A US Defence Intelligence Agency report reveals that recent American airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites have only delayed its programme by a few months, not years, as claimed by President Trump. While above-ground damage at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan was substantial, underground facilities and centrifuges remain largely intact. Some enriched uranium was reportedly relocated before the strikes. The White House dismissed the report as “flat-out wrong,” calling it an attempt to discredit Trump. Meanwhile, Iran signalled its willingness to resume talks while asserting it will defend its nuclear rights if Israel violates the ceasefire.
NATO’S 1.5% SPENDING DEBATE
At the NATO summit in The Hague, leaders proposed a 5% GDP defence spending target by 2035. While 3.5% is allocated to core military spending, a contentious 1.5% is reserved for “defence and security-related investments,” including civilian infrastructure and cybersecurity. Experts argue the vague definition risks “creative accounting” and undermines transparency. Spain voiced concerns over economic strain and non-binding language in NATO’s communication. If misused, the clause could damage transatlantic trust and weaken NATO’s collective defence capability. A 2029 review will assess nations’ progress toward the ambitious, yet loosely defined, goal.
UK ADDS NUCLEAR-CAPABLE FIGHTER JETS
The UK will acquire 12 US-made F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons, marking the first time since the 1990s that the RAF will participate in Britain’s nuclear deterrence. Announced at the NATO summit, the move enhances UK’s strategic posture amid rising global tensions. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it a response to growing nuclear threats and reaffirmed Britain’s NATO commitment. NATO chief Mark Rutte praised the decision. The aircraft will be stationed at RAF Marham in Norfolk and will contribute to NATO’s dual-capable aircraft fleet, currently limited to a few member states.
INDIAN DEFENCE MINISTER HEADS TO CHINA FOR SCO
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh departs for Qingdao, China, to attend the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting from June 25–26. He aims to present India’s stance on global peace and regional security, emphasizing the urgent need for joint and sustained action against terrorism. Singh is also expected to reinforce India’s commitment to SCO principles and push for deeper economic and defence cooperation. On the sidelines, he will hold key bilateral meetings, including with counterparts from China and Russia. India views SCO as crucial for promoting multilateralism and maintaining sovereignty, territorial integrity, and mutual respect among member states.
TRUMP HAILS IRAN-ISRAEL CEASEFIRE SUCCESS
At the NATO Summit in The Hague, US President Donald Trump celebrated the Iran-Israel ceasefire as a “tremendous victory for everyone,” claiming US strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites had set back its program by “decades.” Trump dismissed leaked intelligence reports suggesting otherwise and blamed critical media outlets for spreading misinformation. He also asserted that US intervention was helping advance peace in Gaza. Despite growing skepticism, Trump doubled down on his “total obliteration” narrative, positioning the ceasefire as a direct result of his administration’s actions. He reiterated the US commitment to Middle East stability amid ongoing tensions.
