Here’s a look at major developments dominating headlines at midday, June 20, 2025. From high-stakes international diplomacy to domestic disputes and cyber threats, stay informed on today’s essential news stories.
European Leaders Push for Diplomacy Amidst Iran Tensions
As U.S. President Donald Trump weighs military options against Iran following a two-week deliberation period, European nations are urgently pursuing a diplomatic path. Foreign ministers from France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, alongside the EU’s foreign policy chief, are meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva today. This eleventh-hour effort aims to de-escalate the conflict and press Tehran to reduce its nuclear activities.
These European powers were key players in the 2015 nuclear accord, from which the U.S. withdrew. Notably absent from the European meeting and the session with Araghchi is the U.S. envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, underscoring Europe’s distinct diplomatic initiative.
Fresh Strikes Traded Between Israel and Iran
Overnight and into today, Israeli and Iranian forces exchanged strikes. The Israeli military reported receiving a barrage of Iranian missiles. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz reportedly directed the military to increase attacks aimed at destabilizing the Iranian government and targeting nuclear facilities and scientists.
However, confusion persists regarding Israel’s precise objectives. While Minister Katz suggests destabilization and targeting nuclear capabilities, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly not ruled out targeting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In contrast, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has stated the primary goal is eliminating Iran’s nuclear and missile programs, highlighting differing public stances within the Israeli leadership.
Dodgers, Federal Agents Offer Conflicting Accounts of Stadium Incident
The Los Angeles Dodgers organization stated Thursday evening via social media that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents requested access to their stadium parking lots but were denied. ICE, however, refuted this claim entirely, stating, “False. We were never there.”
Adding another layer to the confusion, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees both ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), issued a statement acknowledging that CBP agents were present “briefly.” DHS claimed their presence was “unrelated to any operation or enforcement,” leaving the precise nature and purpose of the agents’ visit unclear amidst the contradictory reports.
Court Backs Trump on National Guard Deployment in California
A federal appeals court has indefinitely halted California Governor Gavin Newsom’s attempt to regain state control over the National Guard forces deployed by President Trump. A unanimous three-judge panel ruled that Trump “likely acted within his authority” as president when he federalized the troops in California to address immigration-related protests. President Trump publicly celebrated the ruling on social media, criticizing Governor Newsom.
Insurance Giant Aflac Hit by Cyberattack
Insurance major Aflac has reported being the latest victim of cybercriminals, joining other insurance companies targeted recently. The company stated it detected and stopped the intrusion “within hours” last week. While the full extent of compromised data is still being assessed, Aflac acknowledged the potential for vast exposure, including sensitive information like Social Security numbers, insurance claims, and health data.
This incident follows recent attacks on Erie Insurance and Philadelphia Insurance Companies, with reports suggesting the techniques used are consistent with those of the cybercrime group known as Scattered Spider.
This wrap-up covers key news stories developing today.
