March
01.03.2025
Saturday

Day Empty Plates Left White House

Iranian media extensively covered Trump's dismissal of Zelenskyy without lunch, framing it as vindication of anti-Western positions. By mid-morning, coverage shifted as NATO leadership attempted mediation, calling for relationship repair while European leaders voiced support for Ukraine.

Domestically, Mehdi Taj retained football federation presidency amid allegations of nighttime lobbying. Economic concerns dominated afternoon coverage: Central Bank maintained the 28,500 toman exchange rate while Tehran announced water rationing as reservoir levels reached 6%. The brewing impeachment of Economic Minister Hemmati generated debate about FATF implications.

Evening coverage returned to international affairs as Zelenskyy arrived in London, with Iranian media interpreting the Trump-Zelenskyy rift through regional implications, particularly regarding ongoing Gaza ceasefire negotiations and Iran's nuclear program discussions with IAEA.
Morning coverage focused on Economy Minister Hemmati's impeachment proceedings, with President Pezeshkian defending him by citing wartime conditions and frozen Iranian funds in neighboring countries. By midday, parliament voted 182-89 to dismiss Hemmati, marking the first ministerial removal in Pezeshkian's cabinet after 193 days. Rahmatolah Akrami was appointed acting minister.

The Supreme Leader's Ramadan Quranic gathering dominated afternoon coverage, with state media emphasizing his statements about confronting "global powers." By evening, reports emerged of Strategic Deputy Zarif's resignation, suggesting deeper instability within Pezeshkian's administration.

International coverage focused on European leaders' London conference supporting Ukraine, with Von der Leyen announcing a $2 billion air defense agreement - continuing the narrative from previous days' Trump-Zelenskyy confrontation and suggesting further isolation of Iran's position regarding Russia.
03.03.2025
Monday

Day Shadow Of Cypress Found Gold

Iranian animation "In the Cypress Shade" winning the Oscar for Best Animated Short dominated morning coverage, marking Iran's first Academy Award in this category. By midday, attention shifted to the dual political crisis as both Foreign Affairs advisor Zarif and recently impeached Economy Minister Hemmati departed the cabinet, suggesting deeper instability in Pezeshkian's administration.

IAEA Director Grossi's announcement of preparing a comprehensive report on Iran's nuclear violations, particularly noting 275kg of 60% enriched uranium, generated afternoon coverage. State media simultaneously emphasized water diplomacy failures with Taliban regarding Helmand River flow.

Evening coverage returned to domestic politics as government spokesperson confirmed Zarif's resignation remains pending, while hardliners increased pressure on Pezeshkian. The Esteghlal-Al Nasr AFC Champions League match ended in a goalless draw at Azadi Stadium.
Trump's suspension of military aid to Ukraine dominated morning coverage, followed by implementation of new tariffs against Canada and Mexico. By midday, Bloomberg revealed Putin's acceptance of Trump's request to mediate nuclear talks with Iran, a development Iranian state media emphasized heavily despite US later denying requesting such mediation.

British announcement of stricter monitoring of Iran-linked individuals and mandatory registration requirements generated significant afternoon coverage. Meanwhile, internal reporting focused on growing cabinet instability following Zarif's exit and Hemmati's impeachment, with sources indicating 75% of positions now controlled by opposition forces.

Evening coverage highlighted EU's renewed concerns about Iran's nuclear program, while state media attempted to frame the Putin-Trump development as diplomatic victory, despite Washington's explicit denial of seeking Russian mediation.
05.03.2025
Wednesday

Day Moscow Found Nuclear Bridge

Trump's State of the Union address dominated morning coverage, with Iranian media focusing on his claims about Russia's peace signals and the Kabul bomber capture. By midday, the Kremlin confirmed Iran's nuclear program had become part of US-Russia negotiations regarding Ukraine, marking a significant shift in diplomatic dynamics.

European powers' warning about Iran's uranium enrichment reaching 27 times permitted levels generated extensive coverage, while Iran's representative dismissed their legal standing for snapback activation. State media attempted to redirect attention to Khamenei's tree planting ceremony and environmental statements.

Evening reports highlighted US-Israel joint Mediterranean exercises and new sanctions against Houthi officials. The Foreign Ministry rejected British claims about thwarted assassination attempts, while WFP warnings about Gaza's dwindling food reserves received minimal coverage in state media.
European leaders gathered in Brussels to discuss increased defense funding following US aid suspension to Ukraine, while Lavrov explicitly warned that European peacekeepers would constitute direct NATO involvement. These developments occurred against the backdrop of Macron's nuclear deterrence statements from previous days.

Reuters revealed Trump administration plans to intercept Iranian oil tankers in international waters, while US Treasury Secretary suggested Iranians convert their assets to foreign currency. Meanwhile, a military incident at an IRGC naval facility resulted in one death and multiple injuries, though state media provided minimal details.

Internal discourse centered on corruption charges leading to prison sentences for two former cabinet ministers, while Pezeshkian continued emphasizing systemic solutions over personnel changes. State media attempted to redirect attention to religious pilgrimages and economic reforms, while downplaying mounting international pressure regarding nuclear enrichment levels.
Morning coverage focused intensively on escalating violence in Latakia and Tartus, where clashes between Assad loyalists and transitional government forces near Russian bases led to martial law declarations. State media attempted to frame the unrest as anti-Jolani uprising.

By midday, attention shifted dramatically to Trump's claimed letter to Khamenei, reportedly offering negotiations or military action. Iranian officials quickly denied receiving any correspondence, while Araghchi emphasized that military strikes couldn't destroy Iran's nuclear program - a statement appearing to respond to both Trump's letter and recent European warnings about enrichment levels.

Evening reporting revealed tomorrow's scheduled Ramadan meeting between regime officials and Khamenei, while Yemen's Houthis issued a 4-day ultimatum to Israel regarding Gaza aid, continuing the pattern of proxy pressure observed in previous days.
The day centered on Khamenei's Ramadan meeting with regime officials, where he explicitly rejected negotiation overtures from "bullying governments" - a clear response to Trump's reported letter from yesterday. Without directly mentioning the letter, Khamenei emphasized that Iran would not accept foreign demands, claiming their intent was "imposing will rather than solving issues." Coverage shifted from morning reports on the OIC emergency meeting in Jeddah regarding Gaza displacement to afternoon focus on Khamenei's speech. By evening, reports emerged that the US dollar exchange rate had risen following Khamenei's rejection, while Western media quoted White House officials presenting Iran with two options: agreement or military action. Meanwhile, coverage continued of Syria's Latakia conflict, with fighting reported for a third day between Assad forces and Jolani's fighters near Russian bases.
Morning newspapers amplified the White House's stark ultimatum to Iran following Khamenei's rejection of Trump's letter: agreement or military action. By mid-morning, the dollar exceeded 93,000 tomans as markets reacted negatively to the diplomatic impasse.

Iran's response emerged through multiple channels - announcing joint naval exercises with Russia and China near Chabahar starting Tuesday, while simultaneously signaling flexibility on nuclear negotiations through diplomatic backchannels. Iran's UN mission indicated willingness to discuss concerns about military dimensions of its nuclear program despite Khamenei's public rejection of talks.

Meanwhile, the environmental crisis intensified with reports of Latian Dam at 91% empty and Karaj Dam at 94% empty. Iran's severe drought continues with rainfall 41% below long-term averages. Late reports focused on UN Security Council convening to address sectarian violence against Alawites in Syria, where hundreds have reportedly been killed.
Iran continued rejecting negotiations under pressure, with Foreign Minister Araghchi tweeting in English that "bullying" won't lead to talks, reinforcing Khamenei's rejection of Trump's letter from previous days. Trump reciprocated by cutting funding to Iranian opposition groups and dismissing concerns about Iran-Russia-China naval exercises.

The severe water crisis dominated domestic news, with 57% of dam capacity now empty, rainfall below normal in 28 provinces, and Lar Dam completely dry. Motorcyclists were photographed riding on dried dam beds, while water rationing began in some regions.

Parliament advanced legislation recognizing freedom of assembly, while debates continued over lifting social media filtering. Khabar Online reported "hardliners' barriers" against removing Telegram and YouTube filtering, with one MP characterizing the government's approach as "giving in to opponents." These developments occurred against a backdrop of potential Iran-EU3 negotiations scheduled for late March.
The UN Security Council scheduled a closed session to discuss Iran's nuclear program as maritime security exercises involving Iran, Russia, and China continued in the Indian Ocean. By morning, Foreign Minister Araghchi reaffirmed Iran's commitment to support Iraq against US sanctions that revoked electricity import waivers.

Ukraine launched an "unprecedented" drone attack on Moscow ahead of peace talks in Saudi Arabia, which dominated midday coverage. By evening, Ukraine had accepted a 30-day ceasefire proposal, with US representatives preparing to take the agreement to Moscow.

President Pezeshkian delivered a direct rebuke to Trump, declaring Iran "will not negotiate under threats," reinforcing the position established after Khamenei rejected Trump's letter days earlier. Meanwhile, Pakistan faced a hostage crisis as Baloch separatists seized a passenger train with 400 travelers, releasing only women and children while threatening remaining hostages.
The UAE diplomatic advisor Anwar Gargash delivered Trump's letter to Foreign Minister Araghchi, culminating weeks of speculation. This delivery coincided with Supreme Leader Khamenei's Ramadan meeting with students, where he rejected Trump's negotiation offer as "deception of world public opinion" and claimed negotiations with the current US administration would "tighten the knot of sanctions."

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov revealed that US demands for a new agreement include Iran halting support for regional proxy groups. Meanwhile, the trilateral meeting between China, Russia, and Iran about Tehran's nuclear program was scheduled for Friday.

Yemen's resumed ban on Israeli ships in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea received coverage alongside Pakistan's military operation freeing 150 passengers from the "Jafar Express" train hijacked by Baloch separatists. Iran's Revolutionary Guards denied former official Rafighdoost's statements about foreign assassinations, claiming he had no security responsibilities.
Russia's position on the Ukraine ceasefire dominated coverage, evolving from morning rejection of a "short-term" pause to Putin's afternoon statement accepting the proposal with conditions that it must lead to "permanent peace and addressing root causes." This followed yesterday's Ukrainian acceptance of the Trump-proposed 30-day ceasefire.

The US imposed new sanctions on Iran's Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad, with President Pezeshkian responding that "enemies cannot create problems by sanctioning Iran's oil." This occurred as Iran summoned three European ambassadors to the Foreign Ministry and announced plans for nuclear negotiations in Beijing with Russia and China on Friday.

Israeli airstrikes targeted Islamic Jihad Secretary-General Ziad Nakhaleh's residence in Damascus, with Israel warning Syria about harboring "Islamic terrorism." Domestically, newspapers reported economic challenges in the textile industry and Chaharshanbeh Suri celebrations resulting in 286 injuries and 5 deaths.
The trilateral meeting between Iran, China, and Russia in Beijing dominated coverage, with China and Russia calling for an end to "unilateral and illegal" sanctions against Iran while affirming Iran's peaceful nuclear program. China explicitly called for new nuclear negotiations based on the JCPOA framework.

Domestically, two earthquakes struck near Tehran, attributed to the 90km Robat Karim fault line, while Parliament Speaker Qalibaf announced monthly electronic food vouchers for 1404 (beginning March 2025).

By afternoon, news outlets reported the G7's draft statement identifying Iran as "the main source of instability in the region" and asserting Iran "must never acquire nuclear weapons." This diplomatic tension occurred as a UN fact-finding committee reported Iran's continued "systematic suppression" of opponents despite President Pezeshkian's pre-election promises. The committee specifically noted Iran's increasing use of digital technology for surveillance and control of dissidents.
Former President Rouhani made significant comments suggesting Supreme Leader Khamenei isn't permanently opposed to negotiations with the US, stating he "might accept talks under new conditions in coming months." This contradicts Khamenei's public stance rejecting Trump's negotiation offers.

IAEA Director Grossi warned that Iran is "very close to crossing the nuclear threshold," while Foreign Minister Araghchi expressed readiness for dialogue with European countries "based on mutual respect."

President Pezeshkian warned of severe water shortages in Tehran next year, with reports that 14 major dams are below 15% capacity.

The evening brought military escalation as Trump ordered strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen while explicitly warning Iran they "won't be kind this time" if support for Houthis continues. This marks Trump's first military action against Iranian proxies since returning to office, potentially signaling a more aggressive approach than his diplomatic outreach suggests.
The US conducted what media called its "largest attack" on Houthi positions in Yemen, killing at least 40 people according to Tasnim News. Trump administration officials explicitly framed this as a warning to Iran about its support for Houthis. Iranian officials responded forcefully throughout the day: Foreign Minister Araghchi stated "America has no right to dictate Iran's foreign policy," while IRGC Commander Salami claimed Iran plays "no role in Yemen's operational policies" but warned any threats would face "devastating response."

By evening, Houthi forces claimed to have launched ballistic missiles at a US aircraft carrier, with US officials countering by naming Iranian ships and advisors near Yemen as potential targets if attacks on shipping continued.

Domestically, the High Labor Council approved a 45% increase in minimum wages to 10.4 million tomans for 2025, though Khabar Online reported this still lags behind dollar exchange rates.
After 15 years of house arrest, Mehdi Karroubi was officially released, with BBC Persian publishing the first images of the former presidential candidate. Officials reportedly told him Mir-Hossein Mousavi would receive similar treatment in coming months.

Trump escalated his rhetoric against Iran, declaring the Islamic Republic would be held directly responsible for any Houthi attacks, following what Yemen's health officials called America's "largest attack" on Houthi positions that killed 53 people. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Baghaei stated Iran would respond "appropriately" to Trump's letter after completing their review.

The Expediency Council indicated Iran might conditionally join the Palermo and CFT financial conventions, though not FATF. Economic concerns intensified as gold coin prices surpassed 90 million tomans, which government spokesman Mohajerani attributed to global market trends rather than domestic policies.
Israel launched what media called its "heaviest airstrikes" on Gaza since the ceasefire began, with death toll estimates ranging from 220 to over 400 according to Palestinian sources. Hamas declared Israel had unilaterally violated the ceasefire, while Islamic Jihad confirmed its spokesperson Abu Hamza was killed in the strikes.

Iran officially warned the UN Security Council of "severe consequences" for any US aggression, responding to Trump's recent ultimatum holding Iran responsible for Houthi attacks.

By evening, Trump and Putin held a 90-minute call where they notably agreed "Iran should not be in a position to destroy Israel," signaling potential alignment on containing Iran despite their differences on Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the Iranian economy showed severe strain as the dollar reached 100,000 tomans, while Chaharshanbe Suri celebrations resulted in 15 deaths and 2,466 injuries nationwide. Parliament Speaker Qalibaf announced the hijab law had been suspended.
19.03.2025
Wednesday

Trump's Iran Ultimatum Day

Morning reports revealed Trump and Putin agreed Iran "should not be in a position to destroy Israel" during their recent call. By midday, Axios broke news of Trump's letter to Khamenei containing a "two-month ultimatum" for a nuclear deal, coinciding with Trump's public demand that Iran "immediately stop" supporting Houthis while acknowledging some reduction in that support.

Istanbul Mayor Imamoglu's arrest dominated international coverage, with Western countries condemning the move against Erdogan's key political rival. Iraq reportedly seized an Iranian vessel on fuel smuggling charges.

Domestically, Chaharshanbe Suri celebrations resulted in over 5,500 injuries as security forces reportedly attacked public gatherings. Police deployed 16,000 patrols and 250,000 personnel for Nowruz security.

As the vernal equinox approaches, officials emphasized the cultural significance of Nowruz while President Pezeshkian urged traffic safety after expressing concern about Chaharshanbe Suri accident statistics.
As Nowruz celebrations began, Supreme Leader Khamenei named 1404 the "Year of Investment for Production" in his annual address, dominating morning headlines across all Iranian outlets. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Araqchi characterized Trump's recent letter to Khamenei as "more of a threat" and promised Iran would respond.

In a gesture of diplomatic flexibility, Iran released French citizen Olivier Grandot after 887 days of imprisonment. This move coincided with continuing regional tensions as Admiral Siyari warned of retaliation against any aggression toward Iran.

Trump's Nowruz message to Iranians contrasted with US actions as Washington sanctioned a network involved in transporting and processing Iranian oil, while Axios reported that US-Israel consultations on Iran's nuclear program would occur next week.

Istanbul mayor's arrest continued generating regional coverage as protesters defied authorities for a second day despite dozens of arrests for "provocative" social media posts.
21.03.2025
Friday

Day of Supreme Leader's Warning

The Supreme Leader's Nowruz address dominated Iranian media coverage. Khamenei warned that while "Iran will not start a war," those who initiate aggression would face "harsh slaps" - a clear response to Trump's recent ultimatum. He dismissed the concept of "proxy forces," stating "the Islamic Republic doesn't need proxies."

Russia defended Iran's right to a "peaceful nuclear program," accepting Tehran's claims about not seeking nuclear weapons - a significant diplomatic support amid US pressure. A 5.0 magnitude earthquake struck near Isfahan, close to the Natanz nuclear facility.

Regional tensions continued with Al-Alam reporting Arab countries' concerns about potential US attacks on Iran. Istanbul mayor Imamoglu's detention sparked protests with about 100 arrests according to Turkish officials.

The economic situation remained dire as reports showed inflation exceeding 37%, with former central bank officials predicting it could reach 60%.
Former Trump envoy Steve Vitkaff's revelations dominated coverage, contradicting earlier characterizations of Trump's letter to Khamenei as threatening. Vitkaff clarified the letter aimed to prevent military confrontation, not provoke it, while stating Iran faces only two options: "agreement or military confrontation." Iranian sources reported Tehran responded through intermediaries, keeping "dialogue doors open."

Military rhetoric continued as IRGC naval commander Tangsiri warned "tyrants' fleets will sink," while a senior commander threatened strikes against America and Israel "from where they least expect."

Economic concerns took center stage with reports of energy subsidy removals beginning in 1404 alongside black market fuel sales. The energy minister suggested citizens should personally invest in energy infrastructure to solve electricity shortages.

Regional news featured Israel's "most extensive" strikes on Lebanon since the ceasefire, Istanbul mayor Imamoglu's court appearance, and Sudan's army taking control of the central bank in Khartoum.
Foreign Minister Araghchi's statements dominated morning coverage, revealing a nuanced position: "not negotiating with America isn't our strategy" while maintaining diplomatic caution. Officials emphasized Iran would not yield to Western pressure while keeping diplomatic channels open.

Iran's Atomic Energy Organization spokesman Kamalvandi reinforced this dual message, stating Iran remains "determined to assert its rights" while avoiding capitulation to Western demands.

Regional developments intensified as Yemeni forces reportedly targeted Ben Gurion airport and engaged with the USS Truman in the Red Sea. Israel continued operations in southern Lebanon and Syria's Daraa province.

Domestic concerns emerged with reports of citizens arrested for participating in Nowruz celebrations, while traffic accidents claimed 277 lives during the holiday period.

Istanbul mayor Imamoglu's formal arrest on corruption charges sparked growing protests, with tens of thousands demonstrating in Istanbul as Trump's national security advisor reiterated America's goal of dismantling Iran's nuclear program.
Foreign Minister Araghchi dominated morning coverage with repeated assertions that "no one would even think of attacking Iran" while simultaneously rejecting direct negotiations with the US under "maximum pressure." This diplomatic balancing act continues the flexible approach noted in previous days.

Gaza's death toll surpassing 50,000 received significant coverage, with reports of Hamas financial leader Ismail Barhoum killed in an Israeli airstrike on Nasser Hospital. Iran issued a "strongly-worded warning" to Israel regarding Lebanon.

Turkish protests following Istanbul Mayor Imamoglu's arrest received extensive afternoon coverage, with authorities confirming 1,133 arrests across six nights of demonstrations that Erdogan labeled a "movement of violence."

Evening reports revealed Yemeni missile strikes causing damage in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, while US State Department officials claimed "Iran has few options" and "the world they knew has ended" - echoing Trump's ultimatum rhetoric from previous days.
Morning news focused on Yemen striking Ben Gurion Airport and the USS Truman, continuing the pattern of regional escalation. The Atlantic editor scandal deepened as Trump officials' private military chat messages were revealed, showing disdain for European allies.

President Pezeshkian visited Lake Urmia, pledging to involve foreign experts in restoration efforts that previous administrations neglected. US intelligence assessments indicating Iran is not currently building nuclear weapons contrasted with IAEA Director Grossi reporting that talks with Iranian officials ended without results.

By evening, two major developments dominated: Iran's Revolutionary Guards unveiled a significant underground missile city, reinforcing the military posture amid tensions with the US, while the national football team qualified for the 2026 World Cup after drawing 2-2 with Uzbekistan. Foreign Minister Araghchi maintained his measured approach, still not responding to Trump's letter while emphasizing Iran's policy of avoiding war.
26.03.2025
Wednesday

Day of Missiles and Pardons

The Revolutionary Guards unveiled one of their largest underground missile bases in a show of strength, with Tehran Times describing it as "10 times stronger than True Promise II." The facility houses various missiles ready for launch (Al-Alam). Khamenei granted pardons to 1,526 prisoners ahead of Eid al-Fitr, continuing a traditional gesture during religious holidays.

Quds Force Commander Ghaani reaffirmed Iran's support for Palestine while Palestinian resistance claimed new missile strikes against Israel. US intelligence assessments noted Khamenei "hasn't yet authorized building a nuclear bomb but is under pressure" (BBC Persian).

Iran's Greco-Roman wrestling team became Asian champions with eight medals. Economic concerns persisted with analysts predicting the dollar reaching 130,000 tomans in 1404 and authorities warning of Tehran's water reserves reaching "alert status" (Shargh Daily). US Commerce Department imposed new sanctions targeting Iran's drone program.
Morning reports focused on Iran's naval parade in the Persian Gulf, with IRGC Admiral Tangsiri threatening to "turn the sea into hell" for Israel - escalating maritime rhetoric amid ongoing regional tensions. The display featured 3,000 vessels in support of Palestine ahead of Quds Day.

A significant diplomatic development emerged as Kharrazi, Khamenei's advisor, indicated Iran's openness to indirect negotiations with the US, despite "contradictory messages" from the Trump administration. By evening, Foreign Minister Araghchi confirmed Iran had officially responded to Trump's letter through Omani channels.

Supreme Leader Khamenei delivered a televised address, predicting Friday's Quds Day would be "one of the most dignified" demonstrations in its history - mobilizing public participation amid the Gaza conflict where Palestinian casualties have reportedly reached 50,208.

International coverage highlighted Trump's 25% auto import tariff triggering threats of retaliation from America's trade partners.
Quds Day rallies swept across Iran with officials portraying them as a display of national strength and rejection of American pressure. Parliament Speaker Qalibaf warned that any aggression against Iran would "explode the entire region," dismissing Trump's letter as "bullying." Foreign Minister Araghchi confirmed Iran's "restrained" response to Trump's letter had been sent via Omani channels.

By afternoon, Israeli airstrikes hit Beirut's southern suburbs for the first time since the Hezbollah ceasefire, drawing immediate condemnation from Tehran. Trump escalated tensions, threatening "very very bad" consequences if Iran refuses nuclear negotiations.

Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remained active as Iran began talks with European countries in Geneva. The day's coverage also included significant attention to two powerful earthquakes in Myanmar and initial reports of catastrophic damage across Southeast Asia.
Security forces dispersed a two-month pro-mandatory hijab sit-in outside Parliament, an unprecedented action against conservative protesters. The Tehran Governor's office warned it would confront unauthorized gatherings, while police released a statement claiming some protesters engaged in "self-harm, profanity, and aggression."

Admiral Tanksiri threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz if Iran is denied its rights, continuing the assertive military posture displayed in previous days. Tehran's response to Trump was described as "detailed and matching Trump's language style," with Kayhan London reporting Iran's letter explicitly refused negotiations on defense and missile programs.

Economic concerns deepened as gold coin prices reached 103 million tomans and the dollar hit 105,000 tomans. In international news, tens of thousands protested in Istanbul against Mayor Imamoglu's detention, while earthquake death toll in Myanmar surpassed 1,000. Preparations continued for Monday's Eid al-Fitr prayers led by Khamenei.
Morning reports confirmed Hamas agreed to a 50-day Gaza ceasefire proposal while maintaining weapons as a "red line." The diplomatic focus quickly shifted to Iran-US communications as President Pezeshkian revealed Ayatollah Khamenei personally responded to Trump's letter, keeping indirect negotiations open via Oman while rejecting direct talks.

By midday, Yemen claimed to have launched a "Zulfiqar" ballistic missile at Ben Gurion Airport, continuing its military operations against both Israel and US naval forces in the region.

The afternoon brought a dramatic escalation as Trump threatened Iran would be "bombed" if it refused a nuclear agreement. This threat follows the previous day's Quds Day rallies and the dispersal of pro-hijab protestors by security forces.

Religious news featured prominently as Monday was declared Eid al-Fitr, with Khamenei scheduled to lead prayers in Tehran. Iranian media also celebrated the national beach soccer team winning the Asian championship.
Eid al-Fitr celebrations began with Supreme Leader Khamenei leading prayers at Tehran's Grand Mosalla, where he delivered a significant speech responding to Trump's recent bombing threats. Khamenei warned of a "harsh counterblow" to any aggression while expressing doubt that external powers would attack Iran. He described Israel as "the only proxy force in the region" and extended "a hand of friendship" to all Islamic nations.

By midday, former nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani escalated the rhetoric, warning that American or Israeli attacks would push Iran toward developing nuclear weapons - a notable shift from previous Iranian positions. Iran International reported an official claiming Iran would launch preemptive strikes against the Diego Garcia base if Trump's threats materialized.

Throughout the day, Iranian media continued highlighting Trump's statement that he preferred a deal with Iran while threatening bombing if negotiations failed, maintaining the tension that has characterized recent weeks.
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