This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
On February 18, 1978, the Tabriz uprising became a pivotal event in Iranian history, and this year, thousands gathered in Tehran to honor its legacy. Residents from East Azerbaijan Province met with Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, reflecting on the uprising’s struggles and its lasting impact on Iran. The gathering highlighted the importance of remembering historical events, with Khamenei emphasizing their significance. Various activities were organized to commemorate the sacrifices made during the uprising, reinforcing a collective commitment to the values that emerged from this pivotal moment in the fight for justice and freedom in Iran.
The Iranian negotiating team is holding critical discussions in Rome, emphasizing their commitment to the nation’s rights and interests amid ongoing negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program. Esmaeil Baqaei, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the program as a source of national pride. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is leading the talks, which involve indirect negotiations with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and are being mediated by Oman. Araqchi has participated in four rounds of negotiations, asserting that a deal hinges on Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The delegation includes key diplomats and experts from the Iranian government.
The UN Security Council recently discussed a draft resolution by Russia and China to extend sanctions relief for Iran amid tensions over its nuclear program as the JCPOA nears expiration. The Russian representative criticized the U.S. and E3 countries for their handling of the situation, while China echoed similar sentiments. The French ambassador countered, accusing Iran of inadequate cooperation with the IAEA. The resolution failed with four ‘Yes’ votes against nine ‘No’ votes. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized Iran’s commitment to peaceful nuclear energy and criticized the U.S. for its withdrawal from the JCPOA, calling for constructive dialogue.
The detention of Mahdieh Esfandiari, an Iranian girl in France, has ignited global outrage among athletes. Arrested since February 28, 2025, for allegedly supporting Gaza, 165 Iranian athletes have written to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, condemning her treatment, which includes solitary confinement and denied medical access. They argue her case reflects a troubling trend of silencing dissent. The Iranian foreign ministry criticized France for failing to secure her release. With charges of “glorifying terrorism” complicating her situation, Esfandiari’s plight highlights the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression and the need for urgent action from the international community.
In a recent address, Iran’s Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to diplomacy while rejecting negotiations under pressure, especially following the June 2025 Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. Ghalibaf criticized the intense hostile campaigns and inhumane sanctions against Iran, emphasizing that real diplomacy requires mutual respect and shared interests, not coercion. He noted international support for Iran, with 120 countries condemning the Israeli attack, contrasting it with European governments’ positions. Ghalibaf called for Asia to unite in addressing global challenges, promoting economic growth and innovation while fostering cultural diversity and intellectual independence among its nations.
Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier-General Aziz Nasirzadeh criticized Israel for its actions against Palestinians and Lebanese, labeling it as state terrorism amid the silence of international organizations. In a meeting with Zimbabwe’s Defense Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri in Tehran, he acknowledged Zimbabwe’s historical battles against colonialism and racism, emphasizing Africa’s importance in Iran’s foreign policy. Nasirzadeh reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to supporting independent nations against hegemonic powers. Muchinguri-Kashiri expressed condolences for a tragic explosion at Shahid Rajaee Port in Iran, highlighting the strengthened ties between Iran and Zimbabwe since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, rooted in shared values and mutual support.