Iran in October 2023

October 3, 2023

1. Iranian Revolutionary Guard Arrests Spy Cell Using Starlink to Incite Chaos (Sharq Awsat). The Iranian Revolutionary Guard has arrested a five-member “spy cell” in Zahedan, Balochistan Province, for allegedly using Starlink internet equipment to incite unrest. The cell is accused of collaborating with the People’s Mujahedin Organization and a foreign intelligence agency. The arrests come during ongoing protests and a security crackdown in the region.
2. Saudi-Iran Football Match Canceled Due to Soleimani Statue (Anadolu Agency). A scheduled football match between Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad and Iran’s Sepahan was abruptly canceled. Reports suggest the Saudi team withdrew due to a statue of the late Iranian General Qassem Soleimani inside the stadium. The Asian Football Association cited “unanticipated” reasons for the cancellation, and both countries’ football federations have yet to comment.
3. Iranian Army Plans Major Drone Exercise: Regional Security Implications (Iran Front). The Iranian Army is set to conduct a major joint military exercise involving unmanned aircraft. The drill will include participation from the Ground Force, Navy, Air Force, and Air Defense Force, covering large areas of central and southern Iran. This development comes as Iran has made significant advancements in drone technology, even attracting purchase inquiries from European countries. The upcoming exercise could have implications for regional security dynamics. 
4. Iran’s Syria Arms Deal: Impact on U.S., Israel, and Regional Stability (Jerusalem Post). A Kuwaiti report claims Iran is brokering an arms deal involving Hezbollah, Russia, and Syrian Arab tribes. The deal aims to upgrade Hezbollah’s arsenal with new Iranian weapons while supplying older arms to Russia and the tribes. This could challenge U.S. and Israeli interests and shift the regional power balance.
5. Iran’s Social Unrest: Women’s Rights, Afghan Influx, and Growing Dissent (Iran International). Iran faces mounting internal challenges as women defy mandatory hijab laws, nearly 2.5 million Afghans strain resources in Tehran, and public sentiment turns against the legacy of the 1979 revolution. These issues highlight the regime’s struggle with social, economic, and political discontent, leading to international scrutiny and internal unrest. For a more in depth report into Iran’s military, political, and social unrest, read the Region. 
6. Rouhani Eyes Assembly Seat Amidst Conservative Control. (Amwaj). During conservative dominance and the aging of current Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, the next election is pivotal for succession. The Assembly’s historical difference suggests continued conservative influence.
7. Iran faces challenges as Azerbaijan gains control in Karabakh. (Bayan Media).  Iran faces complex geopolitics as Azerbaijan advances in Karabakh, threatening Tehran’s European gateway. It supports a political Armenia-Azerbaijan resolution for stability but is concerned about losing access to Europe due to recent Karabakh developments. Outdated foreign policy and Azerbaijan’s Israel ties complicate Iran’s stance, putting its regional strategy in question.

October 4, 2023

1. The Hidden Crisis: Region’s Deep Dive Exposes Iran’s Economic Woes Contradicting State Media (ACLS). Despite state media’s rosy outlook, the Region’s report reveals a grim Iranian economy with only 27.5% formal employment and a poverty rate exceeding 50%. This aligns with Fraser Institute’s ranking of Iran at 160th out of 165 in economic freedom, spotlighting government corruption and a lack of financial transparency.
2. Fans Stone Soleimani Statue in Hilarious Twist to Canceled Soccer Showdown! (Al Arabiya). After the cancellation of a match between Saudi Al-Ittihad and Iranian Sepahan Isfahan due to political banners, tens of thousands of Iranian fans pelted a statue of Qasem Soleimani with stones and water bottles. Chants of “We don’t want to politicize football” and “dictator” filled the air.
3. Iran Plays the ‘Political Card’ in Response to Bombshell Report on Influence Network in the U.S. (Iran International). After a week of silence, Iran’s Foreign Ministry commented on Iran International’s expose revealing an Iranian influence network connected to U.S. officials. Spokesman Nasser Kanaani sidestepped direct questions, framing the issue as U.S. domestic politics. The report has stirred debates in Iranian media, questioning the regime’s secrecy and impact on U.S.-Iran diplomatic relations.

October 5, 2023

1. Iran Wages Media War Following U.S. Infiltration Revelations (Al Maydeen). In a calculated response to the recent revelations about Iran’s infiltration of American and European institutions, Iranian media outlets Al Maydeen and Tehran Times have released conflicting reports aimed at discrediting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Al Maydeen claims to have exclusive information from an Iranian security source about bribes from Netanyahu’s office to U.S. and European figures. However, this ‘new’ information was previously published by Tehran Times on September 24, 2023, which stated that Iran hacked the phones of Netanyahu’s opposition party to access Israel’s judicial archives. The inconsistencies between the two reports suggest that both are likely fabrications. Israeli media platform i24 summarized both Iranian articles and referenced its own report published on September 24, which covered a High Court hearing on a contentious incapacitation law aimed at protecting Netanyahu. The court did not rule on the law, with a decision expected in January 2024. 
2. Iran Firmly Opposes Zangezur Corridor, Cites NATO Concerns (Tehran Times). Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi opposes the proposed Zangezur corridor linking Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan to its main territory, citing it as a platform for NATO and a threat to regional security. In meetings with Armenia’s Security Council Secretary, Iran also offered to send observers to the Armenia-Azerbaijan border and emphasized the 3+3 format—comprising Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, Russia, and Turkiye—as a viable solution for regional conflicts.
3. IRGC Chief Touts Iran’s AI-Powered Drones Capable of Long-Range Naval Strikes (Press TV). Major General Hossein Salami, chief commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), announced that Iran’s domestically developed drones, equipped with artificial intelligence, can target and destroy naval vessels thousands of miles away. Salami emphasized Iran’s technical prowess in incorporating pinpoint accuracy into ballistic missiles. The remarks come amid increasing foreign demand for Iran’s advanced unmanned aerial vehicles, exceeding the country’s production capacity.

October 6, 2023

1. Iran Conducts Naval Drills Featuring Suicide Drones. The Iranian Army has initiated military drills involving various types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including the Karrar drone, aimed at navy targets. The drills come amid heightened tensions with the UK and European forces, who maintain sanctions against Iran for its role in supplying drones to Russia in the Ukraine conflict and for its non-compliance with the nuclear deal. The exercises also occur just two weeks before the “Sunset Clause” deadline, which could lift sanctions on Iran’s ballistic missiles and drones if the country complies with nuclear deal obligations (Sharq Awsat).
2. Iranian Girl in Coma After Altercation with Hijab Enforcer, Echoes of Mahasa Amani. Iran Faces Calls to Disclose Full CCTV Footage Following Teen’s Coma in Hijab Enforcement Incident. Iranian opposition and human rights groups are demanding the release of complete CCTV footage after 16-year-old Armita Geravand fell into a coma following an alleged altercation with a hijab enforcer on the Tehran metro. While authorities claim she fainted due to low blood pressure, witnesses say she was physically attacked for not wearing a hijab (The Guardian). 
3. Iran Unveils ‘Kaman-19’ Drone Capable of Disrupting Foreign Drone Communications. Iran has introduced a new drone, the “Kaman-19,” which can disrupt communication between foreign drones and their ground bases. The announcement comes amid international criticism of Iran’s drone program, particularly after the country provided “kamikaze” drones to Russia’s military in 2022. Iranian officials argue that drones are essential for their national security, with nearly 200 drones patrolling strategic waters in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman (Jerusalem Post). 
4. UK Oil Trader Dodges Criminal Fraud Charges Over Iranian Crude Disguised as Iraqi Oil. Francesco Mazzagatti, a prominent UK oil trader, has had criminal fraud charges dismissed by a Milan judge over allegations that his firm disguised Iranian crude oil as Iraqi oil in a potential violation of US sanctions. The case, known as the “White Moon” incident, involved about 700,000 barrels of oil that were initially shipped to Italy before being returned to the Middle East. Mazzagatti still faces commercial fraud claims from Italian prosecutors (Bloomberg).

October 10, 2023

1. Exclusive ACLS Research: Iranian Media Trends Revealed – ‘Weak and Servile Beings, Nearing Its End’. A multi-pronged Iranian media assault on Israel clearly acknowledges not only its current position and possible desires but further explains the extent of its involvement in Hamas’ terrorist operations and suggests a role for Hizballah. In what seems to be an orchestrated comprehensive anti-Israel narrative, Tehran Times glorified Hamas’ actions and implied Israel’s diminishing powers. The Iranian Ministry issued a stern warning against Israel in the case of aggression against Iran and called for support from the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation. Tasnim Agency goes a step further, alleging that elements within the Israeli military have been aiding Palestinian resistance groups, a claim aimed at sowing discord and questioning Israel’s internal security. These assaults culminated with the statement of Major General Salami, who asserted that Israel is a “weak and servile being” nearing its end and emphasizes that not even American support can save it.

October 11, 2023

1. Khamenei Denies Iran’s Involvement in Hamas Attack on Israel. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei refutes claims of Iran’s involvement in the recent Hamas attack on Israel. The statement comes as tensions in the region escalate (Sharq Awsat).
2. Iranian Army Commander Warns U.S. Against Aligning with Israel. Major General Abdul Rahim Mousavi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Iranian Army, warned that the United States would “accelerate its decline” if it continues to align with Israel. He urged the U.S. to act sensibly and not support what he termed as “falsehood.” The statement comes as Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian also express support for the Palestinian resistance and call for international intervention to stop Israeli actions (Al Maydeen).
3. Iran’s proxies in Yemen and Iraq warn the U.S. against meddling in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The Houthi Movement in Yemen and a powerful Iraqi militia issued identical statements, signaling Tehran’s willingness to use its proxies against the U.S. This comes After U.S. support for Israel and plans to deploy a carrier strike group to the Eastern Mediterranean. Both groups stated they would target American assets if the U.S. intervenes (Iran International).
4. Iran Aided Hamas in Planning Israel Attacks. Palestinian militants planned the recent surprise attack on Israel with significant support from Iranian allies. They received military training, logistical help, and tens of millions of dollars for weapons, according to current and former Western and Middle Eastern intelligence officials (Washington Post). 

October 12, 2023

1. Iran Offers to Host OIC Meeting on Palestine Crisis. Iran has officially proposed to host an emergency meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to discuss the ongoing situation in Palestine. The offer was made through an official letter from Iran’s Permanent Mission in the OIC to the organization’s secretariat. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian expressed gratitude to OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha for constructive discussions on Palestinian developments. The letter emphasized Iran’s readiness to host the meeting and urged immediate consultations among OIC member states (Tehran Times). 
2. Iranian Lawmakers Plan to Meet Palestinian Fighters After Ongoing Conflict. A delegation of Iranian lawmakers may soon visit Syria and Lebanon to meet with Palestinian fighters involved in the conflict with Israel. Vahid Jalalzadeh, Chairman of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, announced the parliament’s full support for the Palestinian resistance. The commission has already met with representatives of Islamic Jihad and Hamas in Tehran to discuss the situation in Gaza (Tasnim Agency).

October 13, 2023

1. Raisi and Assad Discuss Concerns Over Potential Israeli Actions in Phone Call. While official statements focused on the need for Islamic unity and Palestinian rights, the conversation reportedly had an underlying tone of apprehension about possible Israeli and U.S. responses to recent events. Both leaders seemed to be preparing for imminent actions that could be taken against them, contrasting with their public stance of defiance (Tasnim News).
2. To Discuss Gaza, Iranian Foreign Minister Visits Iraq, Lebanon and Assad. During Iran’s Foreign Minister Abdollahian’s visit to Iraq, he stated that “officials” in regional nations are asking his government about the possibility of opening a new war front in the region. He explained that their answer was clear regarding future possibilities, which all depend on the actions of the “Zionist entity” in Gaza. As for his visit to Assad, Russian platform Sputnik reported that the Iranian Foreign Minister’s visit to Damascus took a detour to Lebanon after Damascus airport was subjected to an Israeli bombing, only to report that the visit was postponed until Friday (24, RT). 
3. The Covert Alliance: Iran’s Strategic Backing of Hamas and the Resistance Axis. This analysis delves into Iran’s covert involvement in planning and supporting Hamas’s attacks on Israel, forming part of its broader strategy to eliminate the Israeli state. The report highlights Iran’s extensive role in arming, funding, and training Palestinian resistance groups, particularly Hamas. Notably, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has encouraged these attacks while distancing Iran from direct responsibility. The study also underscores the strategic implications of the conflict and warns of its wider impact on the region and the world (Memri).
4. Iranian Newspaper Advises Caution on Anti-Israel Rhetoric. An Iranian newspaper, Ham Mihan, warns officials to be cautious with anti-Israel comments, stating it could strain international relations and turn the Iranian public against the government. This comes as Khamenei’s senior military adviser openly supports Hamas, while Khamenei himself appears to distance Iran from the group’s actions (Iran International).

October 17, 2023

1. Iranian Media Challenges Bolton’s Op-Ed, Defends Biden. Tehran Times responded to former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton’s criticism of President Biden’s West Asia policy, particularly regarding Iran. Bolton criticized the JCPOA and blamed Biden’s policies for the recent unrest in Tel Aviv, urging a reconsideration of the Middle East strategy. In contrast, the Iranian publication argued that what Bolton sees as appeasement reflects America’s waning influence in the region. Tehran Times concluded that Biden is pursuing U.S. national interests, which may not always align with Israel’s (Tehran Times).
2. Tasnim Agency: Unbiased Middle East Reporting. The Iranian outlet claims American commanders are leading some Israeli operations in Gaza due to Israeli commanders’ psychological distress. The Americans are said to be advising against a ground invasion due to high risks. Concurrently, other media platforms are urging viewers to enlist for anti-Israel combat. The message, updated as of October 15, claimed over 1.3 million Iranians have already signed up. A website, Alaqsastorm.com/aqsa, also launched to facilitate this recruitment (Tasnim Agency, MEMRI). 
3. Iranian MP Warns Israel Entering Gaza is a ‘Red Line. Ibrahim Azizi, Deputy Head of Iran’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, has cautioned that Israel’s ground entry into Gaza would be a “red line.” Azizi stressed that all resistance factions expect Israel not to make this grave mistake. He believes that if Israel continues rocket attacks on Gaza, a broader, more extensive front could emerge, ending the current conflict. Azizi also highlighted that the current resistance front includes Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon, and Iran (Sputnik Arabic).

October 18, 2023

1. Iranian President Warns Gaza Hospital Attack’s Flames Will Engulf Israel. Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi condemned the Israeli airstrike on Gaza’s Baptist Hospital and warned that the flames from the attack would soon engulf Israel. He declared a day of “public mourning” in response to the hospital bombing, which occurred amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Iran’s Foreign Ministry also condemned the attack as a “brutal war crime” and “genocide.” Thousands gathered in Tehran to show support for Palestine and condemn the hospital attack (Anadolu Agency)
2. Iran Urges Islamic Countries to Sanction Israel. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian called on members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to impose sanctions on Israel, implement an oil embargo, and expel Israeli ambassadors. This appeal was made during an urgent OIC meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where Islamic countries gathered to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict (US News). 
3. Iranian FM Accuses Blinken of Being in Zionist Operations Room. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian criticized US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken during an emergency meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Jeddah. Abdollahian accused Blinken of being in the Zionist operations room while advising others to exercise restraint. He expressed concern about the region’s loss of self-control and called for practical measures to address the escalating situation in Gaza (Al Jazeera).
4. Western Politicians and Media Criticize Arab-Origin Football Players for Supporting Palestinians. Several European football players of Arab descent faced criticism and calls for expulsion from their clubs due to their public support for Palestinians. Moroccan player Nassir Mazraoui, a Bayern Munich player, received demands for expulsion from a German politician. Algerian player Youssef Atal, who plays for Nice, faced backlash for his criticism of Israel. This highlights the complex dynamics surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict even in the world of sports (TRT Arabic).

October 19, 2023

1. Iran Accuses U.S. of Orchestrating Fatal Strike on Gaza Hospital. Iranian media outlet Tasnim claims that U.S. officials masterminded a deadly strike on Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza, aiming to deter an Israeli ground offensive. The report suggests that both American and Israeli leaders were taken aback by Hamas’ recent operation outside Gaza. The U.S. has allegedly warned Israel of the high costs of a ground assault. At least 500 casualties are reported in the hospital strike (Tasnim Agency). 
2. UN Sanctions on Iran’s Missile Program Expire, Raising Global Concerns. UN sanctions aimed at constraining Iran’s missile and drone programs have expired, allowing Iran to sell these technologies and buy related components. While the E3 European parties maintain their sanctions, the U.S. and E3 have not reinstated UN sanctions. The U.S. imposed new sanctions and issued advisories to limit Iran’s programs. The lapse could embolden Iran and its allies, including Russia, in global conflicts (Iran International). 
3. Iran Urges OIC Team to Assess Gaza Crisis, Calls for Sanctions on Israel. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, called for an urgent deployment of an Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) delegation to Gaza to assess the humanitarian situation and document Israeli war crimes. He also urged OIC member states to impose sanctions on Israel and establish a tribunal for prosecuting Israeli leaders for their actions in Gaza. Amirabdollahian criticized Israeli military allegations and highlighted the need for humanitarian aid and international condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza (Tasnim News).

October 20, 2023

1. Iranian Opposition Media Criticizes Biden’s Sparse Mention of Iran. President Joe Biden’s recent Oval Office speech, which focused on conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, has drawn criticism from Iranian opposition media for its scant mention of Iran. The Iranian opposition media views Biden’s lack of focus on Iran as a missed opportunity to address the Islamic Republic’s support for anti-U.S. groups in the region, including Hamas and Russian interests in Ukraine. The speech has also been criticized for not addressing the broader geopolitical implications, such as the potential for the Israel-Hamas conflict to escalate and involve other regional actors like Hezbollah or Shi’a groups in Iraq (Iran International).
2. Iranian Security Minister Criticizes UN and U.S. for Supporting Israel. Iranian Security Minister Hojjat al-Islam Ismail Khatib accused the United Nations Security Council of serving the interests of “arrogant powers” and the U.S., rather than supporting the oppressed. Speaking in Lorestan Province, he said the Al-Aqsa Flood operation had weakened Israel and criticized its relations with Islamic countries. He also noted a shift in public opinion towards Palestine due to Israel’s actions (Islam Times). 

October 24, 2023

1. Iran Leads Talks on South Caucasus, Gaza; Criticizes U.S., EU. Iran engaged in a series of diplomatic meetings, hosting leaders from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey. The discussions aimed to resolve the South Caucasus conflict, enhance bilateral relations, and address the Gaza situation. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to discuss Gaza and regional stability, while also prioritizing closer ties with Azerbaijan. Concurrently, Iran and Armenia committed to boosting bilateral trade to $3 billion. The meetings criticized external involvement from the U.S. and EU, emphasizing Iran’s role in regional diplomacy (Iran International).
2. Russia and Iran Strengthen Relations. Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in Tehran, discussing various aspects of their bilateral agenda and emphasizing the growth of their partnership. The talks also covered energy and logistics projects, but few details were disclosed. This meeting occurred during rising Middle East tensions. Lavrov also participated in regional talks hosted by Iran to promote peace in the South Caucasus, following recent developments in Nagorno-Karabakh.The U.S. has expressed concerns about the defense partnership between Iran and Russia (Iran International). 
3. China Excludes Iran from the Belt Road Initiative. Despite China’s substantial investments in its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Iran’s participation has been constrained by US sanctions. China has directed significant BRI investments globally, but Iran has received only two investment agreements, one of which was canceled in 2018. This raises doubts about the implementation of the China-Iran 25-year strategic partnership agreement and its impact on crucial sectors like infrastructure and energy. Additionally, Iran has been excluded from major regional transport projects, disadvantageous compared to its neighbors (Iran International). 
4. Iran Thwarts 10 Major Cyber Attacks in Past Year: Civil Defense Chief. Iran’s Civil Defense Organization, in collaboration with the Intelligence Ministry and the Intelligence Department of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), has successfully thwarted ten significant cyberattacks over the past year. These efforts included taking 16 operational measures to prevent a cyberattack on the country’s electricity dispatch center, setting a pattern for detecting and repelling subsequent attacks. Iran has also prevented cyberattacks in the wake of the Al-Aqsa Storm operation against the Zionist regime, with 80% of these thwarted using domestic equipment. Over 300 domestically-developed products have been created through cooperation with the Defense Ministry and local knowledge-based companies (Tasnim Agency).
5. Iranian Expert: Tehran Regime “Digs Its Own Grave” in Israel-Hamas Conflict.  Benny Sabati, an Iranian researcher and Persian government spokesman, discussed the Iranian public’s sentiment towards the Israel-Hamas conflict. He emphasized that the Iranian regime is responsible for the regional unrest and that its actions have led to internal dissent. Sabati also noted instances where the Iranian public showed disapproval of their government’s stance, including during soccer games where boos were heard during a minute’s silence for Palestinians. He argues that it’s crucial to show Iranians the “true picture” of the conflict (Maariv Online).

October 25, 2023

1. Iran’s Oil Exports Surge, But Revenue Falls Short. Despite a recent uptick in Iranian oil exports, the country faces a substantial budget deficit due to unrealized oil income. Davoud Manzour, the head of Iran’s Planning and Budget Organization, revealed that only 70% of the 7-month budget has been realized, primarily due to discrepancies in projected oil prices and export volumes. If this trend continues, it could lead to Iran’s highest-ever budget deficit (Iran International).
2. Exploring Russia’s Military Cooperation with Iran During UN Missile Trade Restrictions Expiry. As UN restrictions on missile trade with Iran expire, military-technical cooperation between Russia and Iran is on the rise. Iran has delivered UAVs and technology to Russia, transforming their bilateral ties. While Iran has ordered Su-35 fighters and other military equipment from Russia, the terms of their initial drone procurement agreement remain unclear. Western sanctions may have made Russia more willing to engage in such deals. However, the evolving Iran-Russia relationship is complex, influenced by regional dynamics and international sanctions, affecting arms trade decisions and potentially altering the balance of power in the Middle East (Amwaj). 

October 26, 2023

1. Iran’s Regime Plans To ‘De-Nationalize’ The Oil Industry. Iran’s government plans to transfer its oil industry to the “private sector,” effectively concentrating the nation’s wealth with insiders. The Seventh Development Plan grants rights for oil and gas activities to private entities, diminishing the concept of national ownership. This shift raises concerns about quasi-state organizations, controlled by regime insiders, taking over the industry. Sanctions and unclear regulations further hinder foreign investment (Iran International).
2. Iranian Politician Warns Against Involvement in Gaza Conflict. Prominent Iranian politician Mohsen Mirdamadi has criticized Iran’s support for Hamas and its involvement in the conflict in Gaza. He argues that the continued existence of Hamas is essential for Israel’s defeat, as it weakens Israel’s position and garners international support for an independent Palestinian state. Mirdamadi also suggests that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, is aware of the risks of direct involvement in the Israel-Hamas war and has advised against it (Iran International).
3. Iranian FM Urges Global Action Against Israeli Gaza Attacks. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, criticizes Israel’s unchecked actions in Gaza and calls on the international community, including the UN Human Rights Council, to swiftly address these violations, hold Israel accountable for war crimes, and stop the ongoing humanitarian crisis (Islam Times).
4. Iran Opposes US Resolution on Palestine at UN. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, revealed Iran’s efforts to prevent the voting of a US draft resolution in favor of Israel at the UN Security Council. China and Russia supported Iran’s position by vetoing the resolution. Amirabdollahian expressed concerns about the situation in the Middle East, citing a civilian crisis in Gaza and the need for regional stability. He planned to discuss Iran’s stance on the Palestinian issue with the UN Secretary-General (Irna).
5. Iran and Russia Strengthen Cooperation in Automotive, Aerospace Industries. Iran and Russia discussed areas of cooperation, particularly in technology, including the manufacturing of cars, aircraft, and space technology. Both countries aim to expand their bilateral relations and consider these sectors as pivotal for cooperation. Iran’s Vice President for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy, Sorena Sattari, emphasized Iran’s readiness to collaborate in various fields, such as science, health, safety, and sustainable food and energy production. The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish specialized working teams for expedited collaboration (Fars News).

October 27, 2023

1. Iran Warns U.S. Over Israel-Hamas Conflict. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian cautioned the United Nations that ongoing Israeli actions against Hamas could lead to repercussions for U.S. troops in the Middle East. He also expressed Iran’s willingness to aid in the release of civilian hostages and presented Hamas as “freedom-fighters,” not terrorists. Amir-Abdollahian called for Palestinian self-determination and an independent state with Al-Quds as its capital (Iran International). 
2. Saudi Arabia’s Absence in Israel-Hamas Conflict Questioned. Major General Hossein Salami, the commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), praised the Hamas-led Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, stating that it inflicted an unforgettable and stunning defeat on Israel. He emphasized that this operation had significant repercussions, affecting the US, the UK, and Israel. Salami also criticized the US for its role in supporting Israel and its attempts to improve its image (Tasnim Agency). 
3. Iran Warns U.S. of Consequences If Gaza Conflict Persists at UN.  Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian cautioned the United Nations that if Israel’s military actions against Hamas in Gaza continue, the United States will face repercussions. Amirabdollahian expressed concern over the ongoing conflict and the loss of civilian lives, urging the world to work towards the release of Palestinian prisoners and humanitarian efforts, with Iran, Qatar, and Turkiye ready to participate (Reuters).
4. Iranian Army Launches Large-Scale Ground Maneuvers in Central Iran. The ground forces of the Iranian army have commenced extensive maneuvers in central Iran, scheduled to last for two days. The exercises involve various units, including armored, infantry, mobile attack, missile reaction forces, helicopters, drones, engineering units, and support units. The goal is to enhance combat readiness, strengthen deterrence against potential threats, and provide training for young cadres while supporting the Palestinian cause (Sharq Awsat).
5. China and Iran to Enhance Coordination on Multilateral Platforms. Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced increased coordination with Iran on international platforms like the United Nations, SCO, and BRICS during a meeting with Iranian First Vice-President Mohammad Mokhber. This meeting, three months after Iran’s full membership in SCO, aims to address regional tensions, including the recent Israel-Gaza conflict (South China Morning Post). China Opposes External Interference in Iran’s Affairs, Premier Affirms. Chinese Premier Li Qiang, in a meeting with Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber, reiterated China’s strong support for Iran’s national sovereignty and opposition to external interference in Iran’s internal matters during the 22nd Meeting of the SCO Member States’ Council of Heads of Government (Xinhua). 
6. Iran Continues to Mock Its Allies in Iraq: “We Will ‘Liberate’ Jerusalem Together!. Deputy Chairman of Iran’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, Ibrahim Azizi, praised Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani for his “courageous” speech at the Cairo conference. During a meeting between Iranian and Iraqi officials, they discussed strengthening historical relations and emphasized the importance of the security agreement between the two nations. Azizi also expressed Iran’s commitment to the liberation of Jerusalem, involving the Revolutionary Guard and Popular Mobilization Forces (Iraq News Network).

October 31, 2023

1. Iranian Minister Escalates Anti-Israel Rhetoric. Esmail Khatib, Iran’s Intelligence Minister, intensifies threats against Israel, calling the recent Hamas attack a “new historical beginning for the eradication of Israel.” His comments come as Israeli forces rescue their first hostage in Gaza. Khatib’s statements underscore Iran’s ongoing support for Hamas, despite Iran’s economic challenges (Iran International).
2. Iran Touts Hamas Tunnels as Strategic Asset. Iran’s top military commander, Mohammad Bagheri, praised the extensive tunnel network constructed by Hamas in Gaza, describing it as crucial for the group’s survival against Israeli attacks. The tunnels are used for various military purposes, including moving forces and smuggling weapons. Bagheri’s comments come as Israel intensifies its ground operations in Gaza, targeting the tunnel infrastructure. The Iranian general claimed that Israel would not proceed with a large-scale ground invasion, fearing defeat (Iran International).
3. Tasnim Agency Claims Details on MKO Leader’s Death. An informed source told Tasnim that Massoud Rajavi, the former leader of the terrorist group Mojahedin-e Khalq Organization (MKO), died three years ago from a heart attack after a period of illness. The source also alleged that Rajavi had been under U.S. protection until his death. The MKO has been responsible for thousands of deaths in Iran (Tasnim Agency).
4. Iran-Turkiye Trade Surges to $13.4 Billion. Tasnim reports that Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Mehrdad Bazrpash, announced a rise in trade exchanges between Iran and Turkiye to over $13.4 billion. Bazrpash emphasized the importance of Turkiye in Iran’s neighborhood policy and said the cooperation between the two countries could bring regional peace and stability. The minister also highlighted the upcoming visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Turkiye to further strengthen bilateral ties (Tasnim Agency).
5. Iran Urges ICC Action on Gaza Humanitarian Crisis. Iran calls upon the International Criminal Court (ICC) to prioritize investigations into Israel’s actions in Gaza, especially considering the dire humanitarian situation with numerous civilian casualties. Ali Mousavi, Director-General for International Legal Affairs of the Iranian Foreign Ministry, emphasized the seriousness of the alleged international crimes (Islam Times).
6. Ireland Seeks Iranian Assistance to Free Captive in Gaza. Ireland’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Micheal Martin, has asked Iran for help in freeing an Irish citizen believed to be held captive in Gaza. During a phone conversation with Iran’s Foreign Minister, they discussed the situation in Gaza and the need for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid. Iran assured Ireland of efforts to secure the release through negotiations with Hamas (Tasnim News).
7. Iranian General Claims Extensive Tunnel Network in Gaza. Tasnim reports that Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, the Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, warned Israel of defeat if it launches a ground offensive in Gaza. He stated that Palestinian fighters have built over 400 kilometers of tunnels in northern Gaza, capable of accommodating vehicles and motorcycles. Baqeri suggested that Israel is delaying a ground invasion due to the risk of another defeat (Tasnim Agency). 
8. Iran Funds Palestinian Groups, Says MEMRI. MEMRI TV has compiled a video featuring top officials from Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine openly discussing Iran’s financial support for their military activities. The leaders describe a “strategic relationship” with Iran and claim that billions of dollars have been provided for weapons, training, and waging jihad. The video includes statements from various leaders and analysts, emphasizing the role of the late IRGC Qods Force commander Qassem Soleimani in arming and training these groups (MEMRI).