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The Record MENA Presence at World Cup 2026The Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) will be represented by a record eight teams at the 2026 World Cup: Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia. Iran, which is geographically in the Middle East, is part of the Central Asian Football Association.The participation of so many Arabic-speaking teams at a World Cup is unprecedented. Morocco's historic feat of becoming the first Arab nation to reach the World Cup semifinals at the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 has bolstered the confidence of other MENA countries. Some teams believe they now have a shot at reaching the knockout phases in North America.Algeria: Desert Warriors Seeking RedemptionWorld Cup appearances: 5 (1982, 1986, 2010, 2014, 2026)Best finish: Round of 16 (2014)Overall record: W3 D3 L7FIFA world ranking: 28Algeria return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014, carrying a familiar sense of optimism tempered by questions over consistency. The Desert Warriors were one of Africa's most feared sides after winning the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), but the years that followed brought more frustration than success, including the heartbreaking failure to qualify for Qatar 2022. Now, back on football's biggest stage, Algeria arrive with a talented squad, a blend of experienced leaders and emerging stars and a chance for their golden generation to make one last statement.StrengthsFew African teams can match Algeria's attacking depth. With Riyad Mahrez providing experience and creativity alongside emerging talents such as Mohamed Amoura and Adil Boulbina, the Desert Warriors possess the quality to trouble any defence. The squad also benefits from a strong core of players competing at a high level in Europe.WeaknessesDefensive inconsistency remains Algeria's biggest concern. Head coach Vladimir Petkovic has occasionally struggled to mould his attacking talent into a balanced unit, while uncertainty in the goalkeeping department could become a significant issue heading into the tournament.The drawAlgeria face a difficult challenge in Group J alongside defending champions Argentina, Austria and World Cup debutants Jordan. The opening match against Argentina will be a big test, but the Arab derby against Jordan could prove decisive in the battle for qualification before the Desert Warriors conclude the group stage against Austria. If they can avoid defeat against Jordan and take something from Austria, a place in the knockout rounds is well within reach.Players to watchMahrez remains Algeria's talisman and most recognisable player. Amoura brings pace and directness in attack, while Boulbina offers another exciting attacking option.PredictionElimination in the round of 32Egypt: Pharaohs Seeking First World Cup VictoryWorld Cup appearances: 4 (1934, 1990, 2018, 2026)Best finish: Group stageOverall record: W0 D2 L5FIFA world ranking: 29Egypt and the conundrum at the heart of African football. This is a headline that could well sum up Egypt's story with the World Cup. The Pharaohs remain the dominant force in the AFCON with seven trophies, yet they are still chasing their first World Cup victory. For a country that has dominated the continent for decades and produced a long list of stars, this conundrum remains remarkable. So while other Arab teams would be looking to progress further in the tournament, most Egyptians would cherish a victory in the group stage as an achievement in itself.StrengthsEgypt are one of Africa's most dangerous and lethal attacking units. They combine technical quality, experience and pace in transition. Added to this, the Pharaohs benefit from years of competing in high-pressure continental tournaments, a fact which has helped forge a resilient mentality capable of handling the demands of a World Cup.WeaknessesDespite their attacking talent, Egypt can be overly reliant on a handful of key players to provide moments of inspiration. Defensive lapses against top-level opposition have also been a recurring issue, and the team has occasionally struggled to impose itself against the world's elite sides.The drawEgypt have been handed a mixed draw in Group G and will fancy their chances of competing for qualification. They will begin their campaign as underdogs against Belgium, given the Red Devils' superior depth and quality, but they will view the game against New Zealand as the one they must win before facing one of Asia's most disciplined sides, Iran.PredictionElimination in the round of 32Iraq: Lions of Mesopotamia Return After 40 YearsWorld Cup appearances: 2 (1986, 2026)Best finish: Group stage (1986)Overall record: W0 D0 L3FIFA world ranking: 56Iraq return to the World Cup after a 40-year absence, carrying the hopes of a football-crazy nation that has spent decades waiting for this moment. While reaching the tournament is already an achievement, Iraqis are optimistic the team could do more than just make up the numbers. Iraq secured their spot in the competition after a gruelling qualification campaign, and with luck, they can cause huge upsets.StrengthsIraq's greatest strength is their mentality. They have built a reputation for grinding out results, often winning by narrow margins and showing remarkable resilience under pressure. Set pieces are another key weapon, with Aymen Hussein among the best aerial threats in Asian football. Veteran goalkeeper Jalal Hassan also provides security at the back after recording one of the best clean sheet records in Asian qualifying.WeaknessesGoals could be difficult to come by against elite opposition. Iraq's attacking play relies heavily on Aymen Hussein and a limited number of attacking patterns. If opponents successfully negate those threats, the team can struggle to create chances consistently from open play.The drawIraq face one of the toughest draws of any Arab nation at the tournament. The Lions of Mesopotamia have been grouped with France, Senegal and Norway, leaving little margin for error. The opening match against Norway could effectively shape the entire campaign as it may represent Iraq's best opportunity to claim points before facing France in the second game. The final group match against Senegal will also be a key test against one of Africa's strongest sides.Players to watchHussein remains Iraq's biggest attacking weapon thanks to his aerial dominance and ability to deliver in crucial moments. Veteran goalkeeper Jalal Hassan brings leadership and experience after playing a key role in qualification. Midfielder Zidane Iqbal offers creativity and composure in possession, while Ali Jasim is regarded as one of Iraq's brightest young talents, who is capable of producing moments of individual brilliance on the biggest stage.PredictionElimination in the group stage, but capable of making life difficult for Group D opponentsJordan: First-Time Participants Aim to ImpressWorld Cup appearances: 1 (2026)FIFA world ranking: 63Jordan enter their first ever World Cup with a determination to make a positive impression despite being drawn into a challenging group featuring Argentina, Algeria and Austria. After remarkable progress in recent years, highlighted by reaching the AFC Asian Cup final, Jordan are seen as an emerging force built on defensive discipline and quick transitions. Under head coach Jamal Sellami and represented by key players such as Mousa Al-Tamari and Ali Olwan, Jordan hope their debut can become more than just a memorable appearance.StrengthsJordan's strengths are their organisation and team cohesion. The squad is well-drilled defensively, difficult to break down while relying on compact shape and disciplined positioning. The team is also dangerous on the counterattack, with Mousa Al-Tamari providing pace, creativity and the ability to create chances in transition. Jordan's recent success at the Asian Cup demonstrated their ability to compete with stronger opponents through collective effort and tactical discipline.WeaknessesA lack of World Cup experience could be a significant obstacle. Jordan also lack the overall squad depth and individual star power of the other teams in the group. As a result, injuries or suspensions to key players could have a notable impact. Scoring consistently against elite opposition may also prove challenging if the team is forced to spend long periods without possession.The drawJordan face one of the toughest groups possible on their World Cup debut. Defending champions Argentina are clear favourites, while Algeria and Austria appear to be direct rivals in the battle for second place. The match against Algeria could be the one Jordan would target as the route to the last 32.Players to watchMousa Al-Tamari is Jordan's standout player and biggest attacking threat, capable of changing games with his dribbling and pace. Ali Olwan provides an important goal-scoring presence in attack.PredictionElimination in the group stageMorocco: Atlas Lions Aim to Build on Historic 2022 RunWorld Cup appearances: 7 (1970, 1986, 1994, 1998, 2018, 2022, 2026)Best finish: Fourth place (2022)Overall record: W6 D6 L11FIFA world ranking: 7Morocco enter the 2026 World Cup with a very different status from previous tournaments. The Atlas Lions are no longer viewed as outsiders capable of causing an upset. They are now expected to challenge the world's best after becoming the first African and Arab nation to reach the semifinals in 2022. With a settled squad, a winning mentality and a blend of established stars and emerging talent, Morocco arrive in North America believing another deep run and a shot at the biggest prize are possible.StrengthsMorocco possess one of the most complete squads in the tournament. The Atlas Lions combine defensive solidity with technical quality and attacking flair, while years of playing together have created a strong sense of cohesion. With world-class players across the pitch, Morocco have the ability to adapt to different opponents and match situations.WeaknessesUnlike other Arab teams, the only weakness that could hinder Morocco's World Cup dream is the pressure of expectation, which may prove to be the biggest challenge. The Atlas Lions will no longer benefit from being underestimated by opponents.

The Revival of a Musical Legacy John Constable, one of Britain's greatest landscape painters, was also a keen musician. His personal cello, commissioned in 1802, is set to be played in public for the first time in 100 years after its restoration. The History of the Cello The cello was made by John Dunthorne Sr, Constable's neighbor, early mentor, and friend. Dunthorne was not only a skilled maker of musical instruments but also a painter and worked as a plumber, glazier, and carpenter. The instrument is believed to have been played by Constable in a local band in his home village of East Bergholt in Suffolk. The Restoration and Return to Music The cello had been part of the Ipswich Collection since 1942 but had been badly restored in 1926 and was no longer playable. Thanks to funding from the Friends of Ipswich Museum, totaling over £4,000, the cello has been restored by expert restorers James and Sylvie Fawcett. Local cellist Melanie Woodcock has been playing the cello during its restoration and will perform at a public event on June 10. A Glimpse into Constable's Life The cello's history offers a glimpse into Constable's life beyond his art. In 1802, Constable wrote about becoming a 'natural painter' and had his first work accepted at the Royal Academy. His friendship with Dunthorne was pivotal, offering him a connection to the Suffolk landscape he loved. As Constable once wrote to Dunthorne, 'This fine weather almost makes me melancholy; it recalls so forcibly every scene we have visited and drawn together.' The Future of the Cello After the public performance on June 10, the cello will be displayed at Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich from June 17 until October 4 as part of the Constable 250 festival, celebrating the 250th anniversary of Constable's birth. This event not only highlights Constable's lesser-known love for music but also shines a light on Dunthorne, a self-taught artist and instrument maker who played a significant role in Constable's early career.

The Booker Prize Foundation is rolling out a new Quick Read anthology titled All Around the World this week, aiming to boost reading among adults who struggle to finish books, a problem highlighted by recent literacy research.Quick Reads Expands with “All Around the World” AnthologyThe collection features stories by Booker winners Anne Enright, David Szalay and International Booker nominee Nadifa Mohamed, curated by former winner Roddy Doyle. It will be sold for £1 from Thursday, with the foundation donating 12,000 copies to readers facing barriers, including the prison‑reading programme Books Unlocked. The Big Issue will distribute 300 physical copies and offer a free digital and audio download to its readers.Reading Habits Data Highlights Growing Literacy Gap55% of UK adults say they read less than they intend to.19% of 16‑ to 24‑year‑olds feel their culture is under‑represented in books.Four in ten respondents abandon books because they “lose interest”.22% cite lack of time, and 21% cite cost as barriers.The forthcoming State of the Nation’s Adult Reading report, due later this summer, underpins the Quick Reads push.Potential Ripple Effects on UK Literacy and PublishingBy delivering affordable, curated stories, the initiative seeks to:Increase accessibility for low‑income and incarcerated readers.Provide representation that may re‑engage disengaged demographics.Strengthen the market for short‑form literature, encouraging publishers to invest in similar projects.Roddy Doyle describes the book as “an invitation to read”, emphasizing how bite‑size narratives can lower entry barriers.What’s Next for Adult Literacy Initiatives in the UK?The Reading Agency will publish the full adult‑reading report this summer, likely shaping policy and funding decisions. If the Quick Reads model proves successful, we may see:Expanded partnerships with retailers and community organisations.More free digital‑audio bundles targeting underserved groups.Potential scaling of the model to other regions beyond England.Stakeholders will watch sales, donation uptake, and feedback from the Big Issue distribution to gauge impact and inform future literacy strategies.

Didier Deschamps challenged forward Michael Olise to make his mark at the 2026 World Cup after the winger’s hat‑trick in a 3‑1 warm‑up win over Northern Ireland. Olise’s Hat‑Trick Sends a Clear Message Ahead of the World Cup The Bayern Munich winger delivered three goals in the final friendly, scoring before half‑time, shortly after the break, and finishing with a long‑range strike. Deschamps highlighted Olise’s confidence and work‑rate, saying, “We’ll need a Michel Olise at that level.” Final score: France 3–1 Northern Ireland Goals: Olise (3), Patrick Kelly (1 for NI) Key teammates in attack: Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Desire Doué Upcoming warm‑up fixtures: Iraq (Philadelphia) and Norway (Foxborough) before the Group I opener on June 16 Numbers Behind the Performance: Goals, Shots, and Warm‑Up Stats Olise’s three goals accounted for 100% of France’s tally in the match, while his shot accuracy stood at roughly 70% (7 shots, 5 on target). The win marked France’s third consecutive friendly victory, improving their warm‑up record to 4‑1. Strategic Implications for France’s Attack Line Deschamps’ endorsement signals a tactical shift toward a more fluid front three, pairing Mbappé with the pace of Olise and the creativity of Dembélé. The performance also eases concerns over recent injury doubts surrounding William Saliba, who returned to training and could provide defensive stability. What Deschamps’ Vote Means for France’s Group‑Stage Prospects With Olise’s confidence soaring, France gains a versatile option capable of cutting inside, delivering crosses, and scoring from distance. Analysts expect the winger to feature prominently against Senegal in New Jersey, potentially alleviating the pressure on Mbappé, who needs one more goal to equal Olivier Giroud’s national scoring record. As the squad departs for its Boston training base on Wednesday, the blend of experienced stars and emerging talent positions France as a strong contender in Group I.

The LeadKenyan police have fired tear gas to disperse protesters in the central town of Nanyuki, who have been opposing a quarantine centre for Americans exposed to Ebola that the United States government is racing to build despite Kenyan court orders barring further work.The Nanyuki Ebola Facility ControversyThe proposed 50-bed unit at an air force base has angered many Kenyans, who accuse the US of offloading the health risk of caring for those exposed to the Ebola outbreak in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda. Last week, hundreds took to the streets in Nanyuki amid growing frustration among residents as Kenyan and US authorities publicly reaffirmed their commitment to the plan despite court orders. The demonstration turned violent, with at least two people killed and one wounded.During the latest protest, police used tear gas to disperse small groups of protesters. One protester carried a white cross emblazoned with the phrase "Respect Ebola" in red.Global Health ImplicationsThe World Health Organization declared an international public health emergency on May 17 after officials detected the rare Bundibugyo strain, which they discovered had been circulating for weeks in the DRC and had spread to neighbouring Uganda. Unlike the more common Zaire strain, there are no approved vaccines or treatments for the Bundibugyo strain.There are fears that the outbreak could become one of the worst on record due to the delay in detection, as well as recent declines in health funding from the US and other Western donors. Last year, the US cut most foreign aid and effectively closed the US Agency for International Development (USAID) following the start of President Donald Trump's second term.US-Kenya Diplomatic TensionsThe Trump administration has said it "cannot and will not allow" any cases to enter the US, unlike during the 2014-16 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, when several infected US nationals were treated on US soil. The Nanyuki facility is designated for Americans who have been exposed to the virus but are still asymptomatic. Patients who develop symptoms would be sent for care to other countries, US officials have said.US military planes have continued to ferry in staff and equipment even after court orders blocking the plan, according to US and diplomatic sources and flight tracking data, with several aircraft expected to land this week. Satellite imagery shows an increasing build-up of white tents in the middle of a plot of land about 0.046sq km (11 acres) in area, cleared within the Laikipia airbase since May 27.Future Outlook on the Ebola ResponseThe US has said it is aware of the court challenge and was "working with the Kenyan government to resolve any objections." Kenyan officials have said the facility would also serve Kenyans and foreign nationals in addition to American citizens, but US officials have not confirmed this. As the Ebola outbreak continues to spread in the region, the controversy over the quarantine center highlights the complex challenges of international health cooperation during political tensions.

The Lead: A Global Time‑Shift Challenge for World Cup FansJune 11‑July 19 will see 48 nations compete in 104 matches across 16 venues in three North‑American countries. Because the tournament is spread over four U.S. time zones, fans in Europe, the Middle East and Africa must adjust to kickoff times that often fall after midnight or in the early morning.The North‑American Time‑Zone Spread Drives Global Kickoff ChaosMatches are scheduled in:Eastern Time (GMT‑4)Central Time (GMT‑5)Mountain Time (GMT‑6)Pacific Time (GMT‑7)This four‑zone layout creates 13 distinct kickoff times for the tournament, ranging from early afternoon in North America to pre‑dawn hours in Europe and Africa.Numbers Behind the Schedule: 13 Kickoff Slots and 35 Early‑Morning Group Matches13 kickoff slots across the group and knockout phases35 group‑stage matches (almost half) start between midnight and 5 am in the United KingdomSemifinals and final are set for 8 pm BST / 9 pm CEST, offering a more conventional viewing windowFour Middle‑Eastern teams (Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Jordan) and a record ten African teams will compete, influencing regional interestWhy European, Middle Eastern and African Viewers Face Unusual HoursEuropeans will see matches as early as 12 am–1 am local time, with many games at 3 am–5 am. In the Middle East, most fixtures fall between 10 pm–7 am Qatar time, though a few prime‑time slots (7‑10 pm) appear. African viewers experience a similar spread: North‑African fans watch between 8 pm–5 am, while South‑African audiences see games from 9 pm–6 am. The timing reflects the geographic distance between the host continent and traditional football markets.Looking Ahead: How Broadcasters and Fans May Adapt to the Timing ChallengeBroadcasters are already promoting the Al Jazeera Sport widget that converts match times to local zones, and many networks plan delayed highlights for prime‑time slots. Fans are expected to rely on recordings, social‑media clips, and community watch parties that run through the night. The evening semifinals and final could become the first truly global primetime moments for the World Cup, potentially reshaping future tournament scheduling.

The LeadIran and Israel have paused tit-for-tat attacks against each other that had threatened to unravel the fragile ceasefire in place since April 8, but tensions remain high. Tehran has warned that fighting could resume if Israel continues with its attacks, including on Lebanon.The Event DetailsThe ceasefire is facing pressure from growing public disagreements between Israel and the United States. According to Axios, US President Donald Trump warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be "careful" as continued strikes risk undermining the truce.The Iranian parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said repeated Israeli violations showed there was no "genuine will to build trust". He warned that the ceasefire remains brittle and could break.The Regional DevelopmentsIsrael said it targeted the Mahshahr petrochemical complex in the southwest on Monday, one of Iran's most important industrial centres. Iranian media reported no casualties, while authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage and potential economic losses.Hezbollah said it carried out 16 operations against Israeli forces on Monday, targeting troop gatherings, military vehicles and equipment across southern Lebanon. The group said it used drones, guided missiles, artillery and loitering munitions in attacks near Beaufort Castle, Odaisseh and Yohmor al-Shaqif, claiming to have destroyed ammunition transport vehicles and military bulldozers.The Diplomatic TensionsIsrael's ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, said negotiations between Washington and Tehran have "nothing to do with Lebanon", accusing Iran of trying to connect the two issues. Speaking to Fox News, Leiter said Israeli operations against Hezbollah are separate from the US-Iran talks and warned that "Lebanon will not have a future if it remains linked to Iran".Trump said on Monday he warned Netanyahu that the Israeli PM could find himself "on your own very soon" if he carried out further strikes on Iran. According to Axios, the president urged Netanyahu not to retaliate after Iran signalled it would halt attacks, highlighting growing tensions between Washington and Israel over the future of the ceasefire.The Strategic ImplicationsAnalysts say Israel's decision to launch new strikes on Iran despite Trump's calls for restraint was intended to signal to the US that no lasting agreement with Tehran can ignore Israeli interests. Military historian Danny Orbach said the strikes were a message to Washington that Israel retains the ability to disrupt negotiations if it believes its security concerns are being overlooked.Phyllis Bennis of the Institute for Policy Studies said Trump's warning to Israel would carry more weight if it were backed by concrete actions. She argued that continued US military aid, diplomatic support and weapons transfers undermine the message, leaving little reason for Netanyahu to view the comments as a meaningful shift in US policy.The Future OutlookThe ceasefire remains precarious, with both sides maintaining positions that could lead to renewed conflict. Israel appears determined to continue operations against Iranian interests in the region, while Tehran has signaled it will respond to any perceived violations. The US position remains unclear as Trump attempts to balance between supporting Israel and preventing a wider regional conflict.

Lead: Football Weekly’s Preview of World Cup Groups E‑HThe Guardian’s Football Weekly podcast rolls out its second World Cup 2026 preview, dissecting the match‑ups and storylines in Groups E, F, G and H ahead of the tournament’s opening round.Group E Deep‑Dive: Germany, Ecuador, Ivory Coast and CuraçaoGermany – trying to shake off recent under‑performances and decide if they can be a dark‑horse.Ecuador – a South‑American side eager to prove its knockout pedigree.Ivory Coast – looking to blend experience with emerging talent.Curaçao – debutants with a 40‑year‑old goalkeeper and a 78‑year‑old manager adding novelty.Group F Spotlight: Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia and SwedenNetherlands – questioned whether their “very good” reputation can survive a potential implosion.Japan – assessing if they can retain dark‑horse status without star Kaoru Mitoma.Tunisia – a resilient African side aiming for surprise points.Sweden – under new manager Graham Potter, seeking to rediscover form.Group G Outlook: Belgium, Egypt, Iran and New ZealandBelgium enters as the clear favourite, while Egypt, Iran and New Zealand each bring distinct tactical approaches that could upset the balance.Group H Narrative: Spain, Uruguay, Cape Verde and Saudi ArabiaSpain, led by veteran coach Luis Enrique, is tipped as a favourite, but the presence of Uruguay’s gritty squad, Cape Verde’s rising talent, and Saudi Arabia’s home‑region advantage keep the group wide open.Key Numbers and Unusual FactsOldest manager in the tournament: 78‑year‑old Curaçao coach.Oldest goalkeeper on the pitch: 40‑year‑old Curaçao keeper.Why These Groups Matter for the 2026 TournamentThe composition of Groups E‑H sets the stage for early upsets and could reshape the knockout bracket. A strong performance from dark‑horse teams like Curaçao or Japan would force traditional powers to adapt their strategies.Looking Ahead: What to Expect in the Group StagePotential dark‑horse breakthroughs from Curaçao and Japan.Germany’s need to rediscover consistency to avoid early elimination.Sweden’s tactical evolution under Potter could surprise opponents.Spain’s depth will be tested against Uruguay’s physicality.

Rescue teams in the Philippines are racing against time after a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Mindanao on June 9, 2026, killing at least 37 people and injuring 400. The disaster has left the coastal city of General Santos under a state of calamity.Magnitude 7.8 Quake Ravages Mindanao, Casualties RiseThe main shock occurred at 7:40 am local time (23:40 GMT) roughly 20 km off the coast of Sarangani province. A series of aftershocks followed, the strongest measuring 6.5, prompting tsunami alerts across several neighboring countries.Human Toll and Infrastructure Damage: Numbers Reveal Scale37 confirmed deaths, including 13 in General Santos alone.400 injured, many with serious injuries.Approximately 2,000 houses and 117 government buildings damaged.About 6,000 public school facilities require safety assessments before reopening.The international airport in General Santos closed, cancelling 63 domestic flights.Two survivors have been pulled from a collapsed grocery‑store building, while a third victim was found dead. Scanners have yet to detect additional signs of life.Regional Response and Long‑Term Recovery ChallengesPresident Ferdinand Marcos Jr. activated emergency agencies, pledging that “the national government is moving and we will not leave Mindanao behind.” Regional civil‑defence chief Rodrigo Sosmena warned that ongoing aftershocks force rescuers to proceed cautiously, especially in mountainous areas where roads and bridges are damaged.Local officials are working overtime to clear roadblocks, while engineers inspect building integrity—a “herculean task,” according to Al Jazeera’s Barnaby Lo.What Lies Ahead: Aftershocks, Reconstruction, and PreparednessExperts from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) expect further aftershocks, complicating rescue operations. The extensive damage to schools, homes and public infrastructure will require months of reconstruction and a reassessment of building codes in seismic zones.Community resilience is evident: students who were mid‑ceremony at a school in Malita survived because they remained seated, and many residents are volunteering to clear debris. The coming weeks will test the Philippines’ capacity to restore essential services and to improve preparedness for future quakes.