Newsflash

Iran launches missile attack on U.S. air base in Qatar; no casualties reported

Iran launched a missile attack on the U.S. air base in Al-Udeid, Qatar, in retaliation for recent American strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The U.S. confirmed the attack, involving short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles, but reported no casualties among U.S. forces. Iran's Supreme National Security Council claimed the strike was a "successful operation," matching the number of missiles used to the number of bombs dropped by the U.S. in their recent airstrikes. The Qatari government condemned the attack, emphasizing it as a violation of its sovereignty and warning of potential regional destabilization.

The attack came in response to a U.S. operation over the weekend, where American forces targeted Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. President Trump hailed the strikes as a "spectacular military success" aimed at dismantling Iran's nuclear enrichment capabilities. In light of the escalating conflict, the U.S. State Department issued a worldwide security alert, cautioning American citizens abroad about potential demonstrations and threats, particularly in the Middle East. The situation remains tense, with both sides asserting their right to respond to the ongoing hostilities. 🇮🇷🇺🇸💥

Satellite images show US may have targeted ventilation shafts at Fordo

Recent satellite imagery suggests that the United States may have strategically targeted ventilation shafts at Fordo, Iran’s underground nuclear enrichment facility, during a recent airstrike. The attack, involving six B-2 bombers dropping a dozen 30,000-pound "bunker buster" bombs, appears to have focused on two structures identified as potential ventilation shafts, which were visible in early satellite images but later buried. Experts believe these shafts could be critical weak points in the facility's defense, as they penetrate the thick rock surrounding the plant.

The precise targeting of these shafts could indicate that the U.S. had intelligence suggesting these areas were structural vulnerabilities. While the extent of the damage to Fordo remains uncertain, initial assessments suggest that the facility was severely damaged, although not necessarily destroyed. The attack seems to have been designed to compromise the underground structure rather than targeting above-ground support buildings, which appeared intact in post-strike satellite images.

In the days leading up to the attack, satellite imagery showed increased activity around the facility's entrance tunnels, with trucks and bulldozers present and new dirt visible in the tunnels. This activity likely indicates Iran's efforts to prepare for and mitigate the impact of the anticipated strike. The U.S. and Israeli militaries continue to assess the damage, with ongoing evaluations to determine the full extent of the facility's impairment. 🛰️💥

Economic shockwaves from the Iran–Israel conflict

The escalating tensions between Iran and Israel are causing significant ripples in global markets, particularly in the energy sector. The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil and gas trade, has sparked concerns about widespread economic repercussions. This narrow passage, through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s daily oil supply transits, has become a critical geopolitical hotspot with the potential to disrupt fuel prices, inflation rates, interest rate decisions, and global trade flows.

Since Iran hinted at the possibility of closing the Strait in response to Israeli military actions, global oil markets have reacted sharply, with Brent crude nearing $80 and West Texas Intermediate reaching the mid-$70s. Financial analysts warn that a prolonged blockade could drive oil prices above $100 per barrel, echoing past energy crises. The threat has also led to increased shipping insurance premiums and considerations of rerouting tankers, which would extend delivery times and raise logistical costs. Any further escalation, such as missile attacks or naval mine deployments, could exacerbate the crisis and disrupt supply chains reliant on Middle Eastern energy.

The economic fallout extends beyond the energy sector, contributing to inflationary pressures in both developed and emerging economies. Central banks, which had planned to ease interest rates in late 2025, may now delay these cuts or maintain higher rates, as indicated by cautious signals from the U.S. Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank. Investors are also growing anxious, reflected in volatile stock markets and a downturn in U.S. futures.

A prolonged conflict or blockade could have a cascading effect on global manufacturing and trade, with rising energy and transport costs impacting industrial producers, particularly in energy-intensive sectors. European markets are especially vulnerable, with liquefied natural gas imports from the Gulf at risk. Even countries less dependent on Gulf oil could face the knock-on effects of price volatility and disrupted supply chains.

For Iran, threatening or closing the Strait carries significant economic risks, as the country relies on the same shipping route for its exports, particularly to China. A closure would jeopardize this revenue and risk alienating key partners. Meanwhile, countries like India, Japan, and those in the European Union could see their energy bills surge, straining national budgets and complicating inflation and fiscal management efforts.

The ongoing standoff between Iran and Israel is not just a regional issue but a global economic threat. With the Strait of Hormuz at the heart of this confrontation, energy markets remain on high alert, and the global economy braces for potential turbulence. The outcome of this situation—whether it escalates into a full-blown disruption or is resolved diplomatically—will determine the extent of the economic impact. 🌍💥

Iran launches missiles at US military base in Qatar in retaliation for American bombing

Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically as Iran launched missile attacks on a U.S. military base in Qatar, retaliating for American strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The attack on Al Udeid Air Base, a crucial U.S. military hub, was successfully intercepted by Qatar, which condemned the assault as a violation of its sovereignty. Iran's state media hailed the attack as a "mighty and successful response" to U.S. aggression, emphasizing that it targeted the base to avoid civilian casualties.

The U.S. had previously conducted surprise strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, escalating the conflict. Israel, meanwhile, expanded its military campaign against Iran, targeting symbolic sites in Tehran, including a notorious prison and military headquarters. The Israeli military warned of continued strikes on Iranian targets, aiming to pressure the Iranian government without seeking regime change.

The conflict has raised fears of a wider regional war, with the U.S. and Israel's actions prompting Iran to threaten retaliation against American interests. The U.N. nuclear watchdog expressed concerns about the damage to Iranian nuclear facilities, while Iran claimed to have protected its nuclear materials. The situation remains volatile, with both sides exchanging blows and the potential for further escalation looming. 🌍💥

Germany to spend big on defence with country's security 'under threat'

Germany is significantly increasing its defense spending in response to escalating threats from Russia and pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump. The country's defense budget will rise from 2.4% of its gross domestic product this year to 3.5% by 2029, with an additional 1.5% allocated to defense-related expenditures such as infrastructure and cybersecurity. This brings the total defense-related spending to 5% of GDP, aligning with Trump's proposed target for NATO allies.

The German government plans to spend €95 billion ($110 billion) on defense in 2025, with funds coming from the regular budget, a special defense fund, and allocations for supporting Ukraine. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has championed these increases, pushing through changes to Germany's strict "debt brake" to facilitate higher defense spending. This move aims to build Europe's "strongest conventional army" and address years of underinvestment in the German military since the end of the Cold War.

The increased defense outlays are part of a broader NATO initiative to bolster collective security. The military alliance is expected to set new spending targets at an upcoming summit, reflecting the growing need for robust defense capabilities in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges. The German parliament will vote on the new budget in September, marking a significant shift in the country's defense strategy. 🇩🇪💪

What Spain can learn from Ireland's approach to its housing crisis

Spain is grappling with a severe housing crisis, characterized by soaring rents and housing prices, and a shortage of affordable properties. Over half of rental properties in Spain now demand more than one salary to cover monthly rent, with many areas seeing historic highs in rental costs. Despite various measures introduced in recent years, such as rent caps, penalties for empty homes, and restrictions on tourist accommodations, the crisis has worsened. In Barcelona, for instance, around nine out of ten rental apartments are offered on temporary contracts to circumvent regulations, and rents continue to rise sharply.

Ireland, facing a similar housing crisis, is taking innovative steps to address the issue. The Irish government is set to approve reforms that partially weaken rent controls, aiming to attract more investors to build new housing. The new policy exempts newly built homes from the current two percent annual rent cap in designated rental pressure zones, similar to Spain’s ‘stressed areas.’ Irish Housing Minister James Browne hopes this move will encourage international investors to re-enter the market, boosting housing construction.

Spain can learn from Ireland’s experience, as rent caps have proven to distort the market and discourage new housing development. In Barcelona, despite being a ‘stressed area’ with rent controls, rents have surged by 10.6 percent year-on-year. To meet growing demand, Spain needs to build between 150,000 and 200,000 new homes annually, according to data from the General Council of Economists and the Bank of Spain. The Irish approach of relaxing rent controls for new builds could provide a model for Spain to consider, as current measures have failed to alleviate the housing crisis. 🏠📉

French air traffic controllers call summer strike

The UNSA-ICNA union, representing French air traffic controllers, has announced a strike for July 3rd and 4th, coinciding with the start of the peak summer travel season. The union is protesting against what it describes as a toxic management culture and is demanding increased staffing, technical modernization, and a renewed focus on operational priorities. The strike is expected to disrupt flights to, from, and over France, potentially leading to cancellations and rerouting of "overflights." The French civil aviation authority will provide details on affected flights in the days leading up to the strike, with airlines likely prioritizing long-haul services and minimizing disruptions to short-haul flights. Travelers with bookings during this period should contact their airlines for the most up-to-date information. 🛬️🛫

Paris blackout caused by heatwave, says network operator

A significant power outage struck the historic Île de la Cité in Paris on Monday, affecting approximately 1,400 households and buildings, including the Palais de Justice and the Paris police headquarters. The disruption was attributed to an ongoing heatwave, which has pushed temperatures to extreme levels across Paris and much of France. This incident highlights the vulnerability of aging electrical infrastructure to high temperatures, a problem not confined to Paris but observed globally, from Portland to Sicily.

Paris is currently undertaking a massive project to replace its outdated underground electricity cables with heat-resistant alternatives. The old cables, known as paper-insulated lead-covered (PILC) cables, were once considered reliable but are now struggling to withstand prolonged high temperatures. These cables, made of oil-impregnated paper encased in lead, were designed to resist temperatures up to 90°C but can reach 120-130°C during intense heatwaves, leading to accelerated aging and potential failure.

The city's 9,200 kilometers of low- and medium-voltage power cables are entirely buried underground to save space and protect them from wind damage. Enedis, the grid operator, aims to phase out these obsolete cables in French cities by 2050, replacing them with more resilient versions to mitigate the risk of blackouts during increasingly frequent and severe heatwaves. The goal is to "desensitize the network" and minimize power cuts as extreme weather conditions become more common. This initiative is crucial for ensuring the reliability of Paris's electrical infrastructure in the face of climate change. 🌡️💡

New group of realty investors

The Greek real estate market is experiencing a surge in interest from diverse international buyers, signaling its evolution into a destination for more than just seasonal holidays. This shift is driven by several factors, including competitive pricing compared to other Southern European countries, which have seen significant price increases over the past decade. Greece's prolonged recession has kept property prices relatively low, making it an attractive option for foreign investors.

The Greek market also offers considerable flexibility in property use, appealing to buyers seeking versatile investment opportunities. This trend is highlighted by Astons, a leading investment migration group in the UK, which notes that today's Greek property buyers are not limited to retirees or vacation home seekers. Instead, they include high-tech entrepreneurs from Tel Aviv, business owners from Manchester, and professionals from New York. These buyers share a common interest in flexible investments that provide returns and ease of mobility. This influx of diverse investors underscores the growing appeal of the Greek real estate market, which is increasingly seen as a strategic and adaptable investment destination. 🏠🌍

EXPLAINED: The extensive new powers to be given to Berlin police

Berlin's governing coalition, comprising the conservative Union party (CDU) and the center-left SPD, has agreed to amend the state's General Security and Order Act (ASOG), granting police expanded powers to address crime and terrorism. The amendments, finalized in a closed-door meeting, include the introduction of permanent AI-driven video surveillance in high-crime areas, extended storage of video recordings by public transport authorities, and the ability for police to intercept encrypted communications on platforms like WhatsApp under strict conditions. These measures aim to combat organized crime and terrorism, with assurances that they will not target ordinary citizens.

Additionally, the amendments enhance protections for victims of domestic violence by mandating ankle bracelets for dangerous ex-partners and extending the period during which violent offenders are barred from shared homes. The reforms also clarify the legal framework for the "final rescue shot," allowing its use even if the threat comes from a minor, aligning Berlin's law with other German states.

The proposed changes have sparked criticism from the Green party and the Left party, who argue that the focus on police powers overlooks fundamental rights and the need for violence prevention projects. Despite the controversy, the amendments are expected to pass the Berlin parliament, with the new powers coming into force by the end of 2025. 🚔📽️

Further details of foiled plan to assassinate Zelensky at Polish airport revealed

Poland and Ukraine have disclosed details of a thwarted plot to assassinate Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Polish airport of Rzeszów. The plan, orchestrated by a Polish national acting on behalf of Russia, was uncovered through a joint effort between Ukrainian and Polish security services. The would-be assassin, a military veteran with longstanding pro-Soviet beliefs, considered various methods, including drones and snipers, to carry out the attack. The plot was foiled in April 2024, leading to the suspect's arrest and subsequent indictment on espionage charges. The man, identified only as Paweł K. due to privacy laws, had been gathering intelligence on Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport to aid in the assassination attempt. Both countries maintain close cooperation to ensure the safety of President Zelensky, who frequently travels through Poland. The incident underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by Ukraine and its allies in the region. 🇵🇱🇺🇦🔍

‘The US has shown it prefers diplomacy but will not hesitate to act’

For over two decades, U.S. administrations have sought to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions through diplomacy, but these efforts have been consistently thwarted by the regime’s defiance. In 2016, the Obama administration’s $1.3 billion cash payment to Iran as part of the JCPOA nuclear deal backfired, empowering Iran to fund terrorist proxies and destabilize the Middle East. The Trump administration, learning from this mistake, adopted a dual approach of clear diplomatic outreach and firm resolve, warning Iran that the U.S. would not tolerate its pursuit of nuclear weapons.

This strategy was exemplified by "Operation Midnight Hammer," a targeted military strike aimed at disabling Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The operation sent a clear message: the U.S. prefers diplomacy but will act decisively if Iran crosses critical red lines. This action underscores America’s commitment to preventing a nuclear-armed Iran and promoting regional stability. The U.S. has made it clear that Iran has a choice: continue down a path of isolation and conflict or embrace peaceful coexistence and rebuild its standing in the global community. The world now awaits Iran’s response. 🇺🇸🇮🇷💥

Turkey stokes Aegean tensions with new map

Turkey has reignited tensions in the Aegean Sea by submitting a new maritime spatial plan to UNESCO, asserting claims to nearly half of the Aegean. This move underscores Turkey's adherence to its controversial Blue Homeland doctrine, which advocates for an expanded maritime territory, and raises concerns about regional stability. The submission has drawn scrutiny from Greece, which views the Aegean as a critical part of its national territory and sovereignty.

The Blue Homeland doctrine, championed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, seeks to extend Turkey's maritime boundaries significantly, encompassing areas that Greece considers its own. This latest maneuver has the potential to disrupt the relative calm that has prevailed in the Aegean in recent years, as Greece and Turkey navigate their complex historical and geopolitical relationship. The submission to UNESCO is seen as a strategic move to gain international recognition for Turkey's maritime claims, which could have far-reaching implications for regional security and diplomacy. 🌊🇹🇷🇬🇷

Poland prepares for evacuation of most important artworks in case of Russian invasion

In response to heightened tensions with Russia, Poland's culture ministry has established a specialized department to prepare for the evacuation of the country's most valuable artworks in the event of an invasion. Led by a former military intelligence officer, Maciej Matysiak, the department is tasked with identifying priority artworks for evacuation and coordinating with foreign authorities to potentially host these cultural treasures. The initiative builds on Poland's experience assisting Ukraine in relocating its cultural artifacts during the ongoing conflict. The plans, expected to be finalized by the end of the year, involve both state institutions and private museums, reflecting Poland's comprehensive approach to safeguarding its cultural heritage. This effort is part of Poland's broader strategy to enhance its preparedness for potential threats, including significant investments in military equipment and civilian protection. Additionally, Poland has been actively working to secure the return of historical and cultural artifacts looted during World War II, demonstrating its commitment to preserving and reclaiming its cultural legacy. 🇵🇱🎨🏛️

US strike on Iran has minimal effect on stock markets

Global stock markets displayed a muted response to the U.S. strikes on key Iranian nuclear sites over the weekend, with most indices experiencing only brief fluctuations. Oil prices briefly spiked by 2% but quickly stabilized, with Brent crude returning to its pre-strike level of $76-$77 per barrel. European markets, including the OMX Helsinki and Stoxx Europe 600 indices, initially dipped but recovered swiftly. Finnish oil refiner Neste saw a nearly 4% increase in shares, likely due to expectations of rising oil prices. Asian markets remained largely stable, with minor declines in Taiwan and Japan, while some Chinese indices saw slight gains.

The U.S. stock market futures for the S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq experienced minor dips over the weekend. Investors are now closely watching for Iran's response to the strikes, with concerns about potential disruptions to global energy supplies. A significant risk is Iran's possible attempt to close the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for approximately 20% of the world's oil and natural gas, as well as European liquid natural gas (LNG) imports from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Such a closure could drive oil prices up to $120-$130 per barrel and impact Europe's energy security. 🌍💸🛢️

Denmark’s foreign workers are becoming 'more highly educated'

A recent analysis by the Rockwool Foundation reveals that the proportion of immigrants to the EU with higher education backgrounds has reached an all-time high. This trend is particularly pronounced in Denmark, where the percentage of non-EU immigrants with higher education has surged by 18% since 2010, reaching 48.4%. This increase is one of the most significant across the EU, according to the foundation. Denmark also stands out for its high proportion of highly educated newcomers from both EU and non-EU countries, exceeding the general population's education levels.

Tommaso Frattini, co-director of the Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (CReAM) at the Rockwool Foundation, emphasized the potential that migrants bring to EU labor markets. The data, sourced from Eurostat, defines immigrants as foreign-born individuals aged 25 to 64. At the EU level, the share of immigrants from other EU countries with higher education degrees rose from 33.8% in 2023 to 35.2% in 2024. Among non-EU immigrants, the share increased from 30.9% to 32.1%. In comparison, the EU-born population saw a slower rise, from 35.8% to 36.8%. This data underscores the growing educational attainment of immigrants and their potential contributions to the EU's labor market and society. 📚🌍

How will Germany's extra border checks impact travel this summer?

Germany has significantly tightened its border controls, implementing reinforced checks at all land borders since autumn 2024. Initially a temporary measure, these checks have been expanded under the new Interior Minister, Alexander Dobrindt, to enforce a strict policy of pushing back undocumented entrants, including most asylum seekers. Hundreds of additional police officers have been deployed to key crossings, with mobile units and temporary checkpoints established even at minor crossings. This policy affects all of Germany's land borders, leading to increased identity checks and potential delays for travelers.

The enhanced checks mean that travelers entering Germany by land may face identity checks and delays, particularly at major crossings during peak times. Wait times of over 30 minutes are becoming common at various road crossings, including those with Austria, France, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Switzerland. Trains and flights from Schengen countries may also be subject to checks. Travelers should be prepared to present a valid passport or ID card, and non-EU residents should have their residency cards or visas readily available.

Germany's neighbors, the Netherlands and France, have also imposed similar restrictions, conducting random checks on travelers entering by various means. While free movement continues into Germany from seven other neighboring countries, travelers should expect potential delays and identity checks when entering Germany. The reimposition of these controls is justified by Germany and other countries as a response to perceived threats to public security due to illegal migration. 🚨🛂

Poland accuses Italian newspaper of spreading “Russian disinformation” that Warsaw wants west Ukraine

Poland's embassy in Rome has strongly refuted a report by the Italian daily Libero, which claimed that "Warsaw has long claimed parts of western Ukraine." The embassy's letter to Libero's editor-in-chief emphasized that such assertions are part of Russian disinformation aimed at sowing discord between Poland and Ukraine. The newspaper's article had suggested that Poland, particularly under the new president-elect Karol Nawrocki, seeks to address historical issues like the Volhynia massacres and has territorial claims on western Ukraine, specifically the Lviv region.

Historically, much of western Ukraine was part of Poland before World War II, including Lviv, known then as Lwów. However, post-war border shifts moved Poland's territories westward, incorporating former German lands and ceding eastern regions to the Soviet Union, which are now part of Ukraine, Belarus, and Lithuania. Despite sentimental attachments to these former eastern "borderlands," no significant Polish political entity has sought to reclaim them. Poland has been a steadfast ally of Ukraine, providing extensive military, humanitarian, and diplomatic support. The embassy's intervention underscores Poland's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty within its internationally recognized borders and rejects any notion of territorial claims. 🇵🇱🇺🇦

Iran denies ceasefire deal but suggests military operations have ended

Iran has denied reaching a formal ceasefire agreement with Israel but has indicated that its military operations have ceased, contingent upon Israel halting its attacks. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stated that as of 4 a.m. Tehran time, Iran had no intention to continue its military actions if Israel stopped what he termed "illegal aggression." Araghchi later confirmed that Iran's military operations had concluded at the specified deadline, suggesting a temporary halt in hostilities.

The conflict, which began nearly two weeks prior, involved intense exchanges of airstrikes and missile attacks between Israel and Iran, resulting in over 900 deaths in Iran and 25 in Israel, with thousands more injured. The United States intervened over the weekend by targeting Iran's nuclear facilities at Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. In retaliation, Iran launched missiles toward Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, where U.S. forces are stationed, though no casualties were reported. The situation remains tense, with the future of the ceasefire uncertain. 🇮🇷🇮🇱💥

Finnair cancels flights to Doha over Middle East safety concerns

Finnair has temporarily suspended all flights to Doha due to escalating security concerns in the Middle East. The airline announced the cancellation of all flights to the Qatari capital until Tuesday, with an additional flight, AY1982, also canceled for Wednesday. Finnair will reassess the situation on Monday, June 30, to determine when normal operations can resume. The airline began suspending flights to Doha on Friday and has been avoiding the airspace of Iraq, Iran, Syria, and Israel. Finnair typically operates daily flights to Doha but is prioritizing safety by adhering to authorities' recommendations and monitoring relevant factors. The airline will continue to evaluate the security landscape to ensure the safety of its passengers and crew. 🛬️🌍