West Asia is known to be a volatile region. The volatility is not limited to politics and economics, rights of one gender are taking a slow death. From Mahasa Amini in Iran, Tiba al-Al in Iraq, to Alaa Salah in Sudan - women of West Asia are speaking up. And with them, people are pouring out on the streets, unifying against far-right governments. The road might be long, but it's a hopeful one!

WION Fineprint: How are women standing up to far-right govts?

Iranian authorities have detained a journalist at a reformist publication, local media reported, as her sister, also a journalist, remains in custody after reporting on Mahsa Amini's death.

Iranian journalist detained months after sister's arrest amid unrest

Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has pardoned "tens of thousands" of prisoners, including&nbsp;those arrested in recent protests against the government, state media reported.&nbsp;"Prisoners not facing charges of spying for foreign agencies, having direct contact with foreign agents, committing intentional murder and injury, committing destruction and arson of state property, or not having a private plaintiff in their case will be pardoned," state media said.

The pardons were announced in honour of the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution. Prisons and detention facilities in Iran already face&nbsp;overcrowding after protests.

Iran has been rocked by protests ever since the custodial death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman of Kurdish origin who was detained in September by Iran's morality police over 'inappropriate' attire. The nationwide protests have also seen protesters demanding fall of the clerical regime in the country.

According to the HRANA activist news agency, about 20,000 people have been arrested for anti-government protests.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protest-hit-iran-detains-woman-journalist-say-reports-558964">Protest-hit Iran detains woman journalist, say reports</a>

The news of the pardon has come on the same day as reports of a woman journalist being detained did rounds. Elnaz Mohammadi, the journalist with reformist news outlet Hammihan was detained, reported state media. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has pardoned "tens of thousands" of prisoners, including those arrested in recent protests against the government, state media reported.

Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has pardoned "tens of thousands" of prisoners, including those arrested in recent protests against the government, state media reported. "Prisoners not facing charges of spying for foreign agencies, having direct contact with foreign agents, committing intentional murder and injury, committing destruction and arson of state property, or not having a private plaintiff in their case will be pardoned," state media said. The pardons were announced in honour of the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution. Prisons and detention facilities in Iran already face overcrowding after protests. Iran has been rocked by protests ever since the custodial death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman of Kurdish origin who was detained in September by Iran's morality police over 'inappropriate' attire. The nationwide protests have also seen protesters demanding fall of the clerical regime in the country. According to the HRANA activist news agency, about 20,000 people have been arrested for anti-government protests. Also Read | Protest-hit Iran detains woman journalist, say reports The news of the pardon has come on the same day as reports of a woman journalist being detained did rounds. Elnaz Mohammadi, the journalist with reformist news outlet Hammihan was detained, reported state media. (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 Supreme leader Khamenei pardons thousands of prisoners on 1979 Islamic revolution anniversary

In the latest,&nbsp;Pakistan’s former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf,&nbsp;the architect of the Kargil War in 1999, passed away on Sunday morning at a hospital in Dubai.&nbsp;Large Chinese spy balloon believed to have been spying on vital military facilities across the nation has been shot down by the US near the east coast. In other news, the Indian government has blocked more than 200 betting, loan apps linked to China.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/paks-former-prez-and-army-chief-pervez-musharraf-passes-away-in-dubai-reports-558902">Pakistan’s former military ruler General (Retd) Pervez Musharraf dies in Dubai after long illness</a>

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Pakistan’s former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf,&nbsp;the architect of the Kargil War in 1999, passed away on Sunday morning at a hospital in Dubai, according to media reports.&nbsp;The health of the 79-year-old, who was ill since 2019, had deteriorated recently after developing “heart- and blood pressure-related” complications.&nbsp;Musharraf was suffering from amyloidosis, a rare disease caused by a build-up of an abnormal protein called amyloid in the organs and tissues throughout the body and prevents them from working properly.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shoots-down-suspected-chinese-spy-balloon-beijing-reacts-558889">US shoots down suspected Chinese spy balloon, Beijing reacts with threat of repercussions</a>

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The US has shot down the giant Chinese spy balloon near the east coast that was said to have been spying on sensitive military sites across the country.&nbsp;The Department of Defense confirmed in a statement that the US fighter jets brought down the balloon over US territorial waters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-supreme-leader-khamenei-pardons-thousand-of-prisoners-amid-protests-558972">Iran Supreme leader Khamenei pardons thousand of prisoners amid protests</a>

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Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has pardoned "tens of thousands" of prisoners which include those arrested in recent protest against the government, state media reported.

"Prisoners not facing charges of spying for foreign agencies, having direct contact with foreign agents, committing intentional murder and injury, committing destruction and arson of state property, or not having a private plaintiff in their case will be pardoned," state media said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-china-militarily-aiding-russias-offensive-says-report-558904">Ukraine war: China providing military assistance to Russia for its offensive, says report</a>
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China is militarily aiding Russia's offensive in Ukraine which will soon complete its one year. A report by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on Saturday (February 4) said that China is providing the technology that the Russian military needs for its ‘special military operation’ in Ukraine despite sanctions and export controls imposed by the West. According to Russian customs data reviewed by the WSJ, Chinese state-owned defence companies have been shipping navigation equipment, jamming technology and fighter-jet parts to sanctioned Russian government-owned defence companies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-us-another-chinese-balloon-seen-flying-over-latin-america-pentagon-558701">After US, another Chinese balloon seen flying over Latin America: Pentagon</a>

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The Pentagon said on Friday (February 3) that a Chinese balloon was seen flying over Latin America also, a day after a similar balloon was seen&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-says-suspected-chinese-spy-balloon-in-us-airspace-is-civilian-airship-used-for-research-558615">in the United States</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-says-suspected-chinese-spy-balloon-in-us-airspace-is-civilian-airship-used-for-research-558615">skies</a>. According to a statement, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder said, "We are seeing reports of a balloon transiting Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon." &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-blocks-more-than-200-apps-linked-to-china-reports-558952">Indian govt blocks more than 230 betting, loan apps linked to China: Report</a>

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The Narendra Modi government blocked 232 apps with Chinese links. An official familiar with developments told the news agency PTI on Sunday (February 5) that these apps were blocked for gambling and unauthorised loan service. "The order to block 138 apps that were involved in betting, gambling and money laundering was issued last evening. Separately, an order to block 94 apps engaged in unauthorised loan service has also been issued. These apps were being operated from offshore entities, including Chinese. They were posing a threat to the economic stability of the country," the official said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-india-supported-us-without-conditions-says-sri-lankan-high-commissioner-milinda-moragoda-558813">Exclusive: India supported us without conditions, says Sri Lankan High Commissioner Milinda Moragoda</a>

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Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to India Milinda Moragoda has lauded New Delhi's support to his country which came without "condition" and the package was "extremely flexible". India last year gave financial support of USD 4 billion as the country underwent a major economic crisis. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, High Commissioner Moragoda said, "India helped us to stabilise the economy and the country "reached out to the IMF and some of the bilateral partners like Japan."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/save-israels-democracy-from-netanyahu-anti-govt-protests-in-israel-continue-for-fifth-week-558941">'Save Israel's democracy from Netanyahu': Anti-govt protests continue for fifth week</a>

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Anti-government protests in Israel against the controversial legal reforms continued for the fifth week on Saturday (February 4) with thousands of demonstrators, braving the rain, swarming Tel Aviv's Kaplan Street, with signs criticising the establishment. One of the signs labelled the government as a "threat to world peace," while another said "Save Israel's democracy from Netanyahu," news agency AFP reported early Sunday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-weapons-supply-to-ukraine-russian-envoy-says-the-us-could-go-to-absolute-madness-558786">Weapons supply to Ukraine shows US could go to absolute madness, says Russian ambassador</a>

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The United States is seeking to deliberately escalate the conflict between Russia and Ukraine by transferring increasingly powerful weapons to Kyiv, Russian ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said on Friday.&nbsp;"Washington sees no boundaries in seeking to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia. The transfer of increasingly powerful weapons to the Kiev regime is a deliberate escalation of the conflict by the United States," the Russian embassy quoted Antonov as saying.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: 50,000 left in dark in Ukraine's Odessa, 31 high-power generators to aid city

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In the latest, Pakistan’s former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf, the architect of the Kargil War in 1999, passed away on Sunday morning at a hospital in Dubai.

In the latest, Pakistan’s former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf, the architect of the Kargil War in 1999, passed away on Sunday morning at a hospital in Dubai. Large Chinese spy balloon believed to have been spying on vital military facilities across the nation has been shot down by the US near the east coast. In other news, the Indian government has blocked more than 200 betting, loan apps linked to China. Click on the headlines to read more. Pakistan’s former military ruler General (Retd) Pervez Musharraf dies in Dubai after long illness Pakistan’s former president and army chief General (retired) Pervez Musharraf, the architect of the Kargil War in 1999, passed away on Sunday morning at a hospital in Dubai, according to media reports. The health of the 79-year-old, who was ill since 2019, had deteriorated recently after developing “heart- and blood pressure-related” complications. Musharraf was suffering from amyloidosis, a rare disease caused by a build-up of an abnormal protein called amyloid in the organs and tissues throughout the body and prevents them from working properly. US shoots down suspected Chinese spy balloon, Beijing reacts with threat of repercussions The US has shot down the giant Chinese spy balloon near the east coast that was said to have been spying on sensitive military sites across the country. The Department of Defense confirmed in a statement that the US fighter jets brought down the balloon over US territorial waters. Iran Supreme leader Khamenei pardons thousand of prisoners amid protests Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has pardoned "tens of thousands" of prisoners which include those arrested in recent protest against the government, state media reported. "Prisoners not facing charges of spying for foreign agencies, having direct contact with foreign agents, committing intentional murder and injury, committing destruction and arson of state property, or not having a private plaintiff in their case will be pardoned," state media said. Ukraine war: China providing military assistance to Russia for its offensive, says report China is militarily aiding Russia's offensive in Ukraine which will soon complete its one year. A report by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) on Saturday (February 4) said that China is providing the technology that the Russian military needs for its ‘special military operation’ in Ukraine despite sanctions and export controls imposed by the West. According to Russian customs data reviewed by the WSJ, Chinese state-owned defence companies have been shipping navigation equipment, jamming technology and fighter-jet parts to sanctioned Russian government-owned defence companies. After US, another Chinese balloon seen flying over Latin America: Pentagon The Pentagon said on Friday (February 3) that a Chinese balloon was seen flying over Latin America also, a day after a similar balloon was seen in the United States skies. According to a statement, Pentagon spokesperson Pat Ryder said, "We are seeing reports of a balloon transiting Latin America. We now assess it is another Chinese surveillance balloon." Indian govt blocks more than 230 betting, loan apps linked to China: Report The Narendra Modi government blocked 232 apps with Chinese links. An official familiar with developments told the news agency PTI on Sunday (February 5) that these apps were blocked for gambling and unauthorised loan service. "The order to block 138 apps that were involved in betting, gambling and money laundering was issued last evening. Separately, an order to block 94 apps engaged in unauthorised loan service has also been issued. These apps were being operated from offshore entities, including Chinese. They were posing a threat to the economic stability of the country," the official said. Exclusive: India supported us without conditions, says Sri Lankan High Commissioner Milinda Moragoda Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to India Milinda Moragoda has lauded New Delhi's support to his country which came without "condition" and the package was "extremely flexible". India last year gave financial support of USD 4 billion as the country underwent a major economic crisis. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, High Commissioner Moragoda said, "India helped us to stabilise the economy and the country "reached out to the IMF and some of the bilateral partners like Japan." 'Save Israel's democracy from Netanyahu': Anti-govt protests continue for fifth week Anti-government protests in Israel against the controversial legal reforms continued for the fifth week on Saturday (February 4) with thousands of demonstrators, braving the rain, swarming Tel Aviv's Kaplan Street, with signs criticising the establishment. One of the signs labelled the government as a "threat to world peace," while another said "Save Israel's democracy from Netanyahu," news agency AFP reported early Sunday. Weapons supply to Ukraine shows US could go to absolute madness, says Russian ambassador The United States is seeking to deliberately escalate the conflict between Russia and Ukraine by transferring increasingly powerful weapons to Kyiv, Russian ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said on Friday. "Washington sees no boundaries in seeking to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia. The transfer of increasingly powerful weapons to the Kiev regime is a deliberate escalation of the conflict by the United States," the Russian embassy quoted Antonov as saying. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: 50,000 left in dark in Ukraine's Odessa, 31 high-power generators to aid city

Top 10 world news: Pervez Musharraf passes away, US shoots down Chinese spy balloon, & more

Authorities in Iran have detained a woman journalist, local media reported on Sunday (February 5). Elnaz Mohammadi, the detained journalist works with a reformist newspaper Hammihan. Mohammadi's sister, who is also a journalist, is already in custody after reporting on Mahsa Amini's death.

Iran has been rocked by nationwide protests after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini who was detained by Iran's morality police for her 'improper' clothing. The protests have led to deaths and arrests and there have also been calls for downfall of the clerical regime in the country.

Mohammadi was detained at the Evin prosecutor's office in Tehran after she had gone there "for an explanation", reported Shargh, another reformist daily.&nbsp;

It was not immediately clear why Mohammadi had been summoned there.

Her sister, Elahe Mohammadi, was arrested on September 29 after reporting for Hammihan from Amini's funeral.&nbsp;

The journalist was subsequently charged with "propaganda against the system and conspiracy to act against national security", offences punishable by death.

The procession in Amini's home town of Saqez in Kurdistan province turned into one of the first protest actions, followed by more than four months of unrest.

Iran's judiciary has expedited in recent weeks the processes to sentence or free on bail journalists and other people arrested in connection with the protests, generally described by authorities as "riots".

Shargh reported Sunday that Hossein Yazdi, a journalist arrested on December 5, had been sentenced to a year in prison besides a two-year travel ban.

He was the "manager of Mobin 24 website and Iran Times news channel", Shargh said, without elaborating on the charges against him.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Authorities in Iran have detained a woman journalist, local media reported on Sunday (February 5). Elnaz Mohammadi, the detained journalist works with a reformist newspaper Hammihan.

Authorities in Iran have detained a woman journalist, local media reported on Sunday (February 5). Elnaz Mohammadi, the detained journalist works with a reformist newspaper Hammihan. Mohammadi's sister, who is also a journalist, is already in custody after reporting on Mahsa Amini's death. Iran has been rocked by nationwide protests after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini who was detained by Iran's morality police for her 'improper' clothing. The protests have led to deaths and arrests and there have also been calls for downfall of the clerical regime in the country. Mohammadi was detained at the Evin prosecutor's office in Tehran after she had gone there "for an explanation", reported Shargh, another reformist daily. It was not immediately clear why Mohammadi had been summoned there. Her sister, Elahe Mohammadi, was arrested on September 29 after reporting for Hammihan from Amini's funeral. The journalist was subsequently charged with "propaganda against the system and conspiracy to act against national security", offences punishable by death. The procession in Amini's home town of Saqez in Kurdistan province turned into one of the first protest actions, followed by more than four months of unrest. Iran's judiciary has expedited in recent weeks the processes to sentence or free on bail journalists and other people arrested in connection with the protests, generally described by authorities as "riots". Shargh reported Sunday that Hossein Yazdi, a journalist arrested on December 5, had been sentenced to a year in prison besides a two-year travel ban. He was the "manager of Mobin 24 website and Iran Times news channel", Shargh said, without elaborating on the charges against him. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Protest-hit Iran detains woman journalist of reformist newspaper, say reports

Award-winning Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi has been released on bail two days after he went on a hunger strike to protest against his six-year sentence. Panahi was arrested in July last year, after his conviction for "propaganda against the system."

Iranian Filmmaker Jafar Panahi released on Bail

Iran has hit back at UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi after he voiced worries over modifications to equipment at the country's underground Fordo uranium enrichment plant, reported AFP quoting state media.&nbsp;According to a confidential report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) obtained by the news agency on Wednesday, Iran significantly altered an interconnection between two centrifuge clusters at the Fordo Fuel Enrichment Plant (FFEP), without prior notice,&nbsp;that can enrich uranium to up to 60%.

In the report, Grossi flagged worries that Iran had implemented this change without informing the agency beforehand.&nbsp;However, Mohamad Eslami, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, has hit back at Grossi. He was quoted as saying by state news agency IRNA that the organization gave a letter to IAEA that an "inspector... made a mistake and gave an incorrect report."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-13-palestinians-injured-in-israeli-military-raids-at-jericho-camp-558804">At least 13 Palestinians injured in Israeli military raids at Jericho camp</a>

“But yet again the director-general of the agency released this issue to the media,” he said, labelling it “unprofessional and unacceptable” behaviour. “We hope that this practice will not be continued... because this is not acceptable for his reputation and the agency," he added.&nbsp;

This comes after an unannounced Fordo inspection on 21 January by IAEA. The UN nuclear watchdog found “two IR-6 centrifuge cascades... were interconnected in a way that was substantially different from the mode of operation declared by Iran to the agency”.

Grossi later on 24 January told the European Parliament that he is planning plans to visit Tehran this month “for a much-needed political dialogue, or reestablishment thereof, with Iran”.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-swap-dozens-of-prisoners-of-war-558794">Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war</a>

Discussions to resurrect an&nbsp;agreement over Iran's nuclear programme have stagnated, and Grossi said he wants to visit Tehran in February for talks on encouraging it to boost cooperation on the Iran nuclear deal which has hit a “big, big impasse."&nbsp;

US and allies are looking at it as a significant addition to the country’s nuclear programme. United States, Britain, France and Germany said Friday in a statement that “Iranian claims that this action was carried out in error are inadequate."&nbsp;

“We judge Iran’s actions based on the impartial and objective reports of the IAEA, not Iran’s purported intent.”

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-eu-spat-over-americas-inflation-reduction-act-558768">US-EU spat over America's Inflation Reduction Act</a>

Under then-President Donald Trump, the United States unilaterally withdrew from the nuclear agreement, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, in 2018. It reinstated sanctions against Iran, which caused Tehran to start breaking the terms of the agreement.

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Iran has hit back at UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi after he voiced worries over modifications to equipment at the country's underground Fordo uranium enrichment plant, reported AFP quoting state media.

Iran has hit back at UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi after he voiced worries over modifications to equipment at the country's underground Fordo uranium enrichment plant, reported AFP quoting state media. According to a confidential report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) obtained by the news agency on Wednesday, Iran significantly altered an interconnection between two centrifuge clusters at the Fordo Fuel Enrichment Plant (FFEP), without prior notice, that can enrich uranium to up to 60%. In the report, Grossi flagged worries that Iran had implemented this change without informing the agency beforehand. However, Mohamad Eslami, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, has hit back at Grossi. He was quoted as saying by state news agency IRNA that the organization gave a letter to IAEA that an "inspector... made a mistake and gave an incorrect report." Also Read | At least 13 Palestinians injured in Israeli military raids at Jericho camp “But yet again the director-general of the agency released this issue to the media,” he said, labelling it “unprofessional and unacceptable” behaviour. “We hope that this practice will not be continued... because this is not acceptable for his reputation and the agency," he added. This comes after an unannounced Fordo inspection on 21 January by IAEA. The UN nuclear watchdog found “two IR-6 centrifuge cascades... were interconnected in a way that was substantially different from the mode of operation declared by Iran to the agency”. Grossi later on 24 January told the European Parliament that he is planning plans to visit Tehran this month “for a much-needed political dialogue, or reestablishment thereof, with Iran”. Also Read | Russia, Ukraine swap dozens of prisoners of war Discussions to resurrect an agreement over Iran's nuclear programme have stagnated, and Grossi said he wants to visit Tehran in February for talks on encouraging it to boost cooperation on the Iran nuclear deal which has hit a “big, big impasse." US and allies are looking at it as a significant addition to the country’s nuclear programme. United States, Britain, France and Germany said Friday in a statement that “Iranian claims that this action was carried out in error are inadequate." “We judge Iran’s actions based on the impartial and objective reports of the IAEA, not Iran’s purported intent.” Watch | US-EU spat over America's Inflation Reduction Act Under then-President Donald Trump, the United States unilaterally withdrew from the nuclear agreement, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, in 2018. It reinstated sanctions against Iran, which caused Tehran to start breaking the terms of the agreement. 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 hits back at IAEA chief Rafael Grossi over report on Fordo nuclear plant

American computing giant Microsoft said on Friday (February 3) that it identified Iranian state actors behind the cyber attack on the French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo. Last month, a group of hackers called "Holy Souls" announced that they had obtained the personal information of over 200,000 Charlie Hebdo customers and went on to publish a sample of the data as proof. In a social media post, the hackers said they would sell the information for 20 bitcoins ($470,000)

The cyber attack came following the newspaper publishing cartoons of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a special edition to mark the anniversary of the 2015 attack on its Paris offices which killed 12 and injured 11. Earlier, Iran publicly vowed an "effective response" to the "insulting" cartoons.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-couple-dancing-in-the-streets-sentenced-to-over-10-years-in-prison-557849">Iranian couple dancing in the streets sentenced to over 10 years in prison</a>

On Friday, Clint Watts, the general manager of Microsoft's Digital Threat Analysis Center, said that Holy Souls were Iranian cybersecurity firm Emennet Pasargad, news agency AFP reported on Friday. The firm was the employer of two Iranians, Mohammad Hosein Musa Kazemi and Sajjad Kashian, who had been indicted by the United States Justice Department in 2021.&nbsp;

During the 2020 presidential elections in the US, Kazemi and Kashian allegedly carried out a cyber campaign to intimidate and influence American voters, and otherwise undermine voter confidence and sow discord. According to the Justice Department, they allegedly obtained confidential voter information and sent menacing emails, pushing out false information to influence both Democratic and Republican voters, and also attempted to hack into state voting-related websites. Iran denied these claims.&nbsp;

"Whatever one may think of Charlie Hebdo's editorial choices, the release of personally identifiable information about tens of thousands of its customers constitutes a grave threat," Microsoft said in a statement on Friday.&nbsp;

Microsoft added that the Iranian hackers used Twitter accounts with fake or stolen identities to criticise cartoons of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Two accounts impersonating a Charlie Hebdo editor and a technology executive also posted the leaked data before Twitter banned them.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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American computing giant Microsoft said on Friday (February 3) that it identified Iranian state actors behind the cyber attack on the French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo.

American computing giant Microsoft said on Friday (February 3) that it identified Iranian state actors behind the cyber attack on the French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo. Last month, a group of hackers called "Holy Souls" announced that they had obtained the personal information of over 200,000 Charlie Hebdo customers and went on to publish a sample of the data as proof. In a social media post, the hackers said they would sell the information for 20 bitcoins ($470,000) The cyber attack came following the newspaper publishing cartoons of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a special edition to mark the anniversary of the 2015 attack on its Paris offices which killed 12 and injured 11. Earlier, Iran publicly vowed an "effective response" to the "insulting" cartoons. ALSO READ | Iranian couple dancing in the streets sentenced to over 10 years in prison On Friday, Clint Watts, the general manager of Microsoft's Digital Threat Analysis Center, said that Holy Souls were Iranian cybersecurity firm Emennet Pasargad, news agency AFP reported on Friday. The firm was the employer of two Iranians, Mohammad Hosein Musa Kazemi and Sajjad Kashian, who had been indicted by the United States Justice Department in 2021. During the 2020 presidential elections in the US, Kazemi and Kashian allegedly carried out a cyber campaign to intimidate and influence American voters, and otherwise undermine voter confidence and sow discord. According to the Justice Department, they allegedly obtained confidential voter information and sent menacing emails, pushing out false information to influence both Democratic and Republican voters, and also attempted to hack into state voting-related websites. Iran denied these claims. "Whatever one may think of Charlie Hebdo's editorial choices, the release of personally identifiable information about tens of thousands of its customers constitutes a grave threat," Microsoft said in a statement on Friday. Microsoft added that the Iranian hackers used Twitter accounts with fake or stolen identities to criticise cartoons of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Two accounts impersonating a Charlie Hebdo editor and a technology executive also posted the leaked data before Twitter banned them. (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 state actors behind cyberattack on Charlie Hebdo: Microsoft

Acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi has been released on bail after starting a hunger strike to protest against his almost seven-month detention, supporters said on Friday.

The director, a winner at all the big European film festivals, had been arrested months before the current anti-regime protests erupted. But his imprisonment became a symbol of the plight of artists speaking out against the authorities.

Panahi has been released from Tehran's Evin prison "two days after starting his hunger strike for freedom", the US-based Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) said on Twitter, while Iran's reformist Shargh newspaper published an image of Panahi jubilantly embracing a supporter after being released on bail.

His wife Tahereh Saeedi posted a picture on Instagram of Panahi being driven from prison in a vehicle.

Cannes Film Festival director Thierry Fremaux expressed "great relief" at the news of his release.

"We do not forget all those, in Iran and around the world, who are subjected to violence and repression," he told AFP. "The Cannes Film Festival will always remain alongside artists from all over the world in defence of freedom."

- 'Trapped in Iran' -

The prize-winning director was arrested in July and went on a dry hunger strike on Wednesday to protest his continued detention.

"Mr Panahi was temporarily released from Evin prison with the efforts of his family, respected lawyers, and representatives of the cinema," Iran's House of Cinema, which groups together industry professionals, said in a statement.

The announcement that Panahi was going on a dry hunger strike sparked a wave of concern across the world about the director, who has won prizes at all of Europe's top three film festivals.

"Today, like many people trapped in Iran, I have no choice but to protest against this inhumane behaviour with my dearest possession -- my life," Panahi had said in the statement published by his wife.

"I will remain in this state until perhaps my lifeless body is freed from prison," he said.

- 'Relief and joy' -

Panahi, 62, was arrested on July 11 and had been due to serve a six-year sentence handed down in 2010 after his conviction for "propaganda against the system".

On October 15, the Supreme Court quashed the conviction and ordered a retrial, raising hopes among his legal team that he could be released, but he remained in prison.

Panahi won a Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival in 2000 for his film 'The Circle'. In 2015, he won the Golden Bear in Berlin for 'Taxi Tehran', and in 2018, he won the best screenplay prize at Cannes for 'Three Faces'.

Panahi's latest film, 'No Bears', which like much of his recent work stars the director himself, was screened at the 2022 Venice Film Festival when the director was already behind bars. It won the Special Jury Prize.

"It is extraordinary, a relief, a total joy. We express our gratitude to all those who mobilised yesterday," his French distributor, producer Michele Halberstadt, told AFP.

"His next fight is to have the cancellation of his sentence officially recognised. He's outside, he's free, and this is already great."

Panahi's July arrest came after he attended a court hearing for fellow film director Mohammad Rasoulof, who had been detained a few days earlier.

Rasoulof was released from prison on January 7 after being granted a two-week furlough for health reasons and is still believed to be outside of jail.

Cinema figures have been among the thousands of people arrested by Iran in its crackdown on the protests sparked by the September 16 death in custody of Mahsa Amini, 22, who had been arrested for allegedly violating its strict dress code for women.

Star actor Taraneh Alidoosti, who had published images of herself without wearing the Islamic headscarf, was among those detained, although she was released in early January after being held for almost three weeks.

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Acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi has been released on bail after starting a hunger strike to protest against his almost seven-month detention, supporters said on Friday.

Acclaimed Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi has been released on bail after starting a hunger strike to protest against his almost seven-month detention, supporters said on Friday. The director, a winner at all the big European film festivals, had been arrested months before the current anti-regime protests erupted. But his imprisonment became a symbol of the plight of artists speaking out against the authorities. Panahi has been released from Tehran's Evin prison "two days after starting his hunger strike for freedom", the US-based Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) said on Twitter, while Iran's reformist Shargh newspaper published an image of Panahi jubilantly embracing a supporter after being released on bail. His wife Tahereh Saeedi posted a picture on Instagram of Panahi being driven from prison in a vehicle. Cannes Film Festival director Thierry Fremaux expressed "great relief" at the news of his release. "We do not forget all those, in Iran and around the world, who are subjected to violence and repression," he told AFP. "The Cannes Film Festival will always remain alongside artists from all over the world in defence of freedom." - 'Trapped in Iran' - The prize-winning director was arrested in July and went on a dry hunger strike on Wednesday to protest his continued detention. "Mr Panahi was temporarily released from Evin prison with the efforts of his family, respected lawyers, and representatives of the cinema," Iran's House of Cinema, which groups together industry professionals, said in a statement. The announcement that Panahi was going on a dry hunger strike sparked a wave of concern across the world about the director, who has won prizes at all of Europe's top three film festivals. "Today, like many people trapped in Iran, I have no choice but to protest against this inhumane behaviour with my dearest possession -- my life," Panahi had said in the statement published by his wife. "I will remain in this state until perhaps my lifeless body is freed from prison," he said. - 'Relief and joy' - Panahi, 62, was arrested on July 11 and had been due to serve a six-year sentence handed down in 2010 after his conviction for "propaganda against the system". On October 15, the Supreme Court quashed the conviction and ordered a retrial, raising hopes among his legal team that he could be released, but he remained in prison. Panahi won a Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival in 2000 for his film 'The Circle'. In 2015, he won the Golden Bear in Berlin for 'Taxi Tehran', and in 2018, he won the best screenplay prize at Cannes for 'Three Faces'. Panahi's latest film, 'No Bears', which like much of his recent work stars the director himself, was screened at the 2022 Venice Film Festival when the director was already behind bars. It won the Special Jury Prize. "It is extraordinary, a relief, a total joy. We express our gratitude to all those who mobilised yesterday," his French distributor, producer Michele Halberstadt, told AFP. "His next fight is to have the cancellation of his sentence officially recognised. He's outside, he's free, and this is already great." Panahi's July arrest came after he attended a court hearing for fellow film director Mohammad Rasoulof, who had been detained a few days earlier. Rasoulof was released from prison on January 7 after being granted a two-week furlough for health reasons and is still believed to be outside of jail. Cinema figures have been among the thousands of people arrested by Iran in its crackdown on the protests sparked by the September 16 death in custody of Mahsa Amini, 22, who had been arrested for allegedly violating its strict dress code for women. Star actor Taraneh Alidoosti, who had published images of herself without wearing the Islamic headscarf, was among those detained, although she was released in early January after being held for almost three weeks. 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 director Jafar Panahi released after hunger strike

A plan to ban Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the UK for being a terrorist organization has been temporarily shelved by the government over fears that the move could harm diplomatic communication channels between London and Tehran. It is not known how long the pause will last.

UK's MI5 accuses IRGC of kidnapping in 2022

A couple in their 20s has been sentenced to more than 10 years in jail by an Iranian court for posting a video of themselves dancing in a street. The court convicted them of 'encouraging corruption' and 'public prostitution' under archaic Islamic laws.&nbsp;

According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), they both have received 10 years and six months in prison sentences. Additionally, the couple is not allowed to use the internet and leave Iran for two years.&nbsp;

Amir Mohammad Ahmadi and&nbsp;Astiyazh Haghighi were arrested in November last year as a video went viral showing them dancing in front of&nbsp;Tehran’s Azadi (Freedom) Tower.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;an attempt to show dissent against the strict Islamic laws of the country.

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Iran: A 21-y-o couple have been sentenced to 10 years in jail each for dancing at the foot of Tehran's Azadi (Freedom) Tower, sources close to them tell <a href="https://twitter.com/nimnia11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nimnia11</a>. Regime is handing out heavy sentences to anyone defying its strict rules. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A2%D8%B3%D8%AA%DB%8C%D8%A7%DA%98_%D8%AD%D9%82%DB%8C%D9%82%DB%8C?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#آستیاژ_حقیقی</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A7%D9%85%DB%8C%D8%B1%D9%85%D8%AD%D9%85%D8%AF_%D8%A7%D8%AD%D9%85%D8%AF%DB%8C?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#امیرمحمد_احمدی</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%85%D9%87%D8%B3%D8%A7_%D8%A7%D9%85%DB%8C%D9%86%DB%8C?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#مهسا_امینی</a> <a href="https://t.co/F0ahwzJhA1">pic.twitter.com/F0ahwzJhA1</a>
— Khosro Kalbasi Isfahani (@KhosroKalbasi) <a href="https://twitter.com/KhosroKalbasi/status/1620012954535223296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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A woman in Iran is not allowed to dance in public, much less so without a hijab and with a man.&nbsp;Haghighi's home was also raided by the authorities, prior to her arrest.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-anti-hijab-protests-rock-the-nation-story-of-a-death-and-a-bloody-clampdown-548331">WATCH |&nbsp;Iran: Anti-hijab protests rock the nation, story of a death and a 'bloody' clampdown</a>

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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 executing them with the judiciary firmly backing their objective.&nbsp;

The first execution took place in December last year and since then, the process has been expedited.&nbsp;The Iranian officials in their lexicon have called the protests 'riots' and used them as an excuse to kill hundreds of people.

The Iranian regime that came to power after the 1979 revolution is facing a stern response from the public for the first time.&nbsp; The unrest continues in the country and the sentencing of the couple is expected to add to the fire.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A couple in their 20s has been sentenced to more than 10 years in jail by an Iranian court for posting a video of themselves dancing in a street. The court convicted them of 'encouraging corruption' and 'public prostitution' under archaic Islamic laws.

A couple in their 20s has been sentenced to more than 10 years in jail by an Iranian court for posting a video of themselves dancing in a street. The court convicted them of 'encouraging corruption' and 'public prostitution' under archaic Islamic laws. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), they both have received 10 years and six months in prison sentences. Additionally, the couple is not allowed to use the internet and leave Iran for two years. Amir Mohammad Ahmadi and Astiyazh Haghighi were arrested in November last year as a video went viral showing them dancing in front of Tehran’s Azadi (Freedom) Tower. 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 dissent against the strict Islamic laws of the country. Iran: A 21-y-o couple have been sentenced to 10 years in jail each for dancing at the foot of Tehran's Azadi (Freedom) Tower, sources close to them tell @nimnia11. Regime is handing out heavy sentences to anyone defying its strict rules. #آستیاژ_حقیقی #امیرمحمد_احمدی #مهسا_امینی pic.twitter.com/F0ahwzJhA1 — Khosro Kalbasi Isfahani (@KhosroKalbasi) January 30, 2023 × A woman in Iran is not allowed to dance in public, much less so without a hijab and with a man. Haghighi's home was also raided by the authorities, prior to her arrest. WATCH | Iran: Anti-hijab protests rock the nation, story of a death and a 'bloody' clampdown 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 executing them with the judiciary firmly backing their objective. The first execution took place in December last year and since then, the process has been expedited. The Iranian officials in their lexicon have called the protests 'riots' and used them as an excuse to kill hundreds of people. The Iranian regime that came to power after the 1979 revolution is facing a stern response from the public for the first time. The unrest continues in the country and the sentencing of the couple is expected to add to the fire. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iranian couple dancing in the streets sentenced to over 10 years in prison

Bomb-carrying drones hit an Iranian defence factory in the central city of Isfahan overnight on Sunday (January 29), said the country’s officials who have since condemned the attack and called it “cowardly”. So far, no government or group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Meanwhile, media reports citing United States officials have indicated that they suspect Israel’s involvement in the incident.&nbsp;

What happened?

The Iranian government has claimed that the facility sustained “minor damages” and there were no casualties, however, the extent of the damage caused cannot be independently verified, while details remain scarce. The attack is said to have occurred around 11:30 pm, Saturday, as per authorities in Tehran. The footage of the incident released by the Iranian state media shows a flash in the sky and the arrival of emergency vehicles at the scene.&nbsp;

What has Iran said about the attack?

The Iranian defence ministry has claimed that they foiled an “unsuccessful attack” which took place late Saturday and involved three drones and there were no casualties. The ministry said, one of the drones was destroyed while the other two were caught using “defence traps and blew up”. It added, “It caused only minor damage to the roof of a workshop building”, as per a report by Iranian state TV.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-defence-ministry-complex-hit-by-drone-attack-557057">Iran government condemns drone attack on defence ammunition plant, calls it ‘cowardly’</a>

The ministry also said that the attack was conducted using “micro Aerial Vehicles (MAVs)”. However, the state-run IRNA news agency later described the drones as “quadcopters equipped with bomblets,” which gets its name from the four rotors and are typically operated from short ranges by remote control.&nbsp;

Additionally, a report by Reuters citing a military official in the region said given the location of the strike as well as the size of the drone it is likely that it was staged from within Iranian borders. Subsequently, in a press conference, the country’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian with his Qatari counterpart, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, who is visiting Tehran called the attack “cowardly” and aimed at creating “insecurity” in the country.&nbsp;

While the Iranian defence ministry has not commented on who might have carried out the attack, a report by the state-run media quoting comments by a lawmaker, Hossein Mirzaie, said there was a “strong speculation” Israel was behind it. The Isfahan’s factory is 350 km south of the capital Tehran while the ministry has described the site as a “workshop” without giving any details.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-drone-attack-on-military-site-thwarted-557035">Iran: Drone attack on military site thwarted</a> 
 
However, reports suggest that it comprises a large air base built for its fleet of US-made F-14 fighter jets and is also home to the country’s nuclear fuel research and production centre. During the aforementioned press conference when asked if the incident would affect the country’s nuclear programme, the foreign minister said, “Such moves can’t impact our nuclear scientists’ will and intentions to achieve peaceful nuclear energy,” as per Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

In a separate incident, on early Sunday, the IRNA reported that a fire broke out at a motor oil factory near the industrial zone in the northwestern city of Tabriz which the officials later said was caused by an oil leak and no further details were given.&nbsp;

What the US officials have allegedly said

Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder said no US military forces played a role in the strikes in Iran and declined to comment further, reported Reuters. However, a US official speaking on the condition of anonymity to the news agency said it appears that Israel is involved. Additionally, first reported by the Wall Street Journal citing multiple anonymous sources from officials in Washington also reported that Tel Aviv might have been involved in Saturday’s attack.&nbsp;

Why does this matter?

If the reports are confirmed this will be the first attack carried out under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since he returned to office in December between the two long-time foes. Furthermore, Tehran has previously accused Israel of planning attacks using agents inside Iranian territory. Last year Iran claims that they arrested a sabotage team of Kurdish militants which had allegedly been working with Israel to blow up a “sensitive” defence industry centre in Isfahan.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-admits-sending-drones-to-moscow-before-russia-ukraine-war-started-531475">Iran admits sending drones to Moscow before Russia-Ukraine War started</a>

In 2020, Iran also accused Israel of conducting a sophisticated attack which killed Tehran’s top nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. However, Saturday’s attack in Isfahan comes as the region is witnessing a rise in tensions over Iran's nuclear programme as well as its alleged supply of arms to Russia amid its conflict with Ukraine.&nbsp;

Kyiv has accused Iran of supplying hundreds of drones to Moscow which have reportedly been used to target Ukrainian cities but not on the frontlines, reported Reuters citing a senior aide to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-explosions-reported-from-kyiv-following-drone-attack-says-mayor-542893">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky</a> linked to the incident. “Explosive night in Iran…Did warn you,” said Mykhailo Podolyak on Twitter following the attack in Iran. In this context, while Tehran has acknowledged sending drones to Russia it has maintained that they were sent before the invasion while Moscow has denied the use of Iranian drones in Ukraine while reports have suggested otherwise.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Bomb-carrying drones hit an Iranian defence factory in the central city of Isfahan overnight on Sunday (January 29), said the country’s officials who have since condemned the attack and called it “cowardly”.

Bomb-carrying drones hit an Iranian defence factory in the central city of Isfahan overnight on Sunday (January 29), said the country’s officials who have since condemned the attack and called it “cowardly”. So far, no government or group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Meanwhile, media reports citing United States officials have indicated that they suspect Israel’s involvement in the incident. What happened? The Iranian government has claimed that the facility sustained “minor damages” and there were no casualties, however, the extent of the damage caused cannot be independently verified, while details remain scarce. The attack is said to have occurred around 11:30 pm, Saturday, as per authorities in Tehran. The footage of the incident released by the Iranian state media shows a flash in the sky and the arrival of emergency vehicles at the scene. What has Iran said about the attack? The Iranian defence ministry has claimed that they foiled an “unsuccessful attack” which took place late Saturday and involved three drones and there were no casualties. The ministry said, one of the drones was destroyed while the other two were caught using “defence traps and blew up”. It added, “It caused only minor damage to the roof of a workshop building”, as per a report by Iranian state TV. ALSO READ | Iran government condemns drone attack on defence ammunition plant, calls it ‘cowardly’ The ministry also said that the attack was conducted using “micro Aerial Vehicles (MAVs)”. However, the state-run IRNA news agency later described the drones as “quadcopters equipped with bomblets,” which gets its name from the four rotors and are typically operated from short ranges by remote control. Additionally, a report by Reuters citing a military official in the region said given the location of the strike as well as the size of the drone it is likely that it was staged from within Iranian borders. Subsequently, in a press conference, the country’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian with his Qatari counterpart, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, who is visiting Tehran called the attack “cowardly” and aimed at creating “insecurity” in the country. While the Iranian defence ministry has not commented on who might have carried out the attack, a report by the state-run media quoting comments by a lawmaker, Hossein Mirzaie, said there was a “strong speculation” Israel was behind it. The Isfahan’s factory is 350 km south of the capital Tehran while the ministry has described the site as a “workshop” without giving any details. ALSO WATCH | Iran: Drone attack on military site thwarted However, reports suggest that it comprises a large air base built for its fleet of US-made F-14 fighter jets and is also home to the country’s nuclear fuel research and production centre. During the aforementioned press conference when asked if the incident would affect the country’s nuclear programme, the foreign minister said, “Such moves can’t impact our nuclear scientists’ will and intentions to achieve peaceful nuclear energy,” as per Al Jazeera. In a separate incident, on early Sunday, the IRNA reported that a fire broke out at a motor oil factory near the industrial zone in the northwestern city of Tabriz which the officials later said was caused by an oil leak and no further details were given. What the US officials have allegedly said Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder said no US military forces played a role in the strikes in Iran and declined to comment further, reported Reuters. However, a US official speaking on the condition of anonymity to the news agency said it appears that Israel is involved. Additionally, first reported by the Wall Street Journal citing multiple anonymous sources from officials in Washington also reported that Tel Aviv might have been involved in Saturday’s attack. Why does this matter? If the reports are confirmed this will be the first attack carried out under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since he returned to office in December between the two long-time foes. Furthermore, Tehran has previously accused Israel of planning attacks using agents inside Iranian territory. Last year Iran claims that they arrested a sabotage team of Kurdish militants which had allegedly been working with Israel to blow up a “sensitive” defence industry centre in Isfahan. ALSO WATCH | Iran admits sending drones to Moscow before Russia-Ukraine War started In 2020, Iran also accused Israel of conducting a sophisticated attack which killed Tehran’s top nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. However, Saturday’s attack in Isfahan comes as the region is witnessing a rise in tensions over Iran's nuclear programme as well as its alleged supply of arms to Russia amid its conflict with Ukraine. Kyiv has accused Iran of supplying hundreds of drones to Moscow which have reportedly been used to target Ukrainian cities but not on the frontlines, reported Reuters citing a senior aide to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky linked to the incident. “Explosive night in Iran…Did warn you,” said Mykhailo Podolyak on Twitter following the attack in Iran. In this context, while Tehran has acknowledged sending drones to Russia it has maintained that they were sent before the invasion while Moscow has denied the use of Iranian drones in Ukraine while reports have suggested otherwise. (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.

US officials suspect Israel’s involvement in drone attack on Iranian 'workshop': What we know so far

Reports say U.S. officials believe the attack at the military factory in Iran was carried out by Israel. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Iran Military Factory Attack

According to American officials, Israel looks to have been responsible for a drone attack on an Iranian military plant. Iran claimed on Sunday that it had stopped drones aiming at a site close to the capital city of Isfahan, adding that no one had been hurt.

Iranian Lawmaker: 'Strong speculation' about the country's role in attack

Iran is continuing with the crackdown on its protesters, the regime has put hundreds under the arbitrary detention, while other people who are the victim of the crackdown is an Iranian journalist who interviewed Mahasa Amini's father last year - Nazila Maroufian. People are also holding rally in France for their nationals detained in Iran.

Rally in France for nationals detained in Iran; Iranian Olympic skier seeks asylum in Germany

Iran’s Defense Ministry claimed that they have thwarted an attack on one of its munition centers in the Isfahan. They said that they have shot down three drones. Watch further to know more.

Iran: Drone attack on military site thwarted

The government of Iran condemned the night-time drone attack at a defence ministry site on Sunday, calling it "cowardly", at a time when tensions have heightened over the country's nuclear programme and Russia has been engaged in a war in Ukraine.&nbsp;The ministry stated that one drone was destroyed by an anti-aircraft system and two others exploded, further stating that no casualties have been reported and the site suffered only minor damage in Isfahan's central province.

Speaking at a press conference, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said, "This cowardly act was carried out today as part of the efforts made by enemies of the Iranian nation in recent months to make the Islamic republic insecure. Such measures cannot affect the will and intention of our specialists for peaceful nuclear developments.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-of-59-magnitude-hits-iran-killing-three-and-injuring-over-800-556965">Earthquake of 5.9 magnitude hits Iran, killing three and injuring over 800</a>

"Such measures cannot affect the will and intention of our specialists for peaceful nuclear developments," he said.

As per the video footage published by the Iranian state media and shared widely on social media, the night sky was lit up by a fireball as people were seen running around and emergency service vehicles were seen speeding towards the site.

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TEHRAN: A drone attack targeted a military facility linked to Iran’s Defense Ministry in the city of Isfahan resulting in a heavy explosion. Iranian Telegram indicates that Israeli Air Force has been seen over multiple Iranian cities. <a href="https://t.co/ykZDwqB4mj">pic.twitter.com/ykZDwqB4mj</a>
— KolHaolam (@KolHaolam) <a href="https://twitter.com/KolHaolam/status/1619490280998330368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"An unsuccessful attack was carried out...on one of the workshop complexes of the ministry of defence," stated the ministry, as reported by state news agency IRNA.

"The attack, which occurred around 11:30 pm (2000 GMT) on Saturday, did not cause any disruption to the operation of the complex," it added.

The IRNA further reported that the strike had targeted "an ammunition manufacturing plant".

Speaking to Mehr news agency, Parliament member Mohammad-Hassan Assafari said that the attack was planned by Iran's "opponents and enemies" and was aimed to "disrupt the defensive power" of the country.

WATCH | WION Fineprint: Iran's cabinet minister speaks out against Hijab rule

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As per reports of IRNA, a few hours before the attack that took place in Isfahan, a massive fire broke out in a motor oil production plant in East Azerbaijan's northwestern province.

The agency published images of the massive blaze that caught Shahid Salimi's key industrial complex which is linked to the Ministry of Industry.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The government of Iran condemned the night-time drone attack at a defence ministry site on Sunday, calling it "cowardly", at a time when tensions have heightened over the country's nuclear programme and Russia has been engaged in a war in Ukraine.

The government of Iran condemned the night-time drone attack at a defence ministry site on Sunday, calling it "cowardly", at a time when tensions have heightened over the country's nuclear programme and Russia has been engaged in a war in Ukraine. The ministry stated that one drone was destroyed by an anti-aircraft system and two others exploded, further stating that no casualties have been reported and the site suffered only minor damage in Isfahan's central province. Speaking at a press conference, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said, "This cowardly act was carried out today as part of the efforts made by enemies of the Iranian nation in recent months to make the Islamic republic insecure. Such measures cannot affect the will and intention of our specialists for peaceful nuclear developments.” ALSO READ | Earthquake of 5.9 magnitude hits Iran, killing three and injuring over 800 "Such measures cannot affect the will and intention of our specialists for peaceful nuclear developments," he said. As per the video footage published by the Iranian state media and shared widely on social media, the night sky was lit up by a fireball as people were seen running around and emergency service vehicles were seen speeding towards the site. TEHRAN: A drone attack targeted a military facility linked to Iran’s Defense Ministry in the city of Isfahan resulting in a heavy explosion. Iranian Telegram indicates that Israeli Air Force has been seen over multiple Iranian cities. pic.twitter.com/ykZDwqB4mj — KolHaolam (@KolHaolam) January 29, 2023 × "An unsuccessful attack was carried out...on one of the workshop complexes of the ministry of defence," stated the ministry, as reported by state news agency IRNA. "The attack, which occurred around 11:30 pm (2000 GMT) on Saturday, did not cause any disruption to the operation of the complex," it added. The IRNA further reported that the strike had targeted "an ammunition manufacturing plant". Speaking to Mehr news agency, Parliament member Mohammad-Hassan Assafari said that the attack was planned by Iran's "opponents and enemies" and was aimed to "disrupt the defensive power" of the country. WATCH | WION Fineprint: Iran's cabinet minister speaks out against Hijab rule As per reports of IRNA, a few hours before the attack that took place in Isfahan, a massive fire broke out in a motor oil production plant in East Azerbaijan's northwestern province. The agency published images of the massive blaze that caught Shahid Salimi's key industrial complex which is linked to the Ministry of Industry. (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 government condemns drone attack on defence ammunition plant, calls it ‘cowardly’

Iran is continuing with the crackdown on its protesters, the regime has put hundreds under the arbitrary detention, while other people who are the victim of the crackdown is an Iranian journalist who interviewed Mahasa Amini's father last year - Nazila Maroufian.

Iranian journalist Maroufian who interviewed Mahasa Amini's father gets prison term

An earthquake of 5.9 magnitudes struck northwest Iran near the border with Turkey late Saturday (January 28), killing at least three people and injuring over 800 others. According to the University of Tehran's Seismologic Centre, the earthquake hit the city of Khoy in the West Azerbaijan province at 18.14 GMT (around 11.44 pm IST). Speaking to the IRNA news agency, West Azerbaijan governor Mohammad Sadegh Motamedian said the incident left three dead and 816 injured.&nbsp;

Following the earthquake, Iran's interior minister Ahmad Vahid travelled to Khoy to observe the situation, the IRNA report said. Iran has suffered devastating earthquakes in recent years as the country sits astride the boundaries of several major tectonic plates and experiences frequent seismic activity.&nbsp;

This earthquake in Khoy comes days after a 5.8 magnitude quake struck the city, injuring hundreds. Officials said that more than 300 houses in 15 villages were damaged, according to a report by the news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Nearly three years back, &nbsp;a 5.7-magnitude earthquake rattled the western village of Habash-e Olya, killing at least nine people across the border in Turkey. Iran saw its deadliest earthquake in 1990- a 7.4-magnitude tremor that killed 40,000 people, injured another 300,000 and left half a million homeless, the report said.&nbsp;

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An earthquake of 5.9 magnitudes struck northwest Iran near the border with Turkey late Saturday (January 28), killing at least three people and injuring over 800 others.

An earthquake of 5.9 magnitudes struck northwest Iran near the border with Turkey late Saturday (January 28), killing at least three people and injuring over 800 others. According to the University of Tehran's Seismologic Centre, the earthquake hit the city of Khoy in the West Azerbaijan province at 18.14 GMT (around 11.44 pm IST). Speaking to the IRNA news agency, West Azerbaijan governor Mohammad Sadegh Motamedian said the incident left three dead and 816 injured. Following the earthquake, Iran's interior minister Ahmad Vahid travelled to Khoy to observe the situation, the IRNA report said. Iran has suffered devastating earthquakes in recent years as the country sits astride the boundaries of several major tectonic plates and experiences frequent seismic activity. This earthquake in Khoy comes days after a 5.8 magnitude quake struck the city, injuring hundreds. Officials said that more than 300 houses in 15 villages were damaged, according to a report by the news agency AFP. Nearly three years back, a 5.7-magnitude earthquake rattled the western village of Habash-e Olya, killing at least nine people across the border in Turkey. Iran saw its deadliest earthquake in 1990- a 7.4-magnitude tremor that killed 40,000 people, injured another 300,000 and left half a million homeless, the report said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Earthquake of 5.9 magnitude hits Iran, killing three and injuring over 800

An Iranian minister has called for greater tolerance toward women not wearing mandatory hijab, amid months of protests triggered by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini.

WION Fineprint: Iran's cabinet minister speaks out against Hijab rule

The US and Israel launched their largest joint military exercise ever on Monday, sending a clear signal to Iran and underscoring the strength of their alliance despite concerns over the composition of the new Israeli government.

US, Israel kick off largest ever military exercise amid Iran tensions

US, Israel kick off joint massive wargames amid Iran tensions

The European Union imposed sanctions on more than 30 Iranian officials and organisations, including units of the powerful Revolutionary Guards, blaming them for a "brutal" crackdown on protesters and other human rights abuses.

EU imposes new Iran sanctions, won't brand Guards 'terrorists' for now

The UK has now imposed new sanctions in response to human rights violations by the Iranian regime since Mahsa Amini’s death and will continue to take a wide range of actions to hold the regime to account.

UK imposes new Iranian sanctions over 'brutal repression'

The European Union and Iran have been locked in a war of words and after a lot of back and forth, it seems like the European Union is choosing the easier part.

Iran: New wave of sanctions against the country's human rights violation

Three female journalists have been arrested by Iranian authorities in the last two days, stated the local media on Monday, amid continued protests against the government after the death of Mahsa Amini in judicial custody.&nbsp;

Violent protests have gripped Iran since the 22-year-old Iranian Kurd died on September 16 after she was arrested by the morality police for failing to follow the strict dress code for women in the country.&nbsp;

The authorities stated that hundreds of citizens, which includes security officials, have lost their lives and thousands of people have been arrested in what they call “riots” triggered by the “enemies” of the Islamic republic.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-russia-working-on-new-trade-route-with-india-to-bypass-western-sanctions-report-551631">Iran, Russia working on new trade route with India to bypass Western sanctions: Report</a>

"In the past 48 hours, at least three female journalists, namely Melika Hashemi, Saideh Shafiei and Mehrnoush Zarei, have been arrested in Tehran," stated Tehran journalists' union as quoted by reformist newspaper Etemad.

The paper stated that the officials have transferred three journalists to Evin prison where many people who were arrested earlier in connection with the protests have been locked.&nbsp;

According to the estimates, since the unrest triggered in Israel four months ago, 80 journalists have been so far arrested. The officials gave no reasons for the latest arrests of journalists.&nbsp;

WATCH | Iran: Thousands come out on the street in city of Zahedan

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Shafiei is a novelist and works as a freelance journalist, while Zarei writes for different reformist publications and Hashemi was working for a media outlet called “Shahr”, the local media stated.&nbsp;

In October, a statement was signed by more than 300 Iranian journalists slamming the authorities for "arresting colleagues and stripping them of their civil rights", reported the local media at that time.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Three female journalists have been arrested by Iranian authorities in the last two days, stated the local media on Monday, amid continued protests against the government after the death of Mahsa Amini in judicial custody.

Three female journalists have been arrested by Iranian authorities in the last two days, stated the local media on Monday, amid continued protests against the government after the death of Mahsa Amini in judicial custody. Violent protests have gripped Iran since the 22-year-old Iranian Kurd died on September 16 after she was arrested by the morality police for failing to follow the strict dress code for women in the country. The authorities stated that hundreds of citizens, which includes security officials, have lost their lives and thousands of people have been arrested in what they call “riots” triggered by the “enemies” of the Islamic republic. ALSO READ | Iran, Russia working on new trade route with India to bypass Western sanctions: Report "In the past 48 hours, at least three female journalists, namely Melika Hashemi, Saideh Shafiei and Mehrnoush Zarei, have been arrested in Tehran," stated Tehran journalists' union as quoted by reformist newspaper Etemad. The paper stated that the officials have transferred three journalists to Evin prison where many people who were arrested earlier in connection with the protests have been locked. According to the estimates, since the unrest triggered in Israel four months ago, 80 journalists have been so far arrested. The officials gave no reasons for the latest arrests of journalists. WATCH | Iran: Thousands come out on the street in city of Zahedan Shafiei is a novelist and works as a freelance journalist, while Zarei writes for different reformist publications and Hashemi was working for a media outlet called “Shahr”, the local media stated. In October, a statement was signed by more than 300 Iranian journalists slamming the authorities for "arresting colleagues and stripping them of their civil rights", reported the local media at that time. (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

Three female journalists arrested by Iranian authorities amid protests

Iran’s currency has reached an all-time record low amid increasing tensions with the West and the unrest gripping the country. Watch video to know more.

World Business Watch: Iran’s currency hits record low amid tensions with the West

Days after the European Parliament approved a resolution calling on the Block to consider a terrorist designation for Iran's Islamic revolutionary guard Corps, Tehran says it is planning to designate the Armed Forces of the EU States as terrorists.

Iran Prez Raisi: We will take 'reciprocal' measures against European Union

In the midst of rising tensions with the West and the turmoil roiling the nation, the value of the Iranian rial has fallen to an all-time record low. The US dollar crossed the 450,000-rial threshold on the open market for the first time on Sunday.

Iran: Depreciation of Rial amid western sanctions and protests

It is the fifth month of protest in Iran against the Islamic regime after the death of 22 year old Mahsa Amini on the 16th of September following her arrest for allegedly violating Tehran's strict dress code. People have been flocking the streets in the country in huge numbers to show solidarity with Amini.

Iran: Thousands come out on the street in city of Zahedan

An Iranian man- Sajjad Heidarnava who beheaded his 17-year-old wife Mona Heidari in February last year, has been jailed for over eight years, the judiciary said on Wednesday (Wednesday 18). Speaking to reporters, judiciary spokesperson Massoud Setayeshi said that Heydari has been sentenced to seven and a half years in prison for murder and eight months for assault, news agency AFP reported. "The accused has no right to protest against the verdict and the decision is final," Setayeshi said adding that Heidar Heidarnava, the victim's brother-in-law was sentenced to 45 months in prison for complicity in intentional homicide.&nbsp;

"The second defendant in the case, Heidar Heidarnava, was sentenced to 45 months in prison for complicity in intentional homicide," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

In February 2022, Mona was killed by Sajjad and Heidar in Khuzestan province's capital Ahvaz. A video of a smiling Sajjad carrying his wife's decapitated head on a street sparked outrage across Iran. Monaá family had pardoned the killers rather than demanding qesas which is Iran's Islamic law of retribution, the AFP report said.&nbsp; 
At the time of the murder, news outlets in Iran reported that Mona was married to Sajjad when she was 12 and had a three-year-old son with him.&nbsp;

Citing local media, a report by BBC World News on Wednesday said that the 17-year-old fled to Turkey after she was allegedly subjected to domestic violence by her husband who refused her request for a divorce. The report added that Mona returned to Iran days before she was killed as she reportedly received assurances from her family that she would be safe.

Following her killing, several human rights activists called for changes to the law to protect women against domestic violence and the increase in the minimum age of marriage for girls, which is currently 13.&nbsp;

Wednesday's verdict comes as Iran has been rocked by anti-hijab protests since September last year following the death of 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman Mahsa Amini in police custody. Amini was arrested by the morality police for allegedly violating the country's mandatory hijab law.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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An Iranian man- Sajjad Heidarnava who beheaded his 17-year-old wife Mona Heidari in February last year, has been jailed for over eight years, the judiciary said on Wednesday (Wednesday 18).

An Iranian man- Sajjad Heidarnava who beheaded his 17-year-old wife Mona Heidari in February last year, has been jailed for over eight years, the judiciary said on Wednesday (Wednesday 18). Speaking to reporters, judiciary spokesperson Massoud Setayeshi said that Heydari has been sentenced to seven and a half years in prison for murder and eight months for assault, news agency AFP reported. "The accused has no right to protest against the verdict and the decision is final," Setayeshi said adding that Heidar Heidarnava, the victim's brother-in-law was sentenced to 45 months in prison for complicity in intentional homicide. "The second defendant in the case, Heidar Heidarnava, was sentenced to 45 months in prison for complicity in intentional homicide," the spokesperson said. In February 2022, Mona was killed by Sajjad and Heidar in Khuzestan province's capital Ahvaz. A video of a smiling Sajjad carrying his wife's decapitated head on a street sparked outrage across Iran. Monaá family had pardoned the killers rather than demanding qesas which is Iran's Islamic law of retribution, the AFP report said. At the time of the murder, news outlets in Iran reported that Mona was married to Sajjad when she was 12 and had a three-year-old son with him. Citing local media, a report by BBC World News on Wednesday said that the 17-year-old fled to Turkey after she was allegedly subjected to domestic violence by her husband who refused her request for a divorce. The report added that Mona returned to Iran days before she was killed as she reportedly received assurances from her family that she would be safe. Following her killing, several human rights activists called for changes to the law to protect women against domestic violence and the increase in the minimum age of marriage for girls, which is currently 13. Wednesday's verdict comes as Iran has been rocked by anti-hijab protests since September last year following the death of 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman Mahsa Amini in police custody. Amini was arrested by the morality police for allegedly violating the country's mandatory hijab law. (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 man jailed for eight years for beheading teen wife: Judiciary

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