with the Houthis, including reports of Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) advisers arriving in Sanaa. Houthis target Saudi oil infrastructure There have been reports of attacks affecting Saudi Aramco-related sites in Jizan and Yanbu in late July. A drone strike was reported against a refinery complex in Jazan in early August. Some of these attacks were successfully intercepted or thwarted. Houthi attacks have also increased inside Yemen, targeting government-held areas such as the port city of Mokha. On August 9, a Houthi attack there killed at least seven people, including four military personnel and three civilians, and wounded about 30 others. The attack involved ballistic missiles and drones. The Houthis said they were targeting Saudi troop concentrations and weapons depots. But the Yemeni military said civilian areas and infrastructure were also hit. Red Sea made into a strategic leverage point by Iran via the Houthis The resumption of Houthi involvement is widening the Iran-US-Israel war into a conflict that increasingly involves Saudi Arabia. This has complicated commercial vessel traffic, given the blockades and confrontation between US-led forces and Iranian forces around the Strait of Hormuz. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz elevated the strategic significance of Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb routes for some energy shipments, both of which are accessible to the Houthis and vulnerable to attack. The situation has effectively created two major maritime pressure points in the region. Iran's disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz had increased the importance of alternative routes through the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb. The Houthi blockade of Saudi-linked shipping threatens those alternative routes. This gives the Houthis a significant ability to exert pressure on regional shipping and energy flows, while also providing Iran with an additional strategic lever in the wider conflict.

Iran-backed Houthis escalated attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb, particularly targeting Saudi-linked ships. The Tihamah attack that killed three crew members is a major turning point, as it involves Pakistani casualties, amid the wider Iran-US-Israel war.

Houthis unleash terror in Red Sea, the new frontline of Iran war that also targets Saudi, Israel | All major attacks this year

Beijing is bracing for an extraordinary spell of rainfall, with Typhoon Dolphin expected to bring more than one-third of the capital’s average annual precipitation in just 24 hours as the powerful storm moves deeper inland. From Tuesday evening through Thursday, most parts of Beijing are forecast to receive heavy rainfall, with cumulative precipitation expected to exceed 150mm within a 24-hour period. Beijing receives an average of about 528mm of rainfall annually, with most of it typically recorded between June and September.&nbsp;The intense weather has prompted authorities to step up emergency preparations, close tourist attractions and suspend high-risk construction activities. Four districts on the outskirts of Beijing have activated the highest, level-one emergency flood response. In mountainous Mentougou district in western Beijing, authorities issued the highest flood emergency alert on Tuesday and urged residents to remain indoors unless necessary. People have also been advised to avoid travelling to mountainous areas and locations near rivers because of the heightened risk of flooding and landslides.<h2>Typhoon Dolphin brings widespread disruption across China</h2>Typhoon Dolphin, described as the strongest typhoon to hit China this year, has proved unusually resilient as it travels inland. The storm travelled nearly 6,000km (3,728 miles) before making landfall over the weekend, affecting China's eastern coast before pushing inland with a vast cloud field and large amounts of moisture. More than one million people were moved to safer locations across eastern China over the weekend as authorities prepared for torrential rainfall, flooding and landslides.&nbsp;In Wenzhou, a coastal city in Zhejiang province, more than 900,000 people were relocated and over 1,500 emergency shelters were opened. In neighbouring Fujian province, around 98,900 people were moved to safety. Shanghai authorities also relocated 215,600 people from areas considered vulnerable to the storm by Sunday evening. The storm has caused widespread disruption, with flooding reported in several areas and tourist attractions and infrastructure projects being temporarily shut.<h2>Hubei faces heavy rain and flood risk</h2>By early Tuesday, Dolphin had moved over Hubei province in central China, a major hub for automobile and high-tech electronics manufacturing with a population of more than 58 million. China’s National Meteorological Center renewed an orange alert for heavy rain on Tuesday, the country's second-highest warning level. Northwestern Hubei was expected to receive as much as 250mm of rainfall within 24 hours, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides.&nbsp;Authorities issued yellow warnings for cities including Xiangyang, Huanggang and Suizhou. The extreme weather has also affected tourism and infrastructure. Several scenic areas across Hubei announced temporary closures, including the popular Three Gorges Dam tourist area in Yichang. Of 107 major highway and waterway construction projects underway across the province, 26 high-risk projects have been suspended as a precaution. In Xiangyang, 57 of 59 tourist sites were reportedly closed as heavy rainfall caused flooding and disrupted transport. Authorities have also relocated thousands of residents as rivers and reservoirs came under increasing pressure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-pakistani-killed-in-houthi-attack-in-test-for-iran-war-mediator-1786445563468">Two Pakistani killed in Houthi attack in test for Iran war mediator</a><h2>Henan also on alert</h2>Neighbouring Henan province is also facing an increased threat from the storm as Dolphin channels moisture further north. Authorities have issued flash-flood warnings, with heavy rainfall raising concerns about flooding, landslides and disruption to transport and daily life. The continued movement of Dolphin's moisture plume means areas far from the storm's original landfall zone could experience dangerous rainfall.<h2>Why is Beijing at such high risk?</h2>Beijing's location and surrounding mountainous terrain make the city particularly vulnerable to flash flooding and landslides during periods of intense rainfall. The expected rainfall is especially significant because more than 150mm could fall within just 24 hours, a substantial share of the capital's typical annual precipitation. Authorities have therefore focused on keeping residents away from vulnerable mountain and river areas while preparing drainage and flood-control systems. The latest warnings come after Beijing was already hit by heavy rainfall earlier in August, raising concerns about saturated ground and the potential for additional flooding and landslides.<h2>Japan prepares for Typhoon Chan-hom</h2>China is not the only country facing severe weather. Japan is also preparing for heavy rain, strong winds, flooding and landslides as Typhoon Chan-hom approaches the country. The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned that the storm could move across Japan's mainland, raising the risk of further disruption. Chan-hom was tracking towards Japan on Tuesday, with forecasts indicating that the system could bring dangerous weather conditions as it moves closer to the country's populated areas.

Typhoon Dolphin threatens Beijing with more than 150mm of rain in 24 hours. See China flood alerts, evacuations, closures and Japan's storm threat

Beijing is bracing for an extraordinary spell of rainfall, with Typhoon Dolphin expected to bring more than one-third of the capital’s average annual precipitation in just 24 hours as the powerful storm moves deeper inland. From Tuesday evening through Thursday, most parts of Beijing are forecast to receive heavy rainfall, with cumulative precipitation expected to exceed 150mm within a 24-hour period. Beijing receives an average of about 528mm of rainfall annually, with most of it typically recorded between June and September. The intense weather has prompted authorities to step up emergency preparations, close tourist attractions and suspend high-risk construction activities. Four districts on the outskirts of Beijing have activated the highest, level-one emergency flood response. In mountainous Mentougou district in western Beijing, authorities issued the highest flood emergency alert on Tuesday and urged residents to remain indoors unless necessary. People have also been advised to avoid travelling to mountainous areas and locations near rivers because of the heightened risk of flooding and landslides. Typhoon Dolphin brings widespread disruption across China Typhoon Dolphin, described as the strongest typhoon to hit China this year, has proved unusually resilient as it travels inland. The storm travelled nearly 6,000km (3,728 miles) before making landfall over the weekend, affecting China's eastern coast before pushing inland with a vast cloud field and large amounts of moisture. More than one million people were moved to safer locations across eastern China over the weekend as authorities prepared for torrential rainfall, flooding and landslides. In Wenzhou, a coastal city in Zhejiang province, more than 900,000 people were relocated and over 1,500 emergency shelters were opened. In neighbouring Fujian province, around 98,900 people were moved to safety. Shanghai authorities also relocated 215,600 people from areas considered vulnerable to the storm by Sunday evening. The storm has caused widespread disruption, with flooding reported in several areas and tourist attractions and infrastructure projects being temporarily shut. Hubei faces heavy rain and flood risk By early Tuesday, Dolphin had moved over Hubei province in central China, a major hub for automobile and high-tech electronics manufacturing with a population of more than 58 million. China’s National Meteorological Center renewed an orange alert for heavy rain on Tuesday, the country's second-highest warning level. Northwestern Hubei was expected to receive as much as 250mm of rainfall within 24 hours, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides. Authorities issued yellow warnings for cities including Xiangyang, Huanggang and Suizhou. The extreme weather has also affected tourism and infrastructure. Several scenic areas across Hubei announced temporary closures, including the popular Three Gorges Dam tourist area in Yichang. Of 107 major highway and waterway construction projects underway across the province, 26 high-risk projects have been suspended as a precaution. In Xiangyang, 57 of 59 tourist sites were reportedly closed as heavy rainfall caused flooding and disrupted transport. Authorities have also relocated thousands of residents as rivers and reservoirs came under increasing pressure. Also Read: Two Pakistani killed in Houthi attack in test for Iran war mediator Henan also on alert Neighbouring Henan province is also facing an increased threat from the storm as Dolphin channels moisture further north. Authorities have issued flash-flood warnings, with heavy rainfall raising concerns about flooding, landslides and disruption to transport and daily life. The continued movement of Dolphin's moisture plume means areas far from the storm's original landfall zone could experience dangerous rainfall. Why is Beijing at such high risk? Beijing's location and surrounding mountainous terrain make the city particularly vulnerable to flash flooding and landslides during periods of intense rainfall. The expected rainfall is especially significant because more than 150mm could fall within just 24 hours, a substantial share of the capital's typical annual precipitation. Authorities have therefore focused on keeping residents away from vulnerable mountain and river areas while preparing drainage and flood-control systems. The latest warnings come after Beijing was already hit by heavy rainfall earlier in August, raising concerns about saturated ground and the potential for additional flooding and landslides. Japan prepares for Typhoon Chan-hom China is not the only country facing severe weather. Japan is also preparing for heavy rain, strong winds, flooding and landslides as Typhoon Chan-hom approaches the country. The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned that the storm could move across Japan's mainland, raising the risk of further disruption. Chan-hom was tracking towards Japan on Tuesday, with forecasts indicating that the system could bring dangerous weather conditions as it moves closer to the country's populated areas.

Typhoon Dolphin threatens Beijing with more than one-third of its annual rainfall in 24 hours as China faces floods, landslides and major disruption

Typhoon Dolphin: Beijing braces for record rainfall; high risk of floods and landslides

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday (August 11) reacted to the recently signed "Mecca Joint Defence Agreement" between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, saying India is examining the pact's implications from the perspective of national security, regional peace and stability.&nbsp;Speaking at the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India continues to closely monitor developments in the West Asia conflict and is assessing the potential impact of the agreement.&nbsp;"We continue to closely follow developments in the West Asia conflict. As far as this agreement is concerned, we are examining its implications both from the perspective of India's national security and considerations of regional peace and stability. India remains fully committed to safeguarding its national interests and will take all necessary measures in this regard," Jaiswal said.&nbsp;<h2>India responds to China's Arunachal Pradesh objection</h2>On China's reaction to India's decision to map and formally assign standard official names to 27 places and geographical features in Arunachal Pradesh, New Delhi reiterated that the northeastern state remains an integral part of India.&nbsp;"Arunachal is an inalienable and integral part of India, and this is a self-evident fact. At the same time, let me also underline that nothing can change this indisputable reality," Jaiswal said.&nbsp;The statement came days after China described India's move to identify 27 places and geographical features in Arunachal Pradesh by their standard names as "null and void".&nbsp;New Delhi also stressed the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the India-China border, saying the situation along the border directly affects the broader bilateral relationship.&nbsp;"In matters relating to the border areas between India and China, we have always emphasised in discussions with the Chinese side that we consider these issues as most serious and that the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in these areas is of the utmost importance. We have also stated that the state of the border affairs will reflect on the state of our larger bilateral ties," Jaiswal said.&nbsp;The MEA said India reiterated this position during the recently held 36th Meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) on August 6, 2026.&nbsp;Jaiswal added that both sides agreed to continue using existing diplomatic and military channels to address outstanding issues and prevent misunderstandings and miscalculations along the LAC.These mechanisms include the WMCC, local commander-level meetings and other agreed channels between India and China.

India also firmly rejected China’s objections to the naming of 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh, asserting that the state is an integral part of India and stressing that peace and tranquillity along the border remain vital to bilateral ties.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday (August 11) reacted to the recently signed "Mecca Joint Defence Agreement" between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, saying India is examining the pact's implications from the perspective of national security, regional peace and stability. Speaking at the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India continues to closely monitor developments in the West Asia conflict and is assessing the potential impact of the agreement. "We continue to closely follow developments in the West Asia conflict. As far as this agreement is concerned, we are examining its implications both from the perspective of India's national security and considerations of regional peace and stability. India remains fully committed to safeguarding its national interests and will take all necessary measures in this regard," Jaiswal said. India responds to China's Arunachal Pradesh objection On China's reaction to India's decision to map and formally assign standard official names to 27 places and geographical features in Arunachal Pradesh, New Delhi reiterated that the northeastern state remains an integral part of India. "Arunachal is an inalienable and integral part of India, and this is a self-evident fact. At the same time, let me also underline that nothing can change this indisputable reality," Jaiswal said. The statement came days after China described India's move to identify 27 places and geographical features in Arunachal Pradesh by their standard names as "null and void". New Delhi also stressed the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity along the India-China border, saying the situation along the border directly affects the broader bilateral relationship. "In matters relating to the border areas between India and China, we have always emphasised in discussions with the Chinese side that we consider these issues as most serious and that the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in these areas is of the utmost importance. We have also stated that the state of the border affairs will reflect on the state of our larger bilateral ties," Jaiswal said. The MEA said India reiterated this position during the recently held 36th Meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) on August 6, 2026. Jaiswal added that both sides agreed to continue using existing diplomatic and military channels to address outstanding issues and prevent misunderstandings and miscalculations along the LAC. These mechanisms include the WMCC, local commander-level meetings and other agreed channels between India and China.

India also firmly rejected China’s objections to the naming of 27 places in Arunachal Pradesh, asserting that the state is an integral part of India and stressing that peace and tranquillity along the border remain vital to bilateral ties.

'Examining implications': India reacts to Pakistan-Saudi-Turkey defence pact

The killing of two Pakistani nationals in a Houthi attack on a commercial vessel in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has raised a major question: will Pakistan now be drawn directly into the widening Middle East conflict? At least three crew members were killed after a deck cargo ship was attacked in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, according to Yemeni coast guard sources and military officials cited by news agency Reuters. The victims reportedly included two Pakistani nationals and one Indonesian national.&nbsp;The Tanzania-flagged Tihamah was sailing from Salalah in Oman towards Djibouti when it came under attack. The Houthis have not yet claimed responsibility for the incident. The attack comes at a particularly sensitive moment for Pakistan. Just days ago, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed a landmark mutual defence agreement in Makkah under which an armed attack against one member is to be treated as an attack against all three.&nbsp;That agreement was signed as Saudi Arabia faces growing attacks from Iran-aligned forces, including the Houthis. A Houthi drone attack on a Saudi Aramco facility in Jazan was reported shortly after the pact was signed. The deaths of Pakistani crew members in the latest Red Sea attack could therefore put additional pressure on Islamabad to clarify how far it is prepared to go.<h2>Will Pakistan join the war?</h2>For now, the answer is not necessarily. The deaths of Pakistani citizens could increase domestic and diplomatic pressure on Islamabad, but they do not automatically mean Pakistan will enter the conflict militarily. The new Pakistan-Saudi-Turkiye agreement is designed as a collective defence arrangement, but its practical application will depend on the circumstances of an attack and the decisions taken by the three governments. Analysts have also described the pact as a deterrence mechanism rather than an unconditional guarantee of military intervention.&nbsp;The key question, therefore, is whether the attack on the Tihamah is treated as an attack that triggers Pakistan's obligations under the new pact. That distinction could become crucial. The ship was Tanzania-flagged, and the reported victims were Pakistani and Indonesian crew members. The incident therefore differs from a direct attack on Pakistani territory, military forces or a Pakistani-flagged vessel. Islamabad could condemn the deaths, demand an investigation and increase maritime security without immediately deploying combat forces.<h2>Why the new tripartite pact matters</h2>The timing of the attack has put the newly signed defence agreement under an early spotlight. Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed the agreement in Makkah on August 7, establishing a framework for collective defence. The pact has been compared with NATO-style mutual defence arrangements because an attack on one member is to be regarded as an attack on all.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia is currently the member facing the most immediate threat from the Houthis. The Iran-aligned Yemeni group has already declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and has carried out attacks affecting Saudi interests. A Houthi strike on a Saudi Aramco facility was reported just days after the defence pact was signed. That means the pact could face its first major test in Yemen and the Red Sea. For Pakistan, however, there is a major difference between supporting Saudi Arabia's security and entering a broader war against the Houthis or Iran-aligned forces.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bashar-al-assad-sentenced-to-death-in-absentia-fall-of-a-dictator-political-profile-1786441067165">Bashar al-Assad sentenced to death in absentia: Fall of a dictator</a><h2>The Pakistani connection makes the latest attack more sensitive</h2>The presence of two Pakistani nationals among those killed changes the political optics of the attack. Pakistan has historically maintained close military and strategic relations with Saudi Arabia, while also seeking to avoid being pulled into conflicts involving regional powers. Islamabad has previously positioned itself as a potential mediator in Middle Eastern conflicts. Any decision to deploy forces could therefore represent a major shift in its regional policy.&nbsp;At the same time, the deaths of Pakistani citizens could make it increasingly difficult for the government to remain completely detached if attacks on commercial shipping continue. The question will be whether Islamabad responds through diplomatic channels, maritime security measures or direct military cooperation with Saudi Arabia.<h2>Could Pakistan deploy its military?</h2>A direct Pakistani military intervention remains far from certain. Pakistan could potentially strengthen maritime surveillance, provide intelligence, assist in protecting Saudi territory or participate in defensive operations without declaring war or launching offensive operations against the Houthis.&nbsp;A larger military deployment would carry considerably greater risks. Pakistan would have to weigh its relationship with Saudi Arabia against its broader regional interests, its relationship with Iran and the possibility of becoming directly involved in a conflict that could spread across the Red Sea and Gulf. The government would also have to consider domestic political reaction and the economic consequences of a prolonged military engagement.<h2>Why Bab el-Mandeb matters?</h2>The Bab el-Mandeb Strait, known as ‘Gate of Tears’ because of its historically treacherous sailing conditions, is one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints. It connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and provides a crucial shipping route between Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The strait has become even more significant as the Strait of Hormuz remains shut amid the wider regional conflict.&nbsp;The Houthis have repeatedly threatened to disrupt shipping through Bab el-Mandeb. Around 12% of global trade passes through the waterway, making any sustained disruption a major concern for international commerce. Kpler data showed that an average of 32 ships per day passed through Bab el-Mandeb last week, compared with around 50 vessels per day before the blockade, according to Reuters. The latest attack could therefore have consequences far beyond Yemen.<h2>What happens if more Pakistani nationals are killed?</h2>This could become the biggest test for Islamabad. If further attacks kill or injure Pakistani citizens, particularly if Pakistani-flagged ships or military personnel are targeted, pressure on the government to take a stronger position could rise sharply. A direct attack on Saudi Arabia would create another complication.&nbsp;Under the new Pakistan-Saudi-Türkiye defence framework, an attack on a member is to be treated as an attack on all three. But the pact's practical response would still depend on political consultations and the nature of the attack. This leaves Pakistan with several possible responses, from diplomatic condemnation and intelligence cooperation to defensive military assistance. A full-scale entry into the war would be the most consequential option and, at present, cannot be assumed from the deaths aboard the Tihamah alone.<h2>Will Pakistan join the war now?</h2>The short answer is: not necessarily — but the pressure on Islamabad is increasing. The deaths of two Pakistanis in the Bab el-Mandeb attack come at a highly sensitive moment, just days after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye created a new mutual defence framework. If the Houthis escalate their attacks against Saudi Arabia, target Pakistani assets or citizens again, or directly threaten the territory of a pact member, Pakistan could face a much more difficult decision.&nbsp;For now, Islamabad has room to respond diplomatically and defensively without becoming a direct combatant. But if the Red Sea crisis escalates and the new defence pact is formally invoked, the question of whether Pakistan will join the war could move from speculation to an immediate strategic decision.

Two Pakistanis were killed in a Houthi attack in Bab el-Mandeb. Will Pakistan join the war as its new Saudi-Turkiye defence pact faces its first test?

The killing of two Pakistani nationals in a Houthi attack on a commercial vessel in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has raised a major question: will Pakistan now be drawn directly into the widening Middle East conflict? At least three crew members were killed after a deck cargo ship was attacked in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, according to Yemeni coast guard sources and military officials cited by news agency Reuters. The victims reportedly included two Pakistani nationals and one Indonesian national. The Tanzania-flagged Tihamah was sailing from Salalah in Oman towards Djibouti when it came under attack. The Houthis have not yet claimed responsibility for the incident. The attack comes at a particularly sensitive moment for Pakistan. Just days ago, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed a landmark mutual defence agreement in Makkah under which an armed attack against one member is to be treated as an attack against all three. That agreement was signed as Saudi Arabia faces growing attacks from Iran-aligned forces, including the Houthis. A Houthi drone attack on a Saudi Aramco facility in Jazan was reported shortly after the pact was signed. The deaths of Pakistani crew members in the latest Red Sea attack could therefore put additional pressure on Islamabad to clarify how far it is prepared to go. Will Pakistan join the war? For now, the answer is not necessarily. The deaths of Pakistani citizens could increase domestic and diplomatic pressure on Islamabad, but they do not automatically mean Pakistan will enter the conflict militarily. The new Pakistan-Saudi-Turkiye agreement is designed as a collective defence arrangement, but its practical application will depend on the circumstances of an attack and the decisions taken by the three governments. Analysts have also described the pact as a deterrence mechanism rather than an unconditional guarantee of military intervention. The key question, therefore, is whether the attack on the Tihamah is treated as an attack that triggers Pakistan's obligations under the new pact. That distinction could become crucial. The ship was Tanzania-flagged, and the reported victims were Pakistani and Indonesian crew members. The incident therefore differs from a direct attack on Pakistani territory, military forces or a Pakistani-flagged vessel. Islamabad could condemn the deaths, demand an investigation and increase maritime security without immediately deploying combat forces. Why the new tripartite pact matters The timing of the attack has put the newly signed defence agreement under an early spotlight. Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye signed the agreement in Makkah on August 7, establishing a framework for collective defence. The pact has been compared with NATO-style mutual defence arrangements because an attack on one member is to be regarded as an attack on all. Saudi Arabia is currently the member facing the most immediate threat from the Houthis. The Iran-aligned Yemeni group has already declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and has carried out attacks affecting Saudi interests. A Houthi strike on a Saudi Aramco facility was reported just days after the defence pact was signed. That means the pact could face its first major test in Yemen and the Red Sea. For Pakistan, however, there is a major difference between supporting Saudi Arabia's security and entering a broader war against the Houthis or Iran-aligned forces. Also Read: Bashar al-Assad sentenced to death in absentia: Fall of a dictator The Pakistani connection makes the latest attack more sensitive The presence of two Pakistani nationals among those killed changes the political optics of the attack. Pakistan has historically maintained close military and strategic relations with Saudi Arabia, while also seeking to avoid being pulled into conflicts involving regional powers. Islamabad has previously positioned itself as a potential mediator in Middle Eastern conflicts. Any decision to deploy forces could therefore represent a major shift in its regional policy. At the same time, the deaths of Pakistani citizens could make it increasingly difficult for the government to remain completely detached if attacks on commercial shipping continue. The question will be whether Islamabad responds through diplomatic channels, maritime security measures or direct military cooperation with Saudi Arabia. Could Pakistan deploy its military? A direct Pakistani military intervention remains far from certain. Pakistan could potentially strengthen maritime surveillance, provide intelligence, assist in protecting Saudi territory or participate in defensive operations without declaring war or launching offensive operations against the Houthis. A larger military deployment would carry considerably greater risks. Pakistan would have to weigh its relationship with Saudi Arabia against its broader regional interests, its relationship with Iran and the possibility of becoming directly involved in a conflict that could spread across the Red Sea and Gulf. The government would also have to consider domestic political reaction and the economic consequences of a prolonged military engagement. Why Bab el-Mandeb matters? The Bab el-Mandeb Strait, known as ‘Gate of Tears’ because of its historically treacherous sailing conditions, is one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints. It connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and provides a crucial shipping route between Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The strait has become even more significant as the Strait of Hormuz remains shut amid the wider regional conflict. The Houthis have repeatedly threatened to disrupt shipping through Bab el-Mandeb. Around 12% of global trade passes through the waterway, making any sustained disruption a major concern for international commerce. Kpler data showed that an average of 32 ships per day passed through Bab el-Mandeb last week, compared with around 50 vessels per day before the blockade, according to Reuters. The latest attack could therefore have consequences far beyond Yemen. What happens if more Pakistani nationals are killed? This could become the biggest test for Islamabad. If further attacks kill or injure Pakistani citizens, particularly if Pakistani-flagged ships or military personnel are targeted, pressure on the government to take a stronger position could rise sharply. A direct attack on Saudi Arabia would create another complication. Under the new Pakistan-Saudi-Türkiye defence framework, an attack on a member is to be treated as an attack on all three. But the pact's practical response would still depend on political consultations and the nature of the attack. This leaves Pakistan with several possible responses, from diplomatic condemnation and intelligence cooperation to defensive military assistance. A full-scale entry into the war would be the most consequential option and, at present, cannot be assumed from the deaths aboard the Tihamah alone. Will Pakistan join the war now? The short answer is: not necessarily — but the pressure on Islamabad is increasing. The deaths of two Pakistanis in the Bab el-Mandeb attack come at a highly sensitive moment, just days after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye created a new mutual defence framework. If the Houthis escalate their attacks against Saudi Arabia, target Pakistani assets or citizens again, or directly threaten the territory of a pact member, Pakistan could face a much more difficult decision. For now, Islamabad has room to respond diplomatically and defensively without becoming a direct combatant. But if the Red Sea crisis escalates and the new defence pact is formally invoked, the question of whether Pakistan will join the war could move from speculation to an immediate strategic decision.

Two Pakistanis were killed in a Houthi attack as a new Pakistan-Saudi-Turkiye defence pact faces its first test. Will Islamabad join the war?

Two Pakistani killed in Houthi attack in test for Iran war mediator

Myanmar's military has intensified its aerial attacks on civilians, with the country's conflict showing no sign of easing, UN investigators said Tuesday (Aug 11). The military escalated such attacks and other crimes against civilians ahead of the elections completed in January, and these strikes have since "continued unabated," the United Nations' Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) stated.&nbsp;The tightly restricted vote, held by the ruling military junta, resulted in an uncontested win for its allies in civilian politics.Covering the period from July 2025 to June 2026, the IIMM's annual report documented a pattern of deliberate aerial strikes on civilians alongside arbitrary detentions, torture and sexual violence carried out by Myanmar's military. The report stated, "The frequency and intensity of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by the Myanmar military and by various armed groups continued to escalate."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-promised-pm-modi-it-won-t-let-its-territory-be-used-against-india-can-it-deliver-wion-decodes-1780395076740">Myanmar promised PM Modi it won't let its territory be used against India. Can it deliver? | WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;Myanmar's junta took power in a coup on February 1, 2021, removing Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government and ending a decade of democratic rule, plunging the country into violent conflict and a humanitarian emergency. According to the report, aerial attacks have struck homes, schools, medical centres, religious sites and camps for displaced people, resulting in deaths, injuries and destruction. It added that the "military's increasing reliance on paramotors and drones has made attacks harder for civilians to detect, limiting their ability to flee or seek shelter."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-junta-pardons-former-president-win-myint-of-post-coup-convictions-1776410482250">Myanmar junta pardons former president Win Myint of post-coup convictions</a>&nbsp;Investigators said fighting in Rakhine State, between the military and the Arakan Army rebel group, "intensified significantly" during the reporting period, while conflicts nationwide between the regime and armed groups "showed no signs of abating,"UN noted. The team documented extensive evidence of arbitrary detention, torture and sexual violence in military detention facilities, including cases tied to a 2025 law criminalising election criticism, under which people face up to 20 years' imprisonment or death for acts such as critical social media posts.&nbsp;IIMM chief Nicholas Koumjian said: "Behind every piece of evidence we collect are people whose lives have been devastated by these crimes." He added that communities face both ongoing violence and its lasting impact, stressing accountability is urgently needed. The IIMM said it was losing resources amid funding cuts even as crimes intensify.

UN investigators report an escalation of deliberate aerial attacks, torture, and war crimes by Myanmar's military against civilian communities.

Myanmar's military has intensified its aerial attacks on civilians, with the country's conflict showing no sign of easing, UN investigators said Tuesday (Aug 11). The military escalated such attacks and other crimes against civilians ahead of the elections completed in January, and these strikes have since "continued unabated," the United Nations' Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) stated. The tightly restricted vote, held by the ruling military junta, resulted in an uncontested win for its allies in civilian politics. Covering the period from July 2025 to June 2026, the IIMM's annual report documented a pattern of deliberate aerial strikes on civilians alongside arbitrary detentions, torture and sexual violence carried out by Myanmar's military. The report stated, "The frequency and intensity of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by the Myanmar military and by various armed groups continued to escalate." Also read: Myanmar promised PM Modi it won't let its territory be used against India. Can it deliver? | WION Decodes Myanmar's junta took power in a coup on February 1, 2021, removing Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government and ending a decade of democratic rule, plunging the country into violent conflict and a humanitarian emergency. According to the report, aerial attacks have struck homes, schools, medical centres, religious sites and camps for displaced people, resulting in deaths, injuries and destruction. It added that the "military's increasing reliance on paramotors and drones has made attacks harder for civilians to detect, limiting their ability to flee or seek shelter." Also read: Myanmar junta pardons former president Win Myint of post-coup convictions Investigators said fighting in Rakhine State, between the military and the Arakan Army rebel group, "intensified significantly" during the reporting period, while conflicts nationwide between the regime and armed groups "showed no signs of abating,"UN noted. The team documented extensive evidence of arbitrary detention, torture and sexual violence in military detention facilities, including cases tied to a 2025 law criminalising election criticism, under which people face up to 20 years' imprisonment or death for acts such as critical social media posts. IIMM chief Nicholas Koumjian said: "Behind every piece of evidence we collect are people whose lives have been devastated by these crimes." He added that communities face both ongoing violence and its lasting impact, stressing accountability is urgently needed. The IIMM said it was losing resources amid funding cuts even as crimes intensify.

UN investigators report an escalation of deliberate aerial attacks, torture, and war crimes by Myanmar's military against civilian communities.

Myanmar junta stepping up air strikes on civilians, UN investigators warn

US President Donald Trump has announced a major shift in the country’s childhood vaccination policy, moving away from universal federal recommendations for some vaccines, including hepatitis B, COVID-19 and influenza. The changes were outlined in an executive order signed by Trump on August 10 as his administration seeks to overhaul the US childhood immunisation schedule and give parents and doctors a greater role in deciding when certain vaccines should be administered.&nbsp;Under the revised approach, the federal government is moving towards a schedule centred on 11 core childhood vaccines. Vaccines such as hepatitis B and influenza are being moved away from universal recommendations towards approaches based on individual risk and shared decision-making between families and healthcare providers.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/treachery-of-puppet-rulers-iran-s-hardline-newspaper-rails-against-mecca-defence-pact-accuses-muslim-leaders-of-abandoning-palestinians-1786429230978">‘Treachery of puppet rulers’: Iran’s hardline newspaper rails against Mecca defence pact, accuses Muslim leaders of abandoning Palestinians</a>&nbsp;The administration has argued that the changes will give parents greater choice and bring US vaccination recommendations closer to those followed in other developed countries.Trump’s order also calls for changes to the way some vaccines are administered. It seeks to separate the combined measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine into individual shots and spread them across different visits.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">NEW: Trump announces vaccines for hepatitis B, COVID-19 and influenza, among others, will no longer be recommended for all children. “In addition, this executive order directs the attorney general to advance legal challenges against states that violate children’s rights to… <a href="https://t.co/FcMWlxK62y">pic.twitter.com/FcMWlxK62y</a>&mdash; Fox News (@FoxNews) <a href="https://x.com/FoxNews/status/2086894399447789945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US President Donald Trump has announced a major shift in the country’s childhood vaccination policy, moving away from universal federal recommendations for some vaccines, including hepatitis B, COVID-19 and influenza. The changes were outlined in an executive order signed by Trump on August 10 as his administration seeks to overhaul the US childhood immunisation schedule and give parents and doctors a greater role in deciding when certain vaccines should be administered.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/carney-mocks-trump-over-teleprompter-glitch-us-president-calls-canadian-leadership-nasty-1785996010337">Carney mocks Trump over teleprompter glitch, US president calls Canadian leadership 'nasty'</a> &nbsp;Under the revised approach, the federal government is moving towards a schedule centred on 11 core childhood vaccines. Vaccines such as hepatitis B and influenza are being moved away from universal recommendations towards approaches based on individual risk and shared decision-making between families and healthcare providers.&nbsp;The administration has argued that the changes will give parents greater choice and bring US vaccination recommendations closer to those followed in other developed countries.

Trump’s order also calls for changes to the way some vaccines are administered. It seeks to separate the combined measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine into individual shots and spread them across different visits.<h2>The internet can’t keep calm</h2>The policy has sparked a strong reaction online, with critics questioning whether the changes could reduce children’s protection against vaccine-preventable diseases. One commenter sarcastically wrote, “BREAKING: I have personally solved the vaccine crisis,” before criticising the administration’s approach to medical decision-making. Another described the move as “absurd”, arguing that “politically driven health policy is very dangerous”. Some users raised specific concerns about the decision involving hepatitis B vaccination. One commenter pointed to the risk of transmission from an infected mother to a newborn, saying such transmission “carries a high risk of chronic infection” and arguing that preventing it remains an important reason for vaccination soon after birth. Another user criticised the administration more broadly, writing, “Yeah… I’m gonna continue listening to the real doctors and not a single person in this administration.”

Donald Trump's executive order shifting the US childhood immunisation schedule away from universal recommendations to parental choice sparked intense online backlash, with critics warning of reduced public disease protection.

US President Donald Trump has announced a major shift in the country’s childhood vaccination policy, moving away from universal federal recommendations for some vaccines, including hepatitis B, COVID-19 and influenza. The changes were outlined in an executive order signed by Trump on August 10 as his administration seeks to overhaul the US childhood immunisation schedule and give parents and doctors a greater role in deciding when certain vaccines should be administered. Under the revised approach, the federal government is moving towards a schedule centred on 11 core childhood vaccines. Vaccines such as hepatitis B and influenza are being moved away from universal recommendations towards approaches based on individual risk and shared decision-making between families and healthcare providers. Also read: ‘Treachery of puppet rulers’: Iran’s hardline newspaper rails against Mecca defence pact, accuses Muslim leaders of abandoning Palestinians The administration has argued that the changes will give parents greater choice and bring US vaccination recommendations closer to those followed in other developed countries. Trump’s order also calls for changes to the way some vaccines are administered. It seeks to separate the combined measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine into individual shots and spread them across different visits.

Donald Trump's executive order shifting the US childhood immunisation schedule away from universal recommendations to parental choice sparked intense online backlash, with critics warning of reduced public disease protection.

‘Make American children dead again’: Internet blasts at Trump over his child vaccine policy

On Tuesday (Aug 11), a Damascus court sentenced former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia for premeditated killings, torture, arbitrary arrests and crimes against humanity committed during the Syrian civil war, including the killing of children. His brother Maher al-Assad and former security official Atef Najib were also sentenced to death. Assad, along with members of his family and close aides, has been living in exile in Russia since 2024, after his government was overthrown. Here is the story of how a reluctant leader born into the powerful ruling family of Syria became its president and ruler, suppressed the Arab Spring uprising for years, before finally giving in.<h2>Bashar al-Assad was born into privilege</h2>Born in Damascus in 1965 as the second son of Syria's long-term ruler Hafez al-Assad, the future ruler was not initially cut out for the role. Bashar al-Assad's elder brother Bassel al-Assad was expected to succeed their father. Bashar, meanwhile, studied medicine at Damascus University and trained as an ophthalmologist. He later travelled to London for further medical training.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hosts-syria-s-al-sharaa-in-white-house-5-takeaways-from-historic-meeting-1762841428685">Trump hosts Syria’s al-Sharaa in White House: 5 takeaways from historic meeting</a><h2>A car accident that changed everything: How Bashar became Syria's president</h2>Everything changed in January 1994, when Bassel died in a car accident and Bashar was called back to Syria from UK. He joined military training and was groomed as his father's successor.After close to three decades in power, Hafez al-Assad died in June 2000. At the time, Bashar was only 34, but the Syrian constitution was modified to lower the minimum presidential age so that he could take the top seat. He became president in July 2000.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrian-ousted-president-bashar-al-assad-gets-death-penalty-in-landmark-verdict-1786437414005">Ousted Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad gets death sentence in landmark verdict</a><h2>From Damascus Spring to Arab Spring</h2>The initial days of Bashar's presidency were referred to as the Damascus Spring, with him being described as a young, modernising leader. But soon, his government started cracking down on opposition and dissent, bringing the brief period of political openness to an end. Things came to a head during the Syrian uprising and civil war, which was part of the Arab Spring-inspired protests that spread to Syria in 2011. The protests, which sought political reform, were violently suppressed, leading to one of the longest and bloodiest conflicts in the region. The civil war pitted the Bashar al-Assad regime on one side against various armed opposition groups, Islamist militants, terrorist groups and foreign powers such as the US on the other.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-s-president-al-sharaa-snubs-trump-rules-out-military-action-against-hezbollah-1782151033248/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-s-president-al-sharaa-snubs-trump-rules-out-military-action-against-hezbollah-1782151033248/embed</a><h2>From chemical weapons to malnutrition to displacement: Assad's crackdown</h2>Various investigations claimed that the Assad regime carried out killings, torture, forced disappearances, sieges and attacks on civilian areas to suppress the uprising. Government forces were accused of using chemical weapons against civilians. Hundreds of thousands of people were killed and millions were displaced, while children also died from malnutrition and the collapse of basic services.<h2>Assad fought the longest civil war in recent Middle East history</h2>For nearly 14 years, Assad's regime fought the civil war with the help of Russia and Iran. The two allies helped the Assad regime regain large areas of territory from the rebels. By the late 2010s, Assad appeared to have survived the war politically, even as his country lay in physical and economic ruin.<h2>The fall of the Assad regime and exile</h2>In December 2024, a rebel offensive led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, then the leader of the rebel group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham or HTS, rapidly captured major Syrian cities. Assad's government — and thereby his family's decades-long rule — collapsed as rebel fighters entered Damascus and seized key government institutions.Assad fled the country he had ruled with an iron grip and was granted refuge in Russia. His rule, which lasted from 2000 to 2024, ended in ignominy and exile.<h2>The moment of reckoning for Assad</h2>Syrian courts under the government of Ahmed al-Sharaa have been pursuing cases against Assad-era officials and members of his regime. European courts have also prosecuted people accused of abuses under his rule. A Dutch court in June sentenced a former Assad-regime interrogator to 26 years in prison for 19 international crimes, including torture and crimes against humanity, committed in Syria in 2013 and 2014. The defendant had served as an interrogator for the National Defence Forces (NDF), a paramilitary organisation affiliated with the Assad regime.The death sentence in absentia is the most dramatic judicial reckoning yet for the former Syrian ruler, but it is largely symbolic for now. The sentence cannot be carried out unless Assad is brought under Syrian custody.&nbsp;He is possibly safe in Russia for now. But his legacy remains inseparable from the destruction wrought by Syria's nearly 14-year civil war and its enormous human cost.

Bashar al-Assad was sentenced to death in absentia by a Syrian court. Thisis a moment of reckoning for the former president whose 24-year rule ended with his 2024 overthrow and exile in Russia. Here is a political profile

On Tuesday (Aug 11), a Damascus court sentenced former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia for premeditated killings, torture, arbitrary arrests and crimes against humanity committed during the Syrian civil war, including the killing of children. His brother Maher al-Assad and former security official Atef Najib were also sentenced to death. Assad, along with members of his family and close aides, has been living in exile in Russia since 2024, after his government was overthrown. Here is the story of how a reluctant leader born into the powerful ruling family of Syria became its president and ruler, suppressed the Arab Spring uprising for years, before finally giving in. Bashar al-Assad was born into privilege Born in Damascus in 1965 as the second son of Syria's long-term ruler Hafez al-Assad, the future ruler was not initially cut out for the role. Bashar al-Assad's elder brother Bassel al-Assad was expected to succeed their father. Bashar, meanwhile, studied medicine at Damascus University and trained as an ophthalmologist. He later travelled to London for further medical training. Also read: Trump hosts Syria’s al-Sharaa in White House: 5 takeaways from historic meeting A car accident that changed everything: How Bashar became Syria's president Everything changed in January 1994, when Bassel died in a car accident and Bashar was called back to Syria from UK. He joined military training and was groomed as his father's successor. After close to three decades in power, Hafez al-Assad died in June 2000. At the time, Bashar was only 34, but the Syrian constitution was modified to lower the minimum presidential age so that he could take the top seat. He became president in July 2000. Also read: Ousted Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad gets death sentence in landmark verdict From Damascus Spring to Arab Spring The initial days of Bashar's presidency were referred to as the Damascus Spring, with him being described as a young, modernising leader. But soon, his government started cracking down on opposition and dissent, bringing the brief period of political openness to an end. Things came to a head during the Syrian uprising and civil war, which was part of the Arab Spring-inspired protests that spread to Syria in 2011. The protests, which sought political reform, were violently suppressed, leading to one of the longest and bloodiest conflicts in the region. The civil war pitted the Bashar al-Assad regime on one side against various armed opposition groups, Islamist militants, terrorist groups and foreign powers such as the US on the other. https://www.wionews.com/videos/syria-s-president-al-sharaa-snubs-trump-rules-out-military-action-against-hezbollah-1782151033248/embed From chemical weapons to malnutrition to displacement: Assad's crackdown Various investigations claimed that the Assad regime carried out killings, torture, forced disappearances, sieges and attacks on civilian areas to suppress the uprising. Government forces were accused of using chemical weapons against civilians. Hundreds of thousands of people were killed and millions were displaced, while children also died from malnutrition and the collapse of basic services. Assad fought the longest civil war in recent Middle East history For nearly 14 years, Assad's regime fought the civil war with the help of Russia and Iran. The two allies helped the Assad regime regain large areas of territory from the rebels. By the late 2010s, Assad appeared to have survived the war politically, even as his country lay in physical and economic ruin. The fall of the Assad regime and exile In December 2024, a rebel offensive led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, then the leader of the rebel group Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham or HTS, rapidly captured major Syrian cities. Assad's government — and thereby his family's decades-long rule — collapsed as rebel fighters entered Damascus and seized key government institutions. Assad fled the country he had ruled with an iron grip and was granted refuge in Russia. His rule, which lasted from 2000 to 2024, ended in ignominy and exile. The moment of reckoning for Assad Syrian courts under the government of Ahmed al-Sharaa have been pursuing cases against Assad-era officials and members of his regime. European courts have also prosecuted people accused of abuses under his rule. A Dutch court in June sentenced a former Assad-regime interrogator to 26 years in prison for 19 international crimes, including torture and crimes against humanity, committed in Syria in 2013 and 2014. The defendant had served as an interrogator for the National Defence Forces (NDF), a paramilitary organisation affiliated with the Assad regime. The death sentence in absentia is the most dramatic judicial reckoning yet for the former Syrian ruler, but it is largely symbolic for now. The sentence cannot be carried out unless Assad is brought under Syrian custody. He is possibly safe in Russia for now. But his legacy remains inseparable from the destruction wrought by Syria's nearly 14-year civil war and its enormous human cost.

Bashar al-Assad was sentenced to death in absentia by a Syrian court. Thisis a moment of reckoning for the former president whose 24-year rule ended with his 2024 overthrow and exile in Russia. Here is a political profile

Bashar al-Assad sentenced to death in absentia: Fall of a dictator

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declined to apologise on Tuesday (Aug 11), despite pressure to do so, after a recording surfaced showing him making crude remarks about a gift he had received from his Japanese counterpart. The controversy follows an earlier incident in which Albanese apologised for comments made during a conversation with the Bush Deep podcast last month, in which he said he would "s**g" singer Kylie Minogue.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-takaichi-gives-a-nod-to-tax-cuts-as-her-approval-falls-to-an-all-time-low-1785427913170/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-takaichi-gives-a-nod-to-tax-cuts-as-her-approval-falls-to-an-all-time-low-1785427913170/embed</a>&nbsp; This week, separate remarks from that same interview drew criticism from political opponents. In those comments, Albanese had joked about a present given to him by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during her visit to Australia in May. Speaking with podcast host Nikki Osborne at his official residence, Albanese described receiving an unusual gift: a Japanese royal melon from Takaichi. Such melons are regarded as high-end luxury items in Japan, with Japan's former ambassador to Australia noting they can cost upwards of $190.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-catch-a-train-bus-or-tram-to-work-australian-pm-albanese-advises-citizens-amid-west-asia-war-1775031129835">'Catch a train, bus, or tram to work': Australian PM Albanese advises citizens amid West Asia war</a> When Osborne asked whether Takaichi had brought the fruit through Australian customs without declaring it, Albanese raised his hands and remarked, "got a couple of melons." Osborne then responded by comparing Takaichi's appearance upon arrival to that of Pamela Anderson. Following the resurfacing of these comments, Australia's opposition leader demanded that Albanese apologise, calling the joke "insulting." When questioned in parliament on Tuesday about whether he would apologise for what was described as "disrespectful behaviour," Albanese pushed back, stating: "I reject the assertion in the question." He further described Takaichi as both "a friend of Australia and a friend of mine."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/takaichi-s-1-7tn-spending-plan-sparks-fears-of-liz-truss-style-shock-how-will-it-impact-japan-china-and-india-1785059302899">Takaichi's £1.7tn spending plan sparks fears of 'Liz Truss-style' shock: How will it impact Japan, China and India?</a> Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong also defended the prime minister, dismissing suggestions that his remarks had been intended as an insult. Wong stated that Albanese had made clear he never intended for his comments to be interpreted in the manner they had been by opposition members.

Australian PM Anthony Albanese refuses to apologise for podcast comments regarding a gift from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. 

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declined to apologise on Tuesday (Aug 11), despite pressure to do so, after a recording surfaced showing him making crude remarks about a gift he had received from his Japanese counterpart. The controversy follows an earlier incident in which Albanese apologised for comments made during a conversation with the Bush Deep podcast last month, in which he said he would "s**g" singer Kylie Minogue. https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-takaichi-gives-a-nod-to-tax-cuts-as-her-approval-falls-to-an-all-time-low-1785427913170/embed This week, separate remarks from that same interview drew criticism from political opponents. In those comments, Albanese had joked about a present given to him by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during her visit to Australia in May. Speaking with podcast host Nikki Osborne at his official residence, Albanese described receiving an unusual gift: a Japanese royal melon from Takaichi. Such melons are regarded as high-end luxury items in Japan, with Japan's former ambassador to Australia noting they can cost upwards of $190. Also read: 'Catch a train, bus, or tram to work': Australian PM Albanese advises citizens amid West Asia war When Osborne asked whether Takaichi had brought the fruit through Australian customs without declaring it, Albanese raised his hands and remarked, "got a couple of melons." Osborne then responded by comparing Takaichi's appearance upon arrival to that of Pamela Anderson. Following the resurfacing of these comments, Australia's opposition leader demanded that Albanese apologise, calling the joke "insulting." When questioned in parliament on Tuesday about whether he would apologise for what was described as "disrespectful behaviour," Albanese pushed back, stating: "I reject the assertion in the question." He further described Takaichi as both "a friend of Australia and a friend of mine." Also read: Takaichi's £1.7tn spending plan sparks fears of 'Liz Truss-style' shock: How will it impact Japan, China and India? Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong also defended the prime minister, dismissing suggestions that his remarks had been intended as an insult. Wong stated that Albanese had made clear he never intended for his comments to be interpreted in the manner they had been by opposition members.

Australian PM Anthony Albanese refuses to apologise for podcast comments regarding a gift from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

Australian PM Albanese under fire over 'melon' joke about Japanese counterpart Sanae Takaichi

A 26-year-old software engineer from Andhra Pradesh has died in Ohio, United States, after his car collided head-on with a pickup truck. He was identified as Dileep Kumar Bungatavula, and was driving a Sedan when the truck came from the opposite direction, according to police. Bungatavula, a native of Jettivaripalli village in Andhra Pradesh's Kadapa district, had gone to the United States to pursue higher education at Kent State University, from where he completed his Master of Science in 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-techie-33-dies-as-his-car-gets-swept-away-in-kansas-flash-floods-1782921864067">Indian techie, 33, dies as his car gets swept away in Kansas flash floods</a>&nbsp;Police said the accident occurred on Interstate 480 in the Macedonia area of Ohio. When emergency services arrived at the scene, they found Bungatavula had died on the spot while three others were injured in the accident. The three were rushed to a hospital, where they are undergoing treatment. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation, police said.<h3>India Reacts</h3>Reacting on the incident, Consulate General of India in New York confirmed the Indian man's death and said it was extending all possible assistance to his family back home. &nbsp;"We are deeply saddened to learn of the untimely demise of Dileep Kumar Bungatavula, an Indian national, who tragically lost his life in a car accident in Ohio on August 7, 2026," the consulate said in a post on X. &nbsp;"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family during this difficult time. The Consulate is in touch with the family and is extending all possible assistance," it added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-ncr-open-pit-accidents-muthalakkodam-resident-jeys-benny-dies-as-bike-falls-in-uncovered-culvert-pit-in-kerala-s-idukki-1771303672294">After NCR open pit accidents, Muthalakkodam resident Jeys Benny dies as bike falls in uncovered culvert pit in Kerala's Idukki | Video</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, the North America Telugu Society has started a fundraiser for Bungatavula's family. "For Dileep's parents and his brother in India, this sudden loss is unimaginable. His father, Sreehari Bungatavula, is a farmer, and the family comes from modest financial circumstances. His parents made significant sacrifices to support their son's education, hoping to see him complete his studies and build a successful future," the society noted. According to Bungatavula's family, he has completed his studies and has recently started working for a software company in the United States. The family is now making arrangements to bring his remains back to India for the final rites

A 26-year-old software engineer from Andhra Pradesh died in a head-on crash in Ohio after a pickup truck crossed the median and hit his car. Dileep Kumar Bungatavula, a Kent State University graduate, died at the scene. His family is arranging to bring his remains to India.

A 26-year-old software engineer from Andhra Pradesh has died in Ohio, United States, after his car collided head-on with a pickup truck. He was identified as Dileep Kumar Bungatavula, and was driving a Sedan when the truck came from the opposite direction, according to police. Bungatavula, a native of Jettivaripalli village in Andhra Pradesh's Kadapa district, had gone to the United States to pursue higher education at Kent State University, from where he completed his Master of Science in 2025. Also Read: Indian techie, 33, dies as his car gets swept away in Kansas flash floods Police said the accident occurred on Interstate 480 in the Macedonia area of Ohio. When emergency services arrived at the scene, they found Bungatavula had died on the spot while three others were injured in the accident. The three were rushed to a hospital, where they are undergoing treatment. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation, police said. India Reacts Reacting on the incident, Consulate General of India in New York confirmed the Indian man's death and said it was extending all possible assistance to his family back home. "We are deeply saddened to learn of the untimely demise of Dileep Kumar Bungatavula, an Indian national, who tragically lost his life in a car accident in Ohio on August 7, 2026," the consulate said in a post on X. "Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family during this difficult time. The Consulate is in touch with the family and is extending all possible assistance," it added. Also Read: After NCR open pit accidents, Muthalakkodam resident Jeys Benny dies as bike falls in uncovered culvert pit in Kerala's Idukki | Video Meanwhile, the North America Telugu Society has started a fundraiser for Bungatavula's family. "For Dileep's parents and his brother in India, this sudden loss is unimaginable. His father, Sreehari Bungatavula, is a farmer, and the family comes from modest financial circumstances. His parents made significant sacrifices to support their son's education, hoping to see him complete his studies and build a successful future," the society noted. According to Bungatavula's family, he has completed his studies and has recently started working for a software company in the United States. The family is now making arrangements to bring his remains back to India for the final rites

A 26-year-old software engineer from Andhra Pradesh died in a head-on crash in Ohio after a pickup truck crossed the median and hit his car. Dileep Kumar Bungatavula, a Kent State University graduate, died at the scene. His family is arranging to bring his remains to India.

Indian software engineer dies in US after pickup truck hits car head-on

A Syrian court on Tuesday (Aug 11) sentenced former president Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia after convicting him of charges including premeditated murder, torture, arbitrary detention and crimes against humanity linked to the country’s civil war.&nbsp;The ruling, reported by Syria’s state news agency SANA, marks the first death sentence handed down against Assad by the country’s transitional authorities, which have begun prosecuting senior figures from his former government both in person and in absentia.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/treachery-of-puppet-rulers-iran-s-hardline-newspaper-rails-against-mecca-defence-pact-accuses-muslim-leaders-of-abandoning-palestinians-1786429230978">‘Treachery of puppet rulers’: Iran’s hardline newspaper rails against Mecca defence pact, accuses Muslim leaders of abandoning Palestinians</a>&nbsp;Judge Fakhr al-Din al-Arrian, who presided over the case, said Assad had been convicted of “premeditated murder” against multiple people, including children, as well as torture, arbitrary detention and crimes against humanity, SANA reported.&nbsp;Assad was ousted in December 2024 after Islamist-led opposition forces captured Damascus. He subsequently fled Syria with his family and was granted refuge in Russia.&nbsp;The verdict comes as Syria’s transitional authorities pursue legal proceedings against members of the former Assad government over alleged abuses committed during the conflict, which began in 2011 and lasted for nearly 14 years.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100-fake-news-trump-confronted-hegseth-over-us-munitions-shortages-claims-report-here-s-why-wh-says-1785993835957">‘100% fake news’: WH denies report claiming Trump confronted Hegseth over US munitions shortages</a>&nbsp;Assad was not present for the proceedings and remains in Russia, meaning the sentence cannot currently be carried out unless he is arrested or handed over to Syrian authorities. The case is part of a broader effort by Syria’s new authorities to hold former government figures accountable for alleged crimes committed during Assad’s rule. Several former officials have already faced proceedings, including cases involving allegations of torture, murder and other abuses.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinian-american-abdul-el-sayed-leads-michigan-democratic-senate-primary-in-key-test-for-party-1785907766863">Palestinian American Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan Democratic Senate primary, will be 1st Muslim to be US Senate if elected</a>

A Syrian court has sentenced the country's ousted president, Bashar Al-Assad, to death on Tuesday (Aug 11) for committing crimes against the Syrian people.



A Syrian court on Tuesday (Aug 11) sentenced former president Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia after convicting him of charges including premeditated murder, torture, arbitrary detention and crimes against humanity linked to the country’s civil war. The ruling, reported by Syria’s state news agency SANA, marks the first death sentence handed down against Assad by the country’s transitional authorities, which have begun prosecuting senior figures from his former government both in person and in absentia. Also read: ‘Treachery of puppet rulers’: Iran’s hardline newspaper rails against Mecca defence pact, accuses Muslim leaders of abandoning Palestinians Judge Fakhr al-Din al-Arrian, who presided over the case, said Assad had been convicted of “premeditated murder” against multiple people, including children, as well as torture, arbitrary detention and crimes against humanity, SANA reported. Assad was ousted in December 2024 after Islamist-led opposition forces captured Damascus. He subsequently fled Syria with his family and was granted refuge in Russia. The verdict comes as Syria’s transitional authorities pursue legal proceedings against members of the former Assad government over alleged abuses committed during the conflict, which began in 2011 and lasted for nearly 14 years. Also read: ‘100% fake news’: WH denies report claiming Trump confronted Hegseth over US munitions shortages Assad was not present for the proceedings and remains in Russia, meaning the sentence cannot currently be carried out unless he is arrested or handed over to Syrian authorities. The case is part of a broader effort by Syria’s new authorities to hold former government figures accountable for alleged crimes committed during Assad’s rule. Several former officials have already faced proceedings, including cases involving allegations of torture, murder and other abuses. Also read: Palestinian American Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan Democratic Senate primary, will be 1st Muslim to be US Senate if elected

A Syrian court has sentenced the country's ousted president, Bashar Al-Assad, to death on Tuesday (Aug 11) for committing crimes against the Syrian people.&nbsp;

Ousted Syrian president Bashar Al-Assad gets death sentence in landmark verdict

For centuries, people preserved memories through photographs, letters and home videos. Now, artificial intelligence is changing that. Today, a growing number of companies offer to recreate deceased people as interactive chatbots, voice clones or even lifelike video avatars that can hold conversations with family members.Supporters of the technology see these AI replicas as a new way to remember loved ones. Critics, meanwhile, warn that these AI avatars blur the line between memory and simulation, raising difficult questions about grief, consent, privacy and ownership. WION decodes the latest AI-related ethical conundrum.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/advances-in-artificial-intelligence-mean-deadbots-can-haunt-users-warn-ai-experts-heres-what-it-means-719542">Advances in artificial intelligence mean 'deadbots' can 'haunt' the living, warn experts. Here's what it means</a><h2>How are AI companies creating digital versions of dead people?</h2>The technology works by combining multiple forms of personal data left behind during a person's lifetime.Researchers describe these systems, often called "digital ghosts" or "griefbots", as AI models built from a person's digital traces, including photographs, videos, voice recordings, emails, text messages, interviews, social media posts and memories shared by relatives.Voice cloning technology analyses recordings to reproduce a person's pronunciation, pitch, rhythm, accent and speaking style. Instead of replaying existing recordings, AI generates entirely new speech in the same voice. Reuters reported one case in which a man recreated his deceased father's voice from a single audio message.Facial animation has also advanced rapidly. Microsoft's VASA-1 research showed that a single photograph combined with an audio clip can generate realistic talking faces with synchronised lip movements, facial expressions and natural head movements. The company said the research is intended to advance avatar technology and was not released as a public product.Many commercial services combine these technologies with large language models that learn a person's communication style and memories, allowing an avatar to respond to new questions in real time.One such service, Afterlife AI, offers a service where users can themselves preserve their voice, memories, values and stories while alive and decide who can access their digital persona after death.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/death-is-only-the-beginning-meta-patents-technology-that-ll-let-ai-run-your-social-media-from-beyond-the-grave-wion-explains-1771304178081">Death is only the beginning? Meta patents tech that'll let AI run your social media from beyond the grave | WION Explains</a><h2>Who owns your voice, photographs and digital identity after death?</h2>The legal answer is far from straightforward. According to India's Copyright Act, there is no single legal right covering a deceased person's entire digital identity. Different parts of someone's online presence are governed by different laws.<blockquote>For instance:<ul><li>A photograph is not automatically owned by the person appearing in it. Copyright usually belongs to the photographer unless specific legal exceptions apply.</li><li>Copyright in literary, artistic, musical and other protected works generally continues for 60 years after the author's death under the Copyright Act, 1957.</li><li>Voice recordings can themselves qualify as copyright-protected sound recordings.</li></ul></blockquote>This means that AI companies may own the software used to generate an avatar, but that does not automatically give them ownership of the deceased person's identity, likeness or personal history.Notably, India currently has no dedicated law governing AI-generated replicas of deceased individuals, meaning disputes could involve copyright, contractual agreements, privacy principles and inheritance laws depending on the circumstances.<h2>Can AI help people cope with grief?</h2>Researchers say the answer is complicated. Several recent studies suggest AI grief technologies can provide emotional comfort by allowing users to maintain a sense of connection with someone who has died. Participants reported using griefbots to express unresolved emotions, revisit memories or have private conversations they felt unable to share with others.A 2026 systematic review examining 30 studies on digital grief technologies, including AI chatbots, digital replicas, virtual reality memorials and online remembrance platforms, found potential benefits such as reduced grief symptoms, increased emotional support and greater accessibility to bereavement tools. However, the research published in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2451958826002228">Science Direct</a> also identified significant risks. "This form of digital grief technology can create an illusion, causing the bereaved to develop unhealthy attachments to the digital representations of the deceased as a form of support or closure. Therefore, such attachments could interfere with their ability to engage in a healthy grieving process. Similarly, generative AI chatbots were also found to be at risk of causing overreliance as this technology enabled the bereaved to sustain a continuous bond with the deceased, which can hinder their recovery process," it found.Researchers have also warned that prolonged interaction with AI replicas could interfere with the natural grieving process by making it harder for some people to accept a loved one's death. Concerns about psychological dependence have become one of the central ethical debates surrounding griefbots.Here's a question for you, the reader: Would you opt to create a griefbot to help you deal with the death of a loved one or leave behind an AI replica of yourself to help them after your passing?

AI can now use a person's photos, videos, voice recordings and messages to create digital replicas that can talk and respond like them. But as "griefbots" gain attention, questions around consent, ownership, privacy and the grieving process are becoming harder to ignore. WION Decodes.

For centuries, people preserved memories through photographs, letters and home videos. Now, artificial intelligence is changing that. Today, a growing number of companies offer to recreate deceased people as interactive chatbots, voice clones or even lifelike video avatars that can hold conversations with family members. Supporters of the technology see these AI replicas as a new way to remember loved ones. Critics, meanwhile, warn that these AI avatars blur the line between memory and simulation, raising difficult questions about grief, consent, privacy and ownership. WION decodes the latest AI-related ethical conundrum. Also read | Advances in artificial intelligence mean 'deadbots' can 'haunt' the living, warn experts. Here's what it means How are AI companies creating digital versions of dead people? The technology works by combining multiple forms of personal data left behind during a person's lifetime. Researchers describe these systems, often called "digital ghosts" or "griefbots", as AI models built from a person's digital traces, including photographs, videos, voice recordings, emails, text messages, interviews, social media posts and memories shared by relatives. Voice cloning technology analyses recordings to reproduce a person's pronunciation, pitch, rhythm, accent and speaking style. Instead of replaying existing recordings, AI generates entirely new speech in the same voice. Reuters reported one case in which a man recreated his deceased father's voice from a single audio message. Facial animation has also advanced rapidly. Microsoft's VASA-1 research showed that a single photograph combined with an audio clip can generate realistic talking faces with synchronised lip movements, facial expressions and natural head movements. The company said the research is intended to advance avatar technology and was not released as a public product. Many commercial services combine these technologies with large language models that learn a person's communication style and memories, allowing an avatar to respond to new questions in real time. One such service, Afterlife AI, offers a service where users can themselves preserve their voice, memories, values and stories while alive and decide who can access their digital persona after death. Also read | Death is only the beginning? Meta patents tech that'll let AI run your social media from beyond the grave | WION Explains Who owns your voice, photographs and digital identity after death? The legal answer is far from straightforward. According to India's Copyright Act, there is no single legal right covering a deceased person's entire digital identity. Different parts of someone's online presence are governed by different laws. For instance: A photograph is not automatically owned by the person appearing in it. Copyright usually belongs to the photographer unless specific legal exceptions apply. Copyright in literary, artistic, musical and other protected works generally continues for 60 years after the author's death under the Copyright Act, 1957. Voice recordings can themselves qualify as copyright-protected sound recordings. This means that AI companies may own the software used to generate an avatar, but that does not automatically give them ownership of the deceased person's identity, likeness or personal history. Notably, India currently has no dedicated law governing AI-generated replicas of deceased individuals, meaning disputes could involve copyright, contractual agreements, privacy principles and inheritance laws depending on the circumstances. Can AI help people cope with grief? Researchers say the answer is complicated. Several recent studies suggest AI grief technologies can provide emotional comfort by allowing users to maintain a sense of connection with someone who has died. Participants reported using griefbots to express unresolved emotions, revisit memories or have private conversations they felt unable to share with others. A 2026 systematic review examining 30 studies on digital grief technologies, including AI chatbots, digital replicas, virtual reality memorials and online remembrance platforms, found potential benefits such as reduced grief symptoms, increased emotional support and greater accessibility to bereavement tools. However, the research published in Science Direct also identified significant risks. "This form of digital grief technology can create an illusion, causing the bereaved to develop unhealthy attachments to the digital representations of the deceased as a form of support or closure. Therefore, such attachments could interfere with their ability to engage in a healthy grieving process. Similarly, generative AI chatbots were also found to be at risk of causing overreliance as this technology enabled the bereaved to sustain a continuous bond with the deceased, which can hinder their recovery process," it found. Researchers have also warned that prolonged interaction with AI replicas could interfere with the natural grieving process by making it harder for some people to accept a loved one's death. Concerns about psychological dependence have become one of the central ethical debates surrounding griefbots. Here's a question for you, the reader: Would you opt to create a griefbot to help you deal with the death of a loved one or leave behind an AI replica of yourself to help them after your passing?

AI can now use a person's photos, videos, voice recordings and messages to create digital replicas that can talk and respond like them. But as "griefbots" gain attention, questions around consent, ownership, privacy and the grieving process are becoming harder to ignore. WION Decodes.

AI can now recreate the dead. But who owns your 'digital ghost' when you're gone? | WION Decodes

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