Middle East

Iran president says contact with supreme leader is 'very difficult'

FRANCE 24 August 6, 2026
Iran president says contact with supreme leader is 'very difficult'
Iran president says contact with supreme leader is 'very difficult'
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Wednesday that communication with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei was "very difficult" following the leader's reported wounding during the US-Israeli strike that killed his father. Pezeshkian, however, defended Khamenei against rising speculation over his absence from public view.

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UN warns drone strikes worsen in Sudan
UN warns drone strikes worsen in Sudan

First, more than 80% of civilian deaths in Sudan over the start of this year were due to drone attacks according to the UN. Also,Ā Spain is trying to work out what to do with over 1000 unaccompanied minors who remain in Ceuta as they cannot legally Ā be deported.

Georja CALVIN-SMITH August 6, 2026
'Escalatory spiral of attrition: Drone technology allowing Ukraine to resist Russia asymmetrically'
'Escalatory spiral of attrition: Drone technology allowing Ukraine to resist Russia asymmetrically'

Sharon Gaffney is pleased to welcome Peter Zalmayev, director of the Eurasia Democracy Initiative. He rejects narratives that portray Moscow as only now "taking the gloves off," against Ukraine, arguing instead that Russia has consistently pursued maximalist objectives while adapting its tactics to battlefield realities. Although Ukrainian innovation, particularly in drone warfare, has complicated Russia's military superiority, Zalmayev contends that technological ingenuity cannot permanently compensate for disparities in manpower, industrial capacity, and external military support. He argues that the conflict has entered an "escalatory spiral of attrition."

FRANCE24 August 6, 2026
Iran president says contact with supreme leader is 'very difficult'
Iran president says contact with supreme leader is 'very difficult'

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Wednesday that communication with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei was "very difficult" following the leader's reported wounding during the US-Israeli strike that killed his father. Pezeshkian, however, defended Khamenei against rising speculation over his absence from public view.

FRANCE 24 August 6, 2026
Two Frenchmen receive suspended jail sentences after livestreamer's death
Two Frenchmen receive suspended jail sentences after livestreamer's death

Two French livestreamers received suspended prison sentences on Wednesday after being convicted of repeatedly abusing and humiliating a man during online broadcasts that preceded his death. Though the pair were cleared of causing the man's death, they were found guilty of violence and incitement to hatred in a case that has exposed the darker underbelly of online streaming.

FRANCE 24 August 6, 2026
Vollering wins stage 5 as Reusser clings to Tour de Femmes lead
Vollering wins stage 5 as Reusser clings to Tour de Femmes lead

Race favourite Demi Vollering won a tense three-way sprint to claim stage five of the Tour de France Femmes on Wednesday, but Marlen Reusser retained the overall lead by 12 seconds after the Swiss rider shadowed her Dutch rival to the finish.Ā 

FRANCE 24 August 5, 2026
US: Progressive Democrat El-Sayed wins key Michigan primary
US: Progressive Democrat El-Sayed wins key Michigan primary

He could help the #Democrats swing the #US #Senate in the upcoming #midterms. Progressive Abdul #ElSayed just won a tight #primary race in #Michigan, against more moderate congresswoman Haley #Stevens.

FRANCE24 August 5, 2026
How to enjoy the most complete solar eclipse since 1989?
How to enjoy the most complete solar eclipse since 1989?

No matter how sharp your vision, you're going to need some special glasses next week… Wednesday August 12 will bring the most complete solar eclipse since 1989 – the moon will fully cover the sun. To fully appreciate the celestial spectacle,you will require dedicated spectacles. Bryan Quinn and our colleagues at France Televisions tell us how to pick the right ones.

FRANCE24 August 5, 2026
Who is Abdul El-Sayed, Michigan Democrats'Ā bestĀ hopeĀ atĀ takingĀ backĀ theĀ Senate?
Who is Abdul El-Sayed, Michigan Democrats'Ā bestĀ hopeĀ atĀ takingĀ backĀ theĀ Senate?

Abdul El-Sayed won the Michigan Democratic primary election to contest one of the state's two Senate seats. He is just the latest progressive upstart to upset the game plan of the Democratic party's centrist establishment, with a platform that focused on working towards universal health care and getting corporate money out of elections… His criticism of Israel too was a flashpoint in the campaign – representing a growing shift among Democrats against what many see as an apartheid state currently carrying out a genocide while dragging the US into unnecessary wars in the Middle East. His portrait by Bryan Quinn.

FRANCE24 August 5, 2026
Israel resumes military strikes on southern Lebanon as Rome hosts peace talks
Israel resumes military strikes on southern Lebanon as Rome hosts peace talks

Israel again fired on southern Lebanon on Wednesday, blaming Hezbollah for violating a ceasefire, as US-backed negotiations in Rome sought to end months of cross-border hostilities. Lebanon said at least one person was killed in the attacks, while Israel issued its first evacuation alert in weeks for a southern town, underscoring the fragility of the truce.

FRANCE 24 August 5, 2026
Popular post
TG EAPCET 2026 Qualified Students Can Apply for FCRI Forestry Course

Hyderabad: The Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu, Siddipet district, has started the application process for admissions into the B.Sc (Hons) Forestry programme for the 2026–27 academic year. College Dean Praveen announced that applications will be accepted from July 1 to July 25. Students who have qualified in TG EAPCET 2026 and passed Intermediate or its equivalent with BiPC, MBiPC, or MPC streams are eligible to apply for the four-year undergraduate programme. The B.Sc (Hons) Forestry course offers comprehensive academic and practical training in areas such as forest conservation, biodiversity, wildlife management, environmental protection, agroforestry, and natural resource conservation. Students will also receive extensive field training and hands-on practical exposure as part of the curriculum. The Dean stated that graduates of the programme will have promising career opportunities in forest departments, environmental organizations, research institutions, government agencies, and private sector companies. Eligible candidates are advised to submit their applications on or before July 25. For detailed admission guidelines and the application process, students can visit the official FCRI website. They may also contact the institute at 63038 271100, 08454-211939, or 08454-211930 for further information. Also Read:Ā AP EAPCET 2026 Results to Be Released on July 2 Instead of Scheduled Date Ā 

NTR's 'God of War' Buzz Grows After Official Project Announcement

Tollywood has received one of its biggest announcements of the year as Ā NTR and acclaimed filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas officially reunite for a grand mythological action epic. The prestigious project will be produced under the Haarika & Hassine Creations banner by S. Radha Krishna (Chinababu) and Suryadevara Naga Vamsi. The makers unveiled the project's official announcement along with a striking concept poster carrying the powerful tagline, "The Son of Shiva. The Pride of Parvathi. The Eternal Commander." The poster has gone viral across social media, fueling speculation about the film's storyline andĀ  NTR's character. According to industry reports, NTR is expected to portray a powerful divine warrior inspired by Lord Kumaraswamy (Kartikeya/Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, and the commander of the celestial army. The film is said to blend mythology with high-octane action, rich storytelling, and modern commercial elements, making it one of the most ambitious projects in Trivikram's career. Reports also suggest that the makers are considering the title "God of War" for the film, although an official confirmation is still awaited. At present,Ā  NTR is busy shooting for his upcoming film Dragon, directed by Prashanth Neel. Once that project is completed, this mythological spectacle is expected to go on floors. The production house is likely to reveal more details, including the first glimpse, cast, and technical crew, in the coming weeks. Ā 

Low Water, High Profits! 15 Best Crops Farmers Should Grow in Water-Scarce Areas

Low Water, High Profits: Top Crops Farmers Can Grow in Water-Scarce Areas Across India Water Shortage No Longer Means Low Income: Experts Recommend Climate-Resilient Crops for Better Returns New Delhi: Water scarcity has emerged as one of the biggest challenges facing Indian agriculture. With irregular monsoons, declining groundwater levels, rising temperatures, and increasing climate variability, farmers across several states are being encouraged to shift from water-intensive crops to drought-tolerant and climate-resilient alternatives. Agricultural experts believe that choosing the right crop based on water availability and soil type can help farmers reduce production costs while maintaining stable yields. Traditionally, crops such as paddy and sugarcane require significant amounts of irrigation. However, in areas where water availability is limited, these crops often become economically risky. Experts recommend adopting crops that require less water, mature quickly, and are capable of withstanding dry weather conditions. Why Water-Efficient Crops Are Becoming Essential Climate experts warn that rainfall patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable. Delayed monsoons and prolonged dry spells have affected sowing in many parts of the country, prompting governments and agricultural departments to encourage farmers to diversify toward water-efficient farming systems. Low-water crops offer several advantages: Lower irrigation costs Reduced dependence on groundwater Better drought tolerance Lower cultivation expenses Stable yields during erratic rainfall Improved soil sustainability Best Crops for Low-Water Farming 1. Millets Millets are among the most drought-resistant crops and are gaining popularity due to increasing consumer demand for healthy foods. Popular varieties include: Pearl Millet (Bajra) Sorghum (Jowar) Finger Millet (Ragi) Foxtail Millet Little Millet Barnyard Millet These crops require substantially less water than rice and perform well under rain-fed conditions. 2. Pulses Pulse crops consume relatively less water while improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Recommended pulses include: Red Gram (Pigeon Pea) Green Gram (Moong) Black Gram (Urad) Chickpea Cowpea Horse Gram Apart from offering good market prices, pulses also enhance soil health for future crops. 3. Oilseed Crops Oilseeds remain a profitable option in dryland farming. Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Sunflower Castor Safflower Many of these crops require moderate irrigation only during critical growth stages. 4. Horticulture Crops With drip irrigation, several fruit crops can provide long-term income. Popular choices include: Pomegranate Guava Custard Apple Indian Gooseberry (Amla) Drumstick (Moringa) Several state governments have also promoted drumstick cultivation in drought-prone regions because of its low water requirement and export potential. 5. Medicinal and Aromatic Crops Farmers seeking diversification may consider: Aloe Vera Ashwagandha Lemongrass Vetiver Senna These crops generally require less irrigation and have growing demand from pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Crop Selection Based on Soil Type Sandy Soil Suitable crops include: Groundnut Sesame Watermelon Muskmelon Guava Cashew Black Cotton Soil Recommended crops: Cotton Pigeon Pea Sorghum Chickpea Sunflower Red Soil Suitable options include: Groundnut Millets Pulses Mango Guava Drumstick Choosing crops according to soil characteristics significantly improves productivity and reduces cultivation risks. Modern Water-Saving Techniques Agricultural scientists recommend integrating crop selection with efficient water management. Key practices include: Drip irrigation Mulching Rainwater harvesting Soil moisture conservation Organic matter incorporation Micro-irrigation systems Scientific nutrient management These techniques can substantially reduce water consumption while maintaining crop productivity. Climate Change Driving New Farming Practices Experts note that climate change is making traditional farming methods increasingly difficult. Several states have already started promoting drought-resistant crops, natural farming, and water-efficient cultivation practices to improve farmers' resilience against uncertain rainfall. Experts' Advice Agricultural experts recommend that farmers should not choose crops solely based on market prices. Instead, they should consider: Annual rainfall Groundwater availability Soil type Local climate Market demand Production cost Water availability throughout the season A scientific crop selection strategy can significantly improve profitability while reducing cultivation risks. Conclusion Water scarcity is expected to remain one of the biggest agricultural challenges in the coming years. However, adopting climate-resilient crops, efficient irrigation methods, and scientific farming practices can help farmers sustain productivity and increase profitability. As climate conditions continue to evolve, experts believe that water-efficient agriculture will play a crucial role in ensuring food security and long-term farm sustainability across India. Disclaimer This article is intended for informational purposes only. Crop suitability may vary depending on local climate, soil characteristics, water availability, and market conditions. Farmers are advised to consult their nearest agricultural extension office or qualified agriculture experts before making cultivation decisions.

US lifts blockade of Iran and Iranian supreme leader endorses direct talks with American officials

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said ā€œthe face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemy’s point of view.ā€ WASHINGTON : The US on Thursday (Jun 18) lifted its blockade of Iran, and oil tankers began freely moving through the Strait of Hormuz after months of being unable to use the critical channel, as theĀ tentative agreement to end the warĀ took effect. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance announced that he may postpone a trip to Switzerland that had been planned for Friday and included a ceremonial signing of the deal. The visit might have helped start talks on the next, potentially even more critical, round of negotiations between the two sides.

Diaz shines as Colombia beat Uzbekistan 3-1

Colombia next face DR Congo on Tuesday in Guadalajara after Uzbekistan play Portugal in Houston. MEXICO CITY: Colombia winger Luis Diaz dazzled at a raucous Azteca Stadium as his side marked their return to the World Cup with a 3-1 Group K win over tournament debutants Uzbekistan on Wednesday (Jun 17).Ā  Colombia, who missed the 2022 tournament in Qatar, struggled in the early stages but broke through in the 41st minute when a brilliant ball lifted into the area by Diaz was hooked in on the turn by Daniel Munoz, who had ghosted in behind the defence.

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