Residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) are facing growing shortages of food, fuel and medicines as anti-government protests continue across the region. Local residents, truck drivers and opposition leaders have alleged that Pakistani authorities are restricting the movement of essential supplies to weaken the protest movement. Pakistan has denied imposing any blockade, saying supplies are continuing. The unrest began over a dispute involving reserved legislative seats and has led to widespread shutdowns, transport disruptions and clashes. Reports indicate thousands have joined protests, while rescue and relief efforts remain affected by the ongoing disruption to supply chains. (PC: India Today)

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has uncovered multiple suspected financial irregularities during searches at premises linked to Rajesh Exports in Bengaluru and Mumbai. Investigators said the company failed to provide records for foreign transactions and documents related to a claimed ₹1,035 crore investment in African mines. The ED also flagged nearly ₹3,000 crore in opaque trade set-offs, a 40% mismatch in gold stock records and suspected share manipulation. It further noted that the company's Managing Director reportedly received a monthly salary of only ₹17,000 despite revenues of ₹7.7 lakh crore. The investigation under FEMA is ongoing. (PC: The Indian Express)

A powerful heatwave has gripped western Europe, bringing record-breaking temperatures to France, the UK and Spain. France recorded its hottest day since national records began, while the UK registered its hottest June day and Spain saw its highest June daily average temperature since 1950. Temperatures climbed above 40°C in several areas, prompting red heat alerts, early closures of landmarks, power outages and heightened wildfire risks. Authorities have urged people to stay indoors and take precautions as millions face extreme heat. Forecasters expect temperatures to begin easing from Friday across parts of western Europe.  

India and the European Union reaffirmed their commitment to promoting and protecting human rights during the 12th EU-India Human Rights Dialogue in New Delhi. Officials reviewed progress since the previous meeting in 2025 and discussed civil, political, economic and cultural rights, gender equality, LGBTQI+ rights, child rights and freedom of expression. Both sides also exchanged views on trustworthy artificial intelligence, humanitarian assistance and global cooperation. While the EU reiterated its opposition to the death penalty, India stressed that the Right to Development should be recognised as a universal human right. The next dialogue is scheduled for 2027. (PC: NDTV)

King Charles met exiled Afghan women cricketers at Clarence House in London, expressing support for athletes forced to flee Afghanistan after the Taliban banned women from sports and education. The players, now based mainly in Australia, are in England for exhibition matches during the Women's T20 World Cup. The King praised their determination, saying he was glad they could continue pursuing cricket. Players said the meeting was a powerful message of hope for Afghan women still living under Taliban restrictions. The team continues to seek official recognition while raising awareness of the challenges faced by women in Afghanistan.  

Twin earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude struck Venezuela within 39 seconds, killing at least 32 people and injuring more than 700. The powerful tremors caused widespread destruction in the capital, Caracas, and the coastal state of La Guaira, collapsing buildings, damaging roads, and forcing thousands to flee into the streets. Rescue teams continued searching through the rubble overnight as aftershocks rattled the region. Authorities declared a state of emergency, while the US Geological Survey warned the final death toll could rise significantly. Survivors described the devastation as "like a horror movie" as families waited anxiously for missing loved ones. (PC: India Today)

French TV host France Pierron has apologised after facing backlash for criticising Belgium forward Jérémy Doku for leaving the FIFA World Cup to attend the birth of his first child. Speaking on L'Equipe de Choc, Pierron described childbirth as a “disgusting moment” and claimed “the dad is useless,” sparking widespread criticism. She later expressed regret on X, while L'Équipe distanced itself from the remarks and apologised to Doku. The Belgian winger successfully travelled to London for the birth of his son, Praise. Belgium captain Youri Tielemans publicly backed Doku, calling fatherhood an irreplaceable life moment. (PC: Reuters)

Spain’s teenage star Lamine Yamal continued his rapid rise by matching a historic FIFA World Cup record in Spain’s Group Stage match against Saudi Arabia at Atlanta Stadium. In his first World Cup start, the 18-year-old scored in the 10th minute to give La Roja the lead and make history. At 18 years and 343 days, Yamal became only the second player aged 18 or younger to score the opening goal in a World Cup match, joining Pelé, who did so for Brazil in 1958. It was also Yamal’s first World Cup goal and made him Spain’s second-youngest scorer in tournament history, behind Gavi. Mikel Oyarzabal assisted Yamal’s opener before scoring twice himself, helping Spain take control. His performance made him only the second player since 1966 to be involved in three goals within the first 25 minutes of a World Cup match. (PC: X)

Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela within minutes on Wednesday evening, triggering panic and visible destruction across parts of the country. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the first quake measured 7.2 magnitude and was centred west of Morón, about 168 km from Caracas, at a depth of 13 km. Just one minute later, a stronger 7.5-magnitude earthquake hit the same region at a depth of 10 km. Social media videos showed residents fleeing swaying buildings, collapsed walls, debris-covered streets and dust clouds rising over neighbourhoods. Some structures suffered severe damage, exposing building interiors. The earthquakes rank among the strongest recorded in Venezuela in more than a century.

Brazilian superstar Neymar made an emotional return to international football after a 981-day absence, breaking down in tears following Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Scotland in their final FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C match in Miami. The 34-year-old forward, sidelined since October 2023 due to multiple knee surgeries and a recent calf injury, entered as a substitute in the 76th minute. Ahead of the game, coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar was fit and available. Brazil secured qualification for the Round of 32 with goals from Vinícius Júnior (two) and Matheus Cunha. The five-time champions topped Group C on goal difference, ahead of Morocco, with seven points. (PC: X)