Digest for 25 June, 2025
Indian Air Force Pilot Shubhanshu Shukla Becomes Second Indian in Space
IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla successfully launched to the International Space Station aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 as part of the Axiom-4 mission. He is the second Indian citizen in space, 41 years after Rakesh Sharma, and the first to visit the ISS. The 14-day mission, a collaboration including NASA and ISRO, will involve microgravity research. Celebrations erupted in his hometown Lucknow as the mission lifted off from Florida.
Russia Deploys Advanced Iranian Drone Technology in Ukraine Conflict
Debris from a recent Russian drone attack in Ukraine indicates the use of new Iranian-made drone technology, including an advanced camera, AI computing, and anti-jamming capabilities. The drone, distinct in appearance and labeling from previous models, suggests ongoing military-technical cooperation between Moscow and Tehran. This development could enhance Russia's drone effectiveness and highlights Iran's role in supplying advanced weaponry.
India Marks 50th Anniversary of Emergency with Calls to Uphold Democracy
India commemorated the 50th anniversary of the 1975 Emergency, a period described by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as one of the "darkest chapters" in India's democratic history. The BJP observed it as 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas' (Constitution Murder Day). Political leaders emphasized the importance of safeguarding constitutional rights and democratic principles, recalling the suspension of fundamental rights and suppression of dissent during that time.
Seven Israeli Soldiers Killed in Southern Gaza Combat Operations
The Israeli army announced on Wednesday that seven of its soldiers, including a platoon commander, were killed in combat operations in the southern Gaza Strip. This brings the total number of Israeli soldiers killed in the ongoing war with Hamas to over 430. The conflict, nearing nine months, continues with high casualties on both sides and a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Iran Executes Three Men Convicted of Spying for Israel
Iran has reportedly executed three men accused of spying for Israel's Mossad intelligence agency. While details are scarce due to access limitations on some reports, such executions are part of Iran's ongoing shadow war with Israel. These events typically escalate regional tensions and draw condemnation from human rights organizations concerned about fair trial standards in Iran.