Yoane Wissa's journey from surviving a brutal acid attack to becoming DR Congo's World Cup hero has inspired football fans worldwide. The striker scored his country's first FIFA World Cup goal in 52 years, helping DR Congo secure a memorable 1-1 draw against Portugal.   In 2021, Wissa nearly lost his eyesight after an attacker threw acid at his face outside his home in France. After multiple surgeries and a long recovery, he rebuilt his career, starring for Brentford before moving to Newcastle United. His equaliser against Portugal marked a remarkable chapter in one of football's most inspiring comeback stories.  

Indian stock markets extended their winning streak for a fifth consecutive session on Thursday, supported by falling crude oil prices and optimism surrounding the US-Iran peace agreement. The benchmark Sensex and Nifty closed higher as investors welcomed signs of easing tensions in the Middle East, reducing concerns over energy supply disruptions.   Lower crude prices are seen as positive for India's economy, helping ease inflation and import costs. Buying in banking, financial and auto stocks also supported the rally. Market experts said improved global sentiment and hopes of stable energy prices encouraged investors to remain positive despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. (PC: The Hindu)

Israel's Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, has criticised the US-Iran peace deal, saying it fails to address key Israeli security concerns. In an interview with India Today, Azar said Iran's ballistic missile programme and support for regional groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas were left out of the agreement.   He also objected to provisions related to Lebanon, arguing that Israel's security interests had not been adequately protected. Azar said Israel would maintain its military presence in southern Lebanon and reserve the right to self-defence. Despite his concerns, he claimed Israel had significantly weakened Iran's military capabilities during the recent conflict. (PC: India Today)

Portugal were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match, with Cristiano Ronaldo enduring a frustrating night. João Neves gave Portugal an early lead with a sixth-minute header, but Yoane Wissa equalised just before halftime.   Ronaldo struggled to influence the game, finishing with 25 touches and three shots, none of which were on target. The veteran forward also won only one duel as DR Congo's defence kept him quiet throughout the match. Despite late pressure from Portugal, DR Congo held firm to earn a memorable point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.  

Pakistan’s Navy plans to expand its presence in the Bay of Bengal after inducting new Chinese-built Hangor-class submarines, a move that is drawing attention in India. Reports suggest Pakistani naval officials believe the advanced submarines will allow sustained operations farther from Pakistan’s coastline, including in the eastern Indian Ocean. The development comes as ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh improve, leading to speculation about greater military cooperation. The Hangor-class submarines are equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology, enabling longer underwater endurance and enhanced stealth. Analysts say the move could add a new dimension to regional maritime competition. (PC: India Today)

A Ukrainian drone strike hit Moscow’s Kapotnya oil refinery on June 18, triggering a major explosion and a large fire. Videos shared online showed the refinery’s tank lid being blown into the air while thick black smoke rose above the Russian capital.   Russian officials said air defenses intercepted many drones during what was described as one of the largest attacks on Moscow since the war began. The refinery, a key fuel supplier for the city, was targeted for the second time this week. The strike caused disruptions, including temporary airport closures, as Ukraine continued its campaign against Russian energy infrastructure.  

England began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas. Captain Harry Kane scored twice, including a retaken penalty, to equal Gary Lineker's England World Cup record of 10 goals. Jude Bellingham produced a standout display and restored England's lead shortly after halftime with a powerful run and finish. Marcus Rashford sealed the win late in the match. While England impressed with their attacking football under coach Thomas Tuchel, defensive mistakes allowed Croatia to stay in the contest. The victory gives England a strong start in their quest for World Cup glory.  

Indian equity markets closed higher on Thursday as easing geopolitical tensions and lower crude oil prices lifted investor sentiment. The BSE Sensex gained 254 points, or 0.33%, to settle at 77,409.98, while the NSE Nifty rose 82 points, or 0.34%, to close at 24,168. Markets drew support from the US-Iran peace agreement, which eased concerns over global energy supplies, while Brent crude remained below $80 per barrel. Buying in banking, defence and consumer stocks led the rally. IndiGo, Trent, NTPC and Bharat Electronics were among the top gainers, while IT stocks such as Infosys and Tech Mahindra declined. (PC: X)

The United Arab Emirates has become the first Arab country to set 15 as the minimum age for social media use. Under the new rules, children under 15 will not be allowed to create or use personal social media accounts. Teenagers aged 15 and 16 can access platforms only with safeguards such as parental controls, screen-time limits and protections against contact from strangers. Social media companies must introduce strict age-verification systems, including digital ID checks, and remove underage accounts. The UAE said the measure aims to improve online safety, protect children from harmful content and strengthen digital privacy for young users.  

The United States and Iran have signed a peace agreement aimed at ending more than 110 days of conflict in the Middle East. US President Donald Trump signed the deal during a dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palace of Versailles after the G7 summit. Iran confirmed the signing and said the focus now shifts to implementing the agreement. The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding calls for an immediate end to military operations and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Under the deal, the US will remove its naval blockade within 30 days, while both sides have 60 days to negotiate a final agreement. (PC: X)