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Iran, Europe willing to advance negotiations, says Iranian official

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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Nuclear Negotiations in Vienna

Speaking in an interview with the Iraqi Al-Ahad TV’s “Geopolitics” program on Wednesday, Takht-Ravanchi emphasized that the negotiations are guided by established frameworks and directives aimed at reaching a mutual agreement.

Takht-Ravanchi also highlighted Iran’s commitment to strengthening ties with neighboring countries, particularly Iraq, noting significant achievements in this regard.

The deputy foreign minister stated that Iran maintains a unified stance, with the Iranian Leader and president both emphasizing the importance of fostering relations with neighboring nations.

He pointed to recent diplomatic exchanges between Iranian and Arab officials as evidence of the commitment.

On Saudi Arabia, Takht-Ravanchi described significant opportunities for improving bilateral relations, emphasizing the need for collaboration between Tehran and Riyadh.

He also addressed the issue of negotiations with the US, noting that Iran adheres to the framework set by the Leader.

He, however, recalled the challenges of past negotiations, including those that led to Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA) and the US withdrawal from the accord in 2018, stressing the importance of learning from historical precedents.

As for Israel, Takht-Ravanchi warned against any miscalculations, stating that Iran’s capabilities are well-known and any missteps would come at a heavy cost.

Israeli drone attack kills 1 in Lebanon despite ceasefire

By
IFP Media Wire
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Lebanon War

Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported that “an enemy drone struck a vehicle … in the town of Aita al-Shaab” on Wednesday.

Sanad, Al Jazeera’s fact-checking agency, identified the victim as Yusuf Mohammed Sorour, the son of the mayor of the town, targeted while he was sitting in his car in front of his home.

NNA had earlier reported that in a separate attack, one person was wounded in the Wazzani region after Israeli forces opened fire “while residents were inspecting” restaurants and cafes in the area.

The NNA also reported that Israeli troops shot towards homes near the town of Shebaa.

A ceasefire deal agreed in November 2024 had halted more than a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, including two months of all-out war in which Israel’s relentless bombing killed more than 4,000 people, according to Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health.

Under the agreement, Lebanon’s military was to deploy alongside UN peacekeepers as the Israeli army withdrew over a 60-day period that was later extended to February 18.

Hezbollah was to pull back north of the Litani River, about 30km (20 miles) from the border, and dismantle the remaining military infrastructure in the south.

Israel announced just before the deadline that it would temporarily keep troops in “five strategic points” near the border.

The army said they were hilltops overlooking the border where troops would remain to “make sure there’s no immediate threat” – something that Lebanon rejects.

On Wednesday, Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun told visiting US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz that it is necessary to end Israel’s presence in the country to complete the ceasefire deal, adding that Lebanon would consider any Israeli troops on its soil an “occupation”.

The UN called the incomplete pullout a violation of a Security Council resolution.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had warned in November that Israel would maintain “full military freedom of action” in case of any truce breach.

The refusal by Israel to withdraw all of its forces confers more uncertainty over the fragile ceasefire deal.

Israel has repeatedly violated the ceasefire by launching sporadic attacks. The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED) recorded 330 air raids and shellings carried out by Israel between November 27 and January 10, and 260 property destructions.

Putin says Russia ready to resume Ukraine talks

By
IFP Media Wire
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Vladimir Putin

No one is excluding Kiev from the negotiation process, according to the Russian president. Both Moscow and Washington expect Ukraine to take part, Putin said, adding that it is largely up to Ukraine and the EU to decide whether they want to be part of the talks or not.

“I’ve said this 100 times: If they are willing, they are free to engage in such talks,” Putin told journalists, referring to potential peace negotiations with Kiev and the EU’s participation.

“We are ready to go back to the negotiating table.”

“Russia has never walked away from the negotiation process with Ukraine, never,” the president told reporters in St. Petersburg.

He stressed that it was Kiev that banned officials from engaging in any talks with Moscow. It “withdrew from the Istanbul negotiations and publicly announced it,” he said.

The president hailed the results of the Russia-US talks in Saudi Arabia’s capital on Tuesday.

Resolving the Ukraine conflict would be impossible without the normalization of relations between Moscow and Washington, Putin stated. The meeting was primarily aimed at “increasing trust” between the two nations, he added.

The meeting was “the first step” in restoring joint work with the US in a variety of areas ranging from strategic stability and arms control to the resolution of the Ukraine conflict and the crisis in the Middle East.

Putin also welcomed what he described as positive changes in Washington’s attitude towards working with Moscow.

The atmosphere of the talks was “very friendly,” Putin said, adding that the US is represented by “absolutely different people, who are open for talks without any prejudices… and committed to joint work.”

Putin said he would be glad to meet with US President Donald Trump, though it’s too early yet to name a specific date for a summit, because a simple “coffee hour” would not be enough to remedy relations between the two nations and both sides need to thoroughly prepare. Moscow and Washington nevertheless “do not need any mediators” to sort out their differences, he added.

Speaking earlier, Trump also praised the talks in Riyadh, calling them “very good” and saying he felt “much more confident” after the US-Russia meeting.

“I think I have the power to end this war, and I think it’s going very well.”

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky stated ahead of the talks that Kiev would not recognize the results, as Ukrainian representatives were not invited. He postponed a planned visit to Saudi Arabia to not give the meeting “any legitimacy.” Trump hit back at the Ukrainian leader, saying Kiev has had three years to make a deal itself.

Iran’s Leader puts premium on enhancing ties with neighbors

By
IFP Media Wire
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The Leader made the remarks in a meeting with the visiting Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Tehran on Wednesday, describing the Persian Gulf nation as a “friendly and brotherly” country.

Ayatollah Khamenei praised efforts by the administration of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to strengthen ties with neighboring states, as exemplified by the Qatari emir’s visit.

He expressed hope that the agreements made during the visit would be beneficial for both nations, enabling them to fulfill their neighborly duties more than ever before.

The Leader also addressed US policies toward Iran and the wider region, asserting that “there is no difference between the presidents of the United States.”

The Leader pointed to Iran’s funds recently unfrozen and transferred from South Korea to Qatar, noting that the US is the main obstacle preventing their return to Iran.

He said the Islamic Republic expected Qatar not to succumb to US pressure.

“If we were in Qatar’s position, we would ignore pressures from Washington and return the assets. We still expect such an action from Qatar,” he stated.

Sheikh Tamim expressed appreciation for Iran’s support of the oppressed people around the world, saying that Iran’s unwavering backing of the Palestinians “will never be forgotten.”

He highlighted the difficult conditions in the region, stating that the situation necessitates increased cooperation among regional countries.

The Emir also mentioned agreements between Iran and Qatar, including a contract for the construction of an underwater tunnel connecting the two countries and the activation of their joint commission.

He expressed optimism that the volume of economic exchanges will increase in the near future.

Spanish guitarist says amazed by Iranian audience’s knowledge of flamenco

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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Following his performance at Rudaki Hall, Casares remarked, “Music brings all cultures closer together and keeps them united. I believe our mission is to play music to cleanse the souls of people around the world.”

Casares was pleasantly surprised by the Iranian audience’s response to his performance, saying “I was amazed. I did not expect such familiarity. The Iranian audience has a very good understanding of flamenco music and reacted very positively to my performance.”

“Occasionally, I heard the enthusiastic exclamation ‘¡Ole,’ which delighted me. I met some Iranian friends here, whom I had previously interacted with online, and I was very happy to see them among the attendees and chat with them after the performance,” he said.

Casares further commented on his participation in the festival, stating, “When I was invited to this festival, I did not know much about it. Since I have another performance in two days at a different festival and could only stay in Iran for one day, I was hesitant to accept the invitation. However, I am now very glad I came. The organizers did an excellent job.”

Spanish ambassador praises invitation of flamenco guitarist to Fajr Music Festival

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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Casares, a native of Malaga, performed a solo flamenco guitar recital, showcasing one of Spain’s most challenging musical traditions, according to the Public Relations Office of the 40th Fajr International Music Festival.

“I’ve known Daniel since he won his first award at 16. His solo performances are exceptional, and I congratulate the festival organizers for inviting him. He is an excellent representative of Spanish flamenco music,” Gaspar said.

He voiced hope that Casares’ visit to Iran will not be his last, noting the guitarist’s regret at having to leave so soon.

Gaspar, who attended the performance with his family, praised the festival’s atmosphere and the Iranian audience’s appreciation for Spanish music.

“I was surprised by how many Iranians spoke Spanish and enjoyed the performance. Music transcends language and brings cultures closer together,” he remarked.

The ambassador also expressed his admiration for Iran’s rich and diverse musical traditions, stating, “Iran is a vast and culturally rich country. I hope to contribute to introducing this heritage to Spain during my time here.”

Musician: Cultural exchanges between Iran, India date back centuries

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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According to the public relations office of the festival, Manish, who has visited Iran four times, described the festival atmosphere as “excellent.”

He emphasized the importance of such cultural events in fostering understanding and eliminating misconceptions between cultures.

The musical artist pointed out Indian music has been influenced by Persian music, and that many Indian poets have written in Persian, adding Iranian poets like Saib Tabrizi have also lived in India for years.

Manish who is on the Ava-ye Zamin ensemble, led by Iranian musician Vahid Ayrian, featured Indian tabla player Pavann Nayak and vocalist Pavan Naik, and blending Iranian and Indian musical traditions.

The performance was part of the festival’s mission to promote cross-cultural dialogue.

Manish has previously collaborated with Iranian artists, including Rouzbeh Nematollahi. He praised the festival for its international flavor, bringing together artists from diverse backgrounds to showcase their traditions.

Armenian music performed at Tehran’s Vahdat Hall in Fajr Music Festival

By
IFP Editorial Staff
-

The concert highlighted the cultural and musical ties between Iran and Armenia, drawing an enthusiastic audience.

Tevanyan, reflecting on the shared musical heritage of the two nations, stated, “Armenia and Iran have been neighbors for centuries, and it’s natural for our musical traditions to share similarities.”

“I deeply admire Iranian music, which is profoundly rich and expressive. I particularly enjoy listening to the works of the late singer Mohammad Reza Shajarian and his son, Homayoun Shajarian,” he noted.

Asatourian praised the Fajr Music Festival for its role in promoting cultural exchanges, saying it is “an excellent platform that has been showcasing Iranian and international music for 40 years.”

The 40th Fajr International Music Festival, organized by Iran’s Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, took place from February 12 to 18, 2024, in Tehran and 21 other provinces.

The festival featured performances by artists from various countries, emphasizing the universal language of music.

Tunisian qanun player praises similarities between Iranian, Tunisian melodies

By
IFP Editorial Staff
-

She believes that Iranian and Tunisian musical melodies have striking similarities and aims to bridge the two musical traditions through her performances.

With a strong passion for Iranian traditional music, Al-Farsi said she has befriended many Iranian musicians and is familiar with their works, adding she has even performed with them in Europe, which introduced her to the Fajr International Music Festival.

Al-Farsi highlightd her admiration for the qanun playing style of Iranian musician Simin Agharazi and her love for the santur, inspired by Parviz Meshkatian’s works.

She believes that the shared roots between Iranian and Tunisian music create similar emotional tones and melodies, allowing composers from both cultures to create alike tunes.

Al-Farsi also appreciated the global recognition of Iranian musicians such as Kayhan Kalhor, Hossein Alizadeh, and Mohammad Reza Shajarian.

She expressed her gratitude for the warm reception in Iran, adding she is eager to collaborate with Iranian artists during the festival.

Al-Farsi clarified that, while her name often confuses Iranians due to its similarity to Persian names, she is Tunisian.

Iran, Armenia plan joint cultural festivals to strengthen ties

By
IFP Editorial Staff
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The announcement came during the 40th Fajr International Music Festival, where H.E. Grigor Hakobyan attended a joint concert featuring Armenian and Iranian musicians.

Speaking to reporters, Hakobyan expressed gratitude to Iran’s Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance for inviting Armenian artists to perform at the festival.

“Such events provide an excellent opportunity for both countries to better understand each other’s art and culture. They bring our nations closer and strengthen our bonds,” he said.

The concert, performed by Armenian musicians Levon Tevanyan and Armen Asatourian alongside Iranian artists, showcased a fusion of Armenian and Iranian music.

Hakobyan praised the performance, noting the similarities between Armenian and Iranian melodies.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the concert and found many shared elements in our musical traditions. Programs like this are invaluable for promoting our cultures,” he added.

The Armenian envoy emphasized Armenia’s commitment to expanding cultural and artistic ties with Iran, revealing that preparations are underway to implement several cultural cooperation ideas, which will be unveiled soon.

The head of Iran’s Music Office, Ahmad Sadri, also highlighted the musical commonalities between the two countries, particularly the shared use of the duduk, a traditional wind instrument.

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