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The United States’ senior envoy, Vice President JD Vance, said the marathon talks in Islamabad collapsed because Iran would not abandon its nuclear weapons programme, a stance Tehran’s representatives dismissed as a lack of US goodwill. Vance, who departed Islamabad on Sunday after a 21‑hour session with Iranian officials, reiterated that Washington’s red lines required an "affirmative commitment" from Tehran that it would not pursue a nuclear weapon or the means to acquire one quickly. He described the stalemate as "bad news for Iran much more than it is for the United States." Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf countered that, despite offering "constructive initiatives," the US failed to win the trust of the Iranian delegation, leaving it to Washington to decide whether it can regain that confidence. Iran’s foreign ministry downplayed expectations, stating that no one anticipated a deal in a single session and emphasizing continued regional contacts, while the semi‑official Tasnim news agency blamed "excessive" US demands for the impasse. The talks took place under a 14‑day ceasefire agreed by the US, Iran and Israel, with Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar urging both sides to honour the pause and offering to facilitate renewed dialogue. The conflict, which began on 28 February, has already claimed over 3,000 lives in Iran, more than 2,000 in Lebanon, and dozens across the Gulf region, while inflicting extensive infrastructure damage. Israeli security cabinet minister Ze’ev Elkin warned that Iran is "playing with fire," even as he left the door open for further negotiations. These were the first direct US‑Iran talks in more than a decade and could determine the fate of the fragile ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz—a chokepoint for roughly 20 % of global energy supplies. The war has already sent international oil prices soaring. In addition to Vance, US special envoy Steve Witkoff and former President Trump’s son‑in‑law Jared Kushner met with Ghalibaf and Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi for two hours before a brief recess. The Iranian delegation arrived in black mourning attire for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and carried shoes and bags belonging to children killed in a school bombing near a military compound—a strike the Pentagon says is under investigation, with some reports suggesting US involvement. Pakistani security forces sealed off Islamabad, a city of over two million, underscoring Pakistan’s newly prominent mediating role after a year of diplomatic isolation. The US military announced it was "setting conditions" to clear mines and allow warships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a claim Iran’s state media denied. Prior to the talks, a senior Iranian source told Reuters that the US had agreed to release frozen Iranian assets held in Qatar and other banks, a statement the US later denied. Tehran’s broader demands include control over the strait, payment of war reparations, a region‑wide ceasefire—including in Lebanon—and the collection of transit fees from shipping traffic. President Trump’s minimum objectives remain the free passage of global shipping through the strait and the crippling of Iran’s nuclear enrichment capability to prevent the development of an atomic bomb.

Rory McIlroy says the intensive scouting trips he made to Augusta National in the weeks before the Masters were pivotal to his dominant performance. His second‑round 65, which featured six birdies in the final seven holes, set a new tournament record and made him the first defending champion to lead by six strokes at the halfway mark. Rather than using his three‑week break from the PGA Tour to rest, McIlroy leveraged his private jet to maximize time on the course. He described a routine of dropping his daughter Poppy at school, flying to Augusta, playing a round, then returning home for dinner with his wife Erica. He believes this blend of family time and focused practice was more valuable than a traditional tournament warm‑up in Houston or San Antonio. “I’ve been on this golf course so much the last three weeks,” McIlroy explained. He spent the period honing his chipping and putting, playing a single ball to explore the course’s nuances, and locating “weird places” that most players never encounter. He credits this immersion as a major factor in his record‑setting round. Looking ahead, McIlroy says the size of his lead will not dictate his mindset for round three. He will be joined by Sam Burns on Saturday, with Patrick Reed and Justin Rose slated for the penultimate group. “I’ve built up a nice cushion,” he noted, adding that his focus remains on “playing two good rounds again” and keeping his “foot on the gas.” McIlroy also dismissed any notion that he is trying to intimidate his rivals. “Golf is the most amazing game because it’s you, your ball and the course,” he said, emphasizing that external pressure should not affect a player’s performance.

San Francisco‑originated coffee chain Philz Coffee announced a policy shift that will see Pride flags removed from all California locations. CEO Mahesh Sadarangani framed the change as a step toward a "more consistent, inclusive experience" across its stores, emphasizing that the company’s support for the LGBTQIA+ community remains unchanged.The announcement has ignited a rapid consumer backlash. By Friday morning, a petition on Change.org had amassed more than 4,000 signatures, urging Philz to retain the flags that staff and patrons view as symbols of safe, welcoming spaces. Critics argue that the move threatens to alienate a core segment of employees and loyal customers who associate the brand with LGBTQ+ advocacy.Philz operates 17 stores in San Francisco alone, many of which have historically displayed Pride décor and hosted annual fundraisers for LGBTQ+ organizations. The company has not disclosed when the flag removal will take effect, and reports from the San Francisco Chronicle indicate that Pride decorations remain in place at downtown and Castro locations, the latter proudly displaying a sign that reads, "Welcome to the Queerest coffee shop in town. Period."While Philz pledges to continue its allyship through fundraising and other initiatives, the controversy arrives amid a broader national climate of increasing hostility toward LGBTQ+ symbols, exemplified by recent federal actions such as the removal of a Pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument.Analysts suggest that the backlash could have tangible financial repercussions. Consumer sentiment surveys show that brand alignment with LGBTQ+ causes can drive patronage, especially in progressive markets like San Francisco. A sustained boycott or negative publicity could erode foot traffic and impact sales, prompting the chain to reassess the timing and communication of its decor policy.For now, Philz remains under pressure to balance its stated commitment to inclusivity with the operational decision to standardize store aesthetics, a dilemma that highlights the delicate interplay between corporate branding and sociopolitical expectations in today’s market.

Robert MacIntyre's visit to the Masters ended in disappointment, with the Scot missing the cut after carding a 71 on Friday, which left him at seven over par. His struggles began on Thursday, when he posted an 80, including a quadruple bogey at the 15th hole.MacIntyre's behavior during the tournament, particularly in the closing stages of round one, has raised concerns. He was caught on live television releasing expletives and making an offensive gesture after finding water on the 15th hole. This reaction, along with his subsequent social media post featuring an AI-generated image of himself making an obscene gesture as the iconic Masters gnome, is likely to prompt a stern response from Augusta National officials.The 29-year-old's aggressive behavior on and off the course has sparked debate about his sportsmanship and adherence to the high standards expected at the Masters. His father, Dougie MacIntyre, has urged his son to 'tone it down' when things aren't going his way on the course.In contrast, MacIntyre's playing partner, world No 1 Scottie Scheffler, managed to bounce back from a lackluster first round with a 74 on Friday, moving to even par for the tournament. Scheffler acknowledged struggling with the pace of the greens, stating, 'I felt like I played better than my score'.

Temperatures at the Masters surged into the mid‑80s on Friday, turning Augusta National’s famed fairways into a grueling test of stamina and focus. While many competitors struggled under the sweltering sun, Justin Rose managed to stay within striking distance of leader Rory McIlroy, who had already posted a commanding 12‑stroke advantage after the second round. Rose, alongside Brooks Koepka and Jordan Spieth, fought to keep their games on track. Early on, Rose faltered with a three‑putt at the first hole, dropping a shot, but he quickly steadied his rhythm, playing the next five holes at even par. A moment of frustration saw him toss his club after a missed birdie putt on the fourth, yet he recovered to claim his first birdie of the day at the seventh. Strategic club selection became a focal point on the ninth, where Rose debated between a nine‑iron and an eight‑iron. "I really wanted to hit a nine‑iron, but the wind wasn’t cooperating, and I didn’t want an eight‑iron that would skip past the green," he explained, ultimately committing to the nine‑iron and securing a vital birdie. Strong approach shots followed on the 10th and 11th, both landing within a few feet of the pin, underscoring Rose’s precision despite the heat. A brief setback at the 12th (bogey) was offset by a birdie at the 15th, allowing him to finish the round at five under par, tied for fourth place. Koepka trailed two shots behind Rose in 13th, while Spieth struggled to the point of finishing at one over par. Rose’s performance is notable not only for its resilience but also for its historical context: he has been a runner‑up at Augusta three times and lost two playoffs, fueling a growing chorus of supporters placing sentimental bets on his eventual victory. "I don’t need to try any harder; it’s about execution," Rose said, emphasizing intrinsic motivation over sheer effort. Looking ahead, Rose acknowledges the challenge that lies over the weekend. Last year he attempted to birdie every hole on the back‑nine, a strategy that nearly paid off. This year, he plans to blend patience with opportunistic aggression, hoping to close the gap on McIlroy’s sizable lead.

Tracey Nelson, a NYC-based singer-songwriter, is set to release his debut album 'Hercules' on July 10. His music is described as beautifully dazed, countrified indie-rock, drawing comparisons to bands like The Clean and The Feelies. Nelson's self-titled 2025 debut EP was a lesser-heard gem, featuring tracks such as 'New Years Flowers' and 'Just Shoot Me Now'.The upcoming album 'Hercules' is co-produced by MJ Lenderman and Colin Miller, and features a lineup of musicians including Lenderman, Miller, Karly Hartzman, and Jack Kraus. The album promises to amplify the country elements of Nelson's previous work while giving him more space to explore his sound.This week's best new tracksPozer – Hulk Hogan (ft AJ Tracey): A standout track in the UK scene, delivering social realism over Jersey club beats, with an excellent verse from AJ Tracey.Zoh Amba – Another Time: A remarkable free jazz saxophonist turns songwriter, blending Appalachian roots with indie rock.One Leg One Eye – Many Are My Names Besides: A haunting track that combines scratchy drone and distorted wailing.Enter Shikari – Dead in the Water: A highlight from their new album, blending rave-rock with elements of Everything Everything and The Prodigy.James K – Peel (Loidis remix): A 14-minute remix turning ethereal dancehall-pop into snappy microhouse.Ambrose Akinmusire and Mary Halvorson – Soundcheck: Disarming trumpet playing and unsettling guitar work.Max F – Dream Channel (Space Ghost Club Remix): Life-affirming piano-centred house instrumental.

Tori Amos has taken to the stage, delivering a dramatic deep dive into her vast and sprawling back catalogue. Her 18th studio album, In Times of Dragons, and first tour in three years have generated significant excitement among fans. The allegorical tales that make up her forthcoming record – a metaphorical story about the fight for democracy over tyranny – are evident in her live performances.The concert featured a range of tracks from Amos's extensive discography, including the delicate deep cut Ruby Through the Looking-Glass and the atmospheric, slow-burn jazzy grooves of Little Amsterdam. The love in the room for Amos is palpable, with her songs, voice, and masterful piano playing bringing out an almost devotional following.Amos's musicianship was on full display, accompanied by a drummer, bass player, and three backing singers, whom she refers to as 'angels.' While their presence occasionally detracted from the raw intimacy expected from Amos, it mostly elevated the performance to new levels. Tracks such as Pandora's Aquarium and Witness were lifted to stirring new heights by the vocal back and forth.The setlist may not have been hit-stuffed, but Crucify was a beautiful closer, delivered in a way that felt both tight and loose, detailed yet expansive, tender and rousing. The encore of early career favourite Cornflake Girl had the whole venue on its feet and in dizzy awe. As Amos navigates the brutal state of the world, she has an audience that will gladly follow her deep into the heart of any dragon's den.

The Colin Currie Group has released an album of Steve Reich's works, The Sextets, to celebrate the composer's 90th birthday and the group's 20th anniversary. Formed to honor Reich's 70th birthday with a performance of Drumming, the group has now released its fourth Reich album on Currie's own label.The Sextets, from 1985, features two keyboardists playing piano and synthesizers alongside four percussionists on various instruments. The recording, led by Colin Currie, showcases subtle nuances with a naturalistic sound that is less closely mic'd than Reich's own classic accounts.The album also includes Six Marimbas, a rescoring of 1973's Six Pianos, and The Double Sextet, composed in 2007, which features instrumentalists performing against a recording of themselves. Dance Patterns, written for choreographer Anne Teresa de Keersmaeker, rounds out the album.Currie's relaxed approach to the music results in a chilled and enjoyable interpretation, with Six Marimbas clocking in at 22 minutes, compared to Reich's 16-minute version.

Afan Cizmic, a 14-year-old ball boy, has been hailed as a hero in Bosnia and Herzegovina for his quick thinking during a crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier playoff final against Italy.On March 31, Cizmic was deployed at the Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica when he noticed Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma reading from a piece of paper tucked behind a towel. Realising it contained information on Bosnian penalty takers, Cizmic took the note and ran away from the goal.When the penalty shootout got under way, Donnarumma failed to save any of the four penalties he faced, and his teammates missed three of theirs, handing Bosnia a place in the global showpiece.Whether Cizmic's little trick played a role in the final scoreline remains unknown, but the teenage boy is being hailed as a hero in Bosnia, with fans urging the national team to take him along to the World Cup.Cizmic has been called on to football shows, interviewed by international media, and photographed at the venue where Bosnia created history by ensuring Italy became the only former champions to miss their third World Cup in a row.Recalling the moment he saw the paper, Cizmic says that he hesitated at first but ultimately decided to act on his instinct. "I saw where he left the paper and that he was reading from it. I thought about whether I should take it or not. Then I said, 'Whatever happens, happens,' and I took it," he told Turkish news agency Anadolu.While Donnarumma did not see Cizmic walk away, the Italian goalkeeper was left fuming when he could not find the paper and attempted to snatch his opposite number's penalty shootout notes in a tit-for-tat move.Cizmic believes Donnarumma's frustration confirmed his ploy had an impact on the game. "I was happy because I saw he got angry and lost concentration," he said.In the hours and days after Bosnia's win, Cizmic's act led to social media debates as well as national news. Despite mixed reactions on social media, he dismissed criticism, saying any fan would have done the same."If we were playing in Italy, someone would have done it to our goalkeeper, Nikola Vasilj, too," he said.The now-famous ball boy proudly carries the note, enclosed in a plastic cover, as a memorabilia item and takes it along for media appearances. He also announced that the paper will be auctioned, with all proceeds going to charity.Cizmic, who is a youth footballer with local club Celik Zenica, dreams of wearing the Bosnian national team jersey one day.His father, Emir Cizmic, said he was proud of his son, emphasising that ball boys are not just spectators but can affect the rhythm and outcome of matches.