With tensions flaring between Israel and Iran, India has launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate its citizens from Iran. In a discreet first step, 110 Indian students were flown out from Armenia’s capital, Yerevan.Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has officially acknowledged that pro-Khalistan extremists are using Canadian soil to organize, fund, and execute violent plots aimed at India.A month after abruptly pausing new student visa interviews to introduce tighter social media vetting, the Trump administration has announced the process will now resume, reopening a critical gateway for thousands of international students.

Here are the top five stories of the morning:

India launches Operation Sindhu to evacuate citizens from IranIndia has launched Operation Sindhu in response to escalating Iran–Israel tensions, aiming to rescue thousands of stranded Indians. The first flight carried 110 students who journeyed overland to Yerevan, Armenia, before arriving in New Delhi early Thursday. The Ministry of External Affairs continues coordinating safe exits via Armenia, with further evacuation efforts underway.

Canadian spy agency confirms Khalistani networks targeting IndiaCanada’s top intelligence body, CSIS, has officially confirmed that Khalistani extremists are using Canadian soil to raise funds, plan operations, and promote violence primarily aimed at India, validating years of Indian concerns.

This marks the first time CSIS has labeled these groups as violent extremists. The announcement comes amid efforts by both nations to ease diplomatic tensions, as Prime Ministers Modi and Canada’s Mark Carney recently agreed to restore high-commissioner exchanges.

US officials signal a planned strike may be looming, increasing global tension.Russia expressed readiness to mediate, and Iran’s Supreme Leader vowed unwavering resistance. With major powers closely monitoring events, the region remains highly unstable.

The Trump administration has resumed interviews for F, M, and J visas after pausing them. All foreign student applicants must now make their social-media accounts public for thorough review. Consular officers will assess online activity to flag potential hostility, terrorism links, or antisemitism, as part of a broader national-security vetting ramp-up. The enhanced checks aim to vet applicants’ intentions but may slow visa processing and raise privacy concerns, drawing criticism for possibly deterring international students.