Al Jazeera English
Jordan World Cup 2026 preview: Players to watch, group matches and squad
Jordan's historic debut at the 2026 World Cup marks a watershed moment for football in the Middle East, capping a remarkable rise that included final appearances at both the 2023 Asian Cup and 2025 Arab Cup. The Nashama arrive on the global stage with momentum and a point to prove, no longer underdogs in the regional picture. All eyes will be on the players who drove that continental success as Jordan steps into the world's biggest tournament for the first time.
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Iran footballers issued US visas for World Cup, says White House
Iran's national football team has been granted US visas ahead of their 2026 World Cup campaign, with players set to arrive for their opening match against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. The White House confirmed the decision, clearing a significant diplomatic hurdle for one of the tournament's most politically sensitive team entries. The move underscores Washington's commitment to hosting a smoothly run competition despite ongoing tensions with Tehran.
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Palestinian baby killed by Israeli military laid to rest
A seven-month-old Palestinian infant has been buried after being shot and killed by Israeli military forces near Hebron, with his parents also wounded in the incident. The death of the baby has drawn renewed attention to the toll of military operations on civilian life in the West Bank. The killing is likely to intensify international scrutiny of Israeli military conduct in the region.
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Iran targets Bahrain and Kuwait after renewed US strikes
Iran launched strikes against Bahrain and Kuwait in retaliation for renewed US military action, escalating tensions across the Gulf region. The move drew sharp condemnation from Gulf monarchies and dealt a serious blow to an already fragile ceasefire. The strikes signal a dangerous new front in the conflict, with regional stability hanging in the balance.
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SCMP
Wan Chai temple and Stanley Mosque set for highest level of heritage protection
Hong Kong's Antiquities and Monuments Office has recommended granting statutory monument status — the city's highest level of heritage protection — to the nearly 180-year-old Hung Shing Temple in Wan Chai and the Stanley Mosque, the only mosque within a prison in Hong Kong. Both sites currently hold Grade 1 historic building status, and the proposal will be considered at an upcoming board meeting. The designation would place both structures under the strongest legal safeguards against alteration or demolition.
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