Sunday, 12 July 2026

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

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.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated some Lebanese Christian villages requested annexation for protection from Hezbollah. Local officials have denied these claims.

Iran announced strikes on U.S. military infrastructure in Gulf states amid mass funeral processions for its slain leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Argentina secured a victory over Switzerland in the World Cup quarterfinals, with Lionel Messi playing a key role. The match involved controversial calls and intense moments.

Cuba experienced its third nationwide power outage since the start of the year, exacerbating an ongoing energy crisis. Authorities are investigating the cause, with fuel shortages and a US blockade cited as contributing factors.

European Union regulators have accused Meta of violating digital rules with 'addictive design' features on Facebook and Instagram, potentially leading to fines.

Donald Trump publicly criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, calling for her removal, ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara.

England has advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after defeating Norway in a quarter-final match. Jude Bellingham scored twice in the victory.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that recent US attacks on Iran were 'absolutely necessary.' He also called for alliance leaders to reaffirm Iran's reopening of the Hormuz Strait.

Ukrainian drones have struck southern Russian refineries and a port in the Sea of Azov, forcing Russia to suspend shipping and halt diesel exports. Russia also reported Ukrainian drone attacks on its controlled territory.

Former White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel delivered a speech in Tel Aviv criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and warning of potential damage to the US alliance.

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 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.

Wreckage of a K2 Airways Boeing 737-400 cargo plane, which disappeared from radar over the Arabian Sea en route from Sharjah to Karachi, has been located.

A 26-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after former British minister Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her home. Police later released the man.

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

A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent fatally shot a Mexican national in Houston during an enforcement operation. The FBI has launched a probe into the incident.

A shooting at Toronto's TD Salsa on St. Clair Festival left at least two people dead and several others injured. Police are searching for the attacker, who remains at large.

US President Donald Trump will attend the NATO summit in Ankara, where he plans to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa.

The United States conducted a third wave of strikes against Iran in response to renewed attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump warned of further escalation.

England has reached the World Cup semifinals, defeating Norway in a match marked by controversy over refereeing decisions. Jude Bellingham scored twice.

An Israeli drone strike in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least six individuals, including a child, according to health officials. The military stated it targeted 'terrorist infrastructure'.

During a NATO summit, Donald Trump referred to Iran as the 'Islamic Republic of Japan' when discussing a missile attack, causing confusion and concern.

Fifteen Indian tourists died when their speedboat capsized off the coast of Phu Quoc Island in southern Vietnam. Rescue operations were conducted for other passengers.

Egypt secured a historic place in the World Cup round of 16 by defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties. They will face Argentina in the next stage.

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

Switzerland defeated Colombia 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw to secure a quarterfinal match against Argentina at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Jayden Adams, a midfielder for the South African national football team who recently played in the 2026 World Cup, has died at the age of 25.

Jayden Adams, a 25-year-old South African footballer who participated in the 2026 World Cup, has passed away. His death has caused shock in the football community.

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.

Typhoon Bavi made landfall in eastern China, causing evacuations and flight disruptions. The storm had previously affected Taiwan and Japan's southern islands.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is undertaking a tour of Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss Indo-Pacific cooperation.

Tributes have been paid to US Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of Donald Trump, who died at 71. His office cited a brief and sudden illness.

Shafaq News covers a range of events including arrest warrants in Iraq, Oman summoning Iran's envoy, US sanctions on Iran-linked entities, and the arrival of Khamenei's body for funeral rites.

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.

Following Portugal's defeat to Spain in the World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed that the 2026 tournament will be his final appearance. He also paid tribute to his late teammate Diogo Jota.

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.

England secured a 2-1 victory over Norway in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup. Other matches included Argentina vs. Switzerland and Spain vs. Belgium.

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.

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

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.

Severe storms prompted an evacuation of the National Mall in Washington, D.C. during July 4th celebrations, delaying President Donald Trump's scheduled address. Trump stated he would not let the weather cancel the event.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former emir of Qatar who modernized the nation, has died at the age of 74. His death was announced by the Amiri Diwan.

A speedboat carrying 36 people, including 15 Indian tourists, capsized near Phu Quoc Island in southern Vietnam, resulting in 15 fatalities. Vietnamese authorities have ordered an investigation.

Jayden Adams, a 25-year-old midfielder who represented South Africa at the World Cup, has died. His passing was confirmed by the players' union.

President Trump stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial traffic, despite Iran's actions and claims of closure. US forces are positioned to ensure navigation.

King Charles III hosted Prince Harry, Meghan, and their children for the first time in years, in what is seen as an effort to repair a long-standing family rift.

Jannik Sinner defeated Novak Djokovic, and Alexander Zverev beat Jack Draper to reach the Wimbledon men's singles final. They will compete for the title.

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.

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.

An operation targeting Ankara's Çankaya Municipality has resulted in arrest warrants for 36 individuals, including Mayor Hüseyin Can Güner, on bribery charges.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has closed the Strait of Hormuz after striking a vessel it deemed unauthorized. The US military responded with retaliatory strikes.

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.

Donald Trump announced the end of a ceasefire with Iran, increasing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has warned of reciprocal actions.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who led Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and transformed the nation into a global player, has died at the age of 74.

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.

President Trump granted pardons to 11 individuals, primarily for violations of the Clean Air Act. He also commented on a potential White House visit requested by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

China conducted a rare ballistic missile test from a nuclear submarine, raising concerns about its expanding nuclear arsenal. The US and regional allies have voiced criticism.

The US launched strikes against Iran in response to an attack on a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. Kuwait reported attacks on its border posts and an oil platform.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz following US strikes and an attack on a ship. Tensions between Iran and the US have flared.

US Representative Ro Khanna stated he was detained by armed Israeli settlers during a visit to the West Bank. He called for an investigation into the incident.

A shooting at a Latin music festival in Toronto resulted in two deaths and several injuries. Police are searching for the suspects involved.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's children, Archie and Lilibet, met with King Charles, marking their first reunion in four years.

Jayden Adams, a 25-year-old South African footballer who participated in the 2026 World Cup, has died. The news has caused shock in the football community.

Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei pledged to avenge his slain father and predecessor, Ali Khamenei, stating it is the nation's demand. Iran is reportedly drawing up a target list.

Israel is scheduled to hold its national elections on October 27. The vote is seen as a referendum on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership.

Argentina secured a place in the 2026 World Cup semifinals after a hard-fought victory over Switzerland. They will face England next.

England and Argentina have advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after defeating Norway and Switzerland, respectively. The match sets up a significant showdown.

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei pledged retribution for the killing of his father and predecessor in US-Israeli strikes. He vowed the 'mission of revenge' would continue.

The death toll from earthquakes in Venezuela has surpassed 4,000, with thousands injured and displaced. Rescue efforts are winding down as calls for aid continue.

Donald Trump issued threats of "decimating" or "annihilating" Iran with missiles if attacked. Iran responded by stating it had "kept its word."

Oman summoned Iran's ambassador to protest drone strikes on Omani territory. Several Arab nations condemned Iran's actions following US strikes.

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

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a government reshuffle, including the departure of Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, to implement an updated political strategy.

A fire at a pub in Bangkok has resulted in at least 27 fatalities. Firefighters worked to control the blaze, with many victims reportedly trapped inside.

Lebanon confirmed its participation in talks with Israel in Rome, as a US delegation arrived to discuss Israel's withdrawal from designated 'pilot zones'.

The Trump administration's Justice Department has subpoenaed New York Times reporters for their work on a story concerning security issues with the presidential plane.

The death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a key Republican figure and supporter of Ukraine, leaves a void in the Senate and triggers a race for his South Carolina seat.

Former US President Donald Trump has reportedly granted Ukraine permission to manufacture Patriot missile systems. This follows earlier discussions about technology transfer.

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.

At least six people, including a nine-year-old girl, have been killed in Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip. Mediators continue ceasefire negotiations.

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.

Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and two former employees, alleging the theft of trade secrets to develop AI hardware.

A Russian couple was arrested after scaling the Empire State Building for a marriage proposal, drawing attention to their previous stunts.

Erling Haaland scored twice to lead Norway to a victory over Brazil, securing a place in the World Cup quarter-finals. France also advanced to the next round.

Lindsey Graham, a Republican senator from South Carolina and a prominent supporter of Israel and US military actions, has died at the age of 71.

A fire broke out on the Brooklyn Bridge during New York City's July 4th fireworks celebration, prompting questions about the incident.

Fourteen nations, including the U.S. and U.K., have reaffirmed a 2016 ruling that invalidates China's maritime claims in the South China Sea. China rejects the statement.

Pakistan's Supreme Court affirmed that women's inheritance rights are enshrined in Sharia law, settling a long-standing family dispute.

Alibaba has prohibited its staff from using Anthropic's Claude Code, citing security risks and the AI firm's flagging of Chinese users.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez denounced former prime minister Mariano Rajoy's 'xenophobic' comments about the French national football team.

Novak Djokovic secured his 106th match win at Wimbledon, surpassing Roger Federer's record and advancing to the quarterfinals.

Jude Bellingham scored two goals, including the winner in extra time, to secure England's 2-1 victory over Norway and advance them to the World Cup. Norway's coach questioned a goal's validity.

Police investigating the death of former British minister Ann Widdecombe have stated there is no evidence of a political motive. A suspect has been arrested.

The United States and Iran have launched new waves of strikes against each other's targets, escalating existing tensions in the region. Iran claims strikes on US military bases.

Residents are returning to their homes in Spain's Almería province as firefighters gain control over a deadly wildfire. The blaze had prompted evacuations.

Argentina advanced to the World Cup semifinals after a quarter-final victory against Switzerland, a match marked by controversy surrounding Breel Embolo's red card.

Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon have resulted in civilian casualties, with reports indicating dozens killed and injured. Amnesty International called for investigations into alleged war crimes.

A deadly wildfire in southern Spain has claimed 12 lives, leading to scrutiny of the region's emergency alert mechanisms. The military has been deployed to assist.

Qatar announced the immediate resumption of all maritime activities, ending a week-long suspension. This decision impacts all types of vessels and ships.

A Delta flight experienced a firework impact while landing at Chicago Midway International Airport. No injuries were reported among the passengers or crew.

Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 in extra time, while Spain overcame Belgium 2-1. Both nations secured their places in the FIFA World Cup semifinals.

Morocco secured a place in the World Cup quarterfinals by defeating co-host Canada 3-0. The team's performance has been praised for its fighting spirit.

US Senator Lindsey Graham has died. Reports also mention Iran's strikes and the World Cup semifinals. Conspiracy theories surrounding his death involve Iran and Russia.

Outgoing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that his successor must dedicate significant time to international crises and diplomacy.

The United States conducted a third round of strikes against Iran, hitting a major rail link to China, following Iran's announcement of a strait closure.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have expressed concern over escalating regional tensions between the US and Iran, calling for restraint and de-escalation.

Jude Bellingham scored twice to lead England to a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway, advancing them to the World Cup semifinals.

The United States is celebrating the 250th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence, an occasion marked by national reflection and political discourse.

Syria's transitional parliament held its inaugural session, tasked with drafting a new constitution and establishing democratic foundations following Bashar al-Assad's removal.

Mathieu van der Poel secured his third Tour de France victory on stage nine, a race shortened due to heat, in the region of his grandfather Raymond Poulidor.

France has temporarily shut down three nuclear reactors and reduced the power of eight others due to an ongoing heatwave. This measure aims to prevent overheating.

Typhoon Bavi has made landfall in China, leading to the evacuation of nearly two million people and suspension of services.

Iraq's Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi will visit Washington to strengthen strategic ties with the United States. Oil and gas deals are anticipated during the visit.

The Turkish women's national volleyball team, 'Filenin Sultanları', will compete against Canada in the 2026 FIVB Volleyball Nations League quarterfinals. They previously defeated Japan to reach the finals.

Israel has designated an illegal settlement in the occupied West Bank as a 'city', a move seen as expanding settlements. Palestinian families are barricading homes against settler attacks.

Former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has faced criticism for a comment suggesting France's national football team lacked French players. The remark was labelled xenophobic.

The European Commission has recommended terminating a €2 million grant to the Venice Biennale. This decision follows the Biennale's justification for reopening Russia's pavilion.

Turkish artist Haluk Levent has been detained. Reports mention shocking allegations, and Levent has issued a statement regarding drug claims.