Fri Jun 13 01:02:00 UTC 2025: **Here’s a summary of the text:**

In a significant escalation of tensions, Israel launched a pre-emptive strike on Iran on June 13, 2025, targeting nuclear and military sites in Tehran. This action followed rising concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and stalled US-led efforts to curb its atomic bomb material production. Israel justified the attack by claiming Iran possesses enough material for 15 nuclear weapons within days. The U.S. has denied involvement in the strikes. Iran’s air defense systems were activated, and explosions were reported in Tehran. Tragically, a senior Revolutionary Guards commander and two nuclear scientists were reportedly killed in the attack. In response, Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei has condemned Israel’s actions. Global repercussions are already being felt, with Iraq closing its airspace and numerous Air India flights being diverted or returning to their origin. Israel anticipates retaliation from Iran and has declared a state of emergency. International agencies like the IAEA are closely monitoring the situation, particularly concerning the Natanz uranium enrichment site. While the US denies involvement and warns Iran against targeting US interests, the situation remains highly volatile.

**Here’s a news article version, focusing on the Indian perspective (as requested in the prompt):**

**Israel Strikes Iran, Disrupting Air Travel, Raising Global Concerns: India Closely Monitoring Situation**

**New Delhi, June 13, 2025** – Israel launched a military strike against Iran early Friday, targeting nuclear and military facilities in Tehran. Explosions were reported across the Iranian capital, and Iran’s air defenses were activated. The attack follows escalating tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and concerns about its ability to rapidly develop nuclear weapons.

The Israeli military claims it struck “dozens” of targets, alleging that Iran is on the verge of producing enough material for 15 nuclear bombs. While the U.S. has denied any involvement, reports indicate President Trump convened an emergency cabinet meeting.

The immediate impact has been felt in air travel, with numerous Air India flights disrupted due to the closure of Iranian airspace. Passengers are facing significant delays and diversions as flights are rerouted. (See full list of affected flights below).

The situation has sent shockwaves through the international community. The UN nuclear watchdog, IAEA, confirmed that the Israeli strikes targeted the Natanz uranium enrichment site and is closely monitoring the situation. International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi said, “Agency can confirm Natanz site among targets.The agency is in contact with Iranian authorities regarding radiation levels. We are also in contact with our inspectors in the country.”

For India, the escalating conflict poses several challenges. Beyond the immediate disruption to air travel, the potential for wider regional instability is a major concern. India has significant economic and strategic interests in the Middle East, and any prolonged conflict could have far-reaching consequences.

“The government is closely monitoring the situation and assessing the potential impact on Indian interests,” a source within the Ministry of External Affairs told The Hindu. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of Indian citizens in the region.”

**Affected Air India Flights:**

* AI130 – London Heathrow-Mumbai – Diverted to Vienna
* AI102 – New York-Delhi – Diverted to Sharjah
* AI116 – New York-Mumbai – Diverted to Jeddah
* AI2018 – London Heathrow-Delhi – Diverted to Mumbai
* AI129 – Mumbai-London Heathrow – Returning to Mumbai
* AI119 – Mumbai-New York – Returning to Mumbai
* AI103 – Delhi-Washington – Returning to Delhi
* AI106 – Newark-Delhi – Returning to Delhi
* AI188 – Vancouver-Delhi – Diverting to Jeddah
* AI101 – Delhi-New York – Diverting to Frankfurt/Milan
* AI126 – Chicago-Delhi – Diverting to Jeddah
* AI132 – London Heathrow-Bengaluru – Diverted to Sharjah
* AI2016 – London Heathrow-Delhi – Diverted to Vienna
* AI104 – Washington-Delhi – Diverted to Vienna
* AI190 – Toronto-Delhi – Diverted to Frankfurt
* AI189 – Delhi-Toronto – Returning to Delhi

The situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as they become available. The Indian government is likely to issue travel advisories and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of its citizens.

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