Digest for 22 June, 2025
US Conducts Airstrikes on Three Iranian Nuclear Facilities
The United States military conducted airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. US President Donald Trump announced the "very successful attack" on June 21, 2025, stating a "full payload of BOMBS was dropped on Fordow." The operation, reportedly involving B-2 stealth bombers, aimed to destroy Iran's nuclear enrichment capacity. This direct US involvement significantly escalates the conflict, raising fears of a wider regional war.
Iran Launches Retaliatory Missile Strikes on Israel
Iran launched over 30 ballistic missiles at Israel early Sunday, hours after U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The Israeli Defence Forces confirmed the attack, with emergency services reporting at least 16 injuries. Missiles struck central Israel, including Haifa. Iran's Foreign Minister condemned the US action as a "grave violation," warning of "everlasting consequences" and asserting Iran's right to self-defence under the UN Charter.
IAEA Reports No Abnormal Radiation Levels at Iranian Nuclear Sites Post-Strikes
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed no abnormal off-site radiation levels were detected following US airstrikes on Iran's Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities. The UN nuclear watchdog stated it will provide further assessments. Iran, while condemning the attacks as a violation of international law and vowing to continue its nuclear program, did not disclose the extent of damage to the sites.
NIA Arrests Two for Harbouring Terrorists in April Pahalgam Attack
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar and Bashir Ahmad Jothar for allegedly harbouring Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists involved in the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people. The accused allegedly provided food, shelter, and logistical support to three Pakistani terrorists. The arrests were made under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act as investigations continue into the deadly terror incident in Jammu and Kashmir.
FATF Report Links Seized Dual-Use Cargo to Pakistan's Missile Program
A Financial Action Task Force (FATF) report revealed that dual-use equipment, seized by India in 2020 from a Pakistan-bound merchant vessel, is linked to Islamabad’s National Development Complex. This entity is involved in Pakistan's missile development program. Indian authorities had confirmed documents mis-declared the shipment's contents. The report underscores concerns about illicit procurement for weapons proliferation in the region.