Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, accusing Israel and the United States of violating a recent ceasefire agreement. Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said the move was the “first step” in response to what it called breaches of commitments and warned that further action could follow if attacks continue.   The announcement came after Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon reportedly killed at least 16 people, including two children. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes, and any disruption there could raise concerns about global energy supplies and regional stability. (PC: HT)

US President Donald Trump has again criticised Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, saying she repeatedly asked to take photos with him during the G7 summit. Trump claimed Meloni wanted the pictures to help increase her popularity.   He also criticised Italy’s views on Iran and raised concerns about the country's role in Nato cooperation. Trump's comments have brought fresh attention to differences between the two leaders on international issues.   Meloni has not publicly replied to the remarks. The comments come as G7 countries work together on major global challenges, including security, defence and foreign policy. (PC: India Today)

Algeria have filed an official complaint with FIFA over refereeing decisions during their 3-0 defeat to Argentina at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The complaint focuses on an incident in which Lionel Messi appeared to step on Algeria captain Aissa Mandi during the first half but was not shown a card. Algeria also questioned a second-half challenge by Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister on Ibrahim Maza that went unpunished. Despite the controversy, Messi starred for Argentina with a hat-trick in Kansas City. The three goals took the Argentine captain level with Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest scorer in men's World Cup history with 16 goals. (PC: NDTV)

James Burrows, the legendary television director behind Friends, Cheers, Frasier and several other hit sitcoms, has died at the age of 85. His family confirmed the news, remembering him as a creative force who helped shape generations of television comedy.   Following his death, members of the Friends cast paid heartfelt tributes. David Schwimmer said Burrows “brought out the best in every actor” and made the cast feel “safe, like family.” Matt LeBlanc called him “a true icon,” while Lisa Kudrow also honored him on social media.   Burrows directed more than 1,000 television episodes during a career spanning over five decades and won 11 Emmy Awards. Widely regarded as one of television's greatest comedy directors, he leaves behind a lasting legacy that continues to influence the industry. (PC: X)

Australia head coach Tony Popovic criticized the officiating following his team's 2-0 loss to the United States in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Popovic expressed frustration over several refereeing decisions, suggesting key calls influenced the outcome of the Group D encounter. While acknowledging the United States' performance, he argued that certain incidents should have been handled differently by the match officials. The defeat dealt a blow to Australia's campaign and intensified scrutiny over refereeing standards at the tournament. The comments have sparked debate among fans and analysts over the role of officiating in high-stakes World Cup matches. (PC: X)

Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo are investigating a suspected Ebola outbreak after at least 30 people died in a refugee camp, raising fears that the virus could be spreading rapidly. Medical teams have been deployed to contain the situation, trace contacts, and conduct laboratory tests to confirm the cause of the deaths. The outbreak has heightened concerns due to crowded living conditions and limited healthcare resources in the camp. International health agencies are closely monitoring developments and coordinating with Congolese authorities to prevent a wider public health crisis across the region. (PC: Reuters)

Thousands of young protesters assembled at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar as the ‘Cockroach Janta Party’ stepped up its agitation with a symbolic campaign aimed at drawing attention to public grievances. Demonstrators banged metal plates, raised slogans, and carried placards to highlight issues they claim have been ignored by authorities. The rally witnessed large participation from students and youth groups, turning the protest into a vibrant display of dissent. Organisers said the movement seeks greater accountability and policy changes, while authorities maintained security arrangements to ensure the demonstration remained peaceful amid growing public attention. (PC: PTI)

At least five people were killed in Israeli air and drone strikes in southern Lebanon, despite a renewed ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. According to Lebanese media, the attacks targeted areas around Nabatieh, destroying homes and causing further casualties. The violence erupted only hours after a truce brokered with U.S. and Qatari involvement had come into effect. The latest escalation has raised concerns over the durability of the ceasefire and threatens wider diplomatic efforts, including stalled U.S.-Iran talks. Both sides have accused each other of violations, leaving the situation in southern Lebanon highly volatile. (PC: AP)

Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almirón made FIFA World Cup history after becoming the first player to be sent off under the tournament's newly introduced disciplinary rules. The incident occurred during Paraguay's match, with the referee issuing a red card following enforcement of the updated regulations designed to improve player conduct and match control. The dismissal marked a significant moment in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting the impact of the new rules on the game. Almirón's historic sending-off sparked widespread discussion among fans and analysts about how the stricter regulations could influence future matches. (PC: AFP)

A man was allegedly beaten to death by fellow passengers following a scuffle over boarding a train at Delhi's Shahdara railway station. According to reports, the altercation broke out amid heavy crowding as passengers attempted to enter the train. The victim was assaulted by several individuals and later succumbed to his injuries. A video of the incident has surfaced, drawing widespread concern over passenger safety and mob violence. Police have launched an investigation, reviewed CCTV footage, and are working to identify those involved. Authorities have assured strict action against the accused in the shocking incident.