Iran has asserted that it continues to maintain full control over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and is not seeking negotiations following U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to halt military bombing. Iranian officials said the country's defense capabilities remain intact and dismissed speculation that the pause in hostilities would lead to immediate diplomatic talks. They stressed that any future negotiations would depend on changing circumstances and mutual respect. The Strait of Hormuz remains a crucial global oil shipping route, making developments in the region closely watched by international markets and world powers. (PC: Reuters)

France and Spain are racing to contain large wildfires burning across several regions before a new heatwave intensifies the situation. Thousands of firefighters, aircraft, and emergency teams have been deployed to control the fast-spreading blazes, which have forced evacuations, destroyed forests, and threatened homes. Authorities warn that soaring temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds could fuel further outbreaks in the coming days. Residents in affected areas have been urged to follow evacuation orders and avoid fire-prone zones. The fires highlight the growing impact of extreme weather and climate change across southern Europe during summer. (PC: EPA)

Three people were killed and several others injured after a shooting at the Bite of Seattle food festival near the Space Needle on Sunday evening. Seattle Police said two suspects exchanged gunfire during the crowded event, with one suspect arrested and another still being sought. Authorities said there is no ongoing threat to the public. Among the injured is a 2-year-old boy, while four others remain in stable condition. The victims were identified as a 19-year-old man, a 44-year-old man and a 56-year-old woman. Police have launched an investigation into the motive behind the shooting. (PC: BBC)

A massive wildfire is burning about 15 km from the outskirts of Bordeaux, forcing thousands of people to leave their homes. "Like we're in a warzone," one resident said as thick smoke covered the city. More than 300,000 people have been evacuated across France and Spain. Firefighters are using aircraft to drop fire retardant, but hot and dry weather is making the fires worse. French President Emmanuel Macron is visiting the affected area. Officials warned that the coming days could bring even higher temperatures, increasing the risk of more wildfires and making firefighting more difficult. (PC: Reuters, EPA/Shutterstock)

A Bihar Police constable has been suspended after a viral video showed him firing an AK-47 during the July 25 'Bihar Bandh' protest over alleged NEET exam irregularities in Siwan. The suspended constable, identified as Abhishek Patel, was attached to the District Intelligence Unit. Police have launched a departmental inquiry, saying officers had clear instructions not to open fire. Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Kumar Jha has filed a Public Interest Litigation in the Supreme Court seeking action over the incident. While police denied any injuries from the firing, local reports said 3 people were hurt, including a 15-year-old boy who remains stable after surgery. (PC: India Today)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he plans to travel to New York in September to address the United Nations General Assembly, despite recent remarks from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani that he is "not welcome" in the city. Netanyahu told Fox News he would use the UN platform to "speak the truth" about Israel and the Israeli-American alliance. He also rejected the International Criminal Court's war crimes charges against him, calling them "bogus." During the interview, Netanyahu sharply criticised Mamdani, accusing him of sympathising with Hamas and aligning with those responsible for the October 7 attacks. The exchange highlights growing political tensions surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict and international accountability efforts. (PC: AFP)

At least two people were killed and five others were injured after a mass shooting at Seattle's annual Bite of Seattle food festival near the iconic Space Needle. The gunfire erupted around 6 pm at the Seattle Center, where hundreds of vendors and live performances had drawn large crowds. Victims were rushed to Harborview Medical Center for treatment, while authorities launched an investigation into the attack. Seattle Police urged the public to avoid the area as officers responded to the scene. It was not immediately clear whether any suspects had been taken into custody. Videos circulating on social media captured the panic and chaos following the shooting.

The United States and Iran have halted military strikes against each other for a second straight day, raising hopes of renewed diplomacy after 13 days of intense escalation. US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz said President Donald Trump was giving negotiations “a little bit of room,” while warning military options remain available if talks fail. Iran confirmed it had suspended retaliatory operations following the pause in US strikes. The temporary lull eased fears of disruptions to global energy supplies, sending Brent crude and WTI prices down nearly 6%. Despite the pause, both Washington and Tehran have signalled they remain prepared to resume military action if diplomatic efforts collapse. (PC: AFP)

US President Donald Trump shared AI-generated images on Truth Social depicting a US seizure of an Iranian oil tanker and airstrikes on Iran's Kharg Island oil export terminal amid ongoing tensions with Tehran. One image shows Trump standing aboard a tanker carrying a US flag, while another portrays fighter jets bombing the strategically important Kharg facility, which handles a significant share of Iran's oil exports. The posts come as maritime operations and military activity continue to heighten tensions between the two countries. By depicting attacks on critical Iranian energy infrastructure, the AI-generated images have intensified attention on the possibility of further escalation in the already volatile regional security situation and conflict.

India's Gen Z-led protests over alleged exam paper leaks have gained attention beyond the country's borders, with young people and commentators in Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka praising the movement. The protests, which eventually led to Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, have been widely discussed on social media. Pakistani creators admired the protesters' unity and determination, while Nepali and Sri Lankan activists compared the demonstrations to youth-led movements in their own countries. Many highlighted the use of memes, reels and social media to mobilise support. The cross-border reactions reflect how India's student protests have resonated with young audiences across South Asia. (PC: India Today)