“We are facing a global attack against the State of Israel and the Israel Defense Forces,” Netanyahu said, arguing that accusations of war crimes against Israeli soldiers were “the most absurd thing imaginable.”

He also claimed Israel was the only country in the Middle East where the Christian community was flourishing and growing, while describing allegations that the country persecutes minorities as a “big lie.”

Netanyahu said the ceremony itself challenged those claims, adding that Christians in Israel were not only protected by the state but also served in its defence forces.

His remarks come after incidents involving Israeli soldiers and Christian statues in the predominantly Christian village of Debel in southern Lebanon. In one incident in April, a soldier was documented striking a statue of Jesus, while another filmed the act. Both were subsequently punished by the Israeli military .

Netanyahu said Israel's strategy had been to confront Iran directly while weakening its regional allies. "My intention was that ultimately we would clash with Iran, with the head of the octopus, and we would sever the arms, clear them out, strike this axis of evil, and we did so very forcefully," he said.

His comments came as the United States and Iran engaged in their largest exchange of fire since July. US forces struck targets along Iran's southern coast on Tuesday, while Tehran launched missiles and drones at American positions across the region.

Israel has not joined the latest exchange, although Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israeli forces were prepared to strike Iran if Israel came under attack.

Gofman took over as Mossad director on June 2 after previously serving as Netanyahu's military secretary. At his inauguration, Netanyahu said helping bring down Iran's government was part of Gofman's mission.

Netanyahu also addressed Israel's operations in Gaza , claiming the country now controls more than 60 per cent of the territory. He said Israel would continue pursuing what he described as "dismantling, demilitarisation, evacuation in places where needed" to prevent Gaza from again becoming a threat to Israel.

He stressed that disarmament must cover "heavy weapons, less heavy weapons and light weapons," describing the demand as a "real disarmament and not a fictitious disarmament."

The roadmap, drawn up by the US-led Board of Peace, proposes a phased process under which Hamas and other Palestinian factions would relinquish control of Gaza's government and security apparatus. Civil administration would pass to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, while disarmament would be linked to a phased Israeli withdrawal.

The two sides remain divided over the sequence of the process. Netanyahu wants Hamas fully disarmed before Israeli troops withdraw, while Hamas has called for Israeli strikes to stop and forces to begin pulling back as disarmament gets underway.

Netanyahu also reiterated his opposition to Palestinian statehood. "As long as I am Prime Minister, a Palestinian state will not be established, not in Gaza and not in Judea and Samaria," he said.

Israeli strikes have continued across Gaza despite the ceasefire, with much of the territory devastated and most of its population still displaced.

He argued that both communities were facing growing attacks.

"It's under attack from the rising tide of anti-Semitism and anti-evangelicalism. It's no accident that the two are coming under joint attack because we are one," he said.

According to the Prime Minister's Office, the evangelical leaders thanked Netanyahu for Israel's actions during the conflict with Iran .

"When you're faced with an attack, what do you do? Attack back," Netanyahu said, adding, "It's now time to fight, fight, fight."

Evangelical Christian groups have long been among Israel's strongest supporters in the United States , and Netanyahu has regularly met with their leaders during visits to Washington.

Trump also renewed his criticism of the nuclear agreement negotiated under former President Barack Obama, describing it as "a road to a nuclear weapon."

He credited recent US military strikes, including B-2 bomber missions targeting what he described as Iranian nuclear infrastructure, with preventing Tehran from developing a nuclear weapon.

"If that didn't happen, they would have had a nuclear weapon and there would be no Israel," Trump said, referring to the strikes. The US president further claimed that his administration's actions had prevented a wider regional catastrophe.

"If I wasn't here, if I wasn't president, there would be no Israel and there probably would be no Middle East ," he said, adding that he believed Iran would have used a nuclear weapon if it had obtained one.

"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.

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.