The escalating tensions between Israel and Iran took a dramatic turn as Israeli forces conducted a strike on Tehran's notorious Evin Prison, alongside other government targets in the Iranian capital. This action followed a barrage of missiles and drones launched by Iran at Israel, which itself was a response to the US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities the previous day. The Israeli military confirmed the strikes, stating that they also targeted roads around Iran's Fordo enrichment facility to obstruct access. Israel's Defense Ministry declared that the strikes on Tehran, including Evin Prison and the security headquarters of the paramilitary Revolutionary Guards, were a direct response to Iranian attacks on Israeli territory. The situation remains highly volatile, with concerns mounting over a potential wider regional conflict.
Meanwhile, in Indian political circles, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has once again lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this time praising his handling of the "Operation Sindoor" global outreach. Tharoor described Modi as a "prime asset" for India on the global stage, highlighting his energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage. These remarks, published in a column in The Hindu, come at a time when the Congress party has been critical of the Modi government's foreign policy. Tharoor's praise has stirred debate and is likely to widen existing rifts within his own party, as it seemingly clashes with the Congress's official stance. Following Tharoor's leading of a delegation to five countries to discuss Operation Sindoor, the Prime Minister's Office amplified Tharoor's viewpoint by sharing his article on X, further fueling the controversy. This is not the first time Tharoor has praised Modi, having previously lauded the Prime Minister's response to terror strikes, which has led to criticism from within the Congress party, with some members accusing him of being a "super spokesperson" for the BJP.