Sunday, 5 July 2026

The United States marked its 250th anniversary with Independence Day celebrations, including fireworks, flyovers, and speeches from President Donald Trump.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the killing of Kurdish fighters in the northwest, amidst reports of renewed clashes and attacks on IRGC forces. The incidents raise questions about escalating regional tensions.

China's withdrawal of subsidies affects sales in key sectors like automobiles and appliances, with BYD reporting a sales drop. The country also faces competition in chip materials and advances in robotics.

Saudi supertankers have transited the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil route, amid Iran's increasing assertions of control and warnings to shipping. The events highlight ongoing tensions in the vital waterway.

Paraguay achieved a significant upset by defeating Germany in a penalty shootout, advancing to the next round of the World Cup.

Chilean firefighters rescued a man who survived for eight days under rubble following a double earthquake in Venezuela, highlighting ongoing recovery efforts.

Celebrations for the reported wedding of singer Taylor Swift and NFL player Travis Kelce are underway in New York City, drawing significant media attention.

Israeli forces killed Palestinian goalkeeper Saleem Al-Ashqar in Gaza, amid ongoing reports of civilian deaths and ceasefire violations.

Iran launched attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait after US strikes, while parallel talks between the US and Iran in Qatar concluded with a commitment to continue dialogue.

FIFA has suspended Folarin Balogun's one-game ban, making the US forward eligible to play against Belgium in the World Cup. The decision follows a red card in a previous match.

Victor Willis, the lead singer and co-writer of disco group Village People's hits like "Y.M.C.A.", has died at the age of 74. His passing marks the end of an era for the iconic group.

US President Donald Trump spoke with Russian leader Vladimir Putin for nearly 90 minutes, offering assistance in resolving the Ukraine conflict.

US President Donald Trump stated that continued US support for NATO is 'ridiculous,' citing a lack of reciprocity in the alliance's relationship with Washington.

Russian President Vladimir Putin admitted to fuel shortages following Ukrainian attacks on Russia's energy infrastructure, vowing to bolster air defense.

An Australian man has been arrested in Thailand and charged with murder after the body of a 17-year-old Thai girl was discovered in a suitcase in Pattaya.

NDTV India reports on the EPFO portal's reopening, the border situation with China, and government actions against online exploitation. Other stories cover weather and legal matters.

Authorities are searching for a Ukrainian woman, who reportedly disguised herself as a man, as the main suspect in a Monaco parcel bombing that injured three people.

An attack on a Rangers facility in Karachi was foiled, resulting in the martyrdom of three security personnel. Six terrorists were killed and one captured.

Filipina tennis player Alex Eala has advanced to the third round of Wimbledon for the first time, securing a victory over Maya Joint.

France experienced approximately 2,025 excess deaths during the June heatwave, a nearly 30 percent increase. The extreme temperatures also led to chaos in some areas as people sought air conditioning.

The body of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, killed in US-Israeli strikes, has arrived in Tehran for funeral ceremonies, with burial set for July 9.

Three people died from asphyxiation amidst massive street celebrations in Mexico City following the national team's World Cup victory. Authorities urged responsible celebration.

Iran is holding a state funeral for former leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died in a US-Israel attack, with Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz attending.

Ankara is preparing to host the NATO summit, with defense industry products to be showcased. Ahead of the summit, over 170 individuals have been arrested.

Ecuador has been eliminated from the World Cup 2026 following a defeat to Mexico. Enner Valencia has retired from the national team.

Syria, Türkiye, and several Arab countries condemned Israeli incursions and shelling in southern Syria, citing violations of sovereignty.

Burkina Faso has severed diplomatic relations with France, accusing the former colonial power of undermining its national interests. Paris stated it is considering reciprocal actions.

The World Cup progresses with various matches, including England vs. Mexico. FIFA is considering adjusting kickoff times due to potential thunderstorms near Mexico City.

Pope Leo XIV visited Lampedusa, a key migrant arrival point, to advocate for their protection and integration, challenging current EU and US policies.

A passenger bus traveling from Quetta to Peshawar fell into a ravine near the Balochistan-KP border, resulting in at least 40 fatalities and eight injuries.

A 43-year-old security guard was pulled alive from building rubble eight days after twin earthquakes struck Venezuela, offering a rare moment of hope amid devastation.

The death toll from twin earthquakes in Venezuela has surpassed 2,000, exacerbating an already severe medical crisis in the country.

Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan will stay at royal residences during their upcoming visit to the UK, accepting an invitation from King Charles III. The visit follows recent family dynamics.

Keiko Fujimori has been officially declared the winner of Peru's presidential election following a closely contested race. The results were confirmed after weeks of ballot reviews and protests.

Ukraine's allies are expected to pledge significant military aid at the upcoming NATO summit. Meanwhile, Russia claims to have captured Kostiantynivka, a claim Ukraine denies.

The US Supreme Court has ruled that states can ban transgender athletes from participating in women's and girls' school sports.

Israeli forces conducted raids and arrested activists in the occupied West Bank, amid reports of settlement expansion.

Belgium achieved a historic comeback, overcoming a 0-2 deficit against Senegal to secure a place in the round of 16 at the World Cup 2026.

Turkey's inflation data for June has set the maximum rent increase rate for July and determined salary adjustments for retirees and civil servants.

South Korea has announced a sweeping $576 billion investment plan focused on dominating the global AI and chip market. The initiative involves major players like Samsung and SK Hynix.

Hong Kong's financial sector saw record asset growth, while the city faces potential record temperatures due to climate change and El Niño. Separately, a bookseller detained by China died.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Asim Munir attended the funeral of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran.

Marcelo Bielsa discussed his tenure with Uruguay's national team, while Federico Valverde accepted blame for the team's World Cup elimination, citing his performance.

Thousands demonstrated against the far-right AfD party in Erfurt, blocking roads to its annual conference. Protesters clashed with police.

A farewell ceremony for Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei began on Saturday, July 6, 2026, at Mosalla Tehran with the participation of grieving citizens.

Iran has issued warnings to the United States and Israel against any attacks as the nation prepares for the state funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Spain defeated Austria 3-0, and Portugal beat Croatia 2-1, securing their places in the World Cup Round of 16. They are set to play each other.

The United States men's national soccer team has advanced to the Round of 16 in the World Cup. Coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed pride in the team's achievement.

France decisively beat Norway in the World Cup, finishing first in their group. Erling Haaland's surprising substitution and performance were points of discussion.

NATO leaders will convene in Ankara for a summit to address key challenges, including Europe taking on more responsibility and smoothing tensions with the US.

The death toll from the earthquakes in Venezuela has climbed to 2,645, with foreign rescue teams, including those from Turkey, receiving commendations.

Israeli settlers have taken over a Palestinian family's under-construction home in the occupied West Bank, adding to escalating tensions and settler violence in the region.

Israel is commemorating 1,000 days since the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, with memorials and protests calling for a state inquiry into the events.

Kylian Mbappé scored a penalty to give France a 1-0 victory over Paraguay, advancing them to the World Cup quarterfinals. The match was noted for its physical play.

A former Olympic canoeist has been indicted on a felony charge for allegedly damaging the Reflecting Pool in Washington D.C.

Iran is holding a week of mass mourning and a multi-day funeral for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran.

The United States has announced a trilateral framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon, aiming to end their conflict. The deal faces skepticism and rejection from Hezbollah.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump have agreed to meet in the United States soon. The agreement follows a phone call between the two leaders.

The death toll in Gaza has risen to 73,074 due to Israeli attacks since October 2023, with over 21,500 children among the deceased.

Harry Kane scored twice to rescue England from elimination against DR Congo, securing their place in the World Cup knockout stage.

President Trump delivered a speech at Mount Rushmore to commemorate the United States' 250th birthday, warning against perceived communist threats.

A severe heat wave is affecting over half of the United States, particularly the East Coast, leading to disruptions in Fourth of July celebrations. Power grids are strained by the extreme temperatures.

A Ukrainian drone struck a tourist bus in Russia, exacerbating an ongoing fuel crisis that has led to long lines at gas stations.

The funeral ceremonies for Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have commenced in Tehran, with mourners calling for vengeance.

The Vatican has excommunicated six bishops from the ultraconservative Society of St. Pius X for ordaining bishops without papal consent, marking a crisis for Pope Leo XIV.

Spain and Switzerland have qualified for the World Cup 2026 Round of 16, joining other teams in the knockout stage.

India and Japan have signed agreements on artificial intelligence, metals, and energy, strengthening their strategic partnership amid global uncertainties.

The United States and Iran are anticipated to hold direct talks in Doha in the third week of July. Discussions may involve Iran's frozen assets and their use for purchasing goods.

Ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkish authorities conducted operations resulting in the detention of journalists, lawyers, and activists.

President Donald Trump stated that American identity is under a renewed attack from domestic radicals and extremists, speaking ahead of the United States' 250th anniversary.

Michelle Bolsonaro has reportedly rejected supporting Flávio Bolsonaro's campaign and may withdraw from the Senate race or politics altogether. Her departure from PL Mulher has been met with celebration by some within the party.

Charles Leclerc secured victory at the British Grand Prix, while Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli experienced difficulties during the race.

Vice President Sara Duterte has been summoned to appear before the Senate impeachment court for the formal start of her trial. A defense team has been assembled, and a 'Mass for Truth' was held prior to the proceedings.

Sony announced it will cease producing physical discs for new PlayStation games starting in 2028, shifting towards digital distribution.

A US Navy MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter made an emergency water landing in the Arabian Sea. Three crew members were rescued, but one remains missing.

Portugal secured a 2-1 victory over Croatia in a dramatic World Cup match, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring a penalty, to advance to the next round against Spain.

A UN inquiry finds Israel's actions in Gaza constitute genocide, with a specific focus on the deliberate targeting of children and alleged abuses in the West Bank.

During Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral, President Trump suggested he could eliminate Iran's leaders with a single strike. An Iranian eulogist called for Trump's death.

Israel's defense minister stated troops will remain indefinitely in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, amid reports of potential Gaza settlements.

A Tibetan activist, identified as Logba Rangzen, died after setting himself on fire outside the UN headquarters in New York. The act was a protest for Tibetan independence.

The United States and Iran have begun technical discussions aimed at securing a peace deal and resuming shipping activities. The talks occur amid complex geopolitical tensions.

Amnesty International documented crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing by the RSF in El Fasher, Sudan, adding to evidence of atrocities. Medical groups also report detentions.

A fire in a 10-storey apartment building in Antwerp, Belgium, has resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. The cause of the blaze, which affected over 200 residents, remains undetermined.

Keiko Fujimori has been proclaimed president-elect of Peru by the electoral tribunal, becoming the first woman elected to govern the country.

Syria's foreign minister visited Beirut to bolster ties with Lebanese leaders. He indicated Syria's openness to meeting with Hezbollah, amid US pressure on the region.

Gold prices in Pakistan have seen recent surges and declines, while Toyota Pakistan has halted production multiple times.

Turkey's inflation data for June has been released, determining the July salary increases for civil servants and pensioners. The exact figures and payment schedules are now set.

Israel's government has approved the recognition of the Armenian Genocide, a move that has drawn criticism from Turkey and a cautious response from Armenia.

Jonas Vingegaard secured the yellow jersey in the Tour de France after his team won the opening time trial. Tadej Pogacar is third, with Paul Seixas also performing well.

A new government-backed savings initiative for children, Trump Accounts, launched on July 4. US stock markets were closed on July 3 to observe Independence Day.

Prince Harry will visit London and Birmingham for Invictus Games engagements. His wife Meghan and their children will not accompany him due to security concerns.

OpenAI has agreed to restrict the release of its new GPT-5.6 model following a request from the Trump administration due to security concerns.

Switzerland has advanced to the round of 16 in the World Cup 2026, defeating Algeria. Luca Zidane played for the Algerian team.

Serena Williams has withdrawn from the Wimbledon doubles tournament with her sister Venus due to a knee injury. Her singles comeback was previously ended.

Brazil has been eliminated from the World Cup after a 2-1 loss to Norway. The match was a key fixture in the tournament's knockout stage.

Super Typhoon Bavi, with sustained winds reaching 269 km/h, is heading towards US Pacific territories, prompting storm preparations and emergency warnings.

The European Union's top court rejected Google's appeal against a record €4.1 billion fine for anti-competitive practices related to its Android operating system.

The President of Iraq, along with leaders from the Kurdistan Region, Turkey, Georgia, and Oman, arrived in Tehran to attend the funeral of a prominent figure.

Members of the white nationalist group Patriot Front marched through Washington D.C. on the Fourth of July. The group, founded in 2017, organized the demonstration.

Delegates at the AfD party congress in Erfurt have re-elected Tino Chrupalla and Alice Weidel as co-leaders. The congress saw internal power dynamics influencing the party's direction.

Kyiv experienced a significant missile and drone attack from Russia, reportedly in retaliation for Ukrainian strikes on Russian infrastructure. A major Russian oil refinery was also hit by a Ukrainian drone.

US President Donald Trump has criticized the United States' financial contributions to NATO, stating the country is the largest spender and that the arrangement is not reciprocal. He also warned of communism.

Thousands of mourners are attending the week-long funeral ceremonies for Iran's assassinated Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran.

Mourners filled Tehran's Grand Mosalla complex for the funeral ceremonies of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Officials from Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis attended.

Maritime trade between Iran and Qatar has resumed following a five-month hiatus, with shipping lanes reopening between Dayyer Port and Al Ruwais Port.

The official death toll from earthquakes in Venezuela has surpassed 3,300, with thousands more injured. Delcy Rodríguez has declared seven days of national mourning.

The United States and Israel have signed an agreement to construct a permanent American embassy in Jerusalem, reinforcing their alliance.

Colombia secured a place in the World Cup 2026 knockout stage by defeating Ghana 1-0, setting up a match against Switzerland.

France has advanced to face Paraguay in the round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The French football team also saw success in the Coupe de France.

Brazil's Prosecutor General advocates for former President Bolsonaro to remain under house arrest and for a weapon seized during a traffic stop to be retained.

Xinhua Middle East news summary at 2200 GMT, June 29 Xinhua

Uganda's military chief has ordered the closure of prominent media houses, drawing condemnation and raising concerns about press freedom.

Iran is holding a week of mass mourning and funeral ceremonies for its slain supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in February.

Egypt has advanced to the World Cup Round of 16 after a dramatic penalty shootout victory against Australia. The match concluded 1-1 after extra time.

The United States has announced it will not renew the USMCA trade agreement with Mexico and Canada. This decision introduces uncertainty into North American trade relations.

Egypt eliminated Australia in a penalty shootout to reach the World Cup round of 16. The team's coach waved a Palestinian flag after the victory.

President Trump has pardoned eleven individuals, many for violating the Clean Air Act. He also stated that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu requested a White House meeting.

The Trump administration has lifted export controls on Anthropic's Fable and Mythos AI models, allowing for their global release after initial safety concerns.

Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has reportedly married his longtime partner Gauri Spratt in a private, intimate ceremony at his Mumbai home.

Iraq's anti-corruption operation has expanded significantly, leading to the arrest of 47 officials and the seizure of cash and gold.