Iranian foreign minister Muhammad Jawad Zarif has accused the US President Donald Trump of attempting to fabricate a pretext to attack Iran.

Iran's commander vows ‘resistance’ a year after US killing of Soleimani

26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack mastermind Zaki-Ur-Rehman Lakhvi has been arrested in Pakistan. He was on bail since 2015. With completion of a year since top Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani nearby, tension between US and Iran are high. A new nanotech-based test is said to detect coronavirus infection in '10 seconds'. Read this and more in top 10 world news brief.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2611-mumbai-terrorist-attack-mastermind-zaki-ur-rehman-lakhvi-arrested-in-pakistan-354032">26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack mastermind Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi arrested in Pakistan</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2611-mumbai-terrorist-attack-mastermind-zaki-ur-rehman-lakhvi-arrested-in-pakistan-354032"><img alt="Lakhvi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9d7015a8-4d99-4f09-8f13-53bb42880a64" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/lakhvi.JPG" /></a> 
 
Lakhvi, who was on bail since 2015 in the Mumbai attack case, was arrested by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-plans-to-enrich-uranium-to-up-to-20-per-cent-conveys-iaea-354043">Iran plans to enrich uranium to up to 20 per cent, conveys IAEA</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-plans-to-enrich-uranium-to-up-to-20-per-cent-conveys-iaea-354043"><img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="240127b5-0ae3-476c-a9be-cde13e6780f6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iran_5.JPG" /></a> 
 
Iran's parliament passed a law last month which had mention of enrichment of uranium. The law was passed in response to the killing of Iran's top nuclear scientist

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-nanotech-based-technique-detects-covid-infection-in-10-seconds-354063">This nanotech-based technique detects COVID infection in 10 seconds</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-nanotech-based-technique-detects-covid-infection-in-10-seconds-354063"><img alt="Nanotech" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="12300ffa-7d2e-4c4d-8925-d38dcacff9d4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nnaotech.JPG" /></a> 
 
Researchers at Bilkent University have developed Diagnovir, a diagnostic kit that is said to use nanotechnology to detect COVID infection

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/26-retirement-home-residents-die-of-covid-19-after-santa-claus-visit-in-belgium-354045">26 retirement home residents die of Covid-19 after Santa Claus visit in Belgium</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/26-retirement-home-residents-die-of-covid-19-after-santa-claus-visit-in-belgium-354045"><img alt="Oldage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e385117c-31bb-43d9-bfb9-eb462693a438" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/oldage%20home.JPG" /></a> 
 
26 residents have died since the visit, and 85 more have tested positive for the coronavirus, along with 40 staff.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-beef-up-military-activity-in-gulf-ahead-of-soleimanis-first-death-anniversary-354027">US, Iran beef up military activity in Gulf ahead of Soleimani's first death anniversary</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-beef-up-military-activity-in-gulf-ahead-of-soleimanis-first-death-anniversary-354027"><img alt="US Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37371604-b46c-4193-827f-6d852a0e1576" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/US%20Iran.JPG" /></a> 
 
According to a report in CNN, Iran has increased its maritime presence in the Persian Gulf in the last two days and is also moving short-range ballistic missiles into neighbouring Iraq.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-university-attack-mastermind-sentenced-to-death-354016">Kabul University attack mastermind sentenced to death</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-university-attack-mastermind-sentenced-to-death-354016"><img alt="Kabul University" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5b997904-cf45-4310-8796-852f9468453f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kabul%20university.JPG" /></a> 
 
The Supreme Court said that five other collaborators of the attack were sentenced to various jail terms on charges of treason, transfer of explosive materials and cooperation with the Islamic State (IS) terror group which claimed responsibility

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-authorities-approve-rs-235-crore-to-buy-ancestral-houses-of-dilip-kumar-raj-kapoor-354059">Pakistani authorities approve Rs 2.35 crore to buy ancestral houses of Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-authorities-approve-rs-235-crore-to-buy-ancestral-houses-of-dilip-kumar-raj-kapoor-354059"><img alt="Raj Kapoor" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e653e56-863d-42a4-8d9d-28d618bd4185" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/dilip%20kumar%20raj%20kapoor.JPG" /></a> 
 
Officials have fixed the price of Dilip Kumar's four marla (101 square metre) house for Rs 80.56 lakh while that of Raj Kapoor's six marla house (151.75 square metre) for Rs 1.50 crore.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-women-killed-as-blast-hits-yemen-wedding-hall-354028">Five women killed as blast hits Yemen wedding hall</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-women-killed-as-blast-hits-yemen-wedding-hall-354028"><img alt="Yemen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0fb4c891-6d05-4aff-b6a3-87e5d5afd920" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Yemen.JPG" /></a> 
 
The government and Huthi rebel forces blamed each other for the Friday night bombing of the hall near Hodeida's airport, a frontline between the warring sides on the edge of the Huthi-held town

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/party-determined-to-rid-pak-of-illegitimate-imran-khan-govt-pdm-chief-353985">Party determined to rid Pak of illegitimate Imran Khan govt: PDM chief</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/party-determined-to-rid-pak-of-illegitimate-imran-khan-govt-pdm-chief-353985"><img alt="Imran Khan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6fa94201-3567-4b80-a282-f9e84cae9bbf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Imran%20khan_1.JPG" /></a> 
 
The opposition alliance chief said that rifts within the PDM are a campaign run by the media and added that the PDM is more determined to rid the country of Imran Khan and his illegitimate government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-vaccine-in-south-dakota-came-with-a-side-effect-a-wedding-proposal-354009">Covid vaccine in South Dakota came with a side effect: a wedding proposal</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-vaccine-in-south-dakota-came-with-a-side-effect-a-wedding-proposal-354009"><img alt="Wedding proposal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0d825d97-6295-47b9-bd49-8254fa79c922" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Wedding%20proposal.JPG" /></a>

The boyfriend was a winner throughout -- he left with both a fiancé and a dose of a Covid vaccine.

26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack mastermind Zaki-Ur-Rehman Lakhvi has been arrested in Pakistan. He was on bail since 2015. With completion of a year since top Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani nearby, tension between US and Iran are high.

26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack mastermind Zaki-Ur-Rehman Lakhvi has been arrested in Pakistan. He was on bail since 2015. With completion of a year since top Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani nearby, tension between US and Iran are high. A new nanotech-based test is said to detect coronavirus infection in '10 seconds'. Read this and more in top 10 world news brief. 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack mastermind Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi arrested in Pakistan Lakhvi, who was on bail since 2015 in the Mumbai attack case, was arrested by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD). Iran plans to enrich uranium to up to 20 per cent, conveys IAEA Iran's parliament passed a law last month which had mention of enrichment of uranium. The law was passed in response to the killing of Iran's top nuclear scientist This nanotech-based technique detects COVID infection in 10 seconds Researchers at Bilkent University have developed Diagnovir, a diagnostic kit that is said to use nanotechnology to detect COVID infection 26 retirement home residents die of Covid-19 after Santa Claus visit in Belgium 26 residents have died since the visit, and 85 more have tested positive for the coronavirus, along with 40 staff. US, Iran beef up military activity in Gulf ahead of Soleimani's first death anniversary According to a report in CNN, Iran has increased its maritime presence in the Persian Gulf in the last two days and is also moving short-range ballistic missiles into neighbouring Iraq. Kabul University attack mastermind sentenced to death The Supreme Court said that five other collaborators of the attack were sentenced to various jail terms on charges of treason, transfer of explosive materials and cooperation with the Islamic State (IS) terror group which claimed responsibility Pakistani authorities approve Rs 2.35 crore to buy ancestral houses of Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor Officials have fixed the price of Dilip Kumar's four marla (101 square metre) house for Rs 80.56 lakh while that of Raj Kapoor's six marla house (151.75 square metre) for Rs 1.50 crore. Five women killed as blast hits Yemen wedding hall The government and Huthi rebel forces blamed each other for the Friday night bombing of the hall near Hodeida's airport, a frontline between the warring sides on the edge of the Huthi-held town Party determined to rid Pak of illegitimate Imran Khan govt: PDM chief The opposition alliance chief said that rifts within the PDM are a campaign run by the media and added that the PDM is more determined to rid the country of Imran Khan and his illegitimate government. Covid vaccine in South Dakota came with a side effect: a wedding proposal The boyfriend was a winner throughout -- he left with both a fiancé and a dose of a Covid vaccine.

Top 10 world news: Lakhvi arrested in Pakistan, Iran uranium enrichment, and more

In what can be a show of its intention to breach the 2015 accord, Iran has decided to enrich uranium to up to 20 per cent at its Fordow site buried inside a mountain. Iran has conveyed this to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations nuclear watchdog. This is the latest move on in several recent Iranian announcements to IAEA signifying that it is further breaching the nuclear deal. The violations started in 2019 in retaliation for USA's unilateral withdrawal from the agreement and reimposition of sanctions against Tehran.

Iran's parliament passed a law last month which had mention of enrichment of uranium. The law was passed in response to the killing of Iran's top nuclear scientist

Such moves by Iran could complicate efforts by U.S. President-elect Joe Biden to rejoin the deal. 
"Iran has informed the Agency that in order to comply with a legal act recently passed by the country`s parliament, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran intends to produce low-enriched uranium (LEU) up to 20 per cent at the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant," the IAEA said in a statement.

An IAEA report to member states earlier on Friday obtained by Reuters used similar wording in describing a letter by Iran to the IAEA dated Dec. 31.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-beef-up-military-activity-in-gulf-ahead-of-soleimanis-first-death-anniversary-354027">US, Iran beef up military activity in Gulf ahead of Soleimani's first death anniversary</a>

"Iran`s letter to the Agency ... did not say when this enrichment activity would take place," the IAEA statement said.

The tension between Iran and US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-beef-up-military-activity-in-gulf-ahead-of-soleimanis-first-death-anniversary-354027">has increased</a> as the first anniversary of killing of Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani. He was killed on January 3, 2019, in US strike outside Baghdad airport.

(With Reuters inputs)

In what can be a show of its intention to breach the 2015 accord, Iran has decided to enrich uranium to up to 20 per cent at its Fordow site buried inside a mountain.

In what can be a show of its intention to breach the 2015 accord, Iran has decided to enrich uranium to up to 20 per cent at its Fordow site buried inside a mountain. Iran has conveyed this to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations nuclear watchdog. This is the latest move on in several recent Iranian announcements to IAEA signifying that it is further breaching the nuclear deal. The violations started in 2019 in retaliation for USA's unilateral withdrawal from the agreement and reimposition of sanctions against Tehran. Iran's parliament passed a law last month which had mention of enrichment of uranium. The law was passed in response to the killing of Iran's top nuclear scientist Such moves by Iran could complicate efforts by U.S. President-elect Joe Biden to rejoin the deal. "Iran has informed the Agency that in order to comply with a legal act recently passed by the country`s parliament, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran intends to produce low-enriched uranium (LEU) up to 20 per cent at the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant," the IAEA said in a statement. An IAEA report to member states earlier on Friday obtained by Reuters used similar wording in describing a letter by Iran to the IAEA dated Dec. 31. Also Read | US, Iran beef up military activity in Gulf ahead of Soleimani's first death anniversary "Iran`s letter to the Agency ... did not say when this enrichment activity would take place," the IAEA statement said. The tension between Iran and US has increased as the first anniversary of killing of Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani. He was killed on January 3, 2019, in US strike outside Baghdad airport. (With Reuters inputs)

Iran plans to enrich uranium to up to 20 per cent, conveys IAEA

Iranian presidency said on Wednesday that the country will pay USD 150,000 to each family of the 176 victims in a passenger plane Iran shot down earlier this year. The Ukraine International Airlines flight 752 was shot down by Iranian forces on January 8. The incident took place shortly after the plane had taken off from airport in Tehran. It was bound for Kiev in Ukraine.

Iran had admitted that its forces accidentally shot down the Boeing 737-800 aircraft but the incident heightened tension between US and Iran nonetheless.

"The cabinet approved the provision of $150,000, or the equivalent in euros... for the families and survivors of each of the victims of the Ukrainian plane crash as soon as possible," Iran's presidency said on Wednesday, according to the official IRNA news agency.

"This compensation does not prevent the prosecution of the criminal element of the case before the competent judicial authority," the statement added.

On Wednesday, Mohammad Eslami, Iran's transport minister, said the final crash report would be "soon" made public, including a version in English.

"The owner of the plane, Ukraine, and Boeing were present for the investigation," Eslami said, according to IRNA.

Many of those killed in the incident were Iranians and Canadians, with 85 Canadian citizens or permanent residents, some dual nationals.

Iran's civil aviation authority has said earlier that misalignment of an air defence unit's radar system was the key "human error" that led to the plane's downing.

Tehran's air defences had been on high alert at the time in case the US retaliated against Iranian strikes hours earlier on American troops stationed in Iraq, which in turn had been in response to the US assassination of Iran's top commander, General Qasem Soleimani.

Ukraine's foreign minister said in July that he hoped to obtain as much financial compensation as possible in order to alleviate "the pain and mourning" of the relatives of the victims.

A Ukrainian delegation visited Tehran in October for talks on possible financial compensation.

(With AFP inputs)

Iranian presidency said on Wednesday that the country will pay USD 150,000 to each family of the 176 victims in a passenger plane Iran shot down earlier this year.

Iranian presidency said on Wednesday that the country will pay USD 150,000 to each family of the 176 victims in a passenger plane Iran shot down earlier this year. The Ukraine International Airlines flight 752 was shot down by Iranian forces on January 8. The incident took place shortly after the plane had taken off from airport in Tehran. It was bound for Kiev in Ukraine. Iran had admitted that its forces accidentally shot down the Boeing 737-800 aircraft but the incident heightened tension between US and Iran nonetheless. "The cabinet approved the provision of $150,000, or the equivalent in euros... for the families and survivors of each of the victims of the Ukrainian plane crash as soon as possible," Iran's presidency said on Wednesday, according to the official IRNA news agency. "This compensation does not prevent the prosecution of the criminal element of the case before the competent judicial authority," the statement added. On Wednesday, Mohammad Eslami, Iran's transport minister, said the final crash report would be "soon" made public, including a version in English. "The owner of the plane, Ukraine, and Boeing were present for the investigation," Eslami said, according to IRNA. Many of those killed in the incident were Iranians and Canadians, with 85 Canadian citizens or permanent residents, some dual nationals. Iran's civil aviation authority has said earlier that misalignment of an air defence unit's radar system was the key "human error" that led to the plane's downing. Tehran's air defences had been on high alert at the time in case the US retaliated against Iranian strikes hours earlier on American troops stationed in Iraq, which in turn had been in response to the US assassination of Iran's top commander, General Qasem Soleimani. Ukraine's foreign minister said in July that he hoped to obtain as much financial compensation as possible in order to alleviate "the pain and mourning" of the relatives of the victims. A Ukrainian delegation visited Tehran in October for talks on possible financial compensation. (With AFP inputs)

Iran to pay USD 150,000 to each family of victims in the passenger plane it shot down

Iran on Monday issued a warning to Israel not to cross its "red lines" in the Gulf after reports emerged that the country had deployed a submarine in the region.

Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh stressed the Islamic republic would defend itself against any American military "adventure" in the runup to the January 20 handover of power in Washington.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-accuses-israel-of-killing-nuclear-scientist-vows-revenge-345965">Iran accuses Israel of killing nuclear scientist, vows 'revenge'</a>

The statement came a week after the US Navy announced a nuclear submarine was being deployed to the Gulf, in a new show of force directed at Iran.

Earlier, Israeli media&nbsp;reported that the country's&nbsp;submarine has crossed the Suez Canal also headed for the Gulf, a report that has not been officially confirmed or denied.

Khatibzadeh told an online news conference,&nbsp;"Everyone knows what the Persian Gulf signifies for Iran. Countries&nbsp;very well how high the risk is raised if the red lines of Iran are crossed."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-awards-military-medal-to-slain-nuclear-scientist-349483">Iran's Khamenei awards military medal to slain nuclear scientist</a>

Iran has threatened to attack Israel since the assassination of its top nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, in late November, in a raid blamed on the Jewish state.

In a strikingly similar move to the reported Israeli submarine crossing of the Suez Canal, a US nuclear submarine crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Monday as the anniversary of the killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani by a US drone approached.

"We have sent messages to the US government and our friends in the region (warning) the current US regime not to embark on a new adventure in its final days at the White House," said Khatibzadeh.

He said Iran was not seeking to increase tension and called for "rational people in Washington" to take the same line until President-elect Joe Biden replaces Trump in the White House.

Decades-old tensions between Washington and Tehran have soared since 2018 when Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from the Iran nuclear deal.

The arch enemies have twice come to the brink of war since June 2019, especially following the killing of Soleimani.

Iran on Monday issued a warning to Israel not to cross its "red lines" in the Gulf after reports emerged that the country had deployed a submarine in the region.

Iran on Monday issued a warning to Israel not to cross its "red lines" in the Gulf after reports emerged that the country had deployed a submarine in the region. Foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh stressed the Islamic republic would defend itself against any American military "adventure" in the runup to the January 20 handover of power in Washington. Also read: Iran accuses Israel of killing nuclear scientist, vows 'revenge' The statement came a week after the US Navy announced a nuclear submarine was being deployed to the Gulf, in a new show of force directed at Iran. Earlier, Israeli media reported that the country's submarine has crossed the Suez Canal also headed for the Gulf, a report that has not been officially confirmed or denied. Khatibzadeh told an online news conference, "Everyone knows what the Persian Gulf signifies for Iran. Countries very well how high the risk is raised if the red lines of Iran are crossed." Also read: Iran's Khamenei awards military medal to slain nuclear scientist Iran has threatened to attack Israel since the assassination of its top nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, in late November, in a raid blamed on the Jewish state. In a strikingly similar move to the reported Israeli submarine crossing of the Suez Canal, a US nuclear submarine crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Monday as the anniversary of the killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani by a US drone approached. "We have sent messages to the US government and our friends in the region (warning) the current US regime not to embark on a new adventure in its final days at the White House," said Khatibzadeh. He said Iran was not seeking to increase tension and called for "rational people in Washington" to take the same line until President-elect Joe Biden replaces Trump in the White House. Decades-old tensions between Washington and Tehran have soared since 2018 when Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from the Iran nuclear deal. The arch enemies have twice come to the brink of war since June 2019, especially following the killing of Soleimani.

Iran warns Israel not to cross ‘red lines’ in the Gulf after it deploys submarine

At least 10 climbers have been killed, with several more missing in the mountains of Iran after heavy snowfall hit the region.

The mountains, situated north of Tehran received heavy snow and wins in the last few days, which has led to the closing of many roads, and disruption of transport.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/iran-says-has-won-us-approval-to-transfer-funds-to-buy-covid-vaccines-352190" hreflang="en">Iran says has won US approval to transfer funds to buy Covid vaccines</a>

In addition, seven crew members of a ship are also missing after storms were reported in the Gulf.

Since Friday, many climbers remain unaccounted for. Two deaths were reported officially. But the number of missing people has increased since then, with families scrambling to reach out to authorities.

State broadcaster IRIB claimed that nine people died not he mountain, and one died in the hospital after rescue operations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/trump-warns-iran-over-rocket-strike-on-embassy-in-iraq-351966" hreflang="en">Trump warns Iran over rocket strike on embassy in Iraq</a>

Seven climbers still remain unaccounted for across three popular trails. Tehran is at the foot of the Alborz mountain range, which is famous for its ski resorts.

Iranian maritime authorities are also looking for a seven crew member transport vessel, which capsized in Gulf waters on Friday, ISNA news agency reported.

At least 10 climbers have been killed, with several more missing in the mountains of Iran after heavy snowfall hit the region. The mountains, situated north of Tehran received heavy snow and wins in the last few days, which has led to the closing of many roads, and disruption of transport.

At least 10 climbers have been killed, with several more missing in the mountains of Iran after heavy snowfall hit the region. The mountains, situated north of Tehran received heavy snow and wins in the last few days, which has led to the closing of many roads, and disruption of transport. Also read: Iran says has won US approval to transfer funds to buy Covid vaccines In addition, seven crew members of a ship are also missing after storms were reported in the Gulf. Since Friday, many climbers remain unaccounted for. Two deaths were reported officially. But the number of missing people has increased since then, with families scrambling to reach out to authorities. State broadcaster IRIB claimed that nine people died not he mountain, and one died in the hospital after rescue operations. Also read: Trump warns Iran over rocket strike on embassy in Iraq Seven climbers still remain unaccounted for across three popular trails. Tehran is at the foot of the Alborz mountain range, which is famous for its ski resorts. Iranian maritime authorities are also looking for a seven crew member transport vessel, which capsized in Gulf waters on Friday, ISNA news agency reported.

Ten climbers killed in Iran due to heavy snowfall, many still missing

Iran has said the United States approved its fund transfer to buy coronavirus vaccines from overseas as its daily death toll fell to a three-month low.

Central Bank governor Abdolnaser Hemmati Thursday said an Iranian bank had received backing from the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control to transfer the money to a Swiss bank to pay for the vaccines.

"They have put sanctions on all our banks. They accepted this one case under the pressure of world public opinion," Hemmati told state TV.

Iran would pay around $244 million for initial imports of 16.8 million doses of vaccines from COVAX, a multi-agency group dedicated to assuring fair access to vaccines for low- and middle-income countries.

Iranian officials have said repeatedly that US sanctions are preventing them from making payments to COVAX, to which some 190 economies have signed up.

Iran's Shifa Pharmed began registering volunteers this week for human trials of the country's first domestic COVID-19 vaccine candidate, Iranian media reported, as a factional dispute appeared to be brewing over the use of imports.

Officials have cautioned that the danger of a resurgence in infections looms large.

US President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers in 2018 and imposed new sanctions on the country.

President-elect Joe Biden's coming to power has raised the possibility that Washington could rejoin the agreement.

Iran has said the United States approved its fund transfer to buy coronavirus vaccines from overseas as its daily death toll fell to a three-month low. Central Bank governor Abdolnaser Hemmati Thursday said an Iranian bank had received backing from the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control to transfer the money to a Swiss bank to pay for the vaccines.

Iran has said the United States approved its fund transfer to buy coronavirus vaccines from overseas as its daily death toll fell to a three-month low. Central Bank governor Abdolnaser Hemmati Thursday said an Iranian bank had received backing from the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control to transfer the money to a Swiss bank to pay for the vaccines. "They have put sanctions on all our banks. They accepted this one case under the pressure of world public opinion," Hemmati told state TV. Iran would pay around $244 million for initial imports of 16.8 million doses of vaccines from COVAX, a multi-agency group dedicated to assuring fair access to vaccines for low- and middle-income countries. Iranian officials have said repeatedly that US sanctions are preventing them from making payments to COVAX, to which some 190 economies have signed up. Iran's Shifa Pharmed began registering volunteers this week for human trials of the country's first domestic COVID-19 vaccine candidate, Iranian media reported, as a factional dispute appeared to be brewing over the use of imports. Officials have cautioned that the danger of a resurgence in infections looms large. US President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers in 2018 and imposed new sanctions on the country. President-elect Joe Biden's coming to power has raised the possibility that Washington could rejoin the agreement.

Iran says has won US approval to transfer funds to buy Covid vaccines

The United States outgoing President Donald Trump has blamed Iran for the attack on its embassy in Baghdad. In a tweet, Trump uploaded a picture of three rockets that he claimed that intended to hit the U.S. embassy but fail to launch. Iran says 'U.S. don't provoke tensions'.

Trump warns Iran over U.S. embassy attack in Baghdad

Afghanistan has been invited for second India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral meet on the use of the Chabahar port. Earlier this month, the first meet took place at the deputy minister level between the 3 countries. The next meeting will be hosted by India with the dates in the process of finalization.

Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Shrivastava said, "Afghanistan as a major stakeholder will be invited for the meeting".

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-400-billion-china-iran-deal-where-does-it-leave-the-chabahar-project-313096/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chabahar has been a key connectivity project by India towards its west and has been providing connectivity via Iran to Afghanistan and beyond. India built the Shahid Beheshti Port at Chabahar as part of the India, Iran, Afghanistan 2016 agreement.

In December 2018, an Indian company India Ports Global Limited took over the port operations and as of August of 2020, the port has handled 12 lakhs tons of cargo and 82000 containers. In fact, India used the port to send 75000 tons of wheat to Afghanistan as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.

The proposal for India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral was put across by Uzbekistan, which is a doubly landlocked country and is keen on several connectivity projects. And it is just not Uzbekistan, but other Central Asian countries have shown interest in using the port, built with the help of New Delhi.

The development is seen as an important shot in the arm for India's connectivity plans in the west of it, where often Pakistan has been playing an obstructionist role. India sees the Chabahar port as a fulcrum of connectivity in the region, and even the US gave an exemption to the project from Iran sanctions since it not only provided humanitarian supplies to Afghanistan but also economic alternatives.

Afghanistan has been invited for second India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral meet on the use of the Chabahar port. Earlier this month, the first meet took place at the deputy minister level between the 3 countries.

Afghanistan has been invited for second India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral meet on the use of the Chabahar port. Earlier this month, the first meet took place at the deputy minister level between the 3 countries. The next meeting will be hosted by India with the dates in the process of finalization. Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Shrivastava said, "Afghanistan as a major stakeholder will be invited for the meeting". Watch | Chabahar has been a key connectivity project by India towards its west and has been providing connectivity via Iran to Afghanistan and beyond. India built the Shahid Beheshti Port at Chabahar as part of the India, Iran, Afghanistan 2016 agreement. In December 2018, an Indian company India Ports Global Limited took over the port operations and as of August of 2020, the port has handled 12 lakhs tons of cargo and 82000 containers. In fact, India used the port to send 75000 tons of wheat to Afghanistan as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. The proposal for India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral was put across by Uzbekistan, which is a doubly landlocked country and is keen on several connectivity projects. And it is just not Uzbekistan, but other Central Asian countries have shown interest in using the port, built with the help of New Delhi. The development is seen as an important shot in the arm for India's connectivity plans in the west of it, where often Pakistan has been playing an obstructionist role. India sees the Chabahar port as a fulcrum of connectivity in the region, and even the US gave an exemption to the project from Iran sanctions since it not only provided humanitarian supplies to Afghanistan but also economic alternatives.

Afghanistan invited for second India, Uzbek, Iran trilateral meet on Chabahar

Essential workers in the healthcare sector have proven to be life-savers in trying times. As coronavirus continues to infect people across the globe, with a new strain recently spotted in the UK, a country has understood the value of its nurses.

Iran has announced that nurses across the country will receive a 50 per cent hike in their wages with immediate effect, as reported by PressTV.

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Nurses in hospitals and care homes in Iran will reap the benefits of the immediate hike, which the authorities claim is to support the healthcare system cope with the number of rising cases in the country.

The wage hike was announced on Sunday, which also marked the National Day of Nurse in Iran by Kamel Taghavinejad, a deputy health minister.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-says-prepared-to-react-if-iran-seeks-to-avenge-its-top-generals-killing-351255" hreflang="en">US says ‘prepared to react’ if Iran seeks to avenge its top general's killing&nbsp;</a>

Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, in a recent televised speech, called for more support for healthcare workers, especially nurses.

This is not the first hike for healthcare workers in the country, for they were given a raise in March when the pandemic made its pilot inlays into the country, Taghavinejad said.

With both the pay hikes, he said that the wages of nurses would double between $280 per month for new recruits to $400 per month for senior staff.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/what-does-underground-construction-of-nuclear-plant-in-iran-suggest-350875" hreflang="en">What does underground construction of nuclear plant in Iran suggest?</a>

In terms of extra work put in by healthcare workers, the nurses would be compensated by nearly 25 per cent of their wages, the deputy health minister said.

Iran is one of the hardest hit countries in West Asia, due to which spending on health is expected to increase.

Over 52,000 new openings have been made available in the healthcare sector this year. Half of these are reportedly reserved for nurses.

Essential workers in the healthcare sector have proven to be life-savers in trying times. As coronavirus continues to infect people across the globe, with a new strain recently spotted in the UK, a country has understood the value of its nurses.

Essential workers in the healthcare sector have proven to be life-savers in trying times. As coronavirus continues to infect people across the globe, with a new strain recently spotted in the UK, a country has understood the value of its nurses. Iran has announced that nurses across the country will receive a 50 per cent hike in their wages with immediate effect, as reported by PressTV. Nurses in hospitals and care homes in Iran will reap the benefits of the immediate hike, which the authorities claim is to support the healthcare system cope with the number of rising cases in the country. The wage hike was announced on Sunday, which also marked the National Day of Nurse in Iran by Kamel Taghavinejad, a deputy health minister. Also read: US says ‘prepared to react’ if Iran seeks to avenge its top general's killing Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, in a recent televised speech, called for more support for healthcare workers, especially nurses. This is not the first hike for healthcare workers in the country, for they were given a raise in March when the pandemic made its pilot inlays into the country, Taghavinejad said. With both the pay hikes, he said that the wages of nurses would double between $280 per month for new recruits to $400 per month for senior staff. Also read: What does underground construction of nuclear plant in Iran suggest? In terms of extra work put in by healthcare workers, the nurses would be compensated by nearly 25 per cent of their wages, the deputy health minister said. Iran is one of the hardest hit countries in West Asia, due to which spending on health is expected to increase. Over 52,000 new openings have been made available in the healthcare sector this year. Half of these are reportedly reserved for nurses.

This country just gave its nurses a 50% wage hike!

Washington is "prepared to react" if Tehran launches an attack to mark the first anniversary of the killing of powerful Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, the head of US forces in the Middle East warned Sunday.

"We are prepared to defend ourselves, our friends and partners in the region, and we're prepared to react if necessary," General Kenneth McKenzie, who heads the US Central Command (Centcom), told journalists.

He was touring the region weeks before the anniversary of the January 3, 2020 killing of Soleimani by a US drone strike near the Baghdad airport.

"My assessment is we are in a very good position and we'll be prepared for anything the Iranians or their proxies acting for them might choose to do," McKenzie, a four-star marine general, told a small group of journalists in a telephone interview from an undisclosed location in the region.

The Centcom commander said he had recently visited Baghdad, where he met with the head of the anti-jihadist coalition, American General Paul Calvert, as well as the Iraqi army chief of staff, General Abdul Amir Yarallah.

McKenzie said he had also gone to Syria to meet with American forces deployed in the small southern base at Al-Tanf, near the border with Jordan and Iraq.

In an apparent sign of US military leaders' concerns about Iranian intentions after Soleimani's killing, McKenzie's current tour was not announced in advance.

Similarly, last week's visits by General Mark Milley, the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Israel and Afghanistan were kept secret until he had left the region.

"I talk to my commanders about it every day and I think we will be ready," McKenzie said.

Even as the US Army continues troop withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan ordered by President Donald Trump -- with a goal of drawing down to 2,500 in each country by January 15 -- the Pentagon has substantially reinforced its posture around Iraq to dissuade Iran from launching any attack.

The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz has been patrolling Gulf waters since late November, and two American B-52 bombers recently overflew the region in a demonstration of strength clearly aimed at Iran and its allies.

Still, a volley of rockets exploded Sunday near the US embassy in Baghdad, causing material damage but no casualties, according to Iraqi security forces.

It was the third attack on American military and diplomatic installations there since an indefinite truce was agreed with pro-Iranian groups in October.

Washington is "prepared to react" if Tehran launches an attack to mark the first anniversary of the killing of powerful Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, the head of US forces in the Middle East warned Sunday.

Washington is "prepared to react" if Tehran launches an attack to mark the first anniversary of the killing of powerful Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, the head of US forces in the Middle East warned Sunday. "We are prepared to defend ourselves, our friends and partners in the region, and we're prepared to react if necessary," General Kenneth McKenzie, who heads the US Central Command (Centcom), told journalists. He was touring the region weeks before the anniversary of the January 3, 2020 killing of Soleimani by a US drone strike near the Baghdad airport. "My assessment is we are in a very good position and we'll be prepared for anything the Iranians or their proxies acting for them might choose to do," McKenzie, a four-star marine general, told a small group of journalists in a telephone interview from an undisclosed location in the region. The Centcom commander said he had recently visited Baghdad, where he met with the head of the anti-jihadist coalition, American General Paul Calvert, as well as the Iraqi army chief of staff, General Abdul Amir Yarallah. McKenzie said he had also gone to Syria to meet with American forces deployed in the small southern base at Al-Tanf, near the border with Jordan and Iraq. In an apparent sign of US military leaders' concerns about Iranian intentions after Soleimani's killing, McKenzie's current tour was not announced in advance. Similarly, last week's visits by General Mark Milley, the chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Israel and Afghanistan were kept secret until he had left the region. "I talk to my commanders about it every day and I think we will be ready," McKenzie said. Even as the US Army continues troop withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan ordered by President Donald Trump -- with a goal of drawing down to 2,500 in each country by January 15 -- the Pentagon has substantially reinforced its posture around Iraq to dissuade Iran from launching any attack. The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz has been patrolling Gulf waters since late November, and two American B-52 bombers recently overflew the region in a demonstration of strength clearly aimed at Iran and its allies. Still, a volley of rockets exploded Sunday near the US embassy in Baghdad, causing material damage but no casualties, according to Iraqi security forces. It was the third attack on American military and diplomatic installations there since an indefinite truce was agreed with pro-Iranian groups in October.

US says ‘prepared to react’ if Iran seeks to avenge its top general's killing 

President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> has not yet sworn in, but it seems that his job by no means will be easy.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic that has continued to rise at an alarming pace in the United States, the cyberattack has struck the nation.

Watch |&nbsp;

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And now satellite images show that Iran has begun building an underground nuclear facility.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-begins-construction-at-underground-nuclear-facility-amid-us-tensions-350678">Iran begins construction at underground nuclear facility amid US tensions</a>

Images hovering over Fordo, the highly sensitive nuclear site in Iran, have picked up some clues.

They suggest that from August to November, there has been activity at the site.&nbsp;

In September, Iran started to increase Uranium enrichment at Fordo in a response to US President Donald Trump's decision to walk out of the nuclear deal.&nbsp;

An image from December 11 shows that the Iranian government has dug a foundation for a building with dozens of pillars.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is Iran constructing the facility now?</h2>

Iran knows its move will make its neighbours nervous.&nbsp;

It also wants to send a message that the Islamic Republic has the money, resources and talent to keep the nuclear program running.&nbsp;

It is also posturing to resume talks with the US once Biden takes charge and is telling the world that the killing of its top scientist has not hurt its program.&nbsp;

The assassination of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh was seen as a body blow to Iran's nuclear ambitions, but the country has ensured that its Uranium stockpile continues to grow in the wake of his death.&nbsp;

Tehran has also raised the budget of its nuclear research group by 256 per cent.&nbsp;

The satellite images come just before a foreign ministers' meet on Monday where plans for a joint US-Iran recommitment to the nuclear deal are up for discussion.&nbsp;

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says Tehran is ready to return to its commitments.&nbsp;

Biden has expressed his intent to re-enter the nuclear deal with Iran, but with some demands.&nbsp;

He reportedly wants to extend the duration of certain restrictions on materials used to make a nuclear bomb.&nbsp;

Tehran can also be asked to curb the activities of its proxies in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen.&nbsp;

The chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has endorsed the idea of a new deal.&nbsp;

The development suggests that the days of Trump's maximum pressure policy on Iran and over and the upcoming Biden administration seems keen to talk.

However, Tehran is hedging its bets and with the construction of his underground facility wants to gain some negotiating power before starting a dialogue.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

President-elect Joe Biden has not yet sworn in, but it seems that his job by no means will be easy. Amid the coronavirus pandemic that has continued to rise at an alarming pace in the United States, the cyberattack has struck the nation.

President-elect Joe Biden has not yet sworn in, but it seems that his job by no means will be easy. Amid the coronavirus pandemic that has continued to rise at an alarming pace in the United States, the cyberattack has struck the nation. Watch | And now satellite images show that Iran has begun building an underground nuclear facility. Also read | Iran begins construction at underground nuclear facility amid US tensions Images hovering over Fordo, the highly sensitive nuclear site in Iran, have picked up some clues. They suggest that from August to November, there has been activity at the site. In September, Iran started to increase Uranium enrichment at Fordo in a response to US President Donald Trump's decision to walk out of the nuclear deal. An image from December 11 shows that the Iranian government has dug a foundation for a building with dozens of pillars. Why is Iran constructing the facility now? Iran knows its move will make its neighbours nervous. It also wants to send a message that the Islamic Republic has the money, resources and talent to keep the nuclear program running. It is also posturing to resume talks with the US once Biden takes charge and is telling the world that the killing of its top scientist has not hurt its program. The assassination of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh was seen as a body blow to Iran's nuclear ambitions, but the country has ensured that its Uranium stockpile continues to grow in the wake of his death. Tehran has also raised the budget of its nuclear research group by 256 per cent. The satellite images come just before a foreign ministers' meet on Monday where plans for a joint US-Iran recommitment to the nuclear deal are up for discussion. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says Tehran is ready to return to its commitments. Biden has expressed his intent to re-enter the nuclear deal with Iran, but with some demands. He reportedly wants to extend the duration of certain restrictions on materials used to make a nuclear bomb. Tehran can also be asked to curb the activities of its proxies in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen. The chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has endorsed the idea of a new deal. The development suggests that the days of Trump's maximum pressure policy on Iran and over and the upcoming Biden administration seems keen to talk. However, Tehran is hedging its bets and with the construction of his underground facility wants to gain some negotiating power before starting a dialogue.

What does underground construction of nuclear plant in Iran suggest?

Satellites have caught fresh construction work at Iran's underground Fordo nuclear site. After the assassination of top scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, Tehran is sending a message to its adversaries.

Gravitas: Iran: Satellite images show construction work at Fordo nuclear site

World powers party to Iran nuclear deal struck by Brack Obama administration on Wednesday went into a huddle to diffuse tension and to decide plan of action under mounting pressure from Iranian breaches and US sanctions. Representatives of China, France, Russia, Iran, Germany and Britain also discussed the uncertainty before US President-elect Joe Biden takes office. The discussion took place via video conference.

During the discussion, one of the diplomats urged Iran to stick to deal.

Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by these world powers after former US President Barack Obama's initiative in 2015. However, Donald Trump withdrew America from the deal. Remaining countries are still party to the pact.

US President-elect Joe Biden has indicated that US would rejoin the deal.

Senior EU foreign affairs official Helga Schmid issued a brief statement following the talks she chaired.

"Participants discussed... how to ensure the full and effective implementation of the agreement by all sides in light of existing challenges," it said.

While she did not say what those challenges were, the deal has unravelled steadily since Trump withdrew from it in 2018 and went on to impose crippling economic sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

Tehran has retaliated by progressively abandoning limits on its nuclear activity laid down in the deal, most recently planning to install advanced centrifuges at Iran's main nuclear enrichment plant in Natanz.

World powers party to Iran nuclear deal struck by Brack Obama administration on Wednesday went into a huddle to diffuse tension and to decide plan of action under mounting pressure from Iranian breaches and US sanctions.

World powers party to Iran nuclear deal struck by Brack Obama administration on Wednesday went into a huddle to diffuse tension and to decide plan of action under mounting pressure from Iranian breaches and US sanctions. Representatives of China, France, Russia, Iran, Germany and Britain also discussed the uncertainty before US President-elect Joe Biden takes office. The discussion took place via video conference. During the discussion, one of the diplomats urged Iran to stick to deal. Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by these world powers after former US President Barack Obama's initiative in 2015. However, Donald Trump withdrew America from the deal. Remaining countries are still party to the pact. US President-elect Joe Biden has indicated that US would rejoin the deal. Senior EU foreign affairs official Helga Schmid issued a brief statement following the talks she chaired. "Participants discussed... how to ensure the full and effective implementation of the agreement by all sides in light of existing challenges," it said. While she did not say what those challenges were, the deal has unravelled steadily since Trump withdrew from it in 2018 and went on to impose crippling economic sanctions on Iran. Tehran has retaliated by progressively abandoning limits on its nuclear activity laid down in the deal, most recently planning to install advanced centrifuges at Iran's main nuclear enrichment plant in Natanz.

Iran nuclear deal: World powers try to diffuse tension

After the killing of Iran's top nuclear scientist, the country has decided to give 256% budget increase to the organisation that oversees military's nuclear research project.

Iran: Nuclear projects' budget hiked amidst pressure from international community

Iran announces 256% hike in budget for nuclear projects

Iran has often been accused of suppressing its women and in a latest, a 19-year-old Instagram influencer is Tehran's latest victim.&nbsp;

Fatemah Khisvand's crime is that she uploaded zombie selfies and was charged for corrupting youngsters' mind and disrespecting the Islamic Republic of Iran.&nbsp;

The 19-year-old, who also goes by the name Sarah Tabar, has been sentenced to ten years imprisonment.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-woman-arrested-for-posting-zombie-like-images-charged-for-blasphemy-349344">Iranian woman arrested for posting 'Zombie-like' images; charged for blasphemy</a>

The photos that were uploaded by this model resembled Angelina Jolie and brought a lot of fame for her. About 500,000 people began following her.&nbsp;

She was 18 years old when she was arrested in 2019 and blasphemy, inciting violence, gaining income through appropriate means and corrupting young minds were the charges against her.&nbsp;

The Iranian media called the teenager a mentally disabled person seeking vulgarity.&nbsp;

Ironically, marital rape, failing to ensure women safety, forcing a dress code on women, normalising physical abuse is not vulgar for Iran.

Iran finds itself in the list of only six member states of UN that has not signed the convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-iran-jails-19-year-old-influencer-349802">WATCH|</a>

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In 1979, the Islamic Republic replaced Iran's Pahlavi dynasty and the priority of the nation's first supreme leader was to cancel the minimum age for marriage.

In 2017-18, 35,333 girls were married in Iran and 217 out of them were under 10 years.&nbsp;

The first supreme leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini also lifted all restrictions on polygamy.&nbsp;

On International Women's Day that year, the supreme leader's had a unique gift for women in govt jobs, ''wear a veil or stay at home".&nbsp;

Nothing has changed, when his successor Ali Khomeini took over and it was not until 2018 that he allowed women into sporting arenas.&nbsp;

The ban was lifted at the expense of Sahar Khodayari's death and a threat by FIFA.&nbsp;

Culture is Iran's favourite weapon on its war against women and it throws it whenever it wants to justify repression on females.&nbsp;

The Instagram model's popularity, liberation was so threatening for Tehran that she was branded as a criminal.&nbsp;

She now faces 10 years in jail, a price for trying to live her life the way she desired in Iran. &nbsp;

Iran has often been accused of suppressing its women and in a latest, a 19-year-old Instagram influencer is Tehran's latest victim. Fatemah Khisvand's crime is that she uploaded zombie selfies and was charged for corrupting youngsters' mind and disrespecting the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Iran has often been accused of suppressing its women and in a latest, a 19-year-old Instagram influencer is Tehran's latest victim. Fatemah Khisvand's crime is that she uploaded zombie selfies and was charged for corrupting youngsters' mind and disrespecting the Islamic Republic of Iran. The 19-year-old, who also goes by the name Sarah Tabar, has been sentenced to ten years imprisonment. Also read | Iranian woman arrested for posting 'Zombie-like' images; charged for blasphemy The photos that were uploaded by this model resembled Angelina Jolie and brought a lot of fame for her. About 500,000 people began following her. She was 18 years old when she was arrested in 2019 and blasphemy, inciting violence, gaining income through appropriate means and corrupting young minds were the charges against her. The Iranian media called the teenager a mentally disabled person seeking vulgarity. Ironically, marital rape, failing to ensure women safety, forcing a dress code on women, normalising physical abuse is not vulgar for Iran. Iran finds itself in the list of only six member states of UN that has not signed the convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women. WATCH| × In 1979, the Islamic Republic replaced Iran's Pahlavi dynasty and the priority of the nation's first supreme leader was to cancel the minimum age for marriage. In 2017-18, 35,333 girls were married in Iran and 217 out of them were under 10 years. The first supreme leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini also lifted all restrictions on polygamy. On International Women's Day that year, the supreme leader's had a unique gift for women in govt jobs, ''wear a veil or stay at home". Nothing has changed, when his successor Ali Khomeini took over and it was not until 2018 that he allowed women into sporting arenas. The ban was lifted at the expense of Sahar Khodayari's death and a threat by FIFA. Culture is Iran's favourite weapon on its war against women and it throws it whenever it wants to justify repression on females. The Instagram model's popularity, liberation was so threatening for Tehran that she was branded as a criminal. She now faces 10 years in jail, a price for trying to live her life the way she desired in Iran.

How an Instagram model got stuck in Iran's 'cultural' war

Iran has jailed a teenage influencer for posting zombie selfies on Instagram. What justifies such outrageous punishment?

Gravitas: Iran jails 19-year-old Influencer

An Iranian Instagram star&nbsp;Sahar Tabar has been arrested and sentenced to 10 years in prison for posting distorted images online.

Tabar,&nbsp;whose real name is Fatemeh Khishvand, is a 19-year-old Iranian woman who was popular on the social media platform Instagram and at one point had nearly&nbsp;486,000 followers. However, her good days suddenly turned into a nightmare when she was arrested for her social media activities.

She gained followers by posting several pictures and videos. In some of these pictures, Tabar can be seen with filters on her face which gave her a gaunt look similar to a zombie. As per authorities, through these images, she had disrespected the&nbsp;Islamic Republic.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-executes-opposition-figure-ruhollah-zam-349254">Iran executes opposition figure Ruhollah Zam</a>

It was also alleged that these images of Tabar were corrupting young children's brains. She has been charged with&nbsp;blasphemy, gaining wealth from&nbsp;inappropriate means, inciting violence and encouraging youngsters for corruption. She claimed to have been, now, cleared of two out of four charges. However, she has refused to point out the details as she is now hoping for a complete pardon.

She was arrested a year ago and had also requested a release from detention claiming she had been infected by the deadly coronavirus. Tabar has also been presented as a "victim with an abnormal personality and mental state" by the local media. This portrayal of her personality has been backed by her medical records which point towards a condition of medical instability and add several visits to&nbsp;psychiatric hospitals as a proof of the same.

Tabar had also made tries to reach out to the Hollywood actress Angelina&nbsp;Jolie, requesting her tp stand up for another woman in need of support. "The Islamic Republic has a history of tormenting women. We need to be united against this gender apartheid," she had said.

Her lawyers are now hoping for a complete pardon on the basis of her medical condition and her age at the time of the alleged crime.

An Iranian Instagram star Sahar Tabar has been arrested and sentenced to 10 years in prison for posting distorted images online. Tabar, whose real name is Fatemeh Khishvand, is a 19-year-old Iranian woman who was popular on the social media platform Instagram and at one point had nearly 486,000 followers.

An Iranian Instagram star Sahar Tabar has been arrested and sentenced to 10 years in prison for posting distorted images online. Tabar, whose real name is Fatemeh Khishvand, is a 19-year-old Iranian woman who was popular on the social media platform Instagram and at one point had nearly 486,000 followers. However, her good days suddenly turned into a nightmare when she was arrested for her social media activities. She gained followers by posting several pictures and videos. In some of these pictures, Tabar can be seen with filters on her face which gave her a gaunt look similar to a zombie. As per authorities, through these images, she had disrespected the Islamic Republic. Also read| Iran executes opposition figure Ruhollah Zam It was also alleged that these images of Tabar were corrupting young children's brains. She has been charged with blasphemy, gaining wealth from inappropriate means, inciting violence and encouraging youngsters for corruption. She claimed to have been, now, cleared of two out of four charges. However, she has refused to point out the details as she is now hoping for a complete pardon. She was arrested a year ago and had also requested a release from detention claiming she had been infected by the deadly coronavirus. Tabar has also been presented as a "victim with an abnormal personality and mental state" by the local media. This portrayal of her personality has been backed by her medical records which point towards a condition of medical instability and add several visits to psychiatric hospitals as a proof of the same. Tabar had also made tries to reach out to the Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie, requesting her tp stand up for another woman in need of support. "The Islamic Republic has a history of tormenting women. We need to be united against this gender apartheid," she had said. Her lawyers are now hoping for a complete pardon on the basis of her medical condition and her age at the time of the alleged crime.

Iranian woman arrested for posting 'Zombie-like' images; charged for blasphemy

The UN rights chief on Monday slammed Iran's execution of dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam, saying it is "emblematic of a pattern of forced confessions extracted under torture".&nbsp;

"I am appalled at the execution in Iran on 12 December of Ruhollah Zam," said Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, as quoted by news agency AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;

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"His death sentence and execution by hanging are emblematic of a pattern of forced confessions extracted under torture and broadcast on state media being used as a basis to convict people," she said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-summons-german-envoy-over-eu-criticism-of-journalists-execution-report-349517">Iran summons German envoy over EU criticism of journalist's execution: Report</a>

Immediately after her statement, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also condemned the execution, describing it "unjust" and "barbaric".

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The U.S. strongly condemns Iran's unjust, barbaric execution of Ruhollah Zam, an Iranian journalist kidnapped abroad by the regime. Zam exposed the brutality and corruption of the regime, which has killed or arrested more than 860 journalists in its 41-year reign of terror.
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"The US strongly condemns Iran's unjust, barbaric execution of Ruhollah Zam, an Iranian journalist kidnapped abroad by the regime," Pompeo wrote in a tweet.

Earlier, the European Union and France condemned the execution of Zam, who was convicted of his involvement in 2017 anti-government protests.&nbsp;

"The European Union condemns this act in the strongest terms and recalls once again its irrevocable opposition to the use of capital punishment under any circumstances," said the EU's External Action Service in a statement.&nbsp;

France described the hanging as "barbaric and unacceptable".

On Monday, Europan nations also cancelled a major forum on business between Iran and Europe.&nbsp;

Iranian state media on Saturday said that Zam is executed for the "the severity of the crimes" committed against the state.&nbsp;

He was also convicted of espionage for France and an unnamed nation, cooperating with US "hostile government" and acting against Iran's security, insulting the "sanctity of Islam" and sparking violence during the anti-government protests in 2017, the official IRNA news agency said.&nbsp;

The UN rights chief on Monday slammed Iran's execution of dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam, saying it is "emblematic of a pattern of forced confessions extracted under torture".

The UN rights chief on Monday slammed Iran's execution of dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam, saying it is "emblematic of a pattern of forced confessions extracted under torture". "I am appalled at the execution in Iran on 12 December of Ruhollah Zam," said Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, as quoted by news agency AFP. Watch | "His death sentence and execution by hanging are emblematic of a pattern of forced confessions extracted under torture and broadcast on state media being used as a basis to convict people," she said in a statement. Also read | Iran summons German envoy over EU criticism of journalist's execution: Report Immediately after her statement, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also condemned the execution, describing it "unjust" and "barbaric". The U.S. strongly condemns Iran's unjust, barbaric execution of Ruhollah Zam, an Iranian journalist kidnapped abroad by the regime. Zam exposed the brutality and corruption of the regime, which has killed or arrested more than 860 journalists in its 41-year reign of terror. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) December 14, 2020 × "The US strongly condemns Iran's unjust, barbaric execution of Ruhollah Zam, an Iranian journalist kidnapped abroad by the regime," Pompeo wrote in a tweet. Earlier, the European Union and France condemned the execution of Zam, who was convicted of his involvement in 2017 anti-government protests. "The European Union condemns this act in the strongest terms and recalls once again its irrevocable opposition to the use of capital punishment under any circumstances," said the EU's External Action Service in a statement. France described the hanging as "barbaric and unacceptable". On Monday, Europan nations also cancelled a major forum on business between Iran and Europe. Iranian state media on Saturday said that Zam is executed for the "the severity of the crimes" committed against the state. He was also convicted of espionage for France and an unnamed nation, cooperating with US "hostile government" and acting against Iran's security, insulting the "sanctity of Islam" and sparking violence during the anti-government protests in 2017, the official IRNA news agency said.

UN, US condemn Iran's execution of dissident journalist

Iran has executed dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam. According to reports Zam was hanged on Saturday morning, he has been convicted of fomenting violence in 2017 anti- government protest. Iran top court had upheld death penalty for Zam.

Iran Journalist Ruhollah Zam Executed

Iran summoned German ambassador on Sunday after European Union criticised Iranian journalist's execution, Iranian media said. Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency. Iranian Foreign Ministry also plans to summon French ambassador on Sunday, said Fars news agency.

Like the EU, France had criticised the execution as well.

The dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam had been in Paris before he was captured and taken to Iran.

Zam was convicted of fomenting violence during anti-government protests in 2017. His Amadnews feed had more than 1 million followers.

The EU said in a statement after his execution: “The European Union condemns this act in the strongest terms and recalls once again its irrevocable opposition to the use of capital punishment under any circumstances.”

The French Foreign Ministry called the execution a “barbaric and unacceptable act”, saying in a statement: “France condemns in the strongest possible terms this serious breach of free expression and press freedom in Iran.”

Amnesty International and press advocacy group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) also condemned the execution.

In 2017, regional protests over economic hardship spread across Iran. Iranian officials have blamed USA, Saudi Arabia and Iran's opponents in exile for the unrest.

(With Reuters inputs)

Iran summoned German ambassador on Sunday after European Union criticised Iranian journalist's execution, Iranian media said. Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency.

Iran summoned German ambassador on Sunday after European Union criticised Iranian journalist's execution, Iranian media said. Germany currently holds European Union's rotating presidency. Iranian Foreign Ministry also plans to summon French ambassador on Sunday, said Fars news agency. Like the EU, France had criticised the execution as well. The dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam had been in Paris before he was captured and taken to Iran. Zam was convicted of fomenting violence during anti-government protests in 2017. His Amadnews feed had more than 1 million followers. The EU said in a statement after his execution: “The European Union condemns this act in the strongest terms and recalls once again its irrevocable opposition to the use of capital punishment under any circumstances.” The French Foreign Ministry called the execution a “barbaric and unacceptable act”, saying in a statement: “France condemns in the strongest possible terms this serious breach of free expression and press freedom in Iran.” Amnesty International and press advocacy group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) also condemned the execution. In 2017, regional protests over economic hardship spread across Iran. Iranian officials have blamed USA, Saudi Arabia and Iran's opponents in exile for the unrest. (With Reuters inputs)

Iran summons German envoy over EU criticism of journalist's execution: Report

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday posthumously awarded a prestigious military decoration to top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, who was assassinated last month, state television reported.

Fakhrizadeh was killed on a major road outside Tehran in late November in a bomb and gun attack that the Islamic republic has blamed on its arch foe Israel.

The broadcaster said the first class Order of Nasr ("Victory" in Persian), bearing Khamenei's signature, was handed to the scientist's family by the armed forces chief of staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri.&nbsp;

"This is a decoration meant for dear ones who defend the Islamic revolution and Iran's territorial integrity and independence," Bagheri said.

He added that it is the highest medal awarded in recognition of logistics contribution and support of the troops.

After Fakhrizadeh's death, Defence Minister Amir Hatami referred to him as his deputy minister and head of the ministry's Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND), focusing on the field of "nuclear defence."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu alleged in 2018 that Fakhrizadeh was the head of a secret nuclear weapons programme, the existence of which the Islamic republic has always denied.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday posthumously awarded a prestigious military decoration to top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, who was assassinated last month, state television reported.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday posthumously awarded a prestigious military decoration to top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, who was assassinated last month, state television reported. Fakhrizadeh was killed on a major road outside Tehran in late November in a bomb and gun attack that the Islamic republic has blamed on its arch foe Israel. The broadcaster said the first class Order of Nasr ("Victory" in Persian), bearing Khamenei's signature, was handed to the scientist's family by the armed forces chief of staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri. "This is a decoration meant for dear ones who defend the Islamic revolution and Iran's territorial integrity and independence," Bagheri said. He added that it is the highest medal awarded in recognition of logistics contribution and support of the troops. After Fakhrizadeh's death, Defence Minister Amir Hatami referred to him as his deputy minister and head of the ministry's Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND), focusing on the field of "nuclear defence." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu alleged in 2018 that Fakhrizadeh was the head of a secret nuclear weapons programme, the existence of which the Islamic republic has always denied.

Iran's Khamenei awards military medal to slain nuclear scientist

Turkey condemned Iran's "offensive language" aimed at Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan over a controversial poem that can possibly be taken to suggest Iran's northwestern provinces belong to Azerbaijan. Erdogan recited the poem when he was in Azerbaijan capital Baku for parade marking its victory over Armenia in connection with disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.

Iran said that the poem could fan separatism among Iran's Azeri minority.

"We condemn the use of offensive language towards our president and our country over the recitation of a poem, whose meaning has been deliberately taken out of context," said Fahrettin Altun, Turkish presidential communications director.&nbsp;

After Erdogan's recital of the poem in Baku earlier this week, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif tweeted that "President Erdogan was not informed that what he ill-recited in Baku refers to the forcible separation of areas north of Aras from Iranian motherland".

According to Iran's ISNA news agency, the poem is "one of the separatist symbols of pan-Turkism". 
ISNA said the verses point to Aras and "complains of the distance between Azeri-speaking people on the two sides of the river".

Iranian authorities summoned Turkey's ambassador to Tehran to complain about Erdogan's "interventionist and unacceptable remarks".

In return, Turkey summoned Iran's ambassador to Ankara over the "baseless" claims.&nbsp;

(With IANS inputs)

Turkey condemned Iran's "offensive language" aimed at Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan over a controversial poem that can possibly be taken to suggest Iran's northwestern provinces belong to Azerbaijan.

Turkey condemned Iran's "offensive language" aimed at Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan over a controversial poem that can possibly be taken to suggest Iran's northwestern provinces belong to Azerbaijan. Erdogan recited the poem when he was in Azerbaijan capital Baku for parade marking its victory over Armenia in connection with disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region. Iran said that the poem could fan separatism among Iran's Azeri minority. "We condemn the use of offensive language towards our president and our country over the recitation of a poem, whose meaning has been deliberately taken out of context," said Fahrettin Altun, Turkish presidential communications director. After Erdogan's recital of the poem in Baku earlier this week, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif tweeted that "President Erdogan was not informed that what he ill-recited in Baku refers to the forcible separation of areas north of Aras from Iranian motherland". According to Iran's ISNA news agency, the poem is "one of the separatist symbols of pan-Turkism". ISNA said the verses point to Aras and "complains of the distance between Azeri-speaking people on the two sides of the river". Iranian authorities summoned Turkey's ambassador to Tehran to complain about Erdogan's "interventionist and unacceptable remarks". In return, Turkey summoned Iran's ambassador to Ankara over the "baseless" claims. (With IANS inputs)

Turkey protests Iran's 'offensive language' against Erdogan

Iran executes French-based dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam, who was convicted of fomenting violence during anti-government protests in 2017.

Iran executes French-based dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam

The first meeting of India, Uzbekistan, and Iran on the joint use of Chabahar port will take place virtually on Monday. The meeting will be jointly chaired at the deputy minister level from Uzbekistan and Iran and at the secretary-level from India.

The announcement comes just a day after the virtual summit between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. &nbsp;The proposal for the trilateral meet was proposed by the Uzbek side and India has welcomed the "interest of Uzbekistan to use the Chabahar port as a transit port" as "this would open up economic opportunities for the traders and business community of the region", a ministry of external affairs statement said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indo-pacific-represents-evolution-of-india-s-jaishankar-349286" hreflang="en">Indo-Pacific represents evolution of India: S Jaishankar</a>

And it is just not Uzbekistan, but other Central Asian countries who have shown interest in using the port, built with the help of New Delhi with India seeking to "to cooperate closely with regional countries on this issue".

The development is seen as an important shot in the arm for India's connectivity plans in the west of it, were often Pakistan has been playing an obstructionist role. India sees the Chabahar port as a fulcrum of connectivity in the region, and even the US gave an exemption to the project from Iran sanctions since it not only provided humanitarian supplies to Afghanistan but also economic alternatives.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/factually-incorrect-india-dismisses-chinese-embassy-spokespersons-comments-on-joint-release-of-stamp-349191" hreflang="en">Factually incorrect: India dismisses Chinese embassy spokesperson's comments on joint release of stamp</a>

India built the Shahid Behesti Port at Chabahar as part of India, Iran, Afghanistan 2016 agreement to increase its connectivity with Afghanistan and beyond. In December 2018, an Indian company India Ports Global Limited took over the port operations and as of August of 2020, the port has handled 12 lakhs tons of cargo and 82000 containers. In fact, India used the port to send 75000 tons of wheat to Afghanistan as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the covid pandemic.

The first meeting of India, Uzbekistan, and Iran on the joint use of Chabahar port will take place virtually on Monday. The meeting will be jointly chaired at the deputy minister level from Uzbekistan and Iran and at the secretary-level from India.

The first meeting of India, Uzbekistan, and Iran on the joint use of Chabahar port will take place virtually on Monday. The meeting will be jointly chaired at the deputy minister level from Uzbekistan and Iran and at the secretary-level from India. The announcement comes just a day after the virtual summit between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The proposal for the trilateral meet was proposed by the Uzbek side and India has welcomed the "interest of Uzbekistan to use the Chabahar port as a transit port" as "this would open up economic opportunities for the traders and business community of the region", a ministry of external affairs statement said. Also read| Indo-Pacific represents evolution of India: S Jaishankar And it is just not Uzbekistan, but other Central Asian countries who have shown interest in using the port, built with the help of New Delhi with India seeking to "to cooperate closely with regional countries on this issue". The development is seen as an important shot in the arm for India's connectivity plans in the west of it, were often Pakistan has been playing an obstructionist role. India sees the Chabahar port as a fulcrum of connectivity in the region, and even the US gave an exemption to the project from Iran sanctions since it not only provided humanitarian supplies to Afghanistan but also economic alternatives. Also read| Factually incorrect: India dismisses Chinese embassy spokesperson's comments on joint release of stamp India built the Shahid Behesti Port at Chabahar as part of India, Iran, Afghanistan 2016 agreement to increase its connectivity with Afghanistan and beyond. In December 2018, an Indian company India Ports Global Limited took over the port operations and as of August of 2020, the port has handled 12 lakhs tons of cargo and 82000 containers. In fact, India used the port to send 75000 tons of wheat to Afghanistan as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the covid pandemic.

India, Uzbekistan, Iran trilateral meet on Chabahar on Monday

Iran on Saturday executed Ruhollah Zam, a former opposition figure who had lived in exile in France and was implicated in anti-government protests, days after his sentence was upheld.

State television said the "counter-revolutionary" Zam was hanged in the morning after the supreme court upheld his sentence due to "the severity of the crimes" committed against the Islamic republic.

Judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili had on Tuesday said Zam's sentence was upheld by the supreme court "more than a month ago".

London-based rights group Amnesty International, in a statement after his verdict was confirmed, described Zam as a "journalist and dissident".

It said the confirmation marked "a shocking escalation in the use of the death penalty as a weapon of repression."

Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced the arrest of Zam in October 2019, claiming he had been "directed by France's intelligence service".

State television said he was "under the protection of several countries' intelligence services."

The official IRNA news agency said he was also convicted of espionage for France and an unnamed country in the region, cooperating with the "hostile government of America", acting against "the country's security", insulting the "sanctity of Islam" and instigating violence during the 2017 protests.

At least 25 people were killed during the unrest in December 2017 and January 2018 that was sparked by economic hardship.

Zam, who was granted political asylum in France and reportedly lived in Paris, ran a channel on the Telegram messaging app called Amadnews.

Telegram shut down the channel after Iran demanded it remove the account for inciting an "armed uprising".

Zam was charged with "corruption on earth" -- one of the most serious offences under Iranian law -- and sentenced to death in June.

State television aired an "interview" with him in July, in which he appears as saying he believed in reformism until he was detained in 2009 during protests against the disputed re-election of ultra-conservative president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

He also denied having instigated violence through his Telegram channel.

Amnesty has repeatedly called on Iran to stop broadcasting videos of "confessions" by suspects, saying they "violate the defendants' rights".

Zam is one of several people to have been put on death row over participation or links to protests that rocked Iran between 2017 and 2019.

Navid Afkari, a 27-year-old wrestler, was executed at a prison in the southern city of Shiraz in September.

The judiciary said he had been found guilty of "voluntary homicide" for stabbing to death a government employee in August 2018.

Shiraz and several other urban centres across Iran had been the scene of anti-government protests and demonstrations at the time over economic and social hardship.

Three young men were also sentenced to death over links to deadly 2019 protests, but Iran's supreme court said last week that it would retry them over a request by their defence team.

Their sentences were initially upheld by a tribunal over evidence the judiciary said was found on their phones of them setting alight banks, buses and public buildings during the wave of anti-government protests.

Iran on Saturday executed Ruhollah Zam, a former opposition figure who had lived in exile in France and was implicated in anti-government protests, days after his sentence was upheld.

Iran on Saturday executed Ruhollah Zam, a former opposition figure who had lived in exile in France and was implicated in anti-government protests, days after his sentence was upheld. State television said the "counter-revolutionary" Zam was hanged in the morning after the supreme court upheld his sentence due to "the severity of the crimes" committed against the Islamic republic. Judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili had on Tuesday said Zam's sentence was upheld by the supreme court "more than a month ago". London-based rights group Amnesty International, in a statement after his verdict was confirmed, described Zam as a "journalist and dissident". It said the confirmation marked "a shocking escalation in the use of the death penalty as a weapon of repression." Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced the arrest of Zam in October 2019, claiming he had been "directed by France's intelligence service". State television said he was "under the protection of several countries' intelligence services." The official IRNA news agency said he was also convicted of espionage for France and an unnamed country in the region, cooperating with the "hostile government of America", acting against "the country's security", insulting the "sanctity of Islam" and instigating violence during the 2017 protests. At least 25 people were killed during the unrest in December 2017 and January 2018 that was sparked by economic hardship. Zam, who was granted political asylum in France and reportedly lived in Paris, ran a channel on the Telegram messaging app called Amadnews. Telegram shut down the channel after Iran demanded it remove the account for inciting an "armed uprising". Zam was charged with "corruption on earth" -- one of the most serious offences under Iranian law -- and sentenced to death in June. State television aired an "interview" with him in July, in which he appears as saying he believed in reformism until he was detained in 2009 during protests against the disputed re-election of ultra-conservative president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. He also denied having instigated violence through his Telegram channel. Amnesty has repeatedly called on Iran to stop broadcasting videos of "confessions" by suspects, saying they "violate the defendants' rights". Zam is one of several people to have been put on death row over participation or links to protests that rocked Iran between 2017 and 2019. Navid Afkari, a 27-year-old wrestler, was executed at a prison in the southern city of Shiraz in September. The judiciary said he had been found guilty of "voluntary homicide" for stabbing to death a government employee in August 2018. Shiraz and several other urban centres across Iran had been the scene of anti-government protests and demonstrations at the time over economic and social hardship. Three young men were also sentenced to death over links to deadly 2019 protests, but Iran's supreme court said last week that it would retry them over a request by their defence team. Their sentences were initially upheld by a tribunal over evidence the judiciary said was found on their phones of them setting alight banks, buses and public buildings during the wave of anti-government protests.

Iran executes opposition figure Ruhollah Zam

Iran’s Supreme Court has upheld a death sentence against a dissident journalist who was captured in 2019 after years in exile in France, the judiciary said on Tuesday.

Ruhollah Zam, whose Amadnews social media feed had more than one million followers, was convicted of fomenting violence during anti-government protests in 2017.&nbsp;The decision was condemned by France and human rights groups.

Zam fled Iran and was given asylum in France.

Zam’s Amadnews feed was suspended by messaging service Telegram in 2018 for allegedly inciting violence but had reappeared under another name.

In October 2019, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps said it had trapped Zam in a “complex operation using intelligence deception”.

Nour News, a news agency close to the Revolutionary Guards, said on Tuesday: “After travelling to Iraq in September 2019, he (Zam) was arrested by agents...of the Revolutionary Guards intelligence service and brought to Iran.”

“The death sentence against the journalist Mr. Rouhollah Zam is a serious attack on freedom of expression and freedom of the press in Iran. France strongly condemns it and calls on Iran to respect its international human rights obligations,” the ministry said in a statement.

Amnesty International said in a tweet: “Iran’s Supreme Court upholding the death sentence of #RouhollahZam, a journalist and dissident, is a shocking escalation in Iran’s use of the death penalty as a weapon of repression.”

Iranian officials have accused arch-foe the United States as well as Tehran’s regional rival Saudi Arabia and government opponents living in exile of fomenting the unrest, which began in late 2017 as regional protests over economic hardship and spread nationwide.

Officials said 21 people were killed during the unrest and thousands were arrested. The unrest was among the worst Iran has seen in decades, and was followed by even deadlier protests last year against fuel price rises.

(with inputs)

Iran’s Supreme Court has upheld a death sentence against a dissident journalist who was captured in 2019 after years in exile in France, the judiciary said on Tuesday.

Iran’s Supreme Court has upheld a death sentence against a dissident journalist who was captured in 2019 after years in exile in France, the judiciary said on Tuesday. Ruhollah Zam, whose Amadnews social media feed had more than one million followers, was convicted of fomenting violence during anti-government protests in 2017. The decision was condemned by France and human rights groups. Zam fled Iran and was given asylum in France. Zam’s Amadnews feed was suspended by messaging service Telegram in 2018 for allegedly inciting violence but had reappeared under another name. In October 2019, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps said it had trapped Zam in a “complex operation using intelligence deception”. Nour News, a news agency close to the Revolutionary Guards, said on Tuesday: “After travelling to Iraq in September 2019, he (Zam) was arrested by agents...of the Revolutionary Guards intelligence service and brought to Iran.” “The death sentence against the journalist Mr. Rouhollah Zam is a serious attack on freedom of expression and freedom of the press in Iran. France strongly condemns it and calls on Iran to respect its international human rights obligations,” the ministry said in a statement. Amnesty International said in a tweet: “Iran’s Supreme Court upholding the death sentence of #RouhollahZam, a journalist and dissident, is a shocking escalation in Iran’s use of the death penalty as a weapon of repression.” Iranian officials have accused arch-foe the United States as well as Tehran’s regional rival Saudi Arabia and government opponents living in exile of fomenting the unrest, which began in late 2017 as regional protests over economic hardship and spread nationwide. Officials said 21 people were killed during the unrest and thousands were arrested. The unrest was among the worst Iran has seen in decades, and was followed by even deadlier protests last year against fuel price rises. (with inputs)

Iran upholds death sentence against France-based journalist it caught last year

Reports claim Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is transferring his title to his son due to ill health. If true, the transfer of power will bring about a seismic change in Tehran.

Gravitas: Is Khamenei transferring his title?

Iran’s Supreme Court has upheld a death sentence against France-based dissident journalist Ruhollah Zam for fuelling anti-government unrest in 2017 on social media

Iran top court upholds France-based dissident journalist's death sentence

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei may have transferred power to his son, according to reports. The leader reportedly did this because of his&nbsp;declining health. The following Twitter thread has got the world talking.

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الآن : مصادر إيرانية تتحدث تدهور صحة المرشد الإيراني خامنئي منذ ليلة البارحة ، وتؤكد بأن المقربين من خامنئي خائفون جداً على وضع خامنئي الصحي هذه المرة . <a href="https://t.co/aiMDuEigDM">pic.twitter.com/aiMDuEigDM</a>
— M.Majed محمد مجيد (@MohamadAhwaze) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamadAhwaze/status/1335171998645972992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On the December 5, a journalist from Iran made three huge claims - Khamenei's power and duties have been transferred to his son Mojtaba, that Khamenei had to cancel a recent meeting with Iranian president Hasan Rouhani because of his poor health, and that the Iranian supreme leader has prostrate cancer.

The Iranian news agency has denied the claims of power transfer and WION has not been able to independently verify it. The supreme leader is the be-all and end-all of Iran. If the claim of Ayatollah transferring power is indeed true, then it is nothing short of a seismic change in Iran.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/irans-khamenei-calls-for-punishing-those-behind-scientists-killing-346076" hreflang="en">Iran's Khamenei calls for 'punishing' those behind scientist's killing</a>

Iran's constitution institutionalises rule by islamic clerics, and Khamenei is Iran's second Ayatollah. “Ayatollah” means the sign of god. Over the years, it has become synonymous to dictatorship in Iran. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is Iran's spiritual head, and has the final say in everything that happens in the country. He has made Iran the centre of Shia theology, and has moulded the country into what it looks like today.

Khamenei is against free elections and open press, and he has weakened Iran's presidency, by giving Iran's Revolutionary Guard all the power it has today. Khamenei had decided to pursue a nuclear energy programme. He has always been suspicious of the west in general, and the United States in particular.

In the late 90s, Khamenei blocked then-president Mohammad Khatami's push for detente with the west. He did not oppose the 2015 nuclear deal. But criticised president Rouhani for expecting that Washington would uphold it.

When Trump withdrew from the deal 3 years later - the ayatollah remarked- “I said from the first day- do not trust America”. Iran's deceased general- Qasem Soleimani was Khamenei's close friend, and he has promised&nbsp; “severe revenge” for Soleimani's assassination.

Khamenei believes Israel should be eliminated and calls it a “cancerous tumour”. The ayatollah also questions the reality of the holocaust.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Holocaust?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Holocaust</a> is an event whose reality is uncertain and if it has happened, it's uncertain how it has happened.
— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/446928689943420928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2014</a></blockquote>
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In the past, he has issued fatwa against author - Salman Rushdie. And very recently, he played down COVID-19.&nbsp;

“It’s not something extraordinary”, the Islamic scholar said. In short, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stands for conservatism: Hardline politics and the legitimisation of clerical rule- based on shiite thought.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/iran-official-denies-khameneis-failing-health-rumours-348134" hreflang="en">Iran official denies Khamenei's failing health rumours</a>

Khamenei has monopolised the interpretation of the Islamic law. And has committed to maintaining clerical rule in Iran- one that was ushered in by his predecessor- Iran's first ayatollah - Ruhollah Khomeini - a man known for his focus on Islamic tradition, and rejection of western ideas.

The two men get the credit for making Iran one of the most powerful, and unpredictable nations in the neighbourhood.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei may have transferred power to his son, according to reports. The leader reportedly did this because of his declining health.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei may have transferred power to his son, according to reports. The leader reportedly did this because of his declining health. The following Twitter thread has got the world talking. الآن : مصادر إيرانية تتحدث تدهور صحة المرشد الإيراني خامنئي منذ ليلة البارحة ، وتؤكد بأن المقربين من خامنئي خائفون جداً على وضع خامنئي الصحي هذه المرة . pic.twitter.com/aiMDuEigDM — M.Majed محمد مجيد (@MohamadAhwaze) December 5, 2020 × On the December 5, a journalist from Iran made three huge claims - Khamenei's power and duties have been transferred to his son Mojtaba, that Khamenei had to cancel a recent meeting with Iranian president Hasan Rouhani because of his poor health, and that the Iranian supreme leader has prostrate cancer. The Iranian news agency has denied the claims of power transfer and WION has not been able to independently verify it. The supreme leader is the be-all and end-all of Iran. If the claim of Ayatollah transferring power is indeed true, then it is nothing short of a seismic change in Iran. Also read: Iran's Khamenei calls for 'punishing' those behind scientist's killing Iran's constitution institutionalises rule by islamic clerics, and Khamenei is Iran's second Ayatollah. “Ayatollah” means the sign of god. Over the years, it has become synonymous to dictatorship in Iran. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is Iran's spiritual head, and has the final say in everything that happens in the country. He has made Iran the centre of Shia theology, and has moulded the country into what it looks like today. Khamenei is against free elections and open press, and he has weakened Iran's presidency, by giving Iran's Revolutionary Guard all the power it has today. Khamenei had decided to pursue a nuclear energy programme. He has always been suspicious of the west in general, and the United States in particular. In the late 90s, Khamenei blocked then-president Mohammad Khatami's push for detente with the west. He did not oppose the 2015 nuclear deal. But criticised president Rouhani for expecting that Washington would uphold it. When Trump withdrew from the deal 3 years later - the ayatollah remarked- “I said from the first day- do not trust America”. Iran's deceased general- Qasem Soleimani was Khamenei's close friend, and he has promised “severe revenge” for Soleimani's assassination. Khamenei believes Israel should be eliminated and calls it a “cancerous tumour”. The ayatollah also questions the reality of the holocaust. #Holocaust is an event whose reality is uncertain and if it has happened, it's uncertain how it has happened. — Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) March 21, 2014 × In the past, he has issued fatwa against author - Salman Rushdie. And very recently, he played down COVID-19. “It’s not something extraordinary”, the Islamic scholar said. In short, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stands for conservatism: Hardline politics and the legitimisation of clerical rule- based on shiite thought. Also read: Iran official denies Khamenei's failing health rumours Khamenei has monopolised the interpretation of the Islamic law. And has committed to maintaining clerical rule in Iran- one that was ushered in by his predecessor- Iran's first ayatollah - Ruhollah Khomeini - a man known for his focus on Islamic tradition, and rejection of western ideas. The two men get the credit for making Iran one of the most powerful, and unpredictable nations in the neighbourhood.

Why Khamenei's alleged transfer of power to son signals seismic change for Iran

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