The ongoing violence in Gaza and the West Bank has prompted accusations of genocide against Israel, with the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs linking it to U.S. support that hinders UN intervention. On Nakba Day, marking the displacement of over 750,000 Palestinians in 1948, Iran condemned Israel’s actions and criticized the international community’s failure to hold Israel accountable for alleged war crimes. Iran urged immediate action to end violence, terminate the occupation, and ensure justice for victims, while reaffirming support for Palestinian self-determination and calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and the right of return for refugees.
Mehdi Karroubi, a key figure in Iran’s 2009 protests, is set to be released from house arrest after 14 years, as confirmed by his son. Security officials announced that his arrest would be lifted following orders from the head of the judiciary. Karroubi, 87, and his ally Mirhossein Mousavi, 83, were prominent reformist candidates during the contentious 2009 election. Their release could galvanize political engagement and discussions on reforms in Iran. Current President Masoud Pezeshkian’s promise to release both leaders signals a potential shift in the political landscape, impacting domestic and international perceptions of Iran’s governance and human rights.
Vice President Mohammad-Reza Aref announced that Iran has no plans to meet or negotiate with U.S. President Donald Trump, citing ongoing tensions over nuclear policies. During a press conference, Aref responded to Trump’s willingness to engage with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, stating such meetings are not on the agenda. He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to a permanent nuclear policy, emphasizing self-sufficiency in defense and the importance of peaceful nuclear energy. Aref’s remarks follow Trump’s reinstatement of the “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, further complicating the already strained relations between the two countries.
The election for the new UN Secretary-General, set to begin on January 1, 2027, is attracting attention as candidates emerge, including Michelle Bachelet, Rebeca Grynspan, and Rafael Grossi, the IAEA Director-General. Grossi’s candidacy has ignited controversy due to concerns over his impartiality and commitment to global peace, especially regarding his perceived bias against Iran and failure to address military aggression. Critics argue his leadership could undermine the UN’s credibility, with warnings that his election may prioritize Western interests over global equity. The international community is urged to select a leader dedicated to peace, justice, and unity.
In an interview, Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Naqdi of the IRGC discussed the recent 12-Day War sparked by Israel’s aggression against Iran. He claimed Iran’s missile capabilities remained intact, with no damage to missile cities and operations swiftly resuming post-attacks. The conflict, initiated on June 13, resulted in over 1,000 casualties, including military leaders and civilians, and saw the US bomb three Iranian nuclear sites. Naqdi criticized Israeli efforts to dismantle Hamas’s tunnels and asserted that Iran’s missile technology, entirely indigenous, is superior. He highlighted Iran’s defensive successes against Israeli drones and emphasized the strength and resilience of the IRGC throughout the conflict.
On the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, President Masoud Pezeshkian reaffirmed Iran’s unwavering support for Palestinians enduring decades of occupation and suffering. In his address, he criticized global inaction towards Israeli policies and called for a unified response against the violence faced by Palestinians, particularly in Gaza. Pezeshkian emphasized the need for self-determination and justice, proposing a resolution that includes ending occupation, allowing refugee return, and supporting a referendum for Palestinians. He urged the international community to advocate for Palestinian rights and highlighted the importance of global solidarity in the struggle for freedom and justice.