*International News Roundup* _June 18, 2025 | A balanced look at global events._ *Israel-Iran Tensions Escalate* Israel and Iran are engaged in tit-for-tat airstrikes, with Israel targeting Iran’s nuclear and military sites, citing fears of a nuclear-armed Iran. Iran retaliated with missile barrages, reporting 224 deaths, while Israel reported 24. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called Israel’s actions the West’s “dirty work,” a statement criticized by some as inflammatory. Oil prices rose 4.4% to $76.45/barrel due to concerns over the Strait of Hormuz. G7 leaders urged de-escalation, but no ceasefire was proposed. Russia condemned the strikes, warning of a “nuclear catastrophe.” Both sides accuse each other of hitting civilian areas. *EU Proposes Russian Gas Phaseout by 2027* The European Commission plans to end Russian gas imports by 2027 to enhance energy security. The proposal, backed by Ursula von der Leyen, faces opposition from Hungary, Austria, and Slovakia, who warn of economic impacts. Russia, a key LNG supplier to the EU, called the move illegal. The plan requires majority approval, not unanimity, but critics argue it overlooks energy affordability. *Trump Extends TikTok Deadline* US President Donald Trump will extend TikTok’s sale-or-ban deadline by 90 days, citing its popularity and potential for a secure deal. The move contradicts Congress’s push for a ban over data security concerns tied to TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance. Supporters see it as pragmatic, while critics argue it undermines national security. Potential buyers include Oracle and MrBeast. *Air India Crash Probe Underway* Investigators are examining the crash of Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787 that crashed 40 seconds after takeoff in Ahmedabad, killing 242. Possible causes include engine failure, bird strikes, or crew error. The “black box” and wreckage are under scrutiny, with no fault yet assigned. India’s aviation ministry found no major safety issues in recent fleet checks. *Belgian Diplomat Faces Lumumba Trial* Belgian prosecutors seek to try 92-year-old Etienne Davignon for his alleged role in the 1961 killing of Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba. Lumumba’s family welcomed the case, seeking truth, while Belgium’s historical role in Congo remains contentious. A hearing is set for January 2026. *US Military Movements Amid Middle East Tensions* The US redeployed 30 tanker aircraft to Europe and fighter jets to the Middle East, raising speculation of support for Israel. The USS Nimitz was redirected toward the region. Some experts see this as contingency planning, others as “strategic ambiguity” to pressure Iran. No direct US involvement in strikes has been confirmed. *G7 Summit Overshadowed by Middle East* The G7 summit in Canada, hosted by PM Mark Carney, was disrupted by Trump’s early exit and the Israel-Iran conflict. Leaders issued statements on AI, migration, and trade, with the UK securing a US tariff deal. No strong Ukraine support statement emerged, drawing criticism. Trade talks with Canada and Japan progressed but remain unresolved. *Iranians Grapple with Evacuation Fears* Trump’s call to evacuate Tehran sparked fear, with many fleeing amid traffic jams and fuel shortages. Social media shows emotional posts of homes left behind. Others, including families and the elderly, stay due to logistical challenges or lack of options. Both sides’ strikes have hit civilian areas, deepening anxiety. Stay informed! Share this balanced roundup and join the discussion: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaDPqsZ5fM5TIAxYww1U