Politics

OIC to Convene Extraordinary Meeting on Gaza Following Iran’s Proposal

February 12, 2025February 12, 2025

In a significant move aimed at addressing a U.S.-Israeli plot to forcibly displace the people of Gaza, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is set to convene an extraordinary meeting of foreign ministers. This initiative, proposed by Iran, underscores the urgent need for a unified response among Islamic nations.

According to a source from the Iranian Foreign Ministry, the proposal was officially communicated through a letter from Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to the OIC Secretary-General. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with plans for the session anticipated to take place by early March.

If the meeting is confirmed, OIC foreign ministers will gather to strategize against a controversial scheme introduced by former U.S. President Donald Trump, which aims to forcibly relocate Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. Here are some key points regarding the situation:

Extensive Diplomatic Engagement: Araghchi has been actively consulting with counterparts from several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Algeria, Turkey, Pakistan, Malaysia, and Gambia, the current OIC chair.
Condemnation of the Proposal: The Iranian foreign minister has denounced the U.S.-Israeli conspiracy as “dangerous” and has called for swift action from the OIC.
Call for Decisive Actions: In a conversation with OIC Secretary-General Hussein Ibrahim Taha, he emphasized the need for a decisive response to protect the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.

Recently, Trump’s controversial proposal suggested that the U.S. would take “ownership” of the Gaza Strip, transforming it into a tourism hub. This plan would effectively displace the Palestinian population, with Trump stating, “The U.S. will take over the Gaza Strip, and we will do a job with it too.” He further asserted that Palestinians in Gaza “have no alternative” but to leave.

This assertion has ignited widespread condemnation globally, even from traditional U.S. allies in the region. Protests erupted outside the White House, where demonstrators declared, “the Palestinian territory is not for sale.” Despite the international backlash, Trump has reiterated his proposal on multiple occasions.

The upcoming OIC meeting is poised to be a pivotal moment for Islamic nations to unite against perceived injustices and advocate for the rights of the Palestinian people.

Society

Iraq Aims to Strengthen Cooperation with Iran’s Anti-Narcotics Police to Combat Drug Trafficking

January 12, 2025January 20, 2025

Iraq’s anti-narcotics police chief, Ahmed Al-Zarkani, has called for enhanced cooperation with Iran to combat drug smuggling, highlighting the urgent need for joint efforts amid rising narcotics threats in both countries. During a meeting with Iranian counterpart Iraj Kakavand, Al-Zarkani praised Iran’s drug control initiatives and emphasized the importance of sharing intelligence on traffickers. Kakavand noted the necessity of cracking down on armed traffickers along their shared borders. Both nations aim to improve collaboration through simultaneous patrols and information exchange. Recognizing Iran’s commitment, the UNODC commended recent drug seizures, stressing the need for regional and international partnerships in tackling drug trafficking.

Politics

Leader Engages with Contestants at Prestigious International Qur’an Competition

February 2, 2025February 2, 2025

Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei recently met with top Qur’an teachers, reciters, and memorizers during the 41st International Qur’an Competition at the Imam Khomeini Complex. This significant event emphasizes the importance of Qur’anic education and appreciation. The gathering featured esteemed participants from various regions, aiming to inspire and support those dedicated to Qur’anic studies and recitation. The meeting underscores a commitment to promoting the teachings of the Qur’an within the Islamic community. Further updates on this important occasion will be provided as they become available.

Economy

Iran’s Steel Production Soars 8%, Reaching 31 Million Tons in 2024: WSA Report

January 27, 2025January 27, 2025

In 2024, Iran’s steel production reached 31 million metric tons, despite facing challenges like energy supply issues. Globally, steel production declined by 9% to 1.839 billion metric tons, with China contributing 1.005 billion metric tons. Iran’s December output fell 8.2% year-on-year to 2.6 million metric tons due to power cuts. However, Iran ranked 7th globally in November 2024, producing 3.1 million metric tons, a slight increase from the previous year. Turkey surpassed Iran with a 9.4% production rise. Addressing energy concerns could enhance Iran’s standing among top steel producers in the future.

International

Iran Champions Enhanced Cooperation Among Caspian Sea Nations

February 10, 2025February 11, 2025

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stressed the need for enhanced cooperation among Caspian Sea littoral states to protect mutual interests and the environment. In a recent call with Turkmenistan’s National Leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, he expressed a commitment to peace and friendship, highlighting the potential for collaboration in transportation and energy sectors. The leaders discussed the Joint Economic Cooperation Commission, gas swap arrangements, and cultural exchanges. Pezeshkian’s remarks reflect Iran’s strategy to deepen ties with neighbors, promoting sustainable development and regional stability. Their dialogue sets a positive precedent for future interactions among Caspian states, aiming for an interconnected and prosperous region.

International

Iran and Turkey Foreign Ministers Strengthen Bilateral Ties and Address Key Developments in Syria

January 24, 2025January 24, 2025

In a recent phone call, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Turkish diplomats discussed key issues including bilateral relations, regional stability, and the situation in Syria. Araghchi emphasized the protection of minority rights, support for Syria’s sovereignty, and the need for an inclusive government to ensure peace. He called for an end to conflicts in Syria and voiced concerns over violence against civilians. This dialogue reflects the commitment of both nations to foster stability in a changing geopolitical landscape, with implications for humanitarian access and countering extremism. Their cooperation could significantly influence the outcomes of the ongoing conflict in Syria.

Tourism

Iran Set to Enhance Tourism Collaboration with Tajikistan for Thriving Travel Connections

January 15, 2025January 22, 2025

Iran is working to enhance tourism and cultural collaboration with Tajikistan, driven by shared cultural and linguistic ties. Minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri outlined initiatives to boost trade and increase Tajik tourist visits to Iran from 8,000 to 100,000 annually. He emphasized Tajikistan’s strategic importance for economic cooperation, highlighting their common heritage and geographical advantages. Plans include promoting cultural exchanges, establishing trade agreements, and discussing visa requirement removals. Recent meetings with Tajik officials reflect Iran’s commitment to regional partnerships, aiming for mutual benefits in tourism and trade, ultimately fostering a sustainable relationship between the two nations.