The United States launched a fresh wave of airstrikes on Iran after Tehran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz following an incident involving a commercial vessel. The US military said it struck 140 Iranian military targets, including missile sites, drone facilities and communication networks. In response, Iran claimed it targeted a US base in Jordan and launched missiles and drones toward the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain, prompting air defence operations across the region. The latest escalation has heightened tensions in the Middle East and raised fresh concerns over global shipping, energy supplies and regional security. (PC: BBC)

Erling Haaland said Norway's impressive FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign has inspired a new generation despite the team's quarter-final exit. Speaking after Norway's 2-1 extra-time defeat to England, the striker said, "We put Norway on the map," highlighting the team's historic run. Haaland praised his teammates and supporters, saying the tournament had changed how Norwegian football is viewed around the world. Norway reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in decades, with Haaland playing a key role throughout the campaign. His emotional remarks quickly went viral on social media after the heartbreaking defeat. (PC: X)

India on Sunday strongly condemned the attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy off the coast of Oman, calling the incident "deeply worrisome" amid the escalating US-Iran conflict. The Ministry of External Affairs said attacks on civilian ships threaten maritime security and global trade, urging all sides to respect international law and ensure safe navigation. According to officials, 10 of the 11 Indian crew members have been rescued, while one remains missing. New Delhi said it is closely monitoring the situation and is in touch with regional authorities to ensure the safety of Indian nationals. (PC: HT)

The Middle East conflict escalated sharply after the United States launched strikes on 140 Iranian targets following Tehran's decision to close the Strait of Hormuz. Iran announced the closure after intercepting a vessel it claimed was using an "unauthorised route." The US said the strikes targeted missile and drone sites, naval assets, ammunition depots and surveillance systems. Hours later, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE, triggering air defence operations and missile alerts across the Gulf. The latest escalation has further weakened diplomatic efforts to end the conflict and raised concerns over regional stability.  

Climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk said he is "just an ordinary citizen" and not a "modern Gandhi" as he continued his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Wangchuk urged people to stop waiting for heroes and instead take responsibility as active citizens. His remarks came as the Cockroach Janta Party's protest over alleged examination irregularities entered its 22nd day. The protesters are demanding accountability over alleged paper leaks and exam-related issues. Wangchuk has been fasting in support of the campaign, which also seeks the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. (PC: India Today) 

Julián Álvarez produced a moment of brilliance as Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals. With the match locked at 1-1, Álvarez scored a spectacular long-range goal in the 112th minute to put the defending champions ahead. Lautaro Martínez added another goal late in extra time to seal the victory after Alexis Mac Allister had opened the scoring in the first half. Switzerland equalised through Dan Ndoye before being reduced to 10 men. Argentina will now face England in a blockbuster semi-final.  

Fifteen Indian tourists were killed after a speedboat capsized near Hon May Rut Ngoai Island, off Vietnam’s Phu Quoc coast. Survivors said the boat overturned suddenly while passengers were taking photographs, leaving many trapped in the water. The vessel was carrying 32 Indian tourists and 4 crew members, with 21 people rescued. Most victims were part of a reward trip organised for dealers and distributors linked to Lava Mobiles. Vietnamese authorities have launched an investigation into the accident, while the Indian Embassy is assisting affected families and coordinating with local officials.  

At least 2 people were killed and several others injured after gunfire broke out during the annual Salsa on St. Clair street festival in Toronto, Canada. Police said an exchange of gunfire between 2 individuals triggered panic among thousands of festival-goers. Officers recovered 2 firearms from the scene and launched an investigation, but no arrests had been made. Authorities are managing multiple crime scenes and have appealed for witnesses to come forward. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford condemned the attack, calling for those responsible to be brought to justice.  

Lionel Messi was involved in a tense exchange with the referee during Argentina’s FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Switzerland. Frustrated by a decision, the Argentina captain was seen telling the official, “Speak to me properly,” in a moment that quickly went viral. Despite the brief confrontation, Messi stayed focused and helped Argentina secure a 3-1 extra-time victory to reach the semi-finals. Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring before Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez struck in extra time after Switzerland had equalised. Argentina will now face England in the World Cup semi-finals.  

Fresh US strikes on Iranian military targets have sharply escalated tensions across the Gulf, prompting Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and the UAE to activate emergency security measures. Iran claimed it launched missile and drone attacks on several US military bases, including Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar and facilities in Kuwait and Bahrain, though these claims remain unverified. Kuwait reported intercepting hostile aerial targets, while Bahrain and Qatar issued emergency alerts. The US said it struck around 140 Iranian military sites to weaken Tehran's capabilities. The growing conflict has also raised concerns over regional security, global energy supplies and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. (PC: India Today)