Andy Burnham has announced that he will contest the Labour Party leadership race following Keir Starmer’s resignation as UK Prime Minister. Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester and a senior Labour leader, is widely seen as the leading candidate to replace Starmer. In a statement, he thanked Starmer for his service and said the leadership transition should be carried out in an “orderly and responsible way”. Burnham promised to focus on stability and the issues that matter most to people. The Labour Party is expected to choose its new leader before Parliament returns in September. (PC: AP)

The Taliban has ordered government officials in Afghanistan to stop using smartphones. Under the new directive, officials found using smartphones could face punishment and have their devices destroyed. Reports suggest the ban is being enforced in different ways across the country, with some areas extending restrictions to teachers, students and other civilians. Analysts say the move may be linked to concerns about information leaks, online activity and recent protests. The order has raised fears that broader restrictions could follow. Some observers believe the Taliban may be testing public reaction before introducing wider smartphone limits across Afghanistan.

The United Kingdom is set to have a new prime minister by September after Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Labour leader and prime minister. Starmer said nominations for the Labour leadership contest will open on July 9 and close on July 16. The party aims to complete the process before Parliament returns from its summer break in September. Until then, Starmer will remain in office. The resignation follows growing pressure within the Labour Party. Several leaders are expected to enter the race, with Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting among the names being discussed as potential successors. (PC: PA)

Keir Starmer delivered an emotional farewell as he announced his resignation as UK Prime Minister and Labour Party leader. During his statement outside Downing Street, Starmer paid a heartfelt tribute to his wife, Victoria. Fighting back tears, he said, “Vic has been a rock by my side through good times and bad.” He added that after leaving office, he hopes to spend more time being “the best husband” and “the best dad” to his children. Starmer also thanked his colleagues and civil servants for their support. The emotional speech marked the end of his time as prime minister. (PC: Reuters)

Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and leader of the Labour Party. He said he will remain in office until a new party leader is chosen. Announcing his decision, Starmer said, "I have heard that answer from my party colleagues, and I accept." He informed King Charles about his decision and asked Labour to begin the leadership election process. His resignation follows growing pressure from party members and declining public support. Andy Burnham is widely seen as a leading contender to replace him. Britain is now set to have its seventh prime minister in the last decade.

Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of several crimes, including two counts of rape and domestic abuse. An Oslo court convicted the 29-year-old of 34 offences following a high-profile trial. He was also ordered to pay compensation to four women and received a restraining order against one victim. Høiby denied the most serious allegations and is expected to appeal the verdict. The case has attracted widespread attention in Norway and sparked discussions about consent, domestic violence and sexual offences. (PC: AP)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing growing pressure amid reports that he may soon announce a timetable for his departure. The speculation follows poor local election results and increasing calls within the Labour Party for a leadership change. Andy Burnham's recent election to Parliament has strengthened expectations of a possible leadership challenge. While Downing Street has not confirmed any resignation plans, Starmer is reportedly discussing his future with senior party members. If he steps down, Britain could see its seventh prime minister in a decade. The situation has created uncertainty over the country's political future.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that Israel follows his instructions. Netanyahu said both leaders represent independent countries and make decisions based on their national interests. His remarks came after Trump said Israel “does as I say” during an interview. Netanyahu said the two leaders often agree but sometimes have different views. He stressed that both countries respect each other's sovereignty and leadership. The comments come amid growing discussions over the US-Iran agreement and regional tensions. Recent reports suggest differences remain between some Israeli leaders and the US administration. (PC: Reuters)

The United States and India are moving closer to finalising an interim trade agreement following discussions initiated under the broader India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement framework. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will visit New Delhi to meet Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and senior officials to advance negotiations and review commitments stemming from the Modi-Trump understanding reached in February. The visit follows negotiator-level talks held in New Delhi earlier this month. Indian officials expect discussions to focus on finalising the framework agreement, while Commerce Minister Goyal has indicated that the first phase of the trade pact could be concluded by the middle of next month. (PC: USA Rice)

People in Lahore came together to celebrate the International Day of Yoga, highlighting the unifying power of yoga and its growing global appeal. Participants gathered for a public yoga session, practising various postures and breathing exercises that promote physical health, mental well-being and inner balance. The event reflected the core message of International Day of Yoga, fostering harmony between mind and body while encouraging healthier lifestyles. Held in Pakistan, the gathering demonstrated how yoga continues to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, bringing communities together through a shared commitment to wellness, mindfulness and holistic living. (PC: Sajjad/Xinhua)