Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has suspended cooperation with the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), following a parliamentary mandate and US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites. This move marks a major shift in Tehran’s nuclear policy amid growing international tensions. The 2015 nuclear deal, already weakened by the US withdrawal in 2018, now faces further erosion. Iran, with enrichment capability up to 60%, could resume weapons-grade activity within months. Trump justified the strikes, saying Iran was weeks from a nuclear weapon. Talks remain uncertain, though sanctions could be lifted if Iran agrees to peaceful engagement.
TRUMP ANNOUNCES CEASEFIRE
US President Donald Trump revealed that Israel has agreed to a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, pending Hamas’ approval. The deal, brokered with mediation from Egypt and Qatar, is expected to be finalized next week. Trump warned Hamas to accept the terms, calling it the final offer. Talks aim to end the conflict that has killed over 56,000 Palestinians since October 2023. Netanyahu insists the war continues until Hamas is dismantled. Meanwhile, Hamas demands a full Israeli withdrawal and a permanent ceasefire in exchange for the remaining hostages. The outcome hinges on Hamas’ response to Trump’s proposal.
US PAUSES WEAPONS AID
The United States has decided to pause certain weapons shipments to Ukraine, citing concerns over dwindling stockpiles. The review, conducted by the Pentagon, determined that US military readiness must take priority, despite Kyiv’s urgent need for air defence. The move comes as Russia ramps up drone and missile attacks, launching over 5,400 drones in June alone. While the exact weapons withheld remain undisclosed, this suspension could critically impact Ukraine’s defence. Meanwhile, Germany continues to deliberate over supplying Taurus cruise missiles, which Kyiv has sought for their ability to penetrate fortified targets, amid fears of direct involvement in the war.
QANTAS HACK HITS SIX MILLION
Australian airline Qantas has confirmed a major data breach impacting up to six million customers. The breach occurred through a third-party customer service platform and compromised personal details, including names, emails, phone numbers, birth dates, and frequent flyer numbers. No financial or passport data was accessed. Qantas quickly contained the system and is working with national authorities and cybersecurity experts to investigate. CEO Vanessa Hudson apologised and pledged support to affected customers. The breach comes amid rising cyberattacks in Australia, causing Qantas shares to drop 3.5% in early trading amid growing public and market concern.
US SLAPS TARIFF ON RUSSIA BUYERS
US President Donald Trump has approved a sanctions bill imposing a 500% tariff on nations buying oil from Russia — a move directly targeting major importers like India and China. The bill, backed by 84 senators, aims to weaken Russia’s war economy by discouraging energy trade. India, which imports 36% of its crude from Russia, could face serious economic and diplomatic repercussions. The proposed tariff threatens India’s discounted oil deal with Moscow, crucial to its cost-saving strategy. With a $41.18 billion surplus in US trade, India’s fiscal stability and energy security now face unprecedented pressure.
