Venezuela's devastating twin earthquakes have claimed more than 4,100 lives, with over 16,700 people injured and thousands still missing. The 7.5 and 7.2 magnitude quakes, which struck on June 24, caused widespread destruction, particularly in La Guaira, where entire neighborhoods were flattened. Although official rescue operations have ended, families continue searching for loved ones beneath the rubble. The United Nations has appealed for nearly $300 million in emergency aid, estimating damages at $37 billion. Authorities face mounting criticism over the disaster response as the country begins the enormous task of rebuilding amid ongoing economic challenges. (PC: Reuters)

US President Donald Trump said he has already left instructions for a massive military response if Iran attempts to assassinate him. Speaking in an interview, Trump said the orders call for strikes at "levels never seen before" if such an attack takes place. His remarks come amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran following recent military confrontations in the region. US officials have previously accused Iran of being linked to threats against Trump, while Tehran has repeatedly denied the allegations. The latest comments are expected to further escalate tensions between the two countries. (PC: India Today)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian community in New Zealand for preserving India's rich cultural heritage across generations during a community event in Auckland. He said the diaspora has kept Indian traditions alive while strengthening people-to-people ties between India and New Zealand. Modi appreciated cultural performances featuring Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Carnatic and Hindustani classical music, along with a rendition of Vande Mataram. Calling the event a vibrant celebration of India's diversity, he said the Indian diaspora continues to play a key role in promoting the country's culture across the world and deepening the friendship between India and New Zealand.

Andy Burnham is set to become the United Kingdom's next prime minister after winning the support of 80% of Labour MPs. He secured 322 nominations, far above the 81 needed to enter the party leadership race. Burnham said he was "deeply grateful" for the backing and promised a new approach to politics. He is expected to become Labour leader after nominations close on July 16. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his resignation last month. Burnham has promised to boost economic growth, improve public services and continue Britain's support for NATO, the United States and Ukraine. (PC: Reuters)

At least 12 people have died and 23 are missing after a massive wildfire swept through southern Spain. Officials said four of the victims are believed to be British. The fire broke out near Los Gallardos in the Andalusia region and forced hundreds of people to leave their homes. Emergency teams continued to battle the blaze, which officials described as the region's worst wildfire. "If the wind picks up again, things could get complicated," a local mayor said. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire as search and rescue operations continue in the affected areas.

Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to rise. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency said the threat level remains "severe" after recent attacks on commercial vessels. Fewer oil and liquefied natural gas tankers are now passing through the key waterway. The strait carries about one-fifth of the world's oil and gas trade. Shipping companies are closely monitoring the situation. The slowdown has also raised concerns for the safety of seafarers working in the region. Officials warned that the conflict continues to threaten global energy supplies.

Microsoft's latest Xbox layoffs have reignited the debate over the H-1B visa programme in the United States. The company recently announced about 4,800 job cuts, including around 3,200 in its Xbox division. Critics targeted Indian-origin Xbox CEO Asha Sharma after the layoffs. Republican lawmaker Riley Moore said, "It's long past time to end the H-1B scam." Some people claimed American workers were being replaced by foreign employees. Microsoft denied the allegation. The company said the layoffs were based on business needs, not visa status. It also said H-1B workers were among those who lost their jobs during the restructuring.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said she plans to return to Bangladesh around December. "They may arrest me. They may even kill me. Still, I have to go," she said. Hasina added that she will surrender before the court with other Awami League leaders. She has been living in India since leaving Bangladesh in 2024. Hasina was sentenced to death in absentia after her government was removed from power. She denied the charges and said she wants justice. "If death comes, I want it to come on my own soil," she said. (PC: Reuters)

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has announced that she plans to return to Bangladesh in December 2026 with senior leaders of the Awami League and voluntarily surrender to the authorities. Living in exile in India since 2024, Hasina said she is prepared to face arrest or even death but wants to return to her homeland. She continues to deny the charges against her, including a death sentence handed down in absentia. Her planned return is expected to intensify Bangladesh's political tensions while drawing close international attention. (PC: Reuters)

The BBC has requested access to former U.S. President Donald Trump's diaries, phone logs, and related communications as part of the legal discovery process in his $10 billion defamation lawsuit. The broadcaster argues that the records could help clarify key events, communications, and claims central to the case. Trump's lawsuit alleges the BBC damaged his reputation through its reporting, while the broadcaster denies wrongdoing and is defending its journalism in court. The discovery request marks a significant step in the high-profile legal battle, with both sides preparing evidence as the case proceeds through the U.S. judicial system. (PC: BBC)