NEW DELHI, June 30: Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephone conversation on Tuesday with the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian.

On the call, President Pezeshkian briefed the Prime Minister on the recent developments in West Asia and the way forward.

Modi welcomed the understanding reached, and reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.

Modi reiterated the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, and for safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce.

U.S. envoys Witkoff, Kushner meet mediators in Doha

DOHA, June 30: U.S. envoys had a meeting with Qatari mediators on Tuesday, the Gulf state’s Foreign Ministry spokesman said, after Washington said it was sending a negotiating team.

“Mr. Steve Witfoff and Mr. Jared Kushner are here in Doha to meet with mediators, with Qatari officials, and the talks will be around all regional issues... including, of course, negotiations with Iran, but also including Lebanon,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari said.

“They are not here for their negotiations with the Iranians,” he added.

Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump said Iran requested a meeting on Tuesday in Qatar, despite Tehran denying any direct negotiations were planned with Washington on the deal aimed at ending the West Asia war.

The visit by Steve Witkoff, U.S. President Donald Trump’s special Mideast envoy, and Jared Kushner, his son-in-law, comes after a weekend of crossfire in the Persian Gulf over efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping traffic.

The envoys won’t be having direct negotiations with Iranian diplomats while in Qatar’s capital, Doha, said Majed al-Ansari, a spokesman for Qatar’s Foreign Ministry. Instead, mediators are working for the time being as go-betweens for the talks, which won’t include any high-level officials, he added.

China calls for maintaining talks momentum between U.S., Iran

China’s Foreign Minister ‌Wang Yi on Tuesday called ⁠for maintaining the momentum of negotiations between ‌the U.S. and ‌Iran in ‌a ⁠meeting ⁠in Beijing with his Saudi counterpart, state-run news ‌agency Xinhua reported.

“The current ceasefire remains fragile, but ‌talking is better than fighting, and dialogue ⁠is better than confrontation,” said ‌Wang, who added that Beijing is willing to work with ‌Saudi Arabia to ease tensions in the ⁠region and promote ⁠lasting peace.

‘Direct threat to regional peace’: India slams Pakistan for attacks on Afghanistan

NEW DELHI, June 29: The Indian government has strongly condemned Pakistan’s airstrikes on Afghan territory that have resulted in several civilian casualties, including women and children. “This blatant act of aggression by Pakistan is an assault on Afghanistan's sovereignty and a direct threat to regional peace and stability,” read a statement by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday.

It added that the strikes show “Pakistan's persistent pattern of reckless behaviour and its futile attempt to externalize internal failures through desperate acts of violence beyond its borders”.

“India conveys its condolences to Afghan families that have lost loved ones, prays for early recovery of those injured and reiterates its unwavering support for Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the MEA added.

Earlier, the Taliban-led Afghanistan government issued a "strong and resolute protest" to the Pakistani Charge d'Affaires in Kabul over airstrikes in eastern provinces that reportedly killed 36 civilians, including women and children, and injured 163 others.

According to a statement issued by the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on X, the Afghan side summoned the Pakistani diplomat and conveyed its protest over what it described as a violation of Afghanistan's airspace and the bombing of civilian homes in Kunar, Paktia and Paktika provinces.

It further alleged that “Pakistan's invading military regime carried out airstrikes on the residential homes of civilians” in the affected regions, resulting in significant civilian casualties.

“The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan considers these attacks a clear violation of international principles, humanitarian laws, and the national sovereignty of countries, and strongly condemns them,” it added.

The Afghan Foreign Ministry also accused Pakistan of blaming Afghanistan for its internal security challenges without presenting evidence, while alleging repeated military aggression across the border.

Pakistan confirmed the strikes, with Pakistan's Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Sunday night stating that Islamabad's security forces had executed a "well-planned intelligence-based ground operation" alongside aerial strikes in the frontier zone.

The regional friction had sharply intensified after a Saturday night assault on the provincial headquarters of the Pakistan Sindh Rangers in Karachi's Gulistan-i-Jauhar locality. The Sindh police chief told Dawn that three Pakistani paramilitary personnel and three attackers were killed after militants rammed the main gate with a vehicle, triggering heavy gunfire and explosions.

An affiliate of Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a splinter faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), claimed responsibility for the Karachi garrison breach, Al Jazeera reported.

6 Dead In Shooting In Germany, 2 Arrested

BONN, June 29: Six people were killed and several others injured in a mass shooting in the northern German city of Stade on Monday.

The suspected gunman and a second alleged perpetrator have been arrested, said a police spokesperson. According to police, shots were fired near a youth facility, and they are currently conducting a large-scale operation outside the town centre. "We ask you to leave the area and give it a wide berth for your own safety," police said in an X post.

"Homicides involving multiple victims occurred at a youth welfare facility. Five people were fatally injured and additional individuals sustained injuries," according to the city police.

Stade, which is located west of Hamburg, has a population of around 50,000 people.

Germany has more restrictive gun laws than those in the US, and mass shootings are less frequent. Anyone under the age of 25 needs to pass a psychiatric exam before applying for a gun licence.

One of the most recent mass shooting in Germany was in March 2023, when a disgruntled former Jehovah's Witness member shot dead six people from the Christian group's congregation in Hamburg, before turning the gun on himself.

India’s vision is to make Indian Ocean an Ocean of Opportunity: Modi in Seychelles

VICTORIA, June 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India envisions an Indian Ocean where maritime security is ensured alongside economic prosperity and where partnership is not based on size, but on mutual respect and trust.

“Our vision is to make the Indian Ocean an Ocean of Opportunity,” Modi said after delegation-level talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, during which they reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

“We believe the Indian Ocean is our shared home; its security, sustainability, and prosperity are our shared responsibility,” Modi said in Seychelles.

“We will share India’s successful experience in Digital Public Infrastructure with Seychelles,” the Prime Minister said. “We believe the defence and security of India and Seychelles are integral to each other,” he noted.

“We will continue to explore new opportunities for the industries of both our countries. Work will also be done to enhance connectivity between India and Seychelles,” he added.

Modi on Sunday held delegation-level talks with Seychelles President Patrick Herminie at the State House, aimed at further strengthening the longstanding bilateral partnership between the two countries.

The Indian delegation included External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Official spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal.

The Seychelles delegation comprised Vice-President Sebastien Pillay; Principal Minister and Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and the Blue Economy Wallace Cosgrow; Minister for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Barry Faure; and Minister for Finance, Economic Planning, Trade and Investment Pierre Laporte, among others.

Prior to their meeting, Modi and Herminie also held bilateral-level talks with each other.

Modi was on Sunday conferred with Seychelles’ special presidential distinction, ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon.”

Modi, who is in Seychelles as part of his three-day State Visit to the East African island nation, dedicated the ‘Guardian of the Blue Horizon’ award to nations combatting climate change challenges.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the State House, where he was welcomed by President Herminie.

The two leaders also participated in formal ceremonial proceedings reflecting the close diplomatic ties between India and Seychelles.

Modi arrived in Victoria on Saturday afternoon and was personally received at the airport by President Herminie, along with several Cabinet Ministers and senior officials, in a special gesture underscoring the warm and friendly relations between the two countries. The arrival ceremony featured vibrant cultural performances, including a traditional dance from the Kutch region of Gujarat.

The Prime Minister’s visit, taking place from June 27 to June 29 at the invitation of President Herminie, will see him participate as the Guest of Honour at Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee National Day celebrations on Monday, commemorating 50 years of the country’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1976.

On Saturday, Modi also visited the Seychelles National Botanical Garden as part of his cultural and environmental engagements during the visit. In a key bilateral gesture, the Prime Minister handed over a ‘Made in India’ Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), PS LESPWAR, along with six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser-guided boats to Seychelles to enhance the island nation’s maritime surveillance and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) patrol capabilities.

The high-level handover ceremony was held at the Seychelles Coast Guard Base in Victoria in the presence of President Herminie. Manufactured by Goa Shipyard Limited, the FPV is expected to significantly strengthen Seychelles’ maritime security capabilities.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the initiative reflects the growing strategic partnership between India and Seychelles, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region.

Putin says Russia is going through ‘difficult period’ amid Ukraine war, vows to overcome challenges

MOSCOW, June 28: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday said Russia is going through a "difficult period" but expressed confidence that the country would overcome its challenges, ensure national security, and continue strengthening its borders.

Speaking at the conference of the ruling United Russia party ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for September, Putin said the hardships faced by the country had made it stronger and provided valuable lessons, according to Russian state news agency TASS.

"We are going through a difficult period, but it has taught us much," Putin said, while wishing the United Russia party success in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

His remarks come as Russia continues to face Ukrainian drone and missile strikes, alongside Western sanctions imposed over the war in Ukraine.

Addressing the United Russia party congress, Putin said the government was aware of the challenges confronting the country and was taking steps to address them.

"Yes, we see the problems, we are aware of them and are responding to them, but we will certainly ensure the security of both the country and our citizens, as well as the inviolability of Russia's borders," he said.

Putin also vowed that Russia would overcome the threats it currently faces.

"We will undoubtedly overcome all the challenges facing us today, including terrorist attacks on our territory and infrastructure facilities," he added.

India slams Pakistan's 'baseless' claims over Karachi attack: 'Look inward, act on terror'

NEW DELHI, June 28: India on Sunday rejected accusations by Pakistani authorities that a terrorist attack in Karachi was carried out by an “Indian proxy” and said Islamabad should take credible action against terror infrastructure on Pakistani soil.

Three Pakistani security personnel and three terrorists were killed in the attack on the provincial headquarters of the paramilitary Pakistan Rangers in Karachi on Saturday night.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a breakaway faction of the Pakistani Taliban, claimed the attack. Pakistan’s military and interior minister Mohsin Naqvi claimed the assault was carried out by an “Indian proxy” but provided no evidence to support the allegation.

“We have seen Pakistani reports making baseless allegations against India regarding the recent incident in Karachi,” external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

“We categorically reject them. Instead of pointing fingers at others, Pakistan would do better to look inwards, take credible action against the terror infrastructure on its territory and rid itself of its proclivity to rely on terrorism as an instrument of state policy,” he said.

A terrorist rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the headquarters of the Pakistan Rangers in the port city of Karachi, triggering an intense gun battle with security forces.

Three members of the paramilitary force were killed and four more injured in the fighting. Three terrorists were killed and a fourth, an Afghan national, was captured, Pakistan’s military said in a statement.

The military said Pakistan will retaliate against those responsible for the assault. Pakistan has carried out air strikes on Afghanistan in recent months, saying they targeted militants responsible for attacks inside the country.

India has denied similar allegations by Pakistani authorities about involvement in similar terrorist attacks in recent years.

Israeli military says it killed Hezbollah militants and attacked a launcher in the Nabatieh area

TEL AVIV, June 28: Israeli military said on Sunday it ‌killed Hezbollah militants armed with rocket-propelled grenades and struck a ⁠rocket launcher in the Nabatieh area of southern Lebanon to remove threats to its soldiers.

The ‌Israeli ⁠military said it struck the structure from which ⁠the militants operated and dismantled a ⁠rocket launcher that posed ⁠a threat.

Explosion, Gunfire In Pakistan's Karachi, 3 Army Rangers Dead: Local Media

KARACHI, June 27: An explosion took place in Pakistan's Karachi on Saturday, after which heavy gunfire was reported by local media. After gunshots were heard around the Mosamiat Chowrangi area, armed service personnel cordoned the streets off.

At least two people were injured and taken to the hospital, news agency AFP reported, citing a statement from the Edhi Foundation, which provides emergency assistance in Pakistan.

Special units such as the Rapid Response Force and police commandos were dispatched to the scene according to Pakistan's Dawn.

The Sindh chief minister said he had "taken notice of the reported sound of an explosion and the alleged firing", adding he had called for a detailed report into the incident.

"Police should immediately reach the scene, determine the nature of the incident, and take all necessary measures," Syed Murad Ali Shah said in a statement.

Tehran condemns US strikes, says it violates MoU

TEHRAN, June 27: The United States and Iran have traded strikes for the first time since signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) last week, raising tensions days before the two sides are set to meet for the next round of talks.

The US military said it carried out the strikes in retaliation for a drone attack on a cargo ship a day earlier in the Strait of Hormuz. This came after US President Donald Trump accused Iran of carrying out that attack.

Iranian state media reported that a projectile struck near a pier in the city of Sirik near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran said Qeshm island has also been hit.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it targeted locations in the region where US forces are deployed in retaliation for the Trump administration’s latest attack.

Death Toll In Venezuela Earthquake Crosses 600, Over 3,000 Injured

CARACAS, June 26: Two powerful earthquakes hit Venezuela on Wednesday evening, killed at least 600 people and injuring nearly 3,000, damaging buildings and prompting acting president Delcy Rodriguez to declare a state of emergency.

The first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.2, and its epicentre was west of the community of Moron, about 168 kilometres west of the capital, Caracas. The quake had a depth of 22 kilometres. The second earthquake struck just a minute later, with a 7.5-magnitude. It had a depth of 10 kilometres, and its epicentre was 16 kilometres southwest of Moron.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has said that "high casualties and extensive damage are probable" and the disaster is likely widespread, initially estimating the death count would most likely range from 10,000 to 1,00,000.

These two quakes are among the strongest to strike Venezuela in more than a century.

188 killed in Venezuela earthquake

CARACAS, June 25: Rescue efforts in the aftermath of back-to-back earthquakes in Venezuela are now in a “very dangerous” window, with emergency services likely focused on finding survivors in mounds of debris at a time when powerful aftershocks are possible, scientists have warned.

The two earthquakes -- with epicentres Morón and near San Felipe, reported just 39 seconds apart on Wednesday evening -- have killed at least 188 people and injured around 1,000, acting president Delcy Rodriguez said on Thursday.

The worst-hit area was La Guaira, north of Caracas, where dozens of buildings collapsed in the earthquakes.

La Guaira, one of Venezuela's smallest states, sits along the country’s central northern coast on the Caribbean Sea, just a few kilometres from Caracas. The government declared it a “disaster zone”.

BBC reported that rescuers were searching through the rubble, and people were heard calling for help.

The quakes measured magnitude 7.2 and 7.5. The second is reported to be the strongest to hit Venezuela since 1900. A modelling projection by the US Geological Survey has said the eventual death toll can exceed thousands.

Seismologists have described the back-to-back earthquakes as a “doublet”. The term is used when two earthquakes of similar magnitudes occur one after the other, not too far apart in time and space. These are different from an earthquake that is followed by aftershocks or tremors of lower magnitudes.

105% Jump In Ship Crossings Through Hormuz, Iran Objects To Use Of Oman Route

DOHA, June 25: Ship movement through the Strait of Hormuz has shown signs of recovery after months of disruption linked to the Iran war and rising regional tensions.

Data from maritime intelligence firm Kpler shows vessel crossings through the key waterway jumped 105 per cent on June 24, 2026, reaching 70 crossings. Of these, 53 were commercial vessels, with most considered low-risk ships. The rise came as more vessels began using routes cleared through ongoing demining efforts and passages supported by Oman.

The increase suggests a possible easing of tensions and growing confidence among shipping operators. The rebound followed the US-Iran memorandum of understanding and the apparent end of the US naval blockade that had restricted movement in the region.

However, experts caution that normal traffic has not fully returned. Concerns remain over warnings from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), vessels using less visible tracking methods, incomplete demining work, and unresolved issues linked to sanctions and future control of the waterway.

The IRGC has warned commercial ships against using any route through the Strait of Hormuz unless it is approved by Tehran, creating fresh tensions as the United States and Iran continue fragile talks over the strategic waterway.

The warning came after Oman announced a new shipping corridor through the strait on Wednesday. Oman said the route was developed in coordination with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to help restore safer movement of vessels after weeks of disruption.

However, the IRGC objected to the move, claiming Iran was not consulted before the route was announced.

"Certain authorities have announced a new shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz without prior notification to or coordination with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The proposed route is unacceptable and poses serious safety risks," the force said.

The IRGC further stated, "The only authorised transit routes through the Strait of Hormuz are those designated by the Islamic Republic of Iran," and said ships passing through the waterway must remain in contact with the IRGC Navy.

Oman defended the newly announced route, saying it was created to support safe navigation and follow international rules.

Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said Oman would continue working to ensure freedom of movement through the strait. He also clarified that "future arrangements related to the strait do not involve imposing any transit fees".

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most important shipping routes, carrying a major share of global energy supplies. The disagreement comes as commercial traffic slowly begins to recover following recent tensions in the region.

The developments come as Washington and Tehran continue talks over their temporary agreement aimed at ending the Iran war permanently. Under the deal, both sides have a 60-day window to finalise details, but public statements from leaders on both sides have added uncertainty around the fragile arrangement.

Meanwhile, a cargo ship travelling through a United Nations-backed route in the Strait of Hormuz was hit by a projectile on Thursday, according to the British military. The attacker and the type of vessel involved remain unclear.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said the ship suffered damage, but there were no casualties or environmental impact reported. The incident came hours after Iran warned vessels against using the strait without Tehran's approval.

The reopening of an alternative route through the waterway could reduce pressure on global trade and weaken Iran's leverage in negotiations. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during a Gulf visit, said Washington was committed to ensuring ships could continue moving through the strait.

"If that stops, then we're going to have a problem," Rubio said earlier Thursday.

Although shipping activity has improved, traffic remains below pre-conflict levels. Oil prices also briefly fell below the pre-war level of nearly $73 per barrel, signalling that markets are beginning to expect greater stability.

BRICS Security Advisers Push For Cooperation On Threats At New Delhi Meeting

NEW DELHI, June 23: National Security Advisers (NSAs) and senior security officials from BRICS nations on Tuesday called for stronger cooperation to address a widening range of global security challenges, including terrorism, cyber threats, energy insecurity and disruptions to global supply chains, during a high-level meeting hosted by India in the national capital.

The 16th BRICS National Security Advisers' Meeting, held under India's chairmanship of the grouping, led by India's NSA Ajit Doval, brought together top security representatives from member countries to discuss both traditional and emerging threats confronting the international community.

According to India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the discussions focused on evolving security risks that increasingly transcend national borders. Delegates exchanged views on issues ranging from energy and food security to climate-related instability and the misuse of emerging technologies by terrorist organisations.

The meeting highlighted growing concerns over the security implications of rapid technological advancements, particularly as extremist groups and criminal networks adopt sophisticated digital tools. Participants stressed the need for coordinated responses to counter such threats while ensuring the secure use of information and communication technologies.

A major focus of the deliberations was strengthening collaboration among BRICS members in the fight against terrorism. The NSAs reviewed the outcomes of meetings held earlier this year by BRICS Joint Working Groups on Counter-Terrorism and on Security in the Use of Information and Communication Technologies.

Officials emphasised the importance of enhancing information-sharing mechanisms, building institutional capacities and improving coordination among law-enforcement agencies across member states. The participants reaffirmed their collective commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including efforts to curb the exploitation of new technologies by terrorist networks.

The discussions reflected a broader recognition that security challenges are becoming increasingly interconnected. Delegates noted that disruptions in supply chains, food shortages, cyberattacks and climate-related crises can have significant implications for national and international stability, requiring greater multilateral cooperation.

India used the platform to advance its 2026 BRICS agenda under the theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability". The theme has guided New Delhi's efforts to promote practical cooperation among member countries across a range of sectors, including security, technology and sustainable development.

The participating delegations expressed full support for India's leadership of the bloc this year and welcomed initiatives aimed at deepening cooperation among BRICS countries. Observers said the endorsement underscores the growing importance of the grouping as it seeks to expand its role in addressing global governance and security issues.

The meeting also underscored the increasing relevance of non-traditional security concerns in international diplomacy. While conventional security threats remain significant, policymakers are paying greater attention to challenges posed by cyber vulnerabilities, climate change, technological disruption and economic shocks.

Following the conclusion of the meeting, the NSAs and heads of delegation jointly called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The interaction provided an opportunity for leaders to discuss the outcomes of the deliberations and reaffirm their commitment to closer cooperation within the BRICS framework.

India's hosting of the meeting comes at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty and growing concerns over global security risks. By bringing together senior security officials from BRICS nations, New Delhi sought to reinforce collective approaches to emerging challenges and strengthen cooperation among member countries on issues that increasingly require coordinated international action.

JD Vance says ‘great progress’ achieved towards final deal with Iran

GENEVA, June 22: Vice President JD Vance has hailed “great progress” in negotiations with Iran and says UN nuclear inspectors will return to verify Tehran’s compliance with the preliminary agreement.

Iran’s top negotiators depart Switzerland for Tehran after 18 hours of intensive talks as a team remains to continue technical negotiations on the Islamabad memorandum of understanding.

Mediators Pakistan and Qatar say the US and Iran made “encouraging progress” on the first day of high-level talks and agreed on “a roadmap for a final deal to be reached within 60 days”.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz says Israeli forces will remain in southern Lebanon as long as necessary as Hezbollah vows to confront any violation of the ceasefire.

"The final deal is the house," Vance told reporters. "We set the foundation. We haven't built the house, but we've laid a successful foundation to get to a good place for the American people."

Vance's comments came after he and Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on Monday wrapped up a lengthy round of initial talks aimed at solidifying a permanent end to the war between the countries.

The mediation effort in Switzerland, which started Sunday and stretched into the early hours of Monday, had rocky moments. But the talks also led to some agreements between the two sides.

The vice president also suggested that the US administration could agree to unfreeze Iranian assets for purchases of US soy, corn and wheat.

He said that Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of President Donald Trump and one of the lead US negotiators, came up with the idea with officials from Qatar.

Vance said Qatar would have approval over the process, but Iranian money that would be accessible as sanctions were lifted "would actually go to buy American soy, American corn and American wheat for the benefit of the Iranian people."

In a joint statement, mediators Pakistan and Qatar said that while the high-level engagement had ended, technical negotiations would continue in Switzerland this week.

The mediators hailed what they called "encouraging progress" made during the talks. A senior US diplomat claimed progress on multiple fronts, including the establishment of "mechanisms" to ensure the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global energy shipments, remains open and that a ceasefire in the fighting between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon holds.

Yet the talks between the United States and Iran were jolted by blistering statements from Trump, who, from thousands of miles away from the Swiss negotiating venue at a mountainside resort near Lake Lucerne, was firing off comments that offended the Iranians.

Iranian state media said talks had paused after the "publication of an insulting message by the US President," according to Iranian state media.

Ultimately, the Iranians remained on site and negotiations continued, according to the senior US diplomat, who was not authorized to comment publicly and briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity.

Iranian state television reported Monday that the Iranian delegation had left the summit site to head to the airport in Zurich to fly back to Tehran.

Trump didn't attend what was dubbed the "Lake Lucerne Summit," but his presence certainly loomed large.

Ahead of the talks, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had vowed to "never back down from the right to enrich uranium," according to state media.

Trump on Sunday told Fox News in a phone interview that Pezeshkian should watch what he says and also threatened to take over Iran, according to one of the news channel's correspondents.

Trump also continued to issue warnings against Iran on social media, posting as negotiators worked: "Iran must immediately stop their highly paid PROXIES in Lebanon from causing trouble. If they don't, we'll hit Iran very hard again, just like we did last week, only harder!!!"

It's unclear when Vance will depart Switzerland. Trump envoys Kushner and Steve Witkoff are handling many of the technical details on behalf of the US delegation.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on X that Pakistani and Qatari mediators delivered "major progress to end the Lebanon War." But, he added, the first "real test" of negotiations would be whether the mechanism succeeded in halting the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

The senior US diplomat said among the issues discussed was Iran's messaging as it related to the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran's military said it closed Saturday in response to continued fighting in Lebanon. US Central Command has disputed that Iran closed the strait again.

The interim deal to end the fighting in Iran, signed last week by the leaders of the US and Iran, also sets a 60-day period for negotiators to settle the future of Tehran's nuclear program amid concerns that it wants to use it for military purposes, a claim Iran denies. The fate of frozen Iranian assets, among other thorny issues, are also on the agenda.

Though the talks will encompass a vast array of complex matters, Iran has insisted on first addressing the fighting in Lebanon.

Saturday's renewed ceasefire in Lebanon appeared to be holding, and Israel's military said it would lift movement restrictions for residents near the Israel-Lebanon border on Monday morning. Neither Israel nor Hezbollah is a signatory to the US-Iran deal.

There was cautious calm Monday in Lebanon, with no Israeli strikes reported overnight after a quiet Sunday. Hezbollah likewise has not announced any attacks on Israeli forces since Saturday.

The lull in fighting in Lebanon is the longest since the outbreak of the latest Israel-Hezbollah war on March 2.

Keir Starmer resigns as British prime minister

LONDON, June 22: Keir Starmer resigned as British prime minister on Monday, and within hours Reform UK leader Nigel Farage demanded a general election. Farage said he had “had enough of waiting around” and that Britain needed “real change, not another washed-up has-been shoved into place by the uniparty”.

Farage cannot force that election — under British law, Labour need not go to the polls until 2029 — but his response sharpened the central question facing Starmer's likely successor, former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham. That is, whether a new Labour leader can blunt the rise of a right-wing party that overtook Labour in a YouGov poll of national voting intentions in February 2025 and has led ever since.

US President Donald Trump, whose rise is often analysed as being part of a global right-wing surge, weighed in before the formal announcement. He mentioned immigration as one reason, as Reform UK also built itself on an anti-immigration plank. Starmer's relationship with Trump had soured over recent months, including over the Iran war, which Britain did not join.

The immediate trigger for Starmer to go was Burnham's victory in last week’s parliamentary by-election in Makerfield, a working-class northwest England seat targeted by Farage's party.

Burnham lifted Labour's share to nearly 55%, seeing off the Reform threat by drawing votes from other left-leaning parties too. The seat had been vacated by Labour’s Josh Simons to let Burnham return to Parliament and mount a leadership challenge.

Starmer, who spent the weekend at his country residence weighing his future, said he had “heard the answer” of his parliamentary party and accepted it “with good grace”.

The rise of the right in the UK has been in sync with immigration rising. UK interior ministry figures show irregular arrivals into the UK surpassed 41,000 in 2025, just short of the record 45,774 set in 2022, despite government measures to harden conditions for permanent residency. The political dividend was visible in the May 2026 local elections in which Reform UK won nearly 1,500 seats, many in former Labour strongholds, news agency AFP reported.

The right wing's advance is also divided so far as Reform leads the field but the wider right stands fractured over how far right to move.

Doval meets China’s Wang Yi, holds ‘constructive and forward-looking discussions’

NEW DELHI, June 22: National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday and reviewed bilateral ties, including progress in efforts to normalise relations following a military stand-off on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) that lasted more than four years.

Doval met Wang, who functions as the NSA in his role as Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, on the margins of the Brics NSAs’ meeting in New Delhi, external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on social media.

“The two sides reviewed recent developments in bilateral relations and noted progress towards gradual normalisation,” Jaiswal said without going into details. He described the discussions as “constructive and forward-looking”.

Doval “underlined that stable, predictable and constructive bilateral relations contribute to building trust and better understanding between the two sides”, Jaiswal said.

Chinese ambassador Xu Feihong said earlier on social media that the Chinese side will use the meeting of Brics NSAs on June 22-23 to exchange views on the international security situation, major international and regional issues, and a joint response to conventional and non-conventional security challenges.

The NSAs’ meeting is part of the preparations for the Brics Summit, to be hosted by India, the bloc’s current chair, in September.

This is Wang’s first visit to India in almost a year against the backdrop of efforts by the two sides to normalise their relationship. He skipped a Brics foreign ministers’ meeting hosted by India in May as its timing clashed with US President Donald Trump’s trip to Beijing. Wang last visited India in August 2025, when he met Doval and external affairs minister S Jaishankar.

After India and China reached an understanding in October 2024 to end a military stand-off on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) that had dragged on for more than four years and had taken relations to a six-decade low, both sides have taken several steps to normalise their ties and address their border dispute.

Doval travelled to China in December 2024 for a Special Representatives’ meeting, and this was followed by Wang’s trip to India last August for another meeting under the same mechanism. These meetings largely focused on the disputed sections of the border and other confidence-building measures.

The two sides have resumed direct flights and revived the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to Tibet, and India has eased visa regulations for Chinese citizens. China too eased certain restrictions on the export of heavy machinery, rare earth magnets and fertilisers.

Indians among 13 killed in blast at Qatar's key LNG hub in Ras Laffan Industrial City

DOHA, June 22: A total of 13 people were killed in an explosion at a facility in Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City, one of the world's most important liquefied natural gas (LNG) hubs, QatarEnergy said on Monday. According to the preliminary information, the victims included Indian and Pakistani nationals, according to a Gulf news report.

The company said investigations were underway to determine the cause of the blast. It added that the incident did not affect Qatar's LNG exports, with gas facilities and Ras Laffan Port continuing to operate normally.

The Embassy of India in Qatar, however, has not confirmed the deaths yet.

The embassy did express deep concern over the incident at Ras Laffan Industrial City that left several people injured and others missing, according to local authorities.

QatarEnergy did not provide detail on where in the plant the explosion took place nor the extent of the damage but Saad al-Kaabi, CEO of QatarEnergy CEO and Qatar's energy minister, said an investigation had started into the incident, according to reports.

Iran says talks focused on ending war, sanctions relief, release of frozen funds

GENEVA, June 21: US and Iranian negotiators met in Switzerland on Sunday for technical-level talks on implementing their interim agreement aimed at ending the Iran war. Pakistani and Qatari mediators were also present for the discussions on resolving the conflict that the US and Israel launched in late February.

The US delegation is led by Vice President JD Vance and includes Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff. They are holding talks with Iranian negotiators headed by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Iran held talks with the United States and Qatar on Sunday focused on the conflict in Lebanon and the release of Tehran's frozen assets, Iranian state media reported.

"A tripartite meeting involving Iran, the United States and Qatar on the subjects of a comprehensive ceasefire in Lebanon and Iran's blocked assets is currently being held at the negotiation venue," state broadcaster IRIB said in a report.

However, Qatar's foreign ministry has said that Pakistan is also participating in the talks.

Tehran has said separate consultations would be held with the Pakistani side as part of ongoing efforts to implement the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

"A meeting between the Iranian negotiating team and Qatari mediators is currently underway. Separate consultations with the Pakistani side are also scheduled as part of ongoing efforts to advance implementation of the Islamabad Memorandum," the Iranian government said in a post on X.

US vice president JD Vance and the Pakistani delegation arrived in Switzerland on Sunday to take part in the formal start of talks with Iranian negotiators on Tehran's nuclear programme and strengthening the fragile interim agreement aimed at ending the war in Iran. The Iranian negotiating team is headed by parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and also includes foreign minister Abbas Araghchi.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, had also arrived to join the talks at the resort.

The framework agreement was signed last week, and senior negotiators from the US and Iran have now entered a 60-day period to work out the technical aspects of the deal, which carry major consequences for global security and the world economy.

Negotiators from the United States and Iran reached Switzerland for discussions aimed at finalising key aspects of their interim agreement to halt the war between the two nations.

Ahead of his departure for Europe, Vance told reporters he hoped to "make progress on the nuclear issue, make progress on the Lebanon ceasefire issue. Those are the two big things that I think we're going to be focused on".

The next round of discussions had originally been scheduled for Friday in Switzerland but was called off at the last moment after Israel carried out deadly attacks in Lebanon following the deaths of four Israeli soldiers during fighting.

Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said the country's delegation would "demand implementation of the other party's commitments" under the agreement.

"Otherwise, the entire understanding will be in trouble," he said, according to the official IRNA news agency.

US-Iran talks in Switzerland on Sunday

GENEVA, June 20: Switzerland on Saturday said it continues to provide a "discreet and reliable setting" at Burgenstock to facilitate discussions on implementing the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran.

In a statement, the Swiss foreign ministry said it would not disclose further details about the participants or the substance of the talks, citing confidentiality.

Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said that, following the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), technical-level talks on implementing the agreement will be held in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, on June 21.

Separately, US Vice President JD Vance said he expects to travel to Switzerland in the coming days for talks on Iran.

Iran's state news agency IRNA reported on Saturday that an Iranian negotiating team had departed for Switzerland for discussions on implementing the agreement reached with the United States to end the Middle East conflict.

"Iranian negotiators have left for Switzerland," IRNA reported, citing Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, who cautioned that the agreement was "in trouble."

US says Strait of Hormuz remains open, 55 vessels transited safely after Iran closure claim

WASHINGTON, June 20: The US military said on Saturday that it remained "present and vigilant" in the Strait of Hormuz, hours after Iran announced it was closing the strategically vital shipping route.

"US forces remain present and vigilant to ensure all aspects of the agreement with Iran are adhered to, obeyed, and in full force and effect," US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement.

CENTCOM, which oversees US forces in the Middle East, said 55 commercial vessels had transited the strait on Saturday and added that "safe passage through the international waterway remained intact today."

Israeli strikes kill 32 in Lebanon

TEL AVIV, June 20: Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed at least 32 people despite a ceasefire being in place, with the violence threatening to derail talks between the United States and Iran aimed at cementing a fragile peace process.

But ongoing Israeli ⁠air raids and drone attacks in southern Lebanon, which continued even after a renewed ceasefire between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah began on Friday, have complicated the planned talks. Iran views a ceasefire in Lebanon as essential to the diplomatic process and that it could “make or break” the US-Iran talks.

Israeli strikes killed 16 people and wounded 12 in Nabatieh district in the country’s south on Saturday, Lebanon’s civil defence agency said.

A Lebanese soldier was killed in an Israeli attack on the village of Kfar Reman, Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) said.

NNA reported Israeli attacks in Tyre District, with an Israeli strike on the village of Barish killing four members of the same family – a father, a mother and their two children. Another Israeli raid hit a house in Sohmor in the western Bekaa while a family was inside, killing four people and injuring one, NNA said.

An Israeli attack on Qanarit in Sidon district killed at least seven people and wounded 13, said Lebanon’s Health Emergency Operations Centre.

Israeli strikes kill 47 in Lebanon, Agree to ceasefire again

TEL AVIV, June 19: Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire on Friday after fresh clashes in Lebanon threatened to derail the fragile agreement aimed at ending the wider Middle East war.

The truce, which took effect at 4 pm local time (1300 GMT), was brokered by US and Qatari mediators following consultations with Israel and Iran, a US official told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, Iran has begun shipping large volumes of oil that had been held back under a US blockade, potentially boosting Tehran's finances days after it signed an interim peace agreement with Washington.

According to shipping data compiled by Bloomberg, 11 tankers carrying a combined 20 million barrels of crude departed this week from the Iranian port of Chabahar on the Gulf of Oman.

The vessels had previously been prevented by the US military from entering the Indian Ocean as part of efforts to restrict Iran's oil revenues. China remains the main destination for most Iranian crude exports.

At the same time, Tehran has moved to tighten its oversight of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. In a document published on its website, the Persian Gulf Strait Authority said vessels transiting the strategic waterway must adhere to designated routes and outlined provisions that could pave the way for tolls on shipping in the future.

The United States on Thursday ended its blockade of Iran, allowing oil tankers to resume normal passage through the Strait of Hormuz after months of disruption to traffic through the key waterway, as a temporary peace deal aimed at ending the conflict came into force.

The developments came as Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei backed direct talks with the US in a statement carried by state media.

Iran dismisses reports on Hormuz closure, says Switzerland meet 'postponed to another time'

TEHRAN/ WASHINGTON, June 19: Iran dismisses Strait of Hormuz closure reports, says shipping continues safely, according to Iran International.

Iran said on Friday there was "no urgency" to hold talks with US negotiators in Switzerland, saying the memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the Middle East war had already been signed electronically on June 18.

Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran was planning to hold a meeting in the coming days.

The White House said Thursday night that Vice President JD Vance was delaying a trip to Switzerland to lead a new round of negotiations with Iran citing difficult logistics for negotiations.

It said the team lead by Vance had been ready to leave but was postponing, citing difficult logistics for negotiations.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Friday voiced support for continued dialogue between the United States and Iran, while stressing the need to remain vigilant against any attempts to derail the peace process.

In a post on X, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he had held a "warm and most cordial telephone conversation" with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

"We agreed that the next phase of negotiations must continue to be guided by a firm commitment to dialogue, diplomacy, and vigilance against any attempt to undermine the peace process," Sharif said.

Israel troops to remain in Lebanon: Netanyahu

TEL AVIV, June 18: Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly said that Israeli troops will not withdraw out of southern Lebanon, despite it being a stern condition by Iran for signing of the peace deal.

In his first remarks since the deal was signed virtually by Trump and Iran’s President on Wednesday, Netanyahu remarked, “We will restore security to the north.”

“This requires maintaining the security zone in southern Lebanon, and it requires that we not leave it as long as Israel’s security needs demand it," Netanyahu was quoted as saying in a Times of Israel report.

Meanwhile, Israeli strikes killed three people in Lebanon on Thursday in two separate incidents. According to Lebanese state media National News Agency, the first attack took place in the town of Kfar Tebnit, where a car with two people was targeted by a drone.

The two have been identified as Bilal Kamal Hayek and Ali Ismail Tufaili. In a separate attack, a man was killed in a drone strike in the southern town of Zebdin, according to NNA.

Netanyahu underscored the importance of maintaining Israel's close ties with the US, saying Washington had stood "shoulder to shoulder" with Israel during the war with Iran.

"The struggle is not yet over, and further challenges lie ahead. They require calm judgement, steadfast defence of Israel's security interests, and at the same time the preservation of our vital relationship with our American friends, who stood shoulder to shoulder with us in this fight -- a partnership we deeply appreciate," Netanyahu said at a function, according to a statement issued by his office.

Ukraine hits Moscow refinery as Zelenskyy seeks Trump support to end war

MOSCOW, June 18: Ukrainian drones have hit a Moscow oil refinery for the second time ⁠this week while Russia fired missiles at Kyiv, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy seeks support from the United States and Europe to reach a deal to end the war.

Russia’s Defence Ministry said on Thursday that its air defences shot down 555 Ukrainian drones over several regions overnight, with almost 200 intercepted as they were approaching the Russian capital.

Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said several drones hit an oil refinery.

“Air defence forces continue to repel a massive attack. Several drones managed to reach the Moscow oil refinery,” Sobyanin said, adding that a shopping centre also suffered minor damage.

The attack on the oil facility is the second this week, after a drone attack on Tuesday halted operations at the refinery, according to a news agency, as widespread damage to Russian energy facilities worsens the country’s fuel crisis.

The refinery is a “strategically important enterprise.”

“It provides a multi-million population of the Russian capital with around 40 percent of petrol and other oil products. It’s still burning heavily while, according to authorities, emergency services are taking measures to put out fires,” she said.

The regional governor said that in the surrounding Moscow region, a high-rise residential building, an industrial facility and a number of private houses were also damaged in the drone attack. The Sheremetyevo airport, Moscow’s busiest, suspended flights and evacuated people, as several sought shelter in the car park, the airport said in a statement.

Ukrainian forces also struck a railway bridge over the North Crimean Canal during an overnight operation on Wednesday, in what appeared to be the latest attempt to disrupt Russian military logistics in occupied Crimea, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said on Facebook.

Big trade wins for India as Modi attends G7 meet: UK deal date, EU FTA by year-end

EVIAN, June 17: India made big strides on the trade front during the G7 meeting in France. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was attending the key meeting in Évian-les-Bains, met several global leaders and major economic developments are in the pipeline for India.

The timelines of two key trade deals for India were fixed, and US President Donald Trump also shared a big update on the ongoing trade negotiations with India.

Here's a look a big breakthroughs for India:

Modi met UK counterpart Keir Starmer and it has been decided that the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement will be implemented from July 15. This will significantly boost bilateral trade and investment between the two countries.

India and Canada issued a joint statement following a meeting between Modi and Canadian PM Mark Carney. The statement noted the "satisfaction of both leaders with the progress in negotiations towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)" and reaffirmed their “shared objective of concluding the negotiations in 2026.”

The European Union will formally sign its a landmark trade deal with India by the end of this year, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said after meeting Modi. The deal was struck back in January and aims to boost two‑way trade and reduce reliance on US resources. "Since we have concluded the mother of all trade deals, we have been moving fast to deliver on our commitments. We will sign the Free Trade Agreement by the end of the year."

Trump met Modi for bilateral talks and said that Washington and New Delhi were “very close” to finalising a long-awaited trade agreement. This marks a big turnaround in ties that were strained over the imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian goods last year. The duties were later brought down to 18%.

The trade deal between India and the UK was finalised last year but there was no update on when it would be implemented. As PM Modi announced the date of its implementation, he said the trade deal will unlock numerous opportunities for Indian farmers, workers, startups and innovators.

"This agreement will significantly boost our bilateral trade and investment. It will also unlock numerous opportunities for Indian farmers, workers, MSMEs, startups and innovators and contribute meaningfully to the realisation of Viksit Bharat 2047," he said.

Similarly, the India-EU trade deal was struck in January this year when the European Commission President was visiting India. Signing of the deal by the end of this year could allow it to enter force in 2027. According to a Bloomberg report, the deal could double the EU's exports to India by eliminating or reducing tariffs in 96.6% of traded goods by value.

'India always on the side of peace': Modi meets Zelensky in Evian during G7 Summit

EVIAN, June 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky in Evian at the sidelines of G7 Summit in France.

Taking to X, Modi said he reiterated that India will always be on the side of peace, "placing the values of humanity over everything else."

“Met President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Evian. In recent times, India and Ukraine have been engaging extensively. This has been reflected in different areas of our cooperation. Our talks today were about reviewing different aspects of our cooperation,” Modi said in a post on X.

“We both agree that trade ties need to be restored to what they were in the pre-war time. Also reiterated that India will always be on the side of peace, placing the values of humanity over everything else,” he added.

The meeting comes shortly after Modi held a meeting with US President Donald Trump and EU chiefs—European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa in Evian.

India has been consistently calling for an end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.

After the meeting, Volodymyr Zelensky said that India and Ukraine have "great potential for cooperation", and are already implementing joint projects.

"Today, we discussed how to give them even more substance and expand cooperation across various sectors. Importantly, the Prime Minister is interested in developing mutually beneficial relations with Ukraine and sees that this partnership can make our people stronger.

"There are good industrial and other projects that we can implement together. We agreed that our teams would work through all the details," he said on X.

'Partnerships must be linked to dignity, not dependency', Modi shares message at G7 Summit

EVIAN, June 16: In his address at the G7 Outreach Session in Evian, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said global partnerships must be built on trust, calling it the “most important strategic asset” at a time when the world faces a “shortage of trust” rather than resources.

Modi shared his views at the Outreach Session on “Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity."

He said that in an interconnected world, global partnerships can succeed only when built on trust. He said, “Mutual trust is the most important strategic asset today,” adding that the world “does not suffer from a shortage of resources…it suffers from a shortage of trust,” and that rebuilding this trust is key to the future of international cooperation.

Modi emphasised India’s worldview of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (one world, one family), saying development works best when linked to people’s aspirations, and highlighted initiatives like the International Solar Alliance as examples of India’s partnership approach.

He further said, “the true test of partnership is not what we build for others, but what we enable others to build for themselves,” stressing capacity building and skill development in partner countries.

Highlighting the Global South’s expectations, he said it seeks “partnership, not just support,” and called for moving beyond a donor-recipient mindset towards equal, dignity-based cooperation.

World leaders from the G7 nations have gathered in Evian, France, for the two-day key summit. The leaders are discussing various issues ranging from the wars in Iran and Ukraine to the rise of artificial intelligence.

Trump tells Netanyahu 'be responsible with Lebanon, let Syria handle Hezbollah'

EVIAN, June 16: US President Donald Trump said Tuesday he had suggested to Israel that Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa should deal with Lebanon's Tehran-backed Hezbollah militia as the Israeli campaign was causing too many casualties.

Praising Sharaa as doing an "amazing job", Trump said at a G7 summit: "If Israel can't do the job (against Hezbollah) without killing everyone else, then he (Sharaa) will do the job. Syria will do the job."

Sharaa "is very good with Hezbollah, does not like them", Trump said, adding that the Syrian leader, an ex-jihadist who came to power after the fall of Bashar al-Assad, is "no boy scout".

Israel "is fighting Hezbollah too long and too many people are being killed," he said.

"I suggested to Israel to let Syria take care of Hezbollah as, to be honest with you, I think they would do a better job," said Trump.

Following reports that his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was in decline, Trump said "Bibi (Netanyahu) has to be more responsible with respect to Lebanon."

"I am not happy with the way Israel had handled themselves with Lebanon and Hezbollah. They should have been able to do the job faster," Trump said.

France and UK to lead 20-nation maritime mission to reopen Strait of Hormuz

PARIS, June 15: French President Emmanuel Macron said France and the United Kingdom will lead a maritime mission involving around 20 countries to coordinate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

He added that France remains committed to the effort and confirmed that both France and the UK had previously rejected requests from Donald Trump to deploy military assets earlier in the war.

France, along with the U.K., Germany, and Italy welcomed the U.S.-Iran understanding on Monday, congratulating the two countries and others, including mediators Qatar and Pakistan.

The countries said the urgent opening of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway transporting 20% of the world’s oil, was essential. They are willing to conduct a “strictly defensive and independent” mission to “reassure commercial shipping” and to clear mines, the statement said. These countries – all members of the G7 – also said that Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon.

The focus, however, at the G7 will be U.S. President Donald Trump, who arrived at the resort on Monday evening. A meeting between Modi and Trump is set for 2.45 p.m. local time on Wednesday. The two men go into the meeting with several challenging issues looming before them.

Netanyahu says 'the struggle is not over'; vows Iran will never have nuclear weapons

TEL AVIV, June 15: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had "saved itself from annihilation" but stressed that the country's fight was not over. He added that Iran would not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, with or without a deal.

In his first remarks after Washington and Tehran agreed to a deal to end the Middle East conflict, Netanyahu said, "The most important thing is that we saved the State of Israel from the threat of nuclear annihilation."

"And what would that mean? It would mean that millions of Israeli citizens -- you who are hearing me now -- all of you would have been in terrible danger of mass death... And we have pushed away from us, for years, this danger of the annihilation of Israel's population," he said during a televised press conference.

Israel’s Ambassador to India Reuven Azar said Israel will “continue taking action” against Hezbollah in Lebanon, stressing that Lebanon is not part of the US-Iran agreement. He added that Israel is not involved in the deal and said the Israeli cabinet will review it before deciding its response.

Azar clarified that Israel’s aim in the Iran conflict is not “regime change” but to remove the nuclear and ballistic missile threats posed by Iran. He said Israel and the US are working to “prepare the ground together with the United States for the Iranian people to embrace their future,” and warned that any ceasefire would not immediately change conditions in Iran.

Modi welcomes Iran-U.S. agreement

BRATISLAVA, June 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday, welcomed the agreement between Iran and the United States to end the conflict in West Asia that has been raging for more than three months, killing and injuring thousands, and disrupting shipping and energy markets.

“I welcome the understanding reached between the United States and Iran on ending the conflict in West Asia, which has caused serious economic disruption across the world and led to loss of life in many countries,” Modi said in a post on social media, from the Slovakian capital of Bratislava.

The Prime Minister arrived in the city on Sunday night for a bilateral visit after a day of events and meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron in Nice.

India hoped the deal would restore peace and stability as well, while ensuring the freedom of navigation and commerce, Modi said, welcoming further deliberations on the remaining issues so a “sustainable final agreement” is reached.

Modi will travel to Evian-les-Bains in the French Alps on Tuesday morning to participate in sessions with the leaders of the G7 group of wealthy countries.

A meeting between Modi and Trump is set for 2.45 p.m. local time on Wednesday. The two men go into the meeting with several challenging issues looming before them.

Modi conferred Slovakia's highest honour

BRATISLAVA, June 15: Slovakia has conferred its highest civilian honour, the Order of the White Double Cross (1st Class), on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking the 33rd international award bestowed upon him by a foreign nation.

Following the ceremony, Modi took to social media to thank the people and government of Slovakia for the honour.

“It is an honor for me that tonight in Bratislava I received the Order of the White Double Cross (First Class). I thank the citizens and government of the Slovak Republic for this award, which belongs to all 1.4 billion inhabitants of India. I dedicate this distinction to the lasting friendship between India and Slovakia,” he said.

The honour comes after Prime Minister Modi's "excellent meeting" with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava, highlighting the untapped potential of bilateral ties.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the two countries announced the creation of a Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism and agreed to establish a Consular Dialogue mechanism to deepen cooperation on consular issues.

India and Slovakia also signed an MoU on Labour Migration to facilitate the movement of professionals and skilled workers, along with a Letter of Intent on defence cooperation aimed at promoting joint development, joint production and collaboration between their defence industries.

Several other agreements were signed during the visit across a range of sectors, including digital technologies, higher education and research, and audio-visual creation.

The two sides also announced the establishment of the first-ever Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Chair in Artificial Intelligence at the Technical University of Kosice.

India, France to double trade in five years, eye greater cooperation in nuclear energy

NICE, June 14: India and France on Sunday set a target for doubling two-way trade from the current level of about $16 billion within five years and agreed to work more closely on civil nuclear energy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Emmanuel Macron held talks on bolstering bilateral ties and global crises such as the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia.

The two leaders held a bilateral meeting at Villa Kerylos in the port city of Nice after jointly inaugurating Bharat Innovates 2026, an event aimed at matching Indian deep tech startups with global investors.

Nice was the first stop in Modi’s nearly week-long tour of Europe that will also take him to Slovakia, before he returns to France to join outreach sessions of the G7 Summit later this week.

Modi said on social media after the meeting that his “exceptionally productive” talks with Macron focused on enhancing cooperation in defence, technology, space, security, counter-terrorism, innovation, healthcare and education.

“India and France will keep working together to boost economic ties. The India-EU FTA provides unparalleled momentum in this regard,” Modi said. “We are also launching an Economic Security Dialogue to ensure stronger supply chains in critical minerals and technology.”

The two sides agreed to set up a high-level mechanism to double bilateral trade within five years, establish a dialogue on economic security, and adopt an Innovation Roadmap 2030, foreign secretary Vikram Misri told a media briefing in Nice.

France is India’s third largest trade partner within the European Union (EU), after the Netherlands and Germany, with two-way trade doubling in the past decade to $15.81 billion during 2025-26. India’s exports to France in this period were valued at $7.1 billion, and bilateral trade is expected to grow with the signing of the India-EU FTA later this year.

“A key focus of the discussions was on strengthening and diversifying bilateral ties in the fields of economic growth, technology and innovation. This is especially relevant in view of the conclusion of negotiations earlier this year on the India-EU FTA,” Misri said.

Defence cooperation, including India’s plans to acquire 114 Rafale combat jets, and participation of France’s private sector in the development of India’s nuclear energy sector also figured in the discussions, Misri said. This was the first meeting between the two leaders since bilateral ties were elevated to a special global strategic partnership during Macron’s visit to India in February.

Misri acknowledged that talks between the two countries on a deal for the Rafale jets, currently operated by the Indian Air Force, have advanced, including the issue of the aircraft having as much indigenous content as possible. “As far as the indigenisation of the Rafale is concerned, the PM emphasised at all his meetings that as much as possible should be done to take forward the Make in India concept in the defence sector. We want to move towards co-development, co-design, co-production and co-manufacturing,” he said.

Under the multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) project, India plans to acquire 18 Rafale jets from French aviation major Dassault in a fly-away condition, and another 96 will be made in India with around 50% indigenous content.

In civil nuclear energy, Modi and Macron noted that India’s SHANTI (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India) Act creates “new opportunities” for collaboration, including on small and advanced modular reactors, according to a readout from the external affairs ministry.

Misri pointed to past discussions between France’s state-run EDF Group and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited on a nuclear power project at Jaitapur in Maharashtra, and said Modi highlighted the changes introduced to the nuclear industry by the SHANTI Act to facilitate private sector participation and foreign direct investments.

While talks continue on the Jaitapur project, including its technical aspects and different possibilities for financing, a “rich vein of discussions” has opened up on small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs), Misri said.

“The field is open for French nuclear companies…to start looking at direct participation in the Indian nuclear sector or…in participation with Indian private sector companies, whether in conventional nuclear power reactors or in the more advanced SMRs,” he said.

Other key outcomes of the meeting were a General Security Agreement on exchange and protection of classified information, creation of a bilateral joint working group focused on the global governance of artificial intelligence, expanded possibilities for using India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system in France, an MoU on establishing a center of excellence in skilling in aeronautics at the Indian Institute of Technology-Kanpur, a declaration of intent on cooperation in high speed railway, and the signing of 19 agreements between institutions in the innovation ecosystems of India and France.

Modi and Macron also discussed ways to bolster collaboration in human spaceflight and space situational awareness, as well as expanding private sector collaboration in space.

Modi thanked Macron for the operationalisation of visa-free transit for Indian nationals at French airports, and they discussed ways to enhance mobility of talent and students, and expanding the mutual recognition of educational qualifications.

Global issues such as the situation in West Asia and the war in Ukraine also figured in the meeting, and Modi said he looked forward to participating in the G7 Summit in Evian , according to the readout.

Ayatollah Khamenei to be laid to rest on July 9

TEHRAN, June 13: The burial of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader assassinated in US strikes on February 28, will be held on July 9, Iran's Press TV reported. The burial will be preceded by funeral ceremony in three cities – Tehran, Qom and Mashad – on July 6, 7 and 9, respectively.

Khamenei will be laid to rest at the holy shrine of Imam Reza.

22 killed as Pakistani military helicopter crashes

ISLAMABAD, June 11: At least 22 military personnel were killed when a Pakistani army helicopter crashed in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, security sources told news agencies, as the region holds mass ceremonial funerals for the victims.

The Russian-built Mi-17 transport helicopter went down near the regional capital of Muzaffarabad on Wednesday. Videos showed thick plumes of black smoke billowing from behind a cluster of buildings immediately after the crash.

The helicopter “crashed … during take-off due to a technical fault,” said the military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

3 Indians Missing After Attack On Ship Off Oman Coast: New Delhi

NEW DELHI, June 10: After an attack on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman on Wednesday, 21 Indians have been rescued while three are still missing, the Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed. In a statement, the centre condemned the attack that happened earlier in the day.

A missile tore through the engine room of the oil tanker Settebello near the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a fire onboard.

The Palau-flagged vessel had 28 crew aboard, 24 of them Indian nationals, when it sent out a distress call reporting the strike while sailing roughly 20 nautical miles northeast of the Omani port of Sohar.

India's Ministry of External Affairs said 21 of the 24 Indian sailors had been pulled to safety, but three remained missing. New Delhi said its embassy in Muscat had been activated and was working closely with Omani authorities as search and rescue teams continued to comb the waters.

India Issues Demarche To US Diplomat After Attack On Ship

NEW DELHI, June 10: India on Wednesday condemned an attack earlier in the day on a commercial vessel off the coast of Oman which had 24 Indian crew onboard. In a big development, New Delhi has issued a demarche to the United States' top diplomat in Delhi after the attack.

"We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman, earlier today. Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far and three Indians are reportedly missing," the foreign ministry said in the statement.

New Delhi stated that the attacks on shipping in the region are "deeply worrisome" and termed them a direct result of the Middle East conflict.

"We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region. The targeting of commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region in keeping with international law must be restored at the earliest," it said.

Nagaraj Naidu, the additional secretary in the Foreign Ministry, summoned Jason Meeks, the charge d'affaires of the United States, to protest the attack on the ship.

While 21 Indians have been rescued, three are still missing, the Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed. In a statement, the ministry said that the Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the authorities there in the ongoing search and rescue operation.

32 killed in powerful Philippines earthquake

MANILA, June 8: A powerful earthquake has struck the Philippines, killing at least 32 people, destroying buildings and triggering tsunami alerts across Asia.

More than 100 people were also injured when the magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck off the island of Mindanao shortly before 7:40am local time on Monday (23:40 GMT, Sunday), according to the United States Geological Survey.

The initial earthquake was followed by more than an hour of aftershocks, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

General Santos, a city of 722,000 people in southern Mindanao, sustained some of the most serious damage.

PHIVOLCS said the city, located in the southern region of Soccsksargen, experienced the “very strong” event on its internal intensity scale.

Kuwait, Bahrain say new Iran attack ‘dangerous escalation’

KUWAIT, June 6: Kuwait and Bahrain on Saturday condemned fresh attacks from Iran which it said were a “direct threat” to the “lives of citizens and residents”.

Kuwait “affirms that these attacks constitute a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the state”, its Foreign Ministry said, adding “they represent a dangerous escalation”.

Earlier in the day, Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry decried attacks by Iran against its territory and neighbouring Kuwait, saying the two Gulf countries intercepted seven missiles fired by the Islamic republic.

“The ministry of foreign affairs strongly condemns the renewed attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran against the Kingdom of Bahrain and the sisterly State of Kuwait,” Bahrain, which hosts the US Fifth Fleet, said in a statement.

“This blatant aggression constitutes a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of both countries,” it added.

‘Trust-based, brotherly relations’: Putin on nearly 80 years of India-Russia ties

ST PETERSBURG, June 5: India and Russia share a “brotherly” and “trust-based” relationship dating back almost 80 years, Vladimir Putin has said. The Russian President on Friday reaffirmed Moscow’s willingness to deepen cooperation with New Delhi across defence and technology sectors.

Speaking at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin spoke of both nations navigating recent energy supply vulnerabilities caused by the US-Israeli war near the Strait of Hormuz.

“From 1947, when diplomatic relations were established, we have had very good, trust-based, brotherly relations in all senses of the word,” Putin said. “We know how talented the Indian people are, how well educated. Indians have great competencies, which have achieved world renown, especially in coding and in other fields.”

Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s austerity measures in the face of the war in West Asia, Putin said India-Russia cooperation helped address energy supply challenges.

“Prime Minister [Narendra] Modi had to introduce certain restrictions here, asking people not to use personal cars, not to travel long distances, due to what is happening in the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.

"I think our companies did the right thing and the Indian counterparts did the right thing when they decided to embark on this path of close cooperation, because right now we are trying to lend a helping hand and give our shoulder, increasing supplies to the Indian market and to Asia in general, and we certainly keep sharing our technological solutions,” the Russian President said.

Putin also said Moscow remains open to expanding defence cooperation with India, including joint work and supply of the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft. He said the platform was earlier proposed as a joint development project.

"As far as the Su-57 goes, at one point we proposed to our Indian friends to work together on this technology," he said.

Describing it as a leading-edge platform, he said, "It's fifth-generation technology- I think it's the best in the world as of now." He added that India had earlier opted to wait on participation, while Russia proceeded independently.

Earlier, Putin also underlined the long-standing nature of bilateral ties, calling them a “special privileged strategic partnership” built over decades of cooperation.

He said India’s foreign policy decisions are driven by national interest and should not be influenced by external pressure.

“The US is trying to pressure India, including over cooperation with Russia, but it will resist such efforts,” he said.

He added that attempts to influence India’s leadership were counterproductive.

“Everyone has understood that pressure on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India is detrimental for international relations.”

Putin further said Russia sees India as a reliable partner and does not view its growing ties with other countries as a concern. The Russian President further said Moscow views India as a reliable partner and does not see New Delhi’s ties with other countries as affecting bilateral relations.

“We see India as a very reliable partner; Russia sees no negative consequences from India's bilateral relations with any other country. India is a great nation and democracy and Russia will continue to expand its relations with it,” he said.

Lebanon president tells Iran 'not your job to interfere' in country

BEIRUT, June 5: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun urged Iran not to interfere in his country in an interview broadcast on Friday, also telling the Tehran-backed Hezbollah that diplomacy was the only solution to the conflict with Israel.

"It's not your country, it's our country... It's not your job to interfere into our country," Aoun said in the interview with CNN, addressing Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

"They are using Lebanon as a bargaining chip in their negotiation with the United States. It's unacceptable," he said.

Hezbollah drew Lebanon into the Middle East war with rocket fire at Israel on March 2 to avenge the killing days earlier of Iran's supreme leader in US-Israeli strikes. Israel responded with massive strikes and a ground invasion.

On Wednesday, Lebanese and Israeli envoys in Washington agreed to a truce which according to a statement is conditional on a "complete cessation" of Hezbollah fire, without mentioning a halt to Israeli attacks.

Tehran insists the fighting in Lebanon and the war in the Gulf are linked, and on Thursday the head of the Guards' foreign arm said Israel must pull back from its front lines in Lebanon.

"Hezbollah must understand that no other way but to sit and talk, no other way to solve this problem and to save what's left except through negotiation and diplomacy," Aoun added.

"It's the Lebanese people, they are not Naim Qassem people," he said, referring to the Hezbollah chief, who on Thursday rejected the truce deal.

"The majority of the Lebanese people are fed up with war," the president added.

India rejects ‘unwarranted’ references to Jammu and Kashmir in Pakistan-EU statement

NEW DELHI, June 2: India strongly rejected references made to Jammu and Kashmir in a joint press communique issued after the 8th round of the European Union-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, saying those who have no "locus standi" (or legal standing) in the matter should avoid commenting on the country's internal affairs.

The response came a day after a joint communique released following the dialogue between Pakistan and the European Union said that briefings were held related to Jammu and Kashmir.

Ministry of external affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India completely rejects such references. He made the remarks during the ministry's weekly media briefing on Tuesday.

Reiterating New Delhi's long-held position, Jaiswal said the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral and inalienable parts of India. He added that individuals or organisations with no role in the matter should refrain from commenting on issues that fall entirely within India's domestic affairs.

"We would like to say that we categorically reject such unwarranted references in the joint press communique on matters internal to India. The union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral and inalienable parts of India. Those who have no locus standi on such matters should desist from making any comment on them," he said .

The communique released after Monday's dialogue said Pakistan had briefed the EU delegation on Jammu and Kashmir, while the European side shared updates regarding the conflict in Ukraine.

"The Pakistani side briefed on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir. The EU side briefed on Russia's war against Ukraine," the press communique read.

Last month, India similarly dismissed references to Jammu and Kashmir in a joint statement issued by Pakistan and China.

Replying to media questions about references to Jammu and Kashmir in the China-Pakistan joint statement, Jaiswal said India's position has remained unchanged and is well known to both countries.

"India categorically rejects unwarranted references to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in the Joint Statement between China and Pakistan. India's position is consistent and well-known to the concerned parties. The Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh have been, are and will always remain integral and inalienable parts of India. No other country has the locus standi to comment on the same," he said.

He also said India opposes attempts by any country to support or legitimise Pakistan's control over territories linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which India considers a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"As regards the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, some of which are in India's sovereign territory, we resolutely oppose and reject any moves by other countries to reinforce or legitimise Pakistan's illegal and forcible occupation of these territories, impinging on India's sovereignty and territorial integrity," Jaiswal said.

"This has been clearly conveyed to Pakistani and Chinese authorities several times," he added.

His remarks came after Pakistan's foreign office issued a statement following talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, saying the Pakistani side had briefed China on the "latest developments" related to Jammu and Kashmir.

'No role for third party in India-Nepal border issue': MEA

NEW DELHI, June 2: India on Tuesday rejected any involvement of third parties in resolving its boundary dispute with Nepal, days after reports said that Nepalese Prime Minister Balendra Shah had sought the participation of China and the United Kingdom to address the long-standing issue.

Responding to a media query regarding Balendra Shah's ‘encroaching India’ remark, external affairs minister spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “All concerned parties should be clear that any bilateral matters between India and Nepal are to be resolved solely between the two countries, and there is no role for any third party in such matters,” it was reported.

He added that approximately 98 per cent of the India–Nepal border has already been demarcated, adding that a few issues remain unresolved in certain sections.

“Approximately 98 per cent of the India–Nepal border has already been demarcated. However, a few issues remain unresolved in certain sections. This situation has arisen due to changes in the course of the Gandak River.”

“In addition, there are cases of cross-border encroachment and encroachments on no-man's land in some demarcated areas, which are currently being jointly mapped,” Jaiswal added.

Jaiswal’s comments come after the rapper-turned-politician, Shah on Sunday said that apart from discussions with India on the Lipulekh Pass border dispute, Nepal was in touch with China and Britain as well.

"Since this problem dates from the time when British India left the region, it is our view that England should be involved in this matter," he said.

"You will be surprised to know a fact that I learnt only after becoming Prime Minister. It is not only India that has encroached on Nepalese territory, but Nepal has also encroached on Indian territory in many places," Shah said during his maiden appearance in the ongoing parliamentary session.

Nepal and India have had an old boundary dispute over Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani. India has consistently maintained that the territories are part of Uttarakhand.

The dispute gained renewed attention in 2020 when Nepal, under then Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, strongly pushed its claims over the region amid rising domestic political pressure.

The issue escalated after Kathmandu released a revised political map showing Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura within Nepal’s borders. Nepal maintains that these areas belong to it under the 1816 Sugauli Treaty signed with British India.

Lebanon announces ceasefire between Hezbollah, Israel

LEBANON, June 2: Lebanon announced a partial ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel on Monday in what would amount to a limited de-escalation of a conflict that has killed thousands of people and inflamed the broader US-Israeli war with Iran.

According to Lebanon's embassy in Washington, the agreement would not end the conflict in the country, but it calls for Israel to refrain from strikes on Beirut and its suburbs controlled by Hezbollah, while the Iran-aligned group would halt its attacks on Israel.

Iran's Tasnim news agency reported that Tehran had suspended dialogue with mediators over Israel's expanding offensive in Lebanon, where the US ally again threatened strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs.

Israel makes deep incursion inside Lebanon

TEL AVIV, June 1: The Israeli forces have begun a historic incursion deep inside Lebanon drawing global condemnation and putting the US-Iran ceasefire at risk.

Amid the escalation, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with both Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the diplomatic negotiations. The US proposed that as a first step Hezbollah will stop all attacks on Israel and in return Israel would refrain from escalation in Beirut.

On Sunday, Israeli forces seized a symbolic fort in southern Lebanon that offers commanding views across Lebanon and into northern Israel.

Israeli forces are making their deepest incursion inside Lebanon since they withdrew from the country over a quarter-century ago, weakening the US-Iran ceasefire as Tehran wanted any agreement to end fighting in Lebanon, too.

Qatar called it a "dangerous escalation." Germany's foreign minister said it was cause for serious concern, according to German press agency dpa.

US is yet to respond to the issue. Israel says it is targeting the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group, which has a strong political presence in southern Lebanon.

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