Two ultraconservative candidates exit Iran presidential race

The Kremlin stated that Russia is prepared to assist in easing tensions between the US and Iran over Tehran's nuclear program, amidst US threats of military action if Iran does not agree to a new deal. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov mentioned ongoing consultations with Iran and Russia's willingness to contribute to resolving the issue. Moscow has repeatedly offered to mediate between the two sides following warnings from US President Trump, aiming to prevent military conflict...

Israel's highest court is hearing a case regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's attempt to replace intelligence chief Ronen Bar, which is seen as a move to consolidate power and has sparked controversy. Critics fear this action undermines democratic institutions, while Netanyahu's allies argue it is within his authority. The court's ruling could potentially lead to a constitutional crisis if Netanyahu refuses to abide by their decision, setting a precedent for the balance of power in...

Israeli police have placed media adviser Jonatan Urich, linked to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, under house arrest amid investigations into allegations of receiving money from Qatar to improve its image in Israeli media. Urich, along with Netanyahu aide Eli Feldstein, is suspected of serious offenses including bribery, fraud, leaking classified information, and contact with a foreign agent. Urich allegedly passed messages to the press under the prime minister’s office name, believed to have ties to...

The US and Iran will hold "direct talks" over a possible nuclear deal on Saturday, with American President Donald Trump and Iran's foreign minister confirming the meeting, which could be "indirect" but at a "very high level". Trump warned of dire consequences for Iran if no agreement is reached and has previously raised the prospect of military action. The talks come after Trump unilaterally pulled the US out of a previous nuclear deal with Iran...

According to Amnesty International's report, over 1,500 people were executed in 2024, with Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia accounting for the majority of deaths. The death penalty was primarily used for drug-related and terrorism charges, with a total of 113 countries fully abolitionist and 145 having abolished the death penalty in law or practice. Despite the high number of executions, the report highlighted a global trend towards the abolition of the death penalty and emphasized...

In Iran, the pressure to conform to Western beauty standards has led to a cultural trend of rhinoplasty, with more than 264,000 cosmetic operations performed in 2023. The popularity of nose jobs has become tied to social identity and status, especially as more women defy strict dress codes, despite risks from unauthorised clinics. The demand for cosmetic surgery remains high in Iran, with both women and men feeling the pressure to undergo procedures to enhance...