Iran's recent use of swarms of fast boats to seize container ships near the Strait of Hormuz is raising new maritime security concerns. These operations, part of a layered threat system, challenge previous assessments of Tehran's naval capabilities and highlight difficulties in securing the vital oil route.
The body of Iran's slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei underwent an extensive six-day funeral journey across Iran, Iraq, and back to Iran, involving various modes of transport including road, helicopter, and fighter jet-escorted aircraft. The procession, which began in Tehran and included stops in Qom, Najaf, Karbala, and finally Mashhad, saw millions of mourners. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been absent from public view since March, fueling speculation about his condition.
Engineers have developed tiny, tattoo-like leaf sensors and stretchable stem bands that provide real-time data on crop health, detecting stress from water shortage, disease, or nutrient imbalances days before visible signs appear. Powered by plant moisture evaporation, these wearables offer a direct 'plant's-eye view' to help farmers manage crops more effectively.
Erling Haaland described the World Cup quarter-final against England as "super special" due to his birth in England and playing in the Premier League. Norway's surprising run to the last eight, with Haaland scoring seven goals, sets up a meaningful clash.
OpenAI launched ChatGPT Work, an AI agent designed to automate tasks across applications and files. Powered by GPT-5.6, it can create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, operating for hours on complex projects. A new ChatGPT desktop app was also announced.
Donald Trump softened his rhetoric on Spain after threatening trade halts, acknowledging increased NATO contributions. Spain's PM highlighted reaching the 2% GDP defense spending target, which Trump had criticized Spain for not meeting. A US official mentioned a "menu" of Spanish products for potential embargo.
England's thrilling 3-2 World Cup win against Mexico, featuring five goals and a red card, set new TV viewership records in Mexico and the US, becoming the most-watched 21st-century World Cup match in Mexico.
