20 rebel Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs are preparing to file a defamation case against party leader Mahua Moitra over her bribery allegations. Moitra claimed that MPs who left the party received large sums of money to switch sides. The rebel MPs have denied the charge and decided to take legal action. The dispute comes after 20 of TMC's 28 Lok Sabha MPs broke away and announced support for the BJP-led NDA. The group has joined the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI). The split has deepened the political crisis within the Trinamool Congress. (PC: PTI)

Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand delivered a brilliant performance to help his team earn a 0-0 draw against Belgium at the FIFA World Cup. He made seven saves and was named Player of the Match. Beiranvand's journey to the top is an inspiring one. Born into poverty in western Iran, he ran away to Tehran as a teenager to pursue his football dream. He worked several jobs and often slept on the streets while trying to join a club. Today, he holds two Guinness World Records for the longest throw and longest drop kick in football history. (PC: Getty)

Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of several crimes, including two counts of rape and domestic abuse. An Oslo court convicted the 29-year-old of 34 offences following a high-profile trial. He was also ordered to pay compensation to four women and received a restraining order against one victim. Høiby denied the most serious allegations and is expected to appeal the verdict. The case has attracted widespread attention in Norway and sparked discussions about consent, domestic violence and sexual offences. (PC: AP)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing growing pressure amid reports that he may soon announce a timetable for his departure. The speculation follows poor local election results and increasing calls within the Labour Party for a leadership change. Andy Burnham's recent election to Parliament has strengthened expectations of a possible leadership challenge. While Downing Street has not confirmed any resignation plans, Starmer is reportedly discussing his future with senior party members. If he steps down, Britain could see its seventh prime minister in a decade. The situation has created uncertainty over the country's political future.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that Israel follows his instructions. Netanyahu said both leaders represent independent countries and make decisions based on their national interests. His remarks came after Trump said Israel “does as I say” during an interview. Netanyahu said the two leaders often agree but sometimes have different views. He stressed that both countries respect each other's sovereignty and leadership. The comments come amid growing discussions over the US-Iran agreement and regional tensions. Recent reports suggest differences remain between some Israeli leaders and the US administration. (PC: Reuters)

Iran’s national football team left a handwritten note in the SoFi Stadium locker room after a 0-0 draw with Belgium, thanking Los Angeles for its hospitality and supporters for their backing. The message said the team arrived “with pride,” competed “with honour,” and departed “with dignity,” while calling for peace, respect and friendship among nations. The note referenced the Minab school bombing through hashtags and reflected challenges faced during the tournament, including visa restrictions, cross-border travel from Tijuana and limited stays in the United States. Despite logistical difficulties, coach Amir Ghalenoei praised his players, while Iran remained in contention for a historic knockout-stage qualification after the final group match in Seattle.

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has warned that Pakistan could go to war if it believes India's actions threaten its water supply from the Indus river system. Speaking to local media, Asif said water security is a matter of national security for Pakistan. His remarks come amid rising tensions after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty following the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. Pakistan has opposed the move and raised the issue at international forums. The treaty is important for Pakistan's agriculture and economy. The dispute has become a major point of tension between the two neighbouring countries.

Iran’s unbeaten start at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has sparked a wave of viral social media memes involving US President Donald Trump. After a 2-2 draw with New Zealand and a goalless stalemate against Belgium, Iran remain unbeaten in Group G despite facing significant logistical challenges. Forced to base themselves in Mexico due to geopolitical tensions and travel restrictions, the team has endured extensive travel and security procedures throughout the tournament. Coach Amir Ghalenoei called the unbeaten run a historic achievement, praising his players for performing under difficult conditions and ensuring their efforts will be remembered by future generations.

Mumbai received moderate to heavy rainfall on Monday morning, bringing relief from hot and humid weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said rainfall activity will increase from Monday, and the southwest monsoon is expected to reach the city by June 23. Several areas recorded heavy showers, causing waterlogging and traffic problems. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued an orange alert and advised residents to stay cautious during thunderstorms and heavy rain. Gusty winds of up to 40 kmph are also expected. Bandra, Worli and Khar were among the areas that received the highest rainfall in the city. (PC: HT)

The United States and India are moving closer to finalising an interim trade agreement following discussions initiated under the broader India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement framework. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will visit New Delhi to meet Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and senior officials to advance negotiations and review commitments stemming from the Modi-Trump understanding reached in February. The visit follows negotiator-level talks held in New Delhi earlier this month. Indian officials expect discussions to focus on finalising the framework agreement, while Commerce Minister Goyal has indicated that the first phase of the trade pact could be concluded by the middle of next month. (PC: USA Rice)