Digest for 25 July, 2025
France Announces it Will Formally Recognise Palestinian State
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will officially recognise Palestine as a sovereign state, becoming the first G7 nation to do so. Macron described the decision as consistent with France's commitment to a lasting peace in West Asia, calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages. The move was strongly rejected by Israel and the United States, who argued it sets back peace efforts, while France stated a formal announcement will be made at the UN General Assembly.
Deadly Border Clashes Erupt Between Thailand and Cambodia
Intense military clashes have erupted along the Thailand-Cambodia border, resulting in at least 14 deaths and causing over 100,000 civilians to flee. The fighting, which involved artillery, rockets, and Thai airstrikes, marks a major escalation of a long-standing border dispute. In response to the unrest, which has affected seven Thai provinces, the Indian embassy in Bangkok has issued a travel advisory urging its nationals to avoid the region and monitor updates from official Thai sources.
Six Students Killed as Government School Roof Collapses in Rajasthan
A tragic incident in Rajasthan's Jhalawar district saw a portion of a government school building collapse, killing six students and injuring more than 30 others. The collapse occurred at the Peeplodi Government School while students were in their classroom. Local villagers and teachers initiated rescue efforts, pulling victims from the debris. The state government has ordered a high-level investigation into the incident, which residents claim was caused by the building's long-term deterioration exacerbated by recent heavy rainfall.
DRDO Successfully Tests UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested its new UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 in Andhra Pradesh. This marks a significant advance in India's indigenous defence capabilities, particularly in unmanned precision strike technology. The missile system, designed to be lightweight and compatible with various aerial platforms, enhances the armed forces' strategic flexibility. The successful trial showcases India's growing self-reliance in producing critical defence technologies through collaboration between DRDO and private industry.