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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed Oleksandr Syrskyi as the country's commander-in-chief and appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi as the new head of Ukraine's armed forces, in a major military shake-up that comes amid nationwide protests. Announcing the changes in a late-night television address, Zelensky said Drapatyi, whom he described as a popular and innovative general, would lead a reorganisation of the army's command structure.The Ukrainian president also said he had offered a "prominent position" in the government to Mykhailo Fedorov, whose removal as defence minister last week sparked protests in Kyiv and other cities, making it one of the country's biggest political crises since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-russia-pounds-ukraine-kyiv-grapples-with-a-growing-manpower-shortage-in-the-military-gravitas-1784569954861">As Russia pounds Ukraine, Kyiv grapples with growing manpower shortage | Gravitas</a><h2>Zelensky thanks Syrskyi for military leadership</h2>While announcing the leadership change, Zelensky praised Syrskyi for his role during the war, crediting him with leading the defence of Kyiv and overseeing Ukraine's counter-incursion into Russia's Kursk province in the summer of 2024, when foreign tanks entered Russian territory for the first time since the Second World War."We have come a long way. The defence of Ukraine continues. And every soldier deserves to be treated with respect," Zelensky said, adding that he was grateful to Syrskyi and to "every one of our soldiers" fighting on the frontline.The reshuffle is expected to address growing public pressure over the military leadership. Protesters had demanded Syrskyi's removal, while also calling for Fedorov to be reinstated. They had set Friday as the deadline and warned of indefinite demonstrations if their demands were ignored.<h2>Who is Mykhailo Drapatyi?</h2>Drapatyi is a military commander within Ukraine's armed forces and is widely seen as an ally of Fedorov. According to a Guardian report, Fedorov's attempts to modernise the military and push for greater use of technology and data had led to disagreements with Syrskyi.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-massive-overnight-missile-drone-attack-kyiv-zelensky-july-2026-1784456449176">Russia unleashes massive strike on Kyiv as Ukraine targets Russian shadow fleet</a>A major general, Drapatyi currently commands Ukraine's joint forces group. He has been fighting Russia since its covert attempt to seize the eastern Donbas region in 2014 and became nationally known after driving an infantry fighting vehicle through a barricade set up by pro-Russian militants in Mariupol.Ukrainian media outlet Babel described Drapatyi as one of the country's most capable battlefield commanders, while noting that his new role would focus more on reforming the military institution than directing combat operations.<h2>Defence reforms and long-range strikes to continue</h2>Zelensky said he and Drapatyi had agreed that Ukraine's long-range drone strikes against targets inside Russia, including oil refineries, would continue."Our programme of precision strikes will be implemented with absolute precision," he said, adding that there would be a smooth and coordinated transition following Syrskyi's departure.The new commander-in-chief will also be responsible for updating Ukraine's defence strategy and reforming the structure of the armed forces. Mobilisation is expected to remain one of his biggest challenges as the war approaches its fifth year.<h2>Fedorov's future role remains unclear</h2>It remains unclear what role Fedorov will ultimately take up in the government, with reports suggesting he had sought to return as defence minister. That position has now been filled by Yevhen Khmara, a former special operations commander.Zelenskyy said he met Fedorov on Tuesday and had offered him a senior government position."I offered Mykhailo a prominent position within the government that would enable him to unify the technological sector of our state and ensure its development," he said, without providing further details.The Ukrainian president said the government's objective remained unchanged."Our shared wish is one – victory over the enemy and conditions at the front and in pressure on Russia that would force Russia toward peace."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi and appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi to lead the armed forces, saying the new military chief will oversee major defence reforms while Ukraine continues its war against Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed Oleksandr Syrskyi as the country's commander-in-chief and appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi as the new head of Ukraine's armed forces, in a major military shake-up that comes amid nationwide protests. Announcing the changes in a late-night television address, Zelensky said Drapatyi, whom he described as a popular and innovative general, would lead a reorganisation of the army's command structure. The Ukrainian president also said he had offered a "prominent position" in the government to Mykhailo Fedorov, whose removal as defence minister last week sparked protests in Kyiv and other cities, making it one of the country's biggest political crises since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. Also read | As Russia pounds Ukraine, Kyiv grapples with growing manpower shortage | Gravitas Zelensky thanks Syrskyi for military leadership While announcing the leadership change, Zelensky praised Syrskyi for his role during the war, crediting him with leading the defence of Kyiv and overseeing Ukraine's counter-incursion into Russia's Kursk province in the summer of 2024, when foreign tanks entered Russian territory for the first time since the Second World War. "We have come a long way. The defence of Ukraine continues. And every soldier deserves to be treated with respect," Zelensky said, adding that he was grateful to Syrskyi and to "every one of our soldiers" fighting on the frontline. The reshuffle is expected to address growing public pressure over the military leadership. Protesters had demanded Syrskyi's removal, while also calling for Fedorov to be reinstated. They had set Friday as the deadline and warned of indefinite demonstrations if their demands were ignored. Who is Mykhailo Drapatyi? Drapatyi is a military commander within Ukraine's armed forces and is widely seen as an ally of Fedorov. According to a Guardian report, Fedorov's attempts to modernise the military and push for greater use of technology and data had led to disagreements with Syrskyi. Also read | Russia unleashes massive strike on Kyiv as Ukraine targets Russian shadow fleet A major general, Drapatyi currently commands Ukraine's joint forces group. He has been fighting Russia since its covert attempt to seize the eastern Donbas region in 2014 and became nationally known after driving an infantry fighting vehicle through a barricade set up by pro-Russian militants in Mariupol. Ukrainian media outlet Babel described Drapatyi as one of the country's most capable battlefield commanders, while noting that his new role would focus more on reforming the military institution than directing combat operations. Defence reforms and long-range strikes to continue Zelensky said he and Drapatyi had agreed that Ukraine's long-range drone strikes against targets inside Russia, including oil refineries, would continue. "Our programme of precision strikes will be implemented with absolute precision," he said, adding that there would be a smooth and coordinated transition following Syrskyi's departure. The new commander-in-chief will also be responsible for updating Ukraine's defence strategy and reforming the structure of the armed forces. Mobilisation is expected to remain one of his biggest challenges as the war approaches its fifth year. Fedorov's future role remains unclear It remains unclear what role Fedorov will ultimately take up in the government, with reports suggesting he had sought to return as defence minister. That position has now been filled by Yevhen Khmara, a former special operations commander. Zelenskyy said he met Fedorov on Tuesday and had offered him a senior government position. "I offered Mykhailo a prominent position within the government that would enable him to unify the technological sector of our state and ensure its development," he said, without providing further details. The Ukrainian president said the government's objective remained unchanged. "Our shared wish is one – victory over the enemy and conditions at the front and in pressure on Russia that would force Russia toward peace."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has removed commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi and appointed Mykhailo Drapatyi to lead the armed forces, saying the new military chief will oversee major defence reforms while Ukraine continues its war against Russia.

Zelensky sacks Ukraine army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi, offers new role to sacked defence minister in major military shake-up

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday (Jul 21) a sweeping, phased tariff structure on imported generic drugs, setting a two-year countdown before duties skyrocket to 200 per cent. The policy aims to force pharmaceutical companies to reshore manufacturing facilities directly onto American soil.Writing on his Truth Social platform, Trump laid out a timeline giving generic medicine manufacturers a temporary zero-tariff window to establish production plants within the United States. He said, "Effective August 1st, 2026, all Generic Drugs being brought into the United States will continue to have a TARIFF of ZERO PERCENT for a two year period of time, after which the TARIFF will be raised to 100% for a one year period of time, and 200% thereafter."

<h2>How it will impact India</h2>The phased tariff structure, Trump said, is explicitly designed as an ultimatum to international drug manufacturers to invest in domestic American infrastructure or face severe financial penalties. "This is done in order to RESHORE Generic Pharmaceutical Production into America, with a penalty to those Companies that decide not to build Plant and Equipment within the stated period of time given to them," Trump added. "The objective of this Policy is to protect the people of the United States."

The escalation poses a significant long-term challenge to foreign export hubs, particularly India. Notably, Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers supply roughly 40% of all generic drugs consumed in the United States by volume.<h2>"Pharmacy of the World"</h2>India is widely dubbed the "Pharmacy of the World," holding over 3,000 US FDA-approved manufacturing plants. This is the highest number of US FDA-compliant facilities located outside of the United States. Noting this, at the USISPF India Leadership Summit in New Delhi in Oct 2024, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava said, "The contribution of the Indian pharmaceutical industry is evidenced by the fact that India has the highest number of US FDA-approved pharmaceutical plants outside of the United States. This is 25 per cent of the total number of US FDA-approved pants outside of the US.."Indian generic drugs, she said "provided 219 billion USD savings to the US healthcare system in 2022 and a total of 1.3 trillion USD savings between 2013 and 2022".

US President Donald Trump has unveiled a phased tariff regime that will raise duties on imported generic drugs to 200% after three years, a move aimed at shifting pharmaceutical manufacturing to the US and one that could significantly affect India's generic drug exports.

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday (Jul 21) a sweeping, phased tariff structure on imported generic drugs, setting a two-year countdown before duties skyrocket to 200 per cent. The policy aims to force pharmaceutical companies to reshore manufacturing facilities directly onto American soil. Writing on his Truth Social platform, Trump laid out a timeline giving generic medicine manufacturers a temporary zero-tariff window to establish production plants within the United States. He said, "Effective August 1st, 2026, all Generic Drugs being brought into the United States will continue to have a TARIFF of ZERO PERCENT for a two year period of time, after which the TARIFF will be raised to 100% for a one year period of time, and 200% thereafter."

US President Donald Trump has unveiled a phased tariff regime that will raise duties on imported generic drugs to 200% after three years, a move aimed at shifting pharmaceutical manufacturing to the US and one that could significantly affect India's generic drug exports.

Trump announces 200% tariff on generic drugs: Here's what it means for 'Pharmacy of the World' India

The United States may be preparing for a wider military confrontation with Iran, but officials and defence experts have raised concerns over whether Washington has the firepower to sustain an extended conflict, amid reports that the White House may not be receiving the full picture from the Pentagon.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intended-to-degrade-iranian-military-capabilities-us-continues-to-strike-iran-on-10th-consecutive-day-1784581451083">‘Intended to degrade Iranian military capabilities’: US continues to strike Iran on 10th consecutive day</a>&nbsp;The concerns surfaced as US President Donald Trump indicated on Tuesday that Washington's military objectives in Iran remain unfinished during a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House.According to The Washington Post, a US official involved in the Iran conflict claimed the military is already grappling with shrinking stocks of key weapons, warning that any expansion of operations could be difficult to sustain."The US is planning for a wider war. We do not have enough to safely sustain operations, and I don't think the White House is aware of that," the official told the newspaper.The official said dwindling supplies of air defence interceptors and long-range precision-guided munitions, along with limited capacity to quickly deploy additional troops, aircraft and equipment following recent battle damage, could constrain future military operations against Iran.The warning comes as the Trump administration continues to signal that further action against Tehran remains on the table, despite weeks of military exchanges in the region.Defence analysts have echoed similar concerns. Seth Jones, who heads the defence and security programme at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), cautioned against any move to deploy American ground forces if the conflict intensifies."I think it would be a mistake to put ground forces anywhere on islands in the Strait or onshore," Jones told The Washington Post, after Trump last week declined to rule out sending US ground troops.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-s-the-architect-of-the-genocide-against-palestinians-despite-trump-s-remark-mamdani-repeats-netanyahu-will-be-arrested-if-visits-us-1784666149643">‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US</a>Meanwhile, a separate report by The Telegraph suggested that concerns inside the Pentagon go beyond missile shortages.The newspaper reported that some Defence Department officials fear a "culture of silence" has developed, with senior personnel allegedly reluctant to pass negative assessments up the chain of command because of Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth's reported reputation for dismissing senior military officials.Neither the White House nor the Pentagon has publicly responded to the reports.The developments come as questions mount over the US military's preparedness for a prolonged campaign against Iran, with officials and analysts warning that sustaining a wider conflict could place significant strain on America's existing stockpiles and operational capacity.

Officials and experts warn the US risks running low on critical munitions for an expanded Iran conflict, while a reported "culture of silence" keeps negative assessments from reaching the White House.

The United States may be preparing for a wider military confrontation with Iran, but officials and defence experts have raised concerns over whether Washington has the firepower to sustain an extended conflict, amid reports that the White House may not be receiving the full picture from the Pentagon. Also read: ‘Intended to degrade Iranian military capabilities’: US continues to strike Iran on 10th consecutive day The concerns surfaced as US President Donald Trump indicated on Tuesday that Washington's military objectives in Iran remain unfinished during a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House. According to The Washington Post, a US official involved in the Iran conflict claimed the military is already grappling with shrinking stocks of key weapons, warning that any expansion of operations could be difficult to sustain. "The US is planning for a wider war. We do not have enough to safely sustain operations, and I don't think the White House is aware of that," the official told the newspaper. The official said dwindling supplies of air defence interceptors and long-range precision-guided munitions, along with limited capacity to quickly deploy additional troops, aircraft and equipment following recent battle damage, could constrain future military operations against Iran. The warning comes as the Trump administration continues to signal that further action against Tehran remains on the table, despite weeks of military exchanges in the region. Defence analysts have echoed similar concerns. Seth Jones, who heads the defence and security programme at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), cautioned against any move to deploy American ground forces if the conflict intensifies. "I think it would be a mistake to put ground forces anywhere on islands in the Strait or onshore," Jones told The Washington Post, after Trump last week declined to rule out sending US ground troops. Also read: ‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US Meanwhile, a separate report by The Telegraph suggested that concerns inside the Pentagon go beyond missile shortages. The newspaper reported that some Defence Department officials fear a "culture of silence" has developed, with senior personnel allegedly reluctant to pass negative assessments up the chain of command because of Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth's reported reputation for dismissing senior military officials. Neither the White House nor the Pentagon has publicly responded to the reports. The developments come as questions mount over the US military's preparedness for a prolonged campaign against Iran, with officials and analysts warning that sustaining a wider conflict could place significant strain on America's existing stockpiles and operational capacity.

Officials and experts warn the US risks running low on critical munitions for an expanded Iran conflict, while a reported "culture of silence" keeps negative assessments from reaching the White House.

Is Pentagon hiding missile shortage from Trump? US officials raise alarm over Iran war readiness

The US military campaign against Iran has cost an estimated $37.5 billion so far, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers on Tuesday, marking a sharp increase from the nearly $29 billion estimate made public in May.&nbsp;Appearing before the Senate Appropriations Committee alongside Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, Hegseth said the updated figure includes projected costs through 30 September, covering military pay and other expenses tied to the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;The hearing was Hegseth’s first public appearance before lawmakers since the United States resumed military operations against Iran earlier this month.&nbsp;During the hearing, Hegseth defended the administration’s handling of the war and backed a request for approximately $67 billion in additional Pentagon funding to sustain military operations.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-s-the-architect-of-the-genocide-against-palestinians-despite-trump-s-remark-mamdani-repeats-netanyahu-will-be-arrested-if-visits-us-1784666149643">‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US</a>&nbsp;Responding to questions from senators, Hegseth argued that US strikes had severely degraded Iran’s military capabilities, although he acknowledged Tehran still retained the capacity to respond.&nbsp;“I acknowledge they still have capabilities, no doubt,” Hegseth said, adding that the sustained US campaign had left Iran’s military in its weakest position to date.&nbsp;“The amount of damage that we’ve done to them over the course of these series of operations has put them in the worst place they’ve ever been,” he told the committee.&nbsp;Hegseth also said some Iranian ballistic missiles had survived the American strikes because they were stored in deeply buried facilities beyond the reach of certain attacks.&nbsp;The updated cost estimate underscores the growing financial burden of Washington’s military campaign as the Pentagon seeks fresh funding from Congress to continue operations against Iran.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intended-to-degrade-iranian-military-capabilities-us-continues-to-strike-iran-on-10th-consecutive-day-1784581451083">‘Intended to degrade Iranian military capabilities’: US continues to strike Iran on 10th consecutive day</a>&nbsp;

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth informed lawmakers that military operations against Iran have reached $37.5 billion, while requesting an additional $67 billion in Pentagon funding to sustain campaign efforts.

The US military campaign against Iran has cost an estimated $37.5 billion so far, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers on Tuesday, marking a sharp increase from the nearly $29 billion estimate made public in May. Appearing before the Senate Appropriations Committee alongside Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, Hegseth said the updated figure includes projected costs through 30 September, covering military pay and other expenses tied to the ongoing conflict. The hearing was Hegseth’s first public appearance before lawmakers since the United States resumed military operations against Iran earlier this month. During the hearing, Hegseth defended the administration’s handling of the war and backed a request for approximately $67 billion in additional Pentagon funding to sustain military operations. Also read: ‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US Responding to questions from senators, Hegseth argued that US strikes had severely degraded Iran’s military capabilities, although he acknowledged Tehran still retained the capacity to respond. “I acknowledge they still have capabilities, no doubt,” Hegseth said, adding that the sustained US campaign had left Iran’s military in its weakest position to date. “The amount of damage that we’ve done to them over the course of these series of operations has put them in the worst place they’ve ever been,” he told the committee. Hegseth also said some Iranian ballistic missiles had survived the American strikes because they were stored in deeply buried facilities beyond the reach of certain attacks. The updated cost estimate underscores the growing financial burden of Washington’s military campaign as the Pentagon seeks fresh funding from Congress to continue operations against Iran. Also read: ‘Intended to degrade Iranian military capabilities’: US continues to strike Iran on 10th consecutive day

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth informed lawmakers that military operations against Iran have reached $37.5 billion, while requesting an additional $67 billion in Pentagon funding to sustain campaign efforts.

US-Iran war cost hits $37.5 billion as Hegseth seeks $67 billion more for Pentagon

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (July 21) announced that American Airlines will once again be allowed to operate direct flights to Lebanon, ending a suspension that has been in place for more than 40 years. The announcement came after Trump hosted Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House, where the two leaders discussed regional security and efforts to stabilise Lebanon following months of conflict.The meeting marked Aoun's first visit to Washington since taking office and the first visit by a Lebanese president to the White House since 2009. The Lebanese leader is on a four-day trip to the United States, seeking stronger American support for Lebanon's armed forces and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intended-to-degrade-iranian-military-capabilities-us-continues-to-strike-iran-on-10th-consecutive-day-1784581451083">‘Intended to degrade Iranian military capabilities’: US continues to strike Iran on 10th consecutive day</a>Direct commercial flights between the United States and Lebanon were suspended in 1985 under then President Ronald Reagan after the hijacking of TWA Flight 847.Announcing the decision on social media, Trump said he had directed his administration to permit US airlines to resume direct services."I am hereby directing my Administration to allow all US airline carriers to fly directly to Lebanon so that Americans can easily visit this beautiful land," Trump wrote.Speaking alongside Aoun at the White House, Trump described Lebanon as "a very badly treated place and country" and said, "We're gonna help it a lot," though he did not provide details of any new US assistance.The meeting comes as Washington continues diplomatic efforts to secure long-term stability in Lebanon following months of fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. Regional tensions have also intensified following the recent conflict involving Iran.Lebanon hopes the talks will help secure a full Israeli military withdrawal from parts of southern Lebanon that remain under Israeli control, while increasing international backing for the Lebanese Armed Forces to assume authority in areas where Hezbollah has long held influence.Asked whether Israeli forces would completely withdraw, Trump told reporters, "They're in the process of doing that. They're in the process of redeploying," without elaborating further.During the meeting, Aoun praised Trump's diplomatic approach, telling him, "Your vision is peace," and describing it as the US president's "legacy". Trump responded light-heartedly, saying, "I do agree with that," before joking that Aoun was handsome and "knows how to get to me", adding, "Now he can have anything."Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-s-the-architect-of-the-genocide-against-palestinians-despite-trump-s-remark-mamdani-repeats-netanyahu-will-be-arrested-if-visits-us-1784666149643">‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US</a>Trump also acknowledged the challenge posed by Hezbollah, saying, "There's a Hezbollah problem." He suggested he could personally speak with the group if Aoun wished and once again floated the possibility of Syria taking action against Hezbollah, although he stopped short of committing to such a course.

US President Donald Trump cleared direct flights to Lebanon, lifting a 1985 aviation ban following talks with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Middle East peace, stability, and regional security.  

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (July 21) announced that American Airlines will once again be allowed to operate direct flights to Lebanon, ending a suspension that has been in place for more than 40 years. The announcement came after Trump hosted Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House, where the two leaders discussed regional security and efforts to stabilise Lebanon following months of conflict. The meeting marked Aoun's first visit to Washington since taking office and the first visit by a Lebanese president to the White House since 2009. The Lebanese leader is on a four-day trip to the United States, seeking stronger American support for Lebanon's armed forces and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon. Also read: ‘Intended to degrade Iranian military capabilities’: US continues to strike Iran on 10th consecutive day Direct commercial flights between the United States and Lebanon were suspended in 1985 under then President Ronald Reagan after the hijacking of TWA Flight 847. Announcing the decision on social media, Trump said he had directed his administration to permit US airlines to resume direct services. "I am hereby directing my Administration to allow all US airline carriers to fly directly to Lebanon so that Americans can easily visit this beautiful land," Trump wrote. Speaking alongside Aoun at the White House, Trump described Lebanon as "a very badly treated place and country" and said, "We're gonna help it a lot," though he did not provide details of any new US assistance. The meeting comes as Washington continues diplomatic efforts to secure long-term stability in Lebanon following months of fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. Regional tensions have also intensified following the recent conflict involving Iran. Lebanon hopes the talks will help secure a full Israeli military withdrawal from parts of southern Lebanon that remain under Israeli control, while increasing international backing for the Lebanese Armed Forces to assume authority in areas where Hezbollah has long held influence. Asked whether Israeli forces would completely withdraw, Trump told reporters, "They're in the process of doing that. They're in the process of redeploying," without elaborating further. During the meeting, Aoun praised Trump's diplomatic approach, telling him, "Your vision is peace," and describing it as the US president's "legacy". Trump responded light-heartedly, saying, "I do agree with that," before joking that Aoun was handsome and "knows how to get to me", adding, "Now he can have anything." Also read: ‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US Trump also acknowledged the challenge posed by Hezbollah, saying, "There's a Hezbollah problem." He suggested he could personally speak with the group if Aoun wished and once again floated the possibility of Syria taking action against Hezbollah, although he stopped short of committing to such a course.

US President Donald Trump cleared direct flights to Lebanon, lifting a 1985 aviation ban following talks with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Middle East peace, stability, and regional security. &nbsp;

After 40 years, Trump clears direct US flights to Lebanon as peace talks gather pace

New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has approved the continued use of British military bases by the United States for operations against Iran, maintaining the policy adopted by his predecessor Keir Starmer, according to a Bloomberg report published on Tuesday (July 21).&nbsp;The decision allows US aircraft to continue operating from British facilities, including Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, for what Washington and London describe as "defensive" missions. These operations are aimed at countering Iranian missile threats and protecting commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-s-the-architect-of-the-genocide-against-palestinians-despite-trump-s-remark-mamdani-repeats-netanyahu-will-be-arrested-if-visits-us-1784666149643">‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US</a>&nbsp;The report said Starmer chaired a meeting of senior ministers and officials on Friday to review Britain's position after US military operations against Iran resumed earlier this month. Burnham, who took office as prime minister on Monday, was briefed on the outcome of those discussions and endorsed the decision to continue granting the US access to British bases, the sources told Bloomberg.&nbsp;The policy is expected to draw criticism from opposition parties and sections of the British left, who argue that permitting the use of UK military facilities could make Britain complicit in US military action against Iran.&nbsp;According to Bloomberg, UK officials have also expressed concerns over the legal implications of potential US strikes. Those concerns reportedly intensified after US President Donald Trump warned that Iranian civilian infrastructure could become a target.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intended-to-degrade-iranian-military-capabilities-us-continues-to-strike-iran-on-10th-consecutive-day-1784581451083">‘Intended to degrade Iranian military capabilities’: US continues to strike Iran on 10th consecutive day</a>&nbsp;Neither the UK government nor the US administration has publicly commented on the Bloomberg report. The arrangement, however, reflects continuity in Britain's defence cooperation with Washington despite the change in leadership at Downing Street.

New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham approved continuing US access to British bases like Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford for defensive operations against Iran, maintaining former PM Keir Starmer’s defence policy.

New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has approved the continued use of British military bases by the United States for operations against Iran, maintaining the policy adopted by his predecessor Keir Starmer, according to a Bloomberg report published on Tuesday (July 21). The decision allows US aircraft to continue operating from British facilities, including Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean and RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, for what Washington and London describe as "defensive" missions. These operations are aimed at countering Iranian missile threats and protecting commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. Also read: ‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US The report said Starmer chaired a meeting of senior ministers and officials on Friday to review Britain's position after US military operations against Iran resumed earlier this month. Burnham, who took office as prime minister on Monday, was briefed on the outcome of those discussions and endorsed the decision to continue granting the US access to British bases, the sources told Bloomberg. The policy is expected to draw criticism from opposition parties and sections of the British left, who argue that permitting the use of UK military facilities could make Britain complicit in US military action against Iran. According to Bloomberg, UK officials have also expressed concerns over the legal implications of potential US strikes. Those concerns reportedly intensified after US President Donald Trump warned that Iranian civilian infrastructure could become a target. Also read: ‘Intended to degrade Iranian military capabilities’: US continues to strike Iran on 10th consecutive day Neither the UK government nor the US administration has publicly commented on the Bloomberg report. The arrangement, however, reflects continuity in Britain's defence cooperation with Washington despite the change in leadership at Downing Street.

New UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham approved continuing US access to British bases like Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford for defensive operations against Iran, maintaining former PM Keir Starmer’s defence policy.

Burnham sticks with Starmer's Iran policy, keeps UK bases open to US: Report

The EIU, a sister organisation to The Economist magazine, ranked 173 cities globally based on different factors, including education, stability, healthcare, infrastructure and culture. Check which nations made it into the top 7.

The EIU, a sister organisation to The Economist magazine, ranked 173 cities globally based on different factors, including education, stability, healthcare, infrastructure and culture. Check which nations made it into the top 7.

World's top 7 most liveable cities in 2026 — Check where India and Pakistan stand

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has arrested an alleged Medicare fraud fugitive accused of orchestrating a $547 million healthcare scam, marking the third capture under the bureau's "Most Wanted Fraudsters" initiative.&nbsp;Khalid Ahmed Satary, who was indicted in 2019 by the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida, was arrested overseas after spending nearly three years on the run, according to the FBI. Authorities said Satary breached the conditions of his pretrial release in 2022, leading to the issuance of a federal arrest warrant and an international manhunt.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-s-the-architect-of-the-genocide-against-palestinians-despite-trump-s-remark-mamdani-repeats-netanyahu-will-be-arrested-if-visits-us-1784666149643">‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US</a> FBI Director Kash Patel said Satary's arrest and return to the United States represented the third successful apprehension from the bureau's "Most Wanted Fraudsters" list in the past five weeks."The arrest of Khalid Ahmed Satary and return to the U.S. is the third Most Wanted Fraudster capture from this FBI and our partners in just five weeks, continuing the historic run of success for this new initiative," Patel told Fox News Digital.&nbsp;According to the FBI, Satary is accused of participating in a conspiracy that fraudulently billed Medicare for $547 million in expensive and medically unnecessary genetic tests between 2016 and 2019. Investigators alleged the operation used deceptive marketing campaigns, illegal kickbacks and bribes to persuade patients to undergo unnecessary tests before submitting false claims to Medicare.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-prepares-fresh-tariffs-as-10-global-levy-set-to-expire-on-july-24-1784648368866">Trump prepares fresh tariffs as 10% global levy set to expire on July 24</a> Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche alleged that the scheme targeted thousands of elderly patients and defrauded American taxpayers on a massive scale. "This defendant allegedly orchestrated a massive fraud scheme that preyed on thousands of elderly patients, deceiving them into undergoing expensive, medically unnecessary tests and fraudulently billing the government for more than half a billion dollars," Blanche said.&nbsp;He credited the FBI and its law enforcement partners for securing Satary's return from overseas and warned that authorities would continue pursuing those accused of defrauding government healthcare programmes. "Our message to fraudsters is clear: If you steal from American taxpayers and exploit vulnerable patients, we will find and prosecute you, no matter where you are," Blanche said.

The FBI arrested fugitive Khalid Ahmed Satary overseas for orchestrating a $547 million Medicare fraud scheme, marking the third capture under its new "Most Wanted Fraudsters" initiative.

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has arrested an alleged Medicare fraud fugitive accused of orchestrating a $547 million healthcare scam, marking the third capture under the bureau's "Most Wanted Fraudsters" initiative. Khalid Ahmed Satary, who was indicted in 2019 by the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida, was arrested overseas after spending nearly three years on the run, according to the FBI. Authorities said Satary breached the conditions of his pretrial release in 2022, leading to the issuance of a federal arrest warrant and an international manhunt. Also read: ‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US FBI Director Kash Patel said Satary's arrest and return to the United States represented the third successful apprehension from the bureau's "Most Wanted Fraudsters" list in the past five weeks. "The arrest of Khalid Ahmed Satary and return to the U.S. is the third Most Wanted Fraudster capture from this FBI and our partners in just five weeks, continuing the historic run of success for this new initiative," Patel told Fox News Digital. According to the FBI, Satary is accused of participating in a conspiracy that fraudulently billed Medicare for $547 million in expensive and medically unnecessary genetic tests between 2016 and 2019. Investigators alleged the operation used deceptive marketing campaigns, illegal kickbacks and bribes to persuade patients to undergo unnecessary tests before submitting false claims to Medicare. Also read: Trump prepares fresh tariffs as 10% global levy set to expire on July 24 Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche alleged that the scheme targeted thousands of elderly patients and defrauded American taxpayers on a massive scale. "This defendant allegedly orchestrated a massive fraud scheme that preyed on thousands of elderly patients, deceiving them into undergoing expensive, medically unnecessary tests and fraudulently billing the government for more than half a billion dollars," Blanche said. He credited the FBI and its law enforcement partners for securing Satary's return from overseas and warned that authorities would continue pursuing those accused of defrauding government healthcare programmes. "Our message to fraudsters is clear: If you steal from American taxpayers and exploit vulnerable patients, we will find and prosecute you, no matter where you are," Blanche said.

The FBI arrested fugitive Khalid Ahmed Satary overseas for orchestrating a $547 million Medicare fraud scheme, marking the third capture under its new "Most Wanted Fraudsters" initiative.

FBI arrests alleged $547mn medicare fraud fugitive after 3-year global manhunt

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday (July 21) renewed his call for the International Criminal Court's (ICC) arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be enforced, a day after US President Donald Trump said Netanyahu would not face arrest if he visited the United States.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters, Mamdani said the warrant issued by the ICC should be "taken seriously" and argued that international legal processes must be applied consistently, regardless of who they involve.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-will-not-be-arrested-in-any-way-shape-or-form-in-us-trump-s-counter-to-mamdani-1784576746203">‘Netanyahu will not be arrested in any way, shape, or form in US’: Trump’s counter to Mamdani</a>&nbsp;"When it comes to Benjamin Netanyahu, we're speaking about someone who's the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. And he's the subject of this arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity, for war crimes, and he's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians in Gaza as Israel's prime minister. These are not facts of my personal assessment, they are facts of public record," Mamdani said.&nbsp;He also stressed that international arrest warrants should be treated uniformly, irrespective of the individual named in them.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-man-in-custody-after-allegedly-igniting-blaze-at-manhattan-federal-building-1784574159258">WATCH: Man in custody after allegedly igniting blaze at Manhattan federal building</a>&nbsp;The remarks came a day after Trump stated that Netanyahu would not be arrested if he travelled to the United States, despite the ICC warrant issued over alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes linked to the conflict in Gaza.&nbsp;The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024 over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Israel has rejected the allegations and disputes the court's jurisdiction.&nbsp;Netanyahu has repeatedly denied accusations of wrongdoing, while Israel has also strongly rejected allegations of genocide. &nbsp;

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged enforcement of the ICC arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him the “architect of genocide,” despite President Trump assuring Netanyahu protection.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Tuesday (July 21) renewed his call for the International Criminal Court's (ICC) arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be enforced, a day after US President Donald Trump said Netanyahu would not face arrest if he visited the United States. Speaking to reporters, Mamdani said the warrant issued by the ICC should be "taken seriously" and argued that international legal processes must be applied consistently, regardless of who they involve. Also read: ‘Netanyahu will not be arrested in any way, shape, or form in US’: Trump’s counter to Mamdani "When it comes to Benjamin Netanyahu, we're speaking about someone who's the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. And he's the subject of this arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity, for war crimes, and he's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians in Gaza as Israel's prime minister. These are not facts of my personal assessment, they are facts of public record," Mamdani said. He also stressed that international arrest warrants should be treated uniformly, irrespective of the individual named in them. Also read: WATCH: Man in custody after allegedly igniting blaze at Manhattan federal building The remarks came a day after Trump stated that Netanyahu would not be arrested if he travelled to the United States, despite the ICC warrant issued over alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes linked to the conflict in Gaza. The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024 over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity during Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Israel has rejected the allegations and disputes the court's jurisdiction. Netanyahu has repeatedly denied accusations of wrongdoing, while Israel has also strongly rejected allegations of genocide.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged enforcement of the ICC arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him the “architect of genocide,” despite President Trump assuring Netanyahu protection.

‘He's the architect of the genocide against Palestinians’: Mamdani repeats Netanyahu will be arrested if he visits US

As Spain celebrated its historic FIFA World Cup triumph over Argentina, U.S. President Donald Trump appeared determined to grab a share of the spotlight. Instead of stepping aside after presenting the trophy, Trump lingered on the winners' podium, remaining front and centre as the Spanish players celebrated football's biggest prize.&nbsp;The unusual moment quickly became one of the ceremony's biggest talking points, with critics accusing the U.S. president of turning a team's crowning glory into a personal photo opportunity.&nbsp;The celebrations appeared awkward enough that FIFA President Gianni Infantino eventually guided Trump away, allowing the Spanish champions to have the stage to themselves.&nbsp;For many observers, it was another unforced error—another self-goal in a presidency that has seen no shortage of headline-grabbing moments.&nbsp;The man who recently criticised Spain's Prime Minister for not contributing enough to NATO spending, and called the country hopeless, suddenly found himself presenting the World Cup to Spain.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-china-controls-a-critical-ingredient-for-western-ammunition-gravitas-1784659110869">How China controls a critical ingredient for Western ammunition | Gravitas</a>&nbsp;As if this wasn't embarrassing enough, many of the 80,000-plus spectators greeted him with boos.&nbsp;One incident that emerged as headline news and a focal point of controversy during the 2026 FIFA World Cup was Trump's personal intervention following the match ban on U.S. striker Folarin Balogun.&nbsp;Following Balogun's red card, Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the suspension.&nbsp;FIFA subsequently invoked Article 27 to suspend the one-match ban for a one-year probationary period.&nbsp;Trump's World Cup intervention sparked global backlash, challenged FIFA's integrity, and fuelled concerns over America's soft power.&nbsp;Trump's self-goals aren't limited to the football field. They're playing out on the battlefield too.&nbsp;The renewed confrontation with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz is a case in point.&nbsp;A conflict Trump once suggested would be over in days has dragged on, with Iran refusing to back down and negotiating from a position of strength. His broader objective of forcing regime change remains out of reach.&nbsp;The cost is mounting. The Pentagon says nearly 100 U.S. troops have been injured in just the last two weeks of renewed fighting.&nbsp;Trump announced the U.S. would control the Strait of Hormuz and charge ships for safe passage, a move critics said mirrored tactics long associated with Iran.&nbsp;But less than 24 hours later, he abruptly scrapped the proposed 20 percent reimbursement fee.Another dramatic reversal. Another self-goal.&nbsp;Then comes Trump's face-off with NATO over defence spending.&nbsp;Trump demanded that every NATO ally dramatically raise defence spending to 5% of GDP.At the 2025 Hague Summit, allies agreed to work towards that level by 2035, with 3.5% earmarked for core military spending and 1.5% for broader security investments.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-scores-another-self-goal-at-fifa-world-cup-final-1784655704547/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-scores-another-self-goal-at-fifa-world-cup-final-1784655704547/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;But Spain openly refused to sign up to the target, securing an exemption and sticking to its own spending plans despite Trump's public pressure and threats of economic retaliation.&nbsp;Instead of projecting unquestioned authority, the episode highlighted the limits of his leverage over allies.&nbsp;In February this year, the U.S. Supreme Court shut down a big chunk of the extra tariffs Trump had ordered, forcing the government to return money to the companies that had paid them.&nbsp;According to budget data, the U.S. has paid out $81 billion in tariff refunds so far this fiscal year, which started in October 2025, compared with $5 billion during the same period last year.&nbsp;As wildfires sent smoke billowing across the U.S. border, Trump threatened tariffs on Canadian imports, accusing Ottawa of failing to control the fires.&nbsp;In a social media post, Trump wrote that the U.S. had been "invaded" by dirty air.&nbsp;“The cost of this pollution must of necessity be added to the tariffs Canada is currently paying.”&nbsp;The move stunned many observers.&nbsp;Canada isn't just America's largest trading partner; it's also one of its closest allies, sharing the world's longest undefended border and deep military ties through NORAD and NATO.&nbsp;Critics argued that targeting an ally over a natural disaster risked straining a crucial partnership without addressing the underlying crisis.&nbsp;Instead of putting pressure on an adversary, Washington found itself locked in a dispute with one of its closest friends, turning another tough-talking threat into a diplomatic self-goal.

The man who recently criticised Spain's Prime Minister for not contributing enough to NATO spending, and called the country hopeless, suddenly found himself presenting the World Cup to Spain.

As Spain celebrated its historic FIFA World Cup triumph over Argentina, U.S. President Donald Trump appeared determined to grab a share of the spotlight. Instead of stepping aside after presenting the trophy, Trump lingered on the winners' podium, remaining front and centre as the Spanish players celebrated football's biggest prize. The unusual moment quickly became one of the ceremony's biggest talking points, with critics accusing the U.S. president of turning a team's crowning glory into a personal photo opportunity. The celebrations appeared awkward enough that FIFA President Gianni Infantino eventually guided Trump away, allowing the Spanish champions to have the stage to themselves. For many observers, it was another unforced error—another self-goal in a presidency that has seen no shortage of headline-grabbing moments. The man who recently criticised Spain's Prime Minister for not contributing enough to NATO spending, and called the country hopeless, suddenly found himself presenting the World Cup to Spain. ALSO READ: How China controls a critical ingredient for Western ammunition | Gravitas As if this wasn't embarrassing enough, many of the 80,000-plus spectators greeted him with boos. One incident that emerged as headline news and a focal point of controversy during the 2026 FIFA World Cup was Trump's personal intervention following the match ban on U.S. striker Folarin Balogun. Following Balogun's red card, Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the suspension. FIFA subsequently invoked Article 27 to suspend the one-match ban for a one-year probationary period. Trump's World Cup intervention sparked global backlash, challenged FIFA's integrity, and fuelled concerns over America's soft power. Trump's self-goals aren't limited to the football field. They're playing out on the battlefield too. The renewed confrontation with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz is a case in point. A conflict Trump once suggested would be over in days has dragged on, with Iran refusing to back down and negotiating from a position of strength. His broader objective of forcing regime change remains out of reach. The cost is mounting. The Pentagon says nearly 100 U.S. troops have been injured in just the last two weeks of renewed fighting. Trump announced the U.S. would control the Strait of Hormuz and charge ships for safe passage, a move critics said mirrored tactics long associated with Iran. But less than 24 hours later, he abruptly scrapped the proposed 20 percent reimbursement fee. Another dramatic reversal. Another self-goal. Then comes Trump's face-off with NATO over defence spending. Trump demanded that every NATO ally dramatically raise defence spending to 5% of GDP. At the 2025 Hague Summit, allies agreed to work towards that level by 2035, with 3.5% earmarked for core military spending and 1.5% for broader security investments. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-scores-another-self-goal-at-fifa-world-cup-final-1784655704547/embed But Spain openly refused to sign up to the target, securing an exemption and sticking to its own spending plans despite Trump's public pressure and threats of economic retaliation. Instead of projecting unquestioned authority, the episode highlighted the limits of his leverage over allies. In February this year, the U.S. Supreme Court shut down a big chunk of the extra tariffs Trump had ordered, forcing the government to return money to the companies that had paid them. According to budget data, the U.S. has paid out $81 billion in tariff refunds so far this fiscal year, which started in October 2025, compared with $5 billion during the same period last year. As wildfires sent smoke billowing across the U.S. border, Trump threatened tariffs on Canadian imports, accusing Ottawa of failing to control the fires. In a social media post, Trump wrote that the U.S. had been "invaded" by dirty air. “The cost of this pollution must of necessity be added to the tariffs Canada is currently paying.” The move stunned many observers. Canada isn't just America's largest trading partner; it's also one of its closest allies, sharing the world's longest undefended border and deep military ties through NORAD and NATO. Critics argued that targeting an ally over a natural disaster risked straining a crucial partnership without addressing the underlying crisis. Instead of putting pressure on an adversary, Washington found itself locked in a dispute with one of its closest friends, turning another tough-talking threat into a diplomatic self-goal.

The man who recently criticised Spain's Prime Minister for not contributing enough to NATO spending, and called the country hopeless, suddenly found himself presenting the World Cup to Spain.

From football to foreign policy: Trump's five self-goals | Gravitas

What's the link between cotton and weapons? Well...More than you can imagine. While U.S. President Donald Trump has been escalating the West Asia conflict, America has also been grappling with replenishing its depleting weapons stockpiles.&nbsp;Europe, too, has been ramping up ammunition production amid the looming threat posed by Russia.&nbsp;However, China holds the key to these plans. Here is how:&nbsp;Boosting weapons production is not possible without nitrocellulose, also known as guncotton. It is a highly flammable material made from cotton by exposing it to nitric acid or another powerful nitrating agent.&nbsp;Crucially, guncotton is a vital ingredient in the production of propellant powder used in firearms and missiles. Besides this, it is also used in inks, coatings, and pharmaceuticals.&nbsp;<h2>Where does China come into the picture?</h2>&nbsp;According to the International Trade Centre, China accounts for nearly half of the world's nitrocellulose market and is a key supplier of this material to both Europe and the United States.&nbsp;Reports suggest that Europe relies on China for nearly 70% of the raw material required for guncotton production. But why does the West have to depend on China for guncotton in the first place?&nbsp;After the Cold War, many Western countries reportedly reduced their defence manufacturing capacity as governments expected lower ammunition requirements.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cotton-crisis-threatens-us-europe-s-race-to-build-more-weapons-china-holds-the-key-1784656636391/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/cotton-crisis-threatens-us-europe-s-race-to-build-more-weapons-china-holds-the-key-1784656636391/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, operations at several nitrocellulose plants were scaled down. This situation changed after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which compelled NATO countries to dramatically increase ammunition production.&nbsp;Reports suggest that the shortage of guncotton is primarily due to demand rising much faster than production capacity.<h2>Can the West reduce its dependence?</h2>&nbsp;According to reports, companies in both Europe and the United States are attempting to expand domestic nitrocellulose production capacity.&nbsp;This comes amid growing concerns that China could disrupt access to guncotton during a future conflict, thereby hampering ammunition production.&nbsp;China also has significant leverage over the West due to its dominance in the critical minerals industry. After all, it produces around 90% of the world's rare earth elements.&nbsp;In April last year, Beijing restricted rare earth exports to the United States in response to President Trump's tariff measures.&nbsp;While Trump initially threatened to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods, he later announced a trade and economic agreement with China in November 2025.&nbsp;According to Trump, China agreed to eliminate export controls on rare earth elements and other critical minerals, while ending its retaliatory measures against U.S. semiconductor manufacturers.&nbsp;After Trump visited Beijing in May this year, the White House stated that China had agreed to address U.S. concerns regarding supply chain shortages and restrictions on the sale of critical minerals and rare earths.&nbsp;A month later, China reportedly issued rare earth export licences to three leading American automakers, including General Motors.&nbsp;<h2>The U.S. is still trying to reduce dependency</h2>&nbsp;However, the United States is also working to reduce its reliance on overseas supply chains for defence production.&nbsp;A day earlier, President Trump signed an executive order making it more difficult for U.S. defence contractors to obtain waivers allowing them to purchase critical minerals from China.&nbsp;Companies seeking such waivers will now have to demonstrate that they searched for alternative suppliers and provide a clear plan to reduce their dependence on prohibited sources.&nbsp;This comes as many critical minerals used in missiles, aircraft, and other advanced military systems still rely on Chinese suppliers.&nbsp;The Pentagon has also been urging defence contractors such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing to rapidly expand weapons production while eliminating vulnerabilities within the military supply chain.<h2>The bigger challenge</h2>&nbsp;However, considering that reducing dependence on Beijing will take considerable time, depleting ammunition stockpiles remain a major concern for the United States and its allies.

Boosting weapons production is not possible without nitrocellulose, also known as guncotton. It is a highly flammable material made from cotton.

What's the link between cotton and weapons? Well...More than you can imagine. While U.S. President Donald Trump has been escalating the West Asia conflict, America has also been grappling with replenishing its depleting weapons stockpiles. Europe, too, has been ramping up ammunition production amid the looming threat posed by Russia. However, China holds the key to these plans. Here is how: Boosting weapons production is not possible without nitrocellulose, also known as guncotton. It is a highly flammable material made from cotton by exposing it to nitric acid or another powerful nitrating agent. Crucially, guncotton is a vital ingredient in the production of propellant powder used in firearms and missiles. Besides this, it is also used in inks, coatings, and pharmaceuticals. Where does China come into the picture? According to the International Trade Centre, China accounts for nearly half of the world's nitrocellulose market and is a key supplier of this material to both Europe and the United States. Reports suggest that Europe relies on China for nearly 70% of the raw material required for guncotton production. But why does the West have to depend on China for guncotton in the first place? After the Cold War, many Western countries reportedly reduced their defence manufacturing capacity as governments expected lower ammunition requirements. https://www.wionews.com/videos/cotton-crisis-threatens-us-europe-s-race-to-build-more-weapons-china-holds-the-key-1784656636391/embed Additionally, operations at several nitrocellulose plants were scaled down. This situation changed after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which compelled NATO countries to dramatically increase ammunition production. Reports suggest that the shortage of guncotton is primarily due to demand rising much faster than production capacity. Can the West reduce its dependence? According to reports, companies in both Europe and the United States are attempting to expand domestic nitrocellulose production capacity. This comes amid growing concerns that China could disrupt access to guncotton during a future conflict, thereby hampering ammunition production. China also has significant leverage over the West due to its dominance in the critical minerals industry. After all, it produces around 90% of the world's rare earth elements. In April last year, Beijing restricted rare earth exports to the United States in response to President Trump's tariff measures. While Trump initially threatened to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods, he later announced a trade and economic agreement with China in November 2025. According to Trump, China agreed to eliminate export controls on rare earth elements and other critical minerals, while ending its retaliatory measures against U.S. semiconductor manufacturers. After Trump visited Beijing in May this year, the White House stated that China had agreed to address U.S. concerns regarding supply chain shortages and restrictions on the sale of critical minerals and rare earths. A month later, China reportedly issued rare earth export licences to three leading American automakers, including General Motors. The U.S. is still trying to reduce dependency However, the United States is also working to reduce its reliance on overseas supply chains for defence production. A day earlier, President Trump signed an executive order making it more difficult for U.S. defence contractors to obtain waivers allowing them to purchase critical minerals from China. Companies seeking such waivers will now have to demonstrate that they searched for alternative suppliers and provide a clear plan to reduce their dependence on prohibited sources. This comes as many critical minerals used in missiles, aircraft, and other advanced military systems still rely on Chinese suppliers. The Pentagon has also been urging defence contractors such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing to rapidly expand weapons production while eliminating vulnerabilities within the military supply chain. The bigger challenge However, considering that reducing dependence on Beijing will take considerable time, depleting ammunition stockpiles remain a major concern for the United States and its allies.

Boosting weapons production is not possible without nitrocellulose, also known as guncotton. It is a highly flammable material made from cotton.

How China controls a critical ingredient for Western ammunition | Gravitas

France has summoned Iran's Charge d'Affaires over what it described as an "extremely serious act of intimidation" against two French Embassy staffers in Tehran. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the incident took place on Sunday, when Iranian security services allegedly detained and interrogated the two diplomats. One of them was reportedly assaulted.&nbsp;The ministry said Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot's Secretary-General summoned Iran's Charge d'Affaires on Tuesday and strongly condemned the incident.&nbsp;"He was informed that we condemned this premeditated, deliberate attack in the strongest possible terms. It was a flagrant violation of international law and the Vienna Conventions, signed by Iran, which guarantee the protection of diplomatic personnel and form the basis of relations between countries," the ministry said.&nbsp;France also warned that the incident would have "repercussions" and demanded that Iranian authorities investigate the matter, punish those responsible and ensure the safety of French diplomatic facilities and personnel.&nbsp;The development came after Barrot said the two French Embassy agents were held for several hours without explanation and questioned by Iranian security services. He said one of them was also assaulted before both returned safely to the French Embassy.&nbsp;"On Sunday evening, two agents from the French Embassy in Iran were the target of an extremely serious intimidation action by Iranian security services, in flagrant violation of the diplomatic immunities they enjoy," Barrot wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-prepares-fresh-tariffs-as-10-global-levy-set-to-expire-on-july-24-1784648368866">Trump administration prepares fresh tariffs as 10% global levy set to expire on July 24</a>&nbsp;The two diplomats have since been brought back to France, according to the Foreign Minister.&nbsp;Barrot said the incident was particularly shocking because the two officials were working on programmes supporting Iranian civil society, including artists and scientists.&nbsp;"This aggression is all the more shocking in that these two agents carry out our programs of support for civil society and in particular for Iranian artists and scientists. I congratulated them for their courage in carrying out their mission, which places France at the forefront of support for the Iranian people, whom we will not abandon," he wrote.&nbsp;Barrot also expressed solidarity with the diplomats and informed his Iranian counterpart, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, that the incident could not go without consequences.&nbsp;"I informed the Iranian Foreign Minister that this extremely serious and unacceptable violation of the integrity of our agents cannot go without consequences," he added.&nbsp;Iran has not yet publicly responded to the allegations or taken accountability for the incident.

France summoned Iran's Charge d'Affaires after alleging that Iranian security services detained, interrogated and assaulted two French Embassy staffers in Tehran, warning of repercussions over the incident.

France has summoned Iran's Charge d'Affaires over what it described as an "extremely serious act of intimidation" against two French Embassy staffers in Tehran. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the incident took place on Sunday, when Iranian security services allegedly detained and interrogated the two diplomats. One of them was reportedly assaulted. The ministry said Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot's Secretary-General summoned Iran's Charge d'Affaires on Tuesday and strongly condemned the incident. "He was informed that we condemned this premeditated, deliberate attack in the strongest possible terms. It was a flagrant violation of international law and the Vienna Conventions, signed by Iran, which guarantee the protection of diplomatic personnel and form the basis of relations between countries," the ministry said. France also warned that the incident would have "repercussions" and demanded that Iranian authorities investigate the matter, punish those responsible and ensure the safety of French diplomatic facilities and personnel. The development came after Barrot said the two French Embassy agents were held for several hours without explanation and questioned by Iranian security services. He said one of them was also assaulted before both returned safely to the French Embassy. "On Sunday evening, two agents from the French Embassy in Iran were the target of an extremely serious intimidation action by Iranian security services, in flagrant violation of the diplomatic immunities they enjoy," Barrot wrote in a post on X. Also Read: Trump administration prepares fresh tariffs as 10% global levy set to expire on July 24 The two diplomats have since been brought back to France, according to the Foreign Minister. Barrot said the incident was particularly shocking because the two officials were working on programmes supporting Iranian civil society, including artists and scientists. "This aggression is all the more shocking in that these two agents carry out our programs of support for civil society and in particular for Iranian artists and scientists. I congratulated them for their courage in carrying out their mission, which places France at the forefront of support for the Iranian people, whom we will not abandon," he wrote. Barrot also expressed solidarity with the diplomats and informed his Iranian counterpart, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, that the incident could not go without consequences. "I informed the Iranian Foreign Minister that this extremely serious and unacceptable violation of the integrity of our agents cannot go without consequences," he added. Iran has not yet publicly responded to the allegations or taken accountability for the incident.

France summoned Iran's Charge d'Affaires after alleging that Iranian security services detained, interrogated and assaulted two French Embassy staffers in Tehran, warning of repercussions over the incident.

France summons Iran Charge d'Affaires after Paris alleges 'serious intimidation' of diplomats in Tehran

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (July 21) said that he is not yet finished with Iran and threatened to target &nbsp;underground nuclear complex known as Pickaxe Mountain. This is a deeply buried nuclear site near Natanz where US and its Western allies suspects Iran is building an undeclared enrichment facility.&nbsp;"We'll be hitting that area pretty soon, and very heavily," Trump said, adding that he would not normally announce targets but "there's not a thing they can do about it," said Trump.&nbsp;Talking to reporters during a White House meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Trump said that US has caused intensive damage to Iran and it would take the country more than 20 years to rebuild its infrastructure.&nbsp;"If we left right now, it would take Iran 20, 25 years to rebuild. Okay, and we're not finished at all...we're not leaving right now,' Trump said.&nbsp;<h2>Iran strikes power, desalination plants in Kuwait</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards said it struck an Amazon’s data infrastructure in Bahrain early Tuesday, according to Fars news agency, an IRGC-linked state media. Several cruise missiles were fired at the data centre by IRGC to destroy it.&nbsp;"IRGC attacked the central data infrastructure of the American company Amazon in Bahrain with several cruise missiles and destroyed it,” reported the news agency.&nbsp;The IRGC in a statement released by its public relations office also claimed attack on US air defence systems and radar installations in the Bahrain's Muharraq and Riffa areas.&nbsp;Tehran also struck several power and water desalination plants in Kuwait on Monday causing fires in the fourth such attack in as many days.&nbsp;Direct military confrontations between Iran and the US have continued for the tenth consecutive day though diplomatic efforts are taking place between them occasionally.&nbsp;Amid continued US attacks Tehran has warned it will target facilities and infrastructure in regional countries that are made available to or used by US forces &nbsp;

Talking to reporters during a White House meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Trump said that US has caused extensive damage to Iran and it would take several years for them to rebuild.

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (July 21) said that he is not yet finished with Iran and threatened to target underground nuclear complex known as Pickaxe Mountain. This is a deeply buried nuclear site near Natanz where US and its Western allies suspects Iran is building an undeclared enrichment facility. "We'll be hitting that area pretty soon, and very heavily," Trump said, adding that he would not normally announce targets but "there's not a thing they can do about it," said Trump. Talking to reporters during a White House meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Trump said that US has caused intensive damage to Iran and it would take the country more than 20 years to rebuild its infrastructure. "If we left right now, it would take Iran 20, 25 years to rebuild. Okay, and we're not finished at all...we're not leaving right now,' Trump said. Iran strikes power, desalination plants in Kuwait Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards said it struck an Amazon’s data infrastructure in Bahrain early Tuesday, according to Fars news agency, an IRGC-linked state media. Several cruise missiles were fired at the data centre by IRGC to destroy it. "IRGC attacked the central data infrastructure of the American company Amazon in Bahrain with several cruise missiles and destroyed it,” reported the news agency. The IRGC in a statement released by its public relations office also claimed attack on US air defence systems and radar installations in the Bahrain's Muharraq and Riffa areas. Tehran also struck several power and water desalination plants in Kuwait on Monday causing fires in the fourth such attack in as many days. Direct military confrontations between Iran and the US have continued for the tenth consecutive day though diplomatic efforts are taking place between them occasionally. Amid continued US attacks Tehran has warned it will target facilities and infrastructure in regional countries that are made available to or used by US forces

Talking to reporters during a White House meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Trump said that US has caused extensive damage to Iran and it would take several years for them to rebuild.

'We're not finished at all': Trump says about attack on Iran, threatens to target underground nuclear complex

The Trump administration is preparing fresh tariffs targeting dozens of countries as President Donald Trump's temporary global tariffs are set to expire this week, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said on Tuesday (July 21).&nbsp;The new tariffs will target around 60 trading partners over their alleged failure to take action against forced labour, as the administration seeks to rebuild Trump's trade agenda following legal setbacks.&nbsp;"The US has laws to prohibit trading goods with forced labour. Other countries, most don't have a law; those that do don't really enforce it," Greer was quoted as saying by CNBC.&nbsp;Greer declined to provide a specific timeline for the new measures, saying he must first brief Congress and other stakeholders.&nbsp;“I can’t really specify a timeline right now. I have a responsibility to brief Congress and other stakeholders before I really reveal that kind of thing,” Greer noted as per CNBC.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-kaha-le-jaa-rahe-ho-police-bhai-akhilesh-yadav-detained-outside-pm-s-residence-1784644969182">Watch | 'Kaha le jaa rahe ho police bhai?': Akhilesh Yadav detained outside PM's residence</a>&nbsp;Trump imposed a 10 per cent global tariff this year after the Supreme Court struck down a large part of his tariff programme in February. The levy is due to expire on Friday.&nbsp;Greer said the new action would cover the vast majority of US trade. However, the move could renew tensions with major US trading partners, including the European Union, China, Taiwan, Vietnam and Japan.&nbsp;The European Union has previously said it considers tariffs imposed on these grounds to be "unjustified."<h2>Trump administration expands trade pressure</h2>Trump has introduced several other tariffs and launched trade investigations as he seeks greater leverage in negotiations with US trading partners.&nbsp;A 25 per cent tariff on various Brazilian goods is set to take effect on Wednesday, while a 50 per cent tariff on many Canadian products will come into force on August 19.&nbsp;The administration has also launched trade probes into 16 trading partners over concerns about excess industrial capacity.&nbsp;Earlier on Monday, Washington announced a 50 per cent tariff on many Canadian products, with the measure set to take effect in 30 days. The move comes as US and Mexican officials intensify talks over the North American free trade pact.&nbsp;Greer will travel to Mexico from Wednesday to Friday for talks linked to the joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). &nbsp;

The Trump administration is preparing new tariffs targeting around 60 trading partners as the temporary 10% global import levy is set to expire on July 24, potentially escalating trade tensions with major US partners.

The Trump administration is preparing fresh tariffs targeting dozens of countries as President Donald Trump's temporary global tariffs are set to expire this week, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said on Tuesday (July 21). The new tariffs will target around 60 trading partners over their alleged failure to take action against forced labour, as the administration seeks to rebuild Trump's trade agenda following legal setbacks. "The US has laws to prohibit trading goods with forced labour. Other countries, most don't have a law; those that do don't really enforce it," Greer was quoted as saying by CNBC. Greer declined to provide a specific timeline for the new measures, saying he must first brief Congress and other stakeholders. “I can’t really specify a timeline right now. I have a responsibility to brief Congress and other stakeholders before I really reveal that kind of thing,” Greer noted as per CNBC. Also Read: Watch | 'Kaha le jaa rahe ho police bhai?': Akhilesh Yadav detained outside PM's residence Trump imposed a 10 per cent global tariff this year after the Supreme Court struck down a large part of his tariff programme in February. The levy is due to expire on Friday. Greer said the new action would cover the vast majority of US trade. However, the move could renew tensions with major US trading partners, including the European Union, China, Taiwan, Vietnam and Japan. The European Union has previously said it considers tariffs imposed on these grounds to be "unjustified." Trump administration expands trade pressure Trump has introduced several other tariffs and launched trade investigations as he seeks greater leverage in negotiations with US trading partners. A 25 per cent tariff on various Brazilian goods is set to take effect on Wednesday, while a 50 per cent tariff on many Canadian products will come into force on August 19. The administration has also launched trade probes into 16 trading partners over concerns about excess industrial capacity. Earlier on Monday, Washington announced a 50 per cent tariff on many Canadian products, with the measure set to take effect in 30 days. The move comes as US and Mexican officials intensify talks over the North American free trade pact. Greer will travel to Mexico from Wednesday to Friday for talks linked to the joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

The Trump administration is preparing new tariffs targeting around 60 trading partners as the temporary 10% global import levy is set to expire on July 24, potentially escalating trade tensions with major US partners.

Trump administration prepares fresh tariffs as 10% global levy set to expire on July 24

Rising global crude oil prices have once again brought the economic conditions of India under pressure. The rise in oil prices is being driven by geopolitical tensions in West Asia, escalating concerns over disruptions in oil supplies. Given that India imports over 85 per cent of its crude oil needs, higher prices can push the import bill of the country, widen the current account deficit, put pressure on the rupee, and add fuel to inflation. Simultaneously, oil marketing companies (OMCs) may experience pressure on their margins if domestic retail fuel prices are not revised in line with global rates. This leaves the government to balance inflation control, consumer relief and fiscal stability.<h2>Why does India feel global oil shocks more?</h2>After the pandemic began in 2019, the prices of crude oil have swung dramatically on the world stage. After averaging US$59 per barrel in 2019-20, prices dropped to US$44 per barrel in 2020-21 as pandemic-driven lockdowns curbed global activity. As economies reopened and demand rebounded, prices then jumped roughly 79% to US$78 per barrel in 2021-22, climbing further to US$93 per barrel in 2022-23. The combined effect of lingering pandemic disruptions, sustained geopolitical strain from the Russia-Ukraine war, and sanctions on Russian oil exports drove a sharp spike in price volatility. From levels above US$90 per barrel in 2023-24, international crude prices subsequently slipped below US$70 per barrel starting in 2025-26. As a net importer, India has consistently remained exposed to the unpredictability of global oil markets, prompting the government to repeatedly step into the domestic fuel market to cushion the economy from the inflationary and output-related fallout of rising oil prices. Soon after the outbreak of the US–Iran conflict in February 2026 and subsequent disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz has massively triggered a sharp global crude oil price shock was triggered, delivering a significant macroeconomic blow to India.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-you-an-american-and-planning-to-visit-middle-east-read-the-us-state-department-s-latest-advisory-first-1784641695693">Are you an American and planning to visit Middle East? Read the US State Department's latest advisory first</a> This has resulted in India suffering an immediate expansion of its Current Account Deficit (CAD) and import bill. The surging oil prices caused substantial downward pressure on the Indian Rupee. It also cascaded into higher transportation, manufacturing, and consumer costs. This cost-push inflation complicated the Reserve Bank of India's monetary management. To cushion domestic consumers and farmers from global price surges, government outlays on energy and fertiliser subsidies rose steeply, straining fiscal deficit targets. Other than this, the shocks also disrupted supply chains, resulting in soaring freight rates and maritime insurance costs, which impacted key industries, including aviation, logistics, and agriculture.<h2>How can India solve this problem?</h2>1. Reducing import dependence&nbsp;The Ministry of Petroleum &amp; Natural Gas has opted for a multi-pronged strategy aimed at increasing production of oil and natural gas through various policy initiatives, alongside refinery process improvements and promoting energy efficiency and conservation. Policy measures like the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) have reportedly helped reverse the decline in domestic crude oil production in 2023-24.&nbsp;&nbsp;2. Demand Substitution&nbsp;A core pillar of government policy is demand substitution by promoting usage of natural gas as fuel/feedstock across the country, moving towards a gas-based economy, and promoting renewable and alternate fuels like ethanol, compressed biogas, and biodiesel. The SATAT initiative (Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation) has specifically been launched to promote Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) as an automotive fuel.&nbsp; 3. Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) This has emerged as a flagship measure; as of September 2024, India's ethanol blending programme has saved over US$12.80 billion in foreign exchange while providing US$10.89 billion to farmers over the last decade.&nbsp;4. Diversifying the basket&nbsp;To reduce over-reliance on any single region (particularly the geopolitically volatile Middle East), the government has focused on insulating common citizens from high international prices by diversifying the crude import basket and invoking Universal Service Obligation provisions to ensure availability of petrol and diesel in the domestic market.&nbsp;5. Consumer relief measures&nbsp;When global prices spike, the government has previously used tax levers — reducing Central Excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 13/litre and Rs 16/litre respectively across two tranches in November 2021 and May 2022, fully passed on to consumers, with some states also cutting VAT.&nbsp;6. Renewable energy &amp; EV push&nbsp;Longer-term structural shifts include expanding electric vehicle charging infrastructure, with India targeting 500 GW of installed electricity capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030 through schemes like PM-KUSUM, PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, and the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Despite these measures, dependence on crude oil has risen sharply, increasing imports from 189 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 243 million tonnes in 2024-25, with import dependence rising from 84 per cent to around 90 per cent over the same period.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition, India's crude oil import bill increased to approximately $50 billion in the June quarter of 2026, a 60 per cent jump from a year earlier, as the war in West Asia ended discounts that once cushioned the country's energy costs. The government data indicated that the world's third-largest oil importer paid $49.8 billion for crude in the April-June period. In addition, the volume of oil bought fell to around 60 million tonnes from 62.6 million tonnes a year ago.&nbsp;

To cushion domestic consumers and farmers from global price surges, government outlays on energy and fertiliser subsidies rose steeply, straining fiscal deficit targets. The shocks also disrupted supply chains, resulting in soaring freight rates and maritime insurance costs.

Rising global crude oil prices have once again brought the economic conditions of India under pressure. The rise in oil prices is being driven by geopolitical tensions in West Asia, escalating concerns over disruptions in oil supplies. Given that India imports over 85 per cent of its crude oil needs, higher prices can push the import bill of the country, widen the current account deficit, put pressure on the rupee, and add fuel to inflation. Simultaneously, oil marketing companies (OMCs) may experience pressure on their margins if domestic retail fuel prices are not revised in line with global rates. This leaves the government to balance inflation control, consumer relief and fiscal stability. Why does India feel global oil shocks more? After the pandemic began in 2019, the prices of crude oil have swung dramatically on the world stage. After averaging US$59 per barrel in 2019-20, prices dropped to US$44 per barrel in 2020-21 as pandemic-driven lockdowns curbed global activity. As economies reopened and demand rebounded, prices then jumped roughly 79% to US$78 per barrel in 2021-22, climbing further to US$93 per barrel in 2022-23. The combined effect of lingering pandemic disruptions, sustained geopolitical strain from the Russia-Ukraine war, and sanctions on Russian oil exports drove a sharp spike in price volatility. From levels above US$90 per barrel in 2023-24, international crude prices subsequently slipped below US$70 per barrel starting in 2025-26. As a net importer, India has consistently remained exposed to the unpredictability of global oil markets, prompting the government to repeatedly step into the domestic fuel market to cushion the economy from the inflationary and output-related fallout of rising oil prices. Soon after the outbreak of the US–Iran conflict in February 2026 and subsequent disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz has massively triggered a sharp global crude oil price shock was triggered, delivering a significant macroeconomic blow to India. Also read: Are you an American and planning to visit Middle East? Read the US State Department's latest advisory first This has resulted in India suffering an immediate expansion of its Current Account Deficit (CAD) and import bill. The surging oil prices caused substantial downward pressure on the Indian Rupee. It also cascaded into higher transportation, manufacturing, and consumer costs. This cost-push inflation complicated the Reserve Bank of India's monetary management. To cushion domestic consumers and farmers from global price surges, government outlays on energy and fertiliser subsidies rose steeply, straining fiscal deficit targets. Other than this, the shocks also disrupted supply chains, resulting in soaring freight rates and maritime insurance costs, which impacted key industries, including aviation, logistics, and agriculture. How can India solve this problem? 1. Reducing import dependence The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas has opted for a multi-pronged strategy aimed at increasing production of oil and natural gas through various policy initiatives, alongside refinery process improvements and promoting energy efficiency and conservation. Policy measures like the Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) have reportedly helped reverse the decline in domestic crude oil production in 2023-24. 2. Demand Substitution A core pillar of government policy is demand substitution by promoting usage of natural gas as fuel/feedstock across the country, moving towards a gas-based economy, and promoting renewable and alternate fuels like ethanol, compressed biogas, and biodiesel. The SATAT initiative (Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation) has specifically been launched to promote Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) as an automotive fuel. 3. Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) This has emerged as a flagship measure; as of September 2024, India's ethanol blending programme has saved over US$12.80 billion in foreign exchange while providing US$10.89 billion to farmers over the last decade. 4. Diversifying the basket To reduce over-reliance on any single region (particularly the geopolitically volatile Middle East), the government has focused on insulating common citizens from high international prices by diversifying the crude import basket and invoking Universal Service Obligation provisions to ensure availability of petrol and diesel in the domestic market. 5. Consumer relief measures When global prices spike, the government has previously used tax levers — reducing Central Excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 13/litre and Rs 16/litre respectively across two tranches in November 2021 and May 2022, fully passed on to consumers, with some states also cutting VAT. 6. Renewable energy & EV push Longer-term structural shifts include expanding electric vehicle charging infrastructure, with India targeting 500 GW of installed electricity capacity from non-fossil sources by 2030 through schemes like PM-KUSUM, PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, and the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Despite these measures, dependence on crude oil has risen sharply, increasing imports from 189 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 243 million tonnes in 2024-25, with import dependence rising from 84 per cent to around 90 per cent over the same period. In addition, India's crude oil import bill increased to approximately $50 billion in the June quarter of 2026, a 60 per cent jump from a year earlier, as the war in West Asia ended discounts that once cushioned the country's energy costs. The government data indicated that the world's third-largest oil importer paid $49.8 billion for crude in the April-June period. In addition, the volume of oil bought fell to around 60 million tonnes from 62.6 million tonnes a year ago.

To cushion domestic consumers and farmers from global price surges, government outlays on energy and fertiliser subsidies rose steeply, straining fiscal deficit targets. The shocks also disrupted supply chains, resulting in soaring freight rates and maritime insurance costs.

EXPLAINED: Why crude oil shocks hit India harder than other major economies — And how can it change?

The US State Department issued an alert for American citizens on Monday (July 20), warning that increasing tensions in West Asia could lead to complexity in security developments, travel disruptions and potential threats to US interests abroad. The issued warning said that "due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex with the potential for unforeseen escalation". "Americans outside the Middle East should reconsider travel to and through the region," it said, while warning of the heightened possibility of attacks targeting US diplomatic facilities "or at locations associated with the United States and Americans throughout the world." "Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions," the advisory read. The authority also requested travellers to track embassy and consular security alerts, local authorities, and updates on major developments. Previously, an alert was issued on March 22, amid escalating attacks across the region.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sleepy-don-23-times-donald-trump-appeared-to-fall-asleep-during-his-second-term-watch-1784636279677">Sleepy Don? 23 times Donald Trump appeared to fall asleep during his second term: WATCH</a><h3>US-Iran war</h3>Americans have been urged to register on the State Department's website for up-to-date security alerts and to follow its WhatsApp channel for further updates. The conflict, which erupted after the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28 in an effort to cripple Tehran's nuclear and missile capabilities and undermine its regional allies, has claimed thousands of lives, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) brokered between the two nations with Swiss mediation now appears to have collapsed, with hostilities reigniting between them ten days ago. As tensions have intensified, neighbouring Middle Eastern nations have borne the impact as well, with Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan coming under fire in the retaliatory strikes of Iran.

Americans have been urged to register on the State Department's website for up-to-date security alerts and to follow its WhatsApp channel for further updates.

The US State Department issued an alert for American citizens on Monday (July 20), warning that increasing tensions in West Asia could lead to complexity in security developments, travel disruptions and potential threats to US interests abroad. The issued warning said that "due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex with the potential for unforeseen escalation". "Americans outside the Middle East should reconsider travel to and through the region," it said, while warning of the heightened possibility of attacks targeting US diplomatic facilities "or at locations associated with the United States and Americans throughout the world." "Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions," the advisory read. The authority also requested travellers to track embassy and consular security alerts, local authorities, and updates on major developments. Previously, an alert was issued on March 22, amid escalating attacks across the region. Also read: Sleepy Don? 23 times Donald Trump appeared to fall asleep during his second term: WATCH US-Iran war Americans have been urged to register on the State Department's website for up-to-date security alerts and to follow its WhatsApp channel for further updates. The conflict, which erupted after the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28 in an effort to cripple Tehran's nuclear and missile capabilities and undermine its regional allies, has claimed thousands of lives, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) brokered between the two nations with Swiss mediation now appears to have collapsed, with hostilities reigniting between them ten days ago. As tensions have intensified, neighbouring Middle Eastern nations have borne the impact as well, with Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan coming under fire in the retaliatory strikes of Iran.

Americans have been urged to register on the State Department's website for up-to-date security alerts and to follow its WhatsApp channel for further updates.

Are you an American and planning to visit Middle East? Read the US State Department's latest advisory first

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards on Tuesday (July 21) said it struck an Amazon’s data infrastructure in Bahrain, according to Fars news agency, an IRGC-linked state media. Several cruise missiles were fired at the data centre by IRGC to destroy it.&nbsp;"IRGC attacked the central data infrastructure of the American company Amazon in Bahrain with several cruise missiles and destroyed it,” reported the news agency.&nbsp;The IRGC in a statement released by its public relations office also claimed attack on US air defence systems and radar installations in the Bahrain's Muharraq and Riffa areas.&nbsp;<h2>Power, water desalination plants attacked, says Kuwait</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Kuwait has claimed that several power and water desalination plants were attacked by Iran on Monday, causing fires in the fourth such attack in as many days.&nbsp;ALSO READ: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-s-new-pm-andy-burnham-announces-tax-cut-on-household-electricity-bills-to-ease-cost-of-living-crisis-1784630627391">UK's new PM Andy Burnham announces tax cut on household electricity bills to ease cost-of-living crisis</a>&nbsp;The ministry of electricity, water and renewable energy took to X to write, “In light of the continued Iranian heinous aggressions on the state of Kuwait, several electricity power plants and water distillation stations were subjected to attacks for the fourth day in a row, resulting in fires in several facilities."&nbsp;In view of the attack on its power grids, Kuwaiti authorities have called on the public to consume less energy so that they can maintain round-the-clock electricity.&nbsp;<h2>US strikes Iran for 10th consecutive day</h2>&nbsp;Direct military confrontations between Iran and the US have continued for the tenth consecutive day though diplomatic efforts are taking place between them occasionally.&nbsp;Amid continued US attacks Tehran has warned it will target facilities and infrastructure in regional countries that are made available to or used by US forces.&nbsp;US says the attacks are aimed to “degrade Iranian capabilities used to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz," a vital shipping pathway. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The IRGC in a statement released by its public relations office also claimed attack on US air defence systems and radar installations in the Bahrain.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards on Tuesday (July 21) said it struck an Amazon’s data infrastructure in Bahrain, according to Fars news agency, an IRGC-linked state media. Several cruise missiles were fired at the data centre by IRGC to destroy it. "IRGC attacked the central data infrastructure of the American company Amazon in Bahrain with several cruise missiles and destroyed it,” reported the news agency. The IRGC in a statement released by its public relations office also claimed attack on US air defence systems and radar installations in the Bahrain's Muharraq and Riffa areas. Power, water desalination plants attacked, says Kuwait Meanwhile, Kuwait has claimed that several power and water desalination plants were attacked by Iran on Monday, causing fires in the fourth such attack in as many days. ALSO READ: UK's new PM Andy Burnham announces tax cut on household electricity bills to ease cost-of-living crisis The ministry of electricity, water and renewable energy took to X to write, “In light of the continued Iranian heinous aggressions on the state of Kuwait, several electricity power plants and water distillation stations were subjected to attacks for the fourth day in a row, resulting in fires in several facilities." In view of the attack on its power grids, Kuwaiti authorities have called on the public to consume less energy so that they can maintain round-the-clock electricity. US strikes Iran for 10th consecutive day Direct military confrontations between Iran and the US have continued for the tenth consecutive day though diplomatic efforts are taking place between them occasionally. Amid continued US attacks Tehran has warned it will target facilities and infrastructure in regional countries that are made available to or used by US forces. US says the attacks are aimed to “degrade Iranian capabilities used to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz," a vital shipping pathway.

The IRGC in a statement released by its public relations office also claimed attack on US air defence systems and radar installations in the Bahrain.

Iran strikes Amazon data infrastructure in Bahrain, power, water desalination plants in Kuwait

US President Donald Trump continues to remain in focus on social media related to his health and some weird act doing in public. Trump's act always been the subject of speculation around his health and well-being online. This comes after he underwent two MRI scans in the space of a year in 2025, during which he was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency. In this case, Trump appeared to fall asleep on multiple occasions.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump appears to be completely passed out asleep in the Oval Office <a href="https://t.co/puCh6yRfHT">pic.twitter.com/puCh6yRfHT</a>&mdash; Headquarters (@HQNewsNow) <a href="https://x.com/HQNewsNow/status/2065164431948952019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Here's a date-wise list of occasions where Trump fell asleep</h3><ul><li>April 26, 2025 – Pope Francis' Funeral: One of the first widely-reported incidents, where Trump appeared to nod off. He also drew criticism for wearing a blue suit, breaking from Vatican dress code, and for seemingly checking his phone during the service.</li><li>May 13, 2025 – Saudi Arabia Visit: During a press briefing on a newly signed agreement with Saudi Arabia while touring the Middle East, Trump appeared to doze off, earning him the nickname "Sleepy Don" — a callback to his own past jabs at Joe Biden.</li><li>July 15, 2025 – Pennsylvania Energy and Innovation Summit: Despite the summit's energetic theme, observers noted Trump appeared to fall asleep during the event.</li><li>October 8, 2025 – Antifa Roundtable: At a discussion on Antifa, a movement he has frequently criticised, Trump appeared to struggle with staying alert.&nbsp;</li><li>November 6, 2025 – Obesity Drugs Press Conference: At an event where a White House guest also fainted, Trump was seen reclining in his chair with his eyes shut.</li><li>December 2, 2025 – Cabinet Meeting: While Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised him as the world's key figure in resolving the Ukraine conflict, Trump appeared to have his eyes closed and head tilted, nodding without visibly opening his eyes even when addressed directly as “Mr President.”</li><li>December 4, 2025 – Rwanda-DRC Agreement Signing: Days after the cabinet meeting incident, Trump's head appeared to droop during a press event marking new agreements between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.</li><li>December 18, 2025 – Marijuana Reclassification Signing: While signing an order to reclassify marijuana at the Resolute Desk, Trump appeared to briefly drift off.</li><li>January 4, 2026 – Venezuela Briefing: During a briefing on US military action in Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, Trump, while military official Dan "Raizin" Caine spoke, appeared to repeatedly close his eyes in the background.</li><li>January 14, 2026 – Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Signing: With health and agriculture officials present, Trump appeared to nod off during the signing event on reintroducing whole milk to school lunches.</li><li>February 12, 2026 – Climate Regulation Repeal: During a press conference on rolling back climate rules, Trump again appeared to have difficulty keeping his eyes open.</li><li>February 19, 2026 – Board of Peace Meeting: At the inaugural meeting of his newly formed Board of Peace, Trump appeared to close his eyes, drawing mockery from California Governor Gavin Newsom's press office.</li><li>March 23, 2026 – Memphis Safe Task Force Roundtable: While in Tennessee for this event, Trump again appeared to struggle to stay awake.</li><li>April 23, 2026 – Regeneron Agreement: During an event on a deal with pharmaceutical company Regeneron, Trump appeared to lean forward and fall asleep while others spoke.</li><li>May 5, 2026 – Small Business Summit: While Small Business Administration head Kelly Loeffler addressed the summit, social media users claimed Trump appeared to fall asleep while standing.</li><li>May 25, 2026 – Memorial Day: Trump faced significant online backlash after appearing to fall asleep during the Memorial Day ceremony honouring fallen military personnel.</li><li>June 4, 2026 – Coal Industry Event: After footage showed Trump leaning to one side with his eyes shut, the White House's Rapid Response account pushed back sharply, insisting his eyes were open in the clip.</li><li>June 8, 2026 – NBA Finals (Knicks Game): At Madison Square Garden for Game 3, Trump appeared to nod off, drawing criticism given the disruptions, including street closures and heightened security, caused by his attendance.</li><li>June 11, 2026 – Fishing Proclamation Signing: While signing a proclamation on commercial fishing, Trump was seen leaning to one side with his eyes closed as someone spoke nearby.</li><li>June 14, 2026 – UFC Freedom 250 Event: Coinciding with his 80th birthday celebrations, Trump appeared to fall asleep at this highly anticipated event held on the White House South Lawn.</li><li>June 26, 2026 – Religious Liberty Commission Meeting: While welcoming commission members to discuss a "bridge" between religion and politics, Trump appeared to doze off as the chair spoke.</li><li>July 4, 2026 – Independence Day Celebrations: During America's 250th birthday event at the National Mall, Trump was seen appearing to fall asleep in his seat.</li><li>July 19, 2026 – World Cup Final: While watching Spain face Argentina in the final, Trump appeared to doze off. He was seen alert again after Spain's extra-time win, joining FIFA President Gianni Infantino for the trophy presentation.</li></ul>

Trump's act always been the subject of speculation around his health and well-being online. This comes after he underwent two MRI scans in the space of a year in 2025, during which he was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency. 

US President Donald Trump continues to remain in focus on social media related to his health and some weird act doing in public. Trump's act always been the subject of speculation around his health and well-being online. This comes after he underwent two MRI scans in the space of a year in 2025, during which he was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency. In this case, Trump appeared to fall asleep on multiple occasions.

Trump's act always been the subject of speculation around his health and well-being online. This comes after he underwent two MRI scans in the space of a year in 2025, during which he was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency.&nbsp;

Sleepy Don? 23 times Donald Trump appeared to fall asleep during his second term: WATCH

The Philippines is ramping up defence ties with India, praising the BrahMos missile system for strengthening its military posture. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio described the BrahMos acquisition as a game-changer for the country’s armed forces. “The BrahMos... is a very important contribution to the Philippines’ effort to achieve credible deterrence,” he said.&nbsp;“Its extended range affords the Philippines the ability to deter and even deny... It enhances our defence in a very significant way. This is the first [of its kind] for our arsenal.”&nbsp;The Philippines was the first export customer for the supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia.&nbsp;Ambassador Ignacio signalled that further defence acquisitions and deeper cooperation remain on the table, with India now viewed as a major partner in defence equipment, training and indigenous industry development.&nbsp;“India has become one of our top-of-mind partners... by virtue of the strength of India’s indigenous defence industry,” he added.&nbsp;“We are looking at opportunities for India to also help the Philippines as we try to develop our own indigenous defence industry.”&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected in Manila for ASEAN foreign ministers’ meetings this week. Ambassador Ignacio welcomed the visit as proof of India’s enduring commitment.&nbsp;“India since 1992 has always been an ardent supporter of ASEAN... The visit of EAM to Manila... reinforces this commitment of India to ASEAN centrality,” he said. “It is a consistent show of Indian support for ASEAN which we appreciate very much.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-s-new-pm-andy-burnham-announces-tax-cut-on-household-electricity-bills-to-ease-cost-of-living-crisis-1784630627391">UK's new PM Andy Burnham announces tax cut on household electricity bills to ease cost-of-living crisis</a>&nbsp;Under the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN chairmanship theme “Navigating Our Future Together”, talks will centre on energy security, food security, supply chain resilience and peaceful resolution of conflicts.The push for stronger partnerships comes against the backdrop of renewed tensions in South China Sea. On 21 July, Philippine forces reported a violent confrontation near Second Thomas Shoal in which a Filipino navy personnel was injured.&nbsp;Ambassador Ignacio stressed the legal position: “Second Thomas Shoal is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. It is a low-tide elevation... The Chinese side has no law enforcement authority over that area... There is no legal basis for that under UNCLOS and under the arbitral award.”Development comes days after the 10th anniversary of the landmark 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. India welcomed the milestone, describing it as an “important milestone” for peaceful, law-based dispute settlement.&nbsp;Ignacio expressed gratitude for New Delhi’s support and highlighted the ruling’s wider importance: “The arbitral award is important... The clarification of provisions of UNCLOS has broader implications beyond the case... It is an important contribution to international law, especially to maritime law.”&nbsp;

The Philippines is deepening defence ties with India, praising the BrahMos missile system as a key boost to its military deterrence while seeking greater cooperation in defence technology and indigenous industry development.

The Philippines is ramping up defence ties with India, praising the BrahMos missile system for strengthening its military posture. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio described the BrahMos acquisition as a game-changer for the country’s armed forces. “The BrahMos... is a very important contribution to the Philippines’ effort to achieve credible deterrence,” he said. “Its extended range affords the Philippines the ability to deter and even deny... It enhances our defence in a very significant way. This is the first [of its kind] for our arsenal.” The Philippines was the first export customer for the supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia. Ambassador Ignacio signalled that further defence acquisitions and deeper cooperation remain on the table, with India now viewed as a major partner in defence equipment, training and indigenous industry development. “India has become one of our top-of-mind partners... by virtue of the strength of India’s indigenous defence industry,” he added. “We are looking at opportunities for India to also help the Philippines as we try to develop our own indigenous defence industry.” External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected in Manila for ASEAN foreign ministers’ meetings this week. Ambassador Ignacio welcomed the visit as proof of India’s enduring commitment. “India since 1992 has always been an ardent supporter of ASEAN... The visit of EAM to Manila... reinforces this commitment of India to ASEAN centrality,” he said. “It is a consistent show of Indian support for ASEAN which we appreciate very much.” Also Read: UK's new PM Andy Burnham announces tax cut on household electricity bills to ease cost-of-living crisis Under the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN chairmanship theme “Navigating Our Future Together”, talks will centre on energy security, food security, supply chain resilience and peaceful resolution of conflicts. The push for stronger partnerships comes against the backdrop of renewed tensions in South China Sea. On 21 July, Philippine forces reported a violent confrontation near Second Thomas Shoal in which a Filipino navy personnel was injured. Ambassador Ignacio stressed the legal position: “Second Thomas Shoal is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. It is a low-tide elevation... The Chinese side has no law enforcement authority over that area... There is no legal basis for that under UNCLOS and under the arbitral award.” Development comes days after the 10th anniversary of the landmark 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. India welcomed the milestone, describing it as an “important milestone” for peaceful, law-based dispute settlement. Ignacio expressed gratitude for New Delhi’s support and highlighted the ruling’s wider importance: “The arbitral award is important... The clarification of provisions of UNCLOS has broader implications beyond the case... It is an important contribution to international law, especially to maritime law.”

The Philippines is deepening defence ties with India, praising the BrahMos missile system as a key boost to its military deterrence while seeking greater cooperation in defence technology and indigenous industry development.

Philippines eyes deeper defence ties with India, says Ambassador Josel F. Ignacio

A US court has begun a trial against Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, over allegations that it deliberately designed addictive features targeting teenagers. Jury selection began in Nashville, Tennessee, on Monday (Jul 20), in a lawsuit brought by the Tennessee Attorney General under the state's consumer protection law.<h2>'Instagram, the addiction machine'</h2>Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti accused Meta of knowingly designing Instagram as an "addiction machine" that drives compulsive use among teenagers. The lawsuit alleged that Meta failed to disclose its own internal research on the platform's harms to young users and misled the public about its safety. According to the complaint, Meta continued deploying features it allegedly knew were harmful, while downplaying the associated risks.Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg previously testified that the company's algorithms are not intentionally designed to make young users addicted and that Meta has invested in safety features for teenagers.The trial is expected to last six to seven weeks. If Meta is found liable, the court could impose civil penalties of up to US$1,000 for each violation of Tennessee's Consumer Protection Act. it could also order changes to Instagram's design and practices.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/broken-ai-useless-products-mark-zuckerberg-is-steering-meta-towards-a-disaster-1780207649003">'Broken AI, useless products': Mark Zuckerberg might be steering Meta towards a disaster</a><h2>Meta is facing several cases across the US</h2>The Tennessee case overlaps with a growing number of lawsuits against Meta alleging that its platforms were deliberately designed to maximise engagement at the expense of young users' mental health.In May this year, Meta settled a lawsuit brought by Breathitt County Schools in Kentucky for US$9 million. The school district had alleged that addictive design features on Instagram and Facebook harmed students and had sought US$60 million in damages. Meta denied wrongdoing as part of the settlement.<a href="https://embed.wionews.com/videos/meta-hit-with-1-4-trillion-penalty-claim-by-us-states-1783449721227/embed">https://embed.wionews.com/videos/meta-hit-with-1-4-trillion-penalty-claim-by-us-states-1783449721227/embed</a><h2>Social media addiction: The case of Kaley Glenn-Mills</h2>In March 2026, a Los Angeles jury in the K.G.M. v. Meta Platforms, Inc. et al case found Meta and Google liable for negligently designing addictive features on Instagram and YouTube that harmed the plaintiff, Kaley Glenn-Mills. The verdict is viewed as one of the first successful individual social media addiction cases to go before a jury.The lawsuit centred on platform features including infinite scroll, algorithmic recommendations, autoplay and other engagement-driven design elements. The plaintiff's lawyers argued that these features contributed to compulsive use, leading to anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia and other mental health problems.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/instagram-will-now-let-anyone-generate-deepfake-of-your-face-unless-you-opt-out-right-now-1783477170729">Instagram will now let anyone generate deepfake of your face, unless you opt out right now</a>&nbsp;According to court testimony, Glenn-Mills began using YouTube at the age of six and Instagram at the age of nine. Her lawyers argued that years of compulsive social media use contributed to severe mental health difficulties, including depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, eating disorders and repeated psychiatric hospitalisations during her adolescence.&nbsp;The jury awarded US$6 million in total damages — US$3 million in compensatory damages and US$3 million in punitive damages. It apportioned 70 per cent of the liability , or US$4.2 million, to Meta and 30 per cent, or US$1.8 million, to Google.Meta said it "respectfully disagrees" with the verdict. The company argued that teenage mental health is "profoundly complex" and cannot be attributed to a single app. It added: "We will continue to defend ourselves vigorously as every case is different, and we remain confident in our record of protecting teens online."Also in March, a New Mexico jury ordered Meta to pay US$375 million in civil penalties after finding that it violated the state's consumer protection law by misleading consumers about the safety of its platforms and concealing what it knew about child sexual exploitation risks on Facebook and Instagram. &nbsp;The case was brought by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez. The jury awarded the maximum statutory penalty of US$5,000 per violation, amounting to US$375 million.Both the California verdict in K.G.M. v. Meta Platforms, Inc. et al. and the New Mexico judgment have been appealed by Meta.<h2>Social media, Big Tech and consumers: Several cases going on</h2>Meta, Google and other Big Tech companies are facing thousands of lawsuits consolidated in federal multidistrict litigation, as well as separate actions brought by more than 40 US state attorneys general, school districts and individual plaintiffs.The main allegation is that social media platforms were designed to foster compulsive use among children and teenagers and failed to adequately warn users about the associated risks.

Meta faces trial in Tennessee over claims Instagram was designed to addict teenagers. This case adds to growing US lawsuits over addictive algorithms, teen mental health and platform safety. Here is why it matters

A US court has begun a trial against Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, over allegations that it deliberately designed addictive features targeting teenagers. Jury selection began in Nashville, Tennessee, on Monday (Jul 20), in a lawsuit brought by the Tennessee Attorney General under the state's consumer protection law. 'Instagram, the addiction machine' Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti accused Meta of knowingly designing Instagram as an "addiction machine" that drives compulsive use among teenagers. The lawsuit alleged that Meta failed to disclose its own internal research on the platform's harms to young users and misled the public about its safety. According to the complaint, Meta continued deploying features it allegedly knew were harmful, while downplaying the associated risks. Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg previously testified that the company's algorithms are not intentionally designed to make young users addicted and that Meta has invested in safety features for teenagers. The trial is expected to last six to seven weeks. If Meta is found liable, the court could impose civil penalties of up to US$1,000 for each violation of Tennessee's Consumer Protection Act. it could also order changes to Instagram's design and practices. Also read: 'Broken AI, useless products': Mark Zuckerberg might be steering Meta towards a disaster Meta is facing several cases across the US The Tennessee case overlaps with a growing number of lawsuits against Meta alleging that its platforms were deliberately designed to maximise engagement at the expense of young users' mental health. In May this year, Meta settled a lawsuit brought by Breathitt County Schools in Kentucky for US$9 million. The school district had alleged that addictive design features on Instagram and Facebook harmed students and had sought US$60 million in damages. Meta denied wrongdoing as part of the settlement. https://embed.wionews.com/videos/meta-hit-with-1-4-trillion-penalty-claim-by-us-states-1783449721227/embed Social media addiction: The case of Kaley Glenn-Mills In March 2026, a Los Angeles jury in the K.G.M. v. Meta Platforms, Inc. et al case found Meta and Google liable for negligently designing addictive features on Instagram and YouTube that harmed the plaintiff, Kaley Glenn-Mills. The verdict is viewed as one of the first successful individual social media addiction cases to go before a jury. The lawsuit centred on platform features including infinite scroll, algorithmic recommendations, autoplay and other engagement-driven design elements. The plaintiff's lawyers argued that these features contributed to compulsive use, leading to anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia and other mental health problems. Also read: Instagram will now let anyone generate deepfake of your face, unless you opt out right now According to court testimony, Glenn-Mills began using YouTube at the age of six and Instagram at the age of nine. Her lawyers argued that years of compulsive social media use contributed to severe mental health difficulties, including depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, eating disorders and repeated psychiatric hospitalisations during her adolescence. The jury awarded US$6 million in total damages — US$3 million in compensatory damages and US$3 million in punitive damages. It apportioned 70 per cent of the liability , or US$4.2 million, to Meta and 30 per cent, or US$1.8 million, to Google. Meta said it "respectfully disagrees" with the verdict. The company argued that teenage mental health is "profoundly complex" and cannot be attributed to a single app. It added: "We will continue to defend ourselves vigorously as every case is different, and we remain confident in our record of protecting teens online." Also in March, a New Mexico jury ordered Meta to pay US$375 million in civil penalties after finding that it violated the state's consumer protection law by misleading consumers about the safety of its platforms and concealing what it knew about child sexual exploitation risks on Facebook and Instagram. The case was brought by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez. The jury awarded the maximum statutory penalty of US$5,000 per violation, amounting to US$375 million. Both the California verdict in K.G.M. v. Meta Platforms, Inc. et al. and the New Mexico judgment have been appealed by Meta. Social media, Big Tech and consumers: Several cases going on Meta, Google and other Big Tech companies are facing thousands of lawsuits consolidated in federal multidistrict litigation, as well as separate actions brought by more than 40 US state attorneys general, school districts and individual plaintiffs. The main allegation is that social media platforms were designed to foster compulsive use among children and teenagers and failed to adequately warn users about the associated risks.

Meta faces trial in Tennessee over claims Instagram was designed to addict teenagers. This case adds to growing US lawsuits over addictive algorithms, teen mental health and platform safety. Here is why it matters&nbsp;

Addictive algorithms: Meta trial opens in Tennessee as Instagram accused of 'addiction machine’ design

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Tuesday launched his plan to ease cost-of-living pressures by removing value added tax (VAT) from household electricity bills, ahead of his first Cabinet meeting as prime minister.&nbsp;The Labour leader, who took office on Monday, said the government would remove VAT from energy bills from October. The move will cost the government about £850 million ($1.143 billion) during the current financial year.&nbsp;"We're taking immediate action to cut taxes on energy bills, put more money in people's pockets and bring back hope," Burnham said in a statement.&nbsp;The tax cut will save an average household around £45 a year, according to the government.The government said the measure would particularly benefit poorer households, which spend a larger share of their income on energy bills.&nbsp;The policy will take effect in October, when the UK energy regulator expects to raise its price cap on electricity and gas bills. The government linked the expected increase to the ongoing US-Iran war.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-grants-approval-for-sonam-wangchuk-to-be-moved-to-medanta-hospital-1784622590354">Delhi High Court grants approval for Sonam Wangchuk to be moved to Medanta Hospital</a><h2>Burnham scraps Starmer's digital ID plan to fund tax cut</h2>The government said it would fund the energy tax cut by cancelling former Prime Minister Keir Starmer's proposed digital ID scheme. The scheme would have cost taxpayers £1.8 billion.&nbsp;Burnham has also pledged to reduce pressure on small businesses, which faced tax increases under the previous Labour government. However, the new prime minister has promised to maintain strict fiscal discipline. He said the government would continue to balance tax revenues with day-to-day public spending.&nbsp;Official figures released on Tuesday showed that UK government borrowing fell more than expected in June. The data provided a boost to new Finance Minister John Healey, who replaced Rachel Reeves.Public sector net borrowing stood at £16 billion in June, down by one-third from the same month last year, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.<h2> UK job vacancies fall as Burnham faces economic challenge</h2>Meanwhile, employers cut job vacancies in June, highlighting the fragile state of the UK economy amid the conflict in the Middle East.&nbsp;Job vacancies fell to 712,000, nearly half the level recorded in 2022. Employers delayed hiring new staff in the three months to May, according to the ONS.&nbsp;Separate figures showed that the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.9% in May, the same level as in April.&nbsp;The figures highlight the challenge facing Burnham as he seeks to revive economic growth and strengthen the UK's labour market.

Andy Burnham scrapped former PM Keir Starmer's digital ID scheme to fund a tax cut on household electricity bills and ease cost-of-living pressures.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Tuesday launched his plan to ease cost-of-living pressures by removing value added tax (VAT) from household electricity bills, ahead of his first Cabinet meeting as prime minister. The Labour leader, who took office on Monday, said the government would remove VAT from energy bills from October. The move will cost the government about £850 million ($1.143 billion) during the current financial year. "We're taking immediate action to cut taxes on energy bills, put more money in people's pockets and bring back hope," Burnham said in a statement. The tax cut will save an average household around £45 a year, according to the government. The government said the measure would particularly benefit poorer households, which spend a larger share of their income on energy bills. The policy will take effect in October, when the UK energy regulator expects to raise its price cap on electricity and gas bills. The government linked the expected increase to the ongoing US-Iran war. Also Read: Delhi High Court grants approval for Sonam Wangchuk to be moved to Medanta Hospital Burnham scraps Starmer's digital ID plan to fund tax cut The government said it would fund the energy tax cut by cancelling former Prime Minister Keir Starmer's proposed digital ID scheme. The scheme would have cost taxpayers £1.8 billion. Burnham has also pledged to reduce pressure on small businesses, which faced tax increases under the previous Labour government. However, the new prime minister has promised to maintain strict fiscal discipline. He said the government would continue to balance tax revenues with day-to-day public spending. Official figures released on Tuesday showed that UK government borrowing fell more than expected in June. The data provided a boost to new Finance Minister John Healey, who replaced Rachel Reeves. Public sector net borrowing stood at £16 billion in June, down by one-third from the same month last year, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. UK job vacancies fall as Burnham faces economic challenge Meanwhile, employers cut job vacancies in June, highlighting the fragile state of the UK economy amid the conflict in the Middle East. Job vacancies fell to 712,000, nearly half the level recorded in 2022. Employers delayed hiring new staff in the three months to May, according to the ONS. Separate figures showed that the unemployment rate remained unchanged at 4.9% in May, the same level as in April. The figures highlight the challenge facing Burnham as he seeks to revive economic growth and strengthen the UK's labour market.

Andy Burnham scrapped former PM Keir Starmer's digital ID scheme to fund a tax cut on household electricity bills and ease cost-of-living pressures.

UK's new PM Andy Burnham announces tax cut on household electricity bills to ease cost-of-living crisis

In a historic reshuffle, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has appointed Indian-origin Labour politician Kanishka Narayan as the United Kingdom’s Minister for Artificial Intelligence, elevating the technology portfolio to cabinet-level status for the first time. &nbsp;Narayan, 36, who made history in 2024 as the first ethnic minority Member of Parliament to represent a Welsh constituency after winning the Vale of Glamorgan seat, previously served as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for AI and Online Safety. His promotion into the core cabinet signals the new UK government’s intent to sharp-focus digital sovereignty and place artificial intelligence at the center of Britain’s economic policy. &nbsp;Early life and academic journey&nbsp;Born in Muzaffarpur, in India's northern state of Bihar, Narayan spent his early childhood in the country before his family relocated to Cardiff, Wales, when he was 12 years old. Growing up in modest surroundings off City Road in Cardiff, he initially attended Cathays High School before earning a prestigious scholarship to Eton College. &nbsp;&nbsp;He went on to study philosophy, politics, and economics at Balliol College, Oxford, and later earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Stanford University in the United States. &nbsp;&nbsp;Before entering frontline politics, Narayan built an extensive background across both the public and private sectors. He served as a civil servant in the UK Cabinet Office during David Cameron’s administration and at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) under Liz Truss. Outside government, he worked as a financial adviser to private enterprises and actively engaged with social mobility initiatives, including co-founding Attain Wales to support educational access for underprivileged youth. &nbsp;&nbsp;Narayan’s political career took off in July 2024 when he flipped the Conservative stronghold of Vale of Glamorgan for Labour, ending 14 years of Tory dominance in the constituency. He initially served as Parliamentary Private Secretary at DEFRA before taking on the junior AI role under former Prime Minister Keir Starmer in September 2025.&nbsp;<h3>Shaping Britain's Technological Future</h3> As the UK's first dedicated AI Minister, Narayan takes charge of a sector at a critical juncture. Britain remains home to key global AI firms and research hubs, including Google DeepMind, ElevenLabs, and Wayve, yet faces growing scrutiny over energy costs, infrastructure delays, and regulatory direction. Narayan is expected to guide the UK’s strategy on tech sovereignty while balancing innovation with online safety.

Born in Bihar and raised in Wales, Kanishka Narayan is a Labour MP, Stanford graduate, and the UK’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence.

In a historic reshuffle, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has appointed Indian-origin Labour politician Kanishka Narayan as the United Kingdom’s Minister for Artificial Intelligence, elevating the technology portfolio to cabinet-level status for the first time. Narayan, 36, who made history in 2024 as the first ethnic minority Member of Parliament to represent a Welsh constituency after winning the Vale of Glamorgan seat, previously served as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for AI and Online Safety. His promotion into the core cabinet signals the new UK government’s intent to sharp-focus digital sovereignty and place artificial intelligence at the center of Britain’s economic policy. Early life and academic journey Born in Muzaffarpur, in India's northern state of Bihar, Narayan spent his early childhood in the country before his family relocated to Cardiff, Wales, when he was 12 years old. Growing up in modest surroundings off City Road in Cardiff, he initially attended Cathays High School before earning a prestigious scholarship to Eton College. He went on to study philosophy, politics, and economics at Balliol College, Oxford, and later earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Stanford University in the United States. Before entering frontline politics, Narayan built an extensive background across both the public and private sectors. He served as a civil servant in the UK Cabinet Office during David Cameron’s administration and at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) under Liz Truss. Outside government, he worked as a financial adviser to private enterprises and actively engaged with social mobility initiatives, including co-founding Attain Wales to support educational access for underprivileged youth. Narayan’s political career took off in July 2024 when he flipped the Conservative stronghold of Vale of Glamorgan for Labour, ending 14 years of Tory dominance in the constituency. He initially served as Parliamentary Private Secretary at DEFRA before taking on the junior AI role under former Prime Minister Keir Starmer in September 2025. Shaping Britain's Technological Future As the UK's first dedicated AI Minister, Narayan takes charge of a sector at a critical juncture. Britain remains home to key global AI firms and research hubs, including Google DeepMind, ElevenLabs, and Wayve, yet faces growing scrutiny over energy costs, infrastructure delays, and regulatory direction. Narayan is expected to guide the UK’s strategy on tech sovereignty while balancing innovation with online safety.

Born in Bihar and raised in Wales, Kanishka Narayan is a Labour MP, Stanford graduate, and the UK’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence.

Who is Kanishka Narayan? Indian-origin MP named UK’s first AI minister

YouTube, the world's biggest video-sharing platform, is cracking down on AI-generated slop, a monster of its own creation, at least in part. The irony is that Google and Alphabet, YouTube's parent companies, are creating and promoting AI tools for content generation, with products and models including Gemini AI, Veo, Nano Banana, and Dream Screen. Now, millions of videos and thousands of YT channels face the risk of demonetisation or even removal. The guidance from YouTube is confusing at best, making it difficult for creators to navigate AI-assisted content. If you are a creator hoping to monetise your YouTube channel using AI, here's what you should know.<h2>YouTube AI crackdown: What's likely to be demonetised and what's fine with AI use?</h2>The updated monetisation policies appear to target ‘AI slop’, although YouTube has not used that specific term, which refers to low-quality, mass-produced, repetitive, generic, template-based, or inauthentic AI-generated content. YouTube says it will continue to allow responsible, original, and value-adding content that uses AI.The main update came on 14 July, when YouTube clarified and renamed its existing "repetitious content" policy as the "inauthentic content" policy. This marks another step in the platform's long-running effort to tackle low-effort, spammy, and reused content rather than AI itself.YouTube's Channel Monetisation Policies and its Generative AI disclosure guidelines provide details on what qualifies for monetisation and when creators must disclose realistic AI-generated or altered content. In a recent video, YouTube's Vice President of Trust and Safety, Matt Halprin, described inauthentic content as generic, repetitive, "off-putting", and emotionally manipulative. He also highlighted AI personas - virtual avatars offering advice on subjects ranging from health to finance. Such content could be demonetised under the YouTube Partner Programme (YPP) guidelines if it lacks originality or meaningful human contribution.&nbsp;However,&nbsp;Content that may not be monetised includes mass-produced slideshows with similar AI narration, near-identical videos, or formulaic repetitive uploads. Unsatisfying or off-putting content could also be penalised, particularly emotionally manipulative, shock-oriented, or interchangeable videos designed purely to generate views and engagement.AI-generated "expert" personas dispensing advice on health, finance, legal matters, or politics could also face demonetisation if they are mass-produced, low-value, or created with minimal human oversight or creative input.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/-200-billion-views-a-day-on-shorts-youtube-bets-big-on-ai-creators-may-soon-get-to-use-ai-likenesses-1769080738659">'200 billion views a day on Shorts': YouTube bets big on AI, creators may soon get to use AI likenesses</a><h2>What's fine on YouTube with AI use?</h2>YouTube insists AI is not banned. The focus remains on originality, creativity, and viewer value. The crackdown is aimed at low-effort spam farms, not creators using AI as a production tool.Original, creative, or educational content with substantial human input, unique value, or a clear creative vision remains eligible for monetisation, even if AI tools are used for editing, scripting, visuals, or other production tasks.Properly disclosed realistic AI-generated or AI-altered content, using YouTube Studio's disclosure tools, should be fine, mostly. Although an "AI" label may appear on such videos, it does not automatically affect monetisation eligibility or recommendations. Non-realistic AI content used for animation, visual effects, or production assistance may not require disclosure. High-quality AI-assisted videos that viewers find satisfying and non-repetitive are also expected to remain monetisable.YouTube continues to promote its own AI tools, including Dream Screen and Creator AI features, provided the final content adds genuine value.&nbsp;Disclosure requirements have existed for more than a year, particularly to combat deepfakes involving real people, fabricated events, and photorealistic AI-generated scenes. Failure to disclose such content could lead to penalties.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/google-settles-android-tv-antitrust-case-in-india-pays-2-3-million-8990436/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/google-settles-android-tv-antitrust-case-in-india-pays-2-3-million-8990436/embed</a><h2>AI slop: The growth of mass-produced content on YouTube</h2>An analysis by video-editing platform Kapwing found that channels producing only AI slop amassed tens of billions of views and hundreds of millions of subscribers, generating an estimated US$117 million a year in revenue. It estimated that more than 20 per cent of content recommended by YouTube's algorithm to new users consisted of AI slop or low-quality "brainrot". Several AI-only channels grew from zero to tens of millions of subscribers within months through such mass production.&nbsp;Meanwhile, demand for AI video-generation tools continues to surge, with platforms reporting hundreds of millions of AI-generated videos.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/viral-sensation-to-timeless-hit-psy-s-gangnam-style-hits-6-billion-youtube-views-after-14-years-1784570378800">Viral sensation to timeless hit! PSY's 'Gangnam Style' hits 6 billion YouTube views after 14 years</a><h2>The irony of AI slop: YouTube is dealing with a monster that Google and Alphabet helped create</h2>Google and YouTube heavily promoted their own generative AI tools, including Gemini, Veo, Nano Banana, and Dream Screen. Now they are attempting to curb a flood of low-quality AI content, much of it showcased through YouTube videos, Shorts, and creator promotions. In recent months, YouTube Chief Executive Officer Neal Mohan has described AI as a "new creative frontier" in interviews, keynote speeches, company announcements and blog posts, even as the platform simultaneously builds systems to limit the AI slop it helped accelerate.YouTube is now grappling with the scalable downsides of the technology it developed and promoted. Labelling requirements, AI detection systems, and likeness protection tools are all attempts to address the problem. But the floodgates are already open, and pushing the water back will not be easy. At worst, the changing policies could confuse creators and discourage some from treating YouTube as a viable source of full-time or supplementary income.

YouTube is tightening monetisation rules for AI-generated slop. This will target repetitive and inauthentic content while allowing original, value-adding AI-assisted videos that meet disclosure requirements. Here is what you should know if you are a creator



YouTube, the world's biggest video-sharing platform, is cracking down on AI-generated slop, a monster of its own creation, at least in part. The irony is that Google and Alphabet, YouTube's parent companies, are creating and promoting AI tools for content generation, with products and models including Gemini AI, Veo, Nano Banana, and Dream Screen. Now, millions of videos and thousands of YT channels face the risk of demonetisation or even removal. The guidance from YouTube is confusing at best, making it difficult for creators to navigate AI-assisted content. If you are a creator hoping to monetise your YouTube channel using AI, here's what you should know. YouTube AI crackdown: What's likely to be demonetised and what's fine with AI use? The updated monetisation policies appear to target ‘AI slop’, although YouTube has not used that specific term, which refers to low-quality, mass-produced, repetitive, generic, template-based, or inauthentic AI-generated content. YouTube says it will continue to allow responsible, original, and value-adding content that uses AI. The main update came on 14 July, when YouTube clarified and renamed its existing "repetitious content" policy as the "inauthentic content" policy. This marks another step in the platform's long-running effort to tackle low-effort, spammy, and reused content rather than AI itself. YouTube's Channel Monetisation Policies and its Generative AI disclosure guidelines provide details on what qualifies for monetisation and when creators must disclose realistic AI-generated or altered content. In a recent video, YouTube's Vice President of Trust and Safety, Matt Halprin, described inauthentic content as generic, repetitive, "off-putting", and emotionally manipulative. He also highlighted AI personas - virtual avatars offering advice on subjects ranging from health to finance. Such content could be demonetised under the YouTube Partner Programme (YPP) guidelines if it lacks originality or meaningful human contribution. However, Content that may not be monetised includes mass-produced slideshows with similar AI narration, near-identical videos, or formulaic repetitive uploads. Unsatisfying or off-putting content could also be penalised, particularly emotionally manipulative, shock-oriented, or interchangeable videos designed purely to generate views and engagement. AI-generated "expert" personas dispensing advice on health, finance, legal matters, or politics could also face demonetisation if they are mass-produced, low-value, or created with minimal human oversight or creative input. Also read: '200 billion views a day on Shorts': YouTube bets big on AI, creators may soon get to use AI likenesses What's fine on YouTube with AI use? YouTube insists AI is not banned. The focus remains on originality, creativity, and viewer value. The crackdown is aimed at low-effort spam farms, not creators using AI as a production tool. Original, creative, or educational content with substantial human input, unique value, or a clear creative vision remains eligible for monetisation, even if AI tools are used for editing, scripting, visuals, or other production tasks. Properly disclosed realistic AI-generated or AI-altered content, using YouTube Studio's disclosure tools, should be fine, mostly. Although an "AI" label may appear on such videos, it does not automatically affect monetisation eligibility or recommendations. Non-realistic AI content used for animation, visual effects, or production assistance may not require disclosure. High-quality AI-assisted videos that viewers find satisfying and non-repetitive are also expected to remain monetisable. YouTube continues to promote its own AI tools, including Dream Screen and Creator AI features, provided the final content adds genuine value. Disclosure requirements have existed for more than a year, particularly to combat deepfakes involving real people, fabricated events, and photorealistic AI-generated scenes. Failure to disclose such content could lead to penalties. https://www.wionews.com/videos/google-settles-android-tv-antitrust-case-in-india-pays-2-3-million-8990436/embed AI slop: The growth of mass-produced content on YouTube An analysis by video-editing platform Kapwing found that channels producing only AI slop amassed tens of billions of views and hundreds of millions of subscribers, generating an estimated US$117 million a year in revenue. It estimated that more than 20 per cent of content recommended by YouTube's algorithm to new users consisted of AI slop or low-quality "brainrot". Several AI-only channels grew from zero to tens of millions of subscribers within months through such mass production. Meanwhile, demand for AI video-generation tools continues to surge, with platforms reporting hundreds of millions of AI-generated videos. Also read: Viral sensation to timeless hit! PSY's 'Gangnam Style' hits 6 billion YouTube views after 14 years The irony of AI slop: YouTube is dealing with a monster that Google and Alphabet helped create Google and YouTube heavily promoted their own generative AI tools, including Gemini, Veo, Nano Banana, and Dream Screen. Now they are attempting to curb a flood of low-quality AI content, much of it showcased through YouTube videos, Shorts, and creator promotions. In recent months, YouTube Chief Executive Officer Neal Mohan has described AI as a "new creative frontier" in interviews, keynote speeches, company announcements and blog posts, even as the platform simultaneously builds systems to limit the AI slop it helped accelerate. YouTube is now grappling with the scalable downsides of the technology it developed and promoted. Labelling requirements, AI detection systems, and likeness protection tools are all attempts to address the problem. But the floodgates are already open, and pushing the water back will not be easy. At worst, the changing policies could confuse creators and discourage some from treating YouTube as a viable source of full-time or supplementary income.

YouTube is tightening monetisation rules for AI-generated slop. This will target repetitive and inauthentic content while allowing original, value-adding AI-assisted videos that meet disclosure requirements. Here is what you should know if you are a creator&nbsp;

YouTube cracks down on AI slop, but didn't it help create the monster? Your channel will be demonetised if...

Louvre Museum’s Apollo Gallery will reopen on Wednesday (July 22) after the 2025 heist that shook art enthusiasts across the globe. The&nbsp;robbery took place in broad daylight, when thieves took away prized jewels worth $102 million from the premises. In less than 10 minutes, the museum, where tourists flock to see legendary Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, lost its sparkle and sparked a lot of security concerns.&nbsp;But here’s what will be different, no jewels will be on display and the museum will revert to its 17th century function as a state gallery, a source told news agency AFP on Monday (July 20). In an interview with Le Parisien, the museum's president Christophe Leribault said the "collections and precious objects" that had been displayed earlier, had been removed.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-louvre-museum-robbery-video-shows-thief-cutting-through-glass-display-in-brazen-heist-of-eight-royal-jewels-1760978089824">Louvre Museum robbery: WATCH | Thief cutting through glass display in brazen heist</a><h2>Museum director's admission</h2>Director Laurence des Cars admitted to inadequate camera surveillance. Speaking for the first time after the heist, the museum director told French lawmakers, “Despite our efforts, despite our hard work on a daily basis, we failed.”She added, "The only camera installed is directed westward and therefore did not cover the balcony involved in the break-in.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-sherlock-looking-detective-was-not-investigating-louvre-heist-here-s-why-he-was-there-1762954290305">'Sherlock' looking detective was not investigating Louvre heist, here's why he was there</a><h2>What all was stolen in the robbery?</h2>As per a report by Bloomberg, the robbers stole a total of eight royal artifacts which included: a sapphire diadem, necklace, and single earring from a matching set linked to 19th-century French queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense; an emerald necklace and earrings from Empress Marie-Louise, second wife Napoleon Bonaparte; a reliquary brooch; Empress Eugénie’s diadem; and her large corsage-bow brooch.&nbsp;The crown of Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III, however, has been found by the authorities in damaged condition near the museum. The crown has 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds and with golden eagles, as per the museum website.

Paris’s Louvre Museum will reopen its Apollo Gallery on July 22 following a $102 million jewel heist, but all remaining precious objects have been removed.

Louvre Museum’s Apollo Gallery will reopen on Wednesday (July 22) after the 2025 heist that shook art enthusiasts across the globe. The robbery took place in broad daylight, when thieves took away prized jewels worth $102 million from the premises. In less than 10 minutes, the museum, where tourists flock to see legendary Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, lost its sparkle and sparked a lot of security concerns. But here’s what will be different, no jewels will be on display and the museum will revert to its 17th century function as a state gallery, a source told news agency AFP on Monday (July 20). In an interview with Le Parisien, the museum's president Christophe Leribault said the "collections and precious objects" that had been displayed earlier, had been removed. Also read: Louvre Museum robbery: WATCH | Thief cutting through glass display in brazen heist Museum director's admission Director Laurence des Cars admitted to inadequate camera surveillance. Speaking for the first time after the heist, the museum director told French lawmakers, “Despite our efforts, despite our hard work on a daily basis, we failed.” She added, "The only camera installed is directed westward and therefore did not cover the balcony involved in the break-in.” Also read: 'Sherlock' looking detective was not investigating Louvre heist, here's why he was there What all was stolen in the robbery? As per a report by Bloomberg, the robbers stole a total of eight royal artifacts which included: a sapphire diadem, necklace, and single earring from a matching set linked to 19th-century French queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense; an emerald necklace and earrings from Empress Marie-Louise, second wife Napoleon Bonaparte; a reliquary brooch; Empress Eugénie’s diadem; and her large corsage-bow brooch. The crown of Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III, however, has been found by the authorities in damaged condition near the museum. The crown has 1,354 diamonds and 56 emeralds and with golden eagles, as per the museum website.

Paris’s Louvre Museum will reopen its Apollo Gallery on July 22 following a $102 million jewel heist, but all remaining precious objects have been removed.

Louvre’s Apollo Gallery to reopen after $102m heist, but without any jewels on display

Following in the footsteps of pioneer nations like Australia and Indonesia, French lawmakers are finalising legislation aimed at banning children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms. Championed as a flagship reform by French President Emmanuel Macron to protect adolescent mental health and curb cyberbullying, the proposed ban faces an unprecedented logistical dilemma: how to reliably verify a user's age without compromising digital privacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-australia-ties-pm-modi-praises-australia-s-social-media-ban-for-under-16s-1783685512024/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-australia-ties-pm-modi-praises-australia-s-social-media-ban-for-under-16s-1783685512024/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The two-stage rollout plan pushed to block new underage account creations starting in September and suspend existing underage accounts by January 2027 leaves tech platforms, privacy watchdogs, and enforcement authorities facing an unresolved technical puzzle.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/social-media-ban-for-teens-on-the-cards-pm-modi-praises-australia-s-under-16-social-media-ban-says-we-re-taking-lessons-from-you-1783614717670">Social media ban for teens on the cards? PM Modi praises Australia's under-16 ban, says 'we're taking lessons from you'</a>&nbsp;<h3>French privacy regulators and international experts point out significant drawbacks across all available verification tools:</h3>&nbsp;<h3>Government-issued IDs</h3>&nbsp;Requiring users to upload passports or driver’s licenses offers the most accurate age proof. However, experts warn it exposes user databases to severe data-breach risks, deters privacy-conscious citizens, and can easily be bypassed if teenagers submit documents belonging to older relatives or friends. Australia notably barred platforms from requiring government IDs outright under its own December under-16 ban due to these privacy concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>Biometric age estimation</h3>&nbsp;Facial-scanning algorithms, which analyse facial features to estimate a user’s age, avoid storing sensitive identity documents. Yet, these tools suffer from higher error rates among teenagers undergoing rapid physical development and face strict pushback under European Union data protection laws.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-join-under-16-social-media-bans-but-will-it-really-hurt-the-companies-the-big-question-1781599084799">UK to join under-16 social media bans, but will it really hurt the companies? The Big Question</a><h2>Third-party brokers</h2>&nbsp;Delegating verification to bank accounts or third-party digital identity apps—such as an upcoming age-verification system prototyped by the European Commission—removes the burden from platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram. However, integration remains technically fragmented across the European market.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to lawmaker Laure Miller and French digital authorities, platforms will be given the flexibility to integrate approved age-checking solutions. Yet, until a foolproof, privacy-preserving standard is deployed across the European Union, France's ambitious digital boundary risks running up against the messy realities of the internet.&nbsp;&nbsp;

France’s proposed under-15 social media ban faces technical roadblocks as platforms struggle to verify user ages without breaching data privacy rules.

Following in the footsteps of pioneer nations like Australia and Indonesia, French lawmakers are finalising legislation aimed at banning children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms. Championed as a flagship reform by French President Emmanuel Macron to protect adolescent mental health and curb cyberbullying, the proposed ban faces an unprecedented logistical dilemma: how to reliably verify a user's age without compromising digital privacy. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-australia-ties-pm-modi-praises-australia-s-social-media-ban-for-under-16s-1783685512024/embed The two-stage rollout plan pushed to block new underage account creations starting in September and suspend existing underage accounts by January 2027 leaves tech platforms, privacy watchdogs, and enforcement authorities facing an unresolved technical puzzle. Also read: Social media ban for teens on the cards? PM Modi praises Australia's under-16 ban, says 'we're taking lessons from you' French privacy regulators and international experts point out significant drawbacks across all available verification tools: Government-issued IDs Requiring users to upload passports or driver’s licenses offers the most accurate age proof. However, experts warn it exposes user databases to severe data-breach risks, deters privacy-conscious citizens, and can easily be bypassed if teenagers submit documents belonging to older relatives or friends. Australia notably barred platforms from requiring government IDs outright under its own December under-16 ban due to these privacy concerns. Biometric age estimation Facial-scanning algorithms, which analyse facial features to estimate a user’s age, avoid storing sensitive identity documents. Yet, these tools suffer from higher error rates among teenagers undergoing rapid physical development and face strict pushback under European Union data protection laws. Also read: UK to join under-16 social media bans, but will it really hurt the companies? The Big Question Third-party brokers Delegating verification to bank accounts or third-party digital identity apps—such as an upcoming age-verification system prototyped by the European Commission—removes the burden from platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram. However, integration remains technically fragmented across the European market. According to lawmaker Laure Miller and French digital authorities, platforms will be given the flexibility to integrate approved age-checking solutions. Yet, until a foolproof, privacy-preserving standard is deployed across the European Union, France's ambitious digital boundary risks running up against the messy realities of the internet.

France’s proposed under-15 social media ban faces technical roadblocks as platforms struggle to verify user ages without breaching data privacy rules.

France wants to ban kids from social media, but age-verification tests face hurdle

Tropical Storm Bertha is moving towards New Orleans and could hit land on Wednesday (July 22) afternoon. It erupted along the US Gulf Coast Monday evening, and the National Hurricane Center (NHC) named it Tropical Depression Two. But since then it has grown into the second named Atlantic storm, forecasters said, with wind speeds reaching more than 62 kmph. They will further grow to more than 80 kmph in the coming days when heavy rains hit Florida Panhandle, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana and Texas.&nbsp;The National Weather Service has issued tropical storm warnings for the entire Florida coast. Waves could reach heights of 16 feet, creating dangerous sea conditions and capsizing boats. In Florida's Tallahassee and Panama City, and in New Orleans, up to eight inches of rain is predicted, affecting nearly one million people.&nbsp;Meteorologists said Bertha formed in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and will continue to strengthen. Wind will reach between 64 kmph and 120 kmph by early Tuesday morning. From here, the conditions will continue to worsen and reach their peak by evening. Bertha is predicted to make landfall in the New Orleans area by 1 pm local time on Wednesday.<h2>Where is Bertha right now?</h2> Tropical Storm Bertha is nearly 225 kilometres south of Panama City, Florida, and moving west-northwest slowly. Sustained wind speeds stand at 65 km/hr. Forecasters warned the storm is moving slowly and could linger near the coast for days. There is a risk of prolonged heavy rain, flash flooding and coastal inundation from Florida to Louisiana. It will later move west towards Texas.<h2>Places under warning and watch from Bertha</h2> Areas west into Louisiana (including Metropolitan New Orleans, Lake Pontchartrain) and parts of the Florida Panhandle are under a Tropical Storm Watch, while places from the Alabama/Florida border westward to southeastern Louisiana are under Tropical Storm Warning. A Storm Surge Watch is in effect from the mouth of the Mississippi River to the Alabama/Florida border.

Tropical Storm Bertha is on track to hit New Orleans on Wednesday. It is expected to bring dangerous conditions to the entire Florida coast, with wind speeds reaching 120 kmph by Tuesday morning. Up to eight inches of rain is predicted for several areas.

Tropical Storm Bertha is moving towards New Orleans and could hit land on Wednesday (July 22) afternoon. It erupted along the US Gulf Coast Monday evening, and the National Hurricane Center (NHC) named it Tropical Depression Two. But since then it has grown into the second named Atlantic storm, forecasters said, with wind speeds reaching more than 62 kmph. They will further grow to more than 80 kmph in the coming days when heavy rains hit Florida Panhandle, Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana and Texas. The National Weather Service has issued tropical storm warnings for the entire Florida coast. Waves could reach heights of 16 feet, creating dangerous sea conditions and capsizing boats. In Florida's Tallahassee and Panama City, and in New Orleans, up to eight inches of rain is predicted, affecting nearly one million people. Meteorologists said Bertha formed in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and will continue to strengthen. Wind will reach between 64 kmph and 120 kmph by early Tuesday morning. From here, the conditions will continue to worsen and reach their peak by evening. Bertha is predicted to make landfall in the New Orleans area by 1 pm local time on Wednesday. Where is Bertha right now? Tropical Storm Bertha is nearly 225 kilometres south of Panama City, Florida, and moving west-northwest slowly. Sustained wind speeds stand at 65 km/hr. Forecasters warned the storm is moving slowly and could linger near the coast for days. There is a risk of prolonged heavy rain, flash flooding and coastal inundation from Florida to Louisiana. It will later move west towards Texas. Places under warning and watch from Bertha Areas west into Louisiana (including Metropolitan New Orleans, Lake Pontchartrain) and parts of the Florida Panhandle are under a Tropical Storm Watch, while places from the Alabama/Florida border westward to southeastern Louisiana are under Tropical Storm Warning. A Storm Surge Watch is in effect from the mouth of the Mississippi River to the Alabama/Florida border.

Tropical Storm Bertha is on track to hit New Orleans on Wednesday. It is expected to bring dangerous conditions to the entire Florida coast, with wind speeds reaching 120 kmph by Tuesday morning. Up to eight inches of rain is predicted for several areas.

Tropical Storm Bertha: Where is Storm Warning, Storm Watch and Surge Watch in effect?

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YouTube cracks down on AI slop, but didn't it help create the monster?

Louvre’s Apollo Gallery to reopen after $102m heist, but without any jewels