On June 20–21, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump sharply contradicted the U.S. intelligence community, asserting it was wrong to claim that Iran was not building a nuclear weapon . Responding to Senator-director Tulsi Gabbard's March testimony that no evidence exists of Iran actively pursuing a bomb, Trump retorted: “She’s wrong,” and warned Iran could produce a nuclear weapon within weeks to months unless halted . He refused to pressure Israel for a ceasefire, citing Israel’s military advantage, while stressing U.S. readiness to engage diplomatically or militarily within two weeks. (PC: Al Jazeera)

An Iranian missile struck the historic city of Haifa, Israel, on June 20, 2025, damaging two significant Islamic landmarks—Al Jarina Grand Mosque (built in 1775) and Masjid Al-Saghir (established in 1761). The attack shattered stained-glass windows, damaged the dome and interiors, and injured one civilian nearby. Israeli officials condemned the targeting of religious sites as a “war crime,” with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar accusing Iran of deliberate civilian provocation. President Herzog emphasized Haifa’s legacy of religious harmony and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to protecting all faiths despite the growing regional hostilities. (PC: Reuters)    

In a controversial move, Pakistan nominated former U.S. President Donald Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, crediting his “decisive diplomatic intervention” during the India–Pakistan conflict. Speaking at a public event, Trump reacted sharply, saying, “They won’t give me a Nobel Peace Prize because they only give it to liberals.” He also claimed, “I stopped the war” and argued he deserved the honor “four or five times” for brokering peace in global hotspots, including South Asia, Congo, and the Balkans. His remarks stirred renewed debate over political bias in global recognitions. (PC: Hindustan Times)

Fresh explosions rocked Tehran on Friday as the Israel-Iran war entered its second week. Iran activated air defences after Israeli missile strikes reportedly hit central Tehran. In retaliation, Iran launched missiles targeting Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Beersheba. Two Israelis were injured by shrapnel, including a 16-year-old boy in serious condition. As tensions escalate, European leaders urged diplomatic dialogue, with Germany, France, and the UK pushing for continued nuclear talks. Turkish President Erdogan warned the conflict was nearing a “point of no return,” saying, “This madness must end,” as fears of broader regional destabilisation grow. (PC: News18)

In a landmark decision, the UK Parliament passed the Assisted Dying Bill on June 20, with 314 MPs voting in favour and 291 against. The bill allows terminally ill, mentally competent adults in England and Wales with six months or less to live to choose medical assistance to end their lives. The proposed law now moves to the House of Lords for further scrutiny. PM Keir Starmer’s Labour government remained neutral. Supporters hailed it as a compassionate choice; opponents warned of potential coercion. The UK now moves closer to joining countries like Canada and Australia in legalising assisted dying. (PC: Reuters)

The UK Foreign Office announced on Friday it is temporarily withdrawing embassy staff from Tehran due to escalating security threats amid intensifying Israel-Iran conflict. The embassy will operate remotely. This follows an earlier decision to evacuate families of UK staff from both Israel and Iran. The move coincides with renewed Iranian missile strikes on Israel and Israeli attacks on military targets in Tehran, including missile sites. Meanwhile, UK, French, and German foreign ministers are holding talks in Geneva with Iran to push for de-escalation. The White House says Donald Trump will decide within two weeks on possible US military involvement. (PC: BBC)

The US has resumed processing student visa applications for 2025 with stricter rules. Applicants must now make their social media accounts public, as refusal could lead to rejection. Visa officers will review posts for anti-US sentiments, even political opinions. The US will prioritize students applying to institutions with less than 15% international students, disadvantaging elite universities like Harvard. Critics call the move “ideological vetting” and fear it could suppress free speech. Countries failing to upgrade screening processes risk joining the US travel ban list. This shift may deter many international applicants from pursuing studies in top American institutions. (PC: The Indian Express)

India dominated the second session of Day 1 in the 1st Test against England at Headingley, reaching 215/2 at Tea. Yashasvi Jaiswal impressed with a commanding fourth Test century, while captain Shubman Gill remained unbeaten on 58. The duo’s partnership crossed 100 runs, putting England’s bowlers under immense pressure. Earlier, India reached 92/2 at Lunch after a solid 91-run opening stand between Jaiswal and KL Rahul. However, England hit back with two quick wickets in five balls, including debutant B Sai Sudharsan for a duck. India aims to build on this strong foundation in the final session of Day 1. (PC: BCCI)

As the Israel-Iran conflict intensifies, former U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to decide within two weeks on whether to back Israeli military strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. Meanwhile, Russia has issued a dire warning, stating that the world is “millimeters from nuclear catastrophe” should the U.S. intervene. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has dismissed Trump’s demands for unconditional surrender, vowing to continue Iran’s nuclear program. While diplomatic talks are ongoing in Geneva, fears of a broader regional or even global war are mounting, with Russia offering to mediate and the U.S. remaining cautious. (PC: Vox)

As Israeli strikes on Iran continue, anxiety grips Tehrangeles, the Iranian American enclave in West Los Angeles. Home to the world’s largest Iranian diaspora, locals like Farbod “Freddy” Papen express deep concern over loved ones in Iran and the uncertain future. The diverse community, including Persian Jews and Muslims, feels torn between multiple identities. Rabbi Refael Cohen highlighted shared fears across both nations’ civilians. Many fear U.S. involvement could escalate the conflict and spark domestic backlash. Amid this turmoil, Papen continues serving traditional Persian ice cream, saying, “Whether it’s Tel Aviv or Tehran—these are people’s lives being sacrificed.” (PC: The Guardian)