India Reportedly In Talks With UAE To Sell BrahMos Missiles Amid Shifting Gulf Dynamics

India is engaged in discussions with the United Arab Emirates to sell some of its flagship defence systems, including the supersonic cruise missile BrahMos.

Four Indian sources confirmed that the Gulf nation has stepped up arms procurement following the war in the Middle East. The talks, which had not been previously reported, also cover the potential sale of India’s air defence system Akashteer, according to two sources with direct knowledge of the matter.

A third source stated that the UAE has shown interest in several Indian weapon systems, including BrahMos and Akashteer, and that negotiations are at an early stage but progressing quickly. Neither Indian officials nor the UAE foreign ministry responded to requests for comment.

BrahMos, is one of the fastest cruise missiles in the world and can be launched from land, sea and air platforms. Akashteer, meanwhile, is a fully automated air defence system developed by Bharat Electronics Ltd and the Indian Army.

The UAE is considering defence acquisitions from India and other suppliers after being heavily attacked by Iran during the war. Protecting the Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit for its energy exports, is a key priority.

Earlier this year, the UAE signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea to promote defence cooperation worth more than ₹2,91,000 crore. A diversified supplier base offers the UAE greater strategic autonomy, while closer ties with India do not antagonise the United States, with whom both countries remain allied, according to Pearl Pandya, a senior analyst at Armed Conflict Location & Event Data.

Data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute shows that the United States was the largest exporter of arms to the Middle East between 2021 and 2025, supplying 54% of imports, followed by Italy at 12% and France at 11%. Any sale of BrahMos to the UAE would require Russia’s approval, as the missile is jointly developed.

One source indicated that this is unlikely to be a hurdle given Moscow’s close ties with Abu Dhabi. Siemon Wezeman, a senior researcher at SIPRI, noted that both BrahMos and Akashteer could meet the UAE’s requirements, even though competition for arms sales in the Gulf is intensifying.

The UAE already possesses the U.S. MGM-168 ATACMS ballistic missile with a maximum range of 300 km, as well as advanced THAAD and Patriot air defence systems. Akashteer would integrate information from other devices to counter air threats, according to defence experts. While India has a history of reported arms export deals that did not always materialise, Wezeman suggested that upcoming sales to the UAE and other Gulf states remain possible.

India and the UAE have strengthened ties in recent years through trade, energy, and joint military hardware development. The talks over BrahMos and Akashteer highlight shifting regional alignments, with India viewing its partnership with the UAE as a counterbalance to the defence pact between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

Analysts note that these growing ties must be understood within the broader competition between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi for regional leadership. Expanded defence cooperation between India and the UAE also serves as strategic signalling, showcasing the depth of their partnership.

India’s defence exports have surged dramatically, rising to over ₹33,000 crore in the year ending March 2026 from just ₹60 crore in 2013–14. India remains the world’s second-largest arms importer, accounting for over 8% of global imports.

The four-day war between India and Pakistan last year, during which India used BrahMos in combat for the first time, sparked interest among foreign buyers. Since then, India has signed BrahMos deals with Vietnam and Indonesia, while receiving interest from Thailand, South Africa, Brazil and Chile. The only previous sale of BrahMos was to the Philippines in 2022.

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India To Establish Seven Defence Manufacturing Clusters To Boost Indigenous Production

India is launching seven specialised defence manufacturing clusters across different regions, each led by designated states and supported by IITs and industry, to strengthen indigenous production, innovation, testing, skill development and exports.

This initiative is part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision and is expected to reduce import dependence while boosting India’s role as a global defence exporter.

The government has outlined an ambitious plan to establish seven defence manufacturing clusters across India. These clusters will integrate state governments, industry, academia and research institutions to create specialised hubs focusing on different aspects of the defence manufacturing value chain.

The initiative is designed to support testing, certification, indigenisation, exports, skill development, innovation and industrial infrastructure.

Senior officials in the Ministry of Defence have already held multiple rounds of consultations with participating states. Each state has been asked to prepare detailed vision documents and implementation roadmaps. The clusters are distinct from the existing defence industrial corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, representing a new federal architecture for defence manufacturing.

The first cluster will be led by Karnataka, with Rajasthan as co-lead. It will focus on testing, certification, quality assurance and standards for defence manufacturing. Academic support will come from IIT-Kanpur, IIT-Roorkee and IIT-Jammu. This cluster is expected to strengthen India’s ability to validate and certify indigenous systems to international standards.

Uttar Pradesh will head another cluster, with Jharkhand as co-lead, concentrating on policy reforms and interventions to strengthen India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem. Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir are also expected to participate, with IITs providing research and innovation support.

Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh will jointly lead a cluster dedicated to indigenisation, private sector participation, innovation, start-ups and MSMEs. Goa and Puducherry will also contribute, while IIT-Bombay will provide technological backing. This cluster is expected to accelerate innovation and expand opportunities for smaller enterprises in defence production.

Punjab and Haryana will anchor a cluster focused on expanding market access, boosting defence exports and improving demand visibility for Indian manufacturers. Several northern states and Union Territories will join, supported by leading technical institutions. This cluster will help India position itself as a major exporter of defence equipment.

Gujarat and Odisha will jointly lead a cluster concentrating on skill development, industrial-academic partnerships and innovation linkages. IIT-Gandhinagar and IIT-Bhubaneswar will play a key role in supporting this initiative, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled manpower for the sector.

Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh will head a southern cluster aimed at developing defence industrial infrastructure, common manufacturing facilities and integrated production ecosystems. IIT-Madras and other institutions will provide research and technological support, reinforcing the region’s role as a defence manufacturing hub.

The north-eastern region will also receive a dedicated cluster led by Assam, with participation from several north-eastern states. IIT-Guwahati will provide academic and technological backing, ensuring that the region contributes to India’s defence industrial base.

The initiative aligns with the Centre’s broader objective of achieving self-reliance in defence under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.

Once operational, the clusters will create specialised ecosystems that support research, manufacturing, testing, certification and exports. This will reduce dependence on imports and strengthen India’s long-term defence industrial base, while also generating wider economic benefits by acting as a GDP multiplier.

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India’s Strategic Push To Break China’s Grip On Critical Minerals

India and the United States signed a bilateral framework on 26 May to secure the supply of critical minerals and rare earths during the Quad foreign ministers’ meeting in New Delhi. On the same day, 

India, the US, Australia, and Japan unveiled the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative Framework, pledging to mobilise up to $20 billion in public and private investment for mining, processing, and recycling. 

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasised that the framework would deepen cooperation across the entire supply chain, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned against dependence on a single-source monopoly, clearly alluding to China.

The Geological Survey of India highlighted that critical minerals have transformed from industrial raw materials into strategic assets, underpinning clean energy, electric mobility, advanced electronics, and defence technologies.

India has been actively pursuing supply chain diversification. In January 2024, state-owned KABIL signed an agreement with Argentina’s CAMYEN SE for five lithium brine blocks, marking India’s first overseas lithium mining project. India also signed cooperation agreements with Japan and Australia, and most recently, engaged Myanmar on critical minerals and rare earths.

China’s dominance in this sector is overwhelming. It controls around 80% of global rare earth refining capacity and 91% of refined output, with a 94% share in permanent magnet production. Its strength lies not in raw ore but in processing, refining, and magnetic manufacturing.

Since 2023, China has imposed export restrictions on critical minerals and related technologies, exposing vulnerabilities in global supply chains. India’s dependence is stark, with China supplying between 59.6% and 81.3% of India’s permanent magnet imports by value and up to 90.4% by quantity between 2022 and 2025.

The Quad initiative offers India an opportunity to build resilience, but experts caution that India’s processing infrastructure is its weakest link. Current refining capacity is only 400–500 tonnes per annum of neodymium-praseodymium oxide, less than 25% of domestic demand.

Although the Union Cabinet approved a ₹7,280 crore scheme in 2025 to establish 6,000 metric tonnes per annum of integrated NdFeB magnet manufacturing capacity, commercial-scale production has yet to begin. Downstream industrial capabilities remain underdeveloped.

India’s rare earth resources, primarily monazite sands along its coastlines, pose regulatory challenges due to thorium and uranium content, classified as prescribed substances under the Atomic Energy Act. 

This restricts private sector participation, leaving state-owned entities like IREL to dominate. Without industrial-scale conversion lines for alloy and magnet manufacturing, India’s ambitions remain aspirational.

To address these gaps, the National Critical Mineral Mission was launched in January 2025 with an outlay of ₹34,300 crore over seven years, covering exploration, mining, processing, recycling, and stockpiling.

Rare earth corridors have been introduced in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha, while exploration is intensifying in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Assam. The Geological Survey of India is integrating beneficiation and metallurgical studies into exploration to ensure better processing potential.

India holds an estimated 7 million tonnes of rare earth oxides, the fifth largest globally. However, experts argue that complete self-sufficiency is unattainable.

Instead, India aims for substantial strategic self-reliance, combining domestic capacity building with trusted international partnerships. Developing modular and integrated mining-processing units may be necessary given the small tonnage and limited footprints of deposits.

Timelines remain a challenge, as mineral discoveries can take over a decade to translate into production. The Quad’s $20 billion initiative will be judged by its ability to create long-term industrial capabilities and operational projects.

Analysts believe India’s most realistic path is not replacing China but building alongside it, becoming a major processing hub in its own right through sustained investment over the next decade.

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Safran And SatSure Forge Indo-French Geospatial Intelligence Partnership

Safran Electronics & Defence and SatSure have signed a landmark MoU to co-develop advanced geospatial intelligence solutions for India, announced during the France-India Year of Innovation.

This partnership merges Safran’s mission-critical AI expertise with SatSure’s satellite data analytics, aiming to enhance defence, environmental monitoring, and national decision-making capabilities.

French aerospace and defence giant Safran Electronics & Defence has joined forces with Indian Earth intelligence company SatSure to create integrated geospatial intelligence solutions tailored for India. The collaboration was formalised at Eurosatory 2026 in France, underscoring the growing Indo-French technological partnership.

The agreement brings together Safran.AI, a subsidiary specialising in trusted artificial intelligence for mission-critical applications, and SatSure’s vertically integrated geospatial ecosystem.

SatSure’s subsidiary KaleidEO provides capabilities spanning Earth observation satellite payloads through to actionable intelligence, complementing Safran’s AI-driven operational focus.

The partnership will deliver end-to-end GEOINT solutions that combine satellite imagery, advanced AI models, and operational intelligence delivery. These solutions are designed to accelerate intelligence processing, improve situational awareness, and support faster decision-making across defence, environmental monitoring, and other strategic sectors.

Safran.AI’s CEO Sébastien Fabre emphasised that the future of geospatial intelligence lies in the close integration of satellite data and artificial intelligence. He noted that the collaboration would strengthen sovereignty, security, and operational excellence, not only for India but also for global customers.

Prateep Basu, founder and CEO of SatSure, highlighted that Earth intelligence is only as valuable as the decisions it enables. He explained that SatSure’s full-spectrum approach to the data value chain, combined with Safran’s AI built for demanding environments, positions the partnership at the intersection of global AI capability and India’s growing Earth observation ambitions.

The collaboration is strategically aligned with India’s push for self-reliance in defence and space technologies. It also reflects France’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation in innovation, particularly in aerospace, defence, and artificial intelligence.

Safran, with over 1,10,000 employees and €31.3 billion in revenue in 2025, brings global leadership in aviation, defence, and space markets, while SatSure represents India’s rising geospatial intelligence sector.

The companies did not disclose financial details of the partnership, but the scope suggests significant investment in research, development, and deployment of GEOINT solutions. The collaboration is expected to support India’s ambitions in Earth observation, strengthen its defence intelligence infrastructure, and provide advanced tools for environmental monitoring and disaster management.

This partnership marks a critical step in Indo-French technological cooperation, reinforcing India’s strategic autonomy in geospatial intelligence while embedding French expertise into India’s innovation ecosystem.

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India Requires Innovative Financing To Build Future-Ready Nuclear Energy Ecosystem

India’s nuclear energy ambitions will require innovative financing tools such as green bonds, blended finance, and export credit support, alongside regulatory reforms and workforce development, to achieve the target of 100 GW capacity by 2047.

A new KPMG–USIBC report stresses that coordinated policy, financial innovation, and international collaboration are essential for building a resilient, future-ready nuclear ecosystem.

India’s nuclear energy sector is at a strategic turning point, with the potential to emerge as a global leader in nuclear power. The joint report by KPMG and the US-India Business Council highlights that achieving this vision will depend on harmonising safety standards, advancing joint research and development, and mobilising capital through innovative financing mechanisms.

Green bonds, blended finance, and export credit support are identified as critical instruments to reduce investment risks, attract institutional capital, and align nuclear projects with global sustainability objectives.

The report underscores that financing alone will not suffice. A robust ecosystem must also include regulatory agility, transparent communication, and public engagement to build societal trust in nuclear energy.

This is particularly important in areas such as nuclear waste management and environmental safety, where public concerns remain significant. Transparent dialogue and effective outreach will be vital in ensuring societal acceptance of nuclear expansion.

A major challenge highlighted is workforce readiness. India will need a skilled workforce capable of safely constructing and managing nuclear facilities to meet the ambitious target of 100 GW capacity by 2047.

The report calls for a strong emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education in premier universities, alongside international collaborations to accelerate skill development. This approach will ensure that both current and future generations of engineers and scientists are equipped to support the nuclear program.

Recent policy reforms have already laid the groundwork for private-sector participation. The SHANTI Act, passed in December 2025, repealed the restrictive Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010.

By modernising the legal framework, the Act has opened pathways for private and foreign investment, enabling innovation and capital inflows into the nuclear sector. However, the report stresses that further legal and regulatory reforms will be necessary to unlock the full potential of nuclear energy in India.

The roadmap outlined in the report aligns with India’s broader clean energy ambitions. Nuclear power is expected to provide reliable, low-carbon base-load generation, complementing renewable sources and supporting industrial decarbonisation.

The report also points to opportunities beyond electricity generation, including nuclear applications in industrial heat, hydrogen production, desalination, and powering data centres that require uninterrupted clean energy.

To deliver at scale, India must strengthen its nuclear-grade manufacturing capacity, vendor qualification to international standards, and modern digital instrumentation and control systems. Fuel-cycle constraints, including access to advanced fuels such as high-assay low-enriched uranium, will also need to be addressed through strategic supply chain planning and international cooperation.

Ultimately, India’s nuclear ambitions can be realised through a coordinated policy push that combines legal reform, regulatory agility, financial innovation, and global collaboration. By leveraging innovative financing tools and building a skilled workforce, India is positioning itself to achieve its long-term target of 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047, reinforcing energy security and advancing its net-zero 2070 pathway.

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'India Won't Be Mere Buyer' Says PM Modi Commissions 3 Frontline Ships

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday commissioned three major frontline platforms into the Indian Navy in Kolkata, marking a significant step in India’s maritime self-reliance.

The advanced stealth frigate INS Dunagiri, the anti-submarine shallow water craft INS Agray, and the large survey vessel INS Sanshodhak were formally inducted in a ceremony that underscored India’s determination to move beyond being a mere purchaser of defence equipment.

The Prime Minister emphasised that a nation’s economic and strategic influence is directly tied to its maritime strength. He declared that the day India becomes a true Nirmata or creator, it will also become a Nirnayak or decider.

He congratulated the Navy, engineers, and workers for their contribution to this achievement, highlighting the steady progress in building indigenous maritime and manufacturing capabilities.

Modi noted that more than forty indigenously built warships and submarines have been inducted into the Navy in recent years. He further revealed that forty-five major naval platforms are currently under construction, reflecting the scale of India’s naval modernisation drive. He pointed to the ₹70,000-crore incentive package as a strategic investment in India’s maritime future and industrial expansion, designed to strengthen both defence and the wider economy.

INS Dunagiri, named after a Himalayan peak, is the fifth Nilgiri-class frigate under Project 17A and the second of the class built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers. The stealth frigate is armed with eight BrahMos cruise missiles and Barak-8 surface-to-air missiles, giving it formidable offensive and defensive multi-dimensional capabilities. Its advanced sensors and stealth features make it a powerful asset for blue-water operations.

INS Agray, designed as a submarine hunter, is equipped with advanced sonar systems, torpedoes, and anti-submarine rockets. Its role is to secure coastal waters against underwater threats, providing a critical layer of defence in the Indian Ocean region where submarine activity is increasing. The vessel represents India’s growing expertise in anti-submarine warfare technologies.

INS Sanshodhak, a large survey vessel, is fitted with advanced hydrographic and oceanographic systems. It carries four survey motorboats and will play a vital role in mapping and studying ocean resources.

Its contribution will extend beyond defence, aiding sustainable use of ocean resources and supporting coastal and offshore development projects. This reflects the Navy’s broader role in supporting national economic interests alongside security.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in a post on X, described these state-of-the-art platforms as a testament to India’s robust defence manufacturing ecosystem and its unwavering resolve towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat. His statement reinforced the government’s commitment to building a self-reliant defence sector capable of meeting India’s strategic needs without dependence on foreign suppliers.

The commissioning of these three vessels highlights the rapid strides India is making in indigenous warship design and construction.

It demonstrates the synergy between the Navy, domestic shipyards, and the wider defence industry, which together are shaping India’s maritime future. The event in Kolkata was not only a naval milestone but also a symbol of India’s growing confidence in its ability to be both a creator and a decider in global maritime affairs.

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NSA Ajit Doval Meets Iranian Official On BRICS Sidelines

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Iran’s Deputy Secretary for Defence Affairs of the Supreme National Security Council, Ghadir Nezamipour, in New Delhi on Monday. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting being hosted by India on 22–23 June 2026.

Both sides held discussions on the ongoing situation in West Asia, a region facing heightened instability due to maritime security risks, energy infrastructure vulnerabilities, and escalating geopolitical tensions. The dialogue also covered India–Iran bilateral ties, with emphasis on strengthening cooperation under the BRICS framework.

The Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed the meeting in a post on X, noting that the two officials reviewed regional developments and explored avenues for collaboration. 

Nezamipour’s participation highlights Iran’s growing engagement within the expanded BRICS grouping, which now includes eleven major emerging markets and developing countries.

Ajit Doval also met Million Lema Tadesse, Executive Director of Analysis at Ethiopia’s National Intelligence and Security Service. Their talks focused on enhancing and deepening the India–Ethiopia Strategic Partnership, reflecting India’s broader outreach to Africa within the BRICS framework.

The BRICS NSA Meeting is centred on the theme “Non-traditional security challenges confronting the world today.” Discussions are addressing evolving threats such as cyber security, terrorism, and the disruptive impact of emerging technologies.

The agenda includes reviewing the outcomes of recent BRICS Joint Working Groups on Counter-Terrorism and on Security in the use of Information and Communication Technologies.

India’s Chairship of BRICS in 2026 marks its fourth time leading the grouping, having previously chaired in 2012, 2016, and 2021. The current Chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Rio Summit in 2025 as a people-centric and humanity-first approach.

BRICS has expanded considerably since its inception, evolving from a primarily economic forum to one structured around three pillars: political and security, economy and finance, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

The grouping now addresses a wide range of global issues, including terrorism, climate change, food and energy security, telecommunications, agriculture, labour and employment, international financial architecture, trade, and the World Trade Organisation.

India’s hosting of the NSA Meeting underscores its role as a key driver of multilateral cooperation within BRICS, while its bilateral engagements with Iran and Ethiopia highlight New Delhi’s strategic intent to strengthen ties across West Asia and Africa.

These meetings reinforce India’s position as a bridge between regions and as a proponent of collective security and stability.

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Israel Reaffirms Commitment To Expand Defence Cooperation With India

India and Israel have reaffirmed their commitment to expand defence cooperation under the Special Strategic Partnership, with Maj Gen Amir Baram’s (Retd) visit to New Delhi marking a significant step forward.

The partnership now encompasses joint projects in defence, technology, and innovation, building on Prime Minister Modi’s February 2026 visit to Israel where ties were elevated to a Special Strategic Partnership.

India and Israel held discussions in New Delhi during the visit of Maj Gen (Retd) Amir Baram, Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Defence.

He met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to brief him on Israel’s commitment to expand the ambit of defence cooperation under the Special Strategic Partnership framework. The meeting was attended by senior officials including Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar.

The Office of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh posted on X about the meeting, highlighting Israel’s dedication to strengthening defence ties. Ambassador Reuven Azar reshared the post, thanking Singh for hosting Baram and emphasising that India and Israel are creating more joint projects to make the partnership unique. He noted that these initiatives will further enhance bilateral cooperation.

India and Israel have already witnessed significant growth in defence cooperation, both in scope and scale. Earlier, the Joint Statement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during Modi’s February 2026 visit to Israel provided a vision and roadmap for future defence collaboration. The leaders agreed to elevate ties to a Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation, and Prosperity, reflecting the growing depth and ambition of the engagement.

The Special Strategic Partnership builds upon historic milestones, including Modi’s 2017 visit to Israel and Netanyahu’s 2018 visit to India, which laid the foundation for deeper collaboration. The February 2026 summit added fresh momentum, with more than fifteen agreements and MoUs signed to strengthen cooperation across defence, technology, cyber, agriculture, water management, health, and entrepreneurship.

At Israel’s 78th Independence Day celebrations in New Delhi, Ambassador Azar highlighted the growing cooperation in security, technology, and innovation. He remarked that this year marks an important milestone in the partnership, noting that the elevation of ties to a Special Strategic Partnership reflects the ambition of both nations. He stressed that the agreements signed during Modi’s visit will benefit both peoples and drive forward collaboration in critical and emerging technologies.

The partnership leverages Israel’s global leadership in innovation and India’s strengths in talent, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. Both countries are integrating advancements in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, semiconductors, biotechnology, defence platforms, and space exploration. 

This cooperation aligns with India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047, aiming to spark technological transformation and shared progress.

The defence relationship is also supported by institutional mechanisms, including a Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation signed in November 2025.

This framework ensures sustained collaboration through government-to-government, business-to-business, and people-to-people exchanges, underscoring the strategic depth of the partnership.

The visit of Maj Gen Baram and the reaffirmation of commitments by both sides demonstrate that India and Israel are determined to expand defence cooperation, strengthen regional security, and advance joint capabilities. The partnership continues to evolve as a robust, future-oriented alliance rooted in shared aspirations for peace, innovation, and prosperity.

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EAM Jaishankar Arrives In Mongolia To Strengthen India’s Strategic Partnership

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on Monday, beginning the first leg of his four-day official visit to Mongolia and the Republic of Korea. His stay in Mongolia is scheduled from 22 to 23 June.

On arrival, Jaishankar was warmly received by State Secretary Munktushig Ilkhanajav. Expressing gratitude for the reception, he posted on X that he looked forward to fruitful engagements aimed at advancing the India-Mongolia special partnership.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that Jaishankar’s visit to Mongolia will include meetings with the country’s leadership and discussions with his counterpart, Foreign Minister B Battsetseg. These talks are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in energy, infrastructure, and strategic connectivity.

India and Mongolia share a longstanding relationship rooted in cultural and spiritual ties, with Buddhism forming a strong civilizational link. In recent years, the partnership has expanded into strategic domains, with India extending a $1.7 billion Line of Credit for the construction of Mongolia’s first oil refinery.

This project, expected to be operational by 2028, is a cornerstone of Mongolia’s energy independence and a symbol of India’s commitment to its partner.

Jaishankar’s visit also comes against the backdrop of Mongolia’s increasing importance in India’s Act East Policy and its vision of building resilient supply chains across Eurasia. Defence cooperation has also grown, with joint military exercises such as “Nomadic Elephant” underscoring the strategic trust between the two nations.

Following his engagements in Mongolia, Jaishankar will travel to South Korea on 24 and 25 June. He is scheduled to meet Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and deliver the keynote speech at the Jeju Forum for Peace and Prosperity on 25 June. His address is expected to highlight India’s role in promoting peace, prosperity, and multilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

The visit to South Korea builds on recent high-level exchanges, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with President Lee Jae-Myung at the G7 Summit in France earlier this month.

Both sides have agreed to implement the Joint Strategic Vision for the India-ROK Special Strategic Partnership from 2026 to 2030, focusing on emerging sectors such as digital technology, green energy, and advanced manufacturing.

EAM Jaishankar’s twin visits to Mongolia and South Korea reflect India’s broader diplomatic outreach in Asia, aimed at consolidating partnerships with like-minded nations and advancing shared strategic goals. His engagements are expected to reinforce India’s position as a reliable partner in regional stability and economic growth.

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Iran Walkout At Swiss Talks Highlights Fragile US‑Iran Negotiations

In am embarrassing turn of events at the Lake Lucerne Summit, the first round of US‑Iran talks in Switzerland was marked by a dramatic walkout by the Iranian delegation after President Donald Trump issued fresh threats, leaving mediators visibly stunned and US Vice President JD Vance watching closely.

Despite the disruption, negotiations resumed and produced limited progress, including steps towards sanctions relief and the release of frozen Iranian assets.

The talks at the Burgenstock resort began under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, which brought together Iran, the United States, Pakistan and Qatar to reduce tensions after weeks of military escalation.

The Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, refused to join a planned photo‑op with American officials, dismissing it as a publicity stunt. This refusal set the tone for the day.

Shortly afterwards, Trump posted on Truth Social that Iran must stop Hezbollah’s activities in Lebanon or face harsher military action than the previous week’s strikes. Iranian officials linked their brief walkout directly to these remarks, describing them as threats that undermined the spirit of negotiations. 

Video footage showed Araghchi greeting Shehbaz Sharif before abruptly leaving the room with his delegation, leaving Sharif visibly surprised and gesturing towards Army Chief Asim Munir. JD Vance, standing nearby, observed the scene before approaching the Pakistani side.

The incident quickly went viral, symbolising the fragility of the process. Reports confirmed that Trump had also threatened in a Fox News interview to seize control of the Strait of Hormuz and collect tolls if Iran attempted to close it again. This rhetoric added to Tehran’s anger, especially after repeated clashes in Lebanon and Iran’s announcement of restrictions on the Strait.

Despite the tense atmosphere, the talks did not collapse. After about eighty minutes, discussions resumed behind closed doors. Iranian negotiators insisted that Washington must implement commitments under the MoU, particularly sanctions relief and financial measures.

State media reported that executive procedures for releasing frozen Iranian assets had begun with Qatari involvement. A draft concerning waivers on Iranian oil sanctions was also said to be finalised, raising hopes of near‑term implementation.

Mediators Pakistan and Qatar scrambled to keep the process intact. Sharif and Munir worked to persuade the Iranian delegation to return, while Qatari officials emphasised the importance of continuing dialogue. By the end of the session, both sides agreed to continue technical talks through the week, focusing on sanctions, nuclear commitments, and mechanisms to prevent escalation in Lebanon.

Observers noted that the walkout highlighted the delicate balance of the negotiations. The refusal to participate in symbolic gestures, the visible discomfort of Pakistani mediators, and the watchful presence of JD Vance all underscored the high stakes.

While progress was made on financial and sanctions issues, the incident revealed how easily the process could unravel under pressure from external rhetoric.

The talks concluded with mediators describing the atmosphere as constructive despite the disruption. A roadmap towards a final deal within sixty days was reaffirmed, with working groups established to address nuclear, sanctions, and monitoring issues.

Yet the viral footage of Araghchi’s departure remains the defining image of the day, a reminder of how precarious the path to a broader US‑Iran understanding remains.

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Sergio Gor Expresses Optimism Ahead of Jamieson Greer’s Visit To Advance US-India Trade Deal

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor has expressed optimism ahead of the visit of United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to New Delhi. In a message posted on X, Gor stated that he was looking forward to welcoming Greer to the capital for his scheduled meetings with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and other senior officials.

He emphasised that multiple sessions have been planned to advance the bilateral trade deal between the two nations.

The USTR will be travelling to New Delhi this week. The high-level discussions are expected to centre on the United States-India Joint Statement and the Interim Agreement, both of which form part of the broader bilateral trade negotiations.

According to an official release, these negotiations were originally launched by President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 13 February 2025.

The upcoming visit follows the recent meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Evian, France. During their discussions, both leaders pushed for an expedited timeline for the trade agreement and reiterated their commitment to concluding the pact at the earliest possible opportunity.

Following his engagements in India, Ambassador Greer will travel to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. There he is scheduled to meet President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Head of the Presidential Administration Saida Mirziyoyeva, and Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev.

The USTR release noted that Greer will conduct these meetings with his counterparts to promote fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade with the United States.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, speaking last week after the G7 summit, confirmed that the interim bilateral trade pact had reached its final stages. He highlighted the significant progress made by both nations and underscored the importance of Greer’s impending visit to New Delhi in driving the deliberations forward.

Misri stated that the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump in Evian had placed the trade agreement at the centre of discussions, with both leaders issuing instructions for its swift conclusion.

The meeting between Greer and Goyal comes close on the heels of negotiator-level discussions held in New Delhi from 2 to 4 June. These talks laid the groundwork for the current phase of negotiations and demonstrated the momentum behind the bilateral trade process. The convergence of diplomatic efforts, leadership directives, and technical exchanges has created a strong foundation for the finalisation of the interim agreement.

The broader context of these negotiations reflects the strategic importance of the United States-India economic partnership. The Interim Agreement is seen as a stepping stone towards a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement that will reshape commercial ties, enhance market access, and strengthen supply chains.

Both governments have signalled their determination to overcome outstanding issues and deliver a pact that reflects mutual interests and long-term cooperation.

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US Military Strike On Suspected Drug Trafficking Vessel In Caribbean Kills Two, Six Survive

The U.S. military has confirmed a lethal strike on a suspected drug trafficking vessel in the Caribbean Sea, killing two men and leaving six survivors.

This marks part of a broader campaign that has now exceeded 60 strikes since September 2025, with over 210 fatalities reported. Rights groups have condemned the operations as extrajudicial killings, while Washington insists they target “narco‑terrorists” threatening regional security.

An explosion occurred on the vessel during what officials described as a kinetic strike. The boat was allegedly travelling along established narco‑trafficking routes, though no evidence of drugs was presented. The strike was carried out by Joint Task Force Southern Spear under U.S. Southern Command, directed by General Francis L. Donovan. The Pentagon confirmed that no American personnel were harmed.

Six survivors were reported, all men, but it remains unclear whether they were rescued. U.S. Central Command stated that the Coast Guard was notified to conduct search‑and‑rescue operations.

In a similar incident on 16 June, two survivors were left adrift after another strike, but their fate remains uncertain. The Coast Guard later suspended its search for those men, citing no signs of survivors or debris.

This latest strike adds to a tally of more than 60 maritime attacks since the Trump administration began treating drug cartels as equivalent to terrorist organisations in September 2025. The death toll now exceeds 210 individuals, almost all men.

The administration has justified the campaign as part of an “armed conflict” with cartels in Latin America, arguing that such measures are necessary to stem the flow of narcotics into the United States and reduce overdose deaths.

Critics, however, have raised serious concerns. Human rights organisations argue that the strikes amount to extrajudicial killings, bypassing judicial processes and international law. Legal scholars and lawmakers have questioned both the legality and effectiveness of the operations.

They point out that fentanyl, the synthetic opioid responsible for most overdose deaths in the U.S., is largely trafficked over land from Mexico, using precursor chemicals imported from China and India, rather than via maritime routes.

A black‑and‑white video released on X showed the targeted vessel speeding through the water before being struck by a projectile and erupting into flames. The footage has fuelled calls from U.S. lawmakers for the Pentagon to release unedited recordings of earlier strikes, particularly after reports that survivors of an initial attack were killed in a follow‑up strike while clinging to wreckage.

The campaign represents a significant departure from traditional U.S. counter‑narcotics strategy, which historically relied on law enforcement agencies such as the Coast Guard to interdict vessels, seize drugs, and prosecute suspects.

The use of direct military force underscores Washington’s shift towards treating drug trafficking as a national security threat. Southern Command has emphasised that the operations are intelligence‑driven, precise, and intended to deter future trafficking attempts.

Nevertheless, the strikes have intensified debate over their humanitarian impact and strategic value. While overdose deaths in the U.S. have shown a modest decline, analysts note that the downward trend began before the strikes commenced, raising doubts about their effectiveness.

The operations have also strained relations with regional governments, many of which fear destabilisation and collateral damage in their waters.

The Caribbean strike highlights the growing militarisation of U.S. counter‑narcotics policy. It signals Washington’s determination to project force against cartels across maritime corridors, but also raises pressing questions about legality, accountability, and the balance between security and human rights.

AP

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Keir Starmer Resigns As UK Prime Minister Amid Labour Party Pressure

Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and leader of the Labour Party, conceding to mounting pressure from within his own ranks.

His decision sets Britain on course for its seventh premier in just a decade, underscoring the turbulence in British politics.

The 63‑year‑old leader confirmed he will remain in office until a successor is chosen and pledged his full support to the new leader once elected.

In his address outside 10 Downing Street, Starmer acknowledged the growing doubts about his leadership and the party’s future direction.

He stated that the Labour Party had asked whether he was best placed to lead them into the next election, and he accepted the answer given by his colleagues. He emphasised that every decision he had taken was guided by his love for the country, which is why he would step down as party leader.

He revealed that he had already spoken to King Charles III to inform him of his decision and requested the Labour National Executive Committee to begin the process of electing a new leader before Parliament reconvenes in September. He promised to give his successor full support, confident they would inherit a stronger Britain and ensure Labour secures a second term.

Starmer’s speech was deeply personal, as he thanked his wife Victoria for being his steadfast companion through good times and bad. He said that once he leaves the highest office in the land, he will devote himself to the most important role of being a husband and father. He expressed his desire to spend more time with his wife and children, whom he described as his pride and joy.

The Labour National Executive Committee has been asked to set out a timetable for the leadership contest, with nominations opening on 9 July and closing on 16 July before the summer recess. This ensures that a new leader will be in place by the time Parliament returns in September.

The resignation follows a weekend of reflection after Andy Burnham, the former Labour mayor of Greater Manchester, won a special election to Parliament. Burnham’s victory was widely seen as a direct challenge to Starmer’s leadership, and he is expected to play a central role in the contest. Burnham is due to be sworn in as an MP on Monday.

Starmer’s resignation was preceded by speculation, including a post by US President Donald Trump on Truth Social claiming that Starmer would resign. However, UK officials clarified that Trump had not been informed by the government and had not spoken to Starmer.

Discontent with Starmer had been building for months, with Labour lawmakers increasingly frustrated by the party’s declining popularity since its landslide victory in July 2024. Despite that triumph, Starmer struggled to deliver on promises of economic growth, repair public services, and ease the cost of living crisis.

His leadership was further undermined by controversial decisions, notably the appointment of Peter Mandelson, a scandal‑tainted associate of Jeffrey Epstein, as UK ambassador to the United States.

Labour now faces a challenging political landscape. The party is losing liberal voters to the rising Green Party, while Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has gained momentum with its anti‑immigration stance and is consistently leading in national opinion polls. The leadership contest will therefore be pivotal in determining Labour’s ability to regain public confidence and secure its future in government.

Agencies

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Hezbollah Terror Group Chief Rejects Israeli Security Zone, Warns of Resistance

Hezbollah terror group chief Naim Qassem has firmly rejected Israel’s declared “security zone” in southern Lebanon, insisting that Israeli troops cannot remain on Lebanese soil and warning that Hezbollah will resist any violations.

His remarks came after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that Israeli forces would stay in the area “as long as necessary” to protect Israeli citizens.

Hezbollah terrorist Naim Qassem delivered his televised address on Sunday, declaring that Israeli troops “remaining on Lebanese land is impossible.” He stressed that there are no security zones for Israel inside Lebanon, emphasising that the Lebanese national army is solely responsible for preserving sovereignty. He added that Hezbollah cooperates with the national army in defending the country’s territorial integrity.

Qassem accused Israel of being an aggressor and demanded its withdrawal. He also blamed the United States, stating that “America bears full responsibility.” He warned that Israel would not remain in Lebanon even if it escalated its military actions, pledging that Hezbollah would defend itself against any further incursions.

Israeli forces invaded southern Lebanon after war erupted on 2 March and have since been operating inside a so‑called “security zone” extending around twelve kilometres into Lebanese territory along the border.

Netanyahu reiterated on Sunday that Israel would remain in this zone for as long as necessary to protect the residents of northern Israel and all Israeli citizens. He insisted that nothing would alter this commitment.

Israel’s defence minister reinforced this position, confirming that Israeli troops had standing orders to act against any threat they encountered inside Lebanon. This directive effectively grants Israeli forces freedom of action within the contested zone.

Qassem’s speech coincided with ongoing diplomatic manoeuvres. Washington and Tehran recently held talks in Switzerland after signing a preliminary agreement aimed at ending the broader Middle East war, which includes halting hostilities in Lebanon.

However, Israeli strikes in recent days have threatened to derail this fragile arrangement. Fighting in Lebanon paused on Saturday evening after Iran closed the strategic Strait of Hormuz in response to Israeli attacks, signalling Tehran’s willingness to leverage regional pressure in support of Lebanon.

Qassem declared Hezbollah’s commitment to any comprehensive ceasefire agreement but warned that violations would be met with resistance. “We will confront any violation… we will deal with it as we see fit,” he said.

He urged Lebanese authorities to take advantage of the memorandum of understanding and align themselves with Iran, noting that America and Arab states were already engaging with Tehran. He pointed to Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz as a powerful tool, urging Lebanon to “take up this weapon and use it.”

Under US pressure, Lebanon began direct talks with Israel in Washington in April, aiming to end hostilities and separate the Israel‑Hezbollah conflict from the wider regional war.

Hezbollah’s rocket fire at Israel in support of Iran had been a key trigger for the escalation, and Qassem’s latest remarks underline the group’s refusal to accept any Israeli military presence on Lebanese soil.

AFP

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China Retaliates Against US Sanctions With Export Controls On American Defence Firms

China has announced sweeping export controls targeting ten American companies involved in defence and rare earths mining.

The decision was unveiled by Beijing’s commerce ministry as a direct response to Washington’s recent expansion of its blacklist of Chinese firms accused of aiding the People’s Liberation Army.

The announcement comes just a month after President Donald Trump’s visit to Beijing, where he met Xi Jinping in an effort to stabilise relations. Despite pledges to reduce tariffs, tensions have escalated as both sides continue to restrict each other’s access to critical technologies and defence sectors.

Washington’s updated blacklist included eighty companies and subsidiaries, among them Chinese tech giants Alibaba, Baidu and BYD. Beijing’s retaliation was swift, with the commerce ministry stating the new measures were necessary to safeguard national security and counter what it described as the US government’s “egregious act”.

The ten American entities now facing restrictions include aerospace contractor Aveox, which holds defence contracts with the US military, and Oshkosh Defence, a producer of military vehicle fleets.

Rare earths producers MP Materials and USA Rare Earth were also named, reflecting China’s leverage in the global supply of critical minerals.

Under the new rules, exporters are prohibited from supplying dual‑use items to the listed companies. The ministry ordered that any ongoing export activities must cease immediately. It further clarified that the ban extends to organisations or individuals in any country transferring Chinese‑origin dual‑use items to these entities.

In parallel, China’s finance ministry announced a procurement ban on products made by forty‑six US firms. The list includes major defence contractors such as Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Boeing’s defence division, General Dynamics and Anduril Industries, alongside several aerospace companies.

The finance ministry specified that companies with US investments operating within China would be excluded from the restrictions. It confirmed the measures would take effect immediately, reinforcing Beijing’s stance against American defence suppliers.

Many of these firms had already faced sanctions in 2024 and 2025 due to their involvement in US arms sales to Taiwan. Taipei continues to rely heavily on Washington’s support to counter Beijing’s growing military pressure. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve unification.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently stated that a proposed US$14 billion arms package for Taiwan was under review. This underscores Washington’s ongoing commitment to Taipei’s defence despite Beijing’s objections.

President Trump has attempted to project an image of strong bilateral ties since his May meeting with Xi. At the G7 summit in France last week, he publicly thanked the Chinese leader for maintaining neutrality in the US conflict with Iran, as both countries agreed to an initial ceasefire.

China’s latest measures highlight the deepening rivalry between the two powers, particularly in defence and technology. Analysts warn that the restrictions could disrupt supply chains and intensify competition in rare earths and advanced military systems, further straining the fragile truce established during recent high‑level talks.

AFP

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