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)

China has rejected US President Donald Trump’s allegations that it interfered in the 2020 US presidential election, insisting it “has never and will never interfere” in America’s internal affairs. Responding to Trump’s claim that China acquired 220 million US voter files during the 2020 election cycle, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy said the outcome of US elections is determined solely by American voters. The statement reiterated Beijing’s long-standing policy of non-interference in other countries’ domestic affairs. Trump, meanwhile, maintained that voter data across 18 states had been compromised and announced plans to declassify intelligence that he said would reveal major vulnerabilities in US election infrastructure. (PC: AP)

US President Donald Trump accused China of orchestrating what he called the "largest compromise of election data in history" during the 2020 election, alleging that 220 million US voter files were bought, stolen or hacked. Trump claimed voter data across 18 states was compromised and announced the immediate declassification of intelligence that he said would expose vulnerabilities in America's election infrastructure. He further alleged China began efforts to influence US elections and business leaders from 2018 onward. However, a 2021 US intelligence assessment by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence found no evidence that foreign actors compromised the technical aspects of the 2020 election infrastructure or vote counting.  

Iran has reportedly instructed Yemen's Houthi movement to prepare to close the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a key Red Sea shipping route, if the United States launches attacks on Iran's power infrastructure, according to sources cited by Reuters. The move could significantly disrupt global trade and energy shipments passing through one of the world's busiest maritime chokepoints. The report comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran following recent cyber and military threats. Neither Iran nor the Houthis have officially confirmed the directive, while U.S. officials have not publicly responded to the reported contingency plan. (PC: Reuters)

Iran has reportedly asked Yemen’s Houthi movement to prepare to block the Red Sea oil route if US-led strikes expand to target Iranian power plants, according to Reuters. The proposal was first discussed within Iran’s leadership before being conveyed to the Houthis, Tehran’s regional ally. The reported move comes as Iran remains blocked in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating hostilities with the United States. If implemented, Houthi involvement could significantly widen the conflict and further destabilise global energy supply routes by threatening another critical maritime chokepoint. The development adds to growing concerns over the expanding regional fallout from the nearly five-month-long US-Iran conflict in the Gulf. (PC: X)

The United Nations has expressed grave concern after two boats carrying refugees were reportedly lost off Myanmar's coast, with hundreds feared dead. The vessels, believed to be transporting Rohingya refugees fleeing conflict and persecution, are suspected to have capsized during dangerous sea crossings. Rescue efforts remain challenging, and the exact number of casualties is still being verified. The UN urged regional governments to strengthen search-and-rescue operations and provide greater protection for vulnerable refugees undertaking perilous journeys. The suspected tragedy highlights the continuing humanitarian crisis facing the Rohingya and the risks many endure while seeking safety and a better future. (PC: AFP)

A giant billboard depicting US President Donald Trump lying in an open coffin has been installed in Tehran's Enghelab Square, carrying the message "We Will Kill Trump" in both Persian and English. The display reflects heightened tensions following the assassination of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and growing calls from Iranian hardliners for revenge. References to the deadly Minab school strike also appear on the billboard, linking it to broader anti-US sentiment. The provocative installation has intensified international concern over escalating rhetoric and the deteriorating relationship between Iran and the United States. (PC: X)

A new Pew Research Center survey has found that more countries now view China more favourably than the United States for the first time since the study began in 2002. Conducted across 36 countries with over 42,000 respondents, the survey showed China enjoyed higher favourability in 25 countries. Respondents also said China interferes less in other nations' affairs than the US. While confidence in both Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump remained low, Xi received higher ratings overall. India, Japan, South Korea, Poland, Israel and the Philippines remained among the countries favouring the US. (PC: BBC)

More than 500 people are feared dead after 2 boats carrying mainly Rohingya refugees reportedly capsized off Myanmar's coast, according to the United Nations. The vessels are believed to have left Myanmar's Rakhine State in late June, with some passengers travelling from refugee camps in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar. One boat carrying about 250 people lost contact soon after departure, while another with around 280 people reportedly sank near Ayeyarwady on July 8. UNHCR and IOM called for urgent search and rescue operations, stronger action against human trafficking networks, and greater international support for displaced Rohingya communities. (PC: The Guardian)

Iran launched fresh attacks on US military bases in Jordan, Kuwait and Bahrain as the United States carried out a six-hour wave of strikes on military targets across Iran, escalating tensions in the Gulf. US Central Command said the operation targeted command centres, air defence systems and coastal surveillance sites to reduce Iran's ability to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran said it also targeted US communication systems and fuel facilities in Jordan. The renewed exchange came as negotiations remained stalled, with President Donald Trump warning Tehran of further military action if it refuses to return to talks. (PC: HT)