1. India part of BRICS statement calling military strikes in Iran a ‘violation of international law’
2. Rajnath Singh’s Key Takeaways from SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting
3. China’s Fertilizer Freeze: A New Agricultural Challenge for India
4. British F-35 Jet Grounded in Kerala Due to ‘Engineering Issues’, Says UK HC
5. Navy Clerk Arrested for Spying for Pakistan’s ISI

What Else

1. Indian Army Warns Pakistan of Impending Strikes in New Video
2. Shashi Tharoor Collaborates with RT on Documentary Series Amid Diplomatic Visit
3. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Resumes After 6 Years
4. Trump’s Trade Leverage Claim Sparks India-Pakistan Ceasefire Debate
5. Canadian PM says Kanishka bombing anniversary reminder of commitment to fight violent extremism
6. Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ Skips India Release Amid Backlash
7. China-Taiwan Tensions Escalate Over Historical Claims
8. China’s Rapid Advancements in Space Military Technology Pose Strategic Threats to US
9. Pakistan: PM Shehbaz Sharif ready to hold ‘meaningful dialogue’ with India on ‘all outstanding issues’
10. Pakistan and US to Finalize Trade Tariff Negotiations
11. Pakistan’s Foils RAW’s Terror Plot’, Arrests Six Suspected Facilitators
12. Bangladesh: 5 Aug to be observed as ‘July Mass Uprising Day’, 8 Aug ‘New Bangladesh Day’
13. Bangladesh Nationalist Party Agrees to 10-Year Term Limit for Prime Minister with Conditions

India part of BRICS statement calling military strikes in Iran a ‘violation of international law’

• The BRICS nations, including India, have expressed “grave concern” over the recent military strikes on Iran, calling them a “violation of international law” and the United Nations Charter.
• The joint statement emphasizes the need to uphold nuclear safeguards, safety, and security, particularly in armed conflicts.
• BRICS members also urged diplomatic initiatives to address regional challenges and promote international peace and security.
• BRICS Statement: The group condemned the military strikes on Iran, citing violations of international law and the UN Charter.
• India’s Stance: India participated in the deliberations, marking a significant criticism of the US and Israel’s actions.
• New Delhi maintained its call for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts in West Asia.
• Ceasefire: Iran and Israel have agreed to a ceasefire after a series of strikes, with both sides claiming victory.
• Upcoming BRICS Summit: PM Modi will attend the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7, where the situation in the Middle East is likely to be discussed. (more)

Rajnath Singh’s Key Takeaways from SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting in Qingdao, and called for collective action against terrorism.
• As the first senior Indian minister to visit China since the 2020 border clash, Singh’s presence marks a significant step in cautious diplomatic re-engagement between the two nations.
• Key Highlights:
• Condemning State-Sponsored Terrorism: Singh emphasized that states using terrorism for political ends must be held accountable and criticized nations providing shelter to terrorists.
• Pahalgam Attack: He directly referenced the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, linking it to The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the UN-proscribed group Lashkar-e-Taiba.
• Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Singh urged proactive steps to prevent radicalization among youth and called for countering drone threats used for cross-border smuggling.
• Multilateralism: He advocated for reformed multilateralism, emphasizing cooperation and dialogue to prevent conflicts.
• Bilateral Talks: Singh is expected to hold discussions with Chinese and Russian counterparts on regional security, trade, and terrorism.
• Singh’s visit aims to strengthen India’s stance on counter-terrorism and push for a more balanced security framework within the SCO. (more)

China’s Fertilizer Freeze: A New Agricultural Challenge for India

• China has halted exports of specialty fertilizers to India for the past two months, raising concerns of a strategic squeeze on India’s agri-input supply chain. These fertilizers—critical for boosting yields of fruits and vegetables—make up 80% of India’s imports in this category.
• While China continues shipments to other countries, Indian consignments face procedural delays and inspections, effectively blocking trade without an official ban.
• Industry experts view this as a potential retaliatory move amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
• India’s domestic production remains limited due to low volumes and a lack of technology, though rising demand is now attracting investment interest.
• Alternatives like Jordan and Europe are being explored, but timely delivery remains a hurdle.
• As specialty fertilizers gain prominence over traditional ones, India’s dependency on imports underscores the urgent need for local manufacturing and diversified sourcing strategies. (more)

British F-35 Jet Grounded in Kerala Due to ‘Engineering Issues’, Says UK HC

• A British F-35B fighter jet has been stuck at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala since Jun 14, 2025, after an emergency landing due to adverse weather conditions.
• The UK High Commission confirmed that the aircraft developed an engineering issue on the ground, preventing it from returning to its carrier, HMS Prince of Wales.
• Engineers from the carrier assessed the issue and decided to bring in a specialized team from the UK for repairs.
• The jet will be relocated to a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility hangar to minimize disruptions to airport operations.
• The UK govt has been working closely with Indian authorities, and the incident highlights the strengthening defense relationship between the two nations.
• However, there is currently no timeline for when the jet will be repaired and take off  (more)
• [Speculation surrounds the issue, with some wondering if reasons beyond technical issues are at play. Possible underlying factors could include diplomatic considerations, security concerns, or logistical challenges.]

Indian Army Warns Pakistan of Impending Strikes in New Video

• The Indian Army released a 7-minute video titled “Taiyaari Abhi Jaari Hai” (Preparations are still underway), showcasing Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
• The video warns Pakistan that India is prepared to strike again, with greater force, if terrorism continues.
• The army claims to have killed over 100 terrorists in precision strikes carried out on May 7 in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
• PM Modi’s statement, warning terrorists of “bigger punishment than they can ever imagine,” is also featured in the video.
• The army emphasizes its readiness, stating, “Try crossing the line again, and we’ll enter your home once more, but this time, we’ll go deeper and hit harder than ever before.”
• The video aims to send a strong message of deterrence to Pakistan. (more)
• [The Indian Army’s venture into video-making seems to be more of a strategic communication effort, aiming to convey a strong message to adversaries and showcase its capabilities.]

Navy Clerk Arrested for Spying for Pakistan’s ISI

• Vishal Yadav, a clerk at the Indian Navy’s headquarters in Delhi, has been arrested for allegedly leaking sensitive defense information to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
• Yadav, a resident of Haryana, was caught by the Rajasthan Police’s Intelligence Wing after months of surveillance.
• He reportedly shared confidential information about naval operations and defense establishments with a woman believed to be an ISI operative, identified as Priya Sharma, through social media.
• Yadav, addicted to online gaming, had incurred significant financial losses and was paid via cryptocurrency trading accounts and direct bank transfers.
• Multiple intelligence agencies are interrogating him at the Central Interrogation Centre in Jaipur to determine the extent of the breach and potential involvement of others.
• This arrest is part of a nationwide crackdown on suspected Pakistani espionage networks following the Pahalgam terror attack. (more)

Shashi Tharoor Collaborates with RT on Documentary Series Amid Diplomatic Visit

• Congress MP Shashi Tharoor is collaborating with Russia Today (RT) on a 10-part documentary series titled “Imperial Receipts,” exploring the global impact of colonialism.
• This project comes amid his visit to Moscow, where he met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, sparking speculation about a “fresh diplomatic push.”
• Tharoor’s visit included participation in the Primakov Readings and discussions on India-China tensions.
• The documentary series will air on RT and RT India, drawing from Tharoor’s previous works, including “An Era of Darkness” and “Inglorious Empire”.
• While the official release date hasn’t been announced, promotional clips have started airing.
• The collaboration raises questions about cultural diplomacy and state-backed media narratives, given RT’s role as a strategic soft power tool for Russia.
• Tharoor hasn’t publicly commented on the connection between the RT project and his diplomatic activities. (more)

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Resumes After 6 Years

• A group of 36 Indian pilgrims has completed the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet, China, after a six-year hiatus.
• This marks the first people-to-people exchange between India and China since the COVID-19 pandemic and the Line of Actual Control military standoff.
• The pilgrims, aged 18 to 69, embarked on the arduous trek around the 18,000-feet-high Mount Kailash and bathed in the holy waters of Lake Mansarovar.
• The Ministry of External Affairs coordinated with the Chinese government to provide Indian cooks and familiar food for the pilgrims.
• This yatra’s resumption is expected to be followed by other diplomatic efforts, including direct flights, visa openings, and economic cooperation.
• The move signifies a hopeful sign for cross-border pilgrimage, spiritual tourism, and Indo-China cultural exchanges. (more)

Trump’s Trade Leverage Claim Sparks India-Pakistan Ceasefire Debate

• U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his claim that he brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in May 2025 by threatening to withhold trade deals.
• Speaking at the NATO summit in The Hague, Trump said he used a series of phone calls and trade pressure to de-escalate tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
• While Pakistan acknowledged his role and even suggested a Nobel Peace Prize nomination, India has firmly denied any U.S. mediation, asserting that the ceasefire was a result of direct military-level communication.
• Trump’s remarks have reignited diplomatic friction, with Indian officials emphasizing that no trade discussions occurred during the crisis.
• Analysts suggest Trump’s statements reflect his transactional foreign policy style, using economic tools to influence geopolitical outcomes.
• The episode underscores the delicate balance India maintains in its strategic autonomy, especially when navigating high-stakes regional conflicts and global power assertions.(more)
• Trump Praises Pakistan’s Asim Munir, Reiterates Role in India-Pakistan Ceasefire: US President Donald Trump has once again praised Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, calling him a “very impressive personality” and a “great man” after their recent meeting at the White House. (more)

Canadian PM says Kanishka bombing anniversary reminder of commitment to fight violent extremism

• Prime Minister Mark Carney and Foreign Minister Anita Anand paid tribute to the victims of the Air India Flight 182 bombing, Canada’s deadliest terrorist attack.
• On June 23, 1985, a bomb planted by Canada-based terrorists exploded on the flight, killing 329 people, including 280 Canadians, mostly of Indian descent.
• Carney emphasized Canada’s commitment to fighting violent extremism, while Anand highlighted the need for continued collaboration with allies to prevent terrorism.
• Memorial events were held across Canada, including ceremonies at the Air India monument in Ottawa and the Air India 182 Memorial in Toronto.
• Family members of the victims and government officials attended these events, underscoring the importance of remembering the tragedy and working towards a safer future (more)
• Canada’s Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree delivered a powerful speech, calling it the “single worst act of terrorism and mass murder in Canadian history.”

Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ Skips India Release Amid Backlash

• Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh’s film ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ will not be released in India due to backlash over casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
• The film’s producers decided against an India release, citing recent developments beyond their control, including tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack.
• Diljit stated that the situation was stable during filming in February, but things escalated later. The film will premiere overseas this Friday. Key Points:
• Film’s Release: ‘Sardaar Ji 3’ will release only overseas due to backlash
• Casting Controversy: Indian film industry associations condemned Hania Aamir’s casting
• Industry Reaction: FWICE President BN Tiwari expressed discontent, calling for a ban on Diljit Dosanjh’s work
• Previous Tensions: Restrictions on Pakistani artists in India have been enforced since 2016
• Other Affected Projects: Pakistani actors Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Mawra Hocan faced backlash in recent years (more)

[Neighborhood]

China-Taiwan Tensions Escalate Over Historical Claims

• China and Taiwan are engaged in a war of words over their competing interpretations of history, with China viewing Taiwan as its own territory and Taiwan asserting its sovereignty.
• Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has given speeches emphasizing Taiwan’s status as a country, sparking criticism from China’s Taiwan Affairs Office.
• China’s spokesperson Zhu Fenglian stated that Taiwan is already Chinese territory, making invasion impossible. Key Points:
• Historical Claims: China and Taiwan have differing views on their historical relationship, with China claiming Taiwan as part of its territory.
• Tensions: Military pressure and tensions have increased, with China’s air force and navy operating around Taiwan daily.
• US Comments: China responded to US comments on its military drills, stating that Taiwan is part of China and there’s no invasion to speak of.
• Taiwan’s Position: President Lai emphasized that Taiwan’s future should be decided democratically by its people, not by any external party (more)

China’s Rapid Advancements in Space Military Technology Pose Strategic Threats to US

• US Space Force Commander General Stephen Whiting has expressed concern about China’s rapidly growing capabilities in space military technology, posing strategic threats to the United States.
• Whiting identified three areas of concern:
• Space-Based Targeting Systems: China has developed space-based targeting systems to locate, track, and strike American and allied forces across the Indo-Pacific region, supporting over-the-horizon precision strikes.
• China has more than 510 satellites capable of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), with 67 ISR-capable satellites launched in 2024 alone.
• Counterspace Weapons: China has deployed counterspace weapons, including reversible cyberattacks, satellite communication and GPS jamming, and direct-ascent anti-satellite rockets and missiles.
• These capabilities aim to disrupt US space-based assets and gain a strategic advantage.
• Integration of Space Capabilities: The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has integrated space capabilities into its traditional forces, making them more lethal, precise, and far-ranging.
• This integration enhances the PLA’s military effectiveness and poses a significant challenge to US forces.
• These advancements have raised concerns about the potential for strategic competition and conflict in space, prompting the US to reassess its priorities and strategies in the domain (more)

Pakistan: PM Shehbaz Sharif ready to hold ‘meaningful dialogue’ with India on ‘all outstanding issues’

• Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif has expressed willingness to engage in “meaningful dialogue” with India to resolve all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir, water disputes, trade, and terrorism.
• Sharif made this statement during a phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the Apr 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.
• India launched Operation Sindoor in response, targeting terror bases in Pakistan. Key Points:
• Dialogue Proposal: Sharif proposed dialogue with India on all outstanding issues, signaling openness to peaceful negotiations.
• India’s Stance: India has rejected Pakistan’s advances, insisting that talks must focus on terrorism and the return of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
• Current Status: Diplomatic restrictions remain in place, including suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and halted trade between the two nations (more)

Pakistan and US to Finalize Trade Tariff Negotiations

• Pakistan and the US are set to conclude trade discussions on reciprocal tariffs by next week, following a virtual meeting between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
• Pakistan faces a potential 29% tariff on exports to the US due to a $3 billion trade surplus.
• To mitigate this, Pakistan has proposed increasing imports of US goods like cotton and edible oils.
• Both sides aim to finalize a comprehensive trade agreement, boosting economic ties and paving the way for a stronger partnership (more)

Pakistan’s Foils RAW’s Terror Plot’, Arrests Six Suspected Facilitators

• Pakistan’s Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has conducted “Operation Yalghaar,” busting a network of RAW agents planning attacks in Punjab.
• Six suspected RAW facilitators were arrested in Toba Tek Singh district, with evidence revealing plans to carry out Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blasts at a mosque and Bahawalpur Railway Station.
• Audio recordings of conversations between RAW officers Major Ravindra Rathore and Inspector Singh were obtained, providing direct evidence of Indian intelligence operatives orchestrating subversive activities on Pakistani soil. Key Details:
• Arrests: Six suspected RAW facilitators arrested in Toba Tek Singh district
• Evidence: Audio recordings of RAW officers directing attacks on sensitive installations
• Seized Materials: IEDs, detonators, high-grade explosives, and classified maps
• Payment: Financial support routed through Dubai-based agents
• Implications: Tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors likely to escalate further (more)

Bangladesh: 5 Aug to be observed as ‘July Mass Uprising Day’, 8 Aug ‘New Bangladesh Day’

• The government has declared 5 August as July ‘Mass Uprising Day’ and 8 August to be celebrated as ‘New Bangladesh Day’.
• The government has also decided to include 5 August as a ‘Ka’ category and 8 August as ‘Kha’ category day in the observance of national and international days to be observed as the ‘July Mass Uprising Day’ and ‘New Bangladesh Day’ every year.
• All concerned ministries, departments and organisations have been asked to properly implement it.
• The cabinet division on Wednesday issued circulars to this end.
• Meanwhile, the government has also declared 16 July as ‘Martyr Abu Sayeed Day’.
• This date has been included as ‘Kha’ category day in the observance of national and international days to be observed every year as ‘Martyr Abu Sayeed Day’.
• The Cabinet Division issued a separate circular to this end yesterday. (more)

Bangladesh Nationalist Party Agrees to 10-Year Term Limit for Prime Minister with Conditions

• The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has expressed support for limiting a person’s tenure as prime minister to a maximum of 10 years during their lifetime, but with reservations about the proposed Constitutional Appointment Committee.
• BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed stated that his party opposes the formation of the committee, which would oversee appointments to key constitutional and statutory bodies, citing concerns about curtailing the executive branch’s powers.
• The National Consensus Commission revised its proposal, renaming the body to “Appointment Committee for Constitutional and Statutory Institutions” and excluding the president and chief justice from its membership.
• The committee would comprise seven members, including the prime minister, opposition leader, and the speakers of the Lower and Upper Houses. Key Points:
• BNP’s Conditional Support: BNP agrees to the 10-year term limit, but opposes the Constitutional Appointment Committee.
• Revised Proposal: The committee’s name, membership, and authority have been changed to address concerns.
• Other Parties’ Reactions: Jamaat-e-Islami and most other parties support the revised proposal, while BNP remains opposed.

Next Steps: The Consensus Commission will present a complete proposal based on recommendations from supporting parties next week (more)