The United States suffered a dramatic 3–2 defeat to Türkiye after conceding a late goal in their final Group D match at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Despite the loss, the Americans had already secured qualification for the Round of 32 and finished second in the group. Türkiye's victory boosted their campaign, but the USA progressed to the knockout stage, where they will face Bosnia and Herzegovina. The match featured end-to-end action, with both teams creating numerous chances before Türkiye sealed the win in the closing moments, ending the group stage on a high note. (PC: Fox)

Police have arrested eight people in connection with the alleged theft of cash from donation boxes at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The accused include a temple attendant, former bank employees, and others allegedly involved in the conspiracy. Investigators recovered a master key believed to have been used to access the donation boxes without authorization. Authorities suspect the group siphoned off devotees' contributions over a period of time and are examining financial records to determine the total amount stolen. The investigation is ongoing, with police probing whether additional individuals were involved in the alleged fraud. (PC:NDTV)

The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela has climbed to 235, with hundreds more injured and many still missing. The quakes caused widespread destruction, collapsing buildings, damaging roads, and disrupting essential services across several regions. Rescue teams are racing to locate survivors trapped beneath rubble as emergency shelters accommodate thousands of displaced residents. The Venezuelan government has intensified relief efforts, deploying military and disaster response personnel. International assistance has begun arriving, including offers of humanitarian support, while authorities continue assessing the full extent of casualties, infrastructure damage, and the country's long-term recovery needs. (PC: X)

Investigators probing the murder of Pune businessman Ketan Agarwal say a crucial 640-minute period during which the accused allegedly kept their mobile phones offline became a key breakthrough in the case. Police allege that fiancée Siya Goyal and her boyfriend Chetan Chaudhary switched off their phones while executing the alleged murder plan at Lohagad Fort, hoping to avoid digital tracking. However, investigators reconstructed their movements using CCTV footage, witness statements, and other forensic evidence. Authorities believe the prolonged communication blackout, instead of concealing the crime, drew suspicion and ultimately strengthened the case against the accused. (PC: PTI)

Asian stock markets witnessed a broad sell-off, with Japan's Nikkei and South Korea's Kospi leading declines as investors reacted to mounting pressure on AI-related technology stocks. Rising semiconductor production costs and concerns over stretched valuations triggered heavy selling across chipmakers and major technology firms. The weakness spread across regional markets, erasing recent gains and dampening investor sentiment. Analysts said uncertainty surrounding AI demand, higher manufacturing expenses, and profit-booking in high-growth technology shares fueled the downturn. The market decline highlights growing concerns that the rapid AI-driven rally may be facing increased volatility and valuation pressures. (PC: Getty Images)

The Netherlands defeated Tunisia 3–1 to finish atop Group F and qualify for the FIFA World Cup knockout stage as group winners. The Dutch produced an impressive attacking display, taking control with clinical finishing and disciplined defending despite Tunisia's efforts to fight back. The victory capped an unbeaten group-stage campaign, highlighting the Netherlands' strong form and title ambitions. Tunisia's defeat ended their World Cup journey, while the Dutch advanced with confidence into the Round of 32, where they will face Morocco. The result underlined the Netherlands' consistency as one of the tournament's strongest contenders. (PC: Reuters)

Air India Express will become the first airline to operate direct international flights from Northeast India to the UAE, launching Guwahati–Dubai services on August 4 and Guwahati–Abu Dhabi flights on August 7. The new routes aim to strengthen connectivity for business travelers, tourists, and the large Indian diaspora in the Gulf. The airline said the expansion will boost trade, tourism, and economic ties while making Guwahati a key international aviation gateway for Northeast India. The move also supports the region's growing integration with global destinations and expands Air India Express's international network. (PC: Reuters)

Iran has proposed a new transit fee system for commercial ships passing through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, aiming to generate up to $40 billion annually. Tehran is seeking support from China and Gulf nations, arguing the charges would fund maritime security, safety, and environmental services. The proposal follows the reopening of the waterway under a ceasefire agreement and includes discussions on a regional management framework. However, the plan faces resistance from the United States and several Gulf countries, which argue that international maritime law does not permit such transit tolls on the globally significant shipping route. 

A pet cat in British Columbia, Canada, has gone viral after fearlessly chasing a black bear out of its family's backyard. Security camera footage captured the surprising moment as the cat boldly confronted the much larger animal, forcing the startled bear to retreat over a fence. The unusual encounter amazed residents and wildlife experts, who cautioned that such outcomes are rare and should not encourage people to let pets confront wild animals. Authorities reminded the public to secure garbage, remove attractants and maintain a safe distance from bears, as wildlife sightings increase during warmer months across British Columbia.

Industrialist Anand Mahindra praised India's women's 4x100m relay team after they won a historic gold medal at the Asian Athletics Championships by defeating hosts China on their home turf. Calling the achievement inspirational, Mahindra said he had been watching the race "on loop" because of the team's remarkable determination and teamwork. India's sprinters delivered a flawless baton exchange and strong finishing effort to edge past the Chinese team, earning widespread praise from sports fans and public figures. The victory highlights India's growing strength in track and field and boosts confidence ahead of future international athletics competitions.