Late on Saturday night (June 21), fourth flight with 290 Indians landed at the New Delhi airport from Iran. The MEA in a post on X said, “<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/OperationSindhu?src=hashtag_click">#OperationSindhu</a> gains momentum. 290 Indian nationals have returned home safely from Iran on a special flight from Mashhad that landed in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 21 June 2025. With this, 1,117 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationSindhu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationSindhu</a> gains momentum. 290 Indian nationals have returned home safely from Iran on a special flight from Mashhad that landed in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 21 June 2025. With this, 1,117 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran. <a href="https://t.co/FScyeKslzw">pic.twitter.com/FScyeKslzw</a>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1936494125164921128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier, India on Saturday (Jun 21) rescued 117 Indian nationals from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, as the third special evacuation flight landed in Delhi under Operation Sindhu. &nbsp;Lauding the successful evacuation, Indian Minister of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal on X said, "A special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan landed in New Delhi at 0300 hrs on 21st June, bringing Indians from Iran home." He added that with this, "so far 517 Indian nationals from Iran have returned home under Operation Sindhu". Just hours earlier, late on Friday (Jun 20), another flight, this one from Mashhad, Iran, brought home 290 Indian students. The Indian government has launched Operation Sindhu to evacuate Indian nationals from Iran because of the worsening situation amid the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. In a post on X, the Jammu and Kashmir student association thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the External Affairs Ministry, and all concerned authorities for evacuating the students. The association wrote, “Mahan Air evacuation flight from Mashhad, Iran, carrying 290 students, the majority of whom are from Kashmir, has landed safely in New Delhi just now. Heartfelt thanks, PM, EAM and all concerned authorities for their timely intervention and support.”&nbsp;MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X, “Operation Sindhu flight brings citizens home. India evacuated 290 Indian nationals from Iran, including students and religious pilgrims by a charter flight. The flight arrived in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 20 June and was received by Secretary (CPV&amp; OIA) Arun Chatterjee.” “Government of India is grateful to the Government of Iran for the facilitation of the evacuation process.”

Operation Sindhu: Fourth flight carrying 290 Indians from Iran lands in New Delhi

Late on Saturday night (June 21), fourth flight with 290 Indians landed at the New Delhi airport from Iran. The MEA in a post on X said, “#OperationSindhu gains momentum. 290 Indian nationals have returned home safely from Iran on a special flight from Mashhad that landed in New Delhi at 2330 hrs on 21 June 2025. With this, 1,117 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran.”

With this, 1,117 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran

US Intel Chief Tulsi Gabbard said that Iran could produce nuclear weapons "within weeks", months after she appeared before Congress to testify that the nation was not making them. The US Director of National Intelligence said her March testimony - in which she said Iran had a stock of materials but was not manufacturing these weapons - had been misconstrued by "dishonest media".&nbsp;Her flip was after Donald Trump said that she was "wrong" and that intelligence indicated Iran had a "tremendous amount of material" and could make a nuclear weapon "within months".&nbsp;Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is purely peaceful and it has never attempted to build a nuclear weapon. On Thursday (June 19 ), &nbsp;Trump said he was giving Tehran the "maximum" of two weeks to agree on its nuclear program with Washington. He added that he would soon determine if the US will join the Israeli strikes against Iran.&nbsp;There has been growing disagreement within Trump's "America First" movement on whether the US should get involved in the conflict. On Saturday morning, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that his nation was "absolutely ready for a negotiated solution" on their nuclear programme but Iran "cannot go through negotiations with the US when our people are under bombardment".&nbsp;In her social media post, Gabbard said US intelligence indicated Iran is "at the point that it can produce a nuclear weapon within weeks to months". "President Trump has made it very clear that can't happen, and I agree," she continued.&nbsp;Gabbard shared a video of her complete testimony to Congress in March, in which she reported US intelligence agencies had found that Iran was not developing nuclear weapons.&nbsp;Experts also determined that Iran had not restarted its suspended 2003 nuclear arms programme, she said in the video, while the country's inventory of enriched uranium - one building block of such weapons - was at a historic high. In her testimony, she said Iran's inventory was "unprecedented for a non-nuclear-armed state.".&nbsp;Earlier this month, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the world's nuclear watchdog, sounded the alarm over Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, which can be used to produce reactor fuel but also weapons. Gabbard's testimony in March has been previously attacked by Trump, who previously told reporters that he did not "care what she said".&nbsp;The US president indicated that he is sure Iran were "very close to having a weapon" and his nation was not going to let that occur.&nbsp;

Within weeks US Intel Chief Gabbard warns of imminent Iran nuke threat reverses from earlier testimony

US Intel Chief Tulsi Gabbard said that Iran could produce nuclear weapons "within weeks", months after she appeared before Congress to testify that the nation was not making them. The US Director of National Intelligence said her March testimony - in which she said Iran had a stock of materials but was not manufacturing these weapons - had been misconstrued by "dishonest media". Her flip was after Donald Trump said that she was "wrong" and that intelligence indicated Iran had a "tremendous amount of material" and could make a nuclear weapon "within months". Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear program is purely peaceful and it has never attempted to build a nuclear weapon. On Thursday (June 19 ), Trump said he was giving Tehran the "maximum" of two weeks to agree on its nuclear program with Washington. He added that he would soon determine if the US will join the Israeli strikes against Iran. There has been growing disagreement within Trump's "America First" movement on whether the US should get involved in the conflict. On Saturday morning, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that his nation was "absolutely ready for a negotiated solution" on their nuclear programme but Iran "cannot go through negotiations with the US when our people are under bombardment". In her social media post, Gabbard said US intelligence indicated Iran is "at the point that it can produce a nuclear weapon within weeks to months". "President Trump has made it very clear that can't happen, and I agree," she continued. Gabbard shared a video of her complete testimony to Congress in March, in which she reported US intelligence agencies had found that Iran was not developing nuclear weapons. Experts also determined that Iran had not restarted its suspended 2003 nuclear arms programme, she said in the video, while the country's inventory of enriched uranium - one building block of such weapons - was at a historic high. In her testimony, she said Iran's inventory was "unprecedented for a non-nuclear-armed state.". Earlier this month, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the world's nuclear watchdog, sounded the alarm over Iran's enriched uranium stockpile, which can be used to produce reactor fuel but also weapons. Gabbard's testimony in March has been previously attacked by Trump, who previously told reporters that he did not "care what she said". The US president indicated that he is sure Iran were "very close to having a weapon" and his nation was not going to let that occur.

Her change of position came after Donald Trump said she was ‘wrong’ and that intelligence showed Iran had a ‘tremendous amount of material’ and could have a nuclear weapon ‘within months’

US intel chief Gabbard warns Iran could build nuke 'within weeks', slams 'dishonest media'

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly named three clerics as potential successors while hiding in a bunker in the face of assassination threats by Israel during the ongoing conflict. According to The New York Times, quoting three Iranian officials close to the development, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has started appointing successors to top generals who were assassinated in Israeli bombing raids.&nbsp;Interestingly, contrary to earlier reports, the officials said Ali Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba, is not among the clerics shortlisted to succeed him – despite previous claims that he was being groomed for the role. As reported by The New York Times, 86-year-old Khamenei is cognizant of the likelihood of being targeted by Israel or the United States for assassination -- something that would be perceived by him as martyrdom, Iranian officials say.&nbsp;In the light of this threat, Khamenei has gone the unusual route of instructing the Assembly of Experts – the clerical assembly responsible for choosing Iran's next supreme leader – to move quickly and pick a successor from among the three candidates he has nominated himself.&nbsp;Normally, the selection of a new supreme leader takes months with extensive deliberations and several candidates. But with the nation now engaged in war, officials told NYT that Khamenei wishes to facilitate a swift and orderly transition to protect both the Islamic Republic and his legacy. “The top priority is the preservation of the state,” NYT quoted Vali Nasr, a leading Iran expert and professor at Johns Hopkins University, as saying. “It is all calculative and pragmatic,” Nasr added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, amid ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, old social media post of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have surfaced drawing attention for his unexpectedly liberal and feminist tone. Some over a old post show Khamenei expressing support for women’s rights, sharing an interest in poetry, and backing the Black Lives Matter movement.&nbsp;These resurfaced remarks show a surprisingly different image of Khamenei, prompting many on social media to call him progressive in his views. In several women-focused posts, he not only advocated for gender equality but also expressed thoughts on love and relationships. In a post on X (formerly known as twitter), Khamenei said, "Man has a responsibility to understand #woman's needs and feelings and must not be neglectful toward her #emotional state." Comparing the strength between both the gender, he highlighted, “Women are stronger than men. Women can completely control and influence men with their wisdom and delicacy.”

Inside Khameneis bunker Succession planning amid Israels assassination threats Report

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly named three clerics as potential successors while hiding in a bunker in the face of assassination threats by Israel during the ongoing conflict. According to The New York Times, quoting three Iranian officials close to the development, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has started appointing successors to top generals who were assassinated in Israeli bombing raids. Interestingly, contrary to earlier reports, the officials said Ali Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba, is not among the clerics shortlisted to succeed him – despite previous claims that he was being groomed for the role. As reported by The New York Times, 86-year-old Khamenei is cognizant of the likelihood of being targeted by Israel or the United States for assassination -- something that would be perceived by him as martyrdom, Iranian officials say. In the light of this threat, Khamenei has gone the unusual route of instructing the Assembly of Experts – the clerical assembly responsible for choosing Iran's next supreme leader – to move quickly and pick a successor from among the three candidates he has nominated himself. Normally, the selection of a new supreme leader takes months with extensive deliberations and several candidates. But with the nation now engaged in war, officials told NYT that Khamenei wishes to facilitate a swift and orderly transition to protect both the Islamic Republic and his legacy. “The top priority is the preservation of the state,” NYT quoted Vali Nasr, a leading Iran expert and professor at Johns Hopkins University, as saying. “It is all calculative and pragmatic,” Nasr added. Meanwhile, amid ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, old social media post of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have surfaced drawing attention for his unexpectedly liberal and feminist tone. Some over a old post show Khamenei expressing support for women’s rights, sharing an interest in poetry, and backing the Black Lives Matter movement. These resurfaced remarks show a surprisingly different image of Khamenei, prompting many on social media to call him progressive in his views. In several women-focused posts, he not only advocated for gender equality but also expressed thoughts on love and relationships. In a post on X (formerly known as twitter), Khamenei said, "Man has a responsibility to understand #woman's needs and feelings and must not be neglectful toward her #emotional state." Comparing the strength between both the gender, he highlighted, “Women are stronger than men. Women can completely control and influence men with their wisdom and delicacy.”

Under normal circumstances, the process of appointing a new supreme leader can take months, involving intense deliberations and multiple candidates

Inside Khamenei’s bunker: Succession planning amid Israel's assassination threats-Report

Amid the rising tensions between Israel and Iran, a US envoy at a UN Security Council meeting on Friday stumbled and accidentally blamed Jerusalem for spreading "chaos, terror and suffering" in the Middle East before realising her mistake.&nbsp;The US Chargé d'Affaires ad interim to the UN, Dorothy Shea, was giving a speech during the UNSC, condemning Iran's activities against Israel.&nbsp;"Israel's government has also spread chaos, terror and suffering throughout the region," Shea reads out. She then takes an awkward pause, shakes her head as she quickly corrects herself and repeats the sentence, “Iran's government has also spread chaos, terror and suffering throughout the region.” She continues with her speech, “Let us not forget that the Iranian government was an enabling and ideological material force behind Hamas's deadly assault on Israel.” &nbsp;This slip-up by the senior US diplomat on a stage as large as the United Nations Security Council went viral on social media.&nbsp;In her speech, Shea also emphasised that it is not too late for the Iranian government "to do the right thing". She reiterated US President Donald Trump's statements and said that Iran "must completely abandon its nuclear enrichment program and all aspirations of acquiring a nuclear weapon". Dorothy Shea stated that Israel has repeatedly called for Israel's destruction as well as for "death to America".&nbsp;As much as she confirmed the US was not involved in Israeli raids on Iran, the American diplomat said, “Let there be no doubt that the United States continues to stand with Israel and supports its actions against Iran's nuclear ambitions.” The American diplomat explained that Iran's leaders could have avoided the current war if they had accepted an agreement that would have prevented them from ever having a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;By rejecting the deal, Shea explained, Iran has everything it requires to have a nuclear weapon, adding that the only thing left for it to have now is a decision by its top leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 BREAKING: US ambassador Dorothy Shea accidentally says something honest at the UN Security Council “Israel’s government has also spread chaos, terror, and suffering throughout the region...” A Freudian slip for the ages: <a href="https://t.co/lnwPsDkHov">pic.twitter.com/lnwPsDkHov</a>&mdash; Decensored News (@decensorednews) <a href="https://twitter.com/decensorednews/status/1936100492045640063?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump will be making a decision on joining Israel in attacking Iran or not, in two weeks as the war between Israel and Iran continues for a week now with Israel attacking Tehran's nuclear facilities and military officials. During White House briefing, spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said that trump will “make a decision on whether to attack Iran within two weeks.”&nbsp;"Based on the fact that there's a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks," Trump said in a statement read out by his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt.&nbsp;The White House added that “correspondence has continued with Iran.” An Israeli official on Thursday told The Times of Israel that it expects that US President Donald Trump will join the strikes against Iran’s nuclear program. “The expectation is that they join, but no one is pushing them,” says the official. “They have to make their own decision.”“We’ll know in the next 24-48 hours,” the official estimated, before the White House said that the US president will decide in the next two weeks.

Oops! US envoy accidentally blames Israel for ‘chaos and terror’ at UN- WATCH

Amid the rising tensions between Israel and Iran, a US envoy at a UN Security Council meeting on Friday stumbled and accidentally blamed Jerusalem for spreading "chaos, terror and suffering" in the Middle East before realising her mistake. The US Chargé d'Affaires ad interim to the UN, Dorothy Shea, was giving a speech during the UNSC, condemning Iran's activities against Israel. "Israel's government has also spread chaos, terror and suffering throughout the region," Shea reads out. She then takes an awkward pause, shakes her head as she quickly corrects herself and repeats the sentence, “Iran's government has also spread chaos, terror and suffering throughout the region.” She continues with her speech, “Let us not forget that the Iranian government was an enabling and ideological material force behind Hamas's deadly assault on Israel.” This slip-up by the senior US diplomat on a stage as large as the United Nations Security Council went viral on social media. In her speech, Shea also emphasised that it is not too late for the Iranian government "to do the right thing". She reiterated US President Donald Trump's statements and said that Iran "must completely abandon its nuclear enrichment program and all aspirations of acquiring a nuclear weapon". Dorothy Shea stated that Israel has repeatedly called for Israel's destruction as well as for "death to America". As much as she confirmed the US was not involved in Israeli raids on Iran, the American diplomat said, “Let there be no doubt that the United States continues to stand with Israel and supports its actions against Iran's nuclear ambitions.” The American diplomat explained that Iran's leaders could have avoided the current war if they had accepted an agreement that would have prevented them from ever having a nuclear weapon. By rejecting the deal, Shea explained, Iran has everything it requires to have a nuclear weapon, adding that the only thing left for it to have now is a decision by its top leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The US Chargé d’Affaires ad interim to the UN, Dorothy Shea, was delivering a speech at the UNSC, condemning Iran's actions against Israel

Sri Lanka has welcomed the Indian announcement on evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals from Iran as the West Asia crisis intensifies. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Arun Hemachandra, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka said, that this "This gesture exemplifies the spirit of regional solidarity&nbsp;and trusted friendship that our nationals have built over decades".&nbsp; This is not the first time India has evacuated nationals from neighbouring countries during a crisis. During the 2022 Operation Ganga evacuation from Ukraine, India had evacuated foreign nationals from neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan. During 2020, evacuation from Wuhan, China during the outbreak of COVID, India evacuated Maldives nationals. The Sri Lankan Deputy Foreign minister hoped that the situation in west Asia will come to normal soon. Full Interview:&nbsp;Indian mission in Tehran has announced&nbsp;that they will help in evacuation&nbsp;of Sri Lankan nationals. If you can give your reaction to this?Arun Hemachandra: Well, in light of the rapidly escalating situation in the region, I wish to express my deep appreciation to the Government of India for their timely and generous assistance in facilitating the evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals from the Islamic Republic of Iran. Under Operation Sindhu, not only&nbsp; Indian citizens were brought to safety, but the Indian authorities also extended their helping hand to Sri Lankans and other South Asian nationals. This gesture exemplifies the spirit of regional solidarity and trusted friendship that our nationals have built over decades.&nbsp;Sir, perhaps if you can talk about the number of Sri Lankan nationals in Iran to give a broader view to us, and I believe that the Sri Lankan government also announced last week that you are moving your embassy to north of Iran?Arun Hemachandra: Due to the tensions seen in the region, we took a decision to shift the embassy from Iran to the northern part of Iran. And overall, there are 30 plus Sri Lankans living in Iran, as per the statistics that we have, including the embassy staff. So we are grateful, once again, to India's External Affairs Ministry and Indian Embassy in Tehran for their proactive coordination and the care they extended.&nbsp;What is the Sri Lankan stance of the West Asian crisis? If you can put in perspective. Arun Hemachandra: The primary motive at the moment is the safety of Sri Lankan citizens, those who are in Israel as well as Iran. So we are looking forward to making sure that each and every Sri Lankan citizen is protected and safeguarded. And in terms of the bilateral relationship, we do have relationships with both nations. And so we are really watching this situation, and then we hope there will be normalcy very soon.

Sri Lankan minister Hemachandra lauds Indian evacuation of Sri Lankans from Iran

Sri Lanka has welcomed the Indian announcement on evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals from Iran as the West Asia crisis intensifies. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Arun Hemachandra, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka said, that this "This gesture exemplifies the spirit of regional solidarity and trusted friendship that our nationals have built over decades". This is not the first time India has evacuated nationals from neighbouring countries during a crisis. During the 2022 Operation Ganga evacuation from Ukraine, India had evacuated foreign nationals from neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan. During 2020, evacuation from Wuhan, China during the outbreak of COVID, India evacuated Maldives nationals. The Sri Lankan Deputy Foreign minister hoped that the situation in west Asia will come to normal soon. Full Interview: Indian mission in Tehran has announced that they will help in evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals. If you can give your reaction to this? Arun Hemachandra: Well, in light of the rapidly escalating situation in the region, I wish to express my deep appreciation to the Government of India for their timely and generous assistance in facilitating the evacuation of Sri Lankan nationals from the Islamic Republic of Iran. Under Operation Sindhu, not only Indian citizens were brought to safety, but the Indian authorities also extended their helping hand to Sri Lankans and other South Asian nationals. This gesture exemplifies the spirit of regional solidarity and trusted friendship that our nationals have built over decades. Sir, perhaps if you can talk about the number of Sri Lankan nationals in Iran to give a broader view to us, and I believe that the Sri Lankan government also announced last week that you are moving your embassy to north of Iran? Arun Hemachandra: Due to the tensions seen in the region, we took a decision to shift the embassy from Iran to the northern part of Iran. And overall, there are 30 plus Sri Lankans living in Iran, as per the statistics that we have, including the embassy staff. So we are grateful, once again, to India's External Affairs Ministry and Indian Embassy in Tehran for their proactive coordination and the care they extended. What is the Sri Lankan stance of the West Asian crisis? If you can put in perspective. Arun Hemachandra: The primary motive at the moment is the safety of Sri Lankan citizens, those who are in Israel as well as Iran. So we are looking forward to making sure that each and every Sri Lankan citizen is protected and safeguarded. And in terms of the bilateral relationship, we do have relationships with both nations. And so we are really watching this situation, and then we hope there will be normalcy very soon.

This is not the first time India has evacuated nationals from neighbouring countries during a crisis

The war between Israel and Iran is being very expensive. Billions of rupees are spent each day on air defense equipment, which has caused a weapons shortage. Having spent $67 billion on the Gaza campaign, the cost of the war with Iran is also escalating day by day.The conflict with Iran is costing Israel very dearly. On one hand, Israeli weapons are being destroyed and on the other, billions of rupees are being used up in intercepting Iranian missiles and drones.&nbsp;&nbsp;The catch is that Israel does not possess sufficient air defense missiles to wage the war against Iran for an extended period. But during the shortage of weapons, America has again assisted and weapons were delivered to Israel in 14 cargo planes. Each blast not only destroys things but also squanders crores of rupees. It doesn't matter whether Israel bombs Iran or defends itself against Iran's attack, the war costs are mounting with each blast. Israel is spending 17 billion rupees each day on air defense systems alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Israel's Arrow Air Defense missile costs about 16 crores. David Sling missiles cost about 8 crores. Now whether it is Iran's suicide drones or ballistic missiles, crores of rupees worth missiles are being launched daily from Israeli air defense. Billions of rupees have been spent by Israel in the war with Gaza and Iran. In 2024, Israel incurred an expenditure of 67 billion dollars in the Gaza operation. Now Israel is spending around six thousand crores rupees daily in the ongoing conflict with Iran.&nbsp;Over Rs 2500 crore alone is being spent on fuel and weapons daily. Israel's Finance Ministry says that when one lakh soldiers are deployed, approximately Rs 270 crore is incurred on their salaries and arrangements daily. Despite such massive expenditure, Israel has a massive lack of air defense. Yet, as per a new report, another stockpile of weapons has been dispatched to Israel by America once again.&nbsp;14 cargo planes have arrived in Israel. America and Germany have sent weapons. 800 cargo planes have arrived in Israel after the Gaza operation. Details of the weapons carried by cargo planes are unknown but Israel's air defense is thought to be strengthened.&nbsp;As per American news reports, Israel is employing Arrow-3 missiles. There could be an enormous lack of Arrow-3 missiles in the future times. Iran's ballistic missiles will not be intercepted in the future. The issue of worry for America is that if the war against Iran prolongs for a long duration, then how will Israel be saved. The US is also deploying more Navy to give Israel aerial protection from Iran. Now, drones are being intercepted by fighter aircraft as well as air defense, but air-to-air missiles are utilized for that. If Iran keeps on launching drones attacks, then Israel will also run low on air-to-air missiles by a great deal.

Every blast burns billions: Israel struggles to keep pace amid conflict with Iran

The war between Israel and Iran is being very expensive. Billions of rupees are spent each day on air defense equipment, which has caused a weapons shortage. Having spent $67 billion on the Gaza campaign, the cost of the war with Iran is also escalating day by day. The conflict with Iran is costing Israel very dearly. On one hand, Israeli weapons are being destroyed and on the other, billions of rupees are being used up in intercepting Iranian missiles and drones. The catch is that Israel does not possess sufficient air defense missiles to wage the war against Iran for an extended period. But during the shortage of weapons, America has again assisted and weapons were delivered to Israel in 14 cargo planes. Each blast not only destroys things but also squanders crores of rupees. It doesn't matter whether Israel bombs Iran or defends itself against Iran's attack, the war costs are mounting with each blast. Israel is spending 17 billion rupees each day on air defense systems alone. Israel's Arrow Air Defense missile costs about 16 crores. David Sling missiles cost about 8 crores. Now whether it is Iran's suicide drones or ballistic missiles, crores of rupees worth missiles are being launched daily from Israeli air defense. Billions of rupees have been spent by Israel in the war with Gaza and Iran. In 2024, Israel incurred an expenditure of 67 billion dollars in the Gaza operation. Now Israel is spending around six thousand crores rupees daily in the ongoing conflict with Iran. Over Rs 2500 crore alone is being spent on fuel and weapons daily. Israel's Finance Ministry says that when one lakh soldiers are deployed, approximately Rs 270 crore is incurred on their salaries and arrangements daily. Despite such massive expenditure, Israel has a massive lack of air defense. Yet, as per a new report, another stockpile of weapons has been dispatched to Israel by America once again. 14 cargo planes have arrived in Israel. America and Germany have sent weapons. 800 cargo planes have arrived in Israel after the Gaza operation. Details of the weapons carried by cargo planes are unknown but Israel's air defense is thought to be strengthened. As per American news reports, Israel is employing Arrow-3 missiles. There could be an enormous lack of Arrow-3 missiles in the future times. Iran's ballistic missiles will not be intercepted in the future. The issue of worry for America is that if the war against Iran prolongs for a long duration, then how will Israel be saved. The US is also deploying more Navy to give Israel aerial protection from Iran. Now, drones are being intercepted by fighter aircraft as well as air defense, but air-to-air missiles are utilized for that. If Iran keeps on launching drones attacks, then Israel will also run low on air-to-air missiles by a great deal.

After spending $67 billion on the Gaza operation, the expenditure on the war with Iran is also increasing continuously

A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Iran's Semnan late on Friday (June 20), sending tremors through the region. According to reports from the GFZ, a magnitude 5.2 earthquake occurred around 35 km southwest of Semnan at 5.49 local time. The earthquake's depth was recorded at 10 km, indicating a relatively shallow tremor that could possibly cause major damage.&nbsp;There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. According to reports, Semnan is home to the Semnan Missile Complex operated by Iran's military as well as the Semnan Space Centre.&nbsp;Iran, located on the geologically active Alpine-Himalayan seismic belt, is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. Its complex tectonic setting results in frequent seismic events, many of which have caused significant destruction and loss of life over the years. On average, Iran experiences about 2,100 earthquakes annually, including approximately 15 to 16 of magnitude 5.0 or higher.&nbsp;Recent activity has once again underscored this persistent threat. On June 17, a magnitude 4.2 earthquake struck near Borazjan in Bushehr province, followed by another 4.2 magnitude quake near Kashmar in Razavi Khorasan just a day later. These events highlight the constant seismic risk faced by the region and the importance of preparedness in earthquake-prone areas like Iran.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, a faceoff between representatives of both nations at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Friday (June 20). While Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, termed Israel's strikes as “betrayal of diplomacy by the US”, Israel’s United Nations ambassador Danny Danon slammed Tehran for seeking help from the international community. Slamming Iran, Danon said, “How dare you write five letters last week to this assembly to demand a session and ask the international community for sympathy? How dare you ask the international community to protect you from the consequences of your own genocidal agenda? You are not a victim. You are not even a diplomat. You are a wolf pretending to be a diplomat, and we are done pretending otherwise.”&nbsp;He added, "Iran is developing missiles with a range of 4,000 km. We are protecting our children and yours. If no one leads this fight, we will. We will not stop until Iran's nuclear threat is dismantled. We do not apologize for neutralizing a threat. We're acting where international community hesitated.”

A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Iran's Semnan late on Friday (June 20), sending tremors through the region. According to reports from the GFZ, a magnitude 5.2 earthquake occurred around 35 km southwest of Semnan at 5.49 local time. The earthquake's depth was recorded at 10 km, indicating a relatively shallow tremor that could possibly cause major damage. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. According to reports, Semnan is home to the Semnan Missile Complex operated by Iran's military as well as the Semnan Space Centre. Iran, located on the geologically active Alpine-Himalayan seismic belt, is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone countries. Its complex tectonic setting results in frequent seismic events, many of which have caused significant destruction and loss of life over the years. On average, Iran experiences about 2,100 earthquakes annually, including approximately 15 to 16 of magnitude 5.0 or higher. Recent activity has once again underscored this persistent threat. On June 17, a magnitude 4.2 earthquake struck near Borazjan in Bushehr province, followed by another 4.2 magnitude quake near Kashmar in Razavi Khorasan just a day later. These events highlight the constant seismic risk faced by the region and the importance of preparedness in earthquake-prone areas like Iran. Meanwhile, Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, a faceoff between representatives of both nations at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Friday (June 20). While Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, termed Israel's strikes as “betrayal of diplomacy by the US”, Israel’s United Nations ambassador Danny Danon slammed Tehran for seeking help from the international community. Slamming Iran, Danon said, “How dare you write five letters last week to this assembly to demand a session and ask the international community for sympathy? How dare you ask the international community to protect you from the consequences of your own genocidal agenda? You are not a victim. You are not even a diplomat. You are a wolf pretending to be a diplomat, and we are done pretending otherwise.” He added, "Iran is developing missiles with a range of 4,000 km. We are protecting our children and yours. If no one leads this fight, we will. We will not stop until Iran's nuclear threat is dismantled. We do not apologize for neutralizing a threat. We're acting where international community hesitated.”

According to reports, the earthquake's depth was recorded at 10 km

Earthquake of 5.2 magnitude strikes near Iran's Semnan

In the early part of 2003, American Army rumbled over the Kuwait border into Iraq in the name of liberation. The pretext: weapons of mass destruction, regime change, and freedom for the Iraqi people. Within a matter of weeks, Baghdad had fallen. Saddam Hussein had been toppled; his regime destroyed.&nbsp;But as history would soon reveal, over-throwing a government was the simple part. What ensued was decades of sectarian strife, insurgencies, foreign interventions, and a region thrown into disarray. Now, with Israel bombarding Iranian military and nuclear facilities and the threat of American intervention hanging over it, the world is asking an all-too-familiar and foreboding question: Is America about to revive 2003 in Tehran?&nbsp;The Iran-Israel war that has broken out has spread much beyond covert attacks and proxy tensions. In what Israel called as ‘Operation Rising Lion’, its fighter jets have initiated prolonged air bombardment operations above Tehran, Natanz, Esfahan, and other military centres.&nbsp;Civilian neighbourhoods have been hit; communication and energy grids are crumbling. As of June 19, more than 500 have been killed and thousand injured, according to a human rights group. Iran’s response, swift and muscular, included launching hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli territory—most intercepted, some not. The region is on fire.&nbsp;Amidst this spiral, the voice of US President Donald Trump—now again a leading figure in American foreign policy—is unmistakably belligerent. He has called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” declared that the Supreme Leader is “not hard to find,” and suggested that only full military intervention can bring this war to a decisive close. The language mirrors that of George W. Bush in 2003. The assumptions do too: that air superiority, regime decapitation, and a short, sharp campaign can reset the Middle East in America’s favour.&nbsp;But this is not Iraq. And that assumption may be the most dangerous one yet. The strategic thinking in 2003 was based on two key premises: that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction, and that a swift removal of Saddam’s regime would lead to democratic transformation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both premises collapsed under the weight of reality. Iran, on the other hand, does have an advanced nuclear program—although how close it is to building a weapon remains hotly debated. What’s beyond dispute is that its nuclear infrastructure is more advanced, more dispersed, and significantly better protected than Iraq’s ever was. Facilities like Fordow and Natanz are buried deep underground, hardened against aerial attacks. Even Israel’s cutting-edge F-35s and intelligence assets cannot reach them without either massive US bunker-busting weaponry or ground troops.&nbsp;Therein lies the Iraq parallel—and the trap. Just as Iraq’s regime change required boots on the ground to truly take control of the state apparatus, any serious attempt to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and military command structure would likely require a similar invasion. Airstrikes, however sophisticated, have their limits. And Tehran knows this.&nbsp;But there are deeper differences that make a repeat of 2003 far more perilous in 2025. Iran is a large, militarily capable state with regional networks—from Hezbollah in Lebanon to militias in Iraq and Syria—that can ignite multiple fronts. Its ability to retaliate is proven. Within hours of the first Israeli strikes, it launched one of the largest missile salvos in modern military history. Though most were intercepted, the message was clear: this is not a regime that will fall quietly.&nbsp;Even more critical is the geopolitical context. In 2003, the United States enjoyed broad—if ultimately misguided—international support. Today, the US is deeply divided at home and increasingly distrusted abroad. More importantly, it's not a unipolar world anymore. Russia and China—both Iran's friends—are vying for global power and actively shaping a multipolar order that resists American dominance. Any US action against Tehran will have to contend not just with Iran, but with a broader geopolitical axis that sees American interventionism as a common threat.&nbsp;These questions have no clear answers—and that’s exactly the problem. Iran, for all its internal repression and foreign policy aggressions, retains a resilient state structure. Removing its leadership without triggering national fragmentation would be almost impossible.&nbsp;Already, the Israeli bombings have stirred both fear and fury within Iran. Anti-government protests have erupted, yes—but so have nationalistic calls for unity. The regime is bloodied but not broken. And unlike Iraq, it has prepared for this scenario for decades.&nbsp;There are also the legal and humanitarian ramifications to consider. Several civilians have died in the Tehran region alone since Israeli strikes began. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and infrastructure is buckling. An American-led invasion would only magnify the toll—likely exponentially. The US would find itself at the center of international condemnation, with little to show but further destabilisation.&nbsp;And yet, despite all this, the temptation to act militarily remains strong in Washington’s more hawkish circles. They argue that deterrence has failed, that Iran’s leadership is emboldened, and that without a decisive blow, the region will descend into permanent conflict. They point to the limitations of sanctions, the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear deal, and the erosion of American credibility. To them, war is not the worst option—it is the only option left.&nbsp;But this is a false binary. Between all-out invasion and passive diplomacy lies a spectrum of action. The United States could intensify its containment strategy—reinforce missile defense across the Gulf, expand cyber operations to disrupt Iranian command-and-control networks, empower internal dissent, and prepare for limited retaliatory strikes without committing to regime change.&nbsp;The lessons of 2003 are not just historical footnotes. They are warnings. They tell us that removing a regime without understanding the society underneath is folly. That military victory without political vision is ruinous. And that America’s power, though vast, cannot impose stability on nations from 30,000 feet in the sky. As Israeli jets continue to strike and Tehran vows vengeance, the drums of intervention beat louder. But the echoes from Baghdad still ring. The world would do well to listen.

The Iraq invasion playbook returns: But can it work against Iran?

In the early part of 2003, American Army rumbled over the Kuwait border into Iraq in the name of liberation. The pretext: weapons of mass destruction, regime change, and freedom for the Iraqi people. Within a matter of weeks, Baghdad had fallen. Saddam Hussein had been toppled; his regime destroyed. But as history would soon reveal, over-throwing a government was the simple part. What ensued was decades of sectarian strife, insurgencies, foreign interventions, and a region thrown into disarray. Now, with Israel bombarding Iranian military and nuclear facilities and the threat of American intervention hanging over it, the world is asking an all-too-familiar and foreboding question: Is America about to revive 2003 in Tehran? The Iran-Israel war that has broken out has spread much beyond covert attacks and proxy tensions. In what Israel called as ‘Operation Rising Lion’, its fighter jets have initiated prolonged air bombardment operations above Tehran, Natanz, Esfahan, and other military centres. Civilian neighbourhoods have been hit; communication and energy grids are crumbling. As of June 19, more than 500 have been killed and thousand injured, according to a human rights group. Iran’s response, swift and muscular, included launching hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli territory—most intercepted, some not. The region is on fire. Amidst this spiral, the voice of US President Donald Trump—now again a leading figure in American foreign policy—is unmistakably belligerent. He has called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” declared that the Supreme Leader is “not hard to find,” and suggested that only full military intervention can bring this war to a decisive close. The language mirrors that of George W. Bush in 2003. The assumptions do too: that air superiority, regime decapitation, and a short, sharp campaign can reset the Middle East in America’s favour. But this is not Iraq. And that assumption may be the most dangerous one yet. The strategic thinking in 2003 was based on two key premises: that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction, and that a swift removal of Saddam’s regime would lead to democratic transformation. Both premises collapsed under the weight of reality. Iran, on the other hand, does have an advanced nuclear program—although how close it is to building a weapon remains hotly debated. What’s beyond dispute is that its nuclear infrastructure is more advanced, more dispersed, and significantly better protected than Iraq’s ever was. Facilities like Fordow and Natanz are buried deep underground, hardened against aerial attacks. Even Israel’s cutting-edge F-35s and intelligence assets cannot reach them without either massive US bunker-busting weaponry or ground troops. Therein lies the Iraq parallel—and the trap. Just as Iraq’s regime change required boots on the ground to truly take control of the state apparatus, any serious attempt to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and military command structure would likely require a similar invasion. Airstrikes, however sophisticated, have their limits. And Tehran knows this. But there are deeper differences that make a repeat of 2003 far more perilous in 2025. Iran is a large, militarily capable state with regional networks—from Hezbollah in Lebanon to militias in Iraq and Syria—that can ignite multiple fronts. Its ability to retaliate is proven. Within hours of the first Israeli strikes, it launched one of the largest missile salvos in modern military history. Though most were intercepted, the message was clear: this is not a regime that will fall quietly. Even more critical is the geopolitical context. In 2003, the United States enjoyed broad—if ultimately misguided—international support. Today, the US is deeply divided at home and increasingly distrusted abroad. More importantly, it's not a unipolar world anymore. Russia and China—both Iran's friends—are vying for global power and actively shaping a multipolar order that resists American dominance. Any US action against Tehran will have to contend not just with Iran, but with a broader geopolitical axis that sees American interventionism as a common threat. These questions have no clear answers—and that’s exactly the problem. Iran, for all its internal repression and foreign policy aggressions, retains a resilient state structure. Removing its leadership without triggering national fragmentation would be almost impossible. Already, the Israeli bombings have stirred both fear and fury within Iran. Anti-government protests have erupted, yes—but so have nationalistic calls for unity. The regime is bloodied but not broken. And unlike Iraq, it has prepared for this scenario for decades. There are also the legal and humanitarian ramifications to consider. Several civilians have died in the Tehran region alone since Israeli strikes began. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and infrastructure is buckling. An American-led invasion would only magnify the toll—likely exponentially. The US would find itself at the center of international condemnation, with little to show but further destabilisation. And yet, despite all this, the temptation to act militarily remains strong in Washington’s more hawkish circles. They argue that deterrence has failed, that Iran’s leadership is emboldened, and that without a decisive blow, the region will descend into permanent conflict. They point to the limitations of sanctions, the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear deal, and the erosion of American credibility. To them, war is not the worst option—it is the only option left. But this is a false binary. Between all-out invasion and passive diplomacy lies a spectrum of action. The United States could intensify its containment strategy—reinforce missile defense across the Gulf, expand cyber operations to disrupt Iranian command-and-control networks, empower internal dissent, and prepare for limited retaliatory strikes without committing to regime change. The lessons of 2003 are not just historical footnotes. They are warnings. They tell us that removing a regime without understanding the society underneath is folly. That military victory without political vision is ruinous. And that America’s power, though vast, cannot impose stability on nations from 30,000 feet in the sky. As Israeli jets continue to strike and Tehran vows vengeance, the drums of intervention beat louder. But the echoes from Baghdad still ring. The world would do well to listen.

The Iran-Israel war that has broken out has spread much beyond covert attacks and proxy tensions

If the Strait of Hormuz is closed, much of the world could go without fuel. After the Israeli bombing that started on June 13, several Iranian politicians have suggested that the Strait should be closed. Esmail Kowsari, a commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), said the option was 'under consideration'. Why is the Strait of Hormuz so important? Can Iran really close the strait? Here is what you should know:<h2>What is the Strait of Hormuz? Why is it strategically important?</h2>Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway located between Iran and Oman. The strait, only 33 kilometres across at its narrowest point, links the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. It is the only sea passage for oil exports from key oil producers in the Gulf, like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Iraq and Qatar.<h2>Why is Strait of Hormuz important for global trade?</h2>Through this chokepoint passes nearly 20 per cent of the world's oil. It is estimated that 20 million barrels of petroleum liquids were transported every day through the strait in 2024. Nearly a third of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade also passes through the strait.&nbsp;A closure or disruption of maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz can cause a rise in global energy prices. It can play havoc with supply chains and impact economies, particularly in Asian importers like China, India, Japan and South Korea, which together account for &nbsp;84 per cent of its crude oil shipments.Much of the Gulf oil and LNG for Europe also passes through the Strait of Homuz. These factors make the waterway strategically important for global energy security. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-us-officials-prepare-for-possible-strike-on-iran-in-coming-days-report-1750335066169/embed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-us-officials-prepare-for-possible-strike-on-iran-in-coming-days-report-1750335066169">Iran-Israel War: US Officials Prepare For Possible Strike On Iran In Coming Days: Report</a><h2>Does Iran really control Strait of Hormuz?</h2>The direct answer is, not entirely. But Iran's geographic position is along the northern coast of the Strait of Hormuz. This helps Iran exert influence on the strait. Technically, Iran can block traffic along the strait, as its narrowest point, at 21 nautical miles, is partly within its territorial waters, overlapping with Oman’s to the south.<h2>Iranian military presence near the Strait of Hormuz</h2>In theory, at least, Iran can deploy naval mines, launch ballistic and cruise missiles, suicide drones, fast attack boats, as well as Kilo and Ghadir class submarines. While it has not entirely used its military muscle in the strait, it has often threatened to do so. Iranian military's presence in the nearby strategic islands such as Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa emboldens it to disrupt shipping along the Strait of Hormuz.<h2>Has Iran ever fully closed Strait of Hormuz?</h2>No, because it's against global law on 'innocent passage', specifically the international maritime law, formally known as United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. Iran has ratified the 1982 convention, though it has not signed the treaty. Besides, Oman has control over the southern coast of the strait, which limits Iran’s ability to exert any unilateral control over the strait.<h2>Iran's threats to close or block Strait of Hormuz are not new: Past actions</h2>Even so, Iran has quite often resorted to threatening the global community with closure or blocking of the Strait of Hormuz. The threats, which are being made amid the the ongoing war with Israel, happened in 2011, 2012, 2018 and 2019 too, at the height of tensions with the US, Israel, or as a response to international sanctions. Iran conducted mine attacks on oil tankers and seized some vessels in 2019. In April 2024, it seized a container ship amid the Israel-Hamas War in Gaza.<h2>Will the Tanker War of the 1980s repeat?</h2>But the first major disruption of the Strait of Hormuz occurred during the Iran-Iraq War of 1980–1988. At the time, Iran conducted attacks on neutral oil tankers, disrupting traffic, though not entirely stopping it.&nbsp;If push comes to shove, Iran can try to hit the strait using its military capabilities around the area. But it is likely going to be one of its last options.

After the Israeli bombing that started on June 13, several Iranian politicians have suggested that the Strait of Hormuz should be closed. Can Iran really close the strait? 

If the Strait of Hormuz is closed, much of the world could go without fuel. After the Israeli bombing that started on June 13, several Iranian politicians have suggested that the Strait should be closed. Esmail Kowsari, a commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), said the option was 'under consideration'. Why is the Strait of Hormuz so important? Can Iran really close the strait? Here is what you should know: What is the Strait of Hormuz? Why is it strategically important? Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway located between Iran and Oman. The strait, only 33 kilometres across at its narrowest point, links the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. It is the only sea passage for oil exports from key oil producers in the Gulf, like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Iraq and Qatar. Why is Strait of Hormuz important for global trade? Through this chokepoint passes nearly 20 per cent of the world's oil. It is estimated that 20 million barrels of petroleum liquids were transported every day through the strait in 2024. Nearly a third of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade also passes through the strait. A closure or disruption of maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz can cause a rise in global energy prices. It can play havoc with supply chains and impact economies, particularly in Asian importers like China, India, Japan and South Korea, which together account for 84 per cent of its crude oil shipments. Much of the Gulf oil and LNG for Europe also passes through the Strait of Homuz. These factors make the waterway strategically important for global energy security. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-us-officials-prepare-for-possible-strike-on-iran-in-coming-days-report-1750335066169/embed Iran-Israel War: US Officials Prepare For Possible Strike On Iran In Coming Days: Report Does Iran really control Strait of Hormuz? The direct answer is, not entirely. But Iran's geographic position is along the northern coast of the Strait of Hormuz. This helps Iran exert influence on the strait. Technically, Iran can block traffic along the strait, as its narrowest point, at 21 nautical miles, is partly within its territorial waters, overlapping with Oman’s to the south. Iranian military presence near the Strait of Hormuz In theory, at least, Iran can deploy naval mines, launch ballistic and cruise missiles, suicide drones, fast attack boats, as well as Kilo and Ghadir class submarines. While it has not entirely used its military muscle in the strait, it has often threatened to do so. Iranian military's presence in the nearby strategic islands such as Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa emboldens it to disrupt shipping along the Strait of Hormuz. Has Iran ever fully closed Strait of Hormuz? No, because it's against global law on 'innocent passage', specifically the international maritime law, formally known as United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. Iran has ratified the 1982 convention, though it has not signed the treaty. Besides, Oman has control over the southern coast of the strait, which limits Iran’s ability to exert any unilateral control over the strait. Iran's threats to close or block Strait of Hormuz are not new: Past actions Even so, Iran has quite often resorted to threatening the global community with closure or blocking of the Strait of Hormuz. The threats, which are being made amid the the ongoing war with Israel, happened in 2011, 2012, 2018 and 2019 too, at the height of tensions with the US, Israel, or as a response to international sanctions. Iran conducted mine attacks on oil tankers and seized some vessels in 2019. In April 2024, it seized a container ship amid the Israel-Hamas War in Gaza. Will the Tanker War of the 1980s repeat? But the first major disruption of the Strait of Hormuz occurred during the Iran-Iraq War of 1980–1988. At the time, Iran conducted attacks on neutral oil tankers, disrupting traffic, though not entirely stopping it. If push comes to shove, Iran can try to hit the strait using its military capabilities around the area. But it is likely going to be one of its last options.

After the Israeli bombing that started on June 13, several Iranian politicians have suggested that the Strait of Hormuz should be closed. Can Iran really close the Strait?&nbsp;

Where is Strait of Hormuz? Can Iran really close it as some officials threatened amid war with Israel?

One of Iran’s main state-owned financial institutions, Sepah Bank, suffered a serious cyberattack on Tuesday, according to local reports. The Fars news agency said the bank’s online systems were disrupted due to the attack but added that services were expected to be restored within hours.“A cyberattack targeted the infrastructure of Sepah Bank, causing disruptions to the institution’s online services,” the agency reported.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-iran-issues-evacuation-warning-for-israeli-tv-channels-after-tel-aviv-bombs-state-television-1750100357948">'In response to hostile attack': Iran issues EVACUATION WARNING for Israeli TV channels after Tel Aviv bombs state television</a><h2>Mobile phone ban for Iranian officials</h2>In an unusual move, Iran’s Cyber Authority has reportedly issued a directive barring government employees, officials, and security teams from using mobile phones connected to public networks. The move comes as fears grow over the use of phone tracking by Israeli forces.Channel 12, an Israeli outlet, said the directive was likely prompted by concerns that Israel is using phone tracking to locate and assassinate targets within Iran, including nuclear scientists.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-iran-test-israel-s-limits-israel-deploys-barak-magen-air-defence-system-for-the-first-time-1750077787485">Did Iran test Israel’s limits? Israel deploys Barak Magen air&nbsp;defence&nbsp;system for the first time</a><h2>Mobile phones being used to track assassination targets</h2>According to the IRGC-linked Fars News Agency, Israel has used mobile tracking to identify and kill high-profile figures in Iran. The outlet claimed, “Israel uses mobile tracking to assassinate individuals in Iran. It previously killed Ismail Haniyeh the same way in Tehran.”The report warned that even switching off mobile phones does not always prevent tracking. It urged officials to use secure, anti-tracking devices instead.Following the revelations, a lawmaker in Tehran called for military and government officials to collect all mobile devices used by themselves and their associates to limit exposure.<h2>Israeli ambassador hints at more ‘surprises’</h2>Amid the escalating conflict, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, hinted that more covert operations may follow.“There’s still a lot of things we can do,” Leiter told Merit TV. “We’ve pulled off a number of surprises — when the dust settles — you’re going to see some surprises on Thursday night and Friday, that will make the beeper operation almost seem simple,” he added.In a previous operation in September, Israel had reportedly detonated thousands of Hezbollah walkie-talkies and communication devices, injuring many fighters through a complex intelligence effort.

In an unusual move, Iran’s Cyber Authority has reportedly issued a directive barring government employees, officials, and security teams from using mobile phones connected to public networks. The move comes as fears grow over the use of phone tracking by Israeli forces.

One of Iran’s main state-owned financial institutions, Sepah Bank, suffered a serious cyberattack on Tuesday, according to local reports. The Fars news agency said the bank’s online systems were disrupted due to the attack but added that services were expected to be restored within hours. “A cyberattack targeted the infrastructure of Sepah Bank, causing disruptions to the institution’s online services,” the agency reported. Also read | 'In response to hostile attack': Iran issues EVACUATION WARNING for Israeli TV channels after Tel Aviv bombs state television Mobile phone ban for Iranian officials In an unusual move, Iran’s Cyber Authority has reportedly issued a directive barring government employees, officials, and security teams from using mobile phones connected to public networks. The move comes as fears grow over the use of phone tracking by Israeli forces. Channel 12, an Israeli outlet, said the directive was likely prompted by concerns that Israel is using phone tracking to locate and assassinate targets within Iran, including nuclear scientists. Also read: Did Iran test Israel’s limits? Israel deploys Barak Magen air defence system for the first time Mobile phones being used to track assassination targets According to the IRGC-linked Fars News Agency, Israel has used mobile tracking to identify and kill high-profile figures in Iran. The outlet claimed, “Israel uses mobile tracking to assassinate individuals in Iran. It previously killed Ismail Haniyeh the same way in Tehran.” The report warned that even switching off mobile phones does not always prevent tracking. It urged officials to use secure, anti-tracking devices instead. Following the revelations, a lawmaker in Tehran called for military and government officials to collect all mobile devices used by themselves and their associates to limit exposure. Israeli ambassador hints at more ‘surprises’ Amid the escalating conflict, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, hinted that more covert operations may follow. “There’s still a lot of things we can do,” Leiter told Merit TV. “We’ve pulled off a number of surprises — when the dust settles — you’re going to see some surprises on Thursday night and Friday, that will make the beeper operation almost seem simple,” he added. In a previous operation in September, Israel had reportedly detonated thousands of Hezbollah walkie-talkies and communication devices, injuring many fighters through a complex intelligence effort.

In an unusual move, Iran’s Cyber Authority has reportedly issued a directive barring government employees, officials, and security teams from using mobile phones connected to public networks. The move comes as fears grow over the use of phone tracking by Israeli forces.

Is Israel's tech-war threatening Iran? Here's why Tehran is banning officials from using mobile phones

As the tensions rise between Iran and Israel, US has issued a fresh security alert for its citizens in Iran.&nbsp;In a statement issued, it said, “US citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason and should depart Iran immediately if they are there. US citizens who are unable to depart Iran should be prepared to shelter in place for extended periods.&nbsp;US citizens in Iran face serious, increasing dangers due to rising regional tensions. &nbsp;The US government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran.&nbsp;The Swiss government, acting through its Embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power for United States interests in Iran.”&nbsp;“As of Saturday, June 14, Iran airspace remains closed.&nbsp;U.S. citizens seeking to depart Iran by air should confirm travel plans with their airlines.”&nbsp;For US citizens seeking to depart Iran by land via the Armenian border:As of Saturday, June 14, the land border with Armenia (Agarak) is open.&nbsp;For US citizens seeking to depart Iran by land via the Turkish borders:As of Saturday, June 14, the Turkish government reports that land borders with Türkiye (Gürbulak, Kapiköy, Esendere) are open. However, the Iranian government may restrict non-Türkiye nationals crossing this border. Onward flights from eastern Türkiye are reported to have limited availability.&nbsp;For US citizens seeking to depart Iran by land via the Azerbaijan border:Azerbaijan’s land borders remain closed, but U.S. citizens may be able to enter Azerbaijan at the Astara border crossing on June 15 with special authorization.&nbsp;US citizens need approval from the Government of Azerbaijan before going to the border.&nbsp;US Embassy Baku must facilitate this.&nbsp;US citizens that plan to request entry into Azerbaijan should send personal details (name, date of birth, passport information) and a photograph of their passport biodata page to the US Embassy Baku American Citizens Services Unit at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:BakuACS@state.gov">BakuACS@state.gov</a>.

Iran Israel war Leave immediately US issues fresh security alert for its citizens in Iran

As the tensions rise between Iran and Israel, US has issued a fresh security alert for its citizens in Iran. In a statement issued, it said, “US citizens should not travel to Iran for any reason and should depart Iran immediately if they are there. US citizens who are unable to depart Iran should be prepared to shelter in place for extended periods. US citizens in Iran face serious, increasing dangers due to rising regional tensions. The US government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. The Swiss government, acting through its Embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power for United States interests in Iran.” “As of Saturday, June 14, Iran airspace remains closed. U.S. citizens seeking to depart Iran by air should confirm travel plans with their airlines.” For US citizens seeking to depart Iran by land via the Armenian border: As of Saturday, June 14, the land border with Armenia (Agarak) is open. For US citizens seeking to depart Iran by land via the Turkish borders: As of Saturday, June 14, the Turkish government reports that land borders with Türkiye (Gürbulak, Kapiköy, Esendere) are open. However, the Iranian government may restrict non-Türkiye nationals crossing this border. Onward flights from eastern Türkiye are reported to have limited availability. For US citizens seeking to depart Iran by land via the Azerbaijan border: Azerbaijan’s land borders remain closed, but U.S. citizens may be able to enter Azerbaijan at the Astara border crossing on June 15 with special authorization. US citizens need approval from the Government of Azerbaijan before going to the border. US Embassy Baku must facilitate this. US citizens that plan to request entry into Azerbaijan should send personal details (name, date of birth, passport information) and a photograph of their passport biodata page to the US Embassy Baku American Citizens Services Unit at BakuACS@state.gov.

As of Saturday, June 14, Iran airspace remains closed.&nbsp;US citizens seeking to depart Iran by air should confirm travel plans with their airlines.

Iran-Israel war | 'Leave immediately': US issues fresh security alert for its citizens in Iran

US President Donald Trump has called on Iran to come to the negotiating table over its nuclear programme, warning of “much worse” consequences if it fails to act.In a post on Truth Social on Friday (June 13), Trump said, “I gave Iran chance after chance to make a deal. I told them, in the strongest of words, to ‘just do it’, but no matter how hard they tried, no matter how close they got, they just couldn’t get it done.”He also issued a clear threat about the strength of US and Israeli military power, saying, “The United States makes the best and most lethal military equipment anywhere in the World, BY FAR, and that Israel has a lot of it, with much more to come, And they know how to use it.”Trump claimed that Iranian hardliners underestimated the response they would face.US president said, “Certain Iranian hardliner’s spoke bravely, but they didn’t know what was about to happen. They are all DEAD now, and it will only get worse!”He said there had already been “great death and destruction”, but stressed there was still time for diplomacy.He said, “Iran must make a deal, before there is nothing left, and save what was once known as the Iranian Empire. No more death, no more destruction, JUST DO IT, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE. God Bless You All!”<h2>Iran accuses Israel of declaring war</h2>Iran, meanwhile, accused Israel of launching strikes on its military and nuclear facilities on Friday and called the attack a “declaration of war”.Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council, urging the international body to act quickly.The Iranian foreign ministry said Araghchi “called on the Security Council to immediately address this issue”, according to AFP.

In a post on Truth Social on Friday (June 13), Trump said, “I gave Iran chance after chance to make a deal. I told them, in the strongest of words, to ‘just do it’, but no matter how hard they tried, no matter how close they got, they just couldn’t get it done.”

US President Donald Trump has called on Iran to come to the negotiating table over its nuclear programme, warning of “much worse” consequences if it fails to act. In a post on Truth Social on Friday (June 13), Trump said, “I gave Iran chance after chance to make a deal. I told them, in the strongest of words, to ‘just do it’, but no matter how hard they tried, no matter how close they got, they just couldn’t get it done.” He also issued a clear threat about the strength of US and Israeli military power, saying, “The United States makes the best and most lethal military equipment anywhere in the World, BY FAR, and that Israel has a lot of it, with much more to come, And they know how to use it.” Trump claimed that Iranian hardliners underestimated the response they would face. US president said, “Certain Iranian hardliner’s spoke bravely, but they didn’t know what was about to happen. They are all DEAD now, and it will only get worse!” He said there had already been “great death and destruction”, but stressed there was still time for diplomacy. He said, “Iran must make a deal, before there is nothing left, and save what was once known as the Iranian Empire. No more death, no more destruction, JUST DO IT, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE. God Bless You All!” Iran accuses Israel of declaring war Iran, meanwhile, accused Israel of launching strikes on its military and nuclear facilities on Friday and called the attack a “declaration of war”. Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council, urging the international body to act quickly. The Iranian foreign ministry said Araghchi “called on the Security Council to immediately address this issue”, according to AFP.

In a post on Truth Social on Friday (June 13), Trump said, “I gave Iran chance after chance to make a deal. I told them, in the strongest of words, to ‘just do it’, but no matter how hard they tried, no matter how close they got, they just couldn’t get it done.”

'They are DEAD now, and it will get worse': Trump warns Iran to 'make a deal' before nothing's left after Israeli strikes

Israel's attack on Iran, targeting its top military and government officials, nuclear facilities and scientists on Friday (June 13) has placed the global focus back on the Shia Islamic Republic. With several top military and political leaders killed, one wonders who really runs the show in Iran. In the unique theocratic republic, the power is centred around a handful of people, mostly those linked to the Islamic Revolution of 1978-79. The military is also led by those with links to the Islamic Revolution. The governance system is a blend of Islamic theocracy, with a limited democracy overseen by the clerics.&nbsp; Iran's governance structure has its base in Islamic Revolution leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s doctrine of velayat-e faqih or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist. This system gives the ultimate authority to clerics, led by the Supreme Leader.&nbsp;&nbsp;The complex web of power has both elected and unelected officials running the country, with critics saying that democracy is a sham, as the political leadership including the president is screened by various clerical bodies.&nbsp; Here is the Islamic Republic of Iran's government, explained: &nbsp;<h2>Supreme Leader &nbsp;</h2>The Iranian Supreme Leader or ‘Rahbar’ is the head of state, and the highest authority of both politics and religion. It's a role with near absolute power over all branches of government, military, judiciary, and state media. Supreme leaders are appointed for life by the Assembly of Experts, the only body to whom he is accountable.&nbsp; Office of the Supreme Leader supervises the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government.&nbsp; Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the current supreme leader, is the final deciding authority on foreign policy, economy and security. &nbsp;Khamenei is also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, including the IRGC or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its Basij militia. The supreme leader appoints the heads of the judiciary, state media, military, and half of the Guardian Council members. &nbsp;He also controls economic entities like charitable trusts worth billions of dollars, making his office financially independent.&nbsp;The supreme leader supervises the Guardian Council, which vets electoral candidates and legislation. He issues fatwas or decrees, can veto legislations, declare war or peace, and pardon convicts. The supreme leader has a netwok of delegates who enforce his will across the government. Khamenei is only the second supreme leader of Iran, having succeeded Khomeini in 1989. He can be in office till death.&nbsp;<h2>Iranian president &nbsp;</h2>The President is Iran's head of government and the highest elected official, but is subordinate to the Supreme Leader, who must approve his appointment and can dismiss him.&nbsp; Masoud Pezeshkian is the current president of Iran. The president , though elected by people for a four-year-term, has only limited powers. The president is responsible for domestic policy, planning the econmy, and some aspects of foreign policy. The president can hold two consecutive terms. &nbsp;<h2>Assembly of Experts &nbsp;</h2>The Assembly of Experts is an 88-member group of Islamic jurists elected by popular vote every eight years. The assembly selects and supervises the supreme leader. Theoretically, it can also dismiss the supreme leader, but such a thing has never happened.&nbsp; Candiates for the Assembly of Experts are selected by the Guardian Council. Currently, &nbsp;Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati chairs the Assembly of Experts, whose roles include monitoring the Supreme Leader's performance and choosing his successor. It's largely a ceremonial group of regime loyalists with not much actual power. &nbsp;<h2>Guardian Council &nbsp;</h2>The Guardian Council is yet another Islamic jurist body whose main role is the selection and vetting of candidates for elections. The 12-member body is currently chaired by Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, who also leads the Assembly of Experts. &nbsp;The Guardian Council has veto power over laws, and can disqualify election candidates, which it had done in the past to keep out reformists from contesting elections. The supreme leader appoints half of the Guardian Council, while the six other lawyers are nominated by the judiciary and approved by parliament.&nbsp;The council screens candidates for key posts like the president, legislature, and Assembly of Experts, and has the power to shape election outcomes. The Guardian Council is the interpreter of the constitution. It has traditionally been dominated by hardliners.<h2>Expediency Council</h2>The Expediency Council is yet another layer of authority in the Iranian system. Its main roles are the resolution of disputes between the Guardian Council and parliament.&nbsp;&nbsp;It advises the supreme leader on policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Expediency Council members are appointed by the supreme leader for five-year terms.&nbsp;&nbsp;Currently chaired by Ayatollah Amoli Larijani, the Expediency Council mediates legislative disagreements. In practice, it has sided with the Guardian Council in such matters.&nbsp;<h2> Islamic Consultative Assembly or Majlis, the Iranian parliament</h2>The Majlis, Iran’s unicameral parliament, has 290 members who are elected by the people every four years. While Majlis, like any other parliament, drafts legislation and approves the budget, its powers are limited by a variety of actors like the Supreme Leader, the Guardian Council and the Expediency Council. &nbsp;<h2>Iranian Judiciary &nbsp;</h2>Iran has a judiciary which is not seen as independent, as it is controlled by the Supreme Leader. The chief justice is appointed by the supreme leader. The judiciary's main role is to enforce Islamic law and oversee courts.&nbsp; In practice, critics of the judiciary see it as an instrument of political repression. It also operates a Special Clerical Court, which prosecutes dissident clerics and reports directly to the supreme leader.<h2>The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or IRGC &nbsp;</h2>While Iran does have a regular military known as Artesh, much of the defence power is with IRGC, a paramilitary that rose out of the Islamic Revolution. IRGC is tasked with managing internal security through the powerful Basij militia and intelligence units, and expanding Iran's regional influence. As its name implies, it is supposed to protect the principles of the Islamic Revolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;IRGC answers directly to the supreme leader and controls significant economic assets. Its Quds Force, responsible for external operations, is accused of arming and training anti-Israel militia groups like Hamas, Hezbollah and Houthis. Its current Commander-in-Chief, Maj Gen Hossein Salami, was killed in Friday's Israeli attack. Chief of General Staff Maj Gen Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, who oversees the coordination of IRGC and the regular army, was also killed.&nbsp;IRGC is thought to be controlling up to 30 per cent of Iran's economy, including its infrastructure and energy sectors. Significantly, IRGC also oversees the nuclear and missile programmes of Iran. IRGC is also deployed to suppress dissent, and protests like the 2022 anti-veil movement after the death of Mahsa Amini.<h2>Supreme National Security Council &nbsp;</h2>This is the body that coordinates defence and foreign policy of Iran. The Security Council is chaired by the president but dominated by the Supreme Leader’s appointees. &nbsp;The security council formulates national security and foreign policy, which have to be approved by the supreme leader.&nbsp;&nbsp;Members of the council include &nbsp;the IRGC commander, foreign minister, and the intelligence minister. &nbsp;

In the unique theocratic republic, the power is centred around a handful of people, mostly linked to the Islamic Revolution of 1978-79. The governance system blends Islamic jurisprudence with limited democracy overseen by the clerics.

Israel's attack on Iran, targeting its top military and government officials, nuclear facilities and scientists on Friday (June 13) has placed the global focus back on the Shia Islamic Republic. With several top military and political leaders killed, one wonders who really runs the show in Iran. In the unique theocratic republic, the power is centred around a handful of people, mostly those linked to the Islamic Revolution of 1978-79. The military is also led by those with links to the Islamic Revolution. The governance system is a blend of Islamic theocracy, with a limited democracy overseen by the clerics. Iran's governance structure has its base in Islamic Revolution leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s doctrine of velayat-e faqih or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist. This system gives the ultimate authority to clerics, led by the Supreme Leader. The complex web of power has both elected and unelected officials running the country, with critics saying that democracy is a sham, as the political leadership including the president is screened by various clerical bodies. Here is the Islamic Republic of Iran's government, explained: Supreme Leader The Iranian Supreme Leader or ‘Rahbar’ is the head of state, and the highest authority of both politics and religion. It's a role with near absolute power over all branches of government, military, judiciary, and state media. Supreme leaders are appointed for life by the Assembly of Experts, the only body to whom he is accountable. Office of the Supreme Leader supervises the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the current supreme leader, is the final deciding authority on foreign policy, economy and security. Khamenei is also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, including the IRGC or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its Basij militia. The supreme leader appoints the heads of the judiciary, state media, military, and half of the Guardian Council members. He also controls economic entities like charitable trusts worth billions of dollars, making his office financially independent. The supreme leader supervises the Guardian Council, which vets electoral candidates and legislation. He issues fatwas or decrees, can veto legislations, declare war or peace, and pardon convicts. The supreme leader has a netwok of delegates who enforce his will across the government. Khamenei is only the second supreme leader of Iran, having succeeded Khomeini in 1989. He can be in office till death. Iranian president The President is Iran's head of government and the highest elected official, but is subordinate to the Supreme Leader, who must approve his appointment and can dismiss him. Masoud Pezeshkian is the current president of Iran. The president , though elected by people for a four-year-term, has only limited powers. The president is responsible for domestic policy, planning the econmy, and some aspects of foreign policy. The president can hold two consecutive terms. Assembly of Experts The Assembly of Experts is an 88-member group of Islamic jurists elected by popular vote every eight years. The assembly selects and supervises the supreme leader. Theoretically, it can also dismiss the supreme leader, but such a thing has never happened. Candiates for the Assembly of Experts are selected by the Guardian Council. Currently, Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati chairs the Assembly of Experts, whose roles include monitoring the Supreme Leader's performance and choosing his successor. It's largely a ceremonial group of regime loyalists with not much actual power. Guardian Council The Guardian Council is yet another Islamic jurist body whose main role is the selection and vetting of candidates for elections. The 12-member body is currently chaired by Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, who also leads the Assembly of Experts. The Guardian Council has veto power over laws, and can disqualify election candidates, which it had done in the past to keep out reformists from contesting elections. The supreme leader appoints half of the Guardian Council, while the six other lawyers are nominated by the judiciary and approved by parliament. The council screens candidates for key posts like the president, legislature, and Assembly of Experts, and has the power to shape election outcomes. The Guardian Council is the interpreter of the constitution. It has traditionally been dominated by hardliners. Expediency Council The Expediency Council is yet another layer of authority in the Iranian system. Its main roles are the resolution of disputes between the Guardian Council and parliament. It advises the supreme leader on policy. Expediency Council members are appointed by the supreme leader for five-year terms. Currently chaired by Ayatollah Amoli Larijani, the Expediency Council mediates legislative disagreements. In practice, it has sided with the Guardian Council in such matters. Islamic Consultative Assembly or Majlis, the Iranian parliament The Majlis, Iran’s unicameral parliament, has 290 members who are elected by the people every four years. While Majlis, like any other parliament, drafts legislation and approves the budget, its powers are limited by a variety of actors like the Supreme Leader, the Guardian Council and the Expediency Council. Iranian Judiciary Iran has a judiciary which is not seen as independent, as it is controlled by the Supreme Leader. The chief justice is appointed by the supreme leader. The judiciary's main role is to enforce Islamic law and oversee courts. In practice, critics of the judiciary see it as an instrument of political repression. It also operates a Special Clerical Court, which prosecutes dissident clerics and reports directly to the supreme leader. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or IRGC While Iran does have a regular military known as Artesh, much of the defence power is with IRGC, a paramilitary that rose out of the Islamic Revolution. IRGC is tasked with managing internal security through the powerful Basij militia and intelligence units, and expanding Iran's regional influence. As its name implies, it is supposed to protect the principles of the Islamic Revolution. IRGC answers directly to the supreme leader and controls significant economic assets. Its Quds Force, responsible for external operations, is accused of arming and training anti-Israel militia groups like Hamas, Hezbollah and Houthis. Its current Commander-in-Chief, Maj Gen Hossein Salami, was killed in Friday's Israeli attack. Chief of General Staff Maj Gen Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, who oversees the coordination of IRGC and the regular army, was also killed. IRGC is thought to be controlling up to 30 per cent of Iran's economy, including its infrastructure and energy sectors. Significantly, IRGC also oversees the nuclear and missile programmes of Iran. IRGC is also deployed to suppress dissent, and protests like the 2022 anti-veil movement after the death of Mahsa Amini. Supreme National Security Council This is the body that coordinates defence and foreign policy of Iran. The Security Council is chaired by the president but dominated by the Supreme Leader’s appointees. The security council formulates national security and foreign policy, which have to be approved by the supreme leader. Members of the council include the IRGC commander, foreign minister, and the intelligence minister.

In the unique theocratic republic, the power is centred around a handful of people, mostly linked to the Islamic Revolution of 1978-79. The governance system blends Islamic jurisprudence with limited democracy overseen by the clerics.

Supreme Leader, IRGC, Guardian Council or Army - Who really runs Iran? Islamic Republic's complex web of power, explained

UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi on Friday (June 13) said that nuclear facilities "must never be attacked" and called "on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation" following Israeli strikes on Iran.&nbsp;"This development is deeply concerning... I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond," Grossi, who heads the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said in a statement to board members.&nbsp;“I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran. IAEA stands ready to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts that promote transparency, safety, security and the peaceful resolution of nuclear-related issues in Iran,” he added.&nbsp;Prior to the statement from the IAEA chief, Iran sharply criticised the UN nuclear watchdog on Friday, accusing it of "silence" over Israel's strikes on its nuclear facilities and scientists.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a statement, Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said it considers the "silence" from the International Atomic Energy Agency "as a form of cooperation with the Zionist regime," adding that the Israeli attack was a "defeat for the IAEA resulting from its unjustifiable shortcomings".&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran said Israel's deadly attacks on Friday underscored its need to advance uranium enrichment and missile capabilities. "One should not speak to such a predatory regime except in the language of power," the Iranian government said in a statement. “The world now better understands Iran's insistence on the right to enrichment, nuclear technology, and missile power.”&nbsp;Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday also condemned a wave of Israeli strikes on Iran's military and nuclear facilities, warning they could "destabilise the region". "This aggression constitutes a dangerous escalation that threatens to destabilise the region," said the Iran-backed militant group, whose October 2023 attack on Israel sparked the Gaza war. "Today, Iran is paying the price for its steadfast stance in support of Palestine and its resistance," it added.

Nuclear facilities must never be attacked says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi after Israel attacks Iran

UN nuclear watchdog head Rafael Grossi on Friday (June 13) said that nuclear facilities "must never be attacked" and called "on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation" following Israeli strikes on Iran. "This development is deeply concerning... I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond," Grossi, who heads the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said in a statement to board members. “I have indicated to the respective authorities my readiness to travel at the earliest to assess the situation and ensure safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran. IAEA stands ready to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts that promote transparency, safety, security and the peaceful resolution of nuclear-related issues in Iran,” he added. Prior to the statement from the IAEA chief, Iran sharply criticised the UN nuclear watchdog on Friday, accusing it of "silence" over Israel's strikes on its nuclear facilities and scientists. In a statement, Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said it considers the "silence" from the International Atomic Energy Agency "as a form of cooperation with the Zionist regime," adding that the Israeli attack was a "defeat for the IAEA resulting from its unjustifiable shortcomings". Meanwhile, Iran said Israel's deadly attacks on Friday underscored its need to advance uranium enrichment and missile capabilities. "One should not speak to such a predatory regime except in the language of power," the Iranian government said in a statement. “The world now better understands Iran's insistence on the right to enrichment, nuclear technology, and missile power.” Palestinian militant group Hamas on Friday also condemned a wave of Israeli strikes on Iran's military and nuclear facilities, warning they could "destabilise the region". "This aggression constitutes a dangerous escalation that threatens to destabilise the region," said the Iran-backed militant group, whose October 2023 attack on Israel sparked the Gaza war. "Today, Iran is paying the price for its steadfast stance in support of Palestine and its resistance," it added.

Grossi called "on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation" following Israeli strikes on Iran

'Nuclear facilities must never be attacked', says IAEA chief Rafael Grossi after Israel attacks Iran

In a significant development, US President Trump was aware of the strikes beforehand, claimed American media outlet Fox News.&nbsp;In a post on X, Jennifer Griffin, Chief National Security Correspondent for Fox News said, “President Trump was aware of the strikes beforehand. There were no surprises, but the US was NOT involved militarily and hopes Iran will return to the negotiating table.”&nbsp;US President Donald Trump said, “Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and we are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see. There are several people in leadership that will not be coming back.” (A reference to some of the Iranian leaders who were killed tonight by Israel.) Pres Trump has spoken to PM Netanyahu several times in recent days. The Trump Administration reached out to at least one key Middle Eastern ally to acknowledge that the strike was going to happen but that the US was not involved in the strikes and the goal is still to get Iran back to the negotiating table." &nbsp;&nbsp;“The President is looking to see if there is retaliation, CENTCOM is on high alert, The US will defend itself and Israel if Iran retaliates. He said I hope they get back to the negotiating table. The US has replenished Iron Dome missiles in recent weeks, according to administration officials. US officials confirm a number of top Iranian leaders are dead after the strikes. Again, the US military was not involved in any way in these strikes, but clearly the administration knew about the Israeli plans in advance and was not surprised.”&nbsp;Notably, The United States still hopes to hold talks Sunday with Iran, even after Israel launched a massive attack on the Islamic republic, a US official said. "We still intend to have talks Sunday," the official told AFP on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;Meanwhile, After Israel launched a ‘preemptive strike’ on Iran, Iranian supreme leader Khamenei has vowed ‘harsh punishment’ for Israel after Friday's attack killed several Iranian top commanders and scientists. "The Zionist regime at dawn today extended its vile and bloody hand to commit a crime in our dear country and revealed its evil nature more than ever by striking residential centers," Khamenei said in a statement to the Iranian people.&nbsp;"The regime must expect harsh punishment. The powerful hand of the Islamic Republic's armed forces will not let it go, God willing," he added.

Trump was aware of Israeli strikes on Irans nuclear facilities Report

In a significant development, US President Trump was aware of the strikes beforehand, claimed American media outlet Fox News. In a post on X, Jennifer Griffin, Chief National Security Correspondent for Fox News said, “President Trump was aware of the strikes beforehand. There were no surprises, but the US was NOT involved militarily and hopes Iran will return to the negotiating table.” US President Donald Trump said, “Iran cannot have a nuclear bomb and we are hoping to get back to the negotiating table. We will see. There are several people in leadership that will not be coming back.” (A reference to some of the Iranian leaders who were killed tonight by Israel.) Pres Trump has spoken to PM Netanyahu several times in recent days. The Trump Administration reached out to at least one key Middle Eastern ally to acknowledge that the strike was going to happen but that the US was not involved in the strikes and the goal is still to get Iran back to the negotiating table." “The President is looking to see if there is retaliation, CENTCOM is on high alert, The US will defend itself and Israel if Iran retaliates. He said I hope they get back to the negotiating table. The US has replenished Iron Dome missiles in recent weeks, according to administration officials. US officials confirm a number of top Iranian leaders are dead after the strikes. Again, the US military was not involved in any way in these strikes, but clearly the administration knew about the Israeli plans in advance and was not surprised.” Notably, The United States still hopes to hold talks Sunday with Iran, even after Israel launched a massive attack on the Islamic republic, a US official said. "We still intend to have talks Sunday," the official told AFP on condition of anonymity. Meanwhile, After Israel launched a ‘preemptive strike’ on Iran, Iranian supreme leader Khamenei has vowed ‘harsh punishment’ for Israel after Friday's attack killed several Iranian top commanders and scientists. "The Zionist regime at dawn today extended its vile and bloody hand to commit a crime in our dear country and revealed its evil nature more than ever by striking residential centers," Khamenei said in a statement to the Iranian people. "The regime must expect harsh punishment. The powerful hand of the Islamic Republic's armed forces will not let it go, God willing," he added.

US President Donald Trump has spoken to Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu several times in recent days

Trump was aware of Israeli strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities: Report

After Israel launched a ‘preemptive strike’ on Iran, Iranian supreme leader Khamenei has vowed ‘harsh punishment’ for Israel after Friday's attack killed several Iranian top commanders and scientists. "The Zionist regime at dawn today extended its vile and bloody hand to commit a crime in our dear country and revealed its evil nature more than ever by striking residential centers," Khamenei said in a statement to the Iranian people.&nbsp;"The regime must expect harsh punishment. The powerful hand of the Islamic Republic's armed forces will not let it go, God willing," he added.&nbsp;Khamenei confirmed that "several commanders and scientists were martyred" in the attacks, saying their successors would "immediately continue their duties."&nbsp;"With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared a bitter and painful fate for itself and will certainly receive it," the Supreme Leader said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran’s armed forces have also vowed “strong response” to Israel’s early morning strikes that targeted its military bases and nuclear facilities.&nbsp;“The armed forces will certainly respond to this Zionist attack,” said Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesman for the general staff of the armed forces, adding that Israel “will pay a heavy price and should await strong response from the Iranian armed forces.”&nbsp;Senior Revolutionary Guards commander Gholam Ali Rashid and top nuclear scientists were killed in Israel's attack on Iran on Friday, Iranian media reported.&nbsp;"The martyrdom of... Major General Gholam Ali Rashid is confirmed," state television said, while Tasnim news agency reported nuclear scientists Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi and Fereydoun Abbasi "were targeted and martyred".&nbsp;Iran also shut its airspace until further notice after Israel carried out air strikes on multiple targets across the country, including the capital, Tehran, state TV reported.&nbsp;"Public relations of Iran's Civil Aviation Organization announced the closure of the country's airspace until further notice by issuing aeronautical notices (NOTAM)," state TV reported.

Iranian leader Khamenei vows harsh punishment after Israel strikes nuclear facilities in Tehran

After Israel launched a ‘preemptive strike’ on Iran, Iranian supreme leader Khamenei has vowed ‘harsh punishment’ for Israel after Friday's attack killed several Iranian top commanders and scientists. "The Zionist regime at dawn today extended its vile and bloody hand to commit a crime in our dear country and revealed its evil nature more than ever by striking residential centers," Khamenei said in a statement to the Iranian people. "The regime must expect harsh punishment. The powerful hand of the Islamic Republic's armed forces will not let it go, God willing," he added. Khamenei confirmed that "several commanders and scientists were martyred" in the attacks, saying their successors would "immediately continue their duties." "With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared a bitter and painful fate for itself and will certainly receive it," the Supreme Leader said. Meanwhile, Iran’s armed forces have also vowed “strong response” to Israel’s early morning strikes that targeted its military bases and nuclear facilities. “The armed forces will certainly respond to this Zionist attack,” said Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesman for the general staff of the armed forces, adding that Israel “will pay a heavy price and should await strong response from the Iranian armed forces.” Senior Revolutionary Guards commander Gholam Ali Rashid and top nuclear scientists were killed in Israel's attack on Iran on Friday, Iranian media reported. "The martyrdom of... Major General Gholam Ali Rashid is confirmed," state television said, while Tasnim news agency reported nuclear scientists Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi and Fereydoun Abbasi "were targeted and martyred". Iran also shut its airspace until further notice after Israel carried out air strikes on multiple targets across the country, including the capital, Tehran, state TV reported. "Public relations of Iran's Civil Aviation Organization announced the closure of the country's airspace until further notice by issuing aeronautical notices (NOTAM)," state TV reported.

The Israeli PM stressed that the goal of the operation is to strike Iran's nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missile factories, and military capabilities

Iranian leader Khamenei vows 'harsh punishment' after Israel strikes nuclear facilities in Tehran

President Donald Trump said Thursday any country or person that buys oil or petrochemicals from Iran will not be allowed to do any business with the U.S.

Iran slams new US sanctions in midst of nuclear talks, Trump calls for boycott of Iran oil

At least 40 people have been killed and 1,000 were injured after a powerful explosion rocked the port at Iran's Bandar Abbas city. The port authorities said in a statement that the blast resulted from a fire in a chemical materials depot. Watch this for more details!

Iran Port Blast: 40 Dead, 1000 injured in blaze at key economic hub

Tehran, Iran
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Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic.
Speaking on Sunday (December 22) during a gathering of elegists and eulogists to mark the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatemeh Zahra (SA), the daughter of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Khamenei dismissed "absurd statements from Western and Israeli officials". He rejected the suggestion that Iran's influence in the region depends on the use of proxy forces.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-condemns-gaza-bombings-as-cruelty-israel-hits-back-785888" target="_blank">Pope Francis condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty,' Israel hits back</a>
“They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said.
He added, “Yemen fights because of its faith; Hezbollah fights because its faith empowers it to take action; Hamas and [Islamic] Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so. They are not acting on our behalf.”
Reiterating Iran’s ability to act independently, he said, “If one day we decide to take action, we do not need proxy forces.”
Khamenei also commented on the situation in Syria, saying, “I predict that a powerful and honourable group will rise in Syria as well. A young Syrian has nothing to lose — his university is unsafe, his school is unsafe, his home is unsafe, his street is unsafe, his entire life is unsafe. What is he supposed to do?”
He called for resistance against forces that he claimed were responsible for spreading instability in the region. “We must stand with strength and determination against those who have designed and implemented this insecurity, and God willing, we will prevail over them,” he said.
Khamenei’s comments come amid scrutiny over Iran’s role in regional conflicts.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

“They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said.



Tehran, Iran Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic. Speaking on Sunday (December 22) during a gathering of elegists and eulogists to mark the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatemeh Zahra (SA), the daughter of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Khamenei dismissed "absurd statements from Western and Israeli officials". He rejected the suggestion that Iran's influence in the region depends on the use of proxy forces. Also read: Pope Francis condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty,' Israel hits back “They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said. He added, “Yemen fights because of its faith; Hezbollah fights because its faith empowers it to take action; Hamas and [Islamic] Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so. They are not acting on our behalf.” Reiterating Iran’s ability to act independently, he said, “If one day we decide to take action, we do not need proxy forces.” Khamenei also commented on the situation in Syria, saying, “I predict that a powerful and honourable group will rise in Syria as well. A young Syrian has nothing to lose — his university is unsafe, his school is unsafe, his home is unsafe, his street is unsafe, his entire life is unsafe. What is he supposed to do?” He called for resistance against forces that he claimed were responsible for spreading instability in the region. “We must stand with strength and determination against those who have designed and implemented this insecurity, and God willing, we will prevail over them,” he said. Khamenei’s comments come amid scrutiny over Iran’s role in regional conflicts. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic.

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic. Speaking on Sunday (December 22) during a gathering of elegists and eulogists to mark the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatemeh Zahra (SA), the daughter of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Khamenei dismissed "absurd statements from Western and Israeli officials". He rejected the suggestion that Iran's influence in the region depends on the use of proxy forces. Also read: Pope Francis condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty,' Israel hits back “They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said. He added, “Yemen fights because of its faith; Hezbollah fights because its faith empowers it to take action; Hamas and [Islamic] Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so. They are not acting on our behalf.” Reiterating Iran’s ability to act independently, he said, “If one day we decide to take action, we do not need proxy forces.” Khamenei also commented on the situation in Syria, saying, “I predict that a powerful and honourable group will rise in Syria as well. A young Syrian has nothing to lose — his university is unsafe, his school is unsafe, his home is unsafe, his street is unsafe, his entire life is unsafe. What is he supposed to do?” He called for resistance against forces that he claimed were responsible for spreading instability in the region. “We must stand with strength and determination against those who have designed and implemented this insecurity, and God willing, we will prevail over them,” he said. Khamenei’s comments come amid scrutiny over Iran’s role in regional conflicts. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’.

"A woman is a delicate flower and not a housemaid. A woman should be treated like a flower in the home. A flower needs to be cared for. Its freshness and sweet scent should be benefitted from and used to perfume the air," the post read.

Watch:&nbsp;Iran Pauses Crackdown On Strict Hijab Laws Amid Ongoing Protests

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The post came amidst ongoing protests in Iran by women over stringent hijab laws, triggered after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in 2022. The Iranian regime has attracted condemnations by human rights organisations and countries, like the US, who have called on Tehran to rein in its suppressive actions against ‘delicate flowers’.

<h2>Debate over hijab law</h2>

Iranian women are up in arms over a hijab law approved by the parliament in September 2023. The law aims to tighten restrictions on women's public attire and threaten action against businesses that fail to enforce the dress code. The bill was later okayed by the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation, but it has yet to be sent to the government for final approval.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjpn4PI87KKAxWCn68BHTvfMdgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delays-hijab-law-president-calls-it-ambiguous-and-in-need-of-reform-784612" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delays-hijab-law-president-calls-it-ambiguous-and-in-need-of-reform-784612&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjpn4PI87KKAxWCn68BHTvfMdgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Iran delays hijab law, president calls it `ambiguous and in need of reform`</a>

Now, some lawmakers in Iran are urging the government to tone down the bill to give relief to protesting women. Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, earlier appealed to hold the bill and make necessary changes.

Since Amini died in 2022, Iran has doubled down on efforts to suppress the growing dissent of women. Khamenei also issued a directive to Iran’s so-called morality police to launch a campaign called 'Noor' or light, aimed at enforcing the compulsory hijab with fresh vigour.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’.

Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’. "A woman is a delicate flower and not a housemaid. A woman should be treated like a flower in the home. A flower needs to be cared for. Its freshness and sweet scent should be benefitted from and used to perfume the air," the post read. Watch: Iran Pauses Crackdown On Strict Hijab Laws Amid Ongoing Protests × The post came amidst ongoing protests in Iran by women over stringent hijab laws, triggered after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in 2022. The Iranian regime has attracted condemnations by human rights organisations and countries, like the US, who have called on Tehran to rein in its suppressive actions against ‘delicate flowers’. Debate over hijab law Iranian women are up in arms over a hijab law approved by the parliament in September 2023. The law aims to tighten restrictions on women's public attire and threaten action against businesses that fail to enforce the dress code. The bill was later okayed by the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation, but it has yet to be sent to the government for final approval. Also read: Iran delays hijab law, president calls it `ambiguous and in need of reform` Now, some lawmakers in Iran are urging the government to tone down the bill to give relief to protesting women. Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, earlier appealed to hold the bill and make necessary changes. Since Amini died in 2022, Iran has doubled down on efforts to suppress the growing dissent of women. Khamenei also issued a directive to Iran’s so-called morality police to launch a campaign called 'Noor' or light, aimed at enforcing the compulsory hijab with fresh vigour. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s Khamenei dubs women as ‘delicate flowers’ amid growing calls to amend hijab bill

Tehran, Iran
Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’.
"A woman is a delicate flower and not a housemaid. A woman should be treated like a flower in the home. A flower needs to be cared for. Its freshness and sweet scent should be benefitted from and used to perfume the air," the post read.
Watch: Iran Pauses Crackdown On Strict Hijab Laws Amid Ongoing Protests
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The post came amidst ongoing protests in Iran by women over stringent hijab laws, triggered after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in 2022. The Iranian regime has attracted condemnations by human rights organisations and countries, like the US, who have called on Tehran to rein in its suppressive actions against ‘delicate flowers’.
<h2>Debate over hijab law</h2>
Iranian women are up in arms over a hijab law approved by the parliament in September 2023. The law aims to tighten restrictions on women's public attire and threaten action against businesses that fail to enforce the dress code. The bill was later okayed by the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation, but it has yet to be sent to the government for final approval.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjpn4PI87KKAxWCn68BHTvfMdgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delays-hijab-law-president-calls-it-ambiguous-and-in-need-of-reform-784612" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delays-hijab-law-president-calls-it-ambiguous-and-in-need-of-reform-784612&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjpn4PI87KKAxWCn68BHTvfMdgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Iran delays hijab law, president calls it `ambiguous and in need of reform`</a>
Now, some lawmakers in Iran are urging the government to tone down the bill to give relief to protesting women. Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, earlier appealed to hold the bill and make necessary changes.
Since Amini died in 2022, Iran has doubled down on efforts to suppress the growing dissent of women. Khamenei also issued a directive to Iran’s so-called morality police to launch a campaign called 'Noor' or light, aimed at enforcing the compulsory hijab with fresh vigour.
(With inputs from agencies)

The Iranian regime has attracted condemnations by human rights organisations and countries, like the US, who have called on Tehran to rein in its suppressive actions against ‘delicate flowers’.



Tehran, Iran Amid ongoing debate in Iran over strict hijab laws, the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Wednesday (Dec 18) dubbed women as ‘delicate flowers’. In a cryptic post on social media platform X, Khamenei, who is accused of curbing women's rights in the Shi’ite country, said women ‘need to be cared for’. "A woman is a delicate flower and not a housemaid. A woman should be treated like a flower in the home. A flower needs to be cared for. Its freshness and sweet scent should be benefitted from and used to perfume the air," the post read. Watch: Iran Pauses Crackdown On Strict Hijab Laws Amid Ongoing Protests × The post came amidst ongoing protests in Iran by women over stringent hijab laws, triggered after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in 2022. The Iranian regime has attracted condemnations by human rights organisations and countries, like the US, who have called on Tehran to rein in its suppressive actions against ‘delicate flowers’. Debate over hijab law Iranian women are up in arms over a hijab law approved by the parliament in September 2023. The law aims to tighten restrictions on women's public attire and threaten action against businesses that fail to enforce the dress code. The bill was later okayed by the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation, but it has yet to be sent to the government for final approval. Also read: Iran delays hijab law, president calls it `ambiguous and in need of reform` Now, some lawmakers in Iran are urging the government to tone down the bill to give relief to protesting women. Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, earlier appealed to hold the bill and make necessary changes. Since Amini died in 2022, Iran has doubled down on efforts to suppress the growing dissent of women. Khamenei also issued a directive to Iran’s so-called morality police to launch a campaign called 'Noor' or light, aimed at enforcing the compulsory hijab with fresh vigour. (With inputs from agencies)

Tehran
Iranian lawmakers have asked to amend a bill that would impose tougher penalties on women who refuse to wear the mandatory hijab, local media reported on Wednesday.
The bill, already approved in parliament but not yet submitted to the government for final confirmation, has stirred a heated debate in Iran more than two years since nationwide protests erupted in part over the Islamic republic's dress code for women.
Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, has requested to hold off on sending the bill for approval, according to news agency ISNA.
"We requested that the law of chastity and hijab not be referred to the government," Dabiri was quoted by ISNA as saying, adding that "the parliament speaker requested an amendment to the bill."
Dabiri did not specify the nature of the amendment or provide a timeline for the process.
Lawmakers in September 2023 had approved the bill, officially the "Law on Supporting the Family through the Promotion of the Culture of Chastity and Hijab".
It has since won the approval of the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation.
The bill was initially meant to be referred to President Masoud Pezeshkian in December.
Pezeshkian, who could sign it into law, has expressed "reservations" about the text, citing numerous "ambiguities".
The 74-article bill tightens restrictions over women's public attire and threatens action against businesses who fail to enforce the dress code, according to the text carried by local media.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwilr8qMkLGKAxU8rVYBHUxpCHUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-resistance-not-over-after-assad-ouster-784754" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-resistance-not-over-after-assad-ouster-784754&amp;ved=2ahUKEwilr8qMkLGKAxU8rVYBHUxpCHUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Iran`s Khamenei says `resistance` not over after Assad ouster</a>
It also imposes hefty penalities of up to 10 years in prison or fines equivalent to more than $6,000 for promoting "nudity" or "indecency".
Since the early years of the republic following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, women in Iran have been required by law to cover their head and neck.
Watch: Iran Faces Power Shortages as Schools &amp; Public Buildings Close
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In late 2022, a wave of protests erupted following the death in custody of 22-year-old Iranian-Kurd Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating the Islamic dress code.
The months-long unrest saw hundreds of people, including dozens of security personnel, killed. Thousands of demonstrators were arrested.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The bill, already approved in parliament but not yet submitted to the government for final confirmation, has stirred a heated debate in Iran more than two years since nationwide protests erupted in part over the Islamic republic's dress code for women.



Tehran Iranian lawmakers have asked to amend a bill that would impose tougher penalties on women who refuse to wear the mandatory hijab, local media reported on Wednesday. The bill, already approved in parliament but not yet submitted to the government for final confirmation, has stirred a heated debate in Iran more than two years since nationwide protests erupted in part over the Islamic republic's dress code for women. Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, has requested to hold off on sending the bill for approval, according to news agency ISNA. "We requested that the law of chastity and hijab not be referred to the government," Dabiri was quoted by ISNA as saying, adding that "the parliament speaker requested an amendment to the bill." Dabiri did not specify the nature of the amendment or provide a timeline for the process. Lawmakers in September 2023 had approved the bill, officially the "Law on Supporting the Family through the Promotion of the Culture of Chastity and Hijab". It has since won the approval of the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation. The bill was initially meant to be referred to President Masoud Pezeshkian in December. Pezeshkian, who could sign it into law, has expressed "reservations" about the text, citing numerous "ambiguities". The 74-article bill tightens restrictions over women's public attire and threatens action against businesses who fail to enforce the dress code, according to the text carried by local media. Also read: Iran`s Khamenei says `resistance` not over after Assad ouster It also imposes hefty penalities of up to 10 years in prison or fines equivalent to more than $6,000 for promoting "nudity" or "indecency". Since the early years of the republic following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, women in Iran have been required by law to cover their head and neck. Watch: Iran Faces Power Shortages as Schools & Public Buildings Close × In late 2022, a wave of protests erupted following the death in custody of 22-year-old Iranian-Kurd Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating the Islamic dress code. The months-long unrest saw hundreds of people, including dozens of security personnel, killed. Thousands of demonstrators were arrested. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Iran lawmakers call for amendments in strict hijab bill: Report

Iranian lawmakers have asked to amend a bill that would impose tougher penalties on women who refuse to wear the mandatory hijab, local media reported on Wednesday.

The bill, already approved in parliament but not yet submitted to the government for final confirmation, has stirred a heated debate in Iran more than two years since nationwide protests erupted in part over the Islamic republic's dress code for women.

Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, has requested to hold off on sending the bill for approval, according to news agency ISNA.

"We requested that the law of chastity and hijab not be referred to the government," Dabiri was quoted by ISNA as saying, adding that "the parliament speaker requested an amendment to the bill."

Dabiri did not specify the nature of the amendment or provide a timeline for the process.

Lawmakers in September 2023 had approved the bill, officially the "Law on Supporting the Family through the Promotion of the Culture of Chastity and Hijab".

It has since won the approval of the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation.

The bill was initially meant to be referred to President Masoud Pezeshkian in December.

Pezeshkian, who could sign it into law, has expressed "reservations" about the text, citing numerous "ambiguities".

The 74-article bill tightens restrictions over women's public attire and threatens action against businesses who fail to enforce the dress code, according to the text carried by local media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwilr8qMkLGKAxU8rVYBHUxpCHUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-resistance-not-over-after-assad-ouster-784754" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-resistance-not-over-after-assad-ouster-784754&amp;ved=2ahUKEwilr8qMkLGKAxU8rVYBHUxpCHUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Iran`s Khamenei says `resistance` not over after Assad ouster</a>

It also imposes hefty penalities of up to 10 years in prison or fines equivalent to more than $6,000 for promoting "nudity" or "indecency".

Since the early years of the republic following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, women in Iran have been required by law to cover their head and neck.

Watch:&nbsp;Iran Faces Power Shortages as Schools &amp; Public Buildings Close

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In late 2022, a wave of protests erupted following the death in custody of 22-year-old Iranian-Kurd Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating the Islamic dress code.

The months-long unrest saw hundreds of people, including dozens of security personnel, killed. Thousands of demonstrators&nbsp;were&nbsp;arrested.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

Iranian lawmakers have asked to amend a bill that would impose tougher penalties on women who refuse to wear the mandatory hijab, local media reported on Wednesday.

Iranian lawmakers have asked to amend a bill that would impose tougher penalties on women who refuse to wear the mandatory hijab, local media reported on Wednesday. The bill, already approved in parliament but not yet submitted to the government for final confirmation, has stirred a heated debate in Iran more than two years since nationwide protests erupted in part over the Islamic republic's dress code for women. Shahram Dabiri, Iran's vice president for parliamentary affairs, has requested to hold off on sending the bill for approval, according to news agency ISNA. "We requested that the law of chastity and hijab not be referred to the government," Dabiri was quoted by ISNA as saying, adding that "the parliament speaker requested an amendment to the bill." Dabiri did not specify the nature of the amendment or provide a timeline for the process. Lawmakers in September 2023 had approved the bill, officially the "Law on Supporting the Family through the Promotion of the Culture of Chastity and Hijab". It has since won the approval of the Guardian Council, a body empowered to vet legislation. The bill was initially meant to be referred to President Masoud Pezeshkian in December. Pezeshkian, who could sign it into law, has expressed "reservations" about the text, citing numerous "ambiguities". The 74-article bill tightens restrictions over women's public attire and threatens action against businesses who fail to enforce the dress code, according to the text carried by local media. Also read: Iran`s Khamenei says `resistance` not over after Assad ouster It also imposes hefty penalities of up to 10 years in prison or fines equivalent to more than $6,000 for promoting "nudity" or "indecency". Since the early years of the republic following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, women in Iran have been required by law to cover their head and neck. Watch: Iran Faces Power Shortages as Schools & Public Buildings Close × In late 2022, a wave of protests erupted following the death in custody of 22-year-old Iranian-Kurd Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating the Islamic dress code. The months-long unrest saw hundreds of people, including dozens of security personnel, killed. Thousands of demonstrators were arrested. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Damascus
Iran's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that its embassy in Syrian would reopen once the "necessary conditions" are met, after the diplomatic mission was vandalised following the ouster of Tehran ally Bashar al-Assad.
"The reopening of the embassy in Damascus requires preparations, the most important of which is ensuring the security and safety of the embassy and its staff," said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei.
He added that work to that end will be pursued "as soon as the necessary conditions are provided", without offering a specific timeline.
The Iranian embassy in Damascus was ransacked after diplomats abandoned it as rebel forces seized the capital and ousted Assad.
Iran had supported Assad throughout Syria's civil war, which began in 2011.
Since his fall, Iran has sought to distance itself from the deposed leader, instead emphasising the history of friendship between the two countries.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjg0Kjg1K6KAxWlg2MGHW0PFgYQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-strikes-syria-overnight-as-rebel-leader-warns-of-unwarranted-escalation-784154" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-strikes-syria-overnight-as-rebel-leader-warns-of-unwarranted-escalation-784154&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjg0Kjg1K6KAxWlg2MGHW0PFgYQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">West Asia crisis: Israel strikes Syria overnight, rebel leader warns of `unwarranted escalation`</a>
Baqaei said on Tuesday that Iran's "advisory" presence in Syria was "at the invitation of the government".
"We were never in Syria to support a specific person, group or party," he said.
"Our presence in Syria was fundamental and principled, and our withdrawal was responsible."
Baqaei also said that Iran's rival Israel, which has conducted hundreds of air strikes in Syria since Assad's fall and sent troops into a UN-patrolled buffer zone, "severely violated Syria's territorial integrity".
Watch: Syria: Islamic State Planning Mass Prison Break?
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On Monday, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas said Russia and Iran "should not have a place" in war-torn Syria now that Assad is gone.
Baqaei slammed the remarks as a "joke," adding that the era of foreign powers "trying to dictate (policies) on another region is over."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Iranian embassy in Damascus was ransacked after diplomats abandoned it as rebel forces seized the capital and ousted Assad.



Damascus Iran's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that its embassy in Syrian would reopen once the "necessary conditions" are met, after the diplomatic mission was vandalised following the ouster of Tehran ally Bashar al-Assad. "The reopening of the embassy in Damascus requires preparations, the most important of which is ensuring the security and safety of the embassy and its staff," said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei. He added that work to that end will be pursued "as soon as the necessary conditions are provided", without offering a specific timeline. The Iranian embassy in Damascus was ransacked after diplomats abandoned it as rebel forces seized the capital and ousted Assad. Iran had supported Assad throughout Syria's civil war, which began in 2011. Since his fall, Iran has sought to distance itself from the deposed leader, instead emphasising the history of friendship between the two countries. Also read: West Asia crisis: Israel strikes Syria overnight, rebel leader warns of `unwarranted escalation` Baqaei said on Tuesday that Iran's "advisory" presence in Syria was "at the invitation of the government". "We were never in Syria to support a specific person, group or party," he said. "Our presence in Syria was fundamental and principled, and our withdrawal was responsible." Baqaei also said that Iran's rival Israel, which has conducted hundreds of air strikes in Syria since Assad's fall and sent troops into a UN-patrolled buffer zone, "severely violated Syria's territorial integrity". Watch: Syria: Islamic State Planning Mass Prison Break? × On Monday, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas said Russia and Iran "should not have a place" in war-torn Syria now that Assad is gone. Baqaei slammed the remarks as a "joke," adding that the era of foreign powers "trying to dictate (policies) on another region is over." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Syria crisis: Iran 'awaiting necessary conditions' to reopen embassy

Iran's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that its embassy in Syrian would reopen once the "necessary conditions" are met, after the diplomatic mission was vandalised following the ouster of Tehran ally Bashar al-Assad.

"The reopening of the embassy in Damascus requires preparations, the most important of which is ensuring the security and safety of the embassy and its staff," said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei.

He added that work to that end will be pursued "as soon as the necessary conditions are provided", without offering a specific timeline.

The Iranian embassy in Damascus was ransacked after diplomats abandoned it as rebel forces seized the capital and ousted Assad.

Iran had supported Assad throughout Syria's civil war, which began in 2011.

Since his fall, Iran has sought to distance itself from the deposed leader, instead emphasising the history of friendship between the two countries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjg0Kjg1K6KAxWlg2MGHW0PFgYQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-strikes-syria-overnight-as-rebel-leader-warns-of-unwarranted-escalation-784154" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-strikes-syria-overnight-as-rebel-leader-warns-of-unwarranted-escalation-784154&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjg0Kjg1K6KAxWlg2MGHW0PFgYQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">West Asia crisis: Israel strikes Syria overnight, rebel leader warns of `unwarranted escalation`</a>

Baqaei said on Tuesday that Iran's "advisory" presence in Syria was "at the invitation of the government".

"We were never in Syria to support a specific person, group or party," he said.

"Our presence in Syria was fundamental and principled, and our withdrawal was responsible."

Baqaei also said that Iran's rival Israel, which has conducted hundreds of air strikes in Syria since Assad's fall and sent troops into a UN-patrolled buffer zone, "severely violated Syria's territorial integrity".

Watch:&nbsp;Syria: Islamic State Planning Mass Prison Break?

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On Monday, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas said Russia and Iran "should not have a place" in war-torn Syria now that Assad is gone.

Baqaei slammed the remarks as a "joke," adding that the era of foreign powers "trying to dictate (policies) on another region&nbsp;is&nbsp;over."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
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Iran's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that its embassy in Syrian would reopen once the "necessary conditions" are met, after the diplomatic mission was vandalised following the ouster of Tehran ally Bashar al-Assad.

Iran's foreign ministry said on Tuesday that its embassy in Syrian would reopen once the "necessary conditions" are met, after the diplomatic mission was vandalised following the ouster of Tehran ally Bashar al-Assad. "The reopening of the embassy in Damascus requires preparations, the most important of which is ensuring the security and safety of the embassy and its staff," said foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei. He added that work to that end will be pursued "as soon as the necessary conditions are provided", without offering a specific timeline. The Iranian embassy in Damascus was ransacked after diplomats abandoned it as rebel forces seized the capital and ousted Assad. Iran had supported Assad throughout Syria's civil war, which began in 2011. Since his fall, Iran has sought to distance itself from the deposed leader, instead emphasising the history of friendship between the two countries. Also read: West Asia crisis: Israel strikes Syria overnight, rebel leader warns of `unwarranted escalation` Baqaei said on Tuesday that Iran's "advisory" presence in Syria was "at the invitation of the government". "We were never in Syria to support a specific person, group or party," he said. "Our presence in Syria was fundamental and principled, and our withdrawal was responsible." Baqaei also said that Iran's rival Israel, which has conducted hundreds of air strikes in Syria since Assad's fall and sent troops into a UN-patrolled buffer zone, "severely violated Syria's territorial integrity". Watch: Syria: Islamic State Planning Mass Prison Break? × On Monday, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas said Russia and Iran "should not have a place" in war-torn Syria now that Assad is gone. Baqaei slammed the remarks as a "joke," adding that the era of foreign powers "trying to dictate (policies) on another region is over." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Iranian authorities announced on Tuesday (Nov. 19)&nbsp;that the Iranian woman who went viral for stripping down to her underwear at a Tehran university in an apparent anti-hijab protest&nbsp;has been freed and will not face charges.&nbsp;

The woman, identified as Ahoo Daryaei by BBC Persian, had earlier this month, in a dramatic act of defiance, stripped down to her underwear. The incident was captured on a video that went viral online.&nbsp;

<h2>A protest of note</h2>

According to a student movement organisation, Daryaei's on-campus protest unfolded after she reportedly clashed with security agents over not wearing a headscarf. In a moment of defiance, she removed her clothing. Shortly after, she was forcibly detained, with Iranian officials claiming she was "sick" and transferred her to a psychiatric ward.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-woman-arrested-for-stripping-to-underwear-subjected-to-torture-chemical-substance-774673">Iranian woman arrested for stripping to underwear subjected to ‘torture, chemical substance’</a>

Judiciary spokesperson Asghar Jahangir confirmed her release, stating, "Considering that she was sent to the hospital, and it was found that she was ill, she was handed over to her family... and no judicial case has been filed against her."

This move, presented as an act of compassion, has been labelled by activists as a strategy to delegitimise dissent by framing protesters as mentally ill.

Daryaei’s case is the latest example of what critics call the Iranian regime’s tactic of using mental health claims to undermine women’s rights activism. "This is how the Islamic Republic tries to discredit women, by questioning their mental health," said Azam Jangravi, an activist who fled Iran after her own anti-hijab protest in 2018.&nbsp;

Jangravi said her family has been facing pressure from Iranian authorities to declare her mentally ill: "My family didn’t do it, but many families under pressure do, thinking it’s the best way to protect their loved ones."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-plans-to-open-treatment-clinic-for-women-who-defy-hijab-laws-reports-776165" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-plans-to-open-treatment-clinic-for-women-who-defy-hijab-laws-reports-776165&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihr56UzuqJAxXMUGwGHbHVCcw4ChAWegQIDRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3b2jl65Fho4Nr6yknNHUln" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-plans-to-open-treatment-clinic-for-women-who-defy-hijab-laws-reports-776165" target="_blank">Iran&nbsp;plans to open treatment clinic for women who defy hijab laws</a>

<h2>Iran to open a 'treatment clinic' for women who defy hijab laws?</h2>

If reports are to be believed, the Iranian government has plans to open a treatment clinic for women who defy&nbsp;the country's mandatory hijab laws. Such a type of centre has been named "hijab removal treatment clinic."

According to a report by The Guardian on Thursday (Nov. 14), the opening of this clinic was announced by Mehri Talebi Darestani, the head of the Women and Family Department of the Tehran Headquarters for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice.

Darestani said that the clinic would offer scientific and psychological treatment for hijab removal. She said that the clinic would be focused on promoting "dignity, modesty, chastity, and hijab," and pointed out that attendance would be optional.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian authorities announced on Tuesday (Nov. 19) that the Iranian woman who went viral for stripping down to her underwear at a Tehran university in an apparent anti-hijab protest has been freed and will not face charges.

Iranian authorities announced on Tuesday (Nov. 19) that the Iranian woman who went viral for stripping down to her underwear at a Tehran university in an apparent anti-hijab protest has been freed and will not face charges. The woman, identified as Ahoo Daryaei by BBC Persian, had earlier this month, in a dramatic act of defiance, stripped down to her underwear. The incident was captured on a video that went viral online. A protest of note According to a student movement organisation, Daryaei's on-campus protest unfolded after she reportedly clashed with security agents over not wearing a headscarf. In a moment of defiance, she removed her clothing. Shortly after, she was forcibly detained, with Iranian officials claiming she was "sick" and transferred her to a psychiatric ward. Also read | Iranian woman arrested for stripping to underwear subjected to ‘torture, chemical substance’ Judiciary spokesperson Asghar Jahangir confirmed her release, stating, "Considering that she was sent to the hospital, and it was found that she was ill, she was handed over to her family... and no judicial case has been filed against her." This move, presented as an act of compassion, has been labelled by activists as a strategy to delegitimise dissent by framing protesters as mentally ill. Daryaei’s case is the latest example of what critics call the Iranian regime’s tactic of using mental health claims to undermine women’s rights activism. "This is how the Islamic Republic tries to discredit women, by questioning their mental health," said Azam Jangravi, an activist who fled Iran after her own anti-hijab protest in 2018. Jangravi said her family has been facing pressure from Iranian authorities to declare her mentally ill: "My family didn’t do it, but many families under pressure do, thinking it’s the best way to protect their loved ones." Also read | Iran plans to open treatment clinic for women who defy hijab laws Iran to open a 'treatment clinic' for women who defy hijab laws? If reports are to be believed, the Iranian government has plans to open a treatment clinic for women who defy the country's mandatory hijab laws. Such a type of centre has been named "hijab removal treatment clinic." According to a report by The Guardian on Thursday (Nov. 14), the opening of this clinic was announced by Mehri Talebi Darestani, the head of the Women and Family Department of the Tehran Headquarters for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice. Darestani said that the clinic would offer scientific and psychological treatment for hijab removal. She said that the clinic would be focused on promoting "dignity, modesty, chastity, and hijab," and pointed out that attendance would be optional. (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian woman who stripped in anti-hijab protest released without charges

An Iranian man faced execution for the second time months after surviving a previous attempt that had been stopped around half a minute in, as per Iran Human Rights (IHR), a Norway-based NGO which tracks executions in Iran.

An Iranian man faced execution for the second time months after surviving a previous attempt that had been stopped around half a minute in, as per Iran Human Rights (IHR), a Norway-based NGO which tracks executions in Iran. According to IHR, 26-year-old Ahmad Alizadeh was arrested and sentenced to death in October 2018 on a murder charge, a crime he denied committing. The first attempt to execute Ahmad Alizadeh was carried out on April 27 at Ghezel Hesar prison in Karaj, near Tehran. During this execution, he was hanged for 28 seconds before the victim’s family shouted "forgiveness," which led officials to bring him down. Also read: Israeli hostage calls for pressure on Netanyahu government Afterwards, prison staff attempted CPR on his "lifeless" body, successfully reviving him and the first execution was called off, said IHR. Under Iran’s sharia law, the victim’s family has the right to either forgive or demand financial compensation from the family of the person who committed the murder, known as "blood money." As per the activists, many families are unable to pay the amount demanded, which can result in the execution proceeding. Without a blood money agreement, Alizadeh remained on death row. This week, on Wednesday (Nov 13) morning, authorities executed him again in the same prison, according to IHR. "Ahmad Alizadeh, a talented student, was hanged for the second time on charges of murder, which he denied and claimed he confessed to under torture," IHR director Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam said, who condemned Iran’s "execution machine of the Iranian regime." Also read: Top UN official describes Gaza as 'wasteland of rubble' Amiry-Moghaddam previously said, "In addition to the inhumanity of the death penalty, and the lack of a fair trial in this case, Ahmad Alizadeh experienced this cruel and humiliating punishment once, and his re-execution is a crime according to all international standards." Activists argue that Iran uses executions to intimidate its population, particularly following the protests that challenged the government from 2022 to 2023. In 2024, Iran saw a sharp increase in executions, with IHR reporting at least 166 in October alone, marking the highest monthly count since the NGO began tracking executions in 2007. (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian man hanged 'for the second time' after his family fails to produce 'blood money'

At least five members of Iran's security forces were killed Sunday in a "terror attack" in the restive southeast, where authorities have been conducting operations against rebels, local media reported.

The Fars news agency reported that in a "terror attack in Saravan county, in the south of the Sistan-Baluchistan province, five members of the security forces were killed".

Sistan-Baluchistan borders both Afghanistan and Pakistan, and is one of Iran's most impoverished provinces. It is one of the few mainly Sunni Muslim provinces in Shiite-dominated Iran.

For years it has faced unrest involving drug-smuggling gangs, rebels from the Baluchi minority and Sunni extremists.

Fars said that after the attack in Saravan, "units stationed in the region were quickly deployed to pursue the criminals".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-sees-positive-signals-from-trump-on-ukraine-but-warns-of-his-unpredictability-775037">‘He’s talking about peace,’ Russia sees ‘positive signals’ from Trump</a>

Iranian forces launched a major operation in the area after an attack on October 26 killed 10 police officers.

That attack was later claimed by the Pakistan-based Sunni jihadist group Jaish al-Adl (Arabic for Army of Justice).

Local media reported that those behind the October attack have been killed in the current security operation.

Some 15 militants have been reported killed in Sistan-Baluchistan province since the October attack, including three on Sunday, state television said.

It also said more than 30 suspects have been arrested.

Formed in 2012 by Baluch separatists, Jaish al-Adl is designated a terrorist organisation by both Iran and the United States.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

At least five members of Iran's security forces were killed Sunday in a "terror attack" in the restive southeast, where authorities have been conducting operations against rebels, local media reported.

At least five members of Iran's security forces were killed Sunday in a "terror attack" in the restive southeast, where authorities have been conducting operations against rebels, local media reported. The Fars news agency reported that in a "terror attack in Saravan county, in the south of the Sistan-Baluchistan province, five members of the security forces were killed". Sistan-Baluchistan borders both Afghanistan and Pakistan, and is one of Iran's most impoverished provinces. It is one of the few mainly Sunni Muslim provinces in Shiite-dominated Iran. For years it has faced unrest involving drug-smuggling gangs, rebels from the Baluchi minority and Sunni extremists. Fars said that after the attack in Saravan, "units stationed in the region were quickly deployed to pursue the criminals". Also read: ‘He’s talking about peace,’ Russia sees ‘positive signals’ from Trump Iranian forces launched a major operation in the area after an attack on October 26 killed 10 police officers. That attack was later claimed by the Pakistan-based Sunni jihadist group Jaish al-Adl (Arabic for Army of Justice). Local media reported that those behind the October attack have been killed in the current security operation. Some 15 militants have been reported killed in Sistan-Baluchistan province since the October attack, including three on Sunday, state television said. It also said more than 30 suspects have been arrested. Formed in 2012 by Baluch separatists, Jaish al-Adl is designated a terrorist organisation by both Iran and the United States. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Five Iranian security forces killed in Sistan-Baluchistan terror attack

A young Iranian woman who was detained for stripping down to underwear to mark a protest may have been tortured, given electric shocks and beaten by authorities, human rights organisations have warned. The woman, whose identity remains unknown to date, was earlier transferred to a psychiatric hospital. Now Amnesty International (AI) has claimed it has evidence that Iranian officials subjected the woman to torture and even chemical substances.

Earlier, the authorities labelled her ‘mentally unstable’ and transferred her to a psychiatric institution. Amnesty said the woman was faced with an “alarming situation.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiHtpng_cyJAxXLr1YBHVjRD38QxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-bracing-for-massive-iranian-attack-that-will-surpass-all-expectations-773314" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-bracing-for-massive-iranian-attack-that-will-surpass-all-expectations-773314&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiHtpng_cyJAxXLr1YBHVjRD38QxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">West Asia crisis: Israel bracing for massive Iranian attack ‘that will surpass all expectations’</a>

The woman became an internet sensation in Iran overnight after a video showing her roaming around in Tehran University campus in her underwear went viral. She was reportedly protesting harassment by campus security guards over an alleged violation of the strict dress code imposed on women in the Shi’ite nation.

Earlier, the Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) called her arrest by Iranian authorities a “kidnapping” and highlighted the trend in the country to transfer political opponents and protesters to mental health centres to muzzle their voices.

Hadi Ghaemi, executive director of CHRI, was quoted as saying by the Guardian, “Iranian authorities systematically use involuntary psychiatric hospitalisation as a tool to suppress dissent, branding protesters as mentally unstable to undermine their credibility.”

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“Transferring individuals who participate in peaceful protests to psychiatric hospitals represents not only an act of arbitrary detention but also constitutes a form of kidnapping. This practice is a blatantly unlawful move to discredit activists by labelling them mentally unstable,” he added.

Notably, Iranian authorities in 2022 had transferred Saman Yasin, a well-known Kurdish rapper, to a mental health facility following her detention over protests. He was released on medical furlough last month after spending nearly two years in prison.

“Saman was tied to the bed in the psychiatric centre in a cruciform position for a long time. They administered high-dose sedatives and despite his unconscious state, the restraints on his hands and feet were not removed,” The Guardian quoted a source close to the&nbsp;Kurdish rapper&nbsp;as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

A young Iranian woman who was detained for stripping down to underwear to mark a protest may have been tortured, given electric shocks and beaten by authorities, human rights organisations have warned.

A young Iranian woman who was detained for stripping down to underwear to mark a protest may have been tortured, given electric shocks and beaten by authorities, human rights organisations have warned. The woman, whose identity remains unknown to date, was earlier transferred to a psychiatric hospital. Now Amnesty International (AI) has claimed it has evidence that Iranian officials subjected the woman to torture and even chemical substances. Earlier, the authorities labelled her ‘mentally unstable’ and transferred her to a psychiatric institution. Amnesty said the woman was faced with an “alarming situation.” Also read: West Asia crisis: Israel bracing for massive Iranian attack ‘that will surpass all expectations’ The woman became an internet sensation in Iran overnight after a video showing her roaming around in Tehran University campus in her underwear went viral. She was reportedly protesting harassment by campus security guards over an alleged violation of the strict dress code imposed on women in the Shi’ite nation. Earlier, the Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) called her arrest by Iranian authorities a “kidnapping” and highlighted the trend in the country to transfer political opponents and protesters to mental health centres to muzzle their voices. Hadi Ghaemi, executive director of CHRI, was quoted as saying by the Guardian, “Iranian authorities systematically use involuntary psychiatric hospitalisation as a tool to suppress dissent, branding protesters as mentally unstable to undermine their credibility.” Also read: Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian says Trump`s win ‘doesn’t matter’ “Transferring individuals who participate in peaceful protests to psychiatric hospitals represents not only an act of arbitrary detention but also constitutes a form of kidnapping. This practice is a blatantly unlawful move to discredit activists by labelling them mentally unstable,” he added. Notably, Iranian authorities in 2022 had transferred Saman Yasin, a well-known Kurdish rapper, to a mental health facility following her detention over protests. He was released on medical furlough last month after spending nearly two years in prison. “Saman was tied to the bed in the psychiatric centre in a cruciform position for a long time. They administered high-dose sedatives and despite his unconscious state, the restraints on his hands and feet were not removed,” The Guardian quoted a source close to the Kurdish rapper as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian woman arrested for stripping to underwear subjected to ‘torture, chemical substance’

Iran on Wednesday (Nov. 6) downplayed the outcome of the US presidential election, stating that "it does not matter" who becomes the next American president, after Donald Trump declared his victory.

Iran on Wednesday (Nov. 6) downplayed the outcome of the US presidential election, stating that "it does not matter" who becomes the next American president, after Donald Trump declared his victory. In Tehran, government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani addressed reporters, stressing that Iran’s “general policies” remain steady. "The US elections are not really our business. Our policies are steady and don't change based on individuals. We made the necessary predictions before and there will not be change in people's livelihoods," Mohajerani said, as reported by the Tasnim news agency. Iran’s currency falls to record low against the dollar Meanwhile, Iran’s currency, the rial, fell to a record low against the dollar on Wednesday following Trump's re-election, marking potential new challenges for Iran amid ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Traders in Tehran reported the rial trading at 703,000 to the dollar, though the rate could vary throughout the day. Iran’s Central Bank might again introduce more foreign currency into the market to stabilise the rate, as it has done before. US-Iran ties during Trump's presidency Trump, who served as president from 2017 to 2021, was known for his tough stance on Iran. During his first term, Trump reintroduced sanctions on Iran in 2018 after withdrawing from a 2015 nuclear agreement that had eased economic restrictions on Iran in return for limits on its nuclear programme. Trump also ordered the targeted killing of Qassem Soleimani, one of Iran's top military officials and a key figure in the country's hierarchy. Soleimani, head of the IRGC's Quds Force, was killed in a US drone strike in Iraq in January 2020, along with a senior Iraqi commander. In September, while speaking in New York, Trump mentioned he was open to resuming discussions for a new nuclear agreement. “We have to make a deal because the consequences are impossible. We have to make a deal,” he stated. The re-imposition of US sanctions in 2018 severely affected Iran's oil exports, reducing government revenues and pushing Iran towards difficult economic measures like increasing taxes and running large budget deficits, keeping inflation close to 40% annually. (With inputs from agencies)

US election 'not really our business,' says Iran as its currency rial hits record low post-Trump win

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