Digest for 18 June, 2025
Israel-Iran Conflict Escalates with Hypersonic Missile, Rising Casualties
The conflict between Israel and Iran intensified, entering its sixth day, after Iran reportedly launched a hypersonic missile at Israel, with Supreme Leader Khamenei declaring "the battle has begun." A human rights group reported Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 585 people in Iran. The escalation, which prompted the US President to shorten his G7 attendance, heightens regional instability as diplomatic efforts to revive Iran's nuclear deal talks remain fragile.
Ahmedabad Air India Crash: 190 Victims Identified Through DNA; Investigation Continues
Following the Air India flight AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad on June 12, authorities have identified 190 of the approximately 270 victims (241 on board, 29 on ground) using DNA matching, with 159 bodies handed to families. The crash of the London-bound flight resulted in almost total fatalities. Investigations by DGCA, Air India, and a high-level committee are underway. Former minister Praful Patel questioned Singapore Airlines' (an Air India stakeholder) silence on the tragedy.
India and Canada Agree to Restore High Commissioners, Revive Trade Talks
India and Canada agreed to designate new high commissioners and restore diplomatic stability during a meeting between PM Narendra Modi and Canadian PM Mark Carney at the G7 Summit. This marks a significant step to mend ties strained since Canada's allegations regarding Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. Both nations will also restart negotiations on the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA) and enhance cooperation in various sectors, aiming for regular services for citizens and businesses.
India Will Never Accept Mediation on Pakistan Issues, PM Modi Tells US President Trump
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a phone call with US President Donald Trump, firmly stated that India has never accepted, does not accept, and will never accept third-party mediation on issues with Pakistan. Modi detailed India's "measured" military actions during Operation Sindoor post-Pahalgam terror attack, emphasizing that the subsequent ceasefire was agreed upon directly with Pakistan at their request, without any US involvement or discussion of trade deals as leverage.
US Intelligence Assesses Iran Not Building Nuclear Weapon, Trump Expresses Disagreement
US National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard testified that Iran is not currently building a nuclear weapon, though its enriched uranium stockpile is at unprecedented levels for a non-nuclear state. However, President Donald Trump publicly dismissed this assessment, stating "I don't care what she said" and believing Iran is "very close" to a bomb. This divergence highlights internal US administration differences on a critical global security issue amidst escalating Israel-Iran tensions.