WorldTehran’s Grand Mosalla is being readied for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s funeral, with strict security, heatwave precautions and plans for massive crowds. Authorities expect up to 20 million mourners in the capital alone.
SportsNovak Djokovic defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to reach the Wimbledon third round for the 20th time. The Serb now faces Arthur Rinderknech as he continues his pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam title.
KARACHIThe Sindh High Court has sought reports from the health secretary and police chief over an alleged HIV outbreak at Karachi’s Kulsum Bai Valika SESSI Hospital. The petition cites reports of infections among children linked to contaminated syringes and medical negligence.
TechnologyChinese startup Z.ai’s GLM-5.2 is gaining traction as a cheaper AI model that some analysts say is approaching top US systems in coding and agent tasks. The model’s rise has also revived debate over China’s progress in the global AI race.
SportsHarry Kane scored twice late as England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 in Atlanta and reach the World Cup last 16. Thomas Tuchel’s side will next face co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.
SportsReports tied to the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s media rights tender indicate Bangladesh could host Pakistan for a five-match ODI series in 2027. The BCB has not yet formally confirmed the fixtures.
PESHAWARThree tourists died and seven others were injured after a boat capsized at Saifullah Lake in Kalam, Rescue 1122 said. In Shangla, a woman died after being swept away by flash floodwater while crossing a stream with her daughter.
NATIONALA 5.3-magnitude earthquake centred in Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush region was felt in Islamabad and parts of Punjab and KP late on Wednesday. No immediate casualties or damage were reported.
NATIONALThe Judicial Commission of Pakistan has set up separate seven-member panels to interview candidates for four high courts. None of the committees includes a Supreme Court judge.
NATIONALPakistan recorded an overall decline in anti-state violence and related security incidents in June, according to PICSS. The think tank said several high-profile attacks still occurred despite drops in deaths and injuries compared with May.
TechnologySony says PlayStation will stop producing physical game discs for consoles from January 2028 as it shifts to digital-only sales for new releases. Previously released or pre-2028 disc titles will not be affected.
WorldThree people died from suffocation during World Cup celebrations in Mexico City after thousands gathered near the Angel of Independence following Mexico’s 2-0 win over Ecuador.
