According to officials, an important component of the planned swap, $6 billion that had been blocked in South Korea, reached Qatar on Monday and will be used to exchange prisoners between Iran and the United States. The planned discussion will take place immediately before Ebrahim Raisi, the hardline president of Iran, speaks at the UN General Assembly in New York. The transfer won't, however, mean that tensions between the United States and Iran have decreased because Iran is now enriching uranium more closely than ever to levels suitable for use in weapons.

US-Iran Prisoner Swap: US and Iran to complete $6 billion prisoner swap deal

<p>It has been a year since Iranian woman of Kurdish descent was killed in the custody of Iran's morality police after the 23-year-old was arrested for defying the country's stringent hijab law. In India, Pakistan-backed terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir are surrounded by Indian armed forces in an ongoing gunfight that has been ongoing for the fourth straight day. There are updates from Latin America's world of drugs that you must know before you start your day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahsa-al-aminis-death-one-year-on-top-points-636479"><strong>Mahsa Al Amini's death, one year on: Top points</strong></a>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

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<p>On the first anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death in police custody, Iranians both at home and abroad observed the occasion. Activists expressed concerns about a renewed crackdown aimed at preventing a resurgence of the protests that had shaken major cities the previous year.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-encounter-in-kashmirs-anantnag-enters-fourth-day-1-terrorist-gunned-down-in-baramulla-636478?utm_source=izooto&amp;utm_medium=push_notifications&amp;utm_campaign=Kashmir"><strong>India: Encounter in Kashmir’s Anantnag enters fourth day, 1 terrorist gunned down in Baramulla</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/16/380027-u7khrk.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The ongoing encounter between terrorists and Indian security forces in the Anantnag district of the Kashmir region entered its fourth day Saturday (Sept 16).<br />
<br />
So far, four security personnel have been martyred in the ongoing operation, launched with the quest to neutralise two to three terrorists holed up in a cave atop a hill in the Gadul forest of Kokernag.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-women-sexually-exploited-by-un-staff-struggling-to-raise-children-636463"><strong>Hundreds of women sexually exploited by UN staff struggling to raise children</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/16/380019-106521-20120123.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Hundreds of women and girls around the world are struggling to raise children fathered by UN peacekeepers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A recent CNN report has shed light on how UN staffers go to several disaster-hit nations to help the local population, end up making sexual relationships with local women or teen girls, and then simply abandon them before moving to another nation.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-drug-lord-el-chapos-son-ovidio-guzman-extradited-to-us-636460"><strong>Mexican drug lord El Chapo's son Ovidio Guzman extradited to US</strong></a></p>

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Ovidio Guzman, the son of Mexican drug lord El Chapo, has been extradited to the United States where he is wanted for fentanyl trafficking charges, Mexican and American authorities said on Friday (September 15). In a statement, US Attorney General Merrick Garland said Ovidio's extradition was the latest step in US efforts to attack "every aspect" of the drug trafficking operations run by the Sinaloa Cartel long associated with the Guzman family.</p>

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It has been a year since Iranian woman of Kurdish descent was killed in the custody of Iran's morality police after the 23-year-old was arrested for defying the country's stringent hijab law.

It has been a year since Iranian woman of Kurdish descent was killed in the custody of Iran's morality police after the 23-year-old was arrested for defying the country's stringent hijab law. In India, Pakistan-backed terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir are surrounded by Indian armed forces in an ongoing gunfight that has been ongoing for the fourth straight day. There are updates from Latin America's world of drugs that you must know before you start your day. Click on the headlines to read more: Mahsa Al Amini's death, one year on: Top points On the first anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death in police custody, Iranians both at home and abroad observed the occasion. Activists expressed concerns about a renewed crackdown aimed at preventing a resurgence of the protests that had shaken major cities the previous year. India: Encounter in Kashmir’s Anantnag enters fourth day, 1 terrorist gunned down in Baramulla The ongoing encounter between terrorists and Indian security forces in the Anantnag district of the Kashmir region entered its fourth day Saturday (Sept 16). So far, four security personnel have been martyred in the ongoing operation, launched with the quest to neutralise two to three terrorists holed up in a cave atop a hill in the Gadul forest of Kokernag. Hundreds of women sexually exploited by UN staff struggling to raise children Hundreds of women and girls around the world are struggling to raise children fathered by UN peacekeepers. A recent CNN report has shed light on how UN staffers go to several disaster-hit nations to help the local population, end up making sexual relationships with local women or teen girls, and then simply abandon them before moving to another nation. Mexican drug lord El Chapo's son Ovidio Guzman extradited to US Ovidio Guzman, the son of Mexican drug lord El Chapo, has been extradited to the United States where he is wanted for fentanyl trafficking charges, Mexican and American authorities said on Friday (September 15). In a statement, US Attorney General Merrick Garland said Ovidio's extradition was the latest step in US efforts to attack "every aspect" of the drug trafficking operations run by the Sinaloa Cartel long associated with the Guzman family. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Morning brief: UN staff accused of sexual assault; anniversary of Mahsa Al-Amini's custodial death in Iran

While Iran continues to be in the headlines for all the wrong reasons after Mahsa Amini's death, in another surprising move, Tehran has now blocked international inspectors from monitoring nuclear activities. The IAEA has called the move 'disproportionate' and 'unprecedented'.

Iran bars International Atomic Energy Agency nuclear inspectors, says West using it for politics

On Saturday, Iranian security personnel were stationed in Mahsa Amini's hometown in expectation of disruption as people around the nation were ready to commemorate the first anniversary of her passing while in the care of morality police.

Mahsa Amini death anniversary: Iranian security forces crack down on protest in Kurdish areas

<p>Diversity of viewpoints spurs innovation, a <a href="https://hbr.org/2013/12/how-diversity-can-drive-innovation">groundbreaking</a> Harvard research in 2013 had concluded. Since then, reports as well as anecdotal insights have pointed out to a pattern of international investors rejecting the composition of proposed directors at shareholders' meetings that do not include women.</p>

<p>But that's just one small part of the world where equal opportunities for all have emerged as one defining circle in a range of concentric circles of a&nbsp;social sphere.</p>

<p>In many parts of the world, women continue to struggle for equal opportunities.</p>

<p>This week two vastly different stories from two different capitals of the world underscored the growing gap between striving towards ideal and running&nbsp;away from the same on the front of women's rights.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tokyo, Japan</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Tokyo | AFP" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5e2d2da7-ceb0-47e9-b986-b18710833c4d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-09-17T192220.229.png" /></p>

<p><em>This photo taken on December 17, 2022 shows people walking past autumn leaves along a tree-lined street at the centre of the Hongo campus at the University of Tokyo, also known as Todai, in Tokyo | AFP</em><br />
<br />
The education board of Japanese capital&nbsp;announced&nbsp;scrapping of its gender quota for all admissions of full-time public high school students.</p>

<p>The new rules will come in effect starting from the spring of 2024.</p>

<p>The Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education had been&nbsp;the last board in Japan with a quota for ensuring an equal gender ratio for men and women.</p>

<p>Tokyo, like the rest of prefectures in Japan, will begin passing the individuals based on grades-based ranking. Earlier, the qualification criteria for men and women was being criticised due to significant gap of marks required for people of two genders.</p>

<p>The move is deemed as a reflection of a growing awareness of sexual diversity in Japan. This is because, to avail the benefits of gender quota, one had to specify their gender.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Transgender or nonbinary people in Japan long complained of psychological distress when forced to specify a gender they did not identify with.</p>

<h2><strong>Tehran, Iran</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="A protester holds a portrait of Mahsa Amini during a demonstration in her support in front of the Iranian embassy in Brussels | AFP" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a52a350-726a-403e-b07c-c871505d77d7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-09-17T191724.442.png" /></p>

<p><em>A protester holds a portrait of Mahsa Amini during a demonstration in her support in front of the Iranian embassy in Brussels | AFP</em></p>

<p>A 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, originally from Iran's Kurdistan province,&nbsp;was coming out of a metro station in Tehran in September 2023 when she was detained by country's morality police, who accused her of violating country's mandatory hijab rules.</p>

<p>Amini was put in a van and taken to a so-called re-education centre where women are "trained" to dress properly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amini was seen collapsing in that government facility, following which she died at a hospital days later.</p>

<p>Her parents countered the account of authorities who claimed that she died of a pre-existing condition and cited their daughter's previously non-existent head injury as sign of torture they said Amini faced in detention.</p>

<p>From a small protest right in front of the Tehran hospital where she breathed last, the public outrage on Mahsa Amini's custodial death snowballed into the biggest-ever challenge for country's rulers since the Islamic revolution of 1979. Protests spread across towns and cities of the nation, where people demanded scrapping of country's mandatory hijab rules and called for the ouster of the Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei</p>

<p>The street protests gradually died down earlier this year after ruthless repression on protesters.&nbsp;Rights organisations say more than 500 people were killed, including at least 70 minors while tens of thousands were detained in prisons across Iran.</p>

<p>A number of journalists remain imprisoned till date.</p>

<p>This week, as the world marked one year of Mahsa Amini's custodial death, the Kurdistan Human Rights Network&nbsp;said&nbsp;that female inmates on held protests at the Qarchak prison, about 62 km from Tehran.</p>

<p>The Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps&nbsp;meanwhile announced that a dual national was arrested over "attempts to organise riots and vandalism" in Karaj city west of the capital Tehran.</p>

<p>The authorities also&nbsp;Amini's family from holding a ceremony to commemorate the first anniversary of her death, confining her father under "house arrest", rights groups said.</p>

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Diversity of viewpoints spurs innovation, a groundbreaking Harvard research in 2013 had concluded. Since then, reports as well as anecdotal insights have pointed out to a pattern of international investors rejecting the composition of proposed directors at shareholders' meetings that do not include women.

Diversity of viewpoints spurs innovation, a groundbreaking Harvard research in 2013 had concluded. Since then, reports as well as anecdotal insights have pointed out to a pattern of international investors rejecting the composition of proposed directors at shareholders' meetings that do not include women. But that's just one small part of the world where equal opportunities for all have emerged as one defining circle in a range of concentric circles of a social sphere. In many parts of the world, women continue to struggle for equal opportunities. This week two vastly different stories from two different capitals of the world underscored the growing gap between striving towards ideal and running away from the same on the front of women's rights. Tokyo, Japan This photo taken on December 17, 2022 shows people walking past autumn leaves along a tree-lined street at the centre of the Hongo campus at the University of Tokyo, also known as Todai, in Tokyo | AFP The education board of Japanese capital announced scrapping of its gender quota for all admissions of full-time public high school students. The new rules will come in effect starting from the spring of 2024. The Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education had been the last board in Japan with a quota for ensuring an equal gender ratio for men and women. Tokyo, like the rest of prefectures in Japan, will begin passing the individuals based on grades-based ranking. Earlier, the qualification criteria for men and women was being criticised due to significant gap of marks required for people of two genders. The move is deemed as a reflection of a growing awareness of sexual diversity in Japan. This is because, to avail the benefits of gender quota, one had to specify their gender. Transgender or nonbinary people in Japan long complained of psychological distress when forced to specify a gender they did not identify with. Tehran, Iran A protester holds a portrait of Mahsa Amini during a demonstration in her support in front of the Iranian embassy in Brussels | AFP A 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, originally from Iran's Kurdistan province, was coming out of a metro station in Tehran in September 2023 when she was detained by country's morality police, who accused her of violating country's mandatory hijab rules. Amini was put in a van and taken to a so-called re-education centre where women are "trained" to dress properly. Amini was seen collapsing in that government facility, following which she died at a hospital days later. Her parents countered the account of authorities who claimed that she died of a pre-existing condition and cited their daughter's previously non-existent head injury as sign of torture they said Amini faced in detention. From a small protest right in front of the Tehran hospital where she breathed last, the public outrage on Mahsa Amini's custodial death snowballed into the biggest-ever challenge for country's rulers since the Islamic revolution of 1979. Protests spread across towns and cities of the nation, where people demanded scrapping of country's mandatory hijab rules and called for the ouster of the Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei The street protests gradually died down earlier this year after ruthless repression on protesters. Rights organisations say more than 500 people were killed, including at least 70 minors while tens of thousands were detained in prisons across Iran. A number of journalists remain imprisoned till date. This week, as the world marked one year of Mahsa Amini's custodial death, the Kurdistan Human Rights Network said that female inmates on held protests at the Qarchak prison, about 62 km from Tehran. The Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps meanwhile announced that a dual national was arrested over "attempts to organise riots and vandalism" in Karaj city west of the capital Tehran. The authorities also Amini's family from holding a ceremony to commemorate the first anniversary of her death, confining her father under "house arrest", rights groups said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The Capitals: Tokyo and Tehran take women's rights in contrasting directions

<p>Mahsa Amini's father was briefly detained by security forces in Iran on Saturday (September 16) and was released after being warned against marking the anniversary of Amini's death, said a human rights group.</p>

<p>"Security forces detained Amjad Amini today and returned him to his house after threatening him against marking his daughter's death anniversary," the Kurdistan Human Rights network said.</p>

<p>State-affiliated media reported arrests of several "counter-revolutionaries" and "terrorists" in different Iranian cities and stated that security forces had thwarted plots to create disruptions around illegal protests.</p>

<p>Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd, died in the custody of the country's morality police on September 16, 2023, for allegedly violating the strict dress code for women in place since the 1979 revolution.</p>

<p>Her family contends she died from a head injury in police custody.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, Amjad Amini, Mahsa's father, had released a statement announcing plans to hold a commemoration for his daughter in their hometown of Saqez in western Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of Amini's uncles, Safa Aeli, was also detained in Saqez.</p>

<p>As per human rights groups, on Saturday (September 16), the first death anniversary of Amini, a massive security force presence was deployed in Iran's mostly Kurdish areas in anticipation of unrest.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahsa-al-aminis-death-one-year-on-top-points-636479">Mahsa Amini's death and women's rights in Iran, one year on: Top points</a></p>

<p>According to news agency Reuters, footage on social media showed apparent protests in areas including Gohardasht, a neighbourhood of the city of Karaj west of the capital Tehran, and in the northeastern city of Mashhad.</p>

<p>Widespread strikes were reported in multiple cities in Iran's Kurdistan region.</p>

<p>However, IRNA said Amini's hometown of Saqez was "completely quiet" and that calls for strike in Kurdish areas had failed due to "people's vigilance and the presence of security and military forces".</p>

<p>It quoted an official in the Kurdistan province as saying: "A number of agents affiliated with counter-revolutionary groups who had planned to create chaos and prepare media fodder were arrested in the early hours of this morning."</p>

<h2><strong>Biden hails protesters</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden, on Friday (September 15), said that the United States would remain committed to supporting Iranians, a year after Mahsa Amini's death triggered massive demonstrations, as Washington revealed fresh sanctions against "egregious" rights abusers.</p>

<p>Biden released a statement saying, "Today—as we remember Mahsa’s tragic death—we reaffirm our commitment to the courageous people of Iran who are carrying on her mission. They are inspiring the world with their resilience and resolve. And together with our allies and partners, we stand with them."</p>

<p>"Iranians alone will determine the fate of their country, but, the United States remains committed to standing with them, including providing tools to support Iranians' ability to advocate for their own future," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Mahsa Amini's father was briefly detained by security forces in Iran on Saturday (September 16) and was released after being warned against marking the anniversary of Amini's death, said a human rights group.

Mahsa Amini's father was briefly detained by security forces in Iran on Saturday (September 16) and was released after being warned against marking the anniversary of Amini's death, said a human rights group. "Security forces detained Amjad Amini today and returned him to his house after threatening him against marking his daughter's death anniversary," the Kurdistan Human Rights network said. State-affiliated media reported arrests of several "counter-revolutionaries" and "terrorists" in different Iranian cities and stated that security forces had thwarted plots to create disruptions around illegal protests. Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd, died in the custody of the country's morality police on September 16, 2023, for allegedly violating the strict dress code for women in place since the 1979 revolution. Her family contends she died from a head injury in police custody. Earlier this week, Amjad Amini, Mahsa's father, had released a statement announcing plans to hold a commemoration for his daughter in their hometown of Saqez in western Iran. One of Amini's uncles, Safa Aeli, was also detained in Saqez. As per human rights groups, on Saturday (September 16), the first death anniversary of Amini, a massive security force presence was deployed in Iran's mostly Kurdish areas in anticipation of unrest. Also read: Mahsa Amini's death and women's rights in Iran, one year on: Top points According to news agency Reuters, footage on social media showed apparent protests in areas including Gohardasht, a neighbourhood of the city of Karaj west of the capital Tehran, and in the northeastern city of Mashhad. Widespread strikes were reported in multiple cities in Iran's Kurdistan region. However, IRNA said Amini's hometown of Saqez was "completely quiet" and that calls for strike in Kurdish areas had failed due to "people's vigilance and the presence of security and military forces". It quoted an official in the Kurdistan province as saying: "A number of agents affiliated with counter-revolutionary groups who had planned to create chaos and prepare media fodder were arrested in the early hours of this morning." Biden hails protesters US President Joe Biden, on Friday (September 15), said that the United States would remain committed to supporting Iranians, a year after Mahsa Amini's death triggered massive demonstrations, as Washington revealed fresh sanctions against "egregious" rights abusers. Biden released a statement saying, "Today—as we remember Mahsa’s tragic death—we reaffirm our commitment to the courageous people of Iran who are carrying on her mission. They are inspiring the world with their resilience and resolve. And together with our allies and partners, we stand with them." "Iranians alone will determine the fate of their country, but, the United States remains committed to standing with them, including providing tools to support Iranians' ability to advocate for their own future," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iranian security forces briefly detain Mahsa Amini's father on her first death anniversary

<p>U.N. nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi on Saturday condemned Iran's "disproportionate and unprecedented" move to bar multiple inspectors assigned to the country, hindering its oversight of Tehran's atomic activities.</p>

<p>Iran's move is a response to a call led by the United States, Britain, France and Germany at the International Atomic Energy Agency's Board of Governors this week for Tehran to cooperate immediately with the IAEA on issues including explaining uranium traces found at undeclared sites.</p>

<p>Grossi made clear, however, that he believed Iran had overreacted.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-aid-groups-warn-of-disease-risk-as-country-struggles-to-recover-from-flood-636487">Libya: Aid groups warn of disease risk as country struggles to recover from flood</a></p>

<p>"I strongly condemn this disproportionate and unprecedented unilateral measure which affects the normal planning and conduct of agency verification activities in Iran and openly contradicts the cooperation that should exist between the agency and Iran," he said in a statement.</p>

<p>Iran's move, known as "de-designation" of inspectors, is allowed; member states can generally veto inspectors assigned to visit their nuclear facilities under the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and each country's safeguards agreement with the agency governing inspections.</p>

<p>But the IAEA said Tehran's decision went beyond normal practice. It said Iran had told it that it would bar "several" inspectors, without giving a number.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/up-to-south-to-change-rules-of-game-g77china-urges-for-new-global-order-at-cuba-summit-636568">'Up to South to change rules of game': G77+China urges for new global order at Cuba Summit</a></p>

<p>"These inspectors are among the most experienced agency experts with unique knowledge in enrichment technology," the agency said. "With today's decision, Iran has effectively removed about one third of the core group of the Agency's most experienced inspectors designated for Iran."</p>

<p>Iran defended its move and accused the United States, Britain, France and Germany of politicising the IAEA watchdog.</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, despite Iran's positive, constructive and continuous interaction of the with the agency, the three European countries and the United States abused the (IAEA's) Board of Governors for their own political purposes," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani told state media.</p>

<p>"Of course, Iran will continue its positive cooperation within the framework of the agreements that have been made, and emphasise the necessity of the agency's neutrality," he added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Libya: Death toll mounts, search ops continue</strong></p>

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<p>A Vienna-based diplomat said Iran had de-designated all the French and German members of the IAEA inspection team. There were already no U.S. or British members.</p>

<p>"This measure, while formally permitted by the NPT Safeguards Agreement, has been exercised by Iran in a manner that affects in a direct and severe way the ability of the IAEA to conduct effectively its inspections in Iran," the IAEA said.</p>

<p>Grossi added: "I call upon the Iranian Government to reconsider its decision and to return to a path of cooperation with the Agency."</p>

<p>The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>

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U.N. nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi on Saturday condemned Iran's "disproportionate and unprecedented" move to bar multiple inspectors assigned to the country, hindering its oversight of Tehran's atomic activities.

U.N. nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi on Saturday condemned Iran's "disproportionate and unprecedented" move to bar multiple inspectors assigned to the country, hindering its oversight of Tehran's atomic activities. Iran's move is a response to a call led by the United States, Britain, France and Germany at the International Atomic Energy Agency's Board of Governors this week for Tehran to cooperate immediately with the IAEA on issues including explaining uranium traces found at undeclared sites. Grossi made clear, however, that he believed Iran had overreacted. Also Read | Libya: Aid groups warn of disease risk as country struggles to recover from flood "I strongly condemn this disproportionate and unprecedented unilateral measure which affects the normal planning and conduct of agency verification activities in Iran and openly contradicts the cooperation that should exist between the agency and Iran," he said in a statement. Iran's move, known as "de-designation" of inspectors, is allowed; member states can generally veto inspectors assigned to visit their nuclear facilities under the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and each country's safeguards agreement with the agency governing inspections. But the IAEA said Tehran's decision went beyond normal practice. It said Iran had told it that it would bar "several" inspectors, without giving a number. Also Read | 'Up to South to change rules of game': G77+China urges for new global order at Cuba Summit "These inspectors are among the most experienced agency experts with unique knowledge in enrichment technology," the agency said. "With today's decision, Iran has effectively removed about one third of the core group of the Agency's most experienced inspectors designated for Iran." Iran defended its move and accused the United States, Britain, France and Germany of politicising the IAEA watchdog. "Unfortunately, despite Iran's positive, constructive and continuous interaction of the with the agency, the three European countries and the United States abused the (IAEA's) Board of Governors for their own political purposes," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani told state media. "Of course, Iran will continue its positive cooperation within the framework of the agreements that have been made, and emphasise the necessity of the agency's neutrality," he added. WATCH | Libya: Death toll mounts, search ops continue × A Vienna-based diplomat said Iran had de-designated all the French and German members of the IAEA inspection team. There were already no U.S. or British members. "This measure, while formally permitted by the NPT Safeguards Agreement, has been exercised by Iran in a manner that affects in a direct and severe way the ability of the IAEA to conduct effectively its inspections in Iran," the IAEA said. Grossi added: "I call upon the Iranian Government to reconsider its decision and to return to a path of cooperation with the Agency." The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

IAEA chief Grossi condemns Iran's 'unprecedented' barring of inspectors

Mahsa Amini: One year on | Protests around the globe in solidarity | WION Pulse

<p>Iranians both at home and abroad observed the first anniversary of Mahsa Al Amini's death in the custody of country's morality police.&nbsp;Activists expressed concerns about a renewed crackdown aimed at preventing a resurgence of the protests that had shaken major cities the previous year.</p>

<h2><strong>Mahsa Amini's death: What had happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd, died in the custody of country's morality police on September 16, 2023, allegedly for violating the strict dress code for women in place since the 1979 revolution.</p>

<p>Her family contends she died from a head injury in the police custody.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran's protests: Challenge to Ayatollah's authority</strong></h2>

<p>The outrage over Amini's death led to weeks of groundbreaking protests, during which women openly defied the mandatory headscarves, challenging the Islamic republic's government under Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Hundreds of protesters died in the harsh crackdown that followed. Women across the world came out in support of Iranian women, cutting their braids off as a mark of defiance in reverberated moment for women's rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-a-year-after-mahsa-amini-died-at-the-hands-of-irans-morality-police-how-are-iranian-women-faring-635722">Explained | A year after Mahsa Amini's death at the hands of morality police, how are Iranian women faring?</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What happened after protests?</strong></h2>

<p>The protests lost momentum over time due to a harsh crackdown, according to Iran Human Rights, and the arrest of over 22,000 individuals, according to Amnesty International.</p>

<p>Iranian authorities claimed that dozens of security personnel were also killed in what they termed "riots" incited by foreign governments and hostile media.</p>

<p>Seven men were executed after being convicted in connection with the protests.</p>

<h2><b>Mahsa Amini's death: A year on</b></h2>

<p>Activists allege that authorities have intensified their crackdown ahead of the anniversary, pressuring the relatives of those killed in the protests to silence them.</p>

<p>Human Rights Watch reported that family members of at least 36 people killed or executed during the crackdown had faced interrogation, arrest, prosecution, or prison sentences in the past month.</p>

<p>"Iranian authorities are trying to stifle dissent to prevent the public commemoration of Mahsa Jina Amini's death in custody, which has become a symbol of the government's systematic oppression of women, injustice, and impunity," \Tara Sepehri Far, HRW's senior Iran researcher was quoted as saying by the AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Crackdown on journalists</strong></h2>

<p>The two journalists who had played a significant role in highlighting the Amini case, Niloufar Hamedi and Elahe Mohammadi, have been imprisoned for nearly a year. Another reporter, Nazila Maroufian, who interviewed Amini's father, Amjad, has faced repeated arrests.</p>

<h2><b>What is happening to Amini's family?</b></h2>

<p>Amjad Amini, Mahsa's father, announced plans to hold a commemoration for his daughter in their hometown of Saqez in western Iran. However, he was summoned by intelligence officials following the announcement. Although he was not arrested, one of Amini's uncles, Safa Aeli, was detained in Saqez.</p>

<p>Additional security forces were reportedly deployed to Saqez and other western Iranian towns that could potentially become flashpoints.</p>

<p>Despite some women still appearing in public without headscarves, particularly in affluent and traditionally liberal areas of northern Tehran, the conservative-dominated parliament is considering a draft law that would impose harsher penalties for non-compliance.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Did Mahsa Amini death protests have an impact?</strong></p>

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<p>The UN fact-finding mission's chair, Sara Hossain, told AFP:&nbsp;"The Islamic republic is doubling down on repression and reprisals against its citizens and seeking to introduce new and more draconian laws that severely restrict further the rights of women and girls."</p>

<p>Under the slogan "Say her name!", Iranian emigrants were expected to hold commemorative rallies, including significant demonstrations in Paris and Toronto.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Iranians both at home and abroad observed the first anniversary of Mahsa Al Amini's death in the custody of country's morality police. Activists expressed concerns about a renewed crackdown aimed at preventing a resurgence of the protests that had shaken major cities the previous year.

Iranians both at home and abroad observed the first anniversary of Mahsa Al Amini's death in the custody of country's morality police. Activists expressed concerns about a renewed crackdown aimed at preventing a resurgence of the protests that had shaken major cities the previous year. Mahsa Amini's death: What had happened? Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd, died in the custody of country's morality police on September 16, 2023, allegedly for violating the strict dress code for women in place since the 1979 revolution. Her family contends she died from a head injury in the police custody. Iran's protests: Challenge to Ayatollah's authority The outrage over Amini's death led to weeks of groundbreaking protests, during which women openly defied the mandatory headscarves, challenging the Islamic republic's government under Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Hundreds of protesters died in the harsh crackdown that followed. Women across the world came out in support of Iranian women, cutting their braids off as a mark of defiance in reverberated moment for women's rights. Also read | Explained | A year after Mahsa Amini's death at the hands of morality police, how are Iranian women faring? What happened after protests? The protests lost momentum over time due to a harsh crackdown, according to Iran Human Rights, and the arrest of over 22,000 individuals, according to Amnesty International. Iranian authorities claimed that dozens of security personnel were also killed in what they termed "riots" incited by foreign governments and hostile media. Seven men were executed after being convicted in connection with the protests. Mahsa Amini's death: A year on Activists allege that authorities have intensified their crackdown ahead of the anniversary, pressuring the relatives of those killed in the protests to silence them. Human Rights Watch reported that family members of at least 36 people killed or executed during the crackdown had faced interrogation, arrest, prosecution, or prison sentences in the past month. "Iranian authorities are trying to stifle dissent to prevent the public commemoration of Mahsa Jina Amini's death in custody, which has become a symbol of the government's systematic oppression of women, injustice, and impunity," \Tara Sepehri Far, HRW's senior Iran researcher was quoted as saying by the AFP. Crackdown on journalists The two journalists who had played a significant role in highlighting the Amini case, Niloufar Hamedi and Elahe Mohammadi, have been imprisoned for nearly a year. Another reporter, Nazila Maroufian, who interviewed Amini's father, Amjad, has faced repeated arrests. What is happening to Amini's family? Amjad Amini, Mahsa's father, announced plans to hold a commemoration for his daughter in their hometown of Saqez in western Iran. However, he was summoned by intelligence officials following the announcement. Although he was not arrested, one of Amini's uncles, Safa Aeli, was detained in Saqez. Additional security forces were reportedly deployed to Saqez and other western Iranian towns that could potentially become flashpoints. Despite some women still appearing in public without headscarves, particularly in affluent and traditionally liberal areas of northern Tehran, the conservative-dominated parliament is considering a draft law that would impose harsher penalties for non-compliance. Also watch | Did Mahsa Amini death protests have an impact? × The UN fact-finding mission's chair, Sara Hossain, told AFP: "The Islamic republic is doubling down on repression and reprisals against its citizens and seeking to introduce new and more draconian laws that severely restrict further the rights of women and girls." Under the slogan "Say her name!", Iranian emigrants were expected to hold commemorative rallies, including significant demonstrations in Paris and Toronto. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mahsa Amini's death and women's rights in Iran, one year on: Top points

Mahsa Amini death anniversary: Has anything changed after a year?

In Pics | Sweets shop named after Mahsa Amini to honour her memories

Mahsa Amini Death Row: Iran's brutal crackdown continues

<p>Germany, France and Britain will not remove ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on Iran that were set to expire next month&nbsp;under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move is set to infuriate Tehran and put the viability of the deal in jeopardy. The original deal stated that some UN sanctions were supposed to be lifted on October 18, 2023, as part of the sunset clause which would have allowed Iran to import and export ballistic missiles and drones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the three European nations, known as E3, wrote a letter to&nbsp;European Union External Affairs Chief, Josep Borell and said Tehran was in serious breach of the deal - meaning the sanctions could not be lifted.</p>

<p>"In direct response to Iran’s consistent and severe non-compliance with its Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) commitments since 2019, the governments of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom intend to maintain nuclear proliferation-related measures on Iran, as well as arms and missile embargoes, after JCPOA Transition Day on 18 October 2023," a spokesperson for the three countries, known as the E3, said in a statement.</p>

<p>Justifying the decision, the E3 said the agreement signed eight years ago contained mechanisms in case of any&nbsp;dispute about whether one side was in breach of the deal.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran violated the deal: EU</strong></h2>

<p>Borell confirmed he had received the letter from the E3 with the said proposal and transferred it to the other participants of the deal. Borell added that Iran has been in non-compliance since 2019 and the issue had not been resolved through the JCPOA dispute resolution mechanism.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/irans-nuclear-deal-with-west-nuclear-bomb-fears-are-false-excuse-says-ali-khamenei-603387"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Iran's Nuclear deal with West: 'Nuclear bomb fears are false excuse,' says Ali Khamenei</strong></a></p>

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<p>According to a Reuters report, three major reasons cited for keeping the sanctions were:&nbsp;Russia using Iranian drones against Ukraine in the ongoing war; the possibility that Iran might sell&nbsp;ballistic missiles to Russia; and&nbsp;depriving Iran of the nuclear deal's benefits given Tehran has violated the accord, albeit only after the United States did so first.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our commitment to finding a diplomatic solution remains. This decision does not amount to imposing additional sanctions nor to triggering the snapback mechanism. We stand ready to reverse our decision, should Iran fully implement its JCPoA commitments," the E3 said, referring to a mechanism that would immediately restore all UN sanctions against Iran.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Germany, France and Britain will not remove ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on Iran that were set to expire next month under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

Germany, France and Britain will not remove ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on Iran that were set to expire next month under the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The move is set to infuriate Tehran and put the viability of the deal in jeopardy. The original deal stated that some UN sanctions were supposed to be lifted on October 18, 2023, as part of the sunset clause which would have allowed Iran to import and export ballistic missiles and drones. However, the three European nations, known as E3, wrote a letter to European Union External Affairs Chief, Josep Borell and said Tehran was in serious breach of the deal - meaning the sanctions could not be lifted. "In direct response to Iran’s consistent and severe non-compliance with its Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) commitments since 2019, the governments of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom intend to maintain nuclear proliferation-related measures on Iran, as well as arms and missile embargoes, after JCPOA Transition Day on 18 October 2023," a spokesperson for the three countries, known as the E3, said in a statement. Justifying the decision, the E3 said the agreement signed eight years ago contained mechanisms in case of any dispute about whether one side was in breach of the deal. Iran violated the deal: EU Borell confirmed he had received the letter from the E3 with the said proposal and transferred it to the other participants of the deal. Borell added that Iran has been in non-compliance since 2019 and the issue had not been resolved through the JCPOA dispute resolution mechanism. Watch | Iran's Nuclear deal with West: 'Nuclear bomb fears are false excuse,' says Ali Khamenei × According to a Reuters report, three major reasons cited for keeping the sanctions were: Russia using Iranian drones against Ukraine in the ongoing war; the possibility that Iran might sell ballistic missiles to Russia; and depriving Iran of the nuclear deal's benefits given Tehran has violated the accord, albeit only after the United States did so first. "Our commitment to finding a diplomatic solution remains. This decision does not amount to imposing additional sanctions nor to triggering the snapback mechanism. We stand ready to reverse our decision, should Iran fully implement its JCPoA commitments," the E3 said, referring to a mechanism that would immediately restore all UN sanctions against Iran. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany, France and UK refuse to lift sanctions on Iran under JCPOA

A year ago, Iran descended into chaos. A 22-year-old Kurdish woman was killed in custody. She was Mahsa Amini. A name that is now cemented in the history of the Islamic Republic of Iran. What has changed in the last one year? How are things looking like in the Iranian society? Ghadi Francis gets you a report.

Hijab or economy? Iranians make the choice | The West Asia Post

Can Pakistan ever live at peace? Islamabad's ties with every neighbouring country are falling apart. From Afghanistan to Iran to UAE, every neighbouring nation is distancing itself from Islamabad. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Pakistan's ties with every neighbour are falling apart

Israel and Iran used to enjoy good relations but since the Islamic revolution of 1979, Israel and Iran are at a loggerhead. Well in the latest Israel has accused Iran of setting up an airport in southern Lebanon that Iran might use to attack Israel. The accusations were made by the Israeli defense minister in a televised remarks to an International Security conference hosted by a university.

Israel: Iran to use south Lebanon airstrip as launch pad to attack us

After months of negotiations Iran and the US are finally set for a prisoner swap. The swap of five prisoners from each side will take place under the Qatar and Oman mediated deal. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has also confirmed the unfreezing of the Assets in South Korea with six billion dollars.

US-Iran Prisoner Swap: US to maintain oversight of funds released under the deal

Iran, US agreed to release five prisoners each under a deal

Iran-US prisoner swap: Prisoner from both sides to transit through Qatar

<p>Mossad director David Barnea on Sunday, September 10, voiced Israel's apprehensions about Russia's possible sale of advanced weaponry to Iran. The Mossad chief was&nbsp;addressing the annual conference of the Institute for Counter-Terrorism Policy (ICT) held at Reichman University in Herzliya, Israel. Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated significantly, particularly due to their differences over Iran's nuclear programme.</p>

<p>Barnea said that Iran had planned to supply Russia with both short and long-range missiles, in addition to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) used in Russia's invasion of Ukraine. “They have intentions to sell other weapons that will also be foiled. Our fear is that the Russians will transfer advanced weapons to the Iranians in return, which will certainly endanger our peace and maybe even our existence here,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-how-diplomacy-of-modis-bharat-pulled-off-african-unions-inclusion-634443">G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion</a></p>

<p>During his speech, Barnea also disclosed that Mossad and its allies in the international intelligence community successfully prevented 27 attacks targeting Jews and Israelis abroad last year.</p>

<p>“The squads that were captured, the weapons that were seized together with them, all had clear targets,” he said.</p>

<p>Mossad director added that the attempts occurred “all over the world, in Europe, Africa, the Far East, and South America.”</p>

<p>“All this under the direction and guidance of Iran. We are working even at this moment to follow Iranian squads to prevent them from killing Jews and Israelis around the world,” Barnea continued.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A warning to Iran</strong></h2>

<p>Barnea issued a stern warning, saying, “The time has come to exact a price from Iran in a different way. Harming Israelis and Jews in any way, by proxy or Iranian weapons smuggled into Israel, will lead to activity against the Iranians, from the ground operators to the highest ranks, and I mean that. These prices will be exacted in the depths of Iran, even in the heart of Tehran."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Iran's denial and US sanctions</strong></h2>

<p>Iran had previously acknowledged sending drones to Russia but claimed they were sent before Russia's February invasion of Ukraine. Moscow, on the other hand, has denied using Iranian drones in the conflict.</p>

<p>In response to concerns over Iranian-Russian military cooperation and the use of Iranian drones in Ukraine, the United States imposed sanctions targeting suppliers of Iranian drones.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | G20 Summit 2023: How India forged consensus on declaration</strong></p>

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<p>The US has also been urging Iran to cease its sale of armed drones to Russia, which are being employed in the ongoing war in Ukraine. United States has growing apprehensions that Tehran supplying missiles to Moscow could potentially strengthen Russia's military capabilities.</p>

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Mossad director David Barnea on Sunday, September 10, voiced Israel's apprehensions about Russia's possible sale of advanced weaponry to Iran. The Mossad chief was addressing the annual conference of the Institute for Counter-Terrorism Policy (ICT) held at Reichman University in Herzliya, Israel.

Mossad director David Barnea on Sunday, September 10, voiced Israel's apprehensions about Russia's possible sale of advanced weaponry to Iran. The Mossad chief was addressing the annual conference of the Institute for Counter-Terrorism Policy (ICT) held at Reichman University in Herzliya, Israel. Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated significantly, particularly due to their differences over Iran's nuclear programme. Barnea said that Iran had planned to supply Russia with both short and long-range missiles, in addition to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) used in Russia's invasion of Ukraine. “They have intentions to sell other weapons that will also be foiled. Our fear is that the Russians will transfer advanced weapons to the Iranians in return, which will certainly endanger our peace and maybe even our existence here,” he added. Also Read | G20 Summit: How diplomacy of Modi's 'Bharat' pulled off African Union's inclusion During his speech, Barnea also disclosed that Mossad and its allies in the international intelligence community successfully prevented 27 attacks targeting Jews and Israelis abroad last year. “The squads that were captured, the weapons that were seized together with them, all had clear targets,” he said. Mossad director added that the attempts occurred “all over the world, in Europe, Africa, the Far East, and South America.” “All this under the direction and guidance of Iran. We are working even at this moment to follow Iranian squads to prevent them from killing Jews and Israelis around the world,” Barnea continued. A warning to Iran Barnea issued a stern warning, saying, “The time has come to exact a price from Iran in a different way. Harming Israelis and Jews in any way, by proxy or Iranian weapons smuggled into Israel, will lead to activity against the Iranians, from the ground operators to the highest ranks, and I mean that. These prices will be exacted in the depths of Iran, even in the heart of Tehran." Iran's denial and US sanctions Iran had previously acknowledged sending drones to Russia but claimed they were sent before Russia's February invasion of Ukraine. Moscow, on the other hand, has denied using Iranian drones in the conflict. In response to concerns over Iranian-Russian military cooperation and the use of Iranian drones in Ukraine, the United States imposed sanctions targeting suppliers of Iranian drones. Watch | G20 Summit 2023: How India forged consensus on declaration × The US has also been urging Iran to cease its sale of armed drones to Russia, which are being employed in the ongoing war in Ukraine. United States has growing apprehensions that Tehran supplying missiles to Moscow could potentially strengthen Russia's military capabilities. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'It will endanger our existence': Mossad chief says Russia may sell advanced weaponry to Iran

<p>An Iranian journalist who interviewed the father of Mahsa Amini has alleged that she was sexually assaulted when she was arrested. According to an audio message, she is on a hunger strike in prison. The audio message was published by several Persian media outlets and also by rights groups.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since she published an interview with Amjad Amini, the father of Mahsa Amini, journalist Nazila Maroufian (23) has been targeted by Iranian authorities.</p>

<p>Rights groups have alleged that authorities in Iran have stepped up an already intense crackdown to prevent a fresh wave of protests as one-year anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death draws nearer.</p>

<p>Mahsa Amini died in custody of Iran's morality police last September. She was taken into custody over her 'inappropriate' attire. Her custodial death sparked nationwide protests in Iran and people even called for the downfall of the clerical regime in the country.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iran: Mahsa Amini's uncle arrested ahead of protest anniversary</strong></p>

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<p>Maroufian, who rights groups say has now been arrested four times in recent months, was most recently detained in Tehran on August 30.</p>

<p>"I was sexually assaulted in a situation where I was in the worst possible state," she said in the audio message from Tehran's Evin prison published by media outside Iran, including Iran International and Radio Farda as well as the Kurdistan Human Rights Network (KHRN) and Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI).</p>

<p>Maroufian hails from Amini's hometown of Saqez which is in Kurdish-populated western Iran. She said in the message that she was on hunger strike to protest against her own situation and also that of all women who are subjected to violence in police stations and prisons.</p>

<p>"This strike is for me but is also for all the women in dire conditions in Iran," she said in her message, which appeared to have been recorded during a phone call to her family, who also shared pictures of bruises she allegedly sustained in the assault.</p>

<p>Media reports earlier this week said Maroufian had been jailed for one year on charges of "spreading propaganda" against the Islamic system in the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-detains-mahsa-aminis-uncle-activists-fear-rising-crackdown-ahead-of-death-anniversary-632658">Iran detains Mahsa Amini's uncle, activists fear rising crackdown ahead of death anniversary</a></strong></p>

<p>After her previous releases from custody, Maroufian appeared defiant and posted her own pictures without a headscarf to protest against the strict dress code for women.</p>

<p>Iran has reacted harshly to reporting inside the country on the Amini case.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An Iranian journalist who interviewed the father of Mahsa Amini has alleged that she was sexually assaulted when she was arrested. According to an audio message, she is on a hunger strike in prison.

An Iranian journalist who interviewed the father of Mahsa Amini has alleged that she was sexually assaulted when she was arrested. According to an audio message, she is on a hunger strike in prison. The audio message was published by several Persian media outlets and also by rights groups. Since she published an interview with Amjad Amini, the father of Mahsa Amini, journalist Nazila Maroufian (23) has been targeted by Iranian authorities. Rights groups have alleged that authorities in Iran have stepped up an already intense crackdown to prevent a fresh wave of protests as one-year anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death draws nearer. Mahsa Amini died in custody of Iran's morality police last September. She was taken into custody over her 'inappropriate' attire. Her custodial death sparked nationwide protests in Iran and people even called for the downfall of the clerical regime in the country. Watch | Iran: Mahsa Amini's uncle arrested ahead of protest anniversary × Maroufian, who rights groups say has now been arrested four times in recent months, was most recently detained in Tehran on August 30. "I was sexually assaulted in a situation where I was in the worst possible state," she said in the audio message from Tehran's Evin prison published by media outside Iran, including Iran International and Radio Farda as well as the Kurdistan Human Rights Network (KHRN) and Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI). Maroufian hails from Amini's hometown of Saqez which is in Kurdish-populated western Iran. She said in the message that she was on hunger strike to protest against her own situation and also that of all women who are subjected to violence in police stations and prisons. "This strike is for me but is also for all the women in dire conditions in Iran," she said in her message, which appeared to have been recorded during a phone call to her family, who also shared pictures of bruises she allegedly sustained in the assault. Media reports earlier this week said Maroufian had been jailed for one year on charges of "spreading propaganda" against the Islamic system in the country. Also Read | Iran detains Mahsa Amini's uncle, activists fear rising crackdown ahead of death anniversary After her previous releases from custody, Maroufian appeared defiant and posted her own pictures without a headscarf to protest against the strict dress code for women. Iran has reacted harshly to reporting inside the country on the Amini case. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran journalist alleges sexual assault during arrest

In advance of the anniversary of Amini's passing, Iranian authorities have stepped up their persecution of activists and protester family members. A little more than a week before the anniversary of Mahsa Amini's murder by Tehran's "morality police," Safa Aeli, Amini's uncle, was detained on Tuesday.

Iran: Mahsa Amini's uncle arrested ahead of protest anniversary

<p>Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Monday (September 5) hailed African countries for what he called their resistance to "colonialism". His&nbsp;words came during a visit by Burkina Faso's foreign minister.</p>

<p>African countries like Burkina Faso and Mali are currently being ruled by military juntas that have severed military ties with France, a former colonial power in the continent. The countries have bolstered ties with Russia.</p>

<p>Niger, where a military junta seized power in July, has been the scene of mass protests calling for troops of former colonial ruler France to leave.</p>

<p>Raisi on Monday, "praised the resistance of African countries in the face of colonialism and terrorism" during a meeting with Burkina Faso's Foreign Minister Olivia Rouamba, without specifically mentioning France.</p>

<p>He hailed the stance taken by the countries as a "sign of vigilance and awakening", said a statement published on the Iranian presidency's website.</p>

<p>Burkina Faso underwent two military coups in 2022 and the ruling junta subsequently demanded that French troops withdraw from the country.</p>

<p>As he met Rouamba, Raisi expressed that Iran was willing to "share its experiences and achievements with friendly African countries".</p>

<p>Rouamba, in turn, expressed interest in strengthening relations with Iran, according to the statement from the Iranian presidency.</p>

<p>Iran has been boosting ties with countries across the African continent in order to reduce its isolation and to offset the effects of crippling sanctions reimposed on it since the 2018 withdrawal of the US from the nuclear deal with Iran, a painstakingly negotiated accord.</p>

<p>The deal was struck by the US and other world powers, including Russia, with Iran that put limits on its nuclear programme in exchange for relief from sanctions. The deal was struck during former US president Barack Obama's tenure. His successor Donald Trump took the US out of the deal, reimposing the sanctions. The talks to restore the nuclear deal haven't made considerable progress.</p>

<p>In July, Raisi set out on a rare Africa tour that took him to Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.</p>

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Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Monday (September 5) hailed African countries for what he called their resistance to "colonialism". His words came during a visit by Burkina Faso's foreign minister.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Monday (September 5) hailed African countries for what he called their resistance to "colonialism". His words came during a visit by Burkina Faso's foreign minister. African countries like Burkina Faso and Mali are currently being ruled by military juntas that have severed military ties with France, a former colonial power in the continent. The countries have bolstered ties with Russia. Niger, where a military junta seized power in July, has been the scene of mass protests calling for troops of former colonial ruler France to leave. Raisi on Monday, "praised the resistance of African countries in the face of colonialism and terrorism" during a meeting with Burkina Faso's Foreign Minister Olivia Rouamba, without specifically mentioning France. He hailed the stance taken by the countries as a "sign of vigilance and awakening", said a statement published on the Iranian presidency's website. Burkina Faso underwent two military coups in 2022 and the ruling junta subsequently demanded that French troops withdraw from the country. As he met Rouamba, Raisi expressed that Iran was willing to "share its experiences and achievements with friendly African countries". Rouamba, in turn, expressed interest in strengthening relations with Iran, according to the statement from the Iranian presidency. Iran has been boosting ties with countries across the African continent in order to reduce its isolation and to offset the effects of crippling sanctions reimposed on it since the 2018 withdrawal of the US from the nuclear deal with Iran, a painstakingly negotiated accord. The deal was struck by the US and other world powers, including Russia, with Iran that put limits on its nuclear programme in exchange for relief from sanctions. The deal was struck during former US president Barack Obama's tenure. His successor Donald Trump took the US out of the deal, reimposing the sanctions. The talks to restore the nuclear deal haven't made considerable progress. In July, Raisi set out on a rare Africa tour that took him to Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran hails African countries for their resistance to 'colonialism'

<p>A water park was shut down in Iran after it was reported that it allowed women to visit the place without the mandatory headscarf, reported local media on Monday (September 4).<br />
<br />
The closure of the water park is part of the increased measures adopted by the government authorities in the past few months against businesses and women who are not abiding by the strict dress code of the Islamic Republic.<br />
<br />
"The Mojhaye Khoroushan water park has been closed" since Sunday evening, complex manager Mohammad Babaei was quoted by Fars news agency as saying. Babaei stated that the closure of the park was ordered by the authorities because people were "ignoring chastity and hijab" rules.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-hails-african-countries-for-their-resistance-to-colonialism-632394">Iran hails African countries for their resistance to 'colonialism'</a></p>

<h2><strong>Park 'adhered to the laws'</strong></h2>

<p>Since 1983, after the 1979 Islamic revolution, women in Iran have had to compulsorily cover the head and the neck. Babaei stated that the park has "adhered to the law" and added that the female visitors were regularly warned to respect the hijab rules.<br />
<br />
Speaking to Fars, Babaei said around 1,000 people, who were employed at the park, are now fearful of losing their jobs. The Mojhaye Khoroushan complex, which is spread in 60,000 square metres, is one of the world's largest indoor water parks.<br />
<br />
It is located on the outskirts of the northeastern holy city of Mashhad where the eighth Imam of Shiite Islam's shrine is located. The dress code has been increasingly flouted by the women in Iran after mass protests were triggered by the death of a 22-year-old woman Mahsa Amini while in police custody, on September 16 last year.<br />
<br />
Amini, an Iranian Kurd, was arrested and kept in police custody for allegedly not following the dress rules. To enforce the ban in the last few months, the authorities have been closing down the businesses that do not adhere to the rules, and have also installed cameras in public places to monitor violations.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Nobel Foundation cancels Russia, Belarus, Iran invites to annual prize awards</strong></p>

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<p>The state media in July reported that increased police patrols were aimed at catching those ignoring the law.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, UN rights experts have stated that the draft law, which includes new penalties for women who are seen without a headscarf in public, can amount to "gender apartheid".<br />
<br />
The government and the judiciary proposed a "Support for the Culture of Hijab and Chastity" bill in May, appealing tougher penalties for non-compliance. This increases fines and includes other penalties like temporary confiscation of a woman's vehicle.<br />
<br />
"The draft law could be described as a form of gender apartheid. The authorities appear to be governing through systemic discrimination with the intention of suppressing women and girls into total submission,” said eight UN rights experts&nbsp;in a statement.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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A water park was shut down in Iran after it was reported that it allowed women to visit the place without the mandatory headscarf, reported local media on Monday (September 4).

A water park was shut down in Iran after it was reported that it allowed women to visit the place without the mandatory headscarf, reported local media on Monday (September 4). The closure of the water park is part of the increased measures adopted by the government authorities in the past few months against businesses and women who are not abiding by the strict dress code of the Islamic Republic. "The Mojhaye Khoroushan water park has been closed" since Sunday evening, complex manager Mohammad Babaei was quoted by Fars news agency as saying. Babaei stated that the closure of the park was ordered by the authorities because people were "ignoring chastity and hijab" rules. ALSO READ | Iran hails African countries for their resistance to 'colonialism' Park 'adhered to the laws' Since 1983, after the 1979 Islamic revolution, women in Iran have had to compulsorily cover the head and the neck. Babaei stated that the park has "adhered to the law" and added that the female visitors were regularly warned to respect the hijab rules. Speaking to Fars, Babaei said around 1,000 people, who were employed at the park, are now fearful of losing their jobs. The Mojhaye Khoroushan complex, which is spread in 60,000 square metres, is one of the world's largest indoor water parks. It is located on the outskirts of the northeastern holy city of Mashhad where the eighth Imam of Shiite Islam's shrine is located. The dress code has been increasingly flouted by the women in Iran after mass protests were triggered by the death of a 22-year-old woman Mahsa Amini while in police custody, on September 16 last year. Amini, an Iranian Kurd, was arrested and kept in police custody for allegedly not following the dress rules. To enforce the ban in the last few months, the authorities have been closing down the businesses that do not adhere to the rules, and have also installed cameras in public places to monitor violations. WATCH | Nobel Foundation cancels Russia, Belarus, Iran invites to annual prize awards The state media in July reported that increased police patrols were aimed at catching those ignoring the law. Meanwhile, UN rights experts have stated that the draft law, which includes new penalties for women who are seen without a headscarf in public, can amount to "gender apartheid". The government and the judiciary proposed a "Support for the Culture of Hijab and Chastity" bill in May, appealing tougher penalties for non-compliance. This increases fines and includes other penalties like temporary confiscation of a woman's vehicle. "The draft law could be described as a form of gender apartheid. The authorities appear to be governing through systemic discrimination with the intention of suppressing women and girls into total submission,” said eight UN rights experts in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran shuts down water park over violation of hijab law: Media

<p>Iranian authorities arrested Safa Aeli, the uncle of Mahsa Amini, a young Iranian Kurdish woman whose death while in custody led to widespread protests,&nbsp; reports said on Tuesday (September 5). This arrest comes just days ahead of the first anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death on September 16. Amini died in police custody last September after being held by the country's morality police for allegedly violating the dress code. Her death sparked months of protests in the country and several other places across the world.</p>

<p>The 30-year-old Safa Aeli was apprehended by security forces in Saqez, the family's hometown in western Iran.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-bank-israeli-forces-kill-islamic-jihad-gunman-wound-palestinian-632569">West Bank: Israeli forces kill Islamic Jihad gunman, wound Palestinian</a></p>

<p>He was then taken to an undisclosed location. Multiple reports citing the Kurdish-focused Hengaw rights group, the France-based Kurdistan Human Rights Network, and the 1500tasvir protest monitor, confirmed the arrest.</p>

<h2><strong>Forcible entry&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports quoting Hengaw, Iranian authorities deployed a convoy consisting of five vehicles filled with security forces personnel to forcibly enter Aeli's residence. They made the move without providing any legal documentation to justify their actions.</p>

<h2><strong>Increased surveillance in Saqez</strong></h2>

<p>Reports from media outlets outside Iran have highlighted increased surveillance measures in Saqez ahead of the anniversary. These measures include warnings to hotels not to accommodate outsiders and the installation of new security cameras, including around Mahsa Amini's grave.</p>

<h2><strong>Crackdown preceding anniversary</strong></h2>

<p>The arrest of Mahsa Amini's uncle coincides with accusations from activists that the Iranian government has intensified its crackdown in anticipation of the September 16 anniversary of her death. Mahsa Amini, aged 22, had been arrested several days prior for allegedly violating strict dress regulations for women.</p>

<h2><strong>Human rights concerns</strong></h2>

<p>The protests following Amini's death became a challenge for Iran's Islamic authorities. However, the nation-wide protests have since subsided amid a severe crackdown. Rights groups reported hundreds of deaths and the UN documented thousands of arrests.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-largest-ever-wildfires-greece-witnesses-heavy-rains-and-flooding-one-dead-632590">After ‘largest ever’ wildfires, Greece witnesses heavy rains and flooding; one dead</a></p>

<p>Campaign groups, including Amnesty International, have alleged that Iran is arresting and interrogating family members of protest victims to silence them and prevent further demonstrations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says Russian drone hit NATO member Romania</strong></p>

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<p>Among those arrested in recent weeks is Mashallah Karami, the father of Mohammad Mehdi Karami, aged 22, one of seven men executed in connection with the protests.</p>

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Iranian authorities arrested Safa Aeli, the uncle of Mahsa Amini, a young Iranian Kurdish woman whose death while in custody led to widespread protests, reports said on Tuesday (September 5).

Iranian authorities arrested Safa Aeli, the uncle of Mahsa Amini, a young Iranian Kurdish woman whose death while in custody led to widespread protests, reports said on Tuesday (September 5). This arrest comes just days ahead of the first anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death on September 16. Amini died in police custody last September after being held by the country's morality police for allegedly violating the dress code. Her death sparked months of protests in the country and several other places across the world. The 30-year-old Safa Aeli was apprehended by security forces in Saqez, the family's hometown in western Iran. Also Read | West Bank: Israeli forces kill Islamic Jihad gunman, wound Palestinian He was then taken to an undisclosed location. Multiple reports citing the Kurdish-focused Hengaw rights group, the France-based Kurdistan Human Rights Network, and the 1500tasvir protest monitor, confirmed the arrest. Forcible entry According to reports quoting Hengaw, Iranian authorities deployed a convoy consisting of five vehicles filled with security forces personnel to forcibly enter Aeli's residence. They made the move without providing any legal documentation to justify their actions. Increased surveillance in Saqez Reports from media outlets outside Iran have highlighted increased surveillance measures in Saqez ahead of the anniversary. These measures include warnings to hotels not to accommodate outsiders and the installation of new security cameras, including around Mahsa Amini's grave. Crackdown preceding anniversary The arrest of Mahsa Amini's uncle coincides with accusations from activists that the Iranian government has intensified its crackdown in anticipation of the September 16 anniversary of her death. Mahsa Amini, aged 22, had been arrested several days prior for allegedly violating strict dress regulations for women. Human rights concerns The protests following Amini's death became a challenge for Iran's Islamic authorities. However, the nation-wide protests have since subsided amid a severe crackdown. Rights groups reported hundreds of deaths and the UN documented thousands of arrests. Also Read | After ‘largest ever’ wildfires, Greece witnesses heavy rains and flooding; one dead Campaign groups, including Amnesty International, have alleged that Iran is arresting and interrogating family members of protest victims to silence them and prevent further demonstrations. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine says Russian drone hit NATO member Romania × Among those arrested in recent weeks is Mashallah Karami, the father of Mohammad Mehdi Karami, aged 22, one of seven men executed in connection with the protests. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Iran detains Mahsa Amini's uncle, activists fear rising crackdown ahead of death anniversary

The European Union has confirmed that a Swedish diplomat working with EU has been held captive in Iran for more than 500 days. Now the EU's Foreign Policy Chief Joseph Burell has said that officials are doing everything for his release.

EU official from Sweden imprisoned in Iran for over 500 days

<p>The top diplomat representing the European Union confirmed on Tuesday (September 5)&nbsp;that Johan Floderus, a Swedish diplomat employed by the EU, has been held in captivity in Iran for more than 500 days.</p>

<p>EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, speaking to reporters during a meeting in Cadiz, Spain, asserted that Brussels was exerting continuous efforts to secure the release of the 33-year-old individual, reported AFP.</p>

<p>The previous day, Sweden had partially corroborated a report by The New York Times regarding the detention, disclosing that a Swedish citizen in his thirties had been held in Iran since April 2022. However, Borrell provided further details by confirming the detainee's identity and his affiliation with the EU diplomatic service.</p>

<p>Borrell stated, "I would like to address a specific case, if you permit me, the situation of Mr. Floderus. He is a Swedish national who was employed by the European Union and has been unlawfully detained in Iran for the past 500 days." He emphasised that he, along with his team at all levels, the European institutions, and in close coordination with the Swedish authorities, had been actively urging the Iranian authorities to release&nbsp;Floderus.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/maker-of-weight-loss-drug-wegovy-is-now-europes-most-valuable-firm-632477">Maker of weight-loss drug Wegovy is now Europe's most valuable firm</a></p>

<p>"At every diplomatic encounter, across all levels, we have raised this issue persistently. We have been tirelessly working towards securing Mr. Floderus's freedom, and we will continue to do so while maintaining close communication with his family, respecting their wishes, and collaborating with the Swedish government," he affirmed.</p>

<p>"This matter is of utmost importance to us, and we will not cease our efforts until Mr. Floderus is freed."</p>

<p>Iran had announced in July of the previous year that it had apprehended an individual on suspicion of espionage, just two weeks after a Swedish court sentenced an Iranian citizen to life imprisonment for his involvement in the 1988 mass executions of thousands of Iranian regime opponents. A Stockholm court had found Hamid Noury, a former Iranian prison chief, guilty of "aggravated crimes against international law" and "murder."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WTO chief accuses Western nations of protectionism</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Accusations of 'hostage diplomacy'</strong></h2>

<p>Several countries have accused Iran of engaging in "hostage diplomacy," detaining Western nationals as a means to obtain concessions, including the release of incarcerated Iranians. In May, Belgian humanitarian worker Olivier Vandecasteele, aged 42, was released after 15 months in detention on alleged espionage charges, as part of a prisoner exchange for Iranian diplomat Assadollah Assadi, who had been sentenced to 20 years for plotting to bomb an opposition rally in Paris.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The top diplomat representing the European Union confirmed on Tuesday (September 5) that Johan Floderus, a Swedish diplomat employed by the EU, has been held in captivity in Iran for more than 500 days.

The top diplomat representing the European Union confirmed on Tuesday (September 5) that Johan Floderus, a Swedish diplomat employed by the EU, has been held in captivity in Iran for more than 500 days. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, speaking to reporters during a meeting in Cadiz, Spain, asserted that Brussels was exerting continuous efforts to secure the release of the 33-year-old individual, reported AFP. The previous day, Sweden had partially corroborated a report by The New York Times regarding the detention, disclosing that a Swedish citizen in his thirties had been held in Iran since April 2022. However, Borrell provided further details by confirming the detainee's identity and his affiliation with the EU diplomatic service. Borrell stated, "I would like to address a specific case, if you permit me, the situation of Mr. Floderus. He is a Swedish national who was employed by the European Union and has been unlawfully detained in Iran for the past 500 days." He emphasised that he, along with his team at all levels, the European institutions, and in close coordination with the Swedish authorities, had been actively urging the Iranian authorities to release Floderus. Also read | Maker of weight-loss drug Wegovy is now Europe's most valuable firm "At every diplomatic encounter, across all levels, we have raised this issue persistently. We have been tirelessly working towards securing Mr. Floderus's freedom, and we will continue to do so while maintaining close communication with his family, respecting their wishes, and collaborating with the Swedish government," he affirmed. "This matter is of utmost importance to us, and we will not cease our efforts until Mr. Floderus is freed." Iran had announced in July of the previous year that it had apprehended an individual on suspicion of espionage, just two weeks after a Swedish court sentenced an Iranian citizen to life imprisonment for his involvement in the 1988 mass executions of thousands of Iranian regime opponents. A Stockholm court had found Hamid Noury, a former Iranian prison chief, guilty of "aggravated crimes against international law" and "murder." Also watch | WTO chief accuses Western nations of protectionism Accusations of 'hostage diplomacy' Several countries have accused Iran of engaging in "hostage diplomacy," detaining Western nationals as a means to obtain concessions, including the release of incarcerated Iranians. In May, Belgian humanitarian worker Olivier Vandecasteele, aged 42, was released after 15 months in detention on alleged espionage charges, as part of a prisoner exchange for Iranian diplomat Assadollah Assadi, who had been sentenced to 20 years for plotting to bomb an opposition rally in Paris. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Swedish EU diplomat detained In Iran for over 500 days, Borrell confirms

<p>Two women journalists in Iran have been sentenced to prison and will spend around a month in jail as part of a three-year partly suspended lockup sentence over "conspiracy" and "collusion", said the local media reports on Sunday (September 3).</p>

<p>Negin Bagheri and Elnaz Mohammadi's lawyer Amir Raisian told the reformist Ham Mihan daily newspaper, where Mohammadi works, that both the women will serve one-fortieth of the term, or less than a month, in jail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The remaining period is suspended over five years," during which time they will be required to take "professional ethics training" and "prohibited from leaving the country," the lawyer added.</p>

<p>Raisian did not share details on whether the verdict could be appealed, also the accusations levelled against the reporters were not elaborated upon.</p>

<h2><strong>Mohammadi's sister in prison since 2022</strong></h2>

<p>As per news agency AFP reports, Mohammadi's sister, Elahe, who also works for Ham Mihan newspaper, has been in prison since September 2022 after reporting on the funeral of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died in police custody.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-at-least-four-killed-after-clashes-between-ethnic-groups-in-kirkuk-over-a-dozen-injured-631969">Iraq: At least four killed, over a dozen injured after clashes between ethnic groups in Kirkuk</a></p>

<p>Amini, an Iranian Kurd, died on September 16, 2022, after she was arrested for an alleged violation of the Islamic Republic's dress code. Her death triggered nationwide demonstrations.</p>

<p>Foreign-based rights groups have reported several arrests ahead of the anniversary of Amini's death.</p>

<p>Bagheri works for the unaffiliated Haft-e Sobh newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Elnaz Mohammadi was arrested and kept in Evin prison for a week in the month of February. The reason for her detention was not clear.</p>

<p>Last year, hundreds of people were killed, dozens of security officers were wounded and many were arrested in the protests, which the officials labelled as foreign-instigated "riots".</p>

<p>Seven men have been executed in protest-related cases involving killings and other violence against security forces.</p>

<p>As per local media reports, last month, the authorities in Iran either interrogated or arrested more than 90 journalists since the demonstrations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An Iranian news agency on Wednesday (August 30) reported that journalist Nazila Maroufian, who defied Iran's strict dress code and was freed on bail earlier in August, has been rearrested for not wearing the headscarf in public.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Two women journalists in Iran have been sentenced to prison and will spend around a month in jail as part of a three-year partly suspended lockup sentence over "conspiracy" and "collusion", said the local media reports on Sunday (September 3).

Two women journalists in Iran have been sentenced to prison and will spend around a month in jail as part of a three-year partly suspended lockup sentence over "conspiracy" and "collusion", said the local media reports on Sunday (September 3). Negin Bagheri and Elnaz Mohammadi's lawyer Amir Raisian told the reformist Ham Mihan daily newspaper, where Mohammadi works, that both the women will serve one-fortieth of the term, or less than a month, in jail. "The remaining period is suspended over five years," during which time they will be required to take "professional ethics training" and "prohibited from leaving the country," the lawyer added. Raisian did not share details on whether the verdict could be appealed, also the accusations levelled against the reporters were not elaborated upon. Mohammadi's sister in prison since 2022 As per news agency AFP reports, Mohammadi's sister, Elahe, who also works for Ham Mihan newspaper, has been in prison since September 2022 after reporting on the funeral of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died in police custody. Also read: Iraq: At least four killed, over a dozen injured after clashes between ethnic groups in Kirkuk Amini, an Iranian Kurd, died on September 16, 2022, after she was arrested for an alleged violation of the Islamic Republic's dress code. Her death triggered nationwide demonstrations. Foreign-based rights groups have reported several arrests ahead of the anniversary of Amini's death. Bagheri works for the unaffiliated Haft-e Sobh newspaper. Elnaz Mohammadi was arrested and kept in Evin prison for a week in the month of February. The reason for her detention was not clear. Last year, hundreds of people were killed, dozens of security officers were wounded and many were arrested in the protests, which the officials labelled as foreign-instigated "riots". Seven men have been executed in protest-related cases involving killings and other violence against security forces. As per local media reports, last month, the authorities in Iran either interrogated or arrested more than 90 journalists since the demonstrations. An Iranian news agency on Wednesday (August 30) reported that journalist Nazila Maroufian, who defied Iran's strict dress code and was freed on bail earlier in August, has been rearrested for not wearing the headscarf in public. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran: Two female journalists sentenced to prison over 'conspiracy and collusion'

<p>A collision between two minibuses in northern Iraq claimed the lives of at least 18 people, medical officials said on Saturday (September 2). The deceased pilgrims were mostly Iranian &nbsp;</p>

<p>The "horrible accident" occurred between Dujail and Samarra, state news agency INA said, citing Khaled Burhan, director of health services in Salaheddin province.</p>

<p>The minibuses crashed into each other before midnight on Friday (August 31) killing 18 people and wounding 15, the news agency AFP reported citing a medical official in Salaheddin.</p>

<p>As per reports, the same source, citing accounts of witnesses revealed that one of the drivers was believed to have fallen asleep during the drive.</p>

<p>Both the drivers also lost their lives in the incident, said an official from the area's traffic authority.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>One minibus veered into opposite lane: Official</strong></h2>

<p>An official said that one of the minibuses had zagged into the opposite lane.</p>

<p>Initially, INA had reported a death toll of 16 and a number of injured as 13 and said that the ones killed in the incident were Shiite Muslim pilgrims from neighbouring Iran.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-100-injured-after-eritreans-protesters-and-counter-protesters-clash-with-israel-police-631847">More than 100 injured after Eritrean protesters clash with Israeli police in Tel Aviv</a></p>

<p>As per health officials, last year, on September 11, 11 Iranian Shiite pilgrims and their Iraqi driver lost their lives when their minibus crashed into a truck in Babil province, south of Baghdad.</p>

<p>Millions of Shiite pilgrims, many of them from Iran, each year travel to the holy shrine city of Karbala for Arbaeen, which is one of the world's biggest religious gatherings.</p>

<p>Arbaeen marks the end of the 40-day mourning period for the killing of Imam Hussein, a founding figure in Shiite Islam and grandson of the Prophet Mohammed, by the forces of the caliph Yazid in 680 AD.</p>

<p>As per the figures issued by Iraq's interior ministry on Friday, more than 2.6 million pilgrims have flown into Iraq or crossed its land borders since Arbaeen began this year.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A collision between two minibuses in northern Iraq claimed the lives of at least 18 people, medical officials said on Saturday (September 2). The deceased pilgrims were mostly Iranian The "horrible accident" occurred between Dujail and Samarra, state news agency INA said, citing Khaled Burhan, director of health services in Salaheddin province.

A collision between two minibuses in northern Iraq claimed the lives of at least 18 people, medical officials said on Saturday (September 2). The deceased pilgrims were mostly Iranian The "horrible accident" occurred between Dujail and Samarra, state news agency INA said, citing Khaled Burhan, director of health services in Salaheddin province. The minibuses crashed into each other before midnight on Friday (August 31) killing 18 people and wounding 15, the news agency AFP reported citing a medical official in Salaheddin. As per reports, the same source, citing accounts of witnesses revealed that one of the drivers was believed to have fallen asleep during the drive. Both the drivers also lost their lives in the incident, said an official from the area's traffic authority. One minibus veered into opposite lane: Official An official said that one of the minibuses had zagged into the opposite lane. Initially, INA had reported a death toll of 16 and a number of injured as 13 and said that the ones killed in the incident were Shiite Muslim pilgrims from neighbouring Iran. Also read: More than 100 injured after Eritrean protesters clash with Israeli police in Tel Aviv As per health officials, last year, on September 11, 11 Iranian Shiite pilgrims and their Iraqi driver lost their lives when their minibus crashed into a truck in Babil province, south of Baghdad. Millions of Shiite pilgrims, many of them from Iran, each year travel to the holy shrine city of Karbala for Arbaeen, which is one of the world's biggest religious gatherings. Arbaeen marks the end of the 40-day mourning period for the killing of Imam Hussein, a founding figure in Shiite Islam and grandson of the Prophet Mohammed, by the forces of the caliph Yazid in 680 AD. As per the figures issued by Iraq's interior ministry on Friday, more than 2.6 million pilgrims have flown into Iraq or crossed its land borders since Arbaeen began this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iraq road accident during religious gathering claims lives of 18 pilgrims

In order to disarm and evacuate Kurdish fighters in northern Iraq, Iran claims to have achieved a deal with Iraq. By September 19, the central Iraqi government has promised to disarm "terrorist, secessionist groups" in the Kurdish region of northern Iraq, according to Nasser Kanani, a spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Iran-Iraq Border Clash: Kurdish rebels mount trouble for Iran

Iran's foreign minister who is on a visit to Syria addressed a press conference with a Syrian counterpart in Damascus on Wednesday. During the Press event, he slammed the recent United States delegation that visited the Rebel Health territory in Northwestern Syria.

Iranian foreign minister condemns Israeli strike on Syrian airport

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