Digest for 24 June, 2025
Israel and Iran Accept US-Brokered Ceasefire After 12-Day War Marked by Intense Strikes
Israel and Iran agreed to a US-proposed ceasefire on Tuesday, ending a 12-day war. The deal followed intense final hostilities, including Iranian missiles killing four in Beersheba and Israeli airstrikes in Iran. US President Trump announced the ceasefire, aimed at de-escalating a major Middle East crisis which involved US military action and caused hundreds of casualties, significantly impacting regional stability.
India Successfully Evacuates Over 2,400 Citizens from Iran and Israel Amid Conflict
India's "Operation Sindhu" is actively evacuating citizens from conflict-ridden Iran and Israel. Over 2,295 Indians have been brought back from Iran, with an initial 161 repatriated from Israel via Jordan. The External Affairs Ministry is coordinating special flights to ensure the safety of Indian nationals amidst escalating hostilities in the Middle East, with Union Ministers receiving evacuees.
India and Pakistan Extend Mutual Airspace Closure Until July 24
India and Pakistan have extended the mutual closure of their respective airspaces for each other’s airlines until July 24, 2025. This decision, communicated via a Notice to Airmen, continues restrictions first imposed in April following heightened tensions and military actions after the Pahalgam terror attack. The ban significantly impacts flight routes, increasing travel time and operational costs for carriers.
Indian Airlines Suspend Key International Flights Amid Middle East Crisis
Major Indian airlines, including Air India and IndiGo, have suspended flights to the Middle East, parts of Europe, and North America due to escalating regional tensions and airspace closures. This precautionary measure impacts thousands of passengers and creates significant financial and operational disruptions for the carriers, who are rerouting or holding flights until the situation stabilizes.
India Achieves 99th Rank in Global Sustainable Development Goals, Enters Top 100
India has significantly improved its global standing in sustainable development, breaking into the top 100 of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) rankings for the first time. Securing the 99th position among 167 nations in the 2025 report, up from 109th in 2024, highlights India's progress on various UN-mandated development parameters.