News Menu, June 18: Israel-Iran conflict rages on; PM in Croatia after G7 Summit

New Delhi,UPDATED: Jun 18, 2025 09:27 IST

Good morning. On June 17-18, 1858, Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi died fighting British forces in the Battle of Gwalior during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, her heroic sacrifice inspiring India’s quest for freedom.

In her memory, India Today presents a news menu weaving global crises, diplomatic endeavors, and domestic developments, reflecting a nation’s resilience amid adversity.

Middle-East Crisis: Iran-Israel Conflict Enters Sixth Day

Israel lifts air raid warnings, claiming to have intercepted most Iranian missiles, while Iran announces a new wave of attacks. Donald Trump, asserting “complete control over Iran’s skies,” rules out killing Iran’s Supreme Leader for now, urging Tehran to abandon nuclear ambitions. Evidence continues to point at the United States’ imminent participation in Israel’s bombing campaign. Quick Take: Trump’s rhetoric escalates tensions while offering a pause on extreme measures. Iran’s resilience is being tested with its allies like Syria pushed out of the battle zone. Will it surrender to Trump’s diktat or carry on despite mounting risks to its existence?

India Ramps Up Evacuation Amid Iran-Israel Escalation

India intensified efforts to evacuate citizens as the Iran-Israel conflict worsens, with 110 students reaching Armenia for repatriation soon. The MEA coordinates with Israel’s ambassador to ensure safety amid heightened security concerns.

PM Modi’s Three-Nation Tour Concludes in Croatia

The Prime Minister visits Croatia on Wednesday, the first Indian PM to do so, concluding his G7 tour, after a brief visit to Cyprus. The visit aims to bolster India-Croatia ties amid global tensions. The historic Croatia visit enhances India’s Balkan outreach.

Ahmedabad Plane Crash: DNA Testing Nears Completion

DNA matching for Air India Flight AI-171 victims continues, with 167 matches completed, and 133 bodies released by Tuesday. Experts expect one to two more days, as the high-level committee probe advances.

Weather: Rain Brings Relief

Delhi will enjoy pleasant weather with light to moderate rain until Thursday, under a yellow alert. Heavy rain alerts for South Gujarat, Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bihar, providing heat wave respite.

INS Arnala Commissioned: Maritime Milestone

India commissions INS Arnala, its first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, on Wednesday, marking self-reliance in maritime defense. The ship bolsters coastal protection against submarine threats.

Karnataka: Congress Leader Targets Own Party

Chief Minister’s son Yathindra Siddaramaiah criticises Congress for delaying Karnataka’s caste survey report, denying justice to backward classes. He blames internal resistance and dismisses objections as politically motivated. Internal Congress rifts weaken its Karnataka narrative. The caste survey delay risks alienating key voters. Yathindra’s outspokenness may spark leadership debates.

Telangana: BRS-Congress Clash Over Phone Tapping

The BRS-Congress feud intensifies over alleged phone tapping during the BRS regime. KTR plans legal action against PCC president, while CM Revanth and YS Sharmila escalate accusations.

DMK vs. Centre: Keeladi Excavation Dispute

CM Stalin accused the Centre of suppressing Keeladi excavation data, claiming challenges to Tamil identity. DMK’s student wing plans protests in Madurai, while the Centre alleges DMK politicization. The dispute highlights Centre-state cultural tensions. DMK’s protests leverage Tamil pride for political gain. Resolution hinges on transparent archaeological collaboration.

Parting Bite

“I will not give up my Jhansi!” declared Rani Lakshmibai in 1857, her defiance echoing through India’s trials today. India Today presents Rani Lakhmibai's final stand, leading to her martyrdom in a special story.