In response to a shooting that left over a dozen people dead at a venerated shrine in the southern city of Shiraz last year, Iran hung two men in broad daylight on Saturday, according to the judiciary.

Iran publicly executes two accused in holy shrine attack last year

Tensions between US and Iran are on the rise in the Gulf. The US has said that Iran has seized a commercial ship in the transit. This comes just a day after Washington claimed that it has thwarted similar attempts by Tehran on two commercial ships.

US says Iran seized ship in Gulf waters, Navy refrains from interference

New sanctions regime for Iran, this will give UK more power to target decision makers. This includes individuals involved in weapons production and threats against Britons.

UK sends a clear message to Iran, expands its powers to sanction latter

<p>The US Navy said that Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized a commercial ship in the Gulf, media reports said. This incident occurred just a day after the US accused Iranian forces of two similar attempts off Oman.</p>

<p>Such incidents have become more frequent since 2018, when former US President Donald Trump withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal and imposed severe sanctions on Iran, leading to heightened tensions. While talks to revive the accord have resumed with Oman's mediation, the progress has been slow.</p>

<p>The Fifth Fleet of the US Navy, based in Bahrain, stated that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had "forcibly" taken control of a commercial vessel suspected of being involved in smuggling activities. The US forces monitored the situation in international waters but decided that no further action was necessary.</p>

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<p>The statement released by the US Navy did not provide details about the specific commercial ship involved.</p>

<p>However, it emphasised that US forces are committed to safeguarding the rights of lawful maritime traffic in the crucial waters of the Middle East.</p>

<p>In recent years, both Washington and Tehran have exchanged accusations regarding a series of incidents in the tense Gulf region, which plays a significant role in global oil trade.</p>

<h2><strong>Previous attempts&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A day before, the US Navy said that it had prevented two attempts by the Iranian navy to seize commercial tankers in international waters near Oman.</p>

<p>In one instance, the Iranians even fired shots. However, in both cases, the presence of a US destroyer prompted the Iranians to retreat.</p>

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<p>According to Iran's maritime services, one of the tankers involved, the Bahamian-flagged Richmond Voyager, had collided with an Iranian vessel, resulting in serious injuries to five crew members and causing damage and flooding on the Iranian ship.</p>

<p>Iran claimed that the Richmond Voyager had disregarded international maritime regulations and continued its course, and as a result, a court order was issued for Iran's navy to seize the tanker.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian expert claims the US is working on weaponising asteroids against enemies</strong></p>

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<p>The tanker altered its route before entering Oman's territorial waters, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Iran's actions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Iran reported the last incident to Oman, which it considers a friendly country and a mediator between Iran and the United States. Iran requested the seizure of the vessel.</p>

<p>It is worth noting that Iran had previously seized two tankers within a week in regional waters during April and early May.</p>

<p>In one of those incidents, Iranian navy commandos descended onto the deck of an oil tanker flying the Marshall Islands flag, the Advantage Sweet, in the Gulf of Oman.</p>

<p>Furthermore, Iran faced accusations of launching a drone attack against an Israeli-owned tanker in November 2022, which further escalated tensions with the United States.</p>

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The US Navy said that Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized a commercial ship in the Gulf, media reports said. This incident occurred just a day after the US accused Iranian forces of two similar attempts off Oman.

The US Navy said that Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized a commercial ship in the Gulf, media reports said. This incident occurred just a day after the US accused Iranian forces of two similar attempts off Oman. Such incidents have become more frequent since 2018, when former US President Donald Trump withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal and imposed severe sanctions on Iran, leading to heightened tensions. While talks to revive the accord have resumed with Oman's mediation, the progress has been slow. The Fifth Fleet of the US Navy, based in Bahrain, stated that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had "forcibly" taken control of a commercial vessel suspected of being involved in smuggling activities. The US forces monitored the situation in international waters but decided that no further action was necessary. Also Read | US: Man found guilty of raping, impregnating 9-year-old girl gets life sentence The statement released by the US Navy did not provide details about the specific commercial ship involved. However, it emphasised that US forces are committed to safeguarding the rights of lawful maritime traffic in the crucial waters of the Middle East. In recent years, both Washington and Tehran have exchanged accusations regarding a series of incidents in the tense Gulf region, which plays a significant role in global oil trade. Previous attempts A day before, the US Navy said that it had prevented two attempts by the Iranian navy to seize commercial tankers in international waters near Oman. In one instance, the Iranians even fired shots. However, in both cases, the presence of a US destroyer prompted the Iranians to retreat. Also Read | Hong Kong police arrest four men for allegedly aiding overseas activists According to Iran's maritime services, one of the tankers involved, the Bahamian-flagged Richmond Voyager, had collided with an Iranian vessel, resulting in serious injuries to five crew members and causing damage and flooding on the Iranian ship. Iran claimed that the Richmond Voyager had disregarded international maritime regulations and continued its course, and as a result, a court order was issued for Iran's navy to seize the tanker. Watch | Russian expert claims the US is working on weaponising asteroids against enemies × The tanker altered its route before entering Oman's territorial waters, media reports said. Iran's actions Iran reported the last incident to Oman, which it considers a friendly country and a mediator between Iran and the United States. Iran requested the seizure of the vessel. It is worth noting that Iran had previously seized two tankers within a week in regional waters during April and early May. In one of those incidents, Iranian navy commandos descended onto the deck of an oil tanker flying the Marshall Islands flag, the Advantage Sweet, in the Gulf of Oman. Furthermore, Iran faced accusations of launching a drone attack against an Israeli-owned tanker in November 2022, which further escalated tensions with the United States. 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's Revolutionary Guards seize commercial ship in Gulf after two similar attempts

<p>UK on Thursday (July 6) announced plans for tougher sanctions against Iran for its alleged human rights violation as well as hostile actions against its opponents on UK soil.</p>

<p>The new sanctions regime will expand existing sanctions by creating new criteria under which individuals and entities can be hit.</p>

<p>They include any Iranian activities "undermining peace, stability and security in the Middle East and internationally", and the "use and spread of weapons technologies from Iran".</p>

<p>Russia has attracted allegations of using Iranian-made attack drones in Ukraine. Iran also is a strategic ally of Syrian regime. The Islamic Republic also backs Lebanon's Hezbollah.</p>

<h2><strong>Oppressive regime</strong></h2>

<p>"The Iranian regime is oppressing its own people, exporting bloodshed in Ukraine and the Middle East, and threatening to kill and kidnap on UK soil," said Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.</p>

<p>"Today the UK has sent a clear message to the regime -- we will not tolerate this malign behaviour and we will hold you to account.</p>

<p>"Our new sanctions regime will help to ensure there can be no hiding place for those who seek to do us harm."</p>

<p>The UK accuses that Iran has stepped up efforts to kill or kidnap perceived enemies of its regime, inside the UK as well.</p>

<p>The UK says that Iran's intelligence services have established close ties with organised criminal gangas in Britain and across Europe in order to help target opponents.</p>

<p>Since the start of 2022, the UK has uncovered "more than 15 credible threats to kill or kidnap British or UK-based individuals by the Iranian regime", it added.</p>

<p>The latest measure are in addition to the ones already taken over Tehran's hardline response to protests that erupted after the death of Mahsa Amini.</p>

<p>Mahsa Amini was a 22-year-old woman who was detained by Iran's morality police for her 'inappropriate' attire. Her custodial death had sparked nationwide protests last year. The regime's response was to crack down against the protests.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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UK on Thursday (July 6) announced plans for tougher sanctions against Iran for its alleged human rights violation as well as hostile actions against its opponents on UK soil.

UK on Thursday (July 6) announced plans for tougher sanctions against Iran for its alleged human rights violation as well as hostile actions against its opponents on UK soil. The new sanctions regime will expand existing sanctions by creating new criteria under which individuals and entities can be hit. They include any Iranian activities "undermining peace, stability and security in the Middle East and internationally", and the "use and spread of weapons technologies from Iran". Russia has attracted allegations of using Iranian-made attack drones in Ukraine. Iran also is a strategic ally of Syrian regime. The Islamic Republic also backs Lebanon's Hezbollah. Oppressive regime "The Iranian regime is oppressing its own people, exporting bloodshed in Ukraine and the Middle East, and threatening to kill and kidnap on UK soil," said Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. "Today the UK has sent a clear message to the regime -- we will not tolerate this malign behaviour and we will hold you to account. "Our new sanctions regime will help to ensure there can be no hiding place for those who seek to do us harm." The UK accuses that Iran has stepped up efforts to kill or kidnap perceived enemies of its regime, inside the UK as well. The UK says that Iran's intelligence services have established close ties with organised criminal gangas in Britain and across Europe in order to help target opponents. Since the start of 2022, the UK has uncovered "more than 15 credible threats to kill or kidnap British or UK-based individuals by the Iranian regime", it added. The latest measure are in addition to the ones already taken over Tehran's hardline response to protests that erupted after the death of Mahsa Amini. Mahsa Amini was a 22-year-old woman who was detained by Iran's morality police for her 'inappropriate' attire. Her custodial death had sparked nationwide protests last year. The regime's response was to crack down against the protests. (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 ×

UK toughens up sanctions against Iran regime

<p>In the early hours of Wednesday, Iran made an attempt to seize two oil tankers near the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz. The US&nbsp;Navy reported that one of the tankers was fired upon by Iranian naval vessels. However, in both incidents, the Iranian vessels retreated after the US&nbsp;Navy dispatched a guided missile destroyer to the scene. The commercial ships were able to continue their voyages without further disruption.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This latest saga comes as tensions between Iran and the United States have been on the rise since the Trump administration unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement and reimposed severe sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philadelphia-gunman-identified-as-gun-loving-blm-supporter-kimbrady-carriker-reports-612409">Philadelphia gunman identified as gun-loving BLM supporter Kimbrady Carriker: Reports</a></p>

<p>Cmdr. Tim Hawkins, the spokesperson for the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, confirmed that the Iranian Navy tried to seize the commercial tankers while they were lawfully transiting international waters. “The Iranian Navy did make attempts to seize commercial tankers lawfully transiting international waters,” he said adding, “The US&nbsp;Navy responded immediately and prevented those seizures.”</p>

<p>As of now, there has been no immediate comment from Iran regarding the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-killed-two-injured-after-explosions-rock-ukrainian-court-612402">One killed, two injured after multiple explosions rock Ukrainian court</a></p>

<p>According to the US Navy, the first incident occurred when an Iranian naval vessel approached the TRF Moss, a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker, in the Gulf of Oman at approximately 1 am. In response, the US deployed the USS McFaul, a guided-missile destroyer, along with an MQ-9 Reaper drone and a P-8 Poseidon patrol plane.</p>

<p>Approximately three hours later, the US Navy received a distress call from the Richmond Voyager, an oil tanker flying the Bahamian flag, located over 20 nautical miles off the coast of Muscat, Oman's capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The navy reported that another Iranian naval vessel closed in on the tanker within a mile and ordered it to stop.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | British children are shorter than their European peers , says experts</strong></p>

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<p>The US destroyer swiftly approached the tanker at maximum speed, the Navy said.&nbsp;Prior to the arrival of the USS McFaul, Iranian personnel fired multiple sustained bursts from small arms and crew-served weapons, according to the US Navy's statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran's history of naval provocations</strong></h2>

<p>The US Navy has noted that Iran has seized at least five commercial vessels in the past two years and has harassed over a dozen others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many of these incidents have taken place in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage through which 20 per cent of the world's crude oil is transported.</p>

<p>Previous incidents include an April raid by Iranian navy commandos who seized a US-bound oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. Iranian state TV aired footage of the operation, claiming the seizure was in response to a collision with another Iranian vessel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Iran provided no evidence to support its claim. Iran has previously used the seizure of commercial vessels as a bargaining tool in negotiations with the West.</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

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In the early hours of Wednesday, Iran made an attempt to seize two oil tankers near the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz. The US Navy reported that one of the tankers was fired upon by Iranian naval vessels.

In the early hours of Wednesday, Iran made an attempt to seize two oil tankers near the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz. The US Navy reported that one of the tankers was fired upon by Iranian naval vessels. However, in both incidents, the Iranian vessels retreated after the US Navy dispatched a guided missile destroyer to the scene. The commercial ships were able to continue their voyages without further disruption. This latest saga comes as tensions between Iran and the United States have been on the rise since the Trump administration unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 nuclear agreement and reimposed severe sanctions on Iran. Also Read | Philadelphia gunman identified as gun-loving BLM supporter Kimbrady Carriker: Reports Cmdr. Tim Hawkins, the spokesperson for the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, confirmed that the Iranian Navy tried to seize the commercial tankers while they were lawfully transiting international waters. “The Iranian Navy did make attempts to seize commercial tankers lawfully transiting international waters,” he said adding, “The US Navy responded immediately and prevented those seizures.” As of now, there has been no immediate comment from Iran regarding the incident. Also Read | One killed, two injured after multiple explosions rock Ukrainian court According to the US Navy, the first incident occurred when an Iranian naval vessel approached the TRF Moss, a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker, in the Gulf of Oman at approximately 1 am. In response, the US deployed the USS McFaul, a guided-missile destroyer, along with an MQ-9 Reaper drone and a P-8 Poseidon patrol plane. Approximately three hours later, the US Navy received a distress call from the Richmond Voyager, an oil tanker flying the Bahamian flag, located over 20 nautical miles off the coast of Muscat, Oman's capital. The navy reported that another Iranian naval vessel closed in on the tanker within a mile and ordered it to stop. Watch | British children are shorter than their European peers , says experts × The US destroyer swiftly approached the tanker at maximum speed, the Navy said. Prior to the arrival of the USS McFaul, Iranian personnel fired multiple sustained bursts from small arms and crew-served weapons, according to the US Navy's statement. Iran's history of naval provocations The US Navy has noted that Iran has seized at least five commercial vessels in the past two years and has harassed over a dozen others. Many of these incidents have taken place in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage through which 20 per cent of the world's crude oil is transported. Previous incidents include an April raid by Iranian navy commandos who seized a US-bound oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. Iranian state TV aired footage of the operation, claiming the seizure was in response to a collision with another Iranian vessel. However, Iran provided no evidence to support its claim. Iran has previously used the seizure of commercial vessels as a bargaining tool in negotiations with the West. (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 attempts to seize oil tankers in Strait of Hormuz, prompts US Navy response

<p>Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and Britain on Wednesday, took Iran to the International Court of Justice in order to seek damages for families of passengers on a plane that was shot down by Tehran in the year 2020, said the tribunal.</p>

<p>The incident had claimed the lives of all 176 people aboard the Ukrainian jetliner downed by Iran.</p>

<p>As per the case at the United Nation's top court, Iran "violated a series of obligations" under a convention on civil aviation by shooting down Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752 after take-off from Tehran.</p>

<p>On January 8, 2020, Iran admitted that its military had targeted the Kyiv-bound Boeing 737-800 plane calling it a "disastrous mistake".</p>

<p>In their application to the court, the four countries said Iran had breached "a series of obligations" against the Montreal Convention, targeted at safeguarding the security of civilian air travel.</p>

<p>They said that Iran did not take all possible measures to avert the downing of Flight PS752 and also failed to conduct an impartial, transparent and fair criminal probe and prosecution.</p>

<p>They asked the court to "order full reparation for all injury caused" and to make Iran pay "full compensation to the applicants for the material and moral damages suffered by the victims and their families".</p>

<p>Iran should also return the belongings of the victims and publicly acknowledge its "internationally wrongful acts".</p>

<p>The majority of the victims of the incident who lost their lives were from the four countries, which created a coordination group aiming to hold Iran to account.</p>

<p>Iran, in a statement, had said that its forces accidentally shot down the Boeing 737 jet during the time when the tensions between Tehran and Washington were heightened.</p>

<p>A final report issued in the year 2021, held a misaligned radar and an error by an air defence operator responsible for the tragic incident.</p>

<p>Canada at the time said the report made "no attempt to answer critical questions about what truly happened".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-tensions-rise-after-russia-ukraine-trade-barbs-over-attack-on-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-612361">Nuclear tensions rise after Russia, Ukraine trade barbs over probable attacks on Zaporizhzhia plant</a></p>

<h2><strong>Iran drags Canada to court over terror listing</strong></h2>

<p>In the month of June, Iran dragged Canada to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for allegedly breaching the state immunity of Tehran by designating it as a terrorism-sponsoring state.</p>

<p>The listing of the Islamic Republic as a terror sponsor in 2012, when Canada had severed its diplomatic ties, shut down its Tehran embassy and asked the Iranian diplomats to leave the country, was challenged by Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran has accused Canada of “alleged violations of its immunities” through a series of diplomatic, political and legal measures which came after the 2012 terror listing, said the Hague-based tribunal in a statement.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and Britain on Wednesday, took Iran to the International Court of Justice in order to seek damages for families of passengers on a plane that was shot down by Tehran in the year 2020, said the tribunal.

Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and Britain on Wednesday, took Iran to the International Court of Justice in order to seek damages for families of passengers on a plane that was shot down by Tehran in the year 2020, said the tribunal. The incident had claimed the lives of all 176 people aboard the Ukrainian jetliner downed by Iran. As per the case at the United Nation's top court, Iran "violated a series of obligations" under a convention on civil aviation by shooting down Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752 after take-off from Tehran. On January 8, 2020, Iran admitted that its military had targeted the Kyiv-bound Boeing 737-800 plane calling it a "disastrous mistake". In their application to the court, the four countries said Iran had breached "a series of obligations" against the Montreal Convention, targeted at safeguarding the security of civilian air travel. They said that Iran did not take all possible measures to avert the downing of Flight PS752 and also failed to conduct an impartial, transparent and fair criminal probe and prosecution. They asked the court to "order full reparation for all injury caused" and to make Iran pay "full compensation to the applicants for the material and moral damages suffered by the victims and their families". Iran should also return the belongings of the victims and publicly acknowledge its "internationally wrongful acts". The majority of the victims of the incident who lost their lives were from the four countries, which created a coordination group aiming to hold Iran to account. Iran, in a statement, had said that its forces accidentally shot down the Boeing 737 jet during the time when the tensions between Tehran and Washington were heightened. A final report issued in the year 2021, held a misaligned radar and an error by an air defence operator responsible for the tragic incident. Canada at the time said the report made "no attempt to answer critical questions about what truly happened". Also read: Nuclear tensions rise after Russia, Ukraine trade barbs over probable attacks on Zaporizhzhia plant Iran drags Canada to court over terror listing In the month of June, Iran dragged Canada to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for allegedly breaching the state immunity of Tehran by designating it as a terrorism-sponsoring state. The listing of the Islamic Republic as a terror sponsor in 2012, when Canada had severed its diplomatic ties, shut down its Tehran embassy and asked the Iranian diplomats to leave the country, was challenged by Iran. Iran has accused Canada of “alleged violations of its immunities” through a series of diplomatic, political and legal measures which came after the 2012 terror listing, said the Hague-based tribunal in a statement. (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.

Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and Britain take Iran to court over shooting down plane, killing 176

Iran and Belarus, two nations that have been sanctioned by the West are now seeing more recognition in the global forum, with Iran now a part of the Shanghai Corporation Organisation and Belarus set to become a full member by 2024. What does this mean for the west and how does it help in the enhancement of the SCO.

Iran: SCO expansion in the changing world order | World News | WION

<p>Iran has hanged at least 354 people in the first six months of 2023, a rights group said Monday, adding that the pace of executions was much higher than in 2022.</p>

<p>Rights groups have accused Tehran of increasing the use of the death penalty to spread fear across society in the wake of the protest movement that erupted last September over the death of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating strict dress rules for women.</p>

<p>Norway-based Iran Human Rights said the 354 people figure for the first six months up to June 30 was up 36 percent on the same period in 2022, when 261 people were executed.</p>

<p>Emphasising concerns that non-Persian ethnic groups are disproportionately affected by executions in Iran, it said 20 percent of all executions were of members of the Sunni Baluch minority.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India hosts SCO meet; Putin's first summit since Wagner rebellion | Iran set to join grouping</strong></p>

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<p>It said 206 people were executed for drug-related charges, a 126 percent rise compared to the same period last year.</p>

<p>Six women were among those executed in the period while two men were publicly hanged, it added.</p>

<p>"The death penalty is used to create societal fear and prevent more protests," said IHR director Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam.</p>

<p>"The majority of those killed are low-cost victims of the killing machine, drug defendants who are from the most marginalised communities."</p>

<p>IHR earlier this year had reported that Iran carried out 582 executions in 2022, the highest figure in the Islamic republic since 2015.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-holds-off-sending-ambassador-to-sweden-in-protest-over-koran-incident-611105">Iran holds off sending ambassador to Sweden in protest over Quran incident</a></strong></p>

<p>Iran is the world's second biggest executioner after China for which no data is available, according to Amnesty International.</p>

<p>Iranian authorities have executed seven men in cases related to the protests, with rights groups warning at least seven more arrested over the demonstrations are at imminent risk of execution.</p>

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Iran has hanged at least 354 people in the first six months of 2023, a rights group said Monday, adding that the pace of executions was much higher than in 2022.

Iran has hanged at least 354 people in the first six months of 2023, a rights group said Monday, adding that the pace of executions was much higher than in 2022. Rights groups have accused Tehran of increasing the use of the death penalty to spread fear across society in the wake of the protest movement that erupted last September over the death of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating strict dress rules for women. Norway-based Iran Human Rights said the 354 people figure for the first six months up to June 30 was up 36 percent on the same period in 2022, when 261 people were executed. Emphasising concerns that non-Persian ethnic groups are disproportionately affected by executions in Iran, it said 20 percent of all executions were of members of the Sunni Baluch minority. Watch | India hosts SCO meet; Putin's first summit since Wagner rebellion | Iran set to join grouping × It said 206 people were executed for drug-related charges, a 126 percent rise compared to the same period last year. Six women were among those executed in the period while two men were publicly hanged, it added. "The death penalty is used to create societal fear and prevent more protests," said IHR director Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam. "The majority of those killed are low-cost victims of the killing machine, drug defendants who are from the most marginalised communities." IHR earlier this year had reported that Iran carried out 582 executions in 2022, the highest figure in the Islamic republic since 2015. Also Read | Iran holds off sending ambassador to Sweden in protest over Quran incident Iran is the world's second biggest executioner after China for which no data is available, according to Amnesty International. Iranian authorities have executed seven men in cases related to the protests, with rights groups warning at least seven more arrested over the demonstrations are at imminent risk of execution. 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 executed 354 people in first half of 2023: Rights group

India is set to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit tomorrow. The meeting will be held virtually as a key highlight will be the participation of Iran which has become the newest member of the eight-member group. Also, Vladimir Putin is expected to address a multilateral summit for the first time since the Wagner Mutiny last month.

Putin to address SCO for the first time since armed rebellion

<p>Iran&nbsp;will refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of a Quran&nbsp;outside a mosque in Stockholm,&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A man tore up and burned a Quran&nbsp;outside Stockholm's central mosque on Wednesday, the first day of the Muslim Eid al Adha holidays.</p>

<p>Swedish police charged the man who burned the holy book with agitation against an ethnic or national group. In a newspaper interview, he described himself as an Iraqi refugee seeking to ban it.</p>

<p>Iran's foreign ministry summoned Sweden's charge d'affaires on Thursday to condemn what it said was an insult to the most sacred Islamic sanctities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><meta charset="UTF-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-police-allow-quran-burning-protest-outside-stockholms-main-mosque-609615"><strong>Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque</strong></a></p>

<p>"Although administrative procedures to appoint a new ambassador to Sweden have ended, the process of dispatching them has been held off due to the Swedish government's issuing of a permit to desecrate the Holy Koran," Amirabdollahian said on Twitter on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He did not specify how long&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;would refrain from sending an embassador to Sweden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Swedish police have rejected several recent applications for anti-Quran&nbsp;demonstrations, courts have overruled those decisions, saying they infringed freedom of speech.</p>

<p>In its permit for Wednesday's demonstration, Swedish police said that while it "may have foreign policy consequences", the security risks and consequences linked to a Quran&nbsp;burning were not of such a nature that the application should be rejected.</p>

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Iran will refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of a Quran outside a mosque in Stockholm, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Sunday.

Iran will refrain from sending a new ambassador to Sweden in protest over the burning of a Quran outside a mosque in Stockholm, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Sunday. A man tore up and burned a Quran outside Stockholm's central mosque on Wednesday, the first day of the Muslim Eid al Adha holidays. Swedish police charged the man who burned the holy book with agitation against an ethnic or national group. In a newspaper interview, he described himself as an Iraqi refugee seeking to ban it. Iran's foreign ministry summoned Sweden's charge d'affaires on Thursday to condemn what it said was an insult to the most sacred Islamic sanctities. Also read | Sweden police allow Quran burning protest outside Stockholm’s main mosque "Although administrative procedures to appoint a new ambassador to Sweden have ended, the process of dispatching them has been held off due to the Swedish government's issuing of a permit to desecrate the Holy Koran," Amirabdollahian said on Twitter on Sunday. He did not specify how long Iran would refrain from sending an embassador to Sweden. While Swedish police have rejected several recent applications for anti-Quran demonstrations, courts have overruled those decisions, saying they infringed freedom of speech. In its permit for Wednesday's demonstration, Swedish police said that while it "may have foreign policy consequences", the security risks and consequences linked to a Quran burning were not of such a nature that the application should be rejected. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iran holds off sending ambassador to Sweden in protest over Quran incident

Protests outside Swedish embassy in Baghdad, Tehran over burning of Quran

<p>Israel's Mossad spy agency released a statement on Thursday saying that it "apprehended" an Iranian plotting to kill an Israeli in Cyprus, with his interrogation "on Iranian soil" leading to arrests by Cypriot security forces.</p>

<p>The statement came after the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday appreciated "the thwarting of the Iranian terrorist attack in Cyprus against Israeli targets," without providing much details.</p>

<p>Cypriot authorities declined to comment on the matter, however, local media, mentioning unidentified sources, reported a foiled plan to attack Israeli or Jewish targets by suspects that were operating from a breakaway statelet, recognised only by Turkey, in the north of the divided Mediterranean island.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Breaking: In a counter-terrorist operation on Iranian soil, the Mossad apprehended the head of a terror cell which planned on attacking Israelis in Cyprus, thwarting the attack.<br />
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Senior Mossad official: "We will reach whoever foments terrorism against Jews and Israelis around the… <a href="https://t.co/UKZDVQNe11">pic.twitter.com/UKZDVQNe11</a></p>
— Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel/status/1674464357453840384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Mossad said an Iranian man named Yusef Shahabazi Abbasalilu was "apprehended" in "a counter-terrorist operation on Iranian soil".</p>

<h2><strong>Iranian man confesses to 'receiving weapons'</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Israeli agency, during cross-questioning Abbasalilu confessed to having "received detailed instructions and weapons from senior Revolutionary Guards personnel in Iran" regarding an Israeli businessman he was to assassinate in Cyprus.</p>

<p>As per AFP reports, a video that was circulated by the Mossad, which the news agency could not verify, showed a man, called Abbasalilu, detailing his arrival in Cyprus and making preparations to kill an Israeli with the help of 'Pakistanis'&nbsp;there.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkeys-national-intelligence-claims-to-have-exposed-mossad-ring-working-against-iran-595614">Turkey’s intelligence claims to have exposed Mossad ring working against Iran</a></p>

<p>The man then recalls being ordered by his Iranian handlers to return to Iran since the Cypriot police were on his tail.</p>

<p>"In the wake of the information that he gave to investigators, the cell was dismantled in an operation by the Cypriot security services," the Mossad said, noting "a series of arrests in Cyprus last week".</p>

<p>The Israeli agency said it had exposed part of "a continuing effort to carry out terrorist attacks and harm Israelis and Jews around the world".</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Netanyahu said that the vast majority of Israel's "security problems stem from Iran and its proxies".</p>

<p>Israel also condemned its arch-foe for seeking to obtain nuclear arms. Iran denies the claim.</p>

<p>While speaking at a military ceremony on Thursday, Netanyahu said that Israel would not be bound by any international agreement of Tehran's nuclear programme, adding: "We will retain our right and duty to defend ourselves, by ourselves, from any threat."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Israel's Mossad spy agency released a statement on Thursday saying that it "apprehended" an Iranian plotting to kill an Israeli in Cyprus, with his interrogation "on Iranian soil" leading to arrests by Cypriot security forces.

Israel's Mossad spy agency released a statement on Thursday saying that it "apprehended" an Iranian plotting to kill an Israeli in Cyprus, with his interrogation "on Iranian soil" leading to arrests by Cypriot security forces. The statement came after the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday appreciated "the thwarting of the Iranian terrorist attack in Cyprus against Israeli targets," without providing much details. Cypriot authorities declined to comment on the matter, however, local media, mentioning unidentified sources, reported a foiled plan to attack Israeli or Jewish targets by suspects that were operating from a breakaway statelet, recognised only by Turkey, in the north of the divided Mediterranean island. Breaking: In a counter-terrorist operation on Iranian soil, the Mossad apprehended the head of a terror cell which planned on attacking Israelis in Cyprus, thwarting the attack. Senior Mossad official: "We will reach whoever foments terrorism against Jews and Israelis around the… pic.twitter.com/UKZDVQNe11 — Israel ישראל 🇮🇱 (@Israel) June 29, 2023 × The Mossad said an Iranian man named Yusef Shahabazi Abbasalilu was "apprehended" in "a counter-terrorist operation on Iranian soil". Iranian man confesses to 'receiving weapons' According to the Israeli agency, during cross-questioning Abbasalilu confessed to having "received detailed instructions and weapons from senior Revolutionary Guards personnel in Iran" regarding an Israeli businessman he was to assassinate in Cyprus. As per AFP reports, a video that was circulated by the Mossad, which the news agency could not verify, showed a man, called Abbasalilu, detailing his arrival in Cyprus and making preparations to kill an Israeli with the help of 'Pakistanis' there. Also read: Turkey’s intelligence claims to have exposed Mossad ring working against Iran The man then recalls being ordered by his Iranian handlers to return to Iran since the Cypriot police were on his tail. "In the wake of the information that he gave to investigators, the cell was dismantled in an operation by the Cypriot security services," the Mossad said, noting "a series of arrests in Cyprus last week". The Israeli agency said it had exposed part of "a continuing effort to carry out terrorist attacks and harm Israelis and Jews around the world". Earlier this month, Netanyahu said that the vast majority of Israel's "security problems stem from Iran and its proxies". Israel also condemned its arch-foe for seeking to obtain nuclear arms. Iran denies the claim. While speaking at a military ceremony on Thursday, Netanyahu said that Israel would not be bound by any international agreement of Tehran's nuclear programme, adding: "We will retain our right and duty to defend ourselves, by ourselves, from any threat." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel's spy agency Mossad nabs man in Iran for planning attack in Cyprus

<p>Iran&nbsp;will be formally approved as a member of the regional&nbsp;Shanghai&nbsp;Cooperation Organisation with&nbsp;China, Russia and Central Asian countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday.</p>

<p>"At the meeting of heads of state on July 4, the full membership of&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;will be approved," Lavrov said at the opening of an SCO centre in Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-not-disbanded-yet-recruitment-continues-across-russia-report-610443">Wagner Group not disbanded yet, recruitment continues across Russia: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Iran&nbsp;has intensified its diplomacy with friends and foes alike in recent months, seeking to reduce its isolation, improve its economy and project strength.</p>

<p>SCO membership was already on the cards and&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;is also hoping to be quickly accepted into another grouping that excludes Western countries -- the BRICS group with Brazil, Russia, India,&nbsp;China&nbsp;and South Africa.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia's missing military generals | What happened to 'General Armageddon'?</strong></p>

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<p>The SCO, which has its headquarters in&nbsp;China, is a diplomatic organisation with eight members, including India and Pakistan.</p>

<p>Kremlin ally Belarus is also applying to&nbsp;join, and Lavrov said Friday that next week's virtual summit would "begin the procedure" for that membership to go ahead.</p>

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Iran will be formally approved as a member of the regional Shanghai Cooperation Organisation with China, Russia and Central Asian countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday.

Iran will be formally approved as a member of the regional Shanghai Cooperation Organisation with China, Russia and Central Asian countries, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday. "At the meeting of heads of state on July 4, the full membership of Iran will be approved," Lavrov said at the opening of an SCO centre in Moscow. Also read: Wagner Group not disbanded yet, recruitment continues across Russia: Report Iran has intensified its diplomacy with friends and foes alike in recent months, seeking to reduce its isolation, improve its economy and project strength. SCO membership was already on the cards and Iran is also hoping to be quickly accepted into another grouping that excludes Western countries -- the BRICS group with Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Watch: Russia's missing military generals | What happened to 'General Armageddon'? × The SCO, which has its headquarters in China, is a diplomatic organisation with eight members, including India and Pakistan. Kremlin ally Belarus is also applying to join, and Lavrov said Friday that next week's virtual summit would "begin the procedure" for that membership to go ahead. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran to join SCO next week: Lavrov

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that there is no new nuclear deal is in the offing for Iran. This comes after Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi's recent remark that how Iran won't beg US for an amicable deal, even if it looks forward to it.

'No nuclear deal on table with Iran', says US State Secy Antony Blinken

<p>Canada has been dragged by Iran to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for allegedly breaching the state immunity of Tehran by designating it as a terrorism-sponsoring state, said the UN's top court on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The listing of the Islamic republic as a terror sponsor in 2012, when Canada had severed its diplomatic ties, shut down its Tehran embassy and asked the Iranian diplomats to leave the country, was challenged by Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran has accused Canada of “alleged violations of its immunities” through a series of diplomatic, political and legal measures which came after the 2012 terror listing, said the Hague-based tribunal in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-talk-with-mutual-understanding-to-cool-tensions-605322">US, Iran talk with mutual 'understanding' to cool tensions</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;In its case, which the International Court of Justice announced on Wednesday, Tehran argued that Canada is “obliged to respect the jurisdictional immunity which Iran enjoys under international law" and should not permit civil claims against Iran "for alleged support to, or acts of, terrorism”.</p>

<h2><strong>Breach of international law, alleges Iran&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Iran stated international law has been breached by Canada by court rulings which asked Iranian assets to be given over to victims of attacks, which were blamed on Tehran-sponsored groups. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Hague-based ICJ said that the legal proceedings were launched by Iran against Canada on Tuesday "concerning alleged violations of its immunities" as a sovereign state.</p>

<p>"Canada has adopted and implemented a series of legislative, executive, and judicial measures against Iran and its property in breach of its international obligations," Iran stated in its filing to the court.</p>

<h2><strong>Compensation demanded</strong></h2>

<p>Compensation has been demanded by Iran from Canada for the "violation of its international obligations", and the ICJ has been asked to ask Ottawa to overrule all judgments against Tehran in Canadian courts.</p>

<p>"Iran respectfully requests the Court to adjudge and declare that by failing to respect the immunities of Iran and its property, Canada has violated its international obligations toward Iran," the country added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Iran-US Nuclear deal: Iran pursuing talks with honour, wisdom and good intentions: President Raisi</strong></p>

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<p>Canada did not react immediately to the case filed by Iran. The case filed is similar to the long-running claim of Iran at the &nbsp;ICJ against the United States for freezing billions of dollars in assets to compensate for the terror attacks.</p>

<p>A Canadian judge in 2016 had ordered the non-diplomatic land and bank accounts of Iran in Canada to be given to victims of attacks carried out by Hamas and Hezbollah.</p>

<p>As per reports, $13 million was awarded, as per the judgement, to the families of Americans who were killed in eight bombings or hostage-takings in Buenos Aires, Israel, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia from 1983 to 2002.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Canada has been dragged by Iran to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for allegedly breaching the state immunity of Tehran by designating it as a terrorism-sponsoring state, said the UN's top court on Wednesday.

Canada has been dragged by Iran to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for allegedly breaching the state immunity of Tehran by designating it as a terrorism-sponsoring state, said the UN's top court on Wednesday. The listing of the Islamic republic as a terror sponsor in 2012, when Canada had severed its diplomatic ties, shut down its Tehran embassy and asked the Iranian diplomats to leave the country, was challenged by Iran. Iran has accused Canada of “alleged violations of its immunities” through a series of diplomatic, political and legal measures which came after the 2012 terror listing, said the Hague-based tribunal in a statement. ALSO READ | US, Iran talk with mutual 'understanding' to cool tensions In its case, which the International Court of Justice announced on Wednesday, Tehran argued that Canada is “obliged to respect the jurisdictional immunity which Iran enjoys under international law" and should not permit civil claims against Iran "for alleged support to, or acts of, terrorism”. Breach of international law, alleges Iran Iran stated international law has been breached by Canada by court rulings which asked Iranian assets to be given over to victims of attacks, which were blamed on Tehran-sponsored groups. In a statement, the Hague-based ICJ said that the legal proceedings were launched by Iran against Canada on Tuesday "concerning alleged violations of its immunities" as a sovereign state. "Canada has adopted and implemented a series of legislative, executive, and judicial measures against Iran and its property in breach of its international obligations," Iran stated in its filing to the court. Compensation demanded Compensation has been demanded by Iran from Canada for the "violation of its international obligations", and the ICJ has been asked to ask Ottawa to overrule all judgments against Tehran in Canadian courts. "Iran respectfully requests the Court to adjudge and declare that by failing to respect the immunities of Iran and its property, Canada has violated its international obligations toward Iran," the country added. WATCH | Iran-US Nuclear deal: Iran pursuing talks with honour, wisdom and good intentions: President Raisi Canada did not react immediately to the case filed by Iran. The case filed is similar to the long-running claim of Iran at the ICJ against the United States for freezing billions of dollars in assets to compensate for the terror attacks. A Canadian judge in 2016 had ordered the non-diplomatic land and bank accounts of Iran in Canada to be given to victims of attacks carried out by Hamas and Hezbollah. As per reports, $13 million was awarded, as per the judgement, to the families of Americans who were killed in eight bombings or hostage-takings in Buenos Aires, Israel, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia from 1983 to 2002. (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 drags Canada to UN's top court over terror listing

UK is investigating the allegations against British universities against accusations that some of them are collaborating with Iran on drones and other sensitive technologies.

UK probes report on universities working with Iran on drones

Iran's president said the country won't beg for a more compliant nuclear deal. Raisi stressed Iran's life doesn't depend on it. Speaking to a local channel, Raisi reiterated that iran is pursuing the talks with honour, wisdom and good intentions. The Iranian president also cleared the air with Saudi Arabia calling it 'not an enemy' like US and Israel.

Iran-US Nuclear deal: Iran pursuing talks with honour, wisdom and good intentions: President Raisi

<p>A free trade zone agreement between Iran, Russia and several countries that cover the vast Eurasian region spreading from the borders of Eastern Europe to Western China is possible by the end of the year, Russia's TASS news agency reported on Monday.</p>

<p>Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk told the state TASS agency in an interview that talks between the Eurasian Economic Union - which comprises Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia - and Iran are in their final stages.</p>

<p>"We are moving forward," Overchuk said. "We very much hope that such an agreement can be signed by the end of the year."</p>

<p>Both the region and Iran have taken on additional significance for the Kremlin after Western sanctions over Moscow's invasion in Ukraine limited Russia's foreign trade routes and forced it to look for markets outside Europe.</p>

<p>However, despite tighter ties between Moscow and Tehran since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and began big purchases of Iranian-made drones to attack the country, trade between the two markets have grown only moderately.</p>

<p>Russian-Iranian commodity turnover rose 20% in 2022, according to government data, two-thirds the overall growth rate Moscow saw with China, another key partner with whom Russia has expanded political and economic alliance in the past two years.</p>

<p>The regional agreement with Iran would replace and expand an interim pact that already provides a reduction in customs duties on hundreds of categories of goods.</p>

<p>In November 2022, Russia started swapping oil products with Iran and in March, Tehran said it counts on "huge volumes" of both oil and gas swaps with Moscow.</p>

<p>Overchuk also told TASS, without providing much detail, that negotiations among the Eurasian Economic Union countries on creating a common gas market continue.</p>

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A free trade zone agreement between Iran, Russia and several countries that cover the vast Eurasian region spreading from the borders of Eastern Europe to Western China is possible by the end of the year, Russia's TASS news agency reported on Monday.

A free trade zone agreement between Iran, Russia and several countries that cover the vast Eurasian region spreading from the borders of Eastern Europe to Western China is possible by the end of the year, Russia's TASS news agency reported on Monday. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk told the state TASS agency in an interview that talks between the Eurasian Economic Union - which comprises Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia - and Iran are in their final stages. "We are moving forward," Overchuk said. "We very much hope that such an agreement can be signed by the end of the year." Both the region and Iran have taken on additional significance for the Kremlin after Western sanctions over Moscow's invasion in Ukraine limited Russia's foreign trade routes and forced it to look for markets outside Europe. However, despite tighter ties between Moscow and Tehran since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and began big purchases of Iranian-made drones to attack the country, trade between the two markets have grown only moderately. Russian-Iranian commodity turnover rose 20% in 2022, according to government data, two-thirds the overall growth rate Moscow saw with China, another key partner with whom Russia has expanded political and economic alliance in the past two years. The regional agreement with Iran would replace and expand an interim pact that already provides a reduction in customs duties on hundreds of categories of goods. In November 2022, Russia started swapping oil products with Iran and in March, Tehran said it counts on "huge volumes" of both oil and gas swaps with Moscow. Overchuk also told TASS, without providing much detail, that negotiations among the Eurasian Economic Union countries on creating a common gas market continue. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia says regional free trade pact with Iran possible by year-end

An Intelligence Officer from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard has claimed that over 20 countries were involved in instigating protests in Iran last year. The claims refer to mass demonstrations that took following the custodial death of 22-years-old Mahsa Amini.

Iran accuses 20 nations of backing anti-Hijab protests | World News | WION

Iran has been facing Western sanctions ever since the Fallout over the 2015 nuclear deal which America was a signatory tool. Now Russia which was part of the JCPOA says talks between Iran and the Eurasian Economic Union are now in the final stages and a pact is likely to be signed by year-end for the creation of a free trade zone agreement. Watch to know more

Eurasia eyes Iran for free trade | Latest English News

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived in Iran on June 17 amid a rapprochement between the two Middle East arch-foes.

Saudi Foreign Minister arrives in Iran amid rapprochement

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidEZAMNLuRukK0" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The state-sanctioned fact-finding committee in Iran tried to downplay the poisoning of schoolgirls in recent months. According to the report by the Iran News Update (INU) on Saturday (June 17), the committee claimed that the poisoning of schoolgirls was merely a result of “mischief”.<br />
<br />
Hamidreza Kazemi, a member of parliament and head of the fact-finding committee told the ISNA news agency that numerous meetings had taken place with relevant agencies to probe the incidents of poisonings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Evidence pointed to deliberate acts of mischief, with individuals using commercially available stink bombs, Kazemi said. Despite initially claiming a conspiracy theory, the head of the committee said a comprehensive probe identified individuals responsible for orchestrating the systematic poisoning of schoolgirls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report said that intelligence and security agencies apprehended these culprits,&nbsp;but the regime did not disclose any information about them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since late November last year, many schools, mostly for girls, have been affected by sudden poisoning incidents from gases or toxic substances. This mysterious phenomenon has shaken the country for months.</p>

<h2><strong>Minister contradicts claims of committee</strong></h2>

<p>The INU report said that Iran's Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi contradicted the claims of the fact-finding committee. During a recent press conference, Interior Minister Vahidi said that no arrests were made and refuted the claim that no students had been paralysed as a result.</p>

<p>Vahidi highlighted the absence of specific complaints regarding toxic substances, attributing a significant portion of the issue to the creation of a psychological atmosphere among students and their families.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Critics see poisoning an act of revenge against Mahsa Amini protests</strong></h2>

<p>Critics of the regime see the poisonings as an act of revenge against the protests triggered by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was detained by the police for violating Iran's dress code. Female students played a prominent role during the protests, seeking justice and a free and democratic country.&nbsp;</p>

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The state-sanctioned fact-finding committee in Iran tried to downplay the poisoning of schoolgirls in recent months. According to the report by the Iran News Update (INU) on Saturday (June 17), the committee claimed that the poisoning of schoolgirls was merely a result of “mischief”.

The state-sanctioned fact-finding committee in Iran tried to downplay the poisoning of schoolgirls in recent months. According to the report by the Iran News Update (INU) on Saturday (June 17), the committee claimed that the poisoning of schoolgirls was merely a result of “mischief”. Hamidreza Kazemi, a member of parliament and head of the fact-finding committee told the ISNA news agency that numerous meetings had taken place with relevant agencies to probe the incidents of poisonings. Evidence pointed to deliberate acts of mischief, with individuals using commercially available stink bombs, Kazemi said. Despite initially claiming a conspiracy theory, the head of the committee said a comprehensive probe identified individuals responsible for orchestrating the systematic poisoning of schoolgirls. The report said that intelligence and security agencies apprehended these culprits, but the regime did not disclose any information about them. Since late November last year, many schools, mostly for girls, have been affected by sudden poisoning incidents from gases or toxic substances. This mysterious phenomenon has shaken the country for months. Minister contradicts claims of committee The INU report said that Iran's Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi contradicted the claims of the fact-finding committee. During a recent press conference, Interior Minister Vahidi said that no arrests were made and refuted the claim that no students had been paralysed as a result. Vahidi highlighted the absence of specific complaints regarding toxic substances, attributing a significant portion of the issue to the creation of a psychological atmosphere among students and their families. Critics see poisoning an act of revenge against Mahsa Amini protests Critics of the regime see the poisonings as an act of revenge against the protests triggered by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was detained by the police for violating Iran's dress code. Female students played a prominent role during the protests, seeking justice and a free and democratic country. 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 schoolgirls poisoning: State-sanctioned committee ‘downplaying’ attacks, says report

<p>Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived Saturday in Tehran, Iranian media reported, in his first visit to Iran since a landmark rapprochement following a seven-year rupture.</p>

<p>During his trip, the Saudi top diplomat is expected to meet with Iranian officials including Tehran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian before a news conference, state media said.</p>

<p>Saudi media have also reported a planned meeting with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi during Prince Faisal's first visit to the Islamic republic as foreign minister.</p>

<p>Sunni Muslim power Saudi Arabia severed relations with Shiite-led Iran in 2016 after its embassy in Tehran and consulate in the northwestern city of Mashhad were attacked during protests over Riyadh's execution of Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-saudis-crown-prince-call-for-rapid-end-to-political-vacuum-in-lebanon-605391">Macron, Saudi crown prince call for ‘rapid end to political vacuum in Lebanon’</a></p>

<p>The two countries agreed in March to mend ties and reopen their respective embassies, in a Chinese-brokered deal that has shifted regional relations.</p>

<p>Iran's government spokesman Ali Bahadori Jahromi told local media Prince Faisal was expected to "take some measures" towards reopening the Saudi diplomatic mission in Tehran during the visit.</p>

<p>On June 6, the Islamic republic reopened its embassy and consulates in Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Saudi has maintained a cautious stance</strong></p>

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<p>The Iranian Sazandegi daily reported on Saturday that the Saudi embassy would reopen in a hotel in Tehran before resuming its permanent location in the Iranian capital.</p>

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Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived Saturday in Tehran, Iranian media reported, in his first visit to Iran since a landmark rapprochement following a seven-year rupture.

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived Saturday in Tehran, Iranian media reported, in his first visit to Iran since a landmark rapprochement following a seven-year rupture. During his trip, the Saudi top diplomat is expected to meet with Iranian officials including Tehran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian before a news conference, state media said. Saudi media have also reported a planned meeting with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi during Prince Faisal's first visit to the Islamic republic as foreign minister. Sunni Muslim power Saudi Arabia severed relations with Shiite-led Iran in 2016 after its embassy in Tehran and consulate in the northwestern city of Mashhad were attacked during protests over Riyadh's execution of Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr. Also read | Macron, Saudi crown prince call for ‘rapid end to political vacuum in Lebanon’ The two countries agreed in March to mend ties and reopen their respective embassies, in a Chinese-brokered deal that has shifted regional relations. Iran's government spokesman Ali Bahadori Jahromi told local media Prince Faisal was expected to "take some measures" towards reopening the Saudi diplomatic mission in Tehran during the visit. On June 6, the Islamic republic reopened its embassy and consulates in Saudi Arabia. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Saudi has maintained a cautious stance The Iranian Sazandegi daily reported on Saturday that the Saudi embassy would reopen in a hotel in Tehran before resuming its permanent location in the Iranian capital. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Saudi foreign minister Prince Faisal in first Iran visit since detente

<p>The US is talking with Iran to decide on steps which could potentially limit the Iranian nuclear programme and also release some detained US citizens along with unfreezing some Iranian assets abroad. These steps would be cast as an "understanding" rather than an agreement which requires review by US Congress. Many US lawmakers oppose giving Iran any benefit due to its military help to Russia, repression within its own borders and support for proxy forces that have attacked US interests in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US government headed by President Joe Biden has not been able to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The administration is now hoping to restore some limits on Iran to prevent it from acquiring a nuclear weapon which could threaten Israel and trigger a regional arms race. Iran maintains it has no ambition of developing a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Iran, Cuba vow to confront US 'aggressive imperial policy'</strong></p>

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<p>The nuclear deal was struck with Iran by the US and other world powers&nbsp;in 2015. But in 2018, then-US president Donald Trump unilaterally took the US out of the deal. The nuclear deal had capped Iran's uranium enrichment at 3.67 per cent&nbsp;purity and its stockpile of this material at 202.8 kg (447 pounds) - limits Tehran has since far exceeded.</p>

<p>The willingness to restart dialogue discussions is indicative of the growing sense of urgency in Western capitals about Iran's programme.</p>

<p>The US&nbsp;government has dismissed reports it is seeking an interim deal, using carefully constructed denials that leave open the possibility of a less formal "understanding" that could avoid congressional review.</p>

<h2><strong>No deal with Iran yet</strong></h2>

<p>Report that there was any deal with Iran was denied by State Department spokesperson Matt Miller.</p>

<p>However, he said that the US wants Iran to de-escalate tensions and curb its nuclear programme. The US also wants Iran to cease support for religious proxy groups and support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The US also wants Iran to release detained American citizens.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macron-urges-iran-to-immediately-end-support-to-russia-in-war-against-ukraine-602995">Emmanuel Macron urges Iran to 'immediately end' support to Russia in war against Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>"We continue to use diplomatic engagements to pursue all of these goals," Miller added, without giving details.</p>

<p>An Iranian official said, "Call it whatever you want, whether a temporary deal, an interim deal or a mutual understanding - both sides want to prevent further escalation."</p>

<p>The first instance "will involve prisoner exchange and unblocking part of Iran's frozen assets", the official added, speaking on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The US is talking with Iran to decide on steps which could potentially limit the Iranian nuclear programme and also release some detained US citizens along with unfreezing some Iranian assets abroad.

The US is talking with Iran to decide on steps which could potentially limit the Iranian nuclear programme and also release some detained US citizens along with unfreezing some Iranian assets abroad. These steps would be cast as an "understanding" rather than an agreement which requires review by US Congress. Many US lawmakers oppose giving Iran any benefit due to its military help to Russia, repression within its own borders and support for proxy forces that have attacked US interests in the region. The US government headed by President Joe Biden has not been able to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The administration is now hoping to restore some limits on Iran to prevent it from acquiring a nuclear weapon which could threaten Israel and trigger a regional arms race. Iran maintains it has no ambition of developing a nuclear weapon. Watch | Iran, Cuba vow to confront US 'aggressive imperial policy' × The nuclear deal was struck with Iran by the US and other world powers in 2015. But in 2018, then-US president Donald Trump unilaterally took the US out of the deal. The nuclear deal had capped Iran's uranium enrichment at 3.67 per cent purity and its stockpile of this material at 202.8 kg (447 pounds) - limits Tehran has since far exceeded. The willingness to restart dialogue discussions is indicative of the growing sense of urgency in Western capitals about Iran's programme. The US government has dismissed reports it is seeking an interim deal, using carefully constructed denials that leave open the possibility of a less formal "understanding" that could avoid congressional review. No deal with Iran yet Report that there was any deal with Iran was denied by State Department spokesperson Matt Miller. However, he said that the US wants Iran to de-escalate tensions and curb its nuclear programme. The US also wants Iran to cease support for religious proxy groups and support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The US also wants Iran to release detained American citizens. Also Read | Emmanuel Macron urges Iran to 'immediately end' support to Russia in war against Ukraine "We continue to use diplomatic engagements to pursue all of these goals," Miller added, without giving details. An Iranian official said, "Call it whatever you want, whether a temporary deal, an interim deal or a mutual understanding - both sides want to prevent further escalation." The first instance "will involve prisoner exchange and unblocking part of Iran's frozen assets", the official added, speaking on condition of anonymity. (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 ×

US, Iran talk with mutual 'understanding' to cool tensions

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday refuted media reports about backdoor negotiations on an agreement with Iran amid the freeze in talks on the Iran nuclear program.

Blinken says reports about backdoor talks with Iran inaccurate

Russia, China and Iran are in America's backyard. The three adversaries of the United States of America are cozying up with Havana. First there was a controversy over alleged Chinese spy base in Cuba and now the Iranian President has visited Cuba and both the leaders have vowed to confront quote-unquote 'Yankee imperialism'.

Cuba bolstering ties with Russia & China | WION Newspoint

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has met with Cuban leader Miguel Diaz-Canel in Havana. Both leaders have vowed to jointly confront the "aggressive imperial policy" of the United States, which has sanctions in place against both countries.

Iranian President Raisi meets Cuban counterpart Diaz, vow to confront US policy

The key question is whether the United States is facing a local crisis as a result of Thursday's meeting between Cuban counterpart Miguel Dias Canal and Iranian President Brian Rice in Havana. Bryce's visit coincides with Cuba's efforts to strengthen ties with important but far-off allies like Russia and China.

Iranian President Raisi meets Cuban counterpart Miguel Diaz-Canel

Iran, Cuba vow to confront US 'aggressive imperial policy'

On the 6th of June, Iran unveiled its first indigenously built hypersonic missile called Fattah. And if Iranian claims are to be believed, Fattah can travel at hypersonic speeds of well over 15 times the speed of sound. And can pierce through pretty much any missile defence system that presently exists. For Iran the Fattah hypersonic missile is a generational leap. It has a range of 1,400 kilometers. And is highly maneuverable. But what has troubled the many western security analysts are claims that Iran's hypersonic missile can strike targets inside Israel in less than 400 seconds. Leaving very little room for even Israel's' Iron Dome to detect and intercept the Iranian hypersonic missiles. So, what impact will this new Iranian hypersonic missile have on the geopolitics of West Asia? Mohammed Saleh gets you the details

Iran's new Hypersonic Missile FATTAH can strike Israel in less than 400 seconds

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