Middle East


Iran launches new satellites in show of defiance ahead of Netanyahu-Trump meeting

The Safir satellite-carrier rocket, which was designed for Iran's Omid satellite, is seen before launch at Iran's space centre in Tehran in 2009

Mosque bombing in Homs during prayers leaves eight dead, dozens wounded

 While worshippers were performing Friday prayers at the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque, a violent explosion shook the entire building, spreading panic and chaos among the congregants, who suddenly found themselves engulfed in a cloud of smoke, blood, and shrapnel.

Bita Shafiei, young Iranian activist released on bail after six weeks in prison

Bita Shafiei moments after her release from prison, December 27, 2025.