US President Donald Trump lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a “very tough cookie” and a “great leader” who has provided stability to India for more than 12 years. In an interview, Trump said he admired Modi’s leadership style, noting that India had experienced frequent political changes before Modi’s long tenure. He also praised Modi for keeping India away from wars and named him among the world leaders he most respects. Trump’s remarks came amid efforts to strengthen India-US ties following their recent meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France. (PC: AP)

A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has been reinstated following renewed diplomatic efforts by the United States, Qatar and Iran. The truce aims to ease tensions in Lebanon after recent clashes threatened wider regional stability. Meanwhile, US special envoy Steve Witkoff is heading to Switzerland for negotiations with Iranian officials over a potential nuclear agreement. The talks are seen as crucial to transforming the current temporary arrangements into a lasting peace framework. Although some violence was reported shortly after the ceasefire began, officials hope the renewed truce will create conditions for successful diplomacy and broader de-escalation across the Middle East. (PC: AFP)

Brazil have received a significant boost ahead of their decisive FIFA World Cup Group C encounter against Scotland, with coach Carlo Ancelotti confirming that star forward Neymar will be available. The 34-year-old has been recovering from a calf injury that sidelined him for the opening matches, but his rehabilitation has progressed positively. Brazil currently lead Group C after defeating Haiti 3-0, while Scotland remain in contention despite losing to Morocco. Neymar's return strengthens Brazil's attack and could provide valuable momentum as the five-time champions aim to secure top spot and advance confidently to the knockout stage. (PC: Reuters)

Morocco edged Scotland 1-0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group C encounter, thanks to an early goal from PSV midfielder Ismael Saibari. The strike, scored within the opening minute, became the fastest goal of the tournament so far and proved enough to secure all three points. Morocco defended resolutely to preserve their lead despite Scotland's efforts to equalise. The victory strengthened the Atlas Lions’ position in Group C and boosted their hopes of reaching the knockout stages. Scotland, meanwhile, suffered a setback and now face increased pressure in their remaining group matches. (PC: Reuters)

Algeria have lodged a complaint with FIFA following a controversial challenge involving Lionel Messi during Argentina’s 3-0 victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Algerian officials argued that Messi should have been shown a red card for the tackle and questioned why VAR did not intervene. The incident sparked debate among fans and pundits, with Algeria expressing concerns over refereeing standards and consistency in the tournament. Despite the controversy, Argentina secured a comfortable win to strengthen their position in Group J. FIFA has yet to comment publicly on the complaint or the disputed decision. (PC: X)

Planned talks between the United States and Iran in Switzerland were abruptly cancelled after renewed fighting between Israel and Hezbollah heightened regional tensions. The negotiations were intended to advance a recently agreed framework aimed at addressing Iran's nuclear programme and promoting stability in the Middle East. US Vice President JD Vance withdrew from the meeting, while Iran reportedly sought assurances regarding the worsening situation in Lebanon. The setback has cast doubt over efforts to secure a lasting truce and raised fresh concerns about regional security, energy supplies and the future of diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran. (PC: Shutterstock)

Multiple people were injured after two trains collided near London on June 19, prompting a major emergency response. Police, firefighters and medical teams rushed to the scene to assist passengers and assess the extent of the damage. Authorities confirmed that several individuals sustained injuries, though no fatalities were immediately reported. Rail services in the affected area were disrupted as investigators began examining the cause of the collision. Officials urged commuters to expect delays and avoid unnecessary travel. The incident has renewed concerns over railway safety, with a full investigation underway to determine how the accident occurred.

A tense exchange erupted at a United Nations hearing on children affected by conflict when Israeli ambassador Danny Danon publicly confronted UN official Vanessa Frazier. The dispute followed UN reports that placed Israel on lists documenting alleged violations against children in conflict zones. Frazier defended the findings as being based on verified evidence and objected to personal attacks, while Danon accused UN officials of bias and sharply told her to “be quiet.” The confrontation highlighted growing friction between Israel and the UN over reports concerning Palestinian children and broader accountability issues in the ongoing regional conflict. 

Brazil secured their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Haiti in Philadelphia. Matheus Cunha starred with two first-half goals, striking in the 23rd and 36th minutes, before Vinícius Júnior added a third in stoppage time before the break. Carlo Ancelotti's side dominated possession and created numerous chances while Haiti struggled to threaten. The comfortable win boosted Brazil's hopes in Group C after their opening draw with Morocco. The result underlined Brazil's attacking quality and provided Ancelotti with his first World Cup victory as Seleção coach. (PC: AP)

US special envoy Steve Witkoff departed for another round of negotiations amid continuing tensions over Iran. President Donald Trump asserted that the United States had “wiped out everything” in Iran and claimed Tehran no longer possessed meaningful leverage. Trump also maintained that American military actions had severely weakened Iran and insisted the US held a dominant position in the conflict. The latest diplomatic push comes as Washington seeks progress on a broader agreement despite delays and uncertainty surrounding previous peace efforts. Regional tensions remain high, with developments involving Israel and the Strait of Hormuz continuing to influence negotiations and global energy concerns. (PC: AP)