At the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting in Qingdao on June 26, 2025, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stressed that “peace, security and trust deficit” constitute the major challenges in the region . Without explicit naming, he condemned the use of cross‑border terrorism as policy, urging SCO nations to reject double standards . Singh underscored India’s commitment to multilateral reforms as essential for dialogue, cooperation, and crisis prevention . His strong stance on terrorism followed the Pahalgam attack, signaling India’s readiness to confront terror networks disguised under proxy groups. (PC: X)

Republican former President Donald Trump on Truth Social denounced New York mayoral hopeful Zohran Mamdani, labeling him a “100% Communist Lunatic” and mocking his intelligence and voice . Mamdani, a 33‑year‑old democratic socialist and state assemblyman endorsed by figures like Bernie Sanders and AOC, surged to lead in the Democratic primary on June 24 . His proposed agenda—rent freezes, free buses, universal childcare—resonates with progressive voters. Trump’s outburst underscores GOP efforts to cast Democratic nominees as radical ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old Indian-American progressive, declared victory in New York City's Democratic mayoral primary, saying, “Tonight, we made history.” Former Governor Andrew Cuomo conceded, saying, “Tonight is his night. He deserved it. He won.” Mamdani, backed by Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, led strongly in the first-choice votes. “I will be your Democratic nominee for the mayor of New York City,” Mamdani told supporters. Cuomo, once the frontrunner, struggled to gain support due to his past scandal. Ranked-choice voting results are still pending, but Mamdani’s strong lead may secure an outright win. “This is just the beginning,” Mamdani added. (PC: Getty Images via AFP)

Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old Indian-origin Democratic socialist, has won the Democratic primary for New York City mayor, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo. “It always seems impossible until it’s done,” Mamdani quoted Nelson Mandela as he celebrated the win. Son of filmmaker Mira Nair, Mamdani is poised to become NYC’s first Muslim and Indian-American mayor. With endorsements from Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, his campaign focused on housing, free childcare, and pro-people policies. Cuomo conceded, calling Mamdani to congratulate him. Mamdani has also drawn attention for his strong criticism of PM Modi and Netanyahu during his campaign appearances. (PC: India Today)

On June 23–24, 2025, Iran launched multiple ballistic missiles at the Al Udeid U.S. Air Base near Doha, causing explosions and shaken windows across the city. Qatar’s air defenses intercepted the strikes; no civilian casualties were reported . With over 800,000 Indians—the largest expat group—in affected regions, Delhi has issued advisories urging caution, advising nationals to stay indoors and follow updates from local authorities and the Indian Embassy . The incident also triggered temporary airspace closures and disrupted flights, amplifying concern among residents and travellers. (PC: The Indian EXPRESS)

The International Widows Conference, hosted by The Loomba Foundation on June 23 in London, brought together global leaders, diplomats, and grassroots voices to mark the 15th UN International Widows Day. The conference urged governments to act on the theme “Don’t Leave Widows Behind.” Mrs Cherie Blair CBE KC, President of The Loomba Foundation, opened the event by highlighting that 258 million widows still face poverty, stigma, and abuse. “When widows are given even half a chance, they lead,” she said. Key speakers included Lakshmi Puri, former UN Assistant Secretary-General, and Lord Khan of Burnley, UK Minister for Faith. Puri called widowhood “one of the most overlooked global injustices” and outlined five priorities: legal reform, economic empowerment, data and accountability, leadership, and cultural change. Lord Khan said widowhood affects over 280 million women and is a global human rights issue. Grassroots leaders from Kenya, Nepal, and Nigeria shared frontline experiences. Kumar Dilip of Sulabh International, India, said, “Widows do not need pity—they need power.” The event concluded with Lord Raj Loomba reaffirming the foundation’s mission: “No woman should be punished for outliving her husband.”

India welcomed the ceasefire between Iran and Israel, acknowledging the diplomatic efforts of the US and Qatar. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it had been closely monitoring developments, including US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and Tehran's retaliation on American bases in Qatar. "There is no alternative to dialogue and diplomacy," the MEA stated, reaffirming India’s commitment to peace in West Asia. The ceasefire, brokered by US President Donald Trump, briefly halted the 12-day conflict, though both sides later accused each other of violations. India expressed readiness to support sustained regional stability and peaceful resolution. (PC: HT)

India has evacuated nearly 3,000 nationals from conflict-hit Iran and Israel under 'Operation Sindhu', using Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft and chartered flights. On Tuesday, 161 Indians who crossed into Jordan from Israel reached New Delhi from Amman. Another 165 and nearly 300 Indians were flown in from Jordan and Egypt respectively. Separately, 292 Indians arrived from Mashhad, Iran, bringing the total evacuated from Iran to 2,295. The mission was delayed due to airspace restrictions following Iranian missile strikes. India advised citizens to use land routes to Jordan or Egypt. Over 32,000 Indians live in Israel, and 10,000 in Iran. (PC: HT)

A new US sanctions bill may hit India for buying oil from Russia. Senator Lindsey Graham said, “If you continue to prop up Putin’s war machine, you’ll have nobody to blame but yourself.” The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 targets countries trading in Russian oil, gas, and other fuels. India was the second-largest buyer in May, spending €4.2 billion. The bill proposes steep tariffs and expanded sanctions. Experts warn this could lead to a global price shock. “Taking Russian oil out of the market would create a challenging situation for India,” said Prashant Vashisht of ICRA. The bill is still pending approval. (PC: Reuters)

The Indian Embassy in Doha has advised all Indian nationals in Qatar to stay indoors following Iranian missile strikes targeting US military bases in Qatar and Iraq. Explosions were reported near the Al Udeid Air Base in Doha, prompting safety concerns. Iran claimed the strikes, called “Blessing of Victory,” were retaliation for recent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Qatar’s Defence Ministry confirmed its air defence intercepted the missile and reported no casualties. It reassured citizens that the situation is under control. The embassy urged Indians to remain calm, follow local updates, and adhere to Qatari authorities’ safety instructions. (PC: News18)