Thai authorities are investigating a deadly fire at a bar in Bangkok that killed at least 30 people and injured more than 70. Early findings suggest a short circuit in an air conditioner started the fire. Police said locked doors, blocked exits, and flammable decorations made it harder for people to escape. Many victims were found near the restrooms after trying to flee. Experts believe toxic smoke also caused many deaths. The bar was registered as a restaurant, so it did not have to use fire-resistant materials. Officials are now reviewing safety rules to prevent similar tragedies in the future. (PC: AFP via Getty Images, Getty Images)

India has asked the international community to hold Pakistan responsible for its actions during protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the protests were caused by years of poor governance and denial of basic rights. He also accused Pakistan of using force against protesters, including women and children. Reports say food, medicines, and internet services were blocked in some areas. The protests began over rising prices, shortages, and political issues. Pakistan recently banned the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which led to more protests. A video asking India for help is circulating online but has not been independently verified.

France have brushed aside Spain’s psychological tactics ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final in Dallas, insisting they will let their football do the talking. Spain’s players have highlighted their recent success against France, but Les Bleus remain unfazed. Coach Didier Deschamps even labelled Spain as favourites, while defender Jules Koundé said the team would not be distracted by pre-match mind games. France are aiming for a third straight World Cup final, while Spain hope to continue their impressive run under coach Luis de la Fuente. The blockbuster clash promises a battle between two football giants.  

India on Tuesday strongly condemned the recent attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz after an Indian sailor was killed in one of the strikes. The Ministry of External Affairs said targeting civilian merchant vessels is unacceptable and called for an immediate end to such attacks. Expressing condolences to the sailor’s family, India urged all parties to respect international maritime law and ensure the safety of seafarers and commercial shipping. The statement comes amid rising tensions in the Gulf, where repeated attacks on merchant ships have raised concerns over regional stability and the security of one of the world’s busiest trade routes.  

Norway striker Erling Haaland has gone viral for an unusual souvenir after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Manchester City star shared photos of a taxidermied raccoon holding a whiskey bottle, reportedly worth around ₹72,000, which he bought during the tournament in the United States. Posting the pictures on social media, Haaland joked, “It followed me home,” and asked fans to help name the raccoon. The quirky collectible quickly became an online sensation, drawing thousands of reactions and comments. While Norway missed out on World Cup glory, Haaland’s unique keepsake has captured the internet’s attention. (PC: X)

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's health has deteriorated as his indefinite hunger strike entered its 17th day, prompting growing appeals for him to end the fast. Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke said Wangchuk has started losing muscle mass and is in severe pain. Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, writer Arundhati Roy, actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah, along with several other public figures, urged him to call off the strike while continuing the campaign for education reforms and accountability. Wangchuk, however, said the government should engage in dialogue instead of asking him to end his protest.  

India on Tuesday summoned senior Iranian diplomats, including the Deputy Ambassador, to protest the death of an Indian sailor killed in a strike on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The Ministry of External Affairs expressed deep concern over the attack and urged Iran to ensure the safety of Indian nationals and merchant vessels operating in the region. The diplomatic move comes as tensions in the Gulf continue to rise, threatening one of the world's busiest shipping routes. India also called for restraint and stressed the need to protect civilian lives and maintain the security of international maritime navigation. (PC: India Today)

Nepal Prime Minister Balen Shah’s government is facing mounting public anger after 25-year-old Ganesh Nepali died following self-immolation triggered by a confrontation with Kathmandu Metropolitan security guards. The incident has united anti-Balen groups and intensified criticism of the government’s handling of policing and displacement. Protesters, including former Gen Z supporters, accused authorities of mistreating vulnerable citizens after nearly 1,000 families displaced during an anti-encroachment drive were allegedly left without promised rehabilitation. Law student Majjid Ansari was among those detained during demonstrations. Two more self-immolation attempts followed. After the government promised an inquiry, compensation, employment for Nepali’s wife and educational support for his children, his family agreed to perform his funeral. (PC: The Indian Express)

Vietnam speedboat tragedy survivor Nirmal Kumar recalled that the vessel capsized within three minutes of departure after a massive wave struck near Hon May Rut Ngoai off Phu Quoc Island on July 11. The boat, carrying 32 Indian tourists and four local crew members, overturned just 300 metres into the journey, killing 15 Indian tourists. Kumar said around 20 passengers escaped by jumping into the water, while 15 others became trapped inside the closed boat despite wearing life jackets. Rescue teams arrived within 10 minutes, but trapped passengers were recovered after 20-30 minutes. Sixteen survivors returned to India, while one remains critically injured in Vietnam. (PC: PTI)

American citizen Jordan Brown, 36, from California, is under investigation after being detained by the Sashastra Seema Bal while allegedly attempting to cross the India-Nepal border without valid travel documents. Brown claimed he lost his passport in Thailand, travelled to Sri Lanka by sea, entered India via the sea route in November 2025, and had since been living in Goa. Authorities said no evidence of suspicious or anti-national links has emerged so far, but multiple intelligence agencies are verifying his identity, travel history and claims. Police registered a case under the Immigration and Foreigners Act after recovering cash, mobile phones and several other items from his possession during the arrest.