Pope condemns killing of protesters in Iran, reaffirms stance against war
"When a regime... takes away the lives of other people unjustly, then obviously that is something that should be condemned," Pope Leo said during a press conference.
Middle East
Hamas terrorists significantly recovering capabilities during ceasefire - N12
Iran uses fast boats to seize container ships in Strait of Hormuz, challenging US blockade
Israeli 'violations' of Temple Mount spark backlash from Muslim, Arab states
Trump says nuclear weapons 'should never be allowed,' will not be used against Iran
"I want to make the best deal. I could make a deal right now ... but I don't want to do that. I want to have it everlasting," Trump said.
US blockade of Hormuz successful despite media reports suggesting otherwise, maritime expert says
The seven large container ships detected near the Chabahar Port are not a sign that Iran is considering shifting activity to the east of Hormuz, as had initially been theorized.
Blood diamonds, crypto: Hezbollah’s financial operations in Europe serve as major terror lifeline
DPI found that Hezbollah’s financial operations span the European continent, with particular focus on wealthier, larger nations like France and Germany.
How Mojtaba Khamenei used tax loopholes to purchase luxury properties in Europe - report
An investigation found that a loan of some £36 million was granted to Khamenei in 2013 through a company registered in the Isle of Man tax haven.
Syria carrying out arrests of Palestinians linked to Assad regime, rights orgs. claim
The Action Group for Palestinians of Syria complained that at least 14 men were arrested from the Khan Al-Shih camp, Jaramana camp, the Rukn al-Din neighborhood, and the town of al-Hameh.
Iranian delegation 'forbidden' from raising nuclear issues in US talks - report
According to the report, the order came from officials close to Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, as the negotiation team was preparing to depart.
Ships seized by Iran taken to Bandar Abbas as countries check on sailors' wellbeing
The IRGC seized the ships on Wednesday, with both crews reported as safe, as their home countries actively seek their return.
Israel, US believe Mojtaba Khamenei not functioning as leader, IRGC commanders make choices for him
The NYT reported that Khamenei remains "mentally sharp and engaged," receiving handwritten notes with updates from the outside world.
Strait of Hormuz crisis: Iran threatens to open Pandora's Box through chaos - analysis
The Hormuz closure has become the proverbial Pandora’s Box, and many issues have emerged from this crisis that were neither expected nor part of previous discussions about a deal.
Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi splashed with red substance in Berlin after criticizing ceasefire
Walla reported that Pahlavi was not hurt in the attack, and police arrested the suspect immediately afterward. Walla also said that the police stated that the substance appeared to be tomato juice.
