U.S. President Donald Trump accused Iran of violating a recently signed ceasefire agreement after Iranian drones targeted a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. One drone struck the vessel, while U.S. forces intercepted three others. Trump called the attack a “foolish violation” of the agreement and warned that Iran could face consequences. In response, the U.S. launched strikes on Iranian missile, drone, and radar sites. Iran denied breaching the ceasefire, claiming it was enforcing shipping rules. The incident has heightened tensions, disrupted maritime traffic, and raised concerns over regional stability and global energy security. (PC: X)

Belgium produced their best performance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, crushing New Zealand 5-1 to finish atop Group G and book a place in the Round of 32. Leandro Trossard starred with two goals, while Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers also found the net. Elijah Just scored a late consolation for New Zealand, who were eliminated after earning just one point from three matches. Belgium edged Egypt to first place on goal difference, with Lukaku becoming Belgium's all-time leading World Cup scorer with six goals. Belgium will now face one of the tournament's best third-placed teams. 

A funeral in Islamabad for the brother of Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has drawn attention after reports claimed that Saifullah Kasuri, alleged by Indian authorities to be a key mastermind behind the Pahalgam terror attack, was present among the mourners. According to the report, several leaders of Pakistan's Markazi Muslim League also attended the funeral. The development has sparked fresh scrutiny because of the alleged presence of individuals linked to extremist activities. The reports have intensified debate over Pakistan's handling of alleged terror figures, although Pakistani authorities have not publicly commented on the claims at the time of reporting.(PC: X)

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that President Donald Trump is expected to visit India early next year, underscoring the strength of the India–U.S. strategic partnership. Rubio praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's close relationship with Trump, describing bilateral ties as stronger than ever. The proposed visit is expected to focus on expanding cooperation in trade, defence, technology, and regional security. Officials from both countries are likely to use the high-level engagement to advance key initiatives and deepen collaboration across multiple sectors. The announcement reflects continued momentum in diplomatic relations between New Delhi and Washington. (PC: X)

A severe heatwave sweeping across Europe has shifted eastward after contributing to child deaths in France and placing millions at risk of extreme heat stress. Authorities across several countries have issued health warnings as temperatures continue to soar, prompting schools to close, outdoor activities to be restricted, and emergency services to prepare for heat-related illnesses. Cities are opening cooling centres and urging vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Climate experts warn that increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves highlight the growing impact of climate change across the continent. (PC: AFP)

Egypt secured a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 after battling Iran to a 1-1 draw in their final Group G match. Mohamed Salah and his teammates earned the crucial point needed to finish as group runners-up behind Belgium. Iran also produced a spirited performance, but the result was not enough to improve their standing. Egypt's disciplined display and defensive resilience ensured qualification to the knockout stage, where they will face Australia. The result marked another milestone for Egyptian football, with Salah playing a key role in guiding his nation into the tournament's knockout rounds. (PC: NDTV)

The death toll from the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela has climbed to nearly 1,000, with authorities warning that the number could rise further as rescue operations continue. More than 50,000 residents who were initially reported missing have now joined search-and-rescue efforts, helping locate survivors and clear debris in affected communities. International aid, including emergency personnel, medical teams, and relief supplies, has begun arriving from several countries to support the response. Thousands remain displaced, while damaged infrastructure and disrupted communication continue to hamper rescue operations. Officials have pledged sustained relief and reconstruction efforts as the humanitarian crisis deepens. (PC: AP)

Cabo Verde produced one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup by defeating Uruguay 1-0 to secure a historic place in the knockout stage. The African nation delivered a disciplined defensive performance before scoring the decisive goal that sealed qualification. The defeat ended Uruguay's World Cup campaign, marking a shocking early exit for the two-time champions. Cabo Verde's victory highlighted their rapid rise on the international stage and sparked celebrations among players and fans. The result stands as one of the tournament's most memorable surprises, underlining the growing competitiveness of emerging football nations. (PC: Reuters)

    U.S. President Donald Trump expressed gratitude to India after a road adjoining the U.S. Consulate in Hyderabad was officially renamed "Donald Trump Avenue." Calling the move a "great honour," Trump thanked the Indian government and the people of India for the gesture, describing it as a symbol of the strong partnership between the two countries. The road renaming has drawn significant attention in both nations, with supporters viewing it as a reflection of growing India–U.S. ties. The development comes amid continued diplomatic engagement and expanding cooperation between New Delhi and Washington across multiple strategic sectors. (PC: ANI)

A woman was reunited with her missing dog after recognizing the pet in a viral video celebrating Mexico's FIFA World Cup victory. The dog had been missing for about a month before appearing in footage showing fans cheering in the streets with the animal. After spotting the clip online, the owner tracked down the people seen with the dog, leading to a successful reunion. The heartwarming story quickly spread across social media, with many praising the power of online communities and viral content in helping recover lost pets. The remarkable coincidence delighted football fans and animal lovers alike.