On Monday (August 4), Russia announced its exit from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty with America. A report by the RT cited a statement from the foreign ministry of the country that said Moscow believes that the conditions required to maintain the 1987 INF Treaty with the US have "disappeared".&nbsp;"The Russian Foreign Ministry notes the disappearance of conditions for maintaining the unilateral moratorium on the deployment of similar weapons and is authorised to state that Russia no longer considers itself bound by the corresponding self-imposed restrictions previously adopted," the statement read.<h2>What is INF Treaty?</h2>In 1987, former US President Ronald Reagan and the Soviet leader of that time, Mikhail Gorbachev, agreed upon a treaty - the INF Treaty. It was a deal to ban ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (311 to 3,418 miles). As per the Arms Control Association, the INF treaty was the first time that both Russia and the United States agreed to bring down their nuclear arsenals. As a result of the deal, both nations destroyed around &nbsp;2,692 short-, medium-, and intermediate-range missiles by the treaty's implementation deadline of June 1, 1991.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed</a>&nbsp;The treaty was the post-Cold War arms control architecture. It was technically a nuclear arms control treaty, even if it applied to conventional ones. Russia cited US action, specifically the deployment of Typhoon missile launchers with Tomahawk cruise missiles in the Philippines and Dark Eagle hypersonic systems used in Australia during the Talisman Sabre drills. Notably, Russia has already withdrawn from the New START (2010) treaty in February 2023, and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) in November 2023. The cancellation of the treaty marks a pivotal moment and the restart of a Cold War-style arms race.<h2>Why did Russia leave the treaty?</h2>Russia's exit came days after the &nbsp;US President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of two nuclear submarines to "be positioned in the appropriate regions" near Russia. Earlier, the Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp; warned that the collapse of the INF Treaty would substantially erode the global security framework.&nbsp;Dmitry Medvedev, responding to the announcement by the Russian Foreign Ministry, wrote on x, “This is a new reality all our opponents will have to reckon with. Expect further steps.”&nbsp;

In 1987, former US President  Ronald Reagan and the Soviet leader of that time, Mikhail Gorbachev, agreed upon a treaty - the INF Treaty. It was a deal to ban ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (311 to 3,418 miles). 

On Monday (August 4), Russia announced its exit from the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty with America. A report by the RT cited a statement from the foreign ministry of the country that said Moscow believes that the conditions required to maintain the 1987 INF Treaty with the US have "disappeared". "The Russian Foreign Ministry notes the disappearance of conditions for maintaining the unilateral moratorium on the deployment of similar weapons and is authorised to state that Russia no longer considers itself bound by the corresponding self-imposed restrictions previously adopted," the statement read. What is INF Treaty? In 1987, former US President Ronald Reagan and the Soviet leader of that time, Mikhail Gorbachev, agreed upon a treaty - the INF Treaty. It was a deal to ban ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (311 to 3,418 miles). As per the Arms Control Association, the INF treaty was the first time that both Russia and the United States agreed to bring down their nuclear arsenals. As a result of the deal, both nations destroyed around 2,692 short-, medium-, and intermediate-range missiles by the treaty's implementation deadline of June 1, 1991. https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed The treaty was the post-Cold War arms control architecture. It was technically a nuclear arms control treaty, even if it applied to conventional ones. Russia cited US action, specifically the deployment of Typhoon missile launchers with Tomahawk cruise missiles in the Philippines and Dark Eagle hypersonic systems used in Australia during the Talisman Sabre drills. Notably, Russia has already withdrawn from the New START (2010) treaty in February 2023, and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) in November 2023. The cancellation of the treaty marks a pivotal moment and the restart of a Cold War-style arms race. Why did Russia leave the treaty? Russia's exit came days after the US President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of two nuclear submarines to "be positioned in the appropriate regions" near Russia. Earlier, the Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that the collapse of the INF Treaty would substantially erode the global security framework. Dmitry Medvedev, responding to the announcement by the Russian Foreign Ministry, wrote on x, “This is a new reality all our opponents will have to reckon with. Expect further steps.”

In 1987, former US President &nbsp;Ronald Reagan and the Soviet leader of that time, Mikhail Gorbachev, agreed upon a treaty - the INF Treaty. It was a deal to ban ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres (311 to 3,418 miles).&nbsp;

What is Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty and why did Russia leave it? WION Explains

The US Coast Guard, in its final report on the 2023 Titan submarine implosion, has blamed safety failures by the OceanGate company for the sensational accident in which five occupants were crushed to death. The report identified the company's "failure to follow established engineering protocols for safety, testing, and maintenance" as the "primary causal factor" for the disaster.&nbsp;All five occupants of the submarine, who were on their way into the ocean to view the Titanic wreckage, died as the commercial vessel imploded because of the pressure of the water.&nbsp;The report said that the submarine's sudden implosion was triggered by the loss of structural integrity. All those inside the vessel were subjected to 4,930 pounds per square inch of water pressure and died instantaneously.&nbsp;CEO Stockton Rush, who died onboard the Titan submersible, ignored vital inspections, data analyses, and preventive maintenance procedures, the report, analyzed by the BBC, said.&nbsp;Investigators wrote in the report that the carbon fibre-made design of the submarine was flawed and that the company had ignored signs of problems that had surfaced in the previous month.&nbsp;The report also found that OceanGate was a "toxic workplace which used firings of senior staff members and the looming threat of being fired to dissuade employees and contractors from expressing safety concerns".&nbsp;The company was also facing financial pressures. OceanGate employees were asked to&nbsp;temporarily forgo salaries&nbsp;with the promise of back pay.&nbsp;The investigators found that the Titan submersible was made of carbon fibre, which is a strong material but hadn't been proven safe for deep diving. It is known to be unreliable under pressure.&nbsp;The craft had completed 13 dives to the Titanic in the past two years before the tragedy. However, the company kept using the submersible without checking its hull.&nbsp;

The US Coast Guard, in its final report on the 2023 Titan submarine implosion, has blamed safety failures by the OceanGate company for the sensational accident in which five occupants were crushed to death.

The US Coast Guard, in its final report on the 2023 Titan submarine implosion, has blamed safety failures by the OceanGate company for the sensational accident in which five occupants were crushed to death. The report identified the company's "failure to follow established engineering protocols for safety, testing, and maintenance" as the "primary causal factor" for the disaster. All five occupants of the submarine, who were on their way into the ocean to view the Titanic wreckage, died as the commercial vessel imploded because of the pressure of the water. The report said that the submarine's sudden implosion was triggered by the loss of structural integrity. All those inside the vessel were subjected to 4,930 pounds per square inch of water pressure and died instantaneously. CEO Stockton Rush, who died onboard the Titan submersible, ignored vital inspections, data analyses, and preventive maintenance procedures, the report, analyzed by the BBC, said. Investigators wrote in the report that the carbon fibre-made design of the submarine was flawed and that the company had ignored signs of problems that had surfaced in the previous month. The report also found that OceanGate was a "toxic workplace which used firings of senior staff members and the looming threat of being fired to dissuade employees and contractors from expressing safety concerns". The company was also facing financial pressures. OceanGate employees were asked to temporarily forgo salaries with the promise of back pay. The investigators found that the Titan submersible was made of carbon fibre, which is a strong material but hadn't been proven safe for deep diving. It is known to be unreliable under pressure. The craft had completed 13 dives to the Titanic in the past two years before the tragedy. However, the company kept using the submersible without checking its hull.

Titan submersible implosion: All five occupants of the submarine, who were on their way into the ocean to view the Titanic wreckage, died as the commercial vessel imploded.

Titan submersible implosion: US Coast Guard blames OceanGate for 2023 tragedy

Bangladesh will hold elections in February 2026, interim leader Muhammad Yunus said Tuesday. It will be the first election since a mass uprising overthrew the government last year. “On behalf of the interim government, I will write a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner requesting that the election be arranged before Ramadan in February 2026,” Yunus said in a broadcast on the one-year anniversary of the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;Yunus, 85, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, is leading the caretaker government as its chief adviser until elections and has said he will step down after the vote.&nbsp;“We will step into the final and most important phase after delivering this speech to you, and that is the transfer of power to an elected government,” the chief adviser said.&nbsp;Yunus had earlier said elections would be held in April, but key political parties have been demanding he hold them earlier and before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people.&nbsp;“I urge you all to pray for us so that we can hold a fair and smooth election, enabling all citizens to move forward successfully in building a ‘New Bangladesh’, ” he added.&nbsp;“On behalf of the government, we will extend all necessary support to ensure that the election is free, peaceful, and celebratory in spirit.”

Interim leader Muhammad Yunus had earlier said elections would be held in April, but key political parties have been demanding he hold them earlier and before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people. 

Bangladesh will hold elections in February 2026, interim leader Muhammad Yunus said Tuesday. It will be the first election since a mass uprising overthrew the government last year. “On behalf of the interim government, I will write a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner requesting that the election be arranged before Ramadan in February 2026,” Yunus said in a broadcast on the one-year anniversary of the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Yunus, 85, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, is leading the caretaker government as its chief adviser until elections and has said he will step down after the vote. “We will step into the final and most important phase after delivering this speech to you, and that is the transfer of power to an elected government,” the chief adviser said. Yunus had earlier said elections would be held in April, but key political parties have been demanding he hold them earlier and before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people. “I urge you all to pray for us so that we can hold a fair and smooth election, enabling all citizens to move forward successfully in building a ‘New Bangladesh’, ” he added. “On behalf of the government, we will extend all necessary support to ensure that the election is free, peaceful, and celebratory in spirit.”

Interim leader Muhammad Yunus had earlier said elections would be held in April, but key political parties have been demanding he hold them earlier and before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people.&nbsp;

Bangladesh to hold elections in February 2026, says Yunus

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is no longer being considered as a replacement for Jerome Powell as Federal Reserve Chair and he has narrowed the field of potential future Federal Reserve chairs to four candidates. Trump did not disclose who all are in contention, but revealed that Bessent, who previously considered a leading candidate, has himself opted out of contention.“Well, I love Scott, but he wants to stay where he is,” Trump told CNBC during a ‘Squawk Box’ interview. “I asked him just last night, ‘Is this something you want?’ [Bessent said], ’Nope, I want to stay where I am. He actually said, ‘I want to work with you.’ It’s such an honour. I said, ‘That’s very nice. I appreciate that’.”&nbsp;Trump has been critical of Powell because the Fed hasn’t lowered interest rates and refers to Powell as “too late,” “a numbskull,” and “a complete moron.”&nbsp;&nbsp;In a surprise announcement, Fed Governor Adriana Kugler announced that she is resigning effective this Friday. The development ensures Trump can install another of his appointees to the Fed Board of Governors at a time when the White House is aggressively pushing the central bank to lower interest rates.&nbsp;<h2>‘Both Kevins are very good’: Trump</h2>&nbsp;Among the likely candidates in the fray are former Governor Kevin Warsh and Kevin Hassett, the National Economic Council director and a key Trump adviser. Both have advocated for lower rates. Fed Governor Christopher Waller is also thought to be in the running.“Both Kevins are very good, and there are other people that are very good, too,” Trump said, adding that Kugler’s resignation “was a pleasant surprise.”&nbsp;<h2>Fed Chair Jerome Powell frequent target of Trump’s criticism</h2>&nbsp;Current Chair Jerome Powell, whose term ends in May 2026, has been a frequent target of Trump’s criticism, and there has been speculation that the president would name a “shadow chair” who could help undermine Powell until his term expires. Trump did not commit to taking that approach but conceded that it is “a possibility.”Trump nominated Powell for the Fed job in 2017, during his first term as president. The Senate then confirmed Powell the following February. Trump alleged Tuesday that Powell told him, “Sir, I’ll keep interest rates so low. I’m a low interest rate person.”&nbsp;Last week, the Fed voted to hold its benchmark interest rate steady in a range between 4.25%-4.5% even as markets expect it to approve its next cut in September. The central bank lowered its policy rate a full percentage point from September through December 2024, moves that Trump has said were politically motivated to help Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris.&nbsp;Trump’s constant criticism of the Fed and support for significantly lower rates have raised concerns about political interference in the central bank’s decision-making.Trump believes lower rates may give a boost from voters who cannot afford mortgages and other loans now, but it could hurt the economy if it leads to higher inflation.

Donald Trump’s constant criticism of the Fed and his support for significantly lower rates have raised concerns about political interference in the central bank’s decision-making. Trump believes lower rates may give a boost from voters who cannot afford mortgages and other loans now.

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is no longer being considered as a replacement for Jerome Powell as Federal Reserve Chair and he has narrowed the field of potential future Federal Reserve chairs to four candidates. Trump did not disclose who all are in contention, but revealed that Bessent, who previously considered a leading candidate, has himself opted out of contention. “Well, I love Scott, but he wants to stay where he is,” Trump told CNBC during a ‘Squawk Box’ interview. “I asked him just last night, ‘Is this something you want?’ [Bessent said], ’Nope, I want to stay where I am. He actually said, ‘I want to work with you.’ It’s such an honour. I said, ‘That’s very nice. I appreciate that’.” Trump has been critical of Powell because the Fed hasn’t lowered interest rates and refers to Powell as “too late,” “a numbskull,” and “a complete moron.” In a surprise announcement, Fed Governor Adriana Kugler announced that she is resigning effective this Friday. The development ensures Trump can install another of his appointees to the Fed Board of Governors at a time when the White House is aggressively pushing the central bank to lower interest rates. ‘Both Kevins are very good’: Trump Among the likely candidates in the fray are former Governor Kevin Warsh and Kevin Hassett, the National Economic Council director and a key Trump adviser. Both have advocated for lower rates. Fed Governor Christopher Waller is also thought to be in the running. “Both Kevins are very good, and there are other people that are very good, too,” Trump said, adding that Kugler’s resignation “was a pleasant surprise.” Fed Chair Jerome Powell frequent target of Trump’s criticism Current Chair Jerome Powell, whose term ends in May 2026, has been a frequent target of Trump’s criticism, and there has been speculation that the president would name a “shadow chair” who could help undermine Powell until his term expires. Trump did not commit to taking that approach but conceded that it is “a possibility.” Trump nominated Powell for the Fed job in 2017, during his first term as president. The Senate then confirmed Powell the following February. Trump alleged Tuesday that Powell told him, “Sir, I’ll keep interest rates so low. I’m a low interest rate person.” Last week, the Fed voted to hold its benchmark interest rate steady in a range between 4.25%-4.5% even as markets expect it to approve its next cut in September. The central bank lowered its policy rate a full percentage point from September through December 2024, moves that Trump has said were politically motivated to help Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris. Trump’s constant criticism of the Fed and support for significantly lower rates have raised concerns about political interference in the central bank’s decision-making. Trump believes lower rates may give a boost from voters who cannot afford mortgages and other loans now, but it could hurt the economy if it leads to higher inflation.

Donald Trump’s constant criticism of the Fed and his support for significantly lower rates have raised concerns about political interference in the central bank’s decision-making. Trump believes lower rates may give a boost from voters who cannot afford mortgages and other loans now.

Trump says Treasury Secretary Bessent ‘opted out’ of Fed chair race, 4 others in contention

US President Donald Trump, while talking about the immigrant crackdown in the United States, said that over 10,000 “murderers” entered America under former President Joe Biden’s administration, stressing that he has already gotten a lot of them out of the US.Trump was speaking to CNBC’s Squawk Box on Tuesday (August 5), when he talked about the immigration crackdown in the US.“They're looking for the criminals, the people who murdered. You know, we have 11,888 people that came into our country under Biden, under our great border czar,” he said, adding, “They had hundreds of people that were murderers.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-tariffs-hit-american-wallets-us-economy-grows-3-in-june-1754405060698/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-tariffs-hit-american-wallets-us-economy-grows-3-in-june-1754405060698/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;“11,888 murderers, 50% of whom murdered more than one person in our country. We've already gotten a lot of them out, and some of them are so dangerous, we don't want to bring them back,” the US president said.Trump further said that they want to put them in their own prison because he does not want them coming back.“But they allowed 11,888 murderers, many of whom murdered more than one, into our population. And we're getting them out rapidly,” Trump added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-russia-s-economy-stinks-trump-targets-kremlin-says-if-energy-goes-down-putin-will-stop-killing-people-ukraine-war-1754402805585">Also read: ‘Russia’s economy stinks’: Trump targets Kremlin, says if energy prices go down, Putin will stop killing people</a>&nbsp;A few days ago, the Trump administration said that it will be launching a new recruiting campaign to attract thousands of deportation officers, &nbsp;lawyers, and investigators as it prepares to massively expand immigration enforcement.The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) aimed to increase deportations to unprecedented levels, calling on “brave and heroic Americans” to join the effort to “defend the homeland.”“Your country is calling you to serve at ICE,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in a news release. “This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. Your skills, your experience, and your courage have never been more essential. Together, we must defend the homeland.”&nbsp;

Trump, while speaking about immigrants crackdown, said that he wants to put these ‘murderers’ in their own prison because he does not want them coming back.

US President Donald Trump, while talking about the immigrant crackdown in the United States, said that over 10,000 “murderers” entered America under former President Joe Biden’s administration, stressing that he has already gotten a lot of them out of the US. Trump was speaking to CNBC’s Squawk Box on Tuesday (August 5), when he talked about the immigration crackdown in the US. “They're looking for the criminals, the people who murdered. You know, we have 11,888 people that came into our country under Biden, under our great border czar,” he said, adding, “They had hundreds of people that were murderers.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-tariffs-hit-american-wallets-us-economy-grows-3-in-june-1754405060698/embed “11,888 murderers, 50% of whom murdered more than one person in our country. We've already gotten a lot of them out, and some of them are so dangerous, we don't want to bring them back,” the US president said. Trump further said that they want to put them in their own prison because he does not want them coming back. “But they allowed 11,888 murderers, many of whom murdered more than one, into our population. And we're getting them out rapidly,” Trump added. Also read: ‘Russia’s economy stinks’: Trump targets Kremlin, says if energy prices go down, Putin will stop killing people A few days ago, the Trump administration said that it will be launching a new recruiting campaign to attract thousands of deportation officers, lawyers, and investigators as it prepares to massively expand immigration enforcement. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) aimed to increase deportations to unprecedented levels, calling on “brave and heroic Americans” to join the effort to “defend the homeland.” “Your country is calling you to serve at ICE,” said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in a news release. “This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. Your skills, your experience, and your courage have never been more essential. Together, we must defend the homeland.”

Trump, while speaking about immigrants crackdown, said that he wants to put these ‘murderers’ in their own prison because he does not want them coming back.

‘11,888 murderers entered US under Biden’: Trump boasts his immigrant crackdown, says ‘don't want them back’

Over the last 25 years, trade between India and Latin America has grown nine-fold, rising from $2 billion in the year 2000 to almost $18 billion in 2025, said Raj Kumar Sharma, CEO of the Indo-Latin American Chamber of Commerce (ILACC). Speaking to WION about the potential for further expanding Indo-Latam investments, Sharma said that Latin American countries are looking to invest $2 billion in India by 2028, whereas India is likely to invest a larger sum in the region. A facilitator of bilateral trade and commerce, the ILACC is recognised by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Ministry of Commerce (MOC).&nbsp;Recently, the ILACC launched its South India chapter, with a focus towards facilitating deeper engagement between Latin America and the Southern Indian States. The conclave witnessed the participation of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, trade envoys, and ambassadors from Latin American nations, including Peru, Cuba, El Salvador, Venezuela, Uruguay, Chile, and Argentina.&nbsp;The event featured high-level discussions, business partnership sessions, and panel dialogues aimed at enhancing trade, diplomacy and forging partnerships in sectors such as agriculture, energy, technology, healthcare, education, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Addressing the event, officials emphasized on the need to move from North-South corridors and to focus on Global South connectivity. Among the prospective corridors discussed were Chennai-Caracas, Bengaluru-Buenos Aires, Mumbai-Lima. Representatives from Latin American nations said that India’s vast energy requirements could be supported by oil and natural gas and renewable energy solutions from the Latam region.&nbsp;Listing out the areas of potential cooperation, it was said that India could work with Cuba on pharma and biotechnology to develop affordable drugs for global south, Uruguay’s forward-looking policies and strategic location could prove attractive for Indian investments, Argentina can contribute in terms of mining and renewable energy, Peru welcomes partnership in the textile and agriculture sectors, El Salvador in digital transformation technologies, and Honduras in textiles and sustainable development.&nbsp;ILACC highlighted that 1.6% of overall Indian imports come from Latin America, whereas India contributed to 2% of overall imports by Latin America. Pharma, agro, chemicals, EV industries, engineering goods, automobiles, and automobile parts are among the major areas where there is potential for India to export to Latam region, industry estimates say. Further, in the high-tech areas, India can also contribute in space tech, biotech, and fintech.

Latin American countries are looking to invest $2 billion in India by 2028, whereas India is likely to invest a larger sum in the region, said the CEO of the Indo-Latin American Chamber of Commerce (ILACC), a facilitator of bilateral trade and commerce.

Over the last 25 years, trade between India and Latin America has grown nine-fold, rising from $2 billion in the year 2000 to almost $18 billion in 2025, said Raj Kumar Sharma, CEO of the Indo-Latin American Chamber of Commerce (ILACC). Speaking to WION about the potential for further expanding Indo-Latam investments, Sharma said that Latin American countries are looking to invest $2 billion in India by 2028, whereas India is likely to invest a larger sum in the region. A facilitator of bilateral trade and commerce, the ILACC is recognised by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Ministry of Commerce (MOC). Recently, the ILACC launched its South India chapter, with a focus towards facilitating deeper engagement between Latin America and the Southern Indian States. The conclave witnessed the participation of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, trade envoys, and ambassadors from Latin American nations, including Peru, Cuba, El Salvador, Venezuela, Uruguay, Chile, and Argentina. The event featured high-level discussions, business partnership sessions, and panel dialogues aimed at enhancing trade, diplomacy and forging partnerships in sectors such as agriculture, energy, technology, healthcare, education, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure. Addressing the event, officials emphasized on the need to move from North-South corridors and to focus on Global South connectivity. Among the prospective corridors discussed were Chennai-Caracas, Bengaluru-Buenos Aires, Mumbai-Lima. Representatives from Latin American nations said that India’s vast energy requirements could be supported by oil and natural gas and renewable energy solutions from the Latam region. Listing out the areas of potential cooperation, it was said that India could work with Cuba on pharma and biotechnology to develop affordable drugs for global south, Uruguay’s forward-looking policies and strategic location could prove attractive for Indian investments, Argentina can contribute in terms of mining and renewable energy, Peru welcomes partnership in the textile and agriculture sectors, El Salvador in digital transformation technologies, and Honduras in textiles and sustainable development. ILACC highlighted that 1.6% of overall Indian imports come from Latin America, whereas India contributed to 2% of overall imports by Latin America. Pharma, agro, chemicals, EV industries, engineering goods, automobiles, and automobile parts are among the major areas where there is potential for India to export to Latam region, industry estimates say. Further, in the high-tech areas, India can also contribute in space tech, biotech, and fintech.

Latin American countries are looking to invest $2 billion in India by 2028, whereas India is likely to invest a larger sum in the region, said the CEO of the Indo-Latin American Chamber of Commerce (ILACC), a facilitator of bilateral trade and commerce.

India-Latin America trade grew 9-fold in 25 years: Industry body

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (August 5) targeted Russian President Vladimir Putin, after he again warned India that the US will raise the tariff on India in the next '24 hours over Russian oil import. As he pointed to Russia, Trump said that the drop in energy prices could make Putin halt the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;While speaking to CNBC’s Squawk Box, the US president stressed that if energy goes down, Putin will stop killing people.&nbsp;“If energy goes down enough, Putin is going to stop killing people,” he said. Further slamming Russia’s economy, Trump said, “If you get energy down, another $10 a barrel, he’s going to have no choice because his economy stinks.”&nbsp;Trump further repeated that he would increase US tariffs on India soon and maybe in the next 24 hours over their import of Russian oil, and since “they’re fueling the war machine.”&nbsp;“They have the highest tariff of anybody ... We settled on 25%, but I think I’m going to raise that very substantially over the next 24 hours because they’re buying Russian oil, they’re fueling the war machine, and if they going to do that, I’m not going to be happy,” he said.<h2>EU could face 35% tariffs</h2>Trump warned the European Union, while speaking to Squawk Box, saying that the EU could face 35 per cent tariffs if it fails to meet $600 billion investment promises under the US-EU deal.&nbsp;“They brought down their tariffs. They paid $600bn, and because of that, I reduced their tariffs from thirty percent down to fifteen percent, and a couple of countries came, ‘How come the EU is paying less than us’, and I said, well, because they gave me $600bn,” he said.&nbsp;“And that’s a gift, that’s not like, you know, a loan … they gave us $600bn that we can invest in anything we want,” Trump added.&nbsp;Trump further stressed that the EU has been “ripping us” for so many years, and it's time that they pay up.

While speaking to CNBC’s Squawk Box, the US president stressed that if energy goes down, Putin will stop killing people, adding that he will have no choice because his economy stinks. 

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (August 5) targeted Russian President Vladimir Putin, after he again warned India that the US will raise the tariff on India in the next '24 hours over Russian oil import. As he pointed to Russia, Trump said that the drop in energy prices could make Putin halt the war in Ukraine. While speaking to CNBC’s Squawk Box, the US president stressed that if energy goes down, Putin will stop killing people. “If energy goes down enough, Putin is going to stop killing people,” he said. Further slamming Russia’s economy, Trump said, “If you get energy down, another $10 a barrel, he’s going to have no choice because his economy stinks.” Trump further repeated that he would increase US tariffs on India soon and maybe in the next 24 hours over their import of Russian oil, and since “they’re fueling the war machine.” “They have the highest tariff of anybody ... We settled on 25%, but I think I’m going to raise that very substantially over the next 24 hours because they’re buying Russian oil, they’re fueling the war machine, and if they going to do that, I’m not going to be happy,” he said. EU could face 35% tariffs Trump warned the European Union, while speaking to Squawk Box, saying that the EU could face 35 per cent tariffs if it fails to meet $600 billion investment promises under the US-EU deal. “They brought down their tariffs. They paid $600bn, and because of that, I reduced their tariffs from thirty percent down to fifteen percent, and a couple of countries came, ‘How come the EU is paying less than us’, and I said, well, because they gave me $600bn,” he said. “And that’s a gift, that’s not like, you know, a loan … they gave us $600bn that we can invest in anything we want,” Trump added. Trump further stressed that the EU has been “ripping us” for so many years, and it's time that they pay up.

While speaking to CNBC’s Squawk Box, the US president stressed that if energy goes down, Putin will stop killing people, adding that he will have no choice because his economy stinks.&nbsp;

‘Russia’s economy stinks’: Trump targets Kremlin, says if energy prices go down, Putin will stop killing people

After the reports that the White House is preparing an executive order to put pressure on big banks in the US for their discrimination against conservatives, US President Donald Trump subtly confirmed it, saying the banks certainly did discriminate. Talking at an interview with the CNBC on Tuesday (August 5), the American president gave his own example, saying he had "many accounts" loaded with cash, but the banks did not take him as a customer.&nbsp;A journalist questioned Trump, "The Wall Street Journal is reporting that you're preparing an order to punish banks that discriminate against conservatives, including potentially the Bank of America ... Can you tell us about that executive order, what's in that?"&nbsp;The US president responded, saying, "Well, they did discriminate. I had JP Morgan Chase, and I had hundreds of millions of dollars in cash. I can see they want to do something bad if you don't have any money; they took people out. But now I'll give you an amazing example. I had hundreds of millions, I had many, many accounts, loaded up with cash, &nbsp;and they told me, 'I'm sorry, sir. We can't have you. You have 20 days to get out.' I said you gotta be kidding. I have been with you for 35-40 years."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Sorkin: The WSJ is reporting that you&#39;re prepping an order that would punish banks that discriminate against conservatives...<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;They did discriminate... I had many, many accounts loaded up with cash... and they told me, &#39;I&#39;m sorry, sir. We can&#39;t have you.&#39;&quot; <a href="https://t.co/s30wRePyvm">pic.twitter.com/s30wRePyvm</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1952711262170649022?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"I was never in this situation before. I never had anything like it," he added. He continued saying, "I call up Bank of America routinely and I speak to him, I speak to couple of people, and they had zero interest ... Brian (CEO of the bank) was kissing my a** when I was president and when I called him after I was president, to deposit, a billion dollars plus and a lot of other things ... he said 'we can't do it, no' ... and that's because the banks discriminated against me very badly, and I was very good to the banks," Trump added. "We had the greatest economy in history when I was the president. and by the way, our economy now will blow that away," he said.<h2>Banks violating Equal Credit Opportunity Act?</h2>On August 4, The Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump administration was planning to punish major banks in the US that discriminate against conservatives.&nbsp;"A draft of the executive order, which was viewed by The Wall Street Journal, directs bank regulators to investigate whether any financial institutions might have violated the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, antitrust laws or consumer financial protection laws," the report said.<h2>Trump threatens to raise tariffs</h2>In the same interview, Trump also said that he will raise the tariff imposed on India. The American president said, "India has not been a good trading partner, because they do a lot of business with us, but we don't do business with them. So we settled on 25 per cent, but I think I'm going to raise that very substantially over the next 24 hours, because they're buying Russian oil. They're fueling the war machine."&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump confirmed the reports that the White House was preparing an executive order to punish the banks in America that discriminate against conservatives. He said Bank of America discriminated against him when he was no longer the US president.

After the reports that the White House is preparing an executive order to put pressure on big banks in the US for their discrimination against conservatives, US President Donald Trump subtly confirmed it, saying the banks certainly did discriminate. Talking at an interview with the CNBC on Tuesday (August 5), the American president gave his own example, saying he had "many accounts" loaded with cash, but the banks did not take him as a customer. A journalist questioned Trump, "The Wall Street Journal is reporting that you're preparing an order to punish banks that discriminate against conservatives, including potentially the Bank of America ... Can you tell us about that executive order, what's in that?" The US president responded, saying, "Well, they did discriminate. I had JP Morgan Chase, and I had hundreds of millions of dollars in cash. I can see they want to do something bad if you don't have any money; they took people out. But now I'll give you an amazing example. I had hundreds of millions, I had many, many accounts, loaded up with cash, and they told me, 'I'm sorry, sir. We can't have you. You have 20 days to get out.' I said you gotta be kidding. I have been with you for 35-40 years."

US President Donald Trump confirmed the reports that the White House was preparing an executive order to punish the banks in America that discriminate against conservatives. He said Bank of America discriminated against him when he was no longer the US president.

'Brian was kissing my a** when I was president': Trump to punish US banks for discriminating against conservatives

US President Donald Trump, in an interview with CNBC on Tuesday (August 5), said that he will raise the 25 per cent tariff imposed on India in the next "24 hours". Speaking on the channel's 'Squawk Box' show, the American president said, "India has not been a good trading partner, because they do a lot of business with us, but we don't do business with them. So we settled on 25 per cent, but I think I'm going to raise that very substantially over the next 24 hours, because they're buying Russian oil. They're fueling the war machine."&nbsp;This came a day after Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, stating that he would raise the tariff on India. India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, but it is also selling, for much of the Oil purchased, on the Open Market for big profits. They don’t care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine. Because of this, I will be substantially raising the Tariff paid by India to the USA,” he said in his post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on India: &quot;They have the highest tariff of anybody ... We settled on 25%, but I think I&#39;m going to raise that very substantially over the next 24 hours because they&#39;re buying Russian oil. They&#39;re fueling the war machine.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/uoKojGlb5J">pic.twitter.com/uoKojGlb5J</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1952708025178832934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>‘Unjustified, unreasonable’</h2>The Indian government strongly rejected US President Donald Trump’s latest warning of tariffs, calling the criticism “unjustified and unreasonable”. In a statement released on Monday (August 4) by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India defended its decision to import oil from Russia, claiming it was a necessity triggered by supply shifts after the war in Ukraine began. “India has been targeted by the United States and the European Union for importing oil from Russia after the commencement of the Ukraine conflict,” the MEA said on X (formerly Twitter). “In fact, India began importing from Russia because traditional supplies were diverted to Europe after the outbreak of the conflict. The United States at that time actively encouraged such imports by India for strengthening global energy markets stability,” MEA added.<h2>Kremlin hits back at Trump</h2>Kremlin on Tuesday (August 5) slammed Trump's threats to raise tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, calling it "illegal". Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, while speaking to reporters, said that it was unacceptable to force countries to stop trading with Russia, according to Reuters and AFP reports. Peskov further stressed that sovereign nations can choose their trading partners. “Sovereign countries have the right to choose their own trading partners,” spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, in an interview with CNBC on Tuesday (August 5), said that he will raise the tariff imposed on India in the next 24 hours. 

US President Donald Trump, in an interview with CNBC on Tuesday (August 5), said that he will raise the 25 per cent tariff imposed on India in the next "24 hours". Speaking on the channel's 'Squawk Box' show, the American president said, "India has not been a good trading partner, because they do a lot of business with us, but we don't do business with them. So we settled on 25 per cent, but I think I'm going to raise that very substantially over the next 24 hours, because they're buying Russian oil. They're fueling the war machine." This came a day after Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, stating that he would raise the tariff on India. India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, but it is also selling, for much of the Oil purchased, on the Open Market for big profits. They don’t care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine. Because of this, I will be substantially raising the Tariff paid by India to the USA,” he said in his post.

US President Donald Trump, in an interview with CNBC on Tuesday (August 5), said that he will raise the tariff imposed on India in the next "24 hours".&nbsp;

'Settled on 25%, but...': Trump threatens to raise tariff on India in next '24 hours,' repeats 'Russian oil' rant

The elder son of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Yair, termed the Qatari Emir Tamim Bin Hamad al Thani and his mother Moza bint Nasser “the modern-day Hitler and Goebbels" on Monday (August 4). He claimed that Qatar was “the main force behind the unprecedented wave of antisemitism around the world, not seen since the 1930s and 1940s.”&nbsp;“Every Jew around the world is in grave danger because of the decades-long vilification of Jews and the Jewish state by Qatar, fueled by the billions of dollars they pour into it,” Yair posted on the social media platform X. This remark came from Yair, who is known for his controversial internet posts and spreading conspiracies, when Qatar is mediating another Hamas hostage. Meanwhile, last week, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio saved Qatar from all the criticism, saying Doha has played a helpful role in Israel-Hamas negotiations.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Qatar is the main force behind the unprecedented wave of antisemitism around the world, not seen since the 1930s and 1940s. Qatar is the modern-day Nazi Germany. Every Jew around the world is in grave danger because of the decades-long vilification of Jews and the Jewish state by…&mdash; Yair Netanyahu🇮🇱 (@YairNetanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/YairNetanyahu/status/1952426140120859129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Critics of Qatar have alleged that Doha and Hamas have close ties and that the country funds the Palestinian militant group via aid. Reacting to this, Qatar denied the allegations, saying that Israel and the US unitedly made such claims to prevent the humanitarian aid from entering Gaza.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed</a><h2>Netanyahu's war goals</h2>Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said his army will "professionally implement" the decision of the minister to achieve the objectives of war in Gaza. During a visit to a post of the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) in the GAZA buffer zone on Tuesday (August 5), Katz said he has “formulated his position regarding the security and political steps Israel must take to ensure the achievement of the war’s objectives," Times of Israel reported. The defence minister said he will present his plan to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet later in the day. “The defeat of Hamas in Gaza, while creating the conditions for the return of the hostages, is the main objective of the war in Gaza, and we must take all necessary actions to achieve it,” Katz said in a statement released by his office.&nbsp;The minister, while visiting the Ridge 70 post, also said, “At the same time, we must ensure the safety and security of Israeli communities by maintaining a permanent IDF presence in a peripheral security zone at strategic points in Gaza, from which attacks on communities and the smuggling of weapons into Gaza can be prevented."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Benjamin Netanyahu elder son, Yair, posted on X and called the Qatari Emir Tamim Bin Hamad al Thani and his mother Moza bint Nasser the modern-day Hitler and Goebbels on Monday (August 4).

The elder son of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Yair, termed the Qatari Emir Tamim Bin Hamad al Thani and his mother Moza bint Nasser “the modern-day Hitler and Goebbels" on Monday (August 4). He claimed that Qatar was “the main force behind the unprecedented wave of antisemitism around the world, not seen since the 1930s and 1940s.” “Every Jew around the world is in grave danger because of the decades-long vilification of Jews and the Jewish state by Qatar, fueled by the billions of dollars they pour into it,” Yair posted on the social media platform X. This remark came from Yair, who is known for his controversial internet posts and spreading conspiracies, when Qatar is mediating another Hamas hostage. Meanwhile, last week, the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio saved Qatar from all the criticism, saying Doha has played a helpful role in Israel-Hamas negotiations.

Benjamin Netanyahu's elder son, Yair, posted on X and called the Qatari Emir Tamim Bin Hamad al Thani and his mother Moza bint Nasser “the modern-day Hitler and Goebbels" on Monday (August 4).

Netanyahu's son Yair calls Qatar Emir 'Hitler,' says, 'Every Jew around the world is...'

Since October 7, following the Hamas attack on Israel, which claimed the lives of 1,160 victims, images of the massacre flooded across the news outlets and social media. Israel has accused Hamas on several occasions of spreading false information regarding its war to make it seem like a genocide. But gradually, the West and even the US are agreeing that the aforementioned war bore the imprints of ethnic cleansing. Here are the top 10 claims made by Israeli officials or the IDF since October 7 that have been challenged, debunked or questioned by journalists or rights groups<ol><li>40 Beheaded babies - In the aftermath of the Hamas attack, a rumour surfaced which claimed that 40 babies were beheaded in the Kfar Aza Kibbutz. The rumour originated with reports from Israeli commanders and members of civilian rescue groups who were interviewed by i24NEWS journalist Nicole Zedeck at the site. The Israeli government's press office, when contacted by French outlet Le Monde, said there were no decapitated babies. When CNN visited the location did not find any evidence of a beheaded youth, and the IDF did not release any pictures of the attack.</li><li>The war is all about hostages- The Israeli Government has repeatedly claimed that the war is all about the hostages, it's all about getting them home. Multiple reports suggest that Hamas have offered the release of all civilian hostages by October 9 and 10, on the condition that the Israeli military will not enter the Gaza Strip and release all the Palestinian prisoners. Israel rejected that offer and determined to go ahead with the military campaign to dismantle Hamas. Israeli ministers keep saying again and again that hostages are not their priority.</li><li>Hamas headquarter in Al-Shifa hospital- The IDF have claimed that Al-Shifa hospital, the largest hospital in Gaza, hosts a major command centre of Hamas, &nbsp;and it uses this infrastructure to carry out its operations, and these claims were used to explain the attack on the hospital. The United States, particularly the White House and its intelligence, have supported these claims, claiming that they have proof Hamas uses Al-Shifa hospital and other hospitals have been used as a command centre by Hamas. The evidence provided by the IDF is inconclusive. Media outlets such as CNN, AP, The Guardian and Al Jazeera questioned the evidence provided by the IDF, such as Weaponry &amp; Equipment and images and videos of tunnels. The tunnel found had no direct links with the hospital. The videos showing tunnels didn't fully prove the initial claims, and one report concluded that rooms connected to a tunnel network showed "no immediate evidence of military use by Hamas"&nbsp;</li></ol>

4.Hamas misfired the Al-Ahli hospital rocket- Israel have been accused of attacking Al-Alhil hospital, it claimed that Islamic Jihad rocket misfired and heat the hospital. Initial report criticised IDF, the Israeli military presented ,audio and video evidence — some of which was later found to be questionable or out of context.5. Hamas stealing the aid- The Israeli government, Netanyahu himself, has repeatedly accused Hamas of stealing aid going into Gaza. But according to The New York Times, the Israeli Military officials have found no proof of that, and even USAID analysis found no evidence of aid diversion by Hamas.6. Safe Zones for Civilians- Israel designated safe zones for babies and children to flee, but in reality, it bombed those same areas it called safe zones.7. We don’t target Civilians- The IDF repeatedly targeted civilians and children. As of mid-2025, approximately 40,000 women and children have been killed. According to the UN and NGO, entire families and neighbourhoods have been wiped out.8. UNRWA collaborated with Hamas- Israel alleged that UNRWA is a front for Hamas, which led to the funding cut of UNRWA from the US and other countries. The Wall Street Journal have admitted that Israeli claims lacked solid evidence.9. 'We don't use Human shields, Hamas uses civilians as shields'- &nbsp;IDF claimed that Hamas uses human shields by hiding in civilian areas, the IDF have never used human shields. Multiple reports show that the IDF takes Palestinian hostages and uses them as human shields.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“He told me to take them. In the next attack, use them as a human shield.” An IDF soldier and five former Palestinian detainees tell CNN that the Israeli military has used civilians as human shields in Gaza, as <a href="https://twitter.com/JDiamond1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JDiamond1</a> reports. <a href="https://t.co/o49EZNtTXS">pic.twitter.com/o49EZNtTXS</a>&mdash; Christiane Amanpour (@amanpour) <a href="https://twitter.com/amanpour/status/1849500352367738942?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

10. Massacre denial- Israel has been repeatedly accused of killing aid workers and people seeking aid. IDF have repeatedly denied these allegations, except Sky News investigation found that on March 23, 2025, five aid workers were killed. CNN investigation found that more than 100 aid seekers were killed, and more than 400 were injured.&nbsp;Hamas too have made lots of unverified claims. Israel has accused international media of bias while journalists accuse Israel of not allowing free access to Gaza.&nbsp;

Since the start of Israel's attack on Gaza, there have been numerous claims made by the IDF on several occasions to pose its campaign as just. Here are the top 10 Israeli claims that have been challenged and debunked by international media.

Since October 7, following the Hamas attack on Israel, which claimed the lives of 1,160 victims, images of the massacre flooded across the news outlets and social media. Israel has accused Hamas on several occasions of spreading false information regarding its war to make it seem like a genocide. But gradually, the West and even the US are agreeing that the aforementioned war bore the imprints of ethnic cleansing. Here are the top 10 claims made by Israeli officials or the IDF since October 7 that have been challenged, debunked or questioned by journalists or rights groups 40 Beheaded babies - In the aftermath of the Hamas attack, a rumour surfaced which claimed that 40 babies were beheaded in the Kfar Aza Kibbutz. The rumour originated with reports from Israeli commanders and members of civilian rescue groups who were interviewed by i24NEWS journalist Nicole Zedeck at the site. The Israeli government's press office, when contacted by French outlet Le Monde, said there were no decapitated babies. When CNN visited the location did not find any evidence of a beheaded youth, and the IDF did not release any pictures of the attack. The war is all about hostages- The Israeli Government has repeatedly claimed that the war is all about the hostages, it's all about getting them home. Multiple reports suggest that Hamas have offered the release of all civilian hostages by October 9 and 10, on the condition that the Israeli military will not enter the Gaza Strip and release all the Palestinian prisoners. Israel rejected that offer and determined to go ahead with the military campaign to dismantle Hamas. Israeli ministers keep saying again and again that hostages are not their priority. Hamas headquarter in Al-Shifa hospital- The IDF have claimed that Al-Shifa hospital, the largest hospital in Gaza, hosts a major command centre of Hamas, and it uses this infrastructure to carry out its operations, and these claims were used to explain the attack on the hospital. The United States, particularly the White House and its intelligence, have supported these claims, claiming that they have proof Hamas uses Al-Shifa hospital and other hospitals have been used as a command centre by Hamas. The evidence provided by the IDF is inconclusive. Media outlets such as CNN, AP, The Guardian and Al Jazeera questioned the evidence provided by the IDF, such as Weaponry & Equipment and images and videos of tunnels. The tunnel found had no direct links with the hospital. The videos showing tunnels didn't fully prove the initial claims, and one report concluded that rooms connected to a tunnel network showed "no immediate evidence of military use by Hamas"

Since the start of Israel's war on Gaza, there have been numerous claims made by the IDF on several occasions to pose its campaign as just. Here are the top 10 Israeli claims that have been challenged and debunked by international media.

10 widely reported and controversial claims by Israel since the start of Gaza war in October 7

India said on Tuesday that it supports freedom of navigation and legitimate commerce through the waters of the South China Sea, and that any differences between the parties concerned should be resolved peacefully. Replying to a question on the reaction of the Chinese foreign ministry to the recent joint naval exercises between India and the Philippines, saying no ‘third party’ intervention will be acceptable in the South China Sea, MEA Secretary (East) Periasamy Kumaran said in a media briefing, “We support freedom of navigation and legitimate commerce through the waters of the South China Sea. India has an abiding interest in peace and stability in the region. Our position is based on the UN Conventions of the Law of the Sea. India also believes that any differences between the parties concerned should be resolved peacefully, without resorting to threat or force.”&nbsp;A spokesperson for the PLA Southern Theater Command had earlier said, “The Philippines has been rallying an external country to interfere in the South China Sea by organizing so-called joint patrols, which undermine regional peace and stability. PLA Southern Theater Command’s forces remain on high alert, resolutely defending national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.”&nbsp;In the special briefing on the visit of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. of the Philippines, Kumaran said, “The visit commenced yesterday and will go on till 8th August. This is the first visit of President Marcos to India in his official capacity. The visit is significant as it comes as we mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with the Philippines in 1949.”&nbsp;<h2>India, Philippines announce ‘strategic partnership’</h2>&nbsp;“During this visit, both PM Modi and President Marcos have agreed to elevate the India-Philippines bilateral cooperation to the level of strategic partnership, aimed at furthering our engagements across a vast number of sectors, including political cooperation, defence, security and maritime cooperation, trade and investment cooperation, healthcare and pharma, cooperation in science and technology, space, connectivity, digital economy, FinTech, consular matters, culture, tourism, people-to-people exchanges, and closer cooperation on regional, multilateral, and international issues of mutual interest,” the secretary added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Our bilateral trade has crossed $3 billion’: PM Modi</h2>&nbsp;Earlier in the day, India and the Philippines announced a “strategic partnership” after talks between PM Narendra Modi and visiting Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr.&nbsp;PM Modi said, “We have decided to take our relations to the level of strategic partnership. Our bilateral trade is rising constantly, and it has crossed $3 billion. To further strengthen it, our priority is to complete India-Asean Free Trade Review as soon as possible.”&nbsp;<h2>India, Philippines announce free e-visas for tourists&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;MEA Secretary Kumaran also shared with the media that India has announced free e-visas to tourists from the Philippines. The Philippines has also enabled visa-free entry for Indian tourists for up to 14 days. “We expect these measures to boost tourism exchanges, commercial linkages, and people-to-people interactions,” he said.&nbsp;It is the first trip by a Filipino head of state to India since Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s visit in 2007.

India and the Philippines announced a “strategic partnership” after talks between PM Narendra Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr. PM Modi said that bilateral trade is rising and has already crossed $3 billion.

India said on Tuesday that it supports freedom of navigation and legitimate commerce through the waters of the South China Sea, and that any differences between the parties concerned should be resolved peacefully. Replying to a question on the reaction of the Chinese foreign ministry to the recent joint naval exercises between India and the Philippines, saying no ‘third party’ intervention will be acceptable in the South China Sea, MEA Secretary (East) Periasamy Kumaran said in a media briefing, “We support freedom of navigation and legitimate commerce through the waters of the South China Sea. India has an abiding interest in peace and stability in the region. Our position is based on the UN Conventions of the Law of the Sea. India also believes that any differences between the parties concerned should be resolved peacefully, without resorting to threat or force.” A spokesperson for the PLA Southern Theater Command had earlier said, “The Philippines has been rallying an external country to interfere in the South China Sea by organizing so-called joint patrols, which undermine regional peace and stability. PLA Southern Theater Command’s forces remain on high alert, resolutely defending national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.” In the special briefing on the visit of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. of the Philippines, Kumaran said, “The visit commenced yesterday and will go on till 8th August. This is the first visit of President Marcos to India in his official capacity. The visit is significant as it comes as we mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with the Philippines in 1949.” India, Philippines announce ‘strategic partnership’ “During this visit, both PM Modi and President Marcos have agreed to elevate the India-Philippines bilateral cooperation to the level of strategic partnership, aimed at furthering our engagements across a vast number of sectors, including political cooperation, defence, security and maritime cooperation, trade and investment cooperation, healthcare and pharma, cooperation in science and technology, space, connectivity, digital economy, FinTech, consular matters, culture, tourism, people-to-people exchanges, and closer cooperation on regional, multilateral, and international issues of mutual interest,” the secretary added. ‘Our bilateral trade has crossed $3 billion’: PM Modi Earlier in the day, India and the Philippines announced a “strategic partnership” after talks between PM Narendra Modi and visiting Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr. PM Modi said, “We have decided to take our relations to the level of strategic partnership. Our bilateral trade is rising constantly, and it has crossed $3 billion. To further strengthen it, our priority is to complete India-Asean Free Trade Review as soon as possible.” India, Philippines announce free e-visas for tourists MEA Secretary Kumaran also shared with the media that India has announced free e-visas to tourists from the Philippines. The Philippines has also enabled visa-free entry for Indian tourists for up to 14 days. “We expect these measures to boost tourism exchanges, commercial linkages, and people-to-people interactions,” he said. It is the first trip by a Filipino head of state to India since Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s visit in 2007.

India and the Philippines announced a “strategic partnership” after talks between PM Narendra Modi and Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr. PM Modi said that bilateral trade is rising and has already crossed $3 billion.

‘India supports freedom of navigation in South China Sea’: MEA

The Australian government made an announcement on Monday (Aug 4), saying that they will raise the number of international students they allows into the country by 9 per cent in 2026, bringing the total to 295,000 (current cap - 270,000). The Australian government also added that they will give priority to students from Southeast Asia. This decision comes a year after Australia limited the entries of foreign students due to high migration. According to Reuters, in 2026, 25,000 more placements will be offered for the universities with applicants from Southeast Asia being prioritised.&nbsp;Universities may receive more student spots if they can show that they can provide safe and secure housing and increase enrolments from Southeast Asian countries. The move is a part of Australia’s plan to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and reduce its economic reliance on China.&nbsp;Australian International Education Assistant Minister, Julian Hill, told national broadcaster ABC, that it is important for Australia to build lasting connections with its Southeast Asian neighbours by hosting their top students.&nbsp;The cap does not apply to students who move from Australian high schools to public universities or TAFE (technical and further education).<h2>Why international student numbers were limited in 2024</h2>In 2024, the Labour government set a cap of 270,000 international students to reduce the migration levels. It also increased student visa fees to A$2,000 (around ₹1.14 lakh) and slowed down visa approvals. This was done to control the rising cost of housing, which becomes a major concern before the May 2024 elections.<h2>Why Australian government policies are changing now</h2>Education plays a key role in Australia as it is Australia’s fourth-largest export and it brings a significant amount of money for the government. International students pay nearly double what local students do and help to support universities financially. The education sector adds over A$50 billion to the economy each year and provides about 250,000 jobs.&nbsp;Last year, Australia’s top eight universities criticized the cap on foreign students, saying they rely heavily on the fees paid by international students. At the University of Sydney, over 40 per cent of university's income comes from international students.&nbsp;China and India are currently the biggest sources of international students in Australia. Australian Education Minister, Jason Clare, said that the education sector is vital to the economy, but its growth must be controlled to make it sustainable in the long term.&nbsp;“International education doesn’t just make us money, it makes us friends. This is about making sure international education grows in a way that supports students, universities and the national interest," Clare said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The new planning level gives the sector certainty to continue delivering a high-quality educational experience to international students, while addressing national priorities,” he said, according to reports.

Last year, Australia’s top universities criticized the cap on foreign students, saying they rely heavily on the fees paid by international students.

The Australian government made an announcement on Monday (Aug 4), saying that they will raise the number of international students they allows into the country by 9 per cent in 2026, bringing the total to 295,000 (current cap - 270,000). The Australian government also added that they will give priority to students from Southeast Asia. This decision comes a year after Australia limited the entries of foreign students due to high migration. According to Reuters, in 2026, 25,000 more placements will be offered for the universities with applicants from Southeast Asia being prioritised. Universities may receive more student spots if they can show that they can provide safe and secure housing and increase enrolments from Southeast Asian countries. The move is a part of Australia’s plan to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and reduce its economic reliance on China. Australian International Education Assistant Minister, Julian Hill, told national broadcaster ABC, that it is important for Australia to build lasting connections with its Southeast Asian neighbours by hosting their top students. The cap does not apply to students who move from Australian high schools to public universities or TAFE (technical and further education). Why international student numbers were limited in 2024 In 2024, the Labour government set a cap of 270,000 international students to reduce the migration levels. It also increased student visa fees to A$2,000 (around ₹1.14 lakh) and slowed down visa approvals. This was done to control the rising cost of housing, which becomes a major concern before the May 2024 elections. Why Australian government policies are changing now Education plays a key role in Australia as it is Australia’s fourth-largest export and it brings a significant amount of money for the government. International students pay nearly double what local students do and help to support universities financially. The education sector adds over A$50 billion to the economy each year and provides about 250,000 jobs. Last year, Australia’s top eight universities criticized the cap on foreign students, saying they rely heavily on the fees paid by international students. At the University of Sydney, over 40 per cent of university's income comes from international students. China and India are currently the biggest sources of international students in Australia. Australian Education Minister, Jason Clare, said that the education sector is vital to the economy, but its growth must be controlled to make it sustainable in the long term. “International education doesn’t just make us money, it makes us friends. This is about making sure international education grows in a way that supports students, universities and the national interest," Clare said. “The new planning level gives the sector certainty to continue delivering a high-quality educational experience to international students, while addressing national priorities,” he said, according to reports.

Last year, Australia’s top universities criticised the cap on foreign students, saying they rely heavily on the fees paid by the international students.

Australia increases foreign student visa cap to 295,000 - Here's how it will benefit Indian students

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said his army will "professionally implement" the decision of the minister to achieve the objectives of war in Gaza. During a visit to a post of the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) in the GAZA buffer zone on Tuesday (August 5), Katz said he has “formulated his position regarding the security and political steps Israel must take to ensure the achievement of the war’s objectives," Times of Israel reported. The defence minister said he will present his plan to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet later in the day. “The defeat of Hamas in Gaza, while creating the conditions for the return of the hostages, is the main objective of the war in Gaza, and we must take all necessary actions to achieve it,” Katz said in a statement released by his office.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed</a>&nbsp;The minister, while visiting the Ridge 70 post, also said, “At the same time, we must ensure the safety and security of Israeli communities by maintaining a permanent IDF presence in a peripheral security zone at strategic points in Gaza, from which attacks on communities and the smuggling of weapons into Gaza can be prevented."&nbsp;This came after Netanyahu's office announced on Monday (August 4) that Israel is going to "fully occupy" the Gaza Strip. The move has reportedly been opposed by many ministers of Netanyahu, including the IDF Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir. A senior official close to the prime minister was quoted by Ynet as saying: “The die is cast, we are going for a full occupation of the Gaza Strip.” They added, “There will be operations even in areas where hostages are being held. If the IDF chief of staff doesn’t agree, he should resign.”<h2>'There will be no Palestine'</h2>Meanwhile, the Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called for a two-state solution in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, saying that its failure will lead to the non-existence of Palestine. Wong's statement came amid Australia's push for Israel to sign a ceasefire and urgently speed up the flow of aid in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;"There is a risk there will be no Palestine left to recognise if the international community doesn’t move to create that pathway to a two-state solution,” the Australian minister said. “It has been my long-held position that there will be no peace and security for the people of Israel, unless we resolve to a Palestinian state. That has been my view for decades," she added.

After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu office announced to fully occupy the Gaza Strip, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said his army will professionally implement the decision of the minister to achieve the objectives of war. 

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said his army will "professionally implement" the decision of the minister to achieve the objectives of war in Gaza. During a visit to a post of the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) in the GAZA buffer zone on Tuesday (August 5), Katz said he has “formulated his position regarding the security and political steps Israel must take to ensure the achievement of the war’s objectives," Times of Israel reported. The defence minister said he will present his plan to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his cabinet later in the day. “The defeat of Hamas in Gaza, while creating the conditions for the return of the hostages, is the main objective of the war in Gaza, and we must take all necessary actions to achieve it,” Katz said in a statement released by his office. https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed The minister, while visiting the Ridge 70 post, also said, “At the same time, we must ensure the safety and security of Israeli communities by maintaining a permanent IDF presence in a peripheral security zone at strategic points in Gaza, from which attacks on communities and the smuggling of weapons into Gaza can be prevented." This came after Netanyahu's office announced on Monday (August 4) that Israel is going to "fully occupy" the Gaza Strip. The move has reportedly been opposed by many ministers of Netanyahu, including the IDF Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir. A senior official close to the prime minister was quoted by Ynet as saying: “The die is cast, we are going for a full occupation of the Gaza Strip.” They added, “There will be operations even in areas where hostages are being held. If the IDF chief of staff doesn’t agree, he should resign.” 'There will be no Palestine' Meanwhile, the Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called for a two-state solution in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, saying that its failure will lead to the non-existence of Palestine. Wong's statement came amid Australia's push for Israel to sign a ceasefire and urgently speed up the flow of aid in the Gaza Strip. "There is a risk there will be no Palestine left to recognise if the international community doesn’t move to create that pathway to a two-state solution,” the Australian minister said. “It has been my long-held position that there will be no peace and security for the people of Israel, unless we resolve to a Palestinian state. That has been my view for decades," she added.

After Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced to "fully occupy' the Gaza Strip, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said his army will "professionally implement" the decision of the minister to achieve the objectives of war.&nbsp;

Israel Defence Minister calls for IDF to 'implement' Netanyahu's plan to achieve war goals in Gaza

Amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will hold a cabinet meeting and discuss Gaza and a hostage deal, an Israeli official told news outlet The Jerusalem Post on Tuesday (August 5). This meeting comes months after talks in Doha between Hamas, Israel, and the mediators. The official said, "the prime minister is considering all available options regarding the next steps" also highlighted "broad consensus that a deal must include all the hostages" was reached after Trump's Special Envoy Steve Witkoff returned to the US, post his visit to Israel.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed</a> Sources close the PMO said, Netanyahu has decided to fully reoccupy Gaza, including operations in areas where hostages are held. Hamas has also responded to the media reports, the outlet quoted, "Israel's threats are repetitive, worthless, and have no influence on our decisions."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hamas-spreading-lie-of-starvation-netanyahu-urges-red-cross-committee-to-provide-food-to-israeli-hostages-amid-brutal-abuse-1754241827479">'Hamas spreading lie of starvation': Netanyahu urges Red Cross Committee to provide food to Israeli hostages amid 'brutal abuse'</a>&nbsp;Gaza is also facing the worst humanitarian crisis as people are dying of starvation. Israeli leaders blame Hamas for blocking aid sent to them and the situation on the ground is only worsening. US President Donald Trump has now acknowledged the starvation in Gaza, which is in contrast with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's understanding of the situation. The humanitarian situation in war-torn Gaza is dire, and the UN has sounded an alarm on the ground situation. While reports of malnutrition and scarcity of food have drawn global attention, Israel says 'close to 4,500 trucks have entered Gaza, including flour for bakeries and 2,500 tons of baby food and high-calorie special food for children'.&nbsp;

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will hold a cabinet meeting and discuss Gaza and a hostage deal, an Israeli official told news outlet The Jerusalem Post on Tuesday (August 5). 

Amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will hold a cabinet meeting and discuss Gaza and a hostage deal, an Israeli official told news outlet The Jerusalem Post on Tuesday (August 5). This meeting comes months after talks in Doha between Hamas, Israel, and the mediators. The official said, "the prime minister is considering all available options regarding the next steps" also highlighted "broad consensus that a deal must include all the hostages" was reached after Trump's Special Envoy Steve Witkoff returned to the US, post his visit to Israel. https://www.wionews.com/videos/gaza-war-israelis-call-for-peaceful-coexistence-with-palestine-demand-release-of-hostages-1754392495281/embed Sources close the PMO said, Netanyahu has decided to fully reoccupy Gaza, including operations in areas where hostages are held. Hamas has also responded to the media reports, the outlet quoted, "Israel's threats are repetitive, worthless, and have no influence on our decisions." Also read: 'Hamas spreading lie of starvation': Netanyahu urges Red Cross Committee to provide food to Israeli hostages amid 'brutal abuse' Gaza is also facing the worst humanitarian crisis as people are dying of starvation. Israeli leaders blame Hamas for blocking aid sent to them and the situation on the ground is only worsening. US President Donald Trump has now acknowledged the starvation in Gaza, which is in contrast with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's understanding of the situation. The humanitarian situation in war-torn Gaza is dire, and the UN has sounded an alarm on the ground situation. While reports of malnutrition and scarcity of food have drawn global attention, Israel says 'close to 4,500 trucks have entered Gaza, including flour for bakeries and 2,500 tons of baby food and high-calorie special food for children'.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will hold a cabinet meeting and discuss Gaza and a hostage deal, an Israeli official told news outlet The Jerusalem Post on Tuesday (August 5).&nbsp;

'Considering all options': Netanyahu ahead of cabinet meeting on Gaza occupation and hostage deal

Amid the ongoing India-US tariff tussle, a video of a former US envoy has surfaced, where he was seen admitting that the US itself encouraged India to buy Russian oil in order to stabilise global oil prices. Notably, the envoy's statement came as US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil.&nbsp;Trump has recently threatened India with imposing 25 per cent tariffs, along with penalties, citing several reasons, including oil and arms trade with Russia.&nbsp;In a video that has gone viral, former US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti admitted that the US encouraged India to buy Russian oil. Garcetti's statement has put the US in a baffled situation.<h2>WATCH video</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Hear US Ambassador Eric Garcetti openly admit that the US wanted India to buy Russian oil to keep global prices stable. Yet today, Trump, defying all logic, is accusing India of ‘war profiteering.’ When nothing else works, just blame India? <a href="https://t.co/5bOokHyIQe">pic.twitter.com/5bOokHyIQe</a>&mdash; Jai Gohil (@Junkie4news_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Junkie4news_/status/1952427887736287359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"They bought Russian oil because we wanted somebody to buy Russian oil at a price cap. That was not a violation or anything. It was actually the design of the policy because, as a commodity, we didn’t want the oil prices going up, and they fulfilled that," Garcetti said at an event last year. The video has shocked netizens, with people noticing how the US stance has flipped with time, contradicting its foreign policy.<h2>‘Is Trump a hypocrite’, netizens ask</h2>As the video went viral, netizens started slamming the US president over his threats to India. One of the users wrote, "Someone should show this clip to President Trump." Another user asked Grok, "Is Grok a Trump hypocrite? Listen video." While a third user slammed the US president and said, “He will blame it on Biden. It wasn't his policy..so..” "Hear US Ambassador Eric Garcetti openly admit that the US wanted India to buy Russian oil to keep global prices stable. Yet today, Trump, defying all logic, is accusing India of ‘war profiteering.’ When nothing else works, just blame India?" another user wrote. After Trump's continuous threats, India today called out the United States and the European Union for their "unjustified and unreasonable" targeting of India for having ties with Russia, stressing that its purchase of Russian crude oil was "actively encouraged" by the US. "The US at that time actively encouraged such imports by India for strengthening global energy market stability," India's Ministry of External Affairs said.

In a video that has gone viral, former US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti admitted that the US encouraged India to buy Russian oil. Garcetti's statement has put the US in a baffled situation.

Amid the ongoing India-US tariff tussle, a video of a former US envoy has surfaced, where he was seen admitting that the US itself encouraged India to buy Russian oil in order to stabilise global oil prices. Notably, the envoy's statement came as US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil. Trump has recently threatened India with imposing 25 per cent tariffs, along with penalties, citing several reasons, including oil and arms trade with Russia. In a video that has gone viral, former US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti admitted that the US encouraged India to buy Russian oil. Garcetti's statement has put the US in a baffled situation. WATCH video

In a video that has gone viral, former US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti admitted that the US encouraged India to buy Russian oil. Garcetti's statement has put the US in a baffled situation.

US wanted India to import Russian oil when Ukraine war started, but flipped now - Here's what US envoy reveals | WATCH

Over 7,000 cases of the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus have been reported across the Guangdong province of China since July, resulting in Covid-style containment measures. Authorities of Foshan City, the worst-affected area, have directed hospitalisation for patients, where they will be protected with mosquito nets.&nbsp;They will only be discharged from the hospital after they test negative or complete a seven-day stay. The chikungunya virus spreads after an infected mosquito bites an individual. It causes severe joint pain and fever, which can last for years as well, according to a report by the BBC.&nbsp;This virus is rare in China but is common in South and Southeast Asia and parts of Africa. Along with Foshan, the outbreak of this virus has spread across multiple Chinese cities. According to the South China Morning Post, at least 12 other cities across Guangdong province were affected by chikungunya infections, with nearly 3,000 new cases recorded in the past week alone.&nbsp;The first case was also confirmed on Monday in Hong Kong after a 12-year-old boy was detected with chikungunya symptoms while visiting Foshan in July. “This is scary. The prolonged consequences sound very painful,” a user posted on Weibo.&nbsp;Meanwhile, health authorities confirmed all the reported cases are mild, and 95 per cent of patients are recovering within a week. Still, the US has advised all its people who are travelling to China to exercise “increased caution” in response to the outbreak.<h3>What is the chikungunya virus?</h3>This disease occurs after people are bitten by an infected mosquito. The symptoms of chikungunya occur within three to seven days, which include fever, joint pain, rash, headache, muscle pain, and swollen joints.&nbsp;In this case, patients feel better within a week most of the time, but in severe cases, the joint pain can last for months or even years. In this case, Newborns, the elderly, and people with underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, are more susceptible to the virus.

Foshan City has been directed to hospitalise patients, where their beds will be protected with mosquito nets. In addition, Hong Kong was also confirmed with the virus after a 12-year-old boy was detected with chikungunya symptoms.

Over 7,000 cases of the mosquito-borne chikungunya virus have been reported across the Guangdong province of China since July, resulting in Covid-style containment measures. Authorities of Foshan City, the worst-affected area, have directed hospitalisation for patients, where they will be protected with mosquito nets. They will only be discharged from the hospital after they test negative or complete a seven-day stay. The chikungunya virus spreads after an infected mosquito bites an individual. It causes severe joint pain and fever, which can last for years as well, according to a report by the BBC. This virus is rare in China but is common in South and Southeast Asia and parts of Africa. Along with Foshan, the outbreak of this virus has spread across multiple Chinese cities. According to the South China Morning Post, at least 12 other cities across Guangdong province were affected by chikungunya infections, with nearly 3,000 new cases recorded in the past week alone. The first case was also confirmed on Monday in Hong Kong after a 12-year-old boy was detected with chikungunya symptoms while visiting Foshan in July. “This is scary. The prolonged consequences sound very painful,” a user posted on Weibo. Meanwhile, health authorities confirmed all the reported cases are mild, and 95 per cent of patients are recovering within a week. Still, the US has advised all its people who are travelling to China to exercise “increased caution” in response to the outbreak. What is the chikungunya virus? This disease occurs after people are bitten by an infected mosquito. The symptoms of chikungunya occur within three to seven days, which include fever, joint pain, rash, headache, muscle pain, and swollen joints. In this case, patients feel better within a week most of the time, but in severe cases, the joint pain can last for months or even years. In this case, Newborns, the elderly, and people with underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, are more susceptible to the virus.

Foshan City has been directed to hospitalise patients, where their beds will be protected with mosquito nets. In addition, Hong Kong was also confirmed with the virus after a 12-year-old boy was detected with chikungunya symptoms.

Chikungunya outbreak: COVID-19-style curbs return after over 7,000 cases reported in China’s province — Details inside

A criminal network smuggled young Nepali women into India despite the prominent presence of non-governmental organisations working against human trafficking along the eastern border of Nepal. So far, nine arrests have been made, seven women and two men were nabbed at the Panitanki border point in India. The traffickers were planning to send the Nepali nationals to Hong Kong using fake Indian IDs.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-floods-schools-shut-shelters-open-amid-severe-floods-1754387951786/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-floods-schools-shut-shelters-open-amid-severe-floods-1754387951786/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;On Friday (August 1), seven women between the ages of 16 and 21, along with two men, entered India through the Kakadbhitta-Panitanki crossing via Mechi river. The traffickers have worked around legal loopholes to smuggle young girls. They managed to dodge Nepali Police and the NGO representatives usually stationed at the border. The border security force of India, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), asked them for IDs to verify their authenticity. And it was during the initial questioning that the entire plan was revealed. They were then handed over to Khoribari Police of India to conduct out further probe. During the investigation, the authorities found that the women had Indian passports and Aadhaar cards in addition to the Nepali documents in their possession. Each detainee was charged between $2,140 and $3,566 for the entire package.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indians-to-pay-15k-to-enter-us-trump-s-america-will-force-foreigners-to-post-hefty-bond-for-visa-1754383690677">Indians to pay $15k to enter US? America to force tourists to post bond for visa</a> Speaking to news outlet The Kathmandu Post, Govinda Ghimire, chief of Kakadbhitta office of Maiti Nepal, a Nepali NGO that works to rescue trafficked women said, “We had gone to the police station to facilitate the rescue of the girls and hand them over to their guardians. The India police were preparing paperwork to send them back. But once Indian passports, Aadhaar cards, and Nepali documents were found in their possession, the Indian police refused to release them.”&nbsp;Since 2005, Hong Kong has imposed restrictions on issuing work or domestic helper visas to Nepali nationals. But there is no such restriction for Indian passport holders. And so, this has been the tactic used by the traffickers.

Nepali women, who were promised work in Hong Kong, were detained by Indian border forces as they were caught with fake Indian documents. Since 2005, Hong Kong has imposed restrictions on issuing work or domestic helper visas to Nepali nationals. 

A criminal network smuggled young Nepali women into India despite the prominent presence of non-governmental organisations working against human trafficking along the eastern border of Nepal. So far, nine arrests have been made, seven women and two men were nabbed at the Panitanki border point in India. The traffickers were planning to send the Nepali nationals to Hong Kong using fake Indian IDs. https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-floods-schools-shut-shelters-open-amid-severe-floods-1754387951786/embed On Friday (August 1), seven women between the ages of 16 and 21, along with two men, entered India through the Kakadbhitta-Panitanki crossing via Mechi river. The traffickers have worked around legal loopholes to smuggle young girls. They managed to dodge Nepali Police and the NGO representatives usually stationed at the border. The border security force of India, Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), asked them for IDs to verify their authenticity. And it was during the initial questioning that the entire plan was revealed. They were then handed over to Khoribari Police of India to conduct out further probe. During the investigation, the authorities found that the women had Indian passports and Aadhaar cards in addition to the Nepali documents in their possession. Each detainee was charged between $2,140 and $3,566 for the entire package. Also read: Indians to pay $15k to enter US? America to force tourists to post bond for visa Speaking to news outlet The Kathmandu Post, Govinda Ghimire, chief of Kakadbhitta office of Maiti Nepal, a Nepali NGO that works to rescue trafficked women said, “We had gone to the police station to facilitate the rescue of the girls and hand them over to their guardians. The India police were preparing paperwork to send them back. But once Indian passports, Aadhaar cards, and Nepali documents were found in their possession, the Indian police refused to release them.” Since 2005, Hong Kong has imposed restrictions on issuing work or domestic helper visas to Nepali nationals. But there is no such restriction for Indian passport holders. And so, this has been the tactic used by the traffickers.

Nepali women, who were promised work in Hong Kong, were detained by Indian border forces as they were caught with fake Indian documents. Since 2005, Hong Kong has imposed restrictions on issuing work or domestic helper visas to Nepali nationals.&nbsp;

Nepali women promised work in Hong Kong caught with fake Indian IDs

On Sunday (July 28), US House Speaker Mike Johnson said Jeffrey Epstein's key associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, should be awarded life imprisonment in place of the 20-year jail sentence she is already serving for abetting sexual crimes against minors. Johnson and the Trump administration have been under immense pressure for the US president's relationship with Epstein. He said, “...I think 20 years was a pittance. I think she should have a life sentence at least. I mean, think of all these unspeakable crimes." "It’s hard to put into words how evil this was, and that she orchestrated it and was a big part of it, at least under the criminal sanction, I think is an unforgivable thing. So again, not my decision, but I have great pause about that, as any reasonable person would," Johnson told news outlet NBC.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melania-involved-in-epstein-saga-new-claims-surfaces-amid-rising-pressure-on-trump-to-release-controversial-documents-1753604162319">Melania involved in Epstein saga? New claims surfaces amid rising pressure on Trump to release controversial documents</a>&nbsp;When the president was asked about Maxwell and whether she would be pardoned, he said he hadn’t considered a pardon or commutation, although he didn’t rule it out. To which Johnson added, “Obviously, that’s a decision of the president. He said he had not adequately considered that. I won’t get it in front of him. That’s not my lane. That would be up to the president. But if she has information that could help us, then I think she should testify. Let’s get that out there. And whatever they need to do to compel that testimony, as long as it’s truthful, I would be in favour of.”&nbsp;Epstein was charged with sexually trafficking minors, and it was during detention in 2019 that he died by suicide. While. Maxwell, who has been party to the crime, has been accused of recruiting minors for the criminal act.&nbsp;

US House Speaker Mike Johnson said Ghislaine Maxwell, who has been the key associate of Jeffrey Epstein, should be awarded life imprisonment. Maxwell is already serving a 20-year jail sentence for abetting sexual crimes against minors. 

On Sunday (July 28), US House Speaker Mike Johnson said Jeffrey Epstein's key associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, should be awarded life imprisonment in place of the 20-year jail sentence she is already serving for abetting sexual crimes against minors. Johnson and the Trump administration have been under immense pressure for the US president's relationship with Epstein. He said, “...I think 20 years was a pittance. I think she should have a life sentence at least. I mean, think of all these unspeakable crimes." "It’s hard to put into words how evil this was, and that she orchestrated it and was a big part of it, at least under the criminal sanction, I think is an unforgivable thing. So again, not my decision, but I have great pause about that, as any reasonable person would," Johnson told news outlet NBC. Also read: Melania involved in Epstein saga? New claims surfaces amid rising pressure on Trump to release controversial documents When the president was asked about Maxwell and whether she would be pardoned, he said he hadn’t considered a pardon or commutation, although he didn’t rule it out. To which Johnson added, “Obviously, that’s a decision of the president. He said he had not adequately considered that. I won’t get it in front of him. That’s not my lane. That would be up to the president. But if she has information that could help us, then I think she should testify. Let’s get that out there. And whatever they need to do to compel that testimony, as long as it’s truthful, I would be in favour of.” Epstein was charged with sexually trafficking minors, and it was during detention in 2019 that he died by suicide. While. Maxwell, who has been party to the crime, has been accused of recruiting minors for the criminal act.

US House Speaker Mike Johnson said Ghislaine Maxwell, who has been the key associate of Jeffrey Epstein, should be awarded life imprisonment. Maxwell is already serving a 20-year jail sentence for abetting sexual crimes against minors.&nbsp;

'Ghislaine Maxwell should have a life sentence at least': US House Speaker Mike Johnson on Jeffrey Epstein's key associate

In a contentious policy shift, the Trump administration is set out to deny US visas to transgender women athletes who are looking to compete in women's sports, arguing that 'Men do not belong in Women's sports'. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) this week announced that it had revised its policy to limit access to some of the premium visa categories, such as O-1A visas for people with extraordinary ability and work-based immigrant visas (E11, E21), to biological women only.&nbsp;Male-born athletes, including transgender women, will be deemed ineligible under the new policy if the reason for which they are applying is to compete in women's sports in the US. The move is a direct reaction to Executive Order 14201, "Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports," signed by President Trump earlier this year in February.&nbsp;"Men do not belong in women's sports. USCIS is closing the loophole for foreign male athletes whose only chance at winning elite sports is to change their gender identity and leverage their biological advantages against women," said USCIS Spokesperson Matthew Tragesser. "It's a matter of safety, fairness, respect, and truth that only female athletes receive a visa to come to the US to participate in women's sports. The Trump Administration is standing up for the silent majority who've long been victims of leftist policies that defy common sense," he said. &nbsp;The justification for the action, according to officials, is to safeguard the integrity, safety, and fairness of female athletics. The policy revision also redefines how USCIS assesses the achievements of foreign players. It says that any fame achieved through competing with women as a transgender woman will be considered an adverse factor in visa consideration even if such players have gained international recognition.&nbsp;Under the new directive, the agency has spelled out that it will not view transgender women's inclusion in women's sports as advancing the US national interest. The policy is the first where gender identity has been expressly cited as a reason to deny admission to the United States under the immigration system.&nbsp;Legal experts indicate that the action is also likely to unleash a flurry of lawsuits, particularly if visa petitions are rejected outright because of gender identity, potentially raising constitutional and international human rights issues. Trump signed the "Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports" executive order in February 2025 to safeguard opportunities for women and girls to compete in safe and fair sports.&nbsp;"It is the policy of the United States to rescind all funds from educational programs that deprive women and girls of fair athletic opportunities, which results in the endangerment, humiliation, and silencing of women and girls and deprives them of privacy. It shall also be the policy of the United States to oppose male competitive participation in women's sports more broadly, as a matter of safety, fairness, dignity, and truth," the White House said.

Men do not belong in womens sports Transgender athletes face visa ban under Trumps fairness in sports executive order

In a contentious policy shift, the Trump administration is set out to deny US visas to transgender women athletes who are looking to compete in women's sports, arguing that 'Men do not belong in Women's sports'. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) this week announced that it had revised its policy to limit access to some of the premium visa categories, such as O-1A visas for people with extraordinary ability and work-based immigrant visas (E11, E21), to biological women only. Male-born athletes, including transgender women, will be deemed ineligible under the new policy if the reason for which they are applying is to compete in women's sports in the US. The move is a direct reaction to Executive Order 14201, "Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports," signed by President Trump earlier this year in February. "Men do not belong in women's sports. USCIS is closing the loophole for foreign male athletes whose only chance at winning elite sports is to change their gender identity and leverage their biological advantages against women," said USCIS Spokesperson Matthew Tragesser. "It's a matter of safety, fairness, respect, and truth that only female athletes receive a visa to come to the US to participate in women's sports. The Trump Administration is standing up for the silent majority who've long been victims of leftist policies that defy common sense," he said. The justification for the action, according to officials, is to safeguard the integrity, safety, and fairness of female athletics. The policy revision also redefines how USCIS assesses the achievements of foreign players. It says that any fame achieved through competing with women as a transgender woman will be considered an adverse factor in visa consideration even if such players have gained international recognition. Under the new directive, the agency has spelled out that it will not view transgender women's inclusion in women's sports as advancing the US national interest. The policy is the first where gender identity has been expressly cited as a reason to deny admission to the United States under the immigration system. Legal experts indicate that the action is also likely to unleash a flurry of lawsuits, particularly if visa petitions are rejected outright because of gender identity, potentially raising constitutional and international human rights issues. Trump signed the "Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports" executive order in February 2025 to safeguard opportunities for women and girls to compete in safe and fair sports. "It is the policy of the United States to rescind all funds from educational programs that deprive women and girls of fair athletic opportunities, which results in the endangerment, humiliation, and silencing of women and girls and deprives them of privacy. It shall also be the policy of the United States to oppose male competitive participation in women's sports more broadly, as a matter of safety, fairness, dignity, and truth," the White House said.

According to the new policy, male-born athletes, including transgender women, will be considered ineligible if their goal is to compete in women's sports in the US

'Men do not belong in women's sports': Transgender athletes face visa ban under Trump’s ‘fairness in sports’ executive order

After US President Donald Trump criticised India for buying Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine, the Kremlin on Tuesday (August 5) slammed Trump's threats to raise tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, calling it "illegal". Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, while speaking to reporters, said that it was unacceptable to force countries to stop trading with Russia, according to Reuters and AFP reports.&nbsp;Peskov further stressed that sovereign nations can choose their trading partners.&nbsp;“Sovereign countries have the right to choose their own trading partners,” spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters.&nbsp;Trump earlier took to Truth Social, posting, "They don’t care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine." The US president further accused India of selling Russian oil "on the Open Market for big profits”.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-tariffs-average-us-tariffs-jump-to-nearly-20-surge-10-times-under-trump-2-0-1754380751487/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-tariffs-average-us-tariffs-jump-to-nearly-20-surge-10-times-under-trump-2-0-1754380751487/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump last week also imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, along with penalties for arms trading with Russia, as well as oil imports. Later, on Monday (Aug 4), Trump issued a fresh threat of a “substantial hike” in trade duties on India for buying Russian oil and “selling it on the open market for big profits”.&nbsp;Following the statements made by the US president, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “India has been targeted by the United States and the European Union for importing oil from Russia after the commencement of the Ukraine conflict.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hypocrisy-exposed-west-s-russia-energy-trade-is-on-while-trump-boxes-india-modi-vs-trump-russia-oil-gas-nato-eu-trade-reality-explained-1754380112701">Also read: Bad if we do it, good if you do? US, West's Russia energy trade HYPOCRISY EXPOSED as Trump browbeats India with tariffs, fines</a>&nbsp;India even stated that the US earlier actively encouraged such imports by India for strengthening the stability of global energy markets.&nbsp;“In this background, the targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable. Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security,” the statement added.

Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, while speaking to reporters, said that it was unacceptable to force countries to stop trading with Russia.

After US President Donald Trump criticised India for buying Russian oil amid its war with Ukraine, the Kremlin on Tuesday (August 5) slammed Trump's threats to raise tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, calling it "illegal". Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, while speaking to reporters, said that it was unacceptable to force countries to stop trading with Russia, according to Reuters and AFP reports. Peskov further stressed that sovereign nations can choose their trading partners. “Sovereign countries have the right to choose their own trading partners,” spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Trump earlier took to Truth Social, posting, "They don’t care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine." The US president further accused India of selling Russian oil "on the Open Market for big profits”. https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-tariffs-average-us-tariffs-jump-to-nearly-20-surge-10-times-under-trump-2-0-1754380751487/embed Trump last week also imposed 25 per cent tariffs on India, along with penalties for arms trading with Russia, as well as oil imports. Later, on Monday (Aug 4), Trump issued a fresh threat of a “substantial hike” in trade duties on India for buying Russian oil and “selling it on the open market for big profits”. Following the statements made by the US president, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, “India has been targeted by the United States and the European Union for importing oil from Russia after the commencement of the Ukraine conflict.” Also read: Bad if we do it, good if you do? US, West's Russia energy trade HYPOCRISY EXPOSED as Trump browbeats India with tariffs, fines India even stated that the US earlier actively encouraged such imports by India for strengthening the stability of global energy markets. “In this background, the targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable. Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security,” the statement added.

Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, while speaking to reporters, said that it was unacceptable to force countries to stop trading with Russia.

'Can't force countries': Kremlin hits back at Trump for 'illegally' threatening India over Russian oil imports

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called for a two-state solution in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, saying that its failure will lead to the non-existence of Palestine. Wong's statement came amid Australia's push for Israel to sign a ceasefire and urgently speed up the flow of aid in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, the Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, talked to the Palestinian Authority president, Mahmoud Abbas, to push for humanitarian aid to be allowed into the war zone and also to release the remaining hostages from Gaza.&nbsp;&nbsp;Albanese also reportedly was in an effort to arrange a call with the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He told Abbas on a call that Australia remained committed to a two-state solution, “because a just and lasting peace depends upon it”.&nbsp;A statement released by the office of Albanese on Tuesday (August 5) said, “President Abbas thanked Prime Minister Albanese for Australia’s economic and humanitarian support. The leaders discussed deepening cooperation across a range of areas, and agreed to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly."&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-warns-of-widespread-famine-in-gaza-over-180-deaths-from-starvation-reported-since-war-began-1754390665855/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-warns-of-widespread-famine-in-gaza-over-180-deaths-from-starvation-reported-since-war-began-1754390665855/embed</a>&nbsp;In September, in a UN meeting in New York, Australia's ally nations, including Canada and France, will recognize the Palestinian statehood. Talking on the &nbsp;ABC radio, Wong said she had said for a year that Australia would do the same.&nbsp;“There is a risk there will be no Palestine left to recognise if the international community doesn’t move to create that pathway to a two-state solution,” the Australian minister said. “It has been my long-held position that there will be no peace and security for the people of Israel, unless we resolve to a Palestinian state. That has been my view for decades," she added.<h2>'Full occupation' of Gaza?</h2>This came after the claims that Netanyahu is all set to carry out the "full occupation" of Gaza. Several ministers said Netanyahu used the phrase “occupation of the Strip” in private discussions outlining his vision for an expanded military campaign, a significant change in tone as the government debates the next stage of the war.&nbsp;A senior official close to the prime minister was quoted by Ynet as saying: “The die is cast, we are going for a full occupation of the Gaza Strip.” They added, “There will be operations even in areas where hostages are being held. If the IDF chief of staff doesn’t agree, he should resign.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the claim that Netanyahu is planning to fully occupy Gaza, the Australian foreign minister has called for a two-state solution, saying that if not done immediately, there will be no Palestine.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called for a two-state solution in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, saying that its failure will lead to the non-existence of Palestine. Wong's statement came amid Australia's push for Israel to sign a ceasefire and urgently speed up the flow of aid in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile, the Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, talked to the Palestinian Authority president, Mahmoud Abbas, to push for humanitarian aid to be allowed into the war zone and also to release the remaining hostages from Gaza. Albanese also reportedly was in an effort to arrange a call with the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He told Abbas on a call that Australia remained committed to a two-state solution, “because a just and lasting peace depends upon it”. A statement released by the office of Albanese on Tuesday (August 5) said, “President Abbas thanked Prime Minister Albanese for Australia’s economic and humanitarian support. The leaders discussed deepening cooperation across a range of areas, and agreed to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly." https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-warns-of-widespread-famine-in-gaza-over-180-deaths-from-starvation-reported-since-war-began-1754390665855/embed In September, in a UN meeting in New York, Australia's ally nations, including Canada and France, will recognize the Palestinian statehood. Talking on the ABC radio, Wong said she had said for a year that Australia would do the same. “There is a risk there will be no Palestine left to recognise if the international community doesn’t move to create that pathway to a two-state solution,” the Australian minister said. “It has been my long-held position that there will be no peace and security for the people of Israel, unless we resolve to a Palestinian state. That has been my view for decades," she added. 'Full occupation' of Gaza? This came after the claims that Netanyahu is all set to carry out the "full occupation" of Gaza. Several ministers said Netanyahu used the phrase “occupation of the Strip” in private discussions outlining his vision for an expanded military campaign, a significant change in tone as the government debates the next stage of the war. A senior official close to the prime minister was quoted by Ynet as saying: “The die is cast, we are going for a full occupation of the Gaza Strip.” They added, “There will be operations even in areas where hostages are being held. If the IDF chief of staff doesn’t agree, he should resign.”

After the claim that Netanyahu is planning to fully occupy Gaza, the Australian foreign minister has called for a two-state solution, saying that if not done immediately, there will be no Palestine.

'There will be no Palestine to recognise if...': Australia calls for two-state solution after Netanyahu plans to 'fully occupy' Gaza

Philippines President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr on Tuesday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India's role in rescuing Filipino nationals after a Houthi rebel attack in 2024, while addressing the joint press meet in Delhi. &nbsp;He emphasised the importance of safe navigation and security for Filipino seafarers. "Safe navigation and security are important especially for Filipino seafarers who are on almost every ship plying these historic and strategic sea lanes. I again thank the Indian people and the brave men and women of the Indian Navy through Prime Minister Modi for your kind rescue of our nationals in 2024 after a Houthi rebel attack," he said. &nbsp;"We recognise India's influence as the first responder role in this critical area, and we want to work with you for a free and open Indo-Pacific. We both have high stakes in the future of our Indo-Pacific region and in the world," he added. &nbsp;President Marcos announced visa-free entry privileges for Indian tourists, while PM Modi reciprocated with a similar scheme for Filipino tourists. The two leaders also welcomed the resumption of direct flights between India and the Philippines from October 2025. &nbsp;"In this respect, I reiterated our introduction of visa-free entry privileges and extended our invitation for more Indian tourists to visit the Philippines. I thank Prime Minister Modi in turn for the introduction of a scheme to grant visa-free of charge to Filipino tourists travelling to India. We welcome the resumption of direct flights from October this year and renewed our commitment to sustaining and expanding such direct air connectivity," he said. &nbsp;The Philippines and India committed to deepening their strategic partnership, focusing on shared concerns such as maritime security, supply chain resilience, food security, and counter-terrorism. "Sea lines of communication crisscross the Indian Ocean. Maritime trade to and from the Far East and the Pacific through the Indian Ocean has and continues to underpin our prosperity and our people's aspirations that they have held for centuries," he said. &nbsp;Marcos said that the Philippines-India strategic partnership will continue to collaborate on shared concerns. &nbsp;"The Philippines-India strategic partnership will doubtless resonate beyond the confines of our bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Modi and I have committed to bringing our collaboration to bear on shared concerns. A free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, security and rule of law in the maritime commons. supply chain resilience, food security, countering terrorism and other traditional and non-traditional threats relative to the maritime sphere," he said. Both leaders agreed to work together for a free and open Indo-Pacific region, promoting peace, stability, and adherence to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). &nbsp;President Marcos appreciated India's support for ASEAN's unity and centrality, particularly during the Philippines' chairmanship in 2026. PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening ties with ASEAN. "I thank Prime Minister Modi once again for India's support for the peaceful settlement of disputes and adherence to international law especially the UNCLOS, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and the 2016 award in the South China Sea arbitration as incoming chair of ASEAN for 2026 as current coordinator as well for ASEAN India comprehensive strategic partnership. I thank Prime Minister Modi for his government's support for ASEAN in its unity and centrality and our chairmanship in 2026," he said. &nbsp;Marcos said that a new era of closer, multi-dimensional and impactful engagement between the Philippines and India was here. "Let me close by once again thanking Prime Minister Modi, President Droupadi Murmu and the Indian government and people for your great hospitality and the devotion shown to our relationship. Indeed, today we herald a new era of closer, multi-dimensional and impactful engagement between the Philippines and India," he said. The Philippines' President is visiting India from August 4-8. The visit marked a new era of closer engagement between the Philippines and India, with both nations poised to enhance their cooperation in various areas. The agreements and understandings reached during the visit are expected to boost bilateral relations and promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

President Marcos appreciated India's support for ASEAN's unity and centrality, particularly during the Philippines' chairmanship in 2026. PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening ties with ASEAN.

Philippines President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr on Tuesday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India's role in rescuing Filipino nationals after a Houthi rebel attack in 2024, while addressing the joint press meet in Delhi. He emphasised the importance of safe navigation and security for Filipino seafarers. "Safe navigation and security are important especially for Filipino seafarers who are on almost every ship plying these historic and strategic sea lanes. I again thank the Indian people and the brave men and women of the Indian Navy through Prime Minister Modi for your kind rescue of our nationals in 2024 after a Houthi rebel attack," he said. "We recognise India's influence as the first responder role in this critical area, and we want to work with you for a free and open Indo-Pacific. We both have high stakes in the future of our Indo-Pacific region and in the world," he added. President Marcos announced visa-free entry privileges for Indian tourists, while PM Modi reciprocated with a similar scheme for Filipino tourists. The two leaders also welcomed the resumption of direct flights between India and the Philippines from October 2025. "In this respect, I reiterated our introduction of visa-free entry privileges and extended our invitation for more Indian tourists to visit the Philippines. I thank Prime Minister Modi in turn for the introduction of a scheme to grant visa-free of charge to Filipino tourists travelling to India. We welcome the resumption of direct flights from October this year and renewed our commitment to sustaining and expanding such direct air connectivity," he said. The Philippines and India committed to deepening their strategic partnership, focusing on shared concerns such as maritime security, supply chain resilience, food security, and counter-terrorism. "Sea lines of communication crisscross the Indian Ocean. Maritime trade to and from the Far East and the Pacific through the Indian Ocean has and continues to underpin our prosperity and our people's aspirations that they have held for centuries," he said. Marcos said that the Philippines-India strategic partnership will continue to collaborate on shared concerns. "The Philippines-India strategic partnership will doubtless resonate beyond the confines of our bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Modi and I have committed to bringing our collaboration to bear on shared concerns. A free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, security and rule of law in the maritime commons. supply chain resilience, food security, countering terrorism and other traditional and non-traditional threats relative to the maritime sphere," he said. Both leaders agreed to work together for a free and open Indo-Pacific region, promoting peace, stability, and adherence to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). President Marcos appreciated India's support for ASEAN's unity and centrality, particularly during the Philippines' chairmanship in 2026. PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening ties with ASEAN. "I thank Prime Minister Modi once again for India's support for the peaceful settlement of disputes and adherence to international law especially the UNCLOS, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and the 2016 award in the South China Sea arbitration as incoming chair of ASEAN for 2026 as current coordinator as well for ASEAN India comprehensive strategic partnership. I thank Prime Minister Modi for his government's support for ASEAN in its unity and centrality and our chairmanship in 2026," he said. Marcos said that a new era of closer, multi-dimensional and impactful engagement between the Philippines and India was here. "Let me close by once again thanking Prime Minister Modi, President Droupadi Murmu and the Indian government and people for your great hospitality and the devotion shown to our relationship. Indeed, today we herald a new era of closer, multi-dimensional and impactful engagement between the Philippines and India," he said. The Philippines' President is visiting India from August 4-8. The visit marked a new era of closer engagement between the Philippines and India, with both nations poised to enhance their cooperation in various areas. The agreements and understandings reached during the visit are expected to boost bilateral relations and promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

President Marcos appreciated India's support for ASEAN's unity and centrality, particularly during the Philippines' chairmanship in 2026. PM Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening ties with ASEAN.

Philippines President thanks PM Modi for rescuing Filipino nationals after 2024 Houthi rebel attack

Russia and China held some explosive joint military drills&nbsp;in the past five days till Tuesday (Aug 5), just days after President Donald Trump ordered the moving of US nuclear submarines in response to provocative rhetoric from Russian ex-president Dmitry Medvedev in the context of the Ukraine war. While these exercises were pre-planned, the symbolism of their firepower and use of anti-submarine warfare should not be missed.<h2>Maritime exercises of Russia and China had anti-submarine warfare drill&nbsp;</h2>The drills called ‘Maritime Interaction – 2025’ were held August 1-5 near Vladivostok, Russia, off the Sea of Japan. The exercises involved submarine rescue, anti-submarine warfare, air and missile defence, maritime combat and joint artillery drills.Russia's Admiral Tributs, a large anti-submarine ship, diesel-electric submarines and naval aviation assets were deployed in the exercise. China's guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, at least one diesel-electric submarine and a submarine rescue ship took part in the drill.<h2>Advanced maritime capabilities of Russia and China were on display</h2>The inclusion of destroyers, submarines, and air defence assets showed that the two nations are preparing for high-intensity naval scenarios. The geopolitical messaging is clear from reports in the Russian and Chinese media, both state-controlled. The narratives there frame the drills as a pushback against "US hegemony" and global dominance.<h2>Non-hostile, yet noteworthy timing: Purpose, strategic context of Russia-China joint naval drills</h2>The drills are intended to deepen Russia–China strategic cooperation under their annual defence partnership. It was described as 'non-hostile' toward third parties but is being widely interpreted as a response to increasing US military presence in the region.The drills, which were in fact pre-planned, began just after Trump’s August 1 announcement repositioning two US nuclear submarines. Therefore, the exercises will surely be seen as a symbolic counter-move by Russia and China.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-russia-flex-military-might-in-explosive-joint-war-drills-1754379840913/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-russia-flex-military-might-in-explosive-joint-war-drills-1754379840913/embed</a><h2>Will China join Russia in a naval war against US?</h2>While it is too early to make such assumptions, the signs of strategic coordination between Russia and China are unmissable. This is part of the two nations' strengthening their "No-Limits" Partnership, the 2022 agreement that stressed joint resistance to US influence. Exercises like Joint Sea-2025 demonstrate the growing interoperability of the two militaries.<h2>But officially, neither China nor Russia are making hostile stances</h2>Any immediate Chinese military involvement is unlikely in the event of direct Russia-US hostilities. Both the Russian and Chinese governments have publicly stated that the drills are not targeting any third nation.China has carefully avoided any direct military entanglements or provocations against the US, with official statements regularly stressing on 'regional peace and stability.'At present, the Chinese military is focused on Taiwan and the South China Sea.

The inclusion of destroyers, submarines, and air defence assets showed that the two nations are preparing for high-intensity naval scenarios. The geopolitical messaging is clear from reports in the Russian and Chinese media, both state-controlled

Russia and China held some explosive joint military drills in the past five days till Tuesday (Aug 5), just days after President Donald Trump ordered the moving of US nuclear submarines in response to provocative rhetoric from Russian ex-president Dmitry Medvedev in the context of the Ukraine war. While these exercises were pre-planned, the symbolism of their firepower and use of anti-submarine warfare should not be missed. Maritime exercises of Russia and China had anti-submarine warfare drill The drills called ‘Maritime Interaction – 2025’ were held August 1-5 near Vladivostok, Russia, off the Sea of Japan. The exercises involved submarine rescue, anti-submarine warfare, air and missile defence, maritime combat and joint artillery drills. Russia's Admiral Tributs, a large anti-submarine ship, diesel-electric submarines and naval aviation assets were deployed in the exercise. China's guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, at least one diesel-electric submarine and a submarine rescue ship took part in the drill. Advanced maritime capabilities of Russia and China were on display The inclusion of destroyers, submarines, and air defence assets showed that the two nations are preparing for high-intensity naval scenarios. The geopolitical messaging is clear from reports in the Russian and Chinese media, both state-controlled. The narratives there frame the drills as a pushback against "US hegemony" and global dominance. Non-hostile, yet noteworthy timing: Purpose, strategic context of Russia-China joint naval drills The drills are intended to deepen Russia–China strategic cooperation under their annual defence partnership. It was described as 'non-hostile' toward third parties but is being widely interpreted as a response to increasing US military presence in the region. The drills, which were in fact pre-planned, began just after Trump’s August 1 announcement repositioning two US nuclear submarines. Therefore, the exercises will surely be seen as a symbolic counter-move by Russia and China. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-russia-flex-military-might-in-explosive-joint-war-drills-1754379840913/embed Will China join Russia in a naval war against US? While it is too early to make such assumptions, the signs of strategic coordination between Russia and China are unmissable. This is part of the two nations' strengthening their "No-Limits" Partnership, the 2022 agreement that stressed joint resistance to US influence. Exercises like Joint Sea-2025 demonstrate the growing interoperability of the two militaries. But officially, neither China nor Russia are making hostile stances Any immediate Chinese military involvement is unlikely in the event of direct Russia-US hostilities. Both the Russian and Chinese governments have publicly stated that the drills are not targeting any third nation. China has carefully avoided any direct military entanglements or provocations against the US, with official statements regularly stressing on 'regional peace and stability.' At present, the Chinese military is focused on Taiwan and the South China Sea.

The inclusion of destroyers, submarines, and air defence assets showed that the two nations are preparing for high-intensity naval scenarios. The geopolitical messaging is clear from reports in the Russian and Chinese media, both state-controlled

Don't miss the symbolism: Russian, Chinese navies hold joint drills days after Trump moves US nuclear submarines

Dismembered parts of human bodies were found during a search of an abandoned home in the violence-prone Guanajuato state of Mexico, and the state prosecutor’s office said on Monday that 15 people have been identified from the remains, while the identification process for the others is ongoing. Local media reports said the investigators had found body parts stuffed in plastic bags. The regional prosecutor’s office said the remains, discovered during a search for missing people in the city of Irapuato, were in a “fragmented and complex” condition that made the identification process both tough and complicated.&nbsp;Guanajuato in central Mexico is an industrial hub and is popular for several tourist destinations but is also the country’s deadliest state due to gang turf wars, as per official homicide statistics.&nbsp;<h2>Guanajuato recorded over 3,100 murders last year</h2>&nbsp;In June, 11 people were killed and about 20 others injured in a shooting targeting a neighbourhood party in Irapuato, while in May, 17 bodies were found in an abandoned house in the same city by investigators.As per official figures, Guanajuato recorded over 3,100 murders last year, accounting for 10.5 per cent of homicide cases nationwide. It also had about 3,600 cases of missing persons out of the 120,000 countrywide.&nbsp;The violence in Guanajuato is mostly linked to the conflict between the Santa Rosa de Lima gang and the Jalisco New Generation cartel, one of the most powerful in the Latin American nation.&nbsp;<h2>‘We hope to find our loved ones’</h2>&nbsp;Relatives of missing persons, who belong to a collective called “Hasta encontrarte” (“Until I find you”), visited the site on Monday, hoping for news of their loved ones or fresh evidence.“We hope to find our loved ones,” said a woman who requested anonymity for safety reasons.“It’s been many years, and we still know nothing. When these mass graves are found, we want to be present,” said an AFP report, quoting the woman.

Guanajuato recorded over 3,100 murders last year, accounting for 10.5 per cent of homicide cases nationwide, as per official crime data. The state also had about 3,600 cases of missing persons out of the 120,000 countrywide.

Dismembered parts of human bodies were found during a search of an abandoned home in the violence-prone Guanajuato state of Mexico, and the state prosecutor’s office said on Monday that 15 people have been identified from the remains, while the identification process for the others is ongoing. Local media reports said the investigators had found body parts stuffed in plastic bags. The regional prosecutor’s office said the remains, discovered during a search for missing people in the city of Irapuato, were in a “fragmented and complex” condition that made the identification process both tough and complicated. Guanajuato in central Mexico is an industrial hub and is popular for several tourist destinations but is also the country’s deadliest state due to gang turf wars, as per official homicide statistics. Guanajuato recorded over 3,100 murders last year In June, 11 people were killed and about 20 others injured in a shooting targeting a neighbourhood party in Irapuato, while in May, 17 bodies were found in an abandoned house in the same city by investigators. As per official figures, Guanajuato recorded over 3,100 murders last year, accounting for 10.5 per cent of homicide cases nationwide. It also had about 3,600 cases of missing persons out of the 120,000 countrywide. The violence in Guanajuato is mostly linked to the conflict between the Santa Rosa de Lima gang and the Jalisco New Generation cartel, one of the most powerful in the Latin American nation. ‘We hope to find our loved ones’ Relatives of missing persons, who belong to a collective called “Hasta encontrarte” (“Until I find you”), visited the site on Monday, hoping for news of their loved ones or fresh evidence. “We hope to find our loved ones,” said a woman who requested anonymity for safety reasons. “It’s been many years, and we still know nothing. When these mass graves are found, we want to be present,” said an AFP report, quoting the woman.

Guanajuato recorded over 3,100 murders last year, accounting for 10.5 per cent of homicide cases nationwide, as per official crime data. The state also had about 3,600 cases of missing persons out of the 120,000 countrywide.

‘Massacre’: Dismembered remains of 32 people found in abandoned house in Mexico’s Guanajuato

A tornado struck China’s Ulan Hada Volcanic Geological Park in Chahar Right Back Banner, Ulanqab City, Inner Mongolia, on Monday (Aug 4). The sudden weather incident resulted in damaging tourist yurts, but no casualties were reported. The emergency teams responded swiftly, dispatching public security, emergency workers, and other authorities for rescue operations and to assess the damage. The tornado also disrupted electricity as utility poles were toppled, but the power was restored by the local power company within an hour. The cleanup of the site was also completed.&nbsp;The event, which happened in a village in Inner Mongolia, took place near the park’s volcanic landforms. The area covers about 65 square kilometres (25 square miles) and is part of a well‑preserved basaltic volcanic field.&nbsp;Footage of the incident was captured by people and went viral on the internet. In the video, a narrow funnel can be seen over the park. Meteorologists on social media have described it as resembling a “drillbit tornado,” which is a narrow and tightly wound vortex. No official classification of the tornado has been made yet.

The Ulan Hada Volcanic Geological Park, commonly referred to as the “volcano museum” or the “alchemy furnace of Supreme Lord Laozi,” is a protected geological reserve. The park contains more than 30 volcanic cones, lava flows, and dammed lakes. It has an open glassland which provides a clear view of the weather in the surrounding area.&nbsp;Tornadoes are not common in Inner Mongolia, but they do occur sometimes. The region is located where cold polar air meets warm tropical air, which sometimes creates weather conditions that can produce tornadoes, especially during thunderstorms. In recent years, videos have surfaced on social media showing tornadoes touching down in Inner Mongolia, suggesting they can occur sometimes, depending on the weather conditions in the region. &nbsp;

The event, which happened in a village in Inner Mongolia, took place near the park’s volcanic landforms. The area covers about 65 square kilometres (25 square miles) and is part of a well‑preserved basaltic volcanic field.

A tornado struck China’s Ulan Hada Volcanic Geological Park in Chahar Right Back Banner, Ulanqab City, Inner Mongolia, on Monday (Aug 4). The sudden weather incident resulted in damaging tourist yurts, but no casualties were reported. The emergency teams responded swiftly, dispatching public security, emergency workers, and other authorities for rescue operations and to assess the damage. The tornado also disrupted electricity as utility poles were toppled, but the power was restored by the local power company within an hour. The cleanup of the site was also completed. The event, which happened in a village in Inner Mongolia, took place near the park’s volcanic landforms. The area covers about 65 square kilometres (25 square miles) and is part of a well‑preserved basaltic volcanic field. Footage of the incident was captured by people and went viral on the internet. In the video, a narrow funnel can be seen over the park. Meteorologists on social media have described it as resembling a “drillbit tornado,” which is a narrow and tightly wound vortex. No official classification of the tornado has been made yet.

The event, which happened in a village in Inner Mongolia, took place near the park’s volcanic landforms. The area covers about 65 square kilometres (25 square miles) and is part of a well‑preserved basaltic volcanic field.

WATCH | Viral video captures the moment tornado strikes China's volcanic geological park

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'There will be no Palestine to recognise if...': Australia FM calls for war end

Philippines Prez thanks PM Modi for rescuing Filipinos after Houthi rebel attack

Russia, China hold joint drill just days after Trump moves US nuclear submarines

Dismembered remains of 32 people found in abandoned house in Mexico’s Guanajuato

Viral video captures the moment tornado strikes China's volcanic geological park