Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, 22, is sailing to Gaza aboard the Madleen, a Freedom Flotilla Coalition vessel carrying humanitarian aid. Supplies include baby formula, medical gear, and water filters—critical amid Gaza’s 90-day blockade. Israel has warned it is “prepared” to stop the flotilla, though it hasn't revealed specific actions. The voyage includes 12 international activists, including Game of Thrones actor Liam Cunningham. The group calls it a non-violent mission against Israel’s siege. Activists report being followed by drones and have urged global protection. Thunberg shared emotional footage, saying, “We must keep trying… or we lose our humanity.” (PC: India Today)

Former US President Donald Trump has issued a sweeping travel ban on nationals from 12 countries—including Iran, Somalia, Haiti, and Yemen—citing national security concerns. An additional 7 countries face partial restrictions. The ban, effective Monday, allows certain exemptions, including for lawful US residents, athletes, and special visa holders. Trump said the move responds to growing terror threats, referencing a recent attack in Colorado. The ban has sparked strong backlash from human rights groups, Democrats, and international bodies like the African Union, who call it discriminatory. Legal challenges are expected, echoing opposition to Trump’s similar 2017 travel ban. (PC: BCC)

On June 5, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation suspending the entry of international students and exchange visitors to Harvard University for six months. The move, justified by alleged ties between Harvard and foreign adversaries—particularly China—aims to protect national security. The order also directs the State Department to consider revoking existing student visas. Harvard condemned the action as politically motivated and a violation of constitutional rights. The decision escalates tensions between the administration and Harvard, following previous threats to revoke its tax-exempt status and international enrollment privileges. A federal judge may soon intervene. (PC: Reuters)  

The Karnataka government informed the High Court that just over 1,000 police personnel were deployed during RCB’s IPL victory event, contradicting Deputy CM DK Shivakumar’s earlier claim of 5,000. The court, which took suo motu cognisance of the stampede that killed 11, questioned crowd control measures for the 2.5 lakh-strong gathering at the 35,000-capacity Chinnaswamy Stadium. The state admitted SOPs for such events are still being developed. The court was told RCB and event managers handled ticketing and logistics. FIRs have been filed. The case will be heard again on Tuesday, with the court demanding a detailed report. (PC: India Today)

The Karnataka High Court will today hear the Bengaluru stampede case that left 11 dead and 47 injured during Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL victory celebrations at Chinnaswamy Stadium. The court took suo motu cognisance of the tragedy, which occurred a day after RCB's historic title win. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah called it an "unexpected tragedy" and announced ₹10 lakh compensation to families of the deceased, while ordering a magisterial inquiry. The stampede reportedly occurred due to overcrowding as thousands gathered to celebrate RCB's long-awaited win after 18 years. Authorities are facing criticism over lack of crowd control and safety measures. (PC: NDTV)

On June 4, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a new proclamation reinstating strict travel restrictions, completely banning entry from 12 countries, many of which are Muslim-majority, including Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Afghanistan. Seven other countries, including Cuba and Venezuela, face targeted visa category restrictions. The move follows a violent antisemitic attack in Colorado and claims of security gaps in current immigration vetting systems. Critics warn the decision revives discriminatory policies and could impact diplomatic ties. The restrictions will be enforced starting June 9, 2025, at 12:01 a.m., pending legal and political challenges. (PC: India Today)  

Former US President Donald Trump warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin will retaliate following Ukraine's drone attack on Russian airbases. Trump shared details of their hour-long call, stating Putin was "very strong" about responding. The leaders also discussed Iran’s nuclear program, with Putin offering to assist in negotiations. The Kremlin accused Ukraine of acting like a "terrorist organisation" and disrupting talks. Trump, who recently criticized Putin's aggression, made no mention of his earlier deadline for Russian peace efforts. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials met US senators in Washington to discuss defense aid, as peace talks with Russia continue to stall. (PC: Getty Images)

A deadly stampede unfolded outside Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL 2025 victory celebration, leaving 11 dead and several injured. Thousands gathered to see the team, overwhelming security arrangements. Eyewitness Mahesh told ANI, “I saw three girls fall, but no one rescued them. Police were helpless.” Another attendee said they were stuck between locked gates and swelling crowds. Visuals showed fans climbing vehicles, including a damaged car. The BJP blamed the Karnataka government for poor planning. State BJP chief BY Vijayendra demanded a judicial probe, alleging lack of police, ambulances, and crowd control measures led to the tragedy. (PC: AP)

At a UN press event, Pakistan's Bilawal Bhutto faced a sharp rebuttal after alleging that India used the Pahalgam terror attack to demonize Muslims. Veteran US journalist Ahmed Fathi countered by citing Muslim Indian officers, notably Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, who represented India during Operation Sindoor. Bhutto, left flustered, launched into a rant with unsubstantiated claims. He also admitted Pakistan faces hurdles in raising the Kashmir issue internationally. Bhutto, known for past provocative remarks, had earlier declared “The Indus is ours or their blood will flow,” drawing criticism from AIMIM’s Asaduddin Owaisi, who slammed Bhutto’s political immaturity and hypocrisy on terrorism.

Israel has issued a warning regarding the "Freedom Flotilla" led by climate activist Greta Thunberg, which is en route to Gaza carrying symbolic humanitarian aid. The vessel, named Madleen, departed from Catania, Italy, with 12 activists aboard, aiming to challenge the Israeli blockade imposed in March 2025. Israeli military spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated, "We are prepared," referencing past actions against similar flotillas. The activists reported being followed by drones, later identified as belonging to the Greek Coast Guard. Thunberg emphasized the mission's non-violent nature, asserting the importance of continued humanitarian efforts despite potential interception. (PC: Daily Mail)