G7 leaders have reportedly drafted a statement affirming Israel’s right to self‑defence while asserting that Iran must “never” acquire nuclear weapons, according to Reuters sources. The proposed text also calls for de‑escalation amid the fourth day of escalating hostilities following Israel’s “Operation Rising Lion” on June. Leaders emphasized the need to protect energy-market stability. However, U.S. President Trump has not yet approved the draft, and no joint communique is expected, indicating the position remains a work in progress. Formal adoption could occur later in the summit. (PC: Reuters)

The Louvre Museum in Paris shut down on June 16 as workers staged a spontaneous strike, protesting against overwhelming crowds, understaffing, and deteriorating working conditions. Thousands of tourists were left stranded outside the museum, which welcomes over 8.7 million visitors annually—double its design capacity. The strike coincided with internal meetings, as unions condemned President Emmanuel Macron’s decade-long “Louvre New Renaissance” renovation plan as insufficient. Workers demanded urgent action, stating, “We can’t wait six years for help.” Despite Macron’s promises of new entrances and dedicated spaces, staff say daily conditions are unsafe, citing leaks, extreme temperatures, and crumbling infrastructure as ongoing threats. (PC: AP)

An Israeli airstrike hit Iran’s state TV building in Tehran during a live broadcast, forcing anchor Sahar Emami to flee mid-telecast as the studio filled with dust and debris. The explosion occurred shortly after the Israeli military issued evacuation warnings to 330,000 residents in central Tehran, including the state TV area. The Islamic Republic of Iran News Network resumed transmission from another studio, confirming the presence of journalists’ bodies at the original site. Israel's defense minister Israel Katz said the strike targeted Iran’s “propaganda and incitement” outlet. Smoke and fire were later seen rising from the damaged broadcast building.

A team from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has launched a probe into the Kedarnath Dham chopper crash that occurred in Uttarakhand’s Rudraprayag district. The helicopter went down in treacherous weather conditions, according to a preliminary analysis. The crash site, located near the pilgrimage route to Kedarnath, is known for unpredictable and challenging flying conditions. Authorities have cordoned off the area as investigators gather evidence and interview witnesses. The crash raises fresh concerns over aviation safety in high-altitude regions frequently used for religious tourism. A detailed report will follow after technical and weather-related data is fully assessed. (PC: HT)

Israel has warned residents in Tehran's District 3 to evacuate “immediately” as the IDF continues airstrikes on alleged military infrastructure in Iran’s capital. Loud explosions were reported in western Tehran, where Israeli forces reportedly targeted a military base. Prime Minister Netanyahu declared, “We control the skies of Tehran,” and reiterated goals to eliminate Iran’s nuclear and missile threats. Iran’s health ministry says 224 people have been killed since Israeli strikes began four days ago. Meanwhile, 24 Israelis have died from Iranian missiles. The conflict continues to escalate rapidly, with Israel asserting operational air control over Tehran. (PC: BBC )

Over 1,500 Indian students, mostly from Jammu and Kashmir, are being evacuated from Tehran to Qom, 148 km away, as Israel and Iran continue exchanging missile strikes. The Indian government requested Iran to facilitate safe relocation amid bombing in key cities. Though Iranian airspace remains shut, land borders are open for evacuations. Iran’s Foreign Ministry has asked India for passport and vehicle details to coordinate exits. Students, including over 350 at Shahid Beheshti University, report sleepless nights amid explosions. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is in touch with J&K officials. Israel's "Operation Rising Lion" has severely escalated regional tensions. (PC: NDTV)

India's first population census since 2011 will be conducted in two phases on October 1, 2026, and March 1, 2027, the Centre announced. The digital survey will include caste data for the first time since Independence. The first phase will collect data on income, assets, and housing, while the second will focus on demographic and socio-economic details. The announcement paves the way for implementing the Women's Reservation Bill and the long-delayed delimitation exercise, both pending a new census. The Rs 4,000 crore exercise will also update the National Population Register, with the Cabinet approving digital self-enumeration for citizens. (PC: India Today)

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has condemned the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 tourists, stating such acts “could not occur without money and means to move funds” among terror supporters. Without naming Pakistan, FATF vowed stronger frameworks to counter terror financing. India has linked Pakistan-based groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and TRF, to the attack, and is now seeking Pakistan’s return to the FATF grey list. Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated, with Indian authorities highlighting cross-border financial support for terrorism. FATF is currently monitoring 24 countries for terror and money laundering risks.  

Blaise Metreweli has been named the first female chief of the UK's MI6 in its 116-year history. She will replace Sir Richard Moore this autumn. Metreweli, 47, is currently Director General “Q”, leading technology and innovation efforts against threats like China’s surveillance. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called her appointment “historic”, while Foreign Secretary David Lammy said she was the “ideal” choice. A veteran of both MI6 and MI5, she has worked extensively in the Middle East and Europe. Her leadership comes as MI6 faces growing challenges from Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, and advancing cyber warfare. (PC: BBC)

Iran’s parliament is drafting a bill that could see the country exit the Nuclear Non‑Proliferation Treaty (NPT), state media reported. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the move is in response to recent Israeli airstrikes and a critical International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) resolution, though no final decision has been taken. Iran insists its nuclear programme is peaceful and guided by Ayatollah Khamenei’s religious edict against weapons of mass destruction, reiterated by President Pezeshkian . Tehran blames Israel and countries backing the IAEA for escalating tensions and “preparing the ground” for the attack. Israel, not party to the NPT, is alleged to possess nuclear weapons, a charge Iran denies being uniquely focused. (PC: India Today)