Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is actively expanding its global partnerships, highlighting India as a key strategic ally while addressing growing tensions with the United States. Speaking in an interview, Netanyahu stressed that Israel is strengthening relations with countries that share common interests in security, technology, trade, and innovation. Referring to India, he remarked, “That’s what I am doing with India,” underscoring efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation. His comments come as Israel faces diplomatic challenges with Washington over regional policies. Netanyahu emphasized that diversifying international partnerships would strengthen Israel’s global position without replacing its longstanding alliance with the United States. (PC: X)

Cricket's iconic Lord's Cricket Ground will host its first-ever women's Test match, 142 years after staging its first men's Test in 1884, when England face India in a historic four-day contest. The landmark fixture marks a significant milestone for women's cricket at the "Home of Cricket." England will aim to continue their strong home record, while India seek a memorable victory on one of the sport's most prestigious stages. Players and officials have hailed the occasion as a breakthrough for the women's game, reflecting its growing global prominence and inspiring future generations of female cricketers. (PC: X)

Meta Platforms has revealed that four US states are seeking $1.4 trillion in penalties ahead of an August trial, alleging Facebook and Instagram were deliberately designed to addict young users and mislead the public about their safety. The lawsuit, led by California, Colorado, Kentucky, and New Jersey, claims Meta's platforms harmed minors and violated consumer protection laws. Meta has denied the allegations, calling the proposed penalties excessive and unsupported by evidence. The case is part of broader legal action involving dozens of US states and could become one of the largest consumer protection lawsuits in technology industry history. (PC: Reuters)

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) jointly dismantled a major inter-state wildlife trafficking network, rescuing 53 protected animals and birds during coordinated raids across multiple states. Authorities arrested six suspects and seized several endangered species, including Indian Star Tortoises, Egyptian Vultures, and Shikra birds, which were allegedly being trafficked for illegal trade. Investigators believe the racket operated through a well-organized network spanning different states. The operation is part of intensified efforts to curb wildlife crime, enforce India's wildlife protection laws, and identify additional traffickers, buyers, and financial links connected to the illegal trade. (PC: X)

Violence and unrest broke out in central London after Morocco's 2-0 FIFA World Cup quarter-final loss to France. Large groups of Morocco supporters gathered in areas including Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square, where some celebrations turned into disorder. Police reported clashes, vandalism, fireworks being set off, and damage to vehicles and public property. Officers were deployed in large numbers to restore order, with several arrests made during the disturbances. Authorities urged the public to avoid affected areas as investigations continued. The incidents overshadowed France's victory, which secured Les Bleus a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals.

A series of explosions were reported across southern Iran, including near the strategically important Bushehr region, just a day after the burial of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iranian officials said the blasts occurred in several locations, while local authorities investigated the incidents. The United States denied carrying out any new military strikes, despite speculation fueled by recent regional tensions. The explosions come amid renewed hostilities between Iran and the US following the collapse of a fragile ceasefire, raising fears of further escalation. The exact cause of the blasts remains unclear, with conflicting reports emerging from the region.

France booked their place in a third consecutive FIFA World Cup semi-final with a clinical 2-0 victory over Morocco in the quarter-finals. Kylian Mbappé bounced back from an earlier missed penalty to score the opening goal and later set up Ousmane Dembélé for France's second. Morocco fought hard and enjoyed spells of possession but struggled to create clear chances against France's disciplined defence. Goalkeeper Mike Maignan kept another clean sheet as Didier Deschamps' side controlled the contest. France will now face the winner of Spain vs Belgium in the semi-final, keeping alive their bid for another World Cup title. (PC: X)

England sealed their first-ever bilateral T20I series victory over India with a commanding nine-wicket win in the fourth T20I at Bristol, taking an unassailable lead with one match remaining. Chasing 159, Harry Brook smashed an unbeaten 79 off 35 balls, while Phil Salt remained unbeaten on 58, guiding England home in just 13.5 overs. Earlier, Shreyas Iyer's unbeaten 80 helped India post 158/7, but England's disciplined bowling, led by Jofra Archer, restricted the visitors. The defeat marked India's first-ever run of five consecutive completed T20I losses, highlighting England's dominance throughout the series.

Morocco enters its FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal against France carrying the hopes of Africa and the Arab world in a rematch of the historic 2022 semifinal. The Atlas Lions have impressed by defeating top opponents, including Canada and the Netherlands, to reach the last eight. France, led by Kylian Mbappé, remains one of the tournament favourites with a powerful attack. Beyond football, the clash holds deep historical and cultural significance, making it one of the most anticipated matches of the World Cup as Morocco aims to create another unforgettable chapter in its football history. 

State-owned BSNL has introduced a satellite phone priced at ₹1,34,166 (inclusive of taxes), designed to provide communication where conventional mobile networks are unavailable. The device operates through satellites, enabling voice calls and SMS in remote, disaster-hit, maritime, mining and defence areas. Unlike regular smartphones, its use is tightly regulated in India and generally requires authorisation under government guidelines. Built for rugged environments, the phone features reliable connectivity and emergency communication capabilities, making it suitable for rescue teams, security forces and organisations operating in isolated regions where uninterrupted communication is essential. (PC: X)