On Sunday, the Israeli cabinet approved a proposal for formal recognition of the genocide, which now goes before the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, for a vote. This has sparked criticism in Turkey and Azerbaijan. For Armenians, it is a political move that reflects current tensions and conflicts. For Kegham Balian, an activist with “Save The ArQ,” Israel’s action is an "insult to the memory" of the 1.5 million murdered by the Ottoman Empire.

Following the conviction of the leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, police dispersed new protests in Quetta and arrested several demonstrators. Nadia Baloch, the activist's sister, announced that she will appeal to the High Court, while observers warn that targeting nonviolent dissent risks fuelling an insurgency against the Pakistani government.

The government led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has approved a bill to address the declining membership of the Imperial Household, allowing the adoption of male descendants from ancient dynastic branches and letting princesses to retain their titles after marriage. However, the possibility of Princess Aiko becoming empress is still ruled out, despite the approval of 83 per cent of Japanese people.

Former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim has been sentenced to ten years for corruption. Meanwhile, five people have died during military training imposed on new rural cooperative managers. The way the government is managing the economy is increasingly criticised, especially regarding the opaqueness surrounding the Danantara sovereign wealth fund, which is expanding its reach.

The girl, who was abducted on 12 June and found by the police, is at the centre of a legal battle over the validity of a marriage contract. Her family and lawyers are contesting the documents presented by the alleged abductor. After granting protective custody, the court ordered an age assessment. Voice for Justice call for a transparent trial and prosecution of those responsible.

With Japan’s elimination in the round of 16 – the only team to have progressed beyond the group stage – the continent now has no teams left in the competition. The stark contrast with Africa and the wave of resignations, from South Korea to Saudi Arabia. The case of Iran, which remained unbeaten but was eliminated on goal difference (and due to hostile politics). The players’ message: “May peace and friendship prevail”.