"This offensive operation will continue as a lesson to the Americans until they regret their crimes," he said.

Kuwait's military said its air defences intercepted attacks by hostile Iranian drones late on Tuesday, while Jordan's armed forces said 13 ballistic missiles entered its airspace, with 10 intercepted and three falling in remote areas.

US Central Command, meanwhile, said American forces had launched a new round of strikes against IRGC targets in Iran following attempted attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and US personnel in the region.

The pilots went missing after Iranian military aircraft entered Qatari airspace on March 2, during the opening days of the war that followed US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.

Akraminia also criticised Washington's approach to the Strait of Hormuz, accusing the United States of lacking a coherent strategy. "These contradictory statements, opinions, and behaviours demonstrate that the Americans lack a coherent strategy," he said, claiming Washington had become "bewildered" in its conflict with Tehran.

His comments came after US President Donald Trump posted a map of the Strait of Hormuz on Truth Social last week labelled "New American Territory." Trump had previously said he intended to declare the strategic waterway American territory, although the White House later said the remarks were a joke and had not been officially discussed.

He warned that countries joining US economic measures would be considered enemies, adding that Tehran would initially seek talks before taking action against their interests.

Rezaei also threatened US commercial interests if Washington imposed further sanctions. "The US has many oil companies and economic interests around Iran and in other places; well, we will hit those," he said.

Trump announced a new economic pressure campaign last week, while US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has promised the "toughest sanctions in history."

Rezaei also argued that US and Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities had undermined confidence in the global non-proliferation system. Iran remains a party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

He separately said Iran and Oman had agreed on a transit route through the Strait of Hormuz, although negotiations were not complete, and warned Washington against hostile military moves around the waterway.

"If they make any movement along the southern route [Strait of Hormuz], we will hit them," he said. Rezaei, a former commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, was appointed secretary of the Supreme National Security Council earlier this month.

Iran and the United States signed the Qatar- and Pakistan-mediated Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding on June 18, ending military operations and addressing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Talks later stalled amid disagreements over maritime security and passage through the strategic waterway.

Araghchi said Iran and Oman had made progress on plans for new shipping routes, with experts working on maps to replace existing routes.

He stressed, however, that an agreement with Oman on a new maritime route "does not mean the opening of the Strait of Hormuz."

Araghchi said reopening the strait would depend on separate conditions being communicated to Washington through intermediaries.

He said Iran was instead holding talks with Oman to establish a temporary route to ensure the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. "We are seeking, in consultation and cooperation with Oman, to determine this route as soon as possible," Baghaei said.

Trump had earlier claimed he halted what he described as the "largest attack since World War II" after appeals from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Iran, saying Tehran wanted an agreement.

Baghaei also dismissed speculation that Iran's negotiating team had travelled abroad, saying all members remained in the country while Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was visiting Iraq for the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage.

He further accused the United States of committing "war crimes" by striking residential areas in Qeshm, Minab and Lamerd, saying Iran would pursue legal action through international channels.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran chose the path of diplomacy and dialogue, and negotiations were underway to settle differences. The response to diplomacy came not through negotiation, but through a military attack," he said.

He argued that such actions weakened confidence in diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

"Such behaviour undermines confidence in diplomacy, calls into question the credibility of mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes, and carries a dangerous message for the future of international relations," Araghchi said.

The Iranian foreign minister also accused the United States and Israel of violating international law, citing what he described as breaches of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and attacks on civilian infrastructure.

Araghchi reaffirmed Iran's commitment to cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, saying Tehran was ready to make its transport, energy and regional trade capabilities available to fellow member states.

His remarks came after a 13th consecutive night of US strikes on Iran, while Tehran continued targeting American military assets across the region.

"The Great Satan has once again unveiled its true, unmasked face, so that this dark experience of crime and bad faith serves as yet another strong document of America's mendacity, irrationality, unreliability and vileness," he said.

Khamenei also warned the United States against what he described as "warmongering," saying it would only bring "heavier costs and greater disgrace" to Washington.

"The dear nation of Iran and the Resistance Front have unforgettable lessons for [the US], lessons of which the valor of Islamic fighters and the zeal of the brave people along the southern front have shown examples in recent days," he said.

He also called for unity within Iran, urging the public to avoid political disputes and divisions.

Iran and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding on June 17, opening a 60-day period for negotiations toward a final agreement.

"Should the United States continue to violate its obligations under the MoU, Iran will no longer be bound to fulfil its obligations under the MoU," Iravani said.

He accused Washington of violating the agreement by carrying out military strikes on Iranian territory, including attacks on southern cities and several islands in the Persian Gulf on July 7 and 8.

"The United States bears full international responsibility for all legal and political consequences arising from its unlawful action," he said.

Addressing the Strait of Hormuz, Iravani said responsibility for reopening the strategic waterway and conducting demining operations rested solely with Iran under the memorandum. He warned that any attempts by external powers to establish separate arrangements would breach the agreement, delay the resumption of commercial shipping and increase regional tensions.

The United States has said its latest strikes were carried out in response to attacks on commercial vessels transiting the strait. Tehran has not claimed responsibility for those attacks, Viory reports.

Responding to questions about the use of Italian military bases, Meloni said the government's position had remained unchanged.

"As far as the bases are concerned, it is not that we made decisions or choices in such a way, one day doing one thing and another day doing something else. We have had a very clear line from the beginning of the conflict in Iran, and we maintain that line," she said.

Her remarks came after US President Donald Trump criticised Italy's refusal to support US military action against Iran.

On Tuesday, Trump described Meloni as "a nice person" but said her decision not to become involved had affected their relationship.

"She refused to get involved, so it soured my relationship with her a little bit...I think she made a mistake," Trump told reporters in Turkey. Meloni also voiced concern over the worsening security situation in the Middle East, warning that further escalation could destabilise the wider region.

"I am obviously very concerned about what is happening in Iran," she said. "We cannot rule out that this might also spread to other areas of this delicate region." The Italian prime minister argued that military action had failed to produce lasting results and said diplomacy remained the best path toward resolving the crisis.

On NATO, Meloni said discussions with allies had not included any plans to reduce US troop deployments in Europe. She added, however, that Washington had long called on European allies to assume a greater share of the alliance's defence responsibilities.

Among those attending was Reyhaneh Abdi, who spoke of her grief during the ceremony.

"I loved my leader with all my soul, and my greatest wish was to sacrifice my life for him, but it didn't happen. Now, I am deeply ashamed before my leader that I survived, while my leader was martyred, by the most wicked creatures and the lowest of people ," she said.

Another mourner, Saeid Khane-Baz, said Khamenei's death would not weaken the Islamic Republic.

"They are so weak to think that by martyring the high official, the commander-in-chief, the Supreme Leader, the country will be destroyed. No, they are mistaken. They have trained many soldiers. I am also a soldier. We are all soldiers, and we will remain soldiers of this country," he said.

Iranian authorities have introduced extensive arrangements to accommodate the large crowds, converting mosques, parks and stadiums into temporary facilities and setting up camps for mourners.

A public funeral procession is scheduled to take place on July 6 before ceremonies move to the holy city of Qom on July 7.

The funeral observances are expected to conclude in Mashhad, where Khamenei is due to be buried at the Imam Reza shrine on July 9.

"We beat Venezuela in one day, and we knocked the hell out of Iran. They're dying to settle. They want to settle so badly. We gave them a week off for a funeral because we're nice," Trump said.

Trump made the remarks while highlighting what he described as America's military strength and global leadership. He also praised the country's achievements over the past 250 years, citing advances in science, technology, culture and space exploration .

"For 250 years, the entire world has looked to our country and been inspired by the leaps of progress, feats of strength, and acts of selflessness, faith, and hope that could only have happened right here," he said.

The president also pointed to US accomplishments ranging from mapping the human genome and landing astronauts on the moon to its influence in music, sports and innovation. He noted that the United States has won the most Olympic medals and Nobel Prizes, before joking that he had yet to receive the prestigious award himself.

"We are breaking the Iranian terror axis here, but we are also breaking the Iranian political axis. We managed to reach these understandings for a simple reason: because we hit Hezbollah hard. Hezbollah, which relied on assistance from Iran, did not receive that assistance because we hit Iran hard," he said.

The agreement, signed in Washington after five rounds of direct talks, outlines a phased process under which the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) will assume control of designated areas in southern Lebanon, replacing Hezbollah as Israeli troops withdraw in stages.

Netanyahu said Israel was not a party to the separate negotiations between the United States and Iran but stressed that Israeli security interests would remain a priority.

"From the start, we said we were not a party to the agreement between the United States and Iran, but that does not mean we do not have interests. We have interests, and we will make them clear. On the main issue, which is the nuclear issue, I intend to send a delegation to Washington to present Israel's interests. I insist on Israel's interests at our border. We will not leave the security zone," he said.

The deal places significant responsibility on the Lebanese government, which is expected to deploy additional troops to the south, dismantle Hezbollah's military infrastructure and prevent the group's return. The United States has pledged continued military assistance to the LAF.

Developments dominating regional attention include a breakthrough in negotiations between the United States and Iran, which concluded high-level talks at the Swiss resort of Bürgenstock with an agreement to pursue a final settlement within 60 days. The negotiations were conducted under the framework of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, with mediation from Qatar and Pakistan. US Vice President JD Vance led the American delegation, while senior Iranian officials represented Tehran. According to the joint statement issued after the talks, both sides agreed on a roadmap covering nuclear issues, regional security, sanctions relief, and confidence-building measures. Mediators described the discussions as “positive and constructive”, although officials acknowledged that substantial differences remain. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later described the negotiations as having made “major progress”, particularly regarding oil exports, financial restrictions, and future economic cooperation. For Syria, the talks are significant because any broader US-Iran understanding could directly affect regional conflict dynamics, sanctions regimes, and the balance of power involving Iran-backed groups operating across the Levant.

Washington and Tehran establish a direct Hormuz communication channel

One of the most important outcomes of the Swiss negotiations was the establishment of a direct communication mechanism between the United States and Iran to protect shipping through the Strait of Hormuz , one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints. Mediators said the hotline was designed to avoid “incidents and miscommunication” as maritime traffic gradually resumes following months of disruption. The agreement comes after prolonged instability in the waterway, through which roughly a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies normally pass. Qatar and Pakistan argued that direct communication is essential to prevent accidental escalation, false alarms, or interference by non-state actors. The move reflects growing recognition that maritime security has become inseparable from broader diplomatic negotiations. For Syria and the wider Middle East, uninterrupted shipping through Hormuz remains critical because energy prices, trade flows, and regional economic stability are heavily influenced by developments in the Gulf.

Massive explosion at Qatar’s Ras Laffan gas hub raises energy security concerns

Regional energy markets were shaken by a major explosion at Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City, home to the world's largest liquefied natural gas processing and export facilities. The blast occurred on 21 June 2026 during restart operations at the Barzan gas facility, one of Qatar’s most strategically important energy sites. Qatari authorities reported that at least 13 people were killed, 66 were injured, and 18 were missing after the explosion. Emergency crews launched extensive rescue operations while investigators worked to determine the cause of the incident. QatarEnergy stated that exports continued, but the accident nevertheless sparked concern across global energy markets because of Ras Laffan’s central role in international LNG supply chains. The incident highlights the vulnerability of regional energy infrastructure at a time when Middle Eastern stability remains closely linked to global energy security. Any disruption to Gulf gas exports has the potential to affect energy prices, industrial supply chains, and economic recovery efforts across multiple continents.

Lebanon ceasefire and Hormuz reopening dominate first round of Swiss talks

Beyond the nuclear file, discussions in Switzerland focused heavily on regional security issues, particularly the situation in Lebanon and the future status of the Strait of Hormuz . According to reports from the negotiations, both sides explored mechanisms to reduce tensions involving Iran-backed groups and prevent the expansion of regional conflict. Negotiators reportedly discussed ceasefire arrangements linked to Lebanon, maritime security guarantees, and measures intended to prevent future confrontations between regional actors. The talks reflected a growing understanding that any durable agreement between Washington and Tehran must address interconnected regional conflicts rather than focusing solely on nuclear issues. For Syria, these discussions are particularly relevant because developments in Lebanon, Iran, and the Gulf often have direct implications for regional military alignments, refugee movements, border security, and economic conditions.

Regional foreign ministers meet in Cairo as diplomacy intensifies

Diplomatic activity continued with a quadrilateral foreign ministers’ meeting in Cairo, where regional leaders discussed security coordination, conflict de-escalation , and the evolving diplomatic landscape following the US-Iran negotiations. The gathering reflected increasing efforts by Middle Eastern governments to shape outcomes through diplomacy rather than military confrontation. The meeting comes at a pivotal moment as governments across the region seek to stabilise trade routes, protect energy infrastructure, and prevent further escalation after months of heightened tensions. Officials focused on strengthening regional dialogue mechanisms and supporting initiatives aimed at reducing conflict risks. For Syria, the Cairo consultations underscore how regional diplomacy is becoming increasingly interconnected. Negotiations involving Iran, the Gulf states, Lebanon, Egypt, and international powers are likely to influence the broader political environment in which Syria's future security and reconstruction challenges will be addressed.

Lionel Messi is the leading scorer among active players in FIFA World Cup history with 18 goals, but Kylian Mbappé has narrowed the gap to just two goals, setting up a potential changing of the guard at football's biggest tournament.

According to FIFA World Cup records , Messi tops the list with 18 goals after extending his tally during the 2026 tournament. The Argentine captain surpassed former records during his World Cup career, which included lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022.

France forward Mbappé sits second among active players with 16 World Cup goals. Still only in his twenties, the French star has already established himself as one of the tournament's most prolific scorers, having played key roles in France's 2018 World Cup triumph and 2022 runner-up finish.

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo remains third with 10 World Cup goals. While the five-time Ballon d'Or winner continues to add to his legendary career, he faces a significant gap to the two players ahead of him.

The numbers highlight a shift between generations. Messi and Ronaldo have dominated global football for nearly two decades, collecting multiple Ballon d'Or awards, league titles and international honours. However, Mbappé's rapid rise has positioned him as the most likely player to challenge Messi's World Cup scoring mark in the years ahead.

FIFA records show that World Cup goals remain among the sport's most valued achievements due to the tournament's four-year cycle and limited opportunities to score on football's biggest stage.

With the 2026 World Cup still unfolding, attention remains focused on whether Messi can further extend his lead, whether Mbappé can overtake him, or whether Ronaldo can produce another memorable chapter in one of football's greatest rivalries.

For now, Messi remains on top, but the race for World Cup scoring supremacy is far from over.

Speaking to Iranian State TV on Monday while returning from Burgenstock, Ghalibaf said comments made by US President Donald Trump nearly disrupted the negotiations.

"Trump had spoken in a highly threatening manner toward both the negotiating delegation and our president, as well as regarding an attack on our territory," he revealed.

"Right there, I told Mr Vance, 'Mr Vance, we are having discussions here, and we signed the first clause here stating that there should be no threats or force'; however, today your president spoke of threats and force. Know that we never negotiate in the face of threats and force."

The talks involved US and Iranian officials alongside mediators from Pakistan and Qatar.

Ghalibaf said Iran continues to view Washington with suspicion despite engaging in negotiations.

"We have been really distrustful of the Americans, and we still distrust them; when we look at their crimes, it is only logical that we distrust them," he admitted.

Despite the tensions, Ghalibaf described the discussions as productive.

"Especially the discussions regarding the strait [Hormuz], Lebanon, the oil waiver, and the issue of releasing the funds [Iran's frozen assets], which is one of the steps forward; however, we believe we are still at the beginning and must continue to strive."

The remarks followed a series of comments by Trump on Sunday warning Iran over developments in Lebanon and the Strait of Hormuz.

Media reports said the Iranian delegation briefly left the negotiating room and complained to mediators before returning, describing the interruption as a pause rather than a withdrawal.

Following the talks, US Vice President JD Vance said negotiators had made progress despite what he called "a little bit of threatening and a little bit of whining."

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also reported advances in the discussions.

"Pakistani and Qatari mediation has delivered major progress to end Lebanon War," he posted on social media.

"Oil and petrochem exports are waived, blockade lifted, some frozen assets released, and major reconstruction and development plan launched for Iran."

The negotiations are taking place under a Memorandum of Understanding reached last week between the United States and Iran, which gives both sides 60 days to secure a final agreement.

FIFA's expanded 2026 World Cup is not only the largest tournament in the competition's history but also the most lucrative, with the winning nation set to receive $50 million in prize money, according to FIFA's official financial framework for the tournament.

The competition, hosted across the United States , Canada and Mexico, features a record 48 teams, up from 32 in previous editions. The expanded format has significantly increased financial rewards, ensuring every participating nation receives a substantial payout regardless of performance.

Under FIFA's prize distribution model, the tournament champions will earn $50 million, while the runners-up will receive $33 million. The third-placed team will take home $29 million, and the fourth-placed side will collect $27 million.

Quarter-finalists are guaranteed $19 million each; teams reaching the Round of 16 will earn $15 million, while nations eliminated in the Round of 32 receive $11 million. Teams exiting in the first knockout round, known as the Round of 48, will receive $9 million.

In addition to performance-based prize money, FIFA has allocated $2.5 million in preparation funding to every qualified nation. This means all 48 participants are guaranteed at least $12.5 million from the tournament.

The increased payouts reflect FIFA's growing commercial revenues from broadcasting rights, sponsorships and global partnerships. The governing body has projected record revenues for the 2023-2026 cycle, driven largely by the first-ever 48-team men's World Cup.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has repeatedly stated that the expanded tournament is designed to increase global participation while ensuring more nations benefit financially from football's biggest event.

For emerging football nations, the guaranteed payments can provide a significant boost to infrastructure development, youth programmes and national team operations. For smaller federations, a World Cup appearance can generate revenues that exceed several years of normal football income.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Prize Money

According to FIFA, the expanded financial structure ensures that all participating nations share in the economic benefits of the world's most-watched sporting event while maintaining substantial rewards for teams that advance deep into the tournament.

Speaking to reporters in Burgenstock on Monday, Vance was asked whether comments made by US President Donald Trump had disrupted negotiations.

"Did the president's threats yesterday really throw a wrench in negotiations? There were reports that the Iranians walked out at one point. Can you just clarify and tell us what happened?" he was asked.

"No, they didn't throw a wrench in the system. The thing with the Iranians, yes, they did threaten to walk out, or at least there were social media threats that they would walk out. But we were negotiating well past one in the morning yesterday, so they didn't walk out," he went on.

"So, yes, there was a little bit of threatening. There was a little bit of whining. But at the end of the day, the talks continued and we made great progress."

The comments came after discussions involving US and Iranian delegations, with Qatar and Pakistan acting as mediators. Iran's team was led by Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.

The negotiations are part of efforts to turn last week's Memorandum of Understanding into a final agreement within a 60-day timeframe.

Earlier in the day, Iran announced it had closed the Strait of Hormuz again following continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon, amid renewed accusations between Hezbollah and Israel over violations of the latest ceasefire.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the talks had produced significant results.

"Pakistani and Qatari media tion has delivered major progress to end Lebanon War," he posted on social media.

"Oil and petrochem exports are waived, blockade lifted, some frozen assets released, and major reconstruction and development plan launched for Iran."

The United States and Iran reached a Memorandum of Understanding last week, setting a 60-day period for negotiations aimed at securing a final deal.

Speaking in Burgenstock on Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said a new structure had been established to help ensure the long-term success of the ceasefire measures agreed under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

"Regarding Clause 1 of the Memorandum of Understanding, a mechanism was envisaged to monitor a lasting cessation of hostilities. In the presence of the mediators, this innovative mechanism was established, named the 'De-confliction Cell’, to ensure that the ceasefire in Lebanon remains stable," Baqaei explained.

Baqaei also said negotiators had agreed to establish a separate mechanism covering maritime navigation through one of the region's most important waterways.

"Concerning the issue of safe passage for ships through the Strait of Hormuz, it was agreed that a mechanism would be put in place," he added, noting the ‘significance’ of the move.

The talks in Switzerland bring together Iranian and US representatives as both sides work through outstanding issues outlined in the memorandum signed earlier this month.

Iran's delegation is led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. The US delegation is headed by Vice President JD Vance, with White House envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner also taking part in the Qatar-Pakistan mediated discussions.

Negotiators are expected to focus on unresolved issues including a regional ceasefire, security in the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme.

The talks follow the signing of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding by US President Donald Trump at the Palace of Versailles on June 17.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian later signed the agreement, while Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also added his signature as part of the mediation effort.

The 14-point memorandum commits both sides to de-escalation measures and broader negotiations over a 60-day period. It also calls for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz toll-free during that timeframe, while the United States is required to begin the gradual lifting of its naval blockade on Iranian ports.