Two direct hits in central Israel resulted in seven deaths and at least 130 injuries. The Home Front Command is currently conducting search and rescue operations. At least 35 individuals remain unaccounted for following the attacks. The ongoing search continues amid a significant number of casualties.
President Zelenskyy’s visit to Calgary for the G7 summit is highlighted by a welcoming billboard. The billboard demonstrates a show of support for the Ukrainian leader and his country amidst the ongoing conflict. His presence at the summit underscores the global importance of the situation in Ukraine. The billboard serves as a visible symbol of Calgary’s solidarity with Ukraine.
Following a phone call with Vladimir Putin on June 14th, Donald Trump expressed openness to Putin mediating between Israel and Iran, citing Putin’s willingness to do so. Trump also acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding the conflict and stated he is “doing a lot” to facilitate peace. While leaving the specifics undefined, Trump did not dismiss the possibility of US intervention. Iran’s refusal to engage with the US due to US support for Israel remains a significant obstacle.
Drawing a parallel to a purportedly successful negotiation between India and Pakistan, Trump described his proposed Iran-Israel agreement as leveraging US trade to encourage compromise. He asserted this approach fostered cohesion and a swift resolution among the involved leaders. The strategy emphasized economic incentives to achieve a rapid and decisive agreement. The statement highlights Trump’s belief in the power of economic leverage in international diplomacy.
To access all ET Prime member benefits, users must log in using their ET Prime credentials. If already logged in with a different account, users should log out and log in again with their ET Prime credentials. This ensures full access to member-exclusive content and features. Failure to do so will limit access to the full range of ET Prime offerings.
The US secretly supplied Israel with approximately 300 Hellfire missiles just days before Israel’s large-scale attack on Iran. This significant arms transfer, not previously reported, suggests US foreknowledge of the attack, despite public statements indicating continued engagement in nuclear talks. The missiles, suitable for precision strikes, were used in the attack, which involved over 100 aircraft targeting Iranian military leaders and nuclear facilities. This action followed months of behind-the-scenes planning, with the Trump administration’s apparent acquiescence to Israel’s attack plans.
India and the US are in the final stages of bilateral trade negotiations, facing significant hurdles in sectors like dairy, agriculture, digital, and medical services. The US is pushing for increased market access, while India seeks a more balanced agreement protecting domestic interests, leading to disagreements over tariff reductions and sanitary standards. Negotiations, currently virtual, aim to reach a deal before the July 8th deadline to avoid reinstated tariffs. Despite challenges, Indian officials remain optimistic about achieving a mutually beneficial agreement.
In a secret collaboration, the US and Israel modified Israeli F-35I Adir warplanes to increase their range without compromising stealth capabilities or requiring mid-air refueling. This modification, confirmed by US officials, allowed Israel to conduct a surprise attack on Iran from its own bases. The alteration involved adding external fuel tanks, a complex undertaking given the F-35’s sensitive design, and represents a significant advancement for the aircraft. This development will likely be closely scrutinized by other potential F-35 buyers, as well as adversaries like China and Russia.
Following Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya strongly condemned the actions, citing their escalation of the situation and urging all parties to exercise restraint. The attacks, confirmed by Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, targeted numerous military installations, despite ongoing US-Iran negotiations. Japan, heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil, expressed deep concern over the regional instability and pledged diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict. The government also reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of Japanese citizens in the region.
During a large-scale drone and missile attack on Kyiv on June 9-10, Russian forces deliberately targeted a Boeing office building. This attack, following a Ukrainian drone operation against Russian airbases, underscores Russia’s intent to hinder Ukrainian defense production and disrupt Western business operations within the country. Boeing, which employs approximately 1,000 people in Ukraine and collaborates with Antonov, reported no employee injuries. Despite significant damage to member facilities, the majority of American businesses represented by the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine remain operational.
John Q. Hosedrinker