Iran has provided Russia with a large number of powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles, six sources told Reuters, deepening the military cooperation between the two US-sanctioned countries. Watch to know more!

Russia receives 400 Iranian ballistic missiles: Media Report

Houthi rebels say ships in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea are their latest maritime targets. Yemen's Houthi rebels say they have targeted what they claim to be an Israeli cargo ship, the MSC Silver, in the Gulf of Aden near the entrance to the Red Sea with a number of missiles.

Red Sea Crisis: Houthis warn of escalating attacks on ships

Four foreign people were transported to the United States to face criminal charges; they appeared in court on Thursday. The four were allegedly smuggling Iranian-made weapons on a vessel that two U.S. Navy SEALs drowned trying to board.

US charges 4 foreign nationals with shipping Iranian-made weapons to Houthis

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidkqH5o8c2Ed8s" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Iran on Thursday (Feb 22) started its first election campaign since the 2022 custodial death of Mahsa Amini. Twenty-two-year-old Amini died on Sept 16, 2022, after she was arrested by the morality police for violating Iran's headscarf law. Her custodial death sparked nationwide protests to overthrow the country's clerical rulers. As a response, the authorities launched a bloody crackdown that killed over 500 people.</p>

<p>On Thursday, candidates for Iran's parliament started campaigning for the March 1 parliamentary election, the news agency Associated Press reported. Citing state media, the report said that 15,200 candidates will compete for a four-year term in parliament.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-mahsa-aminis-uncle-faces-five-years-of-imprisonment-over-protests-say-rights-groups-690214">Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups</a></strong></p>

<p>This is a record number and more than twice the candidates who contested in the 2020 elections when the voter turnout was just over 42 per cent, the lowest since 1979.</p>

<h2><strong>Raisi seeks re-election to assembly</strong></h2>

<p>Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will seek re-election to the assembly in a remote constituency in South Khorasan province where he will compete against a low-profile cleric. Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf will contest from a constituency in the remote northeast region.</p>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP said that large billboards and election posters were seen in Tehran, urging people to take part in the election process. However, the first day of campaigning did not see a large number of banners erected in favour of individual candidates or their coalitions.</p>

<p>Speaking to AFP, a journalist said, "Most of the candidates, particularly in small constituencies, are doctors, engineers, civil servants, and teachers who are not affiliated with any political group."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran begins first election campaign since 2022 mass protests</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-begins-first-election-campaign-since-2022-mass-protests-692849/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>he further said&nbsp;that by allowing such a large pool of candidates to run, the government wants to create local competition and increase participation of voters.</p>

<p>The current parliament has been dominated by conservatives and ultra-conservatives after many reformists and moderates were disqualified. According to reformist politicians, only between 20-30 of the reformist candidates who submitted applications have been approved to run in the upcoming poll.</p>

<h2><strong>People 'indifferent' to elections</strong></h2>

<p>President Ibrahim Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have urged people to take part in the election process. A recent poll carried out by Iran's state television revealed that more than half of the respondents were indifferent to the elections.</p>

<p>AFP reported that opposition figures&nbsp;have called for a total boycott of the polls. On Monday, former president Mohammad Khatami said Iran was very far from free and competitive polls, and highlighted the growing popular discontent among Iranians.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran on Thursday (Feb 22) started its first election campaign since the 2022 custodial death of Mahsa Amini. Twenty-two-year-old Amini died on Sept 16, 2022, after she was arrested by the morality police for violating Iran's headscarf law.

Iran on Thursday (Feb 22) started its first election campaign since the 2022 custodial death of Mahsa Amini. Twenty-two-year-old Amini died on Sept 16, 2022, after she was arrested by the morality police for violating Iran's headscarf law. Her custodial death sparked nationwide protests to overthrow the country's clerical rulers. As a response, the authorities launched a bloody crackdown that killed over 500 people. On Thursday, candidates for Iran's parliament started campaigning for the March 1 parliamentary election, the news agency Associated Press reported. Citing state media, the report said that 15,200 candidates will compete for a four-year term in parliament. Also read | Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups This is a record number and more than twice the candidates who contested in the 2020 elections when the voter turnout was just over 42 per cent, the lowest since 1979. Raisi seeks re-election to assembly Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will seek re-election to the assembly in a remote constituency in South Khorasan province where he will compete against a low-profile cleric. Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf will contest from a constituency in the remote northeast region. A report by the news agency AFP said that large billboards and election posters were seen in Tehran, urging people to take part in the election process. However, the first day of campaigning did not see a large number of banners erected in favour of individual candidates or their coalitions. Speaking to AFP, a journalist said, "Most of the candidates, particularly in small constituencies, are doctors, engineers, civil servants, and teachers who are not affiliated with any political group." Also watch | Iran begins first election campaign since 2022 mass protests × he further said that by allowing such a large pool of candidates to run, the government wants to create local competition and increase participation of voters. The current parliament has been dominated by conservatives and ultra-conservatives after many reformists and moderates were disqualified. According to reformist politicians, only between 20-30 of the reformist candidates who submitted applications have been approved to run in the upcoming poll. People 'indifferent' to elections President Ibrahim Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have urged people to take part in the election process. A recent poll carried out by Iran's state television revealed that more than half of the respondents were indifferent to the elections. AFP reported that opposition figures have called for a total boycott of the polls. On Monday, former president Mohammad Khatami said Iran was very far from free and competitive polls, and highlighted the growing popular discontent among Iranians. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran begins first election campaign since custodial death of Mahsa Amini

Iran has provided Russia with a large number of powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles, six sources told Reuters, deepening the military cooperation between the two US-sanctioned countries.

Russia receives powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missile from Iran: Report

Sri Lanka, on Wednesday (Feb 21) said that it exported $20 million worth of tea to Iran to partially pay its $251 million oil debt. The first instalment of the tea-for-oil deal was sent years after it was agreed upon in 2021.

Sri Lanka repays $20m Iranian oil debt with tea

The war in Ukraine is about to complete two years and the end is still nowhere in sight. Russia is beefing up its arsenal while Ukraine struggles to get more arms and aid. In a recent development, Iran has sent around 400 powerful ballistic missiles to Russia.

Gravitas | Russia and Iran: The brother in arms in Ukraine war

Iran sends powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missile to Russia: Report

Iran has provided Russia with a large number of powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles, six sources told Reuters, deepening the military cooperation between the two U.S.-sanctioned countries.

Iran sends Russia hundreds of ballistic missiles: Reports

Campaigning began for the Iranian parliamentary election today. This is Iran's first election since the crackdown on the 2022 nationwide protests after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody. watch to know more!

Iran begins first election campaign since 2022 mass protests

<p>Sri Lanka, on Wednesday (Feb 21) said that it exported $20 million worth of tea to Iran to partially pay its $251 million oil debt. The first instalment of the tea-for-oil deal was sent years after it was agreed upon in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tea-for-oil deal</strong></h2>

<p>“So far $20 million worth of tea has been exported to Iran under the barter trade agreement,” Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena’s office said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sri lanka: Tea for oil deal with Iran gets going, to allow Iran to avoid currency to pay for tea</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-tea-for-oil-deal-with-iran-gets-going-to-allow-iran-to-avoid-currency-to-pay-for-tea-692474/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The statement also said that Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, who is currently in Sri Lanka for a visit, expressed “satisfaction” with the deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2021, a tea-for-oil deal was struck between Colombo and Tehran which was seen as a win-win for both countries for different reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The barter deal allows sanctions-hit Iran to avoid having to use scarce hard currency to pay for imports of the widely consumed product in the country. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka is allowed to pay with tea as the country is short of foreign currency.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-election-body-forms-committee-to-probe-poll-rigging-allegations-692342">Pakistan election body sets up committee to probe poll rigging allegations</a></strong></p>

<p>When the deal was agreed upon in December 2021, Tehran said it had agreed to accept a monthly shipment of Ceylon tea from Sri Lanka in exchange for settling a $251 million debt from Iranian oil supplied to the island nation nine years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Sri Lanka was hit by an economic crisis forcing then-president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to step down in July 2022. This led to a years-long delay in the shipment of the tea to Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Colombo defaulted on its $46 billion foreign debt in April 2022 but managed to secure a $2.9 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), early last year.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Does the deal violate sanctions against Iran?</strong></h2>

<p>Sri Lankan officials have said that the tea-for-oil deal does not violate the sanctions against Tehran imposed by Washington. Since tea was a food item it is exempted from restrictions&nbsp;and the deal did not involve Iranian-blacklisted banks, they added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-bae-reports-profit-jump-as-ukraine-war-drags-on-692467">UK: BAE reports profit jump as Ukraine war drags on</a></strong></p>

<p>Tehran has been hit hard by the United States imposed restrictions since it pulled out of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and began reimposing crippling financial sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Ceylon tea, known by the island’s colonial-era name, made up nearly 50 per cent of Iran’s consumption in 2016.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sri Lanka, on Wednesday (Feb 21) said that it exported $20 million worth of tea to Iran to partially pay its $251 million oil debt. The first instalment of the tea-for-oil deal was sent years after it was agreed upon in 2021. Tea-for-oil deal “So far $20 million worth of tea has been exported to Iran under the barter trade agreement,” Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena’s office said in a statement. WATCH | Sri lanka: Tea for oil deal with Iran gets going, to allow Iran to avoid currency to pay for tea The statement also said that Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, who is currently in Sri Lanka for a visit, expressed “satisfaction” with the deal. In 2021, a tea-for-oil deal was struck between Colombo and Tehran which was seen as a win-win for both countries for different reasons. The barter deal allows sanctions-hit Iran to avoid having to use scarce hard currency to pay for imports of the widely consumed product in the country. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka is allowed to pay with tea as the country is short of foreign currency. Also Read | Pakistan election body sets up committee to probe poll rigging allegations When the deal was agreed upon in December 2021, Tehran said it had agreed to accept a monthly shipment of Ceylon tea from Sri Lanka in exchange for settling a $251 million debt from Iranian oil supplied to the island nation nine years ago. However, Sri Lanka was hit by an economic crisis forcing then-president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to step down in July 2022. This led to a years-long delay in the shipment of the tea to Iran. Colombo defaulted on its $46 billion foreign debt in April 2022 but managed to secure a $2.9 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), early last year. Does the deal violate sanctions against Iran? Sri Lankan officials have said that the tea-for-oil deal does not violate the sanctions against Tehran imposed by Washington. Since tea was a food item it is exempted from restrictions and the deal did not involve Iranian-blacklisted banks, they added. Also Read | UK: BAE reports profit jump as Ukraine war drags on Tehran has been hit hard by the United States imposed restrictions since it pulled out of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and began reimposing crippling financial sanctions. Notably, Ceylon tea, known by the island’s colonial-era name, made up nearly 50 per cent of Iran’s consumption in 2016. (With inputs from agencies)

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka partially repays Iranian oil debt with $20 million worth of tea

Iran has provided Russia with a large number of powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles, six sources told Reuters, deepening the military cooperation between the two US-sanctioned countries. Watch this interview with John Erath, Policy Director of Centre for Arms Control & Non-proliferation.

Iran & Russia: Growing military ties

In focus: Russia-Iran arms trade

Iran sends Russia hundreds of powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles: Report

As per reports, Iran has provided Russia with several powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles. The military cooperation between the two U.S-sanctioned countries is progressing tremendously. Watch this video for all details.

Did Iran send Russia hundreds of ballistic missiles?

Iran sends powerful surface-to-surface ballistic missiles to Russia: Report

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka said Wednesday it had sent $20 million in tea to Iran to help repay its $251 million oil debts, with Colombo claiming Tehran's visiting foreign minister expressed "satisfaction" with the agreement.

Sri lanka: Tea for oil deal with Iran gets going, to allow Iran to avoid currency to pay for tea

Iran is gearing up for two crucial elections on March 1. They will be the first elections since the nationwide uproar in September 2022 that erupted over the tragic death of Mahsa Amini. 22-year-old amin was arrested for allegedly breaching Iran's strict dress code for women.

Survey shows majority of Iranians unwilling to participate in polls | Race To Power

According to a new research, locust outbreaks could worsen as global temperatures continue to climb. The study is the first to show a robust link between large-scale, synchronous locust swarms and specific weather patterns.

Locust outbreak linked to climate crisis; Afghanistan, Iran & India can become hotspot

<p>The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18). The move came after Washington DC blamed the groups for killing three US soldiers in an attack on a military outpost in Jordan.</p>

<p>Esmail Qaani is believed to have warned the allied groups that directly attacking US risked a tougher response from US. He mentioned potential US retaliation, including targeting of key leaders, infrastructure and even a direct strike on Iran.</p>

<p>It was only after this visit that the elite Iran-backed group Kataib Hezbollah announced it was halting attacks on the US. "Without Qaani's direct intervention it would have been impossible to convince Kataib Hezbollah to halt its military operations to deescalate the tension,"&nbsp;a senior commander in one of the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed groups was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<h2><strong>Qaani didn’t leave Baghdad airport</strong></h2>

<p>Qaani made the quick visit and held the meeting at Baghdad Airport only "for strict security reasons and fearing for his safety," an Iraqi security source was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0zwyumly2RUq4PD1A0sDj8" data-ved="2ahUKEwjD0q2c6rSEAxW3xDgGHU17DooQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-attacked-two-major-iranian-pipelines-disrupted-supply-suggests-report-691162" jsname="YKoRaf">Israel attacked two major Iranian pipelines, disrupted supply: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The 2020 strike by the US that killed Qaani’s predecessor, Qassem Soleimani, also took place near the Baghdad airport.</p>

<p>"The Iranians learned their lesson from the liquidation of Soleimani and did not want this to be repeated," the source said.</p>

<h2><strong>Stance of Iraqi government</strong></h2>

<p>The Iraqi government is considered a close ally of both the US and Iran and is believed to have pressed Tehran to rein in attacks on US to prevent the country from becoming a battleground of foreign powers.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-foreign-minister-visits-syria-meets-syrian-president-bashar-al-assad-689414/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani "has worked with all relevant parties both inside and outside Iraq, warning them," that escalation "will destabilise Iraq and the region," Sudani's foreign affairs advisor Farhad Alaadin told Reuters.</p>

<h2><strong>US military presence in Iraq</strong></h2>

<p>The US has nearly 2,500 troops stationed in Iraq and another 900 in Syria on the so-called ‘advise and assist mission.’</p>

<p>They are part of an international coalition deployed in 2014 to fight Islamic State, mainly in the west of the country and eastern Syria.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18).

The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18). The move came after Washington DC blamed the groups for killing three US soldiers in an attack on a military outpost in Jordan. Esmail Qaani is believed to have warned the allied groups that directly attacking US risked a tougher response from US. He mentioned potential US retaliation, including targeting of key leaders, infrastructure and even a direct strike on Iran. It was only after this visit that the elite Iran-backed group Kataib Hezbollah announced it was halting attacks on the US. "Without Qaani's direct intervention it would have been impossible to convince Kataib Hezbollah to halt its military operations to deescalate the tension," a senior commander in one of the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed groups was quoted as saying by Reuters. Qaani didn’t leave Baghdad airport Qaani made the quick visit and held the meeting at Baghdad Airport only "for strict security reasons and fearing for his safety," an Iraqi security source was quoted as saying by Reuters. Also read: Israel attacked two major Iranian pipelines, disrupted supply: Report The 2020 strike by the US that killed Qaani’s predecessor, Qassem Soleimani, also took place near the Baghdad airport. "The Iranians learned their lesson from the liquidation of Soleimani and did not want this to be repeated," the source said. Stance of Iraqi government The Iraqi government is considered a close ally of both the US and Iran and is believed to have pressed Tehran to rein in attacks on US to prevent the country from becoming a battleground of foreign powers. Watch: Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad × Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani "has worked with all relevant parties both inside and outside Iraq, warning them," that escalation "will destabilise Iraq and the region," Sudani's foreign affairs advisor Farhad Alaadin told Reuters. US military presence in Iraq The US has nearly 2,500 troops stationed in Iraq and another 900 in Syria on the so-called ‘advise and assist mission.’ They are part of an international coalition deployed in 2014 to fight Islamic State, mainly in the west of the country and eastern Syria. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s Quds chief visited Iraq and asked allied militias to halt attacks on US: Report

An explosion in Iran has damaged a crucial gas pipeline. Who targeted the pipeline? Is it a terror act from within the country or outside? Ghadi Francis gets you this report.

Tehran: Gas pipeline exploded in an 'act of sabotage'

In a big revelation, a US Navy official revealed that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard troops are working on the ground with the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The runback Houthis who control much of Yemen have been attacking shipping since November in a campaign they say is in solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza.

US Navy official's big claim on Iran guards, Iran warships visit Behshad vessel

<p>Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) troops have been working on the ground in Yemen along with Houthi rebels to help them target Western and Israeli military and commercial assets,&nbsp;claimed a US Navy official, while speaking on CBS News’ “60 Minutes” programme.</p>

<p>US Navy Vice Admiral Brad Cooper added that Iranian troops have been assisting the Houthis, which has led to an increase in the attacks on US military targets in the region as well as the shipping vessels in the Red Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The comments were made at a time when US forces have stepped up counter-measures amid fears of an escalation in the Israel-Hamas war.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-mahsa-aminis-uncle-faces-five-years-of-imprisonment-over-protests-say-rights-groups-690214">Iran: Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups</a></p>

<p>Speaking to&nbsp;“60 Minutes” correspondent Norah O’Donnell, Cooper claimed that the IRGC members&nbsp;have been present on the ground in Yemen “serving side-by-side” with the Houthis as well as providing them with "advice and target information."</p>

<p>Speaking about the steps taken by the US forces to counter that partnership, Cooper said that “will obviously end up being a policy decision."</p>

<p>"Our role at this point is to simply be ready and continue to be aggressive in exercising our right to self-defence," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran funding Houthis? US claims so...</strong></h2>

<p>Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps, the elite paramilitary group that directly reports to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, has given assistance to militant groups across the entire Middle East, as per the US State Department.</p>

<p>The state department has designated the Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation.</p>

<p>Last month, the Houthis were also redesignated as a global terrorist group by the US after there was an increase in attacks on US targets and shipping vessels, which have led to severe disruptions in trade and also threatened to bring more instability in the region.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Is Iran hinting at war with US? Here’s what Iran’s military chief has to say</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-iran-hinting-at-war-with-us-heres-what-irans-military-chief-has-to-say-686026/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Houthi rebels, which is a Shia Islamist group and controls territory in northern Yemen as well as the capital city Sana’a, are allegedly receiving funding from Iran, according to the US.</p>

<p>In recent months, the US forces have shifted their attention to militant groups in the Middle East and Somalia which allegedly have ties with Iran, after numerous attacks on US bases, shipping vessels and troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) troops have been working on the ground in Yemen along with Houthi rebels to help them target Western and Israeli military and commercial assets, claimed a US Navy official, while speaking on CBS News’ “60 Minutes” programme.

Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) troops have been working on the ground in Yemen along with Houthi rebels to help them target Western and Israeli military and commercial assets, claimed a US Navy official, while speaking on CBS News’ “60 Minutes” programme. US Navy Vice Admiral Brad Cooper added that Iranian troops have been assisting the Houthis, which has led to an increase in the attacks on US military targets in the region as well as the shipping vessels in the Red Sea. The comments were made at a time when US forces have stepped up counter-measures amid fears of an escalation in the Israel-Hamas war. Also Read: Iran: Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups Speaking to “60 Minutes” correspondent Norah O’Donnell, Cooper claimed that the IRGC members have been present on the ground in Yemen “serving side-by-side” with the Houthis as well as providing them with "advice and target information." Speaking about the steps taken by the US forces to counter that partnership, Cooper said that “will obviously end up being a policy decision." "Our role at this point is to simply be ready and continue to be aggressive in exercising our right to self-defence," he added. Iran funding Houthis? US claims so... Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps, the elite paramilitary group that directly reports to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, has given assistance to militant groups across the entire Middle East, as per the US State Department. The state department has designated the Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation. Last month, the Houthis were also redesignated as a global terrorist group by the US after there was an increase in attacks on US targets and shipping vessels, which have led to severe disruptions in trade and also threatened to bring more instability in the region. Watch: Is Iran hinting at war with US? Here’s what Iran’s military chief has to say The Houthi rebels, which is a Shia Islamist group and controls territory in northern Yemen as well as the capital city Sana’a, are allegedly receiving funding from Iran, according to the US. In recent months, the US forces have shifted their attention to militant groups in the Middle East and Somalia which allegedly have ties with Iran, after numerous attacks on US bases, shipping vessels and troops. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s revolutionary guard assisting Houthis on the ground in Yemen, claims US official

The Islamic revolutionary Guard Corps IRGC of Iran claimed it fired two long range ballistic missiles from Shahid Mahdavi warship in the Gulf of Oman, the missiles with a claimed range of at least 1700 km hit targets in a desert in central Iran. The exercise was intended to be a simulated test strike against an Israeli base. Watch to know more!

Iran claims test simulated strike on Israeli base

<p>Iranian state media reported that two explosions struck gas pipelines early Wednesday (Feb 14), claiming it to be an act of "terrorism and sabotage".</p>

<p>This comes amid escalating tensions in the West Asian region amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war which started after October 7 attack by the Palestinian militants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>National Iranian Gas Company manager Saeed Aghli told the energy ministry's official Shana news agency: "This act of terrorism and sabotage was carried out in two locations at around 1:00 am."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-claims-it-destroyed-russian-warship-in-black-sea-690162">Ukraine claims it destroyed another Russian warship in Black Sea</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Aghli said that the pipelines were hit in the cities of Borujen in the southwestern province of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, and Safashahr in the southern province of Fars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pipeline is roughly 790-mile and it begins in Asaluyeh, which is a hub for Iran's offshore South Pars gas field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the state media, the sabotage had disrupted gas supplies in at least three provinces, North Khorasan in the northeast, Lorestan in the west and Zanjan in the northwest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-mahsa-aminis-uncle-faces-five-years-of-imprisonment-over-protests-say-rights-groups-690214">Iran: Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>According to the official, no casualties or fires were reported after the alleged explosions. No group claimed responsibility for the attacks so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking to state TV, Iran's Oil Minister Javad Owji, said, "The goal that the enemies were pursuing was to cut the gas in the major provinces of the country and it did not happen."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: All eyes on Erdogan-Abdel Fattah El-Sisi meet&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-all-eyes-on-erdogan-abdel-fattah-el-sisi-meet-690178/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>He compared the attack to a series of mysterious and unclaimed assaults on gas pipelines in 2011 — including around the anniversary of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tehran marked the 45th anniversary of the revolution on Sunday.</p>

<p>Owji added, "Except for the number of villages that were near the gas transmission lines, no province suffered a cut."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Iranian state media reported that two explosions struck gas pipelines early Wednesday (Feb 14), claiming it to be an act of "terrorism and sabotage". This comes amid escalating tensions in the West Asian region amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war which started after October 7 attack by the Palestinian militants.

Iranian state media reported that two explosions struck gas pipelines early Wednesday (Feb 14), claiming it to be an act of "terrorism and sabotage". This comes amid escalating tensions in the West Asian region amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war which started after October 7 attack by the Palestinian militants. National Iranian Gas Company manager Saeed Aghli told the energy ministry's official Shana news agency: "This act of terrorism and sabotage was carried out in two locations at around 1:00 am." Also read: Ukraine claims it destroyed another Russian warship in Black Sea Aghli said that the pipelines were hit in the cities of Borujen in the southwestern province of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, and Safashahr in the southern province of Fars. The pipeline is roughly 790-mile and it begins in Asaluyeh, which is a hub for Iran's offshore South Pars gas field. As per the state media, the sabotage had disrupted gas supplies in at least three provinces, North Khorasan in the northeast, Lorestan in the west and Zanjan in the northwest. Also read: Iran: Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups According to the official, no casualties or fires were reported after the alleged explosions. No group claimed responsibility for the attacks so far. While speaking to state TV, Iran's Oil Minister Javad Owji, said, "The goal that the enemies were pursuing was to cut the gas in the major provinces of the country and it did not happen." Watch: Israel-Hamas war: All eyes on Erdogan-Abdel Fattah El-Sisi meet × He compared the attack to a series of mysterious and unclaimed assaults on gas pipelines in 2011 — including around the anniversary of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tehran marked the 45th anniversary of the revolution on Sunday. Owji added, "Except for the number of villages that were near the gas transmission lines, no province suffered a cut." Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian pipelines hit in act of ‘terrorism and sabotage’, gas supply disrupted

<p>The uncle of Mahsa Amini, who was a young Iranian-Kurdish woman and had died in custody igniting months-long protests, has been sentenced to more than five years of imprisonment for criticising the government in 2022, said the rights groups.</p>

<p>30-year-old Safa Aeli was sentenced to five years and four months of imprisonment by the revolutionary court in the family’s home town of Saqez which is located in north-western Iran, said the Norway-based Hengaw group and US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).</p>

<h2><strong>Amini's uncle to&nbsp;outline biography of a security force member</strong></h2>

<p>Aeli had to also face sanctions, which included a highly unusual demand to produce a written document which outlines the biography of a security force member who had lost his life in the protest and later submit his “own personal interpretation” of the completed document to the judicial authorities, said Hengaw.</p>

<p>Amini's uncle was also given the order to share a voice message regarding the work on his social media accounts. In case, he failed to do that he was to be banned from expressing any views regarding the protests.</p>

<p>22-year-old Mahsa Amini died in hospital in September 2022 after she was arrested for allegedly flouting Islamic code of dressing for women in the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-recruiting-british-muslims-on-pilgrimage-in-middle-east-to-spy-on-jews-report-689137">&nbsp;Iran recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage in Middle East to spy on Jews: Report</a></p>

<p>The family of Amini and the activists have claimed that she was killed after she suffered a blow on her head while she was in custody. Iranian officials have denied the claims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>HRANA, quoting family lawyer Saleh Nikbakht, said that part of the prison sentence given to Aeli was suspended and he is now needs to remain in prison for three years and six months.</p>

<p>The charges against Aeli include dissemination of anti-government propaganda, insulting supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and participating in the protests which violated internal security.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-foreign-minister-visits-syria-meets-syrian-president-bashar-al-assad-689414/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>One month after getting arrested in September 2023, Aeli was released on bail, just before the one-year death anniversary of Mahsa Amini.</p>

<p>The protests after the death of Amini shook Islamic authorities in Iran. However, the protests have now subsided after there was a crackdown on rights groups, in which hundreds were killed and thousands were arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the cases related to the protests, the government has till now executed nine men, as per the rights groups.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The uncle of Mahsa Amini, who was a young Iranian-Kurdish woman and had died in custody igniting months-long protests, has been sentenced to more than five years of imprisonment for criticising the government in 2022, said the rights groups.

The uncle of Mahsa Amini, who was a young Iranian-Kurdish woman and had died in custody igniting months-long protests, has been sentenced to more than five years of imprisonment for criticising the government in 2022, said the rights groups. 30-year-old Safa Aeli was sentenced to five years and four months of imprisonment by the revolutionary court in the family’s home town of Saqez which is located in north-western Iran, said the Norway-based Hengaw group and US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). Amini's uncle to outline biography of a security force member Aeli had to also face sanctions, which included a highly unusual demand to produce a written document which outlines the biography of a security force member who had lost his life in the protest and later submit his “own personal interpretation” of the completed document to the judicial authorities, said Hengaw. Amini's uncle was also given the order to share a voice message regarding the work on his social media accounts. In case, he failed to do that he was to be banned from expressing any views regarding the protests. 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died in hospital in September 2022 after she was arrested for allegedly flouting Islamic code of dressing for women in the Islamic Republic. Also Read: Iran recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage in Middle East to spy on Jews: Report The family of Amini and the activists have claimed that she was killed after she suffered a blow on her head while she was in custody. Iranian officials have denied the claims. HRANA, quoting family lawyer Saleh Nikbakht, said that part of the prison sentence given to Aeli was suspended and he is now needs to remain in prison for three years and six months. The charges against Aeli include dissemination of anti-government propaganda, insulting supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and participating in the protests which violated internal security. Watch: Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad One month after getting arrested in September 2023, Aeli was released on bail, just before the one-year death anniversary of Mahsa Amini. The protests after the death of Amini shook Islamic authorities in Iran. However, the protests have now subsided after there was a crackdown on rights groups, in which hundreds were killed and thousands were arrested. In the cases related to the protests, the government has till now executed nine men, as per the rights groups. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran: Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups

<p>Iran on Tuesday (Feb 13) said that it has launched long-range ballistic missiles from a warship for the first time.&nbsp;The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that the launch was from the Shahid Mahdavi, which is Iran's multi-purpose heavy warship.&nbsp;This will anger the Western nations which have repeatedly raised concerns over Iran's missile programme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said that the launch during naval manoeuvres involved firing two ballistic missiles capable of striking targets up to 1,700 kilometres (1,050 miles) away.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-biden-call-netanyahu-ahole-us-prez-seemingly-furious-with-israeli-pm-over-gaza-war-689651">Did Biden call Netanyahu a**hole? US Prez seemingly furious with Israeli PM over Gaza war</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"The IRGC for the first time has fired ballistic missiles in the Gulf of Oman," state television reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The firing of a long-range ballistic missile from the warship was successfully carried out," IRGC chief Hossein Salami said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇮🇷NEW IRANIAN MISSILE CAN STRIKE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD<br />
<br />
For the first time, the IRGC launched a long-range missile from a warship, which they claim allows them to strike any target around the world.<br />
<br />
The missile traveled 750km in a test launch before hitting a target in the… <a href="https://t.co/sP63vvdegZ">pic.twitter.com/sP63vvdegZ</a></p>
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/1757405594804216040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also&nbsp;read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/overnight-airstrikes-kill-around-100-in-rafah-israel-rescues-two-hostages-689534">Overnight airstrikes kill ‘around 100’ in Rafah; Israel rescues two hostages</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Simulated attack on Israel's airbase</strong></h2>

<p>Iranian state television said that separately, in central Iran, the IRGC simulated a surface-to-surface ballistic missile attack on Israel's Palmachim airbase south of Tel Aviv.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said Palmachim was the "main base for F-35 fighter jets" in Israel.&nbsp;Reports say that Iran fired Emad and Qadr ballistic missiles which&nbsp;have enhanced explosive warheads.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> Iran’s IRGC says it has fired Emad and Qadr ballistic missiles with “enhanced explosive warheads” to destroy a “simulated version” of Israel’s Palmachim airbase “where Israel’s F-35 fighter jets are located,” a video aired by the state TV shows. <a href="https://t.co/It6oDjjY4T">pic.twitter.com/It6oDjjY4T</a></p>
— Iran International English (@IranIntl_En) <a href="https://twitter.com/IranIntl_En/status/1757423163447656692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The Iranian military exercises come amid escalating regional tensions since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war when the Palestinian Islamist group launched an unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in the death&nbsp;of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to official figures released by Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas and launched a massive military offensive in Gaza that the territory's health ministry claims has killed at least 28,340 people, mostly women and children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran does not acknowledge Israel and has long waged a covert war of assassination and sabotage against it. Since the 1979 Islamic revolution, Tehran has made support for the Palestinian cause a central part of its foreign policy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Iran on Tuesday (Feb 13) said that it has launched long-range ballistic missiles from a warship for the first time. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that the launch was from the Shahid Mahdavi, which is Iran's multi-purpose heavy warship.

Iran on Tuesday (Feb 13) said that it has launched long-range ballistic missiles from a warship for the first time. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that the launch was from the Shahid Mahdavi, which is Iran's multi-purpose heavy warship. This will anger the Western nations which have repeatedly raised concerns over Iran's missile programme. It said that the launch during naval manoeuvres involved firing two ballistic missiles capable of striking targets up to 1,700 kilometres (1,050 miles) away. Also read: Did Biden call Netanyahu a**hole? US Prez seemingly furious with Israeli PM over Gaza war "The IRGC for the first time has fired ballistic missiles in the Gulf of Oman," state television reported. "The firing of a long-range ballistic missile from the warship was successfully carried out," IRGC chief Hossein Salami said. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. 🇮🇷NEW IRANIAN MISSILE CAN STRIKE ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD For the first time, the IRGC launched a long-range missile from a warship, which they claim allows them to strike any target around the world. The missile traveled 750km in a test launch before hitting a target in the… pic.twitter.com/sP63vvdegZ — Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) February 13, 2024 × Also read: Overnight airstrikes kill ‘around 100’ in Rafah; Israel rescues two hostages Simulated attack on Israel's airbase Iranian state television said that separately, in central Iran, the IRGC simulated a surface-to-surface ballistic missile attack on Israel's Palmachim airbase south of Tel Aviv. It said Palmachim was the "main base for F-35 fighter jets" in Israel. Reports say that Iran fired Emad and Qadr ballistic missiles which have enhanced explosive warheads. #BREAKING Iran’s IRGC says it has fired Emad and Qadr ballistic missiles with “enhanced explosive warheads” to destroy a “simulated version” of Israel’s Palmachim airbase “where Israel’s F-35 fighter jets are located,” a video aired by the state TV shows. pic.twitter.com/It6oDjjY4T — Iran International English (@IranIntl_En) February 13, 2024 × The Iranian military exercises come amid escalating regional tensions since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war when the Palestinian Islamist group launched an unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in the death of around 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to official figures released by Israel. Israel vowed to eliminate Hamas and launched a massive military offensive in Gaza that the territory's health ministry claims has killed at least 28,340 people, mostly women and children. Iran does not acknowledge Israel and has long waged a covert war of assassination and sabotage against it. Since the 1979 Islamic revolution, Tehran has made support for the Palestinian cause a central part of its foreign policy. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Iran fires first long-range ballistic missiles from warship, simulates strike on Israeli base

Iranian foreign minister is visiting Ally countries in West Asia trying to ramp up support against Israeli actions in Gaza. On Sunday Hossein Amir-Abdollahian met Syrian president Bashar al-Assad in Damascus. Speaking to the Press, the Iranian foreign minister said that the Israeli actions won't go without a response. Watch to know more!

Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad

<p>Iran is recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage tours to various Middle Eastern countries to spy on Jews and Jewish targets in the United Kingdom, a report in the <em>DailyMail</em> has claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is said to be behind the recruitment process. The modus operandi involves the IRGC recruiters approaching&nbsp;Shiite Muslims visiting religious sites in the Middle East and asking them to gather classified or useful information about prominent Jews, synagogues and&nbsp;Iranian dissidents.</p>

<p>The publication claimed that British Muslims, who visited&nbsp;the holy Iraqi city of Kerbala in September last year were approached to spy for Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We do not know the scale of Iranian agents inside Europe and the UK, but all it takes is for one to slip through the net," an unnamed source was quoted as saying.</p>

<p>The report added that some Iranians who come to study at British universities as international students on state scholarships also act as spies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Quoting a British official, the report claimed that the Iranian regime also utilised British-based organised crime networks to carry out attacks on US soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-counterstrike-on-iran-backed-forces-former-retaliates-after-3-troops-hurt-world-news-wion-673669"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-counterstrike-on-iran-backed-forces-former-retaliates-after-3-troops-hurt-world-news-wion-673669/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Iran vs Israel</strong></h2>

<p>Iran and Israel are perennial foes.&nbsp;For years, the two&nbsp;countries have accused each other of spying and waging a shadow war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They are currently locked in a fight over Iran's nuclear programme. Israel views Iran as its greatest threat and has repeatedly threatened to take military action to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group, operating from Lebanon has been routinely attacking Israel after the events of October 7, leading to further escalation in tension between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-backed-islamist-terror-outfits-strike-us-base-in-syria-again-674829"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Iran-backed Islamist terror outfits strike US base in Syria again</strong></a></p>

<p>Since Tel Aviv started retaliating against Hamas over the terrorist attack last year, Hezbollah has attempted to engage Israel as well as its allies in confrontation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Tehran increased the hostilities with Israel by executing four people it said had links to Tel Aviv and its intelligence unit - Mossad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tehran claimed Mossad had recruited the men,&nbsp;about a year and a half prior to the operation. The said operation was meant to take place in the summer of 2022 but was averted by Iranian intelligence, according to the reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran is recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage tours to various Middle Eastern countries to spy on Jews and Jewish targets in the United Kingdom, a report in the DailyMail has claimed.

Iran is recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage tours to various Middle Eastern countries to spy on Jews and Jewish targets in the United Kingdom, a report in the DailyMail has claimed. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is said to be behind the recruitment process. The modus operandi involves the IRGC recruiters approaching Shiite Muslims visiting religious sites in the Middle East and asking them to gather classified or useful information about prominent Jews, synagogues and Iranian dissidents. The publication claimed that British Muslims, who visited the holy Iraqi city of Kerbala in September last year were approached to spy for Iran. “We do not know the scale of Iranian agents inside Europe and the UK, but all it takes is for one to slip through the net," an unnamed source was quoted as saying. The report added that some Iranians who come to study at British universities as international students on state scholarships also act as spies. Quoting a British official, the report claimed that the Iranian regime also utilised British-based organised crime networks to carry out attacks on US soil. Watch | US counterstrike on Iran-backed forces, former retaliates after 3 troops hurt Iran vs Israel Iran and Israel are perennial foes. For years, the two countries have accused each other of spying and waging a shadow war. They are currently locked in a fight over Iran's nuclear programme. Israel views Iran as its greatest threat and has repeatedly threatened to take military action to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Additionally, the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group, operating from Lebanon has been routinely attacking Israel after the events of October 7, leading to further escalation in tension between the two countries. Also read | Iran-backed Islamist terror outfits strike US base in Syria again Since Tel Aviv started retaliating against Hamas over the terrorist attack last year, Hezbollah has attempted to engage Israel as well as its allies in confrontation. Last month, Tehran increased the hostilities with Israel by executing four people it said had links to Tel Aviv and its intelligence unit - Mossad. Tehran claimed Mossad had recruited the men, about a year and a half prior to the operation. The said operation was meant to take place in the summer of 2022 but was averted by Iranian intelligence, according to the reports. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran recruiting British Muslims on pilgrimage in Middle East to spy on Jews: Report

An American air strike in Iraq on Wednesday killed a senior commander from a pro-Iran armed group who was involved in attacks on Washington's troops in the region, the US military said.

US drone strike kills pro-Iran commander in Baghdad

<p>Meta announced on Thursday (Feb 9) that it had taken down the Facebook and Instagram accounts belonging to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, citing violations of its content policies. A spokesperson for Meta told AFP, "We have removed these accounts for repeatedly violating our Dangerous Organizations &amp; Individuals policy." The decision comes amidst mounting pressure on Meta to ban Khamenei following the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. However, it is worth noting that Meta did not explicitly reference this event in their statement while taking down Khamenei's social media accounts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the attack, Khamenei expressed support for Hamas' actions but denied any involvement from Iran. "The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong," he had said in a speech at a military academy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Of course, we defend Palestine, we defend the struggles," he added, urging "the whole Islamic world" to "support the Palestinians," he added. The Iranian supreme leader also publicly endorsed Palestinian retaliation against Israel's actions in Gaza earlier and spoke in favour of attacks on shipping in the Red Sea by Yemen's Houthi rebels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khamenei, who has held power in Iran for 35 years, boasted five million followers on Instagram.</p>

<p>Meta's decision was based on its policy aimed at preventing real-world harm by disallowing organisations or individuals with violent agendas from using their platforms.</p>

<p>The policy states, "In an effort to prevent and disrupt real-world harm, we do not allow organizations or individuals that proclaim a violent mission or are engaged in violence to have a presence on our platforms," says the policy on which Meta based its decision."</p>

<p>Notably, Hamas is officially designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the United States. Reports said that Iranians utilise virtual private networks (VPNs) to circumvent restrictions and access prohibited websites or apps, including those owned by US companies like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Meta announced on Thursday (Feb 9) that it had taken down the Facebook and Instagram accounts belonging to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, citing violations of its content policies.

Meta announced on Thursday (Feb 9) that it had taken down the Facebook and Instagram accounts belonging to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, citing violations of its content policies. A spokesperson for Meta told AFP, "We have removed these accounts for repeatedly violating our Dangerous Organizations & Individuals policy." The decision comes amidst mounting pressure on Meta to ban Khamenei following the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. However, it is worth noting that Meta did not explicitly reference this event in their statement while taking down Khamenei's social media accounts. Following the attack, Khamenei expressed support for Hamas' actions but denied any involvement from Iran. "The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong," he had said in a speech at a military academy. "Of course, we defend Palestine, we defend the struggles," he added, urging "the whole Islamic world" to "support the Palestinians," he added. The Iranian supreme leader also publicly endorsed Palestinian retaliation against Israel's actions in Gaza earlier and spoke in favour of attacks on shipping in the Red Sea by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Khamenei, who has held power in Iran for 35 years, boasted five million followers on Instagram. Meta's decision was based on its policy aimed at preventing real-world harm by disallowing organisations or individuals with violent agendas from using their platforms. The policy states, "In an effort to prevent and disrupt real-world harm, we do not allow organizations or individuals that proclaim a violent mission or are engaged in violence to have a presence on our platforms," says the policy on which Meta based its decision." Notably, Hamas is officially designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the United States. Reports said that Iranians utilise virtual private networks (VPNs) to circumvent restrictions and access prohibited websites or apps, including those owned by US companies like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. (With inputs from agencies)

Meta removes Iran Supreme Leader Khamenei from Facebook, Instagram for policy violations

iran

Iran, News on Iran, stories on Iran, articles on Iran, Iran stories at Wion, Iran news, Iran latest news