Iran’s parliament has voted to ban Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service, escalating its crackdown on outside influence following recent U.S. and Israeli strikes. The new law, which also tightens espionage rules, criminalizes Starlink use and introduces severe penalties, including fines, flogging, or up to two years in prison. This move reflects Tehran’s concern over Starlink’s role as a crucial digital connection during internet blackouts, potentially providing a lifeline for dissidents and circumventing state censorship. The legislation is expected to be approved soon, leading to enforcement targeting users and those collaborating with perceived adversaries, such as the U.S. and Israel.
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President Zelenskyy announced Ukraine’s complete alignment with the EU’s 13th and 14th sanctions packages against Russia, solidifying Ukraine’s commitment to international pressure. Additionally, Ukraine will synchronize its sanctions with the European package targeting Iran, focusing on individuals and companies involved in military production, external terror, and internal repression. This move, following a National Security and Defence Council decision, reflects Ukraine’s commitment to swift implementation across state institutions. This builds on Zelenskyy’s earlier statement to intensify pressure, and the alignment will be crucial.
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According to a report in *The Washington Post*, Iranian officials, in a private phone call, expressed surprise at the limited damage caused by U.S. military strikes on their nuclear facilities, contradicting the Trump administration’s claims of complete destruction. This revelation undermines the administration’s narrative, as confirmed in a statement from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who labeled the reporting “shameful.” The strikes targeted facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, though the extent of the damage is still debated. Concurrently, Donald Trump threatened to jail Democratic lawmakers and force journalists to reveal their sources if they published leaked intelligence about the strikes.
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Recent polls indicate a potential erosion of President Trump’s support base following his decision to conduct airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Approval ratings among those who voted for him in 2024 have decreased, signaling a shift in attitudes, even among Republicans. Analysts suggest a disconnect between Trump’s actions and voter priorities, particularly regarding foreign entanglements, as a key factor. Despite the shifts, support for military action against Iran remains strong within his most devoted base, highlighting a complex interplay of partisanship and loyalty.
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Following Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s declaration of victory over Israel, Donald Trump responded with a series of statements on Truth Social. Trump claimed to have saved Khamenei from being killed, highlighting his role in preventing a large-scale Israeli attack. He also noted his prior attempts to ease sanctions on Iran, which he then reversed. Trump warned that Iran needed to re-enter the “World Order” and further stated that he would absolutely consider another strike if Iran rebuilt its uranium enrichment capabilities.
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The U.S. Senate voted against a war powers resolution that would have restricted President Trump’s ability to conduct further attacks on Iran, with the vote largely along party lines. The resolution, proposed by Senator Tim Kaine, aimed to prevent offensive measures while preserving the ability to defend U.S. forces, drawing support from most Democrats but facing opposition from Republicans, except for Senator Rand Paul. This measure faced criticism for potentially hindering the defense of Israel, despite amendments addressing this concern. The resolution’s failure highlighted divisions within the Democratic caucus, with some members supporting military action and others advocating for a stronger anti-war stance.
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According to reports, Iranian authorities have arrested at least 700 Iranian nationals, alleging ties to Israel. This follows reports from KAN News, Israel’s public broadcaster, that six individuals have been executed on suspicion of collaborating with Mossad. The arrests and executions highlight the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, fueled by accusations of espionage and clandestine activities. These actions underscore the complex political landscape and security concerns within Iran.
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The Trump administration has discussed offering Iran significant incentives to return to the negotiating table, including potentially providing $20-$30 billion for a civilian nuclear program. These talks have occurred even amidst military strikes between Iran and Israel, with the US emphasizing that any agreement would require zero Iranian uranium enrichment. Preliminary proposals also involve easing sanctions and allowing Iran access to billions of dollars in frozen funds. US officials are seeking a “comprehensive peace agreement,” with the terms being discussed through regional intermediaries.
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In his first public address since the ceasefire, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asserted the US gained no achievements from strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and described the retaliation against a US air base in Qatar as a “heavy blow.” This statement contradicts US assessments, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claiming the strikes significantly damaged Iran’s nuclear program. Khamenei also threatened further strikes on US bases in the Middle East if Iran is attacked again, declaring victory over both the US and Israel. While the US says it is not aware of any enriched uranium being moved out of the targeted facilities, reports indicate the White House is considering diplomatic options to re-engage with Iran.
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Following the recent attacks on Iranian nuclear sites by the US and Israel, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei addressed the nation, claiming the US had “gained nothing” from its involvement in the conflict. The comments came after the US attacked three Iranian nuclear facilities, prompting a retaliatory missile strike on a US base in Qatar. Meanwhile, Iran’s Guardian Council ratified a bill to suspend cooperation with the IAEA. Both sides are assessing the damage, with conflicting reports on the extent of the destruction, and talks regarding a potential ceasefire are planned between the US and Iran.
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John Q. Hosedrinker