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Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India intends to give BRICS a “new form” when it assumes the presidency in 2026, following the summit in Rio de Janeiro as the country prepares to take over leadership from Brazil[1].

Leaders from 10 central trade unions in India said 30–40 crore workers and farmers would join a nationwide strike on July 9, protesting government policies and presenting a 17-point demand charter[1].

Internationally, U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House and urged progress toward ending the Gaza conflict. Netanyahu formally nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize during their meeting[1]. Trump also stated that ceasefire talks in Gaza were “going very well,” although the first round in Qatar did not yield a breakthrough. The White House meeting included discussion on controversial plans to relocate Palestinians, with Israeli officials proposing a “humanitarian city” in Rafah[5].

China has expanded its visa-free entry policy to citizens from 74 countries, marking its most relaxed travel rule yet to boost tourism[1]. Meanwhile, China’s state media warned the U.S. administration against reigniting a trade war, as President Trump notified trading partners of upcoming higher tariffs if new trade deals are not reached by August 1. China said it would respond firmly to any U.S. deals that threaten its interests[5].

Trump’s administration has moved to impose a 25% tariff on Japan, prompting “regret” from Japanese officials and ramped-up negotiations in hopes of striking a “package” deal before the new August 1 deadline[7]. Trump also announced a 50% tariff on imported copper and stated that additional tariffs on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals are imminent, further escalating trade tensions[3].

On the Russia-Ukraine front, Ukraine has called for an international investigation into the alleged use of banned chemical munitions by Russia. This follows intelligence from Dutch and German agencies reporting widespread use of illegal weapons along the front line[3].

In the U.S., news reports detail severe flooding in Texas, with ongoing rescue efforts as the death toll climbs. Volunteers have been urged to stay away for safety, but many continue to aid in the search for missing residents[4][6]. Residents in Burnet County, Texas, are struggling to recover as entire housing complexes are left uninhabitable due to rapidly rising floodwaters[6].

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