Iranian musician Mehdi Yarrahi was recently punished with 74 lashes by the Morality Security Prosecutor’s Office in Tehran, as a result of supporting a nationwide uprising. Yarrahi had been arrested during a crackdown on artists and academics following protests against Iran’s mandatory hijab rule, and his punishment was seen as a way to humiliate him. Despite the inhumane treatment, Yarrahi has vowed not to return to the stage in solidarity with Iranian women, who have faced similar struggles, as the Iranian artist community continues to face harassment and persecution.
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Palestinian Authority denies ties to armed militia looting Gaza aid – Middle East Monitor
The Palestinian Authority (PA) has denied any affiliation with the armed militia led by Yasser Abu Shabab, which is accused of looting humanitarian aid in Gaza. PA security spokesperson Anwar Rajab condemned the group's claims of operating under "Palestinian legitimacy" as false, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged Israel's support for Abu Shabab's militia, which opposes Hamas. The Gaza government has accused these "Israeli-backed armed gangs" of stealing aid, amid a devastating offensive by...
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