Iran has arrested about 21,000 "suspects" during the 12-day conflict with Israel and the United States

Iran has reported large—scale arrests - according to official sources, during the 12-day war with Israel and the United States in June 2025, about 21,000 people who are considered "suspects" were detained in the country. These unrest and detentions are linked to rising tensions and massive attacks on Iranian territory by Israeli and American forces.

So far, there are no details about specific detainees and the reasons, but usually such mass arrests are accompanied by increased control and repression within the country. The authorities want to suppress any signs of internal resistance against the background of external attacks and conflicts.

In recent years, executions and reprisals have increased markedly in Iran, as well as harsh measures against the opposition and suspects, which is confirmed by international observers. This step is part of the authorities' attempts to maintain control in a crisis and counter security threats.

Chinese patrol vessels are back at Senkaku: tensions in the East China Sea are not abating

 Tensions over the disputed Senkaku Islands (which China calls Daoyu) have escalated again. Early on Monday morning, two Chinese government vessels re-entered Japanese territorial waters off this archipelago located in Okinawa Prefecture. This happened literally shortly after they left this area, which indicates the cyclical and provocative nature of their actions.

According to the Joint Japan Maritime Rescue Coordination Group, Chinese vessels crossed the border at 1:19 a.m. off Taisho Island, one of the Senkaku Islands. A particularly disturbing moment was that Japanese observers recorded how these vessels tried to approach a Japanese fishing vessel located in the area. Such actions are considered by Tokyo as potentially dangerous and provoking clashes.

In response, the Japanese Coast Guard immediately increased surveillance, sending its patrol ships to the scene of the incident. The Japanese authorities have repeatedly issued verbal warnings to the Chinese vessels, demanding that they immediately leave the territorial waters. Japan insists that the Senkaku Islands are under its sovereign control and that any entry into these waters is illegal.

This incident is just the latest in a long line of similar violations. Chinese patrol vessels regularly appear in the area, challenging Japanese claims and demonstrating their naval might. The situation remains extremely tense, and each such case highlights the fragility of peace in the East China Sea, where the strategic interests of the two major powers collide.

South Korea turns off the "sound war": dismantling of loudspeakers on the border with the DPRK

 

South Korea is taking a significant step towards reducing tensions on its border with North Korea. Seoul authorities have begun dismantling loudspeakers that have long been used to broadcast propaganda, news, and even pop music deep into the territory of the DPRK. This decision is a vivid symbol of a change of course in the political approach to the North.

Previously, these powerful acoustic systems were a key element of the so-called "sonic war" between the two Korean states. South Korea included them in response to provocations from the north, such as rocket launches or explosions of border facilities. However, the new administration of President Yoon Suk Yeol has decided to abandon this practice, considering it as a factor that only exacerbates hostility. The dismantling of the loudspeakers is a concrete action designed to show Seoul's desire to ease the confrontation and possibly open the door to dialogue, although no official negotiations are planned yet.

It is worth noting that the dismantling takes place against the background of the fact that the DPRK had previously also destroyed its loudspeakers. Thus, both sides formally abandon one of the most high-profile (in the literal sense) tools of psychological warfare. However, experts emphasize that the real reduction in tension depends not so much on the dismantling of the speakers, but on the actions of the DPRK, in particular, on its nuclear and missile programs. Nevertheless, South Korea's move is an important signal of its desire for de—escalation and more stable relations on the Korean peninsula.

The United States is increasing arms supplies to Europe: more than $3 billion for missiles, air defense and anti-tank systems

 

A wave of new U.S. arms deals with European allies has highlighted the growth of defense investments on the continent, as several countries receive expensive contracts to strengthen their air force and missile defense capabilities amid escalating regional tensions.

Over the past two months, the U.S. State Department has approved more than $3 billion in potential foreign military sales to European countries. They include a wide range of advanced weapons systems such as air-to-air missiles, ground-based ammunition, anti-tank weapons, and air defense platforms.

Among the largest deals is the proposed sale of AIM—120D Advanced Medium Range air-to-air missiles to Poland in the amount of $1.33 billion, as well as a separate deal for $180 million for GBU-39/B small diameter bombs. These acquisitions support Warsaw's ongoing efforts to modernize its Air Force and expand ammunition stocks.

Norway is also investing in air-to-air missile capabilities with an estimated $370.9 million contract for AIM-9X Block II tactical missiles. Meanwhile, Turkey has requested two separate purchases: $225 million for AIM-120C-8 missiles and $79.1 million for AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles.

Several NATO and partner countries are also investing in air-to-ground and short-range weapons. The Netherlands has requested joint air-to-ground missiles in a $215 million package, while Estonia is seeking a $296 million deal for Javelin anti-tank missiles, one of the largest Javelin deals between the US and the EU to date.

In southern Europe, Romania is seeking to expand its integrated air defense by purchasing a $280 million Patriot air defense system, complementing earlier acquisitions. Italy is seeking a $211 million package for additional advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles to equip its high-speed jet fleet.Smaller but strategically important sales include a $100 million deal to supply AW-119Kx helicopters to Bosnia and Herzegovina, designed to support the country's internal security and border patrol.

Together, these contracts reflect a pattern of accelerated procurement by European allies, with a particular focus on compatibility with U.S. platforms and NATO force structures. While many weapons are designed for high-speed jet fleets, others enhance ground-based air defense and anti-tank defense capabilities. areas identified as critical in NATO's evolving deterrence posture.

Incident in international waters: Chinese plane flew near Japanese patrol plane

A tense event took place in international waters: a Chinese plane took off from the moving aircraft carrier Shandong and soon after flew just 45 meters from a patrol aircraft of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (SDF). The incident occurred over the weekend and caused serious concern in Tokyo.

On Thursday, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi publicly called on Beijing to take measures to prevent such incidents from happening again in the future. Hayashi stressed that a close overflight of aircraft in international waters could lead to an accidental collision, which would be a serious violation of security in the region.

South Korea turns off anti-North Korean loudspeakers as part of easing tensions

The South Korean military decided to turn off the loudspeakers that broadcast anti-North Korean propaganda along the demilitarized zone on the inter-Korean border. The move was the first concrete action by the new liberal government aimed at reducing tensions between the two war-torn countries.

Loudspeakers have been used for many years to transmit messages aimed at criticizing North Korea and supporting the South Korean position. However, the new administration believes that such methods only exacerbate the conflict and hinder dialogue.

Turning off the speakers symbolizes Seoul's desire to improve relations with Pyongyang and create conditions for the resumption of negotiations and cooperation. This step also received the support of the international community, which welcomes the efforts for a peaceful settlement on the Korean peninsula.

Nevertheless, the decision caused mixed reactions within South Korea, where part of the population is concerned about a possible weakening of the country's position in relations with the North. The authorities emphasize that the mitigation policy will be accompanied by careful monitoring of the situation and maintaining readiness for any challenges.

China is building the world's largest military center: global implications

 

Satellite images taken in recent months show China's massive construction of the world's largest underground military command center near Beijing. This megaproject covers an area of over 1,000 acres and is of great concern to the global community. Experts are carefully studying the consequences of this unprecedented event for international security and geopolitical stability.

The new military center, which is being built on the outskirts of the Chinese capital, represents an ambitious step in the development of the country's defense infrastructure. According to satellite data, the facility includes underground structures designed to manage military operations, store strategic resources, and deploy command posts. 

This construction differs not only in its size, but also in the level of technological equipment. It is assumed that the center will be able to function autonomously even in conditions of large-scale conflict, providing protection from external threats, including nuclear strikes.

The purpose of creating this center is to strengthen China's strategic potential and increase its readiness for confrontation with other powers. Underground structures can be used to coordinate the actions of the armed forces, protect critical information and ensure the continuity of government in emergency situations.

 This project is also aimed at demonstrating China's strength and technological superiority on the world stage. Amid growing tensions with the United States and its allies, Beijing is keen to stress its ability to defend its interests by any means necessary.

Pakistan's minister warns of a possible Indian military strike in the next 24-36 hours

Tensions between Pakistan and India reached a critical point after the recent attack in Kashmir, which raised serious concerns about the possibility of a military conflict. The Pakistani minister made an alarming statement, warning that India could launch a military strike on Pakistan within 24-36 hours. Islamabad assured the international community that any aggression from New Delhi will be met with a decisive response.

The conflict between the two nuclear powers has worsened after a terrorist attack in the disputed region of Kashmir, which has been the epicenter of the confrontation between the countries for decades. India has accused the Pakistani Intelligence Service (ISI) of supporting the group responsible for the attack, which Islamabad categorically denies. Despite the lack of direct evidence, India has declared its readiness to use force to protect its interests.

The Pakistani minister stressed that the country is on high alert and will "respond decisively" to any provocations or military actions by India. The statement says that Pakistan does not intend to initiate a conflict, but is ready to defend its territory by all available means. This warning was a signal to the international community about the need for urgent intervention to prevent escalation.

Both countries possess nuclear weapons, which makes any military conflict between them extremely dangerous. Experts point out that even a limited military strike can quickly escalate into a full-scale war with disastrous consequences for the region and the entire world. A possible collision could lead to the deaths of millions of people, environmental disasters and global economic shocks.

Indian Air Force conducted Aakraman (Attack) exercises amid possible conflict with Pakistan

The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a large-scale operational exercise called "Aakraman" (Attack) in the central sector of the country. These exercises demonstrated the combat readiness and power of India's front-line fighter fleet, led by modern Rafale aircraft. The exercises coincided with the growing tension between India and Pakistan, which gave them special importance.

Details of the exercises

1. Scale and participants:

   - The Aakraman exercises included the participation of various units of the Indian Air Force, including elite fighter squadrons. The main striking force was the Rafale aircraft, which demonstrated their capabilities in realistic combat scenarios.

2. Goals and objectives:

- The main purpose of the exercises was to practice coordination between the various branches of the armed forces, as well as to check readiness for rapid response to possible threats. The Indian Air Force has demonstrated the ability to conduct lightning airstrikes and defensive operations.

3. Technical equipment:

   - The latest weapons and military equipment systems, including radars, communication and navigation systems, were used during the exercises. This made it possible to test the compatibility and effectiveness of using modern technologies in combat conditions.

The context of tension with Pakistan

The Aakraman exercises are taking place against the backdrop of worsening relations between India and Pakistan. Historically, the hostility between the two countries periodically leads to armed conflicts, the last of which occurred in 2019, when air battles took place between the Air forces of the two countries.

1. Historical conflicts:

- India and Pakistan have engaged in armed clashes several times since 1947. One of the most serious incidents was an air battle in 2019, when Pakistan claimed the downing of two Indian planes.

2. Current situation:

- Tension between the two countries persists due to territorial disputes and accusations of supporting terrorist groups. India accuses Pakistan of supporting extremist organizations operating in the Kashmir region.

The Aakraman exercises demonstrated the high combat readiness of the Indian Air Force and its ability to respond quickly and effectively to possible threats. In the context of growing tensions with Pakistan, these exercises have become an important signal of India's readiness to defend its interests and sovereignty.

F-35A and Su-35 interaction off the coast of Alaska

An F-35A of the US Air Force and a Tu-95MS bomber and two Su-35 fighters of the Russian Air Force are in the air

On April 4, 2025, footage was released showing the close interaction of an F-35A fighter jet of the US Air Force and a Su-35 of the Russian Air Force off the coast of Alaska. During the incident, the F-35A was approaching the Russian aircraft and successfully positioned itself ahead and to its right. 

Details of the incident

Russian Su-35 fighters escorted Tu-95MS strategic bombers near the coast of the American state. Such patrols are a common practice for the Russian Air Force. However, this was the first known case of a USAF F-35A colliding with a Su-35 in such proximity. 

The significance of the incident

This event highlights the increasing tension in the airspace off the coast of Alaska. The Su-35 has been involved in close encounters with American warplanes in the past, but the encounter with the F-35A is a new milestone. The F-35A is one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, equipped with advanced stealth and electronic warfare systems. The Su-35, in turn, is one of the best Russian fighters, with high maneuverability and powerful weapons. 

Impact on international relations

Such incidents could exacerbate tensions between the United States and Russia and require a careful approach from both sides to avoid unintended escalation. At the same time, they also emphasize the importance of dialogue and measures to prevent incidents in the air. 

Israel destroys an airstrip in Syria: a step against Turkish influence

Places of destruction after Israeli strikes

Tensions between Israel and Turkey have reached a new high amid the events in Syria. The Israeli military has taken an unexpected step by destroying the runway of the T4 strategic airfield in central Syria. This airfield, which has long remained a key target for various parties to the conflict, could become an object of interest to Turkey. The destruction of the infrastructure was a demonstrative signal to Ankara that Jerusalem intends to maintain control over the situation in the region.

The T4 airfield is important both for military operations in Syria and for providing access to the country's airspace. Israel is particularly concerned that the expansion of Turkish influence in the region may limit its ability to conduct operations at its discretion. For Israel, control of Syrian airspace remains part of its security strategy related to countering Iran and its allies.

Turkey, in turn, is actively promoting its interests in Syria, seeking to strengthen the positions of its allies and expand its zone of influence. The potential seizure of the T4 airfield could be an important step for Ankara, which probably prompted Israel to take decisive action. The destruction of the runway effectively deprives Turkey of the opportunity to use this facility in the near future.

Experts point out that the growing tensions between Israel and Turkey may lead to new conflicts of interests in the region. Although official comments from Ankara remain restrained so far, it is obvious that the situation requires careful monitoring.