Iran has sentenced three individuals to death and imprisoned others for their involvement in deadly attacks on the Shah Cheragh shrine in Shiraz. The verdicts relate to shootings in October 2022 and August 2023, claimed by the Islamic State group, which resulted in 15 fatalities. Other sentences included prison terms for alleged IS members and women, with some verdicts appealed to the Supreme Court.
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The EU's General Court has annulled the European Commission's decision to deny access to text messages between Ursula von der Leyen and Pfizer's CEO, a major blow to the Commission's transparency practices. This ruling intensifies scrutiny of von der Leyen's leadership and raises concerns about the EU's handling of vaccine contract negotiations. Critics demand greater accountability and transparency in policymaking, especially in public health matters.
Senator Chuck Schumer has raised concerns that budget and staffing cuts to the US Coast Guard (USCG) by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) may have contributed to the Mexican tall ship Cuauhtémoc colliding with the Brooklyn Bridge. The incident resulted in two fatalities and several injuries.
US President Donald Trump began his four-day diplomatic and economic tour of the Gulf States, with Saudi Arabia hosting the first leg of his journey.
Ukraine's air force reported losing contact with a US-made F-16 fighter jet during a manoeuvre to repel a Russian attack, with the pilot ejecting safely after reportedly destroying three air targets. This marks the second confirmed loss of an F-16 for Ukraine, a significant blow as these jets play a crucial role in intercepting missiles and engaging Russian aircraft.
New York attorney general Letitia James is facing criticism over her proposed FAIR Business Practices Act, which aims to combat consumer scams. Business groups warn the bill could lead to frivolous lawsuits and legal shakedowns of small businesses, while James defends it as crucial for protecting New Yorkers from fraud amid reduced federal enforcement.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Indonesia to strengthen economic and defense ties. He emphasized the importance of the relationship, highlighting Indonesia's projected economic growth. Both leaders lauded growing cooperation, including Australia's support for Indonesia's OECD and trade partnership aspirations. A historic Defense Cooperation Agreement was also spotlighted, enabling enhanced joint activities in maritime security, counterterrorism, and disaster relief.
Donald Trump called for strict sanctions against Iran. He expressed hope for a nuclear agreement during a summit with Gulf Arab leaders in Riyadh. Trump conditioned any deal on Iran ceasing terror sponsorship and halting nuclear weapons pursuit. The US has already imposed sanctions on entities linked to Iran's oil and nuclear sectors.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino criticized James Comey for a controversial Instagram post interpreted as a threat against Donald Trump. Bongino stated that he and Director Kash Patel are addressing issues stemming from Comey's leadership, emphasizing their commitment to reforming the FBI and preventing past mistakes, particularly concerning operations like Crossfire Hurricane.
A Moscow court sentenced Grigory Melkonyants, co-chair of election monitoring group Golos, to five years in prison for allegedly organizing activities of an "undesirable" organization. The charges, widely seen as politically motivated, stem from his alleged continued cooperation with ENEMO. This sentencing is part of a broader crackdown on dissent in Russia, intensified since the Ukraine invasion, drawing international condemnation.
Arab leaders convened in Baghdad to discuss a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. They pledged support for Gaza's reconstruction. Egypt and Qatar, with US coordination, are working towards a ceasefire. Egypt plans an international conference for Gaza's rebuilding. The summit occurred amidst regional tensions, including US President Donald Trump's visit and Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa's rise.