The Trump administration is considering imposing a $100,000 fee on international students who want to work in the United States after graduation through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. The proposal, which has not yet been officially announced, is reportedly being explored after a similar H-1B visa fee faced legal setbacks. If implemented, the measure could significantly increase the cost of post-study employment, affecting students, universities, and industries that rely on global talent, including technology and finance. Critics warn the plan could discourage international students from choosing U.S. universities and weaken America's ability to attract skilled professionals. (PC: India Today)

U.S.-based drone manufacturer Terminal Autonomy has opened a production facility in Ukraine, strengthening the country's domestic defence manufacturing as the war with Russia continues. The factory will produce advanced unmanned aerial systems designed for reconnaissance and strike missions, helping Ukraine reduce dependence on imported military equipment. Company officials said local production enables faster delivery, easier maintenance, and rapid adaptation to battlefield needs. The move reflects growing cooperation between Western defence companies and Ukraine to expand military capabilities. It also underscores Ukraine's strategy of building a resilient defence industry capable of sustaining long-term operations against Russian forces. (PC: Reuters)

Thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, many entering on foot or swimming across the sea, overwhelming border authorities and reception centres. Local officials described the situation as "absolute chaos" and urged Madrid to declare a state of emergency and consider deploying the army. Spain's government said it is coordinating with Moroccan authorities to restore order but has not declared an emergency. The exact reason for the sudden surge remains unclear, though it echoes the 2021 migration crisis. Authorities continue rescue, security, and humanitarian operations as arrivals put immense pressure on Ceuta's resources. 

Thousands of residents and tourists were evacuated from the Greek island of Crete as strong winds spread dangerous wildfires. 2 firefighters died while battling a blaze near Rethymno, while another firefighter died on the Greek mainland. Officials said around 8,000 people were moved to safety, though many later returned home. The fires damaged homes and farmland and remained out of control. Greece is among several European countries facing severe wildfires during a hot summer. Spain, Portugal and France are also battling major fires. Experts say heatwaves, dry weather and strong winds are making wildfires more intense and harder to control. (PC: EPA/Shutterstock, Reuters)

At least 5 members of the same family were killed after a Russian missile hit their home near Kryvyi Rih in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. The victims included parents Artem and Olena Voronov and three of their children. Several other family members are still missing. Ukraine said Russia launched more than 70 missiles and over 280 drones overnight. Officials said at least eight people were killed in the attacks across the country. Homes and other buildings were damaged. Poland also reported a missile-like object crashed inside its territory. An investigation is now underway into the incident. (PC: X/ Volodymyr Zelensky)

Violence has intensified in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, with News18 reporting that at least 35 people were killed during a security crackdown in Rawalakot. The report alleges snipers targeted unarmed protesters participating in demonstrations linked to the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Protest leaders and witnesses accused security forces of using excessive force, while authorities have disputed aspects of the allegations and blamed unrest on hostile elements. Communications disruptions have made independent verification difficult. The escalating violence has sparked international concern, with human rights organisations calling for an impartial investigation and urging authorities to ensure accountability, restore communications, and protect civilians. (PC: Instagram)

The Central government has again summoned senior Meta executives after Facebook briefly restricted a video message posted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week. MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan said the government has asked Meta to explain the incident at the highest level. Meta earlier apologised, calling the removal a technical error, and said it has introduced new safeguards for accounts of prominent public figures. The video, addressing students during the NEET-UG paper leak protests, was later restored. While the post briefly disappeared from Facebook, it continued to gain massive traction on Instagram, attracting hundreds of millions of views. (PC: India Today)

The death toll from the 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Japan's Kumamoto prefecture on Kyushu island has risen to 34, authorities said on Thursday. Rescue teams continue searching for survivors as more than 100 aftershocks keep residents on edge. Around 9,000 people remain in evacuation centres, while over 30,000 households are without electricity. With temperatures expected to reach 39°C, officials have warned of heatstroke risks and sent hundreds of air conditioners to shelters. The quake caused widespread damage, including the partial collapse of a shopping mall and a paper factory. Investigations into a suspected gas explosion at the mall are ongoing. (PC: BBC)

India's campaign at the Commonwealth Games 2026 enters a crucial phase on Day 8, with star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra returning to the competition after an eight-year gap. The Olympic champion will renew his much-anticipated rivalry with Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem in one of the biggest events of the day. Indian decathlete Tejasvin Shankar will also compete across multiple disciplines, while the country's weightlifting team aims to add to its impressive medal tally after winning 6 medals so far. With several medal events scheduled, India will look to strengthen its position in the overall standings in Glasgow. (PC: NDTV)

The United States launched a "heavy wave" of airstrikes on Iran after Tehran allegedly attempted ballistic missile attacks on American forces in Jordan and targeted ships in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command said dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) military sites, including missile, drone and command facilities, were struck. Iranian state media reported that 3 civilians, including a 2-year-old child, were killed on Qeshm Island. The latest escalation follows months of conflict between the US and Iran, raising fresh concerns over regional stability despite recent efforts to restart diplomatic talks. (PC: BBC)