🗞️ News Summary – June 23, 2025
1. Middle East Conflict & U.S.–Iran Tensions
The U.S. conducted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites (Fordow, Natanz, Isfahan) under “Operation Midnight Hammer.” Iran condemned the strikes, threatening closure of the Strait of Hormuz—through which ~20% of global oil passes. Oil prices hit a five-month high, airlines rerouted flights, and several countries evacuated citizens from the region. 1
Former President Trump publicly floated the idea of “regime change” in Iran, though U.S. officials denied such intent. 2
2. Global Reactions
Australia supported the strikes, drawing criticism at home due to AUKUS ties, while New Zealand and Japan urged restraint. Companies and markets reacted—Australia’s stock market dropped by ~USD 10 billion. 3
3. India’s Diplomatic Response
Prime Minister Modi spoke with Iran’s president, urging calm amid warnings that 20% of global oil supply could be affected. 4
4. Europe Heatwave Continues
A heatwave that began on June 17 persists across France, Germany, and the UK. France reached almost 40 °C on June 21, triggering health alerts and stressing power grids. Hundreds of heat-related deaths are estimated. 5
5. Science: Rubin Observatory “First Light”
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory released its inaugural “first light” images, marking a major milestone in astronomy. 6
6. NATO Summit in The Hague
NATO leaders are meeting June 24–25 in The Hague to discuss defense spending. Member states may raise targets to ~3.5% of GDP plus infrastructure — driven by Secretary-General Mark Rutte. 7
7. Japan Political & Natural Events
Japan's ruling LDP suffered a record-low in Tokyo assembly elections, seen as a warning ahead of national elections. Meanwhile, Mt. Shinmoe on Kyushu erupted on June 22, prompting alerts. 8
8. U.S. Domestic Headlines
- U.S. Supreme Court upheld a Tennessee ban on gender-affirming care for minors.
- FDA approved Gilead’s lenacapavir (Yeztugo) for HIV treatment.
- A B‑2 bomber strike on Iran was ordered June 21 following presidential meetings.
- A tornado on June 21 in North Dakota killed three people. 9