
UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock and Egyptian Minister of Planning and Economic Development Ahmed Rostom engaged in a football-inspired discussion during high-level UN Development Programme meetings. Baerbock used a World Cup analogy to encourage support for sustainable development, emphasizing perseverance and the importance of fair application of global rules. She noted that many matches are won in the final minutes, relating this to achieving the 2030 development goals. Rostom responded by extending the metaphor, highlighting the need for fair competition and adherence to rules, subtly referencing Egypt's recent controversial World Cup exit. Egypt had lost a match to Argentina after holding a 2-0 lead until the 78th minute, conceding three goals under disputed officiating. Rostom's comments about "fair competition" and stopping "at the 79th minute" alluded to the officiating that cost Egypt the match, including a disallowed goal and an uncalled foul. He concluded by linking these sporting grievances to global policy, advocating for collaborative, unbiased systems to prevent any nation from being structurally disadvantaged in development.
Must ReadEgypt has condemned repeated Iranian attacks targeting Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan, stating that these actions violate state sovereignty. In a statement, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry described the hostile actions against the four Arab nations and their regional infrastructure as an unacceptable threat to Arab national security and territorial integrity. Cairo warned that such maneuvers are a dangerous escalation that could widen the conflict and fuel instability in the Middle East. Egypt reaffirmed its rejection of hostile practices that jeopardize the safety of neighboring populations or critical state assets, emphasizing its solidarity with the impacted nations and pledging full support for their domestic stability. Egypt called for an immediate cessation of all hostile operations, urging regional actors to respect international law, uphold good neighborliness, and prevent further military escalation.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly chaired a meeting to monitor the progress of Egypt's state asset divestment program, part of the second edition of the State Ownership Policy document for 2026-2030. The program aims to increase private sector participation, maximize returns on state assets, improve management, attract investments, and strengthen business confidence. The Prime Minister noted that 20 of the 30 companies announced under the government's initial public offering program have secured temporary listings on the Egyptian Exchange, with procedures underway for four more. These include 10 companies from the petroleum sector and 10 from the public business sector. Temporary listing is the first step, followed by valuation studies, registration with the Financial Regulatory Authority, and final listing and trading. The government plans to begin registration of the first temporarily listed companies with the regulator before year-end. The Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs discussed the institutional framework for implementing the State Ownership Policy, while the Investment Minister reviewed preparations for offering a stake in Misr Life Insurance.
Must ReadEgypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty and Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, stressed the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law. They highlighted the need to ensure the security and safety of international maritime navigation, prevent obstruction to shipping, and reject attempts to impose restrictions on passage through international waterways, warning of negative consequences for the global economy and energy security. The ministers also condemned repeated Iranian attacks targeting several Arab countries, including Gulf states and Jordan, describing them as a violation of state sovereignty and a threat to regional security. They called for an immediate halt to escalatory acts. These remarks were made during a phone call as part of ongoing consultations between Egypt and Saudi Arabia on bilateral relations and regional developments. They praised progress in bilateral ties and reaffirmed commitment to strengthening cooperation. The ministers also exchanged views on regional de-escalation efforts and discussed the role of the regional quartet Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Pakistan for consultation and coordination. They commended the momentum in Egyptian-Saudi relations and discussed regional issues including developments in Sudan, Libya, and the Red Sea, emphasizing close coordination on matters of mutual concern.
Must ReadJordanian air defense systems intercepted and downed four missiles that entered Jordanian airspace from Iranian territory early Monday morning. A military source at the General Command of the Jordanian Armed Forces stated that the interception was carried out with high efficiency to protect the Kingdom's sovereignty, security, and public safety. The operation resulted in no casualties or material damage. Teams from the Royal Jordanian Engineering Corps secured the missile debris that fell in several locations, ensuring the safety of citizens and property.

Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hani Sweilem, is attending the ministerial segment of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development at the United Nations headquarters in New York. His participation aligns with a global review of Sustainable Development Goal 6 SDG 6, which focuses on water and sanitation, and preparations for the 2026 UN Water Conference. Egypt is co-chairing the “Water for the Planet” dialogue at the upcoming conference with Japan. The forum is addressing challenges such as water scarcity, drought, desertification, land degradation, and climate change impacts, with a focus on building resilient water systems. Minister Sweilem's agenda includes bilateral meetings with international officials to discuss the 2026 conference objectives, global water initiatives, and strengthening cooperation, as well as mobilizing partnerships, funding, technology transfer, and capacity building.

The Ministry of Health and Population has issued a warning about three significant diseases that can be transmitted from an infected mother to her fetus during pregnancy: hepatitis B virus HBV, human immunodeficiency virus HIV, and syphilis. The ministry highlighted that early detection is crucial for timely medical intervention, which helps in treatment, reduces infection spread, and prevents potential complications. This screening effort is part of the president's initiative for maternal and fetal health, under the "100 Million Healthy Lives" campaign. Pregnant women are encouraged to utilize the free screening and follow-up services provided by the initiative, which aims to deliver essential healthcare for both mother and child throughout pregnancy. For more information, citizens can contact hotlines 105 or 15335.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that any further expansion of the World Cup, potentially increasing the number of participating teams to 64, will be discussed after the current 2026 tournament. The 2026 finals, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, marked the first time 48 teams competed, a decision Infantino championed. He emphasized the importance of global participation, stating that every nation should have the opportunity to dream of playing in the World Cup, which he believes incentivizes smaller countries to improve. Infantino highlighted the success of the 48-team format, noting that teams from every continent scored goals and earned at least one point, with nine out of ten African teams reaching the knockout stage. The World Cup field was previously expanded to 32 teams in 1998. The upcoming 2030 finals will be co-hosted by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, with Saudi Arabia hosting in 2034. Infantino also addressed controversies surrounding hydration breaks, which he said were implemented based on temperature conditions and aimed to ensure fair play, and defended ticket prices, citing high stadium occupancy and secondary market resales at significantly higher costs. He anticipates FIFA will generate 13 to 14 billion Swiss francs from the 39-day World Cup.
Must ReadEngland is set to play Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals, a fixture rich in history, after overcoming Norway 2-1 in extra time. This marks England's second semi-final appearance in the last three tournaments, with their only World Cup final appearance being in 1966 when they won on home soil. Coach Thomas Tuchel noted his team's resilience, stating they "refuse to give in" and "overcome setbacks," a trait evident in their two come-from-behind victories in the knockout phase. Despite their success, Tuchel believes the team can still improve their football. The partnership of captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham has been crucial, with each scoring six of England's 13 goals in the tournament. Bellingham, in particular, is in strong form, having scored four goals in his last two matches. The squad faced challenges against Norway, including player illness and cramp in difficult conditions, with midfielder Declan Rice missing the second half due to illness. Historically, England and Argentina have met five times in World Cups, with notable matches including Argentina's 1986 victory featuring Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal and England's 2002 group-stage win. England's most recent major tournament semi-final ended with a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands at Euro 2024. Tuchel expressed his enthusiasm for the emotional demands of tournament football, stating, "This is where I want to be. I don't want to be anywhere else in the world."

Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty met with Rebeca Grynspan, Costa Rica's candidate for United Nations secretary-general, on Sunday. During the meeting, Egypt reaffirmed its support for the UN and the multilateral international system. Grynspan presented her vision for the UN's priorities, focusing on strengthening its role and capacity to address global challenges. Abdelatty emphasized the importance of upholding international law and the UN Charter.

President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met at Alamein International Airport to discuss regional and international developments, particularly efforts to prevent escalation in the Middle East. The two leaders emphasized the importance of continued consultation, coordination, and joint action to address challenges facing the region. President El-Sisi welcomed Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, highlighting the strong ties between Egypt and the UAE. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed expressed appreciation for the welcome, affirming the historic bonds between the leaderships and peoples of both nations.

Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Abroad, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, held a phone call with US President's Special Envoy for Syria and Iraq, Ambassador Tom Barrack, to discuss recent regional developments, focusing on Syria and Iraq. Abdelatty emphasized the importance of preserving Syria's unity and territorial integrity, condemned a recent terrorist attack in Damascus, and stressed the need to strengthen Syrian national institutions while rejecting foreign interference. He also highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts against terrorism and extremism. Regarding Iraq, the officials reviewed the new Iraqi government's efforts to strengthen state authority and ensure state control over weapons. Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt's support for Iraq's unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, backing Iraqi state institutions in addressing challenges.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi welcomed UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at Alamain International Airport on Sunday for a fraternal visit. President El-Sisi emphasized the special relationship between the two nations and the high regard for Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and the UAE among Egyptians, highlighting the deep and multifaceted ties. The leaders discussed bilateral relations, regional and international developments, and efforts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East. They also stressed the importance of ongoing consultation, coordination, and joint action on various issues amid regional challenges. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed expressed gratitude for the warm reception, reaffirming the historic and brotherly bonds between the leaderships and peoples of Egypt and the UAE.
BreakingEgypt has condemned Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting several Gulf states, following retaliatory strikes by Tehran after US military attacks on Iranian targets. The Iranian attacks reportedly targeted Jordan, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Iran also announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, stating it fired a warning shot at a vessel and disabled another, and that the strategic waterway would remain closed until "the end of US interference in this region." However, the US Central Command CENTCOM reported that commercial vessel traffic continues through the strait. CENTCOM stated that US forces carried out a third round of strikes against Iran this week in response to Iranian attacks on the Cyprus-flagged container ship M/V GFS Galaxy, which resulted in a missing crew member and significant damage. The US forces targeted approximately 140 military sites, including missile and drone sites, naval capabilities, and ammunition storage facilities, aiming to degrade Iran's ability to attack commercial shipping. Kuwait reported intercepting hostile aerial targets, and the UAE Ministry of Defense detected missile threats outside its borders. Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the Iranian attacks as a dangerous escalation that violates sovereignty and risks undermining regional security, reaffirming solidarity with Gulf states. This escalation further jeopardizes the interim US-Iran agreement to end the war and reopen the Strait of

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi extended his condolences to Qatar's leadership, government, and people following the passing of Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. In a social media post, President El-Sisi expressed his sincere sympathy and prayed for Allah's mercy upon the Father Amir, wishing continued security and stability for Qatar and its people. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013 in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, passed away on Sunday at the age of 74. He is recognized for his role in transforming Qatar into a significant regional and global entity, overseeing extensive economic and infrastructure development, and enhancing its diplomatic and international standing.
Must ReadSheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Amir of Qatar, passed away on Sunday at the age of 74. The Amiri Diwan announced his death, mourning the "nation's great leader." Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until 2013, when he abdicated in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the current Amir. He is recognized for transforming Qatar into a significant regional and global entity, overseeing extensive economic and infrastructure development driven by the country's natural gas resources, and enhancing its diplomatic and international standing.
Must ReadCairo International Stadium will host a public celebration on Monday evening to honor Egypt's national football team, the Pharaohs, for their historic achievement at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team reached the knockout stage for the first time, finishing runners-up in Group G with a 1-1 draw against Belgium, a 3-1 victory over New Zealand, and another 1-1 draw with Iran. They then defeated Australia on penalties in the Round of 32 before their campaign ended with a 3-2 defeat to defending champions Argentina. The celebration will recognize the players and coaching staff and include musical performances. This event follows other tributes, including a reception by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in New Alamein, who praised their performance as a source of pride for Egyptians, and a large public reception in the city where thousands of supporters welcomed the team.

On Saturday, Egypt called for leveraging the recently signed memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran to de-escalate regional tensions and enhance security and stability. Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty discussed these regional tensions, specifically the US-Iran MoU, with UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Abdelatty emphasized the importance of addressing the security concerns of Gulf states, highlighting their security and stability as crucial to the Arab national security system. The ministers also addressed maritime security and recent events in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon. Both officials praised Egyptian-Emirati relations and stressed the need for continued close coordination on regional matters to support security and stability.
Egypt's national football team, the Pharaohs, received a hero's welcome in El Alamein following their historic FIFA World Cup campaign. Thousands of fans lined the streets, waving Egyptian flags and celebrating the team's performances. The players and coaching staff participated in an open-top bus parade, sharing the moment with supporters. Head coach Hossam Hassan appeared wrapped in the Palestinian flag, a gesture that drew widespread attention and symbolized solidarity. The team's arrival at El Alamein Airport was met with an enthusiastic reception, marking the start of a day dedicated to honoring their World Cup achievement. The celebrations highlighted the strong bond between the team and its fans, and El Alamein became a symbol of national pride, unity, and the enduring passion for football in Egypt.
Must ReadGrammy-nominated singer Bonnie Tyler has passed away at the age of 75 in a hospital in Portugal after battling an illness. The Welsh artist, known for hits like Total Eclipse of the Heart, Holding Out for a Hero, and It’s a Heartache, was celebrated for her distinctive voice in pop and rock music. Her family confirmed her passing in a statement.

Egypt's national football team met with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in New Alamein City on July 11, 2026, following their performance in the FIFA World Cup 2026. During the reception, players, including Captain Mohamed Salah, defender Ramy Rabia, forward Omar Marmoush, and defender Mohamed Hany, expressed their commitment to building on their World Cup achievement and making further history. President El-Sisi honored the players and coaching staff with the Merit Cup and honorary decorations, recognizing their "heroic" performance, technical level, determination, perseverance, and discipline. El-Sisi conveyed his pride and appreciation for the team's honorable representation of Egypt, emphasizing that their performance earned respect globally and reflected the noble values of the Egyptian people. He highlighted that sport is not solely about winning but also about earning respect, and praised the team for admirably representing Egypt's youth and bringing joy to citizens. The President affirmed the state's readiness to support promising talents and the national coaching staff, urging continued hard work, team spirit, and the development of new generations of players. The meeting concluded with a lunch, where players reiterated their commitment to future success, and El-Sisi thanked the team on behalf of the Egyptian people.

Grammy-winning artist Macklemore visited the Giza Pyramids during his trip to Egypt. He shared a photo from the landmark on social media, including Egyptian and Palestinian flag emojis in his post. This gesture garnered significant online attention, with followers commending his appreciation for Egypt's cultural heritage and his ongoing public support for Palestine.

President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received and honored Egypt's national football team, including its technical and administrative staff, in New Alamein City. The team was awarded the Merit Cup and honorary decorations in recognition of their "heroic" performance and outstanding technical level during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. El-Sisi expressed pride and appreciation for the team's honorable performance, noting that it reflected the general sentiment across Egypt, Arab countries, and the world. He lauded the team's noble values, determination, perseverance, and discipline, emphasizing that their efforts created joy among citizens. The President stressed that sport is not just about winning, but also about earning respect, which the team achieved. He also highlighted the importance of impartial talent scouts to identify young and emerging players, affirming the state's readiness to support promising talents and the national coaching staff. El-Sisi encouraged continued hard work, team spirit, and the development of new generations of players to build on current successes. He later joined the team for lunch, where players pledged to continue their efforts for future achievements.

Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Abroad Dr. Badr Abdelatty, and Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Hakan Fidan, held a telephone call on Saturday to discuss enhancing Egyptian-Turkish relations and exchanging views on regional issues. Both ministers noted the rapid development of bilateral relations and committed to building on progress from the 2016 High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting, co-chaired by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. They emphasized strengthening strategic dialogue and economic cooperation. The call also covered regional developments, with both ministers stressing de-escalation, containing tensions, and intensifying efforts to revive negotiations between the United States and Iran to achieve a final agreement through dialogue. They also discussed coordination within the regional quartet mechanism comprising Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, highlighting the importance of respecting sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference. Furthermore, they consulted on the Palestinian issue, rejecting displacement attempts, calling for a halt to escalation in Gaza and the West Bank, and ensuring humanitarian aid access. They also exchanged assessments on developments in Syria, Lebanon, Sudan, and Libya, underscoring the importance of supporting security, stability, unity, and sovereignty.