Iran begins formal mourning for Khamenei Iran opened major funeral ceremonies for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, nearly four months after he was killed in US-Israeli strikes on February 28. The ceremony in Tehran became a major moment of public mourning and political symbolism, with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf seen visibly emotional as senior officials gathered to pay their final respect

Conflict reaches historic casualty levels A new analysis by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimates that combined military casualties in the Russia-Ukraine war have surpassed 2 million since the conflict began in February 2022. The study describes the war as the most intense military confrontation in Europe since the Second World War, with R

A nearby world strengthens the search for habitability Astronomers have identified a promising super-Earth, GJ 3378b, located just 25 light-years from Earth, placing it among the closest potentially habitable exoplanets discovered to date. Its proximity offers rare opportunities for future atmospheric study, making it a key target in the ongoing search for environments

A Planet That Should Not Exist in This Orbit Astronomers have long believed that planets orbiting close to a star cannot survive its transformation into a red giant and eventual collapse into a white dwarf. However, the discovery of WD 1856b has challenged that assumption. The Jupiter-sized planet orbits its dead star at an extremely close distance, completing a full orbit in just over a day, defying traditional models of stellar evolution and planetary survival.

A rare handwritten copy of the Sikh sacred scripture linked to Punjab’s royal-era history has been identified in long-held academic archives in Scotland. The document, preserved for decades without public attention, is believed to date back roughly three centuries and is associated with collections once connected to Sikh aristocratic custodianship during the pre-colonial and colonial transition period. From forgotten record to verified heritage object Researchers examining archival holdings in Edinburgh traced the manuscript during a wider study of South Asian religious texts preserved in British institutions. Initial catalog entries did not clearly reflect its significance, but further examination confirmed it as a complete or near-complete handwritten version of the revered Sikh scripture. This reassessment changed its status from overlooked archival material to a culturally significant heritage object. Careful restoration and preservation process Specialist conservators in Scotland undertook detailed restoration work to stabilize the fragile pages and ink. Centuries of storage had weakened the manuscript, making handling risky. Preservation efforts focused on ensuring structural stability while maintaining original integrity, allowing the text to be viewed without causing further deterioration. The process took an extended period due to the delicate condition of the material. Journey across continents and historical custody Historical records suggest the manuscript left Punjab during a turbulent period when royal and religious collections were dispersed under colonial administration. Over time, it entered institutional custody in Britain, eventually becoming part of academic archives. Its journey reflects a broader pattern of cultural objects from South Asia being relocated and stored in European collections, often with limited documentation of their origins. Public darshan at Glasgow gurdwara The restored manuscript has now been placed for controlled public viewing at a Sikh place of worship in Glasgow. Devotees are being allowed to observe the scripture under strict preservation guidelines that balance respect for religious practice with conservation requirements. The arrangement enables spiritual engagement while ensuring the artifact remains protected. Community response and cultural significance Members of the Sikh community in Scotland have described the display as emotionally meaningful, viewing it as a reconnection with historical identity and heritage. The presence of the manuscript has also sparked interest among researchers and visitors, highlighting the importance of rediscovering and reassessing archival collections that may hold significant cultural and religious value.

Social Media Privacy Concerns Gain Attention Through Viral Content A new social media reel concept is drawing attention to how everyday photo habits may expose more information than users realize. The content focuses on common posing gestures, particularly hand signs used in selfies, and raises broader questions about digital privacy awareness in online sharing culture

Kochi, June 30, 2026: The Sabarimala gold theft probe has widened after the Special Investigation Team informed the Kerala High Court that it had collected material against seven persons, including former Travancore Devaswom Board president P.S. Prasanth. The SIT report points to alleged criminal breach of trust, forgery and criminal conspiracy in connection with the Dwarapalaka idols and related gold-plating work. Sabarimala Gold Thef

The Russia–Ukraine conflict continues to evolve into a high-intensity war of attrition, with rising casualties reported among newly deployed troops and increasing strain on military systems. The nature of combat has shifted significantly, with rapid deployments and constant surveillance reducing operational margins for survival on key frontlines. Rapid deployment and shrink

Standoff ends after mediation A three-day standoff involving a group of Nihang Sikhs at a gurdwara in Nagrasu, Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, ended peacefully after talks involving officials and delegations from Punjab and Paonta Sahib. The resolution brought relief to the area after days of tension around the religious premises, where authorities had maintained a close watch to prevent the situation from escalating.

US–Europe tensions escalate over digital taxation dispute US President Donald Trump has renewed tariff threats against European countries over proposed Digital Services Taxes targeting large technology companies. In a statement posted on his social media platform, he warned that nations introducing such taxes could face tariffs of up to 100 percent on goods exported

How to enable earthquake alerts on Android in India is a timely question after powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Android’s warning system can provide some users with seconds of notice after an earthquake begins, although alerts are not guaranteed. Magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes struck western Venezuela at about 6:04 PM and 6:05 PM Venezuela time on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Reuters reported that the confir

A.R. Rahman has received the Golden Plate Award from the American Academy of Achievement in Washington, with filmmaker Peter Jackson presenting the honour. The recognition marks another proud global moment for the Oscar-winning Indian composer and for Indian music. AR Rahman Receives Golden Plate Award Music maestro A.R. Rahman has been honoured with the Golden Plate Award at an American Academy of Achievement

A video circulating online featuring former Russian volunteer commander Alexander Lunin has triggered discussion about possible internal strain within sections of Russia’s military. In the recording, he suggests that prolonged combat operations in Ukraine have created growing frustration among some soldiers, though no independent verification supports claims of organized unrest. The remarks have drawn attention because public criticism linke

The discovery of Soviet missiles in Cuba pushed the United States and the Soviet Union into a direct nuclear confrontation. With only a short distance separating missile sites from U.S. territory, decision-makers in Washington treated the situation as an immediate existential threat rather than a routine diplomatic crisis. Shift to maximum military readiness As intelligence confirmed missile dep

Bihar has ordered a judicial inquiry into the Bharat Tiwari police encounter after the 28-year-old died following a disputed operation in Bilauti village in Bhojpur district. The case has prompted protests, political criticism and a murder FIR naming police personnel. What Happened in the Bharat Tiwari Police Encounter Police said officers and Special Task Force personnel went to Bilauti village on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, after receiving reports that T

A closely watched Senate vote on a resolution linked to presidential war authority over Iran took an unexpected turn after several Republican lawmakers altered their positions. The measure, which focused on limiting executive flexibility in military action, ended up reflecting a divided but shifting political landscape rather than a clear consensus. Political negotiations behind the scenes The change in voting pattern followed internal discussions among Republican senators and briefings from senior administration figures. Lawmakers who initially leaned toward restricting presidential authority later adjusted their stance after being updated on diplomatic and security considerations related to Iran. The shift underscored how quickly positions can move when strategic briefings and party pressure converge. Key senators adjust positions Among those influencing the outcome were Senator Bill Cassidy and Senator Rand Paul. Cassidy moved away from his earlier support for tighter restrictions after consultations with White House representatives. Rand Paul maintained his broader skepticism toward expansive executive war powers but opted for a procedural position that reflected his long-standing policy concerns without directly blocking the measure. Trump frames outcome as political leverage President Donald Trump responded to the Senate outcome by framing it as a strengthening of US negotiating leverage in relation to Iran. His public remarks highlighted the vote as evidence of alignment within the Republican Party on foreign policy strategy. While the resolution itself remains largely symbolic, it has become a focal point in the wider debate over presidential authority and congressional oversight. Broader implications for US foreign policy The vote shift reflects ongoing tension in Washington over how much autonomy the executive branch should hold in matters of military engagement. Supporters of stronger presidential powers argue for flexibility in fast-moving geopolitical situations, while critics warn against reducing congressional oversight. The Iran-related vote has now become another reference point in that broader constitutional debate.

A strong and slow-moving atmospheric pattern is keeping large parts of Europe locked under unusually hot and dry conditions. The system is preventing cooler Atlantic air from entering the region, allowing heat to build up day after day. As a result, temperatures are climbing far above seasonal averages across Western and Central Europe, with multiple countries reporting prolonged heat stress rather than short heat spikes.

US President Donald Trump has recently shown a more measured tone when speaking about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. During a public engagement alongside NATO leadership, Trump acknowledged Ukraine’s continued resistance in the war, describing its position as steady despite ongoing conflict. The comments mark a shift in tone compared to his earlier criticism and reflect a more cautious diplomatic posture from Washington. G7 coordination shapes US approach Recent discussions among G7 member nations have contributed to renewed alignment on Russia-related sanctions and energy strategy. Allied countries have been pushing for tighter coordination on restricting oil revenues linked to Moscow. This collective pressure has influenced US policy thinking, encouraging a more structured approach rather than isolated action. The focus remains on balancing economic pressure with long-term stability in global energy markets. Battlefield situation influences political messaging Developments on the ground in Ukraine continue to play a key role in shaping international responses. Reports of Ukraine expanding its operational reach and sustaining defensive positions have strengthened its bargaining position in diplomatic discussions. These battlefield realities are increasingly reflected in political messaging, as Western leaders reassess how the conflict may evolve over time. Energy markets and global risks remain central Global energy stability remains a key factor in foreign policy decisions. Earlier concerns linked to Middle East tensions and potential disruptions in key shipping routes had raised oil market uncertainty. As conditions show signs of stabilisation, policymakers are gaining more room to consider stricter measures on Russian energy exports without immediate economic disruption. Diplomatic outlook remains uncertain Despite continued international engagement, progress toward direct peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine remains limited. Positions on territorial control and security guarantees continue to block meaningful breakthroughs. While diplomatic channels remain open, there is no clear indication of a near-term resolution. The current US approach reflects a balance between maintaining pressure and keeping space for future negotiations.

Trump Signals Shift in Tone on Ukraine Conflict US President Donald Trump has offered a notably more supportive assessment of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, describing him as performing “pretty well” in the ongoing war with Russia. Speaking alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump acknowledged Ukraine’s resilience while emphasizing the heavy human cost of the conflict on both sides.

Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II carried thousands of litres of Ganga water to London in 1902, turning a royal journey to King Edward VII’s coronation into an extraordinary expression of religious faith. The water travelled in enormous silver vessels known as Gangajalis, which are now preserved at Jaipur’s City Palace and remain among its most recognizable historical objects.