The Berlin film festival, long a champion of Iran's embattled independent directors, is spotlighting its citizens' fight for basic rights with a series of screenings, events and a red-carpet protest.

French-Iranian actor Golshifteh Farahani, who is serving on the jury for the top prizes with president Kristen Stewart, said as the festival kicked off Thursday that cinema was a crucial fuel for the freedom movement.

"In a country like Iran that is a dictatorship, art is not only an intellectual or philosophical thing, it's essential, it's like oxygen," she said.

Farahani made her name in Iranian movies and became an international star in productions such as Jim Jarmusch's "Paterson" opposite Adam Driver.

She and Stewart joined the red-carpet demonstration for women's rights in Iran on Saturday with festival chief Mariette Rissenbeek, who told AFP the Berlinale stood with Iranian directors who "weren't allowed to travel to the festival".

- 'Change something with cinema' -

The Berlinale, Europe's first major cinema showcase of the year, has awarded its Golden Bear top prize to many of the leading lights of Iranian cinema including Asghar Farhadi ("A Separation"), Jafar Panahi ("Taxi") and Mohammad Rasoulof ("There Is No Evil").

Iran, rocked by months of anti-government rallies, this month released Panahi and Rasoulof from prison along with several dozen other well-known detainees in an apparent attempt to appease critics.

This year, the festival is showing several documentaries, including Steffi Niederzoll's "Seven Winters in Tehran" and "My Worst Enemy" by Mehran Tamadon, which expose the brutal conditions in Iran's jails as well as rampant executions.

Niederzoll's harrowing film, which includes material smuggled out of Iran, tells the story of Reyhaneh Jabbari, who was hanged in 2014 at the age of 26 for killing a former intelligence officer she maintained had tried to rape her.

Featuring wrenching interviews with her family, who agitated for her freedom and appealed for mercy to the murdered man's son, the film recounts how an international campaign for Jabbari's life arose.

Zar Amir Ebrahimi, who won the best actress award at Cannes last year, narrates the film with letters, journals and text messages Jabbari wrote from jail, where she became a role model for many fellow prisoners.&nbsp;

"We hope that, hand in hand, we can change something with cinema," Amir Ebrahimi told AFP.

"My Worst Enemy" also examines state interrogations, as director Tamadon invites members of Paris's large Iranian exile community to question him using pressure techniques they themselves experienced in custody.

Half expose, half group therapy session, the film asks whether anyone can become an instrument of state oppression, given the chance.

Amir Ebrahimi appears as one of the interrogators and reveals that she was sexually assaulted while in custody by a female doctor during a purported medical exam.

"I couldn't walk for three days," she says.

&nbsp;'Shine a light' - 
 
Tamadon told AFP it was "time to forget that the Islamic republic will reform itself".&nbsp;

He hailed the role of Western platforms such as the Berlinale to "shine a light on the violence perpetrated against the Iranian people".

"Iranians in Iran are exhausted -- this gives the energy and motivation to continue to hit the streets."

Milad Alami's drama "Opponent" stars Payman Maadi from "A Separation", as a closeted gay man seeking asylum with his wife and two daughters in northern Sweden.

Alami, who himself moved from Iran to Sweden as a child, said he aimed with his second feature to explore how official repression penetrates even the most intimate relationships, including a marriage.

"There are walls between them (the couple) that created this feeling of not being able to talk to each other," he said in notes for the film.

The wife Maryam senses her husband's inner conflict even as he keeps it under wraps for fear of reprisal. "That's a big thing in Iran," Alami said.

For those who have left Iran, the struggle to find out who they really are begins anew, he said.&nbsp;

"When you come to another country, when freedom is there, how difficult is it to take it?" &nbsp;

The Berlin film festival, long a champion of Iran's embattled independent directors, is spotlighting its citizens' fight for basic rights with a series of screenings, events and a red-carpet protest.

The Berlin film festival, long a champion of Iran's embattled independent directors, is spotlighting its citizens' fight for basic rights with a series of screenings, events and a red-carpet protest. French-Iranian actor Golshifteh Farahani, who is serving on the jury for the top prizes with president Kristen Stewart, said as the festival kicked off Thursday that cinema was a crucial fuel for the freedom movement. "In a country like Iran that is a dictatorship, art is not only an intellectual or philosophical thing, it's essential, it's like oxygen," she said. Farahani made her name in Iranian movies and became an international star in productions such as Jim Jarmusch's "Paterson" opposite Adam Driver. She and Stewart joined the red-carpet demonstration for women's rights in Iran on Saturday with festival chief Mariette Rissenbeek, who told AFP the Berlinale stood with Iranian directors who "weren't allowed to travel to the festival". - 'Change something with cinema' - The Berlinale, Europe's first major cinema showcase of the year, has awarded its Golden Bear top prize to many of the leading lights of Iranian cinema including Asghar Farhadi ("A Separation"), Jafar Panahi ("Taxi") and Mohammad Rasoulof ("There Is No Evil"). Iran, rocked by months of anti-government rallies, this month released Panahi and Rasoulof from prison along with several dozen other well-known detainees in an apparent attempt to appease critics. This year, the festival is showing several documentaries, including Steffi Niederzoll's "Seven Winters in Tehran" and "My Worst Enemy" by Mehran Tamadon, which expose the brutal conditions in Iran's jails as well as rampant executions. Niederzoll's harrowing film, which includes material smuggled out of Iran, tells the story of Reyhaneh Jabbari, who was hanged in 2014 at the age of 26 for killing a former intelligence officer she maintained had tried to rape her. Featuring wrenching interviews with her family, who agitated for her freedom and appealed for mercy to the murdered man's son, the film recounts how an international campaign for Jabbari's life arose. Zar Amir Ebrahimi, who won the best actress award at Cannes last year, narrates the film with letters, journals and text messages Jabbari wrote from jail, where she became a role model for many fellow prisoners. "We hope that, hand in hand, we can change something with cinema," Amir Ebrahimi told AFP. "My Worst Enemy" also examines state interrogations, as director Tamadon invites members of Paris's large Iranian exile community to question him using pressure techniques they themselves experienced in custody. Half expose, half group therapy session, the film asks whether anyone can become an instrument of state oppression, given the chance. Amir Ebrahimi appears as one of the interrogators and reveals that she was sexually assaulted while in custody by a female doctor during a purported medical exam. "I couldn't walk for three days," she says. 'Shine a light' - Tamadon told AFP it was "time to forget that the Islamic republic will reform itself". He hailed the role of Western platforms such as the Berlinale to "shine a light on the violence perpetrated against the Iranian people". "Iranians in Iran are exhausted -- this gives the energy and motivation to continue to hit the streets." Milad Alami's drama "Opponent" stars Payman Maadi from "A Separation", as a closeted gay man seeking asylum with his wife and two daughters in northern Sweden. Alami, who himself moved from Iran to Sweden as a child, said he aimed with his second feature to explore how official repression penetrates even the most intimate relationships, including a marriage. "There are walls between them (the couple) that created this feeling of not being able to talk to each other," he said in notes for the film. The wife Maryam senses her husband's inner conflict even as he keeps it under wraps for fear of reprisal. "That's a big thing in Iran," Alami said. For those who have left Iran, the struggle to find out who they really are begins anew, he said. "When you come to another country, when freedom is there, how difficult is it to take it?"

Iran freedom struggle stars at Berlin film fest

The Presidents of China and Iran in a joint statement asked the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to form an inclusive government in which all ethnicities and political groups could see them represented.

Iran, China call for inclusive government in Kabul

According to local media reports, the Iranian judiciary is prosecuting a woman who allegedly “disrespected” her headscarf during a public meeting in Tehran. The Iranian news agency Tasnim reported the incident on Saturday (February 18) and said that legal proceedings against the individual who threw her headscarf on the ground have begun. This comes after reports emerged of protests in several Iranian cities on Thursday.&nbsp;

“Legal proceedings have been launched against a woman who disrespected her headscarf during the election for the Tehran branch of the Iran Construction Engineering Organisation,” said the Tasnim news agency. The report added, “It was falsely claimed that this individual was disqualified (from the branch election) for not wearing the headscarf.”

A short video of the incident was also published by the Tehran municipality newspaper Hamshahri which showed the woman throwing her hijab on the ground as the participants left the meeting, reported AFP.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-executes-second-protester-in-less-than-a-week-rights-group-claim-450-killed-in-protests-542169">Iran executes second protester in less than a week; rights group claims 450 killed in protests</a>

Iran witnessed nationwide protests last year, following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini who died after she was detained by authorities for her alleged breach of the dress code. The requirement for women to wear a headscarf or hijab has been enshrined in Iranian law since the Islamic revolution of 1979.&nbsp;

However, the recent long wave of unrest has now posed the biggest challenges to the Iranian regime as women were seen openly defying the hijab law, burning their headscarves and even cutting their hair during these protests. The recent demonstrations seen on multiple social media videos and took place overnight, on Thursday, were 40 days after the execution of two protesters <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-executes-2-more-men-detained-amid-nationwide-protests-550255">last month</a> and two others in December, reported Reuters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/iran-finds-new-methods-to-enforce-hijab-law-calls-it-a-legal-issue-reports-550523">Iran finds new methods to enforce Hijab law, terms it part of religious values: Reports</a>

While it seemed like the protests had tapered off which could be attributed to the country’s execution of demonstrators and a wider crackdown on acts of civil disobedience but reports emerging on Thursday indicate otherwise.

Last month, Iran’s judiciary said that they wanted to resume implementing and enforcing their hijab rules, the violation of which led to penalties including exile. Additionally, in the past couple of weeks several cafes, restaurants and pharmacies have been shut down by Iranian authorities for serving customers who were not wearing a hijab.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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According to local media reports, the Iranian judiciary is prosecuting a woman who allegedly “disrespected” her headscarf during a public meeting in Tehran. The Iranian news agency Tasnim reported the incident on Saturday (February 18) and said that legal proceedings against the individual who threw her headscarf on the ground have begun.

According to local media reports, the Iranian judiciary is prosecuting a woman who allegedly “disrespected” her headscarf during a public meeting in Tehran. The Iranian news agency Tasnim reported the incident on Saturday (February 18) and said that legal proceedings against the individual who threw her headscarf on the ground have begun. This comes after reports emerged of protests in several Iranian cities on Thursday. “Legal proceedings have been launched against a woman who disrespected her headscarf during the election for the Tehran branch of the Iran Construction Engineering Organisation,” said the Tasnim news agency. The report added, “It was falsely claimed that this individual was disqualified (from the branch election) for not wearing the headscarf.” A short video of the incident was also published by the Tehran municipality newspaper Hamshahri which showed the woman throwing her hijab on the ground as the participants left the meeting, reported AFP. ALSO READ | Iran executes second protester in less than a week; rights group claims 450 killed in protests Iran witnessed nationwide protests last year, following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini who died after she was detained by authorities for her alleged breach of the dress code. The requirement for women to wear a headscarf or hijab has been enshrined in Iranian law since the Islamic revolution of 1979. However, the recent long wave of unrest has now posed the biggest challenges to the Iranian regime as women were seen openly defying the hijab law, burning their headscarves and even cutting their hair during these protests. The recent demonstrations seen on multiple social media videos and took place overnight, on Thursday, were 40 days after the execution of two protesters last month and two others in December, reported Reuters. ALSO READ | Iran finds new methods to enforce Hijab law, terms it part of religious values: Reports While it seemed like the protests had tapered off which could be attributed to the country’s execution of demonstrators and a wider crackdown on acts of civil disobedience but reports emerging on Thursday indicate otherwise. Last month, Iran’s judiciary said that they wanted to resume implementing and enforcing their hijab rules, the violation of which led to penalties including exile. Additionally, in the past couple of weeks several cafes, restaurants and pharmacies have been shut down by Iranian authorities for serving customers who were not wearing a hijab. (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 to prosecute woman who allegedly ‘disrespected’ her headscarf: Reports

Iran International, which is a Farsi-language satellite news channel, said it was forced to move the broadcasts from London to Washington because of the safety of its journalists after alleged threats.&nbsp;

The independent network said that the decision was taken after the UK police advised them to shut down its London studios when the network received "significant escalation in state-backed threats from Iran".&nbsp;

Mahmood Enayat, who is the general manager of the network, said, "I cannot believe it has come to this." He also mentioned that 24-hour broadcasts were continuing from the station's offices in Washington.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-prosecute-woman-for-allegedly-disrespected-her-headscarf-reports-563501">Iran to prosecute woman who allegedly ‘disrespected’ her headscarf: Reports</a>&nbsp;

He said, "A foreign state has caused such a significant threat to the British public on British soil that we have to move."&nbsp;

"Let's be clear this is not just a threat to our TV station but the British public at large. Even more this is an assault on the values of sovereignty, security and free speech that the UK has always held dear," he added.&nbsp;

News agency AFP reported that police on Saturday said that they "have serious concerns for the safety of people working at this company".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: China, Iran &amp; Russia to create a new World Order?&nbsp;

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The security issues were raised after the arrest of an Austrian-Iranian man near the studios in Chiswick, west London last weekend. &nbsp;

The report mentioned that a 30-year-old man, identified as Magomed-Husejn Dovtaev was charged on Monday "with collecting information of a kind likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism".&nbsp;

A source told the news agency that the decision to shut down the London office was apparently taken after the arrest as the police said that despite the man's arrest, threats are still there.&nbsp;

Police said that "this has led to us giving further advice and the company is now relocating." They also added that its advice was "exceptional" and not "given lightly".&nbsp;

"The situation that journalists face around the world and the fact that some journalists face such hostile intentions of foreign states whilst in the UK is a challenging reality that we are determined to confront," it said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Iran International, which is a Farsi-language satellite news channel, said it was forced to move the broadcasts from London to Washington because of the safety of its journalists after alleged threats.

Iran International, which is a Farsi-language satellite news channel, said it was forced to move the broadcasts from London to Washington because of the safety of its journalists after alleged threats. The independent network said that the decision was taken after the UK police advised them to shut down its London studios when the network received "significant escalation in state-backed threats from Iran". Mahmood Enayat, who is the general manager of the network, said, "I cannot believe it has come to this." He also mentioned that 24-hour broadcasts were continuing from the station's offices in Washington. ALSO READ | Iran to prosecute woman who allegedly ‘disrespected’ her headscarf: Reports He said, "A foreign state has caused such a significant threat to the British public on British soil that we have to move." "Let's be clear this is not just a threat to our TV station but the British public at large. Even more this is an assault on the values of sovereignty, security and free speech that the UK has always held dear," he added. News agency AFP reported that police on Saturday said that they "have serious concerns for the safety of people working at this company". WATCH | Gravitas Plus: China, Iran & Russia to create a new World Order? × The security issues were raised after the arrest of an Austrian-Iranian man near the studios in Chiswick, west London last weekend. The report mentioned that a 30-year-old man, identified as Magomed-Husejn Dovtaev was charged on Monday "with collecting information of a kind likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism". A source told the news agency that the decision to shut down the London office was apparently taken after the arrest as the police said that despite the man's arrest, threats are still there. Police said that "this has led to us giving further advice and the company is now relocating." They also added that its advice was "exceptional" and not "given lightly". "The situation that journalists face around the world and the fact that some journalists face such hostile intentions of foreign states whilst in the UK is a challenging reality that we are determined to confront," it said. (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 TV channel 'forced' to shut down its London studios after threats

An attack on Azerbaijan's embassy in the Iranian capital, Tehran, on January 27, left one dead and two others injured. WION spoke with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev and asked him on whom the onus lies for the tension&nbsp;between Azerbaijan and Iran.&nbsp;Speaking exclusively to WION, the Azerbaijan president said, the attack on the embassy "was an organised act of terror against Azerbaijan."

"During the 30-40 minutes, the terrorists were not disarmed and the police were coming and going...but they allowed them (the attackers) to break in, resulting in the killing of a police officer and injury to others," he said.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-conference-rishi-sunak-says-uk-to-provide-ukraine-with-long-range-weapons-calls-for-new-nato-charter-563450">Rishi Sunak says UK to provide Ukraine with long-range weapons, calls for new NATO charter</a>

The president said, "The lives of dozens of Azerbaijanis and diplomats were saved because of the bravery of one unarmed security officer. Therefore, we demand an immediate and transparent investigation."

The Azerbaijan president further shared with WION his suspicions over what happened after the attack. "The terrorist was interviewed by Iranian media which demonstrates that the terrorist was sent from the Iranian establishment," he told WION.&nbsp;

And another strange thing that happened after two days, the president said was that "he (the suspected attacker) was declared as a mentally unstable person. How can they tell this so quickly? It is an attempt to protect him."

He urged the Iranian government to conduct "a transparent investigation."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-security-conference-kamala-harris-vows-support-to-ukraine-for-as-long-as-it-takes-563436">Munich Security Conference: Kamala Harris vows support to Ukraine for 'as long as it takes'</a>

"We should be informed and the terrorist should be punished. But most importantly, the people who sent the terrorist, from the establishment, who did this brutal act should be brought to justice, then only we can have normal relations,"&nbsp;Aliyev said.

After the attack, the Azerbaijan&nbsp;government had said that a security official was killed when a gunman opened fire at embassy grounds. Local police had claimed to have arrested a suspect and launched an investigation into the incident.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protesters-throw-bricks-and-bottles-at-security-personnel-violent-protest-grips-suriname-capital-563366">Protesters throw bricks and bottles at security personnel, violent protest grips Suriname capital</a>

Meanwhile, Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi reportedly told his Azerbaijani counterpart that bilateral relations should not be affected by an attack.&nbsp;

“The governments of Iran and Azerbaijan will not allow bilateral relations to be affected by the suggestions of those who wish ill on the two nations,” Raisi was quoted as saying on his official website.

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An attack on Azerbaijan's embassy in the Iranian capital, Tehran, on January 27, left one dead and two others injured. WION spoke with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev and asked him on whom the onus lies for the tension between Azerbaijan and Iran.

An attack on Azerbaijan's embassy in the Iranian capital, Tehran, on January 27, left one dead and two others injured. WION spoke with Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev and asked him on whom the onus lies for the tension between Azerbaijan and Iran. Speaking exclusively to WION, the Azerbaijan president said, the attack on the embassy "was an organised act of terror against Azerbaijan." "During the 30-40 minutes, the terrorists were not disarmed and the police were coming and going...but they allowed them (the attackers) to break in, resulting in the killing of a police officer and injury to others," he said. Also Read | Rishi Sunak says UK to provide Ukraine with long-range weapons, calls for new NATO charter The president said, "The lives of dozens of Azerbaijanis and diplomats were saved because of the bravery of one unarmed security officer. Therefore, we demand an immediate and transparent investigation." The Azerbaijan president further shared with WION his suspicions over what happened after the attack. "The terrorist was interviewed by Iranian media which demonstrates that the terrorist was sent from the Iranian establishment," he told WION. And another strange thing that happened after two days, the president said was that "he (the suspected attacker) was declared as a mentally unstable person. How can they tell this so quickly? It is an attempt to protect him." He urged the Iranian government to conduct "a transparent investigation." Also Read | Munich Security Conference: Kamala Harris vows support to Ukraine for 'as long as it takes' "We should be informed and the terrorist should be punished. But most importantly, the people who sent the terrorist, from the establishment, who did this brutal act should be brought to justice, then only we can have normal relations," Aliyev said. After the attack, the Azerbaijan government had said that a security official was killed when a gunman opened fire at embassy grounds. Local police had claimed to have arrested a suspect and launched an investigation into the incident. Watch | Protesters throw bricks and bottles at security personnel, violent protest grips Suriname capital Meanwhile, Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi reportedly told his Azerbaijani counterpart that bilateral relations should not be affected by an attack. “The governments of Iran and Azerbaijan will not allow bilateral relations to be affected by the suggestions of those who wish ill on the two nations,” Raisi was quoted as saying on his official website. 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.

Exclusive: Azerbaijan President shares with WION his doubts on embassy attack in Iran, wants fair probe

The Israel-Iran rivalry was once again on full display, this time at the African Union summit, which is being held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. On the opening ceremony of the summit on Saturday, an Israeli observer delegation was kicked out of the summit. According to multiple reports, a video started circulating on social media which shows guards at the summit escorting Israel's deputy director general for Africa, Sharon Bar-li, out of the AU assembly.&nbsp;

Israel's ministry spokesperson Lior Hayat said, “Israel views seriously the incident in which the deputy for Africa, Ambassador Sharon Bar-Li, was removed from the African Union hall despite her status as an accredited observer with access badges."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-conference-rishi-sunak-says-uk-to-provide-ukraine-with-long-range-weapons-calls-for-new-nato-charter-563450">Rishi Sunak says UK to provide Ukraine with long-range weapons, calls for new NATO charter</a>

Hayat accused Iran, its arch-enemy, to arrange for the expulsion of the senior diplomat from the African Union meeting on Saturday. “It is sad to see that the African Union has been taken hostage by a small number of extremist countries such as Algeria and South Africa, driven by hatred and controlled by Iran,”

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's spokesman Vincent Magwenya told AFP, "They [Israel] must substantiate their claim." Hayat added. He also called on the African countries to stand against these actions that harm the organization of the African Union itself and the entire continent.&nbsp;

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Shocking scenes from the African Union Summit where a campaign led by South Africa seeks to strip Israel of its observer status and diplomats were expelled. Israel has been a tremendous friend to Africa in infinite ways. The bullying, anti-peace campaign by the SA gov must stop! <a href="https://t.co/2zmzgWaCGY">pic.twitter.com/2zmzgWaCGY</a>
— South African Friends of Israel (@MZANSIISRAEL) <a href="https://twitter.com/MZANSIISRAEL/status/1626928210985492482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>What is Israel's accreditation dispute?&nbsp;</h2>

The problems began in July of last year when Moussa Faki Mahamat, the head of the AU Commission, unilaterally authorised Israel's admission to the organisation, setting off a number of member nations' objections. Palestinian Authority (PA) Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on 4 February pleaded with African leaders to revoke the accreditation as the summit got underway in the capital of Ethiopia, Addis Abeba.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-security-conference-kamala-harris-vows-support-to-ukraine-for-as-long-as-it-takes-563436">Munich Security Conference: Kamala Harris vows support to Ukraine for 'as long as it takes'</a>

He said Israel should “never be rewarded for its violation and for the apartheid regime it does impose on the Palestinian people”.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protesters-throw-bricks-and-bottles-at-security-personnel-violent-protest-grips-suriname-capital-563366">Protesters throw bricks and bottles at security personnel, violent protest grips Suriname capital</a>

In order to avert a rift that may have caused an unprecedented rupture among the 55 members of the African Union (AU), the discussion on whether to revoke Israel's accreditation as an observer to the group has now been put on hold. A committee has been established, according to AU's recently elected Chairperson Macky Sall, with the aim of discussing with member states and reaching an agreement on the subject.

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The Israel-Iran rivalry was once again on full display, this time at the African Union summit, which is being held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. On the opening ceremony of the summit on Saturday, an Israeli observer delegation was kicked out of the summit.

The Israel-Iran rivalry was once again on full display, this time at the African Union summit, which is being held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. On the opening ceremony of the summit on Saturday, an Israeli observer delegation was kicked out of the summit. According to multiple reports, a video started circulating on social media which shows guards at the summit escorting Israel's deputy director general for Africa, Sharon Bar-li, out of the AU assembly. Israel's ministry spokesperson Lior Hayat said, “Israel views seriously the incident in which the deputy for Africa, Ambassador Sharon Bar-Li, was removed from the African Union hall despite her status as an accredited observer with access badges." Also Read | Rishi Sunak says UK to provide Ukraine with long-range weapons, calls for new NATO charter Hayat accused Iran, its arch-enemy, to arrange for the expulsion of the senior diplomat from the African Union meeting on Saturday. “It is sad to see that the African Union has been taken hostage by a small number of extremist countries such as Algeria and South Africa, driven by hatred and controlled by Iran,” South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's spokesman Vincent Magwenya told AFP, "They [Israel] must substantiate their claim." Hayat added. He also called on the African countries to stand against these actions that harm the organization of the African Union itself and the entire continent. Shocking scenes from the African Union Summit where a campaign led by South Africa seeks to strip Israel of its observer status and diplomats were expelled. Israel has been a tremendous friend to Africa in infinite ways. The bullying, anti-peace campaign by the SA gov must stop! pic.twitter.com/2zmzgWaCGY — South African Friends of Israel (@MZANSIISRAEL) February 18, 2023 × What is Israel's accreditation dispute? The problems began in July of last year when Moussa Faki Mahamat, the head of the AU Commission, unilaterally authorised Israel's admission to the organisation, setting off a number of member nations' objections. Palestinian Authority (PA) Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh on 4 February pleaded with African leaders to revoke the accreditation as the summit got underway in the capital of Ethiopia, Addis Abeba. Also Read | Munich Security Conference: Kamala Harris vows support to Ukraine for 'as long as it takes' He said Israel should “never be rewarded for its violation and for the apartheid regime it does impose on the Palestinian people”. Watch | Protesters throw bricks and bottles at security personnel, violent protest grips Suriname capital In order to avert a rift that may have caused an unprecedented rupture among the 55 members of the African Union (AU), the discussion on whether to revoke Israel's accreditation as an observer to the group has now been put on hold. A committee has been established, according to AU's recently elected Chairperson Macky Sall, with the aim of discussing with member states and reaching an agreement on the subject. 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.

WATCH | Israel's top diplomat kicked out of African Union summit, country accuses Iran for orchestrating it

Amid calls for overthrow of the Islamic Republic, demonstrators were seen on streets of Iran yet again in purported videos that have surfaced. In what is being viewed as continuing anger against the ruling government across multiple cities, fresh wave of protests come nearly 40 days after two men - Mohammad Mehdi Karami and Seyyed Mohammad Hosseini - &nbsp;were executed on charges linked to stir. The country saw two executions in December.&nbsp;

Iran has been witnessing massive demonstrations since September when 22-year-old Kurdish Iranian woman Mahsa Amini, who was in custody for flouting hijab rules, died. Her death sparked massive criticism over pressuring women to wear headscarves. Many women in the country cut their hair in protest, and burnt hijabs as they refused to bow down in front of the administration. More than 500 people have been killed in the raging protests and over 10,000 have been reportedly detained since September.&nbsp;

The United States and other nations expressed serious concerns while disturbing clips continued to emerge, showing atrocities against those voicing opposition. The government, however, has blamed the anger on foreign plot.&nbsp;

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Today, February 16, on the 40th day of the execution of two protestors, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mohammad_Mehdi_Karami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mohammad_Mehdi_Karami</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Seyed_Mohammad_Hosseini?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Seyed_Mohammad_Hosseini</a>, people took to the streets and chanted slogans in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Isfahan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Isfahan</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IranProtests?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IranProtests</a> <a href="https://t.co/sGrslvCeqP">pic.twitter.com/sGrslvCeqP</a>
— HRANA English (@HRANA_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/HRANA_English/status/1626349449860751360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In the latest spell of stir, agitators spilled on the streets of the Iranian capital, Tehan, Arak, Isfahan, Izeh in Khuzestan province and Karaj and other parts of the country. Demonstrations were linked to a 40-day mourning period for the executed men, which is common in Iran. Footages that surfaced Friday (February 17) captured chants of "Death to the dictator", targeting Iran's 83-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during the overnight protests.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)&nbsp;

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Amid calls for overthrow of the Islamic Republic, demonstrators were seen on streets of Iran yet again in purported videos that have surfaced. In what is being viewed as continuing anger against the ruling government across multiple cities, fresh wave of protests come nearly 40 days after two men - Mohammad Mehdi Karami and Seyyed Mohammad Hosseini - were executed on charges linked to stir.

Amid calls for overthrow of the Islamic Republic, demonstrators were seen on streets of Iran yet again in purported videos that have surfaced. In what is being viewed as continuing anger against the ruling government across multiple cities, fresh wave of protests come nearly 40 days after two men - Mohammad Mehdi Karami and Seyyed Mohammad Hosseini - were executed on charges linked to stir. The country saw two executions in December. Iran has been witnessing massive demonstrations since September when 22-year-old Kurdish Iranian woman Mahsa Amini, who was in custody for flouting hijab rules, died. Her death sparked massive criticism over pressuring women to wear headscarves. Many women in the country cut their hair in protest, and burnt hijabs as they refused to bow down in front of the administration. More than 500 people have been killed in the raging protests and over 10,000 have been reportedly detained since September. The United States and other nations expressed serious concerns while disturbing clips continued to emerge, showing atrocities against those voicing opposition. The government, however, has blamed the anger on foreign plot. Today, February 16, on the 40th day of the execution of two protestors, #Mohammad_Mehdi_Karami and #Seyed_Mohammad_Hosseini, people took to the streets and chanted slogans in #Isfahan.#Iran#IranProtests pic.twitter.com/sGrslvCeqP — HRANA English (@HRANA_English) February 16, 2023 × In the latest spell of stir, agitators spilled on the streets of the Iranian capital, Tehan, Arak, Isfahan, Izeh in Khuzestan province and Karaj and other parts of the country. Demonstrations were linked to a 40-day mourning period for the executed men, which is common in Iran. Footages that surfaced Friday (February 17) captured chants of "Death to the dictator", targeting Iran's 83-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during the overnight protests. (With agency inputs) 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.

On camera: Fresh wave of huge protest in Iran after over a month

The Iranian Chess player Sara Khadem has broken her silence over her decision to compete without wearing a Hijab. It was a decision that resulted in an arrest warrant being issued against her in Iran and her eventual relocation to Spain.

Iranian player Sara Khadem breaks silence on shunning Hijab, says 'No regrets'

What is Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi doing in China? Does the visit indicate the consolidation of an anti-American alliance?

Gravitas: What is Iran's President doing in China?

Saif al-Adel, a known terrorist from Egypt, is now the de-facto leader of terrorist outfit Al-Qaeda, said a United Nations report based on intelligence provided by member states. The report says that Adel may now be in Iran.

“Member states’ predominant view is that [Adel] is now the de facto leader of al-Qaida, representing continuity for now. But his leadership cannot be declared because of al-Qaida’s sensitivity to Afghan Taliban concerns not to acknowledge the death of … Zawahiri in Kabul and the fact of … [Adel’s] presence in the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the report said.

The report has been prepared by United Nations Security Council's committee monitoring sanctions on Al-Qaeda and Taliban. Although the committee thinks that Adel is now in charge, there hasn't been any announcement or declaration in this regard from the terror outfit.

Adel (62) was long considered to be a likely candidate to replace Ayman al-Jawahiri, the former leader of Al-Quaeda who was killed in US strike last year. The Taliban were embarrassed by Zawahiri's presence in Kabul as they had been claiming that they did not harbour terrorists.

The report is also sure to make Iran uneasy as it says that Adel is now based there. The report says that one member state objected to this&nbsp;claim. It is widely believed that that state is Iran.

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Saif al-Adel, a known terrorist from Egypt, is now the de-facto leader of terrorist outfit Al-Qaeda, said a United Nations report based on intelligence provided by member states.

Saif al-Adel, a known terrorist from Egypt, is now the de-facto leader of terrorist outfit Al-Qaeda, said a United Nations report based on intelligence provided by member states. The report says that Adel may now be in Iran. “Member states’ predominant view is that [Adel] is now the de facto leader of al-Qaida, representing continuity for now. But his leadership cannot be declared because of al-Qaida’s sensitivity to Afghan Taliban concerns not to acknowledge the death of … Zawahiri in Kabul and the fact of … [Adel’s] presence in the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the report said. The report has been prepared by United Nations Security Council's committee monitoring sanctions on Al-Qaeda and Taliban. Although the committee thinks that Adel is now in charge, there hasn't been any announcement or declaration in this regard from the terror outfit. Adel (62) was long considered to be a likely candidate to replace Ayman al-Jawahiri, the former leader of Al-Quaeda who was killed in US strike last year. The Taliban were embarrassed by Zawahiri's presence in Kabul as they had been claiming that they did not harbour terrorists. The report is also sure to make Iran uneasy as it says that Adel is now based there. The report says that one member state objected to this claim. It is widely believed that that state is Iran. 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 ×

De-facto leader of Al-Qaeda is now in Iran, says UN report

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday said that Iran nuclear issue needs to be resolved early and applauded the “solidarity” shared between the two countries as he met Islamic republic's President Ebrahim Raisi as the latter began his three-day visit.

In the first state visit of an Iranian president to China in the last 20 years, Raisi was accompanied by a large trade and finance delegation. On the red carpet, Raisi was greeted by Xi.

"In the face of the current complex changes in the world, times, and history, China and Iran have supported each other (and) worked together in solidarity and co-operation," said Xi said, as per the state broadcaster CCTV.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-death-to-the-islamic-republic-hackers-take-over-raisis-revolution-anniversary-speech-561139">WATCH | 'Death to the Islamic Republic': Hackers take over Raisi's revolution anniversary speech</a>

Xi also said that his government will continue to "participate constructively" in talks for resuming negotiations on the Iran nuclear agreement's implementation.

Iran's uranium enrichment programme was limited by a 2015 nuclear agreement which made it difficult for the country to develop nuclear arms. Iran had claimed that it was developing nuclear arms for peaceful reasons.

Both nations have been facing pressure from Western nations over their stand on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as strict sanctions have already been issued by the United States against Iran because of its nuclear programme.

China "supports Iran in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national dignity... and in resisting unilateralism and hegemonism", Xi was quoted as saying by CCTV.

WATCH | Iran-China Ties: Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi begins three day visit to China

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Beijing also "opposes external forces interfering in Iran's internal affairs and undermining Iran's security and stability", and will continue to "promote the early and proper resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue", stated the Chinese leader.

"No matter how the international and regional situation changes, China will unswervingly develop friendly cooperation with Iran", President Xi said.

As per CCTV, both nations signed various documents of bilateral co-operation in the fields of environmental protection, disaster relief, agriculture, trade, tourism, health, culture and sport.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday said that Iran nuclear issue needs to be resolved early and applauded the “solidarity” shared between the two countries as he met Islamic republic's President Ebrahim Raisi as the latter began his three-day visit.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday said that Iran nuclear issue needs to be resolved early and applauded the “solidarity” shared between the two countries as he met Islamic republic's President Ebrahim Raisi as the latter began his three-day visit. In the first state visit of an Iranian president to China in the last 20 years, Raisi was accompanied by a large trade and finance delegation. On the red carpet, Raisi was greeted by Xi. "In the face of the current complex changes in the world, times, and history, China and Iran have supported each other (and) worked together in solidarity and co-operation," said Xi said, as per the state broadcaster CCTV. ALSO READ | WATCH | 'Death to the Islamic Republic': Hackers take over Raisi's revolution anniversary speech Xi also said that his government will continue to "participate constructively" in talks for resuming negotiations on the Iran nuclear agreement's implementation. Iran's uranium enrichment programme was limited by a 2015 nuclear agreement which made it difficult for the country to develop nuclear arms. Iran had claimed that it was developing nuclear arms for peaceful reasons. Both nations have been facing pressure from Western nations over their stand on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as strict sanctions have already been issued by the United States against Iran because of its nuclear programme. China "supports Iran in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national dignity... and in resisting unilateralism and hegemonism", Xi was quoted as saying by CCTV. WATCH | Iran-China Ties: Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi begins three day visit to China Beijing also "opposes external forces interfering in Iran's internal affairs and undermining Iran's security and stability", and will continue to "promote the early and proper resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue", stated the Chinese leader. "No matter how the international and regional situation changes, China will unswervingly develop friendly cooperation with Iran", President Xi said. As per CCTV, both nations signed various documents of bilateral co-operation in the fields of environmental protection, disaster relief, agriculture, trade, tourism, health, culture and sport. (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

China's Xi meets Raisi, calls for Iran nuclear issue's early resolution

Iranian President Abraham Raisi is heading to China and his focus will be to shore up the bilateral economic and strategic ties. Raisi will arrive in Beijing later today.

Iran-China Ties: Ebrahim Raisi to visit Beijing on personal invite from Chinese President

Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi has arrived in China and his focus is on shoring up the bilateral economic and strategic ties. This has come against the backdrop of Iran being under scrutiny from the West.

Iran-China Ties: Raisi expected to meet Chinese businessmen and Iranian diaspora

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has arrived in China and his focus is on shoring up the bilateral economic and strategic ties. This has come against the backdrop of Iran being under scrutiny from the West.

Iran-China Ties: Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi begins three day visit to China

A new alliance is in the making. China, Iran and Moscow are coming closer. There are strategic goals, defence goals and a common enemy. Should India be worried? Listen in to Priyanka Sharma.

Gravitas: There is a new alliance between China, Iran and Russia. Should India be worried?

According to media reports, Iran used boats and a state owned airline to transfer new variations of advanced long-range armed drones to Russia.

Iran smuggled drones using boats and state airline

Saturday marked the 44 years of the 1979 Islamic Revolution which led to the foundation of the present Islamic rule in Iran, even as the anti-regime protests continued across the nation, seeking to overthrow the current system.&nbsp;Thousands of Iranians hit the streets carrying flags, balloons and placards containing religious and revolutionary slogans. The military displayed its Emad and Sejjil ballistic missiles and cruise missiles as well as its Shahed-136 and Mohajer drones in a military parade to mark the occasion.

The Islamic Republic has been seething with unrest ever since the custodial death of 22-year-old Kurdish-origin woman Mahsa Amini in September, who was detained for violating the dress code for women.

These agitations were initially against Iran’s mandatory headscarf or hijab, but they soon transformed into wider calls for a new revolution.

President Ebrahim Raisi, during a speech at Azadi Square in the capital Tehran, termed the protests as a project by Iran’s enemies aimed at stopping the nation from continuing its achievements.

<h2>Iranians arrive at Tehran's Azadi Square to celebrate 44th anniversary of Islamic revolution</h2>

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He said that the 1979 Islamic Revolution is a celebration of “epic” proportions and a show of “national integrity”, while praising post-revolution achievements in the country.

The remarks prompted the crowd to chant “Death to the US”, according to AP news agency.

Meanwhile, Telewebion, a web TV service affiliated with Iranian state TV, was briefly hacked during Raisi’s speech, Iranian media reported. The khabaronline.ir news website said the interruption lasted 19 seconds.

“Edalate Ali” or “The Justice of Ali,” hackers claimed responsibility for the hack.&nbsp;They released a 44-second clip which had chants of “Death to Khamenei” and “Death to the Islamic Republic”. The group previously hacked into the notorious Evin prison and other government facilities.

They had last week invited people to take part in nationwide protests and urged citizens to withdraw their money from the Iranian&nbsp;banks.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Saturday marked the 44 years of the 1979 Islamic Revolution which led to the foundation of the present Islamic rule in Iran, even as the anti-regime protests continued across the nation, seeking to overthrow the current system.

Saturday marked the 44 years of the 1979 Islamic Revolution which led to the foundation of the present Islamic rule in Iran, even as the anti-regime protests continued across the nation, seeking to overthrow the current system. Thousands of Iranians hit the streets carrying flags, balloons and placards containing religious and revolutionary slogans. The military displayed its Emad and Sejjil ballistic missiles and cruise missiles as well as its Shahed-136 and Mohajer drones in a military parade to mark the occasion. The Islamic Republic has been seething with unrest ever since the custodial death of 22-year-old Kurdish-origin woman Mahsa Amini in September, who was detained for violating the dress code for women. These agitations were initially against Iran’s mandatory headscarf or hijab, but they soon transformed into wider calls for a new revolution. President Ebrahim Raisi, during a speech at Azadi Square in the capital Tehran, termed the protests as a project by Iran’s enemies aimed at stopping the nation from continuing its achievements. Iranians arrive at Tehran's Azadi Square to celebrate 44th anniversary of Islamic revolution He said that the 1979 Islamic Revolution is a celebration of “epic” proportions and a show of “national integrity”, while praising post-revolution achievements in the country. The remarks prompted the crowd to chant “Death to the US”, according to AP news agency. Meanwhile, Telewebion, a web TV service affiliated with Iranian state TV, was briefly hacked during Raisi’s speech, Iranian media reported. The khabaronline.ir news website said the interruption lasted 19 seconds. “Edalate Ali” or “The Justice of Ali,” hackers claimed responsibility for the hack. They released a 44-second clip which had chants of “Death to Khamenei” and “Death to the Islamic Republic”. The group previously hacked into the notorious Evin prison and other government facilities. They had last week invited people to take part in nationwide protests and urged citizens to withdraw their money from the Iranian banks. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran marks 44th anniversary of 1979 Islamic Revolution amidst anti-regime protests

Iran smuggled new models of cutting-edge long-range armed drones to Russia for use in its conflict with Ukraine using boats and a state-owned aircraft. Following a special visit by officers and experts to Tehran in November, where they were given a comprehensive tour of Iran's technological capabilities, at least 18 of the drones were delivered to the navy of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Report: Iran used state airline to smuggle drones into Russia

A report by the Guardian citing anonymous sources, on Sunday (February 12) reported that Iran has used boats and state-owned airlines to smuggle advanced long-range armed drones to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine. At least 18 drones were delivered to Moscow’s navy following a visit by Russian officials to Tehran back in November where they selected the drones in question, as per the report.&nbsp;

Last year, Russia is said to have sent a 10-man delegation to Iran that selected six Mohajer-6 drones and 12 Shahed 191 and 129 drones, the former can fly around 200 km and carry two missiles under each of its wings while the latter is capable of the air-to-ground strike.&nbsp;

Additionally, the Mohajer-6 drones can remain in the air for six hours and operate on electric power and are equipped to carry bombs weighing at least 40kg, high-precision imaging and targeting systems, reported the Guardian. The Shahed 129 can carry a 60 kg payload and fly for at least four hours, while the Shahed 191 can fly for five hours and carry 10 kg more than the former.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/why-is-west-bothered-about-iran-sending-drones-to-russia-528264">Why is West bothered about Iran sending drones to Russia?&nbsp;</a>

According to the report, most of the drones in question were “secretly picked” by an Iranian vessel from a base in the Caspian Sea and then transferred at sea to a Russian navy boat. The sources also claimed that others were sent to Moscow on a state-owned Iranian airline.&nbsp;

This comes after officials in the United States said that Iran had begun showcasing its Shahed 191 and 129 drones in June to Russia and expected the sale to happen in the upcoming months. Additionally, Tehran has also sent three officials per drone which is approximately 54 people in total to help “integrate the smuggled craft into the Russian military”, claimed the Guardian citing sources in the middle eastern country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-warns-turkey-on-exports-to-russia-that-could-boost-its-war-in-ukraine-558892">US warns Turkey over exports to Russia that could boost its war in Ukraine</a>

The drones are also said to be produced in the military facility in the Iranian city of Isfahan which was recently targeted by what is believed to be an Israeli drone. According to the report, more orders for drones were expected before the strike which is said to have caused significant damage. This also comes amid reports of Russia reaching out to Iran and North Korea to replenish its military stocks amid its ongoing conflict with Ukraine and fears of a major attack by Moscow as the invasion reaches its one-year mark.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-officials-suspect-israels-involvement-in-drone-attack-on-iranian-military-facility-what-we-know-so-far-557205">US officials suspect Israel’s involvement in drone attack on Iranian 'workshop': What we know so far</a>

In October, Kyiv was hit by a Shahed 136 drone which reportedly killed five people after it got through and exploded on a house. Additionally, Ukraine had also claimed to have downed Mohajer-6 drones since September and the officials showed one to the Guardian in November. This comes as Russia continues to bomb Ukrainian towns and cities while reports suggest that Moscow has also sought more advanced drones.&nbsp; 
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A report by the Guardian citing anonymous sources, on Sunday (February 12) reported that Iran has used boats and state-owned airlines to smuggle advanced long-range armed drones to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine.

A report by the Guardian citing anonymous sources, on Sunday (February 12) reported that Iran has used boats and state-owned airlines to smuggle advanced long-range armed drones to Russia amid its invasion of Ukraine. At least 18 drones were delivered to Moscow’s navy following a visit by Russian officials to Tehran back in November where they selected the drones in question, as per the report. Last year, Russia is said to have sent a 10-man delegation to Iran that selected six Mohajer-6 drones and 12 Shahed 191 and 129 drones, the former can fly around 200 km and carry two missiles under each of its wings while the latter is capable of the air-to-ground strike. Additionally, the Mohajer-6 drones can remain in the air for six hours and operate on electric power and are equipped to carry bombs weighing at least 40kg, high-precision imaging and targeting systems, reported the Guardian. The Shahed 129 can carry a 60 kg payload and fly for at least four hours, while the Shahed 191 can fly for five hours and carry 10 kg more than the former. ALSO READ | Why is West bothered about Iran sending drones to Russia? According to the report, most of the drones in question were “secretly picked” by an Iranian vessel from a base in the Caspian Sea and then transferred at sea to a Russian navy boat. The sources also claimed that others were sent to Moscow on a state-owned Iranian airline. This comes after officials in the United States said that Iran had begun showcasing its Shahed 191 and 129 drones in June to Russia and expected the sale to happen in the upcoming months. Additionally, Tehran has also sent three officials per drone which is approximately 54 people in total to help “integrate the smuggled craft into the Russian military”, claimed the Guardian citing sources in the middle eastern country. ALSO READ | US warns Turkey over exports to Russia that could boost its war in Ukraine The drones are also said to be produced in the military facility in the Iranian city of Isfahan which was recently targeted by what is believed to be an Israeli drone. According to the report, more orders for drones were expected before the strike which is said to have caused significant damage. This also comes amid reports of Russia reaching out to Iran and North Korea to replenish its military stocks amid its ongoing conflict with Ukraine and fears of a major attack by Moscow as the invasion reaches its one-year mark. ALSO READ | US officials suspect Israel’s involvement in drone attack on Iranian 'workshop': What we know so far In October, Kyiv was hit by a Shahed 136 drone which reportedly killed five people after it got through and exploded on a house. Additionally, Ukraine had also claimed to have downed Mohajer-6 drones since September and the officials showed one to the Guardian in November. This comes as Russia continues to bomb Ukrainian towns and cities while reports suggest that Moscow has also sought more advanced drones. 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 smuggled at least 18 drones into Russia by boats, state airlines: Report

Iran's anti-government protesters on Saturday hacked the online broadcast speech marking the 44th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. The speech was interrupted with placards that read "Death to the Islamic Revolution" and "Death to the Islamic Republic". The group behind the incident was identified as the Edalat-e Ali group. It called on Iranians to withdraw their money from "corrupt" regime banks and to take to the streets next week. While Raisi during his speech called on the protesters to repent, the group is reported to be organizing demonstrations on February 16. This is second such incident where the group hacked an address by Iran's Islamic Regime. Last year in October it interrupted a live state television broadcast of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei meeting state officials. A text on the screen appeared which read "The blood of our youth is on your hands".

Activists say 'Death to Islamic Republic' in video

A number of prominent Iranian women activists and journalists were released from Tehran's Evin prison on Thursday. Soon, a video showing the just-released women prisoners chanting defiant slogans began&nbsp;making rounds on social media. The women, in the viral video, can be heard chanting, "Dictatorial regimes must be toppled", and, "Women, life, freedom."

"If bravery had a face," wrote Afghanistan-based analyst Habib Khan on Twitter while sharing the video. "These brave Iranian women just got off the jail and started chanting against the dictator in front of the prison," he added.&nbsp;

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If bravery had a face. These brave Iranian women just got off the jail and started chanting against the dictator in front of the prison. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IranRevoIution?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IranRevoIution</a> <a href="https://t.co/CHg5PSdlHs">pic.twitter.com/CHg5PSdlHs</a>
— Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) <a href="https://twitter.com/HabibKhanT/status/1623860178100551682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Incredible bravery," reacted a Twitter user. "Damn (sic), Step out of prison and keep on with the struggle. "

"Iranian women in Iran are the leaders of this Iran Revolution," wrote another user.

"These are our brave, beautiful, strong, and resilient women. IR (Islamic Revolution) regime, look at them and know your days are numbered," wrote a third user.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-ousted-from-un-womens-group-over-human-rights-abuses-543331">Iran ousted from U.N. women's group over human rights abuses</a>

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Media based outside Iran said a total of seven women were released, while Iran continues to press a crackdown against protests that erupted in September.

It was not immediately clear if the releases were linked to an announcement by the Iranian office of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei that he had agreed to pardon a large number of convicts, including those detained over the protests.

Iranian authorities have arrested thousands since nationwide protests broke out following the September 16 death in custody of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old ethnic Kurd who had been arrested for allegedly breaching the country's strict dress rules for women.

Women still detained include prize-winning rights defender Narges Mohammadi, the two journalists who helped expose the Amini case, Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi, as well as foreigners including German national Nahid Taghavi and French academic Fariba Adelkhah.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A number of prominent Iranian women activists and journalists were released from Tehran's Evin prison on Thursday. Soon, a video showing the just-released women prisoners chanting defiant slogans began making rounds on social media.

A number of prominent Iranian women activists and journalists were released from Tehran's Evin prison on Thursday. Soon, a video showing the just-released women prisoners chanting defiant slogans began making rounds on social media. The women, in the viral video, can be heard chanting, "Dictatorial regimes must be toppled", and, "Women, life, freedom." "If bravery had a face," wrote Afghanistan-based analyst Habib Khan on Twitter while sharing the video. "These brave Iranian women just got off the jail and started chanting against the dictator in front of the prison," he added. If bravery had a face. These brave Iranian women just got off the jail and started chanting against the dictator in front of the prison. #IranRevoIution pic.twitter.com/CHg5PSdlHs — Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) February 10, 2023 × "Incredible bravery," reacted a Twitter user. "Damn (sic), Step out of prison and keep on with the struggle. " "Iranian women in Iran are the leaders of this Iran Revolution," wrote another user. "These are our brave, beautiful, strong, and resilient women. IR (Islamic Revolution) regime, look at them and know your days are numbered," wrote a third user. ALSO WATCH | Iran ousted from U.N. women's group over human rights abuses × Media based outside Iran said a total of seven women were released, while Iran continues to press a crackdown against protests that erupted in September. It was not immediately clear if the releases were linked to an announcement by the Iranian office of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei that he had agreed to pardon a large number of convicts, including those detained over the protests. Iranian authorities have arrested thousands since nationwide protests broke out following the September 16 death in custody of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old ethnic Kurd who had been arrested for allegedly breaching the country's strict dress rules for women. Women still detained include prize-winning rights defender Narges Mohammadi, the two journalists who helped expose the Amini case, Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi, as well as foreigners including German national Nahid Taghavi and French academic Fariba Adelkhah. (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.

WATCH | Iranian women, released out of jail, chant anti-regime slogans outside prison complex

North Korea parades its Hwasong 17 nuclear ICBMs Russia targets several strategic Ukrainian cities in the spring offensive & El Salvador opens the biggest prison in Latin America. Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report of the world's biggest warzones of the week in #WorldAtWar.

World at War | Episode 41: Iran shows off its underground fighter jets

Tens of thousands of Iranians are back on streets but to everyone's surprise, this time they are in solidarity with the government to mark the 44th anniversary of the Islamic revolution. The anniversary was observed across the country including in capital, Tehran, where people carried the Iranian flag.

Iranians arrive at Tehran's Azadi Square to celebrate 44th anniversary of Islamic revolution

The French government said on Friday (February 10) that Iranian-French academic&nbsp;Fariba Adelkhah was released from the Evin prison. According to a statement, the French foreign ministry said, "It is essential that all of Ms Fariba Adelkhah's freedoms are restored, including returning to France if she wishes," news agency Reuters reported. Adelkhah had been in prison after Iranian authorities arrested her in June 2019 during a visit. She is one of the seven French nationals detained in Iran — an issue which has worsened relations between the two countries.&nbsp;

On Friday, the foreign ministry reiterated the demand that all French nationals arbitrarily detained in Iran are released immediately and without conditions.&nbsp;

In 2020, Fariba Adelkhah was sentenced to five years in prison on national security charges. The Iranian authorities moved her to house arrest later but in January she returned to jail. The academic has denied these charges.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Adelkhah's lawyer Hojjat Kermani told Reuters that she was freed last night. After speaking to Adekahm, Kermani said that the academic was happy just like any other prisoner would be when released from jail and the sentence ends.&nbsp;

However, the lawyer said that it was not yet clear how much longer Adelkhah would have to stay in Iran before returning to France. “Legally, her file is considered completed, and legally there should be no problem to leave the country, but this issue has to be reviewed. So...it is not clear how long it will take,” Kermani told the news agency on Saturday.&nbsp;

In recent years, dozens of dual nationals and foreigners have been arrested by Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards mostly on charges of espionage and security. Rights groups have accused Iran of trying to extract concessions from other countries through such arrests. However, Tehran which does not recognise dual nationality denies taking prisoners to gain diplomatic leverage.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The French government said on Friday (February 10) that Iranian-French academic Fariba Adelkhah was released from the Evin prison. According to a statement, the French foreign ministry said, "It is essential that all of Ms Fariba Adelkhah's freedoms are restored, including returning to France if she wishes," news agency Reuters reported.

The French government said on Friday (February 10) that Iranian-French academic Fariba Adelkhah was released from the Evin prison. According to a statement, the French foreign ministry said, "It is essential that all of Ms Fariba Adelkhah's freedoms are restored, including returning to France if she wishes," news agency Reuters reported. Adelkhah had been in prison after Iranian authorities arrested her in June 2019 during a visit. She is one of the seven French nationals detained in Iran — an issue which has worsened relations between the two countries. On Friday, the foreign ministry reiterated the demand that all French nationals arbitrarily detained in Iran are released immediately and without conditions. In 2020, Fariba Adelkhah was sentenced to five years in prison on national security charges. The Iranian authorities moved her to house arrest later but in January she returned to jail. The academic has denied these charges. On Saturday, Adelkhah's lawyer Hojjat Kermani told Reuters that she was freed last night. After speaking to Adekahm, Kermani said that the academic was happy just like any other prisoner would be when released from jail and the sentence ends. However, the lawyer said that it was not yet clear how much longer Adelkhah would have to stay in Iran before returning to France. “Legally, her file is considered completed, and legally there should be no problem to leave the country, but this issue has to be reviewed. So...it is not clear how long it will take,” Kermani told the news agency on Saturday. In recent years, dozens of dual nationals and foreigners have been arrested by Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards mostly on charges of espionage and security. Rights groups have accused Iran of trying to extract concessions from other countries through such arrests. However, Tehran which does not recognise dual nationality denies taking prisoners to gain diplomatic leverage. (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-French academic Fariba Adelkhah released from Evin prison in Tehran

Iran has unveiled a first-of-its-kind underground Air Force Station. The airbase is big enough to house fighter jets & long-range missiles. What will Iran use it for? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Iran unveils first-of-its-kind underground Airbase

In comparison to the same period in the previous year, Iranian arms shipments increased over threefold from March to December 2022. This year, the export of defense-related goods is progressively growing and has increased from last year.

Iranian Minister: The export of defence prooducts gradually growing

Iran has revealed an underground air force base called "Eagle 44" Tuesday saying it is the first of its kind large enough to house fighter jets. WION tells you more in this report.

Iran unveils underground base for fighter jets

Using an iron fist to cull dissent, an Iranian court on Monday upheld a two year prison sentence against a well-known female Iranian comedian who dared to criticise the archaic Islamic laws.

Using an iron fist to cull dissent, an Iranian court on Monday upheld a two year prison sentence against a well-known female Iranian comedian who dared to criticise the archaic Islamic laws. 33-year-old Zeinab Mousavi, who goes by an online alias of “Empress of Kuzcoo” and has nearly half-a-million followers on Instagram was arrested in October last year from her home in Qoms. After being arrested, Mousavi spent 25 days in solitary confinement before being let out on bail. However, in December, using an arbitrary judicial process, she was handed a two-year prison sentence according to the Iranian NGO Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). Mousavi had been using her online platform to criticise the imposition of hijab on Muslim women in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Her online alias was the parody of an old villager who wears a hijab that only shows her nose. It was a clever commentary on how women are supposed to look under the medieval rules imposed by highly misogynistic Islamic men. WATCH | Iran executes 2 more men detained amid nationwide protests × However, this is not the first instance where the Iranian regime has exposed itself for going to dire lengths to quash voices of reason. Last month, Amir Mohammad Ahmadi and Astiyazh Haghighi - an Iranian couple in their 20s was sentenced to more than 10 years in prison after they posted a video of themselves dancing. Read more: Iranian couple dancing in the streets sentenced to over 10 years in prison As Haghighi was seen without a scarf or a hijab in the video, dancing alongside a male figure, alone at night in front of a prominent landmark, the authorities considered it an attempt to show rebellion against the strict Islamic laws of the country. Ever since the death of a 22-year-old Kurdish woman named Mahsa Amini allegedly at the hands of Iran's morality police in September last year, the country has plunged into a sea of demonstrations. The Iranian government has come down heavily upon the protesters and is now imprisoning and executing them with the judiciary firmly sitting in its corner. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iranian female comedian sentenced to two years in prison for criticising hijab imposition

A 22-year-old YouTuber was strangled to death by her father reportedly over her decision to live alone in Turkiye. Iraq is under question for its lack of laws against domestic violence. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: 22-year-old YouTuber strangled to death by father

Iran&nbsp;revealed "Eagle 44", an underground air force base on Tuesday. The Iranian state media reported Eagle 44 as the first of its kind large enough underground air force base that can house the fighter jets. The "Eagle 44" base is capable of storing and operating fighter jets and drones, Iran's Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) said. The report did not specify the location of the base.

The IRNA reported that it was one of the country's most important air force bases. It is reportedly built deep underground, housing fighters equipped with long-range cruise missiles.

ALSO WATCH -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-unveils-underground-drone-base-after-recent-strike-483319">Iran unveils underground drone base after recent strike</a>

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"Any attack on Iran from our enemies, including Israel, will see a response from our many air force bases including Eagle 44," Iran's armed forces' Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri told state media.&nbsp;

In May, Iran's army gave details about another underground base, which houses drones, as the country seeks to protect military assets from potential air strikes by regional arch foe Israel.

State media has cited officials in Tehran's regime as saying that about 100 drones were being kept in the heart of the Zagros mountains, including Ababil-5, which it said were fitted with Qaem-9 missiles. The Qaem-9 missiles are an Iranian-made version of air-to-surface U.S. Hellfire.

"No doubt the drones of Islamic Republic of Iran's armed forces are the region's most powerful," army commander Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi had said then. "Our capability to upgrade drones is unstoppable," he added.

The Iranian air force operates about 40-44 Russian-origin Mig-29s, 41 US-origin Grumman F-14 Tomcat aircrafts and 24 Russian-origin Sukhoi Su-35 multirole fighter aircrafts. The country also has about 20 indigenously developed fighter aircrafts among others. All US-origin fighter aircrafts were imported by Iran before 1979's islamic revolution, following which the US realignment to Saudi Arabia saw straining Tehran-Washington ties.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran revealed "Eagle 44", an underground air force base on Tuesday. The Iranian state media reported Eagle 44 as the first of its kind large enough underground air force base that can house the fighter jets.

Iran revealed "Eagle 44", an underground air force base on Tuesday. The Iranian state media reported Eagle 44 as the first of its kind large enough underground air force base that can house the fighter jets. The "Eagle 44" base is capable of storing and operating fighter jets and drones, Iran's Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) said. The report did not specify the location of the base. The IRNA reported that it was one of the country's most important air force bases. It is reportedly built deep underground, housing fighters equipped with long-range cruise missiles. ALSO WATCH - Iran unveils underground drone base after recent strike × "Any attack on Iran from our enemies, including Israel, will see a response from our many air force bases including Eagle 44," Iran's armed forces' Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri told state media. In May, Iran's army gave details about another underground base, which houses drones, as the country seeks to protect military assets from potential air strikes by regional arch foe Israel. State media has cited officials in Tehran's regime as saying that about 100 drones were being kept in the heart of the Zagros mountains, including Ababil-5, which it said were fitted with Qaem-9 missiles. The Qaem-9 missiles are an Iranian-made version of air-to-surface U.S. Hellfire. "No doubt the drones of Islamic Republic of Iran's armed forces are the region's most powerful," army commander Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi had said then. "Our capability to upgrade drones is unstoppable," he added. The Iranian air force operates about 40-44 Russian-origin Mig-29s, 41 US-origin Grumman F-14 Tomcat aircrafts and 24 Russian-origin Sukhoi Su-35 multirole fighter aircrafts. The country also has about 20 indigenously developed fighter aircrafts among others. All US-origin fighter aircrafts were imported by Iran before 1979's islamic revolution, following which the US realignment to Saudi Arabia saw straining Tehran-Washington ties. (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 reveals underground air force base, threatens Israel with 'response'

While Iran continues its crackdown on anti-government protests, comedian Zeinab Mousavi has said that her two-year prison sentence was upheld by the court, according to reports. Mousavi was arrested in October last year and released on bail in November.

Iran crackdown on protesters

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