Digest for 15 June, 2025
Israel and Iran Exchange Heavy Fire; Regional Tensions Soar
Hostilities between Israel and Iran surged as Israel launched extensive assaults on Iranian military targets, including its Defence Ministry HQ and nuclear research facility SPND. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Israeli energy infrastructure, reportedly causing fatalities in Galilee. Air raid sirens blared across Israeli cities. The escalating conflict, following Israel's "Operation Rising Lion," has heightened fears of a wider war in the Middle East, with planned US-Iran nuclear talks now cancelled.
Ahmedabad Crash: 31 Victims Identified by DNA; Ex-Gujarat CM Rupani Confirmed Dead
Authorities have identified 31 victims of the Air India Boeing 787-8 (AI171) crash in Ahmedabad using DNA testing, including former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. The London-bound flight crashed shortly after takeoff on Thursday, killing 241 of 242 on board and 29 on the ground when it hit a medical college campus. As of Sunday, 12 families had claimed mortal remains, with identification processes ongoing for other victims.
Seven Dead as Helicopter Crashes Near Kedarnath Shrine in Uttarakhand
A helicopter carrying pilgrims crashed near the Kedarnath shrine in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag district amidst poor visibility, killing all seven onboard: five pilgrims, the pilot, and a temple committee employee. The Bell 407 chopper, operated by Aryan Aviation, was en route from Kedarnath to Guptkashi. This incident marks another tragedy in a series of recent air accidents in the state, prompting urgent calls for enhanced aviation safety measures.
UK Royal Air Force F-35 Stealth Fighter Makes Emergency Landing in Kerala
A British Royal Air Force F-35 fighter jet executed an emergency landing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, Kerala, after running low on fuel. The stealth aircraft was operating from a UK aircraft carrier in the Indian Ocean. Unable to land back on the carrier due to rough seas and turbulent winds, the pilot sought permission to land at the nearest civilian airfield. Indian airport authorities facilitated a safe landing, coordinating refuelling and security.
Trump Warns Iran of "Full Force" US Response If Attacked, Denies Role in Current Strikes
US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Tehran amidst escalating Iran-Israel hostilities, stating that any Iranian attack on US interests would be met with "the full strength and might of the US Armed Forces." Trump clarified on Truth Social that the US had no involvement in the recent Israeli strikes on Iran. He also suggested he could broker a peace deal between Iran and Israel to end the "bloody conflict."