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A day after President Donald Trump called off a major attack on Iran saying the Islamic Republic had agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz, reports said the deal being mediated will revive the memorandum of understanding signed by the two countries last month and ensure that the strait remains open for 60 days without fees.&nbsp;The deal would renew the ceasefire between the two sides and ensure that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for 60 days without fees, reported Channel 12 on Sunday, citing sources aware of the details.&nbsp;The Iranian state media also said that negotiations between Iran and Oman over a mutual mechanism to govern the strait were in their final stages but did not share further details.&nbsp;The US-Iran memorandum obligated Iran to fully open the strait “for 60 days only,” and did not impose restrictions after that.It collapsed amid competing claims over Hormuz, with US President Donald Trump insisting the strait would be open, while Tehran claimed the deal allowed it to control the key waterway.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-creating-incubators-to-develop-tech-to-counter-drone-terror-attacks-1785695702777">Trump admin creating ‘incubators’ to develop tech to counter drone terror attacks</a>&nbsp;According to the Channel 12 report, Israel was to be part of the attack, the planning for which began a day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Trump at the White House.&nbsp;The US Central Command prepared an attack plan on Iranian energy infrastructure. “Israel was supposed to be part of the plan,” a US official told Channel 12.Israel told the US that if the attack did not significantly damage Iranian economic and regime targets, there would be no point in carrying it out.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madrasas-shouldn-t-exist-they-produce-jihadists-taslima-nasreen-wants-bangladesh-to-be-secular-nation-1785687296945">‘Madrasas shouldn’t exist, they produce jihadists’: Taslima Nasreen wants Bangladesh to be secular nation</a><h2>Qataris told Trump Iran agreed to open Hormuz</h2>&nbsp;Qatar engaged in intensive talks with Iran, the US, and Oman to try to head off the attack and open up the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Besides, Qatari officials told Trump on Saturday that they needed another day to reach a solution with Iran. Later in the day, Qatar told Trump that Iran had agreed to a proposal to open the Strait.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman called Trump to urge him not to strike and managed to sway him. Trump then posted on Truth Social that he was calling off the attack and that Iran had agreed to open the strait and end its nuclear programme. Though Tehran denied the claims on Hormuz, no strikes were reported from either side overnight into Sunday after the announcement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance</a><h2>UAE pushed Trump for action, said IRGC won’t budge: WSJ report</h2>&nbsp;The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that, while Saudi Arabia had pushed Trump to refrain from a major attack on Iran over the weekend, the United Arab Emirates had lobbied him to take more decisive action.&nbsp;The report, citing senior Gulf officials familiar with the discussion, said the UAE argued that the IRGC would not budge on its demands without an escalation by the US, including Washington taking control of the Strait of Hormuz and possibly launching a ground incursion.The UAE carried out its own strikes against Iran and it also hosted Israeli air defence troops on its soil to help counter Iranian attacks.

Qatari officials told President Donald Trump late Saturday that Iran had agreed to a proposal to open the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman called Trump to urge him not to strike and managed to sway him

A day after President Donald Trump called off a major attack on Iran saying the Islamic Republic had agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz, reports said the deal being mediated will revive the memorandum of understanding signed by the two countries last month and ensure that the strait remains open for 60 days without fees. The deal would renew the ceasefire between the two sides and ensure that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for 60 days without fees, reported Channel 12 on Sunday, citing sources aware of the details. The Iranian state media also said that negotiations between Iran and Oman over a mutual mechanism to govern the strait were in their final stages but did not share further details. The US-Iran memorandum obligated Iran to fully open the strait “for 60 days only,” and did not impose restrictions after that. It collapsed amid competing claims over Hormuz, with US President Donald Trump insisting the strait would be open, while Tehran claimed the deal allowed it to control the key waterway. Also Read: Trump admin creating ‘incubators’ to develop tech to counter drone terror attacks According to the Channel 12 report, Israel was to be part of the attack, the planning for which began a day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Trump at the White House. The US Central Command prepared an attack plan on Iranian energy infrastructure. “Israel was supposed to be part of the plan,” a US official told Channel 12. Israel told the US that if the attack did not significantly damage Iranian economic and regime targets, there would be no point in carrying it out. Also Read: ‘Madrasas shouldn’t exist, they produce jihadists’: Taslima Nasreen wants Bangladesh to be secular nation Qataris told Trump Iran agreed to open Hormuz Qatar engaged in intensive talks with Iran, the US, and Oman to try to head off the attack and open up the Strait of Hormuz. Besides, Qatari officials told Trump on Saturday that they needed another day to reach a solution with Iran. Later in the day, Qatar told Trump that Iran had agreed to a proposal to open the Strait. Meanwhile, Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman called Trump to urge him not to strike and managed to sway him. Trump then posted on Truth Social that he was calling off the attack and that Iran had agreed to open the strait and end its nuclear programme. Though Tehran denied the claims on Hormuz, no strikes were reported from either side overnight into Sunday after the announcement. Also Read: ‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance UAE pushed Trump for action, said IRGC won’t budge: WSJ report The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that, while Saudi Arabia had pushed Trump to refrain from a major attack on Iran over the weekend, the United Arab Emirates had lobbied him to take more decisive action. The report, citing senior Gulf officials familiar with the discussion, said the UAE argued that the IRGC would not budge on its demands without an escalation by the US, including Washington taking control of the Strait of Hormuz and possibly launching a ground incursion. The UAE carried out its own strikes against Iran and it also hosted Israeli air defence troops on its soil to help counter Iranian attacks.

Qatari officials told President Donald Trump late Saturday that Iran had agreed to a proposal to open the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman called Trump to urge him not to strike and managed to sway him

Deal being worked out to revive US-Iran MoU, open Hormuz for 60 days without fees: Report

President Donald Trump on Sunday shared that his administration is creating incubators for developing technology that can effectively counter drone terror attacks. Trump did not make any formal announcement himself but shared a link on his Truth Social account by pasting the headline of a news article, thus corroborating the news.&nbsp;Since drone warfare preparedness has become important for every nation, the Trump administration is utilising private sector ‘incubators’ to bring America’s best and brightest together to protect the country, including one new company’s groundbreaking product to counter malign drones within seconds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madrasas-shouldn-t-exist-they-produce-jihadists-taslima-nasreen-wants-bangladesh-to-be-secular-nation-1785687296945">‘Madrasas shouldn’t exist, they produce jihadists’: Taslima Nasreen wants Bangladesh to be secular nation</a>&nbsp;“We are acting as an incubator, as a catalyst for all of those potential solutions in the private sector...a competition for the best athlete to find out not only what drones we need, because we’re not going to be buying drones from other countries, we’re going to be building them here for our war fighters, the first-person view drones (FPV) that are used to attack our enemies, but also for the defensive measures,” said Dr. Sebastian Gorka, Senior Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council, while talking to Washington-based Just The News.&nbsp;One such anti-drone technology that has emerged is Space Eyes’ Morpheus Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS), which combines advanced radio-frequency signal processing, artificial intelligence, and quantum-resistant security to detect, classify, and neutralise airborne threats within seconds.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance</a>&nbsp;“We just hosted one of the largest sporting events we’ve ever seen in the world with FIFA, and that (drone warfare) was at the forefront,” Derek Gordon, President of National Security at Space Eyes, told the media outlet.&nbsp;“Criminals are always trying to be a step ahead of law enforcement, and the US government as a whole spends an exorbitant amount of resources on countering something that costs the enemy a few dollars to make. So, this problem wouldn’t be solved without the partnership of private industry,” Gordon said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Ensure defence department is adequately funded for right things’</h2>&nbsp;“We just have to make sure our defence department is adequately funded, and it’s funded for the right things. We have to make sure we’re not fighting the last war and end some of the contracts we put in place 10 or 15 years ago, and make sure we have a robust defence against drones both in the battlefield and at home,” said Rep. Glenn Grothman, R-Wis..&nbsp;He also suggested that the gaps between federal funding and drone attacks in towns across America be closed. “I think this is something that would be a good thing for Mike Johnson to look at. Provide some assets or perhaps fund some drones for local governments as well.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche</a><h2>Drones used in several recent conflicts</h2>&nbsp;The soft launch of drone warfare emerged during the Russia-Ukraine war. Both sides have heavily relied on drone warfare for reconnaissance, targeting enemy positions, and conducting direct attacks.Ukrainian forces pioneered the use of inexpensive FPV drones for precision strikes, while Russia has deployed Iranian-made Shahed drones for long-range assaults. Drone technology has transformed the battlefield, enabling low-cost attrition and reducing the need for manned aircraft in many scenarios. FPV drones are “first-person view” remote-controlled quadcopters that stream real-time video from an onboard camera directly to pilot goggles.&nbsp;During the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, Hamas used drones for surveillance and dropping explosives and grenades on positions, and some one-way attacks, alongside paragliders, rockets, and the main ground invasion that killed at least 1,200 people and took 251 hostages.&nbsp;Drone warfare can be used not only on the battlefield, but also on US soil to carry out mass-casualty events.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2026-lovlina-borgohain-flags-missing-northeast-india-map-glasgow-restaurant-1785674559145">CWG 2026: Lovlina Borgohain flags missing Northeast on India map at Glasgow eatery</a><h2>FBI thwarted plot to attack the UFC Freedom 250 event</h2>&nbsp;In June, the FBI thwarted an alleged plot to attack the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House with explosive-laden drones and snipers targeting officials and attendees.Authorities arrested multiple suspects in a multi-state operation and the event, attended by President Donald Trump, proceeded without incident.Some drones, like the Griff Aviation 300, have a maximum load capacity of nearly 500 pounds.The public safety aspect of drone warfare is frightening.&nbsp;Authorities even report growing use of drones to smuggle contraband into prisons. Unmanned aircraft have dropped packages containing drugs, cellphones, weapons and other banned items over facility walls in multiple states and countries.Prison officials say the deliveries undermine security and fuel violence inside. For the time being, they are responding with detection technology, netting and restricted airspace rules to counter the threat.

Drone warfare first emerged during the Russia-Ukraine war as both sides heavily relied on drone warfare for reconnaissance, targeting enemy positions, and conducting direct attacks. Hamas used drones for surveillance and dropping explosives and grenades during Oct 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

President Donald Trump on Sunday shared that his administration is creating incubators for developing technology that can effectively counter drone terror attacks. Trump did not make any formal announcement himself but shared a link on his Truth Social account by pasting the headline of a news article, thus corroborating the news. Since drone warfare preparedness has become important for every nation, the Trump administration is utilising private sector ‘incubators’ to bring America’s best and brightest together to protect the country, including one new company’s groundbreaking product to counter malign drones within seconds.

Drone warfare first emerged during the Russia-Ukraine war as both sides heavily relied on drone warfare for reconnaissance, targeting enemy positions, and conducting direct attacks. Hamas used drones for surveillance and dropping explosives and grenades during Oct 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

Trump admin creating ‘incubators’ to develop tech to counter drone terror attacks

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that an agreement with Oman is close for the Strait of Hormuz. He said that negotiations between Tehran and Muscat have entered the final stages and are moving toward completion. Araghchi presented a report at the cabinet meeting regarding the developments of the negotiations with Oman concerning arrangements related to the Strait of Hormuz. This follows a pivotal statement from US President Donald Trump, who indicated he had called off a planned military strike on Iran to grant essential breathing room for a rapid “DEAL”.Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said ⁠negotiations were focused on agreeing a new route through the strait, adding that it had "no link to the Strait of Hormuz being opened or closed. That is a separate discussion". &nbsp;The ministry stressed that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz "cannot return to what it was before the war," adding that Tehran and Muscat are exploring a new transit route that would be neither the northern nor the southern passage, designed to ensure full Iranian oversight."We are now going to reach an understanding on a route acceptable to both sides -- neither the northern route nor the southern route -- but one that respects the sovereign rights of both sides and safeguards our national interests and security," said Baghei in an interview with state television.&nbsp;Last month, Iran publicly rejected an agreement with Oman that would allow vessels to enter the strait via Iran's side and exit via Oman's side, saying that the proposed "Malacca Model" of shared 50/50 transit routes and regional joint management fails to meet Iran's security interests. People familiar with the matter had told Reuters the plan included the collection of voluntary fees for using the ​strait.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-wildfire-firefighting-helicopters-collide-athens-1785686941866">Two dead as firefighting helicopters collide midair while battling massive Greece wildfire near Athens</a>&nbsp;Earlier today, reports from Israeli media claimed Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accepted a compromise where ships enter via Iranian waters and exit via Omani waters. However, an IRGC-affiliated source and Baghaei flatly rejected this, as reported by Fars news agency.&nbsp;Baghaei emphasised that these transit mechanisms are strictly a bilateral matter between Tehran and Muscat, stressing that no third party or international consortium will be permitted to manage or intervene in the strait’s security. The ministry said US threats are "nothing new," adding that Tehran acts according to its national interests and will respond forcefully to any action taken against it.

Iran says negotiations with Oman over Strait of Hormuz transit arrangements are nearing completion after Donald Trump paused a planned strike.

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said that an agreement with Oman is close for the Strait of Hormuz. He said that negotiations between Tehran and Muscat have entered the final stages and are moving toward completion. Araghchi presented a report at the cabinet meeting regarding the developments of the negotiations with Oman concerning arrangements related to the Strait of Hormuz. This follows a pivotal statement from US President Donald Trump, who indicated he had called off a planned military strike on Iran to grant essential breathing room for a rapid “DEAL”. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said ⁠negotiations were focused on agreeing a new route through the strait, adding that it had "no link to the Strait of Hormuz being opened or closed. That is a separate discussion". The ministry stressed that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz "cannot return to what it was before the war," adding that Tehran and Muscat are exploring a new transit route that would be neither the northern nor the southern passage, designed to ensure full Iranian oversight. "We are now going to reach an understanding on a route acceptable to both sides -- neither the northern route nor the southern route -- but one that respects the sovereign rights of both sides and safeguards our national interests and security," said Baghei in an interview with state television. Last month, Iran publicly rejected an agreement with Oman that would allow vessels to enter the strait via Iran's side and exit via Oman's side, saying that the proposed "Malacca Model" of shared 50/50 transit routes and regional joint management fails to meet Iran's security interests. People familiar with the matter had told Reuters the plan included the collection of voluntary fees for using the strait. Also Read: Two dead as firefighting helicopters collide midair while battling massive Greece wildfire near Athens Earlier today, reports from Israeli media claimed Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accepted a compromise where ships enter via Iranian waters and exit via Omani waters. However, an IRGC-affiliated source and Baghaei flatly rejected this, as reported by Fars news agency. Baghaei emphasised that these transit mechanisms are strictly a bilateral matter between Tehran and Muscat, stressing that no third party or international consortium will be permitted to manage or intervene in the strait’s security. The ministry said US threats are "nothing new," adding that Tehran acts according to its national interests and will respond forcefully to any action taken against it.

Iran says negotiations with Oman over Strait of Hormuz transit arrangements are nearing completion after Donald Trump paused a planned strike.

Iran says Oman talks on new Strait of Hormuz transit route near completion

Two firefighting helicopters collided in the west of Athens, Greece, while battling a wildfire on Sunday. The firefighting operation was going on in the area of Psatha in the Attica region of Athens, Greece. Footage posted on the Forecast Weather Greece Facebook page showed that the two helicopters closed in at low altitude, while the rotor of one helicopter struck the underside of another flying above it and plunged into the ravine in flames. The other helicopter dumped its water and flew away.&nbsp;The Greek fire service Search and rescue teams are deployed as the rescue operation continues for the crew of one helicopter, while the crew of the other helicopter had been located and were safe. Reports indicate that two crew members from the crashed helicopter were recovered unconscious or deceased.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sheikh-hasina-first-public-appearance-since-ouster-bangladesh-return-1785679900145">Sheikh Hasina to make first public appearance since ouster, says 'I may be killed' ahead of Bangladesh return</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">BREAKING: Two firefighting helicopters collided Sunday while battling a wind-driven wildfire in the Porto Germeno area west of Athens. Video captured one of the aircraft crashing to the ground after the midair collision. <a href="https://t.co/4kTHa7wR0V">pic.twitter.com/4kTHa7wR0V</a>&mdash; Breaking911 (@Breaking911) <a href="https://x.com/Breaking911/status/2083924063978692638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Greece is facing a massive blaze that has destroyed more than 100 homes northwest of Athens, while a fresh blaze forced evacuations on ​the popular tourist island of Kefalonia. "The fire has been burning since last night; it is certain that they cannot have forces everywhere. We as residents are doing everything we can,” said Tasos Tzempelikos, a resident of Agios Konstantinos near the coastal town of Megara. Firefighters focused their efforts on preventing fire from ​advancing towards Megara, which has a population of around 30,000.The country is experiencing extreme summer weather conditions and severe gale-force winds, which are forcing it towards extreme weather conditions. More than 10,000 hectares of land had ‌likely been ⁠destroyed by the fire so far. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said that it was a "force of nature” which exceeded all human planning and every operational capability.&nbsp;

Two firefighting helicopters collided while battling a wildfire near Athens, Greece, as massive blazes forced evacuations and destroyed homes.

Two firefighting helicopters collided in the west of Athens, Greece, while battling a wildfire on Sunday. The firefighting operation was going on in the area of Psatha in the Attica region of Athens, Greece. Footage posted on the Forecast Weather Greece Facebook page showed that the two helicopters closed in at low altitude, while the rotor of one helicopter struck the underside of another flying above it and plunged into the ravine in flames. The other helicopter dumped its water and flew away. The Greek fire service Search and rescue teams are deployed as the rescue operation continues for the crew of one helicopter, while the crew of the other helicopter had been located and were safe. Reports indicate that two crew members from the crashed helicopter were recovered unconscious or deceased. Also read: Sheikh Hasina to make first public appearance since ouster, says 'I may be killed' ahead of Bangladesh return

Two firefighting helicopters collided while battling a wildfire near Athens, Greece, as massive blazes forced evacuations and destroyed homes.

Two dead as firefighting helicopters collide midair while battling massive Greece wildfire near Athens

Exiled Bangladeshi writer and activist Taslima Nasreen, who returned to Kolkata after nearly two decades, has criticised the growing religious fundamentalism in Bangladesh and the role of madrasas in it while making strong remarks on the country’s political and social situation.&nbsp;She also called for Bangladesh to become a secular nation with a Uniform Civil Code, revoking the ban on the Awami League and the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to her nation.&nbsp;Speaking to media on Sunday, Taslima said, “The madrasas in Bangladesh should not exist. In many cases, madrasas have been found to be producing jihadists. Imams and madrasa teachers have been arrested and sent to jail. I do not believe there is any need for madrasas. Many graduates do not go on to do productive work; they survive on donations.”&nbsp;She also claimed that hatred towards non-Muslims is taught in many madrasas, and Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians face persecution in Bangladesh.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance</a><h2>‘Bangladesh should become a secular country’</h2>&nbsp;She also called for Bangladesh to become a secular country.Some mosques have become centres of jihadist activity, and the government should exercise oversight and control over them, she added.“If a country wants to be truly secular, religion must be separated from the state. These are the kinds of measures that help a society progress,” she said.&nbsp;“What is needed most is education. Everyone has the right to live. Instead of building more temples and madrasas, there should be greater emphasis on education," she said.&nbsp;<h2>‘No decline in the influence of fundamentalist groups in Bangladesh’</h2>&nbsp;Nasreen said she did not see any decline in the influence of fundamentalist groups in Bangladesh.“I do not see any signs of it declining. On the contrary, it is increasing. Jamaat-e-Islami will now have a presence in Parliament. It would have been better if the Awami League had remained the principal opposition party,” she said.She also said there was no difference between the Tarique Rahman era and the Yunus era in Bangladesh.&nbsp;Nasrin further said that the Bangladesh government does not take action against people who torture Hindus.&nbsp;On the arrest of former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh, she said he paid the price for helping Hindus who were in trouble. “Many like us are speaking up for Chinmoy. Free thinkers are continuously being targeted. Many of us had no choice but to leave the country.”&nbsp;<h2>‘Women should not be governed by religion-based personal laws’</h2>&nbsp;Nasreen said she has been campaigning for a Uniform Civil Code for the past 40 years. “I have been fighting for a Uniform Civil Code for the last 40 years. This subcontinent needs a Uniform Civil Code. In particular, women should not be governed by religion-based personal laws,” she said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche</a>&nbsp;The author said daughters in Bangladesh do not have equal inheritance rights in their father’s property. She also claimed that many Hindu men enter into multiple marriages and that women cannot obtain a divorce.According to her, Hindu women in Bangladesh need a Uniform Civil Code to secure their rights because religion-based personal laws continue to discriminate against women.She also said, “Any religion that turns women into sexual slaves is something they should leave behind.”&nbsp;Taslima Nasreen expressed hope that relations between India and Bangladesh would improve, saying India had made a huge contribution to Bangladesh’s independence.&nbsp;<h2>‘Sheikh Hasina should return to lead her party and fight elections’</h2>&nbsp;She also called for the return of former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina to her country to lead her party and fight elections.“The ouster of Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina in the way it happened was wrong. It was anti-democratic. Banning the party was absolutely undemocratic. They should be allowed to participate in elections. I want Hasina to return to Bangladesh,” she told reporters in Kolkata.&nbsp;She thanked West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for inviting her back to Kolkata after 19 years.“The newly elected government has assured security in Bengal during my stay. I would like to thank the chief minister for that,” she said.

Taslima Nasreen said hatred towards non-Muslims is taught in many madrasas, and Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians face persecution in Bangladesh. She added that some mosques have become centres of jihadist activity, and the government should exercise oversight and control over them.

Exiled Bangladeshi writer and activist Taslima Nasreen, who returned to Kolkata after nearly two decades, has criticised the growing religious fundamentalism in Bangladesh and the role of madrasas in it while making strong remarks on the country’s political and social situation. She also called for Bangladesh to become a secular nation with a Uniform Civil Code, revoking the ban on the Awami League and the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to her nation. Speaking to media on Sunday, Taslima said, “The madrasas in Bangladesh should not exist. In many cases, madrasas have been found to be producing jihadists. Imams and madrasa teachers have been arrested and sent to jail. I do not believe there is any need for madrasas. Many graduates do not go on to do productive work; they survive on donations.” She also claimed that hatred towards non-Muslims is taught in many madrasas, and Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians face persecution in Bangladesh. Also Read: ‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance ‘Bangladesh should become a secular country’ She also called for Bangladesh to become a secular country. Some mosques have become centres of jihadist activity, and the government should exercise oversight and control over them, she added. “If a country wants to be truly secular, religion must be separated from the state. These are the kinds of measures that help a society progress,” she said. “What is needed most is education. Everyone has the right to live. Instead of building more temples and madrasas, there should be greater emphasis on education," she said. ‘No decline in the influence of fundamentalist groups in Bangladesh’ Nasreen said she did not see any decline in the influence of fundamentalist groups in Bangladesh. “I do not see any signs of it declining. On the contrary, it is increasing. Jamaat-e-Islami will now have a presence in Parliament. It would have been better if the Awami League had remained the principal opposition party,” she said. She also said there was no difference between the Tarique Rahman era and the Yunus era in Bangladesh. Nasrin further said that the Bangladesh government does not take action against people who torture Hindus. On the arrest of former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh, she said he paid the price for helping Hindus who were in trouble. “Many like us are speaking up for Chinmoy. Free thinkers are continuously being targeted. Many of us had no choice but to leave the country.” ‘Women should not be governed by religion-based personal laws’ Nasreen said she has been campaigning for a Uniform Civil Code for the past 40 years. “I have been fighting for a Uniform Civil Code for the last 40 years. This subcontinent needs a Uniform Civil Code. In particular, women should not be governed by religion-based personal laws,” she said. Also Read: Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche The author said daughters in Bangladesh do not have equal inheritance rights in their father’s property. She also claimed that many Hindu men enter into multiple marriages and that women cannot obtain a divorce. According to her, Hindu women in Bangladesh need a Uniform Civil Code to secure their rights because religion-based personal laws continue to discriminate against women. She also said, “Any religion that turns women into sexual slaves is something they should leave behind.” Taslima Nasreen expressed hope that relations between India and Bangladesh would improve, saying India had made a huge contribution to Bangladesh’s independence. ‘Sheikh Hasina should return to lead her party and fight elections’ She also called for the return of former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina to her country to lead her party and fight elections. “The ouster of Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina in the way it happened was wrong. It was anti-democratic. Banning the party was absolutely undemocratic. They should be allowed to participate in elections. I want Hasina to return to Bangladesh,” she told reporters in Kolkata. She thanked West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for inviting her back to Kolkata after 19 years. “The newly elected government has assured security in Bengal during my stay. I would like to thank the chief minister for that,” she said.

Taslima Nasreen said hatred towards non-Muslims is taught in many madrasas, and Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians face persecution in Bangladesh. She added that some mosques have become centres of jihadist activity, and the government should exercise oversight and control over them.

‘Madrasas shouldn’t exist, they produce jihadists’: Taslima Nasreen wants Bangladesh to be secular nation

At least 14 people were killed, including police officers and close to two dozen injured in a suspected suicide bombing outside a police station in northwestern Pakistan on Sunday evening. According to a Swat District Police Officer (DPO) the suicide bomber identified as Umar detonated explosives after police personnel attempted to stop and search him at the entrance of the police station.&nbsp;The attack occurred in Kabal town in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where protesters had gathered near a police station, raising anti-militant slogans and demanding peace, when the incident happened.&nbsp;Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack and extended condolences to the families of those killed and prayers for the speedy recovery of the wounded.&nbsp;No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far but suspicion are being raised on the Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pkistan, or TTP.&nbsp;&nbsp;The TTP is officially listed and designated as a terrorist organisation by th United Nations Security Council and by the Government of Pakistan. The group primarily operates along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border.&nbsp;

According to a Swat District Police Officer (DPO) the suicide bomber identified as Umar detonated explosives after police personnel attempted to stop and search him at the entrance of the police station.

At least 14 people were killed, including police officers and close to two dozen injured in a suspected suicide bombing outside a police station in northwestern Pakistan on Sunday evening. According to a Swat District Police Officer (DPO) the suicide bomber identified as Umar detonated explosives after police personnel attempted to stop and search him at the entrance of the police station. The attack occurred in Kabal town in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where protesters had gathered near a police station, raising anti-militant slogans and demanding peace, when the incident happened. Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack and extended condolences to the families of those killed and prayers for the speedy recovery of the wounded. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far but suspicion are being raised on the Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pkistan, or TTP. The TTP is officially listed and designated as a terrorist organisation by th United Nations Security Council and by the Government of Pakistan. The group primarily operates along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border.

According to a Swat District Police Officer (DPO) the suicide bomber identified as Umar detonated explosives after police personnel attempted to stop and search him at the entrance of the police station.

At least 14 killed in suicide attack in Pakistan during peace rally

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will make her first public appearance on August 5 after being ousted two years ago following a student-led uprising in Bangladesh. She has been living in exile in India since then and is expected to make his first public appearance at an event at the Sir Mark Tully Auditorium at the AB-19 Mathura Road in Delhi from 6 pm to 7.30 pm. The virtual event is being organised by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia) based in New Delhi.&nbsp;She is expected to speak on the political situation in Bangladesh, the need to restore democracy and her future plans. She is expected to break her long silence to outline her political roadmap and formally address her proposed return to Bangladesh. She will be joined by her son Sajeeb Wazeed Joy, former minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel, cricketer Shakib Al Hasan, former diplomat Animul Hoque Polash, writer and analyst Abu Obaidha Arin, and advocate Shah Mohammed Bakhtiar.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-denies-reopening-strait-of-hormuz-trump-deal-claim-1785676954354">Iran rejects reopening Strait of Hormuz, warns US of 'decisive' response</a>"I may be killed. I may be arrested. I may be sent to prison," said Hasina to AFP on Sunday in an email. "I am fully aware of my fate. Still, I want to go back because my people are calling me." Bangladesh has previously requested the extradition of Hasina, though she is under pressure to return so that she can reside in India "with due respect and dignity".Hasina has previously claimed that she would return to Bangladesh, in an interview in June with Reuters. She said that she is planning to return to Bangladesh in December 2026. But she faces stern legal challenges, including a death penalty. She was sentenced to death in absentia on November 17, 2025, by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal, because of the student-led uprising in Bangladesh which claimed 1,400 lives.&nbsp;"Despite being a death penalty convict, being a Bangladeshi citizen, if she intends to surrender showing respect to the law by returning home, perhaps she will be arrested before she could do so," Bangladesh Law Minister M Asaduzzaman said on Thursday. "Whenever she enters our territory, I will enforce the authority that the law has reposed upon me."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina will make her first public appearance since her ouster, speaking on Bangladesh's political future and her planned return.

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will make her first public appearance on August 5 after being ousted two years ago following a student-led uprising in Bangladesh. She has been living in exile in India since then and is expected to make his first public appearance at an event at the Sir Mark Tully Auditorium at the AB-19 Mathura Road in Delhi from 6 pm to 7.30 pm. The virtual event is being organised by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia) based in New Delhi. She is expected to speak on the political situation in Bangladesh, the need to restore democracy and her future plans. She is expected to break her long silence to outline her political roadmap and formally address her proposed return to Bangladesh. She will be joined by her son Sajeeb Wazeed Joy, former minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel, cricketer Shakib Al Hasan, former diplomat Animul Hoque Polash, writer and analyst Abu Obaidha Arin, and advocate Shah Mohammed Bakhtiar. Also Read: Iran rejects reopening Strait of Hormuz, warns US of 'decisive' response "I may be killed. I may be arrested. I may be sent to prison," said Hasina to AFP on Sunday in an email. "I am fully aware of my fate. Still, I want to go back because my people are calling me." Bangladesh has previously requested the extradition of Hasina, though she is under pressure to return so that she can reside in India "with due respect and dignity". Hasina has previously claimed that she would return to Bangladesh, in an interview in June with Reuters. She said that she is planning to return to Bangladesh in December 2026. But she faces stern legal challenges, including a death penalty. She was sentenced to death in absentia on November 17, 2025, by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal, because of the student-led uprising in Bangladesh which claimed 1,400 lives. "Despite being a death penalty convict, being a Bangladeshi citizen, if she intends to surrender showing respect to the law by returning home, perhaps she will be arrested before she could do so," Bangladesh Law Minister M Asaduzzaman said on Thursday. "Whenever she enters our territory, I will enforce the authority that the law has reposed upon me."

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina will make her first public appearance since her ouster, speaking on Bangladesh's political future and her planned return.

Sheikh Hasina to make first public appearance since ouster, says 'I may be killed' ahead of Bangladesh return

India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, has strongly defended the decision of putting the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance, saying that Pakistan eroded India’s faith bit by bit and ‘destroyed’ the spirit of the agreement long before India took the step.&nbsp;In an opinion piece in the US-based weekly magazine Newsweek, Kwatra wrote that the treaty was founded on “goodwill and friendship” as mentioned in its preamble, but Pakistan continuously kept dismantling those principles through its actions.&nbsp;<h2>‘IWT abeyance merely acknowledges what Pak already destroyed’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;“Pakistan spent half a century dismantling that goodwill and friendship. The abeyance merely acknowledges what Pakistan’s conduct had already destroyed,” Kwatra said.&nbsp;The ambassador’s remarks came weeks after Pakistan reportedly organised a conference in Islamabad to protest India’s decision to suspend the treaty.Referring to the event, Kwatra wrote, “At that gathering, a former foreign minister threatened war against India if Pakistan’s demands on the Indus River system go unmet.”He pointed out that threatening war against India has become a standard tactic of Islamabad to attention distract from its internal problems.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2026-lovlina-borgohain-flags-missing-northeast-india-map-glasgow-restaurant-1785674559145">CWG 2026: Lovlina Borgohain flags missing Northeast on India map at Glasgow eatery</a><h2>‘New Delhi honoured the treaty for decades despite imbalance’</h2>&nbsp;The envoy recalled that the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty divided the six rivers of the Indus basin between the two countries, giving India control over the three eastern rivers and Pakistan control over the three western rivers.He said though the arrangement gave Pakistan access to nearly 80 per cent of the basin’s waters and limited India’s share to just 20 per cent, New Delhi still honoured the agreement for decades despite the imbalance.Kwatra further highlighted that Pakistan repeatedly blocked India’s attempts to modernise or renegotiate the treaty to reflect technological changes and allow greater hydropower development.“Bit by bit, Pakistan eroded India’s faith that it could exercise its rights under the treaty, or hope for a better one suited to today’s realities,” he wrote.&nbsp;Moreover, repeated attacks on Indian project sites, including the 2012 terrorist attack on the Tulbul Navigation Project, prevented India from exercising its rights under the treaty, he added.&nbsp;The ambassador recalled Pakistan’s persistent hostility as it launched wars against India in 1965, 1971 and in 1999; and promoted cross-border terrorism leading to an attack on India’s Parliament in 2001, Mumbai terror carnage in 2008, Uri and Pathankot attacks in 2016, the Pulwama attack in 2019 and the Pahalgam attack in 2025.&nbsp;“Over 40,000 civilians in India have been killed in India due to Pakistan’s persistent terror campaign,” he asserted.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche</a><h2>‘Pak’s water shortages result of its poor management’</h2>&nbsp;Replying to recurrent calls for dialogue between India and Pakistan, Kwatra said past experience showed such engagement had failed to produce results.“Those advocating talks between India and Pakistan have not taken note of the history of these talks in the past or they must believe that doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results is not insanity.”&nbsp;“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has clearly voiced India’s stand today, ‘Terror and talks cannot go together... Terror and trade cannot go together…. Water and blood cannot flow together.’,” he said.&nbsp;The ambassador also rejected Islamabad’s allegations that India was acting as a “water aggressor” and said Pakistan’s water shortages are a result of its poor domestic management and not India’s actions.&nbsp;“Only around 40 per cent of the water Pakistan receives reaches its farms, while more than 30 per cent is lost in transit and the remainder flows unused into the sea,” he specified.&nbsp;New Delhi decided to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance a day after the April 22, 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which Pakistan-origin terrorists killed 26 civilians, including 25 Indians and one Nepalese citizen. The attack was linked to the designated terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba.The terrorists were later killed by Indian security forces in an operation.

India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra writes in an opinion piece in the US-based weekly magazine Newsweek, that the Indus Waters Treaty was founded on “goodwill and friendship” as mentioned in its preamble, but Pakistan kept dismantling those principles through its actions.

India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, has strongly defended the decision of putting the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance, saying that Pakistan eroded India’s faith bit by bit and ‘destroyed’ the spirit of the agreement long before India took the step. In an opinion piece in the US-based weekly magazine Newsweek, Kwatra wrote that the treaty was founded on “goodwill and friendship” as mentioned in its preamble, but Pakistan continuously kept dismantling those principles through its actions. ‘IWT abeyance merely acknowledges what Pak already destroyed’ “Pakistan spent half a century dismantling that goodwill and friendship. The abeyance merely acknowledges what Pakistan’s conduct had already destroyed,” Kwatra said. The ambassador’s remarks came weeks after Pakistan reportedly organised a conference in Islamabad to protest India’s decision to suspend the treaty. Referring to the event, Kwatra wrote, “At that gathering, a former foreign minister threatened war against India if Pakistan’s demands on the Indus River system go unmet.” He pointed out that threatening war against India has become a standard tactic of Islamabad to attention distract from its internal problems. Also Read: CWG 2026: Lovlina Borgohain flags missing Northeast on India map at Glasgow eatery ‘New Delhi honoured the treaty for decades despite imbalance’ The envoy recalled that the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty divided the six rivers of the Indus basin between the two countries, giving India control over the three eastern rivers and Pakistan control over the three western rivers. He said though the arrangement gave Pakistan access to nearly 80 per cent of the basin’s waters and limited India’s share to just 20 per cent, New Delhi still honoured the agreement for decades despite the imbalance. Kwatra further highlighted that Pakistan repeatedly blocked India’s attempts to modernise or renegotiate the treaty to reflect technological changes and allow greater hydropower development. “Bit by bit, Pakistan eroded India’s faith that it could exercise its rights under the treaty, or hope for a better one suited to today’s realities,” he wrote. Moreover, repeated attacks on Indian project sites, including the 2012 terrorist attack on the Tulbul Navigation Project, prevented India from exercising its rights under the treaty, he added. The ambassador recalled Pakistan’s persistent hostility as it launched wars against India in 1965, 1971 and in 1999; and promoted cross-border terrorism leading to an attack on India’s Parliament in 2001, Mumbai terror carnage in 2008, Uri and Pathankot attacks in 2016, the Pulwama attack in 2019 and the Pahalgam attack in 2025. “Over 40,000 civilians in India have been killed in India due to Pakistan’s persistent terror campaign,” he asserted. Also Read: Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche ‘Pak’s water shortages result of its poor management’ Replying to recurrent calls for dialogue between India and Pakistan, Kwatra said past experience showed such engagement had failed to produce results. “Those advocating talks between India and Pakistan have not taken note of the history of these talks in the past or they must believe that doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results is not insanity.” “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has clearly voiced India’s stand today, ‘Terror and talks cannot go together... Terror and trade cannot go together…. Water and blood cannot flow together.’,” he said. The ambassador also rejected Islamabad’s allegations that India was acting as a “water aggressor” and said Pakistan’s water shortages are a result of its poor domestic management and not India’s actions. “Only around 40 per cent of the water Pakistan receives reaches its farms, while more than 30 per cent is lost in transit and the remainder flows unused into the sea,” he specified. New Delhi decided to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance a day after the April 22, 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, in which Pakistan-origin terrorists killed 26 civilians, including 25 Indians and one Nepalese citizen. The attack was linked to the designated terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba. The terrorists were later killed by Indian security forces in an operation.

India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra writes in an opinion piece in the US-based weekly magazine Newsweek, that the Indus Waters Treaty was founded on “goodwill and friendship” as mentioned in its preamble, but Pakistan kept dismantling those principles through its actions.

‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance

Iran has officially denied reports of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, hours after US President Donald Trump called off a strike on Iran, claiming that an outline of a deal has been agreed with Iran, including on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran outright denied these claims with escalated rhetoric in state media, terming Trump a “fool” who has run out of “steam”. Fars news agency, citing sources in the Iranian negotiating team and military, called the reports by Israeli journalist Barak Ravid as false.“There is no agreement on reopening the Strait of Hormuz,” Iran’s state media Fars news agency reported. “As long as the United States continues its hostile actions, the strait will remain closed.”“Passage will only be possible through the designated route, in coordination with the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Navy and after obtaining permission to transit the Strait of Hormuz. Otherwise, other routes are unsafe, and vessels attempting to use them will certainly encounter incidents,” reported Fars citing military sources.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-israel-ceuta-migrant-crisis-social-media-feud-1785666403370">Spain-Israel social media feud erupts after Ceuta migrant crisis: Why Israel is being linked</a>Iranian sources emphasised that claims about Tehran approving any plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz are inaccurate, and that no decision or policy shift has been made regarding the strategic waterway.&nbsp;<h2>Iran's Foreign Ministry warned retalliation&nbsp;</h2>In a telephonic conversation with Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan late on Saturday, Argahchi said that Iran remains fully prepared to defend the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security, reiterating that any aggression or hostile action by the United States and the Zionist regime will be met with a decisive and proportionate response from Iran’s powerful Armed Forces.&nbsp;Brigadier General Seyyed Majid Ebn-e-Reza, Acting Minister of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics, accused the enemy of engaging in psychological operations and "war of calculation". He said that Iran won't be caught passive or off guard; "we treat the threat as a basis for increasing readiness, strengthening deterrence and enhancing our power."&nbsp;

Iran denied reopening the Strait of Hormuz after Donald Trump claimed a deal was reached, warning the US that any aggression would trigger a decisive response.

Iran has officially denied reports of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, hours after US President Donald Trump called off a strike on Iran, claiming that an outline of a deal has been agreed with Iran, including on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran outright denied these claims with escalated rhetoric in state media, terming Trump a “fool” who has run out of “steam”. Fars news agency, citing sources in the Iranian negotiating team and military, called the reports by Israeli journalist Barak Ravid as false. “There is no agreement on reopening the Strait of Hormuz,” Iran’s state media Fars news agency reported. “As long as the United States continues its hostile actions, the strait will remain closed.” “Passage will only be possible through the designated route, in coordination with the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Navy and after obtaining permission to transit the Strait of Hormuz. Otherwise, other routes are unsafe, and vessels attempting to use them will certainly encounter incidents,” reported Fars citing military sources. Also Read: Spain-Israel social media feud erupts after Ceuta migrant crisis: Why Israel is being linked Iranian sources emphasised that claims about Tehran approving any plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz are inaccurate, and that no decision or policy shift has been made regarding the strategic waterway. Iran's Foreign Ministry warned retalliation In a telephonic conversation with Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan late on Saturday, Argahchi said that Iran remains fully prepared to defend the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security, reiterating that any aggression or hostile action by the United States and the Zionist regime will be met with a decisive and proportionate response from Iran’s powerful Armed Forces. Brigadier General Seyyed Majid Ebn-e-Reza, Acting Minister of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics, accused the enemy of engaging in psychological operations and "war of calculation". He said that Iran won't be caught passive or off guard; "we treat the threat as a basis for increasing readiness, strengthening deterrence and enhancing our power."

Iran denied reopening the Strait of Hormuz after Donald Trump claimed a deal was reached, warning the US that any aggression would trigger a decisive response.

Iran rejects reopening Strait of Hormuz, warns US of 'decisive' response

A social media clash has ensued between Spain and Israel following the massive migrant surge in Ceuta, a Spanish North African enclave. Around 60,000 migrants tried to cross into the disputed Spanish enclave, mostly swimming around the small border post that juts into the Mediterranean Sea. The Spanish government announced on Saturday that at least 67 people have been killed, while declaring that the issue was addressed with migrants returning from the enclave.&nbsp;<h2>Ceuta has been a point of dispute</h2>Ceuta and another Spanish-controlled enclave, Melilla, have been a point of dispute between Spain and Morocco. Morocco is the only Arab nation to have signed an open, formal defence pact with Israel. They have normalised relations, and Israel has formally agreed to Morocco's claim over Western Sahara. The ruling royal family has maintained unwavering strategic ties with Israel; the relationship faces consistent internal domestic protests over genocide in Gaza.The Moroccan Association of Human Rights, which held the Moroccan state responsible for the development, condemned "the worrying silence of officials and institutions" which have still not responded publicly to the crisis. It was clearly not a coincidence that roughly 60000 migrants all chose the same day to cross to the territory.Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez blamed the sudden influx on human trafficking mafias who exaggerated a Supreme Court ruling in July that barred authorities from immediately returning migrants who arrive by sea. Ignacio Cembrero, a Spanish journalist specialised in migration in North Africa, said that &nbsp;“without a doubt, the July 8 ruling has played a role… but that doesn’t explain the level of mobilisation.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indonesia-ferry-fire-east-java-5-dead-41-missing-1785664276853">Indonesia ferry fire: 5 dead, 41 missing after passenger ship catches fire off East Java coast</a><h2>Why is Spain hinting at Israel?</h2>&nbsp;Spain's Sánchez government has been notably critical of Israel; it recognised a Palestinian state in 2024, has criticised Israeli conduct in Gaza, and Sánchez himself called the Ceuta crossing an "attack on Spain's territorial integrity" while facing criticism from Danon. He has also repeatedly angered the Trump administration over NATO spending, base access during Iran operations, and with his posture toward Washington.Middle East Forum fellow Amine Ayoub wrote an April article proposing that Israel should back Morocco's claim to Ceuta and Melilla as a way to pressure Spain over its criticism of Israel and the US, laying out diplomatic signalling, lobbying through Washington, and accusations of hypocrisy as tactics. Michael Rubin of Middle East Forum and former Pentagon advisor also publicly called on Trump to formally recognise the enclaves as occupied Moroccan territory, and separately urged Morocco's king to organise a march to "reclaim" them.On several other occasions, US President and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have denounced Sanchez publicly. Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart told a Spanish outlet in April that Ceuta and Melilla “are not part of Spain but lie within Moroccan territory,” though he noted actual US recognition would be an administration decision.A House Appropriations Committee document in late April went further institutionally, describing Ceuta and Melilla as Spanish-administered cities "located in Moroccan territory" and backing Secretary of State Rubio's efforts to encourage dialogue on their “future status”, the first time a US legislative body cast doubt on Spanish sovereignty there.<h2>The ongoing Social media feud between Israeli and Spanish leadership&nbsp;</h2>This has been fuelled by the ongoing social feud. Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon criticised Madrid's handling of the crisis, in a post on the social media platform X, he said that Spain has forfeited its moral authority, “Spain, which never misses an opportunity to lecture Israel, has declared a state of emergency in Ceuta following the crisis over its immigration policy,” he continued, "Maybe before it continues lecturing us, it's time it explained to the world why it still maintains colonial enclaves in Africa."Spanish transport minister Oscar Puente responded with a <a href="https://x.com/oscar_puente_/status/2083111016468984231?s=20">post</a>,&nbsp;"Well, things are starting to get pretty clear."Even though the Spanish Transport minister did not provide any elaborate explanation on his social media post, Spanish media widely interpreted Danon's message and ran with it, lending credibility to the conspiracy theories going around about possible Israeli involvement in the crisis, despite no credible evidence linking Israel to the crisis.&nbsp;Israel's charge&nbsp;d'affaires in Spain, Dana Erlich, publicly distanced the government from Danon's comments, saying that it did not reflect official Israeli policy. “The comment made by Israel's Ambassador to the UN on the issue does not represent the position of the State of Israel.” &nbsp;

Spain and Israel traded barbs after the Ceuta migrant crisis. Here's why Israel is being linked, what officials said, and the facts behind the claims.

A social media clash has ensued between Spain and Israel following the massive migrant surge in Ceuta, a Spanish North African enclave. Around 60,000 migrants tried to cross into the disputed Spanish enclave, mostly swimming around the small border post that juts into the Mediterranean Sea. The Spanish government announced on Saturday that at least 67 people have been killed, while declaring that the issue was addressed with migrants returning from the enclave. Ceuta has been a point of dispute Ceuta and another Spanish-controlled enclave, Melilla, have been a point of dispute between Spain and Morocco. Morocco is the only Arab nation to have signed an open, formal defence pact with Israel. They have normalised relations, and Israel has formally agreed to Morocco's claim over Western Sahara. The ruling royal family has maintained unwavering strategic ties with Israel; the relationship faces consistent internal domestic protests over genocide in Gaza. The Moroccan Association of Human Rights, which held the Moroccan state responsible for the development, condemned "the worrying silence of officials and institutions" which have still not responded publicly to the crisis. It was clearly not a coincidence that roughly 60000 migrants all chose the same day to cross to the territory. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez blamed the sudden influx on human trafficking mafias who exaggerated a Supreme Court ruling in July that barred authorities from immediately returning migrants who arrive by sea. Ignacio Cembrero, a Spanish journalist specialised in migration in North Africa, said that “without a doubt, the July 8 ruling has played a role… but that doesn’t explain the level of mobilisation.” Also Read: Indonesia ferry fire: 5 dead, 41 missing after passenger ship catches fire off East Java coast Why is Spain hinting at Israel? Spain's Sánchez government has been notably critical of Israel; it recognised a Palestinian state in 2024, has criticised Israeli conduct in Gaza, and Sánchez himself called the Ceuta crossing an "attack on Spain's territorial integrity" while facing criticism from Danon. He has also repeatedly angered the Trump administration over NATO spending, base access during Iran operations, and with his posture toward Washington. Middle East Forum fellow Amine Ayoub wrote an April article proposing that Israel should back Morocco's claim to Ceuta and Melilla as a way to pressure Spain over its criticism of Israel and the US, laying out diplomatic signalling, lobbying through Washington, and accusations of hypocrisy as tactics. Michael Rubin of Middle East Forum and former Pentagon advisor also publicly called on Trump to formally recognise the enclaves as occupied Moroccan territory, and separately urged Morocco's king to organise a march to "reclaim" them. On several other occasions, US President and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have denounced Sanchez publicly. Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart told a Spanish outlet in April that Ceuta and Melilla “are not part of Spain but lie within Moroccan territory,” though he noted actual US recognition would be an administration decision.A House Appropriations Committee document in late April went further institutionally, describing Ceuta and Melilla as Spanish-administered cities "located in Moroccan territory" and backing Secretary of State Rubio's efforts to encourage dialogue on their “future status”, the first time a US legislative body cast doubt on Spanish sovereignty there. The ongoing Social media feud between Israeli and Spanish leadership This has been fuelled by the ongoing social feud. Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon criticised Madrid's handling of the crisis, in a post on the social media platform X, he said that Spain has forfeited its moral authority, “Spain, which never misses an opportunity to lecture Israel, has declared a state of emergency in Ceuta following the crisis over its immigration policy,” he continued, "Maybe before it continues lecturing us, it's time it explained to the world why it still maintains colonial enclaves in Africa." Spanish transport minister Oscar Puente responded with a post, "Well, things are starting to get pretty clear." Even though the Spanish Transport minister did not provide any elaborate explanation on his social media post, Spanish media widely interpreted Danon's message and ran with it, lending credibility to the conspiracy theories going around about possible Israeli involvement in the crisis, despite no credible evidence linking Israel to the crisis. Israel's charge d'affaires in Spain, Dana Erlich, publicly distanced the government from Danon's comments, saying that it did not reflect official Israeli policy. “The comment made by Israel's Ambassador to the UN on the issue does not represent the position of the State of Israel.”

Spain and Israel traded barbs after the Ceuta migrant crisis. Here's why Israel is being linked, what officials said, and the facts behind the claims.

Spain-Israel social media feud erupts after Ceuta migrant crisis: Why Israel is being linked

Rescuers recovered the body of renowned British-Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja on Sunday, three days after an avalanche killed him and nine other climbers on Broad Peak in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir’s Gilgit-Baltistan. Broad Peak is the world’s 12th-highest and considered one of the most challenging to climb.&nbsp;The Alpine Club of Pakistan said Purja’s body was found about 5,700 m up the mountain, where three further bodies have been sighted, but their identities have not been confirmed.&nbsp;The 43-year-old’s death was announced on Saturday by his company, Elite Expeditions, which said he was among the 10 people killed in the avalanche.&nbsp;&nbsp;The avalanche struck on Thursday, cutting off contact with the international expedition led by Purja.&nbsp;“The ground rescue team has reached Nims Dai (Purja) at approximately 5,700m on Broad Peak—a mountain he loved and a mountain that has now taken him from us,” the club posted on social media.&nbsp;Purja was leading the expedition with five climbers from Nepal, one Pakistani, one Omani, one American, and one Chinese.&nbsp;<h2>‘Rescue team transporting four bodies’</h2>&nbsp;A rescue team was transporting four bodies, including those of Purja, two other Nepali nationals, and a Chinese citizen, down from the mountain, said the club’s general secretary, Ayaz Shigri.&nbsp;“Rescuers have also confirmed the presence of one additional body at a significantly higher elevation,” he added in a statement.&nbsp;The risk of avalanches and steep slopes is posing challenges to the rescue efforts, and helicopters cannot be deployed owing to rough weather conditions.&nbsp;“Due to the extremely hazardous terrain and prevailing conditions, it is unlikely that a recovery attempt will be made at this stage,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Regional authorities said the remains of three climbers—an Omani woman, a Nepali man, and an American woman—had been recovered and flown to the city of Skardu on Friday.The three were identified as Oman’s Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy, Nepal’s Pur Bahadur Gurung, and American Mallory Geis.&nbsp;The avalanche sparked an outpouring of shock in the mountaineering community.&nbsp;<h2>Purja broke multiple climbing records</h2>&nbsp;Purja, who served with Britain’s Brigade of Gurkhas before joining the Special Boat Squadron of the Royal Marines, broke multiple climbing records since becoming a full-time mountaineer and tour guide.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2019, Purja had climbed all 14 peaks above 8,000 metres around the world in six months and six days, setting a new record.&nbsp;“Nims (Purja) served with distinction in the British Armed Forces before becoming one of the world’s greatest mountaineers, putting Nepalese climbers on the map,” Prince William posted on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;Purja had written on X on Monday that he was close to becoming the first person to climb all 14 “super peaks” twice without oxygen.&nbsp;“Broad Peak, I ask for nothing but safe passage up and back down,” he wrote.&nbsp;Rescuers have been scouring the difficult, high-altitude mountainside for days by air and ground after contact was lost with the team on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;“My loving brothers... We will take you back home to see (your) families,” Mingma G Sherpa, a mountaineer involved in rescue, posted on Saturday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Messages of grief poured out after the confirmation that none of the team had survived.&nbsp;&nbsp;Broad Peak is the world’s 12th highest mountain, located in the Karakoram range, and is regarded as one of the toughest and most technical climbs of all the 8,000-metre-plus ascents. It was first summited by an Austrian team in 1957.&nbsp;

Renowned British-Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja was leading the expedition with five climbers from Nepal, one Pakistani, one Omani, one American, and one Chinese. Purja, who earlier served with Britain’s Brigade of Gurkhas, broke multiple climbing records.

Rescuers recovered the body of renowned British-Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja on Sunday, three days after an avalanche killed him and nine other climbers on Broad Peak in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir’s Gilgit-Baltistan. Broad Peak is the world’s 12th-highest and considered one of the most challenging to climb. The Alpine Club of Pakistan said Purja’s body was found about 5,700 m up the mountain, where three further bodies have been sighted, but their identities have not been confirmed. The 43-year-old’s death was announced on Saturday by his company, Elite Expeditions, which said he was among the 10 people killed in the avalanche. The avalanche struck on Thursday, cutting off contact with the international expedition led by Purja. “The ground rescue team has reached Nims Dai (Purja) at approximately 5,700m on Broad Peak—a mountain he loved and a mountain that has now taken him from us,” the club posted on social media. Purja was leading the expedition with five climbers from Nepal, one Pakistani, one Omani, one American, and one Chinese. ‘Rescue team transporting four bodies’ A rescue team was transporting four bodies, including those of Purja, two other Nepali nationals, and a Chinese citizen, down from the mountain, said the club’s general secretary, Ayaz Shigri. “Rescuers have also confirmed the presence of one additional body at a significantly higher elevation,” he added in a statement. The risk of avalanches and steep slopes is posing challenges to the rescue efforts, and helicopters cannot be deployed owing to rough weather conditions. “Due to the extremely hazardous terrain and prevailing conditions, it is unlikely that a recovery attempt will be made at this stage,” he added. Regional authorities said the remains of three climbers—an Omani woman, a Nepali man, and an American woman—had been recovered and flown to the city of Skardu on Friday. The three were identified as Oman’s Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy, Nepal’s Pur Bahadur Gurung, and American Mallory Geis. The avalanche sparked an outpouring of shock in the mountaineering community. Purja broke multiple climbing records Purja, who served with Britain’s Brigade of Gurkhas before joining the Special Boat Squadron of the Royal Marines, broke multiple climbing records since becoming a full-time mountaineer and tour guide. In 2019, Purja had climbed all 14 peaks above 8,000 metres around the world in six months and six days, setting a new record. “Nims (Purja) served with distinction in the British Armed Forces before becoming one of the world’s greatest mountaineers, putting Nepalese climbers on the map,” Prince William posted on X. Purja had written on X on Monday that he was close to becoming the first person to climb all 14 “super peaks” twice without oxygen. “Broad Peak, I ask for nothing but safe passage up and back down,” he wrote. Rescuers have been scouring the difficult, high-altitude mountainside for days by air and ground after contact was lost with the team on Thursday. “My loving brothers... We will take you back home to see (your) families,” Mingma G Sherpa, a mountaineer involved in rescue, posted on Saturday. Messages of grief poured out after the confirmation that none of the team had survived. Broad Peak is the world’s 12th highest mountain, located in the Karakoram range, and is regarded as one of the toughest and most technical climbs of all the 8,000-metre-plus ascents. It was first summited by an Austrian team in 1957.

Renowned British-Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja was leading the expedition with five climbers from Nepal, one Pakistani, one Omani, one American, and one Chinese. Purja, who earlier served with Britain’s Brigade of Gurkhas, broke multiple climbing records.&nbsp;

Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin were spotted in the Netherlands – except not in flesh and bones but inflatables! The two leaders were depicted kissing each other on the lips in a large float during the Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade on Saturday (Aug 1). The videos from the parade have gone viral on social media.“The Kissing Couple” artwork showed the two leaders leaning towards each other for a kiss while holding flowers behind their backs. The float depicted Putin wearing overalls, while Trump was shown in a dress with a retro rockabilly-inspired hairstyle. Surrounded by dancers, music and colourful Pride celebrations, the display moved through Amsterdam’s canals as part of the event’s tradition of using humour and satire to comment on social and political issues.Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/satanic-chainsaw-wielding-rescue-bot-leaves-internet-divided-those-eyes-are-horrifying-1785577472290"> ‘Satanic’ chainsaw-wielding rescue bot leaves internet divided: ‘Those eyes are horrifying’</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🤡Trump küsst Putin: Eine solche Installation wurde beim LGBTQ-Parade in Amsterdam gezeigt<a href="https://t.co/r5excmX3U4">https://t.co/r5excmX3U4</a> <a href="https://t.co/QqfHaBONw3">pic.twitter.com/QqfHaBONw3</a>&mdash; Konstanze Hoffmann (@KonstanzeHoffm1) <a href="https://x.com/KonstanzeHoffm1/status/2083639618818519256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The portrayal appeared to reference years of criticism from Trump’s opponents, who have accused him of being overly favourable towards Putin. The theme gained prominence after Trump’s first term in office, when some critics questioned his approach towards Moscow and his relationship with the Russian leader.The satire comes amid ongoing tensions involving Russia’s war in Ukraine. Trump recently said the United States would help Ukraine develop advanced military capabilities as Kyiv continues its fight against Russian forces. The remarks came during his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at a NATO summit in Turkey.The Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade is known for its colourful boats and creative performances, with participants frequently using costumes, artwork and floats to express views on global issues.The Trump-Putin float quickly went viral online, with images sparking reactions from supporters and critics of both leaders. While some viewed it as a humorous political statement, others debated whether such portrayals oversimplify complex diplomatic relationships.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-araghchi-agree-to-open-hormuz-to-stop-trump-s-planned-us-strikes-on-iran-1785657566859">Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know</a>Several people questioned why Putin was depicted instead of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Trump and Netanyahu have faced criticism for pressuring each other to continue the war in Iran – a claim refuted by both leaders.

Trump and Putin’s inflatable kissing float at Amsterdam Pride went viral, with the satirical artwork mocking their perceived ties and sparking debate over global politics.

US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin were spotted in the Netherlands – except not in flesh and bones but inflatables! The two leaders were depicted kissing each other on the lips in a large float during the Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade on Saturday (Aug 1). The videos from the parade have gone viral on social media. “The Kissing Couple” artwork showed the two leaders leaning towards each other for a kiss while holding flowers behind their backs. The float depicted Putin wearing overalls, while Trump was shown in a dress with a retro rockabilly-inspired hairstyle. Surrounded by dancers, music and colourful Pride celebrations, the display moved through Amsterdam’s canals as part of the event’s tradition of using humour and satire to comment on social and political issues. Also read | ‘Satanic’ chainsaw-wielding rescue bot leaves internet divided: ‘Those eyes are horrifying’

Trump and Putin’s inflatable kissing float at Amsterdam Pride went viral, with the satirical artwork mocking their perceived ties and sparking debate over global politics.

Trump, Putin kissing in Amsterdam? Pride parade’s ‘couple’ goes viral | WATCH

Hours after US president Donald Trump said that he is canceling a planned attack on Iran, provided a deal is struck "rapidly" with the country, Iran's Mehr news agency on Sunday (Aug 2) denied the claims made by Trump.&nbsp;The news agency citing military officials said the claim "was nothing but a new lie" and that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were "on high alert and ready for any eventuality".&nbsp;On Saturday Trump made the claim and took to Truth Social to write he had been asked by Iran and other countries in the Middle East to "hold off" on any attack as the "perimeters" of a deal had been agreed.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-araghchi-agree-to-open-hormuz-to-stop-trump-s-planned-us-strikes-on-iran-1785657566859">Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know</a>&nbsp;"This would include the Immediate, Complete and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran's nuclear threat," Trump wrote further.&nbsp;Trump’s move comes after Saudi Arabia Prince Mohammed bin Salman pushed for a deescalation of tensions in the Middle East, according to the state media. Since the announcement no strikes were reported from either the Iranian or US side overnight into Sunday.&nbsp;<h2>"Potential for unforeseen escalation"</h2>&nbsp;On Saturday, US embassies in the Middle East had &nbsp;urged its citizens to avoid travel and be ready to depart due to the “potential for unforeseen escalation” in the conflict with Iran.&nbsp;“Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions,” said the US Embassy in Jordan in a security alert.&nbsp;Similar versions of the alert were posted on social media by the US missions in Amman, Jerusalem and Baghdad too.&nbsp;The travel advisory had been issued after Trump reportedly ordered fresh military strikes on Iran. &nbsp;

On Saturday Trump made the claim and took to Truth Social to write he had been asked by Iran and other countries in the Middle East to hold off on any attack.

Hours after US president Donald Trump said that he is canceling a planned attack on Iran, provided a deal is struck "rapidly" with the country, Iran's Mehr news agency on Sunday (Aug 2) denied the claims made by Trump. The news agency citing military officials said the claim "was nothing but a new lie" and that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were "on high alert and ready for any eventuality". On Saturday Trump made the claim and took to Truth Social to write he had been asked by Iran and other countries in the Middle East to "hold off" on any attack as the "perimeters" of a deal had been agreed. ALSO READ: Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know "This would include the Immediate, Complete and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran's nuclear threat," Trump wrote further. Trump’s move comes after Saudi Arabia Prince Mohammed bin Salman pushed for a deescalation of tensions in the Middle East, according to the state media. Since the announcement no strikes were reported from either the Iranian or US side overnight into Sunday. "Potential for unforeseen escalation" On Saturday, US embassies in the Middle East had urged its citizens to avoid travel and be ready to depart due to the “potential for unforeseen escalation” in the conflict with Iran. “Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions,” said the US Embassy in Jordan in a security alert. Similar versions of the alert were posted on social media by the US missions in Amman, Jerusalem and Baghdad too. The travel advisory had been issued after Trump reportedly ordered fresh military strikes on Iran.

On Saturday Trump made the claim and took to Truth Social to write he had been asked by Iran and other countries in the Middle East to "hold off" on any attack.

Iran media denies Trump claim that Tehran urged US to halt attacks

A small plane carrying European tourists crashed into a field near the Peruvian city of Nazca on Saturday, local authorities said. At least 13 people were killed in the incident, including the pilot and a co-pilot or guide.&nbsp;The aircraft was on a sightseeing flight over the Nazca Lines, a group of extensive geoglyphs scraped into the desert around Nazca hundreds of years ago by Peru’s Indigenous inhabitants, reported Associated Press. The Nazca Lines is best viewed only from planes or viewing towers.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-araghchi-agree-to-open-hormuz-to-stop-trump-s-planned-us-strikes-on-iran-1785657566859">Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know</a>&nbsp;The plane operated by Peruvian company Aerodiana took off from the nearby city of Ica and was headed for Nazca Lines when the incident happened. The airline has been offering scenic flights over the Nazca lines for the past 14 years using Cessna Grand Caravan planes, according to its website.<h2>Several foreign tourists among dead</h2>&nbsp;Among the dead were seven Italian citizens, two Spaniards and two Germans Peru’s Transportation Ministry said, as reported by AP. The other two fatalities were the pilot Américo Salazar and copilot Irenka Guanilo del Carpio, it said in an official report.&nbsp;President Keiko Fujimori expressed grief over the incident and said a “temporary suspension” of the airport was being considered but after receiving a report on the accident by the relevant ministries.&nbsp;According to the local authorities the aircraft had apparently completed the overflight and was approaching Nazca airport when it lost contact with the control tower and crashed.The cause of the crash is not yet known, and an investigation is underway.&nbsp;

The plane operated by Peruvian company Aerodiana took off from the nearby city of Ica and was headed for Nazca Lines when the incident happened.

A small plane carrying European tourists crashed into a field near the Peruvian city of Nazca on Saturday, local authorities said. At least 13 people were killed in the incident, including the pilot and a co-pilot or guide. The aircraft was on a sightseeing flight over the Nazca Lines, a group of extensive geoglyphs scraped into the desert around Nazca hundreds of years ago by Peru’s Indigenous inhabitants, reported Associated Press. The Nazca Lines is best viewed only from planes or viewing towers. ALSO READ: Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know The plane operated by Peruvian company Aerodiana took off from the nearby city of Ica and was headed for Nazca Lines when the incident happened. The airline has been offering scenic flights over the Nazca lines for the past 14 years using Cessna Grand Caravan planes, according to its website. Several foreign tourists among dead Among the dead were seven Italian citizens, two Spaniards and two Germans Peru’s Transportation Ministry said, as reported by AP. The other two fatalities were the pilot Américo Salazar and copilot Irenka Guanilo del Carpio, it said in an official report. President Keiko Fujimori expressed grief over the incident and said a “temporary suspension” of the airport was being considered but after receiving a report on the accident by the relevant ministries. According to the local authorities the aircraft had apparently completed the overflight and was approaching Nazca airport when it lost contact with the control tower and crashed. The cause of the crash is not yet known, and an investigation is underway.

The plane operated by Peruvian company Aerodiana took off from the nearby city of Ica and was headed for Nazca Lines when the incident happened.

At least 13 killed, including tourists in Peru plane crash, investigation underway

At least five people were killed, and 41 others are still missing after a passenger ferry caught fire off the coast of Madura Island, East Java, on Sunday Morning. The ferry KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 was travelling from Tanjung Perak Port in Indonesia’s second-largest city, Surabaya in East Java, to Makassar ​city ​in South ⁠Sulawesi when the ship's captain reported the fire incident. There were ​271 passengers and crew members on board; 225 of them have been rescued, Reuters reported, citing agency data. The cause of the fire still remains undetermined; rescue operations are underway.The Surabaya Search and Rescue Office (Basarnas) is leading a large-scale emergency response. Local media reports suggest that most of the ferry has been engulfed in fire and people jumped into the water to save themselves. The Surabaya Search and Rescue Office said it first received notification of the fire at 8:24 a.m. from the Tanjung Perak Harbormaster's Office.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-araghchi-agree-to-open-hormuz-to-stop-trump-s-planned-us-strikes-on-iran-1785657566859">Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know</a>"TB Hasnur 26 and the British Mentor are assisting in evacuating passengers who jumped from KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2. Four vessels are now alongside the ferry," said Nanang Sigit, head of the Surabaya Search and Rescue Office.&nbsp;This is a developing issue; further details are awaited.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">BREAKING: At least five people have died and 41 remain missing after the passenger ship KM Mutiara Sentosa 2 caught fire this morning off Madura Island in the Java Sea, near Sumenep Regency, Indonesia. Inaccurate passenger manifests continue to hamper search and rescue efforts. <a href="https://t.co/qqSgMYlh5B">pic.twitter.com/qqSgMYlh5B</a>&mdash; Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) <a href="https://x.com/WeatherMonitors/status/2083849399533437421?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At least five people were killed and 41 remain missing after a passenger ferry caught fire off Indonesia's East Java coast. Rescue operations continue.

At least five people were killed, and 41 others are still missing after a passenger ferry caught fire off the coast of Madura Island, East Java, on Sunday Morning. The ferry KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 was travelling from Tanjung Perak Port in Indonesia’s second-largest city, Surabaya in East Java, to Makassar city in South ⁠Sulawesi when the ship's captain reported the fire incident. There were 271 passengers and crew members on board; 225 of them have been rescued, Reuters reported, citing agency data. The cause of the fire still remains undetermined; rescue operations are underway. The Surabaya Search and Rescue Office (Basarnas) is leading a large-scale emergency response. Local media reports suggest that most of the ferry has been engulfed in fire and people jumped into the water to save themselves. The Surabaya Search and Rescue Office said it first received notification of the fire at 8:24 a.m. from the Tanjung Perak Harbormaster's Office. Also Read: Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know "TB Hasnur 26 and the British Mentor are assisting in evacuating passengers who jumped from KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2. Four vessels are now alongside the ferry," said Nanang Sigit, head of the Surabaya Search and Rescue Office. This is a developing issue; further details are awaited.

At least five people were killed and 41 remain missing after a passenger ferry caught fire off Indonesia's East Java coast. Rescue operations continue.

Indonesia ferry fire: 5 dead, 41 missing after passenger ship catches fire off East Java coast

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi agreed to a compromise deal on opening up the Strait of Hormuz that led to US President Donald Trump announcing that he is calling off a planned attack on Iran, Israeli media reports suggested. This comes after Trump earlier announced that he was cancelling attacks on Iran as the United States and Iran had agreed to the parameters of a deal, warning that it was subject to a deal being finalised quickly.According to a Channel 12 report, the compromise deal laid down by the US and Qatar states that ships will enter the Persian Gulf on the Iranian-controlled side of the strait and exit through the Omani side. While Oman has agreed to the deal, assurances have been sought from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps that the agreement would be respected.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-is-locked-and-loaded-trump-calls-off-iran-attack-but-sets-these-conditions-1785637547069">‘US is locked and loaded’: Trump calls off Iran attack but sets THESE conditions</a><h2>Trump announces Iran attack cancelled</h2>Earlier on Saturday (Aug 2), Trump said that the United States and Israel have agreed to hold off attacks on Iran if a deal is reached quickly. He claimed that the decision was taken at the request of Tehran and other nations in the region despite the US being “locked and loaded” and “ready to go against Iran”.In a post on his Truth Social, Trump said, “The U.S.A. is locked and loaded and ready to go against the Islamic Republic of Iran, at levels of Military Terror, Strength, and Power not seen since World War II.”He added, “Despite this, we have just been asked by Iran, and other Middle Eastern Countries, to hold off any attack in that the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to.”Trump said that the agreement would include “complete and total” opening of the Strait of Hormuz and “an end to Iran’s nuclear threat”. He warned that he cancelled the attacks on the condition that a deal is reached quickly.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-tanker-hit-by-unknown-projectile-off-oman-as-us-iran-tensions-escalate-1785556874223">Oil tanker hit by ‘unknown projectile’ off Oman as US-Iran tensions escalate</a>“This would include the Immediate, Complete, and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran’s nuclear threat. Based on this request, I have agreed, for the future benefit of the WORLD and, likewise, the survival of a successful and prosperous Iran, to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a DEAL. The Country of Israel joins me in this commitment,” he wrote.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. &nbsp;

Iran FM Abbas Araghchi reportedly agreed to a Strait of Hormuz compromise with US and Qatar, prompting Trump to call off planned Iran attacks as a deal to ensure shipping movement was negotiated.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi agreed to a compromise deal on opening up the Strait of Hormuz that led to US President Donald Trump announcing that he is calling off a planned attack on Iran, Israeli media reports suggested. This comes after Trump earlier announced that he was cancelling attacks on Iran as the United States and Iran had agreed to the parameters of a deal, warning that it was subject to a deal being finalised quickly. According to a Channel 12 report, the compromise deal laid down by the US and Qatar states that ships will enter the Persian Gulf on the Iranian-controlled side of the strait and exit through the Omani side. While Oman has agreed to the deal, assurances have been sought from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps that the agreement would be respected. Also read | ‘US is locked and loaded’: Trump calls off Iran attack but sets THESE conditions Trump announces Iran attack cancelled Earlier on Saturday (Aug 2), Trump said that the United States and Israel have agreed to hold off attacks on Iran if a deal is reached quickly. He claimed that the decision was taken at the request of Tehran and other nations in the region despite the US being “locked and loaded” and “ready to go against Iran”. In a post on his Truth Social, Trump said, “The U.S.A. is locked and loaded and ready to go against the Islamic Republic of Iran, at levels of Military Terror, Strength, and Power not seen since World War II.” He added, “Despite this, we have just been asked by Iran, and other Middle Eastern Countries, to hold off any attack in that the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to.” Trump said that the agreement would include “complete and total” opening of the Strait of Hormuz and “an end to Iran’s nuclear threat”. He warned that he cancelled the attacks on the condition that a deal is reached quickly. Also read | Oil tanker hit by ‘unknown projectile’ off Oman as US-Iran tensions escalate “This would include the Immediate, Complete, and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran’s nuclear threat. Based on this request, I have agreed, for the future benefit of the WORLD and, likewise, the survival of a successful and prosperous Iran, to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a DEAL. The Country of Israel joins me in this commitment,” he wrote. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran FM Abbas Araghchi reportedly agreed to a Strait of Hormuz compromise with US and Qatar, prompting Trump to call off planned Iran attacks as a deal to ensure shipping movement was negotiated.

Did Araghchi agree to open Hormuz to stop Trump’s planned US strikes on Iran? What we know

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (July 30) announced "historic agreement" that would see the complete disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza, saying the breakthrough marks a key step in implementing his 20-point plan to end the war. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said his "Board of Peace" had secured the agreement, calling it a major milestone towards achieving lasting peace and security in the region. However, the Israeli politicians and military establishment have critical &nbsp;reservations about the roadmap for Hamas disarmament.<h2>What is the opposition in Israel?</h2>Political opposition within Israel say that they don't trust Hamas as the group has shown historic unwillingness to disarm. It also stems from fierce right-wing who opposes surrendering territorial gains. As the deal comes ahead of the proposed October 2026 Israeli general election, the Opposition in Israel is in a position to put pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to not accept a deal that requires ceding ground. Under the proposal, Israeli forces are expected to withdraw from their current positions within 24 hours of approval. Hamas, meanwhile, is given 14 days just to prepare an implementation schedule. Israeli officials fear that if they pull back first, Hamas will exploit the pause to regroup and hide its underground assets rather than disarming.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-israel-to-withdraw-from-gaza-strip-1785468455019">Trump: Israel to withdraw from Gaza Strip</a> &nbsp;The roadmap specifies that surrendered heavy weaponry, ammunition, and manufacturing sites will be turned over exclusively to a newly formed Palestinian National Committee. Israel strongly opposes leaving any military stockpiles in the hands of a Palestinian governance body, viewing it as an ongoing existential threat.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, Israeli forces currently control over 60 per cent of the Gaza Strip, having expanded their footprint past the "Yellow Line" established in earlier ceasefire phases. The new deal demands a rollback of these hard-fought territorial gains, which the defense establishment argues eliminates Israel's active tactical leverage&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-struck-nuseirat-camp-injuring-nine-leaving-one-critical-1785563858896">Israel struck Nuseirat camp, injuring nine &amp; leaving one critical</a><h2>What it means for Netanyahu ahead of election?</h2>Recent polls suggest that many Jewish Israelis oppose a full military withdrawal from Gaza or major reconstruction efforts unless Hamas is completely defeated. This has made the proposed deal politically risky for right-wing leaders. Centrist politicians, including former general Gadi Eisenkot, have also criticised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government for keeping the negotiations unclear and warned that any concessions could weaken Israel. Meanwhile, the Israeli government has not publicly confirmed the deal, while officials reportedly insist that Israeli troops will not withdraw until Hamas agrees to give up its heavy weapons.&nbsp;Netanyahu’s government also depends on the support of far-right allies, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Both have opposed any deal that does not involve the complete defeat of Hamas and have backed calls to encourage Palestinians to leave Gaza and rebuild Israeli settlements there. They have warned that they could withdraw their support and bring down the government if Netanyahu agrees to the proposed deal.

Trump has claimed a historic Gaza agreement involving a hostage release and phased Israeli troop withdrawal, but Israel has yet to confirm the deal. Disagreements over the ceasefire terms, hostages and troop withdrawal continue to cast doubt on its implementation

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (July 30) announced "historic agreement" that would see the complete disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza, saying the breakthrough marks a key step in implementing his 20-point plan to end the war. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said his "Board of Peace" had secured the agreement, calling it a major milestone towards achieving lasting peace and security in the region. However, the Israeli politicians and military establishment have critical reservations about the roadmap for Hamas disarmament. What is the opposition in Israel? Political opposition within Israel say that they don't trust Hamas as the group has shown historic unwillingness to disarm. It also stems from fierce right-wing who opposes surrendering territorial gains. As the deal comes ahead of the proposed October 2026 Israeli general election, the Opposition in Israel is in a position to put pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to not accept a deal that requires ceding ground. Under the proposal, Israeli forces are expected to withdraw from their current positions within 24 hours of approval. Hamas, meanwhile, is given 14 days just to prepare an implementation schedule. Israeli officials fear that if they pull back first, Hamas will exploit the pause to regroup and hide its underground assets rather than disarming. Also Read: Trump: Israel to withdraw from Gaza Strip The roadmap specifies that surrendered heavy weaponry, ammunition, and manufacturing sites will be turned over exclusively to a newly formed Palestinian National Committee. Israel strongly opposes leaving any military stockpiles in the hands of a Palestinian governance body, viewing it as an ongoing existential threat. Additionally, Israeli forces currently control over 60 per cent of the Gaza Strip, having expanded their footprint past the "Yellow Line" established in earlier ceasefire phases. The new deal demands a rollback of these hard-fought territorial gains, which the defense establishment argues eliminates Israel's active tactical leverage Also Read: Israel struck Nuseirat camp, injuring nine & leaving one critical What it means for Netanyahu ahead of election? Recent polls suggest that many Jewish Israelis oppose a full military withdrawal from Gaza or major reconstruction efforts unless Hamas is completely defeated. This has made the proposed deal politically risky for right-wing leaders. Centrist politicians, including former general Gadi Eisenkot, have also criticised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government for keeping the negotiations unclear and warned that any concessions could weaken Israel. Meanwhile, the Israeli government has not publicly confirmed the deal, while officials reportedly insist that Israeli troops will not withdraw until Hamas agrees to give up its heavy weapons. Netanyahu’s government also depends on the support of far-right allies, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Both have opposed any deal that does not involve the complete defeat of Hamas and have backed calls to encourage Palestinians to leave Gaza and rebuild Israeli settlements there. They have warned that they could withdraw their support and bring down the government if Netanyahu agrees to the proposed deal.

Trump has claimed a historic Gaza agreement involving a hostage release and phased Israeli troop withdrawal, but Israel has yet to confirm the deal. Disagreements over the ceasefire terms, hostages and troop withdrawal continue to cast doubt on its implementation

Why are Israeli politicians divided over the proposed Gaza deal? WION Decodes

Pakistan witnessed its deadliest month of 2026 in July, with 606 people killed and 232 others injured in terrorist attacks and counter-terrorism operations across the country, according to a report by the Islamabad-based Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS).The report highlighted a sharp deterioration in Pakistan’s security situation, with rising militant activity being met by intensified operations from security forces. July recorded the highest number of security personnel deaths in a month since January 2023, with 112 personnel killed.The figure is the second-highest monthly toll for security forces in more than a decade. In January 2023, 114 security personnel were killed, including more than 100 deaths in a suicide bombing at Peshawar Police Lines.According to PICSS data, 401 terrorists were killed in July, marking the highest monthly figure recorded in over 10 years. The violence also claimed the lives of 74 civilians and 19 members of peace committees.The report said 232 people were injured during the month, including 101 security personnel, 103 civilians, 14 peace committee members and 14 terrorists.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-demands-international-scrutiny-of-pakistan-s-actions-in-pojk-as-civilian-deaths-mount-1785506194579">India demands international scrutiny of Pakistan’s actions in PoJK as civilian deaths mount</a>Compared to June, security force fatalities increased by 195 per cent, while terrorist deaths rose by 109 per cent. Civilian deaths also witnessed a rise of 21 per cent.July also saw a record surge in suicide attacks, with at least eight incidents reported, including five vehicle-borne attacks. The number of kidnapping cases doubled during the month, increasing from 33 in June to 66 in July.Balochistan remained the worst-affected region, accounting for a major share of the casualties. The province recorded 372 deaths in July, a 241 per cent jump from the previous month. Security personnel deaths in the region increased dramatically from six in June to 62 in July.The report noted that Pakistan recorded 2,786 deaths linked to terrorism and counter-terror operations in the first seven months of 2026. The toll included 1,857 terrorists, 463 civilians, 434 security personnel and 32 peace committee members, underlining the growing challenge posed by militancy in the country.

Pakistan recorded its deadliest month of 2026 in July, with 606 people killed and 232 injured in terror attacks and counter-terror operations, as violence surged sharply across the country, especially in Balochistan.

Pakistan witnessed its deadliest month of 2026 in July, with 606 people killed and 232 others injured in terrorist attacks and counter-terrorism operations across the country, according to a report by the Islamabad-based Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS). The report highlighted a sharp deterioration in Pakistan’s security situation, with rising militant activity being met by intensified operations from security forces. July recorded the highest number of security personnel deaths in a month since January 2023, with 112 personnel killed. The figure is the second-highest monthly toll for security forces in more than a decade. In January 2023, 114 security personnel were killed, including more than 100 deaths in a suicide bombing at Peshawar Police Lines. According to PICSS data, 401 terrorists were killed in July, marking the highest monthly figure recorded in over 10 years. The violence also claimed the lives of 74 civilians and 19 members of peace committees. The report said 232 people were injured during the month, including 101 security personnel, 103 civilians, 14 peace committee members and 14 terrorists. Also read | India demands international scrutiny of Pakistan’s actions in PoJK as civilian deaths mount Compared to June, security force fatalities increased by 195 per cent, while terrorist deaths rose by 109 per cent. Civilian deaths also witnessed a rise of 21 per cent. July also saw a record surge in suicide attacks, with at least eight incidents reported, including five vehicle-borne attacks. The number of kidnapping cases doubled during the month, increasing from 33 in June to 66 in July. Balochistan remained the worst-affected region, accounting for a major share of the casualties. The province recorded 372 deaths in July, a 241 per cent jump from the previous month. Security personnel deaths in the region increased dramatically from six in June to 62 in July. The report noted that Pakistan recorded 2,786 deaths linked to terrorism and counter-terror operations in the first seven months of 2026. The toll included 1,857 terrorists, 463 civilians, 434 security personnel and 32 peace committee members, underlining the growing challenge posed by militancy in the country.

Pakistan recorded its deadliest month of 2026 in July, with 606 people killed and 232 injured in terror attacks and counter-terror operations, as violence surged sharply across the country, especially in Balochistan.

Pakistan records deadliest month of 2026 as terror violence kills 606 in July

Border trade between India and China through Sikkim’s Nathu La Pass has resumed from Saturday (Aug 1) after a six-year suspension, reopening one of the oldest trade links between the two countries. The route, which connects India’s Sikkim with Tibet, was shut in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its reopening comes as both sides look to gradually restore some economic and people-to-people exchanges after years of strained ties.Trade through Nathu La first resumed in 2006, nearly 44 years after the route was closed following the 1962 India-China war. The move was then seen as a major confidence-building measure and a way to revive traditional trade links along the old Silk Route. However, it was suspended again in 2020 following the COVID-19 outbreak.The current trading season will continue from May to November, as per the Standard Operating Procedures agreed upon by both countries. Trade will take place from Monday to Thursday, with both sides retaining the existing list of 36 approved commodities.India’s export list includes 36 items, including handicrafts, handloom products, spices, processed food items, agricultural tools, garments, utensils and religious articles. Imports from the Tibetan side include woollen garments, shoes, yak products, butter, borax, goats and quilts.Before reopening the route, authorities carried out repairs and upgrades at the Nathu La Integrated Check Post, which had remained unused for years and suffered damage due to harsh weather conditions. Security arrangements have also been strengthened, with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) deploying additional personnel. An all-women platoon has also been deployed at Nathu La for the first time to assist with trade operations.The reopening follows the recent restart of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the Nathu La route, another indication of renewed cross-border movement between the two countries.Officials said the route can accommodate up to 400 traders during a season, although only a limited number of permits have been issued so far. More traders are expected to receive clearance after verification by district authorities and the State Intelligence Branch.While the resumption is unlikely to immediately change the broader India-China relationship, it marks a small but important step towards restoring activity along the border.

India-China border trade through Sikkim’s Nathu La Pass resumes after six years, reviving a historic Silk Route link and signalling gradual restoration of cross-border exchanges.

Border trade between India and China through Sikkim’s Nathu La Pass has resumed from Saturday (Aug 1) after a six-year suspension, reopening one of the oldest trade links between the two countries. The route, which connects India’s Sikkim with Tibet, was shut in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its reopening comes as both sides look to gradually restore some economic and people-to-people exchanges after years of strained ties. Trade through Nathu La first resumed in 2006, nearly 44 years after the route was closed following the 1962 India-China war. The move was then seen as a major confidence-building measure and a way to revive traditional trade links along the old Silk Route. However, it was suspended again in 2020 following the COVID-19 outbreak. The current trading season will continue from May to November, as per the Standard Operating Procedures agreed upon by both countries. Trade will take place from Monday to Thursday, with both sides retaining the existing list of 36 approved commodities. India’s export list includes 36 items, including handicrafts, handloom products, spices, processed food items, agricultural tools, garments, utensils and religious articles. Imports from the Tibetan side include woollen garments, shoes, yak products, butter, borax, goats and quilts. Before reopening the route, authorities carried out repairs and upgrades at the Nathu La Integrated Check Post, which had remained unused for years and suffered damage due to harsh weather conditions. Security arrangements have also been strengthened, with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) deploying additional personnel. An all-women platoon has also been deployed at Nathu La for the first time to assist with trade operations. The reopening follows the recent restart of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the Nathu La route, another indication of renewed cross-border movement between the two countries. Officials said the route can accommodate up to 400 traders during a season, although only a limited number of permits have been issued so far. More traders are expected to receive clearance after verification by district authorities and the State Intelligence Branch. While the resumption is unlikely to immediately change the broader India-China relationship, it marks a small but important step towards restoring activity along the border.

India-China border trade through Sikkim’s Nathu La Pass resumes after six years, reviving a historic Silk Route link and signalling gradual restoration of cross-border exchanges.

India-China reopen Nathu La route, reviving historic Silk Route trade corridor

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Aug 2) said that the United States and Israel have agreed to hold off attacks on Iran if a deal is reached quickly. He claimed that the decision was taken at the request of Tehran and other nations in the region despite the US being “locked and loaded” and “ready to go against Iran”. The US president also said that parameters of a deal were reached.In a post on his Truth Social, Trump said, “The U.S.A. is locked and loaded and ready to go against the Islamic Republic of Iran, at levels of Military Terror, Strength, and Power not seen since World War II.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-yemen-s-houthis-planning-to-charge-transit-fees-in-red-sea-group-says-any-individual-or-entity-1785571186921">Are Yemen’s Houthis planning to charge transit fees in Red Sea? Group says ‘any individual or entity...’</a>He added, “Despite this, we have just been asked by Iran, and other Middle Eastern Countries, to hold off any attack in that the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to.”Trump said that the agreement would include “complete and total” opening of the Strait of Hormuz and “an end to Iran’s nuclear threat”. He warned that he cancelled the attacks on the condition that a deal is reached quickly.“This would include the Immediate, Complete, and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran’s nuclear threat. Based on this request, I have agreed, for the future benefit of the WORLD and, likewise, the survival of a successful and prosperous Iran, to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a DEAL. The Country of Israel joins me in this commitment,” he wrote.“Get to work, everybody, and get it DONE.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-tanker-hit-by-unknown-projectile-off-oman-as-us-iran-tensions-escalate-1785556874223">Oil tanker hit by ‘unknown projectile’ off Oman as US-Iran tensions escalate</a>Earlier on Friday (Jul 31), Trump threatened more strikes on Iran, demanding reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to reporters at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, he said “we just want to win” in Iran, adding that the US would hit the Islamic Republic “very hard” until they couldn’t take it anymore.Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Tehran is ready to respond “decisively” to any US aggression.During separate phone conversations with Pakistan’s army chief and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Araghchi discussed rising regional tensions and accused Washington of destabilising actions. He reiterated that Iran remains prepared to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.

Trump said the US and Israel have paused a planned attack on Iran after Tehran sought time for talks. He warned that strikes could resume unless a deal is reached quickly and Iran’s nuclear threat ends.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday (Aug 2) said that the United States and Israel have agreed to hold off attacks on Iran if a deal is reached quickly. He claimed that the decision was taken at the request of Tehran and other nations in the region despite the US being “locked and loaded” and “ready to go against Iran”. The US president also said that parameters of a deal were reached. In a post on his Truth Social, Trump said, “The U.S.A. is locked and loaded and ready to go against the Islamic Republic of Iran, at levels of Military Terror, Strength, and Power not seen since World War II.” Also read | Are Yemen’s Houthis planning to charge transit fees in Red Sea? Group says ‘any individual or entity...’ He added, “Despite this, we have just been asked by Iran, and other Middle Eastern Countries, to hold off any attack in that the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to.” Trump said that the agreement would include “complete and total” opening of the Strait of Hormuz and “an end to Iran’s nuclear threat”. He warned that he cancelled the attacks on the condition that a deal is reached quickly. “This would include the Immediate, Complete, and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran’s nuclear threat. Based on this request, I have agreed, for the future benefit of the WORLD and, likewise, the survival of a successful and prosperous Iran, to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a DEAL. The Country of Israel joins me in this commitment,” he wrote. “Get to work, everybody, and get it DONE.” Also read | Oil tanker hit by ‘unknown projectile’ off Oman as US-Iran tensions escalate Earlier on Friday (Jul 31), Trump threatened more strikes on Iran, demanding reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to reporters at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, he said “we just want to win” in Iran, adding that the US would hit the Islamic Republic “very hard” until they couldn’t take it anymore. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Tehran is ready to respond “decisively” to any US aggression. During separate phone conversations with Pakistan’s army chief and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Araghchi discussed rising regional tensions and accused Washington of destabilising actions. He reiterated that Iran remains prepared to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.

Trump said the US and Israel have paused a planned attack on Iran after Tehran sought time for talks. He warned that strikes could resume unless a deal is reached quickly and Iran’s nuclear threat ends.

‘US is locked and loaded’: Trump calls off Iran attack but sets THESE conditions

The US State Department on Saturday (Aug 2) updated its travel advisory for Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta to Level 3 amid latest migrant crisis. The Level 3 upgarde means that the US has asked its citizens to “reconsider” traveling to the area. Tens of thousands of migrants surged into the Spanish territory from neighboring Morocco, prompting a major security response. The updated advisory warns that the "massive and uncontrolled arrival of migrants from Morocco to Ceuta may lead to unpredictable and dangerous security situations."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ceuta-migrant-crisis-67-dead-as-spain-says-most-migrants-return-to-morocco-1785589733151">Ceuta migrant crisis: 67 dead as Spain says most migrants return to Morocco</a>&nbsp;“Spain has deployed the Spanish military, Spanish National Police, and Guardia Civil as a result of this serious situation. Americans should reconsider travel to the area given the risks posed to their safety and security,” the advisory states. The advisory applies only to Ceuta, an autonomous Spanish city on the northern coast of Africa that borders Morocco. The rest of Spain remains under its existing travel advisory level. Assistant Secretary of State Dylan Johnson said that the advisory was updated in response to what he described as the “mass invasion of tens of thousands of illegal migrants.” "This invasion is the direct result of the Spanish government's refusal to secure its borders and defend its people — and now threatens the security of Europe," Johnson said in a statement to Fox News Digital." The United States stands with the Spanish people and all European peoples in defense of their sovereignty."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inside-ceuta-s-chaos-tiny-spanish-enclave-at-the-centre-of-europe-s-border-crisis-wion-decodes-1785582300324">Inside Ceuta’s chaos: Tiny Spanish enclave at the centre of Europe’s border crisis | WION Decodes</a><h2>What's the migrant crisis in Cueta?</h2>In an unprecedented surge, thousands of people from Morocco crossed into Cueta, triggering an international crisis for Spain. While it was not clear why this happened now, one possible reason is being attributed to Spain's Supreme Court ruling on July 8 that migrants arriving by sea should not be returned as quickly as others. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said the country would boost the presence of security forces in Ceuta, deploy a physical sea barrier to help facilitate repatriations and continue working with Moroccan authorities to combat human trafficking networks. The numbers of those arriving in Cueta is being estimated as 60,000 and though the situation is under control now with migrants returning to Morocco, at least 67 people died during the dangerous sea crossings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni temporarily suspended Italy’s visa-free Schengen agreement with Spain for one month and Germany announced it is extending its internal Schengen border checks past September to curb unauthorized entries &nbsp;

The US has raised its travel advisory for Spain’s Ceuta to Level 3 after tens of thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco, leaving at least 67 dead. Spain has deployed security forces and tightened border measures, while the surge has triggered wider migration concerns

The US State Department on Saturday (Aug 2) updated its travel advisory for Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta to Level 3 amid latest migrant crisis. The Level 3 upgarde means that the US has asked its citizens to “reconsider” traveling to the area. Tens of thousands of migrants surged into the Spanish territory from neighboring Morocco, prompting a major security response. The updated advisory warns that the "massive and uncontrolled arrival of migrants from Morocco to Ceuta may lead to unpredictable and dangerous security situations." Also Read: Ceuta migrant crisis: 67 dead as Spain says most migrants return to Morocco “Spain has deployed the Spanish military, Spanish National Police, and Guardia Civil as a result of this serious situation. Americans should reconsider travel to the area given the risks posed to their safety and security,” the advisory states. The advisory applies only to Ceuta, an autonomous Spanish city on the northern coast of Africa that borders Morocco. The rest of Spain remains under its existing travel advisory level. Assistant Secretary of State Dylan Johnson said that the advisory was updated in response to what he described as the “mass invasion of tens of thousands of illegal migrants.” "This invasion is the direct result of the Spanish government's refusal to secure its borders and defend its people — and now threatens the security of Europe," Johnson said in a statement to Fox News Digital." The United States stands with the Spanish people and all European peoples in defense of their sovereignty." Also Read: Inside Ceuta’s chaos: Tiny Spanish enclave at the centre of Europe’s border crisis | WION Decodes What's the migrant crisis in Cueta? In an unprecedented surge, thousands of people from Morocco crossed into Cueta, triggering an international crisis for Spain. While it was not clear why this happened now, one possible reason is being attributed to Spain's Supreme Court ruling on July 8 that migrants arriving by sea should not be returned as quickly as others. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said the country would boost the presence of security forces in Ceuta, deploy a physical sea barrier to help facilitate repatriations and continue working with Moroccan authorities to combat human trafficking networks. The numbers of those arriving in Cueta is being estimated as 60,000 and though the situation is under control now with migrants returning to Morocco, at least 67 people died during the dangerous sea crossings. Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni temporarily suspended Italy’s visa-free Schengen agreement with Spain for one month and Germany announced it is extending its internal Schengen border checks past September to curb unauthorized entries

The US has raised its travel advisory for Spain’s Ceuta to Level 3 after tens of thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco, leaving at least 67 dead. Spain has deployed security forces and tightened border measures, while the surge has triggered wider migration concerns

'Risk to safety...': US issues Cueta travel advisory amid massive migrant crisis

A gunman opened fire at a fast-food restaurant in the western US state of Idaho on Saturday (Aug 1), killing at least three and injuring over five people, police said, adding that the suspect was also dead. While the shooter has not been identified as of now, the food joint - In-N-Out Burger restaurant in southern Idaho - became the centre of security forces with FBI &nbsp;assisting the investigation launched by Twin Falls Police. Notably, there have been 325 mass shootings in the US so far in 2026.<h2>What we know about the latest shooting?</h2>

Twin Falls Police Chief Matthew Hicks addressed a press conference and said that the threat to the community is over but Joshua Palmer, a city spokesperson expects the death toll to rise. “We believe the threat to the community is over. It was a very chaotic scene,” Hicks said, adding that forces are trying to acertain the death toll. ”We want to emphasize that that number may change. That was just the first number we got," Palmer said. An “active shooter incident” was first reported at 2:29 p.m. at the In-N-Out on Blue Lakes Boulevard North. Twin Falls, a city of about 56,000 people, is located roughly 130 miles southeast of Boise.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/seattle-mass-shooting-third-teen-suspect-arrested-1785226313575">Seattle mass shooting: Third teen suspect arrested</a>&nbsp;Idaho Senator Mike Crapo urged people to avoid the area and said that he is monitoring the news. "I urge locals and visitors to obey all directions from law enforcement, avoid the area, and report any suspicious activity immediately,” he added. “I’m grateful for the swift response of Idaho’s first responders.<h2>What we know about the viral videos of the shooter?</h2>An unverified video circulating on social media appears to depict a man firing a handgun near the In-N-Out in Twin Falls. He then ducks and runs into nearby bushes before the video ends. In another unverified video, a man carrying a rifle can be seen opening fire in a parking lot before running away. The video has been shared by AZ Intel on X. WION could not independently verify the video.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gives-bizarre-explanation-on-if-he-would-wear-bulletproof-vest-following-whca-shooting-i-don-t-know-if-1777615772252">Trump gives bizarre explanation on if he would wear bulletproof vest following WHCA shooting: 'I don't know if...' - VIDEO</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Video shows a gunman opening fire at the In-N-Out burger in Twin Falls, Idaho. No word on casualties. <a href="https://t.co/qu8gNBcPHW">pic.twitter.com/qu8gNBcPHW</a>&mdash; AZ Intel (@AZ_Intel_) <a href="https://x.com/AZ_Intel_/status/2083668501705760937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Describing the scary moment, Lane Koehn, a witness, said he was at a traffic light near the In-N-Out when he was stopped. He saw a person with an AR-style rifle emerge from the drive-through and open fire. He also saw another man with a pistol firing at the shooter.<h2>VIDEO OF THE GUNMAN HERE</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Circulating video shows the gunman firing several shots into a parked Tesla in Twin Falls, Idaho. Unclear if this was before or after he opened fire at the In-N-Out burger. Locals claim there are injuries, but nothing confirmed yet by officials. <a href="https://t.co/GurfBJGSV6">https://t.co/GurfBJGSV6</a> <a href="https://t.co/eCHFvkQ9pD">pic.twitter.com/eCHFvkQ9pD</a>&mdash; AZ Intel (@AZ_Intel_) <a href="https://x.com/AZ_Intel_/status/2083676963504287804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A shooting at an In-N-Out Burger in southern Idaho left at least three people dead and more than five injured on August 1. Police said the suspected gunman was also killed, while the FBI joined the Twin Falls Police investigation. 

A gunman opened fire at a fast-food restaurant in the western US state of Idaho on Saturday (Aug 1), killing at least three and injuring over five people, police said, adding that the suspect was also dead. While the shooter has not been identified as of now, the food joint - In-N-Out Burger restaurant in southern Idaho - became the centre of security forces with FBI assisting the investigation launched by Twin Falls Police. Notably, there have been 325 mass shootings in the US so far in 2026. What we know about the latest shooting?

A shooting at an In-N-Out Burger in southern Idaho left at least three people dead and more than five injured on August 1. Police said the suspected gunman was also killed, while the FBI joined the Twin Falls Police investigation.&nbsp;

At least 3 killed in mass shooting at Idaho restaurant, shocking video of gunman open firing with AR-style rifle surfaces

A massive explosion occurred at Moscow's Balzi Rossi restaurant on Kudrinskaya Square during a private event on Saturday, killing at least three people and injuring more than 21. According to initial reports, homemade bomb exploded after an unidentified woman attempted to enter the restaurant. She is suspected of carrying the device and was dead in the explosion, the state news agency RIA Novosti reported citing Russia’s National Anti-Terrorism Committee. The bomb went off before she entered, killing the security guard who stopped her and a customer. The Main Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs said that the explosion happened at 8:10 p.m. local time.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/buying-russian-oil-could-cost-india-dearly-mea-breaks-silence-on-us-100-tariff-bill-india-closely-monitoring-situation-1785545926163">Buying Russian oil could cost India dearly? MEA breaks silence on US 100% tariff bill</a><blockquote>"A homemade explosive device blew up at a restaurant in Kudrinskaya Square in Moscow, killing three people," said the committee, quoted by the Tass state news agency.</blockquote>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a>: An explosion blasted near a summer cafe in the centre of <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Moscow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Moscow</a>, killing three people &amp; wounding 15, an Interior Ministry official said<a href="https://t.co/0LlRARkX2w">https://t.co/0LlRARkX2w</a><a href="https://t.co/nRtwQyVrnf">pic.twitter.com/nRtwQyVrnf</a> &quot;The Interior Ministry’s Moscow branch is working at the site of the incident.…&mdash; ⚡️🌎 World News 🌐⚡️ (@ferozwala) <a href="https://x.com/ferozwala/status/2083637941101064326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to Russian business daily Kommersant, the apparent targets were guests attending a private event on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace. It said that the woman was searched when the security guards became suspicious of a courier approaching with a box she described as a gift. The device exploded at that moment. The device had the explosive force of one kilogram of TNT and was packed with metal ball bearings intended to increase casualties The restaurant’s chef, Carmine Alfieri thanked people for their support following the blast. He said the staff were safe and characterized the incident as “a minor issue.” “We’re all fine, and our restaurant and kitchen are in perfect condition; there was just a minor issue at the restaurant entrance,” Alfieri said on Instagram without elaborating.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-charges-telegram-founder-pavel-durov-terrorism-wanted-list-1785324337925">Russia charges Telegram founder Pavel Durov with facilitating terrorism</a><h2>Bomb blasts in Russia</h2>Russia has been the target of several terrorist attacks in the past. Since the start of the war in Ukraine in 2022, Ukraine's secret service has claimed or been accused of several attacks on Russian military officers and public figures backing the conflict. Russia blamed Ukraine for the killing of a senior general, Yaroslav Moskalik, in a car bomb in April 2025.&nbsp;In August 2022 the nationalist Darya Dugina, daughter of hardline Russian ideologue Alexander Dugin, was killed outside Moscow when a bomb attached to her car detonated. Many believe her father was the intended target. In April 2023, pro-Kremlin military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky -- real name Maxim Fomin -- was killed when a statuette he was handed exploded at a cafe in Saint Petersburg. A bomb attached to a scooter outside a Moscow apartment block killed General Igor Kirillov, head of the Russian army's chemical weapons division, and his assistant in December 2024. And the pro-Kremlin writer and nationalist Zakhar Prilepin was seriously wounded in a May 2023 car explosion that killed another person near the city of Nizhny Novgorod.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A homemade bomb exploded during a private event at a restaurant in central Moscow, killing three people, including the suspected carrier, and injuring 21. Russia’s National Anti-Terrorism Committee said the device detonated before the woman could enter the restaurant.

A massive explosion occurred at Moscow's Balzi Rossi restaurant on Kudrinskaya Square during a private event on Saturday, killing at least three people and injuring more than 21. According to initial reports, homemade bomb exploded after an unidentified woman attempted to enter the restaurant. She is suspected of carrying the device and was dead in the explosion, the state news agency RIA Novosti reported citing Russia’s National Anti-Terrorism Committee. The bomb went off before she entered, killing the security guard who stopped her and a customer. The Main Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs said that the explosion happened at 8:10 p.m. local time. Also Read: Buying Russian oil could cost India dearly? MEA breaks silence on US 100% tariff bill "A homemade explosive device blew up at a restaurant in Kudrinskaya Square in Moscow, killing three people," said the committee, quoted by the Tass state news agency.

A homemade bomb exploded during a private event at a restaurant in central Moscow, killing three people, including the suspected carrier, and injuring 21. Russia’s National Anti-Terrorism Committee said the device detonated before the woman could enter the restaurant.

Massive explosion at Moscow restaurant kills at least 3; woman suspected of carrying bomb

The US Justice Department has dropped felony vandalism charges against former Olympic canoeist David Hearn after new evidence showed that damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was caused by a flawed installation process.&nbsp;Hearn, 67, had faced a possible 10-year prison sentence after prosecutors accused him of damaging the newly renovated pool. Federal prosecutor Jeanine Pirro had announced the charges earlier this month, saying witnesses saw Hearn "forcefully and violently" pulling up the pool's new liner on June 19.&nbsp;However, Pirro said in a court filing on Friday that new information had "undermined the evidentiary basis for the indictment" and asked the court to dismiss the case.&nbsp;The filing said documents from the Department of the Interior showed that the damage "was the result of a botched installation and not vandalism as initially represented" by the department.<h3>Trump blamed vandals</h3>The decision came after President Donald Trump repeatedly blamed "deranged vandals" for damaging the newly renovated pool. Trump claimed that people entered the site at night and cut a large hole in the new lining using box cutters or other sharp tools.&nbsp;He also alleged that fertiliser was thrown into the pool, causing severe algae growth. Trump blamed the alleged vandalism for the pool's damage and water quality problems. He called those responsible "animals" and demanded the maximum prosecution and prison sentences.&nbsp;The renovated pool soon developed algae blooms that turned the water green. Parts of the blue lining also began peeling away. Trump had faced criticism over the $14.7 million renovation and continued to blame vandals for the problems.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-avalanche-nepali-mountaineer-nirmal-purja-declared-dead-1785582391982">Pakistan avalanche: Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja confirmed dead</a><h3>Contractor work under scrutiny</h3>The Justice Department said documents from the Interior Department showed a rushed and flawed installation process. The documents said the lining repeatedly failed during installation and later began peeling across the Reflecting Pool.&nbsp;Pirro and Spence wrote that "the information subsequently demanded by (U.S. Attorney's Office) and disclosed by DOI, which was not known to the prosecutors or the grand jury before the return of the indictment, ​strongly suggest that a rushed and botched installation by AIC, the primary contractor, led to the damage to the lining of the Reflecting ​Pool."&nbsp;The pool renovation was among several "beautification" projects ordered by Trump ahead of the July 4 celebrations marking America's 250th anniversary.&nbsp;Problems appeared soon after the pool was refilled. Algae returned, and parts of the new liner began peeling in several places.&nbsp;Hearn, who competed in canoeing at three Olympic Summer Games, said he visited the refurbished pool after a long bike ride. He noticed part of the liner had come loose and reached into the water to check it. As he prepared to leave, US Park Police arrested him.&nbsp;“I didn’t vandalise anything,” Hearn told The Washington Post last month. “I didn’t destroy or break or peel anything. By the time I realised what was going on, I was being put in handcuffs.”

The US Justice Department dropped vandalism charges against former Olympian David Hearn after new evidence linked damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to a botched installation rather than deliberate vandalism

The US Justice Department has dropped felony vandalism charges against former Olympic canoeist David Hearn after new evidence showed that damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was caused by a flawed installation process. Hearn, 67, had faced a possible 10-year prison sentence after prosecutors accused him of damaging the newly renovated pool. Federal prosecutor Jeanine Pirro had announced the charges earlier this month, saying witnesses saw Hearn "forcefully and violently" pulling up the pool's new liner on June 19. However, Pirro said in a court filing on Friday that new information had "undermined the evidentiary basis for the indictment" and asked the court to dismiss the case. The filing said documents from the Department of the Interior showed that the damage "was the result of a botched installation and not vandalism as initially represented" by the department. Trump blamed vandals The decision came after President Donald Trump repeatedly blamed "deranged vandals" for damaging the newly renovated pool. Trump claimed that people entered the site at night and cut a large hole in the new lining using box cutters or other sharp tools. He also alleged that fertiliser was thrown into the pool, causing severe algae growth. Trump blamed the alleged vandalism for the pool's damage and water quality problems. He called those responsible "animals" and demanded the maximum prosecution and prison sentences. The renovated pool soon developed algae blooms that turned the water green. Parts of the blue lining also began peeling away. Trump had faced criticism over the $14.7 million renovation and continued to blame vandals for the problems. Also Read: Pakistan avalanche: Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja confirmed dead Contractor work under scrutiny The Justice Department said documents from the Interior Department showed a rushed and flawed installation process. The documents said the lining repeatedly failed during installation and later began peeling across the Reflecting Pool. Pirro and Spence wrote that "the information subsequently demanded by (U.S. Attorney's Office) and disclosed by DOI, which was not known to the prosecutors or the grand jury before the return of the indictment, strongly suggest that a rushed and botched installation by AIC, the primary contractor, led to the damage to the lining of the Reflecting Pool." The pool renovation was among several "beautification" projects ordered by Trump ahead of the July 4 celebrations marking America's 250th anniversary. Problems appeared soon after the pool was refilled. Algae returned, and parts of the new liner began peeling in several places. Hearn, who competed in canoeing at three Olympic Summer Games, said he visited the refurbished pool after a long bike ride. He noticed part of the liner had come loose and reached into the water to check it. As he prepared to leave, US Park Police arrested him. “I didn’t vandalise anything,” Hearn told The Washington Post last month. “I didn’t destroy or break or peel anything. By the time I realised what was going on, I was being put in handcuffs.”

The US Justice Department dropped vandalism charges against former Olympian David Hearn after new evidence linked damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to a botched installation rather than deliberate vandalism

Trump administration drops Olympian's Reflecting Pool case, blames damage on botched installation

Most of the up to 60,000 migrants who entered Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta from Morocco have now returned, while at least 67 people died during the latest surge in crossings, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande Marlaska said on Saturday.&nbsp;The migrants crossed into Ceuta in large numbers, with many reportedly swimming around a small frontier post extending into the Mediterranean Sea. By Saturday, authorities said the situation had largely returned to normal as most of those who entered the enclave went back to Morocco.&nbsp;"Almost all of them have already left Ceuta," the minister said when asked about the tens of thousands of migrants who had crossed into the enclave. "The situation has been almost entirely reversed."<h2>Sanchez blames traffickers</h2>Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez blamed people traffickers for the sudden influx. He said trafficking groups had spread rumours about a Spanish Supreme Court ruling that irregular migrants arriving by sea could not be immediately returned.&nbsp;"What has emerged from our talks with Moroccan authorities is that trafficking mafias took a self-serving interpretation of a Supreme Court ruling," he said. That interpretation "spread like wildfire in recent hours."&nbsp;Spain's Supreme Court issued the ruling on July 8. It stated that the immediate return of migrants without an administrative expulsion procedure does not apply to those who arrive by sea.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/60-000-migrants-flood-spain-s-ceuta-eu-calls-it-unacceptable-trump-warns-us-1785507085760">60,000 migrants from Morocco flood Spain's Ceuta, EU calls influx unacceptable, Trump warns US</a><h2>Why migrants returned</h2>Many migrants later chose to return voluntarily after finding that Ceuta lacked sufficient food and shelter for the sudden influx. One young man from Tangier said he had gone without food for more than 24 hours, while some others claimed that the Spanish army had forcibly removed them.&nbsp;Many migrants had crossed hoping to find better employment, but they encountered chaos and realised that the overwhelmed city could not offer immediate job opportunities.<h2>EU seeks urgent talks; France rejects Schengen exit</h2>The sudden influx of tens of thousands of people into Ceuta also raised concerns across the European Union. Leaders from 22 of the bloc's 27 member states called for urgent talks among EU interior ministers to coordinate a response and prevent further uncontrolled crossings.&nbsp;In an open letter, the leaders called for a swift and coordinated response to the situation."We have a duty to deter and relentlessly combat illegal migration effectively," it said.&nbsp;France, meanwhile, ruled out seeking Spain's suspension from the Schengen zone, a set of laws that allows free movement across the 29-nation bloc, &nbsp; following the mass crossings into Ceuta. French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said there was no such proposal under consideration and stressed the cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp;"Spain does not need to leave the Schengen zone. It's absolutely not on the table. We have great cooperation with Spain," he told reporters.&nbsp;Nunez made the remarks a day after Italy announced a one-month suspension of its Schengen agreement with Spain, which allows visa-free movement across their borders. "We are not asking for Spain's suspension from Schengen," he added.&nbsp;France has also increased controls along its southern border with Spain, Nunez said.

Spain's Ceuta migrant crisis eased as most of the up to 60,000 migrants who crossed from Morocco returned, while at least 67 people died and EU countries called for urgent talks.

Most of the up to 60,000 migrants who entered Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta from Morocco have now returned, while at least 67 people died during the latest surge in crossings, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande Marlaska said on Saturday. The migrants crossed into Ceuta in large numbers, with many reportedly swimming around a small frontier post extending into the Mediterranean Sea. By Saturday, authorities said the situation had largely returned to normal as most of those who entered the enclave went back to Morocco. "Almost all of them have already left Ceuta," the minister said when asked about the tens of thousands of migrants who had crossed into the enclave. "The situation has been almost entirely reversed." Sanchez blames traffickers Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez blamed people traffickers for the sudden influx. He said trafficking groups had spread rumours about a Spanish Supreme Court ruling that irregular migrants arriving by sea could not be immediately returned. "What has emerged from our talks with Moroccan authorities is that trafficking mafias took a self-serving interpretation of a Supreme Court ruling," he said. That interpretation "spread like wildfire in recent hours." Spain's Supreme Court issued the ruling on July 8. It stated that the immediate return of migrants without an administrative expulsion procedure does not apply to those who arrive by sea. Also Read: 60,000 migrants from Morocco flood Spain's Ceuta, EU calls influx unacceptable, Trump warns US Why migrants returned Many migrants later chose to return voluntarily after finding that Ceuta lacked sufficient food and shelter for the sudden influx. One young man from Tangier said he had gone without food for more than 24 hours, while some others claimed that the Spanish army had forcibly removed them. Many migrants had crossed hoping to find better employment, but they encountered chaos and realised that the overwhelmed city could not offer immediate job opportunities. EU seeks urgent talks; France rejects Schengen exit The sudden influx of tens of thousands of people into Ceuta also raised concerns across the European Union. Leaders from 22 of the bloc's 27 member states called for urgent talks among EU interior ministers to coordinate a response and prevent further uncontrolled crossings. In an open letter, the leaders called for a swift and coordinated response to the situation. "We have a duty to deter and relentlessly combat illegal migration effectively," it said. France, meanwhile, ruled out seeking Spain's suspension from the Schengen zone, a set of laws that allows free movement across the 29-nation bloc, following the mass crossings into Ceuta. French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said there was no such proposal under consideration and stressed the cooperation between the two countries. "Spain does not need to leave the Schengen zone. It's absolutely not on the table. We have great cooperation with Spain," he told reporters. Nunez made the remarks a day after Italy announced a one-month suspension of its Schengen agreement with Spain, which allows visa-free movement across their borders. "We are not asking for Spain's suspension from Schengen," he added. France has also increased controls along its southern border with Spain, Nunez said.

Spain's Ceuta migrant crisis eased as most of the up to 60,000 migrants who crossed from Morocco returned, while at least 67 people died and EU countries called for urgent talks.

Ceuta migrant crisis: 67 dead as Spain says most migrants return to Morocco

US embassies across the Middle East countries urged its citizens on Saturday to avoid travel and be ready to depart due to the “potential for unforeseen escalation” in the conflict with Iran.&nbsp;“Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions,” said the US Embassy in Jordan in a security alert.&nbsp;A similar warning issued by the US embassy in Saudi Arabia said, "Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions."&nbsp;The US embassy in Egypt too sent out similar message and warned, "Americans outside the Middle East should seriously reconsider travel to and through the region. &nbsp;Those who do travel to or from the region should monitor information about airport and airline operations."&nbsp;Similar versions of the alert were posted on social media by the US missions in Amman, Jerusalem and Baghdad too.&nbsp;<h2>Trump approves new round of military action against Iran?</h2>&nbsp;The travel advisory has been issued after US president Donald Trump reportedly ordered fresh military strikes on Iran that could begin as soon as this weekend.&nbsp;Trump has reportedly approved plans for a new round of military action after warning during a televised Cabinet meeting at Camp David that the United States would be "hitting them very hard" if Iran failed to change course.&nbsp;"Iran will get to a point where they can't take it anymore," Trump said, adding that Tehran had repeatedly broken its commitments during negotiations, reported The Wall Street Journal on Friday.&nbsp;CBS News reported on Friday, citing multiple sources, that the two allies were preparing a possible bombing campaign targeting Iran's energy infrastructure, including power plants and refineries, with strikes potentially taking place over the weekend.&nbsp;The report, however, said Trump had not yet given final approval for the proposed attacks.&nbsp;

The US embassy in Egypt too sent out similar message and warned, “Americans outside the Middle East should seriously reconsider travel to and through the region.”

US embassies across the Middle East countries urged its citizens on Saturday to avoid travel and be ready to depart due to the “potential for unforeseen escalation” in the conflict with Iran. “Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions,” said the US Embassy in Jordan in a security alert. A similar warning issued by the US embassy in Saudi Arabia said, "Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions." The US embassy in Egypt too sent out similar message and warned, "Americans outside the Middle East should seriously reconsider travel to and through the region. Those who do travel to or from the region should monitor information about airport and airline operations." Similar versions of the alert were posted on social media by the US missions in Amman, Jerusalem and Baghdad too. Trump approves new round of military action against Iran? The travel advisory has been issued after US president Donald Trump reportedly ordered fresh military strikes on Iran that could begin as soon as this weekend. Trump has reportedly approved plans for a new round of military action after warning during a televised Cabinet meeting at Camp David that the United States would be "hitting them very hard" if Iran failed to change course. "Iran will get to a point where they can't take it anymore," Trump said, adding that Tehran had repeatedly broken its commitments during negotiations, reported The Wall Street Journal on Friday. CBS News reported on Friday, citing multiple sources, that the two allies were preparing a possible bombing campaign targeting Iran's energy infrastructure, including power plants and refineries, with strikes potentially taking place over the weekend. The report, however, said Trump had not yet given final approval for the proposed attacks.

The US embassy in Egypt too sent out similar message and warned, “Americans outside the Middle East should seriously reconsider travel to and through the region.”

'Exercise caution and heightened vigilance': US issues travel advisory for its citizens in Middle East

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