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Over 10,000 Deaths Estimated Due to Heatwave in Europe

Statistics reveal that the extreme heatwave in Europe at the end of June has caused the deaths of more than 10,000 people. According to the European Mortality Monitoring Centre, citizens over the age of 65 have been the primary victims of this natural disaster. Data from Copernicus indicates that this June recorded the highest temperatures ever observed, reaching above 40 degrees Celsius.

At least 10,000 deaths are estimated to have resulted from the severe heatwave that struck Europe late in June. The European Mortality Monitoring Centre reported that during the 26th week of 2026, the number of excess deaths across all age groups in Europe exceeded 10,000. The majority of these fatalities, over 9,000, occurred among people aged 65 and older.

Belgium and France reported exceptionally high excess mortality rates, while Spain, the Netherlands, and Switzerland recorded moderate rates. The United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy experienced relatively lower excess mortality. During the second half of June, Europe faced severe heat, with temperatures in Western European countries surpassing 40 degrees Celsius. The European environmental monitoring and mapping agency Copernicus confirmed that this June was the hottest on record, with an average surface air temperature of 20.74 degrees Celsius.

From French Open Disappointment to Wimbledon Glory: Sinner’s Remarkable Comeback

World No. 1 player Jannik Sinner defeated Germany’s Alexander Zverev to win the Wimbledon tennis title for the second consecutive time. After a disappointing loss at the French Open, he rebounded to claim his fifth Grand Slam career title. Following the victory, Sinner stated, ‘This title is very special to me after Paris.’ June 29, Kathmandu.

A month ago, Sinner suffered an unexpected defeat at the French Open that deeply affected his confidence. However, the world No. 1 did not let that setback become a weakness and moved forward. Rising from that disappointment, he secured his second consecutive Wimbledon title, reaffirming his status as one of the most influential players in world tennis.

In the final, the 24-year-old Italian star defeated Germany’s Alexander Zverev in four sets with a 3-1 margin, securing his fifth Grand Slam title. He became the tenth male player in the Open Era to win Wimbledon consecutively twice. This victory represents not only another Grand Slam for Sinner but also a triumphant response to the painful defeat he endured at the French Open.

At the French Open, unable to maintain a two-set lead and a 5–1 advantage in the deciding set, he was defeated by Argentina’s Juan Manuel Cerundolo. He had already faced difficult defeats in Paris for two consecutive years prior.

Sinner’s journey at Wimbledon was not easy either. He had to battle through a five-set struggle against Miomir Kecmanović in the first round. A loss in that match would have seen him exit in the first round, making him the third former champion to do so. However, that hard-fought victory helped him regain his rhythm. He then won five straight matches in straight sets to reach the final. In the semifinals, he decisively defeated Novak Djokovic, who has won 24 Grand Slam titles.

In the final against Zverev, Sinner faced pressure after dropping the opening set. However, he maintained composure, delivering excellent returns and breaking serve at critical moments to secure the win. Reflecting on his triumph, Sinner said, ‘This title is extremely special for me after Paris. After that loss, I worked very hard to become competitive here.’

Sinner’s coach Darren Cahill also highlighted the player’s resilience after setbacks as his greatest strength. ‘He has suffered many tough defeats, but those losses do not stop him. He comes back stronger after every failure,’ Cahill remarked.

Sinner’s performance this year has been exceptional. He has won 44 out of 47 matches. Since winning Wimbledon last year, he has succeeded in 77 of 83 matches played. With this Wimbledon title, Sinner has further solidified his position as the world No. 1. Despite losing the final, Zverev is set to move up to world No. 2 on Monday, surpassing the injured Carlos Alcaraz. Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli has compared Sinner’s playing style to Novak Djokovic’s. ‘Considering his ability to handle pressure, play extraordinarily swiftly when needed, and win difficult situations, Sinner could become the next Novak Djokovic for the next 10 to 15 years,’ she said.

Nepal Faces Jersey in First One-Day International Cricket Match

Preparing for the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2, the Nepalese team is set to play their first One Day International (ODI) match against Jersey today. The match will commence at 3:45 AM local time at the Granville Cricket Ground. Following the game against Jersey, Nepal will participate in a tri-nation series in the Netherlands, which will also feature Namibia. Kathmandu, 13 July.

Nepal last faced Jersey in an ODI match during the 2010 Division Five tournament. Additionally, both teams competed in the 2015 T20 World Cup qualifiers. From the 2015 squad, Nepal’s Sompal Kami and Karan KC, as well as Jersey’s Charles Perchard and Jonty Jenner, are included in this lineup. Furthermore, Nepal has incorporated Dai Tribe player Jack Tribe, who competes in county cricket, into the team.

After playing a second ODI against Jersey on Wednesday, Nepal will move on to participate in the tri-nation League 2 series in the Netherlands, which includes Namibia.

Close Ally of Trump, US Senator Lindsey Graham, Passes Away

News Summary

Prepared after review.

  • US Republican Senator and close ally of former President Donald Trump, Lindsey Graham, has passed away at the age of 71.
  • Initial medical examinations indicate death was caused by a ruptured main artery of the heart.
  • Prior to his death, he met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a visit to Ukraine on Friday.

June 29, Kathmandu – Lindsey Graham, a close ally of former US President Donald Trump and Republican Senator, died at the age of 71.

According to his office, he suddenly fell ill on Saturday evening and subsequently passed away. Preliminary medical tests revealed that the cause of death was a ruptured main artery (aorta) of the heart.

Elected as Senator from South Carolina in 2002, Graham was one of the most influential figures in US foreign policy and was a strong supporter of American military intervention.

President Trump described Graham as a ‘true American patriot’ and expressed that his loss would be deeply felt.

Before his death, Graham was visiting Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, and had met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. He was reported to be in full health prior to the visit.

Trump also mentioned speaking with Graham just a few hours before his death, saying, ‘Graham sounded fine, though a bit tired.’

Trump added, ‘He was a man of firm character who did not back down in the face of opposition once he believed he was right, and he was a good man.’

From Critic to Supporter of Trump

Initially, Graham was a fierce critic of Trump. In 2015, he accused Trump of being ‘ethnically divisive, xenophobic, and religiously intolerant.’

However, prior to the 2016 election, he warned, ‘If Trump becomes the nominee, we will lose and we will be responsible for that.’

After the violent attack on the US Capitol in 2021, he stated in the Senate, ‘My journey with Trump was long — I did not want it to end this way.’

His stance later shifted; he voted against convicting Trump in the 2021 impeachment and supported him in the 2024 presidential election.

Graham cited his support for Trump’s policies on the US-Mexico border, the killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani, and judicial appointments as reasons for his backing.

In 2023, he said, ‘Trump has a dark side, but he was a good president and I support him.’

Strong Stance on Foreign Policy

Graham was known for his interventionist approach to foreign policy. He was a staunch supporter of Israel and an advocate for military action against Iran.

Last month, in one of his final television interviews, he warned that if Iran did not recognize US control, America would completely destroy the Strait of Hormuz.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute to him, calling Graham a person who understood the intrinsic link between Israel and US security.

He voted for military action against Iraq following the September 11 attacks in 2001 and opposed the 2021 decision to withdraw US troops from Afghanistan.

He said, ‘This is a tragic event for US national security, and it will portray America as a weakened nation.’

Personal Life

Graham was a firm supporter of military aid to Ukraine and additional sanctions against Russia.

President Zelensky expressed deep sorrow on social media, calling him a strong leader.

Graham’s youth was marked by hardship; during his university studies, he lost both parents within two years, after which he raised and legally adopted his younger sister.

After studying law and serving as a military prosecutor and defense attorney in the U.S. Air Force, he went on to become a Senator.

Before Graham’s passing, Republicans held a narrow 53–47 majority in the Senate, and the control of the Senate is expected to be fiercely contested in November.

Meanwhile, another Republican Senator, Mitch McConnell, has been undergoing treatment for unspecified health issues, with no detailed updates on his condition from aides.

FIFA President Infantino Indicates Possibility of Expanding Men’s World Cup to 64 Teams

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has suggested the possibility of increasing the number of teams in the men’s World Cup to 64. He emphasized that the World Cup should be accessible to all and that smaller nations should also be given opportunities to compete. However, leaders of the European and Asian football confederations have opposed this expansion, citing concerns over potential disorder.

Infantino stated that discussions about a 64-team World Cup will take place after the 2026 tournament. In an interview with Swiss media, he highlighted that the World Cup is hosted not only for Europe and South America but for the entire world, and therefore, every country should have the chance to dream of participating. He said, “The World Cup should be for everyone. Opportunities must be given to smaller countries. Without them, there is less motivation to improve.”

The FIFA president claimed the 48-team World Cup has been a success, underscoring the performances of African teams as justification for expansion. He noted that, this time, nine out of ten African teams advanced to the knockout stages. FIFA had decided to expand the World Cup from 32 to 48 teams in 2017.

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) formally proposed in 2025 to expand the 2030 World Cup to 64 teams. Nevertheless, not all parties agree with the 64-team proposal. UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin described it as a bad idea for both the competition and qualification process. Similarly, Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), warned that further expansion might cause disorganization.

The 2030 World Cup will be jointly hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. To commemorate the centenary of the tournament, the first three matches will take place in Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. If the tournament is expanded to 64 teams, nearly one-third of FIFA’s 211 member nations would have the opportunity to participate. Furthermore, the increase in matches and revenue is expected to enhance the distribution of funds to member associations.

What Do the Three Self-Immolation Attempts in Nepal Over Three Days Indicate?

From last Thursday to Saturday, three individuals in Nepal attempted self-immolation. Officials have reported that two of them have died during treatment, while one remains under medical care.

The first incident occurred on Thursday afternoon in Tripureshwor, Kathmandu, where 25-year-old Ganesh Nepali from Mugu attempted self-immolation following a dispute involving a ‘wheel lock’ placed on his motorcycle by municipal police. Efforts to save Ganesh Nepali are ongoing at Bir Hospital in Kathmandu.

These events highlight the urgent need for serious reflection within society. The self-immolation attempts underscore the importance of an in-depth examination of mental health issues and underlying social problems.

Iran Warns of Attacks on Gulf States Aiding US Military Actions

June 29, Kathmandu – Iran has issued a warning that it will target Gulf countries that assist military operations against it. The Iranian government threatened direct attacks on Gulf states allowing the United States to use their land and military bases. This warning was made public by Iran’s Foreign Ministry on Monday, following recent American strikes.

According to an official statement published by Iranian state media, the Foreign Ministry accused the US of violating the majority of the terms of a ceasefire agreement just 25 days after signing it. The ministry stated that US attacks targeted Iran’s transportation network, fishing boats, cargo ships, meteorological agency buildings, and other government infrastructure. Iran characterized these actions as grave war crimes.

The Foreign Ministry highlighted that under international law, neighboring countries are obligated to prevent aggressor states from using their territory or military bases. Iran also warned that any location directly or indirectly involved in or supporting attacks against it will be targeted by its forces in retaliatory operations.

At Least 27 Dead in Fire at Bangkok Bar

Scene of the fire incident

Image Credit, EPA/Shutterstock

The Prime Minister of Thailand has confirmed that at least 27 people have died in a fire at a bar in Bangkok.

Authorities were immediately dispatched after receiving reports of the fire shortly after midnight on Sunday. People were seen fleeing through the main exit engulfed by flames.

Videos posted on the social media platform “X” show individuals trapped inside the burning bar, some screaming while others are seen stumbling as they try to escape. At least two people were seen caught in the flames.

Cause of the Fire

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters at the scene that 27 bodies have been recovered and the injured were transported to hospitals.

He said an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.

Chemical Fertilizer Shortage: ‘No Panic’ but Farmers Not Getting Fertilizer as Needed—What’s Causing This Situation?

Amid reports of a chemical fertilizer shortage across the country during the peak rice planting season, an official has stated that while there is no cause for panic, it is true that farmers are not receiving fertilizer according to their demand. Dr. Ram Krishna Shrestha, Joint Secretary of the Agriculture Development Division under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environment, explained that due to tensions in the Middle East, there has been an unexpected international crisis and disruption in the fertilizer supply system this time.

“However, the government is continuing to supply additional fertilizer; presently, we have 93,000 tons of chemical fertilizer available,” Shrestha said. “The shortage is due to 95,000 tons of fertilizer, previously contracted at a lower price, not arriving on time because of the Middle East conflict.” Referring to Nepal’s regular stockpile of 200,000 tons of fertilizer established before supply disruptions occurred at the Strait of Hormuz, he added,

Deadly Fire in Bangkok Bar Kills at Least 27, Injures Over 60

A devastating fire at a bar in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, has claimed the lives of at least 27 people. More than 60 individuals have been injured, and several others remain missing, according to local media reports. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has indicated that the fire likely started from an electrical switch and rapidly spread due to highly flammable materials present in the bar.

The blaze broke out shortly after midnight on Monday, prompting fire crews and emergency responders to rush to the scene. At that time, people were seen fleeing from the main entrance of the bar to escape smoke and flames. Videos shared on social media show thick plumes of fire billowing from the venue, with individuals screaming and running, some falling down, and at least two people suffering burns as the fire engulfed the premises.

Speaking to journalists at the scene, the Prime Minister confirmed that investigations into the exact cause of the fire are underway. Although firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control within approximately thirty minutes, significant human casualties had already occurred. The establishment is locally known as Rong Beer Na Lat Phrao.

Photographs of the aftermath reveal that the bar’s furniture, walls, and roof were completely destroyed by the fire. Initial reports suggest that the highly combustible decorative materials used inside contributed to the rapid spread of the flames. According to eyewitnesses, a driver passing by around 11:30 p.m. Monday noticed the fire and immediately alerted the fire department.

Women’s Health: Rising Health Concerns Among Nepalese Women and Their Solutions

What are the health issues faced by women in Nepal, and how can they prevent them? Discussions about women’s health problems, including on social media and various platforms, have become increasingly open. Topics such as ‘endometriosis,’ ‘perimenopause,’ and ‘menopause’ are currently receiving special attention.

How have women’s health problems changed over the past few decades? According to gynecologist Saraswati Padhya, obesity-related health issues among women are rapidly increasing. Another gynecologist, Isha Upreti, stated that many diseases can be avoided if women manage stress effectively throughout their lives.

For detailed information about these women’s health challenges and essential precautions to avoid them, please watch the video below.

Zelensky Announces Government Reshuffle, Preparing to Appoint New Prime Minister

News Summary

Prepared with technical assistance, editorial review completed.

  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a major government reshuffle, including the dismissal of Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko.
  • President Zelensky is also preparing changes to the Cabinet and heads of some law enforcement agencies.
  • He revealed plans to assign new responsibilities in foreign policy sectors aimed at EU accession and strengthening border security.

June 29, Kathmandu – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced a comprehensive government reshuffle.

He plans to replace Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko with a new appointee and has proposed changes to the heads of some law enforcement agencies. However, details about who will succeed Svyrydenko and the specific reasons for the reshuffle have not yet been disclosed.

“I thank Svyrydenko for her clear, steady, and effective service as Prime Minister, and have offered her the opportunity to lead a new and significant sector as a key partner within Ukraine’s team,” Zelensky stated. “I hope that through parliament we will implement the necessary changes within the government. There will also be changes in the leadership of law enforcement agencies.”

Zelensky appointed Svyrydenko as Prime Minister last year. An official statement highlighted major initiatives Ukraine is pursuing, including advancing its process to join the European Union and strengthening border security.

He also announced plans to allocate responsibilities across various areas of foreign policy to different experienced individuals. “We undertook this reshuffle because we believe the Cabinet needs renewal to achieve these changes,” he added.

Parliamentary approval is required for the Cabinet reshuffle. However, in the current post-invasion context, members of parliament generally remain united in support of Zelensky and seldom obstruct his plans.

-Agency

Commitment to Lead in ‘Banking and Beyond’

News Summary

  • Nabil Bank has completed 42 years and entered its 43rd year of establishment.
  • Chairman Nirvana Kumar Chaudhary announced the bank’s entry into the era of Artificial Intelligence, pledging to make services smarter.
  • The bank unveiled a promotional plan for customers on its anniversary, including a 42-day special loan scheme and discounts on locker and card services.

June 11 (28 Asar), Kathmandu – Nabil Bank has marked 42 years since its founding and entered its 43rd year of operation.

Since its inception, the bank has introduced modern technology into the Nepali banking sector and, on the occasion of its anniversary, has expressed commitment to provide financial services that go beyond traditional banking boundaries.

At this historic moment, the bank has strongly advanced its concept of ‘Banking and Beyond’ with the objective of creating an inclusive and prosperous future for its customers, community, and the overall national economy.

‘Trust is Our Asset, Innovation is in Our DNA’: Chairman Nirvana Kumar Chaudhary

In his speech at the anniversary, Chairman Nirvana Kumar Chaudhary outlined the bank’s past, present, and future roadmap. “As Nabil Bank completes 42 years of journey, I wish to express gratitude to all our customers, shareholders, regulatory bodies, partners, and dedicated employees,” he said. “This trust is our greatest asset and the strong foundation for our future.”

He discussed the significant changes in Nepal’s economic and industrial landscape over the past four decades, emphasizing that the bank has never waited for change but has always led it.

“We have laid the foundation of modern banking. By establishing ourselves as Nepal’s first digital bank through the Nbank app, we transformed the customer banking experience entirely,” Chairman Chaudhary stated. “As the first private commercial bank of Nepal, we opened new doors for industries and investors. Today, Nabil Bank is the only financial group in Nepal providing a complete financial ecosystem under one roof, including commercial banking, investment banking, stock brokerage, merchant banking, capital market services, and digital banking.”

He affirmed that innovation is not just adopted by the bank but is embedded in its DNA. Chaudhary announced the bank’s entry into the most transformative era in banking history—the ‘Artificial Intelligence’ (AI) era. He explained that AI is not just a basic technology; it is redefining decision-making, risk management, business operations, and the customer financial experience.

“Nabil Bank is not just participating in this change but is prepared to lead it,” he said. “AI will be the core of Nbank’s future growth, making banking services smarter and more personalized.” He added that this will result in faster loan disbursement, excellent risk management, intelligent customer experiences, extensive financial inclusion, and robust security systems.

Despite advancing technologies, the core purpose will always connect to human emotions and values, Chaudhary added. “Banking is not just financial transactions; it is about realizing dreams, supporting entrepreneurs, building family futures, and contributing to Nepal’s prosperity,” he emphasized.

Rapid Financial Growth and Strategic Execution

CEO Manoj Kumar Gyawali described Nabil Bank not only as a banking service provider but also as a trusted partner on the journey of dreams, potential, and success. “This defines our ‘Banking and Beyond’ philosophy,” he said.

Recognizing changing customer banking expectations and the need for sustainable development, the bank is determined to become ‘Nepal’s most trusted, reliable, and future-ready bank.’

The bank has increased investments in strategic and productive sectors crucial to the country’s economic development, currently with loan allocations as follows:

Agriculture: NPR 5.331 billion

Energy: NPR 5.106 billion

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises: NPR 4.592 billion

Tourism: NPR 1.110 billion

Unprecedented Progress in Key Financial Indicators

Over its 42-year history, Nabil Bank has established an unprecedented presence in the financial market. In the fiscal year 1984/85 (2041/42 BS), the bank’s total net worth was NPR 28 million and net profit NPR 1 million. By the third quarter of fiscal year 2025/26 (2082/83 BS), net worth rose to NPR 7.083 billion and net profit to NPR 676 million.

Deposits, initially NPR 146 million, have grown to NPR 588.885 billion, and loans have increased from NPR 133 million to NPR 464.10 billion. Total assets expanded from NPR 269 million to NPR 7.1842 billion.

Starting with 2 branches and 144 employees, the bank’s service network has extended nationwide to 264 branches, 315 ATMs, 18 extension counters, and 2,469 skilled employees, serving over 2.6 million customers.

Customer-Centric Special Plans and Offers on Anniversary

To celebrate the 42nd anniversary, Nabil Bank launched a 42-day special promotional event along with social responsibility initiatives.

Home Reconstruction Loan Scheme: Targeted at individuals affected by road expansion in Hetauda and Birgunj areas, the bank offers concessional loans with only a 0.5% premium added to the base interest rate.

Locker and Gateway Discounts: Special plans are available for customers interested in locker security deposits, credit cards, debit cards, and electronic payment gateway (EPG) services. Customers using the locker security deposit service will receive a 42% discount, while those opting for EPG services will get a 50% discount on the NPR 15,000 integration fee.

Credit and Debit Card Offers: Customers applying for credit cards will receive discounts on application fees and one-year membership fees. These offers are valid for 42 days during the anniversary period. For debit cards, customers applying on the anniversary day will be able to use their debit cards free of charge for four years.

Nabil Bank operates with a network of 264 branches nationwide and 315 ATMs, serving over 2.6 million customers. The bank remains confident in progressing with all stakeholders and continues delivering quality banking services for over four decades. Recently, embracing the concept of sustainable banking, the bank has launched Nbank for digital banking services.

Over 8,310 Projects Registered in the National Project Bank

According to the National Planning Commission, a total of 8,310 projects have been registered and approved in the National Project Bank as part of this year’s new budget formulation process. Among the approved projects, 8,199 have a cost of less than 100 million Nepalese rupees, while 111 projects exceed this cost threshold. The Commission has stated that the classification, registration, and management of projects through the Project Bank Management System are being carried out in an organized and phased manner. Kathmandu, 28 Ashad – More than 8,000 projects have been registered in the National Project Bank. The National Planning Commission reported that a total of 8,310 projects have been registered during this year’s budget formulation process. The figure includes 7,773 study-related projects, 404 new projects, and 133 ongoing projects submitted through the National Project Bank Management Information System. Of these approved projects, 8,199 are new and ongoing projects costing less than 100 million rupees, and 111 projects costing above 100 million rupees have been registered and approved in the system. The Commission further noted that routine review of additional projects submitted by federal agencies is currently underway. The Commission emphasized that the classification, registration, and management of projects via the Project Bank Management System is progressing in a systematic and step-by-step fashion.

Rajuman Dangol Elected as Chairman of Thamel Tourism Development Council

Rajuman Dangol has been elected chairman of the Thamel Tourism Development Council, securing 728 votes. Alongside the chairman, Pashupati Kandel was elected as general secretary, with other office bearers and members also chosen in the election. Newly elected chairman Dangol stated that he will focus on making Thamel safe, organized, and technology-friendly. 28 Ashar, Kathmandu.

In the 30th and 31st annual general meetings held on Saturday, followed by the election on Sunday morning, Dangol defeated his opponent Prashray Rajbhandari, according to election officer Hariprasad Pangeni. Chairman Dangol received 728 votes, while his closest competitor Rajbhandari garnered 365 votes.

Similarly, Rajiv Pandey was elected first vice chairman, Dawa Tamang from Daabang second vice chairman, and Ramesh Thapa third vice chairman. Pashupati Kandel won the general secretary position with 720 votes, while his nearest rival Punyaram Lageju received 333 votes. Dilip Kandel and Kinchu Lamu Bhutia (Shrestha) were elected secretary and treasurer respectively, election officer Pangeni informed.

Furthermore, Surendra Dangol, Balakrishna Khanal, Sanukaji Maharjan, Roshan Pradhan (Shrestha), Bishwaman Pradhan, Liza Manandhar, Krishnabahadur Sedhain, and Chandra Tamang were elected as members. Out of 1,309 eligible voters, a total of 1,225 votes were cast in this election for the two-year term. After the election, the newly elected chairman Dangol told reporters that his priority would be to create a safe and well-organized Thamel. He also disclosed plans to develop Thamel as a technology-friendly international tourist hub.