World News — July 12, 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached a dramatic turning point as England and Argentina secured their spots in the semifinals following intense quarterfinal matches. England edged Norway 2-1 with Jude Bellingham scoring twice, while Argentina overcame Switzerland 3-1 in extra time, thanks to Julián Álvarez's decisive 112th-minute goal. The semifinals will feature Argentina, England, France, and Spain, setting the stage for a highly anticipated conclusion to the tournament. Meanwhile, global tensions rise as Iran's IRGC Navy announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage, until further notice. In other news, Qatar mourns the death of its former ruler Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani at age 74, marking a significant moment in Middle Eastern politics. The world also reflects on the passing of Argentine soccer legend Antonio Rattín, whose 1966 World Cup dismissal led to a rules change. These developments highlight a mix of sports milestones and geopolitical shifts shaping the global landscape today.