FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina following incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Midfielder Leandro Paredes, defender Nahuel Molina and coach Roberto Ayala face charges over post-final clashes after Spain's 1-0 victory. FIFA also charged the Argentine Football Association after players displayed a political banner claiming the Falkland Islands, known as Las Malvinas in Argentina, following their semi-final win over England. Additional cases involve alleged discriminatory chants by fans, unsporting behaviour and objects thrown by spectators. FIFA said those charged can present their defence before the Disciplinary Committee issues its final decision. (PC: NDTV)

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and questioned the effectiveness of the anti-paper leak law. “If he is such a good influencer, then he should leave the Prime Minister's chair, become an influencer, and let someone else do the job,” Dipke said. On the new law, he added, “You can make whatever laws you want, but until the people implementing them are good, what is the point of those laws?” He also warned of fresh student protests if FIRs against demonstrators are not withdrawn, saying students would respond through their votes. (PC: HT)

The US and Saudi Arabia launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran-backed militias in Iraq after accusing them of carrying out drone attacks on American forces and Saudi energy facilities. US Central Command said the strikes targeted militia logistics and weapons sites linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) said at least 20 fighters were killed and 32 injured, calling the attacks a violation of Iraq's sovereignty. The escalation followed Iran's reported missile attack on US forces and renewed tensions across the Middle East, raising concerns over regional stability and global oil supplies. (PC: BBC)

US President Donald Trump vowed a forceful response after Iran launched multiple ballistic missiles at a US military base in Jordan, calling it an attempted surprise attack despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. Speaking to Fox News, Trump warned Iran would face severe retaliation if American personnel were harmed. The missiles were intercepted, according to the US military. The attack came days after Washington paused planned strikes to allow negotiations with Tehran. Trump said discussions had been progressing but stressed diplomacy would not prevent military action if Iran escalated further. The incident marks a significant setback for de-escalation efforts, heightening concerns over renewed conflict and broader instability across the Middle East. (PC: Reuters)

India’s boxing contingent strengthened its Commonwealth Games 2026 campaign by assuring five more medals after an unbeaten day in Glasgow. Sachin Siwach, Sakshi Chaudhary, Arundhati Chaudhary, Ankush Panghal and Narender Berwal advanced to the semifinals with impressive quarterfinal victories, guaranteeing at least bronze medals under the competition format. Their dominant performances lifted India’s confirmed boxing medal tally to nine, underlining the team’s consistency and depth across multiple weight categories. The victories kept India firmly in contention for higher podium finishes as the semifinal bouts approach. With confidence growing inside the Indian camp, the boxers will now target finals and gold medals to further strengthen the nation’s overall Commonwealth Games medal tally.

Abhijeet Dipke reacted strongly to the Centre’s proposed anti-paper leak legislation, saying it fails to address students’ core concerns despite introducing stricter punishment for offenders. He warned that a larger nationwide protest could follow if authorities assume public anger has diminished after announcing the Bill. Dipke maintained that students remain dissatisfied and continue demanding accountability, transparency and meaningful reforms in the examination system. He argued that legislation alone cannot restore trust without concrete action against those responsible and systemic changes preventing future leaks. His remarks underline continuing unrest over examination integrity, with student groups insisting their movement will persist until their key demands are addressed and confidence is genuinely restored. (PC: Bhaskar English)

The Centre has informed Parliament that there is no scientific evidence showing E20 petrol causes engine damage or reduced mileage. In a written reply, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme was introduced after extensive studies, field trials and expert consultations. Joint research by IOCL, ARAI, SIAM and IIP found no major impact on engine durability, vehicle performance or BS-VI emissions. The government said modern vehicles do not need engine modifications for E20 fuel, while some older models may require routine replacement of rubber components during regular servicing.

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday refused to apologise for accusing Union Home Minister Amit Shah of being responsible for alleged police action against student protesters. Gandhi claimed that force, including firing and use of weapons, was authorised against students, triggering a major uproar in the Lok Sabha. BJP leaders rejected the allegations, demanded evidence and an apology, stating that such decisions are taken according to legal procedures. The confrontation intensified political tensions during the parliamentary debate over student protests and the NEET paper leak issue. (PC: India Today)

US President Donald Trump has warned Iran of a strong retaliation after a missile attack targeted an American military base in Jordan. Trump said the US would respond forcefully if Iran was found responsible for the strike, escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran. The attack reportedly caused damage to the facility and raised concerns over wider regional instability. US officials are assessing the incident and possible links to Iran-backed groups. The latest warning comes amid ongoing friction in the Middle East, with fears that further military actions could deepen the conflict across the region. (PC: X)

Rescue operations continued in Japan after a powerful earthquake caused widespread destruction, with teams racing against time to locate survivors trapped under collapsed buildings and debris. The death toll rose to at least 13, while several others remained missing or injured. Emergency workers deployed heavy machinery and specialist rescue units, including efforts to reach people reportedly trapped inside a damaged shopping centre. Authorities warned that further casualties could emerge as search operations continue. The disaster has disrupted infrastructure, damaged homes, and triggered a major relief response as Japan faces another severe earthquake challenge. (PC: AP)