**Headline: **   Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a phone call from Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani after a gas explosion at Ras Laffan Industrial City killed 13 people, including 12 Indians.   In a post on X, Modi thanked the Emir for his condolences and said both countries share the grief of the affected families. He also wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the incident.   The explosion took place at a gas facility operated by QatarEnergy LNG. Sixty-six people were injured. India is working with Qatari authorities to identify the victims and arrange the return of mortal remains.  

Norway striker Erling Haaland sparked discussion online after his frank comments about facing France at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Speaking after Norway's 3-2 win over Senegal, Haaland said he was not focused on the upcoming match because his team had already reached the knockout stage.   He then made a surprising prediction about France. "They'll probably beat us and probably win the whole tournament," Haaland said.   The remarks quickly went viral on social media, with fans reacting to his honesty. Norway and France will meet in a match that will decide the Group I winner.  

Larry the Cat, the famous Chief Mouser of Downing Street, is back in the spotlight after a playful social media post suggested he had "accepted" Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation as his chief servant.   The post drew attention online and added to Larry's long-running popularity in British politics. The cat has lived at 10 Downing Street since 2011 and has remained in place through six different prime ministers.   Over the years, Larry has become one of the most recognisable residents of Downing Street. While political leaders have come and gone, the well-known feline has continued his role, earning a loyal following both in Britain and abroad. (PC: X)

A pet duck named Merlin has become an unlikely star of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Mexico. After going viral during celebrations following Mexico’s 2-0 opening-match victory over South Africa, the duck often seen wearing an El Tri jersey was invited to meet Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum at her morning press conference in Mexico City. Merlin’s owner, Karla Gomez, said the family felt honoured and hopes the duck’s popularity can support their livelihood and help her eldest son, who suffers from mental illness. Sheinbaum praised Merlin as a symbol of Mexican families and indicated the family would receive assistance from the government.  

A seven-year-old Labrador retriever named Mary played a pivotal role in helping Sambhal Police solve a child sexual assault case after investigators found no CCTV footage, eyewitnesses or immediate forensic leads. Using the scent from a scarf recovered near the crime scene, Mary traced a trail through narrow lanes and stopped outside the accused’s house, located less than 300 metres away. Although the suspect initially fled, police later tracked and arrested him. Investigators also conducted a scent identification parade, where Mary reportedly identified the accused again. The suspect was subsequently arrested and charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. Police rewarded Mary with ₹10,000 for her contribution.

Commercial flight operations from Mundra Airport are set to strengthen regional connectivity and economic integration in western India. Announcing the development, Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Airport Holdings, said the launch of commercial services will significantly improve access to Mundra and enhance connectivity for passengers and businesses. The move is expected to provide better transportation links to the region, which is home to major industrial, logistics and port infrastructure. Improved air connectivity is likely to support trade, tourism and investment while offering faster travel options for residents and corporate travellers. The initiative marks an important milestone in Mundra’s infrastructure and connectivity growth.

India’s Ambassador to China, Vikram Doraiswami, completed the sacred Kailash Parikrama ahead of the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after a five-year suspension. Inspecting facilities, medical centres, accommodation, transport and security arrangements along the Nathu La and Lipulekh routes, he assured pilgrims that extensive preparations have been made. Doraiswami described Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar as a “journey of a lifetime” but warned that the pilgrimage involves extreme altitudes exceeding 5,600 metres. He advised pilgrims to prepare for high-altitude sickness, carry essential medicines, wear waterproof trekking shoes, dress in layers, protect against intense UV radiation and help preserve the fragile Himalayan environment.

US President Donald Trump claimed Iran has agreed to the highest level of international nuclear inspections for an extended period, describing it as a major concession that would ensure “nuclear honesty.” The statement followed technical-level US-Iran talks in Switzerland aimed at ending the West Asia conflict. Trump said continued negotiations depended on Tehran accepting inspections and added that the Strait of Hormuz would remain open as part of broader concessions. However, Iran rejected US claims that it had agreed to allow International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors back into the country, maintaining that cooperation would continue only under existing procedures. Tehran has denied making any new commitments.

Iran is rapidly seeking to revive oil exports to Asia after the US granted a 60-day sanctions waiver, allowing Tehran to approach refiners in India, Japan, South Korea and other markets. Around 68 million barrels of Iranian crude and condensate remain on tankers, with over 80% lacking confirmed destinations. While India is geographically well-positioned to receive cargoes within days, refiners remain cautious due to uncertain US policy, existing supply contracts, insurance and shipping constraints, and ongoing geopolitical risks. Analysts believe China will remain Iran’s primary buyer, while India could emerge as a second-wave customer if sanctions relief proves durable and attractive discounts materialise for refiners. (PC: Reuters)

France has reported 40 drowning deaths since last week as a severe heatwave continues to affect Europe. Officials said many people entered rivers and canals to cool off during the extreme temperatures. France recorded its hottest June day and night on record, with large parts of the country under red alert. Spain and Italy are also facing temperatures above 40°C. Authorities have warned people to avoid swimming in unsafe areas and stay hydrated. The heatwave has disrupted daily life, forced emergency measures, and raised concerns about public safety as Europe faces another period of extreme weather. (PC: Reuters)