India will introduce a real-time vessel-by-vessel dashboard to monitor Indian seafarers operating in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman following recent attacks on merchant vessels that killed and injured Indian crew members. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal directed the Directorate General of Shipping to ensure every Indian seafarer is individually tracked, irrespective of a vessel's flag. The dashboard will include vessel location, cargo, crew welfare, threat assessments and voyage details. The Centre also ordered 24x7 monitoring, dedicated liaison officers for affected families, closer coordination with the Indian Navy, MEA and regional missions, and mandatory threat assessments and compliance reports before ships transit the high-risk waters. (PC: Firstpost)

England manager Thomas Tuchel has issued a confident warning ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, insisting his side "will find a way" to stop Lionel Messi when Argentina and England meet for a place in the final. The blockbuster clash will mark the first-ever meeting between Messi and Tuchel in the Argentine captain's illustrious career. Despite Messi's reputation as one of football's greatest players, Tuchel expressed belief in England's ability to contain the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner through collective tactical discipline. The highly anticipated encounter will decide which team secures a place in the World Cup final, adding another chapter to one of international football's biggest rivalries. (PC: Sven Hoppe/dpa)

Mumbai has inaugurated its first dedicated pedestrian plaza at Kala Ghoda, transforming five heritage streets into a vehicle-free cultural precinct on weekends. Inaugurating the BMC-led Kala Ghoda Art Avenue project, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described it as a "new artistic district" that enhances public spaces while preserving the area's heritage architecture. Every Saturday and Sunday from 6 pm to midnight, VB Gandhi Marg, Ropewalk Lane, Saibaba Road, Rutherford Street and B Bharucha Road will remain closed to vehicles. Inspired by Glasgow's Buchanan Street and London's Carnaby Street, the revamped precinct features stone-paved walkways, murals, sculptures, with plans for al fresco dining, art markets, music performances and other cultural events.

Iran is signalling it could expand the ongoing conflict beyond the Strait of Hormuz by using Yemen's Houthi allies to threaten the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, another critical global shipping route linking the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Analysts say the move would increase pressure on the United States by disrupting global trade and energy supplies. Houthi officials warned both chokepoints could be closed if hostilities escalate, potentially driving oil prices to $200 a barrel. Experts describe Bab el-Mandeb as Iran's last major strategic lever after Hormuz. However, analysts also caution that any attempt to block the waterway could trigger a broader US-led military response and further destabilise the region. (PC: NDTV)

India made a strong start to the three-match ODI series by defeating England by six wickets at Edgbaston. After winning the toss, England collapsed from a promising position before recovering to post 258, thanks to resilient half-centuries from Joe Root and Liam Dawson. Axar Patel led India's bowling with four wickets before producing a match-winning unbeaten 57. Shubman Gill anchored the chase with a fluent 80, while Washington Sundar remained unbeaten on 52 to seal victory with 28 balls to spare. The win gives India a 1-0 series lead and a confident response after their recent T20I series defeat. (PC: ANI)

Norway's remarkable FIFA World Cup 2026 journey ended with a narrow 2-1 quarter-final defeat to England, but the team's historic campaign sparked nationwide celebrations. Thousands of supporters packed the streets of Oslo to welcome the players home, applauding their unexpected run to the last eight and their victories over Brazil and Ivory Coast. Captain Martin Ødegaard and star striker Erling Haaland thanked fans for their unwavering support, calling the tournament a turning point for Norwegian football. Despite the disappointment of elimination, the squad's performances have reignited optimism and inspired a new generation of football fans across the country.

France captain Kylian Mbappé openly criticised his team's performance following their 2-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final. Mbappé admitted France failed both tactically and technically, allowing Spain to control possession and dictate the pace of the match. He highlighted France's inability to press effectively and stop Spain's dominant midfield led by Rodri and Fabián Ruiz. Despite questions over refereeing decisions raised by coach Didier Deschamps, both acknowledged Spain were the superior side on the night. The loss ends France's hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final, leaving them to compete in the third-place playoff. (PC: Reuters)

Lionel Messi is set to face England for the first time in his illustrious international career as Argentina prepare for a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal. The clash is being billed as more than a football match, with Messi's experience, composure and leadership expected to test England's youthful squad and tactical discipline. Argentina will rely on their captain's ability to inspire in decisive moments, while England aim to end their long wait for World Cup glory. The semifinal promises an intense contest of skill, mentality and legacy, with a place in the World Cup final at stake. (PC: PA)

The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified after Washington launched fresh military strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure and reimposed a naval blockade. Iran responded with attacks on US-linked targets and reiterated its stance over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route. President Donald Trump abandoned a proposed transit toll in favor of pursuing trade and investment agreements with Gulf nations while maintaining pressure on Tehran. The renewed hostilities have raised fears of wider regional instability, disrupted energy markets, and increased concerns over global oil supplies and diplomatic efforts to restore peace. (PC: X)

Spain showcased their trademark teamwork with a breathtaking passing move that ended in Pedro Porro's clinical finish during a 2-0 FIFA World Cup semifinal victory over France. The move exposed France's defensive weaknesses and underlined Spain's tactical superiority throughout the match. Mikel Oyarzabal had earlier given Spain the lead from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal won a foul. France, led by Kylian Mbappé, struggled to cope with Spain's disciplined defence and fluid attacking play. The victory sends Spain to their first World Cup final since 2010, where they will face the winner of England vs Argentina.