The Indian government has directed Meta Platforms to immediately remove Instagram advertisements found promoting or linking to child sexual abuse content. The action followed an investigation that uncovered disturbing ads appearing on the platform, raising serious concerns about online child safety and content moderation. Authorities have sought an explanation from Meta on how such advertisements were approved and displayed despite existing safeguards. The government stressed that digital platforms must comply with Indian laws and strengthen monitoring systems to prevent the spread of illegal and exploitative content, warning that strict action could follow if violations continue. (PC: PTI)

Real Madrid CF have completed the signing of Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan, bolstering their defensive options before the new season. The Dutch right-back, known for his pace, attacking runs and defensive versatility, joins the Spanish giants after several impressive campaigns in Italy. Real Madrid believe Dumfries will add experience and depth to their backline as they compete for domestic and European honours. Inter Milan, meanwhile, bid farewell to one of their key defenders, marking the end of his successful spell at the Serie A club. (PC: X)

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was laid to rest in Tehran, with three of his sons—Mostafa Khamenei, Meysam Khamenei and Masoud Khamenei—attending the funeral ceremonies. However, the absence of Mojtaba Khamenei, widely viewed by observers as a potential successor, drew significant attention and fueled speculation. Iranian authorities offered no explanation for his absence. The funeral was attended by senior political, military and religious leaders, with large crowds gathering to pay their respects. The unexplained absence has intensified public discussion about Iran's future leadership and succession.

England manager Thomas Tuchel laughed off rumours that players were given Viagra to cope with high-altitude conditions before the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Mexico national football team. Tuchel called the speculation "the strangest question" he had faced and insisted the squad was fully focused on preparation. He also revealed that noisy England supporters gathered outside the team's hotel overnight, disrupting players' sleep with chants and celebrations. Despite the unexpected disturbance, Tuchel expressed confidence that England would remain mentally and physically ready for the crucial knockout encounter. (PC: Reuters)

India's Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has rejected reports claiming Bhutan refused to import E20 petrol, clarifying that no Indian oil marketing company ever offered E20 exports and no such proposal exists. The ministry issued a fact-check after media reports suggested Bhutan requested continued supplies of regular petrol due to concerns over ethanol-blended fuel storage and infrastructure. Bhutanese publication The Bhutanese defended its reporting, citing official government responses that highlighted storage challenges and requests for continued conventional petrol supplies. The ministry urged the public to rely only on official information regarding India's ethanol-blending programme. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump said he was surprised by the massive crowds attending the funeral of Iran's former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, remarking, “I thought people hated him.” Speaking during an interview, Trump questioned the scale of public mourning and suggested the displays of grief could be genuine or “fake tears.” He also claimed senior Iranian leaders gathered at the funeral could have been targeted but said the US chose not to act to keep diplomatic negotiations alive. The remarks came as hundreds of thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran for Khamenei's state funeral amid heightened regional tensions. (PC: X)

Indian Navy's sail training ship INS Sudarshini represented India at the United States International Naval Review 250 and Sail4th 250 in New York during celebrations marking America's 250th Independence Day. The three-masted barque participated in the Parade of Sail on the Hudson River, flying the Indian tricolour and highlighting India's maritime heritage. The visit is part of the Navy's 10-month transoceanic expedition, Lokayan 2026, aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation and naval diplomacy. After earlier stops in Norfolk and Baltimore, INS Sudarshini continues its voyage, reflecting India's commitment to international partnerships and the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam."

A video circulating on social media after Argentina's dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde at the FIFA World Cup 2026 has triggered allegations of bias against FIFA officials. The clip appears to show several officials celebrating as Argentina secured qualification, prompting some fans to question their neutrality. However, there is no official evidence that FIFA officials acted improperly or that the celebrations influenced the match outcome. The controversy has fueled widespread debate online, even as Argentina advanced to the Round of 16 after surviving a spirited challenge from World Cup debutants Cape Verde.

Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has married his longtime partner Gauri Spratt in an intimate ceremony at his Bandra residence in Mumbai. The couple exchanged vows in the presence of close family members and a small group of friends, choosing a simple registered wedding over a grand celebration. Aamir had publicly introduced Gauri as his partner in 2025 after reconnecting with her years after their first meeting. The wedding marks a new chapter in the actor's personal life and his third marriage. Photos from the private ceremony have since gone viral, with fans and celebrities sending their congratulations. (PC: HT)

France captain Kylian Mbappé currently leads the FIFA World Cup 2026 Golden Boot race despite being tied with Argentina's Lionel Messi on seven goals. FIFA's tiebreaker rules give the advantage to the player with more assists if goals are equal. Mbappé has provided two assists during the tournament, while Messi is yet to register one, putting the French star ahead in the standings. If both players finish level on goals and assists, the award will then be decided by fewer minutes played. With the quarter-finals approaching, the race for the tournament's top scorer remains wide open. (PC: HT)