Iran's Parliament Speaker to Honor Late Hezbollah Leader Nasrallah at His Funeral in Lebanon

Politics

Iran Backs Consensus Solutions for Lebanon, Says Speaker

February 23, 2025February 23, 2025

The ongoing support of the Islamic Republic of Iran for Lebanon’s government and its people continues to be a focal point in regional politics. Recently, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf emphasized this commitment during his visit to Beirut, where he attended the funeral of prominent Hezbollah leaders.

During his visit, Qalibaf made several key statements regarding Iran’s stance on Lebanon:

Support for Consensus: Qalibaf stated, “Iran will certainly support any consensus between the government, parliament, the resistance, and the people of Lebanon.”
Recognition of Resistance: He praised Lebanon for its resilient stance against the Israeli regime’s attempts to occupy southern Lebanon.
Restoration of Stability: “The enemy has retreated from southern Lebanon,” he noted, highlighting the restored security and stability in the region.

In addition to Qalibaf, other Iranian officials were present at the funeral, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. He commented on the significance of the event, stating:

Continuing the Path of Resistance: Araqchi affirmed, “The path of resistance will keep moving forward,” emphasizing the historical victories of Hezbollah.
Legacy of Valor: He honored the two leaders, noting they dedicated their lives to combating Israeli occupation, achieving martyrdom in the process.

Further underlining Iran’s support, Esma’eel Baqayi, spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, remarked that the attendance of the high-ranking Iranian delegation at the funeral represents “the continuous support of the Islamic Republic for the legitimate resistance of Lebanon and Palestine against occupation and aggression.”

The funeral gathered an impressive number of mourners, with hundreds of thousands attending to pay their respects to Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and his successor Sayyed Hashem Safieddine. The gathering took place at Beirut stadium (the Camille Chamoun Sports City Stadium) and the adjacent streets starting at 9:00 a.m. local time (7:00 GMT) on Sunday.

As the situation evolves, the solidarity shown at this event reinforces the ties between Iran and Lebanon, highlighting the ongoing commitment to resistance in the face of external threats.

Politics

Hamas Applauds African Leaders for Standing Strong Against Gaza Onslaught

February 17, 2025February 17, 2025

At the 38th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, leaders condemned Israeli actions in Gaza and urged member states to halt cooperation and normalization with Israel. The summit’s final statement accused Israel of genocide against Palestinians and called for international prosecution of Israeli leaders. Hamas praised the AU’s stance, calling it a reflection of Africa’s history of resisting oppression. They demanded increased political pressure on Israel and support for Palestinian rights. Since early October 2023, the conflict has resulted in over 48,000 Palestinian deaths and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. A recent ceasefire agreement offers hope for resolution.

Politics

Zarif Highlights Striking Similarities Between California Wildfires and Gaza Crisis

January 10, 2025January 21, 2025

The California wildfires have devastated communities, prompting comparisons to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza by former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. He expressed empathy for Californians suffering from the fires, noting the universal pain of loss due to nature and violence. The wildfires have resulted in at least 10 fatalities and nearly 10,000 destroyed structures, impacting Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Zarif’s comments highlight the need for global solidarity and compassion, urging a reevaluation of how suffering is perceived across different crises. As recovery efforts continue, the importance of preparedness and environmental policies becomes crucial.

Sci & Tech

Iran Set to Launch Three Cutting-Edge Satellites at National Space Technology Day Celebration

February 1, 2025February 1, 2025

On National Space Technology Day, Iran will unveil three satellites: the Navak Telecommunications Satellite, the upgraded Pars 1, and the new Pars 2. President Masoud Pezeshkian and other key officials will attend the event, showcasing Iran’s commitment to advancing its space capabilities. Notably, the Navak satellite is designed for high-altitude telecommunications and represents Iran’s first satellite in an elongated elliptical orbit. The Pars 2 will provide enhanced imaging with 8-meter resolution for color and 4-meter for black-and-white images. Iran plans two launches by year-end, with 25 satellites in development, reflecting its strategic goals in aerospace technology and national security.

International

Iran Responds to Trump’s Controversial Comments on Nuclear Program

February 5, 2025February 6, 2025

The head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, Mohammad Eslami, has reaffirmed that Iran is not seeking nuclear weapons, emphasizing the peaceful aims of its nuclear energy program. Eslami’s statements, made after a cabinet meeting, stress Iran’s compliance with the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump expressed readiness to negotiate with Iran while announcing a reinstatement of his maximum pressure campaign against the nation. Despite claims regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Iranian leadership, supported by a Fatwa against weapons of mass destruction, insists its nuclear advancements are for civil purposes, highlighting a complex geopolitical landscape.

Tehran's Mega-Crisis: Unpacking Seven Major Challenges Facing the City

Politics

Tehran’s Mega-Crisis: Confronting Seven Major Challenges Ahead

December 7, 2024January 19, 2025

Iran’s clerical government is facing a severe “mega-crisis,” characterized by seven significant domestic and international challenges threatening its stability. Key issues include setbacks for proxy groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, increasing tensions with Israel, and the potential return of a hardline U.S. administration under Donald Trump. Additionally, Europe has adopted a tougher stance against Iran over military support for Russia and nuclear concerns. Domestically, the economy is collapsing, public dissatisfaction is rising, and unrest is brewing. Compounding these crises is the uncertainty surrounding the succession of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, further destabilizing the regime.

Politics

Iran Confirms Swiss National’s Suicide in Jail Linked to Military Site Photos

January 23, 2025January 23, 2025

A Swiss national, originally from Namibia, reportedly committed suicide while incarcerated in Iran after being arrested for photographing restricted military sites. He entered Iran as a tourist in October and was apprehended for alleged collaboration with a hostile government. Iran’s Judiciary spokesman, Asghar Jahangir, detailed that the individual hanged himself using a cut curtain in a blind spot of the cell’s CCTV. Despite prompt staff response, he could not be revived. Following the incident, a Swiss embassy delegation confirmed the suicide, and the body was transferred to a forensic pathologist before being handed over to Swiss representatives.