Daily feed of verified InfoIran news – 2026-08-28
In Tehran, long queues at gas stations and rising prices of bread and food items have been reported. The security in Tehran's market is heavily controlled due to fear of public unrest. There is also a sharp increase in medicine prices and concerns about further price hikes following the announcement of a new gasoline rate.
Snapp drivers have reported that the company has not settled payments for several days citing disruptions in the banking system. This issue has been reported from Tehran. A program about this matter is being broadcast on Iran International.
Ahmad Nadari, a member of the parliament's presidium, stated that if threats and assassination attempts on Ali Khamenei continued, the nuclear deterrent capability should be increased by building an atomic bomb. He emphasized that the enemy is not deterred by retreat but by raising the cost of aggression. These remarks were made in response to comments by Masoud Pezeshkian's deputy.
Na'im Qasim, Secretary-General of Hezbollah Lebanon, stated that resistance groups in the region stand alongside the Islamic Republic and pressures against them will be ineffective. He criticized the Lebanese government and urged finding a mediator other than the United States. He also called on Arab and Islamic countries to strive for unity and not be mere spectators of regional developments.
Due to unsafe working conditions, 24 workers including 22 firefighters were injured while working in Tehran, Semnan, and Aq Qala. These incidents were reported to be caused by unsafe work environments. More details are available from Harana news agency.
Yesterday, defrauded investors of the online investment group 'FNDK' held a protest in Talesh. Additionally, a group of official railway and traverse personnel protested in Mashhad. These gatherings were held as protests.
Masoud Pezeshkian, head of the Islamic Republic government, spoke about the economic damage caused by the war and decreased revenues. He mentioned a shortage of foreign currency and the possibility of a higher dollar price, warning that continued sanctions would increase inflation. He also highlighted the sharp decline in imports and exports and the imbalance between income and expenses.
A citizen reported that there was no gasoline available at fuel stations in Farmanieh and Pasdaran, Tehran. He said that everyone he asked said they could not find gasoline. This report was sent to Iran International.
Masoud Pezeshkian announced that the third gasoline price will increase from five thousand tomans to ten thousand tomans after coordination with institutions. He stated that this price will not exceed ten thousand tomans.
Half of the industrial town in Semnan has shut down due to lack of raw materials and power outages. Bank Melli made unauthorized withdrawals without notification and is unresponsive. Additionally, issues such as spoiled goods due to power fluctuations, long gasoline queues, and employee layoffs have been reported amid the current economic conditions.
Sepahan football team defeated Gol Gohar Sirjan 2-0 in the fourth week of the Premier League. Both goals for Sepahan were scored by Kasra Taheri. The match between Aluminium Arak and Kheybar Khorramabad ended in a 2-2 draw.
Fakhruddin Jafar Aghaei has been held in Zahedan prison for over 143 days without a judicial decision. No court session has been scheduled to address his charges. Temporary release on bail has not been granted.
Ashkan Nezamabadi stated that the loss of hundreds of thousands of industrial jobs, reduced investment, energy crisis, and demand decline have pushed Iran's economy into a critical phase. Southern provinces, especially Hormozgan, have suffered the most damage. He also said that with ongoing sanctions and structural problems, no short-term improvement is expected.
About 205 laid-off workers of Borujerd textile factory have reported wage arrears. These workers are demanding to return to work. Their employment status remains uncertain.
The death sentences of two prisoners convicted of murder were carried out in Khorramabad and Vakilabad prisons in Mashhad. The number of executions in Yazd prison increased to two. These events occurred on the 3rd of Shahrivar.
Abbas Araghchi stated in a Foreign Ministry meeting that the Islamic Republic will not forgive the blood of Ali Khamenei and the movement for revenge will continue. He also said that enemies could not extinguish Iran's missile fire and the system was unharmed in the absence of the leader.
The office of Mojtaba Khamenei issued a statement saying that the honest admission of weaknesses by senior government officials is a great help to the enemy. The statement came after Masoud Pezeshkian and Abdolnaser Hemmati acknowledged the halt in oil sales and inability to import gasoline. The Islamic Republic's leader also called for highlighting the country's strengths and described economic problems as dark spots that must gradually disappear.
Tractor football team won against Chadormalu with a 1-0 score in the fourth week of the Premier League. The goals were scored by Amirhossein Hosseinzadeh and Tomislav Sturkal. This victory marks Tractor's fourth consecutive win and their temporary lead in the 26th league season.
Ehsan Azimirad, a member of the Education Commission of the Parliament, announced a shortage of about 120,000 teachers for the new school year. This figure is based on data announced by the Minister of Education about a month ago. Details about the shortage in different educational levels and fields have not yet been provided to the Education Commission.
Mojtaba Khamenei, in a written message for Government Week, stated that expressing weaknesses when the enemy needs morale helps the enemy. He emphasized that any action harming social cohesion is forbidden. He also said that weaknesses require planning and action to solve problems, not highlighting them.
Abbas Rasouli-Far, a veteran IRGC commander, led the suppression of opponents in Shahriar during the National Revolution. He was previously responsible for crushing opponents of Bashar al-Assad's government in Syria. This information was reported by the program "Geography of the Iranian National Revolution" from Iran International.
Employees of Megamotor company have five months of unpaid salaries and severe economic problems persist. Public schools charge high registration fees and car parts have become expensive. Fuel shortages and power outages have been reported in Tehran and Karaj.
Hanna Neumann stated that the Islamic Republic's armed forces label Iran International, BBC Persian, and Radio Farda journalists as military targets. She described this as an example of cross-border repression increasing the risk of violence against journalists. Neumann called on the European Union to take further measures to protect journalists.
The U.S. Treasury Department announced that Reza Mohammad Tayidi, the manager of the Bank Melli branch in Dubai, and a Hong Kong-based company have been sanctioned as part of the economic pressure campaign against the Islamic Republic.
Scott Bessent, the US Treasury Secretary, reacted to the sanctioning of Egypt's bank in the UAE for money laundering for the Islamic Republic, stating on X that the Treasury Department is committed to cutting off all remaining financial avenues of the Islamic Republic. Bessent added that those assisting the Islamic Republic had been warned they would no longer have access to the US dollar and the global financial system.
The fourth week of the Iranian Premier League begins with six matches. Esteghlal, the leader with 9 points, will visit Foolad Khuzestan, which is ranked sixth with 5 points. An interview with Mohammad Taghavi about these matches has been conducted.
Asieh Amini, a social issues analyst, stated that the Islamic Republic has ignored the role of women in Iran's modernization over nearly five decades. She expressed this in an interview with Iran International.
The Iranian Statistics Center reported that the point-to-point inflation of food items has exceeded 128 percent. This rate is about twice the inflation of non-food goods. An economic journalist stated that official inflation figures do not reflect the real cost of living, and the inflation pressure is felt more by the lower income groups.
Saadollah Zarei said that honorable peace in the current situation means surrender. He stated that the goal of the US is the surrender of the Islamic Republic. He also mentioned that the US increases threats and pressures while proposing negotiations.
Fatemeh Gholami Moghadam has been detained in Vakilabad Prison in Mashhad for over two months without a decision. Her case has been referred to the first branch of the Revolutionary Court, but the trial has not been held. She remains in detention awaiting a judicial decision.
Some participants of Friday prayers in Birjand gathered in front of the South Khorasan governor's office to protest the state of hijab in the city. The protest took place on Friday noon. In recent weeks, Friday prayer leaders in various cities have expressed their stance on the hijab situation.
A citizen reported in a video that they paid toll fees twice on the Khorramabad-Borujerd route. He also mentioned that Reza Shah built the Chalus road without charging tolls. This issue was raised on Iran International.
The US Treasury Department announced that Reza Mohammad Tayidi, an Iranian national residing in Dubai who is linked to Bank Melli Iran, has been added to the OFAC sanctions list, and secondary US sanctions also apply to him. The Hong Kong-based company Kamang Trading has also been added to the US sanctions list. These actions were taken under sanctions related to the Islamic Republic and counterterrorism.
The CENTCOM commander announced that US forces have cleared Islamic Republic-attributed sea mines from international waterways and are simultaneously enforcing a naval blockade. The US Treasury Secretary also said that the blockade and economic isolation campaign will completely shatter the Islamic Republic's economy.
Milad Hashempour, a protester from December, was sentenced to 61 months in prison and 74 lashes. He was arrested on January 25, 2026, and after torture and solitary confinement, was released on bail. His total sentence is five years and one month in prison and 74 lashes.
Four British men admitted in a London court to setting fire to four ambulances belonging to a Jewish relief organization. The attack occurred on March 22 and the damage was estimated at about one million pounds. A group supporting the Islamic Republic claimed responsibility for the attack.
Families of political prisoners executed in 1988 were prevented from entering Khavaran Cemetery today and left their flowers outside the gates. They held a ceremony at the site to honor the victims. The executions were ordered by Ruhollah Khomeini in summer 1988 and remain a subject of demands for independent investigation.
Reuters reported that Mojtaba Khamenei was injured in the airstrikes on March 1, 2026, which affected his face. His physical condition is improving and he continues to participate in decision-making. Iranian officials withhold details about his status and location to prevent information leaks.
Mehdi Tartaar, Persepolis coach, accepted responsibility for last week's defeat, calling it the first loss in 12-13 recent games. He urged fans not to be misled by criticism and promised the team will soon return to the top of the table. He also stated that his team is determined to win the upcoming match against Malavan.
A group of Iranians living in Texas held a gathering in Houston on Thursday, 5 Shahrivar. They expressed their support for the national revolution and Prince Reza Pahlavi. This news was reported by Iran International.
A cafe in Ardabil was closed by order of the city's prosecutor. The Ardabil prosecutor's office stated that some actions contrary to Islamic and ethical norms are being investigated at this location. Those involved will be dealt with.
Ahmad Alamolhoda criticized the economic performance of Masoud Pezeshkian's government during Friday prayers in Mashhad. He expressed concern over inflation rising from 40% to over 80% and called for utilizing the government's capabilities to manage the economy. He also expressed dissatisfaction with the presence of unveiled women in public streets.
Residents of Ceuta destroyed a temporary migrant camp on the coast of the region. They dismantled tents and threw migrants' belongings into the sea. This action followed rising tensions after a large influx of migrants in late July.
Iran's Foreign Ministry, in a statement on Friday, called on countries not to implement unilateral US sanctions against Iran, labeling Washington's 'economic exclusion operation' as state terrorism. It claimed the new sanctions violate the UN Charter and international law, accusing the US of using the dollar to pressure other nations to sever economic ties with Iran. Iran also criticized the UN and member states for appeasement towards US actions.
The US military announced that it has cleared naval mines from the Strait of Hormuz and that international shipping routes are open. Admiral Brad Cooper confirmed this in a video message. However, the IRGC has denied this claim, stating that the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked.
Maziar Zare, Malavan's head coach, said in a press conference before the match against Persepolis that playing in Tehran is difficult and Persepolis is a well-equipped team. He denied rumors about Alireza Beiranvand joining Malavan and explained Malavan's financial situation and the use of young players. Zare also commented on Persepolis's league status and playing style.
Informed sources told American media that CIA Director John Ratcliffe, during his secret visit to Moscow, asked Russian intelligence officials not to provide Iran with information that could help it. This is the first revealed trip by a CIA chief to Moscow since 2021, and the Kremlin confirmed the meeting with intelligence officials but said he did not meet with Putin. The topics of Russia's support for Iran and US concerns about NATO security were also discussed.
Iran International audiences from Tehran, Isfahan, Ahvaz, Qom, Saqez, and Fardis Karaj report an increase in checkpoints and deployment of security forces. These measures coincide with the worsening fuel crisis and inflation in Iran. More details are provided in an interview with Mohsen Mohimeni.
A female butcher reports market slump and economic pressure, with some customers not eating meat for months. The Iranian Statistics Center announced a surge in food prices in August. Dairy products and meat groups have experienced the highest price increases.
The 40th-day memorial ceremony for Erfan Esfandiari was held, with his family and close ones mourning him. Erfan Esfandiari was one of the protesters arrested during the December 2025 uprising. His death sentence in the Ali Khani Square case in Isfahan was issued and carried out on the morning of July 18.
Chinese officials released drone images showing a lake formed on the Nepal-Tibet border due to a landslide blocking water flow. The lake overflowed on Friday, prompting warnings downstream in Nepal. Nepalese authorities are monitoring two upstream lakes, one of which has also overflowed.
Donald Trump reshared a graphic design of himself on Truth Social. He wrote that the polite gentleman is no longer around. This image was previously published in early Ordibehesht 1405.
Reza Zangeneh, a 27-year-old from Malayer living in Karaj, has been sentenced to death on charges of moharebeh. His case has been sent to the Supreme Court for appeal. If the sentence is confirmed, the death penalty will be carried out.
Jafar Qaderi, a member of the Parliament's Economic Commission, criticized the Central Bank's currency policies to control the dollar price and said the Central Bank has lost its way. He added that the Central Bank's purchase of currency increased demand and liquidity, contributing to higher exchange rates and inflation. Qaderi believes the Central Bank may be trying to reduce liquidity and lower the currency price.
A severe storm with winds over 140 km/h hit Paris and surrounding areas. Dozens of trees fell on roads and railway lines, injuring at least one person. Rescue teams conducted about 60 operations to address flooding and storm damage.
On Thursday, 5 Shahrivar, victims of the online investment group FNDK gathered in Talesh. The protest was due to the non-return of investors' funds. The prosecutor of Talesh announced that the case is under judicial investigation.
An oil tanker carrying gasoline and diesel has docked at the export pier of Kharg Island after about 40 days. The tanker is there to supply fuel for the island's power turbine tanks. This news was reported by a viewer of Iran International.
Bayern Munich has started the new Bundesliga season aiming to win the treble. The team won the first trophy of the season by defeating Dortmund in the German Supercup. The club management is satisfied with the team's progress under Vincent Kompany's leadership.
The German Foreign Ministry condemned Abolfazl Shekarchi's threats against Persian-speaking journalists abroad. The German government rejects any threats and restrictions on press freedom. This response came after the recent threats by the senior spokesperson of the Islamic Republic's armed forces.
Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qatar's Prime Minister, met with Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran's head of government, in Tehran on Thursday. The meeting took place as Qatar seeks to revive stalled diplomacy six months after the war began. Al Thani emphasized the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz according to international law.
Reza Nouri, the Friday prayer leader of Bojnord, said that economic pressure on the US is severe and Trump's popularity has dropped below 30%. He added that the war with the US is no longer existential and that US military reserves have diminished. He also emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz is a strong point Iran maintains to exert economic pressure on the US.
Reza Zangeneh, a 27-year-old from Malayer, has been sentenced to death by the Revolutionary Court of Karaj on charges of collaborating with Mossad and waging war. His case has been sent to the Supreme Court with a 12-day deadline for appeal. Before his arrest, Zangeneh worked as a foreign car mechanic and had recently married.
On September 6th, a video from Tehran showed a long line of cars at the Yadegar Imam highway area waiting for gasoline. The video was sent by a viewer of Iran International. The issue of gasoline queues in Tehran has attracted attention.
A Revolutionary Guards commander with experience suppressing opponents of Bashar al-Assad in Syria was in charge of suppressing protests in Shahriar. Proxy forces were also present in some counties of Tehran province. Farzad Fattahi has provided explanations about these suppressions.
Yayoi Kusama, the avant-garde Japanese artist, passed away at the age of 97. She was one of the influential figures in contemporary art. News of her death was widely covered in major newspapers in Japan and worldwide.
Hassan Alidadi-Soleimani, the Friday prayer leader of Kerman, stated that the Islamic Republic will not retreat from its nuclear rights and sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. He also said that the position of the Islamic Republic in the region has become clearer as America's allies weaken.
The Human Rights Organization for Sports reported the death sentence for five athletes arrested during the "Iranian National Revolution." These individuals have been denied access to a lawyer of their choice. They are on the verge of execution.
The Ministry of Intelligence of the Islamic Republic of Iran announced the arrest of 30 citizens in the Mahalat and Nimvar counties of Markazi province. These individuals were arrested due to their participation in the protests of Dey 1404. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Intelligence.
Saeed Fattahi, the football organization manager of Esteghlal club, expressed hope that FIFA will allow the club to sign three free agents. He mentioned that the Iranian transfer window is closed but lawyers have suggested sending a letter to FIFA. Fattahi also emphasized that Yaser Asani has no issue playing for Esteghlal, while Mes Shahr-e Babak club has filed an official complaint to the disciplinary committee.
Mohammad Javad Haj Ali Akbari stated that supporting the family and promoting a chaste lifestyle is a duty of the government. He criticized the anti-hijab policies during the Pahlavi era and called the promotion of immorality a factor weakening the family. He also urged media and elites to work towards protecting the family.
Water has been cut off in Safadasht from midnight on Thursday, September 5, until 2 PM on Friday, September 6. Internet in Tabriz has become very weak and VPNs are not working. Snapp drivers complain about the possible internet shutdown and economic difficulties.
Soheila Hejab, detained during the December 2025 protests, has been held in uncertain conditions in Karaj's Kachouyi prison for nearly eight months. She remains in custody, and a bail of four billion tomans has been set for her temporary release. This information was reported by the HRANA news agency.
A video has emerged showing a citizen protesting against the IRGC and Basij during nighttime government gatherings. The person refers to them as symbols of oppression. This video has been shared publicly.
The second hearing of Vahid Abiri's case was held at the Old Bailey court in London. He was arrested by counter-terrorism police and accused of cooperating with a foreign intelligence service. This report was provided by Ali Rashid from Iran International.
Ali Hossein Ghazizadeh responded to Mohammad Jafar Ghaempanah's remarks about enrichment and the US. He said these statements contradict the nature of the Islamic Republic and the philosophy of resistance. Ghazizadeh warned that continuing this duality could lead to structural cracks and ultimately the collapse of the regime.
Hossein Aghaei said the Islamic Republic is losing one of its most important levers. Ship traffic in the Strait of Hormuz has not returned to pre-war conditions. US economic pressure could further weaken Tehran's position.
The planned meeting on the situation of the Strait of Hormuz in Istanbul has been canceled. The meeting was initiated by Germany and Turkey and canceled at Egypt's request. No new date has been announced for the meeting.
Ahmad Donyamali, the Minister of Sports and Youth, commented on financial violations in the Taekwondo Federation and expressed hope that this issue would not affect the national team's preparation. He stated that oversight bodies have the right to intervene, but no specific information is yet available. The minister emphasized the need to support colleagues until final rulings are issued.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Bank Melli Iran continues to operate in Dubai despite US demands to close its branches. The US Treasury Secretary has called for all branches of Bank Melli Iran to be shut down. The bank also has branches in several European countries that remain active.
Ali Shirazi referred to the report by the Iran Human Rights organization about the increase in executions. He said the Islamic Republic uses executions to create fear and terror. The reason for this action is the fear of renewed protests in Iran.
A citizen reported in a video that they paid nearly 800,000 tomans for a few grocery items. They protested against those responsible for the price increases. This report was published by Iran International.
Times of Israel reported that the US president is unwilling to revive the interim agreement with the Islamic Republic and prefers a maximum economic pressure strategy. According to the report, the Iranian government repeatedly violated the agreement at the last moments. Therefore, Donald Trump no longer accepts the terms of the previous memorandum.
Messages received by Iran International indicate that economic pressure has forced many families to eliminate travel, cultural goods, and some non-food items. Workers have also reported non-payment of unemployment insurance and related livelihood problems. More details were provided by Leila Saadati.
Esmaeil Kowsari, a member of parliament, stated that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has had plans to close the Strait of Hormuz since 1987.
The detention order for Soraya Manouchehrzadeh, Shima Sanaei, and Fakhereh Zahedi has been extended for one month. These three Baha'i citizens have been detained for seven days and are held in Tircola prison in Sari. They have been denied access to a lawyer and contact with their families.
Rouhollah Rahimpour stated that Qatar and Pakistan are mediating between the Islamic Republic and the US. The main focus is on the Strait of Hormuz and restoring normal ship traffic. The goal is not to resolve disputes between Tehran and Washington.
A citizen in a video to Iran International says that fuel shortages are rampant in various cities, especially in this city. The fuel crisis in these areas has been reported as severe. This issue has caused concerns.
Recently, 11 Bahá'í citizens in seven provinces of Iran have been arrested or sent to prison. Their personal belongings and livelihood equipment have been confiscated by authorities. The Bahá'í International Community has expressed concern about these actions and the economic pressure on families.
The Iranian national basketball team lost 93-91 to New Zealand in the first match of the second round of the 2027 World Cup qualifiers. Iran performed well in the fourth quarter but was defeated in overtime. Iran's next game will be against the Philippines on Sunday, August 30.
The meeting of three European and four regional countries about the Strait of Hormuz, scheduled for August 30 in Istanbul, has been postponed. Foreign ministers of Germany, Britain, Pakistan, Turkey, France, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia were expected to attend. Egypt's foreign minister requested the postponement due to scheduling conflicts, and no new date has been set.
The Eritrean government announced that the oil tanker Sibo One, despite flying the Eritrean flag, is not registered in the country. The tanker was hijacked last week off the coast of Yemen by suspected pirates and diverted towards Somalia. Reports indicate that the Houthis have provided Somali pirates with GPS devices to help them track commercial ships more accurately.
Hossein Alizadeh stated that Donald Trump has less inclination to negotiate with the Islamic Republic and that the US has changed its tactic to economic pressure and isolation. The goal is to force the Islamic Republic to change its behavior. Trump believes that increased economic pressure and internal problems could push the government to retreat and make concessions.
A video from Iran International shows that following the nationwide gasoline crisis in Iran, a long gasoline queue formed in the Kianmehr neighborhood of Ahvaz. This queue formed overnight on Thursday evening.
A citizen criticized rising prices in a video sent to Iran International, stating that the wages for three days of work only cover one day of food for the family. He pointed to the high costs. This highlights the economic pressure on families.
On Thursday night, a deep lunar eclipse was visible in parts of the world. This astronomical event was one of the most spectacular. A similar event will not occur again for another 18 years.
Amir Giti from Iran International said Donald Trump believes Iranian officials are begging to negotiate with the US. He added that Trump no longer seems willing to negotiate, while Iran is still seeking dialogue. Also, Iran considered the Strait of Hormuz a trump card, but this leverage ultimately benefited the US.
The football teams Foolad Khuzestan and Esteghlal will face each other today in the fourth week of the Premier League in Ahvaz. The match will take place this afternoon. To participate in the poll, visit the Iran International Sports Instagram page.
Harald V, the King of Norway, passed away at the age of 89. He was hospitalized last week due to a rare blood disease. His son Haakon will succeed him.
Two Caspian seals' carcasses were found on the Babolsar coast. With this, the number of casualties of this species in Mazandaran has reached 27. The exact cause of death could not be determined due to the advanced decomposition of the carcasses.
New Zealand's Foreign Ministry told Iran International that it is reviewing the new US 'economic exclusion' campaign against the Islamic Republic but is not commenting at this time. The New Zealand government emphasized its support for Security Council sanctions and described its trade volume with Iran as very limited. Australia's Foreign Ministry did not state a position on joining the new sanctions.
Atena Hosseinian was killed on January 8th during protests in Gorgan in front of the city governor's office. She was shot directly in the head by government forces. This incident occurred in the presence of her family members.
Agents of the Islamic Republic raided the homes and workplaces of Baha'is in seven provinces within less than a week and confiscated their belongings. At least 11 people have been arrested, and cars, cash, jewelry, computers, work tools, and children's toys were seized. This information was announced in a statement received by Iran International.
Esmail Hajizadeh stated that 20,000 workers in Hormozgan province have become unemployed due to recession and business closures. The five-star Persian Gulf Hotel in Bandar Abbas and several other companies have laid off their staff. Many unemployed workers have turned to informal jobs, and workers' purchasing power has significantly decreased.
Erfan Ghanei-Fard stated that David Barnea's view on continuing pressure on the Islamic Republic until the regime falls overlaps with Israel's approach. This strategy includes economic pressure, security operations, and internal protests. He added that Israel's policy towards the Islamic Republic is not dependent on Netanyahu, and security agencies act independently.
The Israeli website Ynet wrote in an analysis that the Islamic Republic is facing complex crises including the collapse of the rial's value, economic pressures, and increasing internal dissatisfaction. The media predicted that this situation could lead to a new round of protests. It also mentioned that the intensification of mandatory hijab and failure to avenge Ali Khamenei are factors increasing dissatisfaction.
Israeli forces entered the village of Briqueh in southern Syria and inspected several houses. The Israeli army announced it killed two Hamas members in Gaza. Additionally, Israeli artillery and air strikes were reported in areas of Lebanon.
New Zealand's Foreign Ministry stated it will not take a position at this stage regarding the US economic exclusion campaign against the Islamic Republic. The country supports UN Security Council sanctions as long as they comply with international law. New Zealand has also sanctioned some Iranian individuals and companies involved in supporting Russia's war in Ukraine.
Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander, stated that US forces have protected the passage of nearly 1,500 ships carrying about 750 million barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz in recent months. The US has cleared mines planted by the IRGC, keeping international routes open. Washington continues the naval blockade of Iran, halting oil exports from Iranian ports.
Scott Bessent, the US Treasury Secretary, intends to urge G20 members to enforce sanctions on Iran's government at the financial meeting in Asheville, North Carolina. A US Treasury official said Bessent will work to expand Iran's economic isolation. China, as the largest buyer of Iranian oil, is one of the main challenges to this campaign.
Haaretz wrote in an analysis that the sharp decline in Iran's oil exports could limit the financial resources of the IRGC and security agencies. The analysis suggests that reduced oil revenue may decrease the government's ability to suppress protests. However, the extent of alternative resources and the impact of economic pressure on the power structure remain unclear.
US intelligence agencies believe the Kremlin views the Iran war as weakening Washington's military capability. The CIA chief warned Russia about escalating the Ukraine war. The Trump administration denied ammunition shortages but called for increased production.
Bloomberg reported that Venezuela is considering plans to leave OPEC. The issue was also raised in the country's talks with US officials. No final decision has been made yet, and Reuters has not been able to independently confirm the report.
Daily Sun reported that the war in Iran has reached a costly and dangerous stalemate after six months. The Islamic Republic faces sanctions and economic blockade but still holds power. Washington has shifted pressure to Iran's oil revenues and trade partners.
Nikki Haley accused China of financially supporting the Iranian government in its war against the US. She also stated that China hacks critical US infrastructure. These remarks coincided with the planned meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping.
The Turkish foreign minister welcomed the dissolution of the Syrian Democratic Forces and their integration into the Syrian army. He emphasized that Ankara will closely monitor the implementation of this decision. This report was provided by Narges Horkhsh from Iran International.
Donald Trump criticized Fox News' report about the Islamic Republic as particularly false and claimed that Iranian officials want to negotiate with the US. He said he does not want to meet them, but they are begging for a deal. Trump also described Iran as a country in collapse.
Alireza Nourizadeh said Qatar and Oman are trying to prevent the escalation of the crisis, but US economic pressures limit these efforts. The Trump administration believes that a compromise with the Islamic Republic will not be sustainable. Internal conflicts in the Islamic Republic have also intensified due to the absence of Mojtaba Khamenei.
Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting's Channel 3 has aired a video and spoken of setting a $10 million reward for the elimination of the youngest son of the US president. The US Secret Service has announced it is investigating the threat.
The White House spokesperson stated that currently there are no negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Trump has kept all options, including a naval blockade, on the table. The Basij commander said that every Iranian is ready to confront the enemy in the state of neither war nor peace.
Amirhossein Mirasmaeili said the disagreement between supporters of a deal with the US and the faction close to the IRGC has put the Islamic Republic in a risky position. He added that while some officials talk about negotiations, others increase the risk of war by threatening the US. Additionally, the economic crisis and protests have increased pressure on the Islamic Republic.
Al Jazeera reported that there is hope for reaching an agreement in Tehran and a space for negotiation and mediation has been formed. However, no agreement has been reached yet, and the Islamic Republic is currently in talks with mediators including Qatar and Pakistan. Talks between Iran and Oman and other Gulf countries are expected to continue.
Meysam Mehrani said economic pressures have shifted the balance in favor of the US and placed the Islamic Republic in a difficult position. He pointed to long gasoline lines and the economic crisis as signs of government problems. Mehrani added that the Trump administration aims to maintain economic pressure to gain the upper hand in potential negotiations.
Donald Trump emphasized that the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz does not mean the end of US military actions. These remarks were made amid the continuation of the naval blockade of the Islamic Republic and the intensification of Washington's economic pressure on Tehran.
The Washington Times wrote that US sanctions policy against Iran faces a major challenge because Iran is no longer dependent on the Western financial system. China and Russia have enabled Iran's continued economic activity by creating alternative payment systems and channels. The newspaper emphasized that the US should target Chinese financial institutions and networks linked to Russia.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump administration has repeatedly stated it is not interested in returning to the Islamabad agreement, complicating diplomatic efforts. Since the agreement ended, Trump has focused on economic pressure against the Islamic Republic. Mediators' efforts to reduce Iran's demands and resume negotiations have made little progress.
Barcelona defeated Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in the postponed first week match of La Liga. The goals were scored by Rafinha and Fermin Lopez. With this win, Barcelona moved to the top of the La Liga standings.
The US State Department's "Rewards for Justice" program announced that it is still seeking information about Mohammad Bagher Shirinkar and Fatemeh Sedighian Kashi, two Iranian hackers linked to the "Shahid Shoushtari" group affiliated with the IRGC's Cyber-Electronic Command. The US had previously offered a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification and location of these two individuals.
Reports indicate that crude oil flow from the Strait of Hormuz has gradually increased, with Middle Eastern producers except Iran raising their exports. Donald Trump stated that 24 tankers passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday evening. This increase has helped contain prices, but transit through the strait remains risky.
Ebrahim Azizi, head of the National Security Commission of the Parliament, told the US government on X that the only remaining way is to surrender and accept all Tehran's conditions. He emphasized that any talks must be conducted from a position of strength and with acceptance of the realities on the ground. These statements were made on Thursday.
The White House has stated that no negotiations are underway. The deadlock between Tehran and Washington continues. This topic was discussed in the audio version of 24 with Fardad Farahzad.
Mohsen Namjoo returned to Iran after about 29 years living abroad. He stated that he might resume his artistic activities and stage performances. The Minister of Culture also mentioned reviewing the possibility of the return of over 100 Iranian figures living abroad.
Thomas Juneau stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains a major concern for the US and that the Islamic Republic can endure economic pressures in the short and medium term. He added that both sides are currently unwilling to resume direct war, but the situation is fragile. Despite damage to its military capabilities, the Islamic Republic still retains the ability to target the Strait of Hormuz and regional infrastructure.
Ahmad Donyamali stated that he is trying to create an opportunity for Chadormalu to represent Iran in the next season of the AFC Champions League. He mentioned that this issue is one of the reasons for his impeachment and emphasized not to accuse the Minister of Sports of corruption. Previously, the impeachment reasons included administrative corruption and poor international performance.
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