eznews.in
The European Union has initiated formal proceedings against France, Italy, and five other member states for breaching its budget rules, potentially leading to significant penalties. The Council of the EU announced the existence of excessive deficits for Belgium, France, Italy, Hungary, Malta, Poland, and Slovakia, all of which reported deficits exceeding the 3% of GDP limit. France's deficit stands at 5.5% amid political instability following a recent leftwing electoral victory that favors increased public spending. Other countries with high deficit ratios include Italy at 7.4% and Hungary at 6.7%. As part of the "excessive deficit procedure," these nations must submit medium-term plans by September to address their financial shortfalls, with assessments from the European Commission due in November. This marks the EU's first enforcement action since suspending budget rules during the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent energy crisis, despite a historical reluctance to impose fines. 
Published: Jul 27 2024, 12 ameznews.inAn active shooting incident has occurred at Apalachee High School in Barrow County, Georgia, prompting a swift response from police and emergency services, which have placed the surrounding area under lockdown. Students have been evacuated, and reports indicate that there are casualties, with at least one individual transported by air ambulance. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) confirmed that they are assisting local authorities and have taken one suspect into custody. The school, located approximately 45 miles northeast of Atlanta, communicated to parents that it was in a "hard lockdown" following gunfire reports. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and the White House, which stated that President Biden has been briefed on the situation, are monitoring the incident. Local media have shared footage of ambulances at the scene, as law enforcement continues to secure the area and investigate.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 10 pmeznews.inHandwritten notes by Lucy Letby, the UK nurse convicted of murdering seven babies, have sparked controversy regarding their interpretation as confessions. Reportedly written under therapeutic guidance to manage her stress, the notes included alarming phrases like "I am evil I did this," but also expressed confusion and denial, such as "Why me?" and "I haven't done anything wrong." Experts have dismissed the notes as "meaningless," arguing they reflect Letby's emotional turmoil rather than guilt. David Wilson, a criminology professor, emphasized that statements made under stress do not necessarily indicate culpability. Letby, who is serving 15 whole-life sentences for her crimes committed between 2015 and 2016, maintains her innocence, and a public inquiry into her case is set to begin next week amidst ongoing questions about the validity of her conviction. The Countess of Chester Hospital has refrained from commenting as investigations continue.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 10 pmeznews.inA new outbreak of mpox has emerged in an Iowa prison, raising concerns as the World Health Organization (WHO) reports a resurgence of the virus. Following the declaration of a global health emergency in August 2024, the WHO documented nearly 103,000 confirmed cases and 223 deaths worldwide since the start of the year, with over 600 fatalities attributed to a more transmissible strain. While the exact number of cases at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility remains undisclosed, prison officials assert they are implementing stringent health measures to manage the situation. Mpox, characterized by rashes and flu-like symptoms, spreads primarily through close physical contact and contaminated materials, underscoring the importance of hygiene and protective measures for caregivers. The WHO's latest report highlights the urgent need for vigilance as new cases appear in Europe and Asia, indicating a troubling trend in the ongoing fight against mpox.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 9 pmeznews.inNew Zealand is set to increase its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) by 200%, from NZ$35 to NZ$100, effective October 1st, raising concerns about potential impacts on tourism numbers. Government officials assert that this significant hike is necessary to ensure international visitors contribute fairly to public services and the maintenance of the nation's infrastructure and biodiversity. The move aims to mitigate the environmental costs associated with tourism while supporting economic growth, with international visitors generating over NZ$11 billion in the year ending March 2024. Public consultation revealed that 93% of respondents endorsed the increase, viewing it as a reasonable step to cover tourism-related expenses. Officials maintain that the new levy remains competitive with similar charges in Australia and the UK, and it constitutes less than 3% of typical visitor spending, suggesting minimal impact on overall tourist numbers.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 8 pmeznews.inPrime Minister Narendra Modi made history with his state visit to Brunei on Tuesday, becoming the first Indian prime minister to undertake a bilateral trip to the Southeast Asian nation. This visit coincided with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Brunei. Upon arrival, Modi was greeted with a ceremonial Guard of Honour and a warm welcome from the Indian community. He met with Brunei's Crown Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah and Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah at the Istana Nurul Iman Palace, the world's largest residential palace. During his visit, Modi inaugurated the Chancery building of the Indian High Commission, emphasizing the strengthening of ties between the two nations. He also visited the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, where he engaged with local children. Following his Brunei visit, Modi headed to Singapore as part of India's 'Act East' policy to bolster regional relations.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 8 pmeznews.inThe United States is set to accuse Russia of attempting to influence the 2024 elections through disinformation campaigns targeting American voters, according to a report by CNN. The announcement, which will focus on the Russian state media network RT, comes ahead of Attorney General Merrick Garland's remarks at a meeting of the Justice Department's Election Threats Task Force. He will be joined by top officials, including FBI Director Chris Wray. The Justice Department has previously highlighted Russia as a significant threat to the upcoming presidential election, with Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin and his associates are employing increasingly sophisticated techniques to manipulate voter demographics and sway election outcomes. Monaco emphasized that these efforts include co-opting unwitting Americans on social media to promote narratives that benefit Russian interests, particularly aimed at undermining support for Ukraine.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 8 pmeznews.inApple is poised to unveil its eagerly awaited iPhone 16 series at the "It's Glowtime" event on September 9, alongside the Watch Series 10 and various accessories. The new lineup will include four models: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, each featuring distinct screen sizes ranging from 6.1 inches to 6.9 inches. While the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will have a 60Hz OLED display, the Pro models will boast a smoother 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by the new A18 chip, the Pro versions will also feature enhanced performance with higher clock speeds and more GPU cores. Camera upgrades are notable in the Pro models, which will include a 48 MP ultra-wide-angle lens and 5x optical zoom capabilities. Additionally, new buttons for improved functionality and enhanced battery life across all models are expected, with the Pro Max housing the largest battery ever in an iPhone.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 7 pmeznews.inCox Media Group, a major marketing firm with clients like Facebook and Google, has reportedly confirmed that it listens to users' smartphone conversations to enhance targeted advertising. A pitch deck disclosed by _404 Media_ reveals that the company's "Active Listening" software utilizes artificial intelligence to capture real-time voice data, which is then paired with behavioral data to identify in-market consumers. The firm claims to collect and analyze information from over 470 sources, asserting that consumers leave a "data trail" based on their conversations and online behavior. Following inquiries from _404 Media_, Google removed Cox Media Group from its "Partners Program," emphasizing that all advertisers must adhere to legal and policy guidelines. A Google spokesperson stated that the company takes action against any violations of its advertising policies. This revelation has reignited concerns about privacy and the extent of surveillance in digital marketing practices.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 6 pmeznews.inUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced a significant government reshuffle on Wednesday, stating the need for "new energy" as the country continues to navigate the ongoing war with Russia, now in its third year. The reshuffle saw Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, a key figure in Ukraine's diplomatic efforts, among several ministers resigning. Zelensky expressed gratitude for the contributions of his Cabinet, some of whom have served for five years. A source indicated that Zelensky and Kuleba would discuss the latter's future role. Kuleba has been instrumental in rallying international support for Ukraine since Russia's invasion in 2022, travelling extensively to secure Western backing and sanctions against Moscow. This move marks one of the most significant changes in Kyiv’s government since the conflict began, reflecting a desire for renewed vigor in Ukraine's leadership amid ongoing challenges.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 6 pmeznews.inThe release of the Netflix series 'IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack' has reignited discussions surrounding the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC814, which resulted in the tragic murder of Rupin Katyal and the controversial release of three terrorists in exchange for hostages. The series has sparked debate over its portrayal of the hijackers, using pseudonyms like Bhola and Shankar, which some critics argue mislead viewers about the true nature of the incident and its connections to Pakistan's intelligence agency, ISI. Following backlash, Netflix updated the series' disclaimer to clarify the identities of the hijackers, acknowledging the oversight. The controversy reflects broader tensions regarding the narrative surrounding the hijacking, particularly the alleged involvement of Osama bin Laden and Al-Qaeda, and the depiction of Indian officials during the crisis. This incident marks a significant moment in India's ongoing struggle with terrorism and its representation in media.
Published: Sep 04 2024, 5 pm
For the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews
India
World
Economy
Science
Health
Showbiz
Contact