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International Current Affairs for competitive Exams.

Israel and Iran Agree to Ceasefire: Claims US President Donald Trump

United States President Donald Trump announced on 23 June 2025 that Iran and Israel have agreed to a complete and total ceasefire, set to begin within hours. This came shortly after an Iranian missile strike on a US airbase in Qatar.

According to Trump’s statement on Truth Social:

  • The ceasefire will be implemented in stages.
  • Iran will initiate the ceasefire.
  • Israel will follow 12 hours later.
  • A formal end to the 12-day war will be marked after 24 hours.

However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied any such agreement, stating:

  • No final decision on halting military operations has been made.
  • Iran will stop its response only if Israel halts aggression.

Iran-Israel conflict update as on 22 June 2025

⚔️ Military Escalation

  • Israel launched a second wave of airstrikes on Iran’s Esfahan Nuclear Technology Center on June 21, targeting centrifuge sites (previously hit on June 13).
  • Iran retaliated with a missile and drone barrage; some hit Tel Aviv and Beit She’an, though most were intercepted.
  • Three senior Iranian commanders, including a top Hamas financier, were killed by Israel.

🇺🇸 U.S. Enters the Conflict

  • On June 22, the U.S. military struck Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan nuclear sites using bunker-busters and cruise missiles.
  • President Trump warned of “far greater” strikes unless Iran seeks peace.

💣 Iran’s Response & Global Impact

  • Iran’s Foreign Minister condemned the U.S. strikes as illegal and vowed retaliation.
  • Evacuations of U.S., Indian, and other foreign nationals are ongoing.

Strait of Hormuz Threat

  • On June 22, Iran’s Parliament unanimously voted to close the Strait of Hormuz—a vital oil and gas shipping lane.
  • The move awaits final approval from the Supreme National Security Council.

PM Modi’s Bilateral Engagements at G7 Summit 2025

On June 17, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of strengthening India-Canada relations during a bilateral meeting with Canadian PM Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis. He highlighted the shared commitment to democracy, freedom, and rule of law, and the potential for cooperation in sectors like trade, clean energy, critical minerals, and fertilizers.

Key Bilateral Meetings:

  • Germany: Discussed strengthening cooperation in trade, defence, green energy, innovation, and counter-terrorism with Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
  • Mexico: Met President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo; focused on start-ups, AI, semiconductors, critical minerals, and global South issues.
  • South Korea: With President Lee Jae-Myung, discussed boosting the Special Strategic Partnership, especially in green hydrogen, shipbuilding, and emerging technologies.
  • France: Brief meeting with President Emmanuel Macron; committed to global collaboration.
  • UK: With PM Keir Starmer, focused on strengthening trade and commerce ties.
  • Japan: PM Shigeru Ishiba and Mr. Modi agreed to further deepen bilateral cooperation.
  • Also interacted with leaders of South Africa, Australia, Italy, and Brazil during the G7 Outreach.

Iran–Israel Conflict Intensifies on Day 4

The conflict between Iran and Israel has entered its fourth day on June 16, 2025, marked by heavy military exchanges and rising civilian casualties.

  • The crisis began with Israeli preemptive strikes on Friday, escalating into missile and airstrike barrages from both sides.
  • Iran reports 224 deaths, mostly civilians, while Israel has recorded over 20 deaths and more than 300 injuries.
  • On Sunday night, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Petah Tikva, killing at least eight Israelis.
  • Israel retaliated with massive airstrikes on Iranian military, nuclear, and energy sites, claiming “complete operational freedom” over Iranian airspace.
  • The IDF reports destroying 120 Iranian missile launchers, about one-third of Iran’s stockpile, and intercepted weapon shipments near Tehran.
  • On Sunday evening, Israeli jets destroyed 20+ surface-to-surface missiles and struck 100 military targets in Isfahan.
  • Leaders on both sides have taken defiant positions:
  • Israel’s Defense Minister threatened that Tehran’s population will “pay the price”.
  • Iran’s President condemned Israel’s “genocidal aggression” and called for national unity.
  • The G7 Summit in Canada is prioritizing the conflict, warning of the risk of regional war.
  • Diplomacy has stalled, with Iran refusing to negotiate under attack and Russia offering to mediate, but neither side agreeing.

Nuclear tensions are rising:

The IAEA confirmed no damage to Iran’s Fordow and Khondab nuclear sites. However, Iranian lawmakers are drafting legislation that could lead to withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), escalating global concerns.

PM Modi’s Three-Nation Visit to Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia – June 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a three-nation visit to Cyprus, Canada, and Croatia on June 15, 2025.

Cyprus (First Leg)

  • First Indian PM visit to Cyprus in over 20 years.
  • Cyprus supports India’s stance on Kashmir, cross-border terrorism, and UNSC reforms.
  • PM Modi will meet President Nikos Christodoulides to discuss trade, investment, education, maritime cooperation, digital connectivity, and regional security.
  • Indian High Commissioner Manish called the visit “result-oriented and robust,” aligned with Cyprus Vision 2035 and India’s Vision Vikshit Bharat 2047.
  • Emphasis on synergy, technology partnerships, cultural ties, and people-to-people contact.

Canada (Second Leg)

  • PM Modi will attend the G7 Summit in Kananaskis from June 16–17.
  • This will be his sixth consecutive G7 participation.
  • Discussions will cover energy security, emerging tech, AI-energy nexus, and quantum technologies.
  • He will also hold bilateral meetings with G7 leaders and heads of international organizations.

Croatia (Final Leg)

  • PM Modi to arrive in Croatia on June 18, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister.
  • Croatia is seen as a potential partner in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
  • The visit aims to boost ties with EU members and enhance India-Croatia relations.

Israel Launches “Rising Lion” Strikes on Iran: Middle East on Edge

In a major escalation, Israel has launched a military operation codenamed “Rising Lion” targeting Iran’s nuclear and military sites. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the strikes were meant to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, calling it a preemptive measure to secure Israel’s survival.

Key Details:

  • Targets: Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities, missile factories, and top military commanders
  • Impact: Major explosions reported in Tehran, including at Natanz, a key nuclear site
  • Casualties: Confirmed by Iranian state media, including senior military officials
  • Force Used: Dozens of Israeli aircraft involved

International Reaction:

  • The U.S. denied involvement, focusing on protecting its personnel
  • Donald Trump reportedly warned Israel against the strikes, citing risk of mass casualties and disruption to diplomacy

Iran’s Response:

  • Vowed harsh retaliation through missile and drone attacks
  • Closed its airspace and put its military on high alert

G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, from June 15 to 17, 2025

The 51st G7 Summit is set to take place in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, from June 15 to 17, 2025. This marks the second time Kananaskis has hosted the prestigious gathering, the first being in 2002. The summit is particularly significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the G7.

Key Participants

The G7 consists of seven of the world’s most advanced economies:

  • Canada (Host) – Prime Minister Mark Carney
  • France – President Emmanuel Macron
  • Germany – Chancellor Friedrich Merz
  • Italy – Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
  • Japan – Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba
  • United Kingdom – Prime Minister Keir Starmer
  • United States – President Donald Trump
  • European Union – Represented by António Costa (Council President) and Ursula von der Leyen (Commission President).

Additionally, several guest nations have been invited, including India, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, and Ukraine. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has confirmed his attendance following an invitation from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Agenda and Key Issues

Under Canada’s presidency, the summit will focus on:

  • Global peace and security
  • Economic resilience
  • Climate action
  • Digital transformation

The discussions will aim to strengthen international cooperation and address pressing global challenges.

Lee Jae-myung Wins South Korea’s Snap Presidential Election

South Korea’s opposition leader Lee Jae-myung is set to become the country’s next president following a snap election in June 2025. He defeated incumbent President Kim Moon-soo, leader of the ruling People Power Party, who conceded defeat and accepted the public’s decision. Lee won by over 2 million votes, with more than 99% of ballots counted.

His victory comes six months after martial law was declared, which had caused national turmoil. The election is seen as a turning point, offering a chance for political stability in South Korea following months of crisis.

Karol Nawrocki Wins Poland’s Presidential Runoff Election

In Poland, Karol Nawrocki, an independent candidate supported by the opposition Law and Justice party, won the presidential runoff election, securing around 51% of the vote, according to the final results announced on June 2, 2025. He defeated Rafal Trzaskowski, the ruling Civic Coalition candidate and Mayor of Warsaw, who received over 49% of the vote.

This was Nawrocki’s first presidential campaign, and despite trailing in polls and exit surveys, he achieved a narrow victory. Born in 1983 in Gdansk, Nawrocki will succeed President Andrzej Duda, whose second and final term ends on August 6, 2025.

Elon Musk Resigns as Chief of Government Efficiency Department (DOGE) of US

Elon Musk stepped down as chief of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) on May 28, 2025, thanking U.S. President Donald Trump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending. Musk emphasized that DOGE will continue to grow as a long-term reform initiative.

His resignation came a day after publicly criticizing Trump‘s major spending bill, saying it undermines the department’s cost-cutting efforts. Musk stated, “A bill can be big or it can be beautiful. But it cannot be both.”

Despite being a key Trump ally and campaign donor in 2024, Musk increasingly faced internal conflicts and admitted DOGE had become a scapegoat for broader administrative issues. While DOGE cut tens of thousands of jobs and downsized departments, Musk began distancing himself in April, acknowledging unmet goals.

His focus also shifted back to his companies, as Tesla faced attacks and SpaceX suffered mission failures, including the Starship explosion over the Indian Ocean during its ninth test flight.

Nicusor Dan Assumes Presidency of Romania After Winning 2025 Election

On 26 May 2025, Nicusor Dan assumed office as the President of Romania after winning the presidential runoff election held on 18 May, where he secured 53.6% of the votes. He defeated George Simion, the leader of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians, and succeeded interim President Ilie Bolojan.

In his inaugural address, the 55-year-old independent candidate emphasized the importance of reform within the framework of the rule of law, urging citizens to apply positive pressure on institutions and promising to stay receptive to public voices.

According to the Romanian Constitution, presidential elections are held every five years, with a limit of two consecutive terms.
Romania, located in southeastern Europe, is the twelfth-largest country in Europe with a population of approximately 1.9 crore (19 million).

Singapore’s New Cabinet Sworn In After PAP’s Strong Election Win

On 23 May 2025, Singapore’s new Cabinet was sworn in after the People’s Action Party (PAP) achieved a strong victory in the recent general election, winning 87 out of 97 seats and securing 65.57% of the popular vote.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who took office in May 2024 following Lee Hsien Loong, emphasized his administration’s commitment to adapting to global change, boosting the economy, and strengthening international relations.

The reshuffled Cabinet includes several Indian-origin leaders in prominent roles:

  • K. Shanmugam remains Minister for Home Affairs and is now also Coordinating Minister for National Security.
  • Vivian Balakrishnan continues as Foreign Minister.
  • Indranee Rajah stays in the Prime Minister’s Office.
  • Murali Pillai has been promoted to Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport.
  • Janil Puthucheary is now Senior Minister of State for Education, Sustainability, and the Environment.

The election results reflect increased public support for the PAP compared to the 2020 elections, where it secured 61.24% of the vote.

UK Returns Chagos Islands to Mauritius; Diego Garcia Base Leased Back for 99 Years

On 22 May 2025, the United Kingdom signed an agreement transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, resolving a long-standing territorial dispute. In return, the UK will lease back the Diego Garcia military base for $136 million per year for at least 99 years, ensuring continued operation of the US-UK base, which is vital for British security and counter-terrorism efforts.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the base’s importance to national safety and intelligence operations. The Chagos Islands, formerly part of British Indian Ocean Territory, were separated from Mauritius in 1965, and inhabitants were forcibly removed for the construction of the US base.

India welcomed the treaty, calling it a milestone in the decolonization of Mauritius and a step towards upholding international law and sovereignty. India reaffirmed its support for Mauritius’s legitimate claim and committed to enhancing maritime security and stability in the Indian Ocean region.

Golden Dome Missile Defence Shield Announced by President Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a $175 billion “Golden Dome” missile defense shield aimed at protecting the United States from long-range missile threats, including those from China and Russia. Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome but envisioned on a much larger scale, the Golden Dome will integrate hundreds of satellites to detect, track, and potentially intercept incoming missiles.

General Michael Guetlein of the U.S. Space Force has been appointed to lead this ambitious initiative. The system will complement existing U.S. missile defenses and is expected to be completed by January 2029, though experts question the feasibility of that timeline and cost.

Trump also mentioned that Canada has shown interest in joining the project.

Ukraine and Russia to meet in Istanbul for talks to end war

Ukraine and Russia are nearing direct peace talks for the first time in three years. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet in Istanbul on 15 May 2025. The move follows Moscow’s proposal for direct negotiations.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia’s delegation will be in Istanbul, but did not reveal whether Putin will attend, saying the delegation’s names will be announced later.

US President Donald Trump plans to send senior envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg to observe the talks. Putin proposed the meeting after calls from Ukraine and European nations for a 30-day ceasefire.

Anita Anand Appointed Canada’s Foreign Minister in Mark Carney’s New Cabinet

On 13 May 2025, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced his new cabinet, appointing Anita Anand as Foreign Minister, a key position. Maninder Sidhu was named International Trade Minister, while two others of Indian descent were appointed as Secretaries of State.

One of Anand’s top priorities will be to reset strained ties with India and manage Canada’s relations with U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

Carney’s new cabinet includes 28 ministers, down from 39 under Justin Trudeau, signaling a leaner team. He instructed the ministers to bring “new ideas, clear focus, and decisive actions” to their roles.

Ruby Sahota, formerly Minister of Democratic Institutions, was demoted to Secretary of State for combating crime. Randeep Sarai will handle international development as a Secretary of State.

This reshuffle gives Carney a chance to leave his mark after leading the Liberal Party to an unexpected victory in last month’s election.

Miss World 2025 Begins in Hyderabad with a Grand Cultural Showcase

The 72nd edition of the Miss World pageant began on May 10, 2025, at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad, featuring a grand celebration of Telangana’s cultural heritage. The event was inaugurated by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, with Miss World Chairperson Julia Morley and reigning Miss World Krystyna Pyszková in attendance.

The opening ceremony featured a catwalk parade with contestants from over 110 countries, each carrying their national flag, and vibrant folk and tribal dances from Telangana. A highlight was the Perini Natyam performance by 250 children.

Delegates entered in continent-based groups, welcomed with traditional music and regional dance forms like Gond, Lambadi, and Oggu Dolu, led by a Kommu Koya band. India’s representative, Nandini Gupta, joined the Asia and Oceania group. The Miss World 2025 finale is scheduled for May 31 in Hyderabad.

International Maritime Defence Exhibition (IMDEX) Asia 2025

The International Maritime Defence Exhibition (IMDEX) Asia 2025 was held at the Changi Exhibition Centre, Singapore, from May 6 to May 8, 2025. As the Asia-Pacific’s premier maritime defence event, it attracted over 56 delegations from more than 35 countries, including naval leaders, policymakers, and industry experts.

Key highlights included 22 warships from 13 nations, cutting-edge naval technology showcases by top defence firms like ELT Group, and the display of EMSO and counter-drone systems.

The Indian Navy participated with INS Kiltan, an indigenously built ASW corvette, emphasizing India’s commitment to regional maritime security.

The event also hosted the 9th International Maritime Security Conference (IMSC), addressing geopolitical risks and maritime threats. IMDEX 2025 played a vital role in strengthening naval cooperation, promoting innovation, and enhancing global maritime security.

Friedrich Merz Elected as Germany’s New Chancellor

Friedrich Merz, the conservative leader, has been elected as the new Chancellor of Germany after securing 325 votes in the second round of voting in the Lower House of Parliament, surpassing the required threshold of 316. In the first round, Merz received only 310 votes, marking a historic setback in post-war German politics.

UNSC Holds Closed-Door Consultations on India-Pakistan Situation

On May 5, 2025, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) held closed-door consultations at Pakistan’s request to discuss rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The meeting followed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ call for restraint and dialogue between the two nations. However, the consultations ended without any formal statement.

During the meeting, Pakistan’s UN envoy, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, raised the Kashmir issue, making allegations against India and rejecting any involvement in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. India criticized Pakistan for misusing the UN platform to spread misinformation and divert attention from terrorism.

Anthony Albanese Wins Second Term as Australia’s Prime Minister

Anthony Albanese has won a historic second term as Prime Minister of Australia, leading the center-left Labor Party to victory in the May 3, 2025 federal election. This is the first time in 21 years that an Australian Prime Minister has secured back-to-back three-year terms.

Peter Dutton, leader of the Liberal Party, conceded defeat and even lost his own seat in Queensland’s Dickson to Labor’s Ali France.

Looking ahead, Albanese has pledged to focus on economic recovery, renewable energy, and social policy, promising stability and progress for Australia.

US Signs Economic Partnership with Ukraine for Access to Rare Earth Minerals

On 30 April 2025, the United States announced an economic partnership agreement with Ukraine granting Washington preferential access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in exchange for creating a joint Reconstruction Investment Fund.

The fund will receive 50% of profits and royalties from new natural resource permits issued by Ukraine. However, the U.S. will not gain ownership of Ukraine’s mineral wealth or gas infrastructure.

The deal follows months of negotiations and was previously delayed due to a heated exchange between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and U.S. President Trump during a February Oval Office meeting.

Mark Carney Becomes Canadian PM After Liberal Party’s 2025 Election Win

Mark Carney becomes Prime Minister of Canada after the Liberal Party won 169 seats in the 2025 general election, forming a minority government in the 343-member House of Commons. A former Bank of Canada and Bank of England governor, Carney used his economic background to tackle key issues like U.S. trade tensions and annexation threats.

His campaign revived the Liberals’ standing, focusing on unity and resilience, and is expected to reset foreign relations, especially with India, after strained ties under Justin Trudeau. Domestically, Carney must now address housing, inflation, and minority governance challenges.

UNSC Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Reaffirms Global Stand Against Terrorism

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists. The 15-member Council reaffirmed that terrorism is a serious threat to international peace and security.

The UNSC called for the accountability of the perpetrators, organizers, financiers, and sponsors, urging all nations to cooperate under international law and Security Council resolutions.

The attack on April 22 sparked outrage across India and abroad. India responded with punitive actions against Pakistan, including the expulsion of military attachés, suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, and closure of the Attari post. Pakistan retaliated by shutting its airspace to Indian airlines and suspending trade.

Pakistan Closes Airspace to Indian Airlines Amid Rising Tensions

Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan announced on 24 April that it will ban Indian airlines from using its airspace. The restriction applies to India-registered aircraft and those owned or leased by Indian operators.

Air India stated that the ban will lead to rerouted flights to/from North America, UK, Europe, and the Middle East. IndiGo Airlines also confirmed disruptions to some international flights.

A senior Air Traffic Controller mentioned that flight durations will vary depending on alternate routes chosen. Pakistan’s airspace is strategically important and commonly used by Indian airlines, making this restriction significantly impactful.

India Tightens Diplomatic Measures Against Pakistan Post-Pahalgam Attack: Revokes All SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) Visas

On April 23, 2025, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced a series of strong diplomatic actions against Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. India has revoked all SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) visas issued to Pakistani nationals, giving those currently in India 48 hours to leave.

Additionally, India has declared the Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors in the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi as Persona Non Grata, requiring them to leave within a week. In a reciprocal move, India will withdraw its own military advisors and five support staff from its High Commission in Islamabad.

By May 1, 2025, the strength of both Indian and Pakistani High Commissions will be reduced from 55 to 30 personnel.

PM Modi’s State Visit to Saudi Arabia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi co-chaired the second meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah on April 22, 2025. The leaders reviewed cooperation across sectors including politics, defence, trade, investment, energy, technology, culture, and people-to-people ties.

To reflect the growing ties, two new ministerial committees were created:

  • Defence Cooperation Committee
  • Tourism and Cultural Cooperation Committee

The SPC will now include four main committees:

  1. Political, Consular and Security Cooperation
  2. Defence Cooperation
  3. Economy, Energy, Investment and Technology
  4. Tourism and Cultural Cooperation

Key MoUs/Agreements Signed:

  • Space cooperation between Indian Department of Space and Saudi Space Agency
  • Health collaboration between the two Health Ministries
  • Anti-doping education agreement between NADA (India) and SAADC (Saudi Arabia)
  • Postal cooperation between India Post and Saudi Post Corporation

Pope Francis Passes Away

Pope Francis passed away on April 20, 2025, marking the end of a historic and transformative papacy. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was the first Jesuit, first Latin American, and first non-European pope in over 1,200 years.

He led the Church with a focus on humility, compassion, social justice, and interfaith dialogue, and was widely respected for his stance on climate change, poverty, and global peace. His papacy left a lasting legacy of inclusiveness and humanity.

The world mourns the loss of a global spiritual leader, and tributes continue to pour in for the man who reshaped the role of the modern papacy.

US Vice President J D Vance Begins First Official Visit to India

Vice President of the United States, J D Vance, arrived in New Delhi on April 21, 2025, for a four-day official visit. He is accompanied by Second Lady Usha Vance, their children, and senior U.S. officials. This is his first visit to India, and he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss strengthening India-U.S. ties.

The delegation will also visit Jaipur and Agra, in addition to holding engagements in Delhi. The visit will focus on reviewing progress in bilateral relations, particularly the outcomes of the India-U.S. Joint Statement from February 13, 2025. Both sides will also exchange views on regional and global issues.

India and the U.S. share a comprehensive global strategic partnership, based on shared democratic values, mutual interests, and strong people-to-people connections. Regular high-level dialogue remains key to this growing relationship.

Daniel Noboa Re-elected as Ecuador’s President for second four-year term

Daniel Noboa, the incumbent President of Ecuador, has won a second four-year term by securing 55.85% of the vote against his left-wing opponent, Luisa González. The 37-year-old right-wing leader described his re-election as historic and pledged to continue his administration’s war on drugs.

Ecuador faces one of the highest homicide rates in South America. While President Noboa has achieved some reduction in crime, his military presence on the streets and the construction of high-security prisons have also led to a rise in violence, highlighting the complex challenges of his anti-drug campaign.

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