Iran holds funeral procession for Supreme Leader Khamenei
Iran has begun a multi-day funeral procession through Tehran for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed during the ongoing war. The events draw massive crowds as emotion and politics merge in the capital. Meanwhile, Israel continues bombing operations in Lebanon and Gaza, adding to regional tensions. The funeral marks a historic transition of power for the Islamic Republic.
Vietnam is cracking down on a sprawling black market for fake luxury goods, signaling a shift in enforcement. China's stock market volatility reflects broader economic divergence within the country, as policymakers grapple with a demographic crisis that may create winners among certain sectors. Meanwhile, Chinese budget brands like Mixue are struggling to crack developed international markets, highlighting the difficulties of global expansion for Chinese consumer companies.
Russia launched a deadly missile and drone attack on Kyiv, killing at least five people on the eve of President Trump's trip to a critical NATO summit. The strikes mark Russia's second major attack on the Ukrainian capital in less than a week. The attack also threatens July 4th events amid a heat wave in the U.S. The timing underscores the high stakes of the upcoming NATO gathering.
FIFA has suspended a one-match ban on U.S. striker Folarin Balogun after President Trump intervened and requested a review, clearing the player to face Belgium in the World Cup. Belgium reacted with astonishment and anger, calling the decision incomprehensible. The extraordinary move has raised questions about political influence in international soccer governance.
The death toll from a devastating earthquake in Venezuela has risen to 3,342, making it one of the deadliest seismic events in the region in recent years. Venezuelan officials have defended the government's emergency response as rescue operations continue. International attention remains focused on the scale of the disaster and the humanitarian needs of affected communities.