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Iran has firmly denied any plans to hold talks with the United States, contradicting President Trump’s recent claim that discussions were set for next week. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed the idea as “speculation,” stating no agreement or arrangement had been made. This comes in the wake of a deadly 11-day conflict between Iran and Israel, intensified by U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites before a ceasefire was reached.
Iran has officially suspended cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), blocking inspections and surveillance. The decision comes just weeks after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. In this video, Shivani Singh explains what the move means, how Iran plans to proceed with its nuclear programme, and what IAEA chief Rafael Grossi had to say about the risks. We also look at statements from Iranian leaders and why this marks a serious shift in global nuclear oversight.
Despite a declared ceasefire, tensions in the Middle East remain high. The Iran-Israel conflict has dramatically reshaped Middle East dynamics, bringing a long-standing proxy war into open confrontation. Harsh V Pant of ORF warns it threatens regional order, tests US-Israel ties, and could redefine nuclear non-proliferation if Iran quits the NPT. Oil markets remain highly vulnerable to Red Sea or Hormuz disruptions, with Asian economies at risk. India must balance relations with Iran, Israel, and the Gulf while upholding strategic autonomy. Meanwhile, emerging security blocs reflect global rivalries, with China and Russia backing Iran. The conflict further weakens multilateral institutions like the UN and IAEA, eroding their relevance in global governance.
President Trump claimed U.S. airstrikes had completely destroyed Iran’s nuclear facilities, but new intelligence tells a different story. A preliminary assessment from the Defense Intelligence Agency reveals Iran’s underground nuclear program remains largely intact, with only surface-level damage and minor delays. As both Iran and Israel claim victory, a fragile ceasefire brokered by Trump is holding for now. But with violations on both sides, tensions remain dangerously high. In this report, we break down what the intel reveals, how Trump and the White House are responding, and what’s at stake if the ceasefire collapses.
Russia launched 2,736 Iranian-made Shahed drones in Ukraine in June alone. President Zelensky is now urging Western allies to act, demanding tougher sanctions on both Russia and Iran, and calling for urgent military support. He warns that without global pressure, the war will only escalate. As civilian casualties rise and cities like Dnipro suffer deadly strikes, Ukraine says this war is no longer just regional, it's a test of international resolve.
In a daring long-range mission dubbed Operation Midnight Freedom, the U.S. deployed its $2 billion B-2 Spirit stealth bomber to strike Iranian nuclear targets. But this wasn’t just about firepower—it was about comfort, stealth, and survival at 30,000 feet. With instant noodles, bunks, and a microwave onboard, the “flying hotel” redefined modern warfare. Here’s an inside look at how the B-2 made the 30+ hour journey, avoided radar, and returned without a trace.
Dozens of Canadian and Australian citizens are fleeing Israel as fears of further Iranian retaliation grow. Trump claims a ceasefire is now in place after deadly missile strikes shook the region.
On Monday, Qatar strongly condemned Iran for launching missiles at the Al Udeid air base, which hosts U.S. forces, calling it a blatant violation of its sovereignty and international law. The attack was in retaliation for a U.S. strike on Iranian nuclear sites. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry emphasized its right to respond in accordance with international law and urged all sides to return to peaceful negotiations. Iran signaled the strike was limited and not intended to escalate tensions. According to U.S. President Donald Trump, Iran warned the U.S. in advance, and no casualties occurred. He dismissed the attack as a "very weak response." Qatar reported intercepting all but one missile, with no confirmation of damage from the one that got through. The incident highlights growing volatility in the region, with Qatar positioned as both a host of U.S. forces and a nation calling for diplomatic solutions to avoid further conflict.
A ceasefire has been announced between Israel and Iran after 12 days of intense fighting, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed. The war saw millions flee Tehran and major strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, including U.S. bunker-buster bombings. While Israel is ready to hold fire, Iran’s foreign minister says attacks must stop completely before Tehran agrees. Key U.S. and Qatari diplomats helped broker the deal, but tensions remain high. Watch the full report for the latest updates on the Israel-Iran ceasefire, U.S. involvement, and what comes next!
The United States has launched a historic airstrike on Iran, deploying its most powerful non-nuclear weapon — the GBU-57 bunker buster bomb — against Iran’s deeply buried nuclear sites at Natanz and Fordow. This unprecedented move has triggered swift and sharp reactions from around the world. Iran has vowed to retaliate, with top IRGC commanders declaring their readiness for any scenario. U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in, suggesting that regime change in Iran might be necessary. Russia condemned the attack, warning that the U.S. has “opened a Pandora’s box,” while the EU urged restraint and a return to negotiations. Meanwhile, Israel claimed it is close to achieving its objectives in Iran, and Pakistan voiced support for Tehran’s right to a peaceful nuclear program. The strikes have also rattled global oil markets, pushing crude prices higher amid fears of wider regional instability. Watch the full report to Know more!
Israeli PM Netanyahu says assassinating Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei would end, not escalate, the conflict. But is it that simple? In this deep dive, we break down Israel’s strategy, the feasibility, global risks, and what such a move could really trigger.
An Iranian missile struck a residential area in Ramat Gan, central Israel, causing widespread damage to homes and vehicles. Emergency teams responded swiftly as residents, including Linda Grinfeld, described the terrifying impact and aftermath. Grinfeld recounts the emotional toll and uncertainty following the strike, calling it a devastating invasion of life.
Iran launched a new wave of missile and drone attacks on Israel early Saturday, escalating a rapidly intensifying conflict between the two nations. The assault, dubbed "Honest Promise 3" by Iranian state media, followed Israeli airstrikes that targeted Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure in what officials described as the country's most significant military operation to date. The Israeli offensive, named "Operation Rising Lion," reportedly killed several high-ranking Iranian military officers and nuclear scientists. In retaliation, Iran fired ballistic missiles toward Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, triggering air raid sirens and explosions across both cities. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed continued retaliation, declaring that Israel would face consequences for its actions. Israeli defenses intercepted some projectiles, but damage and fear spread among civilians. This direct military confrontation marks a dangerous escalation in Middle Eastern tensions, risking broader regional instability and drawing international concern over the potential for full-scale war.
Explosions were heard across Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the occupied West Bank after Iran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles at Israel in retaliation for an unprecedented Israeli strike on Iran's Natanz nuclear facility, which reportedly killed top Iranian commanders. Israel's military named its operation “Rising Lion.” While Iran claimed to have fired hundreds of missiles, Israel stated fewer than 100 were launched, most intercepted or falling short. The U.S. military assisted in intercepting incoming missiles. Buildings in Ramat Gan were damaged, with at least five injured in the Tel Aviv area. The attacks sparked fears of a wider regional conflict, though Iran’s allies, Hamas and Hezbollah, have already been weakened. Global leaders, including the UN and EU, urged restraint. Turkish, Malaysian, and Pakistani leaders condemned Israel’s actions, calling them provocative. The escalation has heightened tensions around Iran’s nuclear ambitions and raised alarm over broader regional instability.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the Iranian people, urging them to rise against their regime and declaring that Israel had launched a major offensive targeting Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure. The strikes reportedly killed senior military commanders and nuclear scientists, destroyed a key enrichment facility, and damaged Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities. Netanyahu warned of further action, claiming Iran is at its weakest. In response, Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles at Israeli cities, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, triggering air raid sirens and widespread evacuations. Explosions lit up the skies, though no casualties were immediately reported. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei vowed retaliation, stating that Israel had initiated a war. The situation marks a significant escalation in long-standing tensions over Iran’s nuclear program, which Israel views as a critical threat. International observers fear the conflict could spiral into a broader regional war across the Middle East.
Marcos Leao, a 27-year-old Army veteran, was detained by U.S. Marines at a federal building in Los Angeles while heading to a VA appointment. The incident occurred shortly after the Marines assumed guard duty. Leao walked past caution tape and, wearing headphones, did not hear initial commands to stop. A Marine sprinted toward him, and Leao complied once aware of the orders. He was restrained with zip ties by Marines and National Guard members and held for over two hours. Leao was eventually released without charges, raising concerns about communication and the treatment of veterans at secure federal facilities.
In a legal face-off with wide implications, a federal judge has blocked President Trump’s controversial decision to deploy National Guard troops in Los Angeles. The ruling, favoring California Governor Gavin Newsom, restores state control over the troops amidst swelling protests over Trump’s immigration policies. With nearly 500 arrests in LA and demonstrations spreading to other cities, tensions are running high ahead of a weekend military parade planned by the President in Washington.
In a stunning escalation, Israel has launched Operation Rising Lion, targeting dozens of Iranian nuclear and military sites, including the Natanz facility. The strikes reportedly killed top Iranian commanders, prompting Iran to retaliate with over 100 drones. Israel is on high alert, with a national emergency in place, while the U.S. distances itself and diplomatic tensions surge.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has warned of “severe consequences” after Israeli airstrikes struck Tehran, military bases, and nuclear facilities, killing top Iranian commanders and scientists. The strikes, part of Operation Lion’s Power, have sparked threats of harsh retaliation from both Khamenei and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, escalating fears of a broader regional conflict.
Elon Musk expressed regret for social media posts targeting President Trump, prompting a cautious but appreciative response from the White House. While Trump acknowledged Musk’s apology, he stopped short of confirming reconciliation, as questions remain over the future of Musk’s government contracts.
Riots erupted in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, following protests over the alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl by two 14-year-old boys, who appeared in court and denied the charges. Seventeen police officers were injured on June 9, bringing the total to 32 since the violence began. Fires damaged four homes, now being investigated as racially motivated hate crimes. Reuters verified footage of the unrest. Police have arrested six individuals so far for riot-related offences, including five on Wednesday.
Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is all set to become only the second Indian to venture into space as part of the Axiom-4 mission, launching from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon. Joining a four-member international crew, Shukla’s 28-hour journey includes complex orbital mechanics, docking maneuvers, and high-speed coordination in space. In this video, we break down every stage of the flight — from launch window planning to docking with the ISS.
BTS’ Jimin and Jungkook completed their mandatory military service on June 11, greeted by hundreds of global fans near Yeoncheon County. The discharge of these two marks the nearing end of BTS’ hiatus, with fans eagerly awaiting their comeback plans as Suga prepares to finish his service soon.
On June 11, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced that the United States and China had agreed on a trade framework and implementation plan during talks in London. The agreement aims to address and potentially resolve restrictions on rare earths and magnets—critical materials for various technologies. Lutnick stated that the U.S. team would present the framework to President Donald Trump for approval, while China’s Vice Commerce Minister Li Chenggang confirmed that their side would also seek leadership approval. The framework is part of broader efforts by senior economic officials from both countries to ease escalating trade tensions and competing export controls. These restrictions had posed a threat to the stability of a Geneva accord that had successfully reduced tariffs from extremely high levels. The new agreement represents a step toward cooperation, aiming to stabilize trade relations and prevent further deterioration in economic ties between the world’s two largest economies.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass imposed a curfew in a 1-square-mile area of downtown following days of intense protests against ICE raids. The demonstrations led to clashes between protesters and law enforcement, with reports of vandalism and some looting, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours. The curfew began at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 10, and will remain in effect until 6 a.m. on Wednesday, June 11. City officials aim to restore order and ensure public safety amid growing unrest. The protests were sparked by opposition to recent immigration enforcement actions and have drawn large crowds across the city.
A candlelight vigil was held in Graz, Austria, to mourn the victims of a devastating school shooting at Dreierschützengasse secondary school, where 10 people—including the 21-year-old gunman—lost their lives. The attacker, a former student who had not completed his studies, took his own life in a school bathroom after the rampage. The tragedy, Austria’s deadliest gun violence in recent years, left at least 12 others seriously injured. Among the victims were seven females and three males, including a 17-year-old French student. Thousands gathered in the city square, lighting candles and standing in silent reflection, while officials declared three days of national mourning and scheduled a minute of silence. The gunman acted alone, using two legally owned weapons, and left a goodbye letter to his parents, but offered no explanation for his actions. The event has deeply shaken the community and the nation.
Protests erupted in downtown Los Angeles as demonstrators marched toward the courthouse where labor leader David Huerta was being held, prompting a heightened federal response. In a controversial move, the Trump administration announced the temporary deployment of about 700 U.S. Marines to the city to support until more National Guard troops arrive. While the Insurrection Act was not invoked—meaning the troops won’t engage in direct law enforcement—the decision marks a rare use of military forces for domestic unrest. The situation remains fluid, and officials suggest it could change. The deployment sparked criticism, especially from Democrats, who accuse President Trump of unnecessarily escalating tensions. California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the move as illegal and vowed to sue, prompting Trump to say he would support Newsom’s arrest. The unrest follows days of protests and clashes over Trump’s aggressive immigration enforcement, which has become a major point of contention between political parties.
France is in contact with Israel concerning six French nationals aboard the British-flagged charity yacht Madleen, which was seized while attempting to break Israel’s naval blockade of Gaza. The vessel aimed to deliver symbolic aid and raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis. French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking at the U.N. Ocean Summit in Nice, condemned the blockade as “shameful” and called for a ceasefire in Gaza. Since March, Israel has sealed Gaza’s borders, blocking supplies over concerns that Hamas was diverting aid. Recently, limited food has been allowed in, distributed by an Israeli-backed group, but many Palestinians have died trying to access it. Separately, Macron announced that the High Seas Treaty, focused on conserving international waters, will come into effect in early 2026 after receiving enough ratifications. The treaty, adopted in 2023, allows countries to establish marine parks in international waters, which cover nearly two-thirds of the ocean but are largely unprotected.
French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron welcomed global leaders to an opening dinner in Nice on June 8 for the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), held at the historic Negresco hotel. The conference, running from July 9 to 13, seeks to boost support for a treaty to protect ocean biodiversity, which currently lacks enough signatories to take effect. Macron emphasized France’s leadership in marine protection, downplaying the absence of U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration. He expressed hope that more than the current 30 nations will commit to halting deep-sea exploitation. Highlighting five interconnected ocean crises—biodiversity loss, water quality, food security, health, and climate change—Macron called for increased European funding for scientific deep-sea research. France is co-hosting the event with Costa Rica, a country recognized for environmental stewardship. Macron urged a unified global response, describing unregulated deep-sea exploitation as reckless and scientifically unjustified.
U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered a federal crackdown in Los Angeles as protests over immigration raids entered their fourth day. Calling the situation a “migrant invasion,” Trump deployed National Guard troops and warned of mass deportations. He accused illegal migrants and violent mobs of attacking federal agents to disrupt deportation operations. Trump tasked top officials, including the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense, to take decisive action to “liberate” the city. On Sunday, 300 National Guard troops were stationed at key locations, including the Edward R. Roybal Federal Building, where detainees from recent raids were being held. Authorities used pepper spray, tear gas, batons, and flash-bang grenades to disperse demonstrators, some of whom blocked major roadways. The protests underscore deep tensions between Trump’s hardline immigration policies and the Democratic leadership of Los Angeles, a city with a large immigrant population. Trump vowed that order would be restored and illegals expelled.
The longstanding tensions between US President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk escalated into a public feud over Trump’s economic bill and clean energy incentives. Musk criticized the legislation, calling it an “abomination,” prompting Trump to express disappointment and claim Musk had previously supported the bill. Musk responded by asserting that his backing was crucial to Trump’s 2024 election victory and warned Democrats would have controlled the House without him. Trump retaliated by stating he asked Musk to leave and revoked Musk’s EV mandate, accusing him of “going crazy.” Musk then announced SpaceX would begin decommissioning its Dragon spacecraft following threats to cancel government contracts. The spat intensified when Musk alleged Trump’s involvement in the Jeffrey Epstein files, hinting at a major scandal. Trump defended the bill as historic and criticized Musk’s delayed opposition. Musk further predicted Trump’s tariffs would cause a recession and supported Trump’s impeachment. The dispute highlights a sharp breakdown in their previously cooperative relationship.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei firmly rejected a U.S. demand to halt uranium enrichment, calling it against Iran’s interests. The U.S. presented a new nuclear deal proposal via Oman after five rounds of talks, but key issues remain unresolved, including Iran’s insistence on continuing enrichment on its soil and refusal to export its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Tehran maintains its nuclear programme is peaceful. The proposal is expected to be rejected as it does not meet Iran’s conditions. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has intensified sanctions and threatened military action, while Israel continues to warn of strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.
Russia launched a major overnight drone and missile attack across Ukraine, targeting Kharkiv, Sumy, Odesa, and Kiev. One person was injured in each of Kharkiv, Sumy, and Odesa, while civilian infrastructure, including homes and businesses, was damaged. Ukraine's air force intercepted or jammed over 60 of 95 drones. Meanwhile, fighting continued along the front lines as Russian forces claimed gains in Sumy and targeted Ukrainian defence infrastructure. Ukraine conducted an underwater drone strike on the Crimean Bridge, severely damaging its base. Peace talks resumed in Istanbul on Monday, with Russia proposing a 30-day ceasefire and Ukraine requesting time to review terms.
On June 4, Donald Trump’s decision to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50% took effect, intensifying his global trade war. Announced on May 30, Trump justified the move as a step to further protect U.S. steel and aluminum industries, claiming they are “coming back like never before.” The tariffs sparked immediate backlash from key U.S. trading partners. Canada’s Chamber of Commerce and United Steelworkers union condemned the decision, warning of harm to cross-border supply chains and Canadian workers. The European Commission criticized the move for increasing global economic uncertainty and hinted at retaliation. Australia also denounced the tariffs as unjustified. Meanwhile, U.S. steelmaker Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. saw a 26% stock surge, with investors betting on increased domestic profits. As the U.S. is the world’s largest steel importer (excluding the EU), the tariff hike is expected to raise steel prices broadly, impacting industries and consumers alike.
On June 3, sirens sounded across Tel Aviv, central Israel, Jerusalem, and parts of the West Bank after a missile launched from Yemen was intercepted by Israeli air defense systems. The Houthis, an Iran-backed group in Yemen, claimed responsibility, stating the missile targeted Ben Gurion Airport. The attack occurred shortly before the start of the Jewish holiday of Shavuot. Residents were alerted in advance through mobile push notifications from the Home Front Command. No injuries or damage were reported in this incident. Since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, the Houthis have launched dozens of missile and drone attacks at Israel, most of which have been intercepted. A rare successful strike earlier this month caused minor injuries near Ben Gurion Airport. The latest missile fire came in response to an Israeli airstrike last week on Sanaa International Airport in Yemen, which destroyed a plane used by the Houthis.
Elon Musk has publicly clashed with President Donald Trump over a controversial Congressional spending bill, marking his first open disagreement since leaving his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk criticized the bill on X, labeling it as “outrageous” and warning it would raise the budget deficit to $2.5 trillion, potentially bankrupting the country. Despite Musk’s sharp remarks, the White House dismissed the criticism, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that Musk's views would not influence the president. Trump continues to endorse the bill, calling it “unbelievable” and claiming it cuts deficits. Fiscal conservatives and analysts warn it could increase the deficit by up to $4 trillion over ten years. Meanwhile, the White House Council of Economic Advisers projects optimistic growth of 5.2% and cites $1.6 trillion in spending cuts. Musk, though present at a recent press conference, remained silent, signaling his deep disagreement.
Thick smoke from wildfires burning across western Canada spread into the U.S. Upper Midwest on June 3, significantly worsening air quality in Minneapolis. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 168, placing it among the worst in the world that day and matching Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The smoke plume originated from large fires in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba and contained fine particulate matter, which poses health risks, especially for individuals with heart or lung conditions. Health officials advised residents to limit outdoor activities to reduce exposure. Although conditions in Minneapolis are expected to gradually improve, lower levels of smoke are forecast to travel further east, reaching cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Boston in the coming days. This event highlights how wildfire smoke can impact air quality far beyond the immediate area of the fires, affecting large regions and posing health concerns across North America.
Thick smoke from wildfires burning across western Canada spread into the U.S. Upper Midwest on June 3, significantly worsening air quality in Minneapolis. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 168, placing it among the worst in the world that day and matching Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The smoke plume originated from large fires in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba and contained fine particulate matter, which poses health risks, especially for individuals with heart or lung conditions. Health officials advised residents to limit outdoor activities to reduce exposure. Although conditions in Minneapolis are expected to gradually improve, lower levels of smoke are forecast to travel further east, reaching cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Boston in the coming days. This event highlights how wildfire smoke can impact air quality far beyond the immediate area of the fires, affecting large regions and posing health concerns across North America.
Ukraine’s SBU security service said it carried out an underwater attack on a key road and rail bridge connecting Russia to the Crimean peninsula. Using 1,100 kilograms of explosives, the agency claimed to have damaged the bridge's underwater pillars early on June 3. The SBU released a video showing the blast, which Reuters confirmed as matching the bridge’s structure and location, though the time of filming couldn't be independently verified. The bridge is a vital supply route for Russian forces in southern Ukraine. The incident marks another bold strike by Kyiv on infrastructure supporting Russia’s military operations in occupied territories.
Following the Pahalgam terror attacks and India’s launch of Operation Sindoor, Turkey has reinforced its strategic alignment with Pakistan. Despite offering condolences, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan continues backing Islamabad, drawing criticism from India. Turkey has assisted Pakistan militarily, especially in drone tech, and supports its stance on Kashmir in international forums. India views Turkey’s actions as intrusive and misaligned with its interests. Bilateral ties have weakened, with India reducing engagement while urging Ankara to discourage Pakistan’s use of terrorism. Former Ambassador Anil Trigunayat says Erdogan’s Islamic leadership ambitions are driving this alignment, though India prefers dialogue and mutual respect.
Russia and Ukraine held peace talks in Istanbul, agreeing to exchange prisoners of war and return the bodies of 12,000 fallen soldiers. The meeting lasted less than an hour and was only the second formal negotiation since the conflict began in March 2022. Despite international pressure, no ceasefire was agreed upon. Russia presented a detailed memorandum proposing terms for a full ceasefire, including territorial concessions from Ukraine and limits on its military, demands Ukraine rejected as surrender. The sides agreed to exchange seriously wounded and sick prisoners, as well as young soldiers aged 18 to 25. Both agreed to return 6,000 bodies each. Ukraine also raised concerns about several hundred children reportedly deported to Russia. Ukraine suggested more talks before the end of June, emphasizing that a direct meeting between Presidents Zelenskiy and Putin is necessary to resolve outstanding issues. Turkish President Erdogan expressed hope to host future talks involving Zelenskiy, Putin, and possibly U.S. President Trump, who has threatened to end U.S. mediation without progress.
El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, in his sixth annual address, defended his harsh security policies, dismissing criticism of authoritarianism. He said peace for Salvadorans is his top priority, even as NGOs and U.S. lawmakers raise human rights concerns.
Palestinians surveyed damage to a mosque and cemetery in Gaza’s Deir al-Balah following an Israeli strike, as ceasefire talks stalled. Israel and Hamas traded blame for the failure of new mediation efforts by Arab and U.S. officials aimed at securing a temporary truce and hostage exchange. Hamas remains in contact with Egyptian and Qatari mediators. Israel insists war will continue until Hamas is eliminated. The conflict began after Hamas’s October 2023 attack, which killed 1,200 Israelis and led to 251 hostages. Since then, over 54,000 Palestinians have been killed and Gaza’s infrastructure devastated, displacing much of the population.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for stronger sanctions on Russia from the European Union and the United States if peace talks in Istanbul fail to produce results. Speaking at the Bucharest Nine Summit in Vilnius, Zelenskyy urged targeting Russian energy, especially oil and tankers, as well as banks and the financial sector. Ukraine’s delegation, led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, arrived in Istanbul on June 2 for a second round of negotiations with Russia, following an initial May 16 meeting that resulted in a prisoner exchange deal. The talks are scheduled at the Ciragan Palace, hosted by Turkey.
Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal warn the West has two weeks to act against Putin's war plans. After visiting Kyiv and meeting Zelenskyy, they urged swift passage of a sweeping sanctions bill to hit Russia’s economy hard. The legislation would target nations still importing Russian oil, including China and India. With peace talks stalled, the senators say Putin is stalling diplomacy and preparing for a major summer offensive.
On Sunday in Boulder, Colorado, a man identified as Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, attacked a crowd at a memorial for Israeli hostages by throwing incendiary devices while shouting “Free Palestine.” He used a makeshift flamethrower, injuring six people aged 67 to 88, some seriously. Eyewitnesses described chaos, with victims suffering burns and bystanders scrambling to help. The event, organized by the group 'Run For Their Lives' to call for hostage releases in Gaza, was disrupted as Soliman also yelled slogans like “End Zionists” and “They are killers.” Authorities evacuated nearby blocks and deployed K-9 units during the response. The FBI and local law enforcement are investigating, with no charges announced yet, though officials pledged full accountability. Colorado Governor Jared Polis condemned the act, calling it unacceptable hate-fueled violence. The incident comes amid a broader surge in antisemitic attacks in the U.S., including a recent fatal shooting of Israeli embassy staff.
On June 1, huge number of anti-government protesters filled the Gazela traffic junction in Belgrade, Serbia, demanding accountability for a deadly train station roof collapse in Novi Sad that occurred in November and claimed over a dozen lives. The protest, led by students, is part of a broader wave of demonstrations spreading across the country. Students and civil organizations have called for coordinated protests in 30 cities, turning daily rallies into the most significant challenge to President Aleksandar Vucic's 12-year rule. Protesters are voicing deep frustration over what they describe as rampant government corruption and incompetence, which they believe contributed to the tragedy. The student-led movement is gaining momentum, drawing attention both nationally and internationally, and is being seen as a powerful grassroots uprising. The demonstrators are using whistles, banners, and chants to amplify their calls for justice and reform, emphasizing the need for those responsible to be held accountable.
Conservative candidate Karol Nawrocki narrowly won Poland’s presidential runoff election, securing 50.89% of the vote against liberal Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski, who received 49.11%. The tight race, following a closely contested first round, revealed deep political divisions within Poland, a key NATO and EU member on Europe’s eastern flank. An early exit poll had incorrectly suggested a Trzaskowski win, but late polling and official results confirmed Nawrocki's lead. Backed by Poland’s largest nationalist opposition party and endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump, Nawrocki’s victory is expected to steer the country toward a more nationalist agenda. Celebrations in Warsaw included Romanian far-right figure George Simion and former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, who praised the result as a major win for both Europe and Christianity. The election outcome highlights rising nationalist sentiment in the region and marks a significant political shift in Poland's leadership and policy direction.
Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has been charged with crimes against humanity for allegedly ordering a deadly crackdown during the 2024 student uprising. Prosecutors cite evidence of planned mass killings, with over 1,400 dead. Hasina, now in exile in India, denies the charges.
