Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed at least six Palestinians, including two children, even as mediators in Cairo reported rare progress toward implementing a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal. The Israeli military said the strikes targeted Hamas militants, while health officials reported civilian casualties. U.S. President Donald Trump announced a phased plan for Hamas' disarmament and governance reforms in Gaza, but Israel expressed reservations, saying the proposal does not meet its demand for complete demilitarisation. Hamas has also indicated disarmament would depend on a full Israeli withdrawal, leaving the ceasefire initiative uncertain despite renewed diplomatic momentum. (PC: Reuters)

Spain has deployed additional troops and police to its North African enclave of Ceuta after an estimated 2,000–3,000 migrants crossed from Morocco by swimming around border barriers or scaling fences. The sudden influx overwhelmed local authorities, crowded reception centres, and prompted calls for a national emergency. At least nine people reportedly died during the dangerous crossings. Spanish officials blamed criminal smuggling networks and pledged close coordination with Morocco to restore border security while processing migrants. The crisis has reignited debate over migration policies, border management, and European Union cooperation, echoing the major Ceuta migration emergency witnessed in 2021. (PC: EPA)

The United States passport has slipped to 10th place in the latest Henley Passport Index, marking a dramatic decline from its joint No. 1 ranking in 2006. U.S. passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 180 destinations, while Singapore leads the global rankings with access to 192 destinations. The report highlights a steady erosion of America's global travel mobility over the past 20 years, placing it behind 36 countries due to ranking ties. Experts say shifting visa policies, changing diplomatic relationships, and stronger international agreements by other nations have contributed to the U.S. passport's declining global standing. (PC: Getty)

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)