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Iran sends official letter to UN rejecting legality of snapback mechanism

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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Kazem Gharibabadi

Ebrahim Rezaei, the spokesperson for the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, reported the letter was signed by Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

During a parliamentary briefing, Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi outlined recent diplomatic efforts, including meetings in Istanbul with European parties and discussions in New York.

Gharibabadi emphasized that European countries lack the legal standing to trigger the snapback process, as they have not upheld their commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear deal.

He also confirmed coordination with Russia and China on countering any such efforts, including a recent trilateral meeting.

Iran reaffirmed its adherence to parliamentary law mandating suspension of cooperation with the IAEA, while rejecting any proposal to extend UN Security Council Resolution 2231, mandating the JCPOA.

Gharibabadi warned of the psychological impact of snapback threats, though no new sanctions would be imposed.
Talks with the US remain suspended, with Iran demanding firm guarantees on the part Washington that the attacks last month on Iran’s nuclear facilities would be compensated before any negotiations.

Iran’s top security body approves establishment of Defense Council

By
IFP Media Wire
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The SNSC said on Sunday that the decision was made in line with Article 176 of the Constitution, which outlines national security responsibilities.

The newly formed council will be responsible for developing defense strategies and enhancing the capabilities of the Armed Forces.

The Iranian president will head the council, which also includes the heads of the three branches of government, senior military commanders, and designated ministers relevant to defense affairs.

The council’s formation comes after the Israeli regime on June 13 launched a war of aggression against Iran, assassinating senior military commanders and nuclear scientists in targeted strikes and killing hundreds of civilians.

On June 22, the United States escalated the war by bombing three civilian nuclear facilities in Iran.

In response, the Iranian Armed Forces carried out retaliatory strikes on strategic Israeli positions across the occupied territories and targeted the al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest American military installation in West Asia.

Through its successful retaliatory operations, Iran managed to impose a halt to the aggression on June 24.

Seddiqi steps down as Tehran Friday Prayer leader amid real estate scandal

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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In a letter to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Seddiqi requested to be relieved of his duties to focus on academic and religious teaching.

The Leader accepted his resignation, thanking him for 17 years of sermons in defense of the Islamic Republic and moral guidance.

Seddiqi’s resignation follows mounting criticism over a real estate controversy involving his family.

In 2025, it was revealed that a 4,200-square-meter orchard in Tehran’s upscale Ozgol district—owned by the Imam Khomeini Seminary, which Seddiqi oversees—had been transferred to a private company where his sons and daughter-in-law were board members.

Iran’s judiciary later confirmed the arrest of his son and daughter-in-law on financial charges, along with four others, though Seddiqi himself was not found culpable.

His continued presence at Friday prayers, particularly his appearance on July 18, drew sharp backlash from media and political figures. Conservative outlets labeled it “ill-timed” and “defiant.” Seddiqi had been under increasing pressure to step aside.

Silk weaving: A living heritage in Iran’s Jargalan

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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With deep historical roots, this traditional art form continues to thrive, producing high-quality silk fabrics used for a variety of purposes, from full-silk garments and scarves to tablecloths, towels, and decorative clothing trims.

Though the high cost of handwoven silk has reduced its use in daily life, the fabric remains popular for special occasions, especially weddings.

In Turkmen-populated areas, silk retains a strong presence due to the community’s commitment to preserving cultural practices and traditional aesthetics.

Across many villages in Jargalan, large numbers of women are engaged in the intricate process of silk weaving. For them, this craft is more than a cultural legacy, it serves as a vital source of income and economic empowerment.

More in pictures:

 

China, Russia begin joint drills in Sea of Japan

By
IFP Media Wire
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Russian Navy

Alongside economic and political ties, Moscow and Beijing have strengthened their military cooperation in recent years, and their relations have deepened since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

The “Joint Sea-2025” exercises kicked off in waters near the Russian port of Vladivostok and would last for three days, China’s defence ministry said in a statement on Sunday.

The two sides will hold “submarine rescue, joint anti-submarine, air defence and anti-missile operations, and maritime combat”.

Four Chinese vessels, including guided-missile destroyers Shaoxing and Urumqi, are participating in the exercises alongside Russian ships, the ministry said.

After the drills, the two countries will conduct naval patrols in “relevant waters of the Pacific”.

China and Russia have carried out annual drills for several years, with the “Joint Sea” exercises beginning in 2012.

Last year’s drills were held along China’s southern coast.

The Chinese defence ministry said Friday that this year’s exercises were aimed at “further deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership” of the two countries.

China has never denounced Russia’s more than three-year war nor called for it to withdraw its troops, and many of Ukraine’s allies, including the United States, believe that Beijing has provided support to Moscow.

China insists it is a neutral party, regularly calling for an end to the fighting while also accusing Western countries of prolonging the conflict by arming Ukraine.

Iranian president stresses regional security, interdependence, invites Pakistani PM to Tehran

By
IFP Editorial Staff
-

In a joint press conference with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Pezeshkian underscored the shared belief between Iran and its counterparts that regional countries, particularly Muslim nations, must pursue more active, effective, and pragmatic cooperation in countering the expansionist actions of the Israeli regime.

He noted that specific initiatives aimed at strengthening joint efforts for regional stability and security were discussed during the meetings.

Calling for a more balanced international approach, President Pezeshkian urged global institutions, especially the United Nations Security Council, to avoid double standards and to play a proactive role in preventing violations of sovereign borders, curbing the escalation of conflicts, and protecting civilian populations.

In closing, President Pezeshkian extended a formal invitation to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to visit Tehran at the earliest opportunity, to continue discussions and build upon the progress made during recent diplomatic engagements.

Water reserves in 19 major Iranian dams fall below 20%

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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This raises alarms about water scarcity, especially during the peak of the summer season.

The report also notes that if all of Iran’s dams were considered as a single system, the country’s overall water reserves have dropped by 26% compared to the same period last year.

The findings come amid growing concerns over prolonged drought conditions, declining precipitation, and increased water consumption across urban and rural sectors.

Experts warn that unless water management policies are revised and conservation efforts intensified, the country could face more severe shortages in the near future.

Authorities have yet to announce emergency measures, but calls are mounting for immediate action to prevent disruptions in drinking water supplies and minimize the impact on agricultural productivity.

Iran govt. withdraws controversial internet regulation bill to review freedom of expression concerns

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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Mobile Internet Iran

President Massoud Pezeshkian announced the decision in a letter addressed to Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.

The letter, read aloud during Sunday’s parliamentary session, stated that the bill was being returned to the government “for further examination of its provisions in order to promote a regulatory approach and ensure better support for lawful freedom of expression under the Constitution.”

The decision was approved by the Cabinet on July 30, 2025, and formally submitted to the Parliament for legal processing in line with Article 134 of the parliamentary bylaws.

The now-withdrawn bill, titled “Combating the Spread of False Content in Cyberspace,” had raised concerns among civil society groups and digital rights advocates, who feared it could lead to increased censorship and limitations on free expression.

Observers view the withdrawal as a signal of the new administration’s intention to pursue a more balanced approach to internet governance and civil liberties.

Iranian president receives official welcome in Islamabad, plants sapling at PM residence

By
IFP Editorial Staff
-

The welcome ceremony was held at the prime minister’s residence, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

Following the reception, President Pezeshkian planted a tree sapling in the garden of the prime minister’s compound, symbolizing peace and cooperation between the two neighboring nations.

President Pezeshkian arrived in Pakistan on Saturday, leading a high-ranking delegation of Iranian officials.

His first stop was in Lahore, where he paid tribute at the mausoleum of renowned Persian-language poet Allama Iqbal.

The Iranian president’s itinerary includes meetings with key Pakistani officials, including the President, the Prime Minister, and the speakers of the National Assembly and Senate. He is also scheduled to attend a gathering with members of the Iranian community in Pakistan.

The visit marks President Pezeshkian’s first official trip to neighboring Pakistan since taking office and reflects Tehran’s renewed interest in bolstering diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations with Islamabad.

India to continue buying Russian oil amid US threats: Report

By
IFP Media Wire
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The New York Times, quoting two senior Indian officials, reported that India intends to continue buying discounted oil from Russia.

Similarly, Russian state news agency Tass, citing a source within the Indian government, reported that there are no indications of India halting its oil imports from Russia, and that Indian refineries are still making purchases based on pricing and other economic considerations.

“I understand India no longer is going to be buying oil from Russia,” Trump told reporters.

“That’s what I heard. I don’t know if that’s right or not, but that’s a good step. We’ll see what happens,” he stated.

Trump has accused New Delhi of unfair trade practices and extensive energy and arms relations with Russia.

The US president on Wednesday announced 25% tariffs on India.

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