Monday, 6 July 2026

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

Presidents Putin and Trump spoke for nearly 90 minutes on July 4, discussing the Ukraine war and the upcoming NATO summit. Trump offered to help find a resolution.

Israeli settlers have taken over an under-construction home belonging to a Palestinian family in the occupied West Bank. Attacks on Palestinian communities are escalating.

The number of fatalities from the recent earthquakes in Venezuela has climbed to 2,645, with thousands of survivors seeking shelter in stadiums.

Vice President Sara Duterte has been summoned to appear before the Senate impeachment court for the formal start of her trial, with a 'Mass for Truth' held prior.

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

Erling Haaland scored two goals to secure a stunning 2-1 victory for Norway over Brazil, eliminating the five-time champions from the World Cup.

Tehran prepared for massive crowds and closed its airspace for the funeral of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The event drew international attention and participants.

FIFA has suspended Folarin Balogun's one-game ban, making the US striker available for the World Cup match against Belgium. The decision follows reported intervention.

Ankara is preparing to host a NATO summit, with defense industry products to be showcased and delegations visiting defense companies. Ahead of the summit, authorities have made numerous arrests.

The United States has secured a place in the World Cup's round of 16, prompting celebratory reactions and discussions about the team's performance.

France decisively beat Norway in a World Cup match, with Norway's star striker Erling Haaland notably absent from the starting lineup. The coach cited it as 'obvious'.

China successfully test-fired a long-range ballistic missile from a submarine in the South Pacific. The action has drawn condemnation from Australia.

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.

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.

Mourning ceremonies for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei commenced at Tehran's Mosalla, with large crowds of mourners attending.

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.

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.

The death toll from earthquakes in Venezuela has risen to over 2,000, with more than 4,300 injured. The ongoing medical crisis is reportedly widening.

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.

France experienced a significant rise in mortality during a June heatwave, with over 2,000 excess deaths recorded. Shoppers scrambled for air conditioners amid the heat.

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.

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

NATO leaders will gather in Ankara for a summit to address alliance challenges, including European responsibility and transatlantic relations, with discussions involving U.S. President Trump.

NATO leaders will convene in Ankara for a summit focused on reaffirming collective defense commitments and addressing strains with U.S. President Donald Trump.

Emmanuel Macron arrived in Damascus, marking the first visit by a Western European head of state since Ahmed al-Sharaa assumed leadership in Syria. The trip signals a shift in diplomatic engagement.

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

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 issued warnings to the United States and Israel against any attacks as the nation prepared for state funeral processions for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

The United States and Iran are engaged in technical discussions aimed at securing a peace deal and resuming shipping routes. These talks follow a potential truce in Lebanon.

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.

The World Cup continues with various matches, including the US team's progress and Spain's goalkeeper setting a record. FIFA considers schedule changes due to weather.

Thousands of Iranians gathered for the funeral ceremonies of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with some chanting calls for revenge. Authorities prepared for large crowds amid uncertainty.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump have agreed to meet in the United States soon, following recent strains in their relationship.

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.

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

Keiko Fujimori has been officially declared the winner of Peru's presidential election following a closely contested race. Her victory follows weeks of ballot reviews and accusations of fraud.

Hamas announced the dissolution of its governing body in Gaza after nearly two decades. This move aims to facilitate the transfer of administration to a technocratic committee.

Clashes between inmate groups at a prison in Sri Lanka have resulted in at least 25 deaths and dozens of injuries, with authorities intervening to contain the situation.

A Ukrainian drone struck a tourist bus in Belarus, while Russia faces deepening fuel shortages exacerbated by Ukrainian attacks and is permitting lower-grade gasoline sales.

Brazil has been eliminated from the World Cup following a 2-1 defeat against Norway. The match took place in Cuiabá.

Kylian Mbappé scored the decisive goal from a penalty, leading France to a 1-0 victory over Paraguay and securing their place in the World Cup quarterfinals.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Ankara is preparing to host a NATO summit, with authorities conducting operations and implementing security measures, while a union criticizes the focus on the summit.

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

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

Russia launched ballistic missiles at Ukraine's Kyiv region, killing at least 11 people and wounding dozens, just before a NATO summit in Turkey.

The Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, experienced a combined drone and missile attack as Russia targeted its war infrastructure, with reciprocal strikes also reported.

A severe heat wave is affecting over half of the United States, with temperatures reaching dangerous levels. Celebrations for the Fourth of July are being disrupted.

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.

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.

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

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.

The World Cup round of 16 match between Mexico and England in Mexico City has been delayed by one hour due to a thunderstorm.

The World Cup 2026 match between Mexico and England has had its schedule altered due to an electrical storm threat. Reports on the exact timing have varied.

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.

OPEC+ has agreed to a further increase in oil output targets from August, adding to global supply as exports via the Strait of Hormuz begin to recover.

Super Typhoon Bavi has intensified and is heading towards U.S. Pacific territories, prompting storm preparations and warnings of significant flooding.

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

Microsoft announced significant job cuts, eliminating approximately 4,800 positions, primarily within its Xbox division. The move is part of a broader restructuring effort.

Donald Trump made remarks about Iran's leaders during Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral, prompting a response from Iran, while a eulogist called for Trump's death.

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.

Mexican rider Isaac Del Toro won the second stage of the Tour de France, with Tadej Pogacar finishing second and taking the overall lead. Pogacar later won stage three.

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

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that some Christian villages in southern Lebanon requested annexation by Israel for protection from Hezbollah. Local officials have rejected these claims.

Super Typhoon Bavi, with winds equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane, made landfall on US Pacific territories, causing widespread damage and power outages.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir of Pakistan arrived in Tehran to attend the funeral of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

FIFA overturned a red card suspension for US striker Folarin Balogun following a reported call from Donald Trump, drawing controversy and criticism.

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

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.

Naomi Osaka has eliminated top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka in the fourth round of Wimbledon. Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic advanced to later stages.

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

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.

The Israeli government announced it will not respect a High Court verdict concerning the broadcast regulator. This decision raises concerns of a constitutional crisis.

Kimi Antonelli secured pole position and won the sprint race at the British Grand Prix, while Charles Leclerc claimed victory in the main Formula 1 race.

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

Zihni Göktay, a distinguished figure in Turkish theatre known for his role in "Lüküs Hayat," has passed away. He was a prominent performer for over five decades.

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

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

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.

England secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals with a 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico. They will face Norway next.

Egypt eliminated Australia from the World Cup after a penalty shootout, securing their place in the round of 16 where they will face Argentina.

Severe storms prompted an evacuation of the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on July 4th, delaying President Donald Trump's planned address.

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.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has "unequivocally" apologised for comments made about singer Kylie Minogue on a comedy podcast. The remarks drew significant backlash.

Foreign leaders and delegations have arrived in Iran for the funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Western nations are reportedly absent from the ceremonies.

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.

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.

Russia launched its deadliest attack of the year on Kyiv with missiles and drones, killing over 30 people and prompting a day of mourning in the Ukrainian capital.

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.

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

Iran has renewed attacks on Gulf states, jeopardizing talks with the US. Iraq has offered to host regional security discussions between Iran and Gulf nations.

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.

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.

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

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.

The Ombudsman has filed a plunder case against Senator Rodante Marcoleta and three associates over an alleged P75 million campaign donation. An arrest order has been issued.

US President Donald Trump's focus on increased spending and 'loyalty' from NATO allies, alongside his planned meetings, sets a complex tone for the summit hosted by Turkey.

U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin, discussing the conflict in Ukraine ahead of the NATO summit.

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.

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.

Spanish football club Real Madrid has officially confirmed the transfer of Dutch player Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan on a contract until 2030.

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.

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

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

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.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce exchanged vows in a New York City ceremony. Comedian Adam Sandler officiated the event, which was attended by numerous celebrities.

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.

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.

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.

The navies of China and Russia have begun their annual joint naval exercise, 'Joint Sea-2026', in waters near the Chinese port city of Qingdao. The drills focus on command and tactical coordination.