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A man in China has refused to bow down to property developers by building his own 10-storey tower in a place where every other house has been razed down to build a luxury resort. Chen Tianming lives in a village in Guizhou province, where all the houses were bought and torn down in 2018. However, the 42-year-old is in no mood to give in after seven years.&nbsp;His stone bungalow now looks like a pyramid with 10 storeys. The upper floors move when the wind is strong, and so he has tethered them to the ground with ropes and cables. The house is rickety and weird, with balconies and stairs poking out. It is built using plywood and contorted beams, and appears on shaky ground.&nbsp;After Chen refused to give in to developers, the project failed to take off. He received several demolition notices, but defied them all and continued to raise the height of his house, adding more and more floors to it. Chinese media compares his house to the creations of legendary Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/subproject-94-the-secret-cia-program-to-create-army-of-remote-controlled-animal-assassins-1749902696736">Declassified CIA documents reveal plans to create an army of remote-controlled 'animal assassins' during Cold War</a>&nbsp;He told AFP that his project started off as a practical way to expand the house, but his labyrinthine construction later turned into "an interest and hobby".&nbsp;<h2>Chen's 10-storey tower in Chinese village lacks permits</h2>&nbsp;Chen's house lacks proper building permits and has been deemed dangerous since the upper floors sway in the wind. But he has sworn not to let anyone demolish his house. "People often say it's unsafe and should be demolished... but I'll definitely never let anyone tear it down."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-drives-300km-hr-films-police-chase-and-posts-it-online-it-is-now-being-used-as-evidence-against-him-1749900181909">Man drives 300km/hr, films police chase and posts it online. It is now being used as evidence against him</a>&nbsp;Chen has received several demolition notices, ordering him to destroy the higher floors and only retain the original building. He completed construction on the fifth floor in 2019, the sixth in 2022 and the seventh in 2023.&nbsp;It was deemed an illegal construction last August. But he is in no mood to budge, and has spent tens of thousands of yuan fighting the notices in court. He has not won any of the preliminary hearings either, and has continued to appeal.&nbsp;<h2>Chen's house has become a tourist attraction</h2>&nbsp;Chen's house was built by his grandfather in the 1980s, and his parents refused to sell it to the developers who wanted to build a resort, complete with a theatre and artificial lake. All the houses in the area were bulldozed. In order to protect his home, Chen slept alone in the house so that no one would raze it at night.&nbsp;The project was scrapped six months later, and his house was given the name "nail house" - a Chinese term for those whose owners dig in and refuse to relocate despite official compensation offers.&nbsp;Today, Chen lights up his house with decorative lanterns at home, attracting the attention of passersby. In fact, it has become a tourist attraction itself, and local residents think it might be an official landmark. &nbsp;

A man in a Chinese village has built a 10-storey pyramid like house with things poking out from everywhere. He has defied every demolition order and is fighting notices in the court. But, he is adamant not to let the authorities raze his house.

A man in China has refused to bow down to property developers by building his own 10-storey tower in a place where every other house has been razed down to build a luxury resort. Chen Tianming lives in a village in Guizhou province, where all the houses were bought and torn down in 2018. However, the 42-year-old is in no mood to give in after seven years. His stone bungalow now looks like a pyramid with 10 storeys. The upper floors move when the wind is strong, and so he has tethered them to the ground with ropes and cables. The house is rickety and weird, with balconies and stairs poking out. It is built using plywood and contorted beams, and appears on shaky ground. After Chen refused to give in to developers, the project failed to take off. He received several demolition notices, but defied them all and continued to raise the height of his house, adding more and more floors to it. Chinese media compares his house to the creations of legendary Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki. Also Read: Declassified CIA documents reveal plans to create an army of remote-controlled 'animal assassins' during Cold War He told AFP that his project started off as a practical way to expand the house, but his labyrinthine construction later turned into "an interest and hobby". Chen's 10-storey tower in Chinese village lacks permits Chen's house lacks proper building permits and has been deemed dangerous since the upper floors sway in the wind. But he has sworn not to let anyone demolish his house. "People often say it's unsafe and should be demolished... but I'll definitely never let anyone tear it down." Also Read: Man drives 300km/hr, films police chase and posts it online. It is now being used as evidence against him Chen has received several demolition notices, ordering him to destroy the higher floors and only retain the original building. He completed construction on the fifth floor in 2019, the sixth in 2022 and the seventh in 2023. It was deemed an illegal construction last August. But he is in no mood to budge, and has spent tens of thousands of yuan fighting the notices in court. He has not won any of the preliminary hearings either, and has continued to appeal. Chen's house has become a tourist attraction Chen's house was built by his grandfather in the 1980s, and his parents refused to sell it to the developers who wanted to build a resort, complete with a theatre and artificial lake. All the houses in the area were bulldozed. In order to protect his home, Chen slept alone in the house so that no one would raze it at night. The project was scrapped six months later, and his house was given the name "nail house" - a Chinese term for those whose owners dig in and refuse to relocate despite official compensation offers. Today, Chen lights up his house with decorative lanterns at home, attracting the attention of passersby. In fact, it has become a tourist attraction itself, and local residents think it might be an official landmark.

A man in a Chinese village has built a 10-storey pyramid like house with things poking out from everywhere. He has defied every demolition order and is fighting notices in the court. But, he is adamant not to let authorities raze his house.

Chinese man fights to keep his 10-storey pyramid house held down with ropes deemed unsafe

Israel-Iran War: Amid the escalating tensions after the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said he wants "a real end" to the nuclear problem with Iran. The senior White House reporter of CBS News, Jennifer Jacobs, &nbsp;posted on the social media platform X, saying that Trump commented during his midnight and abrupt departure from the G7 Summit in Canada.&nbsp;"I didn't say I was looking for a ceasefire," the American president said on AF1. Trump said he wants a "real end" to the conflict by making Iran give up "entirely" on its nuclear aims.&nbsp;Moreover, Trump also hinted that Israel is not planning to slow down its strikes on Iran any time soon. Rather, he predicted that in the coming two days, people will "find out" what's going to happen.&nbsp;"You're going to find out over the next two days. You're going to find out. Nobody's slowed up so far," Trump told the agency while heading for something “much bigger” than a ceasefire between the two war-torn countries.&nbsp;When he was asked about his comment, "evacuate Tehran," Trump told the journalist he just wants “people to be safe.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: Trump wants &quot;a real end&quot; to the nuclear problem with Iran and this morning will find him in the White House Situation Room, monitoring developments in Middle East, he told us during his midnight departure from Canada. &quot;I didn&#39;t say I was looking for a ceasefire,&quot; he…&mdash; Jennifer Jacobs (@JenniferJJacobs) <a href="https://twitter.com/JenniferJJacobs/status/1934866991602397382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;He said he needed to be present at the White House and not Canada. He said at the White House, he can be "well-versed" and not have to rely on phones to know what's happening.&nbsp;When he was asked about whether there was any possible threat to the US in the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, the American president said Tehran knows "not to touch our troops."&nbsp;He said during any threat, the US would "come down so hard if they do anything to our people."&nbsp;When asked if US involvement would destroy Iran's nuclear program, Trump said he hopes their program "is wiped out long before that."&nbsp;

Trump wants real end to Iran nuke desires; in an eerie warning says people will find out what going to happen

Israel-Iran War: Amid the escalating tensions after the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said he wants "a real end" to the nuclear problem with Iran. The senior White House reporter of CBS News, Jennifer Jacobs, posted on the social media platform X, saying that Trump commented during his midnight and abrupt departure from the G7 Summit in Canada. "I didn't say I was looking for a ceasefire," the American president said on AF1. Trump said he wants a "real end" to the conflict by making Iran give up "entirely" on its nuclear aims. Moreover, Trump also hinted that Israel is not planning to slow down its strikes on Iran any time soon. Rather, he predicted that in the coming two days, people will "find out" what's going to happen. "You're going to find out over the next two days. You're going to find out. Nobody's slowed up so far," Trump told the agency while heading for something “much bigger” than a ceasefire between the two war-torn countries. When he was asked about his comment, "evacuate Tehran," Trump told the journalist he just wants “people to be safe.”

Amid the escalating tensions after the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said he wants "a real end" to the nuclear problem with Iran. The senior White House reporter of CBS News posted Trump's comment on the social media platform X.&nbsp;

Trump wants 'real end' to Iran's nuke desires; in an eerie warning says people will 'find out' what's going to happen

As the West Asia conflict widens, Armenia has said that it is providing assistance for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Iran. In response to WION, the spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Ani Badalyan, said, "Foreign Ministers of Armenia and India discussed the possibility of evacuating Indian students from Iran through Armenian territory. Armenia has provided relevant assistance". EAM Dr S Jaishankar, Armenia's foreign minister, Ararat Mirzoyan, held talks on Sunday evening over the latter's support for the evacuation of Indians from Iran.The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed, “Indian students in Tehran have been moved out of the city for reasons of safety, through arrangements made by the embassy.” Approximately 110 Indian students from Urmia Medical University "safely crossed the border into Armenia" yesterday. The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, in a statement, confirmed that among the 110 Indian students, 90 are from the Kashmir Valley. The statement said that the students will come to Delhi from Armenia via flight.Israel, Iran have traded fire in the last few days as the intensity of the fight has increased. US President Trump, who cut short his Canada visit for the G7 summit, in a social media post, has asked "everyone to immediately evacuate Tehran". &nbsp;Earlier today, the Indian embassy in Iran asked all Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin to move out of Tehran to a "safe location" by "using their own resources".The MEA statement said, "residents who are self-sufficient in terms of transport have also been advised to move out of the city in view of the developing situation. Meanwhile, India's Ministry of External Affairs has set up a 24×7 Control Room amid the escalating tensions in West Asia. &nbsp;India has around 3000-4000 of its nationals in Iran and 25000 nationals in Israel.&nbsp;

In response to WION, the spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Ani Badalyan, said, "Foreign Ministers of Armenia and India discussed the possibility of evacuating Indian students from Iran through Armenian territory. Armenia has provided relevant assistance". 

As the West Asia conflict widens, Armenia has said that it is providing assistance for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Iran. In response to WION, the spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Ani Badalyan, said, "Foreign Ministers of Armenia and India discussed the possibility of evacuating Indian students from Iran through Armenian territory. Armenia has provided relevant assistance". EAM Dr S Jaishankar, Armenia's foreign minister, Ararat Mirzoyan, held talks on Sunday evening over the latter's support for the evacuation of Indians from Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed, “Indian students in Tehran have been moved out of the city for reasons of safety, through arrangements made by the embassy.” Approximately 110 Indian students from Urmia Medical University "safely crossed the border into Armenia" yesterday. The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, in a statement, confirmed that among the 110 Indian students, 90 are from the Kashmir Valley. The statement said that the students will come to Delhi from Armenia via flight. Israel, Iran have traded fire in the last few days as the intensity of the fight has increased. US President Trump, who cut short his Canada visit for the G7 summit, in a social media post, has asked "everyone to immediately evacuate Tehran". Earlier today, the Indian embassy in Iran asked all Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin to move out of Tehran to a "safe location" by "using their own resources". The MEA statement said, "residents who are self-sufficient in terms of transport have also been advised to move out of the city in view of the developing situation. Meanwhile, India's Ministry of External Affairs has set up a 24×7 Control Room amid the escalating tensions in West Asia. India has around 3000-4000 of its nationals in Iran and 25000 nationals in Israel.

In response to WION, the spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Ani Badalyan, said, "Foreign Ministers of Armenia and India discussed the possibility of evacuating Indian students from Iran through Armenian territory. Armenia has provided relevant assistance".&nbsp;

Armenia says providing assistance for Indian evacuation from Iran

A veterinarian in Japan died after contracting the thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) virus, reportedly from a cat. This is the first case of a vet dying from the suspected animal-to-human transmission of the virus. The veterinarian association of the country has warned members to remain vigilant against the virus. They are shocked to know that the virus did not transmit to the vet in the typical way - through a tick bite. This has sent alarm bells ringing in Japan.&nbsp;An official of the Japan Veterinary Medical Association (JVMA) confirmed to SCMP that the unnamed vet treated the cat at his clinic in Mie prefecture in May. He was hospitalised after developing symptoms and passed away soon after.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-fungus-that-grows-astonishingly-quickly-in-heat-threatens-the-world-9043900">Cordyceps-like deadly fungus with high fatality rate threatens a hotter world</a>&nbsp;None of the staff members or the cat's owner contracted the virus. An autopsy did not find any signs of a tick bite either. This has left experts puzzled about how the virus was transmitted.“We are still not absolutely sure how this infection happened, and the ministry of health is working with prefectural authorities to determine all the details,” said Daisuke Tsukamoto, a spokesman for the JVMA.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/do-you-also-use-period-tracking-apps-you-might-want-to-reconsider-1749634393196">Period tracking apps are major red flags, report warns</a>&nbsp;The National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) has issued an advisory for veterinarians. The 17-page report has asked them to remain alert to avoid tick bites, how to know which animals is infected and the dangers their fluids can pose, and how to dispose of their dead bodies.&nbsp;<h2>Symptoms of the SFTS virus</h2>&nbsp;According to the research institute affiliated with Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the virus manifests itself in the form of fever, loss of energy and appetite, vomiting, jaundice and a tic bite. The white blood cell and platelet count go down, while AST enzyme levels in the liver, heart, muscles and kidneys rise.&nbsp;The first time the disease was identified was in 2011. It cannot be treated, and the infected person dies of multiple organ failure. Later research showed that cases of the virus likely existed in 2006 also. In 2011, 571 SFTS cases and 59 deaths were reported in China.&nbsp;<h2>In which countries has SFTS been found?</h2>&nbsp;Forty cases of the virus were reported in Japan in 2013, the first time SFTS reached the country. This year, a total of 1,071 cases have been confirmed, and 117 people have lost their lives. Cases of the virus have also been recorded in South Korea, Vietnam and Taiwan, with the fatality rate varying between 12 per cent and more than 30 per cent.&nbsp;The NIID recommended in 2019 that SFTS should be classified as a new viral haemorrhagic fever, in the same group as Ebola and dengue. Deer and boars in Japan, but also by hedgehogs, cattle, goats and sheep, are the primary carriers of the virus in Japan. &nbsp;

A Japanese vet died after reportedly getting infected with a virus possibly from a cat he treated. There were no signs of a tick bite, which has astounded experts. 

A veterinarian in Japan died after contracting the thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) virus, reportedly from a cat. This is the first case of a vet dying from the suspected animal-to-human transmission of the virus. The veterinarian association of the country has warned members to remain vigilant against the virus. They are shocked to know that the virus did not transmit to the vet in the typical way - through a tick bite. This has sent alarm bells ringing in Japan. An official of the Japan Veterinary Medical Association (JVMA) confirmed to SCMP that the unnamed vet treated the cat at his clinic in Mie prefecture in May. He was hospitalised after developing symptoms and passed away soon after. Also Read: Cordyceps-like deadly fungus with high fatality rate threatens a hotter world None of the staff members or the cat's owner contracted the virus. An autopsy did not find any signs of a tick bite either. This has left experts puzzled about how the virus was transmitted. “We are still not absolutely sure how this infection happened, and the ministry of health is working with prefectural authorities to determine all the details,” said Daisuke Tsukamoto, a spokesman for the JVMA. Also Read: Period tracking apps are major red flags, report warns The National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) has issued an advisory for veterinarians. The 17-page report has asked them to remain alert to avoid tick bites, how to know which animals is infected and the dangers their fluids can pose, and how to dispose of their dead bodies. Symptoms of the SFTS virus According to the research institute affiliated with Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the virus manifests itself in the form of fever, loss of energy and appetite, vomiting, jaundice and a tic bite. The white blood cell and platelet count go down, while AST enzyme levels in the liver, heart, muscles and kidneys rise. The first time the disease was identified was in 2011. It cannot be treated, and the infected person dies of multiple organ failure. Later research showed that cases of the virus likely existed in 2006 also. In 2011, 571 SFTS cases and 59 deaths were reported in China. In which countries has SFTS been found? Forty cases of the virus were reported in Japan in 2013, the first time SFTS reached the country. This year, a total of 1,071 cases have been confirmed, and 117 people have lost their lives. Cases of the virus have also been recorded in South Korea, Vietnam and Taiwan, with the fatality rate varying between 12 per cent and more than 30 per cent. The NIID recommended in 2019 that SFTS should be classified as a new viral haemorrhagic fever, in the same group as Ebola and dengue. Deer and boars in Japan, but also by hedgehogs, cattle, goats and sheep, are the primary carriers of the virus in Japan.

A Japanese vet died after reportedly getting infected with a virus possibly from a cat he treated. There were no signs of a tick bite, which has astounded experts.&nbsp;

Incurable disease with high fatality rate kills Japanese vet who treated a cat

Israel-Iran War: Amid the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron said "all those who have tried to change regimes" using military operations in history have made “strategic errors.”&nbsp;Talking to the media during the G7 Summit 2025 on Tuesday (June 17), Macron said, "I believe that people are sovereign. They change their leaders by themselves, and all those who have tried to change regimes through strikes or military operations in the past have made strategic errors."&nbsp;"That's what experience teaches us, and I don't think it's up to foreign powers to change current political regimes," he added.&nbsp;This came after the US President Donald Trump left the summit abruptly and posted on his social media - "evacuate Tehran."&nbsp;When asked about the reason for his early departure, Macron told the media that Trump was headed to work on a ceasefire deal between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;Although his claim was strictly rejected by the American president, who alleged his French counterpart said that in a "publicity" stunt.&nbsp;"Publicity-seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a “cease fire” between Israel and Iran. Wrong!" Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.&nbsp;"He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that. Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong. Stay Tuned!" he added.&nbsp;Earlier, after leaving the summit, Trump also posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, "evacuate Tehran." The comment made a chaotic situation as it came during Israel's reported strike in Tehran.&nbsp;“Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Macron calls Israel-Iran war strategic error? Says foreign powers can not change current political regimes 


Israel-Iran War: Amid the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron said "all those who have tried to change regimes" using military operations in history have made “strategic errors.” Talking to the media during the G7 Summit 2025 on Tuesday (June 17), Macron said, "I believe that people are sovereign. They change their leaders by themselves, and all those who have tried to change regimes through strikes or military operations in the past have made strategic errors." "That's what experience teaches us, and I don't think it's up to foreign powers to change current political regimes," he added. This came after the US President Donald Trump left the summit abruptly and posted on his social media - "evacuate Tehran." When asked about the reason for his early departure, Macron told the media that Trump was headed to work on a ceasefire deal between Israel and Iran. Although his claim was strictly rejected by the American president, who alleged his French counterpart said that in a "publicity" stunt. "Publicity-seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a “cease fire” between Israel and Iran. Wrong!" Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social. "He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that. Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong. Stay Tuned!" he added. Earlier, after leaving the summit, Trump also posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, "evacuate Tehran." The comment made a chaotic situation as it came during Israel's reported strike in Tehran. “Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his social media.

Amid the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron said "all those who have tried to change regimes" using military operations in history have made “strategic errors.”

Macron calls Israel-Iran war strategic error? Says foreign powers can't change current political regimes

In light of the growing tension between India and Pakistan, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on Tuesday (Jun 17) announced that this year no Sikh pilgrim group would travel to Pakistan for the annual observance of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s death anniversary.Every year, the SGPC organises religious visits to various historic gurdwaras in Pakistan, including Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, where the 19th-century Sikh ruler’s samadhi (memorial) lies. This year’s trip, scheduled around the June 29 anniversary, has now been officially called off.<h2>What did the SGPC say?</h2>Speaking to ANI, SGPC official Harbhajan Singh Vakta explained that the decision has been taken in light of the rising tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 25 civilians were killed by terrorists."Every year, the SGPC sends a group of Sikh pilgrims to Pakistan for religious visits. One of these visits is for Maharaja Ranjit Singh's death anniversary, which is observed there on June 29. This year, we sent a batch of passports to Delhi for clearance to go to Pakistan. But now, SGPC has decided not to send the group. Our secretary officially announced this decision yesterday. Due to the current situation between the two countries, the group will not be sent this time," Vakta said.He added that the SGPC will return the passports to applicants after June 20. "People can collect their passports from our travel department after that date," he said.This development comes amid rising diplomatic and security concerns as the terror attack and subsequent military actions along the border have strained bilateral relations, prompting tighter security protocols around cross-border travel.Last year, Pakistan issued 509 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India for the same occasion. A group of 317 devotees, led by SGPC member Khushvinder Singh Bhatia, had visited Lahore to pay their respects.Apart from Indian pilgrims, Gurdwara Dera Sahib and Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan draw Sikh visitors from around the world each year. The decision to suspend this year's trip is likely to disappoint many in the community who consider these visits deeply spiritual.<h2>Who was Maharaja Ranjit Singh?</h2>Known as the "Sher-e-Punjab," Maharaja Ranjit Singh was born in Gujranwala, which is now in Pakistan, on November 13, 1780, and passed away in Lahore on June 27, 1839. He ruled the Sikh Empire for forty years.

Every year, the SGPC organises religious visits to various historic gurdwaras in Pakistan, including Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, where the 19th-century Sikh ruler’s samadhi (memorial) lies. This year’s trip, scheduled around the June 29 anniversary, has now been officially called off.

In light of the growing tension between India and Pakistan, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on Tuesday (Jun 17) announced that this year no Sikh pilgrim group would travel to Pakistan for the annual observance of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s death anniversary. Every year, the SGPC organises religious visits to various historic gurdwaras in Pakistan, including Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, where the 19th-century Sikh ruler’s samadhi (memorial) lies. This year’s trip, scheduled around the June 29 anniversary, has now been officially called off. What did the SGPC say? Speaking to ANI, SGPC official Harbhajan Singh Vakta explained that the decision has been taken in light of the rising tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 25 civilians were killed by terrorists. "Every year, the SGPC sends a group of Sikh pilgrims to Pakistan for religious visits. One of these visits is for Maharaja Ranjit Singh's death anniversary, which is observed there on June 29. This year, we sent a batch of passports to Delhi for clearance to go to Pakistan. But now, SGPC has decided not to send the group. Our secretary officially announced this decision yesterday. Due to the current situation between the two countries, the group will not be sent this time," Vakta said. He added that the SGPC will return the passports to applicants after June 20. "People can collect their passports from our travel department after that date," he said. This development comes amid rising diplomatic and security concerns as the terror attack and subsequent military actions along the border have strained bilateral relations, prompting tighter security protocols around cross-border travel. Last year, Pakistan issued 509 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India for the same occasion. A group of 317 devotees, led by SGPC member Khushvinder Singh Bhatia, had visited Lahore to pay their respects. Apart from Indian pilgrims, Gurdwara Dera Sahib and Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan draw Sikh visitors from around the world each year. The decision to suspend this year's trip is likely to disappoint many in the community who consider these visits deeply spiritual. Who was Maharaja Ranjit Singh? Known as the "Sher-e-Punjab," Maharaja Ranjit Singh was born in Gujranwala, which is now in Pakistan, on November 13, 1780, and passed away in Lahore on June 27, 1839. He ruled the Sikh Empire for forty years.

Every year, the SGPC organises religious visits to various historic gurdwaras in Pakistan, including Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, where the 19th-century Sikh ruler’s samadhi (memorial) lies. This year’s trip, scheduled around the June 29 anniversary, has now been officially called off.

India-Pakistan tensions: SGPC calls off this year's pilgrimage marking Maharaja Ranjit Singh's death anniversary

Air India on Tuesday (Jun 17) cancelled its rebranded Ahmedabad-London Gatwick service - AI 159 - citing "operational issues". No specific reason has been provided at this time.&nbsp;Prior to that, an IndiGo flight from Muscat made an emergency landing at Nagpur airport after a bomb threat was received. DCP Nagpur Lohit Matani said that all passengers have been deboarded from flight number 6E 2706. He further added that an investigation is underway and nothing suspicious has been found so far. This comes days after the Ahmedabad plane crash that killed 241 on board.&nbsp;&nbsp;A series of technical snags and emergency landings of airplanes have emerged after an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating as Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London's Gatwick Airport crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12. The DNA reports of those killed in the crash are expected today. The plane crashed into the mess building of the BJ Medical College, killing several others.&nbsp;<h2>List of technical issues faced by airlines post Ahmedabad plane crash</h2>&nbsp;1. Earlier today, an Air India flight from San Francisco to Mumbai suffered a technical snag in one of its engines and made an unscheduled stop in Kolkata.&nbsp; &nbsp;2. On Jun 16, Air India Flight AI315 returned to Hong Kong shortly after takeoff due to a midair technical issue. The aircraft landed safely, and passengers were later rebooked on alternative flights to Delhi. &nbsp;3. On Jun 16, a major mishap was narrowly averted at Lucknow Airport on Sunday morning when a Saudi Airlines flight carrying Hajj pilgrims developed a technical glitch during landing, with sparks and smoke erupting from the aircraft’s wheel as it touched down on the runway. &nbsp;4. On Jun 15, a flight from Delhi to Zurich was significantly delayed due to mandatory checks on a Boeing 787-8 aircraft, pushing its arrival close to Switzerland's night curfew window. &nbsp;5. On Jun 15, a Lufthansa flight en route to Hyderabad was forced to turn back to Frankfurt after a bomb threat led to the denial of landing clearance. &nbsp;6. On Jun 15, Air India Delhi-Vadodara flight (AI 819) returned to IGI Airport within half an hour of take-off after a suspected snag with the landing gear. &nbsp;7. On Jun 15, passengers on Air India Express flight IX-1226 from Guwahati to Kolkata endured a 18-hour delay after their aircraft was grounded twice due to a technical snag.&nbsp;

All passengers have been deboarded from the Indigo flight and investigation is underway. It is the eighth such incident in five days after Ahmedabad plane crash

Air India on Tuesday (Jun 17) cancelled its rebranded Ahmedabad-London Gatwick service - AI 159 - citing "operational issues". No specific reason has been provided at this time. Prior to that, an IndiGo flight from Muscat made an emergency landing at Nagpur airport after a bomb threat was received. DCP Nagpur Lohit Matani said that all passengers have been deboarded from flight number 6E 2706. He further added that an investigation is underway and nothing suspicious has been found so far. This comes days after the Ahmedabad plane crash that killed 241 on board. A series of technical snags and emergency landings of airplanes have emerged after an Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating as Flight AI171 from Ahmedabad to London's Gatwick Airport crashed shortly after takeoff on June 12. The DNA reports of those killed in the crash are expected today. The plane crashed into the mess building of the BJ Medical College, killing several others. List of technical issues faced by airlines post Ahmedabad plane crash 1. Earlier today, an Air India flight from San Francisco to Mumbai suffered a technical snag in one of its engines and made an unscheduled stop in Kolkata. 2. On Jun 16, Air India Flight AI315 returned to Hong Kong shortly after takeoff due to a midair technical issue. The aircraft landed safely, and passengers were later rebooked on alternative flights to Delhi. 3. On Jun 16, a major mishap was narrowly averted at Lucknow Airport on Sunday morning when a Saudi Airlines flight carrying Hajj pilgrims developed a technical glitch during landing, with sparks and smoke erupting from the aircraft’s wheel as it touched down on the runway. 4. On Jun 15, a flight from Delhi to Zurich was significantly delayed due to mandatory checks on a Boeing 787-8 aircraft, pushing its arrival close to Switzerland's night curfew window. 5. On Jun 15, a Lufthansa flight en route to Hyderabad was forced to turn back to Frankfurt after a bomb threat led to the denial of landing clearance. 6. On Jun 15, Air India Delhi-Vadodara flight (AI 819) returned to IGI Airport within half an hour of take-off after a suspected snag with the landing gear. 7. On Jun 15, passengers on Air India Express flight IX-1226 from Guwahati to Kolkata endured a 18-hour delay after their aircraft was grounded twice due to a technical snag.

All passengers have been deboarded from the Indigo flight and investigation is underway. It is the eighth such incident in five days after Ahmedabad plane crash

9 incidents in 5 days: Air India's London-Ahmedabad flight cancelled, IndiGo makes emergency landing | Fear in the air continues

Israel's attacks on Iran and its counteroffensive have brought unprecedented global attention to the Islamic Republic and its regime. Many are wondering how the theocratic state became the arch rival of the Jewish nation, leading to the current flare-up of hostilities. The religious identity of Iran, as an Islamic Republic, is at the core of its political and strategic belligerence towards Israel. But did you know that Iran, once part of the vast Persian empire, was a much more secular, hybrid and tolerant nation? Let's dive into how Iran moved from a hybrid-secular nation to an Islamic country.<h2>Religious makeup of Iran</h2>Iran is a Muslim-majority nation, with nearly 99 per cent of the population self-identifying as Muslim. Out of this, nearly 95 per cent or around 85 per cent of the total population, is Shia Muslim. &nbsp;Shias, who number around 80 million out of the nearly 87.6 million total population, are the majority community. &nbsp;Shia Islam was established as the official state religion during the Safavid dynasty of 1501–1736. Sunni Muslims, while a prominent community in the rest of West Asia, are a minority in Iran, consisting of around &nbsp;5 to 10 per cent of the Muslim population, or up to 10 per cent of the total population, and is estimated to be around 9 million people (Note that these are only figures in a range, as there could be undercounting of several minority communities). Most Sunnis belong to ethnic minority groups like the Kurds, Turkmen, Arabs, Baloch, and some Persians, and live mainly in provinces like Kurdistan, Sistan-Baluchistan, and Hormozgan.&nbsp; Non-Muslim communities are less than 1 per cent of the population. They include Christians, &nbsp;Baha’is, Zoroastrians, Jews, Yarsanis, and Sabean-Mandaeans. &nbsp;Note that many of the minority communities were persecuted, exiled or undercounted. Iran once hosted one of the largest Jewish populations in the region, for instance, before many of them were forced out. In Iran's past, Zorastrians - or Parsis - &nbsp;were driven out by Muslim conquerers and went into exile to various countries, including India. Bahai's are another silenced community.<h2> Is Islam really a big part of Iranians' daily life? &nbsp;</h2>Given the population figures, the obvious answer is yes, but there are some shifts observed by recent surveys, like the one by GAMAAN in 2020.&nbsp; It found that only 40 per cent of respondents self-identified as Muslim (32 per cent Shia, 5 pc Sunni and 3 pc Sufi).&nbsp; There may be a bias in this study as the survey might have been done only among urban and literate respondents.<h2>Was Iran less ‘Islamic’ before 1979?</h2>The best way to describe Iran just before the Islamic Revolution of 1979 would be as hybrid-secular. Under the Pahlavi dynasty of 1925–1979, which ruled just before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, religion and state were partially separated.&nbsp;Reza Shah Pahlavi, who ruled from 1925–1941, led a modernisation drive in Iran, offering a limited amount of secularisation. The Shah cut down the Shia clergy's influence. He centralised state power and brought in legal codes influenced by the West. He brought in secular reforms like a ban on the hijab in 1936, and promoted Western dress. Under his rule, mosques and Islamic seminaries lost autonomy, with the state taking control of education and judicial systems. Mohammad Reza Shah, who ruled from 1941–1979, continued with these policies. The stress was on modernisation and Westernisation, with undercurrents of secularism.&nbsp; The Islamic clergy was marginalised, with new reforms like the 1963 White Revolution, which included land reforms and women’s suffrage.&nbsp; The state, not the clergy, was in charge of waqf, or Islamic religious endowments.&nbsp;Secular laws were introduced on many aspects of life, even as Shia Islam remained the official state religion as enshrined in the 1906 Constitution. Side note here: The secular policies were creating disenchantment in Islamic clerics and religious people. There was also criticism that the Shah dynasty was beholden to the Anglo-American powers and former colonialists. Another point to note is that Iran was not fully secular like Turkey at the time, as the Shahs had continued the state's links to Shia Islam. Much of the society was still very religious.&nbsp;The Islamic clergy continued to have influence in rural areas and among traditional people who opposed the Shahs. So at best, Iran under the Pahlavis can be described as a hybrid of monarchy with secular laws and reforms, with a society that was still largely followers of Shia Islam. Under the Shahs, the state looked back at Iran's pre-Islam past for inspiration and national identity, based on its Persian heritage, with events celebrating Cyrus the Great, even as it sidelined Islamic religious authorities. Such a secularism, brought by decree from the top, had its pitfalls. As mentioned earlier, the Islamists and conservative sections of the society were angry, and that resentment was a factor that led to the Islamic Revolution. &nbsp;<h2>What was Iran's religion before it became a nation?</h2>&nbsp;Remember that Iran, in its current form as a nation, is part of a vast Persian empire that once spanned almost half the globe.&nbsp; So one has to look at present-day Iran as an inheritor of millennia of evolution when it comes to religion.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Pre-Islam Iran was the land where religions came and went</h2>From around 1000 BCE to 651 CE, &nbsp;Zoroastrianism was the predominant religion of empires centred around present-day Iran. The Achaemenid, Parthian and Sasanian empires had a religion that stressed on good versus evil. Ahura Mazda was their supreme deity. Fire temples and priestly classes known as the Magi were central to religion. Under these empires, new religions and cults emerged, and old ones are thought to have coexisted with them. During Achaemenid Empire, other communities that lived in the Persian region included Jews, Christians, and those following Mithraism and Manichaeism. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>The Muslim conquest of 651 CE started the change in Iran's religious landscape</h2>Islam was introduced to the Iranian region through the Arab Muslim conquests. Over the subsequent centuries, most Iranians converted, mainly to Shia Islam.&nbsp;&nbsp;By the 10th century AD, Shia Islam became deeply rooted in Iran, particularly with the Buyid dynasty and Safavids. At this time, Zoroastrians were persecuted. They and other minorities like Jews and Christians lived as protected, yet second-class citizens, generally known as ‘dhimmis’. Safavid Dynasty of 1501–1736 enforced the conversion of the Sunni population and established a strong Shia clergy. This was the era that brought in Iran's current Shia national identity. The Qajar Dynasty of 1789–1925 continued the Shia dominance, with the clerics given vast powers over key aspects of life like law and education.<h2>The stranglehold of religion was eased with the Constitutional Revolution</h2>In the late 19th century, during and under the influence of British colonialists, Western ideas like nationalism and constitutionalism were introduced to Iran.&nbsp; This led to the 1906 Constitutional Revolution, and Iranian nationhood. The constitution, while keeping Shia Islam as the state religion, still allowed limited religious freedoms for minorities like Zoroastrians, Jews and Christians.&nbsp; A parliament was introduced, and the powers of the monarchy, by this time under attack by the Western colonial powers, had been weakened. &nbsp;<h2>Iran's transition from semi-secular to Islamist</h2>Resentment towards the Pahlavi Dynasty of 1925–1979, particularly about its promotion of a pre-Islamic identity for Iran, was the seed for the Islamic Revolution of 1978--79. The clergy, whose powers were cut short by the Shahs, wanted to gain back control. Socially, Shia Islam was still the dominant force, which meant that at the ground level, religious minorities faced discrimination despite the legal protections ensured in the constitution. The Islamic Revolution was in fact, prompted and led by a disgruntled group of clerics, conservatives and traditionalists. They saw in the Shah’s dynasty the influence of Western cultural imperialism, which was aimed at preserving the Anglo-American interests, mainly in the then recently-emerged oil wealth of Iran. While the Western powers continued to plunder Iran's wealth, the country's economy suffered under the Shahs. It is from this disgruntlement that figures like the Ruhollah Ayatollah Khomeini emerged.&nbsp; Khomeini, who was living in exile at the time, advocated for a nation governed under Islamic principles. That was the beginning of the &nbsp;Islamic Revolution of 1979.<h2>Post Islamic Revolution: How Iran went back to Shia Islam</h2>The Islamic Revolution was a reaction to both the Shah regime, and the Anglo-American petrodollar interests that kept it in power.&nbsp; At the time, a return to Islamic principles was seen as the best way for Iran to come out of the Western influence, with the accusation that Iran's economy was suffering at the hands of the British-US duo, particularly the oil. After the Islamic Revolution, Khomeini established a nation under the so-called Velayat-e Faqih or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist. Once again, Shia Islam, already the dominant religion, became the preeminent force of the state, with a cleric, the Supreme Leader in the form of Khomeini, becoming the ultimate authority.<h2>Sharia law changed the face of Iran's religious life</h2>A new constitution, established in 1979 enshrined Shia Islam as the state religion. Sharia, or Islamic law became the governing force for legal, social, and political aspects of Iran.&nbsp; &nbsp;Under Sharia, the state strictly enforced Islamic codes on dress and behaviour. &nbsp;Shia rituals like Ashura became central to national identity, and the clergy dominated politics and education. Technically, the non-Shia Muslims such as the Sunnis, as well as Zoroastrians, Jews, and Christians are recognised as minorities, but in reality, their rights are limited, while unrecognised groups like Baha’is face persecution. Currently, Iran remains a theocracy, with Shia Islam as the ideological backbone.&nbsp; The government funds religious institutions, and the clergy controls key sectors.&nbsp;<h2>Will Iran go back to being hybrid -secular?</h2>Dissent is actively curtailed in Iran, which has witnessed several movements against the theocratic state, all of which were forcibly suppressed. Many of these movements are secular and reformist in nature, but are concentrated in urban youth and intellectuals, while the rural folk still remain highly religious. There is a segment of society yearning for reform and more liberal attitudes towards religion and life, yet the state retains tight control over these matters.&nbsp; Sometimes, these tensions come to the fore, as seen in the 2022 anti-veil protest in the wake of Mahsa Amini's death in police custody.&nbsp;For the time being, those wanting reforms and the Islamist state are in a tense coexistence.&nbsp;

There is a segment of society yearning for reform and more liberal attitudes towards religion and life, yet the Shia Islam state retains tight control over these matters. 


Israel's attacks on Iran and its counteroffensive have brought unprecedented global attention to the Islamic Republic and its regime. Many are wondering how the theocratic state became the arch rival of the Jewish nation, leading to the current flare-up of hostilities. The religious identity of Iran, as an Islamic Republic, is at the core of its political and strategic belligerence towards Israel. But did you know that Iran, once part of the vast Persian empire, was a much more secular, hybrid and tolerant nation? Let's dive into how Iran moved from a hybrid-secular nation to an Islamic country. Religious makeup of Iran Iran is a Muslim-majority nation, with nearly 99 per cent of the population self-identifying as Muslim. Out of this, nearly 95 per cent or around 85 per cent of the total population, is Shia Muslim. Shias, who number around 80 million out of the nearly 87.6 million total population, are the majority community. Shia Islam was established as the official state religion during the Safavid dynasty of 1501–1736. Sunni Muslims, while a prominent community in the rest of West Asia, are a minority in Iran, consisting of around 5 to 10 per cent of the Muslim population, or up to 10 per cent of the total population, and is estimated to be around 9 million people (Note that these are only figures in a range, as there could be undercounting of several minority communities). Most Sunnis belong to ethnic minority groups like the Kurds, Turkmen, Arabs, Baloch, and some Persians, and live mainly in provinces like Kurdistan, Sistan-Baluchistan, and Hormozgan. Non-Muslim communities are less than 1 per cent of the population. They include Christians, Baha’is, Zoroastrians, Jews, Yarsanis, and Sabean-Mandaeans. Note that many of the minority communities were persecuted, exiled or undercounted. Iran once hosted one of the largest Jewish populations in the region, for instance, before many of them were forced out. In Iran's past, Zorastrians - or Parsis - were driven out by Muslim conquerers and went into exile to various countries, including India. Bahai's are another silenced community. Is Islam really a big part of Iranians' daily life? Given the population figures, the obvious answer is yes, but there are some shifts observed by recent surveys, like the one by GAMAAN in 2020. It found that only 40 per cent of respondents self-identified as Muslim (32 per cent Shia, 5 pc Sunni and 3 pc Sufi). There may be a bias in this study as the survey might have been done only among urban and literate respondents. Was Iran less ‘Islamic’ before 1979? The best way to describe Iran just before the Islamic Revolution of 1979 would be as hybrid-secular. Under the Pahlavi dynasty of 1925–1979, which ruled just before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, religion and state were partially separated. Reza Shah Pahlavi, who ruled from 1925–1941, led a modernisation drive in Iran, offering a limited amount of secularisation. The Shah cut down the Shia clergy's influence. He centralised state power and brought in legal codes influenced by the West. He brought in secular reforms like a ban on the hijab in 1936, and promoted Western dress. Under his rule, mosques and Islamic seminaries lost autonomy, with the state taking control of education and judicial systems. Mohammad Reza Shah, who ruled from 1941–1979, continued with these policies. The stress was on modernisation and Westernisation, with undercurrents of secularism. The Islamic clergy was marginalised, with new reforms like the 1963 White Revolution, which included land reforms and women’s suffrage. The state, not the clergy, was in charge of waqf, or Islamic religious endowments. Secular laws were introduced on many aspects of life, even as Shia Islam remained the official state religion as enshrined in the 1906 Constitution. Side note here: The secular policies were creating disenchantment in Islamic clerics and religious people. There was also criticism that the Shah dynasty was beholden to the Anglo-American powers and former colonialists. Another point to note is that Iran was not fully secular like Turkey at the time, as the Shahs had continued the state's links to Shia Islam. Much of the society was still very religious. The Islamic clergy continued to have influence in rural areas and among traditional people who opposed the Shahs. So at best, Iran under the Pahlavis can be described as a hybrid of monarchy with secular laws and reforms, with a society that was still largely followers of Shia Islam. Under the Shahs, the state looked back at Iran's pre-Islam past for inspiration and national identity, based on its Persian heritage, with events celebrating Cyrus the Great, even as it sidelined Islamic religious authorities. Such a secularism, brought by decree from the top, had its pitfalls. As mentioned earlier, the Islamists and conservative sections of the society were angry, and that resentment was a factor that led to the Islamic Revolution. What was Iran's religion before it became a nation? Remember that Iran, in its current form as a nation, is part of a vast Persian empire that once spanned almost half the globe. So one has to look at present-day Iran as an inheritor of millennia of evolution when it comes to religion. Pre-Islam Iran was the land where religions came and went From around 1000 BCE to 651 CE, Zoroastrianism was the predominant religion of empires centred around present-day Iran. The Achaemenid, Parthian and Sasanian empires had a religion that stressed on good versus evil. Ahura Mazda was their supreme deity. Fire temples and priestly classes known as the Magi were central to religion. Under these empires, new religions and cults emerged, and old ones are thought to have coexisted with them. During Achaemenid Empire, other communities that lived in the Persian region included Jews, Christians, and those following Mithraism and Manichaeism. The Muslim conquest of 651 CE started the change in Iran's religious landscape Islam was introduced to the Iranian region through the Arab Muslim conquests. Over the subsequent centuries, most Iranians converted, mainly to Shia Islam. By the 10th century AD, Shia Islam became deeply rooted in Iran, particularly with the Buyid dynasty and Safavids. At this time, Zoroastrians were persecuted. They and other minorities like Jews and Christians lived as protected, yet second-class citizens, generally known as ‘dhimmis’. Safavid Dynasty of 1501–1736 enforced the conversion of the Sunni population and established a strong Shia clergy. This was the era that brought in Iran's current Shia national identity. The Qajar Dynasty of 1789–1925 continued the Shia dominance, with the clerics given vast powers over key aspects of life like law and education. The stranglehold of religion was eased with the Constitutional Revolution In the late 19th century, during and under the influence of British colonialists, Western ideas like nationalism and constitutionalism were introduced to Iran. This led to the 1906 Constitutional Revolution, and Iranian nationhood. The constitution, while keeping Shia Islam as the state religion, still allowed limited religious freedoms for minorities like Zoroastrians, Jews and Christians. A parliament was introduced, and the powers of the monarchy, by this time under attack by the Western colonial powers, had been weakened. Iran's transition from semi-secular to Islamist Resentment towards the Pahlavi Dynasty of 1925–1979, particularly about its promotion of a pre-Islamic identity for Iran, was the seed for the Islamic Revolution of 1978--79. The clergy, whose powers were cut short by the Shahs, wanted to gain back control. Socially, Shia Islam was still the dominant force, which meant that at the ground level, religious minorities faced discrimination despite the legal protections ensured in the constitution. The Islamic Revolution was in fact, prompted and led by a disgruntled group of clerics, conservatives and traditionalists. They saw in the Shah’s dynasty the influence of Western cultural imperialism, which was aimed at preserving the Anglo-American interests, mainly in the then recently-emerged oil wealth of Iran. While the Western powers continued to plunder Iran's wealth, the country's economy suffered under the Shahs. It is from this disgruntlement that figures like the Ruhollah Ayatollah Khomeini emerged. Khomeini, who was living in exile at the time, advocated for a nation governed under Islamic principles. That was the beginning of the Islamic Revolution of 1979. Post Islamic Revolution: How Iran went back to Shia Islam The Islamic Revolution was a reaction to both the Shah regime, and the Anglo-American petrodollar interests that kept it in power. At the time, a return to Islamic principles was seen as the best way for Iran to come out of the Western influence, with the accusation that Iran's economy was suffering at the hands of the British-US duo, particularly the oil. After the Islamic Revolution, Khomeini established a nation under the so-called Velayat-e Faqih or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist. Once again, Shia Islam, already the dominant religion, became the preeminent force of the state, with a cleric, the Supreme Leader in the form of Khomeini, becoming the ultimate authority. Sharia law changed the face of Iran's religious life A new constitution, established in 1979 enshrined Shia Islam as the state religion. Sharia, or Islamic law became the governing force for legal, social, and political aspects of Iran. Under Sharia, the state strictly enforced Islamic codes on dress and behaviour. Shia rituals like Ashura became central to national identity, and the clergy dominated politics and education. Technically, the non-Shia Muslims such as the Sunnis, as well as Zoroastrians, Jews, and Christians are recognised as minorities, but in reality, their rights are limited, while unrecognised groups like Baha’is face persecution. Currently, Iran remains a theocracy, with Shia Islam as the ideological backbone. The government funds religious institutions, and the clergy controls key sectors. Will Iran go back to being hybrid -secular? Dissent is actively curtailed in Iran, which has witnessed several movements against the theocratic state, all of which were forcibly suppressed. Many of these movements are secular and reformist in nature, but are concentrated in urban youth and intellectuals, while the rural folk still remain highly religious. There is a segment of society yearning for reform and more liberal attitudes towards religion and life, yet the state retains tight control over these matters. Sometimes, these tensions come to the fore, as seen in the 2022 anti-veil protest in the wake of Mahsa Amini's death in police custody. For the time being, those wanting reforms and the Islamist state are in a tense coexistence.

Did you know that Iran, once part of the vast Persian empire, was a much more secular, hybrid and tolerant nation?&nbsp;

Muslim country Iran wasn't always ‘Islamic’: How it went from hybrid secular to theocratic state

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of the Islamic Republic unveiled a new loitering munition, the Shahed-107, on Monday (June 16). As per the Iranian news agency Mehr, Shahed-107 has been used for suicide operations against hostile targets.&nbsp;Images of the drone show it is equipped with a piston engine that allows the aircraft to fly at a range of over 1,500 kilometres. The Iranian publication said the suicide drone can cause significant harm to the "Zionist regime’s air defence capabilities."&nbsp;Other than this, not much official specification has been revealed by the Iranian authorities regarding the drone.This came after some visuals circulated on social media showing an Iranian drone attacking Israel. It was speculated that the drone was quite similar to Shahed-107. The drone was seen approaching the Arrow 3 air defence missile system of Israel.&nbsp;By analysing the pictures, it can be evaluated that the drone has an elongated fuselage. It is cylindrical with a pointed nose.&nbsp;It is to be noted that the drone - &nbsp;Shahed-107 - was already unveiled in the public information space, but it's only now that its images have been published.&nbsp;In January 2024, the American news agency Sky News reported that several such drones could have been transferred to Russia as part of an agreement between Russia and Iran.At that time, the available information said that the drone was &nbsp;2.5 meters long and had a wingspan of up to 3 meters. &nbsp;&nbsp;Judging by the photos currently available, the drone’s geometric parameters - wingspan and fuselage length - visually correspond to the characteristics given earlier.&nbsp;‘Israel has a right to defend itself’&nbsp;&nbsp;In the G7 Summit 2025, world leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, “We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran unveils new suicide drone Shahed-107. Here is all about aircraft capable of significant harm to Israel

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of the Islamic Republic unveiled a new loitering munition, the Shahed-107, on Monday (June 16). As per the Iranian news agency Mehr, Shahed-107 has been used for suicide operations against hostile targets. Images of the drone show it is equipped with a piston engine that allows the aircraft to fly at a range of over 1,500 kilometres. The Iranian publication said the suicide drone can cause significant harm to the "Zionist regime’s air defence capabilities." Other than this, not much official specification has been revealed by the Iranian authorities regarding the drone. This came after some visuals circulated on social media showing an Iranian drone attacking Israel. It was speculated that the drone was quite similar to Shahed-107. The drone was seen approaching the Arrow 3 air defence missile system of Israel. By analysing the pictures, it can be evaluated that the drone has an elongated fuselage. It is cylindrical with a pointed nose. It is to be noted that the drone - Shahed-107 - was already unveiled in the public information space, but it's only now that its images have been published. In January 2024, the American news agency Sky News reported that several such drones could have been transferred to Russia as part of an agreement between Russia and Iran. At that time, the available information said that the drone was 2.5 meters long and had a wingspan of up to 3 meters. Judging by the photos currently available, the drone’s geometric parameters - wingspan and fuselage length - visually correspond to the characteristics given earlier. ‘Israel has a right to defend itself’ In the G7 Summit 2025, world leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, “We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel.”

Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of the Islamic Republic unveiled a new loitering munition, the Shahed-107, on Monday (June 16). &nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran unveils new suicide drone Shahed-107. Here's all about aircraft capable of 'significant harm' to Israel

India has begun the evacuation of its nationals from Iran amid the escalating tensions between Tehran and Israel. India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that some Indians have been facilitated to leave Iran through the border with Armenia. The first batch of 110 students reached the Armenian border, &nbsp;and will be evacuated from there by air.&nbsp;The MEA statement also added, "Indian students in Tehran have been moved out of the city for reasons of safety, through arrangements made by the Embassy. Other residents who are self-sufficient in terms of transport have also been advised to move out of the city in view of the developing situation. The Embassy remains continuously in touch with the community with a view to extending all feasible assistance."&nbsp;WATCH&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Indian students from the union territory of J&amp;K cross the Iran border into Armenia. <a href="https://t.co/5XvVbWgSR4">https://t.co/5XvVbWgSR4</a> <a href="https://t.co/VknDYmeKpI">pic.twitter.com/VknDYmeKpI</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1934867491714433305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;This comes after Iran responded to India's request for the safe evacuation of Indian students saying that though the airspace is closed over Iran, all land borders are open for the safe evacuation. &nbsp;"Given the current condition and the closure of the country's airports, as well as the request of many political missions to transfer their diplomats and nationals abroad, we inform you that all land borders are open for crossing," it said. &nbsp;Tehran asked India to give the names, passport numbers, and vehicle specifications of the people crossing the borders to its General Protocol Department. It also asked for the time of travel and the desired border, through which the person will exit the country, to make necessary arrangements for the safe travel of diplomats and other citizens. Israel struck Iran's nuclear sites in massive airstrikes under ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13. In retaliation, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise 3’ striking Israeli cities and fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. The to-and-fro offensive has continued for four days now.&nbsp;Earlier, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) established a 24x7 control room and shared a list of helpline numbers and email IDs for Indians in Iran.&nbsp;Contact details of MEA's control room: 1800118797 (Toll free) +91-11-23012113 +91-11-23014104 +91-11-23017905 +91-9968291988 (Whatsapp) <a href="mailto:situationroom@mea.gov.in">situationroom@mea.gov.in</a> &nbsp;24x7 emergency helpline for Indians in Iran: For call only : 1. +98 9128109115, +98 9128109109 For WhatsApp: 2. +98 901044557, +98 9015993320, +91 8086871709. 3. ⁠Bandar Abbas: +98 9177699036 4. ⁠Zahedan: +98 9396356649 <a href="mailto:cons.tehran@mea.gov.in">cons.tehran@mea.gov.in</a>

Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that some Indians have been facilitated to leave Iran through the border with Armenia

India has begun the evacuation of its nationals from Iran amid the escalating tensions between Tehran and Israel. India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that some Indians have been facilitated to leave Iran through the border with Armenia. The first batch of 110 students reached the Armenian border, and will be evacuated from there by air. The MEA statement also added, "Indian students in Tehran have been moved out of the city for reasons of safety, through arrangements made by the Embassy. Other residents who are self-sufficient in terms of transport have also been advised to move out of the city in view of the developing situation. The Embassy remains continuously in touch with the community with a view to extending all feasible assistance." WATCH

&nbsp;India's Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that some Indians have been facilitated to leave Iran through the border with Armenia

Iran-Israel tensions: India begins evacuation from Tehran via Armenia, first batch of 110 students to leave today

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing war with Tehran, the Israeli Defence Force, IDF, claimed that it has killed a top Iranian commander. IDF said on Tuesday (June 17) that the head of IRGC’s Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, Ali Shadmani, has been assassinated in an attack on Tehran.&nbsp;This came just days after Shadmani was appointed to the post after the assassination of the predecessor by Israel.&nbsp;On June 13, the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, appointed Shadmani after the previous head of the IRGC, Lt. Gen. Gholamali Rashid, was killed.&nbsp;"In view of Lt. Gen. Gholamali Rashid’s martyrdom at the hands of the vile Zionist regime, and in light of Major General Ali Shadmani's meritorious services &amp; valuable experience, I confer the rank of Major Gen. &amp; appoint him Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya (pbuh) Central HQ," Khamenei wrote in his post on the social media platform X while announcing the new head.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In view of Lt. Gen. Gholamali Rashid’s martyrdom at the hands of the vile Zionist regime, and in light of Major General Ali Shadmani&#39;s meritorious services &amp; valuable experience, I confer the rank of Major Gen. &amp; appoint him Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya (pbuh) Central HQ. <a href="https://t.co/4dTDCKx66P">pic.twitter.com/4dTDCKx66P</a>&mdash; Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1933460440836620631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Israeli military said Shadmani was &nbsp;Iran’s most senior military commander. IDF called the commander &nbsp;“war chief of staff,” and considered the closest remaining military figure to Iran’s supreme leader.&nbsp;“He commanded both the Revolutionary Guards and the Iranian Armed Forces,” the IDF said.&nbsp;Israel also alleged that under his leadership, the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters “was responsible for managing combat operations and approving Iran’s attack plans.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">For the second time in 5 days— the IDF has eliminated Iran’s War-Time Chief of Staff, the regime’s top military commander. Ali Shadmani, Iran’s senior-most military official and Khamenei’s closest military advisor, was killed in an IAF strike in central Tehran, following precise… <a href="https://t.co/Bq6Z49zeCj">pic.twitter.com/Bq6Z49zeCj</a>&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1934863338732716074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

IDF claimed, “In his various roles, he had a direct influence on Iran’s offensive plans targeting the State of Israel."&nbsp;This came after world leaders at the G7 Summit 2025 issued a joint statement saying that in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, Tel Aviv has the “right to defend itself.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The statement published by Canada said, "We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel."&nbsp;Who was Ali Shadmani?&nbsp;As claimed by the IDF, Shadmani was a close aide of Khamenei and was the top commander of Iran.He had served as the Commander of the Emergency Command of the Iranian Armed Forces and had both - the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Iranian army - under his command.&nbsp;“At the start of the operation, he was appointed to command the Iranian Armed Forces after his predecessor, Alaa Ali Rashid, was eliminated in the opening strike of Operation "Rising Lion”,” IDF said.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Israel claims it has killed top Iranian commander Ali Shadmani in overnight airstrike

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing war with Tehran, the Israeli Defence Force, IDF, claimed that it has killed a top Iranian commander. IDF said on Tuesday (June 17) that the head of IRGC’s Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, Ali Shadmani, has been assassinated in an attack on Tehran. This came just days after Shadmani was appointed to the post after the assassination of the predecessor by Israel. On June 13, the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, appointed Shadmani after the previous head of the IRGC, Lt. Gen. Gholamali Rashid, was killed. "In view of Lt. Gen. Gholamali Rashid’s martyrdom at the hands of the vile Zionist regime, and in light of Major General Ali Shadmani's meritorious services & valuable experience, I confer the rank of Major Gen. & appoint him Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya (pbuh) Central HQ," Khamenei wrote in his post on the social media platform X while announcing the new head.

Amid the ongoing war with Tehran, the Israeli Defence Force, IDF, claimed that it has killed a top Iranian commander. IDF said the head of IRGC’s Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, Ali Shadmani, has been assassinated in an attack on Tehran.

Who was Ali Shadmani? Israel claims it has killed newly appointed top Iranian commander and Khamenei aide in overnight airstrike

Sally Ride, the first American woman and the third woman to fly in space, kept a part of her life hidden for over 27 years, which was only revealed after she died. A new documentary on the space pioneer's life tells about her romantic partner, who remained a mystery. &nbsp;Tam O’Shaughnessy opens up about the relationship in Sally, which premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.O’Shaughnessy says that no one knew about their relationship for 27 years. After Ride died in 2012 of complications from pancreatic cancer at age 61, the world learned about her.She says their friends and family sort of knew about them. O’Shaughnessy told People that she was to hold "a public celebration of her life, and then a national tribute at the Kennedy Centre in Washington, DC."Ten days before Ride died, O’Shaughnessy asked Ride what she should come out as to the public? Ride asked her to "decide what you want to say, how open you want to be about our relationship."Sally Ride joined NASA in 1978 and went to space in 1983 at the age of 32.In the documentary, O’Shaughnessy and Ride's romantic moments have been recreated using the former's memory of their time together. Ride was a private person, and the couple didn't have many photos together. The two were childhood friends, and the relationship turned romantic in 1985. She hopes that people will finally get to see Ride for "who she really was."“We had a wonderful relationship from the time we were kids until we became lovers,” O'Shaughnessy says. “I think it's something to be proud of.”Sally director Cristina Costantini says O’Shaughnessy's participation "changed everything"."Tam was the closest and most intimate voice that we could get to Sally,” film’s producer, Lauren Cioffi, added.O'Shaughnessy says remembering Sally in the documentary led her to break down several times, especially when talking about the time Sally got sick. "I got teary-eyed, and it just got me all the way through to my heart and guts. And that was a little bit of a surprise."Sally will be available on Nat Geo from June 16 and stream on Disney+ beginning June 17. ,

American astronaut Sally Ride had a romantic partner the world didn't know about for 27 years. Her identity was only revealed after she died in 2012.

Sally Ride, the first American woman and the third woman to fly in space, kept a part of her life hidden for over 27 years, which was only revealed after she died. A new documentary on the space pioneer's life tells about her romantic partner, who remained a mystery. Tam O’Shaughnessy opens up about the relationship in Sally, which premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. O’Shaughnessy says that no one knew about their relationship for 27 years. After Ride died in 2012 of complications from pancreatic cancer at age 61, the world learned about her. She says their friends and family sort of knew about them. O’Shaughnessy told People that she was to hold "a public celebration of her life, and then a national tribute at the Kennedy Centre in Washington, DC." Ten days before Ride died, O’Shaughnessy asked Ride what she should come out as to the public? Ride asked her to "decide what you want to say, how open you want to be about our relationship." Sally Ride joined NASA in 1978 and went to space in 1983 at the age of 32. In the documentary, O’Shaughnessy and Ride's romantic moments have been recreated using the former's memory of their time together. Ride was a private person, and the couple didn't have many photos together. The two were childhood friends, and the relationship turned romantic in 1985. She hopes that people will finally get to see Ride for "who she really was." “We had a wonderful relationship from the time we were kids until we became lovers,” O'Shaughnessy says. “I think it's something to be proud of.” Sally director Cristina Costantini says O’Shaughnessy's participation "changed everything". "Tam was the closest and most intimate voice that we could get to Sally,” film’s producer, Lauren Cioffi, added. O'Shaughnessy says remembering Sally in the documentary led her to break down several times, especially when talking about the time Sally got sick. "I got teary-eyed, and it just got me all the way through to my heart and guts. And that was a little bit of a surprise." Sally will be available on Nat Geo from June 16 and stream on Disney+ beginning June 17. ,

American astronaut Sally Ride had a romantic partner the world didn't know about for 27 years. Her identity was only revealed after she died in 2012.

NASA astronaut Sally Ride's 27-year secret was only revealed after she died

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold four key bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada later today. Today, on day two of the summit, PM Modi will hold meetings with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.<h2>India-Canada Bilateral</h2>The meeting with Canada’s Mark Carney is expected to give a "reset" after years of strain amid India's concerns over Khalistan extremism and former PM Trudeau's claim of alleged Indian involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, an India listed terrorist and a Canadian national, was killed in 2023 with Trudeau blaming Delhi without any evidence.<h2>India-Ukraine Bilateral</h2>With Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Modi’s meeting continues the tradition of G7 sidelines bilateral, focusing on India’s humanitarian support and its balanced stance on the Russia-Ukraine war.Discussions will likely cover India’s contributions to Ukraine’s reconstruction, food security, and peace efforts. India has been consistently advocating for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing war in Ukraine. PM Modi also met Zelensky on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Italy in 2024, and G7 summit in Japan in 2023.<h2>India-Germany Bilateral</h2>PM Modi will meet Germany's new chancellor, Friedrich Merz, the first ever meeting between the 2 since the latter took charge. The leaders are expected to deepen the strategic partnership, focusing on trade, green energy, and technology. Germany’s interest in India as a key Indo-Pacific partner aligns with Modi’s vision for a multipolar world.<h2>India-Italy Bilateral</h2>The meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will centre on India's increased engagement in the Mediterranean and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).Building on their strong rapport, Modi and Meloni will explore boosting trade, maritime security, and connectivity projects like IMEC, which aims to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative.This is the 6th time PM Modi is attending the G7 summit. India has been a regular invitee at the summit since 2019, when France first invited the country given its large population, growing economy and increased weightage in international geopolitics. &nbsp;

Today, on day two of the summit, PM Modi will hold meetings with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold four key bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada later today. Today, on day two of the summit, PM Modi will hold meetings with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. India-Canada Bilateral The meeting with Canada’s Mark Carney is expected to give a "reset" after years of strain amid India's concerns over Khalistan extremism and former PM Trudeau's claim of alleged Indian involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, an India listed terrorist and a Canadian national, was killed in 2023 with Trudeau blaming Delhi without any evidence. India-Ukraine Bilateral With Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Modi’s meeting continues the tradition of G7 sidelines bilateral, focusing on India’s humanitarian support and its balanced stance on the Russia-Ukraine war. Discussions will likely cover India’s contributions to Ukraine’s reconstruction, food security, and peace efforts. India has been consistently advocating for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing war in Ukraine. PM Modi also met Zelensky on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Italy in 2024, and G7 summit in Japan in 2023. India-Germany Bilateral PM Modi will meet Germany's new chancellor, Friedrich Merz, the first ever meeting between the 2 since the latter took charge. The leaders are expected to deepen the strategic partnership, focusing on trade, green energy, and technology. Germany’s interest in India as a key Indo-Pacific partner aligns with Modi’s vision for a multipolar world. India-Italy Bilateral The meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will centre on India's increased engagement in the Mediterranean and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). Building on their strong rapport, Modi and Meloni will explore boosting trade, maritime security, and connectivity projects like IMEC, which aims to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative. This is the 6th time PM Modi is attending the G7 summit. India has been a regular invitee at the summit since 2019, when France first invited the country given its large population, growing economy and increased weightage in international geopolitics.

Today, on day two of the summit, PM Modi will hold meetings with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

PM Modi to meet leaders of Canada, Italy, Germany and Ukraine on G7 sidelines

Israel-Iran War: After leaving the G7 Summit in Canada abruptly amid the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said that he did not leave to work on the ceasefire.&nbsp;"Publicity-seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a “cease fire” between Israel and Iran. Wrong!" Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.

'Much bigger than that': Trump says he didn't leave G7 Summit for Israel-Iran ceasefire, says Macron 'always gets it wro

"He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that. Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong. Stay Tuned!" he added.&nbsp;This came after the French President Emmanuel Macron claimed that the American president left the summit before time to work on a ceasefire deal between war-torn Israel and Iran.&nbsp;Not only this, after leaving the summit, Trump also posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, "evacuate Tehran." The comment made a chaotic situation as it came during Israel's reported strike in Tehran.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;'Israel has a right to defend itself'&nbsp;After Trump left, the G7 leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, "We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel."&nbsp;Moreover, the statement said that it's Iran which is the " principal source of regional instability and terror.""We also affirm the importance of the protection of civilians," the statement read. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Much bigger than that: Trump says he did not leave G7 Summit for Israel-Iran ceasefire, says Macron always gets it wrong

Israel-Iran War: After leaving the G7 Summit in Canada abruptly amid the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said that he did not leave to work on the ceasefire. "Publicity-seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a “cease fire” between Israel and Iran. Wrong!" Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.

&nbsp;After leaving the G7 Summit in Canada abruptly amid the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said that he did not leave to work on the ceasefire. He said there's something “much bigger than that."&nbsp;

'Much bigger than that': Trump says he didn't leave G7 Summit for Israel-Iran ceasefire, says Macron 'always gets it wrong'

Democratic senator Tim Kaine from Virginia introduced legislation on Monday (June 17) to prevent United States (US) President Donald Trump from using military force against Iran without Congress's authorisation. As per reports, Kaine has tried for years to wrest back Congress's authority to declare war from the White House.&nbsp;Kaine said that the war powers resolution underscores that the US Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the sole power to declare war. "It is not in our national security interest to get into a war with Iran unless that war is absolutely necessary to defend the United States. I am deeply concerned that the recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran could quickly pull the United States into another endless conflict," Kaine said in a statement. “The American people have no interest in sending service members to fight another forever war in the Middle East. This resolution will ensure that if we decide to place our nation’s men and women in uniform into harm’s way, we will have a debate and vote on it in Congress,” he added.&nbsp;Israel struck Iran's nuclear sites in massive airstrikes under ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13. In retaliation, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise 3’ striking Israeli cities and fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. The to-and-fro offensive has continued for four days now. During Trump's first term, in 2020, Kaine introduced a similar resolution to rein in the Republican president's ability to wage war against Iran, reported Reuters. That measure passed both the Senate and House of Representatives, but did not garner enough votes to survive the president's veto. Under US law, war powers resolutions are privileged, meaning that the Senate will be required to promptly consider and vote on the matter.<h2>‘US should avoid war’</h2>Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, accused Israel of timing its attack on Iran to sabotage talks on Iran's nuclear program that had been scheduled for Sunday. He also said Washington should avoid the conflict. "The U.S. Constitution is crystal clear: there can be no offensive use of military force — against Iran or any other country — without an explicit authorization from Congress," Sanders said in a statement. Some Republicans said the United States should avoid war. Kentucky Senator Rand Paul said he hoped Trump would not give in to pressure to get involved. "It's not the US' job to be involved in this war," Paul said to NBC. "This is not our war. We should not engage our military here," Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky said on X. However, there are many who support Israel. "If diplomacy fails... help Israel finish the job. Give them bombs, fly with them if necessary," Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said to CBS. &nbsp;

Kaine said his latest war powers resolution underscores that the US Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the sole power to declare war amid Israel-Iran conflict

Democratic senator Tim Kaine from Virginia introduced legislation on Monday (June 17) to prevent United States (US) President Donald Trump from using military force against Iran without Congress's authorisation. As per reports, Kaine has tried for years to wrest back Congress's authority to declare war from the White House. Kaine said that the war powers resolution underscores that the US Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the sole power to declare war. "It is not in our national security interest to get into a war with Iran unless that war is absolutely necessary to defend the United States. I am deeply concerned that the recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran could quickly pull the United States into another endless conflict," Kaine said in a statement. “The American people have no interest in sending service members to fight another forever war in the Middle East. This resolution will ensure that if we decide to place our nation’s men and women in uniform into harm’s way, we will have a debate and vote on it in Congress,” he added. Israel struck Iran's nuclear sites in massive airstrikes under ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13. In retaliation, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise 3’ striking Israeli cities and fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. The to-and-fro offensive has continued for four days now. During Trump's first term, in 2020, Kaine introduced a similar resolution to rein in the Republican president's ability to wage war against Iran, reported Reuters. That measure passed both the Senate and House of Representatives, but did not garner enough votes to survive the president's veto. Under US law, war powers resolutions are privileged, meaning that the Senate will be required to promptly consider and vote on the matter. ‘US should avoid war’ Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, accused Israel of timing its attack on Iran to sabotage talks on Iran's nuclear program that had been scheduled for Sunday. He also said Washington should avoid the conflict. "The U.S. Constitution is crystal clear: there can be no offensive use of military force — against Iran or any other country — without an explicit authorization from Congress," Sanders said in a statement. Some Republicans said the United States should avoid war. Kentucky Senator Rand Paul said he hoped Trump would not give in to pressure to get involved. "It's not the US' job to be involved in this war," Paul said to NBC. "This is not our war. We should not engage our military here," Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky said on X. However, there are many who support Israel. "If diplomacy fails... help Israel finish the job. Give them bombs, fly with them if necessary," Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said to CBS.

Kaine said his latest war powers resolution underscores that the US Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the sole power to declare war amid Israel-Iran conflict

US senator introduces war powers resolution to clip Trump’s powers amid Israel-Iran conflict: What does this mean?

Israel-Iran War: Amid the tensions around the Israel-Iran war, Cristiano Ronaldo - awarded with "Best Middle East Player" in football - sent a unique gift and a message to the US President Donald Trump. The &nbsp;Portuguese footballer sent the American president a signed jersey at the G7 meeting in Canada’s Kananaskis. In phots and videos circulated on social media showed Trump showing the jersey to the cameras, revealing the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s message on the back of it.&nbsp;"To President Donald J Trump. Praying for peace,” the jersey said in the message signed by Ronaldo.Ronaldo has long been vocal about peace in the Middle East and in the world. Earlier, he had spoken about the Gaza conflict as well. His message to Trump, when the US president was at the G7 Summit in Canada, having the Israel-Iran conflict as one of the major topics of discussion, made a huge impact.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump receives a signed jersey by <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> from <a href="https://twitter.com/eucopresident?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eucopresident</a>! <a href="https://t.co/n6I3zGQLEH">pic.twitter.com/n6I3zGQLEH</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1934723852166434872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;'Israel has a right to defend itself'&nbsp;The G7 leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, "We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel."&nbsp;Moreover, the statement said that it's Iran which is the " principal source of regional instability and terror."&nbsp;"We also affirm the importance of the protection of civilians," the statement read.&nbsp;“We have been consistently clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. We urge that the resolution of the Iranian crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza,” the statement said. &nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo sends special gift and a message to Trump at G7 Summit amid Israel-Iran war

Israel-Iran War: Amid the tensions around the Israel-Iran war, Cristiano Ronaldo - awarded with "Best Middle East Player" in football - sent a unique gift and a message to the US President Donald Trump. The Portuguese footballer sent the American president a signed jersey at the G7 meeting in Canada’s Kananaskis. In phots and videos circulated on social media showed Trump showing the jersey to the cameras, revealing the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s message on the back of it. "To President Donald J Trump. Praying for peace,” the jersey said in the message signed by Ronaldo. Ronaldo has long been vocal about peace in the Middle East and in the world. Earlier, he had spoken about the Gaza conflict as well. His message to Trump, when the US president was at the G7 Summit in Canada, having the Israel-Iran conflict as one of the major topics of discussion, made a huge impact.

Amid the tensions around the Israel-Iran war, Cristiano Ronaldo - awarded with "Best Middle East Player" in football - sent a unique gift and a message to the US President Donald Trump.

Israel-Iran War: Amid the Israel-Iran war, G7 leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, "We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. &nbsp;We reiterate our support for the security of Israel."&nbsp;Moreover, the statement said that it's Iran which is the " principal source of regional instability and terror.""We also affirm the importance of the protection of civilians," the statement read.&nbsp;“We have been consistently clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. We urge that the resolution of the Iranian crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza,” the statement said.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250617/image-1750133673691.png"></figure>The G7 leaders, including US President Donald Trump, call for “de-escalation” on Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We will remain vigilant to the implications for international energy markets and stand ready to coordinate, including with like-minded partners, to safeguard market stability," the statement added.&nbsp;&nbsp;The joint statement was issued by the leaders who participated in the summit from the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US, along with the European Union.&nbsp; &nbsp;Trump's 'evacuate Tehran' comment amid Israel-Iran war&nbsp;After US President Donald Trump left the G7 Summit abruptly on Monday (June 16) and posted "evacuate Tehran," chaos erupted as at the same time - Israel reportedly launched an airstrike on the Iranian capital. Trump's comment ignited fear that the US might be planning to strike Iran with Israel. But the White House later claimed that Trump's comment was just a message to convey the urgency of the need for Iran to come to the negotiation table.&nbsp;&nbsp;

G7 leaders say Israel has a right to defend itself, call Iran principal source of regional instability and terror

Israel-Iran War: Amid the Israel-Iran war, G7 leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, "We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel." Moreover, the statement said that it's Iran which is the " principal source of regional instability and terror." "We also affirm the importance of the protection of civilians," the statement read. “We have been consistently clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. We urge that the resolution of the Iranian crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza,” the statement said. The G7 leaders, including US President Donald Trump, call for “de-escalation” on Iran. "We will remain vigilant to the implications for international energy markets and stand ready to coordinate, including with like-minded partners, to safeguard market stability," the statement added. The joint statement was issued by the leaders who participated in the summit from the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US, along with the European Union. Trump's 'evacuate Tehran' comment amid Israel-Iran war After US President Donald Trump left the G7 Summit abruptly on Monday (June 16) and posted "evacuate Tehran," chaos erupted as at the same time - Israel reportedly launched an airstrike on the Iranian capital. Trump's comment ignited fear that the US might be planning to strike Iran with Israel. But the White House later claimed that Trump's comment was just a message to convey the urgency of the need for Iran to come to the negotiation table.

Amid the Israel-Iran war, G7 leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, “We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East.”&nbsp;

G7 leaders say 'Israel has a right to defend itself,' call Iran 'principal source of regional instability and terror'

US President Donald Trump has requested that the National Security Council be prepared in the Situation Room, according to US media reports.&nbsp;In yet another incident involving an Air India flight, a plane en route from San Francisco to Mumbai was forced to make an unscheduled stop in Kolkata in the early hours of Tuesday (Jun 17).&nbsp;New Zealand women’s cricket legend Sophie Devine will call time on her ODI career after the Women’s World Cup, she announced on Tuesday (June 17).&nbsp;&nbsp;Click on the headlines to read more&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-orders-nsc-meeting-in-us-situation-room-amid-heightened-israel-iran-tensions-what-is-sit-room-1750124913791">Trump heads to US Situation Room amid heightened Israel-Iran tensions | What is 'Sit Room' and what this means?</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250617/image-1750126527505.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Trump heads to US Situation Room amid heightened Israel-Iran tensions | What is 'Sit Room' and what this means?"></figure>US President Donald Trump has requested that the National Security Council be prepared in the Situation Room, according to US media reports.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-air-india-flight-faces-technical-glitch-passengers-forced-to-deplane-in-kolkata-1750129432699">Another Air India flight faces technical glitch, passengers forced to deplane in Kolkata</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250617/image-1750129575873.jpg?rect=(0,34,1940,1455)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Another Air India flight faces technical glitch, passengers forced to deplane in Kolkata"></figure>In yet another incident involving an Air India flight, a plane en route from San Francisco to Mumbai was forced to make an unscheduled stop in Kolkata in the early hours of Tuesday (Jun 17). <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-strike-iran-soon-here-s-what-pentagon-said-on-trump-s-evacuate-tehran-comment-amid-israel-iran-war-1750129333776">US to strike Iran soon? Here's what Pentagon said on Trump's 'evacuate Tehran' comment amid Israel-Iran war</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250617/image-1750129621688.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="US to strike Iran soon? Here's what Pentagon said on Trump's 'evacuate Tehran' comment amid Israel-Iran war"></figure>After US President Donald Trump left the G7 Summit abruptly on Monday (June 16) and posted "evacuate Tehran," chaos erupted as at the same time - Israel reportedly launched an airstrike on the Iranian capital. Trump's comment ignited fear that the US might be planning to strike Iran with Israel.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-sophie-devine-to-retire-from-odis-after-world-cup-says-right-time-for-me-to-start-stepping-away-1750130655123">Sophie Devine to retire from ODIs after World Cup, says 'right time for me to start stepping away'</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250617/image-1750131119471.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;w=752&amp;h=564&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="Sophie Devine to retire from ODIs after World Cup, says 'right time for me to start stepping away'"></figure>New Zealand women’s cricket legend Sophie Devine will call time on her ODI career after the Women’s World Cup, she announced on Tuesday (June 17). Devine, who has served New Zealand cricket for almost two decades will no longer play any part in the 50-over format after the Women’s World Cup, which takes place in India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH | Israel and Iran continue to trade blows&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">+ Israel and Iran continue to trade blows + Israel says Iranian residents &#39;will pay the prize.&#39; <a href="https://twitter.com/SaroyaHem?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SaroyaHem</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/JyotsnaKumar13?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JyotsnaKumar13</a> bring you updates from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelIranWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsraelIranWar</a>. <a href="https://t.co/WByj7KQgBg">pic.twitter.com/WByj7KQgBg</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1934814085503197522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Morning news brief: Israel-Iran war updates; Another Air India flight faces technical glitch, and more

US President Donald Trump has requested that the National Security Council be prepared in the Situation Room, according to US media reports. In yet another incident involving an Air India flight, a plane en route from San Francisco to Mumbai was forced to make an unscheduled stop in Kolkata in the early hours of Tuesday (Jun 17). New Zealand women’s cricket legend Sophie Devine will call time on her ODI career after the Women’s World Cup, she announced on Tuesday (June 17). Click on the headlines to read more Trump heads to US Situation Room amid heightened Israel-Iran tensions | What is 'Sit Room' and what this means? US President Donald Trump has requested that the National Security Council be prepared in the Situation Room, according to US media reports. Another Air India flight faces technical glitch, passengers forced to deplane in Kolkata In yet another incident involving an Air India flight, a plane en route from San Francisco to Mumbai was forced to make an unscheduled stop in Kolkata in the early hours of Tuesday (Jun 17). US to strike Iran soon? Here's what Pentagon said on Trump's 'evacuate Tehran' comment amid Israel-Iran war After US President Donald Trump left the G7 Summit abruptly on Monday (June 16) and posted "evacuate Tehran," chaos erupted as at the same time - Israel reportedly launched an airstrike on the Iranian capital. Trump's comment ignited fear that the US might be planning to strike Iran with Israel. Sophie Devine to retire from ODIs after World Cup, says 'right time for me to start stepping away' New Zealand women’s cricket legend Sophie Devine will call time on her ODI career after the Women’s World Cup, she announced on Tuesday (June 17). Devine, who has served New Zealand cricket for almost two decades will no longer play any part in the 50-over format after the Women’s World Cup, which takes place in India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2. WATCH | Israel and Iran continue to trade blows

Good morning! Start your day with WION's morning news brief.&nbsp;

Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, India has established a 24x7 control room on Tuesday (June 17). The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared a list of helpline numbers and email IDs for stranded Indians in Iran.&nbsp;The Indian embassy in Iran in an advisory said, “All Indian Nationals who are in Tehran and not in touch with the Embassy are requested to contact the Embassy of India in Tehran immediately and provide their Location and Contact numbers.” In another advisory it said, “All Indian Nationals and PIOs who can move out of Tehran using their own resources, are advised to move to a safe location outside the City.” &nbsp;&nbsp;India's MEA on June 16 said that some Indian students in Iran were being relocated to "safer places" within the country, stressing that "other feasible options" were also being examined.&nbsp;Israel struck Iran's nuclear sites in massive airstrikes under ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13. In retaliation, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise 3’ striking Israeli cities and fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. Contact details of MEA's control room: 1800118797 (Toll free) +91-11-23012113 +91-11-23014104 +91-11-23017905 +91-9968291988 (Whatsapp) <a href="mailto:situationroom@mea.gov.in">situationroom@mea.gov.in</a> &nbsp;24x7 emergency helpline for Indians in Iran: For call only : 1. +98 9128109115, +98 9128109109 For WhatsApp: 2. +98 901044557, +98 9015993320, +91 8086871709. 3. ⁠Bandar Abbas: +98 9177699036 4. ⁠Zahedan: +98 9396356649 <a href="mailto:cons.tehran@mea.gov.in">cons.tehran@mea.gov.in</a><h2>Indians in Iran</h2>Meanwhile, Iran responded to India's request for the safe evacuation of Indian students stuck in Iranian cities. Tehran said that though the airspace is closed over Iran, all land borders are open for the safe evacuation of Indian nationals.&nbsp;"Given the current condition and the closure of the country's airports, as well as the request of many political missions to transfer their diplomats and nationals abroad, we inform you that all land borders are open for crossing," it said.&nbsp;Tehran asked India to give the names, passport numbers, and vehicle specifications of the people crossing the borders to its General Protocol Department. It also asked for the time of travel and the desired border, through which the person will exit the country, to make necessary arrangements for the safe travel of diplomats and other citizens.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared a list of helpline numbers and email IDs for stranded Indians in Iran.



Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, India has established a 24x7 control room on Tuesday (June 17). The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared a list of helpline numbers and email IDs for stranded Indians in Iran. The Indian embassy in Iran in an advisory said, “All Indian Nationals who are in Tehran and not in touch with the Embassy are requested to contact the Embassy of India in Tehran immediately and provide their Location and Contact numbers.” In another advisory it said, “All Indian Nationals and PIOs who can move out of Tehran using their own resources, are advised to move to a safe location outside the City.” India's MEA on June 16 said that some Indian students in Iran were being relocated to "safer places" within the country, stressing that "other feasible options" were also being examined. Israel struck Iran's nuclear sites in massive airstrikes under ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13. In retaliation, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise 3’ striking Israeli cities and fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. Contact details of MEA's control room: 1800118797 (Toll free) +91-11-23012113 +91-11-23014104 +91-11-23017905 +91-9968291988 (Whatsapp) situationroom@mea.gov.in 24x7 emergency helpline for Indians in Iran: For call only : 1. +98 9128109115, +98 9128109109 For WhatsApp: 2. +98 901044557, +98 9015993320, +91 8086871709. 3. ⁠Bandar Abbas: +98 9177699036 4. ⁠Zahedan: +98 9396356649 cons.tehran@mea.gov.in Indians in Iran Meanwhile, Iran responded to India's request for the safe evacuation of Indian students stuck in Iranian cities. Tehran said that though the airspace is closed over Iran, all land borders are open for the safe evacuation of Indian nationals. "Given the current condition and the closure of the country's airports, as well as the request of many political missions to transfer their diplomats and nationals abroad, we inform you that all land borders are open for crossing," it said. Tehran asked India to give the names, passport numbers, and vehicle specifications of the people crossing the borders to its General Protocol Department. It also asked for the time of travel and the desired border, through which the person will exit the country, to make necessary arrangements for the safe travel of diplomats and other citizens.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared a list of helpline numbers and email IDs for stranded Indians in Iran

India establishes 24x7 control room for stranded Indians in Iran amid Israel's offensive - Helpline numbers and advisory here

Iran on Monday said that its parliament was preparing a bill that could push the Islamic Republic towards exiting the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.This comes amid heightened tensions with Israel and one day after the UN nuclear watchdog's Board of Governors declared Tehran in breach of its obligations under the NPT. This was the first such declaration by the UN nuclear watchdog in nearly two decades. Iran’s government responded by denying the allegations, accusing the IAEA of political bias and reaffirming its commitment to NPT safeguards.<h2>What is Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty?</h2>The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which came into effect in 1970, was established to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, promote disarmament, and ensure the right of all signatories to access nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. The treaty identifies nuclear-armed states as those that had manufactured and detonated a nuclear device before January 1, 1967—namely the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China, and Russia. Under NPT, these five countries agreed to gradually reduce their nuclear arsenals. A total of 191 nations are party to the NPT. India, Pakistan and Israel are non-signatory to NPT.&nbsp;The NPT does not establish an outright ban on nuclear weapons for all of the countries that have joined it, nor does it include any detailed provisions stipulating how and when disarmament should take place &nbsp;The NPT includes an "escape clause" in Article X, allowing any state to withdraw if extraordinary events threaten its national interests, provided it gives three months' notice to other signatories and the UN Security Council. The treaty is reviewed every five years, with the next review conference scheduled for 2026.<h2>Iran and NPT</h2>Iran has been a non-nuclear-weapon signatory to the NPT since 1970. It maintains that its uranium enrichment program is for peaceful energy purposes, although Western countries and Israel suspect Iran of seeking nuclear weapons capability.&nbsp;&nbsp;Amid escalating tensions with Israel, Iranian officials have hinted at the possibility of withdrawing from the treaty, although no formal decision has been made. The government has acknowledged a parliamentary bill under discussion but clarified that any action will be coordinated with legislative authorities. &nbsp;"In light of recent developments, we will take an appropriate decision. Government has to enforce parliament bills but such a proposal is just being prepared and we will coordinate in the later stages with parliament," the ministry's spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said during a press conference.&nbsp;Notably, Iran has been under international nuclear sanctions since 2006 for failing to halt its enrichment program. A 2015 agreement (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) between Iran and six world powers, including the US, offered sanctions relief in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear activities. However, America withdrew from the deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump, reimposing sanctions. Since then, Iran has been accused of violating the NPT and the non-cooperation with the IAEA. A new deal was under negotiations between Iran and US, after Trump came to power this year, however, &nbsp;it is in jeopardy after Israel struck nuclear sites in Iran on June 15.&nbsp;

Notably, Iran has been under international nuclear sanctions since 2006 for failing to halt its enrichment program. A brief halt due to JCPOA came in 2015, but Iran's nuclear program was back on track from 2018

Iran on Monday said that its parliament was preparing a bill that could push the Islamic Republic towards exiting the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. This comes amid heightened tensions with Israel and one day after the UN nuclear watchdog's Board of Governors declared Tehran in breach of its obligations under the NPT. This was the first such declaration by the UN nuclear watchdog in nearly two decades. Iran’s government responded by denying the allegations, accusing the IAEA of political bias and reaffirming its commitment to NPT safeguards. What is Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty? The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which came into effect in 1970, was established to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, promote disarmament, and ensure the right of all signatories to access nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. The treaty identifies nuclear-armed states as those that had manufactured and detonated a nuclear device before January 1, 1967—namely the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China, and Russia. Under NPT, these five countries agreed to gradually reduce their nuclear arsenals. A total of 191 nations are party to the NPT. India, Pakistan and Israel are non-signatory to NPT. The NPT does not establish an outright ban on nuclear weapons for all of the countries that have joined it, nor does it include any detailed provisions stipulating how and when disarmament should take place The NPT includes an "escape clause" in Article X, allowing any state to withdraw if extraordinary events threaten its national interests, provided it gives three months' notice to other signatories and the UN Security Council. The treaty is reviewed every five years, with the next review conference scheduled for 2026. Iran and NPT Iran has been a non-nuclear-weapon signatory to the NPT since 1970. It maintains that its uranium enrichment program is for peaceful energy purposes, although Western countries and Israel suspect Iran of seeking nuclear weapons capability. Amid escalating tensions with Israel, Iranian officials have hinted at the possibility of withdrawing from the treaty, although no formal decision has been made. The government has acknowledged a parliamentary bill under discussion but clarified that any action will be coordinated with legislative authorities. "In light of recent developments, we will take an appropriate decision. Government has to enforce parliament bills but such a proposal is just being prepared and we will coordinate in the later stages with parliament," the ministry's spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said during a press conference. Notably, Iran has been under international nuclear sanctions since 2006 for failing to halt its enrichment program. A 2015 agreement (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) between Iran and six world powers, including the US, offered sanctions relief in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear activities. However, America withdrew from the deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump, reimposing sanctions. Since then, Iran has been accused of violating the NPT and the non-cooperation with the IAEA. A new deal was under negotiations between Iran and US, after Trump came to power this year, however, it is in jeopardy after Israel struck nuclear sites in Iran on June 15.

Notably, Iran has been under international nuclear sanctions since 2006 for failing to halt its enrichment program. A brief halt due to JCPOA came in 2015, but Iran's nuclear program was back on track from 2018

What is nuclear non-proliferation treaty that Iran hints at exiting amid tensions with Israel? WION Explains

Israel-Iran War: After US President Donald Trump left the G7 Summit abruptly on Monday (June 16) and posted "evacuate Tehran," chaos erupted as at the same time - Israel reportedly launched an airstrike on the Iranian capital. Trump's comment ignited fear that the US might be planning to strike Iran with Israel. But the White House later claimed that Trump's comment was just a message to convey the urgency of the need for Iran to come to the negotiation table.&nbsp;A white House official talked to the news agency CNN after Trump left the G7 Summit and said that the 78-year-old American president left the Canadian summit due to the Israel-Iran war tensions, as said by his administration.&nbsp;This came after Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, that he "told" Iran to sign a deal."Iran should have signed the 'deal' I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote.&nbsp;US to strike Iran?&nbsp;After Trump directed the NSC and Situation Room to be readied, an official told CBS News that America is not joining Israel in its military actions against the Islamic nation.&nbsp;“American Forces are maintaining their defensive posture &amp; that has not changed. We will protect American troops and our interests,” Sean Parnell, chief Pentagon spokesperson, wrote on the social media platform X.This is after "White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt &nbsp;posted on X, “President Trump will return to Washington tonight so he can attend to many important matters."&nbsp;US ‘could get involved’&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier, during an interview with ABC News, the US president said, "We're not involved in it. It's possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved."&nbsp;Although the US president denied commenting on the reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had urged the US to join the war.&nbsp;During the interview, Trump said he had a lengthy call with the Russian President, Vladimir Putin, a day earlier to discuss, in large part, the conflict in the Middle East.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US to strike Iran soon? Here is what Pentagon said on Trump evacuate Tehran comment amid Israel-Iran war  

Israel-Iran War: After US President Donald Trump left the G7 Summit abruptly on Monday (June 16) and posted "evacuate Tehran," chaos erupted as at the same time - Israel reportedly launched an airstrike on the Iranian capital. Trump's comment ignited fear that the US might be planning to strike Iran with Israel. But the White House later claimed that Trump's comment was just a message to convey the urgency of the need for Iran to come to the negotiation table. A white House official talked to the news agency CNN after Trump left the G7 Summit and said that the 78-year-old American president left the Canadian summit due to the Israel-Iran war tensions, as said by his administration. This came after Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, that he "told" Iran to sign a deal. "Iran should have signed the 'deal' I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote. US to strike Iran? After Trump directed the NSC and Situation Room to be readied, an official told CBS News that America is not joining Israel in its military actions against the Islamic nation. “American Forces are maintaining their defensive posture & that has not changed. We will protect American troops and our interests,” Sean Parnell, chief Pentagon spokesperson, wrote on the social media platform X. This is after "White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt posted on X, “President Trump will return to Washington tonight so he can attend to many important matters." US ‘could get involved’ Earlier, during an interview with ABC News, the US president said, "We're not involved in it. It's possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved." Although the US president denied commenting on the reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had urged the US to join the war. During the interview, Trump said he had a lengthy call with the Russian President, Vladimir Putin, a day earlier to discuss, in large part, the conflict in the Middle East.

After US President Donald Trump left the G7 Summit abruptly on Monday (June 16) and posted "evacuate Tehran," chaos erupted as at the same time - Israel reportedly launched an airstrike on the Iranian capital.&nbsp;

US to strike Iran soon? Here's what Pentagon said on Trump's 'evacuate Tehran' comment amid Israel-Iran war

US President Donald Trump has requested that the National Security Council be prepared in the Situation Room, according to US media reports.This comes after the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Trump will return to Washington from the G7 summit in Canada to attend to many “important matters.” Leavitt added that the early return of Trump was necessitated “because of what’s going on in the Middle East.”&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250617/image-1750125262077.png"></figure>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Tehran asked Gulf leaders to urge US President Trump to pressure Israel to halt its military actions, according to news agency Reuters. In return, Iran has signalled its readiness to show flexibility in long-stalled nuclear negotiations. Tehran's hint for signing the nuclear deal comes after Trump on Monday said that he believes Iran wants to make an agreement soon.&nbsp;"As I've been saying, I think a deal will be signed, or something will happen, but a deal will be signed, and I think Iran is foolish not to sign," Trump told reporters on the sidelines of the G7 summit.&nbsp;It may be recalled that Trump was seen in the situation room during his first term, along with then Vice President Mike Pence and other senior advisers when America's drone strike killed Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad in 2020. President Trump's ‘evacuate Tehran’ comment amid reports of his situation room meeting caused chaos as Israel continued bombing parts of the Iranian capital.&nbsp;"Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump had said.<h2>What is US situation room?</h2>The Situation Room is an intelligence management complex on the ground floor of the West Wing of the White House. The CIA website states that the White House Situation Room (WHSR), is a conference room surrounded on three sides by two small offices, multiple workstations, computers, and communications equipment. The conference room is soundproofed and well-appointed but small and slightly cramped.&nbsp;&nbsp;The WHSR was established by President Kennedy after the Bay of Pigs disaster in 1961. That crisis revealed a need for rapid and secure presidential communications and for White House coordination of the many external communications channels of national security information which led to the President. Since then, the mission of the 'Sit Room' has been to provide current intelligence and crisis support to the NSC staff, the National Security Adviser, and the President. The Sit Room staff is composed of approximately 30 personnel, organised around five Watch Teams that provide 7-day, 24- hour monitoring of international events.&nbsp;

This comes after the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Trump will return to Washington from the G7 summit in Canada because of what’s going on in the Middle East

US President Donald Trump has requested that the National Security Council be prepared in the Situation Room, according to US media reports. This comes after the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Trump will return to Washington from the G7 summit in Canada to attend to many “important matters.” Leavitt added that the early return of Trump was necessitated “because of what’s going on in the Middle East.” Meanwhile, Tehran asked Gulf leaders to urge US President Trump to pressure Israel to halt its military actions, according to news agency Reuters. In return, Iran has signalled its readiness to show flexibility in long-stalled nuclear negotiations. Tehran's hint for signing the nuclear deal comes after Trump on Monday said that he believes Iran wants to make an agreement soon. "As I've been saying, I think a deal will be signed, or something will happen, but a deal will be signed, and I think Iran is foolish not to sign," Trump told reporters on the sidelines of the G7 summit. It may be recalled that Trump was seen in the situation room during his first term, along with then Vice President Mike Pence and other senior advisers when America's drone strike killed Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad in 2020. President Trump's ‘evacuate Tehran’ comment amid reports of his situation room meeting caused chaos as Israel continued bombing parts of the Iranian capital. "Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump had said. What is US situation room? The Situation Room is an intelligence management complex on the ground floor of the West Wing of the White House. The CIA website states that the White House Situation Room (WHSR), is a conference room surrounded on three sides by two small offices, multiple workstations, computers, and communications equipment. The conference room is soundproofed and well-appointed but small and slightly cramped. The WHSR was established by President Kennedy after the Bay of Pigs disaster in 1961. That crisis revealed a need for rapid and secure presidential communications and for White House coordination of the many external communications channels of national security information which led to the President. Since then, the mission of the 'Sit Room' has been to provide current intelligence and crisis support to the NSC staff, the National Security Adviser, and the President. The Sit Room staff is composed of approximately 30 personnel, organised around five Watch Teams that provide 7-day, 24- hour monitoring of international events.

This comes after the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Trump will return to Washington from the G7 summit in Canada because of what’s going on in the Middle East

Trump heads to US Situation Room amid heightened Israel-Iran tensions | What is 'Sit Room' and what this means?

The US Department of Defense, on Monday, awarded OpenAI a $200 million contract to put generative artificial intelligence (AI) to work for the military.San Francisco-based OpenAI will "develop prototype frontier AI capabilities to address critical national security challenges in both warfighting and enterprise domains," according to the department's posting of awarded contracts.The program with the defense department is the first partnership under the startup's initiative to put AI to work in governments, according to OpenAI.OpenAI plans to show how cutting-edge AI can vastly improve administrative operations such as how service members get health care and also cyber defenses, the startup said in a post.All use of AI for the military will be consistent with OpenAI usage guidelines, according to the startup.Big tech companies are increasingly pitching their tools to the US military, among them Meta, OpenAI and, more predictably, Palantir, the AI defense company founded by Peter Thiel, the conservative tech billionaire who has played a major role in Silicon Valley's rightward shift.OpenAI and defense tech startup Anduril Industries late last year announced a partnership to develop and deploy AI solutions "for security missions."The alliance brings together OpenAI models and Anduril's military tech platform to ramp up defenses against aerial drones and other "unmanned aircraft systems", according to the companies."OpenAI builds AI to benefit as many people as possible, and supports US-led efforts to ensure the technology upholds democratic values," OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman said at the time.

San Francisco-based OpenAI will "develop prototype frontier AI capabilities to address critical national security challenges in both warfighting and enterprise domains," according to the department's posting of awarded contracts.

The US Department of Defense, on Monday, awarded OpenAI a $200 million contract to put generative artificial intelligence (AI) to work for the military. San Francisco-based OpenAI will "develop prototype frontier AI capabilities to address critical national security challenges in both warfighting and enterprise domains," according to the department's posting of awarded contracts. The program with the defense department is the first partnership under the startup's initiative to put AI to work in governments, according to OpenAI. OpenAI plans to show how cutting-edge AI can vastly improve administrative operations such as how service members get health care and also cyber defenses, the startup said in a post. All use of AI for the military will be consistent with OpenAI usage guidelines, according to the startup. Big tech companies are increasingly pitching their tools to the US military, among them Meta, OpenAI and, more predictably, Palantir, the AI defense company founded by Peter Thiel, the conservative tech billionaire who has played a major role in Silicon Valley's rightward shift. OpenAI and defense tech startup Anduril Industries late last year announced a partnership to develop and deploy AI solutions "for security missions." The alliance brings together OpenAI models and Anduril's military tech platform to ramp up defenses against aerial drones and other "unmanned aircraft systems", according to the companies. "OpenAI builds AI to benefit as many people as possible, and supports US-led efforts to ensure the technology upholds democratic values," OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman said at the time.

San Francisco-based OpenAI will "develop prototype frontier AI capabilities to address critical national security challenges in both warfighting and enterprise domains," according to the department's posting of awarded contracts.

AI goes to war? OpenAI wins $200 million US defence contract to develop military-grade artificial intelligence

Israel is carrying out assassinations in Iran using mobile phone tracking technology, according to Iranian media reports.&nbsp;“Israel uses mobile tracking to assassinate individuals in Iran. It previously killed Ismail Haniyeh the same way in Tehran,” the Iranian military-run Fars News Agency said on Monday.&nbsp;Hamas’s former political leader Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran in July last year in an assassination, was atrriubuted to Israel.&nbsp;The news agency Fars, which is affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, added that location of individuals can still be reveal even if their mobile phones are turned off.Following the reports, political and government officials in Tehran have been urged to stop using their phones.&nbsp;The tensions between Israel and Iran have been escalating, with both sides engaging in military operations, threatening the peace and stability in the region. Despite international calls for restraint and de-escalation, the exchange of missiles and drones attacks continued for a fourth night.&nbsp;On the night of Monday (Jun 16), Iran launched a fresh wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa, two major cities of Israel, Iranian state media reported.&nbsp;The Israeli military on Monday (Jun 16) struck the headquarters of Iranian state television in northern Tehran during its live broadcast. They had earlier issued an evacuation warning for the area.&nbsp;Iran has said at least 224 people have been killed and more than 1,200 wounded due to Israeli strikes. The Israeli prime minister’s office reported that 24 people have been killed while 300 have been injured due to Iran’s missiles and drone attacks.&nbsp;Following a strike, Israel said it hit command centres for Iran’s expeditionary branch of the Revolutionary Guard, the Quds Force, which coordinates support for proxy forces across the region.&nbsp;Israel had also targeted Iran's energy production facilities and manufacturing plants on Sunday in what is described as the heaviest wave of attacks yet.&nbsp;In a press conference shortly before, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel was “changing the face of the Middle East” with its military operations against the Iranian regime.

The tensions between Israel and Iran have been escalating, with both sides engaging in military operations, threatening the peace and stability in the region.

Israel is carrying out assassinations in Iran using mobile phone tracking technology, according to Iranian media reports. “Israel uses mobile tracking to assassinate individuals in Iran. It previously killed Ismail Haniyeh the same way in Tehran,” the Iranian military-run Fars News Agency said on Monday. Hamas’s former political leader Haniyeh, who was killed in Tehran in July last year in an assassination, was atrriubuted to Israel. The news agency Fars, which is affiliated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, added that location of individuals can still be reveal even if their mobile phones are turned off. Following the reports, political and government officials in Tehran have been urged to stop using their phones. The tensions between Israel and Iran have been escalating, with both sides engaging in military operations, threatening the peace and stability in the region. Despite international calls for restraint and de-escalation, the exchange of missiles and drones attacks continued for a fourth night. On the night of Monday (Jun 16), Iran launched a fresh wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa, two major cities of Israel, Iranian state media reported. The Israeli military on Monday (Jun 16) struck the headquarters of Iranian state television in northern Tehran during its live broadcast. They had earlier issued an evacuation warning for the area. Iran has said at least 224 people have been killed and more than 1,200 wounded due to Israeli strikes. The Israeli prime minister’s office reported that 24 people have been killed while 300 have been injured due to Iran’s missiles and drone attacks. Following a strike, Israel said it hit command centres for Iran’s expeditionary branch of the Revolutionary Guard, the Quds Force, which coordinates support for proxy forces across the region. Israel had also targeted Iran's energy production facilities and manufacturing plants on Sunday in what is described as the heaviest wave of attacks yet. In a press conference shortly before, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel was “changing the face of the Middle East” with its military operations against the Iranian regime.

The tensions between Israel and Iran have been escalating, with both sides engaging in military operations, threatening the peace and stability in the region.

Israel carrying out assassinations in Iran using ‘phone tracking’: Report

The White House on Monday (Jun 16) said that US President Donald Trump would be leaving the Group of Seven summit a day early due to developments in the Middle East. This comes as the military operations in Israel and Iran continue for a fourth night.&nbsp;“President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt wrote on X.&nbsp;According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict.&nbsp;The draft statement, seen by Reuters, states that Iran must never have a nuclear weapon and that Israel has the right to defend itself. It also commits to safeguarding market stability, including energy markets. Canadian and European diplomats said that world leaders at the G7 summit in Canada are continuing discussions on the conflict in the Middle East.&nbsp;In a post on his Truth Social platform, US President Donald Trump warned Iranians to evacuate Tehran, reiterating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s warnings amid the military conflict between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;"Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote during G7 summit in Canada, without providing further details.&nbsp;“Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON,” the US president said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”.&nbsp;Talking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump expressed confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal with the US, warning that Washington will be “doing something” once he leaves the international summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take. He added that Iran is not winning the conflict and should sign the deal “before it’s too late”.&nbsp;He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”

According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict.

The White House on Monday (Jun 16) said that US President Donald Trump would be leaving the Group of Seven summit a day early due to developments in the Middle East. This comes as the military operations in Israel and Iran continue for a fourth night. “President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt wrote on X. According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. The draft statement, seen by Reuters, states that Iran must never have a nuclear weapon and that Israel has the right to defend itself. It also commits to safeguarding market stability, including energy markets. Canadian and European diplomats said that world leaders at the G7 summit in Canada are continuing discussions on the conflict in the Middle East. In a post on his Truth Social platform, US President Donald Trump warned Iranians to evacuate Tehran, reiterating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s warnings amid the military conflict between Israel and Iran. "Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote during G7 summit in Canada, without providing further details. “Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON,” the US president said. Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”. Talking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump expressed confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal with the US, warning that Washington will be “doing something” once he leaves the international summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take. He added that Iran is not winning the conflict and should sign the deal “before it’s too late”. He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”

According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict.

‘Much was accomplished, but…’: White House says Trump to leave G7 summit early | Here's why

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 17) urged residents of Tehran to leave, reiterating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's warnings amid the military conflict between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;"Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social account during a Group of Seven summit in Canada, without providing further details.&nbsp;“Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON,” the US president said.&nbsp;This comes minutes later Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture” as the deadly conflict between Israel and Iran continued for the fourth night.&nbsp;“Over the weekend, I directed the deployment of additional capabilities to the United States Central Command Area of Responsibility,” Hegseth posted on X. “Protecting US forces is our top priority and these deployments are intended to enhance our defensive posture in the region.”&nbsp;Shortly after, the White House announced that Trump would be leaving the G7 summit a day early due to developments in the Middle East.&nbsp;“President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt wrote on X.&nbsp;According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict.&nbsp;The draft statement, seen by Reuters, states that Iran must never have a nuclear weapon and that Israel has the right to defend itself. It also commits to safeguarding market stability, including energy markets. Canadian and European diplomats said that world leaders at the G7 summit in Canada are continuing discussions on the conflict in the Middle East.&nbsp;Talking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump expressed confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal with the US, warning that Washington will be “doing something” once he leaves the international summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take.&nbsp;“As soon as I leave here, we're going to be doing something. But I have to leave here.”&nbsp;Trump also said that Iran was not winning its conflict with Israel and should re-enter negotiations “before it's too late”.&nbsp;He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”

"Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social account during a Group of Seven summit in Canada, without providing further details.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 17) urged residents of Tehran to leave, reiterating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's warnings amid the military conflict between Israel and Iran. "Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social account during a Group of Seven summit in Canada, without providing further details. “Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON,” the US president said. This comes minutes later Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture” as the deadly conflict between Israel and Iran continued for the fourth night. “Over the weekend, I directed the deployment of additional capabilities to the United States Central Command Area of Responsibility,” Hegseth posted on X. “Protecting US forces is our top priority and these deployments are intended to enhance our defensive posture in the region.” Shortly after, the White House announced that Trump would be leaving the G7 summit a day early due to developments in the Middle East. “President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt wrote on X. According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. The draft statement, seen by Reuters, states that Iran must never have a nuclear weapon and that Israel has the right to defend itself. It also commits to safeguarding market stability, including energy markets. Canadian and European diplomats said that world leaders at the G7 summit in Canada are continuing discussions on the conflict in the Middle East. Talking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump expressed confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal with the US, warning that Washington will be “doing something” once he leaves the international summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take. “As soon as I leave here, we're going to be doing something. But I have to leave here.” Trump also said that Iran was not winning its conflict with Israel and should re-enter negotiations “before it's too late”. He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”

"Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social account during a Group of Seven summit in Canada, without providing further details.

‘Immediately evacuate Tehran!’ Trump warns Iran amid escalating tensions in Middle East

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‘Immediately evacuate Tehran!’ Trump warns Iran amid escalating tensions