Former Japanese Justice Minister Hideki Makihara blamed Indian authorities for delays in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, alleging poor coordination, missed commitments, and bureaucratic hurdles. He claimed these issues slowed the implementation of Japan's Shinkansen technology in India. Responding swiftly, India's Ministry of External Affairs rejected the remarks, calling them an individual opinion with "considerable variance with facts." The MEA reaffirmed that the flagship India-Japan high-speed rail project is progressing well through continued bilateral cooperation and regular discussions. Both governments remain committed to completing India's first bullet train corridor despite earlier land acquisition and implementation challenges. (PC: X)

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has emerged as the leading contender to replace Keir Starmer as leader of the UK Labour Party, according to political developments reported by Reuters. Burnham has gained strong backing from Labour members, trade unions and grassroots supporters, positioning him as the favourite to lead the party into the next general election. If elected Labour leader, he would become the party's candidate for Prime Minister. His campaign focuses on public services, economic reform and regional development. The leadership contest is expected to play a crucial role in shaping Britain's political future and Labour's direction. (PC: Reuters)

The United States has intensified its military operations against Iran, with US Marines boarding a vessel in the Gulf of Oman as part of enhanced maritime security efforts. The move follows expanded US airstrikes targeting Iranian military and infrastructure sites, escalating tensions across the Middle East. Iran has vowed retaliation, while regional security remains on high alert amid fears of further attacks on shipping routes and strategic waterways. The developments have heightened concerns over global energy supplies and the possibility of a broader regional war, as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis continue to face significant challenges. (PC: Reuters)

England manager Thomas Tuchel has come under intense criticism from the British media following England's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Newspapers questioned his tactical decisions, team selection and inability to guide a talented squad beyond the latter stages of the tournament. Several reports described England's campaign as disappointing, with concerns raised over the team's lack of creativity and attacking intent in crucial matches. The defeat has sparked widespread debate over Tuchel's future as head coach, with fans and pundits demanding answers after another missed opportunity to end England's long wait for a major international trophy. (PC: PTI)

India captain Rohit Sharma faces what could be his final chance to cement his place in Test cricket as India prepares for the decisive match against England at Lord's. With inconsistent performances and increasing scrutiny over his form, the series decider has taken on added significance for the veteran opener. A strong performance could silence critics and reaffirm his leadership, while another failure may intensify calls for a transition to younger players. As India aims to clinch the series, all eyes will be on Rohit's bat in a match that could shape both the team's future and his Test career. (PC: ANI)

The UK government has warned that supporting or promoting Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) could lead to up to 14 years in prison under strengthened counterterrorism measures. The warning comes as the conflict between Iran and its adversaries continues to escalate. Meanwhile, an airstrike on the Iranian port city of Bandar Khamir reportedly killed seven people, according to Iranian media. The developments have heightened regional tensions, with military exchanges intensifying and diplomatic efforts struggling to contain the crisis. Governments worldwide remain concerned about the growing risk of a wider Middle East conflict. (PC: X)

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has pledged to continue his indefinite hunger strike until July 20, despite doctors warning that his health has become critical after 20 days without food. Addressing supporters, Wangchuk said he would “stay alive till July 20 at any cost” to lead the planned Parliament march, adding in a light-hearted remark that he would “return as a ghost” if the movement failed. The protest, backed by the Cockroach Janta Party, demands accountability over alleged examination irregularities and broader reforms. Support for Wangchuk continues to grow as concerns over his deteriorating health intensify. (PC: PTI)

FIFA has appointed experienced Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19. The appointment makes Vinčić the first Slovenian referee to oversee a FIFA World Cup final, marking a historic milestone in his career. A FIFA-listed international referee since 2010, Vinčić has previously handled major matches, including the 2024 UEFA Champions League final. He will be assisted by fellow Slovenians Tomaž Klančnik and Andraž Kovačič, with Jordan's Adham Makhadmeh serving as the fourth official. (PC: AP)

Indian-origin NASA astronaut Anil Menon has begun his first mission to the International Space Station (ISS) after lifting off aboard Russia's Soyuz MS-29 spacecraft at 8:17 PM IST yesterday. The spacecraft launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, carrying Menon alongside Roscosmos cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anna Kikina. It successfully reached orbit and docked automatically with the ISS's Prichal module following a two-orbit journey lasting about three hours. According to NASA, the newly arrived crew will spend around eight months aboard the orbital laboratory conducting scientific research and technology demonstrations before returning to Earth in April 2027, completing Menon's maiden spaceflight mission.

In a first for West Bengal, 36 Jadavpur University students observed a one-day symbolic hunger strike on Friday in solidarity with education reform activist Sonam Wangchuk and students continuing their indefinite fast at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. The protest, held outside Triguna Sen Auditorium, sought to amplify demands for education reforms. Carrying placards reading "Scrap NTA" and "Dharmendra Pradhan Must Resign," participants called for greater accountability, transparency and dialogue in education policymaking. Organisers described it as Kolkata's first symbolic fast supporting Wangchuk's ongoing protest. Students said the demonstration reflected nationwide concerns over education policies and expressed solidarity with those continuing the hunger strike in the national capital of India. (PC: Shorts91)