At least 15 people, including 11 civilians and four security personnel, have been killed in clashes between protesters and security forces in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, according to local authorities. The unrest began after activist group Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) opposed the reservation of 12 assembly seats for Kashmiri refugees in the upcoming elections. Despite the group being banned under anti-terrorism laws, thousands of protesters continued their march towards Muzaffarabad. Security has been tightened across the region, with surveillance flights and roadblocks in place, while rights groups have raised concerns over arrests and the use of force. (PC: BBC)

Newly revealed court testimony shows that billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates alleged that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein attempted to use knowledge of Gates’ extramarital relationships to pressure and influence him. According to testimony presented in court proceedings, Epstein allegedly sought leverage over Gates after their meetings concerning philanthropy and financial matters. Gates stated that he rejected Epstein’s attempts and distanced himself from the financier. The disclosures have renewed public scrutiny of Epstein’s network of high-profile associates and the methods he allegedly used to cultivate influence among prominent business and political figures. (PC: Reuters)

The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reportedly launched 12 ballistic missiles at the Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan, targeting U.S. F-35, F-15, and F-16 fighter jets stationed there. The strike came in retaliation for recent U.S. attacks on Iranian military facilities. Jordanian air defenses reportedly intercepted several missiles, while neighboring Gulf nations increased security measures amid fears of further escalation. The attack has heightened concerns over a broader regional war, disrupted air traffic across parts of the Middle East, and renewed worries about global energy security and stability. (PC: Reuters)

Kuwait temporarily shut its airspace and diverted several flights after Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting US military bases in the Gulf amid escalating tensions with Washington. The precautionary closure was ordered by Kuwait's civil aviation authorities to ensure the safety of passengers and aviation operations as air defense systems responded to potential threats. Several commercial flights were rerouted to neighboring countries before air traffic gradually resumed once officials determined the immediate danger had passed. The incident highlights the growing regional impact of the US-Iran confrontation, with concerns rising over aviation safety, regional security, and the risk of a broader Middle East conflict. (PC: X)

The United States has intensified its military campaign against Iran, carrying out fresh strikes on multiple locations, including areas near Tehran, Minab, Bandar Abbas, Qeshm, Kish, and Isfahan. President Donald Trump said dozens of Tomahawk missiles were used against Iranian military targets and warned of further action if Tehran rejects a proposed peace deal. In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a two-wave missile and drone operation targeting US military installations across the Gulf region. Tehran also claimed to have closed the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route, further raising concerns over regional stability, international shipping, and oil supplies. 

Iran has announced the complete closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz following fresh US military strikes on Iranian targets, dramatically escalating tensions in the Middle East. Tehran warned that any vessel attempting to pass through the waterway could be targeted. The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments, making its closure a major threat to international energy supplies. Oil prices immediately surged by more than 2%, with analysts warning that prolonged disruption could push crude prices toward $100 per barrel. Governments, shipping companies, and global markets are closely monitoring the rapidly worsening crisis. (PC: X)

Iran dramatically escalated tensions in the Middle East by launching missile and drone strikes against multiple US military bases across the Gulf following recent American attacks on Iranian targets. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the operation, calling it a direct response to US aggression. Iranian leaders warned that any further attacks would trigger harsher retaliation. The United States defended its actions, with officials signaling a willingness to use force alongside diplomacy. The rapidly unfolding confrontation has heightened concerns about regional stability, global energy supplies, and the possibility of a broader conflict involving multiple Middle Eastern nations. (PC: X)

US President Donald Trump said the United States would hit Iran “hard” again on June 10, signaling further military action after recent exchanges between the two countries. Trump's remarks followed US retaliatory strikes linked to Iran’s alleged involvement in the downing of an American Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting US-linked military facilities in the region. The escalating confrontation has raised fears of a wider regional conflict, disrupted energy markets, and complicated ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a peace agreement between Washington and Tehran. (PC: AP)

A Pakistan Army Aviation Mi-17 helicopter crashed shortly after take-off near Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on June 10, 2026, killing all military personnel on board. According to Pakistan's military media wing, the crash was caused by a suspected technical fault, though a formal inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact cause. Emergency teams rushed to the site, but no survivors were found. The incident occurred amid heightened tensions and protests in the region, although authorities stated there was no indication that the unrest was linked to the crash. Senior Pakistani leaders expressed condolences to the victims' families. (PC: AP)

Sri Lanka's Public Security Minister has alleged that former State Intelligence Service chief Major General Tuan Suresh Sallay played a key role in the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings that killed 279 people. Addressing Parliament, the minister claimed investigations found that Sallay conspired with Islamic extremists and directed events leading to the attacks.   Sallay, who was arrested earlier this year on charges of aiding and abetting the bombings, has denied the allegations through his lawyer. The case remains under investigation, with court proceedings continuing. Church leaders and victims' groups have also renewed calls for an independent probe into one of Sri Lanka's deadliest terror attacks. (PC: HT)