A leading Reformist, Rasoul Montajab-Nia, has defended Javad Zarif, Iran’s Vice-President for Strategic Affairs, amidst widespread criticism from conservative factions. Montajab-Nia expressed skepticism about the motives behind the attacks on Zarif, labeling them misguided and aimed at undermining influential leaders. He urged the Judiciary to address the insults directed at Zarif, emphasizing that disrespect is a crime. The backlash intensified after Zarif’s comments on women’s hair covering laws and his praise for President Pezeshkian’s foreign policy. Critics, particularly from rival Sa’eed Jalili’s camp, claim Zarif’s U.S.-citizen children disqualify him for sensitive roles, leading to protests and a growing parliamentary complaint against him.
The Persian Gulf represents Iran’s dignity, sovereignty, and rich heritage, emphasized First Vice President Mohammad-Reza Aref in a recent Instagram statement. He asserted that the term “Persian Gulf” is integral to Iran’s identity, supported by historical documents and maps. Aref called for international leaders to acknowledge this significance and respect Iran’s historical and legal claims. Additionally, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi condemned attempts to misname the Gulf, viewing them as hostile actions against Iran. This discourse highlights the Gulf’s importance in both historical and contemporary geopolitical contexts.
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI) head, Mohammad Eslami, announced a 20-year strategic plan to enhance the country’s nuclear industry, emphasizing uranium enrichment as vital for national independence. During a recent ceremony, he underscored the significance of nuclear energy for national development and as a response to global challenges. Eslami claimed that the Islamic Republic’s advancement in nuclear capabilities is perceived as a threat by hegemonic powers. He also highlighted Iran’s transparency with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), asserting that the nation has complied with rigorous inspections while focusing on the development of its nuclear sector.
Iran’s UN Ambassador, Amir Saeid Iravani, addressed the Security Council on September 18, 2025, reiterating Iran’s commitment to supporting the Syrian people in their pursuit of peace and reconstruction. He highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by funding shortages and illegal sanctions, which hinder economic recovery. Iravani emphasized the need for a Syrian-led political process that respects the country’s sovereignty and includes all communities. He condemned external interference and ongoing security threats from terrorist groups and foreign airstrikes, asserting that inclusive national dialogue is crucial for stability and national reconciliation in Syria.
Iranian Vice-President Mohammad Javad Zarif met with Seyyed Ammar al-Hakim, leader of Iraq’s National Wisdom Movement, to discuss enhancing regional cooperation and stability. Al-Hakim emphasized the need for collaborative solutions to current tensions, called for participation in the reconstruction of Gaza and Lebanon, and advocated for Syrian people’s rights to express their will and establish an inclusive government. He also highlighted Iraq’s significant political, social, and economic progress, stressing the importance of maintaining these achievements for national stability. Al-Hakim concluded that the stability of the Middle East depends on the stability of all nations, respecting their unique characteristics.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation with Turkmenistan for mutual economic and security benefits during a meeting with Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov in Tehran. Key strategies discussed included importing natural gas from Turkmenistan to enhance energy security, developing a new gas pipeline to support domestic and export needs, and expanding cooperation in transport, trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. Meredov, attending the 18th Joint Economic Cooperation Commission, reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to fostering long-term economic opportunities and improving trade routes and border markets, marking a significant step towards deeper collaboration between the two nations.