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EU to tighten Iran sanctions after Israel attack

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The European Union has expanded sanctions on Iranian drone and missile producers in response to Iran’s recent attack on Israel. European Council President Charles Michel stressed the significance of further isolating Iran, highlighting the need for decisive action.

These new sanctions build upon existing measures implemented by the EU, including penalties for Iran’s involvement in supplying drones to Russia. The decision to escalate sanctions was reached during a summit in Brussels, marking the first gathering of the bloc’s leaders since the attack on Israel.

In the wake of Iran’s assault, which involved a barrage of over 300 missiles and drones from multiple countries, the international community has urged restraint to prevent the situation from spiraling into a wider conflict. Despite calls for caution, Israel has not ruled out a potential response to the aggression.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of de-escalation following the summit, encouraging Israel to leverage diplomatic channels to strengthen its position in the region. Scholz’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among global leaders to mitigate tensions in the volatile Middle East.

Meanwhile, Israel has appealed to its allies to take robust action against Iran, advocating for sanctions on Tehran’s missile program and the designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. However, the EU and UK have not yet followed the United States in designating the IRGC as such.

In addition to EU sanctions, the United States is also considering imposing new penalties on Iran. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen highlighted the potential for disrupting Iran’s terrorist financing and targeting its oil exports as areas of focus. Furthermore, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan affirmed that Iran’s missile and drone programs, alongside the IRGC and Iranian defense ministry, would be subject to forthcoming sanctions.

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Munich security talks marked by global ‘lose-lose’ anxiety

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The Munich Rule emphasizes engagement and interaction over lecturing or ignoring one another. However, at the 60th Munich Security Conference (MSC), attention was drawn to the absence of two influential figures: former US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Their potential impacts on the transatlantic relationship and global stability were significant topics of discussion, especially in light of Putin’s actions regarding Alexei Navalny and Ukraine.

The conference reflected a world characterized by increasing confrontation and diminishing cooperation, as noted by EU’s Josep Borrell. The theme of “lose-lose” dynamics pervaded discussions, highlighting the deepening geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.

David Miliband, CEO of the International Rescue Committee, described the conference as emblematic of a disorderly world marked by impunity, exemplified by Navalny’s situation. Navalny’s wife, Yulia Navalnaya, made a powerful statement condemning Putin’s regime, underscoring the personal stakes involved in global politics.

Russia and Iran’s absence from the conference signaled a lack of interest in meaningful dialogue, contrasting with past confrontational speeches by their representatives. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed the urgency of Western support amid ongoing conflict, especially with US assistance facing obstacles in Congress.

The Israel-Gaza conflict highlighted the international community’s call for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, but Israeli delegates emphasized the strategic necessity of their actions against Hamas.

The conference, with its record attendance, showcased the diverse array of global stakeholders grappling with shifting notions of security. While historically a platform for diplomacy, this year’s event primarily focused on dialogue and assessment amid heightened global tensions.

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Switzerland: Police shoot dead axe-wielding hostage-taker on train

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In Switzerland, police intervened in a hostage situation on a train near Yverdon, resulting in the fatal shooting of a man who had taken 15 passengers captive. The perpetrator, reported to be a 32-year-old asylum seeker from Iran, armed himself with an axe and a knife before coercing the train driver to stop and enter the carriage with the passengers.

Despite attempts by authorities to negotiate with the hostage-taker, who spoke both English and Farsi, their efforts proved unsuccessful. As negotiations faltered, police, including a special unit from Geneva, surrounded the train and initiated communication with the perpetrator. However, after several hours, the situation escalated when the hostage-taker moved away from the passengers, prompting law enforcement to take decisive action.

When the hostage-taker attacked the police during the intervention, officers responded by using firearms to protect both the hostages and themselves. Regrettably, the confrontation resulted in the fatal shooting of the perpetrator. The motives behind the hostage-taking remain unclear, although witnesses reported that the perpetrator appeared visibly distressed during the ordeal.

Following the resolution of the hostage situation, authorities are providing support to the hostages and their families through the Swiss health service’s psychological department. The man responsible for the incident was originally from Iran and had been residing in an asylum seeker center in Neuchatel. While hostage incidents are rare in Switzerland, past occurrences have been recorded in various settings, including banks and businesses, underscoring the importance of effective law enforcement responses to such crises.

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Putin makes rare foreign trip to Gulf states

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has undertaken a rare foreign trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. The discussions are expected to cover topics such as the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, as well as oil production. Notably, the UAE is hosting the COP28 UN climate summit. Despite facing an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to alleged war crimes, including the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children, both the UAE and Saudi Arabia do not recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction.

Putin’s visit is seen as part of Russia’s efforts to assert influence and counter isolation attempts by the West. In the UAE, trade and oil are key agenda items, as it is described as Russia’s primary economic partner in the Arab world. Putin also traveled to Saudi Arabia to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, discussing bilateral cooperation and regional events. The leaders reportedly addressed ways to promote de-escalation in the Israel-Hamas conflict and discussed conflicts in Syria, Yemen, and Sudan.

Furthermore, Putin is set to meet Iran’s President Ibrahim Raisi to discuss the war in Gaza. This trip follows Putin’s limited international travel since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, with visits restricted to Russian-occupied Ukraine, Iran, and China.

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Israel-Hamas Conflict Sends Shockwaves Through US Political Landscape

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The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, triggered by a deadly weekend attack by the militant group, is having far-reaching implications on domestic US politics. This crisis is further complicating matters for the Biden administration, intensifying the focus on the tumultuous state of Congress and injecting an element of uncertainty into the upcoming 2024 US elections.

While Americans typically pay limited attention to international events, the disturbing images of civilian casualties in the Middle East, including American casualties, are ensuring that this issue captures national attention. Critics of President Joe Biden are already blaming him for the violence in Israel, accusing Iran of orchestrating the attack and citing US policies, such as allowing Iran to increase oil sales and access frozen assets for humanitarian aid, as signs of American “weakness.”

Former President Donald Trump, in a speech in New Hampshire, pledged to reinstate all US sanctions on Iran and reintroduce a travel ban on majority Muslim nations afflicted by terrorism. Some experts argue that Trump’s Abraham Accords and the Biden administration’s efforts to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia may have contributed to the Hamas attack by sidestepping the Palestinian issue.

Republican criticism is primarily directed at President Biden, but the Israel attack has also exposed divisions within the party, particularly regarding the changing perspectives on interventionist foreign policies. Former Vice President Mike Pence used this moment to criticize some of his Republican rivals for their nativist and isolationist worldviews.

Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who faced a challenge from right-wing conservatives, is now at odds with the party, further complicating congressional action. Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz dismissed concerns that his actions impeded Congress’s ability to assist Israel, emphasizing the significant military support the US provides to Israel annually.

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SCO summit: Putin says sanctions making Russia stronger

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated his country’s opposition to Western sanctions following the invasion of Ukraine.

Speaking at the virtual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, his first international address since the recent mutiny in Russia, Putin expressed defiance towards the West, stating that Russia would counter external sanctions and pressures while continuing to develop. He emphasized the importance of trade agreements between SCO nations in local currencies, seen as a measure to mitigate the impact of sanctions. Putin also welcomed Belarus’s application to become a permanent member of the SCO. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, hosting the summit, called for increased trade, connectivity, and tech cooperation among member states.

However, he did not directly address the war in Ukraine or China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific, reflecting India’s delicate diplomatic position as it strengthens ties with both the West and China. Instead, Modi urged SCO members to cooperate on countering cross-border terrorism, with his statements commonly interpreted as aimed at Pakistan. China’s President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of regional peace and security and called for solidarity and mutual trust among SCO members. All members agreed on the need to maintain stability in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s takeover.

The SCO, formed in 2001 by China, Russia, and four Central Asian countries, has gained relevance as relations with the West deteriorate for Russia and China. With around 40% of the world’s population and over 20% of global GDP, the SCO holds significant potential, and the inclusion of Iran as a full member further enhances its energy portfolio.

However, India’s ability to strike a diplomatic balance between its global partners, including Russia, China, and Pakistan, will impact the future of the SCO. Indian diplomats assert their commitment to an independent foreign policy without favoring any particular group.

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Olivier Vandecasteele: Iran jails Belgian aid worker for 28 years – family

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According to his relatives, an Iranian court has sentenced a Belgian aid worker to 28 years in prison on unspecified allegations. During a brief trip to Tehran in February, 41-year-old Olivier Vandecasteele was detained and charged with espionage.

His family said on Wednesday that they were notified of his sentencing during a meeting with the prime minister of Belgium. Although Iran did not confirm the report, it was announced just days after Belgium’s constitutional court blocked a contentious prisoner exchange agreement.

Iran wants to trade Mr. Vandecasteele for Assadollah Assadi, who is said to be its top intelligence agent in Europe. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison in Belgium last year for attempting to bomb a demonstration of an Iranian opposition party operating in exile.

Mr. Vandecasteele spent six years working for the Norwegian Refugee Council and other humanitarian organisations in Iran. He fled the nation last year, but in order to close his flat in Tehran, he returned in February against Belgian government advice.

He was detained by members of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) during the brief visit and sent to Tehran’s notorious Evin prison, where several US and European expatriates are being held on spying-related allegations. His family claims that while he was being held, he was subjected to “inhumane conditions” that amounted to torture.

They claim he has experienced different health issues as a result of being held in solitary confinement for the whole time in a basement cell without windows.

According to Mr. Vandecasteele’s family, Belgian consular representatives were able to communicate with him on November 28 for the first time in seven weeks. He said that neither his Iranian attorneys nor Belgian diplomats were aware of his appearance before a court.

He said that without being informed of the specifics of the allegations against him, he was found guilty of all of them during the hearing. His court-appointed attorney did not even make an appearance in court. Additionally, Mr. Vandecasteele disclosed to the consular representatives that he had begun a partial hunger strike in mid-November to protest his treatment. On Wednesday, his family said in a statement that they had been told by Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo that he had been given a 28-year jail term and that a prisoner swap was the only way to secure his release.

The office of Mr. De Croo claimed that he had pledged to “continue to pursue all potential paths that could lead to Olivier Vandecasteele’s homecoming.”

In order to ratify the prisoner exchange agreement with Iran, which would allow Assadollah Assadi to be transferred back to Tehran to complete the remainder of his sentence in exchange for Mr. Vandecasteele’s release, his administration introduced a law in June.

However, the Iranian opposition group that Assadi and human rights advocates were targeting argued that doing so would violate the victims’ right to life and run the risk of inciting Iranian operatives to commit crimes overseas to stifle dissent.

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Iran blames west for the assassination of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh

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The Middle East country of Iran has blamed the western intelligence agencies and Israel for the assassination of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh.

Mr. Fakhrizadeh was a highly talented nuclear scientist. It was considered as the mastermind of the Iran nuclear program.

The scientist was attacked in Absard in the Iranian county of Damavand.

The west considered the scientist as a big threat. He was specifically named in a paper presented by Israel on the Iran nuclear program.

Iran has pledged to avenge the assassination of its scientist. A senior Iranian leader has said that his country would strike back like a thunder.

The Iran nuclear program is very controversial. Though Iran asserts that their nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, the west does not believe in the claim.

It is not the first time a top Iranian official has been assassinated at the behest of the western intelligence agency.

Few months ago, a senior Iranian military official was assassinated in a similar way.

Iran, it seems, is very angry about the killing. They have termed the killing a clear case of the violation of International laws by the west.

Israel has not yet responded about the allegations that have been levelled against the country in connection with the assassination.

It has been alleged that Israel has played a vital role in the killing.

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Iran sends British-Austrian woman to notorious prison

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Kylie Moore-Gilbert, the British-Australian woman who was sentenced to ten-year-imprisonment for espionage in Iran, has been shifted to a notorious prison.

She was a lecturer at Melbourne University.

She was jailed in the year 2018. It was alleged that she was denied the opportunity for fair trial. She denied all charges levelled against her.

Australia has demanded immediate release of their citizen. It has warned Iran of serious consequences. It has asserted that the case of Dr. Moore was one of the highest priorities.

Iran has not yet responded about where she has been placed. A group of human rights activists have stated that she was admitted in Qarchak prison – which is notorious for its abusive treatment towards political prisoners.

It is notable that Iran has not yet denounced the statement made by the rights group regarding the matter.

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Iran gives back black box of downed Ukrainian plane

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The Middle East country of Iran has given back the black box of a Ukrainian plane downed accidently in early this year as Tehran mistakenly identified the plan as a missile.

The incident happened at the time the rivalry between Tehran and Washington was at its peak. Initially, Iran denied any involvement in the attack. Later, when the western intelligence agencies confronted the country with undeniable evidences suggesting the involvement of the country in the crime, Iran admitted the wrong doing and apologized publicly describing it as an unforgivable mistake.

As many as 176 persons was killed in the accident. The fight was travelling to the European country of Ukraine. The incident happened shorty after the take off of the flight.

The black box may help to determine the actual cause of the attack.

The accident has tainted the image of the Middle East country of Iran badly. It has deteriorated the relation between the west and Iran.

In a sense, it has helped the United States to push through its strategy of isolating Iran.

The incident has weakened the strength of Iran considerably.

The latest develop will reopen the discussion around the tropic – which is hiding in the pit of history.

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