US President Donald Trump floated the idea of renaming the Strait of Hormuz to ‘Trump Strait’ in a social media post on Wednesday, asserting that the US control of the crucial waterway could warrant the move.“Now that we have it under U.S.A. control, should we change the name Hormuz Strait to TRUMP STRAIT???” the president wrote, adding, “Like America itself, it would be ‘hotter’ than ever before!”&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Trump’s proposal is striking not just because of the name he wants to give the strait, but because the waterway is not US territory. The Strait of Hormuz lies between Iran and Oman and is an international maritime passage vital to global energy supplies.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-urges-middle-east-nations-to-reject-external-interference-seek-new-security-architecture-1788367177952">Xi Jinping urges Middle East nations to reject ‘external’ interference, seek new ‘security architecture’</a>&nbsp;Trump earlier suggested that he would declare the Strait of Hormuz a US territory.“Essentially, that’s what it is,” the president said in a speech to law enforcement officers in New York last month. “We have the blockade. No ships get through unless we want them to.”Trump has also sought to rename other water bodies amid tensions with other nations, moving for the US to recognize Lake Ontario as “Lake America” and the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” even though neither borders the US.&nbsp;The Iran war has led to a drastic reduction in international shipping across the Strait of Hormuz, a major transit route. The drop in traffic has also led to rising gas and oil prices during the war.&nbsp;Meanwhile, referring to Iran while speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday, Trump said, "We hit them very hard last night. We took out all of the new equipment that they tried to build along the Strait of Hormuz... It was a very heavy attack last night, and we're prepared to do another one any time we want." &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-s-first-ceo-retired-air-marshal-jeetendra-mishra-is-a-kargil-veteran-helmed-west-command-during-op-sindoor-1788358961656">Ram Temple’s first CEO Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra (Retd.) is a Kargil veteran, helmed West Command during Op Sindoor</a><h2>Apple Maps changes Lake Ontario to ‘Lake America’</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Apple changed the name of Lake Ontario to “Lake America” on the web version of its Apple Maps following Trump’s executive order renaming the lake.The move by Apple on Tuesday followed a decision by Alphabet late Saturday to change the name of the lake on Google Maps for US users.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shakti-sharma-scripts-history-as-first-woman-non-medical-air-vice-marshal-1788291494631">Shakti Sharma scripts history as first woman non-medical Air Vice Marshal</a>&nbsp;The Strait of Hormuz has been at the centre of the conflict with Iran, with shipping through the waterway falling sharply from pre-war levels. Before the war began on February 28, roughly 20 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products passed through the strait each day.&nbsp;US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Wednesday that more than 17 million barrels crossed the waterway on Monday, which he described as a wartime record.

President Donald Trump has also sought to rename other water bodies amid tensions with other nations, moving for the US to recognize Lake Ontario as “Lake America” and the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” even though neither borders the US.

US President Donald Trump floated the idea of renaming the Strait of Hormuz to ‘Trump Strait’ in a social media post on Wednesday, asserting that the US control of the crucial waterway could warrant the move. “Now that we have it under U.S.A. control, should we change the name Hormuz Strait to TRUMP STRAIT???” the president wrote, adding, “Like America itself, it would be ‘hotter’ than ever before!”

President Donald Trump has also sought to rename other water bodies amid tensions with other nations, moving for the US to recognize Lake Ontario as “Lake America” and the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” even though neither borders the US.

Trump suggests renaming Strait of Hormuz to ‘Trump Strait’

Civilians continue to pay a heavy price in the ongoing West Asia war.&nbsp;&nbsp;A US air strike turned a wedding ceremony in Iran's Kuhestak city into a scene of mourning, leaving five people, including a child, dead and 70 others injured.&nbsp;In response, Iran's supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, warned that the Iranian people have 'unforgettable lessons' to teach US. This was followed by Tehran's powerful retaliation.&nbsp;Images released by the Iranian Red Crescent Society showed the spate of destruction in Kushetak.&nbsp;Debris can be seen everywhere and people were desperately trying to search for their loved ones.&nbsp;On its part though, US CENTCOM claimed to have struck IRGC targets, including air defence sites, radar systems, maritime assets and facilities, and mine-laying capabilities in Iran.&nbsp;According to Iranian state media, at least eighteen people were killed in US strikes across multiple provinces including Hormozgan, Khuzestan, and Bushehr.&nbsp;Tehran said that Jiroft Airport in Kerman province was also attacked by US forces. This triggered a massive immediate retaliation from Iran.&nbsp;Air raid sirens rang out in Kuwait as its military grappled to intercept Iranian missile and drone attacks.&nbsp;IRGC announced that it carried out a combined missile and drone attack at the country's Ali al-Salem air base.&nbsp;It claimed that several US personnel were killed, drones were destroyed and a drone hangar was set ablaze.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran also released footage of missiles being launched at US bases in Jordan, which it targeted a day earlier as well. However, the Jordanian army claimed to have intercepted 10 ballistic missiles from Iran and added that three other missiles fell in remote areas. Meanwhile, Iran's army claimed to have launched dozens of explosive drones at US bases in UAE and Bahrain. According to Iranian state media, these drones struck radar systems and locations where US forces were stationed at UAE's Al Dhafra and Al Minhad bases. Smoke was seen in the sky in northern Bahrain following the Iranian drone attack. According to the Iranian army, radar facilities and gathering points for US forces at the country's Sheikh Isa airbase were hit in its drone attack. This is not all. Iran also claimed to have carried out a heavy ballistic missile strike on Jordan's Camp Titin, a US base near the Gulf of Aqaba at the northern end of the Red Sea. Additionally, Tehran asserted that it struck US bases in Iraq's Erbil, destroying a maintenance centre and warehouses. Now, tensions in the Strait of Hormuz remain high. Iran announced that two more oil tankers were set on fire after hitting mines in the Strait of Hormuz while passing through an unauthorised route. Although US Energy Secretary Chris Wright revealed that over 17 million barrels of crude oil transited Hormuz on Monday, ship-tracking data paints a very different picture. According to Kpler, only five ships sailed through this strategic waterway. Iran has now amplified the pressure on US and its allies. IRGC's political deputy general Yadollah Javani urged West Asian countries to expel US forces from their territories. Otherwise, he warned that IRGC would deliver a firm response against any region from where aggression against Iran is initiated. This assumes significance as over 50,000 US military personnel are currently stationed at warships and bases across West Asia. In wake of the US strikes, Iran's supreme national security council chief Mohsen Rezaeicautioned that US would now face a new strategy from Tehran on the battlefield in diplomacy and in confronting the economic blockade. Amid Iran's defiance, Trump's frustration came to the fore yet again. Ruling out talks, he urged Iranians to revolt against their government. The US President said, "I like our position now much better, with almost total control of the Hormuz strait, and their economy totally collapsing. They are just playing out the inevitable. When are the Iranian people going to rise up and fight?" With Trump threatening that Iran will be totally wiped out if it retaliates against US strikes, it is quite apparent that tensions in West Asia are set to escalate.

After American strikes, Iran's supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, warned that the Iranian people have 'unforgettable lessons' to teach US. This was followed by Tehran's powerful retaliation. Images released by the Iranian Red Crescent Society showed the spate of destruction in Kushetak.

Civilians continue to pay a heavy price in the ongoing West Asia war. A US air strike turned a wedding ceremony in Iran's Kuhestak city into a scene of mourning, leaving five people, including a child, dead and 70 others injured. In response, Iran's supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, warned that the Iranian people have 'unforgettable lessons' to teach US. This was followed by Tehran's powerful retaliation. Images released by the Iranian Red Crescent Society showed the spate of destruction in Kushetak. Debris can be seen everywhere and people were desperately trying to search for their loved ones. On its part though, US CENTCOM claimed to have struck IRGC targets, including air defence sites, radar systems, maritime assets and facilities, and mine-laying capabilities in Iran. According to Iranian state media, at least eighteen people were killed in US strikes across multiple provinces including Hormozgan, Khuzestan, and Bushehr. Tehran said that Jiroft Airport in Kerman province was also attacked by US forces. This triggered a massive immediate retaliation from Iran. Air raid sirens rang out in Kuwait as its military grappled to intercept Iranian missile and drone attacks. IRGC announced that it carried out a combined missile and drone attack at the country's Ali al-Salem air base. It claimed that several US personnel were killed, drones were destroyed and a drone hangar was set ablaze.

After American strikes, Iran's supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, warned that the Iranian people have 'unforgettable lessons' to teach US. This was followed by Tehran's powerful retaliation. Images released by the Iranian Red Crescent Society showed the spate of destruction in Kushetak.

Khamenei warns of ‘unforgettable lessons’ after Iranians, wedding function attacked | Gravitas

Is offering access to mineral wealth the best way to win over U.S. President Donald Trump?Five years after U.S. forces left Afghanistan, the Taliban is now seeking American investment in exchange for lifting of global sanctions and return of its frozen assets.Speaking to the Financial Times, Afghanistan's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi stated that his country would absolutely welcome U.S. investment in mining, infrastructure, agriculture and trade. He even invited U.S. to reopen its abandoned embassy in Kabul.He said and I am quoting him, "Relations between Afghanistan &amp; U.S. should not be assessed through the lens of the past 20 years of war, but rather on the basis of future co-operation".This is a remarkable turnaround by the same Taliban which fought with U.S. forces for two decades.Muttaqi asserted that Afghanistan's economic policy is now open.Now, Taliban's appeal is seen as a bid to end its international isolation while multiple countries including India and China have established a working relationship with the Taliban-led administration, Russia is the only country to have formally recognised its government so far.Taliban has also been seeking the release of nearly 9.5 billion U.S. dollars in assets belonging to the Afghan central bank which were frozen by the U.S. since it took power in 2021.This remains vital at a time when 14 million Afghans are facing acute hunger and child malnutrition levels have reached a record high.Sanctions remain another sticking point.Taliban is still designated as a terror organisation by multiple countries including U.S.Also, top Taliban leaders including PM Hasan Akhund, Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani and Muttaqi continue to face UN sanctions in the form of asset freeze, travel ban and arms embargo.At the centre of Taliban's offer is Afghanistan's enormous but largely untapped mineral potential.According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the country is estimated to hold mineral reserves worth nearly one trillion U.S. dollars.This includes 60 million tons of copper, 183 million tons of aluminium and 2.2 billion tonnes of iron ore.It also reportedly holds around 1.4 million tonnes of rare earth minerals.While Taliban has announced over seven billion U.S. dollars in mining investments since coming to power, it does not necessarily imply that the projects are operational.However, this pitch may appeal to Trump who have been focused on ensuring supply of critical minerals and reducing its reliance on China.For Afghanistan, the issue remains that it lacks infrastructure requiring for mining on such a large scale.It is also worth noting that U.S. signed the Doha Agreement with Taliban, in 2020 during Trump's first term as U.S. President.Under this agreement, Taliban guaranteed that Afghan soil won't be used to threaten the security of U.S. and its allies.Since coming to power, Taliban has also cracked down on Islamic State-Khorasan Province or ISKP, which U.S. too perceives as a key threat.But, so far, Afghanistan has not been a priority for the Trump administration, which even turned a blind eye to Pakistani air strikes there.Last year though, Trump demanded the return of the Bagram Airbase, which was once its largest BASE in Afghanistan.However, Taliban has rejected any foreign military presence on Afghan soil.Listen in to what Trump said...This is not the first time, when a country has tried to hard-sell its mineral resources to get into Trump's good books.For instance, Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir showed off the rare earth mineral potential of his country to Trump, at the White House last year.Subsequently, the U.S. Export-Import Bank approved financing of 1.25 billion U.S. dollars to support the mining of critical minerals at Reko Diq in Balochistan.While Taliban is desperately seeking international recognition, it continues to face flak globally, for its non-inclusive government, exclusion of women from public life, by restricting their right to education and work and use of corporal punishment.

The Taliban is seeking US investment in Afghanistan's mining and infrastructure sectors, offering access to the country's vast mineral wealth.

Is offering access to mineral wealth the best way to win over U.S. President Donald Trump? Five years after U.S. forces left Afghanistan, the Taliban is now seeking American investment in exchange for lifting of global sanctions and return of its frozen assets. Speaking to the Financial Times, Afghanistan's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi stated that his country would absolutely welcome U.S. investment in mining, infrastructure, agriculture and trade. He even invited U.S. to reopen its abandoned embassy in Kabul. He said and I am quoting him, "Relations between Afghanistan & U.S. should not be assessed through the lens of the past 20 years of war, but rather on the basis of future co-operation". This is a remarkable turnaround by the same Taliban which fought with U.S. forces for two decades. Muttaqi asserted that Afghanistan's economic policy is now open. Now, Taliban's appeal is seen as a bid to end its international isolation while multiple countries including India and China have established a working relationship with the Taliban-led administration, Russia is the only country to have formally recognised its government so far. Taliban has also been seeking the release of nearly 9.5 billion U.S. dollars in assets belonging to the Afghan central bank which were frozen by the U.S. since it took power in 2021. This remains vital at a time when 14 million Afghans are facing acute hunger and child malnutrition levels have reached a record high. Sanctions remain another sticking point. Taliban is still designated as a terror organisation by multiple countries including U.S. Also, top Taliban leaders including PM Hasan Akhund, Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani and Muttaqi continue to face UN sanctions in the form of asset freeze, travel ban and arms embargo. At the centre of Taliban's offer is Afghanistan's enormous but largely untapped mineral potential. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the country is estimated to hold mineral reserves worth nearly one trillion U.S. dollars. This includes 60 million tons of copper, 183 million tons of aluminium and 2.2 billion tonnes of iron ore. It also reportedly holds around 1.4 million tonnes of rare earth minerals. While Taliban has announced over seven billion U.S. dollars in mining investments since coming to power, it does not necessarily imply that the projects are operational. However, this pitch may appeal to Trump who have been focused on ensuring supply of critical minerals and reducing its reliance on China. For Afghanistan, the issue remains that it lacks infrastructure requiring for mining on such a large scale. It is also worth noting that U.S. signed the Doha Agreement with Taliban, in 2020 during Trump's first term as U.S. President. Under this agreement, Taliban guaranteed that Afghan soil won't be used to threaten the security of U.S. and its allies. Since coming to power, Taliban has also cracked down on Islamic State-Khorasan Province or ISKP, which U.S. too perceives as a key threat. But, so far, Afghanistan has not been a priority for the Trump administration, which even turned a blind eye to Pakistani air strikes there. Last year though, Trump demanded the return of the Bagram Airbase, which was once its largest BASE in Afghanistan. However, Taliban has rejected any foreign military presence on Afghan soil. Listen in to what Trump said... This is not the first time, when a country has tried to hard-sell its mineral resources to get into Trump's good books. For instance, Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir showed off the rare earth mineral potential of his country to Trump, at the White House last year. Subsequently, the U.S. Export-Import Bank approved financing of 1.25 billion U.S. dollars to support the mining of critical minerals at Reko Diq in Balochistan. While Taliban is desperately seeking international recognition, it continues to face flak globally, for its non-inclusive government, exclusion of women from public life, by restricting their right to education and work and use of corporal punishment.

The Taliban is seeking US investment in Afghanistan's mining and infrastructure sectors, offering access to the country's vast mineral wealth.

Gravitas | Taliban dangles $1 trillion mineral carrot before dealmaker Trump

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called on nations in the Middle East to oppose any ‘external interference’ and consider reshaping the region’s security order. He added that Beijing and Cairo should jointly oppose “unilateralism and acts of bullying”. Xi is on a visit to Egypt as Beijing is seeking to expand its influence amid the US war against Iran.&nbsp;It is Xi’s first trip to the Middle East in four years and comes at a time when US allies in the region are reassessing their strategic relationships as the ongoing conflict has disrupted trade and raised questions about Washington’s long-term role.&nbsp;Xi touched down in Cairo on Tuesday evening and received a warm welcome from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-temple-s-first-ceo-retired-air-marshal-jeetendra-mishra-is-a-kargil-veteran-helmed-west-command-during-op-sindoor-1788358961656">Ram Temple’s first CEO Retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra is a Kargil veteran, helmed West Command during Op Sindoor</a><h2>Egypt steadily increasing economic, military cooperation with Beijing</h2>&nbsp;Egypt, which is a major US defence partner and receives around $1.3 billion annually in military aid from Washington, has been steadily increasing economic and military cooperation with Beijing in the past few years.Xi, who was welcomed by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi with a military ceremony in Cairo, said countries in the region should be “masters of their own ⁠destiny” and explore a new regional “security architecture”, reported China’s state news agency Xinhua.Xi also said China was ready to work with regional countries to safeguard shipping routes, an issue that has assumed great importance after conflict disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shakti-sharma-scripts-history-as-first-woman-non-medical-air-vice-marshal-1788291494631">Shakti Sharma scripts history as first woman non-medical Air Vice Marshal</a>&nbsp;Xinhua said the leaders agreed to deepen security cooperation and counterterrorism coordination. The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in data centers, semiconductors and critical metals supply chains and strengthen the use of each other’s currencies in trade and investment, according to a joint statement.&nbsp;<h2>‘Egypt pursuing a policy of strategic balance’</h2>&nbsp;In an article published ahead of XI’s visit, Sisi said Egypt pursued a policy of “strategic balance” in the time of growing global rivalry.&nbsp;Stronger ties with China fit Egypt’s broader effort to diversify international partnerships.&nbsp;&nbsp;Similarly for China, Egypt’s regional influence and strategic location ⁠make it an important partner as Beijing seeks a broader economic role and tries to chip away at US influence in the region.&nbsp;Last month witnessed growing military ties during Egypt’s ‘Eagles of Civilization’ exercises with China, which included a rare ⁠air combat drill involving Chinese-made J-16 jets and French-made Rafale aircraft.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-tunnel-rescue-team-makes-progress-at-chilime-langtang-hydropower-sites-in-nepal-1788277838900">Indian tunnel rescue team makes progress at Chilime, Langtang hydropower sites in Nepal</a>&nbsp;Enthusiasm for the Chinese president’s visit has been evident a Cairo’s streets have been decked in Chinese flags and images of iconic sites including Egypt’s Sphinx and China’s Great Wall.&nbsp;Home to the Suez Canal, ⁠Egypt which also has a population of more than 110 million, is an important market for China and has imported $10 billion of Chinese goods in the first half of this year alone.Chinese investment has risen rapidly in Egypt since Sisi visited China and signed a strategic partnership agreement in 2014, with Chinese companies pouring billions into container ports, green hydrogen projects and facilities to make iron ⁠pipes, car tyres, and satellites.

It is Chinese President Xi Jinping’s first trip to the Middle East in four years and comes at a time when US allies in the region are reassessing their strategic relationships as the ongoing conflict has disrupted trade and raised questions about Washington’s long-term role.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday called on nations in the Middle East to oppose any ‘external interference’ and consider reshaping the region’s security order. He added that Beijing and Cairo should jointly oppose “unilateralism and acts of bullying”. Xi is on a visit to Egypt as Beijing is seeking to expand its influence amid the US war against Iran. It is Xi’s first trip to the Middle East in four years and comes at a time when US allies in the region are reassessing their strategic relationships as the ongoing conflict has disrupted trade and raised questions about Washington’s long-term role. Xi touched down in Cairo on Tuesday evening and received a warm welcome from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Also Read: Ram Temple’s first CEO Retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra is a Kargil veteran, helmed West Command during Op Sindoor Egypt steadily increasing economic, military cooperation with Beijing Egypt, which is a major US defence partner and receives around $1.3 billion annually in military aid from Washington, has been steadily increasing economic and military cooperation with Beijing in the past few years. Xi, who was welcomed by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi with a military ceremony in Cairo, said countries in the region should be “masters of their own ⁠destiny” and explore a new regional “security architecture”, reported China’s state news agency Xinhua. Xi also said China was ready to work with regional countries to safeguard shipping routes, an issue that has assumed great importance after conflict disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb. Also Read: Shakti Sharma scripts history as first woman non-medical Air Vice Marshal Xinhua said the leaders agreed to deepen security cooperation and counterterrorism coordination. The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in data centers, semiconductors and critical metals supply chains and strengthen the use of each other’s currencies in trade and investment, according to a joint statement. ‘Egypt pursuing a policy of strategic balance’ In an article published ahead of XI’s visit, Sisi said Egypt pursued a policy of “strategic balance” in the time of growing global rivalry. Stronger ties with China fit Egypt’s broader effort to diversify international partnerships. Similarly for China, Egypt’s regional influence and strategic location ⁠make it an important partner as Beijing seeks a broader economic role and tries to chip away at US influence in the region. Last month witnessed growing military ties during Egypt’s ‘Eagles of Civilization’ exercises with China, which included a rare ⁠air combat drill involving Chinese-made J-16 jets and French-made Rafale aircraft. Also Read: Indian tunnel rescue team makes progress at Chilime, Langtang hydropower sites in Nepal Enthusiasm for the Chinese president’s visit has been evident a Cairo’s streets have been decked in Chinese flags and images of iconic sites including Egypt’s Sphinx and China’s Great Wall. Home to the Suez Canal, ⁠Egypt which also has a population of more than 110 million, is an important market for China and has imported $10 billion of Chinese goods in the first half of this year alone. Chinese investment has risen rapidly in Egypt since Sisi visited China and signed a strategic partnership agreement in 2014, with Chinese companies pouring billions into container ports, green hydrogen projects and facilities to make iron ⁠pipes, car tyres, and satellites.

It is Chinese President Xi Jinping’s first trip to the Middle East in four years and comes at a time when US allies in the region are reassessing their strategic relationships as the ongoing conflict has disrupted trade and raised questions about Washington’s long-term role.

Xi Jinping urges Middle East nations to reject ‘external’ interference, seek new ‘security architecture’

US Treasury Department on Wednesday issued $1 coins featuring the face of the US President Donald Trump. These coins were minted to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, celebrated this year. The coins will be actively available in the public money supply in 25-coin rolls for $61.00 and 100-coin bags for $154.50. These can be purchased directly from the US Mint's online catalogue in standard collector sets."Created to celebrate this historic national milestone, these special circulating dollar coins combine everyday American coinage with a once-in-a-generation anniversary design destined to become a standout addition to modern collections," the US Mint said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-antichrist-walking-among-us-end-times-1788361656830">JD Vance says ‘end times’ may be near, Antichrist may be ‘walking among us’</a>The coins were struck to "honour 250 years of great American heritage," the US Mint wrote on its website. In an arc above Trump's face is written "LIBERTY," beside “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and below is "1776~2026." On the back side, there is the Presidential seal of the United States with the bald eagle gripping arrows in one claw and an olive branch in the other. In a banner clutched in its beak is written "E PLURIBUS UNUM," Latin for "out of many, one".Among the rolls and bags there will be some special issue coins which will be marked "July 4th," because they were struck on that day, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. These coins are gold coloured but composed mostly of copper with &nbsp;6 per cent zinc, 3.5 per cent manganese and 2 per cent nickel, without any actual gold.Although US regulations only permit deceased people to appear on currency, the Trump administration said that the President may appear on a coin under a 2020 law allowing a new design to commemorate the country's 250th anniversary.&nbsp;

The US Mint has unveiled $1 coins featuring Donald Trump as part of commemorations for America’s 250th anniversary, with rolls and bags available to collectors.

US Treasury Department on Wednesday issued $1 coins featuring the face of the US President Donald Trump. These coins were minted to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, celebrated this year. The coins will be actively available in the public money supply in 25-coin rolls for $61.00 and 100-coin bags for $154.50. These can be purchased directly from the US Mint's online catalogue in standard collector sets. "Created to celebrate this historic national milestone, these special circulating dollar coins combine everyday American coinage with a once-in-a-generation anniversary design destined to become a standout addition to modern collections," the US Mint said. Also Read: JD Vance says ‘end times’ may be near, Antichrist may be ‘walking among us’ The coins were struck to "honour 250 years of great American heritage," the US Mint wrote on its website. In an arc above Trump's face is written "LIBERTY," beside “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and below is "1776~2026." On the back side, there is the Presidential seal of the United States with the bald eagle gripping arrows in one claw and an olive branch in the other. In a banner clutched in its beak is written "E PLURIBUS UNUM," Latin for "out of many, one". Among the rolls and bags there will be some special issue coins which will be marked "July 4th," because they were struck on that day, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. These coins are gold coloured but composed mostly of copper with 6 per cent zinc, 3.5 per cent manganese and 2 per cent nickel, without any actual gold. Although US regulations only permit deceased people to appear on currency, the Trump administration said that the President may appear on a coin under a 2020 law allowing a new design to commemorate the country's 250th anniversary.

The US Mint has unveiled $1 coins featuring Donald Trump as part of commemorations for America’s 250th anniversary, with rolls and bags available to collectors.

US Mint releases $1 coins featuring Donald Trump, priced up to $154.50

Two Filipino seafarers were killed after a Saudi oil tanker was hit while passing through the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week, Saudi Arabia's national shipping company Bahri said on Wednesday (Sep 2), as tensions once again flared between the United States and Iran.The attack occurred late on Monday, with a Greek security firm initially reporting that “unknown projectiles” had struck the vessel. Bahri later confirmed that its tanker, the SIDR, had been involved in the incident and that two Filipino crew members had died.“Bahri confirms that its vessel SIDR was involved in a security incident while transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” the company said on X, confirming “the loss of its two Filipino seafarers.”<h2>Two tankers struck in Hormuz</h2>The SIDR was among two oil tankers struck overnight from Monday to Tuesday, according to Greek maritime risk management firm Marisks. Both vessels had loaded about two million barrels of crude at Juaymah on Saudi Arabia's eastern coast last week, Kpler data showed.Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Wednesday that two tankers caught fire after hitting mines while transiting the strategic waterway.The incident comes after fresh exchanges of attacks between Washington and Tehran this week. The US renewed strikes on Iran, while Tehran responded with attacks in the Gulf, mainly targeting American assets.<h2>Hormuz blockade deepens deadlock</h2>Six months into the war, neither side appears close to a breakthrough. Iran has disrupted shipping through Hormuz with its blockade, while the US has maintained a counter-blockade on Iranian ports.Tehran has said it wants to impose service fees and has targeted ships it accuses of bypassing its preferred transit route through the strait.Commercial shipping moved freely through Hormuz before the conflict, but attacks on vessels have increasingly turned the narrow waterway into a flashpoint. Similar incidents previously helped derail an April ceasefire between the US and Iran, raising fears that the latest attacks could further complicate efforts to calm the conflict.The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for global energy trade, making every new attack closely watched far beyond the Gulf. &nbsp;

Two Filipino sailors were killed after a Saudi oil tanker was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, as fresh US-Iran fighting raised tensions in the vital shipping route.

Two Filipino seafarers were killed after a Saudi oil tanker was hit while passing through the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week, Saudi Arabia's national shipping company Bahri said on Wednesday (Sep 2), as tensions once again flared between the United States and Iran. The attack occurred late on Monday, with a Greek security firm initially reporting that “unknown projectiles” had struck the vessel. Bahri later confirmed that its tanker, the SIDR, had been involved in the incident and that two Filipino crew members had died. “Bahri confirms that its vessel SIDR was involved in a security incident while transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” the company said on X, confirming “the loss of its two Filipino seafarers.” Two tankers struck in Hormuz The SIDR was among two oil tankers struck overnight from Monday to Tuesday, according to Greek maritime risk management firm Marisks. Both vessels had loaded about two million barrels of crude at Juaymah on Saudi Arabia's eastern coast last week, Kpler data showed. Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Wednesday that two tankers caught fire after hitting mines while transiting the strategic waterway. The incident comes after fresh exchanges of attacks between Washington and Tehran this week. The US renewed strikes on Iran, while Tehran responded with attacks in the Gulf, mainly targeting American assets. Hormuz blockade deepens deadlock Six months into the war, neither side appears close to a breakthrough. Iran has disrupted shipping through Hormuz with its blockade, while the US has maintained a counter-blockade on Iranian ports. Tehran has said it wants to impose service fees and has targeted ships it accuses of bypassing its preferred transit route through the strait. Commercial shipping moved freely through Hormuz before the conflict, but attacks on vessels have increasingly turned the narrow waterway into a flashpoint. Similar incidents previously helped derail an April ceasefire between the US and Iran, raising fears that the latest attacks could further complicate efforts to calm the conflict. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for global energy trade, making every new attack closely watched far beyond the Gulf.

Two Filipino sailors were killed after a Saudi oil tanker was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, as fresh US-Iran fighting raised tensions in the vital shipping route.

Two Filipino seafarers killed after Saudi tanker hit in Strait of Hormuz

When the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran six months ago, US President Donald Trump delivered a speech as the conflict unfolded.&nbsp;Trump posted an eight-minute video in which he gave several justifications for the decision to launch the strikes. Towards the end of the speech, he also urged Iranians to topple their country's regime.His exact words in the overlapping hours of February 28 and March 1 were:&nbsp;"Finally, to the great, proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of your freedom is at hand…when we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations."&nbsp;For almost six weeks, the war front remained active. An Iranian school came under attack in a double-tap strike, killing schoolchildren. Iran's then Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and members of his family were also killed in a strike on his compound. Several members of Iran's top leadership were eliminated.&nbsp;However, Iran's ruling establishment did not collapse. The American administration then quickly changed its tone and said regime change was never the goal.&nbsp;Iran also retaliated with a barrage of strikes on American assets and troops across West Asia.&nbsp;The normal passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz came to a halt. The critical waterway remains the biggest point of contention between the US and Iran over control of the strategic passage.Over the past two weeks, Washington shifted its focus towards economic pressure on Iran by imposing fresh sanctions and threatening to further weaken the country.&nbsp;Iranian leaders dismissed the threats and maintained their defiant stance towards the US.Military escalation has now begun again. The US launched strikes on Larak Island earlier this week, prompting Iran to retaliate.&nbsp;The attacks intensified over the past 24 hours, with US strikes hitting multiple locations along Iran's southern coast.&nbsp;Iranian media reported explosions in other coastal areas, including Konarak, Bandar Abbas, Jask and Asaluyeh, as well as Qeshm Island.&nbsp;Iranian authorities said at least 18 people had been killed across the country in the latest strikes. The US strike on Kuhestak has emerged as a major flashpoint for Iran.&nbsp;Iranian officials said a house in Kuhestak was hit while a wedding celebration was underway.Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said at least four people were killed and more than 68 others, including women and children, were wounded.&nbsp;Footage released by the Iranian Red Crescent showed a damaged building with blown-out windows and walls. Debris was scattered across the ground.&nbsp;Locals have criticised the latest American attacks. Iran then responded with attacks that went beyond US targets inside the country.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-not-retreating-from-gaza-netanyahu-rules-out-troop-pullback-cites-terror-threat-1788365264654">'We are not retreating from Gaza': Netanyahu rules out troop pullback, cites terror threat</a>&nbsp;The Iranian military launched attacks on US bases and assets in Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait and Iraq's Erbil region. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said its forces carried out a combined missile and drone attack on US facilities in Erbil.&nbsp;Tehran also claimed that it hit Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain, which hosts US forces. The Bahrain Defence Force accused Iran of continuing what it called a "systematic hostile approach."&nbsp;The IRGC said it launched a "heavy" ballistic missile attack on Prince Hassan Air Base and a US Marine base in Jordan.&nbsp;In Kuwait, Iran claimed it targeted the headquarters and residence of the American commander at Ali Al Salem Air Base.&nbsp;Within hours of Iran's retaliation, Trump issued another statement on social media. Two parts of his remarks stood out.&nbsp;Trump said he was not trying to force Iran to the negotiating table and did not care whether Iran signed the agreement.&nbsp;He also brought the regime change issue back into focus. Trump asked, 'When are the Iranian people going to rise up and fight?'&nbsp;As US tactics continue to shift and the Trump administration's goals remain unclear, a question raised six months ago when the war began has returned.&nbsp;What is Donald Trump's endgame? And if regime change is the goal, why does the US keep changing its stance on it?

Six months after Trump first urged Iranians to overthrow their government, renewed US-Iran strikes and his latest regime change remarks have again raised questions over Washington's ultimate endgame in the conflict.

When the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran six months ago, US President Donald Trump delivered a speech as the conflict unfolded. Trump posted an eight-minute video in which he gave several justifications for the decision to launch the strikes. Towards the end of the speech, he also urged Iranians to topple their country's regime. His exact words in the overlapping hours of February 28 and March 1 were: "Finally, to the great, proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of your freedom is at hand…when we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations." For almost six weeks, the war front remained active. An Iranian school came under attack in a double-tap strike, killing schoolchildren. Iran's then Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and members of his family were also killed in a strike on his compound. Several members of Iran's top leadership were eliminated. However, Iran's ruling establishment did not collapse. The American administration then quickly changed its tone and said regime change was never the goal. Iran also retaliated with a barrage of strikes on American assets and troops across West Asia. The normal passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz came to a halt. The critical waterway remains the biggest point of contention between the US and Iran over control of the strategic passage. Over the past two weeks, Washington shifted its focus towards economic pressure on Iran by imposing fresh sanctions and threatening to further weaken the country. Iranian leaders dismissed the threats and maintained their defiant stance towards the US. Military escalation has now begun again. The US launched strikes on Larak Island earlier this week, prompting Iran to retaliate. The attacks intensified over the past 24 hours, with US strikes hitting multiple locations along Iran's southern coast. Iranian media reported explosions in other coastal areas, including Konarak, Bandar Abbas, Jask and Asaluyeh, as well as Qeshm Island. Iranian authorities said at least 18 people had been killed across the country in the latest strikes. The US strike on Kuhestak has emerged as a major flashpoint for Iran. Iranian officials said a house in Kuhestak was hit while a wedding celebration was underway. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said at least four people were killed and more than 68 others, including women and children, were wounded. Footage released by the Iranian Red Crescent showed a damaged building with blown-out windows and walls. Debris was scattered across the ground. Locals have criticised the latest American attacks. Iran then responded with attacks that went beyond US targets inside the country. Also Read: 'We are not retreating from Gaza': Netanyahu rules out troop pullback, cites terror threat The Iranian military launched attacks on US bases and assets in Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait and Iraq's Erbil region. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said its forces carried out a combined missile and drone attack on US facilities in Erbil. Tehran also claimed that it hit Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain, which hosts US forces. The Bahrain Defence Force accused Iran of continuing what it called a "systematic hostile approach." The IRGC said it launched a "heavy" ballistic missile attack on Prince Hassan Air Base and a US Marine base in Jordan. In Kuwait, Iran claimed it targeted the headquarters and residence of the American commander at Ali Al Salem Air Base. Within hours of Iran's retaliation, Trump issued another statement on social media. Two parts of his remarks stood out. Trump said he was not trying to force Iran to the negotiating table and did not care whether Iran signed the agreement. He also brought the regime change issue back into focus. Trump asked, 'When are the Iranian people going to rise up and fight?' As US tactics continue to shift and the Trump administration's goals remain unclear, a question raised six months ago when the war began has returned. What is Donald Trump's endgame? And if regime change is the goal, why does the US keep changing its stance on it?

Six months after Trump first urged Iranians to overthrow their government, renewed US-Iran strikes and his latest regime change remarks have again raised questions over Washington's ultimate endgame in the conflict.

What is US endgame in Iran? Trump revives regime change talk amid fresh military escalation | RTP

For years, the West has pursued a simple strategy toward Vladimir Putin: punish Russia economically, isolate Moscow diplomatically and force the Kremlin to pay a price for its war in Ukraine.But is that strategy still working?Putin may be isolated from much of the Western political establishment. Yet the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit tells a very different story.Russia remains deeply engaged with China, India and much of the non-Western world. Putin can still sit at the table with major powers — and that makes the claim that Russia is simply “isolated” increasingly difficult to sustain.But there is a catch.At the SCO summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a message that Moscow cannot easily dismiss: the world must move from endless wars toward an end to war. Modi's appeal reflects India's increasingly independent diplomatic position — maintaining its strategic relationship with Russia while simultaneously deepening ties with the United States.China presents another complicated equation.Beijing has become crucial to Moscow economically and strategically, but that does not necessarily make Russia the senior partner. The longer the war continues, the greater Russia's dependence on China could become.Meanwhile, Europe is moving in the opposite direction.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-may-be-isolated-but-sco-showed-russia-is-not-cut-off-1788420897346/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-may-be-isolated-but-sco-showed-russia-is-not-cut-off-1788420897346/embed</a>The EU continues sanctions against Russia and is preparing further measures targeting individuals, Moscow's military-industrial complex and its ability to sustain the war.Britain is also helping Ukraine expand its long-range strike capability. Moscow has warned that British military targets could face retaliation if British-made missiles continue being used against Russian territory.And NATO is increasingly focused on what comes after Ukraine — with European governments concerned about alleged Russian hybrid attacks, airspace incidents and the possibility of wider confrontation.So the old definition of isolation no longer fits.Russia is economically constrained, militarily challenged and politically estranged from much of Europe.But it is not diplomatically alone.The Verdict? Putin has not broken out of Western isolation — he has learned to operate around it.And perhaps that is the bigger story.The world is no longer divided neatly between Moscow and the West.India wants strategic autonomy. China wants greater global influence. Europe wants security. Washington wants leverage.And Putin is trying to turn those competing interests into diplomatic space for Russia.Is he isolated? In the West, increasingly yes.In the world? Not even close.&nbsp;

The EU continues sanctions against Russia and is preparing further measures targeting individuals, Moscow's military-industrial complex and its ability to sustain the war.

For years, the West has pursued a simple strategy toward Vladimir Putin: punish Russia economically, isolate Moscow diplomatically and force the Kremlin to pay a price for its war in Ukraine. But is that strategy still working? Putin may be isolated from much of the Western political establishment. Yet the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit tells a very different story. Russia remains deeply engaged with China, India and much of the non-Western world. Putin can still sit at the table with major powers — and that makes the claim that Russia is simply “isolated” increasingly difficult to sustain. But there is a catch. At the SCO summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a message that Moscow cannot easily dismiss: the world must move from endless wars toward an end to war. Modi's appeal reflects India's increasingly independent diplomatic position — maintaining its strategic relationship with Russia while simultaneously deepening ties with the United States. China presents another complicated equation. Beijing has become crucial to Moscow economically and strategically, but that does not necessarily make Russia the senior partner. The longer the war continues, the greater Russia's dependence on China could become. Meanwhile, Europe is moving in the opposite direction. https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-may-be-isolated-but-sco-showed-russia-is-not-cut-off-1788420897346/embed The EU continues sanctions against Russia and is preparing further measures targeting individuals, Moscow's military-industrial complex and its ability to sustain the war. Britain is also helping Ukraine expand its long-range strike capability. Moscow has warned that British military targets could face retaliation if British-made missiles continue being used against Russian territory. And NATO is increasingly focused on what comes after Ukraine — with European governments concerned about alleged Russian hybrid attacks, airspace incidents and the possibility of wider confrontation. So the old definition of isolation no longer fits. Russia is economically constrained, militarily challenged and politically estranged from much of Europe. But it is not diplomatically alone. The Verdict? Putin has not broken out of Western isolation — he has learned to operate around it. And perhaps that is the bigger story. The world is no longer divided neatly between Moscow and the West. India wants strategic autonomy. China wants greater global influence. Europe wants security. Washington wants leverage. And Putin is trying to turn those competing interests into diplomatic space for Russia. Is he isolated? In the West, increasingly yes. In the world? Not even close.

The EU continues sanctions against Russia and is preparing further measures targeting individuals, Moscow's military-industrial complex and its ability to sustain the war.

The Verdict | Putin is isolated — but not alone

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Israeli troops in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday (September 02) and vowed that Israel would not withdraw its forces despite renewed efforts by mediators to push forward a US-backed ceasefire plan.&nbsp;Netanyahu made the remarks near the so-called Yellow Line, which separates areas controlled by Hamas from those under Israeli military control.&nbsp;"We control the area. We are not retreating. We are staying on this line," Netanyahu said near the so-called Yellow Line, which demarcates the areas under Hamas and Israeli military control.&nbsp;"We control 60 per cent of the Strip, and we are not stopping, because we are eliminating the terrorists who threaten us, day in and day out," he added.<h3>Netanyahu rejects Gaza troop withdrawal</h3>Israel has continued military operations in Gaza despite the ceasefire that came into effect in October 2025. Israeli forces have also expanded their presence in parts of the territory, with the government maintaining that it must remove threats posed by Hamas.&nbsp;Hamas carried out the unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack against Israel, which triggered the war in Gaza.&nbsp;International calls for the next stages of the US-led peace plan have so far failed to stop Israeli operations against Palestinians whom Israel identifies as militants.&nbsp;Netanyahu rejected a proposal last month to move ahead with the next stage of the plan after Hamas said it had agreed to hand over its weapons.&nbsp;The visit marked Netanyahu's first trip to the war-torn Gaza Strip since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began in October 2025.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/defence-pulse/japan-rearms-drone-40-offers-a-glimpse-into-tokyo-s-new-military-1788360137143">Japan rearms: 'Drone 40' offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s new military</a><h3>Israel considers removing Palestinians from Gaza</h3>Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that Israel had plans to remove Palestinians from the Gaza Strip but was waiting for the United States to determine where they could be taken.&nbsp;"There is no real solution for Gaza in the end without this migration," Katz told a conference hosted by Israeli news site Ynet and newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth.&nbsp;The Israeli government "is organised and prepared to get them out--by sea, by air, by every way possible", he said.&nbsp;Earlier suggestions that Palestinians could be displaced from Gaza have faced international outrage and condemnation from Palestinians.&nbsp;When US President Donald Trump announced the Gaza ceasefire in October, his 20-point plan for the territory included a provision against forced displacement.&nbsp;Israeli military operations in Gaza have killed at least 1,334 people since the ceasefire began, according to the Palestinian territory's health ministry. The ministry operates under Hamas authority, but the United Nations considers its casualty figures reliable.&nbsp;The Israeli army has reported five deaths among its forces during the same period. It has also reported the death of one civilian contractor.

Netanyahu vowed during his Gaza visit that Israel would not withdraw its troops, citing the continuing threat from Hamas, while Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel was prepared to remove Palestinians from the territory but needs US approval.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Israeli troops in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday (September 02) and vowed that Israel would not withdraw its forces despite renewed efforts by mediators to push forward a US-backed ceasefire plan. Netanyahu made the remarks near the so-called Yellow Line, which separates areas controlled by Hamas from those under Israeli military control. "We control the area. We are not retreating. We are staying on this line," Netanyahu said near the so-called Yellow Line, which demarcates the areas under Hamas and Israeli military control. "We control 60 per cent of the Strip, and we are not stopping, because we are eliminating the terrorists who threaten us, day in and day out," he added. Netanyahu rejects Gaza troop withdrawal Israel has continued military operations in Gaza despite the ceasefire that came into effect in October 2025. Israeli forces have also expanded their presence in parts of the territory, with the government maintaining that it must remove threats posed by Hamas. Hamas carried out the unprecedented October 7, 2023 attack against Israel, which triggered the war in Gaza. International calls for the next stages of the US-led peace plan have so far failed to stop Israeli operations against Palestinians whom Israel identifies as militants. Netanyahu rejected a proposal last month to move ahead with the next stage of the plan after Hamas said it had agreed to hand over its weapons. The visit marked Netanyahu's first trip to the war-torn Gaza Strip since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began in October 2025. Also Read: Japan rearms: 'Drone 40' offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s new military Israel considers removing Palestinians from Gaza Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday that Israel had plans to remove Palestinians from the Gaza Strip but was waiting for the United States to determine where they could be taken. "There is no real solution for Gaza in the end without this migration," Katz told a conference hosted by Israeli news site Ynet and newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth. The Israeli government "is organised and prepared to get them out--by sea, by air, by every way possible", he said. Earlier suggestions that Palestinians could be displaced from Gaza have faced international outrage and condemnation from Palestinians. When US President Donald Trump announced the Gaza ceasefire in October, his 20-point plan for the territory included a provision against forced displacement. Israeli military operations in Gaza have killed at least 1,334 people since the ceasefire began, according to the Palestinian territory's health ministry. The ministry operates under Hamas authority, but the United Nations considers its casualty figures reliable. The Israeli army has reported five deaths among its forces during the same period. It has also reported the death of one civilian contractor.

Netanyahu vowed during his Gaza visit that Israel would not withdraw its troops, citing the continuing threat from Hamas, while Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israel was prepared to remove Palestinians from the territory but needs US approval.

'We are not retreating from Gaza': Netanyahu rules out troop pullback, cites terror threat

US Vice President JD Vance said that the Antichrist may be “walking among us”, and he is willing to accept the possibility that his work in the Trump administration could contribute to bringing about the “end times", as he will be doing God's work. In a Christian religious podcast with Bryce Crawford. 42-year-old Vance expressed his lifelong fascination with biblical prophecy.“Do I think that we’re in the end times? I don’t know. And I think that it’s probably bad for me spiritually to focus too much on it because there are, like, things that you gotta do," said Vance&nbsp;“I gotta be good to my wife. I gotta be good to my kids. I have to be as good of a leader as I can for the United States of America. And so, I think that focusing on - while I’m fascinated by it - focusing on it is, too much of it can be very bad," said Vance.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/taiwan-man-robot-vacuum-camera-wife-affair-prison-1788352502028">Husband uses secret camera to record wife’s affair, wins divorce case, ends up in jail for spying</a>“I think that there are, like, things about the world that make me feel like not shocked if the Antichrist was walking among us. But again, I try not to focus too much on it.” He added that there are things he sees happening, that some of the AI companies, where he feels like there is some really weird spiritual dark energy. He went on to give an anecdote of an unnamed AI company which holds a “burial ceremony” for a model when a newer one is introduced. He believed that there are unusual forces at work. He further added that whether he believes it or not, the world is heading towards an apocalyptic change.“While I wouldn’t be shocked if we are living in the end times, what I’m trying to focus on is doing as much of God’s work as possible right now,” said Vance. “If that leads to the end times, okay, and if that leads to... us building a better world that thrives and survives for a very long time after I’m gone, that’s great too," he added.&nbsp;Vance, who recently released a book about his journey to Catholicism, also defended Trump for posting an image of himself as Jesus Christ, claiming that there was no malice in his intentions; he was merely trying to keep things light.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">JD Vance: Do I think we are in the end times? I don&#39;t know. I would not be shocked if the Antichrist was walking amongst us <a href="https://t.co/tXAGj7YsSV">pic.twitter.com/tXAGj7YsSV</a>&mdash; Headquarters (@HQNewsNow) <a href="https://x.com/HQNewsNow/status/2094837488095265159?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US Vice President JD Vance said he would not be shocked if the Antichrist were “walking among us” and discussed his fascination with biblical prophecy.

US Vice President JD Vance said that the Antichrist may be “walking among us”, and he is willing to accept the possibility that his work in the Trump administration could contribute to bringing about the “end times", as he will be doing God's work. In a Christian religious podcast with Bryce Crawford. 42-year-old Vance expressed his lifelong fascination with biblical prophecy. “Do I think that we’re in the end times? I don’t know. And I think that it’s probably bad for me spiritually to focus too much on it because there are, like, things that you gotta do," said Vance “I gotta be good to my wife. I gotta be good to my kids. I have to be as good of a leader as I can for the United States of America. And so, I think that focusing on - while I’m fascinated by it - focusing on it is, too much of it can be very bad," said Vance. Also Read: Husband uses secret camera to record wife’s affair, wins divorce case, ends up in jail for spying “I think that there are, like, things about the world that make me feel like not shocked if the Antichrist was walking among us. But again, I try not to focus too much on it.” He added that there are things he sees happening, that some of the AI companies, where he feels like there is some really weird spiritual dark energy. He went on to give an anecdote of an unnamed AI company which holds a “burial ceremony” for a model when a newer one is introduced. He believed that there are unusual forces at work. He further added that whether he believes it or not, the world is heading towards an apocalyptic change. “While I wouldn’t be shocked if we are living in the end times, what I’m trying to focus on is doing as much of God’s work as possible right now,” said Vance. “If that leads to the end times, okay, and if that leads to... us building a better world that thrives and survives for a very long time after I’m gone, that’s great too," he added. Vance, who recently released a book about his journey to Catholicism, also defended Trump for posting an image of himself as Jesus Christ, claiming that there was no malice in his intentions; he was merely trying to keep things light.

US Vice President JD Vance said he would not be shocked if the Antichrist were “walking among us” and discussed his fascination with biblical prophecy.

JD Vance says ‘end times’ may be near, Antichrist may be ‘walking among us’

US Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker warned that the allies' nations should be prepared for a scenario in which Russia attacks a NATO nation. This comes after a Wall Street Journal report which claimed to have acquired leaked US intelligence: Russia could launch a limited attack, either a land incursion or cyberattack, on a member country within the next few years.&nbsp;“You can't predict what Vladimir Putin's going to do or any adversary. All you can do is be prepared for it and deter and make it not worth their time to make that move,” Whitaker said. “And I think we are preparing every single day to prevent that from happening, and if it does happen, to be ready for it.“We should know that our adversary invaded Ukraine, and so we should all be pretty clear-eyed,” Whitaker added. He did not directly comment on the Wall Street Journal report, which said that Putin will possibly have the ability to attack a NATO nation much sooner than the previous assessment of 10-15 years.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/taiwan-man-robot-vacuum-camera-wife-affair-prison-1788352502028">Husband uses secret camera to record wife’s affair, wins divorce case, ends up in jail for spying</a>In 2025, NATO allies agreed to allocate up to 5 per cent of their annual GDP towards defence by 2035. At least 3.5 per cent has to go towards defence while the rest can go towards infrastructure development such as constructing roads, bridges, airports and other projects.“We need to exercise, as it matters. We need to prepare, we need to invest in capabilities,” Whitaker said in a USA TODAY interview. Western intelligence believes that the ongoing war with Ukraine has transformed the Russian economy and led to rapid expansion of its defence production capabilities. Roughly 40 per cent of Russia's federal spending is allocated to defence and security, supporting the production of bombs and tanks that are sent to the frontline in the war against Ukraine. The US and its other NATO allies have operated in a peacetime economy.&nbsp;The warning is in contradiction to Trump's assessment that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not planning an assault in NATO territory, after CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Moscow unannounced and reportedly warned Putin against it. Russia on August 27 denied that it was planning to attack NATO countries. State media publication TASS reported that those reports are baseless, quoting Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker urged allies to prepare for a possible Russian attack as a report claims Moscow could target a NATO member within years.

US Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker warned that the allies' nations should be prepared for a scenario in which Russia attacks a NATO nation. This comes after a Wall Street Journal report which claimed to have acquired leaked US intelligence: Russia could launch a limited attack, either a land incursion or cyberattack, on a member country within the next few years. “You can't predict what Vladimir Putin's going to do or any adversary. All you can do is be prepared for it and deter and make it not worth their time to make that move,” Whitaker said. “And I think we are preparing every single day to prevent that from happening, and if it does happen, to be ready for it. “We should know that our adversary invaded Ukraine, and so we should all be pretty clear-eyed,” Whitaker added. He did not directly comment on the Wall Street Journal report, which said that Putin will possibly have the ability to attack a NATO nation much sooner than the previous assessment of 10-15 years. Also Read: Husband uses secret camera to record wife’s affair, wins divorce case, ends up in jail for spying In 2025, NATO allies agreed to allocate up to 5 per cent of their annual GDP towards defence by 2035. At least 3.5 per cent has to go towards defence while the rest can go towards infrastructure development such as constructing roads, bridges, airports and other projects. “We need to exercise, as it matters. We need to prepare, we need to invest in capabilities,” Whitaker said in a USA TODAY interview. Western intelligence believes that the ongoing war with Ukraine has transformed the Russian economy and led to rapid expansion of its defence production capabilities. Roughly 40 per cent of Russia's federal spending is allocated to defence and security, supporting the production of bombs and tanks that are sent to the frontline in the war against Ukraine. The US and its other NATO allies have operated in a peacetime economy. The warning is in contradiction to Trump's assessment that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not planning an assault in NATO territory, after CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Moscow unannounced and reportedly warned Putin against it. Russia on August 27 denied that it was planning to attack NATO countries. State media publication TASS reported that those reports are baseless, quoting Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

US Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker urged allies to prepare for a possible Russian attack as a report claims Moscow could target a NATO member within years.

US envoy warns NATO allies to prepare for possible Russian attack amid intelligence report

The Trump administration is working on a tariff framework for semiconductors that could link relief from import duties to companies building chip manufacturing capacity in the US.The administration has been preparing semiconductor tariffs for some time, although it has not publicly disclosed details about the proposed measures. Lutnick also confirmed a POLITICO report from last week that the White House was considering a new round of tariffs on semiconductors."I think what you're going to see is targeted, thoughtful tariff policy that basically says if you build here, you don't pay, but if you don't build here, expect to pay to enter the greatest market in the world," US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told CNBC.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/weapons-equipment-technical-and-tactical-iran-says-it-has-new-surprises-ready-if-another-war-breaks-out-1787911559031">‘Weapons, equipment, technical and tactical’: Iran says it has new ‘surprises’ ready if another war breaks out</a><h2>Semiconductor tariffs in the works</h2>&nbsp;Lutnick said companies are aware that the tariffs are coming, but did not provide details on their potential rates or scope."We will be successful in semiconductors. They're going to be built in America," CNBC reported quoting Lutnick as saying.POLITICO reported last week, citing eight people familiar with the discussions, that the Trump administration was considering sweeping tariffs on semiconductors. One approach under consideration could extend the duties beyond chips to products that use them, including laptops, gaming consoles and data-centre servers, according to the report.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schizophrenia-hallucinations-delusions-iran-slams-trump-advises-him-to-consult-psychologists-after-us-prez-calls-hormuz-us-terrotory-1787926399000">‘Schizophrenia, hallucinations, delusions’: Iran slams Trump, advises him to consult psychologists after US prez calls Hormuz ‘US terrotory’</a>Lutnick is also said to favour a structure under which foreign companies could receive tariff relief in exchange for investing in US chip manufacturing. The administration was considering a phase-in period, although the framework could still change in the coming weeks or months, POLITICO reported.The proposed policy comes as the Trump administration seeks to boost domestic semiconductor production while maintaining US leadership in artificial intelligence.

The Trump administration is developing a targeted semiconductor tariff framework that grants import duty relief to foreign companies investing in US manufacturing while penalizing those that do not.  

The Trump administration is working on a tariff framework for semiconductors that could link relief from import duties to companies building chip manufacturing capacity in the US. The administration has been preparing semiconductor tariffs for some time, although it has not publicly disclosed details about the proposed measures. Lutnick also confirmed a POLITICO report from last week that the White House was considering a new round of tariffs on semiconductors. "I think what you're going to see is targeted, thoughtful tariff policy that basically says if you build here, you don't pay, but if you don't build here, expect to pay to enter the greatest market in the world," US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told CNBC. Also read: ‘Weapons, equipment, technical and tactical’: Iran says it has new ‘surprises’ ready if another war breaks out Semiconductor tariffs in the works Lutnick said companies are aware that the tariffs are coming, but did not provide details on their potential rates or scope. "We will be successful in semiconductors. They're going to be built in America," CNBC reported quoting Lutnick as saying. POLITICO reported last week, citing eight people familiar with the discussions, that the Trump administration was considering sweeping tariffs on semiconductors. One approach under consideration could extend the duties beyond chips to products that use them, including laptops, gaming consoles and data-centre servers, according to the report. Also read: ‘Schizophrenia, hallucinations, delusions’: Iran slams Trump, advises him to consult psychologists after US prez calls Hormuz ‘US terrotory’ Lutnick is also said to favour a structure under which foreign companies could receive tariff relief in exchange for investing in US chip manufacturing. The administration was considering a phase-in period, although the framework could still change in the coming weeks or months, POLITICO reported. The proposed policy comes as the Trump administration seeks to boost domestic semiconductor production while maintaining US leadership in artificial intelligence.

The Trump administration is developing a targeted semiconductor tariff framework that grants import duty relief to foreign companies investing in US manufacturing while penalising those that do not.&nbsp;

‘Build in America, don’t pay’: Trump admin working on semiconductor tariff framework, says Lutnick

More than 17 million barrels of oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz by ship on Monday (Aug 31), marking the highest wartime flow since the conflict between the US and Iran began on February 28, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said Wednesday (Sep 2).Speaking to CNBC, Wright claimed that when Saudi Arabia’s and the United Arab Emirates’ pipelines that bypass the strait are included, regional oil exports on Monday exceeded levels seen before the war. Before the conflict, about 20 million barrels per day of crude and petroleum products moved through Hormuz.<h2>Iran’s losing leverage over global oil trade?</h2>Wright said Tehran was gradually losing its ability to use the strait as a pressure point on the global economy as the US military helps commercial tankers navigate the waterway.Iran is “causing some disruption but they are losing that card,” Wright told CNBC, arguing that US-backed shipping operations were reducing Tehran’s ability to restrict energy supplies.“With or without Iran, oil and gas will flow out of the Arabian Gulf region and it’s happening,” Wright said.The comments came during an interview with CNBC’s Brian Sullivan in Venezuela, five days after President Donald Trump announced a major oil agreement with Caracas’ interim government.<h2>Tankers face continued attacks</h2>The US military has established a shipping corridor along Oman’s coast for tankers operated by Gulf allies. Many vessels travel through the route at night and switch off their transponders to lower the risk of being targeted.Iran has repeatedly demanded that commercial ships instead use a northern route through Iranian waters and has attacked vessels using the US-protected corridor. At least two tankers have been attacked in Hormuz this week, according to incident reports from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre.On Wednesday (Sep 2), US crude futures fell roughly 1 per cent after briefly approaching $90 a barrel as fresh US-Iran military exchanges ended a period of relative calm.Wright also defended Washington’s higher oil-flow estimates, saying US military and Energy Department data also capture covert tanker movements that private tracking firms can miss.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright claims more than 17 million barrels of oil crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, despite Iran’s attacks and efforts to disrupt tanker traffic.

More than 17 million barrels of oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz by ship on Monday (Aug 31), marking the highest wartime flow since the conflict between the US and Iran began on February 28, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said Wednesday (Sep 2). Speaking to CNBC, Wright claimed that when Saudi Arabia’s and the United Arab Emirates’ pipelines that bypass the strait are included, regional oil exports on Monday exceeded levels seen before the war. Before the conflict, about 20 million barrels per day of crude and petroleum products moved through Hormuz. Iran’s losing leverage over global oil trade? Wright said Tehran was gradually losing its ability to use the strait as a pressure point on the global economy as the US military helps commercial tankers navigate the waterway. Iran is “causing some disruption but they are losing that card,” Wright told CNBC, arguing that US-backed shipping operations were reducing Tehran’s ability to restrict energy supplies. “With or without Iran, oil and gas will flow out of the Arabian Gulf region and it’s happening,” Wright said. The comments came during an interview with CNBC’s Brian Sullivan in Venezuela, five days after President Donald Trump announced a major oil agreement with Caracas’ interim government. Tankers face continued attacks The US military has established a shipping corridor along Oman’s coast for tankers operated by Gulf allies. Many vessels travel through the route at night and switch off their transponders to lower the risk of being targeted. Iran has repeatedly demanded that commercial ships instead use a northern route through Iranian waters and has attacked vessels using the US-protected corridor. At least two tankers have been attacked in Hormuz this week, according to incident reports from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre. On Wednesday (Sep 2), US crude futures fell roughly 1 per cent after briefly approaching $90 a barrel as fresh US-Iran military exchanges ended a period of relative calm. Wright also defended Washington’s higher oil-flow estimates, saying US military and Energy Department data also capture covert tanker movements that private tracking firms can miss.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright claims more than 17 million barrels of oil crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, despite Iran’s attacks and efforts to disrupt tanker traffic.

Over 17 million barrels of oil crossed Hormuz on Monday? US claims record flows

For decades after the Second World War, Japan built its security identity around a pacifist constitution that renounced war. Today, that posture is undergoing its biggest transformation in generations.&nbsp;More drones, missiles, artificial intelligence and ammunition are entering Japan’s defence calculus as Tokyo responds to a rapidly changing security environment in the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;The transformation was on display in northern Japan during the Brunet-Takamori 26 joint military exercise, where Japanese troops trained alongside French forces based in New Caledonia.&nbsp;The exercise simulated urban and guerrilla warfare, with reconnaissance drones flying overhead and loitering munitions incorporated into operations.&nbsp;Among the systems demonstrated was the Drone 40, developed by Australian defence company DefendTex. Small enough to be carried by an individual soldier, Drone 40 can be configured for reconnaissance or equipped with an effector payload, giving troops the ability to first locate a target and then potentially strike it.&nbsp;The demonstration comes as Japan dramatically increases investment in its military.&nbsp;Tokyo has requested a record 8.9 trillion yen, or roughly $56 billion, for defence in FY2027. Unmanned warfare is emerging as a major priority, with Japan examining new aerial and underwater drones as well as the use of AI to assist battlefield decision-making.&nbsp;Japan is also strengthening its missile defences, developing new ships equipped with powerful radars and acquiring longer-range counterstrike capabilities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-eyes-iran-s-maritime-sector-digital-assets-bessent-warns-everyone-against-supporting-tehran-1788356057771">US eyes Iran’s maritime sector, digital assets; Bessent warns ‘everyone’ against supporting Tehran</a>&nbsp;Another significant change is taking place beyond Japan’s borders.&nbsp;The Philippines has acquired Japanese air-surveillance radars, marking a breakthrough for a country that maintained stringent restrictions on defence exports for decades.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/drone-40-loitering-munition-japan-s-new-precision-weapon-1788364219616/embed&nbsp;Japan’s post-war constitution remains pacifist, and its military continues to be known as the Self-Defence Forces. But Tokyo’s interpretation of what is required for national defence has expanded.&nbsp;China’s military expansion, North Korea’s missile programme, Russian military activity and the changing strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific are accelerating that shift.&nbsp;From the Drone 40 carried by an infantry soldier to sophisticated missile defences and multinational exercises, Japan is building military capability at a pace never seen in its post-war history.&nbsp;Japan’s defence posture is changing. How far that transformation will ultimately go is the question.&nbsp;

Japan is rapidly transforming its post-war defence posture by expanding military spending and adopting drones, missiles, artificial intelligence and advanced defence systems amid growing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

For decades after the Second World War, Japan built its security identity around a pacifist constitution that renounced war. Today, that posture is undergoing its biggest transformation in generations. More drones, missiles, artificial intelligence and ammunition are entering Japan’s defence calculus as Tokyo responds to a rapidly changing security environment in the Indo-Pacific. The transformation was on display in northern Japan during the Brunet-Takamori 26 joint military exercise, where Japanese troops trained alongside French forces based in New Caledonia. The exercise simulated urban and guerrilla warfare, with reconnaissance drones flying overhead and loitering munitions incorporated into operations. Among the systems demonstrated was the Drone 40, developed by Australian defence company DefendTex. Small enough to be carried by an individual soldier, Drone 40 can be configured for reconnaissance or equipped with an effector payload, giving troops the ability to first locate a target and then potentially strike it. The demonstration comes as Japan dramatically increases investment in its military. Tokyo has requested a record 8.9 trillion yen, or roughly $56 billion, for defence in FY2027. Unmanned warfare is emerging as a major priority, with Japan examining new aerial and underwater drones as well as the use of AI to assist battlefield decision-making. Japan is also strengthening its missile defences, developing new ships equipped with powerful radars and acquiring longer-range counterstrike capabilities. Also Read: US eyes Iran’s maritime sector, digital assets; Bessent warns ‘everyone’ against supporting Tehran Another significant change is taking place beyond Japan’s borders. The Philippines has acquired Japanese air-surveillance radars, marking a breakthrough for a country that maintained stringent restrictions on defence exports for decades. https://www.wionews.com/videos/drone-40-loitering-munition-japan-s-new-precision-weapon-1788364219616/embed Japan’s post-war constitution remains pacifist, and its military continues to be known as the Self-Defence Forces. But Tokyo’s interpretation of what is required for national defence has expanded. China’s military expansion, North Korea’s missile programme, Russian military activity and the changing strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific are accelerating that shift. From the Drone 40 carried by an infantry soldier to sophisticated missile defences and multinational exercises, Japan is building military capability at a pace never seen in its post-war history. Japan’s defence posture is changing. How far that transformation will ultimately go is the question.

Japan is rapidly transforming its post-war defence posture by expanding military spending and adopting drones, missiles, artificial intelligence and advanced defence systems amid growing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

Japan rearms: 'Drone 40' offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s new military

Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump may hold a trilateral meeting in the coming months, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said on Tuesday (Sep 1). If the meeting happens, it would mark a rare encounter between the leaders of the world’s three major powers. Ushakov made the remarks on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, saying that the possibility of the meeting between the three leaders was discussed between Putin and Xi during talks at Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.<h2>APEC meeting in November</h2>When asked about the possibility of such a meeting, Ushakov told state TV, “This issue was discussed, yes.”He added that all three leaders were expected to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen, China, scheduled for November 18-19.“Xi Jinping mentioned that Donald Trump would be attending, and Vladimir Putin would likely be attending as an invitee,” Ushakov said.“And if things go as planned, a meeting between the three of them could be arranged,” he added. “Or, at the very least, a meeting with everyone would be a must.”Russia, China and the United States are among the 21 economies that make up APEC.However, Washington has not confirmed that Trump will attend the gathering. White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said: “We have no announcements regarding President Trump’s attendance at APEC at this time.”<h2>Ukraine war talks also on agenda</h2>The possible trilateral meeting comes as Moscow, Beijing and Washington remain closely watched over their positions on the Ukraine war and wider global security issues.Ushakov also said he would meet Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, the archbishop of Bologna, at the end of September for discussions focused on humanitarian matters linked to the conflict in Ukraine.“Although, naturally, the political side of the matter is also touched upon,” Ushakov said. “The main thing, of course, is that the Vatican, through its own channel, is negotiating with us regarding all these humanitarian matters.”

Trump, Putin and Xi could hold a rare trilateral meeting at the November APEC summit in China, with the Kremlin saying the possibility was discussed, though Washington has not confirmed Trump’s attendance.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump may hold a trilateral meeting in the coming months, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said on Tuesday (Sep 1). If the meeting happens, it would mark a rare encounter between the leaders of the world’s three major powers. Ushakov made the remarks on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, saying that the possibility of the meeting between the three leaders was discussed between Putin and Xi during talks at Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. APEC meeting in November When asked about the possibility of such a meeting, Ushakov told state TV, “This issue was discussed, yes.” He added that all three leaders were expected to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen, China, scheduled for November 18-19. “Xi Jinping mentioned that Donald Trump would be attending, and Vladimir Putin would likely be attending as an invitee,” Ushakov said. “And if things go as planned, a meeting between the three of them could be arranged,” he added. “Or, at the very least, a meeting with everyone would be a must.” Russia, China and the United States are among the 21 economies that make up APEC. However, Washington has not confirmed that Trump will attend the gathering. White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said: “We have no announcements regarding President Trump’s attendance at APEC at this time.” Ukraine war talks also on agenda The possible trilateral meeting comes as Moscow, Beijing and Washington remain closely watched over their positions on the Ukraine war and wider global security issues. Ushakov also said he would meet Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, the archbishop of Bologna, at the end of September for discussions focused on humanitarian matters linked to the conflict in Ukraine. “Although, naturally, the political side of the matter is also touched upon,” Ushakov said. “The main thing, of course, is that the Vatican, through its own channel, is negotiating with us regarding all these humanitarian matters.”

Trump, Putin and Xi could hold a rare trilateral meeting at the November APEC summit in China, with the Kremlin saying the possibility was discussed, though Washington has not confirmed Trump’s attendance.

Trump-Xi-Putin meet soon? Kremlin hints at possible APEC talks

The Taliban-led government in Afghanistan has reportedly offered American investors access to the country's vast mineral wealth as it seeks closer ties with Washington. The Taliban has also reportedly urged the US to lift sanctions and release billions of dollars in frozen Afghan assets as part of efforts to improve economic and diplomatic relations.As per the Financial Times report, the overture comes five years after the Taliban returned to power following the withdrawal of US-led Nato forces from Afghanistan and the collapse of the Western-backed Afghan government. US President Donald Trump had previously described the withdrawal and the subsequent collapse of the Afghan government as "the most embarrassing thing in the history of our country".Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schizophrenia-hallucinations-delusions-iran-slams-trump-advises-him-to-consult-psychologists-after-us-prez-calls-hormuz-us-terrotory-1787926399000">‘Schizophrenia, hallucinations, delusions’: Iran slams Trump, advises him to consult psychologists after US prez calls Hormuz ‘US terrotory’</a>According to the Financial Times, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said Afghanistan was "absolutely" open to US investment in sectors including mining, infrastructure, agriculture and trade. "Relations between Afghanistan and the United States should not be assessed through the lens of the past 20 years of war, but rather on the basis of future co-operation," the FT quoted Muttaqi as saying during an interview at his office in Kabul.<h2>Taliban's $1 trillion mineral wealth</h2>Afghanistan is estimated to have at least $1 trillion worth of mineral resources, according to geological surveys conducted by the US and the former Western-backed Afghan government.The country's mineral deposits include copper, iron ore, niobium, cobalt, gold and lithium. Much of this wealth remains undeveloped after decades of conflict.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/weapons-equipment-technical-and-tactical-iran-says-it-has-new-surprises-ready-if-another-war-breaks-out-1787911559031">‘Weapons, equipment, technical and tactical’: Iran says it has new ‘surprises’ ready if another war breaks out</a>Since taking control of Afghanistan, the Taliban has sought to attract foreign investment and develop its natural resources. The group has announced more than $7 billion in mining investments since 2021 involving countries including China and Iran, the FT reported.

The Taliban government is offering US investors access to Afghanistan’s $1 trillion mineral reserves, urging Washington to lift sanctions, unfreeze assets, and establish new economic ties.

The Taliban-led government in Afghanistan has reportedly offered American investors access to the country's vast mineral wealth as it seeks closer ties with Washington. The Taliban has also reportedly urged the US to lift sanctions and release billions of dollars in frozen Afghan assets as part of efforts to improve economic and diplomatic relations. As per the Financial Times report, the overture comes five years after the Taliban returned to power following the withdrawal of US-led Nato forces from Afghanistan and the collapse of the Western-backed Afghan government. US President Donald Trump had previously described the withdrawal and the subsequent collapse of the Afghan government as "the most embarrassing thing in the history of our country". Also read: ‘Schizophrenia, hallucinations, delusions’: Iran slams Trump, advises him to consult psychologists after US prez calls Hormuz ‘US terrotory’ According to the Financial Times, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said Afghanistan was "absolutely" open to US investment in sectors including mining, infrastructure, agriculture and trade. "Relations between Afghanistan and the United States should not be assessed through the lens of the past 20 years of war, but rather on the basis of future co-operation," the FT quoted Muttaqi as saying during an interview at his office in Kabul. Taliban's $1 trillion mineral wealth Afghanistan is estimated to have at least $1 trillion worth of mineral resources, according to geological surveys conducted by the US and the former Western-backed Afghan government. The country's mineral deposits include copper, iron ore, niobium, cobalt, gold and lithium. Much of this wealth remains undeveloped after decades of conflict. Also read: ‘Weapons, equipment, technical and tactical’: Iran says it has new ‘surprises’ ready if another war breaks out Since taking control of Afghanistan, the Taliban has sought to attract foreign investment and develop its natural resources. The group has announced more than $7 billion in mining investments since 2021 involving countries including China and Iran, the FT reported.

The Taliban government is offering US investors access to Afghanistan’s $1 trillion mineral reserves, urging Washington to lift sanctions, unfreeze assets, and establish new economic ties.

Taliban woos US investors with $1 trillion mineral wealth, seeks sanctions relief: Report

As the conflict between the United States and Iran flares up again with both sides trading strikes, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent detailed the Trump administration’s economic pressure campaign, saying the US could target Iran's maritime industry, digital assets and other entities that do business with the country.&nbsp;"It could be airline leasing companies, which we'll be looking at. It could be anyone who does business with the IRGC; we are tracking down the IRGC's assets, and I will say it on worldwide TV, just so you know," Bessent said, as per Fox News.&nbsp;"We know where in the British Virgin Islands your accounts are at these trust companies, we know the $100 million houses you have around the world, and we are going to freeze those," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bessent, who argued that Russia’s presence did not have an impact on the two-day G20 finance minister talks, also warned "everyone", including Russia, against backing the Islamic Republic in the interview with Fox &amp; Friends.&nbsp;"My message to everyone is: stay ​away. We all want this ​conflict to end, and the fastest way for ‌the ⁠conflict to end is for no one to provide any support to this regime," he was quoted as saying by Fox &amp; Friends, a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin threw his support behind Iran.&nbsp;The Treasury Secretary made the remarks days after the Trump administration unveiled an "economic D-Day" against Tehran, referring to the massive Allied military campaign during the Second World War against Nazi Germany.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/japan-credit-rating-agency-upgrades-india-s-sovereign-rating-to-a-from-bbb-what-does-it-mean-for-india-1788345677199">Japan Credit Rating Agency upgrades India’s sovereign rating to A- from BBB+; what does it mean for India?</a><h2>US warns entities supporting Iran</h2>When asked about China, Bessent said Beijing also agrees that Iran should not possess a nuclear weapon and supports freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;"And everyone says to me, ‘Well, what about China? I said, we have more in common with the Chinese on Iran than we disagree with [them] on. The Chinese agree — Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. The Chinese agree that there should be freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. So we have had private discussions with them in terms of achieving those goals," he was quoted as saying by Fox News.&nbsp;The statements came as the war in the Middle East, triggered by US-Israeli strikes against Iran, entered its seventh month, creating economic headwinds across the world as Tehran closed the vital Strait of Hormuz in retaliation.&nbsp;The conflict has also evolved into an economic pressure campaign against Iran, with the US imposing a naval blockade and a series of sanctions on the Islamic Republic and entities linked to the IRGC. Both sides continue to exchange strikes sporadically.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US could target Iran’s maritime sector, airlines and digital assets while warning countries and companies against supporting Tehran.

As the conflict between the United States and Iran flares up again with both sides trading strikes, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent detailed the Trump administration’s economic pressure campaign, saying the US could target Iran's maritime industry, digital assets and other entities that do business with the country. "It could be airline leasing companies, which we'll be looking at. It could be anyone who does business with the IRGC; we are tracking down the IRGC's assets, and I will say it on worldwide TV, just so you know," Bessent said, as per Fox News. "We know where in the British Virgin Islands your accounts are at these trust companies, we know the $100 million houses you have around the world, and we are going to freeze those," he added. Bessent, who argued that Russia’s presence did not have an impact on the two-day G20 finance minister talks, also warned "everyone", including Russia, against backing the Islamic Republic in the interview with Fox & Friends. "My message to everyone is: stay away. We all want this conflict to end, and the fastest way for ‌the ⁠conflict to end is for no one to provide any support to this regime," he was quoted as saying by Fox & Friends, a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin threw his support behind Iran. The Treasury Secretary made the remarks days after the Trump administration unveiled an "economic D-Day" against Tehran, referring to the massive Allied military campaign during the Second World War against Nazi Germany. Also Read: Japan Credit Rating Agency upgrades India’s sovereign rating to A- from BBB+; what does it mean for India? US warns entities supporting Iran When asked about China, Bessent said Beijing also agrees that Iran should not possess a nuclear weapon and supports freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. "And everyone says to me, ‘Well, what about China? I said, we have more in common with the Chinese on Iran than we disagree with [them] on. The Chinese agree — Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. The Chinese agree that there should be freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. So we have had private discussions with them in terms of achieving those goals," he was quoted as saying by Fox News. The statements came as the war in the Middle East, triggered by US-Israeli strikes against Iran, entered its seventh month, creating economic headwinds across the world as Tehran closed the vital Strait of Hormuz in retaliation. The conflict has also evolved into an economic pressure campaign against Iran, with the US imposing a naval blockade and a series of sanctions on the Islamic Republic and entities linked to the IRGC. Both sides continue to exchange strikes sporadically.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the US could target Iran’s maritime sector, airlines and digital assets while warning countries and companies against supporting Tehran.

US eyes Iran’s maritime sector, digital assets; Bessent warns ‘everyone’ against supporting Tehran

A Taiwanese man used a camera from a robot vacuum cleaner to spy on his unfaithful wife. The footage from the robocam won him roughly 500,000 Taiwanese dollars ($19,000) in his lawsuit against his wife in the divorce case. But soon she sued him back since he secretly recorded her without consent; the courts ruled in favour of her, granting her 30 per cent or 150,000 TWD of the proceeds, along with a five-month sentence in prison for the husband.&nbsp;The couple took the vows in 2021 and used to live with their parents, while also spending time at another holiday property. During a stay there in 2023, the husband came across a used toothbrush in their bathroom, sparking suspicion of infidelity. He confirmed his suspicion from the CCTV footage from a parking garage. He saw another man driving his wife home and hypothesised she was cheating on him.&nbsp;Three months later, the husband, while being at his parents' home, logged on to the home's smart robot vacuum mobile app to use the device's audio function to speak with her wife. He accidentally opened the live video stream instead. He saw his wife and her lover in intimate scenes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-ties-indian-companies-invest-40-billion-us-support-70000-jobs-1788349202278">Indian companies invest $40 billion in US, support 70,000 direct jobs</a>The lover was the man he previously identified. She was changing her clothes, getting into bed with her lover, walking around naked, while he comfortably sank into the sofa. He recorded the whole ordeal and brought the entire thing to use as evidence in a lawsuit that he brought shortly after.&nbsp;In Taiwan, cheating is not a criminal offence, but infringing on someone's marital rights is, since it is a breach of contract. The man sought 2 million TWD, or roughly $63,000. He used the footage to prove his wife's infidelity, and the judge ruled in his favour.&nbsp;There was ample evidence for a counter-lawsuit; she argued that the sensor and light were not enough to indicate she was being filmed. The man argued that the court already admitted it as evidence, so it could not be deemed illegal material. The court rejected his defence on the basis of invading his wife's privacy; hence, it was obtained via illegal means. Recording someone without their consent is illegal, and individual rights outweigh marital duties. He was fined 150,000 TWD and sentenced to five months' prison.&nbsp;

A Taiwanese man used his robot vacuum’s camera to record his wife’s alleged affair. He won a lawsuit but was later sentenced to five months in prison for violating her privacy.

A Taiwanese man used a camera from a robot vacuum cleaner to spy on his unfaithful wife. The footage from the robocam won him roughly 500,000 Taiwanese dollars ($19,000) in his lawsuit against his wife in the divorce case. But soon she sued him back since he secretly recorded her without consent; the courts ruled in favour of her, granting her 30 per cent or 150,000 TWD of the proceeds, along with a five-month sentence in prison for the husband. The couple took the vows in 2021 and used to live with their parents, while also spending time at another holiday property. During a stay there in 2023, the husband came across a used toothbrush in their bathroom, sparking suspicion of infidelity. He confirmed his suspicion from the CCTV footage from a parking garage. He saw another man driving his wife home and hypothesised she was cheating on him. Three months later, the husband, while being at his parents' home, logged on to the home's smart robot vacuum mobile app to use the device's audio function to speak with her wife. He accidentally opened the live video stream instead. He saw his wife and her lover in intimate scenes. Also Read: Indian companies invest $40 billion in US, support 70,000 direct jobs The lover was the man he previously identified. She was changing her clothes, getting into bed with her lover, walking around naked, while he comfortably sank into the sofa. He recorded the whole ordeal and brought the entire thing to use as evidence in a lawsuit that he brought shortly after. In Taiwan, cheating is not a criminal offence, but infringing on someone's marital rights is, since it is a breach of contract. The man sought 2 million TWD, or roughly $63,000. He used the footage to prove his wife's infidelity, and the judge ruled in his favour. There was ample evidence for a counter-lawsuit; she argued that the sensor and light were not enough to indicate she was being filmed. The man argued that the court already admitted it as evidence, so it could not be deemed illegal material. The court rejected his defence on the basis of invading his wife's privacy; hence, it was obtained via illegal means. Recording someone without their consent is illegal, and individual rights outweigh marital duties. He was fined 150,000 TWD and sentenced to five months' prison.

A Taiwanese man used his robot vacuum’s camera to record his wife’s alleged affair. He won a lawsuit but was later sentenced to five months in prison for violating her privacy.

Husband uses secret camera to record wife’s affair, wins divorce case, ends up in jail for spying

Nepal is bracing for heavy rainfall after the Meteorological Forecasting Division warned of severe weather conditions on Wednesday (Sep 2), with monsoon winds continuing to affect the flood-hit country. Days earlier, the Himalayan nation was struck by deadly floods that resulted in the deaths of over a thousand people, while several thousand others remain missing as rescuers search for survivors. The floods have been attributed to glacial collapse in the Tibet region.The latest weather warning covers parts of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces. Heavy rain could occur at one or two places in the Himalayan and hilly areas of Bagmati and Gandaki, as well as the Himalayan region of Koshi.Many parts of the hills are expected to receive moderate rain or snowfall, accompanied by thunder and lightning. Moderate rain is expected in the Terai in Lumbini and Sudurpashchim.According to the forecast, Bhairahawa, Simara and Janakpur are among the hottest locations, with maximum temperatures expected to reach 33-35 degrees Celsius. Kathmandu is likely to see temperatures between 28 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius. Dadeldhura could remain much cooler, with temperatures forecast at 20-22 degrees Celsius.There is a 60 per cent chance of rain in Kathmandu and Pokhara. The probability is higher in Dadeldhura and Dhangadi, at 70 per cent, while Jiri has a 60 per cent chance.<h2>More rain expected overnight</h2>The weather office said monsoon winds have their influence over the entire country. The monsoon trough is positioned slightly north of its average location in western Nepal and close to its normal position in the east. Cloudy skies are expected to continue tonight.This comes as the death toll following the deadly floods reached 1,127 on Wednesday (Sep 2) as rescuers recovered hundreds more bodies across affected districts. Nepal police said 1,113 bodies had completed postmortem and legal identification procedures, while only 95 had been handed over to relatives. Details of 911 unidentified bodies have been uploaded to the Nepal Police website as authorities seek help from families in identifying the dead.

Nepal faces a fresh heavy rain threat as monsoon winds remain active across the country, days after devastating floods killed 1,127 people and left hundreds of bodies unidentified.

Nepal is bracing for heavy rainfall after the Meteorological Forecasting Division warned of severe weather conditions on Wednesday (Sep 2), with monsoon winds continuing to affect the flood-hit country. Days earlier, the Himalayan nation was struck by deadly floods that resulted in the deaths of over a thousand people, while several thousand others remain missing as rescuers search for survivors. The floods have been attributed to glacial collapse in the Tibet region. The latest weather warning covers parts of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces. Heavy rain could occur at one or two places in the Himalayan and hilly areas of Bagmati and Gandaki, as well as the Himalayan region of Koshi. Many parts of the hills are expected to receive moderate rain or snowfall, accompanied by thunder and lightning. Moderate rain is expected in the Terai in Lumbini and Sudurpashchim. According to the forecast, Bhairahawa, Simara and Janakpur are among the hottest locations, with maximum temperatures expected to reach 33-35 degrees Celsius. Kathmandu is likely to see temperatures between 28 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius. Dadeldhura could remain much cooler, with temperatures forecast at 20-22 degrees Celsius. There is a 60 per cent chance of rain in Kathmandu and Pokhara. The probability is higher in Dadeldhura and Dhangadi, at 70 per cent, while Jiri has a 60 per cent chance. More rain expected overnight The weather office said monsoon winds have their influence over the entire country. The monsoon trough is positioned slightly north of its average location in western Nepal and close to its normal position in the east. Cloudy skies are expected to continue tonight. This comes as the death toll following the deadly floods reached 1,127 on Wednesday (Sep 2) as rescuers recovered hundreds more bodies across affected districts. Nepal police said 1,113 bodies had completed postmortem and legal identification procedures, while only 95 had been handed over to relatives. Details of 911 unidentified bodies have been uploaded to the Nepal Police website as authorities seek help from families in identifying the dead.

Nepal faces a fresh heavy rain threat as monsoon winds remain active across the country, days after devastating floods killed 1,127 people and left hundreds of bodies unidentified.

Nepal braces for heavy rain after deadly floods kill over 1,100; warning in 6 provinces

The US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on the sidelines of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors' meeting. Following the meeting, the US embassy in India announced in a statement on the social media platform X that Indian companies have invested $40 billion in the US and support more than 70,000 direct American jobs.The significant statistics shared by the US embassy track the direct employment created by Indian companies. However, organisations like the Confederation of Indian Industry suggest the total footprint, including indirect employment, spans over 4,25,000 jobs across all 50 states. The primary sectors include Pharmaceuticals, Information Technology, Advanced Manufacturing and Energy.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-floods-chinese-supervisor-fled-hydropower-tunnel-workers-missing-1788344895875">‘I’ll go and see’: Nepal worker alleges Chinese supervisor abandoned workers during flash flood</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. Treasury Secretary <a href="https://x.com/SecScottBessent?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecScottBessent</a> had a successful meeting with Indian Finance Minister <a href="https://x.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> on the sidelines of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) Meeting in Asheville, North Carolina, on September 1. Indian companies have invested $40… <a href="https://t.co/BRSqhcLLeP">pic.twitter.com/BRSqhcLLeP</a>&mdash; U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) <a href="https://x.com/USAndIndia/status/2095063643784388835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In Asheville, Nirmala Sitharaman invited US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to New Delhi later this year for the Economic and Financial Partnership as the two nation remain committed to deepen partnership across various areas, including critical minerals. Bessent appreciated Indian role in G7 plus and its participation in G7-led critical mineral dialogues aimed at sharing research and technology and securing the supply chain.Meanwhile US envoy Sergio Gor speaking at Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) said that the US and India should strengthen supply-chain resilience by working together during disruptions and ensuring production continues.&nbsp;“India-US ties stand at 'historic high-point.Both govts working closely to build a fair, reciprocal and mutually-beneficial trade relationship.” said Gor. He also called for an environment that allows American suppliers and technology to access the Indian market, while enabling Indian companies to compete fairly in the US. Gor further urged Indian firms to explore investments in the US across manufacturing, R&amp;D and distribution.

Indian companies have invested $40 billion in the US and support more than 70,000 direct American jobs, the US embassy said as India-US ties deepen.

The US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on the sidelines of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors' meeting. Following the meeting, the US embassy in India announced in a statement on the social media platform X that Indian companies have invested $40 billion in the US and support more than 70,000 direct American jobs. The significant statistics shared by the US embassy track the direct employment created by Indian companies. However, organisations like the Confederation of Indian Industry suggest the total footprint, including indirect employment, spans over 4,25,000 jobs across all 50 states. The primary sectors include Pharmaceuticals, Information Technology, Advanced Manufacturing and Energy. Also Read: ‘I’ll go and see’: Nepal worker alleges Chinese supervisor abandoned workers during flash flood

Indian companies have invested $40 billion in the US and support more than 70,000 direct American jobs, the US embassy said as India-US ties deepen.

Indian companies invest $40 billion in US, support 70,000 direct jobs

A worker who survived Nepal's devastating flood alleges that his Chinese supervisor did not allow them to leave when they heard a loud noise and sensed danger. The supervisor said that he would “go and see,” and then fled the mud-filled tunnel as water and debris swept across the Trishuli-3A Hydropower Station in Nepal. The project is being built by China’s Power China Corporation, whose personnel are responsible for supervising engineering work. At least 40 people remain unaccounted for at Trishuli-3A, while around 900 workers are missing from the hydropower projects affected by the floods.The worker Raj Chettri was working inside tunnel number 3 when the flash flood struck.&nbsp;“I asked the Chinese supervisor to let us out. He said, ‘I’ll go and see,’ and then he fled,” he said to Lallantop. Moments later, a huge surge of water, mud and debris entered the tunnel; workers, belongings, and vehicles- everything swept away. According to Chettri's estimate, 265 people were working inside the tunnel when the flood struck.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-iran-irgc-targets-bandar-abbas-explosions-1788281718447">US strikes IRGC targets in Iran as explosions reported in Bandar Abbas</a>He made a run for the tunnel entrance and escaped. “Four of us fled. Two are still missing,” he said. “The bodies of many hydropower workers are lying in the tunnel above. Many are still alive. We could hear cries of ‘Save, save.'”Chettri has also blamed Chinese authorities for their failure to properly alert workers about danger. “What the Chinese government did was wrong. They knew about the flood and landslide,” he alleged. “If we had received information beforehand, many lives and property could have been saved."Nepalese army, along with foreign experts and volunteers, is carrying out the rescue operations. An Indian rescue team has also joined the Nepalese army to assist search and rescue operations at critical hydropower tunnel sites in Chilime. As rescue teams continue to scour through the debris, more than 900 workers from hydropower projects are missing, with about 500 believed to be inside tunnels. Rescue workers are going through dark tunnels filled with mud, rock and debris, with collapsed sections. They are also facing tunnels that are blocked or damaged. Filmmaker and drone pilot Manish Maharjan, who has been volunteering with the Nepalese army, said some tunnels were “filled with mud like toothpaste in a tube.”

A survivor of Nepal’s devastating floods alleges a Chinese supervisor fled a hydropower tunnel after workers sensed danger, as over 900 workers remain missing

A worker who survived Nepal's devastating flood alleges that his Chinese supervisor did not allow them to leave when they heard a loud noise and sensed danger. The supervisor said that he would “go and see,” and then fled the mud-filled tunnel as water and debris swept across the Trishuli-3A Hydropower Station in Nepal. The project is being built by China’s Power China Corporation, whose personnel are responsible for supervising engineering work. At least 40 people remain unaccounted for at Trishuli-3A, while around 900 workers are missing from the hydropower projects affected by the floods. The worker Raj Chettri was working inside tunnel number 3 when the flash flood struck. “I asked the Chinese supervisor to let us out. He said, ‘I’ll go and see,’ and then he fled,” he said to Lallantop. Moments later, a huge surge of water, mud and debris entered the tunnel; workers, belongings, and vehicles- everything swept away. According to Chettri's estimate, 265 people were working inside the tunnel when the flood struck. Also Read: US strikes IRGC targets in Iran as explosions reported in Bandar Abbas He made a run for the tunnel entrance and escaped. “Four of us fled. Two are still missing,” he said. “The bodies of many hydropower workers are lying in the tunnel above. Many are still alive. We could hear cries of ‘Save, save.'” Chettri has also blamed Chinese authorities for their failure to properly alert workers about danger. “What the Chinese government did was wrong. They knew about the flood and landslide,” he alleged. “If we had received information beforehand, many lives and property could have been saved." Nepalese army, along with foreign experts and volunteers, is carrying out the rescue operations. An Indian rescue team has also joined the Nepalese army to assist search and rescue operations at critical hydropower tunnel sites in Chilime. As rescue teams continue to scour through the debris, more than 900 workers from hydropower projects are missing, with about 500 believed to be inside tunnels. Rescue workers are going through dark tunnels filled with mud, rock and debris, with collapsed sections. They are also facing tunnels that are blocked or damaged. Filmmaker and drone pilot Manish Maharjan, who has been volunteering with the Nepalese army, said some tunnels were “filled with mud like toothpaste in a tube.”

A survivor of Nepal’s devastating floods alleges a Chinese supervisor fled a hydropower tunnel after workers sensed danger, as over 900 workers remain missing

‘I’ll go and see’: Nepal worker alleges Chinese supervisor abandoned workers during flash flood

India on Wednesday (Sep 2) sent its fifth tranche of humanitarian assistance to flood-hit Nepal, dispatching an 11-member rescue team with specialised equipment and over five tonnes of essential medicines as the death toll from the Himalayan nation's devastating floods climbed to 1,127. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced the latest shipment being sent to the country.Sharing the video on X, Jaishankar wrote, “The fifth Indian aircraft has departed for Nepal. It is carrying an 11-member rescue team with specialised equipment, and 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The fifth Indian aircraft has departed for Nepal. It is carrying an 11-member rescue team with specialised equipment, and 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines. 🇮🇳 🤝🇳🇵 <a href="https://t.co/g7f4FqgPk8">pic.twitter.com/g7f4FqgPk8</a>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2094982156561035705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>More than 68 tonnes of aid delivered</h2>India has so far delivered more than 68 tonnes of relief materials to Nepal. The assistance has also included doctors, paramedics and a technical contingent equipped for search and rescue operations.New Delhi began sending aid within hours of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s conversation with Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah on August 26, when flash floods struck the country. PM Modi had assured Kathmandu of all possible humanitarian assistance.<h2>India helps with DNA identification</h2>Nepal Health Minister Nisha Mehta said India was also helping authorities deal with one of the disaster’s most difficult challenges – identifying and managing the bodies of those killed."The relationship of our country and India is always like ‘Roti-Beti’,” Mehta told ANI, adding that India had stood by Nepal in both good and difficult times.She said India had sent experts for DNA testing and was assisting Nepal in setting up a laboratory for DNA management. Rescued survivors, meanwhile, were being housed at holding centres where their health needs were being monitored.<h2>Hundreds of bodies remain unidentified</h2>International organisations, including WHO and UNICEF, are also working on the ground alongside neighbouring countries providing rescue and relief assistance.The scale of the human toll continued to emerge on Wednesday (Sep 2) as rescuers recovered hundreds more bodies across affected districts. Police said 1,113 bodies had completed postmortem and legal identification procedures, while only 95 had been handed over to relatives. Details of 911 unidentified bodies have been uploaded to the Nepal Police website as authorities seek help from families in identifying the dead.&nbsp;

India sent its fifth aid tranche to flood-hit Nepal, including rescuers and medicines, as the death toll rose to 1,127. New Delhi is also helping identify hundreds of bodies through DNA testing.

India on Wednesday (Sep 2) sent its fifth tranche of humanitarian assistance to flood-hit Nepal, dispatching an 11-member rescue team with specialised equipment and over five tonnes of essential medicines as the death toll from the Himalayan nation's devastating floods climbed to 1,127. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced the latest shipment being sent to the country. Sharing the video on X, Jaishankar wrote, “The fifth Indian aircraft has departed for Nepal. It is carrying an 11-member rescue team with specialised equipment, and 5.5 tonnes of essential medicines.”

India sent its fifth aid tranche to flood-hit Nepal, including rescuers and medicines, as the death toll rose to 1,127. New Delhi is also helping identify hundreds of bodies through DNA testing.

India sends fifth aid tranche to Nepal, total relief crosses 68 tonnes

New York City is taking a much tougher approach to artificial intelligence in schools. The city is banning student-facing AI tools from 2-K through eighth grade, meaning younger pupils will not be allowed to use generative AI, chatbots or AI tutors in school.&nbsp;The policy comes as parents and educators debate whether children should be relying on AI for learning. City officials are also introducing tighter limits on classroom screen use. The move is being closely watched because New York City has the largest public school system in the US.&nbsp;<h2>AI ban will cover younger students</h2>Under the new policy, students from early childhood programmes through eighth grade will face the strongest restrictions. High school students will be allowed to use AI, but access will be limited. Possible uses include literacy and career-readiness programmes, as well as selected pilot programmes.The policy also takes aim at AI companion chatbots designed to simulate relationships or provide emotional support.The exact challenge will be enforcement. Students can access many AI services outside school, making it difficult for schools to control what happens beyond the classroom.&nbsp;<h2>Teachers can still use AI</h2>The rules do not amount to a complete AI ban across New York City Public Schools.&nbsp;Teachers will be allowed to use approved AI tools for tasks such as lesson planning, translation and drafting communications. However, teachers will not be allowed to use AI for certain sensitive activities, including grading, behaviour monitoring, counselling or developing special education plans. The city's education department has said its approach should be age-appropriate and keep human judgement at the centre of education. Its earlier guidance divided AI use according to different grade bands, including K-5, 6-8 and 9-12.<h2>Why New York City changed its AI policy</h2>The decision follows backlash over the city's earlier AI framework released in March.&nbsp;That framework used a traffic-light system and allowed some student uses of AI for research, exploration and creative work. Parents and teachers argued that the approach did not go far enough. Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels later acknowledged that officials had “missed the mark” in communicating the policy and promised to consider community feedback.&nbsp;The city is now forming a task force involving educators, elected officials, experts and union representatives. Its work is expected to shape the longer-term AI policy. With more than 900,000 students, New York City's decision could become an important test case for school districts across the US as they decide how much AI access children should have.

New York City is banning student-facing AI tools from 2-K through eighth grade, while allowing limited use in high school. Teachers can still use approved AI for tasks such as lesson planning and translation, as the city takes a tougher approach to AI in education.

New York City is taking a much tougher approach to artificial intelligence in schools. The city is banning student-facing AI tools from 2-K through eighth grade, meaning younger pupils will not be allowed to use generative AI, chatbots or AI tutors in school. The policy comes as parents and educators debate whether children should be relying on AI for learning. City officials are also introducing tighter limits on classroom screen use. The move is being closely watched because New York City has the largest public school system in the US. AI ban will cover younger students Under the new policy, students from early childhood programmes through eighth grade will face the strongest restrictions. High school students will be allowed to use AI, but access will be limited. Possible uses include literacy and career-readiness programmes, as well as selected pilot programmes. The policy also takes aim at AI companion chatbots designed to simulate relationships or provide emotional support. The exact challenge will be enforcement. Students can access many AI services outside school, making it difficult for schools to control what happens beyond the classroom. Teachers can still use AI The rules do not amount to a complete AI ban across New York City Public Schools. Teachers will be allowed to use approved AI tools for tasks such as lesson planning, translation and drafting communications. However, teachers will not be allowed to use AI for certain sensitive activities, including grading, behaviour monitoring, counselling or developing special education plans. The city's education department has said its approach should be age-appropriate and keep human judgement at the centre of education. Its earlier guidance divided AI use according to different grade bands, including K-5, 6-8 and 9-12. Why New York City changed its AI policy The decision follows backlash over the city's earlier AI framework released in March. That framework used a traffic-light system and allowed some student uses of AI for research, exploration and creative work. Parents and teachers argued that the approach did not go far enough. Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels later acknowledged that officials had “missed the mark” in communicating the policy and promised to consider community feedback. The city is now forming a task force involving educators, elected officials, experts and union representatives. Its work is expected to shape the longer-term AI policy. With more than 900,000 students, New York City's decision could become an important test case for school districts across the US as they decide how much AI access children should have.

New York City is banning student-facing AI tools from 2-K through eighth grade, while allowing limited use in high school. Teachers can still use approved AI for tasks such as lesson planning and translation, as the city takes a tougher approach to AI in education.

No AI until high school: New York City schools introduce sweeping new rules

The USS Abraham Lincoln, a US aircraft carrier deployed by US President Donald Trump’s war against Iran, has arrived off a Thai port. A heavy security presence was in force at Laem Chabang port near Pattaya, south of Bangkok when USS Abraham Lincoln arrived. At least 5,000-crew of the USS Abraham Lincoln arrived on Wednesday morning after more than 270 days at sea. They arrived amid reports of deteriorating living conditions and poor mental health on the vessel, including attempted suicides. As they arrived, reports of crackdown on prostitution in the port town of Pattaya surfaced.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-drives-fuel-food-and-borrowing-costs-higher-1788184229407">Iran war drives fuel, food and borrowing costs higher</a>&nbsp;Pattaya is now hugely popular with foreign tourists, known for its beaches and a nightlife scene that has long drawn scrutiny over sex tourism. Sex work is illegal in Thailand, but authorities often turn a blind eye, said Pattarachit Gozzoli, a sociologist at Mahidol University told Guardian. Pattaya police chief Anek Srathongyoo explained that sex workers could potentially solicit in public areas without the knowledge ⁠of the authorities: “We are doing our best, but it is difficult.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iranian-students-face-uncertainty-over-foreign-university-admissions-1788173408545">Iranian students face uncertainty over foreign university admissions</a>&nbsp;Once a quiet fishing village, the sex industry infrastructure grew after American troops arrived here post Vietnam war. There has been widespread crackdown on illegal prostitution. The FBI described Pattaya a decade ago as "one of the world's leading sex tourism destinations." However, Pattaya’s mayor, Poramase Ngampiches, has downplayed and said that the recent crackdown on sex workers was not linked to the US arrivals. Local police arrested 25 women for soliciting on the beachfront promenade a week before the ship arrived. Ahead of its arrival, police are preparing additional patrols around Pattaya's main beachfront ⁠and nightlife district besides raids over the weekend that led to 40 ​to ⁠50 people in detention for suspected prostitution. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier arrived at Thailand’s Laem Chabang port after more than 270 days at sea. The 5,000-strong crew arrived amid reports of poor living conditions and mental health concerns, including attempted suicides, as US-Iran tensions continue.


The USS Abraham Lincoln, a US aircraft carrier deployed by US President Donald Trump’s war against Iran, has arrived off a Thai port. A heavy security presence was in force at Laem Chabang port near Pattaya, south of Bangkok when USS Abraham Lincoln arrived. At least 5,000-crew of the USS Abraham Lincoln arrived on Wednesday morning after more than 270 days at sea. They arrived amid reports of deteriorating living conditions and poor mental health on the vessel, including attempted suicides. As they arrived, reports of crackdown on prostitution in the port town of Pattaya surfaced. Also Read: Iran war drives fuel, food and borrowing costs higher Pattaya is now hugely popular with foreign tourists, known for its beaches and a nightlife scene that has long drawn scrutiny over sex tourism. Sex work is illegal in Thailand, but authorities often turn a blind eye, said Pattarachit Gozzoli, a sociologist at Mahidol University told Guardian. Pattaya police chief Anek Srathongyoo explained that sex workers could potentially solicit in public areas without the knowledge ⁠of the authorities: “We are doing our best, but it is difficult.” Also Read: Iranian students face uncertainty over foreign university admissions Once a quiet fishing village, the sex industry infrastructure grew after American troops arrived here post Vietnam war. There has been widespread crackdown on illegal prostitution. The FBI described Pattaya a decade ago as "one of the world's leading sex tourism destinations." However, Pattaya’s mayor, Poramase Ngampiches, has downplayed and said that the recent crackdown on sex workers was not linked to the US arrivals. Local police arrested 25 women for soliciting on the beachfront promenade a week before the ship arrived. Ahead of its arrival, police are preparing additional patrols around Pattaya's main beachfront ⁠and nightlife district besides raids over the weekend that led to 40 to ⁠50 people in detention for suspected prostitution.

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier arrived at Thailand’s Laem Chabang port after more than 270 days at sea. The 5,000-strong crew arrived amid reports of poor living conditions and mental health concerns, including attempted suicides, as US-Iran tensions continue.

Thailand steps up prostitution crackdown as USS Abraham Lincoln arrives in Pattaya

A bus crash in Egypt's eastern Sinai Peninsula killed 16 people and injured 28 others on Wednesday (Sep 2), the health ministry said. At least twenty ambulances rushed to the scene of the accident, between the popular tourist towns of Dahab and Nuweiba on South Sinai's eastern coast. The victims included 10 people from Jordan, according to state television in the kingdom. "Ten Jordanians died after a passenger bus overturned on the Dahab-Nuweiba road in Egypt's South Sinai governorate," Jordan's official Al-Mamlaka channel said, adding that the bus was carrying 43 people in total, 22 of them Jordanians.&nbsp;Jordan's Ministry spokesperson Ambassador Fouad Majali said that preliminary information received by the Jordanian Embassy in Cairo indicated that an Egyptian passenger bus carrying Jordanian and Egyptian nationals was involved in the accident, which resulted in several deaths and injuries. Majali said initial information confirmed that a number of Jordanians were among the casualties. The ministry’s Operations and Consular Affairs Directorate and the Jordanian Embassy in Cairo are coordinating with Egyptian authorities to follow up on the accident and the condition of the Jordanian nationals involved, he added. A team from the Jordanian Embassy in Cairo is on its way to Nuweiba to follow up on the condition of the injured and facilitate the repatriation of the bodies of the Jordanian victims to the Kingdom.

A bus crash on Egypt’s South Sinai coast killed 16 people and injured 28 on Wednesday. The accident occurred on the Dahab-Nuweiba road, with at least 10 Jordanians among the dead. The bus was carrying 43 people, including 22 Jordanians, Jordanian state media reported.

A bus crash in Egypt's eastern Sinai Peninsula killed 16 people and injured 28 others on Wednesday (Sep 2), the health ministry said. At least twenty ambulances rushed to the scene of the accident, between the popular tourist towns of Dahab and Nuweiba on South Sinai's eastern coast. The victims included 10 people from Jordan, according to state television in the kingdom. "Ten Jordanians died after a passenger bus overturned on the Dahab-Nuweiba road in Egypt's South Sinai governorate," Jordan's official Al-Mamlaka channel said, adding that the bus was carrying 43 people in total, 22 of them Jordanians. Jordan's Ministry spokesperson Ambassador Fouad Majali said that preliminary information received by the Jordanian Embassy in Cairo indicated that an Egyptian passenger bus carrying Jordanian and Egyptian nationals was involved in the accident, which resulted in several deaths and injuries. Majali said initial information confirmed that a number of Jordanians were among the casualties. The ministry’s Operations and Consular Affairs Directorate and the Jordanian Embassy in Cairo are coordinating with Egyptian authorities to follow up on the accident and the condition of the Jordanian nationals involved, he added. A team from the Jordanian Embassy in Cairo is on its way to Nuweiba to follow up on the condition of the injured and facilitate the repatriation of the bodies of the Jordanian victims to the Kingdom.

A bus crash on Egypt’s South Sinai coast killed 16 people and injured 28 on Wednesday. The accident occurred on the Dahab-Nuweiba road, with at least 10 Jordanians among the dead. The bus was carrying 43 people, including 22 Jordanians, Jordanian state media reported.

Bus crash in Egypt’s Sinai kills at least 16, Jordanians among those dead

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Aug 2 appeared to mock the appearance of a uniformed woman featured in a Canadian cadet post, sharing her image on X with a Canadian flag and the words: “(this is real).” The image, originally posted by the cadets showed the woman in Canadian military camouflage standing alongside another person in cadet attire. Hegseth did give any explanation of his comment. However, the post was interpreted as a weight-related jibe given his repeated use of the phrase “fit not fat”as Hegseth is known for pushing tougher physical standards in the US military.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/why-did-us-army-secretary-quit-from-pete-hegseth-s-team-1788286821361">Why did US army secretary quit from Pete Hegseth's team?</a>&nbsp;At the US Army War College in April 2025, Hegseth told military leaders they needed to be “fit not fat, sharp not shabby” while discussing a force-wide review of fitness, training and physical standards. His language became more pointed at a gathering of senior US military commanders at Quantico in September 2025. “It’s completely unacceptable to see fat generals and admirals in the halls of the Pentagon,” Hegseth said while laying out stricter fitness and appearance standards. In the same speech, he also complained about seeing “fat troops” in military formations. The Pentagon subsequently issued new guidance on physical fitness and grooming standards. &nbsp;In February, Hegseth praised the US Army on X by writing: “Well done @USArmy. Merit-based &amp; Fit NOT Fat.” At West Point in May, he told graduating cadets: “You're fit, not fat. You are disciplined, not distracted.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-hit-by-another-top-level-exit-as-us-army-secretary-dan-driscoll-resigns-1788227779264">Trump admin hit by another top-level exit as US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll</a>&nbsp;This comes amid trade war between Canada and the US. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney urged the Trump administration to take a more serious approach to trade negotiations, telling Washington to ‘stop doing memes, stop throwing shade and stop trying to be tough’ following another round of public attacks against Canada. Carney said trade talks could resume if US President Donald Trump and his administration approach negotiations seriously. However, he warned that some of Washington's demands could leave Canadian industries ‘gradually wound down in Canada and wiped out’. &nbsp;

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth sparked controversy after sharing an image of a Canadian cadet with the words “this is real”, amid his repeated push for tougher military fitness standards. The post comes as US-Canada tensions rise over trade, tariffs and Canadian sovereignty.

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Aug 2 appeared to mock the appearance of a uniformed woman featured in a Canadian cadet post, sharing her image on X with a Canadian flag and the words: “(this is real).” The image, originally posted by the cadets showed the woman in Canadian military camouflage standing alongside another person in cadet attire. Hegseth did give any explanation of his comment. However, the post was interpreted as a weight-related jibe given his repeated use of the phrase “fit not fat”as Hegseth is known for pushing tougher physical standards in the US military. Also Read: Why did US army secretary quit from Pete Hegseth's team? At the US Army War College in April 2025, Hegseth told military leaders they needed to be “fit not fat, sharp not shabby” while discussing a force-wide review of fitness, training and physical standards. His language became more pointed at a gathering of senior US military commanders at Quantico in September 2025. “It’s completely unacceptable to see fat generals and admirals in the halls of the Pentagon,” Hegseth said while laying out stricter fitness and appearance standards. In the same speech, he also complained about seeing “fat troops” in military formations. The Pentagon subsequently issued new guidance on physical fitness and grooming standards. In February, Hegseth praised the US Army on X by writing: “Well done @USArmy. Merit-based & Fit NOT Fat.” At West Point in May, he told graduating cadets: “You're fit, not fat. You are disciplined, not distracted.” Also Read: Trump admin hit by another top-level exit as US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll This comes amid trade war between Canada and the US. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney urged the Trump administration to take a more serious approach to trade negotiations, telling Washington to ‘stop doing memes, stop throwing shade and stop trying to be tough’ following another round of public attacks against Canada. Carney said trade talks could resume if US President Donald Trump and his administration approach negotiations seriously. However, he warned that some of Washington's demands could leave Canadian industries ‘gradually wound down in Canada and wiped out’.

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth sparked controversy after sharing an image of a Canadian cadet with the words “this is real”, amid his repeated push for tougher military fitness standards. The post comes as US-Canada tensions rise over trade, tariffs and Canadian sovereignty.

‘This is real’: Hegseth’s post on Canadian military woman sparks controversy

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‘This is real’: Hegseth’s post on Canadian military woman sparks controversy