At least 28 people were killed after a devastating fire engulfed the Huiteng shoe factory in Jinjiang, Fujian Province, one of China's largest footwear manufacturing hubs. The blaze broke out around midday while 239 people were inside the multi-storey factory. Authorities said 213 workers and visitors were evacuated or rescued as nearly 200 firefighters battled the flames. Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered an all-out rescue operation, a swift investigation into the cause, and strict accountability for those responsible. The factory owner and management have reportedly been detained as investigations into the deadly industrial disaster continue.

The controversy over India's mandatory E20 ethanol-blended petrol policy has intensified after political analyst Tehseen Poonawalla sought a live public meeting with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. Poonawalla wants an open discussion on concerns over reduced fuel efficiency, vehicle compatibility, and consumer choice. Gadkari has strongly defended the policy, challenging critics to present evidence of vehicle damage caused by E20 fuel. The government maintains that ethanol blending reduces crude oil imports, lowers emissions, and supports farmers, while critics continue demanding greater transparency and accountability in the nationwide rollout. (PC: India Today)

Two doctors, including a woman, have resigned from a civic hospital in Thane after allegedly being assaulted by Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre during a dispute over the treatment of a pregnant patient. A viral video showed the corporator slapping, punching, and threatening medical staff, triggering widespread outrage. Doctors and healthcare workers staged protests demanding stronger security in hospitals. Police arrested Mhatre and registered a case against him and others involved. The incident has reignited concerns over the safety of healthcare professionals and prompted renewed calls for stricter measures against violence in medical institutions. 

Real Madrid teammates Brahim Díaz and Kylian Mbappé will become rivals as Morocco face France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal. The highly anticipated clash pits two close friends against each other, with both expected to play crucial roles for their national teams. Mbappé leads France's title challenge, while Díaz has been instrumental in Morocco's historic run to the last eight. Their friendship will temporarily take a back seat as they compete for a place in the semifinals. The matchup has become one of the tournament's biggest storylines, highlighting elite talent, friendship, and fierce international competition. (PC: X)

Russia has announced a nationwide ban on diesel exports following a series of Ukrainian drone strikes that damaged key oil and fuel infrastructure. The measure aims to stabilize domestic fuel supplies and prevent shortages as repairs continue. The attacks have intensified pressure on Russia's energy sector, disrupting refining operations and logistics. Analysts warn the export ban could tighten global diesel supplies, particularly in regions dependent on Russian fuel, potentially driving up international energy prices. The development highlights the growing economic impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, with energy markets facing renewed uncertainty amid continued cross-border attacks and escalating hostilities. (PC: X)

The United States has released official footage showing coordinated strikes on 90 Iranian military targets, describing the operation as a response to escalating regional threats. The videos reportedly capture precision attacks on missile facilities, military bases, and other strategic sites. In response, Iran condemned the strikes as a violation of its sovereignty and warned that it would retaliate against US interests. The exchange has further intensified tensions across the Middle East, raising fears of a broader regional conflict involving multiple countries. Diplomatic efforts remain under strain as both sides adopt increasingly confrontational positions amid growing international concern.

US President Donald Trump has again claimed that his administration helped broker a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, while also alleging that 11 military aircraft were shot down during the recent conflict. Trump said the fighting risked escalating into a wider confrontation before diplomatic efforts led to a halt in hostilities. India has consistently maintained that the ceasefire resulted from direct military-level talks between the two countries and has rejected claims of third-party mediation. Trump's latest remarks have reignited debate over the conflict's diplomatic outcome and the scale of military losses reported during the escalation. (PC: File)

Jordan's Armed Forces intercepted at least eight Iranian missiles that passed through its airspace, triggering air raid sirens across several cities. Videos circulating online captured the interceptions lighting up the night sky as tensions between Iran and its regional adversaries intensified. The Jordanian military said it acted to protect the country's sovereignty and civilian safety, stressing that it would not allow its airspace to be used in the conflict. The incident comes amid escalating hostilities involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, raising fears of a wider regional war and increasing security concerns across the Middle East.

Iran held a massive state funeral for its slain Supreme Leader, drawing senior officials, military commanders, and thousands of mourners in Tehran. The ceremony marked the culmination of days of nationwide mourning following his death during the recent conflict with Israel. Iranian leaders vowed to continue resisting foreign pressure and warned of retaliation against those responsible. The funeral comes as tensions remain high after renewed US military strikes and the collapse of diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran. The event underscores Iran's political uncertainty and raises fears of further escalation across the Middle East amid an increasingly volatile regional security situation. (PC: Reuters)

France's national football team has reportedly refused to board aircraft linked to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation operations during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The decision comes amid growing criticism of the Trump administration's immigration policies and mass deportation efforts. According to reports, the players objected to using planes associated with deportation flights, citing humanitarian concerns and the symbolic impact on the tournament. The incident has sparked international debate over immigration, human rights, and the intersection of politics and sport, adding fresh controversy to the ongoing World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. (PC: Getty Images)