Over the weekend Iran carried out its retaliatory attack against Israel. Israel and its allies intercepted hundreds of drones and missiles sent by it. There's a lot of history, geopolitics and proxy wars involved but for now we look at the two countries and its two leaders. Watch in for more details!

Iran attacks Israel: How Netanyahu's next step could change his political future

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - EU parliament to vote on migration law overhaul - Flood devastation in Russia's Urals - Khamenei: Israel will be punished - US less popular in West Asia: Poll - Eid festivities begin in parts of the world

Spain slams Israel over war in Gaza | Khamenei: Israel will be punished

Meta announced on Thursday (Feb 9) that it had taken down the Facebook and Instagram accounts belonging to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, citing violations of its content policies. A spokesperson for Meta told AFP, "We have removed these accounts for repeatedly violating our Dangerous Organizations &amp; Individuals policy." The decision comes amidst mounting pressure on Meta to ban Khamenei following the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. However, it is worth noting that Meta did not explicitly reference this event in their statement while taking down Khamenei's social media accounts.&nbsp;

Following the attack, Khamenei expressed support for Hamas' actions but denied any involvement from Iran. "The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong," he had said in a speech at a military academy.&nbsp;

"Of course, we defend Palestine, we defend the struggles," he added, urging "the whole Islamic world" to "support the Palestinians," he added. The Iranian supreme leader also publicly endorsed Palestinian retaliation against Israel's actions in Gaza earlier and spoke in favour of attacks on shipping in the Red Sea by Yemen's Houthi rebels.&nbsp;

Khamenei, who has held power in Iran for 35 years, boasted five million followers on Instagram.

Meta's decision was based on its policy aimed at preventing real-world harm by disallowing organisations or individuals with violent agendas from using their platforms.

The policy states, "In an effort to prevent and disrupt real-world harm, we do not allow organizations or individuals that proclaim a violent mission or are engaged in violence to have a presence on our platforms," says the policy on which Meta based its decision."

Notably, Hamas is officially designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the United States. Reports said that Iranians utilise virtual private networks (VPNs) to circumvent restrictions and access prohibited websites or apps, including those owned by US companies like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

(With inputs from agencies)

Meta announced on Thursday (Feb 9) that it had taken down the Facebook and Instagram accounts belonging to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, citing violations of its content policies.

Meta announced on Thursday (Feb 9) that it had taken down the Facebook and Instagram accounts belonging to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, citing violations of its content policies. A spokesperson for Meta told AFP, "We have removed these accounts for repeatedly violating our Dangerous Organizations & Individuals policy." The decision comes amidst mounting pressure on Meta to ban Khamenei following the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel. However, it is worth noting that Meta did not explicitly reference this event in their statement while taking down Khamenei's social media accounts. Following the attack, Khamenei expressed support for Hamas' actions but denied any involvement from Iran. "The supporters of the Zionist regime (Israel) and some people in the usurping regime have been spreading rumours over the past two or three days, including that Islamic Iran was behind this action. They are wrong," he had said in a speech at a military academy. "Of course, we defend Palestine, we defend the struggles," he added, urging "the whole Islamic world" to "support the Palestinians," he added. The Iranian supreme leader also publicly endorsed Palestinian retaliation against Israel's actions in Gaza earlier and spoke in favour of attacks on shipping in the Red Sea by Yemen's Houthi rebels. Khamenei, who has held power in Iran for 35 years, boasted five million followers on Instagram. Meta's decision was based on its policy aimed at preventing real-world harm by disallowing organisations or individuals with violent agendas from using their platforms. The policy states, "In an effort to prevent and disrupt real-world harm, we do not allow organizations or individuals that proclaim a violent mission or are engaged in violence to have a presence on our platforms," says the policy on which Meta based its decision." Notably, Hamas is officially designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the United States. Reports said that Iranians utilise virtual private networks (VPNs) to circumvent restrictions and access prohibited websites or apps, including those owned by US companies like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. (With inputs from agencies)

Meta removes Iran Supreme Leader Khamenei from Facebook, Instagram for policy violations

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, said that countries that are seeking to normalise ties with Israel "are betting on a losing horse", state media reported on Tuesday. Though Khamenei did not name any specific country, his words have come just when it is expected that Israel might normalise ties with Saudi Arabia, the regional rival of Iran.

"The definite position of the Islamic Republic is that countries that make the gamble of normalisation with Israel will lose. They are betting on a losing horse," Khamenei said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shot back at Khamenei's remarks and said that Iranian efforts to stop countries in the region from establishing ties with Israel will fail. He cited agreements Israel signed with Arab nations in 2020.

"Just as Iran hasn't prevented us from achieving the Abraham Accords, Iran will also not prevent us from expanding the circle of peace for the benefit of the citizens of Israel, the people of the region and all of humanity."

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in an interview recently that a deal on relations with Israel was getting closer by the day and that Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden held a long-awaited meeting on the matter.

Last month, the Israeli foreign minister said that a framework US-brokered deal for ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia may be in place by next year.

If ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia normalise, it will result in a dramatic change in West Asia as it will bring both countries together along with the US with which both have strong ties. This may put Iran in an interesting position.

Four Arab states have formalised ties with Israel in pacts known as the Abraham Accords -- the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, said that countries that are seeking to normalise ties with Israel "are betting on a losing horse", state media reported on Tuesday.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, said that countries that are seeking to normalise ties with Israel "are betting on a losing horse", state media reported on Tuesday. Though Khamenei did not name any specific country, his words have come just when it is expected that Israel might normalise ties with Saudi Arabia, the regional rival of Iran. "The definite position of the Islamic Republic is that countries that make the gamble of normalisation with Israel will lose. They are betting on a losing horse," Khamenei said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shot back at Khamenei's remarks and said that Iranian efforts to stop countries in the region from establishing ties with Israel will fail. He cited agreements Israel signed with Arab nations in 2020. "Just as Iran hasn't prevented us from achieving the Abraham Accords, Iran will also not prevent us from expanding the circle of peace for the benefit of the citizens of Israel, the people of the region and all of humanity." Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said in an interview recently that a deal on relations with Israel was getting closer by the day and that Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden held a long-awaited meeting on the matter. Last month, the Israeli foreign minister said that a framework US-brokered deal for ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia may be in place by next year. If ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia normalise, it will result in a dramatic change in West Asia as it will bring both countries together along with the US with which both have strong ties. This may put Iran in an interesting position. Four Arab states have formalised ties with Israel in pacts known as the Abraham Accords -- the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran's Khamenei terms normalisation with Israel a 'losing' bet: State media

Iran's intelligence ministry, on Friday, condemned 'foreign enemies' and dissidents for inciting fears over suspected poisonings of schoolgirls saying that no toxic substance capable of causing poisoning was found in its laboratory investigations and field findings.

"The enemies' role in fuelling this crisis is certain and undeniable. Individuals, groups and Western media (especially in the Persian language)...have focused on this in the past few months, as well as foreign politicians and international bodies," said a ministry report carried by state media.

"In field findings and laboratory investigations...no toxic substance able to cause poisoning was observed...and there have been no deaths or long-term physical conditions," the report said, blaming mischievousness and mass hysteria among students.

The report condemned unspecified dissidents for instigating fears to create propaganda videos and also warned of "prosecution of individuals, groups, media who accused the government and aligned themselves with enemies". 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Iran's intelligence ministry also accused foreign 'enemies' of using the incidents to their advantage and playing an evident and undeniable role in provoking turmoil in the country.

<h2>Iranian leader calls suspected poisoning of schoolgirls ‘unforgivable’ after public outrage</h2>

Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, recently addressed the reports of the suspected poisoning of schoolgirls and called the incidents an 'unforgivable' crime.

“Authorities should seriously pursue the issue of students' poisoning,” said Khamenei, on state TV, as per Reuters. He added, “If it is proven deliberate, those perpetrators of this unforgivable crime should be sentenced to capital punishment and there will be no amnesty for them.”&nbsp;

According to reports by Iranian media, the first case was reported in Qom province on November 30, 2022.

More than 1,000 girls from different schools across the country have suffered “mild poison” attacks since November.

(With inputs from agencies)
<quillbot-extension-portal></quillbot-extension-portal>

 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

Iran's intelligence ministry, on Friday, condemned 'foreign enemies' and dissidents for inciting fears over suspected poisonings of schoolgirls saying that no toxic substance capable of causing poisoning was found in its laboratory investigations and field findings.

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

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

Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has pardoned "tens of thousands" of prisoners, including&nbsp;those arrested in recent protests against the government, state media reported.&nbsp;"Prisoners not facing charges of spying for foreign agencies, having direct contact with foreign agents, committing intentional murder and injury, committing destruction and arson of state property, or not having a private plaintiff in their case will be pardoned," state media said.

The pardons were announced in honour of the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution. Prisons and detention facilities in Iran already face&nbsp;overcrowding after protests.

Iran has been rocked by protests ever since the custodial death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman of Kurdish origin who was detained in September by Iran's morality police over 'inappropriate' attire. The nationwide protests have also seen protesters demanding fall of the clerical regime in the country.

According to the HRANA activist news agency, about 20,000 people have been arrested for anti-government protests.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protest-hit-iran-detains-woman-journalist-say-reports-558964">Protest-hit Iran detains woman journalist, say reports</a>

The news of the pardon has come on the same day as reports of a woman journalist being detained did rounds. Elnaz Mohammadi, the journalist with reformist news outlet Hammihan was detained, reported state media. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has pardoned "tens of thousands" of prisoners, including those arrested in recent protests against the government, state media reported.

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

Iran Supreme leader Khamenei pardons thousands of prisoners on 1979 Islamic revolution anniversary

Iran said it executed two men Saturday convicted of allegedly killing a paramilitary volunteer during a demonstration. Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei appointed on Saturday a new police chief, nearly four months into protests triggered by Mahsa Amini's death.

Iran executes 2 more protesters; Khamenei appoints new national police chief

Iran's supreme leader Khamenei's sister opposes her brother's actions, asks revolutionary guards to back the protesters. Ghadi Francis brings us all the latest updates on Iran protests in this week's The West Asia Post.

The West Asia Post: Protesters Vs Iran regime fight goes on

Iran has carried out its first protest-related execution. A 23-yr-old has been executed for allegedly attacking an Iranian security official. Is this the beginning of a more brutal crackdown? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Iran Supreme leader's family slams crackdown

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's niece, Farideh Moradkhani, has been&nbsp;detained by Iranian authorities after she made a video in which she referred to her uncle's government as a "murderous and child-killing dictatorship."&nbsp;She was previously imprisoned in Iran and hails from a family line with a history of criticising the country's Islamic rulers.

She was detained on Wednesday after coming to the prosecutor's office in response to a summons, according to a tweet from her brother Mahmoud Moradkhani.

Then, on Saturday, her brother uploaded a video to YouTube, and the link was shared on Twitter where she condemned the "clear and obvious oppression" Iranians have been subjected to, and criticised the international community's inaction.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Iranian Human Rights Activist and Khamenei’s Niece Farideh Moradkhani: Iranian People Are Fighting a Murderous, Child-Killing Regime; Anti-Iran Sanctions Are Ridiculous; Khomeini, Khamenei Are Like Hitler, Mussolini <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IranRevoIution2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IranRevoIution2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/MMsAKGVIpz">pic.twitter.com/MMsAKGVIpz</a>
— MEMRI (@MEMRIReports) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEMRIReports/status/1596852684199723008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Free people, be with us! Tell your governments to stop supporting this murderous and child-killing regime," she said.

"This regime is not loyal to any of its religious principles and does not know any law or rule except force and maintaining its power in any way possible."

It is unclear when the video had been recorded.

She criticised the "laughable" sanctions put in place against the regime due to its crackdown and claimed Iranians had been "left alone" in their struggle for freedom.

The sister of Khamenei who had a falling-out with her family in the 1980s and went to Iraq during the height of the conflict with Iran's neighbour is the mother of Moradkhani. She moved in with her husband, Ali Tehrani, a controversial preacher born Ali Moradkhani Arangeh.

She gained recognition for her work opposing the death sentence and was most recently detained in January of this year.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's niece, Farideh Moradkhani, has been detained by Iranian authorities after she made a video in which she referred to her uncle's government as a "murderous and child-killing dictatorship.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's niece, Farideh Moradkhani, has been detained by Iranian authorities after she made a video in which she referred to her uncle's government as a "murderous and child-killing dictatorship." She was previously imprisoned in Iran and hails from a family line with a history of criticising the country's Islamic rulers. She was detained on Wednesday after coming to the prosecutor's office in response to a summons, according to a tweet from her brother Mahmoud Moradkhani. Then, on Saturday, her brother uploaded a video to YouTube, and the link was shared on Twitter where she condemned the "clear and obvious oppression" Iranians have been subjected to, and criticised the international community's inaction. Iranian Human Rights Activist and Khamenei’s Niece Farideh Moradkhani: Iranian People Are Fighting a Murderous, Child-Killing Regime; Anti-Iran Sanctions Are Ridiculous; Khomeini, Khamenei Are Like Hitler, Mussolini #Iran #IranRevoIution2022 pic.twitter.com/MMsAKGVIpz — MEMRI (@MEMRIReports) November 27, 2022 × "Free people, be with us! Tell your governments to stop supporting this murderous and child-killing regime," she said. "This regime is not loyal to any of its religious principles and does not know any law or rule except force and maintaining its power in any way possible." It is unclear when the video had been recorded. She criticised the "laughable" sanctions put in place against the regime due to its crackdown and claimed Iranians had been "left alone" in their struggle for freedom. The sister of Khamenei who had a falling-out with her family in the 1980s and went to Iraq during the height of the conflict with Iran's neighbour is the mother of Moradkhani. She moved in with her husband, Ali Tehrani, a controversial preacher born Ali Moradkhani Arangeh. She gained recognition for her work opposing the death sentence and was most recently detained in January of this year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iran detained Khamenei's niece after she criticised regime, confirms brother

Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently warned that the enemies might now target workers after they failed to overthrow the Islamic republic in over two months of turmoil as the protests continue to flare.&nbsp;He said, "Until this hour, thank God, the enemies have been defeated. But the enemies have a new trick every day, and with today's defeat, they may target different classes such as workers and women."

Iran's recent protests have&nbsp;been one of the most audacious challenges to Iran's religious leaders and have gained momentum. Women and university children have been protesting against Iran's severe Islamic clothing code for women including headscarves.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-manufacture-drones-for-ukraine-war-on-russian-soil-report-535775">Also read |&nbsp;Iran to manufacture drones for Ukraine war on Russian soil: Report</a>

The protest began after a Kurdish-Iranian woman named Mahsa Amini, 22, passed away while being held by police after being detained for wearing clothing considered to be "inappropriate." Her death triggered a&nbsp;wave of rage across the country and&nbsp;mass demonstrations were held.&nbsp; 
 
The HRANA news agency on Saturday said that rallies and sit-ins were held on nearly 20 campuses. Videos alleging to show security forces firing at protesters were posted online.&nbsp;

As per local officials, the residence of the leading state-sanctioned cleric in Divandarreh was also destroyed, which claimed the lives of two.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-set-fire-to-irans-ex-supreme-leader-ayatollah-khomeinis-home-535248">Also read |&nbsp;Protesters set fire to Iran’s ex-supreme leader Ayatollah Khomeini's home</a>

A similar incident of violence occurred when demonstrators set fire to government offices, banks and post offices.&nbsp;

As of Friday, 402 protesters had been killed in the disturbance, including 58 juveniles, HRANA reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently warned that the enemies might now target workers after they failed to overthrow the Islamic republic in over two months of turmoil as the protests continue to flare.

Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently warned that the enemies might now target workers after they failed to overthrow the Islamic republic in over two months of turmoil as the protests continue to flare. He said, "Until this hour, thank God, the enemies have been defeated. But the enemies have a new trick every day, and with today's defeat, they may target different classes such as workers and women." Iran's recent protests have been one of the most audacious challenges to Iran's religious leaders and have gained momentum. Women and university children have been protesting against Iran's severe Islamic clothing code for women including headscarves. Also read | Iran to manufacture drones for Ukraine war on Russian soil: Report The protest began after a Kurdish-Iranian woman named Mahsa Amini, 22, passed away while being held by police after being detained for wearing clothing considered to be "inappropriate." Her death triggered a wave of rage across the country and mass demonstrations were held. The HRANA news agency on Saturday said that rallies and sit-ins were held on nearly 20 campuses. Videos alleging to show security forces firing at protesters were posted online. As per local officials, the residence of the leading state-sanctioned cleric in Divandarreh was also destroyed, which claimed the lives of two. Also read | Protesters set fire to Iran’s ex-supreme leader Ayatollah Khomeini's home A similar incident of violence occurred when demonstrators set fire to government offices, banks and post offices. As of Friday, 402 protesters had been killed in the disturbance, including 58 juveniles, HRANA reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran's supreme leader Khamenei warns 'foreign enemies' may target workers as protests rage

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said Tehran continues to plan a response to the killing the of a top general in 2020 by the US. This comes after Saudi Arabia told US authorities that Iran may attack the kingdom.

Gravitas: Iran's Supreme Leader seeks "revenge" from the US

Three people were killed after Iranian forces opened fire at&nbsp;scores of protesters in the western town of Mahabad, according to local media reports.

A scuffle had broken out between security forces and the agitators who were targeting the government buildings in protest against the killing of an anti-regime protester, Ismail Moloudi.

The protesters had gathered there after Moloudi was buried in the city.

Videos of the funeral site showed a group of people, allegedly family and friends of the deceased, shouting "the Shahid (martyr) will not die," according to the Hengaw Human Rights Organization.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A8%DB%95%D9%BE%DB%95%D9%84%DB%95?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#بەپەلە</a> 
 
هێزە چەکدارەکانی حکومەت لە گەڕەکی گومرکی مەهاباد خەڵکیان داوەتە بەر دەستڕێژی گوللە. ماڵی ئیسماعیل مەولوودی لەو گەڕەکەیە. 
 
پێنجشەممە، ٥ی خەزەڵوەری ٢٧٢٢ 
 
وێنەی تایبەت بە هەنگاو<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%85%D9%87%D8%B3%D8%A7_%D8%A7%D9%85%DB%8C%D9%86%DB%8C?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#مهسا_امینی</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%DA%98%DB%8C%D9%86%D8%A7_%D8%A6%DB%95%D9%85%DB%8C%D9%86%DB%8C?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ژینا_ئەمینی</a><a href="https://t.co/gNVAU7aIRD">pic.twitter.com/gNVAU7aIRD</a>
— Hengaw Human Rights Organization (@HengawO) <a href="https://twitter.com/HengawO/status/1585550446327992321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
تصاویری که به دست <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AF%DB%8C%D9%88%D9%81%D8%B1%D8%AF%D8%A7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#رادیوفردا</a> رسیده است نشان می‌دهند نیروهای امنیتی در مراسم چهلم <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%86%DB%8C%DA%A9%D8%A7_%D8%B4%D8%A7%DA%A9%D8%B1%D9%85%DB%8C?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#نیکا_شاکرمی</a>، از جان‌باختگان <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D8%A7%D8%B9%D8%AA%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%AA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#اعتراضات</a> اخیر، به سمت معترضان شلیک می‌کنند. <a href="https://t.co/RJdpRDU4U0">pic.twitter.com/RJdpRDU4U0</a>
— RadioFarda‌|‌راديو فردا (@RadioFarda_) <a href="https://twitter.com/RadioFarda_/status/1585644039721783296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

WION couldn't verify the authenticity of these videos.&nbsp;

The protesters had then marched towards the governor’s office in Mahabad— a largely ethnically Kurdish town—where they faced off with the security guards.

Mahabad officials claimed that "terrorist-separatist groups" were behind the attack on government facilities, and accused protesters of attacking "political and security centres with the aim to occupy them", reports BBC.

Local reports claimed that two women and a man were among those shot by security forces.

Rights group Amnesty International claimed that security forces have killed eight people since Wednesday.

According to internet watchdog NetBlocks, internet access was disrupted in Mahabad on Thursday evening following the clashes.

Another Iranian town in the west witnessed similar clashes between the protesters and security forces, with chants of&nbsp;"down with the dictator", a reference to Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, reverberating across the area.

The agitators had gathered in Khorramabad cemetery to mourn Nika Shakarami, who disappeared soon after Mahsa Amini's death and became another symbol of the protest movement.

For over a month, Iran had been rocked by a series of street protests following the death of Amini, who was detained by Iran's morality police for not wearing the Islamic headscarf&nbsp;appropriately.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Three people were killed after Iranian forces opened fire at scores of protesters in the western town of Mahabad, according to local media reports. A scuffle had broken out between security forces and the agitators who were targeting the government buildings in protest against the killing of an anti-regime protester, Ismail Moloudi.

Three people were killed after Iranian forces opened fire at scores of protesters in the western town of Mahabad, according to local media reports. A scuffle had broken out between security forces and the agitators who were targeting the government buildings in protest against the killing of an anti-regime protester, Ismail Moloudi. The protesters had gathered there after Moloudi was buried in the city. Videos of the funeral site showed a group of people, allegedly family and friends of the deceased, shouting "the Shahid (martyr) will not die," according to the Hengaw Human Rights Organization. #بەپەلە هێزە چەکدارەکانی حکومەت لە گەڕەکی گومرکی مەهاباد خەڵکیان داوەتە بەر دەستڕێژی گوللە. ماڵی ئیسماعیل مەولوودی لەو گەڕەکەیە. پێنجشەممە، ٥ی خەزەڵوەری ٢٧٢٢ وێنەی تایبەت بە هەنگاو#مهسا_امینی#ژینا_ئەمینیpic.twitter.com/gNVAU7aIRD — Hengaw Human Rights Organization (@HengawO) October 27, 2022 × تصاویری که به دست #رادیوفردا رسیده است نشان می‌دهند نیروهای امنیتی در مراسم چهلم #نیکا_شاکرمی، از جان‌باختگان #اعتراضات اخیر، به سمت معترضان شلیک می‌کنند. pic.twitter.com/RJdpRDU4U0 — RadioFarda‌|‌راديو فردا (@RadioFarda_) October 27, 2022 × WION couldn't verify the authenticity of these videos. The protesters had then marched towards the governor’s office in Mahabad— a largely ethnically Kurdish town—where they faced off with the security guards. Mahabad officials claimed that "terrorist-separatist groups" were behind the attack on government facilities, and accused protesters of attacking "political and security centres with the aim to occupy them", reports BBC. Local reports claimed that two women and a man were among those shot by security forces. Rights group Amnesty International claimed that security forces have killed eight people since Wednesday. According to internet watchdog NetBlocks, internet access was disrupted in Mahabad on Thursday evening following the clashes. Another Iranian town in the west witnessed similar clashes between the protesters and security forces, with chants of "down with the dictator", a reference to Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, reverberating across the area. The agitators had gathered in Khorramabad cemetery to mourn Nika Shakarami, who disappeared soon after Mahsa Amini's death and became another symbol of the protest movement. For over a month, Iran had been rocked by a series of street protests following the death of Amini, who was detained by Iran's morality police for not wearing the Islamic headscarf appropriately. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iranian security forces open fire at protesters, three killed

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has given his full backing to security forces - as thousands of Iranians continue with their protests against the government. Will the crackdown against protesters intensify? Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Khamenei sends a warning to protesters

Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has blamed the United States and Israel for protests that have gripped the country for more than two weeks. In other news,&nbsp;Swedish Coast Guard said on Monday said there was no visible gas leak from Nord Stream 1 pipeline. The series of leaks and blasts surrounding the pipeline has started a blame game between the West and Moscow.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-khamenei-blames-us-israel-for-protests-after-mahsa-aminis-death-522097">Iran: Khamenei blames US, Israel for protests that erupted after Mahsa Amini's death</a>

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the United States and Israel for nationwide protests that erupted after custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. This is Khamenei's first public statement on the issue the protests over which have rocked the Islamic Republic for nearly a month now.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/03/300899-khamenei.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gas-leak-from-nord-stream-1-has-stopped-says-swedish-coast-guard-522069">Gas leak from Nord Stream 1 has stopped, says Swedish Coast Guard</a>

Swedish Coast Guard said on Monday (October 3) that there was no visible gas leak from Nord Stream 1 pipeline but a smaller leak from Nord Stream 2 was still visible.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/21/280861-nord.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-tv-journalist-who-criticised-putin-listed-wanted-after-fleeing-house-arrest-522120">Russian TV journalist who criticised Putin listed 'wanted' after fleeing house arrest</a>

Marina Ovsyannikova, a Russian TV journalist who made headlines by hijacking a state television broadcast to denounce the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has been put on Moscow's wanted list after she allegedly escaped house arrest.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/07/18/279956-new-wion-9.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-makes-u-turn-eliminates-tax-cut-for-high-earners-following-market-unrest-521963">UK makes U-turn, eliminates tax cut for high earners following market unrest</a>

Just 10 days after a debt-driven budget caused market turbulence and drew harsh condemnation during a cost-of-living crisis, Britain on Monday abandoned plans to lower its top income tax rate.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/03/300872-liz-truss.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wasnt-the-best-way-to-go-kwarteng-admits-mistake-of-attending-champagne-reception-after-budget-522048">‘Wasn’t the best way to go’: Kwarteng admits mistake of attending champagne reception after budget</a>

Earlier today, in an interview, Kwasi Kwarteng, UK's Chancellor of the Exchequer, spoke up about his presence at the private champagne reception that stirred controversy, as it was hours after delivering his mini-budget speech. The reception was reportedly attended by Britain’s leading entrepreneurs, hedge fund managers and property developers.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/03/300862-wion-images-18.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-justice-minister-to-face-trial-over-conflict-of-interest-charges-522085">French justice minister to face trial over conflict of interest charges</a>

French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti will stand trial before a special judicial body in a conflict of interest case that has become the Achilles heel of President Emmanuel Macron's government.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/16/202624-untitled-design-24.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-philippines-kick-off-joint-naval-exercise-amid-china-tension-522082">US and Philippines kick off joint naval exercise amid China tension</a>

The US and Philippines armed forces on Monday kicked off joint naval exercise named KAMANDAG (Kaagapay Ng Mga Mandirigma ng Dagat), an acronym in Filipino for "Cooperation of the warriors of the sea". The exercise will run till October 14 and will see the participation of 2,550 American and 530 Filipino troops.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/03/300887-untitled-design-1.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bomb-threat-on-china-bound-iranian-plane-over-indian-airspace-521946">China-bound Iranian plane leaves Indian airspace following false bomb scare</a>

Indian military jets were scrambled on Monday after a bomb alert on an Iranian airliner that turned out to be false, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said. The threat&nbsp;was reported onboard a Mahan Air plane&nbsp;over Indian airspace. The passenger plane was moving from Iran to China's Guangzhou.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/03/300781-000si1qr.jpg" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-ruled-out-of-the-t20-world-cup-2022-confirms-bcci-522117">Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2022, confirms BCCI</a>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday confirmed fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. The tournament is all set to get underway in Australia later this month and Bumrah was facing a race against time to be fully fit after sustaining a back injury.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/10/03/300913-bumrah-india-injury.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kim-kardashian-settles-sec-crypto-charge-to-pay-126-million-522091">Kim Kardashian settles SEC crypto charge, to pay $1.26 million</a>

Kim&nbsp;Kardashian&nbsp;has agreed to settle charges of unlawfully touting a crypto security and to pay $1.26 million in penalties and associated fees, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission said on Monday.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/08/14/287474-sdfvhyyyy.jpg" />

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has blamed the United States and Israel for protests that have gripped the country for more than two weeks. In other news, Swedish Coast Guard said on Monday said there was no visible gas leak from Nord Stream 1 pipeline.

Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has blamed the United States and Israel for protests that have gripped the country for more than two weeks. In other news, Swedish Coast Guard said on Monday said there was no visible gas leak from Nord Stream 1 pipeline. The series of leaks and blasts surrounding the pipeline has started a blame game between the West and Moscow. Click on headlines to read more: Iran: Khamenei blames US, Israel for protests that erupted after Mahsa Amini's death Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the United States and Israel for nationwide protests that erupted after custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. This is Khamenei's first public statement on the issue the protests over which have rocked the Islamic Republic for nearly a month now. Gas leak from Nord Stream 1 has stopped, says Swedish Coast Guard Swedish Coast Guard said on Monday (October 3) that there was no visible gas leak from Nord Stream 1 pipeline but a smaller leak from Nord Stream 2 was still visible. Russian TV journalist who criticised Putin listed 'wanted' after fleeing house arrest Marina Ovsyannikova, a Russian TV journalist who made headlines by hijacking a state television broadcast to denounce the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has been put on Moscow's wanted list after she allegedly escaped house arrest. UK makes U-turn, eliminates tax cut for high earners following market unrest Just 10 days after a debt-driven budget caused market turbulence and drew harsh condemnation during a cost-of-living crisis, Britain on Monday abandoned plans to lower its top income tax rate. ‘Wasn’t the best way to go’: Kwarteng admits mistake of attending champagne reception after budget Earlier today, in an interview, Kwasi Kwarteng, UK's Chancellor of the Exchequer, spoke up about his presence at the private champagne reception that stirred controversy, as it was hours after delivering his mini-budget speech. The reception was reportedly attended by Britain’s leading entrepreneurs, hedge fund managers and property developers. French justice minister to face trial over conflict of interest charges French Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti will stand trial before a special judicial body in a conflict of interest case that has become the Achilles heel of President Emmanuel Macron's government. US and Philippines kick off joint naval exercise amid China tension The US and Philippines armed forces on Monday kicked off joint naval exercise named KAMANDAG (Kaagapay Ng Mga Mandirigma ng Dagat), an acronym in Filipino for "Cooperation of the warriors of the sea". The exercise will run till October 14 and will see the participation of 2,550 American and 530 Filipino troops. China-bound Iranian plane leaves Indian airspace following false bomb scare Indian military jets were scrambled on Monday after a bomb alert on an Iranian airliner that turned out to be false, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said. The threat was reported onboard a Mahan Air plane over Indian airspace. The passenger plane was moving from Iran to China's Guangzhou. Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2022, confirms BCCI The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday confirmed fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. The tournament is all set to get underway in Australia later this month and Bumrah was facing a race against time to be fully fit after sustaining a back injury. Kim Kardashian settles SEC crypto charge, to pay $1.26 million Kim Kardashian has agreed to settle charges of unlawfully touting a crypto security and to pay $1.26 million in penalties and associated fees, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission said on Monday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Top 10 world news: Khamenei blames US, Israel for mass protests, Nord Stream 1 leak stops & more

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the United States and Israel for nationwide protests that erupted after custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. This is Khamenei's first public statement on the issue the protests over which have rocked the Islamic Republic for nearly a month now.&nbsp;

"I say clearly that these riots and the insecurity were engineered by America and the occupying, false Zionist regime, as well as their paid agents, with the help of some traitorous Iranians abroad," said Khamenei.

Mahsa Amini was taken into custody by Iran's notorious morality police over 'improper' attire. Amini was pronounced dead on September 16

Amini's death resulted in biggest wave of protests in Iran in three years.

In his comments, Khamenei said that police must "stand up to criminals" and added that "whoever attacks the police leaves the people defenceless against criminals, thugs, thieves".

"The death of the young woman broke our hearts," said Khamenei. "But what is not normal is that some people, without proof or an investigation, have made the streets dangerous, burned the Koran, removed hijabs from veiled women and set fire to mosques and cars".

The Iranian regime has regularly described protesters as 'rioters' and has sought to paint the protests as something that detrimental to Iranian society. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's recent address to the nation was no exception.

Concern grew about a crackdown overnight on students at Tehran's prestigious Sharif University of Technology where, local media reported, riot police carrying steel pellet guns used tear gas and paintball guns against hundreds of students.

"Woman, life, liberty" the students shouted, as well as "students prefer death to humiliation", Mehr news agency reported.&nbsp;

Iran's science minister, Mohammad Ali Zolfigol, came to speak to the students in a bid to calm the situation, the report said.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the United States and Israel for nationwide protests that erupted after custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the United States and Israel for nationwide protests that erupted after custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. This is Khamenei's first public statement on the issue the protests over which have rocked the Islamic Republic for nearly a month now. "I say clearly that these riots and the insecurity were engineered by America and the occupying, false Zionist regime, as well as their paid agents, with the help of some traitorous Iranians abroad," said Khamenei. Mahsa Amini was taken into custody by Iran's notorious morality police over 'improper' attire. Amini was pronounced dead on September 16 Amini's death resulted in biggest wave of protests in Iran in three years. In his comments, Khamenei said that police must "stand up to criminals" and added that "whoever attacks the police leaves the people defenceless against criminals, thugs, thieves". "The death of the young woman broke our hearts," said Khamenei. "But what is not normal is that some people, without proof or an investigation, have made the streets dangerous, burned the Koran, removed hijabs from veiled women and set fire to mosques and cars". The Iranian regime has regularly described protesters as 'rioters' and has sought to paint the protests as something that detrimental to Iranian society. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's recent address to the nation was no exception. Concern grew about a crackdown overnight on students at Tehran's prestigious Sharif University of Technology where, local media reported, riot police carrying steel pellet guns used tear gas and paintball guns against hundreds of students. "Woman, life, liberty" the students shouted, as well as "students prefer death to humiliation", Mehr news agency reported. Iran's science minister, Mohammad Ali Zolfigol, came to speak to the students in a bid to calm the situation, the report said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran: Khamenei blames US, Israel for protests that erupted after Mahsa Amini's death

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei spoke for the second time in less than a week in a televised speech on Wednesday, appearing healthy after a report that he had been under observation by a team of doctors.

The New York Times reported on September&nbsp;16 that Khamenei, 83, had cancelled all meetings and public appearances after falling gravely ill and was on bed rest under observation by the team of doctors, quoting four people familiar with his health situation.

Khamenei, who has led the Islamic Republic since 1989, appeared on Wednesday to deliver remarks at an event commemorating veterans of the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war.

Dressed in his usual clerical robes, he spoke for 55 minutes, focusing mostly on the Iran-Iraq war and "the need to teach young Iranians about the conflict and for them not to fall for Western powers' deception".

He did not mention protests that have swept Iran for the last four days over the death of a young woman while she was in the custody of Iran's morality police.

Prior to his address, Khamenei sat for close to an hour on a podium listening to speeches by army commanders and religious songs, wearing a face covering. He got up unaided from his chair to deliver his remarks and spoke clearly.

Khamenei, a staunch opponent of the United States and its allies in the Middle East, has been supreme leader since the 1989 death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who established Iran's Islamic Republic after the 1979 revolution.

On Saturday, Khamenei received a group of visitors during a religious ceremony. It was his first public appearance for more than two weeks.

Two sources close to Khamenei denied to Reuters on Friday that his health had deteriorated, responding to questions about his health. Until Saturday's appearance, Khamenei had not been seen in public since Sept. 3, sparking social media rumours that he was ill.

During his more than three decades in charge, Khamenei has continued to defy the United States, spread Iranian military power in the Middle East and kept an iron grip at home.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei spoke for the second time in less than a week in a televised speech on Wednesday, appearing healthy after a report that he had been under observation by a team of doctors.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei spoke for the second time in less than a week in a televised speech on Wednesday, appearing healthy after a report that he had been under observation by a team of doctors. The New York Times reported on September 16 that Khamenei, 83, had cancelled all meetings and public appearances after falling gravely ill and was on bed rest under observation by the team of doctors, quoting four people familiar with his health situation. Khamenei, who has led the Islamic Republic since 1989, appeared on Wednesday to deliver remarks at an event commemorating veterans of the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war. Dressed in his usual clerical robes, he spoke for 55 minutes, focusing mostly on the Iran-Iraq war and "the need to teach young Iranians about the conflict and for them not to fall for Western powers' deception". He did not mention protests that have swept Iran for the last four days over the death of a young woman while she was in the custody of Iran's morality police. Prior to his address, Khamenei sat for close to an hour on a podium listening to speeches by army commanders and religious songs, wearing a face covering. He got up unaided from his chair to deliver his remarks and spoke clearly. Khamenei, a staunch opponent of the United States and its allies in the Middle East, has been supreme leader since the 1989 death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who established Iran's Islamic Republic after the 1979 revolution. On Saturday, Khamenei received a group of visitors during a religious ceremony. It was his first public appearance for more than two weeks. Two sources close to Khamenei denied to Reuters on Friday that his health had deteriorated, responding to questions about his health. Until Saturday's appearance, Khamenei had not been seen in public since Sept. 3, sparking social media rumours that he was ill. During his more than three decades in charge, Khamenei has continued to defy the United States, spread Iranian military power in the Middle East and kept an iron grip at home. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran's supreme leader Khamenei delivers second speech after reports of grave illness

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei spoke at an event for the second time in less than a week. This comes two weeks after the reports of Khamenei's deteriorating health.

WION Dispatch | Iran’s supremo Khamenei gives second televised speech after reports of ill health

After massive protests in Iran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday (June 04) said foreign ''enemies'' seeking to overthrow the Islamic Republic are responsible for them.

Accusing them of piracy for seizing two Greek ships after the United States confiscated Iranian oil from a tanker, Khamenei said enemies were waging a “psychological war” against Iran.

According to him, “Who is the pirate here? You stole our oil. We took it back from you. Taking back a stolen good is no theft."

Referring to week-long protests over the collapse of a building in southwestern Iran last month that killed 37 people, Khamenei said, "Today, the enemies’ most important hope for striking a blow at the country is based on popular protests.”

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-un-iran-can-make-a-nuclear-weapon-483935/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

During a televised speech on the 33rd anniversary of the death of the leader of Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, he highlighted that ''the enemies’ calculation is as wrong as many earlier ones.''

Repeating his call for punishment of officials responsible for the collapse of the 10-storey Metropol tower block in Abadan, Khamenei said the United States is seeking to use protests to weaken the Islamic republic.

In an apparent attempt to stop the use of social media to organise rallies and disseminate videos, Iran residents have reported disrupted internet services.

Iran, which has been reeling under the effect of sanctions imposed by the United States since 2018, has witnessed waves of protests over living conditions in recent years.

Exacerbated by rising prices worldwide since Russia invaded Ukraine in February, demonstrations against the rising cost of living and corruption have occurred in several Iranian cities. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1&lt;/div">&amp;times;</iframe></div>

&nbsp;
</div>

After massive protests in Iran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday (June 04) said foreign ''enemies'' seeking to overthrow the Islamic Republic are responsible for them.

After massive protests in Iran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday (June 04) said foreign ''enemies'' seeking to overthrow the Islamic Republic are responsible for them. Accusing them of piracy for seizing two Greek ships after the United States confiscated Iranian oil from a tanker, Khamenei said enemies were waging a “psychological war” against Iran. According to him, “Who is the pirate here? You stole our oil. We took it back from you. Taking back a stolen good is no theft." Referring to week-long protests over the collapse of a building in southwestern Iran last month that killed 37 people, Khamenei said, "Today, the enemies’ most important hope for striking a blow at the country is based on popular protests.” During a televised speech on the 33rd anniversary of the death of the leader of Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, he highlighted that ''the enemies’ calculation is as wrong as many earlier ones.'' Repeating his call for punishment of officials responsible for the collapse of the 10-storey Metropol tower block in Abadan, Khamenei said the United States is seeking to use protests to weaken the Islamic republic. In an apparent attempt to stop the use of social media to organise rallies and disseminate videos, Iran residents have reported disrupted internet services. Iran, which has been reeling under the effect of sanctions imposed by the United States since 2018, has witnessed waves of protests over living conditions in recent years. Exacerbated by rising prices worldwide since Russia invaded Ukraine in February, demonstrations against the rising cost of living and corruption have occurred in several Iranian cities. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Khamenei blames protests in Iran on foreign 'enemies' seeking to overthrow Islamic Republic

Iran's supreme leader vowed on Thursday that his country would ramp up the development of its civilian nuclear program, as major world powers continued delicate talks in Vienna to revive Tehran's landmark nuclear deal.

In a televised speech, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged the importance of nuclear energy for Iran, while again asserting that it had no interest in nuclear weapons. Khamenei's remarks seemed clearly aimed at the countries involved in the Vienna talks.

"Enemies are making cruel moves against our nuclear energy issue, (putting) sanctions on nuclear energy that they know is peaceful," he said. "They do not want Iran to achieve this great and significant progress."

The accord, which former President Donald Trump abandoned nearly four years ago, granted Iran sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on its atomic program.

Iran's chief nuclear negotiator, Ali Bagheri Kani, tweeted late Wednesday that the parties were "closer than ever" to an agreement.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
After weeks of intensive talks, we are closer than ever to an agreement; nothing is agreed until everything is agreed, though. 
Our negotiating partners need to be realistic, avoid intransigence and heed lessons of past 4yrs. 
Time for their serious decisions. <a href="https://t.co/kRnSte9Bzu">https://t.co/kRnSte9Bzu</a>
— علی باقری‌کنی (@Bagheri_Kani) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bagheri_Kani/status/1494035061007650818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

But talks have repeatedly stalled in recent months as Iranian negotiators press hard-line demands, exasperating Western diplomats.

Khamenei, who so far has largely stayed silent on the ongoing negotiations, called claims that Iran was pursuing a bomb "nonsense," saying they were meant to deprive Iran of its legitimate right to nuclear power.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
They know Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful. But they make absurd, senseless claims on how close Iran is to making a bomb. We seek peaceful use of nuclear energy. They know this, but they want the Iranian nation to face difficulties when it needs nuclear energy in the future.
— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1494235034580049922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"If we do not pursue (peaceful nuclear energy) today, tomorrow will be late," he said. Iran long has insisted its nuclear program is peaceful. But the country's steps away from its obligations under the 2015 accord have alarmed its archenemy Israel and world powers.

Tehran has since started enriching uranium up to 60% purity — a short technical step from the 90% needed to make an atomic bomb, and spinning far more advanced centrifuges than those permitted under the deal.

Iran's supreme leader vowed on Thursday that his country would ramp up the development of its civilian nuclear program, as major world powers continued delicate talks in Vienna to revive Tehran's landmark nuclear deal.

Iran's supreme leader vowed on Thursday that his country would ramp up the development of its civilian nuclear program, as major world powers continued delicate talks in Vienna to revive Tehran's landmark nuclear deal. In a televised speech, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged the importance of nuclear energy for Iran, while again asserting that it had no interest in nuclear weapons. Khamenei's remarks seemed clearly aimed at the countries involved in the Vienna talks. "Enemies are making cruel moves against our nuclear energy issue, (putting) sanctions on nuclear energy that they know is peaceful," he said. "They do not want Iran to achieve this great and significant progress." The accord, which former President Donald Trump abandoned nearly four years ago, granted Iran sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on its atomic program. Iran's chief nuclear negotiator, Ali Bagheri Kani, tweeted late Wednesday that the parties were "closer than ever" to an agreement. After weeks of intensive talks, we are closer than ever to an agreement; nothing is agreed until everything is agreed, though. Our negotiating partners need to be realistic, avoid intransigence and heed lessons of past 4yrs. Time for their serious decisions. https://t.co/kRnSte9Bzu — علی باقری‌کنی (@Bagheri_Kani) February 16, 2022 × But talks have repeatedly stalled in recent months as Iranian negotiators press hard-line demands, exasperating Western diplomats. Khamenei, who so far has largely stayed silent on the ongoing negotiations, called claims that Iran was pursuing a bomb "nonsense," saying they were meant to deprive Iran of its legitimate right to nuclear power. They know Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful. But they make absurd, senseless claims on how close Iran is to making a bomb. We seek peaceful use of nuclear energy. They know this, but they want the Iranian nation to face difficulties when it needs nuclear energy in the future. — Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) February 17, 2022 × "If we do not pursue (peaceful nuclear energy) today, tomorrow will be late," he said. Iran long has insisted its nuclear program is peaceful. But the country's steps away from its obligations under the 2015 accord have alarmed its archenemy Israel and world powers. Tehran has since started enriching uranium up to 60% purity — a short technical step from the 90% needed to make an atomic bomb, and spinning far more advanced centrifuges than those permitted under the deal.

Iran supreme leader Khamenei urges nuclear energy progress amid talks

Just before nuclear talks with world powers in Vienna&nbsp;to get rid of sanctions, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei has compared US President Joe Biden with his predecessor Donald Trump. Khamenei said Biden is no different from Trump and called him 'predatory wolf'. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The supreme leader slammed the behaviour of the US on Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal on Saturday. He said the country behaved as if Iran had left the accord as the US unilaterally withdrew from it in 2018 and imposed harsh sanctions. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Iranian, Gulf Arab officials meet in Baghdad

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/iranian-gulf-arab-officials-meet-in-baghdad-409135/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Talking about the signatories to the deal from Europe, Khamenei said, “they are like the US as well, but in words and rhetoric they are always demanding, as if it was Iran that for long ridiculed and undermined negotiations”.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The remarks came when he met with President Ebrahim Raisi’s cabinet, which had earlier gained a sweeping vote of confidence in the parliament on Wednesday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-ida-strengthens-louisiana-braces-for-severe-blow-409120" hreflang="en">Hurricane Ida strengthens, Louisiana braces for severe blow</a>

Earlier, Iran's supreme leader declared Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again. &nbsp;

"The Americans acted completely cowardly and maliciously," state TV quoted Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as saying. &nbsp;

"They once violated the nuclear deal at no cost by exiting it. Now they explicitly say that they cannot give guarantees that it would not happen again." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Just before nuclear talks with world powers in Vienna to get rid of sanctions, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei has compared US President Joe Biden with his predecessor Donald Trump.

Just before nuclear talks with world powers in Vienna to get rid of sanctions, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei has compared US President Joe Biden with his predecessor Donald Trump. Khamenei said Biden is no different from Trump and called him 'predatory wolf'. The supreme leader slammed the behaviour of the US on Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal on Saturday. He said the country behaved as if Iran had left the accord as the US unilaterally withdrew from it in 2018 and imposed harsh sanctions. Watch: Iranian, Gulf Arab officials meet in Baghdad × Talking about the signatories to the deal from Europe, Khamenei said, “they are like the US as well, but in words and rhetoric they are always demanding, as if it was Iran that for long ridiculed and undermined negotiations”. The remarks came when he met with President Ebrahim Raisi’s cabinet, which had earlier gained a sweeping vote of confidence in the parliament on Wednesday. Also Read: Hurricane Ida strengthens, Louisiana braces for severe blow Earlier, Iran's supreme leader declared Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again. "The Americans acted completely cowardly and maliciously," state TV quoted Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as saying. "They once violated the nuclear deal at no cost by exiting it. Now they explicitly say that they cannot give guarantees that it would not happen again." (With inputs from agencies)

Before talks, Iran's supreme leader says 'predatory wolf' Biden no different from Trump  

Iran's supreme leader on Wednesday declared Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again. 
 
"The Americans acted completely cowardly and maliciously," state TV quoted Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as saying. 
 
"They once violated the nuclear deal at no cost by exiting it. Now they explicitly say that they cannot give guarantees that it would not happen again." 
 
A US&nbsp;State Department spokesperson said in a statement that President Joe Biden`s administration "has been sincere and steadfast in pursuing a path of meaningful diplomacy to achieve a mutual return to compliance" with the agreement. 
 
Since April 9, Tehran and six world powers have been in talks to revive the nuclear pact ditched three years ago by then US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, who argued it favoured Iran. 
 
The sixth round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington adjourned on June 20, two days after hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi was elected president of the Islamic Republic. Parties involved in the negotiations have yet to announce when the next round of negotiations will resume. 
 
The State Department spokesperson said the United States has made clear it is prepared to return to Vienna to resume negotiations. "We urge Iran to return to the negotiations soon so that we can seek to conclude this deal," the spokesperson said. 
 
Like Khamenei, Raisi has backed the revival of the nuclear pact but officials have said that his government might adopt "a hardline" approach. Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on Iran`s state matters, including the nuclear policy. 
 
Iranian and Western officials have said significant gaps remained to reinstate the deal, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear program to make it harder to obtain fissile material for a weapon in return for relief from tough sanctions. Iran says it has never sought nuclear weapons and never would. 
 
HARSH SANCTIONS 
 
Harsh sanctions reimposed by Trump since 2018 have prompted Tehran to violate the deal`s limits. However, Tehran says its nuclear steps are reversible if Washington lifts all sanctions. 
 
Biden seeks to reinstate and eventually broaden the pact to put more limits on Iran’s nuclear work and its missile development and constrain its regional activities. 
 
Khamenei again flatly rejected adding any other issues to the deal. 
 
"In the recent nuclear talks, the Americans staunchly insisted on their obstinate stance. When making promises and on paper they say they will remove sanctions, but in practice they have not and they will not," Khamenei said. 
 
Khamenei said Washington is "stubborn" and insists on adding a sentence to the existing nuclear deal. 
 
"By adding this sentence, they want to provide an excuse for their further interventions on the nuclear deal and (Iran`s) missile work and regional issues," Khamenei said. "Then if we refuse to discuss those issues, Americans will accuse Iran of violating the nuclear deal and they will say the agreement is over."

Iran's supreme leader on Wednesday declared Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again.

Iran's supreme leader on Wednesday declared Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again. "The Americans acted completely cowardly and maliciously," state TV quoted Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as saying. "They once violated the nuclear deal at no cost by exiting it. Now they explicitly say that they cannot give guarantees that it would not happen again." A US State Department spokesperson said in a statement that President Joe Biden`s administration "has been sincere and steadfast in pursuing a path of meaningful diplomacy to achieve a mutual return to compliance" with the agreement. Since April 9, Tehran and six world powers have been in talks to revive the nuclear pact ditched three years ago by then US President Donald Trump, who argued it favoured Iran. The sixth round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington adjourned on June 20, two days after hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi was elected president of the Islamic Republic. Parties involved in the negotiations have yet to announce when the next round of negotiations will resume. The State Department spokesperson said the United States has made clear it is prepared to return to Vienna to resume negotiations. "We urge Iran to return to the negotiations soon so that we can seek to conclude this deal," the spokesperson said. Like Khamenei, Raisi has backed the revival of the nuclear pact but officials have said that his government might adopt "a hardline" approach. Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on Iran`s state matters, including the nuclear policy. Iranian and Western officials have said significant gaps remained to reinstate the deal, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear program to make it harder to obtain fissile material for a weapon in return for relief from tough sanctions. Iran says it has never sought nuclear weapons and never would. HARSH SANCTIONS Harsh sanctions reimposed by Trump since 2018 have prompted Tehran to violate the deal`s limits. However, Tehran says its nuclear steps are reversible if Washington lifts all sanctions. Biden seeks to reinstate and eventually broaden the pact to put more limits on Iran’s nuclear work and its missile development and constrain its regional activities. Khamenei again flatly rejected adding any other issues to the deal. "In the recent nuclear talks, the Americans staunchly insisted on their obstinate stance. When making promises and on paper they say they will remove sanctions, but in practice they have not and they will not," Khamenei said. Khamenei said Washington is "stubborn" and insists on adding a sentence to the existing nuclear deal. "By adding this sentence, they want to provide an excuse for their further interventions on the nuclear deal and (Iran`s) missile work and regional issues," Khamenei said. "Then if we refuse to discuss those issues, Americans will accuse Iran of violating the nuclear deal and they will say the agreement is over."

Iran's Khamenei blames 'cowardly' United States for pause in nuclear talks

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday that nuclear talks with Iran "cannot go on indefinitely" but that Washington was "fully prepared" to continue negotiations.

"We're committed to diplomacy, but this process cannot go on indefinitely... we look to see what Iran is ready to do or not ready to do and remain fully prepared to return to Vienna to continue negotiations," Blinken said during a visit to Kuwait on Thursday.

"The ball remains in Iran's court."

It comes after&nbsp;Iran's supreme leader's&nbsp;declaration&nbsp;Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-blames-cowardly-united-states-for-pause-in-nuclear-talks-401331" hreflang="en">Iran's Khamenei blames 'cowardly' United States for pause in nuclear talks</a>

Since April 9, Tehran and six world powers have been in talks to revive the nuclear pact ditched three years ago by then U.S. President Donald Trump, who argued it favoured Iran.

The sixth round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington adjourned on June 20, two days after hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi was elected president of the Islamic Republic. Parties involved in the negotiations have yet to announce when the next round of negotiations will resume.

Like&nbsp;Khamenei, Raisi has backed the revival of the nuclear pact but officials have said that his government might adopt "a hardline" approach.&nbsp;Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on Iran's state matters, including the nuclear policy.

Iranian and Western officials have said significant gaps remained to reinstate the deal, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear program to make it harder to obtain fissile material for a weapon in return for relief from tough sanctions. Iran says it has never sought nuclear weapons and never would.

Harsh sanctions reimposed by Trump since 2018 have prompted Tehran to violate the deal's limits. However, Tehran says its nuclear steps are reversible if Washington lifts all sanctions.

Biden seeks to reinstate and eventually broaden the pact to put more limits on Iran’s nuclear work and its missile development and constrain its regional activities.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday that nuclear talks with Iran "cannot go on indefinitely" but that Washington was "fully prepared" to continue negotiations.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday that nuclear talks with Iran "cannot go on indefinitely" but that Washington was "fully prepared" to continue negotiations. "We're committed to diplomacy, but this process cannot go on indefinitely... we look to see what Iran is ready to do or not ready to do and remain fully prepared to return to Vienna to continue negotiations," Blinken said during a visit to Kuwait on Thursday. "The ball remains in Iran's court." It comes after Iran's supreme leader's declaration Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again. Also read| Iran's Khamenei blames 'cowardly' United States for pause in nuclear talks Since April 9, Tehran and six world powers have been in talks to revive the nuclear pact ditched three years ago by then U.S. President Donald Trump, who argued it favoured Iran. The sixth round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington adjourned on June 20, two days after hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi was elected president of the Islamic Republic. Parties involved in the negotiations have yet to announce when the next round of negotiations will resume. Like Khamenei, Raisi has backed the revival of the nuclear pact but officials have said that his government might adopt "a hardline" approach. Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on Iran's state matters, including the nuclear policy. Iranian and Western officials have said significant gaps remained to reinstate the deal, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear program to make it harder to obtain fissile material for a weapon in return for relief from tough sanctions. Iran says it has never sought nuclear weapons and never would. Harsh sanctions reimposed by Trump since 2018 have prompted Tehran to violate the deal's limits. However, Tehran says its nuclear steps are reversible if Washington lifts all sanctions. Biden seeks to reinstate and eventually broaden the pact to put more limits on Iran’s nuclear work and its missile development and constrain its regional activities. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken says nuclear talks with Iran 'cannot go on indefinitely'

Iran's president angrily defended himself on Wednesday after coming under harsh attack during a presidential election debate the night before, saying his critics' 'love for power causes memory loss'.

Hassan Rouhani, the relatively moderate cleric, who has been Iran's civilian leader for eight years, is now term limited from seeking office again.

During Iran's second presidential debate on Tuesday, hard-liners repeatedly mocked the Rouhani administration's 'hope' campaign that surrounded its now-tattered 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

Rouhani made a point to target them during his televised Cabinet meeting, his tone moving between an angry attack to a mocking tone. His signature nuclear deal, which saw Iran eager to limit its atomic programme in exchange for sanctions relief, fell apart after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the accord in 2018.

That has worsened Iran's already-anemic economy by largely stopping its international oil sales, hiking inflation and weakening its rial currency. "In the debates, it was clarified that only the administration suffers from problems and the parts (of government) are blameless," Rouhani said, his remarks likely targeting hard-line judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi, widely believed to be the contest's front-runner.

Rouhani went on to criticise hard-liners on women's rights and the censorship of the internet in Iran, two issues former Central Bank chief Abdolnasser Hemmati focused on Raisi during the three-hour debate.

While Hemmati has tried to distance himself from Rouhani, he's widely perceived as the candidate representing the president's administration. "Nobody dares to say that he supports blocking internet," Rouhani mockingly said.

Rouhani went onto say that hard-liners, who for years criticised the nuclear deal, should be put on the spot about whether they want sanctions relief through a return to the accord. "Say you do not want to return to the deal if you have such an idea," he said.

Raisi, a favourite of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Tuesday discussed the need to 'remove oppressive sanctions',&nbsp;suggesting he'd back returning to the nuclear deal.

The election comes amid tensions with the West as negotiations continue to try and resuscitate the nuclear deal. Iranian authorities hope to boost turnout in the June 18 poll, held by officials as a sign of confidence in the theocracy since the country's 1979 Islamic Revolution.

The state-linked Iranian Student Polling Agency has projected a 38% turnout from the country's 59 million eligible voters, which would be a historic low amid a lack of enthusiasm by voters and the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Iran's president angrily defended himself on Wednesday after coming under harsh attack during a presidential election debate the night before, saying his critics' 'love for power causes memory loss'.

Iran's president angrily defended himself on Wednesday after coming under harsh attack during a presidential election debate the night before, saying his critics' 'love for power causes memory loss'. Hassan Rouhani, the relatively moderate cleric, who has been Iran's civilian leader for eight years, is now term limited from seeking office again. During Iran's second presidential debate on Tuesday, hard-liners repeatedly mocked the Rouhani administration's 'hope' campaign that surrounded its now-tattered 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. Rouhani made a point to target them during his televised Cabinet meeting, his tone moving between an angry attack to a mocking tone. His signature nuclear deal, which saw Iran eager to limit its atomic programme in exchange for sanctions relief, fell apart after then-President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew America from the accord in 2018. That has worsened Iran's already-anemic economy by largely stopping its international oil sales, hiking inflation and weakening its rial currency. "In the debates, it was clarified that only the administration suffers from problems and the parts (of government) are blameless," Rouhani said, his remarks likely targeting hard-line judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi, widely believed to be the contest's front-runner. Rouhani went on to criticise hard-liners on women's rights and the censorship of the internet in Iran, two issues former Central Bank chief Abdolnasser Hemmati focused on Raisi during the three-hour debate. While Hemmati has tried to distance himself from Rouhani, he's widely perceived as the candidate representing the president's administration. "Nobody dares to say that he supports blocking internet," Rouhani mockingly said. Rouhani went onto say that hard-liners, who for years criticised the nuclear deal, should be put on the spot about whether they want sanctions relief through a return to the accord. "Say you do not want to return to the deal if you have such an idea," he said. Raisi, a favourite of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Tuesday discussed the need to 'remove oppressive sanctions', suggesting he'd back returning to the nuclear deal. The election comes amid tensions with the West as negotiations continue to try and resuscitate the nuclear deal. Iranian authorities hope to boost turnout in the June 18 poll, held by officials as a sign of confidence in the theocracy since the country's 1979 Islamic Revolution. The state-linked Iranian Student Polling Agency has projected a 38% turnout from the country's 59 million eligible voters, which would be a historic low amid a lack of enthusiasm by voters and the coronavirus pandemic.

Outgoing Iran president, a debate target, defends his record

A senior official of Iran's judiciary on Sunday warned candidates running in the presidential election against crossing "red lines" of the Islamic republic. Iranians will select a successor to current President Hassan Rouhani on June 18.

"Candidates should not cross the system's red lines in their campaigns and speeches," said Tehran Attorney General Ali Alqassi-Mehr, quoted by Mizan Online, the judiciary's official news agency.

Wrongdoers will be "confronted firmly", he said, and warned in particular against any attacks on the "reputation" of the judiciary.

Several issues are considered "red lines" in Iran, including questioning the doctrine of Velayat-e faqih (the guardianship of the jurist) which establishes religious authority over politics.

The head of the judiciary, ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi, is widely considered the favourite candidate in the race to the presidency.

Raisi won 38 percent of the vote in the 2017 presidential election but was defeated by Rouhani.

Guardian Council, the body which vets the candidates has approved seven mainly ultraconservative candidates from 600 hopefuls.

Some disqualifications carried out by the Guardian Council appeared to have cleared the way for Raisi. He faces four lesser known candidates from own camp and two reformistst who don't have a strong base.

The Islamic republic's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Thursday said candidates should focus on "youth unemployment" and economic woes of "the disadvantaged class," two themes prominently highlighted in Raisi's campaign in 2017 and again this year.

Iranian authorities, including the supreme leader, have in recent months called for high turnout, while the limited polls available have pointed to a potential record abstention.

Meanwhile, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has dismissed central bank governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, who is running in the presidential election in June, the Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday.

Hemmati in a Saturday night meeting on the Clubhouse social media app said Rouhani "Told me that if you stand in the election, you cannot remain the central bank chief because it affects monetary and exchange rate policies".

(With inputs from agencies)

A senior official of Iran's judiciary on Sunday warned candidates running in the presidential election against crossing "red lines" of the Islamic republic. Iranians will select a successor to current President Hassan Rouhani on June 18.

A senior official of Iran's judiciary on Sunday warned candidates running in the presidential election against crossing "red lines" of the Islamic republic. Iranians will select a successor to current President Hassan Rouhani on June 18. "Candidates should not cross the system's red lines in their campaigns and speeches," said Tehran Attorney General Ali Alqassi-Mehr, quoted by Mizan Online, the judiciary's official news agency. Wrongdoers will be "confronted firmly", he said, and warned in particular against any attacks on the "reputation" of the judiciary. Several issues are considered "red lines" in Iran, including questioning the doctrine of Velayat-e faqih (the guardianship of the jurist) which establishes religious authority over politics. The head of the judiciary, ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi, is widely considered the favourite candidate in the race to the presidency. Raisi won 38 percent of the vote in the 2017 presidential election but was defeated by Rouhani. Guardian Council, the body which vets the candidates has approved seven mainly ultraconservative candidates from 600 hopefuls. Some disqualifications carried out by the Guardian Council appeared to have cleared the way for Raisi. He faces four lesser known candidates from own camp and two reformistst who don't have a strong base. The Islamic republic's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Thursday said candidates should focus on "youth unemployment" and economic woes of "the disadvantaged class," two themes prominently highlighted in Raisi's campaign in 2017 and again this year. Iranian authorities, including the supreme leader, have in recent months called for high turnout, while the limited polls available have pointed to a potential record abstention. Meanwhile, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has dismissed central bank governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, who is running in the presidential election in June, the Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday. Hemmati in a Saturday night meeting on the Clubhouse social media app said Rouhani "Told me that if you stand in the election, you cannot remain the central bank chief because it affects monetary and exchange rate policies". (With inputs from agencies)

Iran elections: Judiciary warns presidential candidates against crossing 'red lines'

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei on Friday called on Muslim nations and asked them to keep fighting against Israel. Khamanei termed Israel a "terrorist garrison" against the Palestinians.&nbsp;

"The fight against this despotic regime is the fight against oppression and the fight against terrorism. And this is a public duty to fight against this regime," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a televised speech.

He was speaking on Iran's annual Quds Day that is celebrated on the last Friday of Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.

Iran is a staunch supporter of Palestinian and Islamic militant groups opposed to peace with Israel. Iran does not recognise Israel.

"Muslim nations' cooperation on Quds (Jerusalem) is a nightmare for the Zionists," Khamenei said.

Iranian officials have called for an end to Israel, including by a referendum that would exclude most of its Jews while including Palestinians in the region and abroad.

The coronavirus pandemic forced the government to cancel its annual Quds Day parade. But Iranian state media showed footage of motorcyclists and vehicles flying Palestinian and Lebanese Hezbollah flags driving through Tehran streets.

They also published pictures of people burning Israeli and American flags.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei on Friday called on Muslim nations and asked them to keep fighting against Israel. Khamanei termed Israel a "terrorist garrison" against the Palestinians.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei on Friday called on Muslim nations and asked them to keep fighting against Israel. Khamanei termed Israel a "terrorist garrison" against the Palestinians. "The fight against this despotic regime is the fight against oppression and the fight against terrorism. And this is a public duty to fight against this regime," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a televised speech. He was speaking on Iran's annual Quds Day that is celebrated on the last Friday of Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. Iran is a staunch supporter of Palestinian and Islamic militant groups opposed to peace with Israel. Iran does not recognise Israel. "Muslim nations' cooperation on Quds (Jerusalem) is a nightmare for the Zionists," Khamenei said. Iranian officials have called for an end to Israel, including by a referendum that would exclude most of its Jews while including Palestinians in the region and abroad. The coronavirus pandemic forced the government to cancel its annual Quds Day parade. But Iranian state media showed footage of motorcyclists and vehicles flying Palestinian and Lebanese Hezbollah flags driving through Tehran streets. They also published pictures of people burning Israeli and American flags. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Khamenei calls fight against Israel a public duty

Iran's Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei slammed remarks by Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif as a 'big mistake', a week after a leaked tape emerged where the top diplomat disagreed with the strategies of a revered Iranian general.

Iran's supreme leader Khamenei says remarks by Zarif in audio leak 'big mistake'

Iran is going to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity starting Wednesday, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi announced on Tuesday, state media reported. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-take-our-revenge-from-the-zionists-iran-blames-israel-for-natanz-incident-376980">Also read | 'We will take our revenge from the Zionists': Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident</a> 
 
“Iran has informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of its plan to start 60 per cent uranium enrichment as of Wednesday,” Iran’s Press TV cited Araghchi as saying. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-atomic-agency-claims-nuclear-facility-hit-by-terrorism-376886">Also read: Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism'</a>

In February this year, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had said that Iran could increase its level of uranium enrichment to whatever the country needs, including up to 60%.

Under the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and six world powers, Iran is limited to refining uranium to 3.67%.&nbsp;

On Monday, Iran accused arch-foe Israel of sabotaging its key Natanz nuclear site and vowed revenge for an attack that appeared to be the latest episode in a long-running covert war.

Iran said the person who caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the underground uranium enrichment plant had been identified. “Necessary measures are being taken to arrest this person,” Iranian state media reported, without giving further details.

The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by Iran and the United States to revive Tehran’s 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran is going to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity starting Wednesday, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi announced on Tuesday, state media reported.

Iran is going to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity starting Wednesday, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi announced on Tuesday, state media reported. Also read | 'We will take our revenge from the Zionists': Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident “Iran has informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of its plan to start 60 per cent uranium enrichment as of Wednesday,” Iran’s Press TV cited Araghchi as saying. Also read: Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism' In February this year, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had said that Iran could increase its level of uranium enrichment to whatever the country needs, including up to 60%. Under the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and six world powers, Iran is limited to refining uranium to 3.67%. On Monday, Iran accused arch-foe Israel of sabotaging its key Natanz nuclear site and vowed revenge for an attack that appeared to be the latest episode in a long-running covert war. Iran said the person who caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the underground uranium enrichment plant had been identified. “Necessary measures are being taken to arrest this person,” Iranian state media reported, without giving further details. The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by Iran and the United States to revive Tehran’s 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity: State media

Iran does not trust US promises on lifting sanctions and will only return to its commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal once Washington fully removes the measures, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday.&nbsp;

The administration of US President Joe Biden is exploring ways to restore the 2015 nuclear deal that Iran signed with major world powers, but which was abandoned in 2018 by President Donald Trump, who reimposed sanctions. Iran retaliated by breaching the terms of the accord in a step-by-step response.&nbsp;

The United States and the other Western powers that signed up to the 2015 deal appear to be at odds with Tehran over which side should return to the accord first, making it unlikely that US sanctions, which have crippled Iran's economy can be quickly removed.&nbsp;

"We trusted America at the time of (former US President Barack) Obama and fulfilled our commitments. But they didn’t. The Americans said on paper that sanctions will be lifted, but they didn’t lift sanctions in practice," Khamenei said in a speech on state TV. "Their promises have no credibility for us."&nbsp;

"On paper, they said the sanctions were lifted but they told any company that wanted to sign a contract with us that this was dangerous and risky. They scared away investors," Khamenei said.&nbsp;

"The Americans must lift all sanctions. We will verify it and if sanctions are ... really cancelled, we will return to our obligations without any problems," Khamenei said. "We have a lot of patience and we are not in a hurry."&nbsp;

Khamenei, who has the final say in matters of state, said Iranian planners should act on a worst-case scenario that sanctions would not be lifted soon.&nbsp;

"You should assume that sanctions will remain in place and plan the country's economy based on sanctions," Khamenei said, addressing current officials and those who might take over after the country's presidential election in June.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Iran does not trust US promises on lifting sanctions and will only return to its commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal once Washington fully removes the measures, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday.

Iran does not trust US promises on lifting sanctions and will only return to its commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal once Washington fully removes the measures, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday. The administration of US President Joe Biden is exploring ways to restore the 2015 nuclear deal that Iran signed with major world powers, but which was abandoned in 2018 by President Donald Trump, who reimposed sanctions. Iran retaliated by breaching the terms of the accord in a step-by-step response. The United States and the other Western powers that signed up to the 2015 deal appear to be at odds with Tehran over which side should return to the accord first, making it unlikely that US sanctions, which have crippled Iran's economy can be quickly removed. "We trusted America at the time of (former US President Barack) Obama and fulfilled our commitments. But they didn’t. The Americans said on paper that sanctions will be lifted, but they didn’t lift sanctions in practice," Khamenei said in a speech on state TV. "Their promises have no credibility for us." "On paper, they said the sanctions were lifted but they told any company that wanted to sign a contract with us that this was dangerous and risky. They scared away investors," Khamenei said. "The Americans must lift all sanctions. We will verify it and if sanctions are ... really cancelled, we will return to our obligations without any problems," Khamenei said. "We have a lot of patience and we are not in a hurry." Khamenei, who has the final say in matters of state, said Iranian planners should act on a worst-case scenario that sanctions would not be lifted soon. "You should assume that sanctions will remain in place and plan the country's economy based on sanctions," Khamenei said, addressing current officials and those who might take over after the country's presidential election in June. (With inputs from agencies)

US promises have no credibility for Iran: Khamenei  

As Iran and the US tussle over the revival of the 2015 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-threatens-to-boost-uranium-enrichment-to-60-365571">nuclear dea</a>l, the Biden administration said that its "patience is not unlimited".

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-ali-khamenei-says-iran-may-enrich-uranium-up-to-60-365732/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tehran has not formally responded to the US offer last week for talks with Iran in a joint meeting with the countries that negotiated the deal.

"Our patience is not unlimited, but we do believe, and the president has been clear on this ever since he was running for high office that the United States and he felt that the most effective way to ensure Iran could never acquire a nuclear weapon was through diplomacy that is what we are engaged in now," Ned Price, State Department spokesman, said.&nbsp;

The White House said it was still awaiting a response from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-hold-iran-responsible-says-us-after-rockets-target-us-embassy-in-iraqs-green-zone-365542">Iran</a> officials over the nuclear talks offer. Iran however has stated that the US needs to first lift the sanctions imposed under former president Trump's administration&nbsp;for the talks to take place.

"We have put that offer on the table that under the auspices of the P5+1, we would be willing to engage in that diplomacy, in those consultations directly with Iran," Price added.

Two days ago, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had said that Iran might enrich uranium up to 60 per cent purity if the country needed it while asserting that Iran would never yield to American pressure over its nuclear programme.

As Iran and the US tussle over the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal, the Biden administration said that its "patience is not unlimited". Watch: Tehran has not formally responded to the US offer last week for talks with Iran in a joint meeting with the countries that negotiated the deal.

As Iran and the US tussle over the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal, the Biden administration said that its "patience is not unlimited". Watch: Tehran has not formally responded to the US offer last week for talks with Iran in a joint meeting with the countries that negotiated the deal. "Our patience is not unlimited, but we do believe, and the president has been clear on this ever since he was running for high office that the United States and he felt that the most effective way to ensure Iran could never acquire a nuclear weapon was through diplomacy that is what we are engaged in now," Ned Price, State Department spokesman, said. The White House said it was still awaiting a response from Iran officials over the nuclear talks offer. Iran however has stated that the US needs to first lift the sanctions imposed under former president Trump's administration for the talks to take place. "We have put that offer on the table that under the auspices of the P5+1, we would be willing to engage in that diplomacy, in those consultations directly with Iran," Price added. Two days ago, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had said that Iran might enrich uranium up to 60 per cent purity if the country needed it while asserting that Iran would never yield to American pressure over its nuclear programme.

Our patience is not unlimited, US on nuclear deal with Iran

The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei demanded “action, not words” from the United States, while referring to the prospect of renewing 2015’s nuclear deal.

Iran has set next week as the deadline for US President Biden to reverse sanctions that were imposed by Donald Trump. If the US fails to meet the deadline, Iran will begin taking drastic steps that violate the deal, including a ban on short-notice inspections by UN nuclear watchdog.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-irans-supreme-leader-khamenei-posts-trump-like-golfer-image-358615/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We have heard many nice words and promises which in practice have been broken and opposite actions have been taken. Words and promises are no good. This time (we want) only action from the other side, and we will also act," Khamenei said during a televised speech.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/twitter-suspends-account-linked-to-khameneis-website-clarifies-its-fake-and-not-his-358646" hreflang="en">Twitter suspends account linked to Khamenei's website, clarifies it's fake and not his</a>

Biden intends to revive the pact as part of which Iran curbed its nuclear programme in exchange for lifting sanctions. Seen as a major achievement for Obama-era, the deal was abandoned by Trump in 2018.

Both Iran and the US agree that the deal should be revived, but remain at odds over how to begin the process.&nbsp; Iran has said that the US must first lift sanctions from the Trump era, while the US expects Tehran to first return to the deal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/drone-on-trump-playing-golf-irans-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-vows-soleimani-revenge-358548" hreflang="en">Drone on Trump playing golf? Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vows Soleimani revenge</a>

The country has been violating the deal since the sanctions were reimposed. Over the last few months, Iran has further breached the deal’s restrictions. Starting February 23, the country intends to end snap inspections that are undertaken by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). An agreement called “Additional Protocol” mandates the inspections.

The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei demanded “action, not words” from the United States, while referring to the prospect of renewing 2015’s nuclear deal.

The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei demanded “action, not words” from the United States, while referring to the prospect of renewing 2015’s nuclear deal. Iran has set next week as the deadline for US President Biden to reverse sanctions that were imposed by Donald Trump. If the US fails to meet the deadline, Iran will begin taking drastic steps that violate the deal, including a ban on short-notice inspections by UN nuclear watchdog. "We have heard many nice words and promises which in practice have been broken and opposite actions have been taken. Words and promises are no good. This time (we want) only action from the other side, and we will also act," Khamenei said during a televised speech. Also read: Twitter suspends account linked to Khamenei's website, clarifies it's fake and not his Biden intends to revive the pact as part of which Iran curbed its nuclear programme in exchange for lifting sanctions. Seen as a major achievement for Obama-era, the deal was abandoned by Trump in 2018. Both Iran and the US agree that the deal should be revived, but remain at odds over how to begin the process. Iran has said that the US must first lift sanctions from the Trump era, while the US expects Tehran to first return to the deal. Also read: Drone on Trump playing golf? Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vows Soleimani revenge The country has been violating the deal since the sanctions were reimposed. Over the last few months, Iran has further breached the deal’s restrictions. Starting February 23, the country intends to end snap inspections that are undertaken by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). An agreement called “Additional Protocol” mandates the inspections.

To revive nuclear deal, Iran's Khamenei demands 'action, not words' from Biden

khamenei

Khamenei, News on Khamenei, stories on Khamenei, articles on Khamenei, Khamenei stories at Wion, Khamenei news, Khamenei latest news