The conflict between Israel and Iran has concluded. Central to this dispute were Iran’s vital nuclear facilities, which US President Donald Trump asserts were ‘completely destroyed’ by American military actions. However, is there definitive evidence to support this claim? We discuss the differing accounts and additional topics in our weekly summary.
Following 12 days of relentless missile strikes and the involvement of the United States, the so-called “12-day war” between Israel and Iran concluded on Tuesday, June 24. This resolution occurred mere hours after Iran executed an assault on the US-operated airbase located in Qatar. One might expect a more forceful response from the US; however, Donald Trump opted to announce a ceasefire via Truth Social. It appears that Tehran had previously notified both the US and Qatar regarding the largely symbolic nature of the strikes.
Despite violations of the ceasefire and a frustrated Trump expressing his displeasure, the tenuous peace between Israel and Iran has managed to persist.
With the conflict now resolved, it is time for evaluation. While the US president claims that Iran’s critical nuclear facilities have been “totally obliterated,” intelligence reports from both US and European sources indicate significant damage instead. What is the actual situation? It remains difficult to ascertain.
In the United States, the mayoral primary in New York City captured widespread attention. Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old state assemblyman of Indian descent, emerged as the Democratic candidate for mayor after defeating former governor Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani has made history as the first Muslim nominee, yet he faces criticism from various quarters, including Donald Trump and Indian political figures.
In terms of historical events, the Axiom-4 mission, which transported Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS), successfully launched on Wednesday, June 25. Shukla has become the first Indian to reach the space station, accompanied by three other crew members. This event also marked a significant milestone for Poland and Hungary, as they sent their astronauts – Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski and Tibor Kapu – into space for the first time in nearly fifty years.
Lastly, let us discuss the “Wedding of the Century.” Amazon founder Jeff Bezos wed former television journalist Lauren Sanchez in an extravagant ceremony held in Venice. The couple encountered protests and had to alter their venue, but can anything truly dampen the festivities when one is the third-richest individual in the world? A host of the most renowned and influential figures gathered in Venice for a celebration that reportedly cost up to €40 million (approximately Rs 400 crore).
We discuss all of this and more in our weekly summary.
1. Following the US’s assault on Iran’s critical nuclear facilities, a counterattack was anticipated. The Islamic Republic fired missiles at the US-operated Al Udeid Air Base, a significant military installation in West Asia. Nevertheless, there were no reported casualties or damages. In fact, Iran had previously informed both Qatar and the Trump administration about the impending strikes. Here’s the reasoning behind it.
2. After Iran’s assault on the US air base, the conflict took an unforeseen direction. Donald Trump declared a ceasefire on Truth Social. Currently, all three parties – the US, Israel, and Iran – are asserting their victories. But who truly emerged victorious? Additionally, what advantages did America gain from entering the conflict? This narrative elucidates the situation.
3. Trump asserts that Iranian nuclear facilities were “completely destroyed.” Israel presents a similar narrative. Intelligence evaluations from the US and EU indicate “significant damage.” However, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, contends that the US strikes did not “achieve anything substantial” in disrupting Iran’s nuclear program. How much damage has actually been inflicted on the facilities? It remains difficult to ascertain.
4. In the realm of American politics, a 33-year-old son of an Indian-American filmmaker has captured public attention. Zohran Mamdani triumphed in the New York mayoral primary, securing the Democratic nomination for the election. As the first Muslim nominee, Mamdani is, however, facing criticism from various quarters. What makes this young politician so contentious?
5. Ultimately, the Axiom-4 mission launched after six postponements. With this, India’s astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla became the first individual from the country to journey to the International Space Station. However, life in space presents its own set of challenges. “I am learning like a baby how to walk and eat in space,” Shukla remarked during one of his initial comments throughout the spaceflight. So, what effects does space have on the human body? This explanation provides the answer.
6. In the previous year, the South Korean government enacted a comprehensive prohibition on the sale of dog meat for consumption. This significant legislation will take effect in 2027. Farmers are granted time until that date to cease operations and liquidate their remaining canines. Consequently, this situation leaves 500,000 dogs and numerous farmers in a state of uncertainty.
7. The “Wedding of the Century” occurred in Venice. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and former television journalist Lauren Sanchez exchanged their vows on Friday, June 27. Following the ceremony was an extravagant celebration. The San Giorgio island was filled with prominent figures, including politicians, business leaders, and celebrities, representing the elite of the world. Here is the financial breakdown of the wedding.
That concludes our updates for this week. We wish you happy reading. If you enjoy delving deeply into the news, please return for more detailed explainers here.
