Morning news wrap: Trump hints at 'very big' India-US trade deal; Israel says it wanted to kill Khamenei; & more

US President Donald Trump has hinted at a significant trade deal with India. After signing a new agreement with China, Trump said a “very big” trade deal with India could be on the cards. Israel's defence minister, Israel Katz confirmed that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was marked for assassination during the recent 12-day conflict, but evaded elimination by going underground. Meanwhile, defence minister Rajnath Singh met his Chinese counterpart Dong Jun in Qingdao and delivered a strong message on the future of bilateral ties between the two nations.

Here are the top 5 news stories for the morning:

Trump hints at 'very big' India-US trade deal nearing final stage

US President Donald Trump said the US and India are close to finalising a “very big” trade deal. Speaking at a White House event, he hinted that the agreement is in its final stages and suggested the US is “opening up India.” Negotiators from both countries are working in Washington to bridge remaining gaps, aiming to finish before a July 9 tariff deadline. The deal could cover tariffs, digital trade, market access, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and defence supply chains. Read full story

Israel planned Khamenei's elimination, confirms Israel's defence minister

Israeli defence minister Israel Katz confirmed that killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei was considered during the recent 12-day war. He said Khamenei was “on the list” and that Israel would have “taken him out” if there had been a real opportunity. Katz explained that Khamenei went deep underground and avoided contact with his military commanders, making an attack impossible. He also said Israel does not need US permission for such operations. Read full story

Rajnath to China: Avoid new complexities; discusses Kailash Mansarovar yatra with Dong Jun

Defence minister Rajnath Singh met Chinese counterpart Dong Jun on the sidelines of the SCO Defence Ministers’ meeting in Qingdao. Singh gave a clear message to China, urging it to avoid adding new complexities to bilateral relations and to maintain positive momentum. He welcomed the planned resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which had stopped for nearly six years due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the Galwan Valley tensions. Singh also gifted Dong Jun a traditional Madhubani painting from Bihar. Read full story

Axiom-4: Shubhanshu Shukla and crew enter space station aboard Dragon capsule Grace

The Axiom-4 mission, carrying Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and three other astronauts, successfully docked with the International Space Station in a Dragon capsule named Grace. Docking occurred at 4:02 pm IST and was fully secured by 4:16 pm. The crew entered the space station at 5:44 pm IST, greeted warmly by existing ISS members. Commander Peggy Whitson said “Welcome, Earthlings” as they floated in. Shukla described the experience as “learning everything anew.” Read full story

Air India crash black box data downloaded, full insights expected in 10 days

Investigators have downloaded data from the black box of the Air India flight that crashed in Ahmedabad on June 12. Authorities say they should receive detailed information within 10 days. The recordings are expected to provide vital clues about flight controls, engine performance, and cockpit communication. Teams from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and Boeing support the analysis. Officials noted that weather was not a factor during takeoff. The data will clarify pilot responses to mechanical issues and may reveal causes of the crash. Read full story