Former Iranian president Ahmadinejad reappears at Khamenei funeral

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7 July 2026, 13:11

TEHRAN, Iran — Former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad made a surprise public appearance at the funeral of slain supreme leader Ali Khamenei on Monday, months after widespread reports claimed he had been killed during the opening days of the Iran-Israel war.

Ahmadinejad, who served as Iran’s president from 2005 to 2013, joined millions of mourners dressed in black as Khamenei’s coffin was carried through the streets of Tehran in one of the largest funeral processions in the country’s history.

AP26186250234376 — Mourners pray during funeral prayers held as part of the dayslong funeral ceremonies for the slain Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and members of his family at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla Grand Mosque in Tehran, Iran, Sunday, July 5, 2026. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

His appearance marked the first time he had been seen in public since the conflict began. Early in the war, several Iranian state-affiliated media outlets reported that Ahmadinejad had been killed after a missile strike near his home. However, Iranian authorities never officially confirmed or denied the reports, fueling months of speculation over his fate.

Video and photographs from Monday’s procession showed Ahmadinejad walking among mourners wearing a dark jacket, with a face mask pulled down around his neck.

His reappearance came as two other former Iranian presidents, Mohammad Khatami and Hassan Rouhani, were notably absent from the funeral ceremonies. Critics claimed they had not been invited.

The funeral drew much of Iran’s political and military leadership, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei, Expediency Council chief Sadegh Larijani and Esmail Qaani, commander of the Quds Force.

AP26185653352363 — Mourners gather beneath a portrait of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during the funeral ceremonies for Khamenei and members of his family at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla Grand Mosque in Tehran, Iran, Saturday, July 4, 2026. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri)

State television broadcast aerial footage showing crowds stretching across central Tehran, while authorities estimated attendance could reach 20 million people.

Along the funeral route, some mourners displayed an effigy of Donald Trump and carried anti-US banners.

Meanwhile, Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, did not appear in public during the funeral. Instead, his brothers — Mostafa, Masoud and Meysam Khamenei — attended the funeral prayers, marking their first public appearance since their father’s death.

Rare bridal veil stinkhorn mushroom found in Phayao forest

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Khaosod English

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7 July 2026, 12:28

Rare bridal veil stinkhorn mushroom found in Phayao forest

PHAYAO — 7 July 2026, Villagers in Dok Khamtai district of Phayao were surprised after a rare bridal veil stinkhorn mushroom emerged on the forest floor at the edge of their village, prompting many residents to photograph the unusual fungus, which is only occasionally seen.

The mushroom, known in Thai as hed rang rae, is also commonly called the bridal mushroom, bamboo pith mushroom or skirt mushroom because of its distinctive appearance. It features a brownish-green conical cap and a delicate white net-like veil hanging around its stalk, resembling a bride’s lace dress.

Despite its elegant appearance, the mushroom produces a strong odour similar to rotting flesh. The smell is a natural adaptation that attracts flies and other insects, which feed on the slimy coating covering the cap and help disperse its spores.

The bridal veil stinkhorn typically grows in damp environments, including bamboo forests, mixed deciduous forests, orchards and areas covered with decaying leaves and rotting wood. It is most commonly found during the rainy season, from May to October.

The fungus has a very short lifespan. Its lace-like veil unfurls within hours before the mushroom quickly withers, making sightings rare and adding to its reputation as one of Thailand’s more remarkable natural wonders.

Moo Deng turns two as Khao Kheow opens Hippo Village

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Khaosod English

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7 July 2026, 11:44

Moo Deng turns two as Khao Kheow opens Hippo Village

CHONBURI — 6 July 2026, Khao Kheow Open Zoo will celebrate the second birthday of Moo Deng, titled “Moo Deng HAPPY Deng DAY”, with a three-day event from 10–12 July at the pygmy hippopotamus exhibit within Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Chonburi province. The celebration will also mark the opening of its new hippopotamus exhibition zone, Hippo Village, with free admission for children and senior citizens.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo director Narongwit Chodchoi revealed that the zoo is preparing to host the grand celebrations titled to mark the second birthday of “Moo Deng,” the world-famous superstar pygmy hippopotamus. will take place from 10 to 12 July at the zoo’s hippopotamus exhibit.

The event will also coincide with the unveiling of the exhibition for the “Hippo Village” construction project, a new exhibition and habitat development project designed to improve animal welfare while providing visitors with updated educational experience.

For the activities on 10 July, which marks Moo Deng’s birthday, visitors will have the opportunity to sing a birthday celebration, including present a special birthday cake. Zoo staff and animal keepers are also scheduled to meet visitors during the event.

Throughout the three-day celebration, the zoo will host special activities on the Hippo Village project, wildlife mascot parades, game booths with exciting prizes and an exhibition booth for the “Hippo Village” project, a birthday card-writing station to share love with Moo Deng, as well as the sale of exclusive Moo Deng souvenirs and Chonburi’s premium OTOP products.

The zoo said children aged 12 and under, or those no taller than 135 centimetres, and adults aged 60 and over will receive free admission from 10 to 12 July, although vehicle entrance fees will still apply.

RS unveils ‘Artist Icon’ as AI speculation sparks debate

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Khaosod English

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7 July 2026, 10:49

Thai entertainment company RS Public Company Limited (RS Group) has launched a new artist development project, “Artist Icon,” introducing its first generation of six artists while sparking widespread online speculation over whether artificial intelligence (AI) is involved.

RS Music X, the group’s music label, said Artist Icon aims to develop artists with distinct identities and musical styles tailored to modern audiences with diverse listening preferences.

According to the company, the project focuses on shaping each artist’s unique character, personality, musical direction and personal story, allowing them to connect with different audiences through music that reflects a wide range of emotions, perspectives and experiences suited to today’s digital media landscape.

The first six artists will gradually release new music in the coming months. RS Music X also plans to expand the project through music videos, social media content and fan events. The label said Artist Icon reflects RS’s vision of leveraging its more than 40 years of experience in the music industry to develop a new generation of artists and drive the Thai music industry forward.

Following the announcement, however, the project quickly became the subject of discussion on social media, particularly on X, where many users questioned whether AI was being used in the creation of the artists.

One widely shared post read: “Wait, is RS creating AI artists?” The user added that, if true, it would be disappointing because many talented trainees and aspiring performers were still waiting for opportunities.

Online reactions were divided. Some users expressed concern that greater use of AI in the music industry could reduce opportunities for emerging artists. Others argued that RS should instead promote the talented performers already signed to the label, pointing to its existing roster of young artists and creators.

Meanwhile, another group urged people not to jump to conclusions, noting that RS Music X had only introduced the Artist Icon project and its six artists without providing further details about the concept or confirming whether AI plays any role.

RS Music X has not issued any statement addressing the speculation. Nevertheless, the discussion has made Artist Icon one of the most talked-about entertainment topics on Thai social media since its launch, with some users expressing excitement about the upcoming debuts while others continue to question AI’s potential role in the project.

Health Ministry tightens cannabis farm inspections nationwide

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Khaosod English

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7 July 2026, 10:21

Health Ministry tightens cannabis farm inspections nationwide

BANGKOK — 7 July 2026, Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has ordered stricter inspections of licensed cannabis cultivation sites nationwide, with provincial health offices instructed to work alongside local administrative officials and police. Growers found violating licence conditions could face immediate suspension or revocation of their licences.

Dr. Thewan Thaneerat, deputy director-general of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine (DTAM), said on 7 July that the department will hold a Zoom meeting on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, with provincial public health offices across the country to explain new measures for regulating cannabis cultivation sites.

He said the meeting will focus on two key objectives. The first is to strengthen oversight of cannabis farms nationwide by ensuring all licence holders strictly comply with the conditions set out in their licences and operate fully within the legal framework.

The second is to enhance coordination with security agencies by instructing provincial public health offices, as the lead authorities in their respective areas, to work closely with the Department of Provincial Administration and the Royal Thai Police to conduct joint inspections and intensify enforcement.

Dr. Peeracha Kukasemkit, director of the Medical Cannabis Division, said the new enforcement measures include three main areas.

First, authorities will conduct rigorous inspections of licensed cannabis cultivation sites to ensure compliance with the law.

Second, provincial public health offices will be given clear criteria allowing them to immediately suspend or revoke licences if violations of licence conditions are found.

Third, the department will expand the use of the MC-GIS geographic information system to verify information on licensed operators. The system will provide a shared database for provincial health offices, the Department of Provincial Administration and police, enabling more accurate inspections and law enforcement.

The ministry said the measures are intended to strengthen cooperation among all relevant agencies to ensure cannabis control is enforced effectively, in line with the law, and on a sustainable basis.

Taxi driver seeks justice after alleged assault by Myanmar passengers

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Khaosod English

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6 July 2026, 19:12

A 61-year-old ride-hailing driver has sought justice after alleging he was severely beaten by five Myanmar passengers in a dispute over a 50-baht expressway toll, leaving him blind in one eye and unable to work.

The driver, identified only as Supachai, filed a complaint through the Sai Mai Tong Rod assistance centre in Bangkok, saying the case has made little progress nearly three months after the incident because police have yet to locate the suspects.

According to Supachai, the incident occurred on 12 April after he accepted a booking to pick up five Myanmar nationals – three men and two women – from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal and drive them to a hotel in Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan.

During the journey, he asked the passengers whether they wished to use the expressway to avoid heavy traffic. He said they initially appeared reluctant but eventually agreed, prompting him to pay the 50-baht toll in advance.

When they arrived at the hotel, the ride-hailing app showed a fare of 720 baht. Supachai said he requested a total of 770 baht, including the toll, but the passengers refused to pay the additional 50 baht, accusing him of overcharging.

He alleged that a male passenger sitting in the front seat, who could speak Thai, attempted to photograph him. After he objected, an argument broke out and he was repeatedly punched in the face before losing consciousness. He said all five passengers fled without paying the fare.

Supachai said he later regained consciousness at Bang Phli Hospital, where doctors diagnosed a fractured right eye socket, head trauma and bleeding in the brain. Further examinations found severe damage to his right eye, which permanently lost vision. He said he continues to suffer headaches and dizziness and is no longer able to work as a driver. He has since been registered as a person with a disability.

He reported the incident to Bang Kaew Police Station after being discharged from hospital. However, he claimed investigators only obtained the suspects’ names and passport numbers, without collecting their addresses, workplaces or contact details, making it difficult to track them down. He said inquiries with immigration authorities and recruitment agencies have so far failed to locate the suspects.

Ekkapop Luangprasert, founder of the Sai Mai Tong Rod page, said he would contact the superintendent of Bang Kaew Police Station to follow up on the investigation. He said the case should not be difficult to investigate, noting that CCTV cameras at the hotel where the assault allegedly occurred could help identify the suspects. He urged police to expedite the case and bring those responsible to justice.

DE warns of fake M-Flow website “mflowts.buzz”

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MC Marketing

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6 July 2026, 17:59

DE warns the public about a fake website claiming to accept M-Flow payments through “mflowts.buzz”, urging people to beware of scammers attempting to steal personal and credit card information.

The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE), through the Anti-Fake News Center Thailand (AFNC), has released the latest results of its fake news monitoring and reporting efforts. The initiative is in line with the policy of Mr.Chaichanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, to strengthen public awareness of technology-related crimes, fake news, and misinformation.

On 4 July 2026, AFNC monitored a total of 110,387 messages and identified 8,217 messages requiring verification. The largest number of reports came from Social Listening channels, accounting for 8,210 messages, followed by seven reports received through LINE. A total of 19 issues were investigated, with verification results received from relevant agencies for nine cases.

Among the seven stories that attracted the greatest public attention, one was confirmed as true, five were identified as fake news, and one was classified as misleading information. These included:

Fake News: Thailand escorted foreign media into O’Smach, violating Cambodia’s sovereignty.
Fake News: M-Flow payments can be made through the website **mflowts.buzz**.
True News: Benefits under the **Thais Help Thais Plus** scheme can be used to pay railway fares from 1 July to 30 September 2026.
Fake News: BAAC is accepting applications for 50,000-baht loans with 60-month repayment through the TikTok account **psileofiwxm**.
Fake News: Cambodia deployed Chinese tanks to remove barbed wire along 100 kilometers of the Thai border.
Fake News: The Royal Gazette has declared martial law due to threats from Cambodia, giving the military authority over civilians.
Misleading Information: Phase 1 of the Pran Buri Reservoir Road Improvement Project in Prachuap Khiri Khan, worth more than 39 million baht, was damaged because it was handed over 60 days ahead of schedule.

One of the most notable fake stories claimed that M-Flow service payments could be made through the website **mflowts.buzz**. The DE Ministry coordinated with the Department of Highways under the Ministry of Transport and confirmed that the claim is false.

The website is a fraudulent site created by scammers. It uses a name similar to the official M-Flow website to deceive users into making payments and providing personal or credit card information.

The public is advised to use only official M-Flow channels:

* Official website: **[www.mflowthai.com](http://www.mflowthai.com)**

* Mobile application: **M-Flow**

* LINE Official Account: **@mflowthai**

The DE Ministry remains concerned about the spread of fake news and misinformation across online and social media platforms. Sharing unverified information may lead to misunderstanding, financial losses, misuse of personal information, and broader impacts on society.

The public is encouraged to trust and share information only from official sources and to carefully verify facts and website links before believing or forwarding any information.

People who encounter suspicious information or possible fake news can report it or verify information through the Anti-Fake News Center Thailand via Hotline **1111 ext. 87**, available 24 hours a day.

Thai travel influencer sparks outrage in Japan after rolling on protected mountain flowers

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Khaosod English

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6 July 2026, 17:54

A Thai travel influencer living in Japan has found herself at the centre of a social media storm after posting photos and videos showing her lying and rolling on protected alpine plants during a trip to Mount Komagatake (Akita).

The influencer, who has more than 100,000 followers, shared the content from the popular hiking destination in Akita Prefecture. It quickly spread across Japanese social media, where users accused her of damaging fragile vegetation inside a national park.

One viral post claimed the woman had picked alpine plants before lying on top of them, writing: “A troublesome foreigner from Thailand picked alpine plants at Akita Komagatake and even proudly showed herself lying on the vegetation, destroying nature in a national park.”

The post also noted that such acts are prohibited under Japan’s Natural Parks Act and that park rangers regularly patrol the area to protect its delicate ecosystem.

The backlash escalated as hundreds of Japanese users condemned the influencer’s behaviour. Some said they were saddened to see mountain areas becoming increasingly vulnerable to irresponsible tourism.

“The mountains have suddenly become much less safe,” one user wrote. “Even if you warn people, they don’t listen. Increasing the number of rangers won’t solve the problem. I want Japan to return to the peaceful country it used to be.”

Others were even harsher.

“Never come back!” one comment read. “People posting the Alps on Instagram or YouTube—don’t they care that foreigners end up ruining these places?”

Another user called the influencer “an embarrassment” and said she should return to her home country, adding that “people who destroy nature are not welcome, regardless of nationality.”

Some comments went further, with one user calling for her deportation, saying the photos alone should be enough evidence for police and immigration authorities to act.

GOLFTEC & Woraluk Property Transform Thailand’s Golf Scene

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Mc Marketing

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6 July 2026, 17:42

GOLFTEC, the world’s leading golf academy from the United States with over 30 years of history, has partnered with Woraluk Property Public Company Limited, one of Thailand’s leading property developers, as a joint venture partner to officially launch GOLFTEC Bangkok — its first branch in Thailand — at W District, Phra Khanong. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in elevating the standard of golf instruction in Thailand, as the country becomes GOLFTEC’s latest market in Asia, following Hong Kong, Singapore, and China. For the first time, Thai golfers will have access to OPTIMOTION™, GOLFTEC’s proprietary AI technology, and PGA-certified coaching from a brand with more than 260 locations worldwide and over 20 million lessons delivered globally.

“Thailand has always been a market we care deeply about. The growing golf market, the calibre of local golfers, and the lifestyle-driven atmosphere of W District all align perfectly with GOLFTEC’s vision as a premium golf institution committed to delivering measurable, data-driven results for players at every single level,” said Abhinav Gorawara, Co-Owner and Managing Partner of GOLFTEC Asia.

At the heart of what sets GOLFTEC apart is OPTIMOTION™ — its proprietary technology exclusive to GOLFTEC. It is a 3D Motion Capture system that combines high-speed HD cameras with artificial intelligence to analyse a golfer’s swing in real time, capturing more than 4,000 data points per swing, with no wires or sensors required on the body. The system creates a digital skeletal model to precisely measure shoulder tilt, hip rotation, and weight transfer, enabling coaches to identify and correct flaws with pinpoint accuracy from the very first session — breaking through long-standing limitations and helping Thai golfers improve their game faster and more effectively than ever before.

“Playing better golf should never be left to guesswork — it must be driven by data that delivers real, measurable results. That is why every one of our coaches undergoes rigorous training to harness world-class technology and data, pinpointing every flaw and upgrading each player’s swing for immediate, tangible improvement,” said Anurag Mathur, Co-Owner and Managing Partner of GOLFTEC Asia.

The W District branch spans 234 square metres with five private practice bays, including a dedicated bay for left-handed golfers. Services offered include One-on-One lessons with PGA-certified coaches trained through GOLFTEC University, data-driven swing evaluation and analysis, indoor bay practice with instant visual feedback, on-course lessons with a professional, and club fitting via the TECFIT® system in partnership with leading global brands — Titleist, Callaway, Ping, and Mizuno. All session data and coaching recommendations are accessible at any time through GOLFTEC’s personal mobile application.

Alongside the branch opening, GOLFTEC Bangkok has also launched the Founder’s Club — a founding membership tier limited to the first 100 members only. Members receive a range of long-term privileges including a lifetime loyalty discount, facility access benefits, golf travel packages across Asia through GOLFASIAN, and entry to exclusive networking events. The launch of the Founder’s Club reflects GOLFTEC’s commitment to building a lasting, high-quality golf community in Thailand.

GOLFTEC Bangkok is designed to serve golfers of all levels — from those looking to take their game seriously, dedicated amateur players, the expatriate community familiar with international standards, to beginners who want to build the right foundation from day one. The choice of W District in the Sukhumvit–Phra Khanong area, adjacent to BTS Phra Khanong station and well-connected by both rail and road, reflects the brand’s intention to reach Bangkok’s premium urban audience in the most accessible location possible.

“Over 30 years, GOLFTEC has helped more than 1.8 million golfers around the world play better and improve faster. On average, our students drop 7 strokes from their scores, and those who go through a GOLFTEC fitting gain more than 21 yards on average. These are the results we are bringing to every Thai golfer who walks through our doors,” added Brienne Mahon, Head of GOLFTEC Asia.

Those interested in booking a swing evaluation or learning more can visit www.golftec.co.th, follow @golftec_bangkok on Instagram, call 02-109-9836, or contact the branch via LINE Official Account @golftecbkk.

Two hurts as protesters clash with police at China consulate

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Khaosod English

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6 July 2026, 16:55

CHIANG MAI — 6 July 2026, tensions erupt in Chiang Mai after two protesters were injured after a clash with police outside the Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai during a demonstration over alleged toxic contamination linked to mining operations affecting Thailand.

About 50 members of the People’s Network to Protect the Kok, Sai, Ruak, and Mekong Rivers gathered outside the Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China to submit a petition calling for action over chemical contamination in natural waterways.

The group alleges the pollution originates from upstream mining operations in Myanmar involving Chinese investors.

During the gathering outside the consulate, a scuffle broke out between demonstrators and police assigned to secure the area, leaving two protesters injured. However, the situation did not escalate, and no further violence was reported.

Because the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chiang Mai was closed, representatives of the protesters submitted their petition to officials from the Chiang Mai provincial administration and a representative of the Chinese consulate.

After submitting the petition, demonstrators observed a moment of silence as a symbolic gesture to honour those affected by the alleged contamination and the violence that had occurred before dispersing peacefully.

Meanwhile, the network reaffirmed its demands, calling on the Chinese government and relevant authorities to investigate and address toxic contamination affecting the Kok, Sai, Ruak and Mekong rivers, saying the pollution has harmed the environment and the livelihoods of communities in northern Thailand.

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