Stories from Tehran · Iran

Western reports suggest Iran has utilized unused storage capacity sufficient for 15 to 50 days. Pezeshkian warned that the United States and Israel must bear responsibility for the insecure situation in the Persian Gulf. US Defense Secretary Hegseth testified on April 30 that a US-Iran ceasefire took effect on April 8 following military actions by President Trump. The IRGC Navy announced it will increase combat readiness to manage the Strait of Hormuz. Commander Musavi warned of heavy strikes in response to provocations. IRGC Aerospace Force Commander Musavi warned that Iran will respond to provocations with long and heavy strikes. Iranian President Pezeshkian is also conducting intensive diplomatic efforts in Japan. The President added that Iran has lost all trust in the U.S. The USS Gerald R.

Ayatollah Khamenei stated that Tehran will secure the Gulf region and eliminate what he described as enemy violations in the waterway. He noted that no expectations can be held for the US to provide security for its allies or American interests in the region. Iranian leader Ali Khamenei stated via state television that the United States will not have a future in the Persian Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials stated during a concert that the Persian Gulf serves as a corridor for Iranian civilization and a center for political, economic, and security exchange. Mirzai, Director of the Office of the President, claimed regional nations have the capacity to maintain Persian Gulf security without external military intervention.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) exerts influence over Iranian institutions, which limits the country's diplomatic flexibility. The Iranian regime relies on internal divisions to maintain control and limit diplomatic flexibility. This division is not merely a mismatch between President Raisi's rhetoric and political reality, but a structural tool used to manage negotiations. The regime utilizes these internal splits to provide a basis for negotiating with foreign administrations. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) communications department stated that US President Trump's recent comments regarding Congress and new proposals for Iran indicate limited options for the United States. The IRGC claims the US must choose between impossible military actions and reaching an agreement with Iran. This statement follows ongoing tensions regarding US policy toward the country.

Iran is facing severe economic difficulties due to a drop in oil revenue. The blockade is disrupting oil revenue, fertilizer, and critical commodities, impacting global energy, transport, and food markets. Reports indicate the US President has directed aides to prepare for a long-term blockade. The Iranian regime is attempting to choke the global economy by preventing oil from passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict has shifted from kinetic bombing to economic warfare. The ongoing situation in Iran may impact fertilizer prices and subsequently increase food costs across the European Union. The exact status of fuel reserves throughout the EU remains unknown. This assessment comes amid discussions regarding whether Iran will offer concessions or if the conflict will escalate toward nuclear threats.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard has declared full military readiness to counter any US plan to deploy ground forces within Iranian territory. Military leaders in Iran stated the deployment would provide an opportunity to engage US forces on unfamiliar geography to inflict casualties. The Revolutionary Guard has also suggested escalating tensions by moving conflict to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Iran is preparing a response amid expectations of a swift offensive by the United States, possibly followed by Israel. This comes as Iran demands the US end a shipping blockade. The country also acknowledges deep mistrust with the US. Iran's Revolutionary Guard has affirmed its determination to respond decisively to any aggression. This statement was made in response to perceived threats to its freedom.

Iran's new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, declared the United States defeated in its war against Iran. He stated that the US has no place in the region.

Small quadcopter-style drones were observed in the skies over the Iranian capital. The source suggested the drones likely belong to Israel. Air defense systems responded automatically to the incoming aircraft. Reports indicate that air defense systems in Tehran have been activated following drone activity in the region. The source noted that such activity has not been heard for approximately ten days or longer. The activity involves drones being sent to the region for reconnaissance, surveillance, and intelligence purposes. Iranian anti-aircraft batteries activated against quadcopters in the southern part of Iran, according to reports from Iranian news agencies including IRNA. Local media later suggested the activity involved surveillance drones, though specific locations of the encounters were not identified.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi remains in detention in an undisclosed location. Mohammadi was detained in 2025 following criticisms of the Iranian regime. A foundation representing her stated the medical transfer was necessary due to her condition. According to the source, she has suffered a heart attack and has been subjected to prison mistreatment. The report claims she was transferred to a prison facility following a period of unconsciousness. Her lawyer stated that the 54-year-old has been suffering from heart irregularities for some time and suddenly collapsed on Thursday. The news was reported by France Info. Medical reports indicate she is suffering from severe heart palpitations and high blood pressure. The source noted that her physical condition had previously been described as being between life and death.

Iran Airways resumed flight services from the capital, Tehran, to Najaf, Iraq, this week. Crowds have gathered in the streets amid rising noise from cars and anthems. Iranian state news agencies reported activity in the skies over Tehran, though it is unclear if the noise was related to defense tests or the neutralization of reconnaissance drones. Iran's Guard Corps reports that air defense systems are shooting at small unmanned aerial vehicles. Recent drone activity in Iran is being characterized as part of continuous military exercises and air defense training by the Iranian armed forces. The situation remains under monitoring for further developments. The activation follows a period of increased reconnaissance and surveillance drone deployment. Local reports suggest the systems are being monitored for operational effectiveness during this period of heightened tension.

The United Nations Human Rights Office stated that Iran carries out more executions than any other country. The S&P 500 index rose 0.97 percent to reach a new historical high. These market movements occur amid ongoing instability in Iran. Analysts suggest that recent shifts in timelines, moving from weeks to months, could cause oil prices to spike again. There is concern that if prices rise this time, they may not decrease as quickly as previous fluctuations. The impact of these price spikes on different global actors is currently being assessed. The Anarec association, representing fuel resellers, indicated this could cause gas and diesel prices in Portugal to return to two euros per liter starting Monday. This represents a projected increase of ten cents per liter. Brent Crude rose to $126 a barrel before experiencing a subsequent decline.