Tuesday, 21 July 2026

The Turkish women's national volleyball team defeated Thailand to reach the quarterfinals of the Volleyball Nations League, where they will play Canada. The men's team also secured a win against Serbia.

Donald Trump has threatened to impose additional tariffs on Canada in response to wildfire smoke that has blanketed much of the US. Experts link climate change to worsening wildfire conditions.

US Central Command conducted a ninth consecutive night of strikes against Iran, targeting military sites and continuing a naval blockade that has redirected commercial vessels.

England secured third place in the World Cup by defeating France in a high-scoring match, with Kylian Mbappé noted as a prominent goal scorer.

Turkey is commemorating the 10th anniversary of the 2016 coup attempt with exhibitions, memorial events, and the release of special commemorative currency.

Former US President Donald Trump reportedly advised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pull Israeli forces out of Syria and Lebanon. The suggestion was made to avoid escalating regional tensions.

Donald Trump attended the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, presenting the trophy to the victorious Spanish team and declaring the US a 'soccer country'.

Truth Social will launch a new product, Truth API, to provide financial services firms with faster access to its posts, creating a new revenue stream.

Indian police banned a planned march on parliament by supporters of the 'Cockroach Janata Party', who are demanding the resignation of the Education Minister over exam irregularities.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun will visit the White House to present a plan to U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at disarming Hezbollah and pressuring Israel.

President Trump hosted Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi at the White House, expressing support and discussing potential economic deals. Trump indicated US troops may no longer be needed in Iraq.

Yemen's Houthis announced an immediate maritime blockade on Saudi Arabia, citing it as a response to a Saudi siege of Yemeni capital, Sana'a.

The United States has conducted strikes on Iranian infrastructure, including bridges and energy targets, on the sixth consecutive day of attacks. Iran reported damage to civilian infrastructure.

As Gustavo Petro prepares to leave office, disputes arise regarding the transition to Abelardo De La Espriella's government. Petro plans a final international trip before leaving Colombia.

The UN Secretary-General has expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict in the Middle East, urging the US and Iran to resume talks amidst ongoing strikes.

Argentina and Spain are set to face each other in the World Cup final, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé featuring prominently in discussions and media coverage.

England secured third place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating France 6-4 in a high-scoring match. Kylian Mbappé became the all-time leading World Cup scorer.

The death toll from earthquakes in Venezuela has risen above 5,000, with over 16,700 injured. Public anger grows over the perceived inadequacy of disaster aid.

Israeli settlers reportedly set fire to a mosque and a factory in the occupied West Bank, with Palestinian officials reporting injuries and property damage.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps claims two oil tankers exploded in the Strait of Hormuz, while the U.S. continues its military operations against Iran.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk was moved to a hospital on the 21st day of his hunger strike. His wife has requested he be moved to a private facility.

Iranian forces launched attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan following U.S. strikes on an Iranian nuclear site. Bahraini air defenses intercepted missiles.

Skyroot Aerospace launched Vikram-1, India's first privately developed orbital rocket. This marks a significant step for India's private space sector.

Spain has won the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina in a closely contested final. The match was preceded by significant media attention and fan anticipation.

Jannik Sinner has won his second consecutive Wimbledon title, defeating Alexander Zverev in a four-set final. The victory marks his fifth Grand Slam title.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to discuss efforts to reclaim sovereignty and a potential Israel-Lebanon framework agreement.

Qatar's Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, has passed away at the age of 74. His death has prompted national mourning across Qatar and several other countries.

Israeli artillery and drone strikes have resulted in the deaths of at least ten Palestinians, including children, in various areas of Gaza.

Pakistan has become a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) in Shanghai. China's President Xi Jinping called for global AI cooperation.

A U.S. judge has temporarily halted the $110 billion merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery. The pause follows concerns raised by several states about potential anti-competitive effects.

Israeli forces conducted raids, detentions, and demolitions across the West Bank, while Belgium banned products from Israeli settlements.

A deadly wildfire in southern Spain has claimed the lives of several individuals, including a French national, prompting a military reinforcement effort.

The Trump administration has subpoenaed New York Times reporters concerning their reporting on security issues with the new Air Force One plane.

Veterans of the Malvinas War have released a statement urging against animosity before the Argentina-England World Cup semifinal. Concerns arise over player injuries and team dynamics.

Shafaq News covers various events including oil price retreats, significant Turkish grain exports to Iraq, and the destruction of ISIS hideouts in Kirkuk.

Turkey is marking the tenth anniversary of the 2016 coup attempt with panels, marches, and commemorative articles, emphasizing national unity.

The United States has launched strikes against Iran following the deaths of three US service members, marking the ninth consecutive day of bombing.

The US military launched further strikes against Iran, hitting a rail bridge vital for trade with Russia and China. Russia criticized the strikes, stating they undermine nuclear settlement efforts.

The United States conducted airstrikes on Iran following the deaths of two American troops. Iran's leader Mojtaba Khamenei condemned the strikes and criticized a past US agreement.

The United States asserts its naval blockade of Iran continues, while Iran reports casualties and destruction of US assets. Tensions escalate with US refueling aircraft deployments.

Thousands of users worldwide have reported brief outages affecting Meta's Facebook and Instagram services. The cause of the disruption remains unknown.

SpaceX aborted the 13th test flight of its Starship rocket moments before liftoff because several engines failed to ignite.

Christopher Nolan's new film, 'The Odyssey,' is drawing praise from critics for its cinematic scope and exploration of good versus evil.

The United States continued strikes on Iran amid escalating tensions, with President Trump vowing retaliation for American soldiers killed in the Middle East.

A fire at an orphanage outside Algiers resulted in 11 deaths and 19 injuries. The cause and specific victims remain undisclosed amid a heatwave.

Lebanese army troops began deploying in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh following Israeli withdrawal, testing a US-brokered agreement. An incident involving Israeli forces firing near the deploying troops was reported.

Süper Lig club Galatasaray has officially announced the arrival of 22-year-old French footballer Lesley Ugochukwu in Istanbul. Details of the transfer agreement have emerged.

Spain has won the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time. The victory was celebrated in Gaza, while unrest followed in Argentina.

The United States has imposed a new 50% tariff on various Canadian products, including wine, hockey sticks, and cement. The duties are set to take effect in 30 days.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new policy for annual testosterone screening for service members aged 30 and older, aiming to ensure optimal combat readiness.

Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar have reported Iranian attacks, with air raid alerts sounding in Bahrain. These incidents occur amid heightened regional tensions and exchanges with the US.

The US House of Representatives has passed the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent. The bill aims to end the twice-yearly clock changes.

The U.S. has resumed military strikes against Iran following the deaths of two American military personnel in an Iranian attack in Jordan.

President Donald Trump notified Congress of renewed US military action against Iran and reinstated a naval blockade, amid ongoing airstrikes.

Spain has won its second World Cup title, defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time with a goal from Ferran Torres.

China's economic growth has fallen to its slowest pace in more than three years, missing targets due to weak domestic demand, despite strong exports.

Judit Polgar, the renowned chess grandmaster, has declined an offer from Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar to become the country's president. Magyar had sought her to lead the nation.

Writer E. Jean Carroll has received over $5.6 million from Donald Trump, fulfilling a jury's 2023 judgment in her sexual abuse and defamation lawsuit.

Galatasaray has officially confirmed the departure of Argentinian striker Mauro Icardi. The club and its coach expressed farewells to the player.

Argentina's final World Cup training was affected by a storm, while AI predictions and media coverage focused on the upcoming final between Argentina and Spain.

FIFA has announced the contenders for the 2026 World Cup goal of the tournament. Other reports mention championship rings for winners and awards.

A 28-year-old man has been charged with the murder of former British minister Ann Widdecombe. Police described the killing as a targeted attack, though the motive remains unclear.

On the 10th anniversary of the South China Sea ruling, 14 nations and the EU reaffirmed it, while China rejected the decision.

The Trump administration has finalized rules to limit the duration of visas for foreign students and journalists. Student visas will be capped at four years.

A powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake has struck off the coast of Puerto Madero, Mexico. Tremors were felt in Guatemala and El Salvador, and a tsunami warning was issued.

Former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy faces backlash for an opinion piece stating France's national football team lacks French players, sparking accusations of xenophobia.

Iran has allegedly instructed Yemen's Houthi movement to prepare to close the Bab el-Mandeb strait if the United States attacks Iranian infrastructure.

Ismael 'El Mayo' Zambada, a former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has been sentenced to life in prison in the United States. He pleaded guilty to decades of drug trafficking.

The European Union and Ukraine have signed a significant defense partnership focused on drone cooperation. The agreement aims to combine Ukraine's battlefield experience with European industrial capacity.

Hamas has appointed Khalil al-Hayya, its chief negotiator, as its new overall leader, replacing Yahya Sinwar who was killed in 2024. Al-Hayya's election may influence future negotiations.

Argentina's national football team lost the final match against Spain following the expulsion of player Enzo Fernández. Coach Lionel Scaloni's future with the team is uncertain.

China expressed strong dissatisfaction and opposition to the United Kingdom's nationalisation of British Steel, demanding compensation for its investment.

The US military conducted a sixth consecutive night of strikes against Iran, aiming to degrade military capabilities following alleged attacks on commercial shipping.

Senator Mitch McConnell has broken his silence regarding his health, stating his hospitalization was due to a fall and pneumonia. He is currently in rehabilitation.

The U.S. State Department issued a worldwide travel alert amid escalating tensions with Iran, following the deaths of several U.S. service members.

The Lebanese army is beginning to take over 'pilot zones' in southern Lebanon, following an announcement by the Israeli military of its withdrawal from these areas. The UN welcomed the development.

President Donald Trump imposed significant tariffs on Canadian products, citing disputes over automobiles, alcohol, and dairy, which the White House deemed discriminatory.

The United States military has announced a new series of strikes targeting Iran, escalating regional tensions.

Andy Burnham has officially become the United Kingdom's new Prime Minister, succeeding Keir Starmer. He met with King Charles III and began reshuffling his cabinet.

A ferry carrying 116 passengers capsized and sank off the coast of Guyana. Rescuers have recovered 27 bodies and are searching for 83 missing individuals.

Spain has won the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final. The team received a triumphant welcome upon their return to Madrid.

US forces have conducted multiple waves of strikes across southern Iran, hitting bridges, tunnels, and water infrastructure. The attacks deepen the military confrontation.

The Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo is spreading faster than response efforts, with 80% of new cases originating from unknown transmission chains. Health workers are also striking over unpaid wages.

The UN reports that over 500 people, primarily Rohingya refugees, are feared dead following two boat capsizings off the coast of Myanmar. The incidents highlight the desperate situation for the Rohingya.

President Trump reversed a suspension of ICE traffic stops, directing agents to continue the practice despite recent fatal shootings.

Nicaragua's President Daniel Ortega has announced that the country will cease holding elections, eliminating any possibility of electoral challenges to his rule.

Andrew and Tristan Tate appeared in a Miami federal courtroom to contest Britain's extradition request. They face numerous charges including rape and sex trafficking.

The Turkish Grand National Assembly has approved the '12th Judicial Package', a legislative reform aimed at improving the efficiency of the judiciary. The package includes provisions for IBAN fraud victims.

A Russian strike on an international cargo vessel off Odesa has killed at least five crew members. Ukraine reported striking 20 Russian vessels in the Black Sea overnight.

Kylian Mbappé has become the World Cup's all-time leading scorer, overtaking Lionel Messi. The news follows the World Cup final, where Messi expressed deep disappointment.

Ukrainian drone attacks have struck Wildberries warehouses in Russia, causing significant damage and financial losses for sellers. The attacks follow Russian strikes on Ukrainian logistics hubs.

New York has halted construction of large data centers for one year, citing concerns over power costs, water use, and AI's energy demand.

A boat carrying 19 people capsized near Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay, resulting in one confirmed death and three missing.

Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega announced that the country will cease holding elections. This move effectively eliminates any future electoral challenges to his rule.

An Italian court convicted 32 defendants, including the former head of Autostrade per l’Italia, for the 2018 Morandi Bridge collapse that killed 43 people.

Iraq's strategic water reserves have significantly recovered, reaching 34 billion cubic meters. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi is seeking major U.S. energy investments.

Donald Trump stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not be arrested during a U.S. visit, despite New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani considering legal options. Mamdani referred to Netanyahu as a 'war criminal'.

Spain secured the 2026 World Cup title, with Rodri receiving the Golden Ball award for his performance. The victory was celebrated by the Spanish government.

Andy Burnham has assumed the role of UK prime minister, vowing to decentralize power from London. He is known for his past criticisms of Donald Trump.

Two earthquakes, with magnitudes up to 5.5, struck Peru's Andes region, resulting in at least six deaths, over 20 injuries, and displacing hundreds.

President Trump announced that the Qatari-donated Air Force One jet will undergo extensive security upgrades, following concerns about its defenses.

Reports indicate numerous ceasefire violations in Gaza, while the US advises against travel to Lebanon and northern Israel due to security concerns.

An Israeli report claims Mossad sought to recruit former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for a plot to overthrow the Islamic Republic, a claim he denies.

Iran has targeted American military installations in the Gulf, warning of further attacks, while the US continues its strikes on Iran for the tenth consecutive day.

Kevin Keegan, the celebrated former England captain and manager for Liverpool and Newcastle, has died at the age of 75.

The European Union and the United Kingdom have signed a treaty to end border checks between Gibraltar and Spain, facilitating free movement six years after Brexit.

Jordanian authorities deny reports of evacuating Aqaba's airport and seaport following a US Embassy alert about a specific threat. The facilities remain operational.

Mediators have conveyed a 10-day ceasefire proposal to Iran, aiming to de-escalate tensions with the United States. This comes as Donald Trump reportedly prepares for military action.

Taylor Farms has expanded its lettuce recall to 27 states due to a growing cyclospora outbreak. However, the FDA later reported a false positive test result for the parasite on a sample of Taylor Farms' lettuce.

Britain's communications regulator, Ofcom, has launched an investigation into TikTok's child safety measures, focusing on the platform's age verification processes.

Spain has won the World Cup, defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time with a goal from Ferran Torres. The victory shatters Lionel Messi's hopes of a triumphant World Cup finale.

The US completed its eighth night of strikes against Iran, which retaliated with attacks across the Gulf. Bahrain activated warning sirens amid the escalating conflict.

Hong Kong lawmakers are undertaking a study tour in Beijing, a historic first. Meanwhile, the US has ended its state of emergency concerning Hong Kong security threats.

The European Union has fined AliExpress a record €550 million for failing to stop the sale of illegal and counterfeit products on its platform.

Honorio Henríquez of the Centro Democrático party has been elected president of the Colombian Senate, marking a political victory for uribismo.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 concludes with a final between Argentina and Spain. The tournament has been marked by controversies and a record prize pool.

The body of an Indian sailor, missing after a vessel attack off Oman, has been recovered, confirming his death.

An Israeli airstrike in Gaza City resulted in the deaths of a father, his wife, and their four children, with the military stating it targeted a Hamas operative.

US senators are calling on the Pentagon to disclose findings from its investigation into a deadly strike on a school in Iran. Reports suggest a standard review of intelligence has not been conducted.

A teenager died and others were injured in Spain when a fountain collapsed during celebrations for the nation's World Cup victory. The incident occurred in Ciudad Rodrigo.