Times of India

On June 14, 2025, Washington, D.C., will host a grand celebration for the US Army's 250th anniversary, coinciding with President Trump's 79th birthday. The day features a festival on the National Mall with military demonstrations, live music, and interactive exhibits. A military parade will march down Constitution Avenue, showcasing troops, equipment, and flyovers.

Air Arabia has temporarily halted flights to and from ten countries, including Iran and Iraq, due to airspace closures following Israeli airstrikes on Iran. The disruptions, affecting flights on June 13th and 14th, 2025, may also cause delays and rerouting for other flights. Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai are also experiencing similar issues.

Gold prices in Dubai have surged due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, prompting investors to seek safe-haven assets. The 24-karat gold reached Dh412.75 per gram, nearing its all-time high, driven by geopolitical uncertainties and a weakening US dollar. This price increase may impact consumer spending habits in the UAE, especially for those purchasing gold jewellery.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a strike on Iranian military and nuclear sites, anticipating retaliatory attacks. He stated the US was informed beforehand, leaving further action to President Trump. Netanyahu aims to cripple Iran's missile production, revealing the operation was delayed. Iran has condemned the strikes as a 'declaration of war,' while Trump warned of harsher attacks if nuclear negotiations fail.

Israel escalated its conflict with Iran, reportedly tricking Iranian air force commanders into a meeting before launching a major attack. The strike targeted nuclear and military facilities, resulting in the deaths of several top Iranian military leaders and nuclear scientists. In retaliation, Iran launched 100 drones, most of which were intercepted, further heightening tensions as Iran advances its nuclear program.

Dubai has become the world’s second-largest gold trading hub, sourcing gold from Africa, Russia, Turkey, and Switzerland. With no domestic mines, the emirate leverages strategic trade links, world-class logistics, and geopolitical shifts to dominate the global gold corridor. As demand surges in Asia and central banks diversify reserves, Dubai’s role in the international gold trade continues to grow.

A federal judge has blocked Donald Trump's executive order seeking to reshape US election procedures, deeming it likely unconstitutional and an infringement on states' authority. The ruling sides with Democratic attorneys general who argued the order was an unconstitutional attempt to override state election laws.

Devastating floods in South Africa's Eastern Cape province have claimed 78 lives, with the toll expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue. President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to visit the affected areas amid criticism of the government's response. Extreme weather triggered the disaster, overwhelming local resources and leaving residents traumatized by the loss and destruction.

In the early hours of June 13, 2025, Israel unleashed a three-pronged campaign into the very heart of Iranian military infrastructure. Prime Minister Netanyahu called it “a historic campaign unlike any other.” And for once, he undersold it. This wasn’t about showing capability. It was about consequences.

Following Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, UAE airlines have suspended flights to numerous Middle Eastern, Caucasian, and Central Asian destinations. Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia have halted services to countries including Iran, Iraq, and Israel, causing significant disruptions at Dubai airports. Passengers are advised to check flight status and arrive early as airlines work to manage the evolving situation.

Russian forces have claimed the capture of Yablunivka in the Sumy region, marking advances near the regional capital as part of Putin's "buffer zone" strategy. This offensive follows Kyiv's incursion into Russia's Kursk region, prompting a renewed cross-border push by Moscow. Additionally, Russia reported seizing two villages in the Donetsk region, further escalating the conflict.