The US has renamed its military command from US Indo-Pacific Command back to US Pacific Command. The Trump administration said the move is only a name change and does not affect the command’s mission. However, the decision has raised questions about America’s focus on the Indian Ocean region and its ties with India. Some analysts believe it could signal a shift in US strategic priorities. Others say India remains important to Washington’s plans in Asia. The command’s responsibilities remain unchanged. The move has also sparked debate about the future role of the Quad grouping in regional security.

US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France. Trump praised Modi, saying he “looks like an angel” but is “as tough as they come” in negotiations. The two leaders discussed trade, security, and regional issues. Trump also said, “If anybody attacks that man, we're gonna be there,” referring to Modi. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and protecting Indian seafarers. Modi said their safety was of “utmost importance”. Both leaders expressed confidence in stronger India-US cooperation in the future.

Israel carried out fresh air strikes in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, according to Lebanese state media. The attacks came despite criticism from US President Donald Trump. Trump said Israel needed to be more careful in Lebanon and that too many people were being killed. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has continued since a US-Iran peace agreement was announced. Israel says it is targeting Hezbollah positions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israeli forces would stay in Lebanon as long as needed. Iran warned that any new Israeli attacks or military presence in Lebanon could violate the agreement and threaten regional stability. (PC: BBC)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit after 16 months. The two leaders discussed regional security, trade, and maritime safety. Modi stressed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and raised concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers working in the region. He welcomed the US-Iran peace framework and said it could bring stability to West Asia. Trump praised Modi, calling him a tough negotiator and an important global leader. He said the United States would support India if it ever faced an attack and expressed interest in visiting India. (PPC: AP)

Cristiano Ronaldo is set to headline Portugal’s crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage match against DR Congo, with global fans eagerly awaiting another performance from the veteran striker. The fixture has attracted additional spotlight due to the simultaneous presence of modern football icons Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland in other tournament matches, creating a rare overlap of generational talent on the World Cup stage. Analysts view this tournament as a symbolic transition phase in football history, with Ronaldo likely playing one of his final World Cup campaigns. Portugal are strong favourites, while DR Congo aim to challenge expectations. (PC: Reuters)

Meta has begun introducing paid features and subscription-based services across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, marking a shift from its traditionally free-to-use model. The move is driven by rising costs linked to artificial intelligence development, content moderation, and large-scale infrastructure expansion. While core services remain free, users may now pay for premium tools, enhanced privacy options, and advanced business features. The company says the changes aim to diversify revenue beyond advertising and support long-term platform sustainability. The rollout has sparked debate over digital accessibility, with users concerned about potential limits on free social media experiences. (PC: NDTV)

Fans have set a new attendance record during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, with stadiums reporting unprecedented turnout across multiple host cities. The tournament has drawn massive global interest, reflecting rising popularity of international football and improved fan engagement initiatives. Organizers highlighted near-capacity crowds in several matches, boosted by expanded venues and increased travel accessibility. The surge in attendance also reflects strong diaspora support for participating nations. Authorities credited efficient ticketing systems and security arrangements for smooth operations. Analysts say the trend signals a commercial and cultural milestone for the sport, with expectations of continued turnout in knockout fixtures. (PC: Yahoo)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the G7 summit, urging developed nations to strengthen global cooperation and ensure that vulnerable countries are not left alone to bear the burden of economic, geopolitical, and climate-related shocks. He emphasized that developing nations often suffer the most from global disruptions such as wars, supply chain instability, and climate change, despite contributing the least to them. Modi called for a fair and inclusive global economic framework, improved financial support systems, and technology sharing. His remarks highlighted India’s push for equity-driven global governance and stronger multilateral cooperation. (PC: X)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump held a warm and friendly meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Évian, France, their first in-person interaction in 16 months. According to reports, Trump described the encounter as “calm, cool and totally killer,” highlighting the positive chemistry between the two leaders. Discussions covered trade, investment, supply chains, artificial intelligence, and regional security. The meeting signaled renewed momentum in India-U.S. relations as both countries continue negotiations on a bilateral trade agreement and seek closer cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Speaking at the G7 summit in France, U.S. President Donald Trump warned that the United States could “go back to shooting” if Iran failed to comply with a proposed agreement aimed at ending hostilities. Trump stressed that the current arrangement is only a memorandum of understanding and not a final deal. Meanwhile, G7 leaders welcomed the U.S.-Iran framework and jointly called for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon, along with efforts to curb Hezbollah’s influence. The leaders also emphasized preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and pledged support for regional stability and reconstruction. (PC: Reuters)