Month: June 2025

PDP leader Iltija Mufti has appealed to the Central goverment to arrest the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack and stated that tourism halted in Pahalgam, “crippling” the economy of Jammu and Kashmir.

Her remarks come after NIA said on Sunday that it has arrested two men, Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar and Bashir Ahmad Jothar, for harbouring terrorists involved in the April 22 terror attack in the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam in the union territory.

Speaking to reporters, Mufti said, “Whatever happened in Pahalgam … is completely condemnable, it was a dastardly attack…Tourism has stopped in Pahalgam, the economy of Jammu and Kashmir has crippled… Because tourism is the backbone of our economy, I appeal to the government to arrest those who carried out this attack as soon as possible, and do some confidence-building measures with the people here.”

Furthermore, PDP leader expressed disappointment over the silence of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on US attack of three nuclear sites in Iran on Sunday. She also criticised the Centre’s silence on the Palestine issue, stating “Iran stands for the Palestinian people”.

“It’s very sad, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has been silent. But India has always taken a pro-Palestine stand. Iran also stands for the Palestinian people. America attacked Iran, and it’s highly unfortunate. But, the more saddening thing is that India is also not taking the stand that it should, after all, Iran stands for the Palestinian people,” she said

The Israeli Air Force on Sunday launched a new wave of airstrikes targeting military sites in western Iran, shortly after Iranian missile attacks injured civilians in Israel.In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said, “The IAF has begun a series of strikes toward military targets in western Iran.

Additionally, this morning, the IAF struck missile launchers ready to launch toward Israeli territory, soldiers in the Iranian Armed Forces, and swiftly neutralised the launchers that launched missiles toward Israeli territory a short while ago.”

According to Israel’s state news agency TPS, missile impacts were reported in several parts of the country, including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and central Israel. Air raid alarms were heard again in northern regions, and residents were told to stay inside bomb shelters after another wave of missiles was detected.

During the intervening hours of Saturday and Sunday, US and Israel targeted Iran’s nuclear sites in Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. Fardow is Iran’s main enrichment location for uranium enrichment to 60 per cent.

In his first public remarks following the strikes, President Trump warned that further action could be taken if Tehran fails to agree to a satisfactory peace settlement.”There will be either peace or there will be tragedy for Iran, far greater than we’ve witnessed over the last eight days,” Trump said in his address to the nation from the White House on Saturday (local time). (ANI)

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said on Sunday that about 33 lakh people have visited the Char Dham so far this year.

He also said the Kanwar Yatra is organised every year, and he will soon review the preparations for this year’s event.

Speaking to the reporters, Pushkar Singh Dhami said, “The Char Dham Yatra is ongoing, and around 33 lakh people have visited the Char Dham so far… Every year, the Kanwar Yatra is organised, and we make preparations for it. I will very soon be reviewing the preparations for this year as well…”

The Char Dham Yatra 2025 officially began on April 30 with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham on Akshaya Tritiya amid Vedic chants and rituals. The doors of Kedarnath Dham were opened on May 2, and those of Badrinath on May 4.

Dhami said at the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh conference that they discussed ways to maintain coordination between labour and industries for development.

He added that their goal is to provide the best facilities for all labourers.

“In this conference, we discussed how we can maintain coordination between labour and industries for development, and we are actively working on that… Our constant effort is to ensure that all our labourers receive the best possible facilities,” Dhami said.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the closing ceremony of “Swarnim 70 Years” organised by Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh Uttarakhand in Haridwar.

The officials and youth of the Mazdoor Sangh welcomed the Chief Minister.

Dhami inaugurated the program by lighting the lamp. A large number of youth were also present in the program. He has also participated in the youth worker conference.

Earlier on Saturday, Uttarakhand made history by becoming the first state in India to implement a dedicated Yoga Policy, following its pioneering efforts in introducing the Uniform Civil Code.

The Pushkar Singh Dhami-led cabinet approved this landmark initiative, aiming to establish Uttarakhand as a global hub for yoga and wellness. (ANI)

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has announced the Gujarat Electronics Component Manufacturing Policy-2025 (GECMS-2025), further strengthening Gujarat’s identity as a policy-driven state under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Aimed at transforming Gujarat into a global hub for electronics manufacturing, this new policy brings a significant advantage: projects approved and supported by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, will be eligible for 100 per cent central assistance when established in Gujarat. Hence, MeitY-approved projects set up in the state will receive dual incentive benefits, one from the Central Government and another from the State Government according to a press release.

Thoroughly aligned with the Central Government’s Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS), Gujarat’s GECMS-2025 ensures a 100 per cent top-up on central support and guarantees timely disbursement of assistance. Also, once a project receives approval under the ECMS from MeitY, it will automatically become eligible for the same grant-in-aid in Gujarat. The State Government will disburse its incentive within 30 days of the Central Government releasing its assistance.

Gujarat has established itself as a leading manufacturing and automobile hub in India’s industrial landscape. With four semiconductor plants now operational in the state, the newly announced policy will further strengthen the upstream industries. This development will reduce import dependency and improve technological resilience. The policy aims to attract over Rs 35,000 crore in new investments and create substantial high-skilled employment opportunities within the state’s electronics component manufacturing sector.

Unveiled by the Chief Minister, the policy will boost investment in key segments such as multi-layer and HDI printed circuit boards, lithium-ion cells, SMD passive components, display and camera modules, electronic parts, and the additional required machinery essential for their production. A core focus of the policy is to bridge the talent gap, promote innovation and offer support for Research and development initiatives. Recognised institutions based in Gujarat will be eligible for assistance of up to Rs 12.5 crore from the state government to establish Centres of Excellence, Finishing Schools, or Applied Research Laboratories. Additionally, under the GECMS, turnover-linked incentives will be provided for six years. (ANI)

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde extended his heartfelt congratulations to the participants of the Sarhad Shauryathon on Sunday and paid a poignant tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the Kargil War. Shinde stressed that Kargil remains an inseparable part of India.

The Sarhad Shauryathon, which has been organised by the Indian Army for the past eight years, aims to honour the bravery of Indian soldiers during the Kargil War. As part of the Maharashtra government’s commitment to promoting tourism in the region, Rs 3 crore has been allocated to the Kargil War Memorial for the installation of a laser light and sound show.

“On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Sarhad Shauryathon 2025 has been organised. I congratulate all the runners who have participated in this Shauryathon, and with this, I pay my tribute to all the soldiers who have lost their lives in Kargil because of their bravery, Kargil is a part of India and we are sitting here… Sarhad Shauryathon has been organised by the army for the past 8 years. Maharashtra govt has given the amount of Rs 3 crore to the Kargil War Memorial for laser light & sound show, which will promote the tourism…” Shinde told reporters.

The much-anticipated Sarhad Shauryathon 2025 commenced on Sunday at the historic Kargil War Memorial, Dras. Marathon runners from across the country gathered to pay tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers during the Kargil War.

The event was flagged off by the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, who inaugurated the 21-kilometre Half Marathon amid patriotic fervour and applause. The occasion was graced by several dignitaries, including Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Chairman/CEC LAHDC Kargil; Lt. Gen. Ritesh Bhalla, GOC 14 Corps; Sanjay Nahar, Founder of Sarhad International; and numerous civil and army officials, making the tribute run even more meaningful. The Shauryathon stands as a symbol of unity, valour, and remembrance, drawing attention to the heroic legacy of the Kargil War.

Earlier, on Saturday, ahead of the event, Shinde engaged with local residents and business owners in the Sonamarg and Dras markets, expressing support for those whose livelihoods had been impacted by the decline in tourism following the recent Pahalgam terror attack.

In a post on social media platform X, Shinde reflected on the 1999 Kargil War, noting that although 26 years have passed, the memories of the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives remain fresh in the minds of the people.

“Even though the Kargil War will complete 26 years tomorrow, the memories of this war are still alive in our minds. The memories of the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in this war and protected the motherland will be given a unique tribute through this Sarhad Shauryathon,” he wrote.

He also shared that he would be attending the ceremony in Dras to honour the martyrs of the war. “I will attend the program to be held in Drass to flag off this Sarhad Shauryathon, which is being organised by the Indian Army, Sarhad Foundation, Pune and Aarham Foundation. I am participating in this ceremony to express my condolences to them and fulfil my duty as an Indian citizen. The memories of those who sacrificed their lives and protected the motherland will be given a unique tribute through this Sarhad Shauryathon,” Shinde added.

The event is hosted by the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Sarhad Foundation, Pune, and Aarham Foundation, to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee of the Zoji La Battle and the Rajat Jayanti of Operation Vijay. (ANI)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed support for America’s decision to conduct ‘precision’ strikes on Iran. Calling Iran’s nuclear program a “grave threat” to international security, Starmer on Sunday called on Iran to reach a diplomatic solution.

UK PM Starmer said that America’s actions have alleviated the threat posed by Israel.

He wrote on X, “Iran’s nuclear programme is a grave threat to international security. Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat. The situation in the Middle East remains volatile, and stability in the region is a priority. We call on Iran to return to the negotiating table and reach a diplomatic solution to end this crisis.”

Iran’s nuclear programme is a grave threat to international security. Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and the US has taken action to alleviate that threat.

The situation in the Middle East remains volatile and stability in the region is a priority. We call…

— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) June 22, 2025

The remarks by UK PM Starmer follow after US President Donald Trump had announced that America carried out “massive precision” strikes on Iran and warned of further retaliation if peace was not achieved on Saturday (local time).

Rafael Grossi, the Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said on Sunday that an emergency meeting would take place on Monday in light of the developments taking place in West Asia.

Earlier in the day, the IAEA confirmed that there has been no reported increase in off-site radiation levels following the recent strikes on three key nuclear sites in Iran, including the underground enrichment facility at Fordow.

“Following attacks on three nuclear sites in Iran — including Fordow — the IAEA can confirm that no increase in off-site radiation levels has been reported as of this time. IAEA will provide further assessments on the situation in Iran as more information becomes available,” the agency said in a statement.

Iran condemned the attacks, calling them a violation of international law and vowed to continue its nuclear program.

A statement issued by AEOI confirmed that early on Sunday morning, Iran’s nuclear sites were “subjected to savage aggression–an act in violation of international laws, particularly the NPT.”

“This action, which violates international regulations, unfortunately took place under the indifference–and even complicity–of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA),” it said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the military action under the leadership of Trump, stating that Trump’s bold decision to target Iranian nuclear facilities will change history.

The conflict between Israel and Iran entered its ninth day on Saturday, with the US now joining in support of Israel.

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) on Sunday launched a new wave of airstrikes targeting military sites in western Iran, shortly after Iranian missile attacks injured civilians in Israel.

The conflict between Israel and Iran started after Israel, on June 13, launched a massive airstrike on Iranian military and nuclear sites, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion.”

In response, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a large-scale drone and missile operation, ‘Operation True Promise 3’, targeting Israeli fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. (ANI)

Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Sunday, thanked US President Donald Trump for the “brave step” taken by the United States of America in conducting strikes on three nuclear sites of Iran.

Herzog said that the strikes show how the principles of ‘liberty, responsibility and security’ have triumphed, with the American action resulting as a brave step towards the security and safety of the world.

He expressed hope that the action would help fasten the release of Israeli hostages and lead to a better future in West Asia.

Herzog wrote on X, “In the pages of human history, this is a moment when the principles of liberty, responsibility, and security have triumphed. A decisive moment between the axis of terror and evil and the axis of hope. Thank you, @POTUS @realDonaldTrump. Thank you, United States of America. This brave step serves the security and safety of the entire free world. I hope it will lead to a better future for the Middle East — and help advance the urgent release of our hostages held in captivity in Gaza.”

https://x.com/Isaac_Herzog/status/1936627914105106599 \

His remarks follow after Trump announced that United States conducted “massive precision strikes” on the three key nuclear facilities in Iran- Fordow, Natanz and Esfahan. Trump also threatened of retaliation if peace is not achieved soon in Iran.

The Embassy of Iran in India acknowledged that the sites had been hit and called it “savage aggression–an act in violation of international laws”, stressing particularly on the NPT. It further accused the the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of indifference and complicity and said that it expects the international community to condemn these actions.

As per a report in the CNN citing a US official, the US used six B-2 bombers to drop a dozen “bunker buster” bombs on the Fordow nuclear site. Navy submarines fired 30 TLAM cruise missiles at two other sites, Natanz and Isfahan, and a B2 dropped two bunker busters on Natanz.

The underground site at Fordow and the larger Natanz plant were Iran’s two primary uranium enrichment facilities, out of which Natanz had already been hit by Israel with smaller weapons earlier in the week, the New York Times reported.

The conflict between Israel and Iran entered its ninth day on Saturday, with the US now joining in support of Israel. The conflict started after Israel, on June 13, launched a massive airstrike on Iranian military and nuclear sites, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion.”

In response, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a large-scale drone and missile operation, ‘Operation True Promise 3’, targeting Israeli fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. (ANI)

After entertaining audiences with ‘Housefull 5’, actor Abhishek Bachchan will soon be seen in a new film titled ‘Kaalidhar Laapata’.

Directed by Madhumita, ‘Kaalidhar Laapata’ stars Abhishek as Kaalidhar–a middle-aged man grappling with memory loss, abandonment and a lifetime of quiet betrayals. When he overhears his siblings’ cruel plan to abandon him at the crowded Maha Kumbh Mela, Kaalidhar decides to disappear on his own terms. Fate intervenes in the form of Ballu (Daivik Bhagela), an outspoken, street-smart 8-year-old who’s been surviving solo on India’s chaotic streets. What begins as a chance meeting becomes the beginning of something far more profound.

Sharing his experience working in the film, Abhishek in a press note said, “As actors, we often hope for stories that move us before they move anyone else–and Kaalidhar Laapata did exactly that. Playing Kaalidhar was not just a role, it was a revelation. He’s fragile, childlike and deeply human–and through him, I got to explore parts of myself I hadn’t visited in a while. His bond with Ballu–this fierce, fearless child–reminded me that the most unexpected friendships can sometimes teach us the most profound lessons.”

He added, “More than anything, it made me reflect on how we measure life–not in years, but in moments of connection, courage, and truth. Kaaldihar Laapata is another film in my journey that I feel incredibly proud of. Over the past few years, I’ve been consciously seeking stories that offer emotional depth, honesty, and something meaningful to say–and this one ticked every box. It’s a story that touched my soul, and I hope it touches yours too.”

Director Madhumita also opened up about directing ‘Kaalidhar Laapata’.

“With Kaalidhar Laapata, I wanted to tell a story that feels both intimate and universal. It gave me a canvas to explore themes like abandonment, dignity, and the redemptive power of human connection. Kaalidhar is someone many of us have encountered or perhaps even been at some point–a person sidelined by life yet still glowing with a quiet resilience. Ballu becomes his mirror, his spark, his unexpected anchor. One of the most beautiful surprises of this film was witnessing the on-screen chemistry between Abhishek and Daivik–tender, unfiltered, and deeply moving. Their dynamic brings a refreshing honesty that stays with you long after the film ends. Through their journey, we’ve tried to reflect the idea that even in the most fractured chapters of life, beauty, meaning, and belonging can still be found. For me, this isn’t just a film–it’s a gentle meditation on what it means to be truly seen and truly accepted,” Madhumita said.

‘Kaalidhar Laapata’ will be out on ZEE5 on 4th July. (ANI)

Security forces carried out a major operation against Maoist insurgents in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district during the first half of June 2025, resulting in the deaths of seven Maoists following a series of fierce encounters in the National Park area, police said on Saturday.

Among those killed were two high-ranking leaders of the CPI (Maoist), marking a significant blow to the banned outfit, they said.

According to an official release, during the first fortnight of June 2025, security forces in the National Park Area of Bijapur District conducted a series of intensive anti-Maoist operations. Following exchanges of fire between security personnel and Maoist cadres, the bodies of seven Maoists were recovered.

Among the deceased were two senior Maoist leaders — Gautam alias Sudhakar, a Central Committee member of the CPI (Maoist), and Bhaskar Rao, a State Committee member of the CPI (Maoist), the release said.

One of the other recovered bodies has been identified as Mahesh Kodiyam, a resident of Irpagutta village under the jurisdiction of Farsegarh Police Station in Bijapur District. During inquest proceedings, it was confirmed that Mahesh Kodiyam was a party member of the banned CPI (Maoist) organisation operating in the National Park Area division, and he had clear links with the proscribed group, it said.

It has also come to light that Mahesh Kodiyam was working as a cook assistant at the primary school in Irpagutta village. The village school management committee had appointed him, and he was being paid remuneration for this role until March 2025, it added.

As per the release, the circumstances under which Mahesh Kodiyam came into contact with senior Maoist leaders like Central Committee member Gautam and State Committee member Bhaskar are currently under investigation. A thorough, impartial, and professional inquiry is being conducted into all aspects of the case.

Police once again urge all individuals directly or indirectly associated with the banned CPI (Maoist) organisation to sever all such ties immediately. Continued association with this extremist outfit poses a serious threat not only to public safety and regional peace but also to the lives and future of those involved, it added. (ANI)

A new Guinness World Record was set on the 11th International Day of Yoga for the largest gathering for a Yoga session in one place in Andhra Pradesh’s Visakhapatnam on Saturday.

Around three lakh people participated in the event, which was organised on a 28-kilometre stretch from RK Beach to Bheemili in the presence of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a post on X, the Ministry of Ayush wrote, “Main event of IDY 2025 sets Guinness World Record in Visakhapatnam. With an estimated 3 lakh participants, the grand celebration along the 28 km beach road–from RK Beach to Bheemili–and across various parts of Visakhapatnam marked the world’s largest gathering for a yoga session at a single venue.”

“Led by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the event was part of the ‘Yoga Sangam’ initiative, synchronised across 13 lakh+ locations nationwide. A historic morning for yoga and India’s global wellness leadership,” it added.

Addressing the world’s largest-ever yoga gathering, the Prime Minister joined thousands of participants from India and abroad for a historic yoga session by the sea, the Ministry of AYUSH said in a release.

As per the release, in the national event, PM Modi was joined by the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Abdul Nazeer, and the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N Chandrababu Naidu. Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu and Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Ayush and MoS for Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) Prataprao Jadhav were also present alongside Union Minister of State Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan Garu and State Cabinet Minister Nara Lokesh Garu were also present.

Extending warm greetings to people across India and the world on International Day of Yoga, the Prime Minister highlighted that this year marks the 11th occasion when the world has come together on 21st June to practice yoga collectively.

He remarked that the essence of yoga is “to unite”, and it is heartening to see how yoga has united the world.

Reflecting on the journey of Yoga over the past decade, PM Modi recalled the moment when India proposed the idea of International Yoga Day at the United Nations.

He noted that 175 countries supported the proposal, a rare instance of such wide global unity. He emphasised that the support was not merely for a proposal but represented a collective effort by the world for the greater good of humanity. “Eleven years on, yoga has become an integral part of the lifestyle of millions across the globe”, he added.

The Prime Minister expressed pride in seeing how Divyang individuals are reading yogic texts in Braille and how scientists are practicing yoga in space. He also noted enthusiastic participation of youth from rural areas in Yoga Olympiads.

PM Modi underscored that whether it is the steps of the Sydney Opera House, the summit of Mount Everest, or the vast expanse of the ocean, the message remains the same,”Yoga is for everyone and for all, Beyond Boundaries, Beyond Backgrounds, Beyond age or ability.”

The Prime Minister expressed his delight at being in Visakhapatnam, describing it as a vibrant blend of natural beauty and modern progress.

Highlighting that more than two crore people have taken part in the Yogandhra Abhiyan, the Prime Minister said that this overwhelming public response reflects the spirit of Jan Bhagidari, which forms the foundation of a Viksit Bharat. He emphasised that when citizens take ownership of national missions, no goal is too ambitious. The energy, commitment, and goodwill of the people were clearly evident throughout the celebrations in Visakhapatnam.

In his welcome speech, Union Minister of State (IC) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav said that “the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji initiated the unprecedented step of getting a resolution passed at the United Nations General Assembly to celebrate the International Day of Yoga. This initiative has now transformed into a global public health movement celebrated in over 180 countries.”

Prataprao Jadhav added that after completing a decade of this movement, “we have launched 10 Signature Events this year. These include Harit Yoga (Green Yoga) with tree plantation, Yoga Connect, Yoga Parks, Yoga Bandhan, Yoga Mahakumbh, and Yoga Sangam, being celebrated by over 10 lakh (1 million) organisations across the country.”

Congratulating the Andhra Pradesh Government, the Union Ayush Minister stated that “under the leadership of the Chief Minister Shri Chandrababu Naidu, a ‘YogAndhra Abhiyan’ was launched in Andhra Pradesh on May 21. As part of this campaign, more than 22,000 tribal students performed 12 rounds of Surya Namaskar in 15 minutes yesterday, entering their names into the Guinness Book of World Records.”

He further said that inspired by the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Ayush has taken a small initiative to promote healthy food among the public, and today, at 70 locations in Delhi, the ministry was distributing Ayush Aahar (Ayush Diet) to all participants of this IDY programme. “This Ayush Aahar is based on Moringa-based food products, and will emerge as a healthy and tasty food alternative for the people,” he said.

Thanking the Prime Minister for granting Andhra Pradesh the honour to host this historic event, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said that Andhra Pradesh marked the 11th International Yoga Day with unprecedented enthusiasm as over 3 lakh citizens gathered in Visakhapatnam for a mass yoga demonstration. “The event concluded with the successful month-long Yogandhra campaign that engaged 2.17 crore participants statewide, creating several records,” he said. (ANI)

In his first public remarks since carrying out ‘precision’ strikes in Iran, US President Donald Trump warned that he could order further action if Tehran does not agree to a satisfactory peace agreement.

In his address to the nation from the White House on Saturday (local time), Trump said, “There will be either peace or there will be tragedy for Iran, far greater than we’ve witnessed over the last eight days.”

In a Truth Social Post, Trump said, “This cannot continue. There will be either peace or there will be tragedy for Iran far greater than we have witnessed over the last eight days.”

“Remember, there are many targets left. Tonight’s was the most difficult of them all, by far, and perhaps the most lethal. But if peace does not come quickly we will go after those other targets with precision, speed and skill,” Trump posted.

Trump thanked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and said, “I want to thank Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu. We worked as a team like perhaps no team has ever worked before, and we’ve gone a long way to erasing this horrible threat to Israel.”

Trump thanked the “military minds” involved in the attack.

“I want to thank the Israeli military for the wonderful job they’ve done and most importantly I want to congratulate great American patriots who flew those magnificent machines tonight, and all of the United States’ military on an operation the likes of which the world has not seen in many, many decades. Hopefully we will no longer need their services in this capacity. I hope that so.”

Top brass of the American political leadership stood beside Trump as he delivered the remarks– Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State, Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defence, Pete Hegseth.

Trump’s announcement comes just two days after saying he had opened a two-week window for diplomacy.

Hours earlier, taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump said that the US had bombed the three Iranian nuclear facilities and in his address from the White House on Saturday night (local time), Trump said those facilities “have been completely and totally obliterated” thereby meeting the objective to stop the “nuclear threat”.

After his remarks at the White House. Trump in his Truth Social post warned that any retaliation from Iran would be met with “force far greater than what was witnessed tonight.”

As per a report in the CNN which cited a US official, the US used six B-2 bombers to drop a dozen “bunker buster” bombs on the Fordow nuclear site.

Navy submarines fired 30 TLAM cruise missiles at two other sites, Natanz and Isfahan, and a B2 dropped two bunker busters on Natanz, the official said.

The underground site at Fordow and the larger Natanz plant were Iran’s two primary uranium enrichment facilities, out of which Natanz had already been hit by Israel with smaller weapons earlier in the week, the New York Times reported.

The conflict between Israel and Iran entered its ninth day on Saturday, with the US now joining in support of Israel. The conflict started after Israel, on June 13, launched a massive airstrike on Iranian military and nuclear sites, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion.”

In response, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a large-scale drone and missile operation, ‘Operation True Promise 3’, targeting Israeli fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. (ANI)