Armed rebel groups launch coordinated attacks on Mali’s capital Bamako and multiple regions, targeting military sites and areas near the international airport, as authorities claim control despite escalating instability across the country
Outrage spreads after Israeli soldier vandalizes statue of Jesus in southern Lebanon, sparking condemnation from religious leaders, inflaming regional tensions, and raising concerns over respect for cultural and sacred sites during conflict
South Africa faces diplomatic controversy after being excluded from upcoming G20 summit by United States, prompting backlash from allies who argue no member can be unilaterally removed from the group
US–Iran tensions escalate as peace talks collapse, Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten global oil supplies, and military activity intensifies across the Middle East with no clear diplomatic breakthrough in sight
India deepens economic ties with neighbors as Sri Lanka exports surge over 12%, while new trade talks with the United States signal efforts to expand global partnerships and reduce dependence on traditional markets
Seven killed in massive overnight Russian assault on Ukraine as Dnipro apartment building struck, hundreds of drones launched, British jets scrambled from Romania, and Kyiv responds with long-range strikes deep inside Russia
Shots fired at White House Correspondents’ Dinner spark international concern over political violence, prompting heightened security measures and widespread condemnation from global leaders
China moves to restrict US investment in domestic tech and AI firms, requiring government approval for foreign funding, signaling tighter control over capital flows and escalating economic tensions between Beijing and Washington
Severe storms and flooding risks hit southern Africa while other regions face extreme heat, underscoring intensifying climate volatility and growing threats to infrastructure, agriculture, and local populations
Dozens of people are feared dead after a Nigerian military air strike hit a village market in Yobe state, reportedly targeting Boko Haram fighters but striking civilians. Rights groups cite high casualties, while authorities launch an investigation amid ongoing insurgency-related violence.
Libya’s rival eastern and western authorities approved a unified state budget for the first time since 2013, signalling rare cooperation after years of division. Officials say the deal could stabilise finances, though deep political splits and rival power structures remain.
The UK has paused legislation to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius after losing US support, with President Donald Trump opposing the deal. The plan, tied to the strategic Diego Garcia base, is stalled amid strained US-UK relations and political uncertainty.
US and Iranian negotiators failed to reach a peace agreement after more than 20 hours of talks in Pakistan, with major disagreements over Tehran’s nuclear programme and regional security. The impasse threatens a fragile ceasefire and raises risks of renewed escalation.
The United States said two Navy destroyers transited the Strait of Hormuz to begin clearing Iranian-laid mines and reopen a vital shipping route. Iran denied the passage, highlighting conflicting claims amid a fragile ceasefire and heightened regional tensions.
Pakistan deployed fighter jets and troops to Saudi Arabia under a 2025 defence pact, marking its first visible military move as it hosts US-Iran ceasefire talks. The deployment signals support for Riyadh and serves as a deterrent amid escalating regional tensions.
Costa Rica has received 25 migrants deported from the United States in the first phase of a bilateral agreement. Immigration chief Omer Badilla said they may return voluntarily to their home countries or apply for refugee status if they fear persecution.
Peter Magyar won Hungary’s election, unseating longtime nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Speaking in Budapest, Magyar hailed his party’s victory as reclaiming the country and ending Orbán’s rule after years in power.
Taiwan opposition leader Cheng Li-wun called for reconciliation with China after a rare meeting with President Xi Jinping in Beijing, urging dialogue and peaceful resolution. Both sides opposed Taiwan independence, though the outreach sparked controversy amid ongoing cross-strait tensions.
Myanmar’s coup leader Min Aung Hlaing was sworn in as president, five years after seizing power in a military takeover that sparked civil war. The move, following a widely criticised election, formalises military control under a nominal civilian government.