World Cup Build-Up (Turkey): Türkiye’s national team landed in the U.S. for its final World Cup preparations after a 24-year absence, with officials welcoming the squad in Fort Lauderdale and a friendly vs Venezuela set for June 6 before Group D matches in Arizona. World Cup Logistics (Iran): Iran says it will travel via Spain to Mexico’s Tijuana base while still working through visa timing for U.S. entry, keeping its tournament participation on track. World Cup Squads (Paraguay): Paraguay confirmed its 26-man roster for Group C against the USA, Turkey and Australia, with match dates already set. Football Culture (Istanbul): Turkey raised concerns over Kanye West’s Istanbul show, citing “spiritual sensitivities” and alleged occult-linked symbolism. Arts & Dance (Istanbul): The International Istanbul Ballet Competition wrapped with awards across junior and senior categories at AKM, highlighting the role of competitions in global standards. Photography (Nat Geo): Turkish photographer Nurettin Boydak won first place in National Geographic Traveller’s People category for an Eid-prayer image from Harar, Ethiopia. Tech & Lifestyle (Cars): BMW unveiled the M2 with optional M xDrive AWD, promising quicker acceleration and new combustion tech aimed at upcoming emissions rules. Health & Culture (Smoking): A cultural comeback for cigarettes is being debated, with “social smoking” framed as less frequent but still medically risky.