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Despite the recent exchange of attacks, the United States and Iran are set to continue technical talks aimed at ending the war in the Middle East, a US official said. This comes after the American and Iranian forces traded strikes despite a fragile June 17 memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at ending the conflict. The United States have also announced that both sides will stand down after the lastest clashes.&nbsp;“Technical talks are slated to continue on all areas of the MOU (memorandum of understanding). Both sides will stand down for now, and vessels can move freely” in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the official told AFP.&nbsp;The official did not provide further details on when and where the talks will take place. Meanwhile, Axios reported that discussions would resume on Tuesday (Jun 30) in Qatar.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-vows-to-defend-sovereignty-after-us-strikes-kuwait-bahrain-condemn-attacks-1782640588157">Iran vows to defend sovereignty after US strikes; Kuwait, Bahrain condemn attacks</a><h2>US strikes at ‘multiple targets’ in Iran</h2>The US military on Saturday (Jun 27) said that it conducted strikes on 10 Iranian military targets at “multiple locations” in and near the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command said in a statement that American forces conducted the strikes in response to the Iranian attack on M/T Kiku. The Panama-flagged tanker, carrying two million barrels of crude oil, was transiting near the Strait of Hormuz when it was struck by an Iranian drone.Following the US attacks, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said that it carried out retaliatory strikes against Kuwait and Bahrain in response to the US attacks on Iran. It also vowed a “crushing response” to any further military action by the United States.The Guards “destroyed eight important US military facilities at the Ali al-Salem base in Kuwait and at the Fifth Fleet naval base in Port Salman in Bahrain,” they said in a statement.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/centcom-releases-video-of-us-strikes-at-multiple-targets-in-iran-watch-1782612237049">CENTCOM releases video of US strikes at ‘multiple targets’ in Iran | WATCH</a><h2>‘Iran will no longer exist’</h2>In a post on his Truth Social platform, US President Donald Trump renewed his threats against Tehran, warning that “Iran will no longer exist.”“United States aircraft just struck Iranian missile and drone storage locations, and coastal radar sites, for violating the Cease Fire Agreement, AGAIN! It is very possible that they will never learn! There may come a point when we are no longer able to be reasonable, and will be forced to militarily complete the job that we very successfully started. If that happens, the Islamic Republic of Iran will no longer exist!” Trump 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.

The US and Iran will continue technical talks after agreeing to temporarily stand down following recent clashes. Both sides say ships can move freely through the Strait of Hormuz.

Despite the recent exchange of attacks, the United States and Iran are set to continue technical talks aimed at ending the war in the Middle East, a US official said. This comes after the American and Iranian forces traded strikes despite a fragile June 17 memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at ending the conflict. The United States have also announced that both sides will stand down after the lastest clashes. “Technical talks are slated to continue on all areas of the MOU (memorandum of understanding). Both sides will stand down for now, and vessels can move freely” in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the official told AFP. The official did not provide further details on when and where the talks will take place. Meanwhile, Axios reported that discussions would resume on Tuesday (Jun 30) in Qatar. Also read | Iran vows to defend sovereignty after US strikes; Kuwait, Bahrain condemn attacks US strikes at ‘multiple targets’ in Iran The US military on Saturday (Jun 27) said that it conducted strikes on 10 Iranian military targets at “multiple locations” in and near the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command said in a statement that American forces conducted the strikes in response to the Iranian attack on M/T Kiku. The Panama-flagged tanker, carrying two million barrels of crude oil, was transiting near the Strait of Hormuz when it was struck by an Iranian drone. Following the US attacks, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said that it carried out retaliatory strikes against Kuwait and Bahrain in response to the US attacks on Iran. It also vowed a “crushing response” to any further military action by the United States. The Guards “destroyed eight important US military facilities at the Ali al-Salem base in Kuwait and at the Fifth Fleet naval base in Port Salman in Bahrain,” they said in a statement. Also read | CENTCOM releases video of US strikes at ‘multiple targets’ in Iran | WATCH ‘Iran will no longer exist’ In a post on his Truth Social platform, US President Donald Trump renewed his threats against Tehran, warning that “Iran will no longer exist.” “United States aircraft just struck Iranian missile and drone storage locations, and coastal radar sites, for violating the Cease Fire Agreement, AGAIN! It is very possible that they will never learn! There may come a point when we are no longer able to be reasonable, and will be forced to militarily complete the job that we very successfully started. If that happens, the Islamic Republic of Iran will no longer exist!” Trump 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.

The US and Iran will continue technical talks after agreeing to temporarily stand down following recent clashes. Both sides say ships can move freely through the Strait of Hormuz.

‘Both sides will stand down’: US says Iran talks to continue despite recent attacks

The Israeli military said on Sunday (Jun 28) that it had destroyed a large underground tunnel in southern Lebanon, triggering fresh tensions with Hezbollah just two days after Israel and Lebanon signed a US-backed framework agreement intended to pave the way for peace. Meanwhile, Hezbollah accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and warned that it reserved the "right to defend its homeland and its people".The developments have cast fresh doubt over the future of the deal, which seeks not only to end decades of hostility between the two countries but also to disarm the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement.According to Lebanese state media, several Israeli strikes were reported across southern Lebanon on Sunday, including in the Nabatieh area. Lebanon's health ministry said two people were wounded after an Israeli stun grenade exploded in the south.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-increase-tensions-iran-issues-fresh-warning-over-strait-of-hormuz-shipping-routes-1782694812472">'Will increase tensions': Iran issues fresh warning over Strait of Hormuz shipping routes</a><h2>Massive tunnel destroyed</h2>In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military had uncovered and destroyed an extensive Hezbollah tunnel network. "The tunnel, stretching more than 200 metres and reaching a depth of over 25 metres, contained hundreds of weapons as well as several launch shafts intended to target the State of Israel and its civilians," the statement said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🎯DISMANTLED: An underground Hezbollah terror complex in the area of Majdal Zoun, within the Security Zone in southern Lebanon. The underground complex was constructed using technology and expertise provided by the Iranian terror regime. The tunnel route was 200+ meters long and…&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://x.com/IDF/status/2071344751434244500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Israeli officials added that Washington and the US representative in Lebanon had been informed before the operation was carried out.An AFP journalist in the coastal city of Tyre reported seeing smoke rising near the village of Majdal Zoun following the detonation. Residents in nearby towns reportedly left their homes after local media warned that Israel could carry out explosions in the area.The Israeli army later announced that one of its soldiers had been killed during combat operations in southern Lebanon. It also claimed to have killed what it described as a Hezbollah operative involved in clashes with Israeli forces.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/israel-deletes-post-promoting-ben-jerry-s-new-genocidaires-ice-cream-after-online-backlash-gaza-war-1782535460281">Israel deletes post promoting Ben &amp; Jerry's new 'Genocidaires' ice cream after online backlash</a><h2>Hezbollah slams ceasefire violation</h2>Hezbollah reacted sharply to Sunday's events. The group said Israel's actions amounted to a "blatant violation" of the ceasefire and insisted it had respected the truce until now."Hezbollah reiterates that what the enemy has done is a blatant violation of the ceasefire to which it has adhered until now," the group said, adding that it was monitoring developments and reserved the right to defend Lebanon and its people.Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a key Hezbollah ally, criticised the framework signed by Lebanon and Israel under US sponsorship, which aims to end hostilities and create conditions for a broader peace settlement. He argued that it failed to protect Lebanon's interests. Calling it "ten times worse" than the short-lived 1983 agreement between Lebanon and Israel, Berri vowed to oppose the deal politically and warned against any attempt to impose it.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, 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.

The US-backed Israel-Lebanon peace framework is facing its first major test after Israel said it destroyed a large Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon, prompting Hezbollah to accuse Israel of violating the ceasefire and warn that it reserves the right to respond.

The Israeli military said on Sunday (Jun 28) that it had destroyed a large underground tunnel in southern Lebanon, triggering fresh tensions with Hezbollah just two days after Israel and Lebanon signed a US-backed framework agreement intended to pave the way for peace. Meanwhile, Hezbollah accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and warned that it reserved the "right to defend its homeland and its people". The developments have cast fresh doubt over the future of the deal, which seeks not only to end decades of hostility between the two countries but also to disarm the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement. According to Lebanese state media, several Israeli strikes were reported across southern Lebanon on Sunday, including in the Nabatieh area. Lebanon's health ministry said two people were wounded after an Israeli stun grenade exploded in the south. Also read | 'Will increase tensions': Iran issues fresh warning over Strait of Hormuz shipping routes Massive tunnel destroyed In a joint statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military had uncovered and destroyed an extensive Hezbollah tunnel network. "The tunnel, stretching more than 200 metres and reaching a depth of over 25 metres, contained hundreds of weapons as well as several launch shafts intended to target the State of Israel and its civilians," the statement said.

The US-backed Israel-Lebanon peace framework is facing its first major test after Israel said it destroyed a large Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon, prompting Hezbollah to accuse Israel of violating the ceasefire and warn that it reserves the right to respond.

Israel blows up major Hezbollah tunnel packed with weapons; group says it reserves 'right to defend'

Iran on Sunday (Jun 28) warned that attempts to bypass its preferred shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz would only deepen tensions in the Gulf, as American and Iranian forces exchanged fresh attacks despite a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire that formally ended their war. The latest flare-up highlights how fragile that agreement remains.Although the ceasefire came into effect in April, violence has continued to simmer across the region. More often than not, the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy chokepoints, has been at the centre of those tensions.Iran's warning came days after Oman announced an alternative transit route through the strait that follows the Omani coastline. Muscat said the arrangement had been developed in coordination with the International Maritime Organization.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-blows-up-major-hezbollah-tunnel-packed-with-weapons-group-says-it-reserves-right-to-defend-1782464681242">Israel blows up major Hezbollah tunnel packed with weapons; group says it reserves 'right to defend'</a><h2>Why is Iran objecting?</h2>For Iran, the issue goes beyond shipping lanes. The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas during normal times. Before the war that erupted in February, Iran did not exercise the level of control over the waterway that it does today.During the conflict, however, Tehran effectively restricted access through the narrow passage, giving it significant economic leverage at a time when global energy markets were already rattled.While the strait passes through both Iranian and Omani territorial waters, international law generally prevents either country from blocking transit or imposing tolls on vessels passing through.Yet Iran has continued to insist that ships use a corridor running close to its own coastline. "Any attempt to adopt new or separate arrangements compared to what is underway by the Islamic Republic of Iran will only lead to more complicated situations and delays in the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and will increase the tensions," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said.Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they were continuing to regulate maritime traffic in the strait and warned that vessels violating their directives would face tougher action than before.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/israel-deletes-post-promoting-ben-jerry-s-new-genocidaires-ice-cream-after-online-backlash-gaza-war-1782535460281">Israel deletes post promoting Ben &amp; Jerry's new 'Genocidaires' ice cream after online backlash</a><h2>Fresh US-Iran military exchanges</h2>The diplomatic dispute unfolded alongside another round of military exchanges. Early Sunday, US Central Command announced strikes on 10 Iranian military targets, accusing Tehran of "continued Iranian aggression against commercial shipping".Iran responded by launching strikes against US military facilities in Kuwait and Bahrain. Both Gulf states condemned the attacks.The exchanges did not immediately appear to cause major casualties.In Qatar, authorities said a citizen was found dead after his boat failed to return to port. The country's interior ministry said shrapnel from "military operations in the area" was responsible, though it did not provide further details. The victim's body was recovered on Sunday.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, 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 has warned vessels against using alternative shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, saying any attempt to bypass Tehran's preferred corridor would increase regional tensions, as fresh US-Iran military exchanges cast doubt on the durability of the ceasefire.

Iran on Sunday (Jun 28) warned that attempts to bypass its preferred shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz would only deepen tensions in the Gulf, as American and Iranian forces exchanged fresh attacks despite a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire that formally ended their war. The latest flare-up highlights how fragile that agreement remains. Although the ceasefire came into effect in April, violence has continued to simmer across the region. More often than not, the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy chokepoints, has been at the centre of those tensions. Iran's warning came days after Oman announced an alternative transit route through the strait that follows the Omani coastline. Muscat said the arrangement had been developed in coordination with the International Maritime Organization. Also read | Israel blows up major Hezbollah tunnel packed with weapons; group says it reserves 'right to defend' Why is Iran objecting? For Iran, the issue goes beyond shipping lanes. The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas during normal times. Before the war that erupted in February, Iran did not exercise the level of control over the waterway that it does today. During the conflict, however, Tehran effectively restricted access through the narrow passage, giving it significant economic leverage at a time when global energy markets were already rattled. While the strait passes through both Iranian and Omani territorial waters, international law generally prevents either country from blocking transit or imposing tolls on vessels passing through. Yet Iran has continued to insist that ships use a corridor running close to its own coastline. "Any attempt to adopt new or separate arrangements compared to what is underway by the Islamic Republic of Iran will only lead to more complicated situations and delays in the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and will increase the tensions," Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said. Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they were continuing to regulate maritime traffic in the strait and warned that vessels violating their directives would face tougher action than before. Also read | Israel deletes post promoting Ben & Jerry's new 'Genocidaires' ice cream after online backlash Fresh US-Iran military exchanges The diplomatic dispute unfolded alongside another round of military exchanges. Early Sunday, US Central Command announced strikes on 10 Iranian military targets, accusing Tehran of "continued Iranian aggression against commercial shipping". Iran responded by launching strikes against US military facilities in Kuwait and Bahrain. Both Gulf states condemned the attacks. The exchanges did not immediately appear to cause major casualties. In Qatar, authorities said a citizen was found dead after his boat failed to return to port. The country's interior ministry said shrapnel from "military operations in the area" was responsible, though it did not provide further details. The victim's body was recovered on Sunday. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, 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 has warned vessels against using alternative shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, saying any attempt to bypass Tehran's preferred corridor would increase regional tensions, as fresh US-Iran military exchanges cast doubt on the durability of the ceasefire.

'Will increase tensions': Iran issues fresh warning over Strait of Hormuz shipping routes

The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on Wednesday (June 24) has risen to 1,430, with several countries confirming that their citizens were among those killed. Authorities in multiple nations have also reported missing nationals as search and rescue operations continue in the disaster-hit areas.&nbsp;Here is what is known so far about the foreign victims:<h2>Portugal</h2>Portugal has reported the highest number of foreign casualties. The country’s foreign ministry said 28 Portuguese nationals or people of Portuguese descent were killed in the earthquakes. It also confirmed that 85 people remain missing, revising its earlier estimates.<h2>China</h2>Seven Chinese nationals died in the disaster, according to China’s state broadcaster CCTV, which cited figures from the Chinese embassy in Caracas. The embassy also issued an advisory on its official WeChat account, urging Chinese citizens in Venezuela to remain alert for aftershocks and other possible secondary disasters.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-defence-companies-sold-military-systems-to-qatar-saudi-arabia-despite-no-diplomatic-ties-report-1782663509488">Israeli defence companies sold military systems to Qatar, Saudi Arabia despite no diplomatic ties: Report</a><h2>Spain</h2>Spain’s foreign ministry said at least nine Spanish nationals were killed in the earthquakes. It added that 152 people are still missing, while 14 others have been rescued from beneath collapsed buildings. According to official figures, around 147,000 Spanish nationals were living in Venezuela as of January 1.<h2>Brazil</h2>Brazil confirmed the deaths of two of its citizens — a man and a woman. The foreign ministry said it was providing consular assistance to their families. Brazil shares a long border with Venezuela, and authorities have been monitoring the impact of the disaster closely.<h2>Chile</h2>Chile’s foreign ministry said one Chilean national died in the earthquakes. It added that officials were providing the victim’s family with assistance, guidance and support. Chile is home to one of the largest Venezuelan diaspora communities in South America.<h2>Italy</h2>Italy confirmed the death of a dual Italian-Venezuelan citizen. The man, believed to be in his mid-50s and born in Caracas, died when a building collapsed in La Guaira, one of the worst-hit regions.Italy estimates that around 170,000 Italian passport holders live in Venezuela.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-going-through-difficult-period-but-will-overcome-challenges-says-putin-details-inside-1782661227896">‘Russia going through difficult period but will overcome challenges,’ says Putin. Details inside</a><h2>Uruguay</h2>Uruguay’s foreign affairs ministry confirmed that one of its citizens, who had lived in Venezuela for many years, was among those killed. The ministry said the man’s wife and eldest daughter also lost their lives in the disaster. Rescue efforts are continuing across Venezuela, with authorities warning that the number of casualties could rise as emergency teams search through the rubble.

The death toll from Venezuela’s twin earthquakes has reached 1,430, with multiple countries confirming casualties and missing citizens, including Portugal, Spain, China, Brazil, Italy, Chile, and Uruguay.

The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on Wednesday (June 24) has risen to 1,430, with several countries confirming that their citizens were among those killed. Authorities in multiple nations have also reported missing nationals as search and rescue operations continue in the disaster-hit areas. Here is what is known so far about the foreign victims: Portugal Portugal has reported the highest number of foreign casualties. The country’s foreign ministry said 28 Portuguese nationals or people of Portuguese descent were killed in the earthquakes. It also confirmed that 85 people remain missing, revising its earlier estimates. China Seven Chinese nationals died in the disaster, according to China’s state broadcaster CCTV, which cited figures from the Chinese embassy in Caracas. The embassy also issued an advisory on its official WeChat account, urging Chinese citizens in Venezuela to remain alert for aftershocks and other possible secondary disasters. Also read: Israeli defence companies sold military systems to Qatar, Saudi Arabia despite no diplomatic ties: Report Spain Spain’s foreign ministry said at least nine Spanish nationals were killed in the earthquakes. It added that 152 people are still missing, while 14 others have been rescued from beneath collapsed buildings. According to official figures, around 147,000 Spanish nationals were living in Venezuela as of January 1. Brazil Brazil confirmed the deaths of two of its citizens — a man and a woman. The foreign ministry said it was providing consular assistance to their families. Brazil shares a long border with Venezuela, and authorities have been monitoring the impact of the disaster closely. Chile Chile’s foreign ministry said one Chilean national died in the earthquakes. It added that officials were providing the victim’s family with assistance, guidance and support. Chile is home to one of the largest Venezuelan diaspora communities in South America. Italy Italy confirmed the death of a dual Italian-Venezuelan citizen. The man, believed to be in his mid-50s and born in Caracas, died when a building collapsed in La Guaira, one of the worst-hit regions. Italy estimates that around 170,000 Italian passport holders live in Venezuela. Also read: ‘Russia going through difficult period but will overcome challenges,’ says Putin. Details inside Uruguay Uruguay’s foreign affairs ministry confirmed that one of its citizens, who had lived in Venezuela for many years, was among those killed. The ministry said the man’s wife and eldest daughter also lost their lives in the disaster. Rescue efforts are continuing across Venezuela, with authorities warning that the number of casualties could rise as emergency teams search through the rubble.

The death toll from Venezuela’s twin earthquakes has reached 1,430, with multiple countries confirming casualties and missing citizens, including Portugal, Spain, China, Brazil, Italy, Chile, and Uruguay.

What we know about foreign victims of Venezuela’s deadly earthquakes

Since June 21, when record-breaking heatwave hit Europe, more than 1,300 excess deaths has been recorded in the continent, said the World Health Organization on Sunday. Millions have been braving a weekend of extreme temperatures in Europe as extreme temperature moves eastwards.&nbsp;Many countries say death toll has increased due to heatwave and health services have warned of saturation. French health officials have reported more than 1,000 deaths than expected in the country just since Wednesday.&nbsp;WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus took to X to write that in Europe, "more than 1,300 excess deaths have been recorded since 21 June linked to high temperatures in Europe."&nbsp;"Heat stress is often called the 'silent killer' – and European homes, workplaces and schools were not built for these temperatures," he said.<h2>Worst affected countries</h2>&nbsp;Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland have been bearing the maximum brunt of heatwave in Europe.&nbsp;Doksany in north of Prague, Czech Republic saw the day temperature settle at 41.1 degrees Celsius on Sunday, which is its second temperature record in two days.&nbsp;"This is the first time we have ever registered a temperature of 41 degrees in our official weather station network. Temperatures are still growing, so this is not the final high," said the meteorological institute CHMI on X.&nbsp;A total of 381 million people in Europe, excluding Turkey, will see temperatures surpass 30 °C, according to an analysis.&nbsp;WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the health agency was "working with its Member States and partners to address the health threats posed by extreme heat through focusing on preparedness, prevention and stronger health system responses".&nbsp;

Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland have been bearing the maximum brunt of heatwave in Europe as temperatures in some places saw day maximum settle close to 41 degrees.

Since June 21, when record-breaking heatwave hit Europe, more than 1,300 excess deaths has been recorded in the continent, said the World Health Organization on Sunday. Millions have been braving a weekend of extreme temperatures in Europe as extreme temperature moves eastwards. Many countries say death toll has increased due to heatwave and health services have warned of saturation. French health officials have reported more than 1,000 deaths than expected in the country just since Wednesday. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus took to X to write that in Europe, "more than 1,300 excess deaths have been recorded since 21 June linked to high temperatures in Europe." "Heat stress is often called the 'silent killer' – and European homes, workplaces and schools were not built for these temperatures," he said. Worst affected countries Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland have been bearing the maximum brunt of heatwave in Europe. Doksany in north of Prague, Czech Republic saw the day temperature settle at 41.1 degrees Celsius on Sunday, which is its second temperature record in two days. "This is the first time we have ever registered a temperature of 41 degrees in our official weather station network. Temperatures are still growing, so this is not the final high," said the meteorological institute CHMI on X. A total of 381 million people in Europe, excluding Turkey, will see temperatures surpass 30 °C, according to an analysis. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the health agency was "working with its Member States and partners to address the health threats posed by extreme heat through focusing on preparedness, prevention and stronger health system responses".

Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland have been bearing the maximum brunt of heatwave in Europe as temperatures in some places saw day maximum settle close to 41 degrees.

Extreme heatwave claims over 1,300 deaths in Europe: WHO

A commentary published by Iran's semi-official Fars news agency has argued that the country has no alternative but to develop a nuclear weapon, marking a departure from the long-standing public position of Iranian authorities. The unsigned commentary, published by Fars, said Iran needed to achieve "nuclear deterrence" to remove the threat of military action by the United States and Israel.&nbsp;"Iran has no path other than achieving nuclear deterrence, so that the military option for the occupation and partition of Iran is taken off the table," the commentary said. It added that Iran must "definitely achieve nuclear deterrence" to negotiate "from the proper position" and ensure that future disputes are resolved through talks rather than military action.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-defence-companies-sold-military-systems-to-qatar-saudi-arabia-despite-no-diplomatic-ties-report-1782663509488">Israeli defence companies sold military systems to Qatar, Saudi Arabia despite no diplomatic ties: Report</a>&nbsp;"To attain the peace of mind it needs, Iran must definitely achieve nuclear deterrence so that it can be assured that the remaining issues will be resolved through negotiation," the commentary said.&nbsp;The article further argued that nuclear deterrence would help create a balance of power with the United States and Israel, both of which it said possess nuclear weapons. "Nuclear deterrence means that you can achieve a balance of power against the United States and Israel, which possess atomic bombs. It does not mean that war will not occur; rather, the scope of the conflict will become controllable," it said.&nbsp;Fars is closely aligned with conservative elements of Iran's political and security establishment, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). However, the commentary has not been endorsed by any Iranian government official.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-going-through-difficult-period-but-will-overcome-challenges-says-putin-details-inside-1782661227896">‘Russia going through difficult period but will overcome challenges,’ says Putin. Details inside</a>&nbsp;The article also contrasts with repeated statements by Iranian officials that Tehran has no plans to build a nuclear weapon. Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has previously issued a fatwa, or religious decree, prohibiting the pursuit of nuclear arms. The commentary comes as US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon remains a key objective of Washington's policy towards Tehran. &nbsp;

An unsigned commentary by Iran’s IRGC-affiliated Fars news agency argued the country has “no choice” but to develop a nuclear bomb for deterrence, directly contradicting Iran’s long-standing official policy.

A commentary published by Iran's semi-official Fars news agency has argued that the country has no alternative but to develop a nuclear weapon, marking a departure from the long-standing public position of Iranian authorities. The unsigned commentary, published by Fars, said Iran needed to achieve "nuclear deterrence" to remove the threat of military action by the United States and Israel. "Iran has no path other than achieving nuclear deterrence, so that the military option for the occupation and partition of Iran is taken off the table," the commentary said. It added that Iran must "definitely achieve nuclear deterrence" to negotiate "from the proper position" and ensure that future disputes are resolved through talks rather than military action. Also read: Israeli defence companies sold military systems to Qatar, Saudi Arabia despite no diplomatic ties: Report "To attain the peace of mind it needs, Iran must definitely achieve nuclear deterrence so that it can be assured that the remaining issues will be resolved through negotiation," the commentary said. The article further argued that nuclear deterrence would help create a balance of power with the United States and Israel, both of which it said possess nuclear weapons. "Nuclear deterrence means that you can achieve a balance of power against the United States and Israel, which possess atomic bombs. It does not mean that war will not occur; rather, the scope of the conflict will become controllable," it said. Fars is closely aligned with conservative elements of Iran's political and security establishment, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). However, the commentary has not been endorsed by any Iranian government official. Also read: ‘Russia going through difficult period but will overcome challenges,’ says Putin. Details inside The article also contrasts with repeated statements by Iranian officials that Tehran has no plans to build a nuclear weapon. Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has previously issued a fatwa, or religious decree, prohibiting the pursuit of nuclear arms. The commentary comes as US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon remains a key objective of Washington's policy towards Tehran.

An unsigned commentary by Iran’s IRGC-affiliated Fars news agency argued the country has “no choice” but to develop a nuclear bomb for deterrence, directly contradicting Iran’s long-standing official policy.

‘Iran has no path other than achieving nuclear deterrence’: IRGC media

Advanced Israeli defence systems, including missile protection equipment and combat helmets for fighter aircraft, have been sold to Qatar and Saudi Arabia. All this despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties between the countries.&nbsp;According to a report by Haaretz citing documents and photographs, the sales included sophisticated systems designed to protect senior members of Qatar's ruling family. It claimed that when Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, travelled to Tehran last year, his aircraft was equipped with the C-MUSIC airborne defence system manufactured by Israel-based Elbit Systems.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-going-through-difficult-period-but-will-overcome-challenges-says-putin-details-inside-1782661227896">‘Russia going through difficult period but will overcome challenges,’ says Putin. Details inside</a>&nbsp;The revelations come as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sought to play down the so-called "Qatargate" controversy involving alleged business links between his close aides and Qatar. While describing Qatar as "a complicated country", Netanyahu has also previously backed legislation to designate the Gulf state as a sponsor of terrorism and authorised strikes targeting senior Hamas leaders in Doha.&nbsp;According to the report, Qatar's unofficial relationship with Israel has extended to covert defence cooperation despite the two countries lacking formal diplomatic relations. Saudi Arabia also has no official diplomatic ties with Israel, unlike the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco, which normalised relations under the Abraham Accords.&nbsp;Haaretz noted that in June last year, Israeli newspaper Maariv reported that Netanyahu had approved defence deals with Qatar worth more than $100 million.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/instead-of-pointing-fingers-at-others-india-grills-pakistan-over-baseless-allegation-on-karachi-terrorist-attack-1782652320030">‘Instead of pointing fingers at others…’: India grills Pakistan over ‘baseless’ allegation on Karachi terrorist attack</a>&nbsp;The report further cited an earlier Haaretz-TheMarker investigation, which said a company linked to a former senior Mossad official and retired Israel Defence Forces Major General Yoav (Poli) Mordechai represented Israeli defence firms Rafael and Elbit Systems in negotiations with Qatar. The company also reportedly held discussions with Israel Aerospace Industries over potential defence contracts in the Gulf state.

A Haaretz report revealed advanced Israeli defence systems, including missile protection for Qatar’s Emir and combat helmets for Saudi Arabia, were sold to both Gulf nations despite having no official diplomatic ties with Israel.

Advanced Israeli defence systems, including missile protection equipment and combat helmets for fighter aircraft, have been sold to Qatar and Saudi Arabia. All this despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties between the countries. According to a report by Haaretz citing documents and photographs, the sales included sophisticated systems designed to protect senior members of Qatar's ruling family. It claimed that when Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, travelled to Tehran last year, his aircraft was equipped with the C-MUSIC airborne defence system manufactured by Israel-based Elbit Systems. Also read: ‘Russia going through difficult period but will overcome challenges,’ says Putin. Details inside The revelations come as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sought to play down the so-called "Qatargate" controversy involving alleged business links between his close aides and Qatar. While describing Qatar as "a complicated country", Netanyahu has also previously backed legislation to designate the Gulf state as a sponsor of terrorism and authorised strikes targeting senior Hamas leaders in Doha. According to the report, Qatar's unofficial relationship with Israel has extended to covert defence cooperation despite the two countries lacking formal diplomatic relations. Saudi Arabia also has no official diplomatic ties with Israel, unlike the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Morocco, which normalised relations under the Abraham Accords. Haaretz noted that in June last year, Israeli newspaper Maariv reported that Netanyahu had approved defence deals with Qatar worth more than $100 million. Also read: ‘Instead of pointing fingers at others…’: India grills Pakistan over ‘baseless’ allegation on Karachi terrorist attack The report further cited an earlier Haaretz-TheMarker investigation, which said a company linked to a former senior Mossad official and retired Israel Defence Forces Major General Yoav (Poli) Mordechai represented Israeli defence firms Rafael and Elbit Systems in negotiations with Qatar. The company also reportedly held discussions with Israel Aerospace Industries over potential defence contracts in the Gulf state.

A Haaretz report revealed advanced Israeli defence systems, including missile protection for Qatar’s Emir and combat helmets for Saudi Arabia, were sold to both Gulf nations despite having no official diplomatic ties with Israel.

Israeli defence companies sold military systems to Qatar, Saudi Arabia despite no diplomatic ties: Report

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (June 28) said Russia was passing through a "difficult period" but expressed confidence that the country would overcome its challenges, safeguard national security and continue strengthening its borders.&nbsp;Speaking at the conference of the ruling United Russia party ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for September, Putin said the difficulties facing the country had made it stronger and offered important lessons, according to the Russian state news agency TASS.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/instead-of-pointing-fingers-at-others-india-grills-pakistan-over-baseless-allegation-on-karachi-terrorist-attack-1782652320030">‘Instead of pointing fingers at others…’: India grills Pakistan over ‘baseless’ allegation on Karachi terrorist attack</a>&nbsp;"We are going through a difficult period, but it has taught us much," Putin said while wishing the United Russia party success in the upcoming parliamentary elections.&nbsp;His remarks come as Russia continues to face Ukrainian drone and missile strikes, alongside Western sanctions imposed over its ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;Addressing party delegates, Putin said the government recognised the challenges confronting the country and was taking measures to respond to them.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sheikh-hasina-returning-to-bangladesh-ousted-pm-sets-a-timeline-says-don-t-fear-death-1782643633308">Sheikh Hasina returning to Bangladesh? Ousted PM sets a timeline, says ‘don’t fear death’</a>&nbsp;"Yes, we see the problems, we are aware of them and are responding to them, but we will certainly ensure the security of both the country and our citizens, as well as the inviolability of Russia's borders," he said.&nbsp;Putin also pledged that Russia would overcome the threats it currently faces.&nbsp;"We will undoubtedly overcome all the challenges facing us today, including terrorist attacks on our territory and infrastructure facilities," he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ask-your-higher-ups-they-ll-tell-you-pok-pm-slams-khawaja-asif-over-remarks-on-kashmiris-says-don-t-need-validation-from-islamabad-1782556164623">‘Ask your higher-ups, they'll tell you…’: PoK ‘PM’ slams Khawaja Asif over remarks on Kashmiris, says don’t need validation from Islamabad</a>&nbsp;Russia is due to hold parliamentary elections in September as the conflict in Ukraine and its broader security and economic implications continue to dominate the country's political landscape. &nbsp;

President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Russia is navigating a “difficult period” but expressed absolute confidence the nation will overcome economic and security challenges, including drone strikes, ahead of September’s parliamentary elections.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday (June 28) said Russia was passing through a "difficult period" but expressed confidence that the country would overcome its challenges, safeguard national security and continue strengthening its borders. Speaking at the conference of the ruling United Russia party ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for September, Putin said the difficulties facing the country had made it stronger and offered important lessons, according to the Russian state news agency TASS. Also read: ‘Instead of pointing fingers at others…’: India grills Pakistan over ‘baseless’ allegation on Karachi terrorist attack "We are going through a difficult period, but it has taught us much," Putin said while wishing the United Russia party success in the upcoming parliamentary elections. His remarks come as Russia continues to face Ukrainian drone and missile strikes, alongside Western sanctions imposed over its ongoing war in Ukraine. Addressing party delegates, Putin said the government recognised the challenges confronting the country and was taking measures to respond to them. Also read: Sheikh Hasina returning to Bangladesh? Ousted PM sets a timeline, says ‘don’t fear death’ "Yes, we see the problems, we are aware of them and are responding to them, but we will certainly ensure the security of both the country and our citizens, as well as the inviolability of Russia's borders," he said. Putin also pledged that Russia would overcome the threats it currently faces. "We will undoubtedly overcome all the challenges facing us today, including terrorist attacks on our territory and infrastructure facilities," he said. Also read: ‘Ask your higher-ups, they'll tell you…’: PoK ‘PM’ slams Khawaja Asif over remarks on Kashmiris, says don’t need validation from Islamabad Russia is due to hold parliamentary elections in September as the conflict in Ukraine and its broader security and economic implications continue to dominate the country's political landscape.

President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Russia is navigating a “difficult period” but expressed absolute confidence the nation will overcome economic and security challenges, including drone strikes, ahead of September’s parliamentary elections.

‘Russia going through difficult period but will overcome challenges,’ says Putin. Details inside

The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) has outlined its international advocacy activities, highlighting efforts in Japan and Europe to raise awareness alleging Beijing of human rights violations, including genocide, forced labour practices and transnational repression targeting Uyghurs from East Turkistan. A delegation from the World Uyghur Congress (WUC) and the Uyghur Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (UZDM), comprising WUC President Turgunjan Alawdun, Vice President Zumretay Arkin, and UZDM President Dolkun Isa, met with diplomats, United Nations officials, UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants Gehad Madi and civil society representatives.&nbsp;The discussions centred on alleged enforced disappearances, transnational repression, the challenges faced by Uyghur refugees and wider human rights issues. The delegation also participated in a side event organised by Tibetan groups, where participants discussed developments in Tibet and Taiwan, as well as concerns over what they described as the weakening of the international rules-based order.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tibetan-administration-slams-china-s-new-ethnic-unity-law-calls-it-tool-for-cultural-erasure-1782646744613">Tibetan administration slams China's new ethnic unity law, calls it tool for ‘cultural erasure’</a><h3>Impact of Chinese policy</h3>While addressing the Human Rights Council, WUC Vice President Zumretay Arkin underscored the impact of policies implemented by China on Uyghur women and families, adding that arbitrary detention, family separation, and cross-border intimidation have made several mothers forcibly separated from their children. The WUC further accused the Chinese organisation of monitoring, photography and filming of their delegates throughout the session, labelling it the next example of transnational intimidation targeting Uyghur activists. Meanwhile, the Uyghur Human Rights Project (UHRP) separately published a report warning that Australia and Japan remain vulnerable to imports connected to Uyghur forced labour due to enforcement gaps in supply chain regulations. The report warns that as the United States and the European Union tighten measures against products linked to forced labour, regions with less stringent oversight could emerge as alternative destinations for such goods. Meanwhile, Rushan Abbas, Chair of the WUC Executive Committee, was honoured with the Women's eNews Champion for Human Rights 2026 Award in Montreal in recognition of her advocacy for Uyghur women. In her acceptance remarks, she drew attention to the case of her sister, Gulshan Abbas, who she said has been forcibly disappeared since 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The delegation also participated in a side event organised by Tibetan groups, where participants discussed developments in Tibet and Taiwan, as well as concerns over what they described as the weakening of the international rules-based order.

The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) has outlined its international advocacy activities, highlighting efforts in Japan and Europe to raise awareness alleging Beijing of human rights violations, including genocide, forced labour practices and transnational repression targeting Uyghurs from East Turkistan. A delegation from the World Uyghur Congress (WUC) and the Uyghur Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (UZDM), comprising WUC President Turgunjan Alawdun, Vice President Zumretay Arkin, and UZDM President Dolkun Isa, met with diplomats, United Nations officials, UN Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants Gehad Madi and civil society representatives. The discussions centred on alleged enforced disappearances, transnational repression, the challenges faced by Uyghur refugees and wider human rights issues. The delegation also participated in a side event organised by Tibetan groups, where participants discussed developments in Tibet and Taiwan, as well as concerns over what they described as the weakening of the international rules-based order. Also read: Tibetan administration slams China's new ethnic unity law, calls it tool for ‘cultural erasure’ Impact of Chinese policy While addressing the Human Rights Council, WUC Vice President Zumretay Arkin underscored the impact of policies implemented by China on Uyghur women and families, adding that arbitrary detention, family separation, and cross-border intimidation have made several mothers forcibly separated from their children. The WUC further accused the Chinese organisation of monitoring, photography and filming of their delegates throughout the session, labelling it the next example of transnational intimidation targeting Uyghur activists. Meanwhile, the Uyghur Human Rights Project (UHRP) separately published a report warning that Australia and Japan remain vulnerable to imports connected to Uyghur forced labour due to enforcement gaps in supply chain regulations. The report warns that as the United States and the European Union tighten measures against products linked to forced labour, regions with less stringent oversight could emerge as alternative destinations for such goods. Meanwhile, Rushan Abbas, Chair of the WUC Executive Committee, was honoured with the Women's eNews Champion for Human Rights 2026 Award in Montreal in recognition of her advocacy for Uyghur women. In her acceptance remarks, she drew attention to the case of her sister, Gulshan Abbas, who she said has been forcibly disappeared since 2018.

The delegation also participated in a side event organised by Tibetan groups, where participants discussed developments in Tibet and Taiwan, as well as concerns over what they described as the weakening of the international rules-based order.

WUC accuses China of genocide, forced labour and repression against Uyghurs at global forums

NASA is preparing for a $30 million robotic rescue mission to save the ageing Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory from falling back into Earth's atmosphere. In a post on social media, NASA called it -“The ultimate battle against time and gravity".The operation will be carried out by the startup Katalyst Space Technologies using its three-armed spacecraft named Link, which will chase the Swift Observatory once it takes off from an atoll in the Pacific's Marshall Islands aboard an aeroplane-launched Pegasus rocket. Lift off could occur as early as Tuesday. Link will chase Swift for about a month, latch onto it, and mechanically push the telescope into a higher, stable orbit. This will extend its operational life by five to ten years.Katalyst Space CEO Ghonhee Lee said, "This is the first American space robot to go up and do anything like this," he added, “NASA has all these big senior observatories … all of them can benefit from a service like this. So what we're proving with this mission is this is a new play in the playbook that's available.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-calls-donald-trump-loser-first-major-post-presidency-attack-1782650232709">Joe Biden calls Donald Trump a 'loser' in first major attack since leaving office</a>The Swift Observatory has spent two decades scanning the cosmos, acting as space astronomy's "first responder for gamma-ray bursts, which are the universe's most violent and luminous explosions. It can autonomously reorient its entire body within 20 to 75 seconds. This allows it to capture afterglow. No other off-Earth observatory, not even the famed Hubble Space Telescope or James Webb Space Telescope, can perform such a feat of astronomy.The Swift Observatory is suffering from Orbital decay. The intense solar activity of recent times has expanded the outer atmosphere of Earth, which acts as an atmospheric drag, causing Swift to sink faster than expected. It had already dropped an altitude of 600 kilometres to 370 kilometers. It faces an imminent destruction threat by the end of 2026 if left untreated. The Swift Observatory had an original cost of $250 million for the development of the telescope, and during its launch in 2004. It has a total lifetime operation cost of $500 million. NASA spent $6 million to keep the telescope running in fiscal year 2024, with planned budget step-downs to $4.5 million for 2026. Experts suggest NASA's Hubble Space Telescope is also at risk and could be next.&nbsp;

NASA is backing a $30 million robotic mission to rescue the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory from orbital decay, potentially extending its operational life by up to 10 years.

NASA is preparing for a $30 million robotic rescue mission to save the ageing Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory from falling back into Earth's atmosphere. In a post on social media, NASA called it -“The ultimate battle against time and gravity".The operation will be carried out by the startup Katalyst Space Technologies using its three-armed spacecraft named Link, which will chase the Swift Observatory once it takes off from an atoll in the Pacific's Marshall Islands aboard an aeroplane-launched Pegasus rocket. Lift off could occur as early as Tuesday. Link will chase Swift for about a month, latch onto it, and mechanically push the telescope into a higher, stable orbit. This will extend its operational life by five to ten years. Katalyst Space CEO Ghonhee Lee said, "This is the first American space robot to go up and do anything like this," he added, “NASA has all these big senior observatories … all of them can benefit from a service like this. So what we're proving with this mission is this is a new play in the playbook that's available.” Also Read: Joe Biden calls Donald Trump a 'loser' in first major attack since leaving office The Swift Observatory has spent two decades scanning the cosmos, acting as space astronomy's "first responder for gamma-ray bursts, which are the universe's most violent and luminous explosions. It can autonomously reorient its entire body within 20 to 75 seconds. This allows it to capture afterglow. No other off-Earth observatory, not even the famed Hubble Space Telescope or James Webb Space Telescope, can perform such a feat of astronomy. The Swift Observatory is suffering from Orbital decay. The intense solar activity of recent times has expanded the outer atmosphere of Earth, which acts as an atmospheric drag, causing Swift to sink faster than expected. It had already dropped an altitude of 600 kilometres to 370 kilometers. It faces an imminent destruction threat by the end of 2026 if left untreated. The Swift Observatory had an original cost of $250 million for the development of the telescope, and during its launch in 2004. It has a total lifetime operation cost of $500 million. NASA spent $6 million to keep the telescope running in fiscal year 2024, with planned budget step-downs to $4.5 million for 2026. Experts suggest NASA's Hubble Space Telescope is also at risk and could be next.

NASA is backing a $30 million robotic mission to rescue the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory from orbital decay, potentially extending its operational life by up to 10 years.

NASA's $30 million mission aims to rescue the Swift Observatory from orbital decay

Former US President Joe Biden, in a rally at the Maryland Democrats fundraiser, called Trump a “loser”, attacking all his renovation projects, specifically the reflecting pool. Biden framed Trump as a "narcissistic loser" by targeting what he characterised as self-enrichment and ego-driven “vanity projects”. He said that the reflecting pool reflects the rotten core of the administration.&nbsp;“It’s not just his vanity projects, tearing down the East Wing of the White House, making room for his ballroom, putting his name on the Kennedy Centre, building an arch in his own honour, even hiring his own pool guy to fix the reflecting pool. Woah! What a loser,” Biden told the audience at the Gala.He argued that Trump has generated billions of dollars since returning to the White House, alleging that making money off the presidency is a primary driver for his administration. “What makes me angry is that Trump wants to give taxpayers’ money, your money, to the January 6th insurrectionists. That’s what he wants to do,” Biden told the crowd. “These people don’t deserve to be compensated. They deserve to be put in jail for a long, long, long time.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-attacks-maggie-haberman-regime-change-book-1782647999139">Trump calls Maggie Haberman a ‘third-rate writer’ over ‘Regime Change’</a><h2>Post-presidency troubles of Joe Biden&nbsp;</h2>Biden's 10-minute pitch was the first time he was targetting the US President since leaving office in 2025. He continues to deal with a post-presidency complication within Democrats, as many in his party remain frustrated with his handling of the 2024 election. He is also dealing with a mix of personal, legal, and political family dynamics. He still remains defiant about the pardon of his son Hunter Biden, in gun and tax convictions. It has damaged much of the political legacy. He has also launched a highly active media tour, featuring in podcasts with Gavin Newsom and Candace Owens. The media blitz has fueled internet speculation that he might launch a far-fetched political campaign for 2028. Further, his wife Jill Biden has started a promotional tour for her new White House memoir, "View From the East Wing" offering her own take on the 2024 election controversy between Biden and Harris, which aggravated many Democrats who do not perceive this as a good strategy to open that closed door. Biden himself is fighting a legal battle to protect the tape recordings he made with a ghostwriter back in 2017. A federal judge has ruled against him, saying that public interest outweighs his privacy rights. The content from the tape could cause more damage to Biden and give weapons to conservative groups to target Democrats.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joe Biden launched his sharpest criticism of Donald Trump since leaving office, calling him a "loser" while attacking his White House renovation projects and accusing him of self-enrichment.

Former US President Joe Biden, in a rally at the Maryland Democrats fundraiser, called Trump a “loser”, attacking all his renovation projects, specifically the reflecting pool. Biden framed Trump as a "narcissistic loser" by targeting what he characterised as self-enrichment and ego-driven “vanity projects”. He said that the reflecting pool reflects the rotten core of the administration. “It’s not just his vanity projects, tearing down the East Wing of the White House, making room for his ballroom, putting his name on the Kennedy Centre, building an arch in his own honour, even hiring his own pool guy to fix the reflecting pool. Woah! What a loser,” Biden told the audience at the Gala. He argued that Trump has generated billions of dollars since returning to the White House, alleging that making money off the presidency is a primary driver for his administration. “What makes me angry is that Trump wants to give taxpayers’ money, your money, to the January 6th insurrectionists. That’s what he wants to do,” Biden told the crowd. “These people don’t deserve to be compensated. They deserve to be put in jail for a long, long, long time.” Also Read: Trump calls Maggie Haberman a ‘third-rate writer’ over ‘Regime Change’ Post-presidency troubles of Joe Biden Biden's 10-minute pitch was the first time he was targetting the US President since leaving office in 2025. He continues to deal with a post-presidency complication within Democrats, as many in his party remain frustrated with his handling of the 2024 election. He is also dealing with a mix of personal, legal, and political family dynamics. He still remains defiant about the pardon of his son Hunter Biden, in gun and tax convictions. It has damaged much of the political legacy. He has also launched a highly active media tour, featuring in podcasts with Gavin Newsom and Candace Owens. The media blitz has fueled internet speculation that he might launch a far-fetched political campaign for 2028. Further, his wife Jill Biden has started a promotional tour for her new White House memoir, "View From the East Wing" offering her own take on the 2024 election controversy between Biden and Harris, which aggravated many Democrats who do not perceive this as a good strategy to open that closed door. Biden himself is fighting a legal battle to protect the tape recordings he made with a ghostwriter back in 2017. A federal judge has ruled against him, saying that public interest outweighs his privacy rights. The content from the tape could cause more damage to Biden and give weapons to conservative groups to target Democrats.

Joe Biden launched his sharpest criticism of Donald Trump since leaving office, calling him a "loser" while attacking his White House renovation projects and accusing him of self-enrichment.

Joe Biden calls Donald Trump a 'loser' in first major attack since leaving office

Eleven people have lost their lives after a civilian plane crashed in eastern France, local authorities confirmed on Sunday (June 28). According to the prefecture, the pilot and 10 passengers, including five students and five instructors, aboard the plane lost their lives in the crash. Officials have urged the people to "strictly avoid" the area surrounding the airport in the town of Tomblaine.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">At least 11 dead in civilian plane crash in eastern France. <a href="https://t.co/sLRSJfF2yW">pic.twitter.com/sLRSJfF2yW</a>&mdash; Vani Mehrotra (@vani_mehrotra) <a href="https://x.com/vani_mehrotra/status/2071204225804304841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Multiple media outlets reported that the aircraft was transporting a group participating in a skydiving excursion. Meanwhile, the country's Interior Ministry stated that Interior Minister Laurent Nunez was travelling to the crash site.&nbsp;The deceased are expected to be self-employed nurses from Nancy who were participating in their first skydiving experience, according to Thierry Pechey, president of the Meurthe-et-Moselle branch of the Order of Independent Nurses, who told BFMTV. "It would appear that the victims are self-employed nurses," he said.&nbsp;Following the incident, authorities have also set up a medical and psychological support unit to assist the victims' families, who were at the site after the crash. Meanwhile, more information related to the incident is expected as the investigation progresses.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/worst-year-to-be-alive-when-skies-darkened-in-the-dark-ages-as-volcanoes-kept-erupting-1782560191068">Worst year to be alive: When skies darkened in the Dark Ages as volcanoes kept erupting</a><h3>Chopper crash in Saudi Arabia</h3>In a similar incident, 14 people who boarded a helicopter have died after the chopper crashed in Saudi Arabia's Ras Tanura on Sunday, according to the Saudi state news agency. The chopper is said to have belonged to Aramco, a Saudi oil giant. &nbsp;The cause of the helicopter crash is yet to be known, as an investigation is underway.&nbsp;According to preliminary investigations, all the deceased are Saudi citizens. The Ministry of Energy has extended its condolences to the family members of those killed in the crash.&nbsp;“The Ministry of Energy extends its deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to the families of the martyrs, asking the Almighty, the Most Glorious and Exalted, to grant them mercy and forgiveness, and to accept them among the martyrs. Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return,” read the statement.

The aircraft was transporting a group participating in a skydiving excursion. In response to the incident, officials have urged the people to "strictly avoid" the area surrounding the airport in the town of Tomblaine.

Eleven people have lost their lives after a civilian plane crashed in eastern France, local authorities confirmed on Sunday (June 28). According to the prefecture, the pilot and 10 passengers, including five students and five instructors, aboard the plane lost their lives in the crash. Officials have urged the people to "strictly avoid" the area surrounding the airport in the town of Tomblaine.

France plane crash: The aircraft was transporting a group participating in a skydiving excursion. In response to the incident, officials have urged the people to "strictly avoid" the area surrounding the airport in the town of Tomblaine.

VIDEO: 11 killed, including students, as skydiving plane crashes in eastern France

US President Donald Trump lashed out at the New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman for her book “Regime Change”. He labelled her a "third-rate writer" and a "sleazebag writer for the failing New York Times". He claimed that “the exact opposite of anything she says is usually the truth”. He referred to her as “Maggot Haberman” and called the book “fake news”. The New York Times reporter has been covering Trump for nearly two decades, even before he was elected to office for his first term.“Based on a very quick and boring briefing concerning the Magot Hagerman book about me, it is mostly made up, Fake News, largely fiction, as have been most of the things she has written about me for so many years. She is a third-rate writer and intellect, who has made a first-rate income because of your favourite President, ME,” Trump unleashed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/180-million-year-old-fossilised-microbes-discovered-morocco-1782642776192">Scientists discover 180-million-year-old fossilised microbes in Morocco's deep sea</a>He then went on with his familiar state of grievances, “She was wrong about me in the Elections, although she knew I was going to win BIG! She was wrong about me on the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, and she was wrong about me on just about everything else." He continued, as far as to address the rumours of secret tapes of the situation room meeting, which the White House official feared Maggie must have accessed based on the details of the writing.&nbsp;“REMEMBER, I WON THE ELECTION, BIG - ALL SEVEN SWING STATES, THE POPULAR VOTE, 86% of the Counties…And they don’t have the audio tapes that they imply they have. Just another Margot Con Job! And Iran will never have a Nuclear Weapon!!!”Trump concluded.However, the story of the existence of tapes originated from White House officials. Shocked by the granular level of detail, a White House source told Axios reporters, "We're afraid some of our most sensitive conversations were being recorded… And we have no idea which ones." Even Vice President JD Vance said that he was “legitimately worried” about Situation Room tapes being given to the journalists.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump blasted New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman over her book “Regime Change,” calling it fake news and denying claims about secret Situation Room tapes.

US President Donald Trump lashed out at the New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman for her book “Regime Change”. He labelled her a "third-rate writer" and a "sleazebag writer for the failing New York Times". He claimed that “the exact opposite of anything she says is usually the truth”. He referred to her as “Maggot Haberman” and called the book “fake news”. The New York Times reporter has been covering Trump for nearly two decades, even before he was elected to office for his first term. “Based on a very quick and boring briefing concerning the Magot Hagerman book about me, it is mostly made up, Fake News, largely fiction, as have been most of the things she has written about me for so many years. She is a third-rate writer and intellect, who has made a first-rate income because of your favourite President, ME,” Trump unleashed. Also Read: Scientists discover 180-million-year-old fossilised microbes in Morocco's deep sea He then went on with his familiar state of grievances, “She was wrong about me in the Elections, although she knew I was going to win BIG! She was wrong about me on the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, and she was wrong about me on just about everything else." He continued, as far as to address the rumours of secret tapes of the situation room meeting, which the White House official feared Maggie must have accessed based on the details of the writing. “REMEMBER, I WON THE ELECTION, BIG - ALL SEVEN SWING STATES, THE POPULAR VOTE, 86% of the Counties…And they don’t have the audio tapes that they imply they have. Just another Margot Con Job! And Iran will never have a Nuclear Weapon!!!”Trump concluded. However, the story of the existence of tapes originated from White House officials. Shocked by the granular level of detail, a White House source told Axios reporters, "We're afraid some of our most sensitive conversations were being recorded… And we have no idea which ones." Even Vice President JD Vance said that he was “legitimately worried” about Situation Room tapes being given to the journalists.

Donald Trump blasted New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman over her book “Regime Change,” calling it fake news and denying claims about secret Situation Room tapes.

Trump calls Maggie Haberman a ‘third-rate writer’ over ‘Regime Change’

A helicopter crashed in Saudi Arabia's Ras Tanura on Sunday, killing 14 people on board, reported Saudi state news agency. The chopper is said to have belonged to Aramco, a Saudi oil giant.&nbsp;The cause of the helicopter crash is yet to be known as an investigation is underway.&nbsp;According to preliminary investigations all deceased are Saudi citizens.&nbsp;"The Ministry of Energy regrets to announce that a helicopter operated by Saudi Aramco crashed in Ras Tanura on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at approximately 6:00 am. The accident resulted in the martyrdom of all 14 individuals on board, all of whom were Saudi nationals," the state's official Saudi Press Agency said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/which-parts-of-india-are-earthquake-prone-fall-in-the-most-risky-zone-and-why-wion-decodes-1782659175320">Which parts of India are earthquake prone, fall in the most risky zone, and why? WION Decodes</a>&nbsp;The Ministry of Energy has extended its condolences to the family members of thise killed in the crash.&nbsp;“The Ministry of Energy extends its deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to the families of the martyrs, asking the Almighty, the Most Glorious and Exalted, to grant them mercy and forgiveness, and to accept them among the martyrs. &nbsp;Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return,” read the statement.<h2>Skydiving plane crashes in France</h2>&nbsp;In a similar incident , eleven people lost their lives after a civilian plane crashed in eastern France, local authorities confirmed on Sunday (June 28). According to the prefecture, the pilot and 10 passengers, including five students and five instructors, aboard the plane lost their lives in the crash. Officials have urged the people to "strictly avoid" the area surrounding the airport in the town of Tomblaine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The chopper is said to have belonged to Aramco, a Saudi oil giant.

A helicopter crashed in Saudi Arabia's Ras Tanura on Sunday, killing 14 people on board, reported Saudi state news agency. The chopper is said to have belonged to Aramco, a Saudi oil giant. The cause of the helicopter crash is yet to be known as an investigation is underway. According to preliminary investigations all deceased are Saudi citizens. "The Ministry of Energy regrets to announce that a helicopter operated by Saudi Aramco crashed in Ras Tanura on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at approximately 6:00 am. The accident resulted in the martyrdom of all 14 individuals on board, all of whom were Saudi nationals," the state's official Saudi Press Agency said in a statement. ALSO READ: Which parts of India are earthquake prone, fall in the most risky zone, and why? WION Decodes The Ministry of Energy has extended its condolences to the family members of thise killed in the crash. “The Ministry of Energy extends its deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to the families of the martyrs, asking the Almighty, the Most Glorious and Exalted, to grant them mercy and forgiveness, and to accept them among the martyrs. Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return,” read the statement. Skydiving plane crashes in France In a similar incident , eleven people lost their lives after a civilian plane crashed in eastern France, local authorities confirmed on Sunday (June 28). According to the prefecture, the pilot and 10 passengers, including five students and five instructors, aboard the plane lost their lives in the crash. Officials have urged the people to "strictly avoid" the area surrounding the airport in the town of Tomblaine.

The chopper is said to have belonged to Aramco, a Saudi oil giant.

14 killed in chopper crash in Saudi Arabia's Ras Tanura

As tensions between US and Iran escalates over violation in the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran on Sunday urged all parties not to interfere in the management of Hormuz. Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the Strait of Hormuz will return to its pre-war capacity within 30 days &nbsp;and "no other body or country bears any responsibility in this regard under the memorandum of understanding signed between Iran and the United States."&nbsp;"I urge all parties not to interfere in the management of the Strait of Hormuz or in the arrangements being made by the Islamic Republic of Iran to reopen the Strait. They should abide by the signed memorandum of understanding and not allow it to be derailed."&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-earthquake-us-teams-rescue-infant-after-72-hours-18-day-old-newborn-found-alive-video-1782628297573">Venezuela earthquake: US teams rescue infant after 72 hours; newborn found alive | VIDEO</a>&nbsp;Araghchi put the responsibility of deescalating tension in Hormuz on US president Donald Trump and "allow the end of the war to take hold there.&nbsp;"It is the responsibility of the U.S. government, under the commitment it accepted in the memorandum of understanding on its own behalf and on behalf of the Zionist regime, to stop the regime’s attacks, allow the end of the war to take hold there, and ensure a withdrawal from the occupied areas. This is also one of the provisions of Article 1 of the memorandum of understanding, said Araghchi. &nbsp;<h2> Tensions escalate in Strait of Hormuz</h2>&nbsp;The warning by Iran comes amid US military airstrikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites, along with coastal radar locations, in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;According to CENTCOM, the strikes followed Iran's June 25 attack on the Singapore-flagged cargo ship M/V Ever Lovely as it was leaving the Strait of Hormuz along the Omani coast.In retaliation the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeted locations where US forces are deployed. Though, it did not specify the locations it targeted or provide further details.&nbsp;

Araghchi put the responsibility of deescalating tension in Hormuz on US president Donald Trump and allow the end of the war to take hold there.

As tensions between US and Iran escalates over violation in the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran on Sunday urged all parties not to interfere in the management of Hormuz. Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the Strait of Hormuz will return to its pre-war capacity within 30 days and "no other body or country bears any responsibility in this regard under the memorandum of understanding signed between Iran and the United States." "I urge all parties not to interfere in the management of the Strait of Hormuz or in the arrangements being made by the Islamic Republic of Iran to reopen the Strait. They should abide by the signed memorandum of understanding and not allow it to be derailed." ALSO READ: Venezuela earthquake: US teams rescue infant after 72 hours; newborn found alive | VIDEO Araghchi put the responsibility of deescalating tension in Hormuz on US president Donald Trump and "allow the end of the war to take hold there. "It is the responsibility of the U.S. government, under the commitment it accepted in the memorandum of understanding on its own behalf and on behalf of the Zionist regime, to stop the regime’s attacks, allow the end of the war to take hold there, and ensure a withdrawal from the occupied areas. This is also one of the provisions of Article 1 of the memorandum of understanding, said Araghchi. Tensions escalate in Strait of Hormuz The warning by Iran comes amid US military airstrikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites, along with coastal radar locations, in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. According to CENTCOM, the strikes followed Iran's June 25 attack on the Singapore-flagged cargo ship M/V Ever Lovely as it was leaving the Strait of Hormuz along the Omani coast. In retaliation the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeted locations where US forces are deployed. Though, it did not specify the locations it targeted or provide further details.

Araghchi put the responsibility of deescalating tension in Hormuz on US president Donald Trump and “allow the end of the war to take hold there.”

Iran warns against 'interference in the management of the Strait of Hormuz'

The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) condemned the new ethnic unity law of China during a panel discussion as a legal framework, highlighting that it institutionalises the assimilation of Tibetans and other ethnic minorities. The event, ORGANISED by its Tibetan Policy Institute, brought together political leaders, academics and strategic experts to assess the implications of the law. Speaking at the event, CTA President (Sikyong) Penpa Tsering contended that although the legislation is framed around concepts such as "unity" and "harmony," it effectively formalises long-standing policies undermining Tibetan language, religion, culture and identity. Tsering argued that the provisions introduced by the law do not represent a new policy direction but instead codify measures already enforced through educational reforms, restrictions on religious practices, surveillance mechanisms and administrative regulations. He claimed that Beijing is providing a formal legal basis for its assimilation policies, making them more difficult to contest both within China and on the international stage.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sheikh-hasina-returning-to-bangladesh-ousted-pm-sets-a-timeline-says-don-t-fear-death-1782643633308">Sheikh Hasina returning to Bangladesh? Ousted PM sets a timeline, says ‘don’t fear death’</a><h3>Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile unanimously passed resolution</h3>Meanwhile, the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile unanimously passed a resolution rejecting the legislation, stating that it conflicts with international human rights norms as well as China's constitutional provisions and laws governing regional ethnic autonomy. During the discussion, Tsering stated that the legislation goes beyond Tibet, which could affect Uyghur and Mongolian communities by promoting a single state-defined national identity over unique ethnic identities. He further alleged that the legislation could be used to silence criticism of China's policies by framing dissent as a challenge to the rule of law, according to the CTA. Meanwhile, several other speakers at the event echoed similar concerns. China expert Jayadeva Ranade argued that the representation of ethnic minorities has diminished during the tenure of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Meanwhile, researcher Dr Tenzin Desal maintained that Beijing's governance approach has not succeeded in fostering a genuine sense of inclusion among Tibetans, despite significant investment in development initiatives. At the close of the event, the Central Tibetan Administration reiterated its commitment to the Dalai Lama's Middle Way Approach, which advocates meaningful autonomy for Tibet within China rather than full independence, according to the CTA.

CTA President (Sikyong) Penpa Tsering contended that although the legislation is framed around concepts such as "unity" and "harmony," it effectively formalises long-standing policies undermining Tibetan language, religion, culture and identity.

The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) condemned the new ethnic unity law of China during a panel discussion as a legal framework, highlighting that it institutionalises the assimilation of Tibetans and other ethnic minorities. The event, ORGANISED by its Tibetan Policy Institute, brought together political leaders, academics and strategic experts to assess the implications of the law. Speaking at the event, CTA President (Sikyong) Penpa Tsering contended that although the legislation is framed around concepts such as "unity" and "harmony," it effectively formalises long-standing policies undermining Tibetan language, religion, culture and identity. Tsering argued that the provisions introduced by the law do not represent a new policy direction but instead codify measures already enforced through educational reforms, restrictions on religious practices, surveillance mechanisms and administrative regulations. He claimed that Beijing is providing a formal legal basis for its assimilation policies, making them more difficult to contest both within China and on the international stage. Also read: Sheikh Hasina returning to Bangladesh? Ousted PM sets a timeline, says ‘don’t fear death’ Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile unanimously passed resolution Meanwhile, the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile unanimously passed a resolution rejecting the legislation, stating that it conflicts with international human rights norms as well as China's constitutional provisions and laws governing regional ethnic autonomy. During the discussion, Tsering stated that the legislation goes beyond Tibet, which could affect Uyghur and Mongolian communities by promoting a single state-defined national identity over unique ethnic identities. He further alleged that the legislation could be used to silence criticism of China's policies by framing dissent as a challenge to the rule of law, according to the CTA. Meanwhile, several other speakers at the event echoed similar concerns. China expert Jayadeva Ranade argued that the representation of ethnic minorities has diminished during the tenure of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Meanwhile, researcher Dr Tenzin Desal maintained that Beijing's governance approach has not succeeded in fostering a genuine sense of inclusion among Tibetans, despite significant investment in development initiatives. At the close of the event, the Central Tibetan Administration reiterated its commitment to the Dalai Lama's Middle Way Approach, which advocates meaningful autonomy for Tibet within China rather than full independence, according to the CTA.

CTA President (Sikyong) Penpa Tsering contended that although the legislation is framed around concepts such as "unity" and "harmony," it effectively formalises long-standing policies undermining Tibetan language, religion, culture and identity.

Tibetan administration slams China's new ethnic unity law, calls it tool for 'cultural erasure'

Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to address the National Assembly of Seychelles on Sunday (June 28), describing the occasion as a “special honour”. He underlined the deep historical and people-to-people ties between the two Indian Ocean nations. The address also marked the 20th Parliament that Modi has addressed during his visits abroad.&nbsp;Speaking to lawmakers in Victoria, the Indian PM thanked Seychelles for conferring the Guardian of the Blue Horizon award on him earlier in the day, saying the recognition would encourage everyone working towards environmental conservation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-receives-guard-of-honour-in-seychelles-during-his-3-day-official-visit-1782632663296">PM Modi receives guard of honour in Seychelles during his 3-day official visit</a>&nbsp;“I thank President Herminie and the people of Seychelles for honouring me with the Guardian of the Blue Horizon award. This honour will encourage all those who are making sustained efforts towards environmental conservation,” PM Modi said.&nbsp;The Indian PM conveyed the greetings of “1.4 billion people of India” and recalled that Seychelles was the first Indian Ocean nation he visited after taking office in 2015.&nbsp;“The first country in the Indian Ocean region that I visited as Prime Minister was Seychelles in 2015. I came here because I believed Seychelles occupied a special place in India’s vision for the Indian Ocean. As I return here after a decade, that conviction is stronger than ever,” he said.PM Modi also congratulated Seychelles on its 50 years of independence, saying the bilateral relationship extends far beyond the establishment of diplomatic ties.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/full-context-centre-breaks-silence-on-row-over-op-sindoor-deaths-1782615899557">'Full context...': Centre breaks silence on row over Op Sindoor deaths</a>&nbsp;Tracing the shared history between the two countries, he said their friendship dates back to August 1770, when five Indians arrived aboard the ship Thélemaque at Ste Anne Island.“Over time, their stories became part of the story of modern Seychelles. It reminds us that the bonds between us were not created by governments. They were built by people, nurtured by families, and sustained by generations,” he said.

Narendra Modi became the first Indian PM to address the Seychelles National Assembly, celebrating 50 years of independence, receiving an environmental award, and honouring centuries of deep people-to-people ties.

Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to address the National Assembly of Seychelles on Sunday (June 28), describing the occasion as a “special honour”. He underlined the deep historical and people-to-people ties between the two Indian Ocean nations. The address also marked the 20th Parliament that Modi has addressed during his visits abroad. Speaking to lawmakers in Victoria, the Indian PM thanked Seychelles for conferring the Guardian of the Blue Horizon award on him earlier in the day, saying the recognition would encourage everyone working towards environmental conservation. Also read: PM Modi receives guard of honour in Seychelles during his 3-day official visit “I thank President Herminie and the people of Seychelles for honouring me with the Guardian of the Blue Horizon award. This honour will encourage all those who are making sustained efforts towards environmental conservation,” PM Modi said. The Indian PM conveyed the greetings of “1.4 billion people of India” and recalled that Seychelles was the first Indian Ocean nation he visited after taking office in 2015. “The first country in the Indian Ocean region that I visited as Prime Minister was Seychelles in 2015. I came here because I believed Seychelles occupied a special place in India’s vision for the Indian Ocean. As I return here after a decade, that conviction is stronger than ever,” he said. PM Modi also congratulated Seychelles on its 50 years of independence, saying the bilateral relationship extends far beyond the establishment of diplomatic ties. Also read: 'Full context...': Centre breaks silence on row over Op Sindoor deaths Tracing the shared history between the two countries, he said their friendship dates back to August 1770, when five Indians arrived aboard the ship Thélemaque at Ste Anne Island. “Over time, their stories became part of the story of modern Seychelles. It reminds us that the bonds between us were not created by governments. They were built by people, nurtured by families, and sustained by generations,” he said.

Narendra Modi became the first Indian PM to address the Seychelles National Assembly, celebrating 50 years of independence, receiving an environmental award, and honouring centuries of deep people-to-people ties.

PM Modi receives Guardian of the Blue Horizon award by Seychelles, becomes 1st Indian PM to address National Assembly

Scientists have come across ancient wrinkle structures in Morocco's Central High Atlas Mountains. These wrinkle structures were 180-million-year-old fossilised and created by chemosynthetic microbes. &nbsp;These rocks formed at least 590 feet underwater in total darkness, powered by chemical reactions rather than sunlight in relatively unstable deep-sea environments.&nbsp;"Let's go through every single piece of evidence that we can find to be sure that these are wrinkle structures in turbidites," says Rowan Martindale, a paleoecologist and geobiologist at The University of Texas at Austin. Because wrinkle structures, usually photosynthetic in origin, "shouldn't be in this deep-water setting.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-atlas-ai-image-truth-social-explained-1782637774877">Why did Donald Trump share an Atlas-like AI image on Truth Social?</a>The researchers found elevated concentrations of carbon in the sediment layers, which is often associated with biological activity and provided an important clue that microbes were involved. These organisms might have lived off of sulphur or other compounds. Today, chemosynthetic microbial mats form on continental shelves, where underwater landslides and turbidites also occur. These landslides might have been crucial to the cycle that allowed the microbes to thrive by dragging down organic material, which would have decomposed and created compounds such as methane or hydrogen sulfide, food for chemosynthetic life."Wrinkle structures," Martindale said, "are really important pieces of evidence in the early evolution of life."While the oldest evidence of microbial life dates back to around 3.77 to 4.28 billion years old, this particularly shocked scientists, as 180 million years ago, during the Jurassic Period, the deep sea was already crawling with complex animals like worms, crabs, and molluscs. These animals would constantly churn up the mud, which almost always destroyed the delicate microbial structure before they could fossilise. Finding intact microbes from that era is incredibly rare.&nbsp;

Scientists have discovered 180-million-year-old fossilised microbial wrinkle structures in Morocco's Central High Atlas, offering rare evidence of deep-sea chemosynthetic life during the Jurassic Period.

Scientists have come across ancient wrinkle structures in Morocco's Central High Atlas Mountains. These wrinkle structures were 180-million-year-old fossilised and created by chemosynthetic microbes. These rocks formed at least 590 feet underwater in total darkness, powered by chemical reactions rather than sunlight in relatively unstable deep-sea environments. "Let's go through every single piece of evidence that we can find to be sure that these are wrinkle structures in turbidites," says Rowan Martindale, a paleoecologist and geobiologist at The University of Texas at Austin. Because wrinkle structures, usually photosynthetic in origin, "shouldn't be in this deep-water setting. Also Read: Why did Donald Trump share an Atlas-like AI image on Truth Social? The researchers found elevated concentrations of carbon in the sediment layers, which is often associated with biological activity and provided an important clue that microbes were involved. These organisms might have lived off of sulphur or other compounds. Today, chemosynthetic microbial mats form on continental shelves, where underwater landslides and turbidites also occur. These landslides might have been crucial to the cycle that allowed the microbes to thrive by dragging down organic material, which would have decomposed and created compounds such as methane or hydrogen sulfide, food for chemosynthetic life. "Wrinkle structures," Martindale said, "are really important pieces of evidence in the early evolution of life." While the oldest evidence of microbial life dates back to around 3.77 to 4.28 billion years old, this particularly shocked scientists, as 180 million years ago, during the Jurassic Period, the deep sea was already crawling with complex animals like worms, crabs, and molluscs. These animals would constantly churn up the mud, which almost always destroyed the delicate microbial structure before they could fossilise. Finding intact microbes from that era is incredibly rare.

Scientists have discovered 180-million-year-old fossilised microbial wrinkle structures in Morocco's Central High Atlas, offering rare evidence of deep-sea chemosynthetic life during the Jurassic Period.

Scientists discover 180-million-year-old fossilised microbes in Morocco's deep sea

Indian Naval Ships Ikshak and Tarkash are set to participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Day of the Seychelles on Monday, the Indian Navy Spokesperson said on Sunday. Both ships arrived at Port Victoria of Seychelles on Friday (June 26), which will also involve a marching contingent and a naval band during the participation. In a post on social media platform X, it stated, "INS Tarkash, a frontline warship of the Indian Navy, arrived at Port Victoria, Seychelles on #26Jun 26 during the ongoing operational deployment to the SW IOR. During the port call, Tarkash, along with INS Ikshak, will participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles, on 29 Jun 26, with a marching contingent and naval band."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-ocean-is-our-shared-home-pm-modi-hails-india-seychelles-ties-unveils-upi-pact-1782637550192">‘Indian Ocean is our shared home’: PM Modi hails India-Seychelles ties, unveils UPI pact</a><h3>The 50th National Day celebrations of Seychelles</h3>The Indian Navy Spokesperson also noted on Saturday that the arrival of the indigenously designed and constructed Survey Vessel Large INS Ikshak at Port Victoria, Seychelles, comes during her deployment to the South West Indian Ocean region. The arrival of the ships coincides with the 50th National Day celebrations of Seychelles, underscoring the enduring maritime partnership between India and Seychelles. According to the Indian Navy spokesperson, the ship's visit to Seychelles will include participation in the country's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations, interactions with the Seychelles Defence Forces, and a range of community outreach initiatives. The spokesperson noted that the deployment highlights India's continued commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation and strengthening regional security under its MAHASAGAR vision. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a three-day state visit to Seychelles from June 27 to June 29 at the invitation of President Patrick Herminie. During the visit, he will attend Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the nation's independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.

The ship's visit to Seychelles will include participation in the country's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations, interactions with the Seychelles Defence Forces, and a range of community outreach initiatives. 

Indian Naval Ships Ikshak and Tarkash are set to participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Day of the Seychelles on Monday, the Indian Navy Spokesperson said on Sunday. Both ships arrived at Port Victoria of Seychelles on Friday (June 26), which will also involve a marching contingent and a naval band during the participation. In a post on social media platform X, it stated, "INS Tarkash, a frontline warship of the Indian Navy, arrived at Port Victoria, Seychelles on #26Jun 26 during the ongoing operational deployment to the SW IOR. During the port call, Tarkash, along with INS Ikshak, will participate in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Day of Seychelles, on 29 Jun 26, with a marching contingent and naval band." Also read: ‘Indian Ocean is our shared home’: PM Modi hails India-Seychelles ties, unveils UPI pact The 50th National Day celebrations of Seychelles The Indian Navy Spokesperson also noted on Saturday that the arrival of the indigenously designed and constructed Survey Vessel Large INS Ikshak at Port Victoria, Seychelles, comes during her deployment to the South West Indian Ocean region. The arrival of the ships coincides with the 50th National Day celebrations of Seychelles, underscoring the enduring maritime partnership between India and Seychelles. According to the Indian Navy spokesperson, the ship's visit to Seychelles will include participation in the country's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations, interactions with the Seychelles Defence Forces, and a range of community outreach initiatives. The spokesperson noted that the deployment highlights India's continued commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation and strengthening regional security under its MAHASAGAR vision. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a three-day state visit to Seychelles from June 27 to June 29 at the invitation of President Patrick Herminie. During the visit, he will attend Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations as the Guest of Honour, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the nation's independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.

The ship's visit to Seychelles will include participation in the country's Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations, interactions with the Seychelles Defence Forces, and a range of community outreach initiatives.&nbsp;

INS Tarkash, INS Ikshak to join Seychelles' Golden Jubilee celebrations amid PM Modi 3-days state visit

Almost two years after being forced out of Bangladesh and taking refuge in India, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared that she will return to her country "this year". Despite being sentenced to death by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal, Hasina expressed her plan to return. In a recent interview, Hasina dismissed the tribunal's verdict as politically motivated, alleging it was aimed at crippling her party, the Awami League, by removing its leadership.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-vows-to-defend-sovereignty-after-us-strikes-kuwait-bahrain-condemn-attacks-1782640588157">Iran vows to defend sovereignty after US strikes; Kuwait, Bahrain condemn attacks</a>&nbsp;"The verdict against me is not justice. It is part of an illegal, unconstitutional, and politically motivated process. The judiciary has been turned into an instrument of political revenge to make the Awami League leaderless. Such attempts have been made before. They failed then, and they will fail again," Hasina told NDTV.&nbsp;The tribunal convicted Hasina of crimes against humanity and handed her a death sentence in November last year. She has consistently rejected the proceedings, maintaining that the charges and verdict lack legitimacy.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-decodes-what-could-be-biggest-takeaways-from-japan-pm-sanae-takaichi-s-first-india-visit-1782550355906">What could be biggest outcomes of Japan PM Takaichi's India visit? Explained</a>&nbsp;Speaking about the possibility of returning despite the risks, Hasina said she had faced repeated threats throughout her political career and was not afraid of death.&nbsp;Recalling the assassination of her father, Bangladesh's founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and most of her family in 1975, Hasina said violence had shaped much of her life. She also referred to the 21 August grenade attack that targeted her during a political rally, saying numerous conspiracies had failed to silence her.&nbsp;"I do not fear death. In 1975, I lost my parents, my brothers, and almost my entire family. On 21 August, there was an attempt to kill me with grenades. Many conspiracies have been hatched against me. But breaking through every web of conspiracy, I stood beside the people of Bangladesh," she told the news outlet.

Ousted former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina announced plans to return home this year, dismissing her recent tribunal death sentence as a politically motivated attempt to cripple the Awami League.


Almost two years after being forced out of Bangladesh and taking refuge in India, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared that she will return to her country "this year". Despite being sentenced to death by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal, Hasina expressed her plan to return. In a recent interview, Hasina dismissed the tribunal's verdict as politically motivated, alleging it was aimed at crippling her party, the Awami League, by removing its leadership. Also read: Iran vows to defend sovereignty after US strikes; Kuwait, Bahrain condemn attacks "The verdict against me is not justice. It is part of an illegal, unconstitutional, and politically motivated process. The judiciary has been turned into an instrument of political revenge to make the Awami League leaderless. Such attempts have been made before. They failed then, and they will fail again," Hasina told NDTV. The tribunal convicted Hasina of crimes against humanity and handed her a death sentence in November last year. She has consistently rejected the proceedings, maintaining that the charges and verdict lack legitimacy. Also read: What could be biggest outcomes of Japan PM Takaichi's India visit? Explained Speaking about the possibility of returning despite the risks, Hasina said she had faced repeated threats throughout her political career and was not afraid of death. Recalling the assassination of her father, Bangladesh's founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and most of her family in 1975, Hasina said violence had shaped much of her life. She also referred to the 21 August grenade attack that targeted her during a political rally, saying numerous conspiracies had failed to silence her. "I do not fear death. In 1975, I lost my parents, my brothers, and almost my entire family. On 21 August, there was an attempt to kill me with grenades. Many conspiracies have been hatched against me. But breaking through every web of conspiracy, I stood beside the people of Bangladesh," she told the news outlet.

Ousted former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina announced plans to return home this year, dismissing her recent tribunal death sentence as a politically motivated attempt to cripple the Awami League.

Sheikh Hasina returning to Bangladesh? Ousted PM sets a timeline, says ‘don’t fear death’

Iran on Sunday (Jun 28) said that it was determined to defend its sovereignty after the latest US strikes on the Islamic Republic. This comes as tensions once again renewed despite a fragile truce in the Middle East. The US military said that it acted in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.“Iran strongly condemns the airstrikes by the terrorist US army on several monitoring and surveillance facilities on the southern coast of the country in the early hours of Sunday,” the Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement. It added that Tehran “stresses its determination to defend Iran's national sovereignty” against US attacks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/centcom-releases-video-of-us-strikes-at-multiple-targets-in-iran-watch-1782612237049">CENTCOM releases video of US strikes at ‘multiple targets’ in Iran | WATCH</a><h2>US strikes at ‘multiple targets’ in Iran</h2>The US military said that it conducted strikes on 10 Iranian military targets at “multiple locations” in and near the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command said in a statement that American forces conducted the strikes in response to the Iranian attack on M/T Kiku. The Panama-flagged tanker, carrying two million barrels of crude oil, was transiting near the Strait of Hormuz when it was struck by an Iranian drone.“After yesterday’s US strikes in response to the Iranian attack on M/V Ever Lovely, Iran was given a chance to honour the ceasefire agreement but elected not to when its forces launched a one-way attack drone that hit M/T Kiku this morning at 4:30 a.m. ET. The Panama-flagged tanker was transiting near the Strait of Hormuz with more than two million barrels of crude oil,” CENTCOM said.“CENTCOM forces launched strikes today in direct response to continued Iranian aggression against commercial shipping,” it added. “US military aircraft targeted Iranian military surveillance infrastructure, communication systems, air defense sites, drone storage facilities, and minelayer capabilities.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-never-return-to-pre-war-conditions-iran-says-hormuz-under-tehran-control-1782178171914">‘Will never return to pre-war conditions’: Iran says Hormuz will be under Tehran control</a><h2>Iran retaliates</h2>Following the US attacks, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said that it carried out retaliatory strikes against Kuwait and Bahrain in response to the US attacks on Iran. It also vowed a “crushing response” to any further military action by the United States.The Guards “destroyed eight important US military facilities at the Ali al-Salem base in Kuwait and at the Fifth Fleet naval base in Port Salman in Bahrain,” they said in a statement.“Any enemy aggression, whatever the pretext, even against insignificant targets... will have a crushing response,” they added.<h2>Kuwait, Bahrain condemn Iranian attacks</h2>Condemning the Iranian attacks, Kuwait’s foreign ministry said that &nbsp;it“expresses its condemnation and denunciation of... in the strongest terms, the recurrence of Iran's heinous aggression against the State of Kuwait, the latest of which was at dawn today, in a flagrant violation of its sovereignty.”In a statement, the Bahraini military said it had “intercepted and destroyed a number of projectiles used in these treacherous Iranian attacks”, adding that it was on “maximum alert”.

Iran condemned the latest US strikes, vowed to defend its sovereignty and retaliated with attacks on US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain after Washington targeted Iranian military sites near the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran on Sunday (Jun 28) said that it was determined to defend its sovereignty after the latest US strikes on the Islamic Republic. This comes as tensions once again renewed despite a fragile truce in the Middle East. The US military said that it acted in response to an Iranian drone attack on a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. “Iran strongly condemns the airstrikes by the terrorist US army on several monitoring and surveillance facilities on the southern coast of the country in the early hours of Sunday,” the Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement. It added that Tehran “stresses its determination to defend Iran's national sovereignty” against US attacks. Also read | CENTCOM releases video of US strikes at ‘multiple targets’ in Iran | WATCH US strikes at ‘multiple targets’ in Iran The US military said that it conducted strikes on 10 Iranian military targets at “multiple locations” in and near the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command said in a statement that American forces conducted the strikes in response to the Iranian attack on M/T Kiku. The Panama-flagged tanker, carrying two million barrels of crude oil, was transiting near the Strait of Hormuz when it was struck by an Iranian drone. “After yesterday’s US strikes in response to the Iranian attack on M/V Ever Lovely, Iran was given a chance to honour the ceasefire agreement but elected not to when its forces launched a one-way attack drone that hit M/T Kiku this morning at 4:30 a.m. ET. The Panama-flagged tanker was transiting near the Strait of Hormuz with more than two million barrels of crude oil,” CENTCOM said. “CENTCOM forces launched strikes today in direct response to continued Iranian aggression against commercial shipping,” it added. “US military aircraft targeted Iranian military surveillance infrastructure, communication systems, air defense sites, drone storage facilities, and minelayer capabilities.” Also read | ‘Will never return to pre-war conditions’: Iran says Hormuz will be under Tehran control Iran retaliates Following the US attacks, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said that it carried out retaliatory strikes against Kuwait and Bahrain in response to the US attacks on Iran. It also vowed a “crushing response” to any further military action by the United States. The Guards “destroyed eight important US military facilities at the Ali al-Salem base in Kuwait and at the Fifth Fleet naval base in Port Salman in Bahrain,” they said in a statement. “Any enemy aggression, whatever the pretext, even against insignificant targets... will have a crushing response,” they added. Kuwait, Bahrain condemn Iranian attacks Condemning the Iranian attacks, Kuwait’s foreign ministry said that it“expresses its condemnation and denunciation of... in the strongest terms, the recurrence of Iran's heinous aggression against the State of Kuwait, the latest of which was at dawn today, in a flagrant violation of its sovereignty.” In a statement, the Bahraini military said it had “intercepted and destroyed a number of projectiles used in these treacherous Iranian attacks”, adding that it was on “maximum alert”.

Iran condemned the latest US strikes, vowed to defend its sovereignty and retaliated with attacks on US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain after Washington targeted Iranian military sites near the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran vows to defend sovereignty after US strikes; Kuwait, Bahrain condemn attacks

US President Donald Trump on Thursday posted an uncaptioned picture on the Truth social platform. The AI-generated image on Truth Social shows Trump on his knees as a larger-than-life god-like figure wrapped in the US flag, and lifting up the globe. Since the post was uncaptioned, there is no clear interpretation of what Trump was intending to communicate.&nbsp;<h2>Who is Atlas?</h2>The image appears to have resemblances to the depiction of the Greek God Atlas, who is seen carrying a celestial sphere on his shoulder. The Greek God was among the 10 Titans, who waged war against Zeus and the Olympians. The Olympians won, and Zeus punished each Titan by banishing them to the underworld, while reserving the worst of all for the Titans; he sentenced them to carry the heavens on their shoulders to prevent it from falling on the earth. While earlier depictions of Greek mythology show Atlas holding a celestial sphere, the later depictions show him holding the earth.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-iran-scheduled-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-funeral-on-us-independence-day-1782633801417">Why Iran scheduled Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral to coincide with US Independence Day</a><h2>Why is Trump depicting himself as Atlas?</h2>While there is no clear interpretation, Trump might be hinting like Atlas, who was engaged in eternal labour, Trump, who is representing the US empire, was responsible for saving the global economy due to the dollar's reserve currency status. The post was made just after the US and Iran launched attacks on one another and accused each other of violating the ceasefire. However, this would be a false analogy as the US enjoys significant privileges in running large deficits, unlike Atlas, who do not have any privileges.&nbsp;Trump's high self-regard often closes in on clinical or borderline narcissism and is often amplified by his echo chamber. He has previously posted a picture portraying him in Jesus-like robes, healing a sick patient. The post drew criticism even from Republicans, though Trump later clarified he intended to depict himself as a doctor "making people better". He also compared himself to the likes of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan.&nbsp;

Donald Trump shared an uncaptioned AI-generated image resembling the Greek Titan Atlas on Truth Social. Here's the mythology behind it and what the symbolism could mean.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday posted an uncaptioned picture on the Truth social platform. The AI-generated image on Truth Social shows Trump on his knees as a larger-than-life god-like figure wrapped in the US flag, and lifting up the globe. Since the post was uncaptioned, there is no clear interpretation of what Trump was intending to communicate. Who is Atlas? The image appears to have resemblances to the depiction of the Greek God Atlas, who is seen carrying a celestial sphere on his shoulder. The Greek God was among the 10 Titans, who waged war against Zeus and the Olympians. The Olympians won, and Zeus punished each Titan by banishing them to the underworld, while reserving the worst of all for the Titans; he sentenced them to carry the heavens on their shoulders to prevent it from falling on the earth. While earlier depictions of Greek mythology show Atlas holding a celestial sphere, the later depictions show him holding the earth. Also Read: Why Iran scheduled Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral to coincide with US Independence Day Why is Trump depicting himself as Atlas? While there is no clear interpretation, Trump might be hinting like Atlas, who was engaged in eternal labour, Trump, who is representing the US empire, was responsible for saving the global economy due to the dollar's reserve currency status. The post was made just after the US and Iran launched attacks on one another and accused each other of violating the ceasefire. However, this would be a false analogy as the US enjoys significant privileges in running large deficits, unlike Atlas, who do not have any privileges. Trump's high self-regard often closes in on clinical or borderline narcissism and is often amplified by his echo chamber. He has previously posted a picture portraying him in Jesus-like robes, healing a sick patient. The post drew criticism even from Republicans, though Trump later clarified he intended to depict himself as a doctor "making people better". He also compared himself to the likes of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan.

Donald Trump shared an uncaptioned AI-generated image resembling the Greek Titan Atlas on Truth Social. Here's the mythology behind it and what the symbolism could mean.

Why did Donald Trump share an Atlas-like AI image on Truth Social?

The Iranian state has scheduled the funeral of the late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for the first week of July. The funeral ceremonies of Khamenei will start on July 4 and will last till July 9. The start date coincides with US Independence Day as the country celebrates its 250th anniversary, drawing international attention. The Iranian Supreme Leader was killed in a US-Israeli attack on February 28. The Iranian government officially declared a 40-day national mourning period following the death. Following the 40 days, major state-sponsored memorial processions were held across major cities to mark the conclusion of the 40 days.<h2>US Independence Day &nbsp;</h2>Meanwhile, the US will be celebrating its Semiquincentennial birthday with two organisations, Freedom 250 and America 250, with a series of events across the country. The day marks the independence of the US from British rule on July 4, 1776. The president has announced a ‘Great American State Fair’ across the 50 states of the country and on the National Mall. There will also be a Sail4th international Fleet, where New York Harbour and the New Jersey coast will host the largest international fleet of tall ships. There will be thousands of simultaneous community-organised picnics and block parties across all 50 states, and the official burial of a national time capsule at Independence Mall.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sai-krishna-custodial-death-police-impunity-andhra-pradesh-1782623445503">Sai Krishna's disappearance became a custodial death. What it reveals about police impunity</a><h2>Why is the timing significant?</h2>The Iranian official said that the funeral ceremonies were supposed to be held early on March 4, but were postponed as the US strike continued. The official explanation was a lack of infrastructure to handle the expected millions of mourners. They wanted to reschedule the funeral for June in the holy Shia mourning month of Muharram. But it was abandoned as military escalations and geopolitical gridlocks dragged on. The multi-day funeral event will include processions and observances in Tehran, followed by ceremonies in the holy city of Qom on July 7. The burial will take place at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, Khamenei's hometown, on July 9.&nbsp;Analysts have noted that following the signing of the Islamabad MoU, domestic protests erupted across Iran in mid-June 2026. There were accusations of making too many concessions to the US. Hardliners branded Araghchi a "compromiser" and an "infiltrator," loudly demanding his immediate resignation. There were slogans, "We must remember the sacrifice of the martyr." "What about the bloodshed by the Supreme Leader?"&nbsp;By launching a massive, state-sponsored anti-Western mourning event on July 4th, Iran's establishment is intentionally showing they remember the "martyr" killed by US-Israeli strikes, and draw attention from the global media. As the US President continues to claim victory, Iran remembers its "martyr" in a form of symbolic defiance, sends a message of ideological survival and failure of the West to subdue Iran, while at the same time silencing the hardliner critics.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran will begin Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral on July 4, coinciding with US Independence Day. Here's why the timing carries political and symbolic significance.

The Iranian state has scheduled the funeral of the late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei for the first week of July. The funeral ceremonies of Khamenei will start on July 4 and will last till July 9. The start date coincides with US Independence Day as the country celebrates its 250th anniversary, drawing international attention. The Iranian Supreme Leader was killed in a US-Israeli attack on February 28. The Iranian government officially declared a 40-day national mourning period following the death. Following the 40 days, major state-sponsored memorial processions were held across major cities to mark the conclusion of the 40 days. US Independence Day Meanwhile, the US will be celebrating its Semiquincentennial birthday with two organisations, Freedom 250 and America 250, with a series of events across the country. The day marks the independence of the US from British rule on July 4, 1776. The president has announced a ‘Great American State Fair’ across the 50 states of the country and on the National Mall. There will also be a Sail4th international Fleet, where New York Harbour and the New Jersey coast will host the largest international fleet of tall ships. There will be thousands of simultaneous community-organised picnics and block parties across all 50 states, and the official burial of a national time capsule at Independence Mall. Also Read: Sai Krishna's disappearance became a custodial death. What it reveals about police impunity Why is the timing significant? The Iranian official said that the funeral ceremonies were supposed to be held early on March 4, but were postponed as the US strike continued. The official explanation was a lack of infrastructure to handle the expected millions of mourners. They wanted to reschedule the funeral for June in the holy Shia mourning month of Muharram. But it was abandoned as military escalations and geopolitical gridlocks dragged on. The multi-day funeral event will include processions and observances in Tehran, followed by ceremonies in the holy city of Qom on July 7. The burial will take place at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, Khamenei's hometown, on July 9. Analysts have noted that following the signing of the Islamabad MoU, domestic protests erupted across Iran in mid-June 2026. There were accusations of making too many concessions to the US. Hardliners branded Araghchi a "compromiser" and an "infiltrator," loudly demanding his immediate resignation. There were slogans, "We must remember the sacrifice of the martyr." "What about the bloodshed by the Supreme Leader?" By launching a massive, state-sponsored anti-Western mourning event on July 4th, Iran's establishment is intentionally showing they remember the "martyr" killed by US-Israeli strikes, and draw attention from the global media. As the US President continues to claim victory, Iran remembers its "martyr" in a form of symbolic defiance, sends a message of ideological survival and failure of the West to subdue Iran, while at the same time silencing the hardliner critics.

Iran will begin Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral on July 4, coinciding with US Independence Day. Here's why the timing carries political and symbolic significance.

Why Iran scheduled Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral to coincide with US Independence Day

What could be the biggest takeaways from Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's first visit to India for trade, defence, semiconductor manufacturing, clean energy and emerging technologies?&nbsp;&nbsp;Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is scheduled to visit India from July 1 to 3 for the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, marking her first official trip to New Delhi since assuming office. She will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take forward cooperation in trade, defence, semiconductors, clean energy and emerging technologies. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement said that the India-Japan relationship is ‘Special Strategic and Global Partnership rooted in a long history of cultural ties, bilateral trade, and shared economic security initiatives.’ So what to expect from the summit:<h2>Japan's ¥10 trillion investment roadmap for India</h2>One of the biggest outcomes expected from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's maiden visit is the operationalisation of Japan's ambitious ¥10 trillion investment roadmap for India. Takaichi is expected to be accompanied by senior executives from some of Japan's biggest corporations, including Toyota Tsusho, Itochu and Suzuki Motor. Their participation signals Tokyo's intent to deepen its economic footprint in India through manufacturing, infrastructure and industrial partnerships. Rather than announcing fresh investment commitments, the focus is likely to be on executing projects already agreed upon and accelerating Japanese private sector participation. Instead of viewing India solely as a consumer market, Japanese companies are increasingly positioning the country as a manufacturing and export hub for global supply chains.<h2>Security cooperation amid China's rise</h2>Security cooperation is the second most important outcome expected to dominate the summit. With the rise of China, both countries are facing an increasingly complex Indo-Pacific security environment. India and Japan are likely to deepen collaboration in defence manufacturing, maritime security and strategic technologies. The two sides are expected to explore greater co-development of defence equipment while strengthening interoperability between their armed forces. The summit is also expected to reinforce cooperation under the Quad framework, reflecting the growing convergence between New Delhi and Tokyo on maintaining a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific.<h2>Semiconductors and critical technologies</h2>Economic security has emerged as a defining pillar of the India-Japan partnership. The summit is expected to strengthen cooperation in semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence and digital technologies as both countries seek to reduce dependence on concentrated global supply chains.Alongside semiconductors, discussions are likely to focus on securing critical minerals required for advanced manufacturing, expanding collaboration in clean energy technologies and exploring opportunities in space and emerging technologies. These initiatives are aimed at building resilient supply chains while supporting India's ambition to become a global manufacturing hub.<h2>Energy security amid global supply chain disruption</h2>Energy cooperation is expected to receive renewed attention during the summit. Japan is likely to extend financial and technical support for strengthening India's strategic petroleum reserves, helping enhance the country's long-term energy security. The leaders are also expected to review progress on flagship infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor, while pushing for faster implementation of metro rail, industrial corridors and urban connectivity projects backed by Japanese financing.

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi's first visit to India is expected to strengthen cooperation in trade, defence, semiconductor manufacturing, clean energy and emerging technologies. The summit could deepen strategic ties, boost investment 

What could be the biggest takeaways from Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's first visit to India for trade, defence, semiconductor manufacturing, clean energy and emerging technologies? Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is scheduled to visit India from July 1 to 3 for the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, marking her first official trip to New Delhi since assuming office. She will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take forward cooperation in trade, defence, semiconductors, clean energy and emerging technologies. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement said that the India-Japan relationship is ‘Special Strategic and Global Partnership rooted in a long history of cultural ties, bilateral trade, and shared economic security initiatives.’ So what to expect from the summit: Japan's ¥10 trillion investment roadmap for India One of the biggest outcomes expected from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's maiden visit is the operationalisation of Japan's ambitious ¥10 trillion investment roadmap for India. Takaichi is expected to be accompanied by senior executives from some of Japan's biggest corporations, including Toyota Tsusho, Itochu and Suzuki Motor. Their participation signals Tokyo's intent to deepen its economic footprint in India through manufacturing, infrastructure and industrial partnerships. Rather than announcing fresh investment commitments, the focus is likely to be on executing projects already agreed upon and accelerating Japanese private sector participation. Instead of viewing India solely as a consumer market, Japanese companies are increasingly positioning the country as a manufacturing and export hub for global supply chains. Security cooperation amid China's rise Security cooperation is the second most important outcome expected to dominate the summit. With the rise of China, both countries are facing an increasingly complex Indo-Pacific security environment. India and Japan are likely to deepen collaboration in defence manufacturing, maritime security and strategic technologies. The two sides are expected to explore greater co-development of defence equipment while strengthening interoperability between their armed forces. The summit is also expected to reinforce cooperation under the Quad framework, reflecting the growing convergence between New Delhi and Tokyo on maintaining a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific. Semiconductors and critical technologies Economic security has emerged as a defining pillar of the India-Japan partnership. The summit is expected to strengthen cooperation in semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence and digital technologies as both countries seek to reduce dependence on concentrated global supply chains. Alongside semiconductors, discussions are likely to focus on securing critical minerals required for advanced manufacturing, expanding collaboration in clean energy technologies and exploring opportunities in space and emerging technologies. These initiatives are aimed at building resilient supply chains while supporting India's ambition to become a global manufacturing hub. Energy security amid global supply chain disruption Energy cooperation is expected to receive renewed attention during the summit. Japan is likely to extend financial and technical support for strengthening India's strategic petroleum reserves, helping enhance the country's long-term energy security. The leaders are also expected to review progress on flagship infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor, while pushing for faster implementation of metro rail, industrial corridors and urban connectivity projects backed by Japanese financing.

Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi's first visit to India is expected to strengthen cooperation in trade, defence, semiconductor manufacturing, clean energy and emerging technologies. The summit could deepen strategic ties, boost investment&nbsp;

WION Decodes | What could be biggest takeaways from Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's first India visit?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the State House in Seychelles on Sunday during his three-day official visit to the East African island nation. His visit has been undertaken at the invitation of Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, which is focused on deepening the longstanding partnership between the two countries. President Herminie formally welcomed PM Modi at the State House, where the two leaders participated in formal ceremonial proceedings as part of the visit. Scheduled from June 27 to 29, the Prime Minister's trip will also see him attend Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations on Monday as the Guest of Honour, commemorating 50 years of the country's independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-the-f-22-fighter-jet-safely-dumps-hundreds-of-gallons-of-fuel-in-mid-air-1782565080731">How the F-22 fighter jet safely dumps hundreds of gallons of fuel in mid-air</a><h3>Close diplomatic ties between India and Seychelles&nbsp;</h3>The Prime Minister arrived in the capital, Victoria, on Saturday and was personally received at the airport by President Herminie, accompanied by senior cabinet ministers and top government officials. The warm reception underscored the close diplomatic ties shared by the two nations.&nbsp;On Saturday, upon arrival, PM Modi was welcomed with vibrant cultural performances, including a traditional Indian dance from the Kutch region of Gujarat. Later, he paid a visit to the Seychelles National Botanical Garden, marking a significant cultural and environmental participation during his ongoing visit to the island nation. During the visit, PM Modi also presented a 'Made in India' Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), PS LESPWAR, alongside six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats to Seychelles in order to bolster the maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol capabilities of the island nation. Additionally, on the first day of PM Modi's official visit, a high-level handover ceremony was held in the presence of President Herminie at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria.

Scheduled from June 27 to 29, the Prime Minister's trip will also see him attend Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations on Monday as the Guest of Honour, commemorating 50 years of the country's independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the State House in Seychelles on Sunday during his three-day official visit to the East African island nation. His visit has been undertaken at the invitation of Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, which is focused on deepening the longstanding partnership between the two countries. President Herminie formally welcomed PM Modi at the State House, where the two leaders participated in formal ceremonial proceedings as part of the visit. Scheduled from June 27 to 29, the Prime Minister's trip will also see him attend Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations on Monday as the Guest of Honour, commemorating 50 years of the country's independence from the United Kingdom in 1976. Also read: How the F-22 fighter jet safely dumps hundreds of gallons of fuel in mid-air Close diplomatic ties between India and Seychelles The Prime Minister arrived in the capital, Victoria, on Saturday and was personally received at the airport by President Herminie, accompanied by senior cabinet ministers and top government officials. The warm reception underscored the close diplomatic ties shared by the two nations. On Saturday, upon arrival, PM Modi was welcomed with vibrant cultural performances, including a traditional Indian dance from the Kutch region of Gujarat. Later, he paid a visit to the Seychelles National Botanical Garden, marking a significant cultural and environmental participation during his ongoing visit to the island nation. During the visit, PM Modi also presented a 'Made in India' Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), PS LESPWAR, alongside six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats to Seychelles in order to bolster the maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol capabilities of the island nation. Additionally, on the first day of PM Modi's official visit, a high-level handover ceremony was held in the presence of President Herminie at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria.

Scheduled from June 27 to 29, the Prime Minister's trip will also see him attend Seychelles' Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations on Monday as the Guest of Honour, commemorating 50 years of the country's independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.

PM Modi receives guard of honour in Seychelles during his 3-day official visit

A major security scare has put Delhi and Uttarakhand on high alert as authorities received emails warning of a possible major terrorist attack. According to Delhi Police sources quoted in several media reports, the messages mentioned several temples, government offices and political leaders as potential targets. As the emails put the forces in frenzy, police and intelligence officials intensified surveillance across sensitive locations in Delhi and Uttarakhand. The authorities are also trying to determine the credibility of the threats. The intelligence agencies are coordinating closely with state police forces to assess the situation and strengthen security at sensitive locations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-special-cell-arrests-9-with-isi-link-vital-locations-in-delhi-mumbai-were-targets-of-attack-1780144004577">Delhi Police Special Cell arrests 9 with ISI link, vital locations in Delhi, Mumbai were targets of attack</a>&nbsp;According to intelligence inputs, Khalistani terrorists could attempt to carry out attacks in the coming days, targeting religious places, government institutions, railway stations and police personnel in both Delhi and Uttarakhand. The latest security alert comes in the backdrop of recent tensions involving Nihang Sikhs and the Uttarakhand Police. Authorities believe the recent confrontation has heightened concerns, although the authenticity of the threat emails and any direct link to the standoff are still under investigation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tughlakabad-fire-that-killed-3-was-arson-not-accident-delhi-police-arrest-minor-3-others-1781432578605">Tughlakabad fire that killed 3 'was arson, not accident', Delhi police arrest minor, 3 others</a><h2>What led to the Nihang-Uttarakhand Police standoff?</h2>The confrontation traces its origins to an incident on June 16 in Karnaprayag, Chamoli district. According to police, a verbal argument broke out between a group of Nihang Sikh pilgrims returning from the Hemkund Sahib Yatra and local traders. The dispute allegedly escalated into violence, with four local residents sustaining injuries after being attacked with swords. An FIR was registered following the incident, and four Nihang pilgrims were arrested before being sent to judicial custody.&nbsp;The arrests triggered protests by members of the Nihang community. On June 20, a group occupied a gurdwara in Nagarasu in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district, where they remained for several days before leaving on June 23 after holding prayers and meditation. A larger gathering later marched towards Dehradun on June 25, demanding the release of the arrested Nihangs and alleging bias in the police investigation.&nbsp;The standoff has eased following discussions between community representatives and the Uttarakhand Police. Officials assured the protesters that their allegations of partiality would be examined, after which the group withdrew from the Himachal Pradesh-Uttarakhand border. Despite the de-escalation, security agencies remain on alert.

Threat emails warning of a possible terror attack have put Delhi and Uttarakhand on high alert. Intelligence agencies have warned of potential attacks on temples, government offices, railway stations and police personnel, with Delhi Police investigating the emails amid heightened security.

A major security scare has put Delhi and Uttarakhand on high alert as authorities received emails warning of a possible major terrorist attack. According to Delhi Police sources quoted in several media reports, the messages mentioned several temples, government offices and political leaders as potential targets. As the emails put the forces in frenzy, police and intelligence officials intensified surveillance across sensitive locations in Delhi and Uttarakhand. The authorities are also trying to determine the credibility of the threats. The intelligence agencies are coordinating closely with state police forces to assess the situation and strengthen security at sensitive locations. Also Read: Delhi Police Special Cell arrests 9 with ISI link, vital locations in Delhi, Mumbai were targets of attack According to intelligence inputs, Khalistani terrorists could attempt to carry out attacks in the coming days, targeting religious places, government institutions, railway stations and police personnel in both Delhi and Uttarakhand. The latest security alert comes in the backdrop of recent tensions involving Nihang Sikhs and the Uttarakhand Police. Authorities believe the recent confrontation has heightened concerns, although the authenticity of the threat emails and any direct link to the standoff are still under investigation. Also Read: Tughlakabad fire that killed 3 'was arson, not accident', Delhi police arrest minor, 3 others What led to the Nihang-Uttarakhand Police standoff? The confrontation traces its origins to an incident on June 16 in Karnaprayag, Chamoli district. According to police, a verbal argument broke out between a group of Nihang Sikh pilgrims returning from the Hemkund Sahib Yatra and local traders. The dispute allegedly escalated into violence, with four local residents sustaining injuries after being attacked with swords. An FIR was registered following the incident, and four Nihang pilgrims were arrested before being sent to judicial custody. The arrests triggered protests by members of the Nihang community. On June 20, a group occupied a gurdwara in Nagarasu in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district, where they remained for several days before leaving on June 23 after holding prayers and meditation. A larger gathering later marched towards Dehradun on June 25, demanding the release of the arrested Nihangs and alleging bias in the police investigation. The standoff has eased following discussions between community representatives and the Uttarakhand Police. Officials assured the protesters that their allegations of partiality would be examined, after which the group withdrew from the Himachal Pradesh-Uttarakhand border. Despite the de-escalation, security agencies remain on alert.

Threat emails warning of a possible terror attack have put Delhi and Uttarakhand on high alert. Intelligence agencies have warned of potential attacks on temples, government offices, railway stations and police personnel, with Delhi Police investigating the emails amid heightened security.

High alert in Delhi, Uttarakhand after emails warn of 'possible terror attack'

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