Stories from Tehran · Iran

Air defense systems were activated in parts of Tehran on Thursday evening following reports of hostile aerial activity. Donald Trump was scheduled to be briefed on Thursday regarding potential new strikes against Iran. Iranian Revolutionary Guard officials warned that any US operation would trigger prolonged and extensive retaliatory strikes. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei claimed the United States suffered a shameful defeat. President Masoud Pezeshkian also commented on the situation. Tasnim News Agency reported the activation may have been due to small drones or reconnaissance drones over the capital. Tehran's anti-aircraft defenses were briefly placed on alert to counter small aircraft and reconnaissance drones, according to Iranian news agencies.

Iranian air defense systems responded to drone activity in both the eastern and western sectors of the capital, Tehran. While some reports suggest Israel has conducted strikes, the specific nature of the drone incursions remains under investigation. Rafale fighter pilots engaged in self-defense to intercept drones originating from Iran. The pilots utilized anti-air defense missiles to shoot down the drones while flying over countries with existing defense agreements. The operation was described as highly effective by the source. Officials from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates reportedly expressed satisfaction with the outcome. This report follows the ongoing US-Israeli war with Iran, which has entered its second month. The conflict has resulted in the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, cutting off 20% of the global oil and gas supply.

Crude oil prices have spiked significantly, with the United States Oil Fund (USO) trading at approximately $135.09, marking a 4.4% increase. Oil prices rose 2.4% to nearly $111 per barrel following news that the United Arab Emirates may withdraw from OPEC Plus. The reference barrel closed at $108 yesterday and is approaching $111 today. The price remains significantly above the $100 threshold. Markets reacted to reports of interrupted Iranian oil supplies, potentially driving prices higher. Concerns exist regarding Iran's ability to maintain storage capacity. The impact on markets may be influenced by China and other Asian nations. The source noted that markets are currently reacting to rumors and fears regarding these supply disruptions. The blockade affects a major shipping route for global production, leading to a shortage and increased cost of fertilizer on the world market.

The United Nations Development Chief warned that the ongoing war in Iran has undone decades of development progress in just a few weeks. Iranian officials stated that the conflict has already led to an increase in unemployment. The source noted that the war is directly responsible for one million job losses in the country. War has impacted 23,000 factories and firms in Iran, according to reports from the American news channel Siyenen International. Iran's Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Security, Gülham Hüsü'yün Muhammadi, stated that the conflict has directly caused the loss of 1 million jobs. The war is reportedly worsening the Iranian economy, leading to business closures and increased unemployment. Economic expert Ahmad Alavi stated that war-related poverty is increasing among social groups, specifically pensioners.

Mojtaba Khamenei has undergone three surgeries on his leg and may require a prosthesis following a serious incident. An American report suggests his role in leadership is currently incomplete or diminished due to these physical limitations. Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Iran's Supreme Leader, has reportedly sustained serious injuries following a recent bombing. Reports suggest he may be in a coma, leading to speculation that his current absence from governance is a staged event. Despite these rumors, the Iranian command chain remains intact and he is still being presented as a functional part of the leadership. The extent of his injuries and the specific details of the strike remain unconfirmed. Reports from the New York Times suggest Mojtaba Khamenei has sustained severe injuries.

Iran has declared that any entry of American mine-clearing vessels into the region without Iranian approval will result in military engagement. Brent crude oil prices fluctuated during the session, dropping from 126 dollars to 114 dollars. The Iranian Supreme Leader added that the country will maintain its nuclear and ballistic capabilities. Iranian President Pesesh Kian warned that abandoning the country's nuclear program would contradict international law. The US and Israel reportedly attacked Iran on February 28. A ceasefire has been in effect since April 8, which the US unilaterally extended. Negotiations mediated by Pakistan have not yet reached a conclusion. The remarks follow reports that various negotiation proposals regarding Iran have been presented for internal discussion.

Former President Trump indicated that negotiations regarding the Iranian nuclear deal could potentially resume as early as April 24. While Trump suggested a window for renewed diplomacy is opening, Iranian officials have already expressed skepticism regarding the possibility of a deal. This development comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and maritime security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz. Donald Trump stated that Tehran has asked Washington to reopen negotiations.

A US-led blockade has successfully disrupted the voyages of at least eight shadow fleet tankers used by Iran to bypass sanctions. While the blockade has caused temporary delays, the Iranian shadow fleet remains largely operational. This development adds significant pressure to Iran's ability to export oil and maintain maritime revenue. At least 42 merchant vessels have been instructed to change course following a US maritime blockade of Iranian ports. US Central Command stated the blockade operation is showing effectiveness. The military indicated it will continue to strictly and comprehensively enforce the blockade.

Hundreds of demonstrators have taken to the streets to protest for the removal of the Iranian regime and support for Reza Pahlavi. These developments are contributing to internal unrest and instability within the country. Large crowds continue to gather in squares including Astan Meydan and Devrim Meydan across various Iranian cities. Protesters are using flags, marches, and slogans to convey messages such as protecting their country. Convoys of vehicles are also moving through streets to avoid stationary crowds in major squares. Security presence is reported to be high throughout the protest areas. Internet restrictions remain in effect within Iran during the demonstrations. Human rights group Pink People protesters displayed banners reading 'No to War in Iran' during a demonstration. Police reportedly removed demonstrators from the scene.

Iranian officials are exploring the possibility of resuming negotiations with the United States regarding the nuclear program and other pending issues. The statement warns that any domestic actions taken against the Supreme Leader will face severe consequences. The Kehan newspaper reported on the stance of a political commentator regarding these developments. Disagreements persist regarding the initial subject matter of the talks. The American and Iranian sides hold differing views on the priority of negotiation topics. This development follows a period of stalled diplomatic progress. Iran claims the United States is no longer able to dictate policy to other nations on the 60th day of the conflict between Iran and the United States. Negotiations between the two nations are currently at a standstill. The United States stated it is examining various proposals.