The White House has postponed Vice President JD Vance’s planned trip to Switzerland, where he was expected to lead talks with Iranian negotiators aimed at advancing a broader diplomatic agreement. Officials cited logistical challenges and uncertainty over the Iranian delegation’s participation. The negotiations, scheduled to follow recent understandings between Washington and Tehran, remain in flux amid regional tensions and concerns surrounding ongoing Israeli military actions. Despite the delay, both sides have indicated that diplomacy remains a priority, and discussions could still take place once arrangements are finalized. Switzerland continues to be the proposed venue for the next phase of negotiations. (PC: Reuters)

South Africa rescued a valuable point with a dramatic late equaliser in a tense FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A encounter against Czechia. Michal Sadílek handed the Czech side an early lead in the sixth minute, but South Africa fought back throughout the match. Their persistence paid off when Teboho Mokoena converted a penalty in the 83rd minute to secure a 1-1 draw. Both teams, having lost their opening matches, earned their first point of the tournament but now face must-win final group games to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive. 

Veteran actor Suhasini Mulay, known for her roles in Lagaan and Jodhaa Akbar, has shared her inspiring love story of finding companionship at the age of 60. Having remained single for decades because she wanted an equal and understanding partner, Mulay unexpectedly connected with renowned physicist Atul Gurtu through Facebook. Their conversations, sparked by her curiosity about science, gradually turned into a deep bond. After meeting in person, the couple decided not to delay and tied the knot just 75 days later. Mulay's journey highlights that love and meaningful relationships can blossom at any stage of life. (PC: ABP)

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has criticized both Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal coach Roberto Martinez following Portugal’s disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Schmeichel described the duo as the tournament’s biggest disappointments, questioning Portugal’s tactics and Ronaldo’s overall impact. While acknowledging Ronaldo's stature, the Danish legend argued that the team has failed to meet expectations under Martinez. The criticism comes as pressure mounts on Portugal to improve their performances and revive their World Cup campaign in upcoming matches. (PC: NDTV)

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance said that Washington has already permitted at least 12 ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after the signing of the interim peace agreement with Iran. According to Vance, more than 12.5 million barrels of oil moved through the strategic waterway, signaling the beginning of a return to normal shipping operations. The move follows the lifting of the U.S. naval blockade under the deal, which opens a 60-day period for negotiations on a final agreement. Despite the progress, concerns remain over security risks and long-term stability in the region. (PC: AP)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly working to influence the final US-Iran peace agreement even after telling President Donald Trump that Israel does not consider itself bound by the deal. According to reports, Netanyahu remains skeptical of Tehran’s intentions and believes Iran will not fully comply with restrictions on its nuclear programme. He is said to be using allies in conservative media and supportive US senators to pressure Washington. A major sticking point is the agreement’s requirement for a permanent end to hostilities in Lebanon, which Israel has resisted despite growing international pressure. (PC: Reuters)

Indian equity markets continued their upward momentum for the fifth consecutive session on June 18, with the Sensex and Nifty gaining on optimism surrounding a potential US-Iran peace agreement and declining global crude oil prices. Lower energy costs improved investor confidence and supported gains across several sectors, particularly banking and financial stocks. Analysts said easing geopolitical tensions and expectations of stable inflation have strengthened market sentiment. The rally also received support from positive global cues, although concerns over future US interest-rate decisions continued to weigh on information technology shares. Overall, Indian markets maintained a strong bullish trend. (PC: Rediff)

India's World Cup preparations suffered a setback as Ivory Coast forward Elye Wahi was denied entry to Canada ahead of Saturday's Group-stage clash against Germany. The 23-year-old Nice striker, who featured in Ivory Coast's opening win over Ecuador, is reportedly under investigation in France over alleged spot-fixing linked to a May Ligue 1 match against Metz. French authorities confirmed a footballer was arrested and later released as inquiries continue. Ivory Coast's football federation said it had received no official notice of proceedings but confirmed Wahi could not secure Canadian entry authorisation. He will remain in the United States pending the team's return. (PC: Getty Images)

India is poised to become the next major driver of global steel demand, according to Lakshmi Mittal. Speaking ahead of the 20th anniversary of ArcelorMittal, Mittal said large-scale infrastructure expansion, rapid urbanisation and energy-transition investments could position India in a role similar to China’s over the past two decades. Reflecting on the 2006 merger of Mittal Steel and Arcelor, he said greater scale and diversification helped the company withstand major disruptions, including the global financial crisis and the Covid pandemic. Despite regulatory, environmental and market challenges, Mittal remains optimistic about steel’s future, citing strong long-term demand fundamentals worldwide. (PC: X)

Austria goalkeeper Florian Wiegele has made FIFA World Cup history by becoming the tallest player ever named in a tournament squad. Standing 2.05 metres (6ft 9in), the 25-year-old surpassed former record-holder Andries Noppert of the Netherlands, who measured 2.03 metres at the 2022 World Cup. Born in Graz, Wiegele progressed through Sturm Graz’s academy, later playing for DSV Leoben, Grazer AK and Czech club Viktoria Plzen. He earned his only Austria cap in a 5-1 friendly victory over Ghana under coach Ralf Rangnick. Despite being Austria’s third-choice goalkeeper, Wiegele has already secured a unique place in World Cup history through his record-breaking height. (PC: Kicker)