IRANIAN
Oil tanker held by Iran for over a year heads toward international waters, tracking data shows
The Advantage Sweet, an oil tanker seized by Iran in April 2023 amid tensions with the U.S., is now heading toward international waters, according to tracking data. The vessel, carrying $50 million worth of oil for Chevron, was held by Iran without acknowledgment of its release. This move coincides with an Iranian court ordering the U.S. to pay $6.7 billion over sanctions-related medical supply issues. The tanker's seizure was linked to ongoing legal and geopolitical conflicts between Iran and the U.S., involving economic sanctions and military tensions.
Iran expands ballistic missile facilities, reveals new satellite images
Recent satellite imagery reveals Iran's significant expansion of ballistic missile facilities at the Modarres and Khojir sites near Tehran. Confirmed by Iranian officials and analyzed by experts, this development involves over 30 new buildings and increased drone manufacturing. The expansion follows Iran's agreement to supply missiles to Russia for its war against Ukraine, raising strategic concerns for the US and Israel. Iran's missile and drone supplies to allied groups further intensify regional tensions.
Iran vote winner could ease, but won't end nuclear tensions: analysts
Masoud Pezeshkian's victory in Iran's presidential elections has brought hope for easing tensions over Tehran's nuclear program, defeating ultra-conservative Saeed Jalili with support from former president Hassan Rouhani. Despite not being the primary authority on foreign policy or nuclear issues, Pezeshkian aims for constructive relations with the West, contrasting Jalili's hardline stance. However, challenges remain as Iran's nuclear program has advanced significantly, impacting potential negotiations.
Moderate Pezeshkian expected to win Iran's presidential race, Iranian source says
Masoud Pezeshkian is anticipated to win the Iranian presidential run-off, leading by three million votes over hardline rival Saeed Jalili. The moderate candidate promises to open Iran to the world and expand freedoms. Pezeshkian's lead follows historically low turnout in the first round. His potential victory may ease tensions with the West and promote social liberalization, though skepticism remains about his ability to challenge Iran's power elite. This election coincides with heightened Middle East tensions and pressures over Iran's nuclear program.
US allies allege China is developing attack drones for Russia
Chinese and Russian companies are collaborating to develop an attack drone similar to Iran’s Shahed model, which has been used extensively by Russia in Ukraine, according to European officials. The companies began developing and testing this drone in 2023, preparing it for shipment to Russia. This move signifies a potential shift towards providing lethal aid, which Western officials have warned against. Despite Beijing's portrayal of neutrality, U.S. officials have expressed concerns about China’s indirect support for Russia through components and dual-use technologies. China's embassy in the U.S. denied providing weapons, urging dialogue and peace instead.
Iran seesawing vote results put race between reformist Masoud Pezeshkian and hard-liner Saeed Jalili
Early results from Iran's presidential election show a close contest between reformist Masoud Pezeshkian and hard-liner Saeed Jalili, with Pezeshkian leading with 5.3 million votes to Jalili's 4.8 million. Another candidate, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, garnered 1.6 million votes. Turnout figures were not yet disclosed. If no candidate secures over 50% of the vote, a runoff between the top two contenders will be held. This election follows the recent death of President Ebrahim Raisi, complicating Iran's political landscape amid regional tensions and internal challenges.
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Polls open in Iran for presidential election
Around 61 million Iranians are eligible to vote in the polls where reformist Masoud Pezeshkian, 69, hopes for a breakthrough win against a divided conservative camp.
Aerial drone launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels hits ship in the Red Sea, causing damage and injuries
A drone launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels damaged a vessel in the Red Sea, the latest in a series of attacks targeting shipping in the region. The attack occurred off the coast of Hodeida, damaging a bulk carrier. The UK Maritime Trade Operations center reported the mariners on board were safe. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, contradicting reports that it was carried out with a drone boat. The US military confirmed the attack on the vessel, which was en route to Egypt from Malaysia.
An Israel offensive into Lebanon risks an Iranian military response, top US military leader says
Top U.S. military officer warns that an Israeli offensive in Lebanon could lead to broader war, with Iran likely to back Hezbollah. Israel has threatened military action if Hezbollah isn't pushed from the border. Diplomatic efforts are underway, including meetings between Israeli and U.S. officials. The U.S. is concerned about assisting Israel against Hezbollah's rockets. The conflict has already caused casualties on both sides. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah claims to have over 100,000 fighters, potentially escalating the conflict with broader regional involvement.
Aerial drone likely launched by Yemen's Houthi rebels hits ship in the Red Sea
Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted a commercial ship in the Gulf of Aden, causing no damage, in a recent escalation of their attacks on shipping lanes amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. The vessel reported three explosions nearby but was not hit. The Houthis, who control Yemen's capital, claimed responsibility, identifying the target as the Transworld Navigator. The U.S. military destroyed three Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea and ordered the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower to return home after an extended deployment. The USS Theodore Roosevelt will replace it after exercises in the Indo-Pacific.
Iran helicopter crash shows Tehran's reliance on an aging fleet as well as its challenges at home
While the cause of the May 19 crash remains unknown, the sudden death of the hard-line protege of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei exposed the contradictions and challenges facing the country's Shiite theocracy. The Iranian military investigators probing the crash have previously faced international criticism over their report on troops shooting down a Ukrainian airliner in 2020.
Pakistan PM declares day of mourning after Raisi death
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared a day of mourning and ordered flags to fly at half-mast following reports of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash. Shehbaz expressed condolences and sympathy to the Iranian nation, stating that Pakistan stands in solidarity with Iran. The gesture comes after Shehbaz hosted Raisi in Islamabad in April to improve relations between the two countries after recent tensions.
Jaishankar visits Iranian embassy, condoles death of president Raisi, foreign minister Amir-Abdollahian
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited the Iranian embassy in Delhi to offer India's condolences on the deaths of President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in a helicopter crash. India is observing a one-day state mourning in their honor. Jaishankar expressed solidarity with the people of Iran during this difficult time and praised Raisi and Amir-Abdollahian for their contributions to India-Iran relations. The crash occurred as Raisi's entourage was traveling to Tabriz after a visit to the Azerbaijan-Iran border.
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian dead in helicopter crash
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, 63, and his foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian were confirmed dead in a helicopter crash. Rescue teams faced harsh conditions to reach the wreckage in East Azerbaijan province. Initial reports suggest the helicopter hit a mountain peak. Raisi's presidency was marked by strict moral laws, crackdowns on protests, and intense nuclear negotiations.
Iran's nuclear policy of pressure and talks likely to go on even after president's death
Iran's nuclear program is nearing weapons-grade uranium enrichment, prompting indirect talks with the U.S. and inviting the UN atomic watchdog for negotiations. This strategy aims to lift economic sanctions crippling Iran's economy. Following a major attack on Israel amid its Gaza conflict, Iran seeks to manage risks from the U.S. Despite the recent helicopter crash killing key Iranian leaders, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remains in control, continuing efforts to balance pressure and diplomacy. Indirect talks with the U.S. are ongoing, with uncertain outcomes.
Iranian President Raisi's memorial muted amid public discontent
Thousands mourned President Ebrahim Raisi in Tabriz after a helicopter crash near the Azerbaijan border. State TV showed live images of black-clad mourners and a truck carrying caskets. Emotional rhetoric was subdued. Raisi's body was flown to Tehran airport and then to Qom. The economic crisis in Iran poses challenges for the ruling clerics.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar likely to represent India at Ebrahim Raisi's funeral
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar is expected to attend the funeral of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who passed away in a helicopter crash. A one-day state mourning is being observed across India on Tuesday. The Iranian president, the country's foreign minister, and several other officials were discovered dead after the helicopter crashed in a mountainous region of Iran.
View: Iran’s President Raisi, who died in chopper crash, was a failure
Iran president Helicopter Crash: Since the early 1980s, Iranian presidents have reflected the supreme leader's needs. Ebrahim Raisi, close to Ayatollah Khamenei, aimed to restore faith in the Islamic Revolution but failed. His crackdown on female dress codes sparked protests, revealing his lack of popularity. Raisi's death has now opened up new possibilities for succession.
Why was Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi called the 'Butcher of Tehran'?
The death of Ebrahim Raisi has raised questions regarding his record on Human Rights. He is seen to be behind mass killings that have led to suppression of rights in Iran, as per reports.
Here's the last video of Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi moments before the helicopter crashed
A video has gone viral on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, which is considered to have been shot minutes before the helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and others crashed. Watch the video here.
What we know about the crashed helicopter carrying Iran's president
A Bell 212 model helicopter, developed by Bell Helicopter for Canadian military, crashed in Iran, killing top officials. The aircraft, known for its versatility, is used globally for various purposes. Non-military organizations like Japan's Coast Guard operate it. Iran, a major buyer of Bell and Agusta helicopters, has a history of aviation competence.
Ebrahim Raisi dead: All about the helicopter that crashed killing the Iranian president
A helicopter carrying the Iranian President, Foreign Minister and other officials crashed, killing everyone on board. Iran’s new interim President has been announced, even as the country has to prepare to conduct fresh elections, advancing the date.
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's moments before helicopter crash captured on video
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian tragically died in a helicopter crash near Azarbaijan border, sparking national mourning. Raisi was seen as a potential successor to Supreme Leader Khamenei. He was travelling in a US-made Bell helicopter.
Iranian Embassy in New Delhi lowers its flag to half-mast after death of President Raisi in chopper crash
The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi has lowered its flag to half-mast following the tragic deaths of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, and other officials in a helicopter crash. The crash occurred in bad weather conditions in East Azarbaijan Province as the President was returning from a visit to Azerbaijan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed condolences, highlighting Raisi's contributions to the India-Iran relationship. World leaders also offered condolences, with former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif Khansari expressing grief over the loss of his successor and President Raisi.
World leaders extend condolences over death of Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi
World leaders expressed condolences for Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and other officials who died in a helicopter crash. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared a day of mourning, while UAE's President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Qatar's Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani offered sympathy. Former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif Khansari and Iraqi PM Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani also extended solidarity. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro hailed Raisi as a friend of Venezuela.
Iran president dead: What we know so far about the mysterious crash of the helicopter?
On Monday, Iranian state television announced the death of President Ebrahim Raisi. As of Monday morning, rescuers had not yet reached the site, though they spotted the helicopter approximately 2 kilometers away at dawn. Reports indicate slim chances of survival. Several countries have expressed concern and offered help. The crash occurred in Iran's East Azerbaijan province, which is notorious for its harsh weather conditions and dense fog.
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