April
Ali Larijani's statement that Iran would develop nuclear weapons if attacked gained significant traction, prompting Russia to warn of "catastrophic consequences" for the region if Iranian nuclear facilities were targeted. This warning directly responded to Trump's threats and Israeli media's claims of an imminent "massive attack."

Israeli airstrikes in south Beirut killed at least four people, marking the second attack since the November ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. Iran's UN representative Iravani sent a letter to the Secretary-General condemning Trump's statements, while Foreign Minister Araghchi insisted "there is no such thing as a military option."

The US imposed new sanctions on Iran's drone supply network across three countries. Iranian media analyzed potential scenarios for striking the Diego Garcia base with long-range missiles, demonstrating the continuing cycle of threats and counter-threats that has characterized the past week.
02.04.2025
Wednesday

Day France Warned of Inevitable War

The Pentagon deployed a second aircraft carrier and additional fighter jets to the Middle East, signaling military escalation amid diplomatic maneuvering. Foreign Minister Araghchi reiterated Iran's readiness for "real negotiations from an equal position," while Axios reported Trump was "seriously considering" Iran's proposal for indirect nuclear talks.

By midday, President Pezeshkian emphasized strengthening relations with Islamic countries, positioning Iran as a mediator for Palestinian concerns. The diplomatic situation intensified when France's Foreign Minister declared military confrontation "almost inevitable" without a nuclear deal, following President Macron's rare emergency security meeting focused on Iran.

Meanwhile, Trump announced new tariffs in what he called "Freedom Day," triggering European warnings about a potential trade war. Israel expanded military operations in Gaza, with reports of air and ground forces attacking Rafah, further complicating regional dynamics as Iranian media maintained coverage of possible US military actions.
Trump's new tariffs dominated Iranian coverage, with BBC Persian reporting a "nuclear bomb on the global economy" as US markets suffered their worst drop since COVID-19. The 10% tariff on British imports, 20% on EU goods, and 25% on all foreign vehicles prompted united European responses and Chinese retaliation threats.

Military tensions continued with reports of Yemeni forces downing a US MQ-9 drone and launching operations against the USS Truman. While British tabloid The Sun claimed imminent US-Israel strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, Hamshahri countered with "10 reasons" war wouldn't happen. This narrative shifted when France's security council warned military confrontation was "unavoidable" without a new nuclear agreement.

By evening, President Pezeshkian sent mixed messages, telling bin Salman Iran seeks no war but maintains "highest level readiness," while officials insisted non-peaceful nuclear energy "has no place in Iran's defense doctrine."
Trump claimed Iran seeks direct negotiations, stating "they feel vulnerable" while insisting he doesn't want them to feel concerned, a narrative repeated throughout the day in BBC Persian coverage. This follows days of escalating tensions and French warnings of "inevitable" conflict. Iranian media balanced this with assertive messaging – President Pezeshkian told Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince that Iran "won't hesitate to defend itself" while Hamshahri warned an Israeli attack would trigger a "Third Gulf War."

Economic coverage focused on Trump's tariffs causing continued market drops in Asia amid growing recession fears, with China announcing retaliatory measures. Chinese officials emphasized Iran as their "partner and ally."

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remained prominent, with UNICEF reporting approximately 100 children killed or wounded daily, while Yemen's Houthis claimed attacks on the USS Truman aircraft carrier, describing it as "fleeing."
President Pezeshkian dismissed his parliamentary deputy Shahram Dabiri over his luxury Antarctica trip, emphasizing that expensive official travel contradicts the principle of simple living expected from government representatives. The controversy dominated morning headlines before attention shifted to military posturing.

IRGC Commander Salami delivered a provocative speech declaring Israel "like a spread tablecloth before us" while asserting Iran would not initiate conflict despite being "ready for any war." Simultaneously, BBC Persian reported IRGC Aerospace Commander Hajizadeh visiting southern Iranian islands to assess military readiness amid escalating tensions.

President Pezeshkian maintained his diplomatic stance, stating negotiations must occur "on equal footing without threats" while criticizing US contradictions in seeking talks while issuing threats. General Petraeus's detailed outline of potential US targets in Iran - including nuclear facilities, air defenses, and missile bases - circulated widely, reinforcing the military dimension of the crisis.
Military Chief Bagheri revealed unprecedented details about Iran's response to Trump's letter, including Khamenei's approval for indirect negotiations while rejecting direct talks under threat. This significant diplomatic opening dominated morning coverage as Foreign Minister Araghchi simultaneously emphasized Iran's willingness to "try the path of indirect negotiations" while dismissing direct engagement with parties that "constantly threaten force."

Israel's admission of "error" in killing 15 aid workers in Gaza became the second major story, though Iranian outlets noted claims some victims had Hamas ties. Military readiness continued as a theme with Reuters reporting Khamenei ordered heightened alert status and warnings to regional countries against cooperating with potential US strikes.

By evening, coverage shifted to Hamas rocket attacks on Israeli cities, with pro-resistance media celebrating these as demonstrating "resistance authority," while international outlets reported on Netanyahu's White House visit focusing on the "Iran threat."
Morning reports featured Trump's claim that Iran orchestrated the October 7 attack on Israel ahead of Netanyahu's Washington visit. President Pezeshkian emphasized Iran won't negotiate "with humiliation," stating America must prove genuine interest in talks while acknowledging Iran's "generous offer." By midday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Baqai revealed Iran received no response from the US regarding indirect talks, with Oman mentioned as a potential mediator.

Against this backdrop, economic indicators deteriorated with gold coins reaching 99 million tomans and the dollar climbing to 106,000 tomans. Global markets experienced "Black Monday" with 10% drops amid Trump's tariff threats against China.

By evening, the diplomatic narrative dramatically shifted when Trump claimed during Netanyahu's White House visit that "we are in direct talks with Iran," contradicting all Iranian statements. Netanyahu reportedly requested implementing a "Libya model" for dismantling Iran's nuclear program.
The contradiction between US and Iranian portrayals of Saturday's upcoming talks in Oman dominated headlines. Foreign Minister Araghchi repeatedly insisted negotiations would be "indirect," contradicting Trump's claim of "direct talks" from the previous day. By mid-morning, it was confirmed Araghchi would meet US envoy Steve Vitkof in Muscat, with Oman mediating.

As the day progressed, the White House doubled down, explicitly stating the talks would be "direct," creating a diplomatic standoff over format. Araghchi countered in a Washington Post op-ed that Iran is "ready to work seriously toward an agreement" but emphasized "the ball is in America's court."

Meanwhile, the domestic electricity crisis received attention with warnings of an unprecedented 20,000 megawatt deficit this summer, while the head of Iran's nuclear agency announced plans to produce 20,000 megawatts of nuclear power. Russia's parliament approved a strategic cooperation treaty with Iran but clarified it isn't obligated to provide military support if the US attacks.
Foreign Minister Araghchi confirmed the upcoming Oman talks will be indirect and focused solely on nuclear issues and sanctions relief, describing them as "a test of US seriousness." The narrative consolidated as President Pezeshkian toured Iran's nuclear achievements exhibition, emphasizing Iran seeks dialogue "with dignity" but won't compromise on its nuclear program.

By midday, Pezeshkian made the significant revelation that the Supreme Leader approves of American investment in Iran, while maintaining the nuclear talks would follow Khamenei's guidance. This economic opening represents a potential shift in Iran's position.

The diplomatic standoff continued as US State Department insisted the meetings are "not negotiations" but simply "a meeting," while simultaneously imposing new sanctions on five entities and one individual supporting Iran's nuclear program. Trump closed the day with another threat, stating Israel "would play an important role" in any military action against Iran.
Trump's statement that "Israel would lead any military action against Iran" dominated headlines. This followed the reports of US discussions about potential targets in Iran. Simultaneously, diplomatic maneuvering continued around the Oman talks, with confirmation they will begin Saturday afternoon and remain indirect.

By midday, Supreme Leader advisor Shamkhani delivered a consequential warning: any military attack would result in expelling IAEA inspectors and terminating nuclear cooperation. Meanwhile, Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran's atomic agency, unveiled plans to generate 20,000 megawatts of nuclear power to address energy deficits.

President Pezeshkian made economic statements, characterizing the 28,500 toman official exchange rate as creating "rent-seeking" and announced plans to build an AI technology tower. He emphasized that "no power can stop Iran's progress."

By evening, the Institute for Science and International Security warned Iran's nuclear program had reached an "extremely dangerous stage," while US Secretary of State expressed optimism about eventual direct talks.
As Saturday's Oman talks approached, Iran positioned them as "a test to evaluate American intentions" while granting Foreign Minister Araghchi "full authority" to negotiate. The format crystallized as written text exchanges through Omani mediation. White House spokesperson responded with warnings that "all options remain on the table" if diplomacy fails.

Parallel diplomatic moves intensified with Trump's special envoy meeting Putin in Moscow. The US sanctioned a Chinese oil terminal for Iranian oil trade, while the EU prepared sanctions against nine Iranians for "state hostage-taking."

Domestic messaging remained mixed as Atomic Energy chief Eslami boasted Iran had "crossed knowledge boundaries" in nuclear science, while Friday prayer leader Sedighi contradicted the diplomatic opening by declaring direct talks "beneath Iran's dignity." The hardline Kayhan newspaper emphasized "no agreement without sanctions removal."
The Iranian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Araghchi, arrived in Muscat for the highly anticipated indirect talks with the US. Araghchi delivered Iran's positions to Oman's foreign minister for transmission to the American side, stating Iran seeks a "fair and honorable agreement based on equal footing."

By midday, the talks officially began, with Iranian sources describing the atmosphere as "positive." After approximately three hours, the first round concluded with a brief direct exchange between Araghchi and Trump's representative Steve Witkoff - a significant diplomatic gesture.

Both sides characterized the talks as "very positive and constructive," with agreement to continue negotiations next Saturday. The White House called the meeting "a step forward toward reaching a beneficial outcome," while Araghchi emphasized discussions occurred in an "atmosphere of mutual respect."

Saudi Arabia welcomed the negotiations, while hardline newspaper Kayhan voiced skepticism, warning officials not to keep the country "waiting for an uncertain agreement with Trump."
Following the first round of indirect US-Iran talks in Oman, Donald Trump characterized the negotiations as "going well" - a signal amplified across Iranian media. Foreign Ministry spokesman Baghaei confirmed future negotiations will remain indirect with Oman mediating, though the location might change. The talks focused exclusively on nuclear issues and sanctions relief.

By midday, Supreme Leader Khamenei met with military commanders, stating Iran's progress has "frustrated its enemies" while acknowledging economic weaknesses. He emphasized maintaining "maximum readiness" of armed forces.

Parliament Speaker Qalibaf rejected claims legislators were uninformed about negotiations, while government spokesman Mohajerani warned against attempts to "cloud" the process. The cabinet formally thanked Khamenei for his "strategic permission" to hold talks.

US Defense Secretary affirmed Trump is "completely serious" about reaching a nuclear agreement with Iran, while Yemeni forces launched missiles toward Tel Aviv, triggering air raid sirens.
14.04.2025
Monday

Day Rome Emerges as Path Forward

The Italian capital Rome emerged as the confirmed venue for the second round of Iran-US indirect talks, with both Dutch and Italian foreign ministers verifying the location. Foreign Ministry spokesman Baqaei maintained Iran's primary demand remains lifting "unjust sanctions" while announcing Foreign Minister Araghchi will visit Moscow later this week.

Trump signaled his intention to "soon make decisions" regarding Iran, later sharpening his tone by stating "Iran must abandon its nuclear weapon dreams or face harsh consequences." He claimed Iran was accustomed to negotiating with "ignorant people" previously.

European countries expressed concern about their exclusion from negotiations, with France insisting any agreement must align with European interests. Meanwhile, BBC Persian released a second audio file from 1988, purportedly capturing Ayatollah Montazeri describing Velayat-e Faqih as having become "disgusting."
While yesterday indicated Rome would host the second round of negotiations, by morning Al-Alam confirmed Muscat would again serve as venue. The day's pivotal moment came when Supreme Leader Khamenei issued his first public response to the nuclear talks, describing them as "neither overly optimistic nor pessimistic" while warning officials not to "tie domestic issues to negotiations" – a direct reference to mistakes made during JCPOA implementation.

US representative Witkoff's position hardened through the day, culminating in a BBC Persian report that the US expects Iran to "completely abandon uranium enrichment." The IRGC immediately countered that Iran's military capabilities remain "non-negotiable." Meanwhile, Iranian officials consistently framed the first round as successful for Iran.

By afternoon, BBC Persian exclusively released a second Montazeri audio file from 1988, where he reportedly described Velayat-e Faqih as having become "repulsive" while criticizing political prisoner executions.
The escalating conflict over uranium enrichment dominated the day's reporting. Following yesterday's US position hardening, Foreign Minister Araqchi firmly declared that "enrichment is non-negotiable," contradicting US representative Witkoff's demand that Iran completely abandon its enrichment program. Iranian media extensively covered Araqchi's trip to Russia to deliver Khamenei's written message to Putin, a diplomatic move coinciding with Russia's Federation Council approving a 20-year strategic treaty with Iran.

IAEA Director General Grossi inserted himself into negotiations, asserting that any Iran-US agreement would be "just a piece of paper" without the agency's verification role. Grossi later arrived in Tehran as reported by Al-Alam.

President Pezeshkian made his first public comments on negotiations, emphasizing that "government operations continue regardless of negotiation outcomes." Expediency Council head Amoli Larijani closed debate on FATF legislation, stating it is "absolutely not reviewable" at present, countering parliamentary pressure to delay consideration until after nuclear negotiations.
IAEA Director Grossi arrived in Tehran for meetings with Iranian officials, seeking a role in potential US-Iran nuclear agreement. According to Radio Farda, Grossi indicated the US is pursuing a significantly simpler agreement than the previous JCPOA.

Foreign Minister Araqchi traveled to Moscow carrying Khamenei's message to Putin, discussing bilateral relations and international developments, reinforcing Iran's diplomatic positioning ahead of Saturday's negotiations.

The day's most significant development was Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman's historic visit to Tehran, where he delivered King Salman's message to Khamenei. The Supreme Leader emphasized that Iran and Saudi Arabia can "complement each other," signaling regional realignment amid nuclear talks.

Iran reportedly proposed a three-stage plan for negotiations with the US during Muscat talks, following Araqchi's firm position that uranium enrichment remains non-negotiable, contradicting US demands that Iran completely abandon enrichment.
As Saturday's scheduled nuclear negotiations approach, Iranian officials and media positioned key narratives. Foreign Minister Araqchi acknowledged contradictory US messages while expressing doubts about American intentions but committing to serious participation. President Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran "won't submit to humiliation" while stating his administration hasn't tied its work to negotiation outcomes.

US Secretary of State Rubio called on European nations to trigger the JCPOA snapback mechanism against Iran, while Trump reportedly chose diplomacy over military action despite hawkish advisor pressure. According to Axios, US and Iranian representatives will meet at Oman's embassy in Rome.

Hezbollah Deputy Secretary-General Naim Qassem warned against testing the group's resolve, calling disarmament "impossible." Bloomberg reported Iran's space program has strengthened despite sanctions. Meanwhile, Iran celebrated Army Day with military parades that Pezeshkian characterized as "disturbing enemies' sleep" and providing strength in diplomatic talks.
19.04.2025
Saturday

Day of Two Rooms in Rome

The second round of indirect Iran-US nuclear negotiations commenced in Rome, with delegations meeting in separate rooms mediated by Oman. Iranian media emphasized this separation, rejecting claims of direct talks. As negotiations began in the morning, Iranian Foreign Minister Araqchi stated maintaining the nuclear fuel cycle remained Iran's "red line."

After four hours, talks concluded with Araqchi describing them as "constructive and forward-looking," indicating progress on "some principles and goals." Negotiations will continue with technical expert-level meetings in Oman on Wednesday, followed by a third high-level round on Saturday.

Notably, Oman's Foreign Minister expressed unusual optimism, stating negotiations had "accelerated" and could lead to "unexpected events." Markets responded immediately, with currency and gold prices reaching their lowest levels since Trump's return to office. Israeli officials warned against allowing Tehran to "change conditions through delay tactics."
Iranian media extensively covered reactions to the Rome nuclear talks, with newspapers uniformly describing the negotiations as "forward-moving" and "constructive." The New York Times reported Iran proposed American investment in its nuclear program and joint oversight of uranium enrichment facilities. This proposal marks a significant shift in Iran's negotiating approach while maintaining its "red line" on enrichment rights.

Iranian officials expressed cautious optimism, with Araqchi stating the talks aimed at "guaranteeing national interests" while IAEA Director Grossi praised the "prevailing spirit" that prevented negotiations from collapsing. By afternoon, financial markets responded positively with continued drops in gold and dollar prices.

Saudi Arabia's Defense Minister's visit to Iran was characterized as breaking "the Islamic Republic isolation theory," positioning Iran "at the heart of regional diplomatic traffic" while Netanyahu vowed not to retreat "a millimeter" from opposing Iran's nuclear ambitions.
Pope Francis's death at age 88 dominated morning headlines, with global condolence messages flowing throughout the day. Meanwhile, diplomatic machinery continued moving as Foreign Ministry spokesperson Baqaei announced Foreign Minister Araghchi would visit China Tuesday, prior to the third round of nuclear negotiations with the US.

President Pezeshkian maintained a cautious stance, stating Iran was "neither optimistic nor pessimistic" about negotiations while emphasizing readiness for an agreement preserving national interests. Former President Trump claimed to have had "very good talks with Iran," a statement reported by both Radio Farda and Iran International.

Domestically, newspapers highlighted resource concerns including electricity reduction mandates for government offices (up to 60%), water outages in Golestan province, and subsidy removals affecting 430,000 people - with foreign travel cited as the primary reason. Former Foreign Minister Zarif advised avoiding "emotional love or hate" toward Russia.
The scheduled technical-level Iran-US talks were postponed from Wednesday to Saturday as diplomatic positioning continued. Foreign Minister Araghchi's undelivered Carnegie speech revealed a "trillion-dollar opportunity" for American companies while emphasizing Iran will never negotiate its security. Supreme Leader Khamenei reassured China that negotiations with the US aim to reduce tensions without changing Iran's "look east" policy.

Pope Francis's death dominated morning coverage, with his funeral scheduled for Saturday. The Vatican released images of his open coffin with Donald Trump planning to attend.

Economically, the IMF projected near-zero growth and 43.3% inflation for Iran this year. The dollar broke below the 70,000 toman threshold for the first time in months, while global gold prices reached a historic high of $3,500 per ounce.

In a surprising development, security forces reportedly withdrew from former Parliament Speaker Karroubi's residence, potentially ending his 5,180-day house arrest.
Foreign Minister Araghchi's China visit dominated morning coverage, emphasizing that Beijing remains Iran's strategic partner while reporting negotiations with the US are "on the right track." China expressed support for Iran's efforts to lift sanctions.

By midday, reports emerged of a specific dispute with the US over the removal of 275kg of 60% enriched uranium from Iran, a key sticking point in upcoming technical negotiations rescheduled for April 26. Araghchi dismissed reports of new security barriers around Natanz facilities as "imaginary claims" meant to derail diplomacy.

President Pezeshkian halted the controversial Miankale petrochemical project following environmental protests, while domestic economic concerns persisted with the IMF projecting zero growth for Iran in the coming year. Reports indicated 18 million Iranians still lack internet access.

US Senator Marco Rubio's statement that Iran should halt enrichment and import nuclear materials like other countries garnered late afternoon coverage.
Foreign Minister Araghchi declared readiness to visit Paris, London, and Berlin to renew diplomacy with European JCPOA parties, marking a significant shift in Iran's diplomatic positioning. This overture comes amidst continued nuclear tensions, with IAEA chief Grossi demanding explanations about security barriers around tunnels near Natanz facilities.

The trilateral meeting between Iranian, Russian and Chinese representatives with Grossi in Vienna underscored ongoing nuclear diplomacy complexities. Trump claimed "serious negotiations with Iran" were underway, aligning with reports of technical talks scheduled for the weekend in Oman.

Supreme Leader Khamenei emphasized the importance of "steadfastness and resistance" during a mourning ceremony for Imam Sadiq, comparing Gaza and Lebanon resistance movements to following the path of the Imams. Meanwhile, Russia and Iran announced readiness to develop new land-based gas routes, reinforcing their strategic partnership.
Morning reports highlighted Trump's description of Iran negotiations as "very serious" while Supreme Leader Khamenei warned against "loose talk and impatience." China reaffirmed diplomatic channels as the only solution to Iran's nuclear issue.

By midday, Trump made headlines with his unprecedented willingness to meet Iranian leaders, including Khamenei or President Pezeshkian, while denying he prevented Israeli attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities.

Foreign Minister Araqchi traveled to Muscat for the third round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the US, accompanied by a technical team led by Takht-Ravanchi and Gharibabadi. Upon arrival, Araqchi met with his Omani counterpart to discuss implementation arrangements for the talks while posting a cautionary tweet about potential Israeli sabotage attempts, referencing "10 specific assassinations and sabotage" by Israel.

Iran's government spokesperson indicated readiness for an agreement "at the appropriate time" while Tehran's Friday prayer leader emphasized that transparency on nuclear issues and sanctions relief remain Iran's negotiating strategy.
The third round of Iran-US nuclear negotiations concluded in Muscat, with delegations returning to capitals for consultations. Iranian spokesperson emphasized sanctions removal as the primary focus, explicitly denying discussions about defense capabilities or uranium removal. Foreign Minister Araghchi described talks as "serious" but noted persistent differences, with a fourth round scheduled for next Saturday.

A devastating explosion at Shahid Rajaei Port in Bandar Abbas dominated afternoon coverage. The blast progressively worsened throughout the day, with casualty reports rising from dozens to over 750 injured and 14 dead by evening. Fire spread to additional containers as emergency responders from eight provinces mobilized. Officials requested blood donations while schools in Bandar Abbas announced closures for the following day. Israeli sources denied involvement in the explosion, which occurred amid crucial trade negotiations and Pope Francis's funeral in Rome that Iranian officials attended.
The aftermath of the Shahid Rajaei Port explosion dominated coverage as the death toll steadily climbed from 14 to 40 throughout the day, with over 1,000 injured. By morning, officials reported 80% of the fire contained while port operations partially resumed. President Pezeshkian visited Bandar Abbas, touring the disaster site and visiting victims, while questioning why containers remained in storage for months. The government declared Monday a national day of mourning.

By afternoon, Supreme Leader Khamenei ordered security and judicial authorities to investigate possible negligence or deliberate action. Defense Ministry officials explicitly denied the presence of military cargo in the explosion area, countering speculation about the cause. Meanwhile, nuclear negotiations context continued in background reporting, with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stating Russia would not interfere in Iran-US talks but remained available to assist if needed.
The catastrophic Shahid Rajaei Port explosion dominated coverage as the death toll climbed from 46 to 70 throughout the day. Officials confirmed negligence as the primary cause, noting the exploded cargo lacked proper customs documentation. Despite wind and high temperature challenges, firefighters finally extinguished the blaze after three days, concluding the national firefighting operation while recovery efforts continue with 22 missing and 22 unidentifiable bodies.

President Pezeshkian visited Azerbaijan, formally recognizing Karabakh as Azerbaijan territory while promoting bilateral cooperation. The visit underscores Iran's strategic pivot toward regional diplomacy.

In the nuclear sphere, Iran and IAEA agreed to continue negotiations amid reports Iran requested talks with European countries in Rome. Yemen's military claimed targeting the US aircraft carrier Truman, highlighting ongoing regional tensions while Iranian media described Netanyahu's threats as attempts to derail nuclear negotiations.
The morning began with contradictory reports about fire containment at Shahid Rajaei Port. Despite earlier claims of complete extinguishment, crisis management officials revealed complete containment would take 15-20 days as containers require individual opening and cooling. The confirmed death toll stands at 70 with 22 still missing and 22 bodies unidentifiable. Customs operations resumed normally.

By afternoon, security agencies targeted "offending individuals" who provided false statements, while officials insisted the explosion had no foreign origin. Parliament hardliners moved to impeach the Transport Minister, using the disaster as justification.

Meanwhile, President Pezeshkian called for data-driven development planning, while the Supreme Council of Cyberspace prepared to reconsider Telegram filtering. IRGC Navy warned against foreign presence in Persian Gulf as the US claimed "constructive diplomacy" with Iran continues.

Evening brought warnings of 100 km/h winds approaching Tehran, prompting emergency preparations as cleanup operations continued in Bandar Abbas.
The National Security Committee officially rejected foreign involvement in the Shahid Rajaei Port explosion, attributing it to "negligence and carelessness." Authorities pursued individuals who provided "false statements" while President Pezeshkian emphasized structural reforms over blame, calling for port and customs management restructuring. Officials reported no chemical contamination in residential areas and estimated complete fire extinguishment would take 15 more days.

Diplomatic developments accelerated with Foreign Minister Araghchi announcing the next round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the US would take place in Rome, preceded by separate talks with European powers. This follows reports that Iran requested these European discussions.

Iranian media reported the execution of Mohsen Langarneshin, described as a "senior Mossad spy" allegedly involved in the 2022 assassination of IRGC colonel Sayyad Khodayee. US sanctions targeted seven companies involved in Iranian oil trade, continuing economic pressure amid diplomatic engagement.
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