World's oceans set June heat record -- EU monitor

 The world's oceans experienced their hottest June on record and could reach new highs in the coming months as El Niño and climate change push temperatures higher, said an EU monitor on Wednesday.

Qatar says no direct US-Iran talks to take place in Doha

US envoys are meeting with Qatari mediators, the Gulf state's foreign ministry spokesman said, after Washington said it was sending a negotiating team.

Ukraine gets €3.8 bln from EU for military needs

Ukraine has received another installment of €3.8 billion from the European Union, Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko announced on her Telegram channel.

Germany dumped out by Paraguay in World Cup shock

 Four-time winners Germany have been knocked out of the 2026 World Cup, losing to Paraguay in a thrilling penalty shootout after it finished 1-1 after extra time.

Qatar suspends non-commercial maritime activities as security precaution

Qatar on Monday temporarily suspended non-commercial maritime activities as a precautionary security measure amid heightened regional tensions.

Iran, Qatar agree to unfreeze $6 bln in Iranian assets in emirate

 Iran and Qatar have agreed to unblock $6 bln out of a total of $12 bln in Iranian assets held in the emirate, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said.

United States, Iran agreed to stop strikes

Reuters now reports that Iran and the US have agreed to halt hostilities and renew talks over their dispute in the Strait of Hormuz.

Israeli military "activities" continue in S. Lebanon despite framework agreement

Israeli military activities continued across southern Lebanon on Sunday despite a newly signed framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel aimed at lasting peace and security.