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Killing the Himalayas slowly: Human urine is melting a glacier on Mount Everest

A Houthi official made a statement on the social media platform X not long after the leader of the group declared that the group was intensifying attacks on ships in the Red Sea and other waters, utilizing new "submarine weapons" among other things, in an attempt to replicate Israeli military actions in the Gaza Strip.

Red Sea Crisis: Yemen's Houthi target UK ship in Gulf of Aden

Czech Foreign Minister, Jan Lipavsky of Czech Republic has highlighted his country's readiness to cooperate with India, particularly in the areas of research, and innovation. He also spoke on India's successful G20 presidency. Watch WION's diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal in an exclusive conversation with Jan Lipavsky.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky in an exclusive interview with WION

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<p>The United Kingdom (UK) imposed a fresh set of sanctions on Russia to mark the second anniversary of Moscow's war in Ukraine. In a post on X, the foreign office announced that more than 50 people sustaining Russian President Vladimir Putin's illegal war in Ukraine have been sanctioned. "Sanctions have deprived Russia’s war machine of an estimated $400 billion. Two years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion, we continue to stand with Ukraine," the post added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Foreign Secretary David Cameron said that sanctions are starving Putin of the resources he desperately needs to fund his struggling war. "Two years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion, we continue to support Ukraine as it fights for democracy – for as long as it takes," Cameron said in a post on the social media platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sanctions-six-russian-officials-at-siberian-prison-where-navalny-died-692407">UK sanctions six Russian officials at Siberian prison where Putin critic Alexei Navalny died</a></strong></p>

<p>The sanctions would crack down on those "supplying his depleted armoury with munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles and explosives," <strong><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-uk-sanctions-mark-two-years-since-russias-illegal-invasion-of-ukraine">the foreign office said in a statement</a></strong>. "These new sanctions also target key sources of Russian revenue, clamping down on metals, diamonds, and energy trade, and cutting off funding for Putin’s illegal war from every angle," the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>Who have&nbsp;been sanctioned?</strong></h2>

<p>Among those sanctioned include companies linked to manufacturing munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles, explosives and other critical goods used in military equipment; key Russian importers and manufacturers of machine tools; oil trader Niels Troost and his company Paramount Energy &amp; Commodities SA; Fractal Marine DMCC, Beks Ship Management, and Active Shipping; Russian diamond companies and five senior executives or owners of Russia’s top producers of copper, zinc and steel.</p>

<p>Since the war started in Ukraine on Feb 24, 2022, the UK has sanctioned thousands of individuals, companies and groups under its Russia sanctions regime. The foreign office said that Thursday's set of sanctions would disrupt Putin's ability to equip his now struggling military with high-tech equipment and much-needed weaponry, as well as blocking him from refilling his war coffers- while Ukraine defends itself.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Inside Putin's Russia</strong></p>

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<p>"This round of designations serves as a clear signal that two years on, the UK stands united with our allies in unwavering support for Ukraine," the office added.</p>

<h2><strong>London sanctions heads of Arctic penal colony&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Thursday's sanctions come days after London sanctioned heads of the Artic penal colony in Russia where Putin critic Alexei Navalny died. The sanctioned individuals included the head and five deputy heads of the penal colony, who will be banned from the UK and have their assets frozen, Foreign Secretary Cameron said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him... no one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system," he added.</p>

<p>Dismissing the sanctions, the Russian embassy in the UK said they were dishonest and London was interfering in internal Russian affairs and passing judgment before the investigation of Navalny's death was complete.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The United Kingdom (UK) imposed a fresh set of sanctions on Russia to mark the second anniversary of Moscow's war in Ukraine. In a post on X, the foreign office announced that more than 50 people sustaining Russian President Vladimir Putin's illegal war in Ukraine have been sanctioned.

The United Kingdom (UK) imposed a fresh set of sanctions on Russia to mark the second anniversary of Moscow's war in Ukraine. In a post on X, the foreign office announced that more than 50 people sustaining Russian President Vladimir Putin's illegal war in Ukraine have been sanctioned. "Sanctions have deprived Russia’s war machine of an estimated $400 billion. Two years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion, we continue to stand with Ukraine," the post added. Foreign Secretary David Cameron said that sanctions are starving Putin of the resources he desperately needs to fund his struggling war. "Two years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion, we continue to support Ukraine as it fights for democracy – for as long as it takes," Cameron said in a post on the social media platform. Also read | UK sanctions six Russian officials at Siberian prison where Putin critic Alexei Navalny died The sanctions would crack down on those "supplying his depleted armoury with munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles and explosives," the foreign office said in a statement. "These new sanctions also target key sources of Russian revenue, clamping down on metals, diamonds, and energy trade, and cutting off funding for Putin’s illegal war from every angle," the statement added. Who have been sanctioned? Among those sanctioned include companies linked to manufacturing munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles, explosives and other critical goods used in military equipment; key Russian importers and manufacturers of machine tools; oil trader Niels Troost and his company Paramount Energy & Commodities SA; Fractal Marine DMCC, Beks Ship Management, and Active Shipping; Russian diamond companies and five senior executives or owners of Russia’s top producers of copper, zinc and steel. Since the war started in Ukraine on Feb 24, 2022, the UK has sanctioned thousands of individuals, companies and groups under its Russia sanctions regime. The foreign office said that Thursday's set of sanctions would disrupt Putin's ability to equip his now struggling military with high-tech equipment and much-needed weaponry, as well as blocking him from refilling his war coffers- while Ukraine defends itself. Also watch | Inside Putin's Russia × "This round of designations serves as a clear signal that two years on, the UK stands united with our allies in unwavering support for Ukraine," the office added. London sanctions heads of Arctic penal colony Thursday's sanctions come days after London sanctioned heads of the Artic penal colony in Russia where Putin critic Alexei Navalny died. The sanctioned individuals included the head and five deputy heads of the penal colony, who will be banned from the UK and have their assets frozen, Foreign Secretary Cameron said. "It's clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him... no one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system," he added. Dismissing the sanctions, the Russian embassy in the UK said they were dishonest and London was interfering in internal Russian affairs and passing judgment before the investigation of Navalny's death was complete.

Ukraine war: UK announces new sanctions against Russia as war enters third year

<p lang="en-US">Four foreign nationals, with Pakistani identification cards, on Thursday (Feb 22) faced&nbsp;charges of transporting suspected Iran-made weapons using a vessel, which was intercepted in the Arabian Sea by US naval forces last month. In the mission, two Navy SEALs had lost their lives.<br />
<br />
On Thursday (Feb 22), a criminal complaint was unsealed in the US District Court in Richmond in which it was alleged that the four defendants were transferring suspected Iranian-made missile components. These components are used in the type of weapons which have been used by Houthi rebel forces in recent attacks.<br />
<br />
"The flow of missiles and other advanced weaponry from Iran to Houthi rebel forces in Yemen threatens the people and interests of America and our partners in the region," said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, in a press release.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-sea-attack-houthi-missile-strikes-india-bound-oil-tanker-691146">Red Sea attack: Houthi missile strikes India-bound oil tanker</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">US officials said that, on January 11, Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Christopher J Chambers was boarding the boat and slipped inside the gap which was created by the combatant craft of the SEALs&nbsp;and the high waves between the vessel.<br />
<br />
After Chambers fell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nathan Gage Ingram jumped into the sea with the hope of saving him, as per the US officials.<br />
<br />
"Two Navy SEALs tragically lost their lives in the operation that thwarted the defendants charged today from allegedly smuggling Iranian-made weapons that the Houthis could have used to target American forces and threaten freedom of navigation and a vital artery for commerce," Monaco added.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Accused knew about missile components being used by Houthis: report</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">According to media reports, Muhammad Pahlawan is facing the charge of trying to smuggle advanced missile components, which included a warhead&nbsp;which he allegedly knew would be used by Houthi rebels while fighting against commercial and naval vessels in the Red Sea.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Red Sea Crisis: Houthis warn of escalating attacks on ships</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/red-sea-crisis-houthis-warn-of-escalating-attacks-on-ships-692984/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">He is also facing charges of providing false information to US Coast Guard officers while boarding the vessel. The co-defendants of Pahlawan&nbsp;— Mohammad Mazhar, Ghufran Ullah and Izhar Muhammad — are also facing the charge of providing false information.<br />
<br />
Pahlawan's attorney and Assistant Supervisory Federal Public Defender Amy Austin said that he had made an initial appearance in US District Court and will again attend court for detention hearing on Tuesday (Feb 27).<br />
<br />
"Right now, he's just charged with two crimes and we're just at the very beginning stages, and so all we know is what's in the complaint," said Austin, reported Associated Press.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Four foreign nationals, with Pakistani identification cards, on Thursday (Feb 22) faced charges of transporting suspected Iran-made weapons using a vessel, which was intercepted in the Arabian Sea by US naval forces last month.

Four foreign nationals, with Pakistani identification cards, on Thursday (Feb 22) faced charges of transporting suspected Iran-made weapons using a vessel, which was intercepted in the Arabian Sea by US naval forces last month. In the mission, two Navy SEALs had lost their lives. On Thursday (Feb 22), a criminal complaint was unsealed in the US District Court in Richmond in which it was alleged that the four defendants were transferring suspected Iranian-made missile components. These components are used in the type of weapons which have been used by Houthi rebel forces in recent attacks. "The flow of missiles and other advanced weaponry from Iran to Houthi rebel forces in Yemen threatens the people and interests of America and our partners in the region," said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, in a press release. Also Read: Red Sea attack: Houthi missile strikes India-bound oil tanker US officials said that, on January 11, Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Christopher J Chambers was boarding the boat and slipped inside the gap which was created by the combatant craft of the SEALs and the high waves between the vessel. After Chambers fell, Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nathan Gage Ingram jumped into the sea with the hope of saving him, as per the US officials. "Two Navy SEALs tragically lost their lives in the operation that thwarted the defendants charged today from allegedly smuggling Iranian-made weapons that the Houthis could have used to target American forces and threaten freedom of navigation and a vital artery for commerce," Monaco added. Accused knew about missile components being used by Houthis: report According to media reports, Muhammad Pahlawan is facing the charge of trying to smuggle advanced missile components, which included a warhead which he allegedly knew would be used by Houthi rebels while fighting against commercial and naval vessels in the Red Sea. Watch: Red Sea Crisis: Houthis warn of escalating attacks on ships He is also facing charges of providing false information to US Coast Guard officers while boarding the vessel. The co-defendants of Pahlawan — Mohammad Mazhar, Ghufran Ullah and Izhar Muhammad — are also facing the charge of providing false information. Pahlawan's attorney and Assistant Supervisory Federal Public Defender Amy Austin said that he had made an initial appearance in US District Court and will again attend court for detention hearing on Tuesday (Feb 27). "Right now, he's just charged with two crimes and we're just at the very beginning stages, and so all we know is what's in the complaint," said Austin, reported Associated Press. (With inputs from agencies)

Four people with Pakistani IDs face charges of transporting Iran-made weapons

<p><strong>Covid Vaccine Side Effects:&nbsp;</strong>AstraZeneca, a leading pharmaceutical company, is currently facing multiple legal challenges in the United Kingdom concerning deaths&nbsp;reportedly linked to adverse reactions to its COVID-19 vaccine. About 80 claimants, not anti-vaccine but seeking additional compensation beyond the government's allocated £120,000 ($152,000) payout scheme, are part of a litigation group pursuing legal action against the company. These cases centre&nbsp;around instances of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT), a rare condition causing life-threatening blood clots that restrict blood flow to vital organs, as reported by Newsweek.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>A representative from AstraZeneca informed Newsweek that the company refrains from commenting on active legal cases but stressed on&nbsp;its commitment to patient safety, describing it as their top priority. Additionally, they expressed sympathy for people&nbsp;who have experienced the loss of loved ones or reported health issues.</p>

<p>The litigation group asserts that AstraZeneca is responsible for the injuries and losses incurred in these rare cases, citing the absence of a satisfactory compensation scheme as the reason for legal recourse.</p>

<p>Among the claimants is Kam Miller, whose husband Neil succumbed to VITT on May 1, 2021. While not opposed to vaccination, she believes her husband, had he not received the vaccine, would have survived a subsequent COVID-19 infection.</p>

<h2><strong>Discovery of COVID-19 new side effects</strong></h2>

<p>Separately, in the largest vaccine safety study to date, researchers have identified two exceptionally rare side effects associated with COVID-19 vaccines: a neurological disorder and inflammation of the spinal cord. These findings,&nbsp;published in the international journal Vaccine, emerged from an extensive analysis of electronic healthcare data encompassing over 99 million people across various countries, as reported by the Guardian.</p>

<p>The study, conducted by the Global Vaccine Data Network, compared the incidence rates of 13 brain, blood, and heart conditions post-vaccination with the expected rates in the pre-pandemic population.</p>

<p>It corroborated previously established links between mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) and rare side effects such as myocarditis and pericarditis, as well as Guillain-Barré syndrome and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-finds-connection-between-long-covid-brain-fog-and-leaky-blood-vessels-692837">Also read |&nbsp;Research finds connection between long Covid brain fog and leaky blood vessels</a></p>

<p>Amidst the analysis, researchers also unearthed new rare side effects tied to the AstraZeneca vaccine.</p>

<p>Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, characterised by inflammation and swelling in the brain and spinal cord, emerged as a newfound concern.</p>

<p>Additionally, the study revealed another rare side effect: transverse myelitis, involving inflammation of the spinal cord.</p>

<p>The findings prompted a secondary investigation, particularly in Australia, where a separate dataset of 6.8 million AstraZeneca vaccine recipients was scrutinised. This follow-up study not only confirmed acute disseminated encephalomyelitis and transverse myelitis as rare side effects but also quantified their occurrence, with extremely low incidence rates per million doses.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;New Covid vaccine study links jab to heart and brain conditions</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-covid-vaccine-study-links-jab-to-heart-and-brain-conditions-692541/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Professor Jim Buttery, co-director of the Global Vaccine Data Network, told the Guardian that&nbsp;rare side effects often surface only after extensive vaccine usage. Despite the seriousness of these conditions, Buttery stressed that the risk of myocarditis and other complications post-Covid&nbsp;infection outweighs that following vaccination.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Covid Vaccine Side Effects: AstraZeneca, a leading pharmaceutical company, is currently facing multiple legal challenges in the United Kingdom concerning deaths reportedly linked to adverse reactions to its COVID-19 vaccine.

Covid Vaccine Side Effects: AstraZeneca, a leading pharmaceutical company, is currently facing multiple legal challenges in the United Kingdom concerning deaths reportedly linked to adverse reactions to its COVID-19 vaccine. About 80 claimants, not anti-vaccine but seeking additional compensation beyond the government's allocated £120,000 ($152,000) payout scheme, are part of a litigation group pursuing legal action against the company. These cases centre around instances of Vaccine-induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT), a rare condition causing life-threatening blood clots that restrict blood flow to vital organs, as reported by Newsweek. A representative from AstraZeneca informed Newsweek that the company refrains from commenting on active legal cases but stressed on its commitment to patient safety, describing it as their top priority. Additionally, they expressed sympathy for people who have experienced the loss of loved ones or reported health issues. The litigation group asserts that AstraZeneca is responsible for the injuries and losses incurred in these rare cases, citing the absence of a satisfactory compensation scheme as the reason for legal recourse. Among the claimants is Kam Miller, whose husband Neil succumbed to VITT on May 1, 2021. While not opposed to vaccination, she believes her husband, had he not received the vaccine, would have survived a subsequent COVID-19 infection. Discovery of COVID-19 new side effects Separately, in the largest vaccine safety study to date, researchers have identified two exceptionally rare side effects associated with COVID-19 vaccines: a neurological disorder and inflammation of the spinal cord. These findings, published in the international journal Vaccine, emerged from an extensive analysis of electronic healthcare data encompassing over 99 million people across various countries, as reported by the Guardian. The study, conducted by the Global Vaccine Data Network, compared the incidence rates of 13 brain, blood, and heart conditions post-vaccination with the expected rates in the pre-pandemic population. It corroborated previously established links between mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) and rare side effects such as myocarditis and pericarditis, as well as Guillain-Barré syndrome and cerebral venous sinus thrombosis associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine. Also read | Research finds connection between long Covid brain fog and leaky blood vessels Amidst the analysis, researchers also unearthed new rare side effects tied to the AstraZeneca vaccine. Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, characterised by inflammation and swelling in the brain and spinal cord, emerged as a newfound concern. Additionally, the study revealed another rare side effect: transverse myelitis, involving inflammation of the spinal cord. The findings prompted a secondary investigation, particularly in Australia, where a separate dataset of 6.8 million AstraZeneca vaccine recipients was scrutinised. This follow-up study not only confirmed acute disseminated encephalomyelitis and transverse myelitis as rare side effects but also quantified their occurrence, with extremely low incidence rates per million doses. Also watch | New Covid vaccine study links jab to heart and brain conditions Professor Jim Buttery, co-director of the Global Vaccine Data Network, told the Guardian that rare side effects often surface only after extensive vaccine usage. Despite the seriousness of these conditions, Buttery stressed that the risk of myocarditis and other complications post-Covid infection outweighs that following vaccination. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Pharma company AstraZeneca sued in UK for deaths due to vaccine-induced blood clots, says report

Indian-American student Akul Dhawan, who was found dead last month after he was reported to be missing for several hours, had frozen to death after a nightclub refused to give him entry, as per the latest reports.

Indian-origin student Akul Dhawan froze to death in Illinois after nightclub denied entry

Internet users in Pakistan are turning to virtual private networks to access the social media platform X after the site was blocked over the weekend following a contentious national election and admission of ballot fraud by a local government official.

X still down in Pakistan after official admits Election rigging

Jailed former prime minister Imran Khan on Thursday announced that he will write to the IMF, demanding the global lender to stop its support to cash-strapped Pakistan until it seeks an "audit" of the elections mired in controversies, including vote rigging.

Pakistan ex-PM Imran Khan urges IMF to call election audit, his lawyer says

<p lang="en-US">Florida lawmakers on Thursday (Feb 22) took a step towards enactment of one of the toughest bans on the use of social media by children in the history of the United States, and the bill – which talks about now allowing kids below the age of 16 on such platforms – has now been sent to the governor.<br />
<br />
The controversial law aims at protecting the mental health of children against the "addictive features" of such platforms, in the wake of online dangers like cyberbullying, facing sexual predators, and teen suicide.<br />
<br />
The Senate cleared the legislation by 23-14 and the bill then returned to the House where it was passed by a stunning majority of 108-7.<br />
<br />
The bill has now reached the governor's table, where for making it a law, the bill needs to be signed by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-bidens-dog-bit-secret-service-members-at-least-24-times-in-less-than-a-year-692737">US President Joe Biden's dog bit Secret Service members at least 24 times in less than a year</a></p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Ron DeSantis remains sceptical regarding legislation</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">DeSantis has expressed scepticism regarding the legislation. Other states have made similar efforts which have been blocked by courts.<br />
<br />
"We're talking about businesses that are using addictive features to engage in mass manipulation of our children to cause them harm," said the bill's sponsor Republican Erin Grall, while speaking to the Florida Senate on Thursday (Feb 22).<br />
<br />
However, DeSantis, who has earlier expressed his sympathies towards the fears of people regarding the impact that social media has on children, expressed concerns regarding parental rights.<br />
<br />
"A parent has the right to opt in," he said, in a press conference Thursday (Feb 22). The governor, who earlier ran for president and dropped out of the race in January, has several times said that parents should have more control over decisions which affect their children, especially in the field of education.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US Presidential Elections 2024: Donald Trump to face off Nikki Haley in South Carolina primary</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-presidential-elections-2024-donald-trump-to-face-off-nikki-haley-in-south-carolina-primary-692926/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">Under DeSantis, several laws have been passed by Florida to curtail teaching regarding gender identity and sex education in schools and to stop diversity programmes which were going on in state-funded universities.<br />
<br />
The officials have also removed many books from school library shelves in the state in recent months, which were seen as inappropriate for children by school boards and conservative parents.<br />
<br />
As per critics, such a law, which targets social media use, will violate the First Amendment of the US Constitution which guarantees freedom of speech.<br />
<br />
Social media networks generally have a minimum age bar of 13 to open an account although very less measures have been adopted by companies to ensure compliance with the provision.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Florida lawmakers on Thursday (Feb 22) took a step towards enactment of one of the toughest bans on the use of social media by children in the history of the United States, and the bill – which talks about now allowing kids below the age of 16 on such platforms – has now been sent to the governor.

Florida lawmakers on Thursday (Feb 22) took a step towards enactment of one of the toughest bans on the use of social media by children in the history of the United States, and the bill – which talks about now allowing kids below the age of 16 on such platforms – has now been sent to the governor. The controversial law aims at protecting the mental health of children against the "addictive features" of such platforms, in the wake of online dangers like cyberbullying, facing sexual predators, and teen suicide. The Senate cleared the legislation by 23-14 and the bill then returned to the House where it was passed by a stunning majority of 108-7. The bill has now reached the governor's table, where for making it a law, the bill needs to be signed by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. Also Read: US President Joe Biden's dog bit Secret Service members at least 24 times in less than a year Ron DeSantis remains sceptical regarding legislation DeSantis has expressed scepticism regarding the legislation. Other states have made similar efforts which have been blocked by courts. "We're talking about businesses that are using addictive features to engage in mass manipulation of our children to cause them harm," said the bill's sponsor Republican Erin Grall, while speaking to the Florida Senate on Thursday (Feb 22). However, DeSantis, who has earlier expressed his sympathies towards the fears of people regarding the impact that social media has on children, expressed concerns regarding parental rights. "A parent has the right to opt in," he said, in a press conference Thursday (Feb 22). The governor, who earlier ran for president and dropped out of the race in January, has several times said that parents should have more control over decisions which affect their children, especially in the field of education. Watch: US Presidential Elections 2024: Donald Trump to face off Nikki Haley in South Carolina primary Under DeSantis, several laws have been passed by Florida to curtail teaching regarding gender identity and sex education in schools and to stop diversity programmes which were going on in state-funded universities. The officials have also removed many books from school library shelves in the state in recent months, which were seen as inappropriate for children by school boards and conservative parents. As per critics, such a law, which targets social media use, will violate the First Amendment of the US Constitution which guarantees freedom of speech. Social media networks generally have a minimum age bar of 13 to open an account although very less measures have been adopted by companies to ensure compliance with the provision. (With inputs from agencies)

Florida moves ahead with bill imposing social media ban on kids, governor's nod remains

The Israel-Hamas war cabinet decided on Thursday to send a delegation to Paris on Friday for crucial negotiations on a hostage agreement and related ceasefire in the Gaza conflict.

Israel-Hamas war: PM Netanyahu sends Israeli team to Paris for hostage talks

<p>A group of Ukrainian children who have survived the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine will be addressing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York on Friday (Feb 23), a report by The Guardian said. As per the report, the group includes Kira, aged 14, and Ilya, aged 11- both residents of Mariupol. Following their address at the top UN body headquarters, the children will also pay a visit to Washington.</p>

<p>Narrating her experience about surviving the conflict, Kira told The Guardian that she was waiting for her school bus when she heard explosions. Kira spent about a month sheltering, hiding in houses, and basements after Russian forces started pounding Mariupol. The 14-year-old's father was killed in the conflict, and the family had to leave his body behind as they fled.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-must-end-forcible-transfer-of-children-from-ukraine-says-un-panel-688346">Russia must end forcible transfer of children from Ukraine, says UN panel</a></strong></p>

<p>Just like Kira, 11-year-old Ilya, and his mother shuttled from place to place across Mariupol in an increasingly desperate search for shelter. The report said that the mother and son first remained at home, then moved to a hotel bunker before trying to return home.</p>

<p>Ilya told the Guardian that his home was destroyed. “I’d lived in that home many years. I loved this house, and this horrible thing had happened. It was really scary,” he said.</p>

<p>The boy was captured by Russian soldiers. The 11-year-old said that one of the soldiers tried to give him a poisoned chocolate, and he ended up in a hospital. The boy was rescued by his grandmother.</p>

<p>Children have been the biggest victims of the Russia-Ukraine war which started on Feb 24, 2022. The conflict will mark its second anniversary on Saturday. According to UNICEF, at least 545 children have been killed, and at least 1,156 children have been injured.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier this month, a UN committee said that Russia must end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine and provide information about those already taken. The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child pressed Moscow on deportation allegations levelled by Ukraine during a regular review of its record in Jan.</p>

<p>The committee demanded that Moscow provide information about the precise number of children taken from Ukraine and about the whereabouts of each child.</p>


A group of Ukrainian children who have survived the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine will be addressing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York on Friday (Feb 23), a report by The Guardian said.

A group of Ukrainian children who have survived the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine will be addressing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York on Friday (Feb 23), a report by The Guardian said. As per the report, the group includes Kira, aged 14, and Ilya, aged 11- both residents of Mariupol. Following their address at the top UN body headquarters, the children will also pay a visit to Washington. Narrating her experience about surviving the conflict, Kira told The Guardian that she was waiting for her school bus when she heard explosions. Kira spent about a month sheltering, hiding in houses, and basements after Russian forces started pounding Mariupol. The 14-year-old's father was killed in the conflict, and the family had to leave his body behind as they fled. Also read | Russia must end forcible transfer of children from Ukraine, says UN panel Just like Kira, 11-year-old Ilya, and his mother shuttled from place to place across Mariupol in an increasingly desperate search for shelter. The report said that the mother and son first remained at home, then moved to a hotel bunker before trying to return home. Ilya told the Guardian that his home was destroyed. “I’d lived in that home many years. I loved this house, and this horrible thing had happened. It was really scary,” he said. The boy was captured by Russian soldiers. The 11-year-old said that one of the soldiers tried to give him a poisoned chocolate, and he ended up in a hospital. The boy was rescued by his grandmother. Children have been the biggest victims of the Russia-Ukraine war which started on Feb 24, 2022. The conflict will mark its second anniversary on Saturday. According to UNICEF, at least 545 children have been killed, and at least 1,156 children have been injured. Also watch | War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World × Earlier this month, a UN committee said that Russia must end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine and provide information about those already taken. The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child pressed Moscow on deportation allegations levelled by Ukraine during a regular review of its record in Jan. The committee demanded that Moscow provide information about the precise number of children taken from Ukraine and about the whereabouts of each child.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian kids who lost loved ones to conflict to address UNSC, says report

Czech Foreign Minister, Jan Lipavsky of Czech Republic has highlighted his country's readiness to cooperate with India, particularly in the areas of research, and innovation. He also spoke on India's G20 presidency and as the voice of global south. Watch WION's diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal in an exclusive conversation with Jan Lipavsky.

Czech FM Jan Lipavsky speaks to WION on Russia-Ukraine war, India's G20 presidency

<p>Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, in an exclusive interview with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, commented on Indo-Greek ties, which in reality go back centuries. But in the modern sense, the foreign minister said, Greece wanted to be India's gateway into Europe. During the interaction on the sidelines of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis spoke about many aspects of relations between the two countries and also the bearing India has on world affairs.</p>

<p><strong>WION: How to do you see India-Greece relationship?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Gerapetritis:</strong> We are two nations with great history, we are nations that are based on principles, we share common things...We have upgraded our relations to a strategic one. There is a huge upside when it comes to economic and cultural ties with India. India is the fifth largest economy... We expect for significant upgrade in bilateral ties. We have more than 100 businesspeople in India and they have the opportunity to interact with Indian entrepreneurs in various sectors. There is an excellent opportunity for nations to develop.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
<strong>WION: If you can comment on India-Middle East-Europe corridor?</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Gerapetritis:</strong> We need to work closely...we consider that the IMEEC is not only an economic corridor but also a corridor of peace and culture. People-to-people relationship is the main important thing. This corridor takes us back to history. The corridor facilitates interconnection between India, the Arabic states and Europe in every aspect. Greece possesses very strong ports. This could save more than seven days of the trip. We have strong data transfer facilities. We have become an energy hub, a pioneer state when it comes to green transition. We’re concerned about with climate crisis. We have taken significant steps. We are in the process of developing connectivity with Egypt and central and northern Europe. The IMEEC connection will be a strong tie of friendship and peace.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis speaks to WION on India-Greece relationship</strong></p>

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<p><strong>WION:</strong> <strong>Do you think the IMEEC project is being impacted by the ongoing Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine conflicts? Will it lead to delay in the project?</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Gerapetritis:</strong> The situation is appalling. We need to take significant steps to stop it and allow humanitarian aid. When it comes to connectivity projects, there could be some delays...this is a visionary project. We will lay down the next steps for the IMEEC project but will be taking other economic and cultural steps as well. The two governments are going to have a very close relationship. We have MoUs and agreements to follow up on. And we have established a multi-layer approach.</p>

<p>Greece wants to be the gateway of India into Europe. It is very significant. We made some progress in discussions concerning the use of Greek ports. India is already present in Greece with some significant projects. We consider these pioneers of huge investment opportunities for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see India when it comes to multilateralism?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Gerapetritis:</strong> Democratic values should be embedded in all international arenas. India is leading in this aspect. India connects the south, north, west and east and could be a focal point when it comes to international discussions. India presents a model of economy which is an important one. India has an active role.</p>


Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, in an exclusive interview with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, commented on Indo-Greek ties, which in reality go back centuries.

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, in an exclusive interview with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Siddhant Sibbal, commented on Indo-Greek ties, which in reality go back centuries. But in the modern sense, the foreign minister said, Greece wanted to be India's gateway into Europe. During the interaction on the sidelines of Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis spoke about many aspects of relations between the two countries and also the bearing India has on world affairs. WION: How to do you see India-Greece relationship? Gerapetritis: We are two nations with great history, we are nations that are based on principles, we share common things...We have upgraded our relations to a strategic one. There is a huge upside when it comes to economic and cultural ties with India. India is the fifth largest economy... We expect for significant upgrade in bilateral ties. We have more than 100 businesspeople in India and they have the opportunity to interact with Indian entrepreneurs in various sectors. There is an excellent opportunity for nations to develop. WION: If you can comment on India-Middle East-Europe corridor? Gerapetritis: We need to work closely...we consider that the IMEEC is not only an economic corridor but also a corridor of peace and culture. People-to-people relationship is the main important thing. This corridor takes us back to history. The corridor facilitates interconnection between India, the Arabic states and Europe in every aspect. Greece possesses very strong ports. This could save more than seven days of the trip. We have strong data transfer facilities. We have become an energy hub, a pioneer state when it comes to green transition. We’re concerned about with climate crisis. We have taken significant steps. We are in the process of developing connectivity with Egypt and central and northern Europe. The IMEEC connection will be a strong tie of friendship and peace. Watch | Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis speaks to WION on India-Greece relationship × WION: Do you think the IMEEC project is being impacted by the ongoing Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine conflicts? Will it lead to delay in the project? Gerapetritis: The situation is appalling. We need to take significant steps to stop it and allow humanitarian aid. When it comes to connectivity projects, there could be some delays...this is a visionary project. We will lay down the next steps for the IMEEC project but will be taking other economic and cultural steps as well. The two governments are going to have a very close relationship. We have MoUs and agreements to follow up on. And we have established a multi-layer approach. Greece wants to be the gateway of India into Europe. It is very significant. We made some progress in discussions concerning the use of Greek ports. India is already present in Greece with some significant projects. We consider these pioneers of huge investment opportunities for India. WION: How do you see India when it comes to multilateralism? Gerapetritis: Democratic values should be embedded in all international arenas. India is leading in this aspect. India connects the south, north, west and east and could be a focal point when it comes to international discussions. India presents a model of economy which is an important one. India has an active role.

Exclusive: Greece wants to be the gateway of India into Europe, minister tells WION

Both men were shot many times in the back, and the death warrants for their public execution were issued by Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada.

Taliban conducts public execution of two men in Afghanistan | Double public execution

NATO countries are increasingly raising the alarm about the direct threats they are facing from Moscow's forces.

Russia threatened French planes in the Black Sea | France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow

<p>Imran Khan, the imprisoned former prime minister of Pakistan, plans to write to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), urging them to advocate for an impartial audit of the national elections contested on February 8 before resuming discussions with Islamabad, as stated by his lawyer on Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/imran-khan-forced-to-play-without-his-bat-676595" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/imran-khan-forced-to-play-without-his-bat-676595&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNn5D9jr-EAxUP-DgGHdIPDBoQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0FNXlRNRj6hqNUQ5rHddUz" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/imran-khan-forced-to-play-without-his-bat-676595" target="_blank"><b>Imran Khan</b>&nbsp;forced to play without his 'bat'</a></p>

<p>It may be mentioned here, last summer, Pakistan avoided default with a short-term IMF bailout, but the program concludes next month, necessitating negotiations for a long-term arrangement to stabilise the $350 billion economy.</p>

<p>Imran Khan and his party allege election rigging, as the recently held polls did not yield a majority for any party.</p>

<p>Although candidates supported by Khan secured the most seats, a coalition of rival parties holds a greater number of seats and is poised to form the next government.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-2024-imran-khan-casts-postal-ballot-wife-bushra-denied-right-to-vote-688136">Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran Khan casts postal ballot, wife Bushra denied right to vote</a></p>

<p>Imran Khan's lawyer, Ali Zafar, announced that Khan's letter to the IMF will explicitly state that if the IMF wishes to engage in talks with Pakistan, it should insist on conditions, including an independent audit of the elections.</p>

<p>Zafar emphasised that multilateral agencies like the IMF and international blocs such as the European Union can only provide financial assistance contingent upon good governance, democracy, and the conduct of free and fair elections.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Troubles mount for Imran Khan's PTI</strong></p>

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<p>While Pakistan's election commission refutes widespread rigging, it is currently addressing complaints from various parties alleging irregularities.</p>

<p>Zafar pointed out that the IMF previously engaged with political parties to secure assurances of their commitment to key objectives and policies under the bailout program.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Imran Khan, the imprisoned former prime minister of Pakistan, plans to write to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), urging them to advocate for an impartial audit of the national elections contested on February 8 before resuming discussions with Islamabad, as stated by his lawyer on Thursday.

Imran Khan, the imprisoned former prime minister of Pakistan, plans to write to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), urging them to advocate for an impartial audit of the national elections contested on February 8 before resuming discussions with Islamabad, as stated by his lawyer on Thursday. Also read: Imran Khan forced to play without his 'bat' It may be mentioned here, last summer, Pakistan avoided default with a short-term IMF bailout, but the program concludes next month, necessitating negotiations for a long-term arrangement to stabilise the $350 billion economy. Imran Khan and his party allege election rigging, as the recently held polls did not yield a majority for any party. Although candidates supported by Khan secured the most seats, a coalition of rival parties holds a greater number of seats and is poised to form the next government. Also read: Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran Khan casts postal ballot, wife Bushra denied right to vote Imran Khan's lawyer, Ali Zafar, announced that Khan's letter to the IMF will explicitly state that if the IMF wishes to engage in talks with Pakistan, it should insist on conditions, including an independent audit of the elections. Zafar emphasised that multilateral agencies like the IMF and international blocs such as the European Union can only provide financial assistance contingent upon good governance, democracy, and the conduct of free and fair elections. Watch: Troubles mount for Imran Khan's PTI × While Pakistan's election commission refutes widespread rigging, it is currently addressing complaints from various parties alleging irregularities. Zafar pointed out that the IMF previously engaged with political parties to secure assurances of their commitment to key objectives and policies under the bailout program. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan calls on IMF to conduct election audit, his lawyer says

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) sarcastically responded to his American counterpart Joe Biden calling him a “crazy SOB,” earlier this week. The Russian president also said that he still prefers Biden over former United States President Donald Trump ahead of the upcoming presidential election.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘He wasn’t going to say thank you’</strong></h2>

<p>“We are ready to work with any president. But I believe that for us, Biden is a more preferable president for Russia, and judging by what he has just said, I am absolutely right,” Putin said in an interview with pro-Kremlin journalist Pavel Zarubin with a slight smile.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian president in a seemingly sarcastic tone&nbsp;went on to say that it’s not like Biden was going to thank him for the endorsement. “It’s not like he can say to me, ‘Volodya, thank you, well done, you’ve helped me a lot,’” said Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “You asked me which is better for us. I said it then that, and I still think I can repeat it: Biden.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Inside Putin's Russia</strong></p>

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<p>Last week, the Russian president told Zarubin in a separate interview when questioned about the upcoming US presidential election, that Biden would be better for Russia “because he is a more experienced person, he is predictable, he is a politician of an old formation”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, he said that Russia would “work with any leader of the US who gains the trust of the American people”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Biden’s ‘crazy SOB’ remark</strong></h2>

<p>Biden, on Wednesday (Feb 21) called Putin a “crazy SOB” while addressing a public fundraising event in the US state of California.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-he-prefers-joe-bidens-presidency-over-trump-in-white-house-690509">Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>“We have a crazy SOB like that guy Putin, and others, and we always have to worry about nuclear conflict, but the existential threat to humanity is climate,” the US president said in a brief speech at the event in San Francisco.</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin responds to Biden’s remark</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Reuters that the use of such language only “debases” the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The use of such language against the head of another state by the president of the United States is unlikely to infringe on our president, President Putin,” said Peskov, adding that it “debases those who use such vocabulary.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-calls-russian-counterpart-vladimir-putin-crazy-sob-692528">US President Joe Biden calls Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin 'crazy SOB'</a></strong></p>

<p>The remark was “probably some kind of attempt to look like a Hollywood cowboy. But honestly I don't think it's possible,” the Kremlin spokesperson told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) sarcastically responded to his American counterpart Joe Biden calling him a “crazy SOB,” earlier this week.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) sarcastically responded to his American counterpart Joe Biden calling him a “crazy SOB,” earlier this week. The Russian president also said that he still prefers Biden over former United States President Donald Trump ahead of the upcoming presidential election. ‘He wasn’t going to say thank you’ “We are ready to work with any president. But I believe that for us, Biden is a more preferable president for Russia, and judging by what he has just said, I am absolutely right,” Putin said in an interview with pro-Kremlin journalist Pavel Zarubin with a slight smile. The Russian president in a seemingly sarcastic tone went on to say that it’s not like Biden was going to thank him for the endorsement. “It’s not like he can say to me, ‘Volodya, thank you, well done, you’ve helped me a lot,’” said Putin. He added, “You asked me which is better for us. I said it then that, and I still think I can repeat it: Biden.” WATCH | Inside Putin's Russia Last week, the Russian president told Zarubin in a separate interview when questioned about the upcoming US presidential election, that Biden would be better for Russia “because he is a more experienced person, he is predictable, he is a politician of an old formation”. However, he said that Russia would “work with any leader of the US who gains the trust of the American people”. Biden’s ‘crazy SOB’ remark Biden, on Wednesday (Feb 21) called Putin a “crazy SOB” while addressing a public fundraising event in the US state of California. Also Read | Putin says he prefers Joe Biden's presidency over Trump in White House “We have a crazy SOB like that guy Putin, and others, and we always have to worry about nuclear conflict, but the existential threat to humanity is climate,” the US president said in a brief speech at the event in San Francisco. Kremlin responds to Biden’s remark Earlier on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told Reuters that the use of such language only “debases” the US. “The use of such language against the head of another state by the president of the United States is unlikely to infringe on our president, President Putin,” said Peskov, adding that it “debases those who use such vocabulary.” Also Read | US President Joe Biden calls Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin 'crazy SOB' The remark was “probably some kind of attempt to look like a Hollywood cowboy. But honestly I don't think it's possible,” the Kremlin spokesperson told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin responds to Biden’s ‘crazy SOB’ remark, still prefers his presidency over Trump’s

South Carolina voters are preparing to cast their ballots in the Republican presidential primary on Saturday, which will pit former governor Nikki Haley against former president Donald Trump.

US Presidential Election 2024: Trump and Haley to face off in South Carolina primary on Sat

Four foreign people were transported to the United States to face criminal charges; they appeared in court on Thursday. The four were allegedly smuggling Iranian-made weapons on a vessel that two U.S. Navy SEALs drowned trying to board.

Four accused smugglers face charges following the deaths of Navy SEALs in the Arabian Sea

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<p>Iran on Thursday (Feb 22) started its first election campaign since the 2022 custodial death of Mahsa Amini. Twenty-two-year-old Amini died on Sept 16, 2022, after she was arrested by the morality police for violating Iran's headscarf law. Her custodial death sparked nationwide protests to overthrow the country's clerical rulers. As a response, the authorities launched a bloody crackdown that killed over 500 people.</p>

<p>On Thursday, candidates for Iran's parliament started campaigning for the March 1 parliamentary election, the news agency Associated Press reported. Citing state media, the report said that 15,200 candidates will compete for a four-year term in parliament.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-mahsa-aminis-uncle-faces-five-years-of-imprisonment-over-protests-say-rights-groups-690214">Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups</a></strong></p>

<p>This is a record number and more than twice the candidates who contested in the 2020 elections when the voter turnout was just over 42 per cent, the lowest since 1979.</p>

<h2><strong>Raisi seeks re-election to assembly</strong></h2>

<p>Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will seek re-election to the assembly in a remote constituency in South Khorasan province where he will compete against a low-profile cleric. Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf will contest from a constituency in the remote northeast region.</p>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP said that large billboards and election posters were seen in Tehran, urging people to take part in the election process. However, the first day of campaigning did not see a large number of banners erected in favour of individual candidates or their coalitions.</p>

<p>Speaking to AFP, a journalist said, "Most of the candidates, particularly in small constituencies, are doctors, engineers, civil servants, and teachers who are not affiliated with any political group."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran begins first election campaign since 2022 mass protests</strong></p>

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<p>he further said&nbsp;that by allowing such a large pool of candidates to run, the government wants to create local competition and increase participation of voters.</p>

<p>The current parliament has been dominated by conservatives and ultra-conservatives after many reformists and moderates were disqualified. According to reformist politicians, only between 20-30 of the reformist candidates who submitted applications have been approved to run in the upcoming poll.</p>

<h2><strong>People 'indifferent' to elections</strong></h2>

<p>President Ibrahim Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have urged people to take part in the election process. A recent poll carried out by Iran's state television revealed that more than half of the respondents were indifferent to the elections.</p>

<p>AFP reported that opposition figures&nbsp;have called for a total boycott of the polls. On Monday, former president Mohammad Khatami said Iran was very far from free and competitive polls, and highlighted the growing popular discontent among Iranians.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran on Thursday (Feb 22) started its first election campaign since the 2022 custodial death of Mahsa Amini. Twenty-two-year-old Amini died on Sept 16, 2022, after she was arrested by the morality police for violating Iran's headscarf law.

Iran on Thursday (Feb 22) started its first election campaign since the 2022 custodial death of Mahsa Amini. Twenty-two-year-old Amini died on Sept 16, 2022, after she was arrested by the morality police for violating Iran's headscarf law. Her custodial death sparked nationwide protests to overthrow the country's clerical rulers. As a response, the authorities launched a bloody crackdown that killed over 500 people. On Thursday, candidates for Iran's parliament started campaigning for the March 1 parliamentary election, the news agency Associated Press reported. Citing state media, the report said that 15,200 candidates will compete for a four-year term in parliament. Also read | Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups This is a record number and more than twice the candidates who contested in the 2020 elections when the voter turnout was just over 42 per cent, the lowest since 1979. Raisi seeks re-election to assembly Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will seek re-election to the assembly in a remote constituency in South Khorasan province where he will compete against a low-profile cleric. Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf will contest from a constituency in the remote northeast region. A report by the news agency AFP said that large billboards and election posters were seen in Tehran, urging people to take part in the election process. However, the first day of campaigning did not see a large number of banners erected in favour of individual candidates or their coalitions. Speaking to AFP, a journalist said, "Most of the candidates, particularly in small constituencies, are doctors, engineers, civil servants, and teachers who are not affiliated with any political group." Also watch | Iran begins first election campaign since 2022 mass protests × he further said that by allowing such a large pool of candidates to run, the government wants to create local competition and increase participation of voters. The current parliament has been dominated by conservatives and ultra-conservatives after many reformists and moderates were disqualified. According to reformist politicians, only between 20-30 of the reformist candidates who submitted applications have been approved to run in the upcoming poll. People 'indifferent' to elections President Ibrahim Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have urged people to take part in the election process. A recent poll carried out by Iran's state television revealed that more than half of the respondents were indifferent to the elections. AFP reported that opposition figures have called for a total boycott of the polls. On Monday, former president Mohammad Khatami said Iran was very far from free and competitive polls, and highlighted the growing popular discontent among Iranians. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran begins first election campaign since custodial death of Mahsa Amini

A spacecraft built and flown by Texas-based company Intuitive Machines landed near the moon's south pole on Thursday, the first U.S. touchdown on the lunar surface in more than half a century and the first ever achieved by the private sector.

Moon landing: US clinches first touchdown in 50 years

<p>US President Biden denounced the recent Alabama court ruling regarding in vitro fertilization (IVF) as "outrageous and unacceptable," attributing it to the broader legal landscape resulting from the overturning of Roe v. Wade.</p>

<p>Biden's remarks came in response to the Alabama Supreme Court decision, which granted rights and protections to frozen embryos that the court said were "children",&nbsp;potentially impacting reproductive rights nationwide. The court had also said that the person responsible for accidentally destroying them will be held accountable and the accidental death law is applicable to these people as it is applied to "all unborn children, regardless of their location."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Biden asserted, "Today, in 2024 in America, women are being turned away from emergency rooms and forced to travel hundreds of miles for health care, while doctors fear prosecution for providing an abortion," highlighting the escalating challenges to women's reproductive rights.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-study-reveals-2-very-rare-covid-19-vaccine-side-effects-previously-unknown-692993">Global study reveals two 'very rare' COVID-19 vaccine side effects previously unknown</a></p>

<p>“And now, a court in Alabama put access to some fertility treatments at risk for families who are desperately trying to get pregnant. The disregard for women’s ability to make these decisions for themselves and their families is outrageous and unacceptable," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ruling, while confined to Alabama, has raised concerns about its broader implications for IVF treatments across the country. Several health systems in Alabama have already announced pauses in IVF treatments following the decision.</p>

<p>The Biden campaign directly linked the Alabama ruling to former President Trump's influence on the judiciary, citing his appointment of conservative justices to the Supreme Court.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-components-found-in-north-korean-missile-used-by-russia-in-ukraine-report-692980">US components found in North Korean missile used by Russia in Ukraine: Report</a></p>

<p>Julie Chávez Rodriguez, Biden's campaign manager, emphasised the impact of Trump's policies on reproductive freedoms, warning of further restrictions if Trump were to be re-elected.</p>

<p>“What is happening in Alabama right now is only possible because Donald Trump’s Supreme Court justices overturned Roe v. Wade. Across the nation, MAGA Republicans are inserting themselves into the most personal decisions a family can make, from contraception to IVF."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/more-trouble-mounts-for-pm-sunak-tory-mp-accused-of-misusing-public-funds-reports-693016">More trouble mounts for PM Sunak, Tory MP accused of misusing public funds: Reports</a></strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Alabama lawmakers are moving to address the fallout from the ruling, with State Sen. Tim Melson introducing legislation aimed at protecting IVF treatments.</p>

<p>“We have advanced so far in medicine that now we’re storing everything from embryos to sperm to eggs for future use and we hadn’t really thought about the consequences of that and it’s time to figure that out,” Melson said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Biden denounced the recent Alabama court ruling regarding in vitro fertilization (IVF) as "outrageous and unacceptable," attributing it to the broader legal landscape resulting from the overturning of Roe v.

US President Biden denounced the recent Alabama court ruling regarding in vitro fertilization (IVF) as "outrageous and unacceptable," attributing it to the broader legal landscape resulting from the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Biden's remarks came in response to the Alabama Supreme Court decision, which granted rights and protections to frozen embryos that the court said were "children", potentially impacting reproductive rights nationwide. The court had also said that the person responsible for accidentally destroying them will be held accountable and the accidental death law is applicable to these people as it is applied to "all unborn children, regardless of their location." In a statement, Biden asserted, "Today, in 2024 in America, women are being turned away from emergency rooms and forced to travel hundreds of miles for health care, while doctors fear prosecution for providing an abortion," highlighting the escalating challenges to women's reproductive rights. Also Read | Global study reveals two 'very rare' COVID-19 vaccine side effects previously unknown “And now, a court in Alabama put access to some fertility treatments at risk for families who are desperately trying to get pregnant. The disregard for women’s ability to make these decisions for themselves and their families is outrageous and unacceptable," he added. The ruling, while confined to Alabama, has raised concerns about its broader implications for IVF treatments across the country. Several health systems in Alabama have already announced pauses in IVF treatments following the decision. The Biden campaign directly linked the Alabama ruling to former President Trump's influence on the judiciary, citing his appointment of conservative justices to the Supreme Court. Also Read | US components found in North Korean missile used by Russia in Ukraine: Report Julie Chávez Rodriguez, Biden's campaign manager, emphasised the impact of Trump's policies on reproductive freedoms, warning of further restrictions if Trump were to be re-elected. “What is happening in Alabama right now is only possible because Donald Trump’s Supreme Court justices overturned Roe v. Wade. Across the nation, MAGA Republicans are inserting themselves into the most personal decisions a family can make, from contraception to IVF." Watch | More trouble mounts for PM Sunak, Tory MP accused of misusing public funds: Reports × Meanwhile, Alabama lawmakers are moving to address the fallout from the ruling, with State Sen. Tim Melson introducing legislation aimed at protecting IVF treatments. “We have advanced so far in medicine that now we’re storing everything from embryos to sperm to eggs for future use and we hadn’t really thought about the consequences of that and it’s time to figure that out,” Melson said. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden slams Alabama IVF ruling as 'outrageous', lawmakers tackle fallout

Several hundred parts from a North Korean missile that Russia had used and found in Ukraine could be obtained from foreign producers, indicating Pyongyang's efforts to get over sanctions on parts

Kharkiv Missile: North Korean missile used by Russia made with 75% of US parts

<p>Israel is seeking Palestinians who are not affiliated with Hamas to manage civilian affairs in areas of the Gaza Strip. The Indian Premier League (IPL) schedule is finally released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India.&nbsp;In other news, at least five students were said to be injured after a knife attack at a school in the German city of Wuppertal, on Thursday (Feb 22).&nbsp;Read these&nbsp;and more in Top 10 world news.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-israel-seeking-palestinians-to-manage-civilian-affairs-in-gaza-strip-692805">Israel seeking Palestinians to manage civilian affairs in Gaza Strip</a></p>

<p>A senior Israeli official said on Thursday (Feb 22) that the nation is seeking Palestinians who are not affiliated with Hamas to manage civilian affairs in areas of the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413739-israel-hamas-war-24.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-schedule-announcement-csk-vs-rcb-to-headline-opener-on-march-22-in-chennai-692738">IPL 2024 Schedule Announcement: CSK vs RCB to headline opener on March 22</a></p>

<p>IPL 2024 Schedule Announcement:&nbsp; After days of anticipation, the Indian Premier League (IPL) schedule was finally released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday (Feb 22). Keeping in mind the dates of the upcoming general elections in India; the BCCI had delayed the announcement of the schedule.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413690-ipl-2024-schedule.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-five-students-injured-after-in-suspected-knife-attack-in-german-school-suspect-detained-692760">At least five students injured after suspected knife attack in German school, suspect detained</a></p>

<p>At least five students were said to be injured after a knife attack at a school in the German city of Wuppertal, on Thursday (Feb 22), according to media reports citing the police. The suspect, a 17-year-old knife-wielding fellow student, has been arrested, said the local officials.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413717-wion-images-2024-02-22t182945238.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pakistani-prime-minister-imran-khan-calls-on-imf-to-conduct-election-audit-his-lawyer-says-692780">Former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan calls on IMF to conduct election audit, his lawyer says</a></p>

<p>Imran Khan, the imprisoned former prime minister of Pakistan, plans to write to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), urging them to advocate for an impartial audit of the national elections contested on February 8 before resuming discussions with Islamabad, as stated by his lawyer on Thursday.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/21/400787-succession-2023-12-21t222828529.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/54-mps-sign-no-confidence-motion-in-commons-speaker-sir-lindsay-hoyle-692699">Gaza ceasefire vote: 57 UK MPs sign motion of no confidence against Speaker Lindsay Hoyle</a></p>

<p>Calls for Lindsay Hoyle to step down as the Speaker have intensified following his controversial decision to prioritise a Labour amendment to the Scottish National Party's (SNP) Gaza ceasefire motion. 57 MPs are urging his resignation, criticising his departure from convention by allowing the debate and vote on Labour's amendment for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire before the original SNP motion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413677-untitled-design-31.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-leak-exposes-chinese-firms-cyber-intrusion-into-indian-govt-offices-other-foreign-companies-692670">Data leak exposes Chinese firm's cyber intrusion into Indian govt offices, other foreign companies</a></p>

<p>A massive data leak showed that a Chinese technology firm I-Soon hacked Indian government offices as well as institutions in various other nations, media reports said.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/09/411068-untitled-design-2024-02-09t171506539.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/whales-are-struggling-to-communicate-due-to-human-noise-pollution-says-study-692782">Whales are struggling to communicate due to human noise pollution, says study</a></p>

<p>Humpback whales have found a unique way to establish communication among their fellow species however noisy humans are causing massive disruptions here too.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413734-succession-2024-02-22t194256040.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-price-of-parenthood-china-among-the-most-expensive-places-to-raise-children-finds-report-692793">China among the most expensive places to raise children, finds report</a></p>

<p>Raising children can be expensive, irrespective of which country you are a resident of. As per a recent report from the YuWa Population Research Institute, China is one of the most expensive places to raise children. The report released on Wednesday says that the high costs have a disproportionate impact on women.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413743-new-wion-2024-02-22t195039869.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-have-taken-over-village-of-pobieda-in-ukraines-donetsk-region-692733">Russia claims to have taken over village of Pobieda in Ukraine's Donetsk region</a></p>

<p>Russian troops have taken over the village of Pobieda in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, said the Russian defence ministry, on Thursday (Feb 22). While, the Ukrainian military said it was repelling attacks in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413698-wion-images-2024-02-22t170815402.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-airlines-raises-checked-bag-fees-introduces-reduced-charges-for-overweight-luggage-692716">American Airlines raises checked bag fees, introduces reduced charges for overweight luggage</a></p>

<p>The American airline announced on Tuesday (Feb 20) that it is increasing the cost of a first checked bag to $40 on most flights and&nbsp;$35 if paid before reaching the airport. This marks the first time the airline has raised the fee since 2018, when the charge was $30 for a first checked bag on most flights.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/22/413689-untitled-design-33.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>


Israel is seeking Palestinians who are not affiliated with Hamas to manage civilian affairs in areas of the Gaza Strip. The Indian Premier League (IPL) schedule is finally released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

Israel is seeking Palestinians who are not affiliated with Hamas to manage civilian affairs in areas of the Gaza Strip. The Indian Premier League (IPL) schedule is finally released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India. In other news, at least five students were said to be injured after a knife attack at a school in the German city of Wuppertal, on Thursday (Feb 22). Read these and more in Top 10 world news. Israel seeking Palestinians to manage civilian affairs in Gaza Strip A senior Israeli official said on Thursday (Feb 22) that the nation is seeking Palestinians who are not affiliated with Hamas to manage civilian affairs in areas of the Gaza Strip. IPL 2024 Schedule Announcement: CSK vs RCB to headline opener on March 22 IPL 2024 Schedule Announcement: After days of anticipation, the Indian Premier League (IPL) schedule was finally released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday (Feb 22). Keeping in mind the dates of the upcoming general elections in India; the BCCI had delayed the announcement of the schedule. At least five students injured after suspected knife attack in German school, suspect detained At least five students were said to be injured after a knife attack at a school in the German city of Wuppertal, on Thursday (Feb 22), according to media reports citing the police. The suspect, a 17-year-old knife-wielding fellow student, has been arrested, said the local officials. Former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan calls on IMF to conduct election audit, his lawyer says Imran Khan, the imprisoned former prime minister of Pakistan, plans to write to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), urging them to advocate for an impartial audit of the national elections contested on February 8 before resuming discussions with Islamabad, as stated by his lawyer on Thursday. Gaza ceasefire vote: 57 UK MPs sign motion of no confidence against Speaker Lindsay Hoyle Calls for Lindsay Hoyle to step down as the Speaker have intensified following his controversial decision to prioritise a Labour amendment to the Scottish National Party's (SNP) Gaza ceasefire motion. 57 MPs are urging his resignation, criticising his departure from convention by allowing the debate and vote on Labour's amendment for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire before the original SNP motion. Data leak exposes Chinese firm's cyber intrusion into Indian govt offices, other foreign companies A massive data leak showed that a Chinese technology firm I-Soon hacked Indian government offices as well as institutions in various other nations, media reports said. Whales are struggling to communicate due to human noise pollution, says study Humpback whales have found a unique way to establish communication among their fellow species however noisy humans are causing massive disruptions here too. China among the most expensive places to raise children, finds report Raising children can be expensive, irrespective of which country you are a resident of. As per a recent report from the YuWa Population Research Institute, China is one of the most expensive places to raise children. The report released on Wednesday says that the high costs have a disproportionate impact on women. Russia claims to have taken over village of Pobieda in Ukraine's Donetsk region Russian troops have taken over the village of Pobieda in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, said the Russian defence ministry, on Thursday (Feb 22). While, the Ukrainian military said it was repelling attacks in the region. American Airlines raises checked bag fees, introduces reduced charges for overweight luggage The American airline announced on Tuesday (Feb 20) that it is increasing the cost of a first checked bag to $40 on most flights and $35 if paid before reaching the airport. This marks the first time the airline has raised the fee since 2018, when the charge was $30 for a first checked bag on most flights.

Top 10 world news: Israel seeking Palestinians to manage civilian affairs; IPL 2024 schedule; and more

<p lang="en-US">Two powerful solar flares from the sun on in the past two days occurred at the same time when widespread cell phone outages took place across the United States, raising questions if the two events were connected.<br />
<br />
An X1.8-class flare erupted at 6:07 p.m. ET (2307 GMT) on Wednesday (Feb 21), and another X1.7-class flare was released from the sun at 1:32 a.m. ET (0632 GMT) on Thursday (Feb 22).<br />
<br />
In a statement, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said that the solar flares erupted from a particular region of the sun that "continues to exhibit strong magnetic complexity”.<br />
<br />
"No apparent CMEs [Coronal&nbsp;mass ejections] resulting from these events have been observed as of the time of this writing, but can not be ruled out," the agency said.<br />
<br />
However, an alert was issued by NOAA for a solar radio emission which occurred at 6:58 a.m. ET (1158 GMT) and sometimes such eruptions are joined by solar radiation storms and strong coronal mass ejections.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Some people are attributing cell network outages (AT&amp;T, Verizon) in the U.S to last night’s X-class <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SolarFlare?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SolarFlare</a>. However, flares only cause radio degradation on the *dayside* of the Earth. As you can see below, the U.S was not affected by the event. So it’s just a coincidence! <a href="https://t.co/8EQxLV2qVJ">https://t.co/8EQxLV2qVJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/A5kImCmStC">pic.twitter.com/A5kImCmStC</a></p>
— Dr. Ryan French (@RyanJFrench) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanJFrench/status/1760690840656286048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Interestingly, the solar emissions coincided with widespread cellular phone outages.</p>

<p>As reported by The Associated Press, tens of thousands of outages took place across the country, which affected phones operated AT&amp;T, Verizon and T-Mobile.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/massive-solar-flare-causes-radio-blackouts-across-australia-and-southeast-asia-687637">Massive solar flare causes radio blackouts across Australia and Southeast Asia</a></p>

<p>The occurrence of the two events raised questions about its connection, however, solar scientists cast doubt over the theory.<br />
<br />
"Flares only cause radio degradation on the *dayside* of the Earth. As you can see below, the U.S. was not affected by the event. So it's just a coincidence!," said solar astrophysicist Ryan French at the National Solar Observatory, in a post on X.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>NOAA says no relation between&nbsp;recent flares and outages</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">NOAA's Space Weather Prediction further confirmed that the recent flares and outages are unrelated.<br />
<br />
"While solar flares can affect communication systems, radar, and the Global Positioning System, based on the intensity of the eruption and associated phenomena, it is highly unlikely that these flares contributed to the widely reported cellular network outages," they claimed.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Sun emitted a strong solar flare on Feb. 22, 2024, peaking at 5:34 p.m. EST. NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured an image of the event, which was classified as X6.3. <a href="https://t.co/ltkQU9Izqw">https://t.co/ltkQU9Izqw</a> <a href="https://t.co/qSaPdaP4ij">pic.twitter.com/qSaPdaP4ij</a></p>
— NASA Sun &amp; Space (@NASASun) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASASun/status/1760806175505838246?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The effects of the solar flares may continue to be felt for days.<br />
<br />
NOAA, in its forecast discussion posted at 7:30 a.m. ET (1230 GMT) on Feb 22, wrote that an "eruptive filament" had exploded from the northwest quadrant of the visible disk of the sun on February 21.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Brightest and hungriest black hole ever detected; It eats one sun a a day</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brightest-and-hungriest-black-hole-ever-detected-it-eats-one-sun-a-a-day-692162/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>NOAA said that since most of the energetic material which erupted from the sun is expected to move ahead of Earth in its orbit around the sun, a "glancing influence" is likely to be possible on February 25.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Two powerful solar flares from the sun on in the past two days occurred at the same time when widespread cell phone outages took place across the United States, raising questions if the two events were connected.

Two powerful solar flares from the sun on in the past two days occurred at the same time when widespread cell phone outages took place across the United States, raising questions if the two events were connected. An X1.8-class flare erupted at 6:07 p.m. ET (2307 GMT) on Wednesday (Feb 21), and another X1.7-class flare was released from the sun at 1:32 a.m. ET (0632 GMT) on Thursday (Feb 22). In a statement, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said that the solar flares erupted from a particular region of the sun that "continues to exhibit strong magnetic complexity”. "No apparent CMEs [Coronal mass ejections] resulting from these events have been observed as of the time of this writing, but can not be ruled out," the agency said. However, an alert was issued by NOAA for a solar radio emission which occurred at 6:58 a.m. ET (1158 GMT) and sometimes such eruptions are joined by solar radiation storms and strong coronal mass ejections. Some people are attributing cell network outages (AT&T, Verizon) in the U.S to last night’s X-class #SolarFlare. However, flares only cause radio degradation on the *dayside* of the Earth. As you can see below, the U.S was not affected by the event. So it’s just a coincidence! https://t.co/8EQxLV2qVJ pic.twitter.com/A5kImCmStC — Dr. Ryan French (@RyanJFrench) February 22, 2024 × Interestingly, the solar emissions coincided with widespread cellular phone outages. As reported by The Associated Press, tens of thousands of outages took place across the country, which affected phones operated AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile. Also Read: Massive solar flare causes radio blackouts across Australia and Southeast Asia The occurrence of the two events raised questions about its connection, however, solar scientists cast doubt over the theory. "Flares only cause radio degradation on the *dayside* of the Earth. As you can see below, the U.S. was not affected by the event. So it's just a coincidence!," said solar astrophysicist Ryan French at the National Solar Observatory, in a post on X. NOAA says no relation between recent flares and outages NOAA's Space Weather Prediction further confirmed that the recent flares and outages are unrelated. "While solar flares can affect communication systems, radar, and the Global Positioning System, based on the intensity of the eruption and associated phenomena, it is highly unlikely that these flares contributed to the widely reported cellular network outages," they claimed. The Sun emitted a strong solar flare on Feb. 22, 2024, peaking at 5:34 p.m. EST. NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured an image of the event, which was classified as X6.3. https://t.co/ltkQU9Izqw pic.twitter.com/qSaPdaP4ij — NASA Sun & Space (@NASASun) February 22, 2024 × The effects of the solar flares may continue to be felt for days. NOAA, in its forecast discussion posted at 7:30 a.m. ET (1230 GMT) on Feb 22, wrote that an "eruptive filament" had exploded from the northwest quadrant of the visible disk of the sun on February 21. Watch: Brightest and hungriest black hole ever detected; It eats one sun a a day NOAA said that since most of the energetic material which erupted from the sun is expected to move ahead of Earth in its orbit around the sun, a "glancing influence" is likely to be possible on February 25. (With inputs from agencies)

Twin solar flares led to cell phone outages across US? Science body NOAA says 'unlikely'

Red Sea Crisis: Houthis leaders order ‘ban’ on Israel, US and UK-linked ships in the Red Sea

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