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At least one person was killed, and nine others were hospitalised following a shooting in Midland, Texas, on Friday morning (June 12), while the suspected gunman was also found dead, according to local authorities. Midland Mayor Lori Blong said there were 11 known victims in the incident. City officials later confirmed that the suspect had died, although no further details were immediately provided. Blong said the suspect was located deceased through the use of a drone as law enforcement continued securing the area.According to Midland Memorial Hospital, nine victims were treated at the facility. Four patients required surgery, with three recovering afterwards and one remaining in the operating theatre. The hospital said the other five patients had already been discharged."My heart breaks for the victims and their families," Blong told CBS News. "We are praying for every person touched by today's events and for the law enforcement officers who risked their own safety to protect our community." The mayor added that she was unaware of any police officers being injured during the response.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/like-a-porn-addiction-palantir-ceo-alex-karp-warns-companies-are-using-too-much-ai-without-creating-real-value-1780772912495">'Like a porn addiction': Palantir CEO Alex Karp warns companies are using too much AI without creating real value</a>Midland Police Chief Greg Snow said in a social media post that officers responded after hearing gunfire coming from a building in the south-western part of the city and quickly secured the area. Witness Lee Carlisle, who was staying at a Super 8 motel near the scene, told CBS News that he heard numerous shots before seeing a large police presence."We heard several, several gunshots, like 20 gunshots, and then it moved down, the whole situation moved further down," Carlisle said. He added that drones, Texas Rangers and numerous undercover police vehicles arrived at the scene. "Had to be, seems like, 50 police officers, like a small army."A woman identified only as Jane, who was at Midland Memorial Hospital when victims arrived, told CBS News 24/7 that she saw some casualties before being moved to a secure area as the hospital entered lockdown. "My understanding is that the whereabouts of the shooter were not entirely known at the time. And we also wanted to stay out of the way of the essential hospital staff that needed to take care of patients," she said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/something-big-ahead-lebanese-army-chief-visits-pakistan-amid-reports-of-link-to-us-iran-negotiations-1780769963580">Something big ahead? Lebanese army chief visits Pakistan amid reports of link to US-Iran negotiations</a>&nbsp;

A shooting in Midland, Texas, on Friday morning (June 12) left one victim dead and nine others hospitalised. The suspected gunman was also found deceased at the scene after being located by law enforcement using a drone.

At least one person was killed, and nine others were hospitalised following a shooting in Midland, Texas, on Friday morning (June 12), while the suspected gunman was also found dead, according to local authorities. Midland Mayor Lori Blong said there were 11 known victims in the incident. City officials later confirmed that the suspect had died, although no further details were immediately provided. Blong said the suspect was located deceased through the use of a drone as law enforcement continued securing the area. According to Midland Memorial Hospital, nine victims were treated at the facility. Four patients required surgery, with three recovering afterwards and one remaining in the operating theatre. The hospital said the other five patients had already been discharged. "My heart breaks for the victims and their families," Blong told CBS News. "We are praying for every person touched by today's events and for the law enforcement officers who risked their own safety to protect our community." The mayor added that she was unaware of any police officers being injured during the response. Also read: 'Like a porn addiction': Palantir CEO Alex Karp warns companies are using too much AI without creating real value Midland Police Chief Greg Snow said in a social media post that officers responded after hearing gunfire coming from a building in the south-western part of the city and quickly secured the area. Witness Lee Carlisle, who was staying at a Super 8 motel near the scene, told CBS News that he heard numerous shots before seeing a large police presence. "We heard several, several gunshots, like 20 gunshots, and then it moved down, the whole situation moved further down," Carlisle said. He added that drones, Texas Rangers and numerous undercover police vehicles arrived at the scene. "Had to be, seems like, 50 police officers, like a small army." A woman identified only as Jane, who was at Midland Memorial Hospital when victims arrived, told CBS News 24/7 that she saw some casualties before being moved to a secure area as the hospital entered lockdown. "My understanding is that the whereabouts of the shooter were not entirely known at the time. And we also wanted to stay out of the way of the essential hospital staff that needed to take care of patients," she said. Also read: Something big ahead? Lebanese army chief visits Pakistan amid reports of link to US-Iran negotiations

A shooting in Midland, Texas, on Friday morning (June 12) left one victim dead and nine others hospitalised. The suspected gunman was also found deceased at the scene after being located by law enforcement using a drone.

Texas shooting horror: 1 dead, 9 injured in Midland as gunman dies at scene

The European Union will restart accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova on Monday after all member states agreed to move forward with the process, ending a long period of blockage caused by Hungary's previous government.&nbsp;European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the decision in a joint statement on social media."All member states agreed to open the first accession negotiations cluster with Ukraine and Moldova," the two leaders said.&nbsp;The breakthrough follows a policy shift in Hungary after Prime Minister Peter Magyar replaced former leader Viktor Orban, whose government had blocked progress on Ukraine's bid to join the European Union.<h2>EU calls enlargement a strategic choice</h2>Welcoming the decision, Costa and von der Leyen praised the efforts made by both candidate countries despite ongoing challenges.&nbsp;"This is a recognition of the determination, courage and hard work shown by both countries in advancing reforms, even in the face of immense challenges," they said."Enlargement is a strategic choice," they added. "In a world marked by growing uncertainty, a larger European Union is in our common interest."&nbsp;Formal accession talks with Ukraine began in June 2024, but the process stalled because of opposition from Budapest. The negotiations involve a wide range of policy areas, including agriculture, governance and the rule of law, and typically take years to complete.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-that-we-agreed-to-trump-slams-terms-of-peace-deal-reported-by-iranian-state-media-1781273873656">‘Nothing that we agreed to’: Trump slams terms of peace deal reported by Iranian state media</a>&nbsp;The first phase of discussions will start on Monday with the opening of the "fundamentals" cluster, which focuses on key democratic and legal standards expected from candidate countries.&nbsp;Magyar's government agreed to lift the veto after reaching an understanding with Kyiv over the rights of Ukraine's Hungarian ethnic minority, an issue that had long strained relations between the two neighbours.&nbsp;However, the Hungarian leader said his government does not support a fast-track route for Ukraine's membership and indicated that Hungarians would eventually vote on the issue through a referendum if Kyiv completed all accession chapters in the coming years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Friday that it had reached a preliminary agreement with Ukraine that could release about $690 million in funding after reviewing the country's loan programme.&nbsp;If approved by the IMF's executive board, the latest payment would increase total disbursements under the $8.1 billion loan programme to $2.2 billion.

Ukraine formally began its EU membership talks in June 2024, but progress was later blocked by Hungary. The accession process covers key areas such as agriculture, governance and the rule of law, and usually takes several years to complete.

The European Union will restart accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova on Monday after all member states agreed to move forward with the process, ending a long period of blockage caused by Hungary's previous government. European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the decision in a joint statement on social media. "All member states agreed to open the first accession negotiations cluster with Ukraine and Moldova," the two leaders said. The breakthrough follows a policy shift in Hungary after Prime Minister Peter Magyar replaced former leader Viktor Orban, whose government had blocked progress on Ukraine's bid to join the European Union. EU calls enlargement a strategic choice Welcoming the decision, Costa and von der Leyen praised the efforts made by both candidate countries despite ongoing challenges. "This is a recognition of the determination, courage and hard work shown by both countries in advancing reforms, even in the face of immense challenges," they said. "Enlargement is a strategic choice," they added. "In a world marked by growing uncertainty, a larger European Union is in our common interest." Formal accession talks with Ukraine began in June 2024, but the process stalled because of opposition from Budapest. The negotiations involve a wide range of policy areas, including agriculture, governance and the rule of law, and typically take years to complete. Also Read: ‘Nothing that we agreed to’: Trump slams terms of peace deal reported by Iranian state media The first phase of discussions will start on Monday with the opening of the "fundamentals" cluster, which focuses on key democratic and legal standards expected from candidate countries. Magyar's government agreed to lift the veto after reaching an understanding with Kyiv over the rights of Ukraine's Hungarian ethnic minority, an issue that had long strained relations between the two neighbours. However, the Hungarian leader said his government does not support a fast-track route for Ukraine's membership and indicated that Hungarians would eventually vote on the issue through a referendum if Kyiv completed all accession chapters in the coming years. Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Friday that it had reached a preliminary agreement with Ukraine that could release about $690 million in funding after reviewing the country's loan programme. If approved by the IMF's executive board, the latest payment would increase total disbursements under the $8.1 billion loan programme to $2.2 billion.

Ukraine formally began its EU membership talks in June 2024, but progress was later blocked by Hungary. The accession process covers key areas such as agriculture, governance and the rule of law, and usually takes several years to complete.

European Union to resume Ukraine membership talks after Hungary lifts veto

Elon Musk became the world's first trillionaire on Friday (June 12) after shares of SpaceX surged 11 per cent in their market debut following what is being described as the largest initial public offering in history. The aerospace and technology giant's shares closed at $150 on their first day of trading on the Nasdaq exchange in New York, up from the IPO price of $135. The blockbuster offering raised more than $75 billion, valuing the company at nearly $2 trillion and placing it among the ten most valuable publicly traded companies in the United States.According to regulatory filings, SpaceX sold more than 555 million shares, with options for nearly 83 million additional shares, potentially increasing the total amount raised to over $86 billion. The offering was reported to be more than four times oversubscribed, reflecting strong demand from institutional and retail investors alike.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/the-dog-who-saved-the-1966-fifa-world-cup-how-pickles-solved-football-s-greatest-mystery-1781283302241">How a collie named Pickles found the stolen 1966 FIFA World Cup trophy</a>The debut capped weeks of intense investor enthusiasm surrounding the company, which has evolved from a rocket manufacturer into a sprawling satellite and artificial intelligence conglomerate. SpaceX now incorporates Musk's AI venture xAI, which also includes social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.Speaking at a launch event in Starbase, Texas, Musk outlined the company's long-term ambitions for space exploration. "SpaceX wants to be able to take you to the moon, take you to Mars, and ultimately beyond," Musk said while addressing employees. "I'm confident at this point that with the incredible team that we have here at SpaceX, we will do that for you," he added.Celebrations also took place in New York, where the company displayed a neon sign in Times Square proclaiming: "Building the infrastructure to the future."Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-pakistan-s-provinces-are-poorer-than-some-of-the-world-s-poorest-nations-1781274781756">How Pakistan's provinces are poorer than some of the world's poorest nations</a>Around 100 supporters and investors gathered outside Nasdaq's headquarters to mark the occasion. Among them was Sarin Sio of financial company Dovetail, who said Musk's ambitious vision continued to attract investors."He sets very futuristic goals that no one else is doing, and I think that has got a lot of people excited," Sio said.

SpaceX’s historic Nasdaq IPO raised $75 billion, pushing its valuation to nearly $2 trillion and making Elon Musk the world’s first trillionaire as shares surged 11 per cent to $150.

Elon Musk became the world's first trillionaire on Friday (June 12) after shares of SpaceX surged 11 per cent in their market debut following what is being described as the largest initial public offering in history. The aerospace and technology giant's shares closed at $150 on their first day of trading on the Nasdaq exchange in New York, up from the IPO price of $135. The blockbuster offering raised more than $75 billion, valuing the company at nearly $2 trillion and placing it among the ten most valuable publicly traded companies in the United States. According to regulatory filings, SpaceX sold more than 555 million shares, with options for nearly 83 million additional shares, potentially increasing the total amount raised to over $86 billion. The offering was reported to be more than four times oversubscribed, reflecting strong demand from institutional and retail investors alike. Also read: How a collie named Pickles found the stolen 1966 FIFA World Cup trophy The debut capped weeks of intense investor enthusiasm surrounding the company, which has evolved from a rocket manufacturer into a sprawling satellite and artificial intelligence conglomerate. SpaceX now incorporates Musk's AI venture xAI, which also includes social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. Speaking at a launch event in Starbase, Texas, Musk outlined the company's long-term ambitions for space exploration. "SpaceX wants to be able to take you to the moon, take you to Mars, and ultimately beyond," Musk said while addressing employees. "I'm confident at this point that with the incredible team that we have here at SpaceX, we will do that for you," he added. Celebrations also took place in New York, where the company displayed a neon sign in Times Square proclaiming: "Building the infrastructure to the future." Also read: How Pakistan's provinces are poorer than some of the world's poorest nations Around 100 supporters and investors gathered outside Nasdaq's headquarters to mark the occasion. Among them was Sarin Sio of financial company Dovetail, who said Musk's ambitious vision continued to attract investors. "He sets very futuristic goals that no one else is doing, and I think that has got a lot of people excited," Sio said.

SpaceX’s historic Nasdaq IPO raised $75 billion, pushing its valuation to nearly $2 trillion and making Elon Musk the world’s first trillionaire as shares surged 11 per cent to $150.

SpaceX IPO soars and Elon Musk becomes world's FIRST trillionaire

President Donald Trump said on Friday that he still believes a deal with Iran could be signed over the weekend or on Monday, reported NBC News, citing the president’s interaction with Axios. In a brief phone call, the US president, who had earlier condemned what he said was fake information put out by Tehran on the contents of the deal, told Axios that he had demanded clarification from Iran for state media reports that claimed the country would receive billions in frozen assets after the deal was signed, adding that officials privately “apologised for putting out false information.”&nbsp;Trump had said in a Truth Social post earlier, “The terms that Iran leaked out to the Fake News have NOTHING to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing. What they said, including their weak and pathetic statement on having a deal, bears no relation to the truth.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-govt-funded-foreign-biolabs-many-of-them-worked-on-dangerous-pathogens-reveals-tulsi-gabbard-1781283223008">US govt funded foreign biolabs, many of them worked on dangerous pathogens, reveals Tulsi Gabbard</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘No funds are being released for simply signing a deal,’ says Vance</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, US Vice-President JD Vance said that no funds are being released for simply signing a deal.&nbsp;Vance hit back at concerns being raised by “people who (rightly) said Donald Trump was a historic president a month ago.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I&#39;m seeing a lot of fake information about a potential deal to reopen the Strait and end Iran&#39;s nuclear weapons program. First, the Iranians are not receiving any cash, and no funds are being released for simply signing a deal or attending a meeting. The deal is structured to…&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://x.com/JDVance/status/2065449280773541949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-that-we-agreed-to-trump-slams-terms-of-peace-deal-reported-by-iranian-state-media-1781273873656">‘Nothing that we agreed to’: Trump slams terms of peace deal reported by Iranian state media</a>&nbsp;In an X post, Vance said that “fake information” was being shared about the deal, stressing, “The Iranians are not receiving any cash, and no funds are being released for simply signing a deal or attending a meeting.”“If the Islamic Republic of Iran meets its obligations, then economic benefits will flow to them and to the entire region,” he added.&nbsp;The clarification came from Vance after some Republicans raised concerns over the deal’s contents as shared by the Iranian state media.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-use-iran-s-frozen-funds-to-pay-for-damages-inflicted-on-gulf-allies-scott-bessent-1781205304888">‘US will use Iran’s frozen funds to pay for damages inflicted on Gulf allies’: Scott Bessent</a>&nbsp;Sen. Lindsay Graham, R-S.C., said in an X post, “I am very glad to hear from @POTUS that Iranian media reports about the so-called deal are fake because the deal as described by Iran would be awful.”

US Vice-President JD Vance said that no funds are being released for simply signing a deal. Vance alleged that fake information was being shared about the deal and said the Iranians are not receiving any cash, and no funds are being released for simply signing a deal or attending a meeting.

President Donald Trump said on Friday that he still believes a deal with Iran could be signed over the weekend or on Monday, reported NBC News, citing the president’s interaction with Axios. In a brief phone call, the US president, who had earlier condemned what he said was fake information put out by Tehran on the contents of the deal, told Axios that he had demanded clarification from Iran for state media reports that claimed the country would receive billions in frozen assets after the deal was signed, adding that officials privately “apologised for putting out false information.” Trump had said in a Truth Social post earlier, “The terms that Iran leaked out to the Fake News have NOTHING to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing. What they said, including their weak and pathetic statement on having a deal, bears no relation to the truth.” Also Read: US govt funded foreign biolabs, many of them worked on dangerous pathogens, reveals Tulsi Gabbard ‘No funds are being released for simply signing a deal,’ says Vance Meanwhile, US Vice-President JD Vance said that no funds are being released for simply signing a deal. Vance hit back at concerns being raised by “people who (rightly) said Donald Trump was a historic president a month ago.”

US Vice-President JD Vance said that no funds are being released for simply signing a deal. Vance alleged that fake information was being shared about the deal and said the Iranians are not receiving any cash, and no funds are being released for simply signing a deal or attending a meeting.

Trump says deal with Iran could be signed over weekend or on Monday

When SpaceX rang the opening bell on Nasdaq, thousands of new shareholders became part-owners of one of the most ambitious companies on the planet. But buried in the company's regulatory filings is a detail that should give every one of those investors pause: Elon Musk alone controls approximately 85 percent of SpaceX's voting power.&nbsp;How the Dual-Class Structure Works&nbsp;SpaceX's share structure splits ownership into different classes of stock, one class for the public markets, carrying ordinary voting rights, and another class held overwhelmingly by Musk and SpaceX insiders, carrying outsized voting power per share. The result is a company where outside investors can buy economic exposure to SpaceX's growth, but have almost no say in how it is run. Musk will continue to serve simultaneously as SpaceX's Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technical Officer, and Chairman of the Board and will control the election of the very directors meant to provide oversight.&nbsp;Why This Matters for Shareholders&nbsp;In a normal public company, if a CEO makes a string of bad decisions, loses investor confidence, or pursues projects that destroy shareholder value, the board, accountable to shareholders, can replace them. Under SpaceX's structure, that check effectively does not exist. Analysts reviewing the filings have described the arrangement bluntly: it will be very difficult for the board to remove Musk if necessary, meaning shareholders will be unable to remove him if he fails to deliver on promises.&nbsp;This is not a hypothetical concern. SpaceX's business plan rests partly on extremely ambitious, long-horizon goals, including Mars colonization and space-based data centers, that are notoriously difficult to value and have historically seen repeated delays. A shareholder base with no ability to course-correct leadership is betting entirely on Musk's judgment, indefinitely.&nbsp;A Pattern Investors Already Know&nbsp;This is not the first time Musk has structured a company to maximize his personal control. Tesla shareholders have spent years debating Musk's compensation packages and his attention being split across Tesla, X, xAI, Neuralink, The Boring Company, and now a publicly traded SpaceX. SpaceX's filings explicitly acknowledge the risk of related-party transactions between Musk's various companies, deals where the same person sits on both sides of the negotiating table.&nbsp;The Bottom Line&nbsp;None of this means SpaceX cannot succeed, its rocket and Starlink businesses are real, profitable, and growing. But for the millions of retail investors who placed orders hoping to own a piece of the space economy, the fine print matters. Buying SPCX stock means buying into Musk's vision with no meaningful mechanism to challenge it if that vision goes wrong. Governance experts call this a textbook example of weak corporate governance and it is now baked into one of the largest public companies in the world.

SpaceX's IPO filings show Elon Musk retains roughly 85% of voting power through dual-class shares, raising serious governance concerns for new shareholders.

When SpaceX rang the opening bell on Nasdaq, thousands of new shareholders became part-owners of one of the most ambitious companies on the planet. But buried in the company's regulatory filings is a detail that should give every one of those investors pause: Elon Musk alone controls approximately 85 percent of SpaceX's voting power. How the Dual-Class Structure Works SpaceX's share structure splits ownership into different classes of stock, one class for the public markets, carrying ordinary voting rights, and another class held overwhelmingly by Musk and SpaceX insiders, carrying outsized voting power per share. The result is a company where outside investors can buy economic exposure to SpaceX's growth, but have almost no say in how it is run. Musk will continue to serve simultaneously as SpaceX's Chief Executive Officer, Chief Technical Officer, and Chairman of the Board and will control the election of the very directors meant to provide oversight. Why This Matters for Shareholders In a normal public company, if a CEO makes a string of bad decisions, loses investor confidence, or pursues projects that destroy shareholder value, the board, accountable to shareholders, can replace them. Under SpaceX's structure, that check effectively does not exist. Analysts reviewing the filings have described the arrangement bluntly: it will be very difficult for the board to remove Musk if necessary, meaning shareholders will be unable to remove him if he fails to deliver on promises. This is not a hypothetical concern. SpaceX's business plan rests partly on extremely ambitious, long-horizon goals, including Mars colonization and space-based data centers, that are notoriously difficult to value and have historically seen repeated delays. A shareholder base with no ability to course-correct leadership is betting entirely on Musk's judgment, indefinitely. A Pattern Investors Already Know This is not the first time Musk has structured a company to maximize his personal control. Tesla shareholders have spent years debating Musk's compensation packages and his attention being split across Tesla, X, xAI, Neuralink, The Boring Company, and now a publicly traded SpaceX. SpaceX's filings explicitly acknowledge the risk of related-party transactions between Musk's various companies, deals where the same person sits on both sides of the negotiating table. The Bottom Line None of this means SpaceX cannot succeed, its rocket and Starlink businesses are real, profitable, and growing. But for the millions of retail investors who placed orders hoping to own a piece of the space economy, the fine print matters. Buying SPCX stock means buying into Musk's vision with no meaningful mechanism to challenge it if that vision goes wrong. Governance experts call this a textbook example of weak corporate governance and it is now baked into one of the largest public companies in the world.

SpaceX's IPO prospectus reveals Elon Musk will retain control of roughly 85% of shareholder votes through a dual-class structure, making it nearly impossible for the board to remove him even if he fails to deliver on his promises.

Musk controls 85% of SpaceX's votes! Why that should worry every new investor

The US government funded more than 120 biolaboratories in over 30 countries, including Ukraine, said the outgoing Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard in a bombshell revelation on Friday, further adding that many of these facilities contained and worked on pathogens that cause infectious diseases.&nbsp;Tulsi Gabbard shared a video message on X, saying, “Today, I’m releasing never before seen intelligence revealing new evidence of past US government funding for more than 120 biolabs in over 30 countries, including Ukraine.”&nbsp;Many of these US government-funded biolabs are currently or have previously engaged in research using hazardous and highly contagious pathogens, in some cases to include dangerous Gain-of-Function research—a scientific methodology that genetically alters an organism to enhance a biological function, widely used to develop vaccines but comes with biosecurity risks—with “very little visibility or oversight,” said a release issued by the office of DNI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, I’m releasing never before seen intelligence revealing new evidence of past US government funding for more than 120 biolabs in over 30 countries, including Ukraine. In support of President Trump‘s Executive Order to end federal funding of dangerous gain of function… <a href="https://t.co/RkPHnAbka9">pic.twitter.com/RkPHnAbka9</a>&mdash; DNI Tulsi Gabbard (@DNIGabbard) <a href="https://x.com/DNIGabbard/status/2065440568423944607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-that-we-agreed-to-trump-slams-terms-of-peace-deal-reported-by-iranian-state-media-1781273873656">‘Nothing that we agreed to’: Trump slams terms of peace deal reported by Iranian state media</a>&nbsp;“In support of President Trump’s Executive Order to end federal funding of dangerous gain of function research around the world, and increase transparency and accountability, ODNI will continue working with partners across the Administration to identify where these labs are, what pathogens they contain, and what “research” is being conducted, Gabbard added in her post.&nbsp;Such evidence regarding the funding of these laboratories has been “knowingly withheld” from the public and “intentionally covered up by powerful people falsely, claiming that they do not exist and accusing anyone who says otherwise to be foreign assets and traitors to America,” she added.&nbsp;President Donald Trump signed an executive order in May halting federal funding for “dangerous gain-of-function” research and mandated a suspension of any active National Institutes of Health-funded projects that meet the definition to prevent US tax dollars from supporting high-risk pathogen research in countries of concern or lacking adequate oversight.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-use-iran-s-frozen-funds-to-pay-for-damages-inflicted-on-gulf-allies-scott-bessent-1781205304888">‘US will use Iran’s frozen funds to pay for damages inflicted on Gulf allies’: Scott Bessent</a>&nbsp;The new evidence includes million-dollar labs in Ukraine that may be at risk of “compromise” due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;The intelligence community previously warned that a US-funded biolab in Ukraine likely housed pathogens that cause infectious diseases such as brucellosis and anthrax bacteria, plus remained “vulnerable” to longstanding threats of Russian attack, seizure or damage.&nbsp;Over 40 labs in Ukraine included the storage of biological weapons’ pathogens from the Soviet era, “especially dangerous pathogen certification” and a repository of disease-causing pathogens, such as tuberculosis, swine fever, Newcastle disease, SARS and Ebola, according to the DNI press release.The US also paid Ukrainian scientists to study pathogenic avian flu and other infectious viruses in biocontainment labs.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fir-lodged-against-mamata-banerjee-over-inflammatory-speech-during-bengal-elections-1781278388410">FIR lodged against Mamata Banerjee over ‘inflammatory‘ speech during Bengal elections</a>&nbsp;Despite the obvious potential for catastrophic global impact, research on dangerous pathogens in biolabs … politicians, so-called health professionals like [former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Anthony Fauci], and entities within the Biden administration’s national security team lied to the American people about the existence of US-funded and supported biolabs, and threatened those who attempted to expose the truth, Gabbard said in the statement.&nbsp;Besides government entities like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Ukrainian scientific collaborator network includes several US academic institutions, like the University of Florida, University of Alaska, University of Tennessee, University of New Mexico and Kansas State University.&nbsp;“ODNI will continue to work closely with partners across the government to identify where these labs are, what pathogens they contain to end dangerous Gain-of-Function research that threatens the health and well-being of the American people and people around the world,” Gabbard said.

Over 40 labs in Ukraine included the storage of biological weapons’ pathogens from the Soviet era, “especially dangerous pathogen certification” and a repository of disease-causing pathogens, such as tuberculosis, swine fever, Newcastle disease, SARS and Ebola, said the DNI press release.

The US government funded more than 120 biolaboratories in over 30 countries, including Ukraine, said the outgoing Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard in a bombshell revelation on Friday, further adding that many of these facilities contained and worked on pathogens that cause infectious diseases. Tulsi Gabbard shared a video message on X, saying, “Today, I’m releasing never before seen intelligence revealing new evidence of past US government funding for more than 120 biolabs in over 30 countries, including Ukraine.” Many of these US government-funded biolabs are currently or have previously engaged in research using hazardous and highly contagious pathogens, in some cases to include dangerous Gain-of-Function research—a scientific methodology that genetically alters an organism to enhance a biological function, widely used to develop vaccines but comes with biosecurity risks—with “very little visibility or oversight,” said a release issued by the office of DNI.

Over 40 labs in Ukraine included the storage of biological weapons’ pathogens from the Soviet era, “especially dangerous pathogen certification” and a repository of disease-causing pathogens, such as tuberculosis, swine fever, Newcastle disease, SARS and Ebola, said the DNI press release.

US govt funded foreign biolabs, many of them worked on dangerous pathogens, reveals Tulsi Gabbard

After the Iranian state media on Friday (June 12) reported extensively on the terms of a peace deal being hammered out, US president Donald Trump denied that those were the terms agreed to between the two countries to stop the war. “The terms that Iran leaked out to the Fake News have NOTHING to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing,” Trump said on Truth Social.&nbsp;“What they said, including their weak and pathetic statement on having a deal, bears no relation to the truth. Very dishonorable people to deal with. With them, there is no such thing as dealing in good faith,” he wrote further.<h2>Araghchi says peace deal very close</h2>&nbsp;Immediately, Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi took to social media and urged news outlets to "refrain from entering speculation about its content."&nbsp;However, he highlighted that a peace deal is round the corner. Taking to X Araghchi wrote, "The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding has never been closer. Pending its finalization, the media should refrain from entering speculation about its content."&nbsp;"In line with our responsible and transparent approach, all details will be shared with the public in due course," he further said.&nbsp;Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also said that "a final, agreed upon text of the peace deal has been reached" and his country is working the U.S. and Iran to "finalize next steps."&nbsp;Taking to X Sharif wrote, “Amid ongoing intense mediation efforts by Pakistan, we are fully aware of incessant misinformation campaign being waged by those who want to sabotage the peace deal. Setting aside the noise, we can confirm that a final, agreed upon text of the peace deal has been reached and Pakistan is now working closely with both sides to finalize the next steps. Peace has never been this close as it is now.”<h2>What did Iranian Media say leading to Trump to dismiss it as "Fake news"</h2>&nbsp;Earlier today, Iran's Mehr news agency claimed to reveal &nbsp;details of draft memorandum with US.&nbsp;Citing a source close to Iran's negotiating team, the news agency said the "accord would allow for the "release of $24 billion of Iran's blocked funds during the 60-day final negotiation period."&nbsp;Notably, half of that sum would be "made available to Iran before the start of negotiations," said the news agency further.&nbsp;One of the terms of the draft agreement as published by Iranian state media on Friday was that Iran will receive “compensation” for damage inflicted in US and Israeli attacks during the war.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Immediately after Trumps statement,  Irans Foreign minister Abbas Araghchi took to social media and urged news outlets to refrain from entering speculation about the content of the peace deal. He however said  a deal is very close.

After the Iranian state media on Friday (June 12) reported extensively on the terms of a peace deal being hammered out, US president Donald Trump denied that those were the terms agreed to between the two countries to stop the war. “The terms that Iran leaked out to the Fake News have NOTHING to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing,” Trump said on Truth Social. “What they said, including their weak and pathetic statement on having a deal, bears no relation to the truth. Very dishonorable people to deal with. With them, there is no such thing as dealing in good faith,” he wrote further. Araghchi says peace deal very close Immediately, Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi took to social media and urged news outlets to "refrain from entering speculation about its content." However, he highlighted that a peace deal is round the corner. Taking to X Araghchi wrote, "The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding has never been closer. Pending its finalization, the media should refrain from entering speculation about its content." "In line with our responsible and transparent approach, all details will be shared with the public in due course," he further said. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also said that "a final, agreed upon text of the peace deal has been reached" and his country is working the U.S. and Iran to "finalize next steps." Taking to X Sharif wrote, “Amid ongoing intense mediation efforts by Pakistan, we are fully aware of incessant misinformation campaign being waged by those who want to sabotage the peace deal. Setting aside the noise, we can confirm that a final, agreed upon text of the peace deal has been reached and Pakistan is now working closely with both sides to finalize the next steps. Peace has never been this close as it is now.” What did Iranian Media say leading to Trump to dismiss it as "Fake news" Earlier today, Iran's Mehr news agency claimed to reveal details of draft memorandum with US. Citing a source close to Iran's negotiating team, the news agency said the "accord would allow for the "release of $24 billion of Iran's blocked funds during the 60-day final negotiation period." Notably, half of that sum would be "made available to Iran before the start of negotiations," said the news agency further. One of the terms of the draft agreement as published by Iranian state media on Friday was that Iran will receive “compensation” for damage inflicted in US and Israeli attacks during the war.

Immediately after Trump's statement, &nbsp;Iran's Foreign minister Abbas Araghchi took to social media and urged news outlets to refrain from entering speculation about the content of the peace deal. He however said &nbsp;a deal is very close.

Iran's Araghchi says US-Iran deal has 'never been closer' after Trump slams Iranian media

Elon Musk's SpaceX has officially gone public, and it has done so on a scale Wall Street has never witnessed before. On June 12, 2026, shares of Space Exploration Technologies Corp began trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker SPCX, priced at $135 apiece. At that price, SpaceX's market valuation sits at approximately $1.8 trillion — instantly placing it among the most valuable companies on the planet, ahead of household names like Walmart, ExxonMobil, and most global banks.&nbsp;A Record-Breaking Raise&nbsp;The IPO raised more than $30 billion by selling roughly 555.6 million shares, making it the largest public offering in financial history, easily surpassing previous record-holders such as Saudi Aramco and Alibaba. Bloomberg had reported as early as December 2025 that SpaceX was pursuing a raise far above $30 billion, and by April 2026 some reports suggested the company was seeking a valuation north of $2 trillion before settling closer to $1.8 trillion at pricing.&nbsp;Demand from institutional investors was overwhelming. Order books were oversubscribed with more than $10 billion in bids from large funds, while retail investors — a group typically given only 5 to 10 percent of shares in major IPOs — were offered an unusually large 30 percent allocation, reflecting just how badly Wall Street wanted ordinary people to have a piece of the Musk empire.&nbsp;What SpaceX Actually Sells&nbsp;Behind the ticker symbol is a company with three distinct businesses. Its core rocket launch operations, including the Falcon 9 and Starship programs, generated about $4 billion in revenue in 2025. Its satellite internet division, Starlink, brought in $11.4 billion, by far the largest contributor. And a newer AI infrastructure business, leveraging SpaceX's data centers and computing capacity, added roughly $3 billion. Combined, SpaceX's total 2025 revenue came in at $18.7 billion, a 33 percent jump from the year before.&nbsp;Why This Listing Matters&nbsp;For decades, SpaceX remained one of the most valuable private companies on Earth, raising capital exclusively from venture funds, sovereign wealth funds, and employee share sales — all while avoiding the scrutiny that comes with public markets. That era is now over. As a public company, SpaceX must file quarterly earnings, disclose financial risks, and answer to shareholders in a way it never has before.&nbsp;The listing also arrives amid what analysts are calling a 2026 IPO boom, with other major private tech companies, including OpenAI and Anthropic, reportedly eyeing similar public listings. SpaceX's debut sets the benchmark — and the bar — for how the market will price the next generation of frontier technology companies, from rockets and satellites to artificial intelligence.&nbsp;Whether SpaceX can justify its trillion-dollar price tag over the long run is a question that will now play out in full public view, every quarter, for the first time in the company's 24-year history.

SpaceX debuted on Nasdaq as SPCX at $135 a share, valuing the company at $1.8 trillion and raising over $30 billion in the largest IPO ever recorded.

Elon Musk's SpaceX has officially gone public, and it has done so on a scale Wall Street has never witnessed before. On June 12, 2026, shares of Space Exploration Technologies Corp began trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker SPCX, priced at $135 apiece. At that price, SpaceX's market valuation sits at approximately $1.8 trillion — instantly placing it among the most valuable companies on the planet, ahead of household names like Walmart, ExxonMobil, and most global banks. A Record-Breaking Raise The IPO raised more than $30 billion by selling roughly 555.6 million shares, making it the largest public offering in financial history, easily surpassing previous record-holders such as Saudi Aramco and Alibaba. Bloomberg had reported as early as December 2025 that SpaceX was pursuing a raise far above $30 billion, and by April 2026 some reports suggested the company was seeking a valuation north of $2 trillion before settling closer to $1.8 trillion at pricing. Demand from institutional investors was overwhelming. Order books were oversubscribed with more than $10 billion in bids from large funds, while retail investors — a group typically given only 5 to 10 percent of shares in major IPOs — were offered an unusually large 30 percent allocation, reflecting just how badly Wall Street wanted ordinary people to have a piece of the Musk empire. What SpaceX Actually Sells Behind the ticker symbol is a company with three distinct businesses. Its core rocket launch operations, including the Falcon 9 and Starship programs, generated about $4 billion in revenue in 2025. Its satellite internet division, Starlink, brought in $11.4 billion, by far the largest contributor. And a newer AI infrastructure business, leveraging SpaceX's data centers and computing capacity, added roughly $3 billion. Combined, SpaceX's total 2025 revenue came in at $18.7 billion, a 33 percent jump from the year before. Why This Listing Matters For decades, SpaceX remained one of the most valuable private companies on Earth, raising capital exclusively from venture funds, sovereign wealth funds, and employee share sales — all while avoiding the scrutiny that comes with public markets. That era is now over. As a public company, SpaceX must file quarterly earnings, disclose financial risks, and answer to shareholders in a way it never has before. The listing also arrives amid what analysts are calling a 2026 IPO boom, with other major private tech companies, including OpenAI and Anthropic, reportedly eyeing similar public listings. SpaceX's debut sets the benchmark — and the bar — for how the market will price the next generation of frontier technology companies, from rockets and satellites to artificial intelligence. Whether SpaceX can justify its trillion-dollar price tag over the long run is a question that will now play out in full public view, every quarter, for the first time in the company's 24-year history.

SpaceX debuted on Nasdaq under the ticker SPCX at $135 a share, valuing Elon Musk's rocket and satellite company at roughly $1.8 trillion and raising over $30 billion, the largest initial public offering in history.

SpaceX just made history! $1.8 trillion IPO is the biggest listing ever

Long before England lifted the World Cup on home soil in 1966, the tournament faced a crisis that threatened to overshadow the entire event. Four months before kickoff, the coveted Jules Rimet Trophy was stolen from a public exhibition in London, sparking a nationwide manhunt that would eventually be solved by an unlikely hero, a mixed-breed collie named Pickles.<h2>A trophy vanishes</h2>The story began on March 20, 1966, when the Football Association (FA) agreed to display the Jules Rimet Trophy at the Stanley Gibbons Stampex exhibition, “Sport with Stamps,” held at Methodist Central Hall in Westminster. Valued at £3,000 and displayed alongside rare stamps worth an estimated £3 million, the trophy was considered one of the exhibition’s main attractions. Then-FIFA President Stanley Rous approved the display under strict security conditions. The trophy was transported by a reputable company, kept inside a locked display case, guarded by security personnel, and insured for £30,000.&nbsp;Despite these precautions, a major flaw remained. Security coverage was not continuous, leaving gaps when the exhibition was closed. Taking advantage of the lapse, a thief entered through a rear door and stole the trophy in broad daylight sometime between 11 a.m. and 12:10 pm. Even more baffling was the fact that the thief ignored the far more valuable stamp collection and took only the World Cup trophy. The theft was a major embarrassment for authorities. The Metropolitan Police had no immediate leads and conflicting witness descriptions complicated the investigation.<h2>The ransom note</h2>Days later, FA chairman Joe Mears received a ransom note signed by someone calling himself “Jackson.” The note read: “Dear Joe Kno doubt you view with very much concern the loss of the World Cup ... To me it is only so much scrap gold. If I don’t hear from you by Thursday or Friday at the latest I assume it’s one for the POT.” The sender demanded £15,000 for the trophy’s return.&nbsp;Detective Inspector Len Buggy posed as Mears’s assistant and arranged a meeting with the alleged thief in Battersea Park. Carrying a briefcase filled mostly with newspapers, Buggy waited for the exchange. However, the suspect spotted police surveillance nearby and fled. He was quickly arrested and identified as Edward Betchley. Investigators soon discovered he was merely a middleman and did not possess the trophy. With no further leads, the investigation stalled.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/104-matches-16-cities-3-countries-the-massive-broadcast-operation-behind-fifa-world-cup-2026-1781279302683">104 matches, 16 cities, 3 countries: The massive broadcast operation behind FIFA World Cup 2026</a><h2>Enter Pickles</h2>Everything changed on the morning of March 27. David Corbett stepped outside his home with his dog Pickles. He planned to make a phone call from a nearby telephone box before taking his collie for a walk. As they passed a neighbor’s car, Pickles became interested in a suspicious package hidden in nearby bushes. Wrapped in newspaper and tied with string, the parcel seemed unusual enough to attract Corbett’s attention.&nbsp;Recalling the moment years later, Corbett told FIFA: “I picked it up and it’s quite heavy, though not very big; it wasn’t a spectacular cup.” “At the time the IRA (Irish Republican Army) were at large, so I personally thought it was a bomb. So I put it down. Picked it up, put it down again. Then curiosity took hold. I tore a bit off the bottom and there was a plain disc. Then I tore around and there was Brazil, Germany, Uruguay. I ran back in and said to my wife: ‘I think I’ve found the World Cup!’”&nbsp;Corbett immediately delivered the trophy to Cannon Row Police Station. Ironically, police initially viewed him as the prime suspect. Finding the missing World Cup trophy outside his own home seemed too incredible to be a coincidence. After extensive questioning, authorities cleared Corbett of any involvement. The investigation never conclusively determined who had originally hidden the trophy in the bushes.<h2>Overnight celebrity</h2>With the mystery solved, Pickles became an instant national celebrity. The collie appeared on television, starred in the film The Spy With a Cold Nose, received a medal from the National Canine Defence League (now Dogs Trust), and was rewarded with a year's supply of dog food. Corbett also received a £5,000 reward for recovering the trophy. The newfound fame came with memorable moments. Corbett later admitted to feeling embarrassed when Pickles relieved himself on elevator doors at the hotel hosting England’s World Cup winners' banquet—a celebration to which both owner and dog had been invited.<h2>England’s historic triumph</h2>Four months after the trophy was recovered, England completed one of the most memorable chapters in football history. The Three Lions defeated West Germany 4-2 after extra time in the 1966 World Cup Final. Geoff Hurst scored a historic hat-trick, becoming the first player ever to achieve the feat in a World Cup final.&nbsp;The record stood for 56 years until Kylian Mbappe matched it for France against Argentina in the 2022 World Cup Final.England captain Bobby Moore proudly lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy, the same trophy that had nearly vanished forever months earlier. Pickles was there to celebrate with the team, forever cementing his place in football folklore. Although the collie died just a year later, his remarkable discovery ensured that his legacy would endure as the dog who helped save the 1966 FIFA World Cup.

Discover the incredible true story of Pickles, the dog who found the stolen 1966 World Cup trophy. Learn how a bizarre theft, ransom plot, and canine hero saved football’s biggest tournament

Long before England lifted the World Cup on home soil in 1966, the tournament faced a crisis that threatened to overshadow the entire event. Four months before kickoff, the coveted Jules Rimet Trophy was stolen from a public exhibition in London, sparking a nationwide manhunt that would eventually be solved by an unlikely hero, a mixed-breed collie named Pickles. A trophy vanishes The story began on March 20, 1966, when the Football Association (FA) agreed to display the Jules Rimet Trophy at the Stanley Gibbons Stampex exhibition, “Sport with Stamps,” held at Methodist Central Hall in Westminster. Valued at £3,000 and displayed alongside rare stamps worth an estimated £3 million, the trophy was considered one of the exhibition’s main attractions. Then-FIFA President Stanley Rous approved the display under strict security conditions. The trophy was transported by a reputable company, kept inside a locked display case, guarded by security personnel, and insured for £30,000. Despite these precautions, a major flaw remained. Security coverage was not continuous, leaving gaps when the exhibition was closed. Taking advantage of the lapse, a thief entered through a rear door and stole the trophy in broad daylight sometime between 11 a.m. and 12:10 pm. Even more baffling was the fact that the thief ignored the far more valuable stamp collection and took only the World Cup trophy. The theft was a major embarrassment for authorities. The Metropolitan Police had no immediate leads and conflicting witness descriptions complicated the investigation. The ransom note Days later, FA chairman Joe Mears received a ransom note signed by someone calling himself “Jackson.” The note read: “Dear Joe Kno doubt you view with very much concern the loss of the World Cup ... To me it is only so much scrap gold. If I don’t hear from you by Thursday or Friday at the latest I assume it’s one for the POT.” The sender demanded £15,000 for the trophy’s return. Detective Inspector Len Buggy posed as Mears’s assistant and arranged a meeting with the alleged thief in Battersea Park. Carrying a briefcase filled mostly with newspapers, Buggy waited for the exchange. However, the suspect spotted police surveillance nearby and fled. He was quickly arrested and identified as Edward Betchley. Investigators soon discovered he was merely a middleman and did not possess the trophy. With no further leads, the investigation stalled. Also Read: 104 matches, 16 cities, 3 countries: The massive broadcast operation behind FIFA World Cup 2026 Enter Pickles Everything changed on the morning of March 27. David Corbett stepped outside his home with his dog Pickles. He planned to make a phone call from a nearby telephone box before taking his collie for a walk. As they passed a neighbor’s car, Pickles became interested in a suspicious package hidden in nearby bushes. Wrapped in newspaper and tied with string, the parcel seemed unusual enough to attract Corbett’s attention. Recalling the moment years later, Corbett told FIFA: “I picked it up and it’s quite heavy, though not very big; it wasn’t a spectacular cup.” “At the time the IRA (Irish Republican Army) were at large, so I personally thought it was a bomb. So I put it down. Picked it up, put it down again. Then curiosity took hold. I tore a bit off the bottom and there was a plain disc. Then I tore around and there was Brazil, Germany, Uruguay. I ran back in and said to my wife: ‘I think I’ve found the World Cup!’” Corbett immediately delivered the trophy to Cannon Row Police Station. Ironically, police initially viewed him as the prime suspect. Finding the missing World Cup trophy outside his own home seemed too incredible to be a coincidence. After extensive questioning, authorities cleared Corbett of any involvement. The investigation never conclusively determined who had originally hidden the trophy in the bushes. Overnight celebrity With the mystery solved, Pickles became an instant national celebrity. The collie appeared on television, starred in the film The Spy With a Cold Nose, received a medal from the National Canine Defence League (now Dogs Trust), and was rewarded with a year's supply of dog food. Corbett also received a £5,000 reward for recovering the trophy. The newfound fame came with memorable moments. Corbett later admitted to feeling embarrassed when Pickles relieved himself on elevator doors at the hotel hosting England’s World Cup winners' banquet—a celebration to which both owner and dog had been invited. England’s historic triumph Four months after the trophy was recovered, England completed one of the most memorable chapters in football history. The Three Lions defeated West Germany 4-2 after extra time in the 1966 World Cup Final. Geoff Hurst scored a historic hat-trick, becoming the first player ever to achieve the feat in a World Cup final. The record stood for 56 years until Kylian Mbappe matched it for France against Argentina in the 2022 World Cup Final. England captain Bobby Moore proudly lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy, the same trophy that had nearly vanished forever months earlier. Pickles was there to celebrate with the team, forever cementing his place in football folklore. Although the collie died just a year later, his remarkable discovery ensured that his legacy would endure as the dog who helped save the 1966 FIFA World Cup.

A collie named Pickles solved one of football’s greatest mysteries by finding the stolen 1966 FIFA World Cup trophy in a London hedge, saving England’s tournament from disaster

The dog who saved the 1966 FIFA World Cup: How Pickles Solved football's greatest mystery

Pakistan's poverty rose by 7 per cent over the last six years, with nearly 27 million people falling into the league. It has pushed the net tally of the poor in the country to 70 million, according to the national economic survey 2025-26. The survey released on Thursday indicated that poverty was at 21.9 per cent in 2018-19, but now it has increased to 28.9 per cent in 2024-25. Rural poverty increased from 28.2 to 36.2 per cent, while urban poverty rose to 17.4 per cent from 11 per cent. In the Punjab province, poverty surged from 16.5 to 23.3 per cent; in Sindh, it has increased from 24.5 to 32.6 per cent; Khyber Pakhtunkhwa witnessed a rise from 28.7 to 35.3 per cent; and Balochistan saw a rise from 41.8 to 47 per cent. Balochistan's poverty marks the highest rate among Pakistan's provinces, while Punjab reported the lowest among the four provinces. According to The Balochistan Post, nearly 47 per cent of Balochistan's population lives below the poverty line, significantly above Pakistan's national average of 28.9 per cent.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/billion-dollar-opportunity-behind-india-s-drone-revolution-a-look-at-startups-building-core-technologies-1781265084891">Billion-dollar opportunity behind India's drone revolution: A look at startups building core technologies</a><h3>Pakistan provinces vs poorest nations</h3>The survey attributed the rise in poverty to a combination of long-term economic challenges, including soaring inflation, the depreciation of the Pakistani rupee, economic reforms linked to International Monetary Fund (IMF) programmes, devastating floods and the impact of the conflict in West Asia. The findings suggest that nearly half of Balochistan's residents are unable to meet their basic needs, underscoring the growing economic disparity between the province and the rest of the country. The poverty rate of Balochistan and Punjab provinces is even higher than that of some of the poor nations that include Ghana, Burkina Faso, Mauritania and Togo. Reports indicate that Ghana's multidimensional poverty was 21.9 per cent (7.2 million people) by 2025 Q3 which fell from 24.9 per cent (8.2 million people) in 2024 Q4. The multidimensional poverty headcount ratio of Togo was also 44.63 per cent in 2021. Burkina Faso's poverty rate at $3.00 a Day (PPP) was also 42.06 per cent in 2021, according to World Bank data. Similarly, Mauritania's poverty rate at $3.00 a day stands at 10.22 per cent, and the multidimensional poverty headcount ratio is 42.74 per cent. Even its poverty rate at the National Poverty Line(s) was at 31.80 per cent in 2021.&nbsp;Surprisingly, Comoros' poverty rate at the National Poverty Line in 2021 was 42.40 per cent, which was higher than Pakistan's Punjab province but lower than Balochistan. To evaluate global poverty rates, international organisations like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) primarily track the Poverty Headcount Ratio, which measures the percentage of a country’s population living below the International Poverty Line (currently set at $2.15 per day for extreme poverty).&nbsp;

Pakistan's poverty rate rose from 21.9 per cent to 28.9 per cent over six years, adding 27 million people to reach a total of 70 million poor. Driven by inflation and IMF reforms, rural poverty hit 36.2 per cent, with Balochistan recording the highest provincial rate at 47 per cent.

Pakistan's poverty rose by 7 per cent over the last six years, with nearly 27 million people falling into the league. It has pushed the net tally of the poor in the country to 70 million, according to the national economic survey 2025-26. The survey released on Thursday indicated that poverty was at 21.9 per cent in 2018-19, but now it has increased to 28.9 per cent in 2024-25. Rural poverty increased from 28.2 to 36.2 per cent, while urban poverty rose to 17.4 per cent from 11 per cent. In the Punjab province, poverty surged from 16.5 to 23.3 per cent; in Sindh, it has increased from 24.5 to 32.6 per cent; Khyber Pakhtunkhwa witnessed a rise from 28.7 to 35.3 per cent; and Balochistan saw a rise from 41.8 to 47 per cent. Balochistan's poverty marks the highest rate among Pakistan's provinces, while Punjab reported the lowest among the four provinces. According to The Balochistan Post, nearly 47 per cent of Balochistan's population lives below the poverty line, significantly above Pakistan's national average of 28.9 per cent. Also read: Billion-dollar opportunity behind India's drone revolution: A look at startups building core technologies Pakistan provinces vs poorest nations The survey attributed the rise in poverty to a combination of long-term economic challenges, including soaring inflation, the depreciation of the Pakistani rupee, economic reforms linked to International Monetary Fund (IMF) programmes, devastating floods and the impact of the conflict in West Asia. The findings suggest that nearly half of Balochistan's residents are unable to meet their basic needs, underscoring the growing economic disparity between the province and the rest of the country. The poverty rate of Balochistan and Punjab provinces is even higher than that of some of the poor nations that include Ghana, Burkina Faso, Mauritania and Togo. Reports indicate that Ghana's multidimensional poverty was 21.9 per cent (7.2 million people) by 2025 Q3 which fell from 24.9 per cent (8.2 million people) in 2024 Q4. The multidimensional poverty headcount ratio of Togo was also 44.63 per cent in 2021. Burkina Faso's poverty rate at $3.00 a Day (PPP) was also 42.06 per cent in 2021, according to World Bank data. Similarly, Mauritania's poverty rate at $3.00 a day stands at 10.22 per cent, and the multidimensional poverty headcount ratio is 42.74 per cent. Even its poverty rate at the National Poverty Line(s) was at 31.80 per cent in 2021. Surprisingly, Comoros' poverty rate at the National Poverty Line in 2021 was 42.40 per cent, which was higher than Pakistan's Punjab province but lower than Balochistan. To evaluate global poverty rates, international organisations like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) primarily track the Poverty Headcount Ratio, which measures the percentage of a country’s population living below the International Poverty Line (currently set at $2.15 per day for extreme poverty).

Pakistan's poverty rate rose from 21.9 per cent to 28.9 per cent over six years, adding 27 million people to reach a total of 70 million poor. Driven by inflation and IMF reforms, rural poverty hit 36.2 per cent, with Balochistan recording the highest provincial rate at 47 per cent.

How Pakistan's provinces are poorer than some of the world's poorest nations

US President Donald Trump on Friday condemned Iran after Iranian state media reported extensively on the terms of a peace deal being hammered out and denied that they were what was discussed. Trump said these were not the terms agreed to between the two countries to stop the war. Trump also accused Iran of carrying out a failed drone attack against Indian ships departing the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday night but did not share any evidence to support the claim.&nbsp;“The terms that Iran leaked out to the Fake News have NOTHING to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing,” Trump said on Truth Social.“What they said, including their weak and pathetic statement on having a deal, bears no relation to the truth. Very dishonorable people to deal with. With them, there is no such thing as dealing in good faith,” he wrote further.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump further warned that Iran’s leaders “better get their act together, and FAST!”, and said that Tehran’s failed drone attack on Indian ships leaving Hormuz last night is unacceptable. “AMAZING! Also, their totally rebuffed Drone attack last night against Indian Ships leaving the Hormuz Strait is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE. They better get their act together, and FAST! Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-use-iran-s-frozen-funds-to-pay-for-damages-inflicted-on-gulf-allies-scott-bessent-1781205304888">‘US will use Iran’s frozen funds to pay for damages inflicted on Gulf allies’: Scott Bessent</a><h2>Deal would see Tehran ‘compensated’ for damage from US, Israeli strikes: Iran state media</h2> One of the terms of the draft agreement as published by Iranian state media on Friday was that Iran will receive “compensation” for damage inflicted in US and Israeli attacks during the war.Iran’s official IRNA news agency said Tehran had “devised a practical mechanism for pursuing compensation and has secured guarantees from third parties regarding its implementation.” Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-nominates-former-sec-chairman-jay-clayton-to-replace-tulsi-gabbard-as-next-director-of-national-intelligence-1781201971661">Trump nominates former SEC Chairman Jay Clayton to replace Tulsi Gabbard as next director of national intelligence</a><h2>‘Tehran will negotiate to retain uranium enrichment’ </h2> Iran’s state news agency also reported that Iranian officials will negotiate with the US to retain the country’s uranium enrichment capabilities.The report by Iran’s official IRNA news agency said that a 60-day ceasefire period starting with the signing of the memorandum of understanding would be used to negotiate the future of Iran’s nuclear programme. IRNA cited unnamed Iranian officials as saying that during negotiations Tehran would maintain its current position on the country’s ‘right’ to uranium enrichment, and on keeping its enriched material in the country. A report by CBS News on Thursday, citing sources familiar with the negotiations, said that, in principle, Iran would commit to not enrich uranium for 15-20 years, during which time it would dismantle its nuclear sites.

One of the terms of the draft agreement as published by Iranian state media said that Iran will receive “compensation” for damage inflicted in US and Israeli attacks during the war. It also reported that Iranian officials will negotiate to retain the country’s uranium enrichment capabilities.

US President Donald Trump on Friday condemned Iran after Iranian state media reported extensively on the terms of a peace deal being hammered out and denied that they were what was discussed. Trump said these were not the terms agreed to between the two countries to stop the war. Trump also accused Iran of carrying out a failed drone attack against Indian ships departing the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday night but did not share any evidence to support the claim. “The terms that Iran leaked out to the Fake News have NOTHING to do with the terms that were agreed to, in writing,” Trump said on Truth Social. “What they said, including their weak and pathetic statement on having a deal, bears no relation to the truth. Very dishonorable people to deal with. With them, there is no such thing as dealing in good faith,” he wrote further.

One of the terms of the draft agreement as published by Iranian state media said that Iran will receive “compensation” for damage inflicted in US and Israeli attacks during the war. It also reported that Iranian officials will negotiate to retain the country’s uranium enrichment capabilities.

‘Nothing that we agreed to’: Trump slams terms of peace deal reported by Iranian state media

Pakistan’s Economic Survey for FY25-26 shows the country relies heavily on poultry due to a decline in beef and mutton consumption driven by rising prices. Amid disease outbreaks, a volatile market, and export suspensions, the costs of feed and production have increased. Despite these rising prices, low-income and middle-class households continue to rely on chicken as their primary source of protein, as red meat has become too expensive. According to a report by the news outlet Dawn, beef currently costs nearly PKR 1,500–1,800 per kg, while mutton ranges from PKR 2,700–2,900 per kg.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pok-protesters-defy-asim-munir-vow-will-sacrifice-thousands-won-t-surrender-1781286132654/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pok-protesters-defy-asim-munir-vow-will-sacrifice-thousands-won-t-surrender-1781286132654/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Red meat a luxury?</h2>The poultry sector has shown a consistent annual growth rate of 8% over the past decade. While a modest increase has been observed in rural poultry, the most significant growth stems from commercial production. This structural shift in consumer behavior is further accelerated by rising urban demand for processed chicken products, alongside the rapid expansion of poultry consumption within the fast-food and restaurant industries. Although consumers hope for a drop in poultry prices, the Dawn report recalled that when the Afghan border was shut in October 2025, the price of a live bird dipped to PKR 310–360 per kg, down from PKR 460–540 in September. While beef and mutton prices remain prohibitively high, chicken serves as the most accessible alternative for the majority of the population.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-issues-first-response-on-trump-s-offer-to-normalise-ties-with-israel-khawaja-asif-says-cannot-be-trusted-1779761404716">Pakistan issues first response to Trump’s push to normalise ties with Israel</a>&nbsp;Dawn quoted Kamal Akhtar Siddiqui, Member of the Executive Committee of the Pakistan Poultry Association (PPA), who said the demand for chicken after Eid ul Adha has dropped as people keep the sacrificial meat in freezers and shall return to the market only after consuming the entire stock.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/will-be-destroyed-lashkar-e-taiba-warns-pakistan-against-recognising-israel-under-trump-s-pressure-1779941279940">Lashkar-e-Taiba warns Pakistan against recognising Israel under Trump's pressure</a>&nbsp;<h2>Key takeaways:</h2><ul><li>Red Meat Pricing Crisis: Beef (PKR 1,500–1,800/kg) and mutton (PKR 2,700–2,900/kg) have become too expensive for low-and middle-income households.</li><li>Shift to Poultry: High red meat prices have forced a major structural shift, making chicken the primary accessible protein source for the population.</li><li>Rising Input Costs: The poultry sector faces inflated feed and production costs caused by disease outbreaks, market volatility, and export suspensions.</li><li>Commercial Growth: Industry growth averages a robust 8% annually over the last decade, fuelled primarily by commercial production rather than rural farming.</li><li>Urban &amp; Commercial Drivers: Demand is heavily accelerated by the expansion of the fast-food industry, restaurants, and processed chicken products in urban areas.</li><li>Border Trade Impact: Market prices are highly volatile; the October 2025 Afghan border closure caused live bird prices to plummet from PKR 460–540 down to PKR 310–360/kg.</li><li>Post-Eid Demand Slump: Poultry demand drops sharply after Eid al-Adha as households temporarily consume stored sacrificial meat.</li></ul>

Discover how soaring prices have turned beef and mutton into luxury items in Pakistan, forcing low- and middle-income families to rely on chicken. 

Pakistan’s Economic Survey for FY25-26 shows the country relies heavily on poultry due to a decline in beef and mutton consumption driven by rising prices. Amid disease outbreaks, a volatile market, and export suspensions, the costs of feed and production have increased. Despite these rising prices, low-income and middle-class households continue to rely on chicken as their primary source of protein, as red meat has become too expensive. According to a report by the news outlet Dawn, beef currently costs nearly PKR 1,500–1,800 per kg, while mutton ranges from PKR 2,700–2,900 per kg. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pok-protesters-defy-asim-munir-vow-will-sacrifice-thousands-won-t-surrender-1781286132654/embed Red meat a luxury? The poultry sector has shown a consistent annual growth rate of 8% over the past decade. While a modest increase has been observed in rural poultry, the most significant growth stems from commercial production. This structural shift in consumer behavior is further accelerated by rising urban demand for processed chicken products, alongside the rapid expansion of poultry consumption within the fast-food and restaurant industries. Although consumers hope for a drop in poultry prices, the Dawn report recalled that when the Afghan border was shut in October 2025, the price of a live bird dipped to PKR 310–360 per kg, down from PKR 460–540 in September. While beef and mutton prices remain prohibitively high, chicken serves as the most accessible alternative for the majority of the population. Also read: Pakistan issues first response to Trump’s push to normalise ties with Israel Dawn quoted Kamal Akhtar Siddiqui, Member of the Executive Committee of the Pakistan Poultry Association (PPA), who said the demand for chicken after Eid ul Adha has dropped as people keep the sacrificial meat in freezers and shall return to the market only after consuming the entire stock. Also read: Lashkar-e-Taiba warns Pakistan against recognising Israel under Trump's pressure Key takeaways: Red Meat Pricing Crisis: Beef (PKR 1,500–1,800/kg) and mutton (PKR 2,700–2,900/kg) have become too expensive for low-and middle-income households. Shift to Poultry: High red meat prices have forced a major structural shift, making chicken the primary accessible protein source for the population. Rising Input Costs: The poultry sector faces inflated feed and production costs caused by disease outbreaks, market volatility, and export suspensions. Commercial Growth: Industry growth averages a robust 8% annually over the last decade, fuelled primarily by commercial production rather than rural farming. Urban & Commercial Drivers: Demand is heavily accelerated by the expansion of the fast-food industry, restaurants, and processed chicken products in urban areas. Border Trade Impact: Market prices are highly volatile; the October 2025 Afghan border closure caused live bird prices to plummet from PKR 460–540 down to PKR 310–360/kg. Post-Eid Demand Slump: Poultry demand drops sharply after Eid al-Adha as households temporarily consume stored sacrificial meat.

Discover how soaring prices have turned beef and mutton into luxury items in Pakistan, forcing low- and middle-income families to rely on chicken.&nbsp;

Red meat a luxury? Why Pakistan is turning to chicken

The India-French relationship hit an inflexion point in February 2026, when French President Emmanuel Macron visited India for the AI impact summit, elevating bilateral ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership” expanding defence, nuclear, AI, space, and Indo-Pacific cooperation. The bilateral trade between the two nations has more than doubled over the last decade to $15.81 billion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a visit to France for the G7 summit from June 13. This will be India’s 13th participation at the G7 Summit and Prime Minister Modi’s seventh consecutive participation at the G7 Summit.&nbsp;The G7 Summit under the French Presidency has chosen some key priorities for the current year. These are reducing excessive macroeconomic imbalances, and fostering shared growth, renewing international partnerships and development solidarities, strengthening the resilience of critical mineral value chains, protecting minors online, and settling major geopolitical crises.&nbsp;France is currently the third-largest trading partner of India within the European Union. Building on the 25 years of strategic cooperation, the two nations projected a vision of the Horizon 2047 initiative, which aims to strengthen India-France relations.&nbsp;<h2>Defence relationship</h2>The relationship between the two nations is profoundly anchored in defence procurement, technology transfers, and co-production. France is the second-largest arms supplier to India. India has formally inducted 36 Rafales into the IAF squadrons, while it has requested 114 more jets, 90 of which are supposed to be manufactured in India. However, the collaboration goes well beyond mere procurement. India and France continued cooperation on Scorpene submarines, including indigenisation and integration of DRDO-developed Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, and discussions on joint production of engines for helicopters and fighter jets. The leaders virtually inaugurated the H-125 helicopter Final Assembly Line in Vemagal, Karnataka. This facility, a partnership between Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems, is India's first private-sector helicopter manufacturing line.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-medical-checkup-22-doctors-white-house-record-1781265288182">Donald Trump's medical checkup involved 22 doctors, setting a White House record</a>However, the question still revolves around the transfer of technology, and the actual percentages of indigenous components remains unclear, &nbsp;meaning "Make in India" success depends on how quickly the local supply chain can scale for complex aerospace parts. The focus is shifting toward combat engine co-development for India’s future fighter programs.<h2>Nuclear programme</h2>Both sides reaffirmed civil nuclear cooperation, including the long-pending Jaitapur nuclear power plant, and signed agreements on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs), alongside an educational partnership between India's GCNEP and France's INSTN for training nuclear professionals. India's current capacity is only around 8.2 GW; achieving a 12-fold increase in 20 years requires unprecedented capital. However, attention has shifted toward private sector participation in the nuclear field following India’s recent reforms.<h2>AI-philosophy</h2>Artificial Intelligence was one of the major focuses of the February visit of Macron. Modi and Macron launched the India-France Roadmap on AI, built on their shared vision for secure and ethical AI development. The focus is on safe open source and trustworthy AI. Indian startups were included at the French Startup Incubator Station F. Both nations had a convergent vision on AI governance, one which is democratic rather than driven by US and Chinese tech giants. However, the technology itself is nascent, so the idea of governance remains speculative.<h2>Space and global governance</h2>India is set to participate in the International Space Summit in France in July 2026, and the third India-France Strategic Space Dialogue will also be held in 2026. In 2021, ISRO and CNES signed a new space cooperation agreement in which India's space startups are benefiting from France's expertise in AI-based satellite applications.&nbsp;France is also supporting India's bid for permanent membership of the UNSC; coordination on the regulation of veto in mass atrocities. Both nations have a convergence on key issues such as support for cessation of hostilities and just peace based on UN Charter principles, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, establishment of the state of Palestine under UNSC resolution, and emphasis on dialogue and diplomacy to end the US-Iran war and maintain freedom of navigation in internation water.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's France visit for the G7 Summit, here's how India and France are expanding cooperation in defence, nuclear energy, artificial intelligence, space and global governance.

The India-French relationship hit an inflexion point in February 2026, when French President Emmanuel Macron visited India for the AI impact summit, elevating bilateral ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership” expanding defence, nuclear, AI, space, and Indo-Pacific cooperation. The bilateral trade between the two nations has more than doubled over the last decade to $15.81 billion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a visit to France for the G7 summit from June 13. This will be India’s 13th participation at the G7 Summit and Prime Minister Modi’s seventh consecutive participation at the G7 Summit. The G7 Summit under the French Presidency has chosen some key priorities for the current year. These are reducing excessive macroeconomic imbalances, and fostering shared growth, renewing international partnerships and development solidarities, strengthening the resilience of critical mineral value chains, protecting minors online, and settling major geopolitical crises. France is currently the third-largest trading partner of India within the European Union. Building on the 25 years of strategic cooperation, the two nations projected a vision of the Horizon 2047 initiative, which aims to strengthen India-France relations. Defence relationship The relationship between the two nations is profoundly anchored in defence procurement, technology transfers, and co-production. France is the second-largest arms supplier to India. India has formally inducted 36 Rafales into the IAF squadrons, while it has requested 114 more jets, 90 of which are supposed to be manufactured in India. However, the collaboration goes well beyond mere procurement. India and France continued cooperation on Scorpene submarines, including indigenisation and integration of DRDO-developed Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, and discussions on joint production of engines for helicopters and fighter jets. The leaders virtually inaugurated the H-125 helicopter Final Assembly Line in Vemagal, Karnataka. This facility, a partnership between Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems, is India's first private-sector helicopter manufacturing line. Also Read: Donald Trump's medical checkup involved 22 doctors, setting a White House record However, the question still revolves around the transfer of technology, and the actual percentages of indigenous components remains unclear, meaning "Make in India" success depends on how quickly the local supply chain can scale for complex aerospace parts. The focus is shifting toward combat engine co-development for India’s future fighter programs. Nuclear programme Both sides reaffirmed civil nuclear cooperation, including the long-pending Jaitapur nuclear power plant, and signed agreements on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs), alongside an educational partnership between India's GCNEP and France's INSTN for training nuclear professionals. India's current capacity is only around 8.2 GW; achieving a 12-fold increase in 20 years requires unprecedented capital. However, attention has shifted toward private sector participation in the nuclear field following India’s recent reforms. AI-philosophy Artificial Intelligence was one of the major focuses of the February visit of Macron. Modi and Macron launched the India-France Roadmap on AI, built on their shared vision for secure and ethical AI development. The focus is on safe open source and trustworthy AI. Indian startups were included at the French Startup Incubator Station F. Both nations had a convergent vision on AI governance, one which is democratic rather than driven by US and Chinese tech giants. However, the technology itself is nascent, so the idea of governance remains speculative. Space and global governance India is set to participate in the International Space Summit in France in July 2026, and the third India-France Strategic Space Dialogue will also be held in 2026. In 2021, ISRO and CNES signed a new space cooperation agreement in which India's space startups are benefiting from France's expertise in AI-based satellite applications. France is also supporting India's bid for permanent membership of the UNSC; coordination on the regulation of veto in mass atrocities. Both nations have a convergence on key issues such as support for cessation of hostilities and just peace based on UN Charter principles, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, establishment of the state of Palestine under UNSC resolution, and emphasis on dialogue and diplomacy to end the US-Iran war and maintain freedom of navigation in internation water.

India and France have elevated ties to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, expanding cooperation in defence, nuclear energy, artificial intelligence, space technology and Indo-Pacific security.

Ahead of G7 Summit, a look at the growing India-France strategic partnership

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) on Friday came out with its interim report on the Air India plane crash that happened at Gujarat's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, 2025. The Flight AI-171 en-route London from Ahmedabad crashed into the Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College hostel, within a minute of taking off.&nbsp;The AAIB interim report says that a “significant progress" has been made in the investigation but evidence and technical findings from the probe into last year’s accident are still being analysed.It further said that investigation is still ongoing and the final report will be released only after all investigation of Accidents and Incidents Rules, 2017 and ICAO Annex 13 standards are completed.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-an-election-petition-that-the-supreme-court-has-asked-meenakshi-natarajan-to-file-1781268819009">What is an election petition that the Supreme Court has asked Meenakshi Natarajan to file?</a>&nbsp;Over the past year, investigators have examined several aspects, including aircraft systems, flight recorder data, Engine-related components, maintenance records, operational records, human factors and organisational and technical aspects.<h2>Investigation is for improving aviation safety</h2>“Every aspect of the accident will be examined with the utmost care and diligence so that the findings and safety recommendations command the confidence of all stakeholders and contribute meaningfully to the continued safety of civil aviation," read the statement released by AAIB.&nbsp;The investigating bureau urged people not to spread rumours and make speculations while the investigation is still on. It also said that the purpose of the investigation is not to affix blame but to make aviation for people even more safer.&nbsp;"AAIB reiterates that the purpose of the investigation is to improve aviation safety through lessons learned and safety recommendations, not to assign blame or liability," read the statement.&nbsp;On 12 June 2025, Air India plane 171 crashed after taking off off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Just 32 seconds later, the plane en-route London ploughed into the Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College hostel, killing all 242 but one on board and 19 people on the ground.

The investigating bureau urged people not to spread rumours and make speculations while the investigation is still on in the Air India plane crash at Ahmedabad international airport.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) on Friday came out with its interim report on the Air India plane crash that happened at Gujarat's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, 2025. The Flight AI-171 en-route London from Ahmedabad crashed into the Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College hostel, within a minute of taking off. The AAIB interim report says that a “significant progress" has been made in the investigation but evidence and technical findings from the probe into last year’s accident are still being analysed. It further said that investigation is still ongoing and the final report will be released only after all investigation of Accidents and Incidents Rules, 2017 and ICAO Annex 13 standards are completed. ALSO READ: What is an election petition that the Supreme Court has asked Meenakshi Natarajan to file? Over the past year, investigators have examined several aspects, including aircraft systems, flight recorder data, Engine-related components, maintenance records, operational records, human factors and organisational and technical aspects. Investigation is for improving aviation safety “Every aspect of the accident will be examined with the utmost care and diligence so that the findings and safety recommendations command the confidence of all stakeholders and contribute meaningfully to the continued safety of civil aviation," read the statement released by AAIB. The investigating bureau urged people not to spread rumours and make speculations while the investigation is still on. It also said that the purpose of the investigation is not to affix blame but to make aviation for people even more safer. "AAIB reiterates that the purpose of the investigation is to improve aviation safety through lessons learned and safety recommendations, not to assign blame or liability," read the statement. On 12 June 2025, Air India plane 171 crashed after taking off off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. Just 32 seconds later, the plane en-route London ploughed into the Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College hostel, killing all 242 but one on board and 19 people on the ground.

The investigating bureau urged people not to spread rumours and make speculations while the investigation is still on in the Air India plane crash at Ahmedabad international airport.

Air India plane crash investigation ongoing, several aspects being examined, says AAIB

US President Donald Trump is expected to summon the heads of several leading American defence contractors to the White House amid mounting concern over rapidly shrinking US missile stockpiles. The meeting, expected to involve executives from approximately seven defence companies, comes as the Pentagon grapples with munitions shortages exacerbated by the ongoing conflict with Iran and years of military assistance to Ukraine. Deputy Defence Secretary Stephen Feinberg is also expected to attend.According to people familiar with the plans cited by NBC News, Trump has become increasingly frustrated over the pace of weapons production and is expected to pressure defence industry leaders to accelerate manufacturing. One source familiar with the planned discussions said the meeting could be "ugly" because of the President's anger over dwindling inventories.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-individual-students-approach-delhi-hc-turns-down-plea-to-reopen-cbse-re-evaluation-portal-here-s-why-1781267085176">‘Let individual students approach’: Delhi HC turns down plea to reopen CBSE re-evaluation portal - Here’s why</a>However, a White House official told NBC News that no such meeting was on Trump's schedule "at this time", noting that it could still be postponed or cancelled. The concern centres largely on missile stockpiles that recent military operations have heavily depleted. NBC News reported that the United States has fired more than 1,000 Tomahawk cruise missiles during the war with Iran alone. Before the conflict, the US was estimated to possess roughly 3,100 Tomahawks.At the same time, defence giant Lockheed Martin has reportedly warned that it cannot provide allies with firm delivery timelines for Patriot missile interceptors, despite efforts to triple production. The Pentagon's missile reserves have been under pressure since Washington began supplying military aid to Ukraine following Russia's invasion in 2022. The situation worsened during Operation Midnight Hammer last year and intensified further during Operation Epic Fury, the joint US-Israeli military campaign against Iran that began on 28 February.To sustain operations, the Pentagon has reportedly drawn on missile inventories previously positioned in Europe and Asia.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-leave-netanyahu-in-the-dark-report-claims-israeli-pm-was-blindsided-by-iran-deal-news-1781263607599">Did Trump leave Netanyahu in the dark? Report claims Israeli PM was blindsided by Iran deal news</a>Despite growing alarm over the state of US munitions reserves, NBC News reported that the Pentagon has not signed any new multiyear contracts for additional missile production since Trump returned to office. While framework agreements for future weapons procurement have reportedly been reached, officials and defence industry representatives said no new contracts have yet been issued to manufacture additional munitions.

US President Donald Trump is expected to confront top defence contractors over rapidly shrinking missile stockpiles. Depleted by conflicts with Iran and Ukraine, production delays have triggered significant presidential frustration.

US President Donald Trump is expected to summon the heads of several leading American defence contractors to the White House amid mounting concern over rapidly shrinking US missile stockpiles. The meeting, expected to involve executives from approximately seven defence companies, comes as the Pentagon grapples with munitions shortages exacerbated by the ongoing conflict with Iran and years of military assistance to Ukraine. Deputy Defence Secretary Stephen Feinberg is also expected to attend. According to people familiar with the plans cited by NBC News, Trump has become increasingly frustrated over the pace of weapons production and is expected to pressure defence industry leaders to accelerate manufacturing. One source familiar with the planned discussions said the meeting could be "ugly" because of the President's anger over dwindling inventories. Also read: ‘Let individual students approach’: Delhi HC turns down plea to reopen CBSE re-evaluation portal - Here’s why However, a White House official told NBC News that no such meeting was on Trump's schedule "at this time", noting that it could still be postponed or cancelled. The concern centres largely on missile stockpiles that recent military operations have heavily depleted. NBC News reported that the United States has fired more than 1,000 Tomahawk cruise missiles during the war with Iran alone. Before the conflict, the US was estimated to possess roughly 3,100 Tomahawks. At the same time, defence giant Lockheed Martin has reportedly warned that it cannot provide allies with firm delivery timelines for Patriot missile interceptors, despite efforts to triple production. The Pentagon's missile reserves have been under pressure since Washington began supplying military aid to Ukraine following Russia's invasion in 2022. The situation worsened during Operation Midnight Hammer last year and intensified further during Operation Epic Fury, the joint US-Israeli military campaign against Iran that began on 28 February. To sustain operations, the Pentagon has reportedly drawn on missile inventories previously positioned in Europe and Asia. Also read: Did Trump leave Netanyahu in the dark? Report claims Israeli PM was blindsided by Iran deal news Despite growing alarm over the state of US munitions reserves, NBC News reported that the Pentagon has not signed any new multiyear contracts for additional missile production since Trump returned to office. While framework agreements for future weapons procurement have reportedly been reached, officials and defence industry representatives said no new contracts have yet been issued to manufacture additional munitions.

US President Donald Trump is expected to confront top defence contractors over rapidly shrinking missile stockpiles. Depleted by conflicts with Iran and Ukraine, production delays have triggered significant presidential frustration.

US missile stocks running low? Trump set to confront defence giants over supply crisis

US President Donald Trump, who is about to celebrate his 80th birthday on June 14, 2026, has set a new record. On Sunday, May 26, he was in the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre in Bethesda, Maryland, where he had undergone a checkup for three hours and was examined by a record-breaking 22 medical specialists, an increase from the 14 specialists last time. "We have nothing to hide," said an official to the Washington Post.White House official said that among the doctors their were prominent doctors and experts affiliated with Harvard University and Duke University. For comparison, previous US President George HW Bush had 5 specialists checking him in 1989, while his son George W Bush showed his checking was done by 12. According to White House, all of these 22 doctors were not specialists, but some of them were generalists, and the large team reflected a complete preventive evaluation.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-nato-force-reduction-europe-f16-tankers-surveillance-1781262820118">US plans major NATO force reduction in Europe, including F-16s, tankers and surveillance aircraft</a>Sean Barbabella, Trump's physician, said that he was in “excellent health” with fully sound cardiac, pulmonary, and neurological functions. The White House Officials termed this as a regular executive-level check-up. "The involvement of multiple specialists reflects a comprehensive, multidisciplinary evaluation consistent with best practices for executive-level medical care," said the White House in a statement.&nbsp;According to White House reports, Trump was examined by 11 specialists in his 2019 checkup and 14 specialists in his 2025 checkup. Trump, just after completing the check-up, wrote in a Truth Social post, “Just finished my 6-month physical at Walter Reed Military Medical Centre…Everything checked out PERFECTLY. Thank you to the great Doctors and Staff! Heading back to the White House.” Trump called the trip “a 6-month physical,” while Barbarella described it on official documents as his “annual physical examination.”Trump had shown a visible pattern of cognitive decline, like ‘zigzag’ walks, falling asleep frequently, marks on his hands and swollen ankles, etc. White House defended the marks on his hands by calling them from preventive aspirin use, while the swollen ankle was chronic venous insufficiency. Public polling shows 59 per cent doubt Trump’s mental acuity and 55 per cent question his physical health, figures that could impact his political capital ahead of the midterm in November.&nbsp;

Donald Trump's latest medical examination at Walter Reed involved 22 doctors, the largest team ever reported for a US president's routine health check, according to the White House.

US President Donald Trump, who is about to celebrate his 80th birthday on June 14, 2026, has set a new record. On Sunday, May 26, he was in the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre in Bethesda, Maryland, where he had undergone a checkup for three hours and was examined by a record-breaking 22 medical specialists, an increase from the 14 specialists last time. "We have nothing to hide," said an official to the Washington Post. White House official said that among the doctors their were prominent doctors and experts affiliated with Harvard University and Duke University. For comparison, previous US President George HW Bush had 5 specialists checking him in 1989, while his son George W Bush showed his checking was done by 12. According to White House, all of these 22 doctors were not specialists, but some of them were generalists, and the large team reflected a complete preventive evaluation. Also Read: US plans major NATO force reduction in Europe, including F-16s, tankers and surveillance aircraft Sean Barbabella, Trump's physician, said that he was in “excellent health” with fully sound cardiac, pulmonary, and neurological functions. The White House Officials termed this as a regular executive-level check-up. "The involvement of multiple specialists reflects a comprehensive, multidisciplinary evaluation consistent with best practices for executive-level medical care," said the White House in a statement. According to White House reports, Trump was examined by 11 specialists in his 2019 checkup and 14 specialists in his 2025 checkup. Trump, just after completing the check-up, wrote in a Truth Social post, “Just finished my 6-month physical at Walter Reed Military Medical Centre…Everything checked out PERFECTLY. Thank you to the great Doctors and Staff! Heading back to the White House.” Trump called the trip “a 6-month physical,” while Barbarella described it on official documents as his “annual physical examination.” Trump had shown a visible pattern of cognitive decline, like ‘zigzag’ walks, falling asleep frequently, marks on his hands and swollen ankles, etc. White House defended the marks on his hands by calling them from preventive aspirin use, while the swollen ankle was chronic venous insufficiency. Public polling shows 59 per cent doubt Trump’s mental acuity and 55 per cent question his physical health, figures that could impact his political capital ahead of the midterm in November.

Donald Trump's latest medical examination at Walter Reed involved 22 doctors, the largest team ever reported for a US president's routine health check, according to the White House.

Donald Trump's medical checkup involved 22 doctors, setting a White House record

The United States is planning to significantly reduce the number of aircraft it deploys in Europe for NATO. According to a New York Times US will pull back roughly 50 F-16 and F-15E fighter jets, eight refuelling tankers, reduce maritime reconnaissance aircraft from 26 to 15, reallocate one of the two groups of bombers, reallocate a missile-launching submarine and an aircraft carrier and the strike group that joins them. The decision is likely to reduce NATO's long-range striking ability and surveillance capacity significantly.&nbsp;According to the NYT report, the decision was communicated by the Trump administration in a written document. The European officials who were briefed on the document spoke on the condition of anonymity to the NYT to reveal details of the plan. The Pentagon official has reportedly not disclosed the proper timeline of the drawdown; however, it is likely to happen sooner than expected.&nbsp;“While each of these cuts can be managed individually, together they represent a significant posture change and pose challenges to European deterrence readiness across the spectrum,” said Giuseppe Spatafora, of the European Union Institute for Security Studies, a Paris-based think tank.While Europe is seemingly planning to wait out Trump's second term, NATO navigates one of the toughest patches in its alliance. Moreover, for the European, the specific number of assets allocated to them is less important, but rather whether the US opposes Europe in principle is more significant.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-first-trillionaire-spacex-nasdaq-trading-1781256572812">Elon Musk's net worth could top $1 trillion as SpaceX begins trading on Nasdaq</a>"NATO’s main problem is that, as long as Trump is president, there is no longer any faith that the U.S. would come to the Europeans’ aid in the event of an emergency,” said Anton Hofreiter, a German lawmaker. The drawdown comes at a time when US President Donald Trump is transitioning increasingly larger military assets in the region. This is also significant as Russia and Ukraine continues its long drawn war in the Eastern front of Europe. In late May, a Russian drone hit an apartment block in Romania, the first such strike in a major urban area in NATO territory. Russia is getting increasingly bold, as Europe is weakened by the turmoil in its political elite and the reduced military spending. The head of the Pentagon’s European Command, Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, said in early June that the European codependence has been unhealthy for US military forces, and it needs to be changed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The US is reportedly planning a major reduction of NATO-linked military assets in Europe, including fighter jets, tankers, bombers and surveillance aircraft, raising concerns over deterrence against Russia.

The United States is planning to significantly reduce the number of aircraft it deploys in Europe for NATO. According to a New York Times US will pull back roughly 50 F-16 and F-15E fighter jets, eight refuelling tankers, reduce maritime reconnaissance aircraft from 26 to 15, reallocate one of the two groups of bombers, reallocate a missile-launching submarine and an aircraft carrier and the strike group that joins them. The decision is likely to reduce NATO's long-range striking ability and surveillance capacity significantly. According to the NYT report, the decision was communicated by the Trump administration in a written document. The European officials who were briefed on the document spoke on the condition of anonymity to the NYT to reveal details of the plan. The Pentagon official has reportedly not disclosed the proper timeline of the drawdown; however, it is likely to happen sooner than expected. “While each of these cuts can be managed individually, together they represent a significant posture change and pose challenges to European deterrence readiness across the spectrum,” said Giuseppe Spatafora, of the European Union Institute for Security Studies, a Paris-based think tank. While Europe is seemingly planning to wait out Trump's second term, NATO navigates one of the toughest patches in its alliance. Moreover, for the European, the specific number of assets allocated to them is less important, but rather whether the US opposes Europe in principle is more significant. Also Read: Elon Musk's net worth could top $1 trillion as SpaceX begins trading on Nasdaq "NATO’s main problem is that, as long as Trump is president, there is no longer any faith that the U.S. would come to the Europeans’ aid in the event of an emergency,” said Anton Hofreiter, a German lawmaker. The drawdown comes at a time when US President Donald Trump is transitioning increasingly larger military assets in the region. This is also significant as Russia and Ukraine continues its long drawn war in the Eastern front of Europe. In late May, a Russian drone hit an apartment block in Romania, the first such strike in a major urban area in NATO territory. Russia is getting increasingly bold, as Europe is weakened by the turmoil in its political elite and the reduced military spending. The head of the Pentagon’s European Command, Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, said in early June that the European codependence has been unhealthy for US military forces, and it needs to be changed.

The US is reportedly planning a major reduction of NATO-linked military assets in Europe, including fighter jets, tankers, bombers and surveillance aircraft, raising concerns over deterrence against Russia.

US plans major NATO force reduction in Europe, including F-16s, tankers and surveillance aircraft

US President Donald Trump has hinted at war with Iran coming to an end, as according to him the top Iranian leadership has agreed on the final terms of the peace deal. During a telephone rally for Georgia gubernatorial candidate Burt Jones, Trump announced that he has "ended the war with Iran." While Iran said that the final agreement has not been made.&nbsp;However, if the accord goes through it will allow the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets within a 60-day period.&nbsp;Citing a source close to Iran's negotiating team, Iran's Mehr news agency on Friday said the "accord would allow for the "release of $24 billion of Iran's blocked funds during the 60-day final negotiation period."&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-trump-leave-netanyahu-in-the-dark-report-claims-israeli-pm-was-blindsided-by-iran-deal-news-1781263607599">Did Trump leave Netanyahu in the dark? Report claims Israeli PM was blindsided by Iran deal news</a>&nbsp;Notably, half of that sum would be "made available to Iran before the start of negotiations," said the news agency further.<h2>What does the MoU have?</h2>&nbsp;Earlier on Friday Trump briefed the press at the White House and said that negotiations with Iran had reached their final stage and suggested that a deal could be signed within the next few days. Trump also said that the signing ceremony could take place in Europe.&nbsp;The US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MoU) states that MOU would extend the ceasefire for 60 days and would also include &nbsp;Lebanon. It also says that the Strait of Hormuz will be reopened immediately without tolls, according to Axios.&nbsp;The Axios source claimed the MOU "goes into details on all the nuclear issues" and "satisfies all U.S. requirements."&nbsp;And though Trump claims that the deal is almost closed as Iran's top leadership has approved it, there are reports that it is still to get a nod from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.&nbsp;

Citing a source close to Tehrans negotiating team, Irans Mehr news agency said the accord would allow for the release of billions of blocked funds.

US President Donald Trump has hinted at war with Iran coming to an end, as according to him the top Iranian leadership has agreed on the final terms of the peace deal. During a telephone rally for Georgia gubernatorial candidate Burt Jones, Trump announced that he has "ended the war with Iran." While Iran said that the final agreement has not been made. However, if the accord goes through it will allow the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets within a 60-day period. Citing a source close to Iran's negotiating team, Iran's Mehr news agency on Friday said the "accord would allow for the "release of $24 billion of Iran's blocked funds during the 60-day final negotiation period." ALSO READ: Did Trump leave Netanyahu in the dark? Report claims Israeli PM was blindsided by Iran deal news Notably, half of that sum would be "made available to Iran before the start of negotiations," said the news agency further. What does the MoU have? Earlier on Friday Trump briefed the press at the White House and said that negotiations with Iran had reached their final stage and suggested that a deal could be signed within the next few days. Trump also said that the signing ceremony could take place in Europe. The US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MoU) states that MOU would extend the ceasefire for 60 days and would also include Lebanon. It also says that the Strait of Hormuz will be reopened immediately without tolls, according to Axios. The Axios source claimed the MOU "goes into details on all the nuclear issues" and "satisfies all U.S. requirements." And though Trump claims that the deal is almost closed as Iran's top leadership has approved it, there are reports that it is still to get a nod from Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.

Citing a source close to Tehran's negotiating team, Iran's Mehr news agency said the accord would allow for the release of billions of blocked funds.

Iranian media reveals details of draft memorandum with US, billions in frozen assets to be released

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was caught off guard after US President Donald Trump abruptly announced that he had cancelled planned military strikes against Iran and claimed that a broader peace agreement could be finalised within days.According to a report by Axios, Netanyahu was not informed in advance before Trump publicly disclosed the development, which included assertions that Iran's leadership had approved a draft framework agreement aimed at extending a ceasefire and opening negotiations on Tehran's nuclear programme. "Netanyahu did not have advanced notice and was caught by surprise when Trump released his initial statement about the deal, according to a source with knowledge," Axios reported.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-s-yoon-gets-30-years-in-prison-for-north-korea-drone-incident-1781249303771">South Korea’s Yoon gets 30 years in prison for North Korea drone incident</a>Trump announced on Thursday, saying he had called off scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran after being informed that discussions had reached the highest levels of the Iranian leadership and received approval."Based on the fact that discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran have been brought to the highest level of Iranian leadership and approved, I have, as President of the United States of America, cancelled the scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran this evening," Trump wrote on Truth Social.The US president claimed the proposed agreement would extend the current ceasefire, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and launch a 60-day negotiating process focused on Iran's nuclear activities. Trump also asserted that Iran would agree never to acquire a nuclear weapon.According to Trump, the framework had been approved "in both concept and great detail" by multiple parties, including the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Egypt.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-asylum-seeker-sentenced-to-10-years-in-jail-for-raping-uk-woman-had-asked-did-you-enjoy-that-1781250098255">Pakistan asylum seeker sentenced to 10 years in jail for raping UK woman</a>He added that the blockade would remain in place until the arrangement was formally completed.However, Iranian officials pushed back against Trump's characterisation of events. Tehran denied that any final agreement had been reached, although it left open the possibility that such a deal could eventually receive approval.Iran's Fars news agency rejected claims that a binding agreement had already been secured. It said discussions were centred on a memorandum of understanding designed to facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US blockade.According to the report, any future agreement covering Iran's nuclear programme and the removal of US sanctions would require separate negotiations.

US President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled planned military strikes against Iran, announcing a surprise draft peace framework. The move caught Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu completely off guard, while Iran disputed the claim.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was caught off guard after US President Donald Trump abruptly announced that he had cancelled planned military strikes against Iran and claimed that a broader peace agreement could be finalised within days. According to a report by Axios, Netanyahu was not informed in advance before Trump publicly disclosed the development, which included assertions that Iran's leadership had approved a draft framework agreement aimed at extending a ceasefire and opening negotiations on Tehran's nuclear programme. "Netanyahu did not have advanced notice and was caught by surprise when Trump released his initial statement about the deal, according to a source with knowledge," Axios reported. Also read: South Korea’s Yoon gets 30 years in prison for North Korea drone incident Trump announced on Thursday, saying he had called off scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran after being informed that discussions had reached the highest levels of the Iranian leadership and received approval. "Based on the fact that discussions with the Islamic Republic of Iran have been brought to the highest level of Iranian leadership and approved, I have, as President of the United States of America, cancelled the scheduled strikes and bombings against Iran this evening," Trump wrote on Truth Social. The US president claimed the proposed agreement would extend the current ceasefire, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and launch a 60-day negotiating process focused on Iran's nuclear activities. Trump also asserted that Iran would agree never to acquire a nuclear weapon. According to Trump, the framework had been approved "in both concept and great detail" by multiple parties, including the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Egypt. Also read: Pakistan asylum seeker sentenced to 10 years in jail for raping UK woman He added that the blockade would remain in place until the arrangement was formally completed. However, Iranian officials pushed back against Trump's characterisation of events. Tehran denied that any final agreement had been reached, although it left open the possibility that such a deal could eventually receive approval. Iran's Fars news agency rejected claims that a binding agreement had already been secured. It said discussions were centred on a memorandum of understanding designed to facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of the US blockade. According to the report, any future agreement covering Iran's nuclear programme and the removal of US sanctions would require separate negotiations.

US President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled planned military strikes against Iran, announcing a surprise draft peace framework. The move caught Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu completely off guard, while Iran disputed the claim.

Did Trump leave Netanyahu in the dark? Report claims Israeli PM was blindsided by Iran deal news

War, terrorism, political instability and humanitarian crises continue to shape the world's least peaceful nations. Here are the 10 most dangerous countries in the world as per the latest Global Peace Index rankings.

From Russia to Syria: 10 Most dangerous countries in the world – Check full list

Elon Musk's SpaceX IPO is set to be traded on June 12, 2026, on the Nasdaq Global Select Market and Nasdaq Texas under the ticker “SPCX”. The rocket, satellite and AI company is pricing its 555,555,555 shares of its Class A common stock at $135 per share. The offering will continue till June 15, 2026 and is expected to raise $75 billion, putting its valuation around $1.77 trillion. Forbes Wealth pegged Musk's valuation at $850billion ahead of the offering, and if all goes well in the IPO, Musk's value will catapult to an unprecedented trillion-dollar territory, making him the first trillionaire in history. According to UK charity Oxfam, which puts the amount in perspective, if Musk spends approximately $1 million every day, it will take approximately 2,740 years to spend one trillion.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-spacex-starlink-military-targets-west-asia-1781251881890">Iran declares SpaceX and Starlink assets in West Asia legitimate military targets</a><h2>Elon Musk's net worth</h2>Born in Pretoria, South Africa, to a Canadian mother and South African father, Musk took over as the CEO of Tesla in 2008. He then gradually built his empire with SpaceX rockets, Starlink satellite, Twitter, which he rebranded as X and the Grok AI model. Most of Musk's wealth rests with SpaceX, where he holds a stake worth roughly $866 billion, along with Tesla's stocks, $260 billion, and the rest in Neuralink, Boring Company, and X, where he owns a roughly 1 per cent stake, which puts Elon Musk at approximately $1.1. It will make him not just richer, but richer than the combined next four in line, Larry Ellison, Larry Page and Sergey Brin.&nbsp;"The second richest person has been hovering around $300 billion, so about less than one-third of what Musk can potentially be worth ​tomorrow," said Matt Durot, deputy editor at Forbes Wealth.&nbsp;He is approximately worth 3-4 per cent of US GDP, almost 25-26 per cent of India's GDP and more than the annual output of many South American countries, like Chile, Argentina, almost all of the African countries, like South Africa, Egypt, Algeria, and some Asian countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Elon Musk could become the world's first trillionaire as SpaceX begins trading on Nasdaq under the ticker SPCX. The offering values the company at nearly $1.77 trillion.

Elon Musk's SpaceX IPO is set to be traded on June 12, 2026, on the Nasdaq Global Select Market and Nasdaq Texas under the ticker “SPCX”. The rocket, satellite and AI company is pricing its 555,555,555 shares of its Class A common stock at $135 per share. The offering will continue till June 15, 2026 and is expected to raise $75 billion, putting its valuation around $1.77 trillion. Forbes Wealth pegged Musk's valuation at $850billion ahead of the offering, and if all goes well in the IPO, Musk's value will catapult to an unprecedented trillion-dollar territory, making him the first trillionaire in history. According to UK charity Oxfam, which puts the amount in perspective, if Musk spends approximately $1 million every day, it will take approximately 2,740 years to spend one trillion. Also Read: Iran declares SpaceX and Starlink assets in West Asia legitimate military targets Elon Musk's net worth Born in Pretoria, South Africa, to a Canadian mother and South African father, Musk took over as the CEO of Tesla in 2008. He then gradually built his empire with SpaceX rockets, Starlink satellite, Twitter, which he rebranded as X and the Grok AI model. Most of Musk's wealth rests with SpaceX, where he holds a stake worth roughly $866 billion, along with Tesla's stocks, $260 billion, and the rest in Neuralink, Boring Company, and X, where he owns a roughly 1 per cent stake, which puts Elon Musk at approximately $1.1. It will make him not just richer, but richer than the combined next four in line, Larry Ellison, Larry Page and Sergey Brin. "The second richest person has been hovering around $300 billion, so about less than one-third of what Musk can potentially be worth tomorrow," said Matt Durot, deputy editor at Forbes Wealth. He is approximately worth 3-4 per cent of US GDP, almost 25-26 per cent of India's GDP and more than the annual output of many South American countries, like Chile, Argentina, almost all of the African countries, like South Africa, Egypt, Algeria, and some Asian countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Elon Musk could become the world's first trillionaire as SpaceX begins trading on Nasdaq under the ticker SPCX. The offering values the company at nearly $1.77 trillion.

Elon Musk's net worth could top $1 trillion as SpaceX begins trading on Nasdaq

The countdown for 52nd G7 Summit that is being held from June 15–17, 2026 in Évian-les-Bains, France has began. G7 literally means the Group of Seven. G7 refers to the seven nations namely Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States that forms member countries. Alongside these nations, European Union (EU) is also a part of the group as a non-enumerated member. Between 1997 and 2014, Russia was part of the group, temporarily making it the G8. However, Russia was indefinitely suspended in 2014 following its annexation of Crimea The informal grouping of these nations was formed in 1975 to address global macroeconomic challenges like the oil crisis and recessions in the 1970s. While it is not based on an official treaty and has no permanent secretariat or headquarters, it plays an important role worldwide as these seven nations represent roughly 40-50 per cent of the worldwide nominal GDP and about 10 per cent of the world's population.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-china-isn-t-in-the-g7-and-why-it-still-looms-over-every-discussion-1781231173090">Why China isn’t in the G7 – and why it still looms over every discussion</a><h2>How does the G7 differ from the G20 and BRICS?</h2>The G20 (Group of Twenty) is the premier forum for international economic cooperation, bringing together the world's major established and emerging economies and BRICS is an authoritative intergovernmental organization composed of 11 major emerging and developing economies. The groups essentially function as global forums focusing on economic stability, multilateral trade, and global governance reform. But, G7 caters to economy as well as security. Unlike the G20 or BRICS, which have diverse and often conflicting political systems such as China and India in BRICS, China, Russia vs G7 within G20, the G7 nations are aligned in their views on - democracy, human rights, and free-market capitalism.&nbsp;The G7 is ready to adapt and it actively co-opts emerging powers rather than fighting them. By regularly inviting influential Global South democracies (such as India, Brazil, and South Africa) to its annual summits as "guest nations," the G7 bridges its policy goals with the wider world. G7 nations are advanced economies facing similar domestic challenges, such as aging populations, high labour costs, and advanced technology regulations (like AI governance). G20 functions as an economic fire brigade while BRICS consists of rapidly growing emerging markets looking to build alternative financial systems.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-modi-s-invitation-matters-india-s-growing-role-at-the-g7-wion-decodes-1781235334874">Why Modi's invitation matters: India's growing role at the G7 | WION Decodes</a><h2>Why does the G7 remain influential?</h2>The G7 keeps itself relevant in midst of world's rising powers and fight between nations to exercise its hegemony because this group's greatest strength is its homogeneity. G7 consists strictly of wealthy and developed democracies. In terms of economy, the currency of G7 nations - the US dollar, Euro, British pound, and Japanese yen serve as the world's primary reserve and trade funding currencies. G7 nations also hold the largest voting shares in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, giving them unparalleled power to dictate global lending terms and bailouts.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the widely tech-savvy world, G7 serves "first responder" for technologies because major tech giants are headquartered within G7 borders (primarily the US). Thus, the group heavily dictates how advanced tech is governed globally. Programs like the Hiroshima AI Process and the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) were launched by the G7. From quantum computing to semiconductor supply chains, the G7 harmonizes risk assessments and technical benchmarks. The G7 has shifted from a pure focus on free trade to economic security, working collectively to counter economic coercion.&nbsp;&nbsp;G7 also acts quickly due to shared political systems and values. For example: their decision to alienate Russia after Crimea's annexation was swift leading to group changing its form. That was possible because the G7 serves as a strategic security apparatus. G7 members are deeply integrated via military alliances like NATO and AUKUS, allowing them to back up political declarations with coordinated intelligence sharing, naval deployments, and defense production.&nbsp;

The G7 is an informal group of seven major democracies that wields outsized influence through its economic strength, control of global financial institutions, technology governance and security alliances. Unlike the broader G20 and BRICS, its shared values enable faster action.

The countdown for 52nd G7 Summit that is being held from June 15–17, 2026 in Évian-les-Bains, France has began. G7 literally means the Group of Seven. G7 refers to the seven nations namely Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States that forms member countries. Alongside these nations, European Union (EU) is also a part of the group as a non-enumerated member. Between 1997 and 2014, Russia was part of the group, temporarily making it the G8. However, Russia was indefinitely suspended in 2014 following its annexation of Crimea The informal grouping of these nations was formed in 1975 to address global macroeconomic challenges like the oil crisis and recessions in the 1970s. While it is not based on an official treaty and has no permanent secretariat or headquarters, it plays an important role worldwide as these seven nations represent roughly 40-50 per cent of the worldwide nominal GDP and about 10 per cent of the world's population. Also Read: Why China isn’t in the G7 – and why it still looms over every discussion How does the G7 differ from the G20 and BRICS? The G20 (Group of Twenty) is the premier forum for international economic cooperation, bringing together the world's major established and emerging economies and BRICS is an authoritative intergovernmental organization composed of 11 major emerging and developing economies. The groups essentially function as global forums focusing on economic stability, multilateral trade, and global governance reform. But, G7 caters to economy as well as security. Unlike the G20 or BRICS, which have diverse and often conflicting political systems such as China and India in BRICS, China, Russia vs G7 within G20, the G7 nations are aligned in their views on - democracy, human rights, and free-market capitalism. The G7 is ready to adapt and it actively co-opts emerging powers rather than fighting them. By regularly inviting influential Global South democracies (such as India, Brazil, and South Africa) to its annual summits as "guest nations," the G7 bridges its policy goals with the wider world. G7 nations are advanced economies facing similar domestic challenges, such as aging populations, high labour costs, and advanced technology regulations (like AI governance). G20 functions as an economic fire brigade while BRICS consists of rapidly growing emerging markets looking to build alternative financial systems. Also Read: Why Modi's invitation matters: India's growing role at the G7 | WION Decodes Why does the G7 remain influential? The G7 keeps itself relevant in midst of world's rising powers and fight between nations to exercise its hegemony because this group's greatest strength is its homogeneity. G7 consists strictly of wealthy and developed democracies. In terms of economy, the currency of G7 nations - the US dollar, Euro, British pound, and Japanese yen serve as the world's primary reserve and trade funding currencies. G7 nations also hold the largest voting shares in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, giving them unparalleled power to dictate global lending terms and bailouts. In the widely tech-savvy world, G7 serves "first responder" for technologies because major tech giants are headquartered within G7 borders (primarily the US). Thus, the group heavily dictates how advanced tech is governed globally. Programs like the Hiroshima AI Process and the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) were launched by the G7. From quantum computing to semiconductor supply chains, the G7 harmonizes risk assessments and technical benchmarks. The G7 has shifted from a pure focus on free trade to economic security, working collectively to counter economic coercion. G7 also acts quickly due to shared political systems and values. For example: their decision to alienate Russia after Crimea's annexation was swift leading to group changing its form. That was possible because the G7 serves as a strategic security apparatus. G7 members are deeply integrated via military alliances like NATO and AUKUS, allowing them to back up political declarations with coordinated intelligence sharing, naval deployments, and defense production.

The G7 is an informal group of seven major democracies that wields outsized influence through its economic strength, control of global financial institutions, technology governance and security alliances. Unlike the broader G20 and BRICS, its shared values enable faster action.

G7 Summit: What is G7 and how it differs from G20 and BRICS? Why it still matters in the changing world | WION Decodes

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks to strongly protest ongoing US Navy attacks on commercial vessels off Oman's coast on Friday (June 12). This diplomatic move follows a recent attack on a merchant ship carrying 20 Indian crew members, marking the second time the US mission has been summoned. The crisis turned fatal with the confirmed deaths of three Indian seafarers previously reported missing, marking New Delhi’s first public acknowledgement of the US military directly targeting vessels with Indian crews.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/centcom-says-forces-struck-disabled-m-t-jalveer-in-gulf-of-oman-1781188899941/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/centcom-says-forces-struck-disabled-m-t-jalveer-in-gulf-of-oman-1781188899941/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;According to official data, US forces targeted three foreign-flagged merchant vessels over four days. On June 8, US forces disabled the Palau-flagged tanker Marivex, which had 24 Indian crew members who were all safely rescued. On June 10, the US struck a second Palau-flagged tanker, Settebello, causing the three Indian fatalities. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that a strong protest was lodged, emphasizing that these military actions "must stop" immediately. New Delhi has urged a return to dialogue and diplomacy to peacefully resolve the conflict and ensure unimpeded access through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tanker-mt-jalveer-carrying-indian-sailors-attacked-off-oman-coast-1781162858146">Tanker MT Jalveer carrying Indian sailors attacked off Oman coast</a>&nbsp;Jaiswal clarified that the strikes originated from US Navy units stationed in the region. The targeted ships were not Indian-owned but foreign-flagged: two under Palau and one under Guinea-Bissau. The operations were linked to regulatory enforcement, as two vessels were under US Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions, and the third was classified as non-compliant.&nbsp;Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping &amp; Waterways, provided updates on rescue operations. Evacuation has commenced for personnel on the third vessel, Jalveer. On the Settebello, the remaining 25 crew members including 21 Indians, two Pakistanis, one Russian, and one Ukrainian have been safely evacuated. Furthermore, the Seamen Welfare Fund Society has been directed to release an ex-gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh to the families of each deceased Indian sailor.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/third-indian-commercial-vessel-hit-off-oman-coast-mea-calls-attack-deeply-worrisome-1781174683071">Third Indian commercial vessel hit off Oman Coast: MEA calls attack 'deeply worrisome'</a>&nbsp;This crisis underscores the massive presence of Indian maritime professionals in this volatile zone. Government data indicates that over 18,000 Indian seafarers are currently deployed across the Gulf region. This includes 562 crew members aboard 13 Indian-flagged vessels, with 329 personnel operating west of the Strait of Hormuz and 233 navigating the Gulf of Oman.

India’s MEA has summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks for the second time following US Navy strikes off Oman that killed three Indian seafarers

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks to strongly protest ongoing US Navy attacks on commercial vessels off Oman's coast on Friday (June 12). This diplomatic move follows a recent attack on a merchant ship carrying 20 Indian crew members, marking the second time the US mission has been summoned. The crisis turned fatal with the confirmed deaths of three Indian seafarers previously reported missing, marking New Delhi’s first public acknowledgement of the US military directly targeting vessels with Indian crews. https://www.wionews.com/videos/centcom-says-forces-struck-disabled-m-t-jalveer-in-gulf-of-oman-1781188899941/embed According to official data, US forces targeted three foreign-flagged merchant vessels over four days. On June 8, US forces disabled the Palau-flagged tanker Marivex, which had 24 Indian crew members who were all safely rescued. On June 10, the US struck a second Palau-flagged tanker, Settebello, causing the three Indian fatalities. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that a strong protest was lodged, emphasizing that these military actions "must stop" immediately. New Delhi has urged a return to dialogue and diplomacy to peacefully resolve the conflict and ensure unimpeded access through the Strait of Hormuz. Also read: Tanker MT Jalveer carrying Indian sailors attacked off Oman coast Jaiswal clarified that the strikes originated from US Navy units stationed in the region. The targeted ships were not Indian-owned but foreign-flagged: two under Palau and one under Guinea-Bissau. The operations were linked to regulatory enforcement, as two vessels were under US Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions, and the third was classified as non-compliant. Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, provided updates on rescue operations. Evacuation has commenced for personnel on the third vessel, Jalveer. On the Settebello, the remaining 25 crew members including 21 Indians, two Pakistanis, one Russian, and one Ukrainian have been safely evacuated. Furthermore, the Seamen Welfare Fund Society has been directed to release an ex-gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh to the families of each deceased Indian sailor. Also read: Third Indian commercial vessel hit off Oman Coast: MEA calls attack 'deeply worrisome' This crisis underscores the massive presence of Indian maritime professionals in this volatile zone. Government data indicates that over 18,000 Indian seafarers are currently deployed across the Gulf region. This includes 562 crew members aboard 13 Indian-flagged vessels, with 329 personnel operating west of the Strait of Hormuz and 233 navigating the Gulf of Oman.

India’s MEA has summoned US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks for the second time following US Navy strikes off Oman that killed three Indian seafarers

MEA summons US Chargé d’Affaires Jason Meeks again over strikes affecting Indian seafarers

US President Donald Trump once again cancelled a scheduled attack on Iran on Thursday night (Jun 11). This makes one wonder: Is Trump the one who's under pressure to reach a deal with Iran? He faces economic, political, and strategic pressures ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. Despite leverage through sanctions, military threats, and economic pressure on Iran, the costs of a prolonged conflict are falling on his own political coalition and agenda.<h2>The midterms clock is ticking</h2>Republicans are entering the midterms defending a narrow House majority that is vulnerable to the traditional anti-incumbency. Morgan Stanley's policy team warned that the war's energy shock could cost Republicans their Senate majority and significantly worsen the national debt. Trump and Republicans were elected on promises to cut inflation. They now face an inflation surge tied to the war, and several opinion polls are against them.&nbsp;Democrats will make the rising cost of living a central campaign issue in the midterms. &nbsp;A prolonged war will disrupt Trump's legislative agenda and GOP control of Congress.Trump once said he "doesn't care about the midterms," but Iran war escalation can affect his party's prospects. He needs a face-saving deal before November.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-ended-the-war-today-trump-s-big-declaration-after-halting-iran-strikes-what-s-really-happening-1781229576328">'We ended the war today': Trump's BIG declaration after halting Iran strikes - What's really happening</a><h2>Americans feel pinch at pump as Iran uses Strait of Hormuz as leverage</h2>Two weeks into the war, gasoline prices rose nearly 60 cents per gallon in the US, or about 19 per cent, while inflation reached 4.2 per cent in May, the highest since April 2023. A GOP strategist said, "You can't hide gas prices… there's a giant sign on every street corner saying how bad things are."&nbsp;Even if a deal is reached now, reopening the Strait of Hormuz won't normalise markets immediately. Iran has successfully used the strategic waterway as leverage. Tankers are trapped. Inventories are swelling. Infrastructure is damaged due to Operation Epic Fury, the US blockade of the strait, and Iran's counterstrikes. A full recovery will happen pretty close to the November 3 elections.&nbsp;Consultancy firm Wood Mackenzie estimated that even if the war is resolved, Brent crude would only fall to $80 by year-end.<h2>Trump is the one pushing for a deal, while Iran is softpeddaling&nbsp;</h2>Trump has asked Iran to reach a deal at least eight times through Truth Social rants or public remarks. He gave several deadlines to Tehran, while often saying the deal was "close," "largely negotiated," or could happen "this weekend." Nothing happened. He claimed Iran had "no choice" but to agree to the deal. But every time, Iran shrugged off the threats, refusing to budge on issues like its nuclear and missile programmes, and unfreezing of Iranian assets. It has now become predictable that Trump threatens military action and then postpones or cancels it. &nbsp;He explains the threat-pause-cancel cycles as arising from requests by Gulf allies, and even the mediator, Pakistan.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-iran-deal-could-be-signed-very-soon-amid-ongoing-talks-1781246509761/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-iran-deal-could-be-signed-very-soon-amid-ongoing-talks-1781246509761/embed</a><h2>What, or who, are putting pressure on Trump to reach a deal?</h2>Volatility and disruptions in the oil and energy markets are among the main pressures. Shipping and trans-shipment industries are dealing with trapped tankers, supply bottlenecks, and infrastructure damage. &nbsp;From businesses to national governments, the demand is for lower energy costs and market predictability. Supply chain disruptions caused by the Strait of Hormuz &nbsp;blockades are raising costs for food, fertilisers and shipping for the world. Gulf allies of the US - particularly UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia- appear to favour stability, lower energy volatility, and the reopening of shipping routes.&nbsp;<h2>Brand Trump is being affected badly</h2>Trump is known for the book ‘Art of the Deal’. But today, his personal brand and reputation as a dealmaker are under threat. Trump risks triggering a wider regional war, given the Iranian attacks on US bases and ally fatigue with prolonged conflict. He risks being associated with another ‘endless’ war, not lasting peace. &nbsp;Iran's ability to make any attack on it costly for the American interests in the Gulf region and global economy is a constraint on Trump from further escalating the issue.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-s-in-the-latest-iran-deal-trump-says-he-s-ready-to-sign-with-tehran-1781244692584">What's in the latest Iran deal Trump says he's ready to sign with Tehran</a><h2>What leverage does Trump have over Iran?</h2>The top one is the US sanctions and economic pain for Iran through the "maximum pressure" framework. Trump appears to be using military threats and deadlines as negotiating tools,raising the question: Is there a method to the madness? His alternating ‘deal talk’ and military threats could be a deliberate bargaining strategy designed to extract stronger concessions from Iran.Though Iran continues to fight, it is dealing with the effects of leadership decimation, economic deterioration, international isolation, and pressure to accept restrictions on its nuclear programme. Iran's crisis is existential, whereas Trump's is primarily political and economic.<h2>Several actors continue pushing against a rapid deal</h2>The main party opposing a US-Iran deal is Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Iran hawks in Trump's Republican party also object to allowing Tehran to continue uranium enrichment. Trump could be applying more pressure than he is absorbing, through sanctions and military power. &nbsp;Every time he threatens to attack and then holds back, Trump is possibly trying to extract better concessions from Iran, such as nuclear restrictions and performance-based sanctions relief. But he probably knows that it is time to finish off what he started on February 28.

Donald Trump appears to be under rising political and economic pressure to secure an Iran deal. The US inflation, gasoline prices and Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten Republican midterm prospects and his dealmaker image.

US President Donald Trump once again cancelled a scheduled attack on Iran on Thursday night (Jun 11). This makes one wonder: Is Trump the one who's under pressure to reach a deal with Iran? He faces economic, political, and strategic pressures ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. Despite leverage through sanctions, military threats, and economic pressure on Iran, the costs of a prolonged conflict are falling on his own political coalition and agenda. The midterms clock is ticking Republicans are entering the midterms defending a narrow House majority that is vulnerable to the traditional anti-incumbency. Morgan Stanley's policy team warned that the war's energy shock could cost Republicans their Senate majority and significantly worsen the national debt. Trump and Republicans were elected on promises to cut inflation. They now face an inflation surge tied to the war, and several opinion polls are against them. Democrats will make the rising cost of living a central campaign issue in the midterms. A prolonged war will disrupt Trump's legislative agenda and GOP control of Congress. Trump once said he "doesn't care about the midterms," but Iran war escalation can affect his party's prospects. He needs a face-saving deal before November. Also read: 'We ended the war today': Trump's BIG declaration after halting Iran strikes - What's really happening Americans feel pinch at pump as Iran uses Strait of Hormuz as leverage Two weeks into the war, gasoline prices rose nearly 60 cents per gallon in the US, or about 19 per cent, while inflation reached 4.2 per cent in May, the highest since April 2023. A GOP strategist said, "You can't hide gas prices… there's a giant sign on every street corner saying how bad things are." Even if a deal is reached now, reopening the Strait of Hormuz won't normalise markets immediately. Iran has successfully used the strategic waterway as leverage. Tankers are trapped. Inventories are swelling. Infrastructure is damaged due to Operation Epic Fury, the US blockade of the strait, and Iran's counterstrikes. A full recovery will happen pretty close to the November 3 elections. Consultancy firm Wood Mackenzie estimated that even if the war is resolved, Brent crude would only fall to $80 by year-end. Trump is the one pushing for a deal, while Iran is softpeddaling Trump has asked Iran to reach a deal at least eight times through Truth Social rants or public remarks. He gave several deadlines to Tehran, while often saying the deal was "close," "largely negotiated," or could happen "this weekend." Nothing happened. He claimed Iran had "no choice" but to agree to the deal. But every time, Iran shrugged off the threats, refusing to budge on issues like its nuclear and missile programmes, and unfreezing of Iranian assets. It has now become predictable that Trump threatens military action and then postpones or cancels it. He explains the threat-pause-cancel cycles as arising from requests by Gulf allies, and even the mediator, Pakistan. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-trump-says-iran-deal-could-be-signed-very-soon-amid-ongoing-talks-1781246509761/embed What, or who, are putting pressure on Trump to reach a deal? Volatility and disruptions in the oil and energy markets are among the main pressures. Shipping and trans-shipment industries are dealing with trapped tankers, supply bottlenecks, and infrastructure damage. From businesses to national governments, the demand is for lower energy costs and market predictability. Supply chain disruptions caused by the Strait of Hormuz blockades are raising costs for food, fertilisers and shipping for the world. Gulf allies of the US - particularly UAE, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia- appear to favour stability, lower energy volatility, and the reopening of shipping routes. Brand Trump is being affected badly Trump is known for the book ‘Art of the Deal’. But today, his personal brand and reputation as a dealmaker are under threat. Trump risks triggering a wider regional war, given the Iranian attacks on US bases and ally fatigue with prolonged conflict. He risks being associated with another ‘endless’ war, not lasting peace. Iran's ability to make any attack on it costly for the American interests in the Gulf region and global economy is a constraint on Trump from further escalating the issue. Also read: What's in the latest Iran deal Trump says he's ready to sign with Tehran What leverage does Trump have over Iran? The top one is the US sanctions and economic pain for Iran through the "maximum pressure" framework. Trump appears to be using military threats and deadlines as negotiating tools, raising the question: Is there a method to the madness? His alternating ‘deal talk’ and military threats could be a deliberate bargaining strategy designed to extract stronger concessions from Iran. Though Iran continues to fight, it is dealing with the effects of leadership decimation, economic deterioration, international isolation, and pressure to accept restrictions on its nuclear programme. Iran's crisis is existential, whereas Trump's is primarily political and economic. Several actors continue pushing against a rapid deal The main party opposing a US-Iran deal is Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Iran hawks in Trump's Republican party also object to allowing Tehran to continue uranium enrichment. Trump could be applying more pressure than he is absorbing, through sanctions and military power. Every time he threatens to attack and then holds back, Trump is possibly trying to extract better concessions from Iran, such as nuclear restrictions and performance-based sanctions relief. But he probably knows that it is time to finish off what he started on February 28.

Donald Trump appears to be under rising political and economic pressure to secure an Iran deal. The US inflation, gasoline prices and Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten Republican midterm prospects and his dealmaker image.

'We ended the war today', really? Is Trump under more pressure than Iran to reach a deal? The Big Question

A UK court has jailed a Pakistani asylum seeker for 10 years for raping an intoxicated 18-year-old girl at a park. The incident took place in a UK park in June 2025. The Pakistani asylum seeker has been identified as Sheraz Malik. The 28 year old man and and a group with him encountered the girl and her friend at Sutton Lawn Park while they had been out drinking. Her male friend had asked him and his group to "look after her" while he went to meet another friend.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prioritise-wisdom-saudi-arabia-urges-return-to-diplomacy-under-pakistan-and-qatar-mediation-1781176727632">‘Prioritise wisdom’: Saudi Arabia urges return to diplomacy under Pakistan and Qatar mediation</a>&nbsp;According to reports, the teenage girl was raped by Malik as she was in a vulnerable state. Malik took him to a secluded part of the park and raped her. According to The Sun, the survivor repeatedly protested during the assault while Malik asked her: "Did you enjoy that?" During the trials, Malik denied the allegations and claimed the sex was consensual. He was convicted by a jury in January on two counts of rape. On Thursday, he was sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered to serve an additional four years on extended licence after his release. &nbsp;Giving evidence during the trial, the woman told jurors: "I was scared, I felt scared of saying no."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/16-killed-over-30-injured-as-pakistani-forces-open-fire-on-protesters-in-pakistan-occupied-kashmir-1781193970614">16 killed, over 30 injured as Pakistani forces open fire on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir</a>&nbsp;The trial heard that Malik is an asylum seeker born in Pakistan who had previously lived in Italy, Germany and France before arriving in the UK.He had been in Britain for less than a year when the attack took place. A court order prevented the media from reporting his immigration status until the trial had concluded to avoid prejudicing the proceedings.

Pakistani asylum seeker Sheraz Malik has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in the UK for raping an intoxicated 18-year-old woman in Sutton Lawn Park in June 2025. A jury convicted him on two counts of rape after rejecting his claim that the encounter was consensual.

A UK court has jailed a Pakistani asylum seeker for 10 years for raping an intoxicated 18-year-old girl at a park. The incident took place in a UK park in June 2025. The Pakistani asylum seeker has been identified as Sheraz Malik. The 28 year old man and and a group with him encountered the girl and her friend at Sutton Lawn Park while they had been out drinking. Her male friend had asked him and his group to "look after her" while he went to meet another friend. Also Read: ‘Prioritise wisdom’: Saudi Arabia urges return to diplomacy under Pakistan and Qatar mediation According to reports, the teenage girl was raped by Malik as she was in a vulnerable state. Malik took him to a secluded part of the park and raped her. According to The Sun, the survivor repeatedly protested during the assault while Malik asked her: "Did you enjoy that?" During the trials, Malik denied the allegations and claimed the sex was consensual. He was convicted by a jury in January on two counts of rape. On Thursday, he was sentenced to 10 years in prison and ordered to serve an additional four years on extended licence after his release. Giving evidence during the trial, the woman told jurors: "I was scared, I felt scared of saying no." Also Read: 16 killed, over 30 injured as Pakistani forces open fire on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir The trial heard that Malik is an asylum seeker born in Pakistan who had previously lived in Italy, Germany and France before arriving in the UK. He had been in Britain for less than a year when the attack took place. A court order prevented the media from reporting his immigration status until the trial had concluded to avoid prejudicing the proceedings.

Pakistani asylum seeker Sheraz Malik has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in the UK for raping an intoxicated 18-year-old woman in Sutton Lawn Park in June 2025. A jury convicted him on two counts of rape after rejecting his claim that the encounter was consensual.

Pakistan asylum seeker sentenced to 10 years in jail for raping UK woman, had asked 'did you enjoy that'

China on Friday (Jun 12) said that it had detained an American national accused of spying on the country. The individual, identified as Min Zin, is a political analyst and founder of the Institute for Strategy and Policy Myanmar (ISP-M), an independent research organisation focused on developments in Myanmar. Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said that the authorities were holding him on “suspicion of engaging in espionage activities that endanger China’s national security.”Lin Jian said that Min Zin “has been subjected to criminal compulsory measures.” He did not provide any further details about the allegations or evidence supporting them.Min Zin’s research work focuses on Myanmar’s political landscape, conflict dynamics and regional security issues. The ISP-M regularly publishes research on the country’s civil war, governance challenges and the influence of foreign powers, including China, in Myanmar’s border regions.AFP reported, citing a person with professional ties to ISP-M, that Min Zin was arrested on Jun 3 after arriving at Kunming airport in China’s Yunnan province, which shares a border with Myanmar. Individuals close to the case said he had travelled to the city to attend a meeting, though it remains unclear whether his visit was connected to research activities. Chinese authorities have informed the US consulate in Guangzhou of the case.“His family and colleagues are following up with the consulate office there,” AFP cited a source as saying. “I know his family is worried.”The US State Department or the ISP-M have not yet made any official statement on the matter.The ISP-M is located in Chiang Mai, a northern Thai city that has emerged as a refuge for Myanmar political exiles after the 2021 coup ended civilian rule under Aung San Suu Kyi.According to analysts, including those at the ISP-M, Beijing’s role had been in question. They have alleged that China has at times supported both Myanmar’s military and certain rebel groups, depending on its strategic, economic and security priorities.

China has detained US researcher Min Zin on espionage allegations, claiming he endangered national security. The case has drawn attention amid ongoing scrutiny of foreign researchers in China.

China on Friday (Jun 12) said that it had detained an American national accused of spying on the country. The individual, identified as Min Zin, is a political analyst and founder of the Institute for Strategy and Policy Myanmar (ISP-M), an independent research organisation focused on developments in Myanmar. Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said that the authorities were holding him on “suspicion of engaging in espionage activities that endanger China’s national security.” Lin Jian said that Min Zin “has been subjected to criminal compulsory measures.” He did not provide any further details about the allegations or evidence supporting them. Min Zin’s research work focuses on Myanmar’s political landscape, conflict dynamics and regional security issues. The ISP-M regularly publishes research on the country’s civil war, governance challenges and the influence of foreign powers, including China, in Myanmar’s border regions. AFP reported, citing a person with professional ties to ISP-M, that Min Zin was arrested on Jun 3 after arriving at Kunming airport in China’s Yunnan province, which shares a border with Myanmar. Individuals close to the case said he had travelled to the city to attend a meeting, though it remains unclear whether his visit was connected to research activities. Chinese authorities have informed the US consulate in Guangzhou of the case. “His family and colleagues are following up with the consulate office there,” AFP cited a source as saying. “I know his family is worried.” The US State Department or the ISP-M have not yet made any official statement on the matter. The ISP-M is located in Chiang Mai, a northern Thai city that has emerged as a refuge for Myanmar political exiles after the 2021 coup ended civilian rule under Aung San Suu Kyi. According to analysts, including those at the ISP-M, Beijing’s role had been in question. They have alleged that China has at times supported both Myanmar’s military and certain rebel groups, depending on its strategic, economic and security priorities.

China has detained US researcher Min Zin on espionage allegations, claiming he endangered national security. The case has drawn attention amid ongoing scrutiny of foreign researchers in China.

China detains US researcher on espionage allegations – What we know

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