World Cup Politics: FIFA lifted Folarin Balogun’s red-card ban after a Trump call to Gianni Infantino, igniting backlash in Belgium and raising fresh questions about political influence in sport. NATO & Ukraine: As Turkey hosts the Ankara summit, NATO leaders are set to focus on Ukraine’s role in collective defense, with Kyiv pushing deeper drone strikes and “long-range sanctions” to force negotiations. Iran-US Tensions: Iran’s parliament speaker says a US ceasefire is “difficult, but achievable,” while Tehran rejects Israel recognition and frames support for resistance groups as both political and military. Regional Diplomacy: Serbia and Ghana held bilateral political consultations in Belgrade, stressing economic ties and cultural/tech cooperation. Africa-Middle East Resilience: An African Political Alliance meeting in Lomé urged stronger energy, food and economic resilience as the Middle East crisis spills into African security and growth. Domestic Governance: Nepal plans to print excise stamps, citizenship certificates and national ID cards at its Security Printing Centre, while ADB President Kanda met Finance Minister Wagle to discuss development support. Crime & Public Safety: Chicago reported officers wounded during a traffic-stop shootout over the Fourth of July weekend, amid a deadly stretch of shootings. Local Politics (Malaysia): In Johor’s state election, PH candidates rolled out youth and infrastructure pledges, including traffic plans and second-generation housing ideas for Felda communities.