Three Iranian female journalists who are currently detained received the UN's top award for press freedom on Tuesday evening "for their commitment to truth and accountability."

The winners are Elaheh Mohammadi, who wrote about Mahsa Amini's funeral, and Niloufar Hamedi, who broke the news that the 22-year-old died in morality police custody last September while wearing her headscarf too loosely, reported the Associated Press.&nbsp;

In dozens of Iranian cities, Amini's passing sparked months-long protests. One of the most significant threats to the Islamic Republic since the 2009 Green Movement rallies that drew millions of people to the streets was presented by the demonstrations.

The third winner is Narges Mohammadi, who has worked as a journalist for several years and is known for her activities as an activist.&nbsp;

The UN Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization World Press Freedom Prize is coined for Guillermo Cano, a Colombian journalist&nbsp;who was assassinated in front of the offices of his newspaper El Espectador in Bogota on Dec. 17, 1986. Since 1997, the prize has been presented on May 3 to coincide with the World Press Freedom Day.

UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay announced the winners at a ceremony in New York, saying: “Now more than ever, it is important to pay tribute to all women journalists who are prevented from doing their jobs and who face threats and attacks on their personal safety.”

Zainab Salbi, chair of the international jury of media professionals that finalised the winners, said the brave work of the three winners “led to a historical women-led revolution.”

“They paid a hefty price for their commitment to report on and convey the truth,” Salbi said. “And for that, we are committed to honouring them and ensuring their voices will continue to echo worldwide until they are safe and free,” she added.&nbsp;

Iran's judiciary revealed in late April that Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi, two reporters who broke the news of Amini's death, had been charged with working with the US, violating national security, and spreading "propaganda" against the system.&nbsp;

Although nearly 100 journalists have been detained amid the protests, Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi's reporting was essential in the days following the death of Amini to spread awareness of the outrage that followed. Mohammadi and Hamedi both work for the reformist journal Ham-Mihan, whereas Hamedi works for the reformist newspaper Shargh.

Human rights activists in Iran estimate that at least 529 people have died during protests since they started.&nbsp;

Narges Mohammadi has been arrested and imprisoned by the government numerous times, and according to UNESCO, she is now in Evin Prison serving a 16-year term. She has received recognition&nbsp;from other countries for her efforts, particularly her opposition to the death sentence in Iran, which is still the world's leading executioner.&nbsp;

She is the deputy director of the Defenders of Human Rights Centre, a civil society group based in Tehran, according to UNESCO. She also continues to publish articles from prison and has spoken with other women prisoners for her book, "White Torture," according to the UN&nbsp;office.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Three Iranian female journalists who are currently detained received the UN's top award for press freedom on Tuesday evening "for their commitment to truth and accountability.

Three Iranian female journalists who are currently detained received the UN's top award for press freedom on Tuesday evening "for their commitment to truth and accountability." The winners are Elaheh Mohammadi, who wrote about Mahsa Amini's funeral, and Niloufar Hamedi, who broke the news that the 22-year-old died in morality police custody last September while wearing her headscarf too loosely, reported the Associated Press. In dozens of Iranian cities, Amini's passing sparked months-long protests. One of the most significant threats to the Islamic Republic since the 2009 Green Movement rallies that drew millions of people to the streets was presented by the demonstrations. The third winner is Narges Mohammadi, who has worked as a journalist for several years and is known for her activities as an activist. The UN Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization World Press Freedom Prize is coined for Guillermo Cano, a Colombian journalist who was assassinated in front of the offices of his newspaper El Espectador in Bogota on Dec. 17, 1986. Since 1997, the prize has been presented on May 3 to coincide with the World Press Freedom Day. UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay announced the winners at a ceremony in New York, saying: “Now more than ever, it is important to pay tribute to all women journalists who are prevented from doing their jobs and who face threats and attacks on their personal safety.” Zainab Salbi, chair of the international jury of media professionals that finalised the winners, said the brave work of the three winners “led to a historical women-led revolution.” “They paid a hefty price for their commitment to report on and convey the truth,” Salbi said. “And for that, we are committed to honouring them and ensuring their voices will continue to echo worldwide until they are safe and free,” she added. Iran's judiciary revealed in late April that Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi, two reporters who broke the news of Amini's death, had been charged with working with the US, violating national security, and spreading "propaganda" against the system. Although nearly 100 journalists have been detained amid the protests, Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi's reporting was essential in the days following the death of Amini to spread awareness of the outrage that followed. Mohammadi and Hamedi both work for the reformist journal Ham-Mihan, whereas Hamedi works for the reformist newspaper Shargh. Human rights activists in Iran estimate that at least 529 people have died during protests since they started. Narges Mohammadi has been arrested and imprisoned by the government numerous times, and according to UNESCO, she is now in Evin Prison serving a 16-year term. She has received recognition from other countries for her efforts, particularly her opposition to the death sentence in Iran, which is still the world's leading executioner. She is the deputy director of the Defenders of Human Rights Centre, a civil society group based in Tehran, according to UNESCO. She also continues to publish articles from prison and has spoken with other women prisoners for her book, "White Torture," according to the UN office. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iran: Three women journalists jailed after Mahsa Amini’s death win UN’s top press freedom award

India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval visited Iran Monday where he held talks with his Iranian counterpart Ali Shamkhani. The Iranian media reported that the two officials discussed economic, political and security ties between the two countries.&nbsp;

Neither India nor Iran has uttered an official word regarding the trip. Economic Times reported that the Indian NSA will also hold talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian.

<h2>Meeting comes ahead of the SCO summit</h2>

The meeting took place ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers’ meet, slated to be held in India’s Goa this week. Iran is expected to become a full-fledged member of the SCO in this year’s annual summit. Interestingly, India is the current chair of the SCO.&nbsp;

<h2>Areas of co-operation between India and Iran</h2>

New Delhi and Tehran are focusing on the swift implementation of the Chabahar Port project, which involves the development of the port as a key transit hub for both India and Iran.

Last month, Iranian envoy Iraj Elahi also stressed the importance of fast implementation of the Chabahar Port project and suggested that the importance of the project goes far beyond the economic perspectives. 
The issue of crude oil exports from Iran to India is also on the cards.

Watch:&nbsp;NSA Ajit Doval visits Iran, holds talks with Iranian counterpart

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Last month, Elahi advocated for crude oil trade between the two countries, saying that India was a ‘rising power’, which can easily withstand the pressure exerted by Western nations.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-denies-school-poisoning-attacks-says-probe-shows-no-toxic-substance-587255">&nbsp;Iran denies schoolgirls poisoning attacks, says probe shows no toxic substance&nbsp;</a>

“Iran is an oil producer and oil is important in our economy. Despite the sanctions (for more than 10 years) we have found some ways to sell our oil and oil products like petrochemicals and other products," he was quoted as saying by India’s ANI.

“India is a rising power. India has a powerful economy. So, India could easily resist the pressure of the West," Elahi said while adding that India was not Taiwan or South Korea.

<h2>Iran also interested in joining BRICS</h2>

As reported by Bloomberg, Iran is also interested in joining the BRICS bloc of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Iranian membership in BRICS "would result in added values for both sides", Tehran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson said. Iran holds a quarter of West Asia’s oil reserves but has long been ostracised by the US-led Western block.&nbsp;

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India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval visited Iran Monday where he held talks with his Iranian counterpart Ali Shamkhani. The Iranian media reported that the two officials discussed economic, political and security ties between the two countries.

India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval visited Iran Monday where he held talks with his Iranian counterpart Ali Shamkhani. The Iranian media reported that the two officials discussed economic, political and security ties between the two countries. Neither India nor Iran has uttered an official word regarding the trip. Economic Times reported that the Indian NSA will also hold talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian. Meeting comes ahead of the SCO summit The meeting took place ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers’ meet, slated to be held in India’s Goa this week. Iran is expected to become a full-fledged member of the SCO in this year’s annual summit. Interestingly, India is the current chair of the SCO. Areas of co-operation between India and Iran New Delhi and Tehran are focusing on the swift implementation of the Chabahar Port project, which involves the development of the port as a key transit hub for both India and Iran. Last month, Iranian envoy Iraj Elahi also stressed the importance of fast implementation of the Chabahar Port project and suggested that the importance of the project goes far beyond the economic perspectives. The issue of crude oil exports from Iran to India is also on the cards. Watch: NSA Ajit Doval visits Iran, holds talks with Iranian counterpart × Last month, Elahi advocated for crude oil trade between the two countries, saying that India was a ‘rising power’, which can easily withstand the pressure exerted by Western nations. Also Read | Iran denies schoolgirls poisoning attacks, says probe shows no toxic substance “Iran is an oil producer and oil is important in our economy. Despite the sanctions (for more than 10 years) we have found some ways to sell our oil and oil products like petrochemicals and other products," he was quoted as saying by India’s ANI. “India is a rising power. India has a powerful economy. So, India could easily resist the pressure of the West," Elahi said while adding that India was not Taiwan or South Korea. Iran also interested in joining BRICS As reported by Bloomberg, Iran is also interested in joining the BRICS bloc of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Iranian membership in BRICS "would result in added values for both sides", Tehran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson said. Iran holds a quarter of West Asia’s oil reserves but has long been ostracised by the US-led Western block. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval holds talks with Iranian counterpart ahead of SCO summit

According to reports, Iran's president Ibrahim Rai will travel to Syria on Wednesday. Since the beginning of Syria's Civil War in 2011, this will be the first tour of this kind. The two-day visit takes place against the backdrop of improved relations between regional rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia as well as growing Arab engagement with Damascus.

Raisi to lead economic and political delegation to Damascus

NSA Ajit Doval and his Iranian counterpart Ali Shamkhani held extensive conversations on a variety of topics on Monday in Tehran, with a focus on the two nations' relations on the political, economic, and security fronts. The National Security Adviser is travelling to Iran for a day. According to Iran's IRNA news agency, the two officials talked on key regional and worldwide developments as well as economic, political, and security matters involving the two countries.

NSA Ajit Doval visits Iran, holds talks with Iranian counterpart

Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has told Iraq’s President Abdul Latif Rashid that the presence of “even one American in Iraq is too many”. The two met in Tehran on Saturday in Rashid’s first visit to Iran as head of state since his election last October.

‘Even one American in Iraq is too many’, Iran’s Khamenei says

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran told visiting Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid on Saturday that the United States is an untrustworthy ally and that Iraq should not permit any American soldiers on its soil.

Iran opposed American military presence on its borders, in Iraq and the Gulf, saying Western military intervention is the cause of the insecurity in the region.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-210-migrant-bodies-recovered-on-tunisian-coast-in-less-than-two-weeks-587394">Over 210 migrant bodies recovered on Tunisian coast in less than two weeks</a> 
 
"Americans are not friends of Iraq. Americans are not friends with anyone and are not even loyal to their European friends," state media quoted Khamenei as saying.

Reports in the Pentagon leak suggest that US spied on allies, including Ukraine.&nbsp;

"Even the presence of one American in Iraq is too much," Khamenei told Rashid. Rashid was in Tehran with a delegation to give an impetus to ties between the two neighbours.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-could-die-former-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-on-visiting-ukraine-last-year-587377">'We thought we could die': Former House speaker Nancy Pelosi on visiting Ukraine last year</a>

Approximately 2,500 American soldiers are stationed in Iraq to support local security forces in their fight against the Islamic State, which captured territory there in 2014.

"Iraq's main effort is to deepen relations with Iran and resolve certain remaining issues between the two countries," Rashid was quoted as saying, without referring to Iraq's ties with the United States.

The rivalry between Iran and the United States is a long-standing issue that has been ongoing for decades. The most recent tensions between the two countries have centered on Iran's nuclear program.&nbsp;

Watch | Pope Francis on a three-day visit to Hungary, meets Ukrainian refugees

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In 2015, the US and other world powers signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which was designed to limit Iran's nuclear capabilities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

However, in 2018, the US withdrew from the agreement and reimposed sanctions on Iran, which led to increased tensions between the two countries.

There have been efforts to ease tensions and find a diplomatic solution, but progress has been slow. The Biden administration has expressed a willingness to re-engage with Iran on the nuclear issue, but it remains to be seen how the situation will evolve.

The rivalry between Iran and the US is likely to remain a major issue in the Middle East for the foreseeable future.

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Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran told visiting Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid on Saturday that the United States is an untrustworthy ally and that Iraq should not permit any American soldiers on its soil.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran told visiting Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid on Saturday that the United States is an untrustworthy ally and that Iraq should not permit any American soldiers on its soil. Iran opposed American military presence on its borders, in Iraq and the Gulf, saying Western military intervention is the cause of the insecurity in the region. Also Read | Over 210 migrant bodies recovered on Tunisian coast in less than two weeks "Americans are not friends of Iraq. Americans are not friends with anyone and are not even loyal to their European friends," state media quoted Khamenei as saying. Reports in the Pentagon leak suggest that US spied on allies, including Ukraine. "Even the presence of one American in Iraq is too much," Khamenei told Rashid. Rashid was in Tehran with a delegation to give an impetus to ties between the two neighbours. Also Read | 'We thought we could die': Former House speaker Nancy Pelosi on visiting Ukraine last year Approximately 2,500 American soldiers are stationed in Iraq to support local security forces in their fight against the Islamic State, which captured territory there in 2014. "Iraq's main effort is to deepen relations with Iran and resolve certain remaining issues between the two countries," Rashid was quoted as saying, without referring to Iraq's ties with the United States. The rivalry between Iran and the United States is a long-standing issue that has been ongoing for decades. The most recent tensions between the two countries have centered on Iran's nuclear program. Watch | Pope Francis on a three-day visit to Hungary, meets Ukrainian refugees × In 2015, the US and other world powers signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which was designed to limit Iran's nuclear capabilities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. However, in 2018, the US withdrew from the agreement and reimposed sanctions on Iran, which led to increased tensions between the two countries. There have been efforts to ease tensions and find a diplomatic solution, but progress has been slow. The Biden administration has expressed a willingness to re-engage with Iran on the nuclear issue, but it remains to be seen how the situation will evolve. The rivalry between Iran and the US is likely to remain a major issue in the Middle East for the foreseeable future. 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.

'Even the presence of one American in Iraq is too much': Iran leader Khamenei tells Iraqi president

Amid soaring inflation in the country, the Iranian parliament on Sunday voted in an impeachment session to remove industry minister Reza Fatemi Amin. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf announced the results during a session broadcast live on state television.

Amid soaring inflation in the country, the Iranian parliament on Sunday voted in an impeachment session to remove industry minister Reza Fatemi Amin. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf announced the results during a session broadcast live on state television. Amin failed to garner enough votes to save his spot as 162 MPs voted in favour of his removal while 102 against. This was the second instance an impeachment motion had been brought against him. In November last year, Amin managed to stave off the challenge after securing 182 votes. Parliamentarians, who voted to remove industry, mines and trade minister Reza Fatemi-Amin, accused him of failing to control "skyrocketing prices of automobiles and the rising costs of industrial production" and lambasted him for mismanagement. Ahead of the vote, President Ebrahim Raisi batted for him and urged "stability in the management of this ministry". Even Amin argued, "The automobile industry is based on assembly and domestication, so it has problems with the ups and downs of sanctions." According to reports, the major reason that contributed to Amin's downfall was supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say in major policies criticising the high prices and low quality of home-made products including cars. Rial plunges to historic low Earlier this year in February, the Iranian currency, the rial plunged to its lowest with the US dollar fetching as much as 601,500 rials on Iran's unofficial market. At the time, the Iranian authorities blamed the currency's fall on "the enemies' plot" to destabilise the Islamic Republic. Reports also attributed this drop to the country’s increasing international isolation over its human rights violations and reportedly supplying drones to Russia. ALSO READ | Iran says it has developed long-range cruise missile, triggers concerns in West Iran’s economic conditions have also contributed to widespread anger among its citizens. Couple that with the protests that started in the aftermath of 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini's death, the public has been overly critical of the government. Amid the rise in prices and economic hardship, Iranians have turned to the US dollar or gold to protect their savings. WATCH | Shifting ties in West Asia | The West Asia Post × According to reports, protests have continued in parts of Iran despite the government’s harsh crackdown. Meanwhile, Tehran has also recently faced pressure from the West after accusations of supplying drones to Russia for using it amid its conflict with Ukraine, a claim that Iran has denied. ALSO READ | Iranian rial plunges to record low amid anti-government protests, international isolation (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iranian industry minister impeached over rising inflation, mismanagement

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Wednesday will travel to the Syrian capital of Damascus for a "very important" two-day visit. As per state media reports, his trip comes at the official invitation of his Syrian counterpart President Bashar al-Assad.

The visit, as per AFP, comes against the backdrop of the resumption of harmonious relations between regional rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia, and increased Arab engagement with Damascus.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/even-the-presence-of-one-american-in-iraq-is-too-much-iran-leader-khamenei-tells-iraqi-president-587447">'Even the presence of one American in Iraq is too much': Iran leader Khamenei tells Iraqi president</a>

Quoting&nbsp;Iran's ambassador to Syria, Hossein Akbari, IRNA state news agency on Sunday reported that "Dr Raisi's trip to Damascus next Wednesday is a very important trip due to the changes and developments that are taking place in the region."

According to reports, Akbari stated that the upcoming visit will not only be advantageous for Tehran and Damascus but that it also presents an opportunity for other nations in the region to benefit.

"This trip will not only be beneficial for Tehran and Damascus, but it is also a very good event that other countries in the region can also take advantage of," said Akbari.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-official-website-tries-to-discredit-rape-accuser-jean-carroll-claims-shes-a-sexual-harasser-587386">Donald Trump’s official website tries to discredit rape accuser Jean Carroll, claims she’s a sexual harasser</a>

Since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011, no Iranian president has visited Damascus. Before Raisi, the last Iranian president to travel to the Syrian capital was Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who made the visit in September 2010.

During Syria's 12-year-old conflict, Iran has been a significant supporter of President Bashar al-Assad and has provided both financial and military assistance to his regime.&nbsp;

Iran, as per AFP, provides financial support&nbsp;and weapons and also commands a number of Syrian and foreign militia groups who fight alongside the regular armed forces of the Assad regime, with Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah group being the most significant of these groups.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Wednesday will travel to the Syrian capital of Damascus for a "very important" two-day visit. As per state media reports, his trip comes at the official invitation of his Syrian counterpart President Bashar al-Assad.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Wednesday will travel to the Syrian capital of Damascus for a "very important" two-day visit. As per state media reports, his trip comes at the official invitation of his Syrian counterpart President Bashar al-Assad. The visit, as per AFP, comes against the backdrop of the resumption of harmonious relations between regional rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia, and increased Arab engagement with Damascus. Also read | 'Even the presence of one American in Iraq is too much': Iran leader Khamenei tells Iraqi president Quoting Iran's ambassador to Syria, Hossein Akbari, IRNA state news agency on Sunday reported that "Dr Raisi's trip to Damascus next Wednesday is a very important trip due to the changes and developments that are taking place in the region." According to reports, Akbari stated that the upcoming visit will not only be advantageous for Tehran and Damascus but that it also presents an opportunity for other nations in the region to benefit. "This trip will not only be beneficial for Tehran and Damascus, but it is also a very good event that other countries in the region can also take advantage of," said Akbari. Also read | Donald Trump’s official website tries to discredit rape accuser Jean Carroll, claims she’s a sexual harasser Since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011, no Iranian president has visited Damascus. Before Raisi, the last Iranian president to travel to the Syrian capital was Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who made the visit in September 2010. During Syria's 12-year-old conflict, Iran has been a significant supporter of President Bashar al-Assad and has provided both financial and military assistance to his regime. Iran, as per AFP, provides financial support and weapons and also commands a number of Syrian and foreign militia groups who fight alongside the regular armed forces of the Assad regime, with Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah group being the most significant of these groups. (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 President Ebrahim Raisi to visit Syria for 'very important' two-day trip

The presence of even one American soldier in Iraq, according to Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei, is "too much," and Western military interventions are to blame for the region's unrest. The statement was made while Abdul Latif Rashid, the president of Iraq, was in Iran for extensive talks on Saturday.

Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei: US is an unreliable friend

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia and Iran are set to open embassies in each other's capitals "within days,"&nbsp;Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Friday (April 28) as the restoration of ties&nbsp;due to&nbsp;a China-brokered peace starts taking up an independent bilateral shape between Tehran and Riyadh.

The Iranian foreign minister was speaking at a news conference in the Lebanese capital Beirut.

Amirabdollahian, however, did not give specific dates for the reopening of the embassies.

The two countries agreed to restore relations on March 10 and said they would reopen embassies in each other's capitals within "two months". It appears that the establishment of a Saudi embassy in Tehran and an Iranian embassy in Riyadh may happen well before that self-imposed&nbsp;two month deadline.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766">Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West</a>

The Iranian and Saudi embassies in the respective countries have been closed since January 2016 when Riyadh executed a prominent Saudi Shia cleric Ayatollah Sheikh Nimr Baqir al-Nimr, commonly referred to as Sheikh Nimr.

The closure of embassies was simply the culmination of Tehran-Riyadh bilateral turmoil that was ongoing for decades and plunged to a low in 2015&nbsp;following the intervention of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in the Yemen war. Despite this intervention,&nbsp;the Iran-aligned Houthi movement toppled the Saudi-backed government and seized control of the capital Sana'a.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Saudi-Iran ties: a new beginning in West Asia?

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Saudi Arabia accused Iran of providing weapons to the Houthis who attacked Saudi cities with armed drones and ballistic missiles.

In 2019, Riyadh accused Tehran of being responsible for an attack targeting Aramco oil facilities, which resulted in stopping half of its oil production.

Iran denied those accusations.

Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed last month to end their diplomatic row and restore diplomatic missions under a deal brokered by China.

"During the last phone call between the foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Eid al-Fitr, we agreed to work in the next coming days on the reopening of the Iranian and Saudi embassies in Tehran and Riyadh," Amirabdollahian said, according to the official Arabic translation reported by Reuters.

Amirabdollahian was speaking at the end of his visit to Lebanon in which he met with Lebanese officials including Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah.

When asked about a visit by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Damascus, Amirabdollahian confirmed it, saying there was a "programme" put in place for "the near future" without indicating a specific timeframe.

The visit will be the first by an Iranian president to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad since war broke out in Syria in 2011.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Saudi Arabia and Iran are set to open embassies in each other's capitals "within days," Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Friday (April 28) as the restoration of ties due to a China-brokered peace starts taking up an independent bilateral shape between Tehran and Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia and Iran are set to open embassies in each other's capitals "within days," Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Friday (April 28) as the restoration of ties due to a China-brokered peace starts taking up an independent bilateral shape between Tehran and Riyadh. The Iranian foreign minister was speaking at a news conference in the Lebanese capital Beirut. Amirabdollahian, however, did not give specific dates for the reopening of the embassies. The two countries agreed to restore relations on March 10 and said they would reopen embassies in each other's capitals within "two months". It appears that the establishment of a Saudi embassy in Tehran and an Iranian embassy in Riyadh may happen well before that self-imposed two month deadline. ALSO READ | Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West The Iranian and Saudi embassies in the respective countries have been closed since January 2016 when Riyadh executed a prominent Saudi Shia cleric Ayatollah Sheikh Nimr Baqir al-Nimr, commonly referred to as Sheikh Nimr. The closure of embassies was simply the culmination of Tehran-Riyadh bilateral turmoil that was ongoing for decades and plunged to a low in 2015 following the intervention of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in the Yemen war. Despite this intervention, the Iran-aligned Houthi movement toppled the Saudi-backed government and seized control of the capital Sana'a. ALSO WATCH | Saudi-Iran ties: a new beginning in West Asia? × Saudi Arabia accused Iran of providing weapons to the Houthis who attacked Saudi cities with armed drones and ballistic missiles. In 2019, Riyadh accused Tehran of being responsible for an attack targeting Aramco oil facilities, which resulted in stopping half of its oil production. Iran denied those accusations. Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed last month to end their diplomatic row and restore diplomatic missions under a deal brokered by China. "During the last phone call between the foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Eid al-Fitr, we agreed to work in the next coming days on the reopening of the Iranian and Saudi embassies in Tehran and Riyadh," Amirabdollahian said, according to the official Arabic translation reported by Reuters. Amirabdollahian was speaking at the end of his visit to Lebanon in which he met with Lebanese officials including Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah. When asked about a visit by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Damascus, Amirabdollahian confirmed it, saying there was a "programme" put in place for "the near future" without indicating a specific timeframe. The visit will be the first by an Iranian president to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad since war broke out in Syria in 2011. (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.

Saudi Arabia, Iran to reopen embassies in each other's capitals 'within days'

Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, who is on an official visit to Lebanon, visited the Lenanon-Iran border. During his visit, he met with the leadership of the Lebanese group Hezbollah and slammed Israel for its continued attacks in the region.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian expresses support for Hezbollah | World News | WION

Iran's intelligence ministry, on Friday, condemned 'foreign enemies' and dissidents for inciting fears over suspected poisonings of schoolgirls saying that no toxic substance capable of causing poisoning was found in its laboratory investigations and field findings.

"The enemies' role in fuelling this crisis is certain and undeniable. Individuals, groups and Western media (especially in the Persian language)...have focused on this in the past few months, as well as foreign politicians and international bodies," said a ministry report carried by state media.

"In field findings and laboratory investigations...no toxic substance able to cause poisoning was observed...and there have been no deaths or long-term physical conditions," the report said, blaming mischievousness and mass hysteria among students.

The report condemned unspecified dissidents for instigating fears to create propaganda videos and also warned of "prosecution of individuals, groups, media who accused the government and aligned themselves with enemies". 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Iran's intelligence ministry also accused foreign 'enemies' of using the incidents to their advantage and playing an evident and undeniable role in provoking turmoil in the country.

<h2>Iranian leader calls suspected poisoning of schoolgirls ‘unforgivable’ after public outrage</h2>

Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, recently addressed the reports of the suspected poisoning of schoolgirls and called the incidents an 'unforgivable' crime.

“Authorities should seriously pursue the issue of students' poisoning,” said Khamenei, on state TV, as per Reuters. He added, “If it is proven deliberate, those perpetrators of this unforgivable crime should be sentenced to capital punishment and there will be no amnesty for them.”&nbsp;

According to reports by Iranian media, the first case was reported in Qom province on November 30, 2022.

More than 1,000 girls from different schools across the country have suffered “mild poison” attacks since November.

(With inputs from agencies)
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Iran's intelligence ministry, on Friday, condemned 'foreign enemies' and dissidents for inciting fears over suspected poisonings of schoolgirls saying that no toxic substance capable of causing poisoning was found in its laboratory investigations and field findings.

Iran's intelligence ministry, on Friday, condemned 'foreign enemies' and dissidents for inciting fears over suspected poisonings of schoolgirls saying that no toxic substance capable of causing poisoning was found in its laboratory investigations and field findings. "The enemies' role in fuelling this crisis is certain and undeniable. Individuals, groups and Western media (especially in the Persian language)...have focused on this in the past few months, as well as foreign politicians and international bodies," said a ministry report carried by state media. "In field findings and laboratory investigations...no toxic substance able to cause poisoning was observed...and there have been no deaths or long-term physical conditions," the report said, blaming mischievousness and mass hysteria among students. The report condemned unspecified dissidents for instigating fears to create propaganda videos and also warned of "prosecution of individuals, groups, media who accused the government and aligned themselves with enemies". Iran's intelligence ministry also accused foreign 'enemies' of using the incidents to their advantage and playing an evident and undeniable role in provoking turmoil in the country. Iranian leader calls suspected poisoning of schoolgirls ‘unforgivable’ after public outrage Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, recently addressed the reports of the suspected poisoning of schoolgirls and called the incidents an 'unforgivable' crime. “Authorities should seriously pursue the issue of students' poisoning,” said Khamenei, on state TV, as per Reuters. He added, “If it is proven deliberate, those perpetrators of this unforgivable crime should be sentenced to capital punishment and there will be no amnesty for them.” According to reports by Iranian media, the first case was reported in Qom province on November 30, 2022. More than 1,000 girls from different schools across the country have suffered “mild poison” attacks since November. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran denies schoolgirls poisoning attacks, says probe shows no toxic substance

Iran’s army has said it seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman after it collided with an Iranian boat, injuring several crewmen, state media reported.

Iran seizes oil tanker 'trying to flee' in Gulf waters

Iran seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman in international waters on Thursday, the US&nbsp;Navy said, the latest in a series of seizures or attacks on commercial vessels in sensitive Gulf waters since 2019.

Iran's army said it had seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman after it collided with an Iranian boat, injuring several crewmen, Iranian state media reported.

"Two members of the boat's crew are missing and several were injured due to the collision of the ship with the boat," an army statement said.

The US&nbsp;Navy identified the vessel as the Advantage Sweet which, according to Refinitiv ship tracking data, is a Suezmax crude tanker which had been chartered by oil major Chevron and had last docked in Kuwait.

The vessel's destination was listed as the US&nbsp;Gulf of Mexico port of Houston, ship tracking data showed.

Its manager is listed as Genel Denizcilik Nakliyati AS, a Turkey-based company which did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Marshall Islands ship registry did not also immediately respond to a request for comment.

"Iran's continued harassment of vessels and interference with navigational rights in regional waters are a threat to maritime security and the global economy," the US&nbsp;Navy said, adding that Iran has in the past two years unlawfully seized at least five commercial vessels in the Middle East.

The US&nbsp;Navy added that after sending a P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to monitor the situation, "we have since been able to determine the IRIN (Iranian navy) conducted the seizure".

Iranian authorities did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

About a fifth of the world's crude oil and oil products passes through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow choke point between Iran and Oman which the Advantage Sweet had passed through, according to data from analytics firm Vortexa.

<h2 data-testid="Heading">Boarded via helicopter</h2>

Maritime security company Ambrey said the vessel had been boarded via helicopter. "The vessel did not show any signs of conducting evasive manoeuvres prior to the incident," it said.

Munro Anderson, with maritime security company Dryad, said separately that Iran usually detained vessels for "leverage or signalling".

“The working hypothesis at the moment is that it could either be an arbitrary detention of a vessel by Iran in response to the US&nbsp;sailing its first unmanned vessel through the region last week - as a show of force," he said. "Or, it could be in response to the sanctions on the 24th (of April) by the US&nbsp;against personnel in Iran connected to the IRGC (elite Revolutionary Guards)."

Since 2019 there have been a series of attacks on shipping in the strategic Gulf waters at times of tension between the United States and Iran.

Iran last November&nbsp;released&nbsp;two Greek-flagged tankers it had seized in the Gulf in May in response to the confiscation of oil by the United States from an Iranian-flagged tanker off the Greek coast.

Indirect talks between Tehran and Washington to revive Iran's 2015 nuclear pact with world powers have stalled since September over a range of issues, including the Islamic Republic's violent crackdown on popular protests, Tehran's sale of drones to Russia and acceleration of its nuclear program.

The US&nbsp;Navy, whose Fifth Fleet is based at the Gulf island state of Bahrain, called on Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Navy (IRGCN) to immediately release the tanker.

The ship issued a distress call during the seizure, the US&nbsp;Navy statement said.

According to the International Maritime Organisation shipping database, the Advantage Sweet is owned by a China-registered company called SPDBFL No One Hundred &amp; Eighty-Seven (Tianjin) Ship Leasing Co Ltd.

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Iran seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman in international waters on Thursday, the US Navy said, the latest in a series of seizures or attacks on commercial vessels in sensitive Gulf waters since 2019.

Iran seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman in international waters on Thursday, the US Navy said, the latest in a series of seizures or attacks on commercial vessels in sensitive Gulf waters since 2019. Iran's army said it had seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman after it collided with an Iranian boat, injuring several crewmen, Iranian state media reported. "Two members of the boat's crew are missing and several were injured due to the collision of the ship with the boat," an army statement said. The US Navy identified the vessel as the Advantage Sweet which, according to Refinitiv ship tracking data, is a Suezmax crude tanker which had been chartered by oil major Chevron and had last docked in Kuwait. The vessel's destination was listed as the US Gulf of Mexico port of Houston, ship tracking data showed. Its manager is listed as Genel Denizcilik Nakliyati AS, a Turkey-based company which did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Marshall Islands ship registry did not also immediately respond to a request for comment. "Iran's continued harassment of vessels and interference with navigational rights in regional waters are a threat to maritime security and the global economy," the US Navy said, adding that Iran has in the past two years unlawfully seized at least five commercial vessels in the Middle East. The US Navy added that after sending a P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to monitor the situation, "we have since been able to determine the IRIN (Iranian navy) conducted the seizure". Iranian authorities did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. About a fifth of the world's crude oil and oil products passes through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow choke point between Iran and Oman which the Advantage Sweet had passed through, according to data from analytics firm Vortexa. Boarded via helicopter Maritime security company Ambrey said the vessel had been boarded via helicopter. "The vessel did not show any signs of conducting evasive manoeuvres prior to the incident," it said. Munro Anderson, with maritime security company Dryad, said separately that Iran usually detained vessels for "leverage or signalling". “The working hypothesis at the moment is that it could either be an arbitrary detention of a vessel by Iran in response to the US sailing its first unmanned vessel through the region last week - as a show of force," he said. "Or, it could be in response to the sanctions on the 24th (of April) by the US against personnel in Iran connected to the IRGC (elite Revolutionary Guards)." Since 2019 there have been a series of attacks on shipping in the strategic Gulf waters at times of tension between the United States and Iran. Iran last November released two Greek-flagged tankers it had seized in the Gulf in May in response to the confiscation of oil by the United States from an Iranian-flagged tanker off the Greek coast. Indirect talks between Tehran and Washington to revive Iran's 2015 nuclear pact with world powers have stalled since September over a range of issues, including the Islamic Republic's violent crackdown on popular protests, Tehran's sale of drones to Russia and acceleration of its nuclear program. The US Navy, whose Fifth Fleet is based at the Gulf island state of Bahrain, called on Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Navy (IRGCN) to immediately release the tanker. The ship issued a distress call during the seizure, the US Navy statement said. According to the International Maritime Organisation shipping database, the Advantage Sweet is owned by a China-registered company called SPDBFL No One Hundred & Eighty-Seven (Tianjin) Ship Leasing Co Ltd. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iran seizes oil tanker in Gulf: US Navy

Iranian state media reported on Wednesday (April 26) that Ayatollah Abbas Ali Soleimani, a powerful cleric was killed in an armed attack.

"Ayatollah Abbas Ali Soleimani was killed this morning in an armed attack... the assailant was also arrested," IRNA news agency reported, citing an official.

The deadly attack took place in the city of Babolsar, according to IRNA. The city is part of northern province of Mazamdaran.

Soleimani, 75, was previously representative of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei. He was also an imam and led the weekly Friday prayers in cities of Kashan and Zahedan. Kashan is in central Isfaham province while Zahedan is in southwestern province of Sistan-Baluchistan.

Fars news agency has reported that the suspected killer has been detained. The news agency said that Soleimani died in a hospital after being shot at a bank.

"The motive of the assailant is not yet clear and will be announced after it is clarified," the official added, as per the report.

According to Mahmoud Hosseinipour, governor of Mazandaran province, the attacker was a local security person of the bank.

"So far, our information and documents indicate that this was not a security or terrorist act," Hosseinipour told state television.

Under the constitution, the 88-strong Assembly of Experts is mandated with supervising, dismissing and electing the Supreme Leader.

The all-powerful deliberative body is now headed by ultra-conservatives 96-year-old cleric Ahmad Jannati.

Members of the Assembly of Experts are chosen in popular elections. Once elected, each member serves an eight-year term. The pool of candidates for the assembly is vetted by Iran's Guardian Council.

Attack on Ayatollah Abbas Ali Soleimani is believed to be the most significant one against a cleric in recent years in Iran.

In April 2022, a suspected jihadist knife attack in the northeastern shrine city of Mashhad in Razavi Khorasan Province led to death of two clerics and injury of another.

The chief suspect, identified as Abdolatif Moradi, 21, was an ethnic Uzbek who had entered Iran illegally via the Pakistani border a year ago, Tasnim news agency said at the time.

Moradi was hanged in June in the same city on the accusation of "moharebeh", or "war against God".

The assailant struck on the third day of the holy month of Ramzan as large crowds of worshippers gathered at the shrine of Imam Reza, one of the most revered figures in Shiite Islam.

The attack in Mashhad came days after two Sunni clerics were shot dead outside a seminary in the northern Iranian town of Gonbad-e Kavus.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iranian state media reported on Wednesday (April 26) that Ayatollah Abbas Ali Soleimani, a powerful cleric was killed in an armed attack. "Ayatollah Abbas Ali Soleimani was killed this morning in an armed attack.

Iranian state media reported on Wednesday (April 26) that Ayatollah Abbas Ali Soleimani, a powerful cleric was killed in an armed attack. "Ayatollah Abbas Ali Soleimani was killed this morning in an armed attack... the assailant was also arrested," IRNA news agency reported, citing an official. The deadly attack took place in the city of Babolsar, according to IRNA. The city is part of northern province of Mazamdaran. Soleimani, 75, was previously representative of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei. He was also an imam and led the weekly Friday prayers in cities of Kashan and Zahedan. Kashan is in central Isfaham province while Zahedan is in southwestern province of Sistan-Baluchistan. Fars news agency has reported that the suspected killer has been detained. The news agency said that Soleimani died in a hospital after being shot at a bank. "The motive of the assailant is not yet clear and will be announced after it is clarified," the official added, as per the report. According to Mahmoud Hosseinipour, governor of Mazandaran province, the attacker was a local security person of the bank. "So far, our information and documents indicate that this was not a security or terrorist act," Hosseinipour told state television. Under the constitution, the 88-strong Assembly of Experts is mandated with supervising, dismissing and electing the Supreme Leader. The all-powerful deliberative body is now headed by ultra-conservatives 96-year-old cleric Ahmad Jannati. Members of the Assembly of Experts are chosen in popular elections. Once elected, each member serves an eight-year term. The pool of candidates for the assembly is vetted by Iran's Guardian Council. Attack on Ayatollah Abbas Ali Soleimani is believed to be the most significant one against a cleric in recent years in Iran. In April 2022, a suspected jihadist knife attack in the northeastern shrine city of Mashhad in Razavi Khorasan Province led to death of two clerics and injury of another. The chief suspect, identified as Abdolatif Moradi, 21, was an ethnic Uzbek who had entered Iran illegally via the Pakistani border a year ago, Tasnim news agency said at the time. Moradi was hanged in June in the same city on the accusation of "moharebeh", or "war against God". The assailant struck on the third day of the holy month of Ramzan as large crowds of worshippers gathered at the shrine of Imam Reza, one of the most revered figures in Shiite Islam. The attack in Mashhad came days after two Sunni clerics were shot dead outside a seminary in the northern Iranian town of Gonbad-e Kavus. (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 ×

Powerful Iranian cleric killed in armed attack: Reports

Several nations are knocking on the door of the BRICS. The BRICS group of nations are preparing to hold the proposed annual summit in South Africa. Meanwhile, nineteen countries have expressed an interest so far in joining the bloc. Thirteen countries have formally asked to join and another six have asked informally. The BRICS bloc consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The member nations will meet in Cape Town on June 2-3 to discuss its expansion.

Will BRICS invite more members as 19 nations, including Saudi Arabia & Iran, show interest?

Israel has allegedly hit border areas of Quneitra as it shelled pro-Iran targets in Southern Syria during its more than a decade-long civil war in Syria. Israel has launched hundreds of airstrikes on its territory primarily targeting Iran-backed forces.

Israel allegedly strikes Syria border, sends out strong warning for Syria

Iranian regime formed a 'secret' committee last year to keep an eye on celebrities in the country who supported protests that erupted after Mahsa Amini death, reported BBC. Citing leaked documents, BBC said that in a letter dated September 22 last year, the committee sent a list of 141 well-known figures to economy ministry and asked them to invesigate their tax returns. This indicates that the government had begun co-ordinated action against the popular protests just days after they started.

Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian, was detained by Iran's Morality Police over her 'inappropriate' behaviour. Amini's custodial death had sparked huge protests across the Islamic republic that lasted for months. In the crackdown that followed the protests, hundreads of protesters lost their lives.

BBC said that its Persian news service obtained the documents from a Middle Eastern intelligence source.

The people on the Iranian regime's radar reportedly include sporting legend Ali Daei and top actress Taraneh Alidoosti.

Iran government's response to anti-Hijab protests has been negative. Local media reported on Tuesday that two prominent actresses had been charged for flouting the dress code.

Police in Tehran have referred the case against Katayoun Riahi and Pantea Bahram to Iran's judiciary, accusing them of "the crime of removing the hijab in public and posting photos on the internet", the Tasnim news agency said late Monday. 
If prosecuted, the pair could face fines or prison terms.

Earlier this month police said they would begin using "smart" technology in public places to crack down on women defying Iran's compulsory dress code.

Last week, photos of Bahram, 53, went viral after she posed without a headscarf at a film screening, while Riahi, 61, posted several photos taken in public places around Tehran in which she did not wear a headscarf.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iranian regime formed a 'secret' committee last year to keep an eye on celebrities in the country who supported protests that erupted after Mahsa Amini death, reported BBC.

Iranian regime formed a 'secret' committee last year to keep an eye on celebrities in the country who supported protests that erupted after Mahsa Amini death, reported BBC. Citing leaked documents, BBC said that in a letter dated September 22 last year, the committee sent a list of 141 well-known figures to economy ministry and asked them to invesigate their tax returns. This indicates that the government had begun co-ordinated action against the popular protests just days after they started. Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian, was detained by Iran's Morality Police over her 'inappropriate' behaviour. Amini's custodial death had sparked huge protests across the Islamic republic that lasted for months. In the crackdown that followed the protests, hundreads of protesters lost their lives. BBC said that its Persian news service obtained the documents from a Middle Eastern intelligence source. The people on the Iranian regime's radar reportedly include sporting legend Ali Daei and top actress Taraneh Alidoosti. Iran government's response to anti-Hijab protests has been negative. Local media reported on Tuesday that two prominent actresses had been charged for flouting the dress code. Police in Tehran have referred the case against Katayoun Riahi and Pantea Bahram to Iran's judiciary, accusing them of "the crime of removing the hijab in public and posting photos on the internet", the Tasnim news agency said late Monday. If prosecuted, the pair could face fines or prison terms. Earlier this month police said they would begin using "smart" technology in public places to crack down on women defying Iran's compulsory dress code. Last week, photos of Bahram, 53, went viral after she posed without a headscarf at a film screening, while Riahi, 61, posted several photos taken in public places around Tehran in which she did not wear a headscarf. (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 formed secret committee to target celebrities over Amini protests: Report

Multiple Iranian media reports citing officials have confirmed the death of a 59-year-old Iranian woman after she had a cardiac arrest in a hospital, on Monday (April 24). The semi-official Fars news agency confirmed the death but described the conflict as a fight between “several passengers and a group of people.”&nbsp;

The report by Fars also said that police have detained several people in connection with the incident. A report by Iran International, citing footage of the incident said that the scuffles took place at the parking lot of Mahan Garden which is a tourist attraction in the country’s Eastern Kerman Province while the victim and her family are said to be visitors from the southern port city of Bandar Abbas.

The video in question was reportedly taken from a bus which carried the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) affiliated Basij militia members and their families who were in Kerman to visit the grave of military officer Qassem Soleimani who was assassinated in 2020, reported Iran International.&nbsp;

The fighting broke out after vigilantes assaulted a member of the victim’s family over her hijab, said the media report. It also suggested that it was a Basij member who ordered the woman’s family member to cover her hair.&nbsp;

The governor of Kerman, Ali Babaei described the incident as a “mass conflict” which was sparked by personal issues and confirmed the death of a 59-year-old woman and the injury of several others. So far, police have detained several people in relation to the incident, said the governor without giving any further details.&nbsp;The identity of the victim has also not been disclosed.&nbsp;

The incident has also prompted an investigation where judiciary official, Yousef Sobhani, said “any possible crime would be seriously dealt with,” as quoted by Iran International. Iran has recently intensified its crackdown on women not wearing a headscarf.&nbsp;

Some of the steps reportedly include shutting businesses if their customers do not comply with the hijab law and sending “hijab warning” text messages to nearly everyone who uses a mobile phone, including some men.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, two women were arrested in Iran for not wearing the hijab after a rowdy man created a ruckus and attacked the duo with what seemingly appears to be yoghurt in the northwest city of Mashad. Iran’s judiciary said the two women were arrested for flouting the country’s hijab mandate while the man was also detained for disturbing the public order.&nbsp; 
 
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Multiple Iranian media reports citing officials have confirmed the death of a 59-year-old Iranian woman after she had a cardiac arrest in a hospital, on Monday (April 24).

Multiple Iranian media reports citing officials have confirmed the death of a 59-year-old Iranian woman after she had a cardiac arrest in a hospital, on Monday (April 24). The semi-official Fars news agency confirmed the death but described the conflict as a fight between “several passengers and a group of people.” The report by Fars also said that police have detained several people in connection with the incident. A report by Iran International, citing footage of the incident said that the scuffles took place at the parking lot of Mahan Garden which is a tourist attraction in the country’s Eastern Kerman Province while the victim and her family are said to be visitors from the southern port city of Bandar Abbas. The video in question was reportedly taken from a bus which carried the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) affiliated Basij militia members and their families who were in Kerman to visit the grave of military officer Qassem Soleimani who was assassinated in 2020, reported Iran International. The fighting broke out after vigilantes assaulted a member of the victim’s family over her hijab, said the media report. It also suggested that it was a Basij member who ordered the woman’s family member to cover her hair. The governor of Kerman, Ali Babaei described the incident as a “mass conflict” which was sparked by personal issues and confirmed the death of a 59-year-old woman and the injury of several others. So far, police have detained several people in relation to the incident, said the governor without giving any further details. The identity of the victim has also not been disclosed. The incident has also prompted an investigation where judiciary official, Yousef Sobhani, said “any possible crime would be seriously dealt with,” as quoted by Iran International. Iran has recently intensified its crackdown on women not wearing a headscarf. Some of the steps reportedly include shutting businesses if their customers do not comply with the hijab law and sending “hijab warning” text messages to nearly everyone who uses a mobile phone, including some men. Earlier this month, two women were arrested in Iran for not wearing the hijab after a rowdy man created a ruckus and attacked the duo with what seemingly appears to be yoghurt in the northwest city of Mashad. Iran’s judiciary said the two women were arrested for flouting the country’s hijab mandate while the man was also detained for disturbing the public order. 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 woman dies of heart attack after fighting erupted over hijab rule: Reports

The daughter of an environmentalist who is being held captive in Iran said Saturday that she no longer believed or has any confidence that US President Joe Biden would succeed in freeing her father. After being found guilty of spying, Iranian-American Morad Tahbaz, who is also a British citizen, was given a 10-year sentence. He has already spent five years of that time inside prison.&nbsp;

In March 2022, when two other dual nationals, including British-Iranian relief worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, were permitted to leave Iran, he was momentarily freed to home arrest with an electronic tag.

Morad Tahbaz's lawyer Hojat Kermani last year said Tahbaz "was released on bail and with an electronic bracelet."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/half-of-worlds-language-diversity-at-risk-says-study-585261">Half of world's language diversity at risk, frightening trends in some regions: Study</a>

His daughter Tara Tahbaz said that although his lawyer claimed in July that he had been granted release, he was now back in custody.

"I think being told since Biden has taken office that our loved ones are a priority, and then seeing no action - it is hard to hold hope," Tara Tahbaz told Reuters. She was in Madrid where she visited from US to meet her relatives.

She stated that at a conference in Washington that is set for early next month, Biden should give her family and the families of two other American detainees in Iran an opportunity to share their tales.

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She said that her father, who is now 67, had prostate cancer and had COVID-19&nbsp;three times in jail.&nbsp;Tahbaz and two other Iranian citizens, Emad Shargi and Siamak Namazi, are all detained on trumped-up espionage allegations, according to the United States, and have been asked to be released by Iran.

US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel tweeted Saturday, "We once again call on Iran to cease unjustly imprisoning foreign nationals for use as political leverage and to release U.S. citizens Emad Shargi, Morad Tahbaz, and Siamak Namazi."

Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story

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An oil executive named Namazi was sentenced to ten years in prison in 2016 on suspicion of spying and "assembly and collusion against Iran's national security" for and assisting the United States government.

In 2021, Shargi was found guilty and given a 10-year sentence.

An EU spokesperson last year said at the time of Tahbaz's brief relese said, "The Tahbaz family have confirmed Morad has been released from Evin prison on furlough and is at their home in Tehran." "Morad is a tri-national and we continue to work closely with the United States to urge the Iranian authorities to permanently release him and allow his departure from Iran."

In recent years, Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards have detained dozens of dual citizens and foreigners, most frequently on espionage-related allegations.

Tehran does not recognise dual nationality. Rights campaigners have accused Iran of using the detained persons as negotiating chips. However, Iran has denied using these inmates as diplomatic pawns.

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The daughter of an environmentalist who is being held captive in Iran said Saturday that she no longer believed or has any confidence that US President Joe Biden would succeed in freeing her father.

The daughter of an environmentalist who is being held captive in Iran said Saturday that she no longer believed or has any confidence that US President Joe Biden would succeed in freeing her father. After being found guilty of spying, Iranian-American Morad Tahbaz, who is also a British citizen, was given a 10-year sentence. He has already spent five years of that time inside prison. In March 2022, when two other dual nationals, including British-Iranian relief worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, were permitted to leave Iran, he was momentarily freed to home arrest with an electronic tag. Morad Tahbaz's lawyer Hojat Kermani last year said Tahbaz "was released on bail and with an electronic bracelet." Also Read | Half of world's language diversity at risk, frightening trends in some regions: Study His daughter Tara Tahbaz said that although his lawyer claimed in July that he had been granted release, he was now back in custody. "I think being told since Biden has taken office that our loved ones are a priority, and then seeing no action - it is hard to hold hope," Tara Tahbaz told Reuters. She was in Madrid where she visited from US to meet her relatives. She stated that at a conference in Washington that is set for early next month, Biden should give her family and the families of two other American detainees in Iran an opportunity to share their tales. Also Read | Zelensky signs law banning Russian place names in Ukraine, aims to restore national identity She said that her father, who is now 67, had prostate cancer and had COVID-19 three times in jail. Tahbaz and two other Iranian citizens, Emad Shargi and Siamak Namazi, are all detained on trumped-up espionage allegations, according to the United States, and have been asked to be released by Iran. US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel tweeted Saturday, "We once again call on Iran to cease unjustly imprisoning foreign nationals for use as political leverage and to release U.S. citizens Emad Shargi, Morad Tahbaz, and Siamak Namazi." Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story × An oil executive named Namazi was sentenced to ten years in prison in 2016 on suspicion of spying and "assembly and collusion against Iran's national security" for and assisting the United States government. In 2021, Shargi was found guilty and given a 10-year sentence. An EU spokesperson last year said at the time of Tahbaz's brief relese said, "The Tahbaz family have confirmed Morad has been released from Evin prison on furlough and is at their home in Tehran." "Morad is a tri-national and we continue to work closely with the United States to urge the Iranian authorities to permanently release him and allow his departure from Iran." In recent years, Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards have detained dozens of dual citizens and foreigners, most frequently on espionage-related allegations. Tehran does not recognise dual nationality. Rights campaigners have accused Iran of using the detained persons as negotiating chips. However, Iran has denied using these inmates as diplomatic pawns. 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.

Daughter of US citizen jailed in Iran has lost confidence in US

In connection to the mysterious poisoning of thousands of schoolgirls in Iran, Iranian security has arrested three female teenagers and two men over their alleged involvement, local media reported citing sources. Arrested from the southern city of Lar, the three students and two men are reportedly subjected to great pressure from authorities to confess carrying out poisoning attacks, a source told IranWire.&nbsp;

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The source said that the five suspects were arrested "simply because they were protestors." Moreover, it claimed that "a scenario was created to accuse them of being involved in the students' poisoning."

Up to 13,000 students are said to have had symptoms like nausea, dizziness, headaches, coughing, difficulty breathing, and heart palpitations, many of whom required hospitalisation.

On 7 March, the police chief of the province of Fars, where Lar is situated, reported the detention of five people. This included three women and two males, both of whom were in their 20s and 50s.

According to Iranian police spokesperson Saeed Montazer al-Mahdi, the suspects threw Nitrogen in seven schools in the Larestan area as a "team," poisoning 53 kids.

State media in Lar released a video on March 18 in which Setayesh Amiri and her father are described as the main suspects behind the case.

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The females detained were Satayesh Amiri, Setayesh Darogheh, and Erfaneh Honar, both in the 10th grade, according to IranWire's source. They all are in the same high school and are all 17 years old.

The two further suspects were named as Alireza Bagheri, a young man, and Ebrahim, Amiri's father.

Multiple Lar schools were the target of chemical attacks on 3 March, the source told IranWire. Security personnel seized students' cellphones, including those of the three females detained in the case. It was done to ensure that the students do not record videos.&nbsp;

Ebrahim Amiri was taken into custody later that evening during a raid on his home. Several hours later, Alireza Bagheri was arrested. Setayesh Amiri, during her compelled confession, referred to the young man as her friend.&nbsp;

The two claimed in the video that they poisoned pupils while filming them and then submitted the videos to the London-based Iran International news station.

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According to the source, Setayesh Darogheh was singled out because of her "fearlessness and activism."

The authorities are "creating a case against her and the others to show that the government is taking action," according to IranWire.

In the first week of March, the Iranian government made an announcement that a few suspects are arrested in connection to the poisoning cases which affected thousand of students since late November.

The incident sparked outrage in Iran, with many people calling for a thorough investigation into the cause of the poisoning and for those responsible to be held accountable.&nbsp;

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In connection to the mysterious poisoning of thousands of schoolgirls in Iran, Iranian security has arrested three female teenagers and two men over their alleged involvement, local media reported citing sources.

In connection to the mysterious poisoning of thousands of schoolgirls in Iran, Iranian security has arrested three female teenagers and two men over their alleged involvement, local media reported citing sources. Arrested from the southern city of Lar, the three students and two men are reportedly subjected to great pressure from authorities to confess carrying out poisoning attacks, a source told IranWire. Also Read | Jack Dorsey's Twitter alternative Bluesky makes debut on Android The source said that the five suspects were arrested "simply because they were protestors." Moreover, it claimed that "a scenario was created to accuse them of being involved in the students' poisoning." Up to 13,000 students are said to have had symptoms like nausea, dizziness, headaches, coughing, difficulty breathing, and heart palpitations, many of whom required hospitalisation. On 7 March, the police chief of the province of Fars, where Lar is situated, reported the detention of five people. This included three women and two males, both of whom were in their 20s and 50s. According to Iranian police spokesperson Saeed Montazer al-Mahdi, the suspects threw Nitrogen in seven schools in the Larestan area as a "team," poisoning 53 kids. State media in Lar released a video on March 18 in which Setayesh Amiri and her father are described as the main suspects behind the case. Also Read | Tesla secures big win in crash case, court says autopilot feature did not fail The females detained were Satayesh Amiri, Setayesh Darogheh, and Erfaneh Honar, both in the 10th grade, according to IranWire's source. They all are in the same high school and are all 17 years old. The two further suspects were named as Alireza Bagheri, a young man, and Ebrahim, Amiri's father. Multiple Lar schools were the target of chemical attacks on 3 March, the source told IranWire. Security personnel seized students' cellphones, including those of the three females detained in the case. It was done to ensure that the students do not record videos. Ebrahim Amiri was taken into custody later that evening during a raid on his home. Several hours later, Alireza Bagheri was arrested. Setayesh Amiri, during her compelled confession, referred to the young man as her friend. The two claimed in the video that they poisoned pupils while filming them and then submitted the videos to the London-based Iran International news station. Watch | Oliver Dowden named UK deputy pm after Dominic Raab's resignation × According to the source, Setayesh Darogheh was singled out because of her "fearlessness and activism." The authorities are "creating a case against her and the others to show that the government is taking action," according to IranWire. In the first week of March, the Iranian government made an announcement that a few suspects are arrested in connection to the poisoning cases which affected thousand of students since late November. The incident sparked outrage in Iran, with many people calling for a thorough investigation into the cause of the poisoning and for those responsible to be held accountable. 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 female teens arrested, forced to confess carrying out school poisonings: Report

Eid al-Fitr 2023: Observing the new moon or crescent is a traditional practice among Muslims to determine the start of the tenth month in the Islamic calendar, called Shawwal. This marks the end of the month-long fasting of Ramadan and the beginning of the Eid al-Fitr festival. The sighting of the new moon is typically done with the naked eye or telescopes, and once confirmed, the news is shared through media outlets, mosques, and community organizations. It is important to note that the exact method of determining the start of Shawwal may vary between different Muslim communities and countries. The festival of Eid al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, which translates to "festival of breaking the fast."&nbsp;

Muslims around the world are preparing to observe the crescent moon tonight to welcome the month of Shawwal and celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

Because moon was already sighted in UAE and Saudi Arabia on Thursday, these nations, including UK, Qatar and USA, are celebrating Eid al-Fitr on April 21. However, there are several Muslim nations, like Indonesia and Pakistan, where the moon was not spotted on Thursday. So, these nations will celebrate the first day of Eid on Saturday, April 22.

<h2>Australia</h2>

The Australian Fatwa Council has announced that Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr in Australia, based on astronomical calculations that indicate that the crescent moon will not be visible on Thursday evening. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 8:53 AM to 6:51 PM on Saturday.

<h2>Brunei</h2>

The sovereign state of Brunei has declared Saturday, April 22, as the first day of Eid al-Fitr since the sighting of the crescent moon of Shawwal has not been proven in the country. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:39 AM to 8:20 PM.

<h2>Indonesia</h2>

Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia, as the Shawwal crescent was not spotted on April 20. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:31 AM to 7:35 PM.

<h2>Iran</h2>

Iran has announced that Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr, as the sighting of the crescent has not been confirmed. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 6:33 AM to 9:21 PM.

<h2>Japan</h2>

Eid al-Fitr will fall on Saturday, April 22, in Japan, as the moon was not sighted on Thursday. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 6:01 AM to 8:41 PM.

<h2>Libya</h2>

Libya has announced that Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr, as the sighting of the crescent has not been confirmed. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:42 AM to 9:54 PM.

<h2>Malaysia</h2>

Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on Saturday, April 22, in Malaysia, as the crescent moon was not sighted on Thursday, April 20. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 8:37 AM to 9:12 PM.

<h2>Morocco</h2>

The Kingdom of Morocco has declared Saturday, April 22, as the day of Eid al-Fitr, as the sighting of the crescent was not proven, even after an attempt was made to investigate it by more than 200 investigation committees. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:42 AM to 10:47 PM.

<h2>Oman</h2>

Oman has announced Saturday, April 22, as the first day of Eid al-Fitr, as it was not possible to see the Shawwal crescent for the year 1444 AH. Earlier, Oman had announced Eid al-Fitr holidays for employees in the government and private sector from Thursday, April 20 to Monday, April 24, 2023. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:00 AM to 8:51 PM.

<h2>Pakistan</h2>

Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr in Pakistan, due to the lack of proven sighting of the crescent. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 6:39 AM to 9:15 PM.

<h2>Philippines</h2>

According to Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’, the Islamic Advisory Council of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the first day of Eid al-Fitr in the Philippines will be on Saturday, April 22, as the crescent moon was not sighted on Thursday. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 6:59 AM to 8:13 PM

<h2>Singapore</h2>

Muslims in Singapore will celebrate Eid al-Fitr on Saturday, April 22, 2023, as the Shawwal crescent was not spotted on Thursday. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 8:31 AM to 9:00 PM.

<h2>Thailand</h2>

The Islamic festival will fall on Saturday in Thailand, as the moon was not sighted in the country on Thursday. 
Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:25 AM to 8:36 PM.

Eid al-Fitr 2023: Observing the new moon or crescent is a traditional practice among Muslims to determine the start of the tenth month in the Islamic calendar, called Shawwal.

Eid al-Fitr 2023: Observing the new moon or crescent is a traditional practice among Muslims to determine the start of the tenth month in the Islamic calendar, called Shawwal. This marks the end of the month-long fasting of Ramadan and the beginning of the Eid al-Fitr festival. The sighting of the new moon is typically done with the naked eye or telescopes, and once confirmed, the news is shared through media outlets, mosques, and community organizations. It is important to note that the exact method of determining the start of Shawwal may vary between different Muslim communities and countries. The festival of Eid al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, which translates to "festival of breaking the fast." Muslims around the world are preparing to observe the crescent moon tonight to welcome the month of Shawwal and celebrate Eid al-Fitr. Because moon was already sighted in UAE and Saudi Arabia on Thursday, these nations, including UK, Qatar and USA, are celebrating Eid al-Fitr on April 21. However, there are several Muslim nations, like Indonesia and Pakistan, where the moon was not spotted on Thursday. So, these nations will celebrate the first day of Eid on Saturday, April 22. Australia The Australian Fatwa Council has announced that Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr in Australia, based on astronomical calculations that indicate that the crescent moon will not be visible on Thursday evening. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 8:53 AM to 6:51 PM on Saturday. Brunei The sovereign state of Brunei has declared Saturday, April 22, as the first day of Eid al-Fitr since the sighting of the crescent moon of Shawwal has not been proven in the country. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:39 AM to 8:20 PM. Indonesia Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr in Indonesia, as the Shawwal crescent was not spotted on April 20. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:31 AM to 7:35 PM. Iran Iran has announced that Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr, as the sighting of the crescent has not been confirmed. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 6:33 AM to 9:21 PM. Japan Eid al-Fitr will fall on Saturday, April 22, in Japan, as the moon was not sighted on Thursday. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 6:01 AM to 8:41 PM. Libya Libya has announced that Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr, as the sighting of the crescent has not been confirmed. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:42 AM to 9:54 PM. Malaysia Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on Saturday, April 22, in Malaysia, as the crescent moon was not sighted on Thursday, April 20. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 8:37 AM to 9:12 PM. Morocco The Kingdom of Morocco has declared Saturday, April 22, as the day of Eid al-Fitr, as the sighting of the crescent was not proven, even after an attempt was made to investigate it by more than 200 investigation committees. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:42 AM to 10:47 PM. Oman Oman has announced Saturday, April 22, as the first day of Eid al-Fitr, as it was not possible to see the Shawwal crescent for the year 1444 AH. Earlier, Oman had announced Eid al-Fitr holidays for employees in the government and private sector from Thursday, April 20 to Monday, April 24, 2023. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:00 AM to 8:51 PM. Pakistan Saturday, April 22, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr in Pakistan, due to the lack of proven sighting of the crescent. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 6:39 AM to 9:15 PM. Philippines According to Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’, the Islamic Advisory Council of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the first day of Eid al-Fitr in the Philippines will be on Saturday, April 22, as the crescent moon was not sighted on Thursday. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 6:59 AM to 8:13 PM Singapore Muslims in Singapore will celebrate Eid al-Fitr on Saturday, April 22, 2023, as the Shawwal crescent was not spotted on Thursday. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 8:31 AM to 9:00 PM. Thailand The Islamic festival will fall on Saturday in Thailand, as the moon was not sighted in the country on Thursday. Moon sighting time: The crescent moon might be visible from 7:25 AM to 8:36 PM.

Eid al-Fitr 2023: Moon Sighting Time in Oman, Pakistan, Morocco, Iran, Indonesia and others

The exiled crown prince of Iran has visited the state of Israel, sounding a message of unity as the two nations stand against each other in West Asian politics. Reza Pahlavi is the son of the last Shah to rule Iran before the dynasty was effectively ended by the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Iran's exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi visits Israel, shares a 'message of unity' | WION Pulse

An Iranian official says Iran’s navy obliged a US submarine to surface as it entered the Gulf “violating its border” in the latest report of an apparent confrontation between Iranian and US forces in the region.

Iran says its navy forced US submarine to surface in Gulf waters

In a move aimed at strengthening regional co-operation, India, Iran and Armenia have formed a trilateral grouping. The first trilateral political consultation between the ministries of foreign affairs of the three countries was held in the Armenian capital, Yerevan on Thursday.

The delegations were led by Mnatsakan Safaryan, the deputy foreign minister of Armenia, Seyed Rasoul Mousavi, the assistant of the foreign minister of Iran, and JP Singh, the joint secretary of the ministry of external affairs of India according to Armenia's foreign ministry.&nbsp;

"During the meeting, the sides particularly discussed economic issues and regional communication channels, outlined the prospects of deepening cultural and people to people contacts as well as trilateral cooperation in various fields," read a readout from the Armenian foreign ministry.&nbsp;

The three countries have decided to "continue consultations" in the format, the readout explained. The trilateral meeting discussed the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a freight corridor connecting India, Iran, and Russia, aimed at reducing costs and time in the movement of goods from Mumbai to Moscow. The INSTC agreement was signed by Russia, Iran, and India in 2002 and has since expanded.&nbsp;

Bilateral relations between the three countries have been robust, with high-level engagement in recent months. Both Armenian foreign and defence ministers have visited India, with the Armenian foreign minister, Ararat Mirzoyan, visiting India in March 2023, the Minister of Defence Suren Papikyan visiting in April 2022, and EAM Jaishankar visiting the country in October 2021.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-g20-presidency-weaving-inclusive-growth-583617">WATCH |&nbsp;India's G20 Presidency: Weaving inclusive growth</a>

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India and Iran also have historic ties, with the two countries sharing a common cultural heritage. The Chabahar port in Iran has been key to connectivity between the two sides. India has provided equipment worth $25 million to aid in the development of the port, including six mobile harbour cranes.

The port has the potential to serve as a gateway for India to access Central Asia and Afghanistan, while also providing Iran with an alternative trade route to the Persian Gulf. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi is expected to travel to India in July to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as a full-fledged member of the grouping.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-chair-sco-environment-emergencies-ministers-meet-this-week-583510">ALSO READ |&nbsp;India to chair SCO environment, emergencies ministers meet this week</a>

Iran and Armenia, which share a border, also have robust ties. Last year, Iran opened a consulate in Armenia's Kapan. The two countries have also been working together to enhance trade and economic cooperation with Armenia serving as a transit route for Iran to access the Eurasian Economic Union. The trilateral grouping between India, Iran, and Armenia is expected to pave the way for greater cooperation in a range of areas, including trade, investment, energy, and transportation.

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In a move aimed at strengthening regional co-operation, India, Iran and Armenia have formed a trilateral grouping. The first trilateral political consultation between the ministries of foreign affairs of the three countries was held in the Armenian capital, Yerevan on Thursday.

In a move aimed at strengthening regional co-operation, India, Iran and Armenia have formed a trilateral grouping. The first trilateral political consultation between the ministries of foreign affairs of the three countries was held in the Armenian capital, Yerevan on Thursday. The delegations were led by Mnatsakan Safaryan, the deputy foreign minister of Armenia, Seyed Rasoul Mousavi, the assistant of the foreign minister of Iran, and JP Singh, the joint secretary of the ministry of external affairs of India according to Armenia's foreign ministry. "During the meeting, the sides particularly discussed economic issues and regional communication channels, outlined the prospects of deepening cultural and people to people contacts as well as trilateral cooperation in various fields," read a readout from the Armenian foreign ministry. The three countries have decided to "continue consultations" in the format, the readout explained. The trilateral meeting discussed the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a freight corridor connecting India, Iran, and Russia, aimed at reducing costs and time in the movement of goods from Mumbai to Moscow. The INSTC agreement was signed by Russia, Iran, and India in 2002 and has since expanded. Bilateral relations between the three countries have been robust, with high-level engagement in recent months. Both Armenian foreign and defence ministers have visited India, with the Armenian foreign minister, Ararat Mirzoyan, visiting India in March 2023, the Minister of Defence Suren Papikyan visiting in April 2022, and EAM Jaishankar visiting the country in October 2021. WATCH | India's G20 Presidency: Weaving inclusive growth × India and Iran also have historic ties, with the two countries sharing a common cultural heritage. The Chabahar port in Iran has been key to connectivity between the two sides. India has provided equipment worth $25 million to aid in the development of the port, including six mobile harbour cranes. The port has the potential to serve as a gateway for India to access Central Asia and Afghanistan, while also providing Iran with an alternative trade route to the Persian Gulf. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi is expected to travel to India in July to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as a full-fledged member of the grouping. ALSO READ | India to chair SCO environment, emergencies ministers meet this week Iran and Armenia, which share a border, also have robust ties. Last year, Iran opened a consulate in Armenia's Kapan. The two countries have also been working together to enhance trade and economic cooperation with Armenia serving as a transit route for Iran to access the Eurasian Economic Union. The trilateral grouping between India, Iran, and Armenia is expected to pave the way for greater cooperation in a range of areas, including trade, investment, energy, and transportation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India, Iran and Armenia form trilateral grouping to deepen ties and co-operation

After almost a month of brokering an unprecedented truce between Saudi Arabia and Iran, it seems as China is now growing more serious about boosting its political clout in the region.

China's political ambitions in West Asia: Can China broker Israel-Palestine peace? | WION Fineprint

The exiled son of the Iranian Shah toppled in the 1979 Islamic revolution,&nbsp;Prince Reza Pahlavi, who was in Israel for a historic visit, had a brief meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (April 17).&nbsp;Pahlavi attended a ceremony that was conducted at the National Holocaust Memorial and Museum, Yad Vashem, as a part of Holocaust Remembrance Day. &nbsp;

Before leaving for Israel on Sunday, Prince Pahlavi&nbsp;tweeted that he wanted&nbsp;“to deliver a message of friendship from the Iranian people…and pay respects to the victims of the Holocaust on Yom HaShoah.”

Although there have been no reports regarding what was discussed during the brief meeting between Netanyahu and Pahlavi, a picture of the two showed them engaged in conversation, as reported by the Iran International.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> crown prince <a href="https://twitter.com/PahlaviReza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PahlaviReza</a> had a short meeting with <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IsraeliPM</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@netanyahu</a> and minister of intelligence <a href="https://twitter.com/GilaGamliel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GilaGamliel</a> , in <a href="https://twitter.com/yadvashem?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yadvashem</a> museum. <a href="https://t.co/BOhho8WiJ8">pic.twitter.com/BOhho8WiJ8</a>
— BenSabti (@BeniSabti) <a href="https://twitter.com/BeniSabti/status/1648049437908914196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The visit occurs at a time when Israeli officials and media analysts have expressed increasing concern over Iran's stepped-up efforts to create unrest in and around Israel.

Speaking on Sunday at a memorial service, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned, “Iran is waging a multi-front war of attrition against the State of Israel,” adding that it was “continuing its attempts to establish itself on the northern front and at the same time sending its proxies to Judea, Samaria and Gaza.”

However, Gallant said that Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have “acted and will continue to act in all arenas, in overt and covert operations along the border, across the border, and even far from the border.”

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On Sunday, the Jerusalem Institute for Strategic Studies published a statement, warning of the prospect of a war with Iran, and urging Netanyahu to suspend his judicial overhaul plan considering the intensified threats by Tehran.

“Israel is seen from the outside as a torn society, gradually losing its ability to function,” the think tank said, echoing last week’s remarks by former National Security Advisor and former Maj.-Gen. Yaakov Amidror.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Israel's Economy Minister Nir Barkat sees India as brother, eyes growth through collaboration&nbsp;

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Speaking at the memorial service on Sunday, Netanyahu emphasised that Israel must always be ready to defend itself. He added that it is okay if other countries, like the US, mobilise to assist, but that "we cannot build our national security on the foundations of others."

His words reflect Israeli worries about the United States' reluctance to support Israel militarily in the wake of a confrontation with Iran, particularly in light of the Islamic Republic's recent détente with Saudi Arabia, as reported by Iran International.&nbsp;

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The exiled son of the Iranian Shah toppled in the 1979 Islamic revolution, Prince Reza Pahlavi, who was in Israel for a historic visit, had a brief meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (April 17).

The exiled son of the Iranian Shah toppled in the 1979 Islamic revolution, Prince Reza Pahlavi, who was in Israel for a historic visit, had a brief meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (April 17). Pahlavi attended a ceremony that was conducted at the National Holocaust Memorial and Museum, Yad Vashem, as a part of Holocaust Remembrance Day. Before leaving for Israel on Sunday, Prince Pahlavi tweeted that he wanted “to deliver a message of friendship from the Iranian people…and pay respects to the victims of the Holocaust on Yom HaShoah.” Although there have been no reports regarding what was discussed during the brief meeting between Netanyahu and Pahlavi, a picture of the two showed them engaged in conversation, as reported by the Iran International. #Iran crown prince @PahlaviReza had a short meeting with @IsraeliPM @netanyahu and minister of intelligence @GilaGamliel , in @yadvashem museum. pic.twitter.com/BOhho8WiJ8 — BenSabti (@BeniSabti) April 17, 2023 × The visit occurs at a time when Israeli officials and media analysts have expressed increasing concern over Iran's stepped-up efforts to create unrest in and around Israel. Speaking on Sunday at a memorial service, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned, “Iran is waging a multi-front war of attrition against the State of Israel,” adding that it was “continuing its attempts to establish itself on the northern front and at the same time sending its proxies to Judea, Samaria and Gaza.” However, Gallant said that Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have “acted and will continue to act in all arenas, in overt and covert operations along the border, across the border, and even far from the border.” ALSO READ | US: Iowa passes controversial bill to allow teens to work longer hours, serve alcohol On Sunday, the Jerusalem Institute for Strategic Studies published a statement, warning of the prospect of a war with Iran, and urging Netanyahu to suspend his judicial overhaul plan considering the intensified threats by Tehran. “Israel is seen from the outside as a torn society, gradually losing its ability to function,” the think tank said, echoing last week’s remarks by former National Security Advisor and former Maj.-Gen. Yaakov Amidror. ALSO WATCH | Israel's Economy Minister Nir Barkat sees India as brother, eyes growth through collaboration Speaking at the memorial service on Sunday, Netanyahu emphasised that Israel must always be ready to defend itself. He added that it is okay if other countries, like the US, mobilise to assist, but that "we cannot build our national security on the foundations of others." His words reflect Israeli worries about the United States' reluctance to support Israel militarily in the wake of a confrontation with Iran, particularly in light of the Islamic Republic's recent détente with Saudi Arabia, as reported by Iran International. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Prince Reza Pahlavi meets Israel PM Netanyahu: Son of toppled Iranian Shah attends Holocaust Remembrance Day

Iranian police said on Sunday (April 16) that over 150 businesses were shut down by the authorities in 24 hours throughout the country for not adhering to the obligation for women to wear headscarves, local media outlets reported. Headscarves are part of Iran's strict Islamic dress code, which has also become a matter of controversy.&nbsp;

The closure of businesses came after the implementation of a plan to deal with women who violate the country's strict Islamic dress code.&nbsp;

The Tasnim news agency quoted police spokesman Said Montazerolmahdi as saying: "Unfortunately, police have had to seal 137 shops and 18 restaurants and reception areas for not heeding previous warnings."&nbsp;

The authorities had even said that they will use facial recognition technology and surveillance cameras to monitor those who defy the law.&nbsp;

Local media reported that the police have warned the car owners that if a female passenger in the car breaks the dress code, they will receive a text message. Authorities will seize vehicles from those who have broken the law more than once.

Montazerolmahdi said: "Over the past 24 hours, there have been several hundred cases of non-compliance recorded by the police, and car owners have been informed by text message."

The move comes after an increasing number of women started to appear unveiled in malls, restaurants, shops, streets, and other public areas.&nbsp;

They intentionally defy Iran's compulsory dress code, which increased significantly after a protest movement triggered by the death in custody last year of Kurdish-Iranian Mahsa Amini, 22, for allegedly not wearing the hijab properly.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, women in Iran&nbsp;slammed the plans to introduce surveillance to enforce mandatory dress code rules as one woman described the move as "harsh and rude".&nbsp;

Fatemeh, who is a resident in Tehran said as quoted by the news agency Reuters: "It will definitely make things worse because I've seen others my own age throughout the city resisting it ever since it's been making rounds on social media."&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Iranian police said on Sunday (April 16) that over 150 businesses were shut down by the authorities in 24 hours throughout the country for not adhering to the obligation for women to wear headscarves, local media outlets reported.

Iranian police said on Sunday (April 16) that over 150 businesses were shut down by the authorities in 24 hours throughout the country for not adhering to the obligation for women to wear headscarves, local media outlets reported. Headscarves are part of Iran's strict Islamic dress code, which has also become a matter of controversy. The closure of businesses came after the implementation of a plan to deal with women who violate the country's strict Islamic dress code. The Tasnim news agency quoted police spokesman Said Montazerolmahdi as saying: "Unfortunately, police have had to seal 137 shops and 18 restaurants and reception areas for not heeding previous warnings." The authorities had even said that they will use facial recognition technology and surveillance cameras to monitor those who defy the law. Local media reported that the police have warned the car owners that if a female passenger in the car breaks the dress code, they will receive a text message. Authorities will seize vehicles from those who have broken the law more than once. Montazerolmahdi said: "Over the past 24 hours, there have been several hundred cases of non-compliance recorded by the police, and car owners have been informed by text message." The move comes after an increasing number of women started to appear unveiled in malls, restaurants, shops, streets, and other public areas. They intentionally defy Iran's compulsory dress code, which increased significantly after a protest movement triggered by the death in custody last year of Kurdish-Iranian Mahsa Amini, 22, for allegedly not wearing the hijab properly. Meanwhile, women in Iran slammed the plans to introduce surveillance to enforce mandatory dress code rules as one woman described the move as "harsh and rude". Fatemeh, who is a resident in Tehran said as quoted by the news agency Reuters: "It will definitely make things worse because I've seen others my own age throughout the city resisting it ever since it's been making rounds on social media." (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 shuts down over 150 businesses amid crackdown on people for hijab violation

Iran's police vow to act over headscarf violations in public places, cars and will use smart equipment to identify lawbreakers. The number of women defying the Islamic dress code in Iran has risen since the protest movement triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini.

Iranian regime vows crackdown on people violating Hijab code

On This World, Vikram Chandra tells you all about Auto-GPT, the AI tool that can work without human prompts and gives you a sneak peek into the future. Also on the show, A Reuters report says Iran sent communication equipment and radar batteries on flights meant to carry relief material.

Auto-GPT: The new tool that gives you a peek into the AI future | This World

An Iranian court sentenced 10 members of the armed forces to prison after they were found guilty of their involvement in the crash of a Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) jet, reported the judiciary’s Mizan Online website, on Sunday (April 16). The downing of the Ukrainian airliner resulted in the death of all 176 people on board.&nbsp;

What was the verdict?

According to the report by Mizan, a commander received 10 years in prison while the sentencing for the nine others ranged between one to three years. The verdict also closes the trial which Iran’s judiciary said it opened back in November 2021 for 10 military personnel connected with the Ukrainian jet’s downing.

What happened back in 2020?

In 2020, UIA flight PS752 was shot down by two missiles moments after its takeoff from Tehran on January 8. The incident led to the death of all 176 people on board which included mostly Iranians and Canadians. Initially, Tehran had claimed that the Kyiv-bound passenger plane had crashed and was not until three days later that the Iranian armed forces admitted to downing the plane “by mistake”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-human-error-to-blame-for-downing-of-ukrainian-jet-312747">Iran says 'human error' to blame for downing of Ukrainian jet</a>

According to reports, the Iranian air defence said that they accidentally downed the Boeing 737 after mistaking it for an incoming missile. Tehran had later called it a “disastrous mistake” by forces who were on high alert, at the time of the incident as tensions between Iran and the United States were soaring.&nbsp;

The Iranian forces were anticipating a US counterattack after Tehran fired missiles at a military base in Iraq that was used by American forces. However, the claims of “human error” made by the Islamic Republic have been questioned by Ukraine, Canada, and various organisations as well as observers.&nbsp;

A report by the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization blamed the incident on the misalignment of a radar system and a lack of communication between the air defence operator and his commanders. However, Ukraine and Canada have rejected these claims, reported Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. Among those killed were citizens of Afghanistan, Britain, Canada, Germany, Iran, Sweden, and Ukraine. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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An Iranian court sentenced 10 members of the armed forces to prison after they were found guilty of their involvement in the crash of a Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) jet, reported the judiciary’s Mizan Online website, on Sunday (April 16).

An Iranian court sentenced 10 members of the armed forces to prison after they were found guilty of their involvement in the crash of a Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) jet, reported the judiciary’s Mizan Online website, on Sunday (April 16). The downing of the Ukrainian airliner resulted in the death of all 176 people on board. What was the verdict? According to the report by Mizan, a commander received 10 years in prison while the sentencing for the nine others ranged between one to three years. The verdict also closes the trial which Iran’s judiciary said it opened back in November 2021 for 10 military personnel connected with the Ukrainian jet’s downing. What happened back in 2020? In 2020, UIA flight PS752 was shot down by two missiles moments after its takeoff from Tehran on January 8. The incident led to the death of all 176 people on board which included mostly Iranians and Canadians. Initially, Tehran had claimed that the Kyiv-bound passenger plane had crashed and was not until three days later that the Iranian armed forces admitted to downing the plane “by mistake”. ALSO READ | Iran says 'human error' to blame for downing of Ukrainian jet According to reports, the Iranian air defence said that they accidentally downed the Boeing 737 after mistaking it for an incoming missile. Tehran had later called it a “disastrous mistake” by forces who were on high alert, at the time of the incident as tensions between Iran and the United States were soaring. The Iranian forces were anticipating a US counterattack after Tehran fired missiles at a military base in Iraq that was used by American forces. However, the claims of “human error” made by the Islamic Republic have been questioned by Ukraine, Canada, and various organisations as well as observers. A report by the Iranian Civil Aviation Organization blamed the incident on the misalignment of a radar system and a lack of communication between the air defence operator and his commanders. However, Ukraine and Canada have rejected these claims, reported Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. Among those killed were citizens of Afghanistan, Britain, Canada, Germany, Iran, Sweden, and Ukraine. (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 court sentences 10 military personnel over 2020 Ukraine jet downing

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