U.S. Finalizes Jerusalem Embassy Deal Published: July 1, 2026 | 11:34 PM

July 2 - Pakistan: On Wednesday, the United States finalized a deal to build a long-term embassy complex in Jerusalem, representing a major development in its official representation within Israel. This action comes after previous choices to shift U.S. consular operations from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Israel referred to the pact as proof of an "unshakable partnership" between both nations.

U.S. Envoy to Israel, Mike Huckabee, revealed the agreement at a formal event held at Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He stated that the U.S. has pledged to establish a lasting diplomatic "base" in Jerusalem. Huckabee added that this choice highlights longstanding acknowledgment of Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

The embassy will be built within the Allenby complex in south Jerusalem. U.S. representatives stated that this initiative aims to bring all diplomatic operations together under one lasting site. This action follows President Donald Trump's 2017 announcement of officially recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

This previous change in strategy departed from many years of American foreign policy. Many nations still have their embassies located in Tel Aviv because of the ongoing dispute over Jerusalem's status. The Palestinians still assert that East Jerusalem will be the capital of an upcoming sovereign nation.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar expressed approval of the deal and stated that it enhanced relations between the two countries. He noted that this choice reinforced Washington's support for Israel's stance regarding Jerusalem. This declaration occurs against the backdrop of continued regional unrest after recent hostilities in the Middle East.

IGAD Cyber Drill Participants Demand Enhanced Cooperation Against New Threats

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) – The IGAD Regional Cyber Exercise 2026 came to an end, with nations involved urging increased regional collaboration, unified cybersecurity strategies, and ongoing efforts to enhance capabilities in response to escalating transnational cyber threats.

The exercise gathered cyber security professionals, government officials, police departments, and key infrastructure managers from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, and Uganda.

It became clear during the exercise that participants took part in policy debates, technical drills, and real-world cybersecurity defense activities designed to enhance regional readiness and boost collaborative reactions to cyber threats.

In an interview with ENA, Khadra Ali Yusuf, an expert on data governance at IGAD, mentioned that the exercise effectively integrated policy debates with practical technical drills, such as exchanging threat intelligence and analyzing malicious software.

She mentioned that IGAD plans to capitalize on the achievements of the initiative by setting up a Regional Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC), allowing member countries to exchange details about cybersecurity threats, perform analyses on malicious software, and disseminate insights gained.

As per Yusuf, IGAD is exploring the possibility of turning the regional cyber exercise into a yearly occurrence to enhance technological skills and foster greater collaboration between participating nations.

"Member countries have explicitly stated that they require additional technical knowledge and greater chances to exchange learning experiences. As IGAD, we intend to conduct these exercises every year," the specialist mentioned.

Head of IT Infrastructure at the Ugandan Prime Minister's office, Robert Lwasa stated that the exercise has allowed countries to share insights on cyber security management, organizational structures, and national plans.

Lwasa emphasized that ongoing training, more robust legal systems, political dedication, and cooperation across regions are crucial for safeguarding vital infrastructure and maintaining a safe online space.

On behalf of South Sudan's National Communication Authority, SOC Analyst Yom Malual Majok stated that the hands-on approach of the drill allowed attendees to practice responding to actual cyber threats impacting governmental bodies, banking networks, and private companies.

She mentioned that the training will enable attendees to recognize essential systems, enhance their ability to respond to incidents, and reinforce national cyber security strategies once they return to their own nations.

She highlighted that protecting against cyber threats involves collective effort and requires cooperation across regions.

"Cyber threats do not focus on a single nation since we all utilize the same internet and function within the same digital space," Majok stated, emphasizing that regional structures and collaborative policies can enhance shared strength against such challenges.

On behalf of Somalia's Ministry of Communications and Technology, ICT Director Hassan Hussein Mohammed highlighted the cyber exercise as very advantageous, noting that attendees acquired significant technical expertise and hands-on experience through collaboration with Ethiopian and global specialists.

He stated that Somalia intends to implement the acquired knowledge to enhance its national cybersecurity organizations and bolster the security of vital infrastructure.

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Nation Unveils Roadmap and Land Accountability Report for Economic Growth and Climate Resilience

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) – The National Capital Accounting (NCA) Strategy for Ethiopia and the first edition of the Land Account report were unveiled today.

The Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) Strategy of Ethiopia incorporates natural resources—including land, woodlands, and water—into the nation's economic planning process; this initiative creates a strong structure for evaluating the long-term viability of the country's economic growth.

Another document, Ethiopia's First Edition Land Account, serves as a key achievement in support of the nation's efforts toward climate resilience. These accounts illustrate changes in land use and land cover through the application of satellite images, geographic information systems (GIS), and uniform data categorization.

It has been reported that they are anticipated to establish a physical and economic foundation which enables governmental bodies to monitor the effects of extensive land management initiatives, afforestation efforts, and programs aimed at achieving land degradation neutrality.

At the launch event, Bereket Fesehatsion, State Minister of the Ministry of Planning and Development, stated that the occasion goes beyond simply unveiling two significant reports. It also represents a reaffirmation of a common national objective rooted in data-driven policy formulation, prudent management of natural resources, and a strong dedication to shaping a future where economic growth and ecological balance move forward together.

The land records of Ethiopia will not be the final ones, as institutional capabilities grow and methodologies advance, leading to an enhanced comprehension of the country's total resources, he stated.

He stated that data itself isn't enough to bring about change; successful implementation depends on collaboration. The State Minister emphasized the importance of unified action from all involved parties—government agencies, the business community, non-governmental organizations, research bodies, educational institutions, and global development allies—to work together on this common initiative.

He emphasized that together, we must make sure these reports influence policy, direct investments, and affect decisions at all levels.

Acknowledging the advancements made shows what can be accomplished when organizations work together with clear objectives and mutual dedication, Bereket mentioned that the Ministry continues to strongly support integrating natural capital accounting into the core of Ethiopia's planning processes.

Head of World Bank Operations Juliana Victor stated, in her view, that these initiatives would hold substantial importance for safeguarding and maintaining natural resources.

She pointed out that these launches demonstrate a more robust strategy for growth.

"Natural capital hasn't been adequately considered in our economic choices, and when nature isn't accounted for, it tends to be underappreciated and exploited. Once it's devalued, it becomes difficult to incorporate. Therefore, the roadmap will also assist in addressing this issue," the manager stated.

As she mentioned, this accomplishment highlights several years of collaboration, institutional growth, and technical assistance within the World Bank's local and sustainable development program consulting and analysis initiatives.

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Cyber Threats Demand Regional Collaboration, Says INSA Deputy Director-General

Addis Ababa, June 30, 2026 (ENA) – Cyber dangers have gone past country lines, highlighting the importance of working together within regions to safeguard vital infrastructure, banking networks, communication services, and people’s confidence, stated Daniel Guta, Deputy Director-General of the Information Network Security Administration (INSA), during the conclusion of the IGAD Regional Cyber Exercise 2026 held in Addis Ababa today.

Speaking to attendees of the five-day regional cyber security exercise, the Deputy Director-General stated that cyber security has now become more than just a national duty; it is also a key concern at both regional and international levels because of how connected digital networks have become.

"Currently, a cybersecurity threat can easily cross international boundaries. A breach targeting one nation may rapidly impact the whole area. Essential infrastructure, banking networks, communication services, and public confidence extend throughout our region. Therefore, our reaction needs to be strongly coordinated," he mentioned.

The Assistant Director-General emphasized that the completion of the exercise signifies the start of a new stage in regional cyber security collaboration instead of the termination of the program.

"This final event does not signify the conclusion of the path. Instead, it represents the start of the most recent stage in global cyber security collaboration," Daniel mentioned.

He identified six key focus areas for upcoming collaboration aimed at enhancing lasting regional cyber resilience. These involve making routine national and regional cyber simulations an official practice, broadening future exercises to address increasingly sophisticated cyber risks, adopting unified cybersecurity standards nationally, setting up systems for swift exchange of threat information across regions, ensuring consistent funding for cybersecurity efforts, and crafting clear strategies to track development.

On behalf of IGAD's Executive Secretary, IGAD Chief Representative in Ethiopia, Abebaw Belachew, stated that the exercise has greatly enhanced the region's joint cybersecurity abilities.

"Five days back, we launched this initiative with the core belief that within our connected system, our safety depends entirely on our shared determination," he remarked. "Today, our regional cybersecurity has significantly improved compared to what it was five days earlier," he continued.

Abeba observed that the activity started with talks about cybersecurity policy, management, and new dangers, then moved to practical instruction in digital investigation techniques utilizing artificial intelligence-based equipment, finally ending with real-time cyber attack exercises on an online network simulation system.

The Leader highlighted that, in addition to technical abilities, the confidence built between cybersecurity experts from participating countries would be crucial in addressing upcoming digital threats.

"If another significant real-world cybersecurity event happens, you won't be dealing with it by yourself. You'll have access to a local group of professionals you can reach out to," he said.

Abebaw also praised Ethiopia and INSA for organizing the event and recognized the assistance provided by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the World Bank, and other partner organizations in promoting regional cyber security collaboration.

A five-day exercise ended with the distribution of certificates to attendees representing Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, and Uganda.

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Spain Must Convert Possession Into Goals vs. Austria in Last 16

July 2, Pakistan -- Spain advances to their World Cup round-of-16 match against Austria thanks to a streak of 34 games without defeat, a defense that remains untouched, but an enduring issue continues to linger — what occurs when excessive ball control meets a firmly closed gate?

The European champions led by Luis de la Fuente will encounter Ralf Rangnick's Austria, who are appearing in their first World Cup knockout stage in 44 years following their second-place finish in Group J, as Spain enters the match with strong momentum but some minor tactical challenges.

Spain finished at the top of Group H with two victories and one draw, earning seven points out of nine following their hard-fought 1-0 victory against Uruguay on Friday. This was advancement, indeed, but far from flawless performance.

Spain has appeared solid defensively, with goalkeeper Unai Simon remaining unbeaten for 429 minutes during the World Cup. However, their initial 0-0 tie against Cape Verde in Atlanta served as an early sign that mere control might not suffice.

Faced with one of the competition's newcomers, Spain managed 74% ball control and took 27 attempts at goal, yet just seven found their way onto the target. Cape Verde remained compact, maintained solid defensive organization, and encouraged Spain to tackle an intricate challenge with very limited openings. The Spanish side struggled to break through.

For Spain, the sight was uncomfortably familiar. Their 2022 World Cup campaign ended on penalties after a 0-0 draw against Morocco, another match in which possession did not bring goals.

Due to hamstring injuries they suffered in April, talented and fast forwards Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams arrived at the World Cup with some physical issues. As a result, De la Fuente opted to start Gavi and Ferran Torres on the wings during the match against Cape Verde, which limited Spain's ability to spread out across the field and led to more predictable attacking moves.

BNP Leader Killed in Football Match Dispute Attack

Dhaka, July 2 – A regional BNP official was killed and another person wounded when they were assaulted with bladed instruments during mediation proceedings in the Adabor neighborhood of the city on Tuesday evening, according to authorities who stated the conflict arose due to a disagreement about viewing a soccer game.

The departed individual has been recognized as Md Badsha Mia, the general secretary of the Nobodoy Housing branch of BNP. The wounded person, Saddam Hossain, who serves as the president of the same BNP group, is currently receiving medical care at a hospital.

As per local reports, an altercation occurred during Monday evening in the Nobodoy Housing neighborhood involving two factions disputing about viewing the Brazil versus Japan soccer game from the current FIFA World Cup. On one side stood Saddam Hossain and Badsha Mia, whereas Ripon and Parvez headed the other faction.

To settle the conflict, representatives from each side participated in an arbitration session on Wednesday night.

Nevertheless, following the unsuccessful meeting without an agreement, Saddam and Badsha were assaulted with sharp objects as they departed the location around 8:00 pm, resulting in severe injuries for both individuals.

They were quickly taken to Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital. When Badsha's health worsened, he was subsequently moved to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where physicians confirmed his death.

Harry Kane Secures England's Spot in World Cup Round of 16

July 2, Pakistan – Harry Kane netted two goals after halftime as England made a comeback to win against Congo with a score of 2-1, securing their place in the Round of 16 at the World Cup on Wednesday.

The highest goalscorer in England's history equalized with a header following Brian Cipenga's unexpected half-time advantage for Congo. Kane later netted the winning goal in the 86th minute, scoring into the upper corner at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Throughout most of the match, England appeared set for one of the greatest surprises in World Cup lore.

The winners of the 1966 World Cup will face joint host Mexico in the Round of 16 match taking place in Mexico City this Sunday.