**LONDON, July 4, 2026 (Reuters)** – Here are the top eight latest world news headlines breaking this morning, bringing you the most urgent international developments.
Iran Begins Days-Long Funeral for Slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
TEHRAN – Iran has commenced multi-day funeral ceremonies for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed months ago in an airstrike. Thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran, with state television reporting calls for revenge amidst the solemn proceedings. The ceremonies are expected to draw millions before his burial next week.
Israel Bombs Lebanon Amidst Framework Agreement
BEIRUT – The Israeli army announced it has bombed approximately 10 sites in Lebanon, alleging they were used by Hezbollah. This development comes despite a framework agreement inked between Lebanon and Israel last month.
Venezuela Earthquake Death Toll Rises Significantly
CARACAS – The devastating twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela last week have now claimed 2,645 lives, with 12,666 people injured and thousands still reported missing. Rescue operations continue as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the natural disaster.
Trump Says U.S. Gave Iran “A Week Off” for Khamenei’s Funeral
WASHINGTON – U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Washington paused negotiations with Tehran, allowing for the funeral processions of the slain Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Speaking on the eve of July 4th celebrations, Trump claimed Iran is “dying to settle” with the U.S.
Wildfire Rages in Southern France, Nearly 950 Hectares Burned
TOULOUSE – French authorities are battling a wildfire near Pouzols-Minervois in the Aude department, which has already consumed nearly 950 hectares. Around 2,000 firefighters have been deployed as the blaze continues for a second day.
NATO Allies Clash Over Defense Spending as Summit Approaches
ANKARA – German Chancellor Friedrich Merz pushed back against U.S. President Donald Trump’s criticism regarding European NATO allies’ defense spending, with Germany emphasizing its commitment to doubling its defense budget. This comes ahead of next week’s NATO leaders’ summit in Ankara, where defense spending is expected to be a key topic.
Czech Police Dismantle Major International Fraud Ring
PRAGUE – Czech and Turkish police forces have successfully dismantled a fraudulent call center operating out of Istanbul. The ring is linked to 1,173 cases of fraud against Czech citizens, where operators posed as officials to coerce victims into transferring money.
Over 40 Killed in Pakistan Bus Accident
ISLAMABAD – At least 40 people have been killed and eight others wounded after an overcrowded bus plunged into a ravine in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Officials report the vehicle lost control on dangerous mountain roads.
