The Hague has initiated its largest-ever security operation, “Orange Shield,” as it hosts the NATO summit on June 24–25, 2025. Over 27,000 police and 10,000 military personnel are deployed, anti-aircraft systems have been installed, and five kilometres of fencing have been erected around the venue. Leaders will discuss Ukraine, Gaza, Iran-Israel tensions, and a proposed 5% GDP defence target pushed by Trump. Zelenskyy will attend a dinner but skip the main session. The summit, costing over €180 million, is causing major disruptions in the city, from roadblocks to no-fly zones.
TRUMP SLAMS ISRAEL OVER CEASEFIRE
Before heading to the NATO summit, US President Donald Trump sharply criticised both Israel and Iran for breaching a ceasefire he claimed to have brokered. He expressed particular displeasure with Israel for launching missiles after the truce deadline, warning them on Truth Social: “DO NOT DROP THOSE BOMBS.” Trump claimed both nations reached out “simultaneously” seeking peace and declared Iran’s nuclear capabilities “destroyed.” Despite agreeing to the ceasefire, Israel remains on high alert, signalling readiness to retaliate. Trump’s remarks reflect tensions even amid diplomatic attempts to end the 12-day conflict.
LIU YUEJIN GETS DEATH SENTENCE
China’s former counterterrorism chief, Liu Yuejin, has been sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve for accepting over 121 million yuan ($16.83 million) in bribes. The Fuzhou Intermediate People’s Court also ordered the confiscation of his assets. Liu, a prominent figure in China’s security apparatus and an ally of disgraced official Meng Jianzhu, held powerful roles from 1992 to 2020. Though the sentence may be commuted based on his behaviour during reprieve, his fall marks another major step in Xi Jinping’s sweeping anti-corruption drive targeting party disloyalty and misuse of power.
SYRINGE ATTACKS DISRUPTS FRENCH FESTIVAL
During France’s annual Fête de la Musique, 145 people were stabbed with syringes across the country, prompting renewed fears of needle spiking. Authorities detained 12 suspects and hospitalised several victims, including underage girls. Investigations are ongoing to determine if drugs like GHB or Rohypnol were involved. Influencers had warned of online calls encouraging syringe attacks on women. The mayor of Metz confirmed 17 young girls were attacked in his city alone. This incident mirrors a disturbing pattern seen across Europe in recent years, raising alarm over safety at public gatherings and nightlife events.
SEVEN IRANIANS CHARGED IN UK
Seven Iranian men appeared in a UK court after being charged with grievous bodily harm for allegedly attacking two individuals during a protest outside Iran’s London embassy. The incident occurred during a pro-royalist demonstration against the Tehran regime. One victim reportedly kissed the Iranian flag before being chased and beaten for six minutes, resulting in serious injuries including broken ribs and a suspected brain bleed. The men, said to be anti-regime activists, were denied bail. This event coincides with heightened Iran-Israel tensions and ongoing ceasefire violations following recent military escalations.
