FIFA has responded to questions over visible empty seats during South Korea's Group A match against Czechia at the 2026 World Cup in Mexico, saying that more than 55,000 spectators attended the game. The governing body said the official attendance reflected tickets sold and scanned, adding that empty sections seen on television could be due to hospitality areas, late arrivals and fans moving around the stadium. As the attendance debate continues, Day 3 of the tournament will feature Qatar against Switzerland, Brazil taking on Morocco, Haiti facing Scotland and Australia opening its campaign against Turkiye. (PC: NDTV)

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed reports claiming that a fourth vessel carrying Indian seafarers was attacked in the Gulf region. The government clarified that all crew members aboard the MT Liaki Freedom are safe and there has been no attack on the ship. The clarification came after media reports raised concerns over the safety of Indian nationals working on commercial vessels amid rising regional tensions. The MEA said it is closely monitoring the situation and remains in touch with relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of Indian seafarers. (PC: X)

The Indian Air Force has ordered a Court of Inquiry after an AN-32 transport aircraft crashed while landing at the Jorhat Air Force Station in Assam, killing five personnel. The co-pilot survived the crash and is undergoing treatment. The aircraft reportedly caught fire after the accident, triggering rescue and firefighting operations inside the airbase. According to the IAF, the aircraft was on a routine sortie when it crashed. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident. The Air Force has expressed condolences to the families of those killed and said it stands with them during this difficult time. (PC: India Today, X)

England's preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 have suffered an unexpected setback after training equipment, including players' boots and official footballs, was stolen ahead of their opening Group L match against Croatia. The theft reportedly took place while the team's gear was being transported to their training base in Kansas City. Local police have arrested two suspects and launched an investigation into the incident. Despite the disruption, England's coaching staff is working to replace the missing items, and the squad is expected to continue preparations as planned before the June 17 clash against Croatia. (PC: X)

Comedian Pranit More has apologised over his viral "Rs 370 ki biryani" video, saying he "got carried away" while making the remarks that sparked criticism on social media.   In a statement, More said he never intended to hurt anyone's sentiments and regretted that the video had caused offence. The clip drew backlash online, with many users accusing the comedian of being insensitive.   As the controversy grew, More issued a public apology and appealed to people not to misunderstand his intentions. The incident has once again highlighted the scrutiny faced by stand-up comedians over jokes and online content.  

The government has appointed Lt General Dhiraj Seth as the next Chief of the Indian Army. He will take over from General Upendra Dwivedi after the latter completes his tenure.   Lt General Seth is a senior officer with extensive operational and command experience, having served in several key positions during his military career. His appointment comes at a time when the Army is focused on modernisation, border security and strengthening combat readiness.   The change of command marks an important transition for the force, with Lt General Seth set to lead the Army through evolving security challenges and strategic priorities. (PC: The Indian Express)

India may not have qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026, but the country will still have a connection to football's biggest stage through four players of Indian origin.   New Zealand's Sarpreet Singh, Qatar's Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid, DR Congo's Samuel Moutoussamy and Australia's Nishan Velupillay are all part of their respective national squads for the tournament. Their presence highlights the growing influence of the Indian diaspora in global football.   While Indian fans continue to wait for the national team's World Cup debut, the quartet offers a reason to celebrate and follow the competition with added interest.  

Iran has said it is close to reaching an agreement with the United States to end months of fighting, with the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz forming a key part of the proposed deal.   Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the agreement would also include lifting the US naval blockade and pave the way for future talks on Tehran's nuclear programme. US officials confirmed parts of the framework but said economic relief for Iran would depend on verified compliance with its commitments.   The proposed deal would restore shipping through the crucial waterway and begin a phased easing of sanctions, although final approval is still pending. (PC: BBC)

Five Indian Air Force personnel were killed after an AN-32 transport aircraft crashed while attempting to land at the Jorhat Air Force Station in Assam on Saturday.   The aircraft went down during landing and caught fire, prompting an emergency response at the airbase. The IAF confirmed the deaths and expressed condolences to the families of the personnel killed in the accident.   Officials said a court of inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the crash. Reports said the co-pilot survived and is undergoing treatment. The AN-32 is a key transport aircraft used by the IAF for logistics and operational missions. (PC: X)

FIFA has come under criticism after a cooling break during the World Cup opener between Mexico and South Africa was reportedly extended to accommodate a television commercial break.   According to multiple reports, the referee delayed the restart as the broadcaster was still showing advertisements. Even then, some viewers missed the first few seconds of play after the match resumed. FIFA had introduced mandatory three-minute cooling breaks for player welfare, with broadcasters instructed to return before the restart. The incident has sparked backlash from fans, who argue that commercial interests should not interfere with the flow of the game or the viewing experience. (PC: X)