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Iranians honor late general Qassem Soleimani on 6th martyrdom anniversary

News, News 2

TEHRAN – Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has issued a statement, marking the anniversary of the martyrdom of General Qassem Soleimani, the revered anti-terror commander of the IRGC’s Quds Force.

The statement says endeavors by the late general dealt a blow to the United States hegemony in the region. “The erosion of the political and security power of the hegemony system and the collapse of the American order in the region and in the world are the lasting legacy of this martyr and the fighters of the resistance front,” read the statement.

The IRGC underlined in its statement that the U.S. assassination of General Soleimani failed to destroy the impact of his legacy. The statement further noted that the name and memory of martyr Soleimani is widely revered in Islamic communities and by the new generations in the region.

Meanwhile, large numbers of people from across Iran converged on the tomb of the late general in his hometown Kerman in the southeast of the country to pay their respects to the highly revered anti-terror commander.

General Soleimani and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the second-in-command of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), and their companions were assassinated in a U.S. drone strike authorized by U.S. President Donald Trump near Baghdad International Airport on January 3, 2020.

General Soleimani made great strides and secured numerous achievements in fighting terror, namely in the fight against the Daesh terrorist group during the 2010s.

He also countered the “Greater Middle East” plots orchestrated by the U.S. and the Israeli regime with the support of certain European countries and regional countries aimed at dividing Syria and Iraq into smaller states. General Soleimani, as part of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s strategy, worked to preserve and defend these nations’ territorial integrity and sovereignty. Furthermore, he is described as the architect of the “Axis of Resistance”, a network of allied forces fighting Israeli and American occupation and aggression in their home countries.

We will not back down against the enemy: Leader

News, News 1, Supreme Leader of Iran

TEHRAN – On the sacred occasion marking the birth anniversary of Amir al-Mumineen, Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (pbuh), as well as the sixth anniversary of the martyrdom of General Qassem Soleimani, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, and their companions, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution held a meeting with the honored families of the martyrs from the 12-day War.

Describing the birth anniversary of Amir al-Mumineen as an exceptional day in history, the Leader emphasized: “Among his unparalleled qualities, today we are in more urgent need of two in particular: justice and piety.”

Referring to the gatherings that took place in recent weeks involving the business community, Ayatollah Khamenei noted: “The people who work in the bazaar and shopkeepers are some of the most loyal people in the country to the Islamic system and the Islamic Revolution. One cannot challenge the Islamic Republic and the Islamic system in the name of the bazaar and the business community.”

He described the business community’s protest over the decline in the value of the national currency, which leads to instability in the business environment, as a valid concern, and added: “The businessperson is right in saying that under these conditions he cannot do business. The country’s officials acknowledge this, and I know that the honorable President and other senior officials are working to solve this problem.”

The Leader added: “But what’s important is that a group of people who had been provoked and were the enemy’s mercenaries stood behind the business people and chanted slogans against Islam, Iran, and the Islamic Republic.”

Emphasizing that “protesting is legitimate, but it is different from rioting,” Ayatollah Khamenei stated: “Officials must talk with protesters. [However,] there is no point talking to a rioter. Rioters must be put in their place.”  The Leader further stated: “It is absolutely unacceptable for a group to appear under various guises, with the intent to destroy and create insecurity in the country, to position themselves behind our pious, honest, and Revolutionary bazaar community to exploit their protests and incite riots.”

Ayatollah Khamenei, referring to the coercive actions of the enemies, cautioned: “What’s important is that when one realizes an enemy wants to force something on a country, on officials, on a government or a nation with false claims, they must stand firmly against that enemy.”

He added: “We will not give in to them. With reliance on God and confidence in the support of the people, we will bring the enemy to its knees.”

The Leader underscored the necessity for all members of the society, particularly officials, to follow the conduct of Amir al-Mumineen (pbuh), adding: “Imam Ali’s (pbuh) model of justice is the most obligatory and the most urgent need of the country today. Unlike Shia throughout history, today we have no excuse for failing to pursue and implement justice, because the system is the Islamic Republic and inspired by Imam Ali’s (pbuh) model of leadership.”

Referring to Imam Ali’s (pbuh) victories in all military confrontations during the time of the Prophet (pbuh) and throughout his own period of governance, the Leader stated: “The various methods employed by defeated enemies to deceive the people and weaken their resolve, in many instances, prevented the realization of Imam Ali’s (pbuh) objectives.”

Ayatollah Khamenei described the spread of rumors, the use of lies, deception, infiltration, and similar tactics—what is referred to today as “soft war”—as the enemies’ strategy to undermine resolve and create doubt in society during the time of Imam Ali (pbuh), adding: “When the people become weakened, the realization of goals becomes impossible, because according to divine tradition, affairs are in the hands of the people and are carried out by them.”

Ayatollah Khamenei identified the enemy’s objective in soft war as demoralizing and discouraging the people and sowing doubt within the nation, stating: “Just as during the era of Amir al-Mumineen they sought to turn the people against him through rumor-mongering and lies, the very same actions are being carried out today. However, the Iranian nation has shown that in difficult arenas, and wherever its presence and assistance are required, it stands firmly and leaves the enemy disappointed.”

The Leader described the simultaneous launch of three satellites into space and the astonishing progress made in various scientific fields in the country – including in aerospace, biotechnology, medicine, healthcare, nanotechnology, and defense and missile industries – as examples of the great achievements of the Iranian nation and its talented, capable youth.

Ayatollah Khamenei also referred to the enemy’s begging for a ceasefire in the 12-Day War, stating, “The factor that forced the enemy to ask for a ceasefire and to later send messages saying they don’t want to fight a war with us, is the power and capability of the Iranian nation.”

The Leader added, “Of course, we don’t trust the deceitful, cunning, lying enemy. The people themselves saw the reality of the U.S. in the 12-Day War. Even those who believed that negotiating with them could solve the country’s problems realized that the US government was busy preparing war plans in the middle of negotiations.”

He emphasized the need to be vigilant in the face of the enemy’s actions of soft warfare, their causing doubts, and their spreading rumors, saying, “Their goal is to weaken the country and disrupt the remarkable unity of the nation in the 12-Day War. Therefore, the most important matter is to be aware of the enmity of the enemy and maintain internal unity and cohesion. As the Quran says, ‘[Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah, and those who are with him] are hard against the faithless and merciful amongst themselves’” (Quran 48:29).

Referring to the anniversary of General Qassem Soleimani’s martyrdom coinciding with the birth anniversary of Imam Ali (pbuh), Ayatollah Khamenei stated, “Three qualities – faith, sincerity, and action – were the defining characteristics of this beloved martyr who was a complete, exemplary person in our time. Haj Qassem was a man of divine sincerity and never worked for fame or praise.”

He spoke highly of General Soleimani’s presence in all areas wherever he was needed, saying, “Unlike some who understand well, speak well, but take no action, he was present in every field wherever he was needed – whether it was in preserving and guiding the course of the Islamic Revolution, confronting acts of aggression in Kerman Province, or in working in the Quds Force, defending the holy shrines, fighting ISIS, and other areas.”

Tehran Times

Iran, a paradise for nature lovers

About Iran, Iran 1, News, News 3

TEHRAN – A land of remarkable natural diversity, Iran boasts a great range of natural diversity. From high mountain peaks and peaceful forests to golden deserts and vibrant wetlands, the country has something unique to offer every nature lover.

For travelers who love nature, the ancient land offers many unforgettable experiences from adventure and wildlife watching to quiet retreats in serene settings and from adventure under the stars to quiet beauty of coastal sands.

Majestic mountains and high peaks

Here in the Iranian plateau, mountain ranges, mote notably Zagros and Alborz, are among the most impressive features of its natural landscape. The Alborz Mountains run across northern Iran, forming a natural border between the central plateau and the lush lands near the Caspian Sea. One of the region’s most famous peaks is Mount Damavand, the highest peak in Iran and the tallest volcano in Asia, towering at 5,610 meters. It’s also 3rd highest volcano in the Eastern Hemisphere after Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Elbrus.

This majestic peak attracts climbers from around the world and offers breathtaking views from its snowy summit.

The Zagros Mountains, another major range stretching from the northwest to the southwest of the country, are equally impressive. These rugged mountains are home to rich biodiversity, rivers, and scenic valleys. They provide excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain trekking, and exploring nature trails. The cool mountain air and peaceful surroundings make the Zagros a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Great deserts and unique landscapes

Contrasting dramatically with its lush forests and high mountains, Iran also has vast and striking desert landscapes. The Dasht-e Lut and Dasht-e Kavir deserts are among the most iconic natural sites in the country. The Lut Desert (Dasht-e Lut) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its stunning terrain of sand dunes, salt plains, and dramatic rock formations called kaluts. In some areas, daytime temperatures can reach extreme highs, and at night the skies are perfect for stargazing. A feature that has long been a dream for photographers and astronomy lovers alike.

The Dasht-e Kavir, also known as the Great Salt Desert, features vast salt flats and shimmering horizons. Its open spaces convey a sense of absolute silence and peace, which many travelers find both humbling and inspiring. Visitors can take desert safaris, go on guided camel treks, or simply watch the sun rise and set over endless sands.

Near the city of Kashan, the Maranjab Desert offers another beautiful and accessible desert experience. With tall dunes, seasonal wetlands, and the chance to see wildlife adapted to extreme environments, Maranjab is a fantastic destination for adventure-seeking nature lovers.

Green forests and rice paddies

In northern Iran, the story of nature changes from arid deserts to rich greenery. Along the southern coast of the Caspian Sea, provinces such as Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan boast lush landscapes that feel almost tropical compared to much of the rest of the country. These lands are filled with dense forests, cool mountain streams, tea plantations, and rice paddies stretching toward the horizon.

The ancient Hyrcanian Forests, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, date back more than 25 million years. These unique forests support rare wildlife, including the Persian leopard, and are a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature photographers. Exploring these forests, visitors can experience the sounds of nature, walking under towering trees and discovering hidden waterfalls.

Peaceful lakes and waterscapes

Iran’s natural water landscapes offer refreshing breaks from desert views and mountain hikes. For instance, Western Zagros Mountains lies Zarivar Lake, a wide freshwater lake set like a jewel among forests and hills.

Its calm waters reflect the surrounding nature, creating a peaceful haven for visitors who enjoy picnics, boating, fishing, and birdwatching.

Another unique lake is Lake Tar, located near Mount Damavand at over 3,000 meters above sea level. Surrounded by stark mountain beauty, its clear waters and clean air make it a wonderful destination for hikers and nature explorers.

Shores and islands: From Caspian coasts to Persian Gulf

Iran’s shoreline is as varied as its inland nature. The sandy beaches of the Caspian Sea are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and seaside relaxation. The mild climate and gentle waves attract families and surfers alike, especially during warmer months.

In the south, the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman offer warm waters and stunning island landscapes. Hormuz Island is famous for its dramatic red beaches and colorful cliffs, created by iron-rich soil blending with ocean waters. On rare rainy days, red soil flows into the sea, creating vivid crimson spectacles that attract photographers and travelers from around the world.

Nearby, Qeshm Island is another natural treasure, with unique rock formations, geological wonders like the Valley of Stars, and coastal areas perfect for exploring marine life. The island also hosts Hara Mangrove Forests, an important ecological site where visitors can take boat tours through the mangroves and encounter a variety of bird species.

Rivers, canyons, and waterfalls

There are many river valleys and canyons across the country that offer dramatic natural beauty beyond plains and mountains. An an example, Shirez Canyon in Lorestan province is a deep, winding valley carved by ancient rivers. Its rugged rock formations and cool shade offer a refreshing escape for hikers and geotourists who want to explore landscapes shaped by time.

Many of Iran’s rivers feed natural waterfalls, creating refreshing green areas — perfect for picnics and connecting with nature. Rivers like the Karun in southwestern Iran and the Zayandeh Rood in central for fresh water flow through landscapes that support local ecosystems and irrigated farming areas.

Seasonal diversity and travel tips

One of the most remarkable things about Iran’s natural spaces is how different they can be in each season. In winter, mountain slopes become ski resorts with powdery snow. In spring and summer, those same mountains are cool havens filled with wildflowers and streams. In the north, rains feed forest streams and bring green landscapes to life. In contrast, the desert regions remain dry but offer clear skies and dramatic sunrise and sunset views that are perfect for photographers.

Travelers who love nature can visit Iran at almost any time of year and always find something amazing. Spring and autumn are especially pleasant for hiking and outdoor activities because the weather is mild across most of the country.

Tehran Times

New mural at Valiasr Square depicts martyr general Haj Qassem Soleimani

Art & Culture, Art & Culture 1, News, News 5

TEHRAN –On the anniversary of the martyrdom of national hero Haj Qassem Soleimani, a new large-scale mural titled “Iran-Mard” (literally meaning Man of Iran) was unveiled at Tehran’s Valiasr Square.

Designed by Iranian artist Mikael Barati and executed by 3×4 Graphic Design Studio, the mural shows martyr general Haj Qassem Soleimani, standing in front of the tricolor flag of Iran, saluting with one hand while placing the other over his heart, Mehr reported.

Behind him, and in the three colors of the flag (green, white, and red), a broad cross-section of Iranian society, including men and women, athletes wearing medals, and other figures, is shown standing in a collective salute.

Stylized military imagery, such as tanks, explosions, and aircraft, appears throughout the mural, referencing Iran’s defense, resistance, and wartime memory.

The text on the mural reads: “This young chivalrous man, from the army of (Imam) Ali (AS), remains a guardian of Iran.”

Installed on the massive curved façade overlooking Valiasr Square, a site frequently used for major national, cultural, and commemorative messages, the mural places contemporary Iranian identity within a blend of religious, historical, and national symbolism. The reference to the army of Imam Ali (AS) draws on Shiʿi ideals of justice, courage, and chivalry, linking them to modern narratives of resistance and protection of Iran.

Imam Ali’s (AS) courage and bravery were unique and unparalleled and will be famously remembered as one of his exclusive qualities. In many battles, he had played an influential role in the victory of the Muslims as he defeated many enemies on the battlefield.

Qassem Soleimani (1957 –2020) was an Iranian military officer who served in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). From 1998 until his assassination by the United States in 2020, he was the commander of the Quds Force, an IRGC division primarily responsible for extraterritorial and clandestine military operations.

He was described as “the single most powerful operative in West Asia” and a “genius of asymmetric warfare”.

Soleimani was assassinated by a targeted drone strike on January 3, 2020, in Baghdad, Iraq, along with Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, an Iraqi paramilitary leader and former chief of staff of the Popular Mobilization Forces.

Tehran Times

China says maintains neutrality in international issues, namely Iran nuclear program

News, News 4

TEHRAN – China has reiterated its just and impartial position vis-à-vis international crises, saying Beijing has mediated in the Iran nuclear files and other international issues without interference, bias or profiteering.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the comments on December 30, 2025, at the Symposium on the International Situation and China’s Foreign Relations.

Wang said that to build peace that lasts, China has taken an “objective and just stance,” and focused on addressing both “symptoms and root causes”.

Pointing to Chinese approach to settling hotspot issues, he said Beijing mediated in northern Myanmar, the Iran nuclear issue, the tensions between Pakistan and India, the issues between Palestine and Israel, and the recent conflict between Cambodia and Thailand.

“In China’s efforts, there was no interference in the internal affairs of others, no incitement, no biased manipulation, and no selfish gains. There were only sincerity and good faith,” Wang explained.

“Facing critical challenges to international justice, China acted as a steadying force. Might does not make right. The winner should not take all. Conscience will not be silenced. Justice will ultimately prevail,” said the top Chinese diplomat.

“Chinese diplomacy is guided by humanity’s common values, that is, peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom. In international affairs, China is committed to upholding what is right, promoting what is fair, and serving the common good of all. China has been a staunch defender of the fundamental principles of international justice,” he noted.

China has, on numerous occasions, defended Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear technology.

Earlier this year, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu reaffirmed Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy, calling for the settlement of issues through diplomacy.

“The right of Iran to peacefully utilize nuclear energy should be guaranteed. China is willing to continue playing a positive and constructive role in this regard,” Ma said.

Ma urged all parties to resume dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible to prevent escalation of the situation.

Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun told reporters later on that the Iran nuclear issue bears on regional peace and security as well as the international nuclear non-proliferation regime.

“China always advocates resolving the Iran nuclear issue peacefully through political and diplomatic means. This is the only right way forward,” Guo suggested.

Tehran Times

Celebrating Shab-e Yalda at the Iran Cultural Center!

Iranian cultural center

On December 21, the Iran Cultural Center in Dhaka organized a delightful event to celebrate Shab-e Yalda, the longest night of the year. The event was attended by His Excellency Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Bangladesh, other embassy officials, Seyed Reza Mirmohammadi, Cultural Counsellor of the Iran Cultural Center, Hujjatul Islam wal Muslimeen Shahabuddin Mashayekhi, Bangladesh representative of Al-Mustafa International University, Dr. K. M. Saiful Islam Khan, Senior Professor of the Department of Persian Language and Literature at the University of Dhaka, Dr. Mumit Al Rashid, Head of the Department, and distinguished Iranian residents living in Bangladesh.

Shab-e Yalda is an ancient and traditional Iranian festival with a history of several thousand years. It is celebrated every year on December 21, the longest night of the year, marking the winter solstice. From the following day, nights gradually become shorter, so Shab-e Yalda symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.

Speaker: Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi, Ambassador, Embassy of the I.R of Iran, Bangladesh.

On this special night, Iranians gather with family and relatives, staying awake to share stories, laughter, and joy, strengthening family bonds. Elders recount life stories, advice, and cultural heritage, helping the younger generation preserve tradition.

Speaker: Seyed Reza Mirmohammadi, Cultural Counsellor Embassy of the I.R of Iran, Bangladesh.

A key feature of Shab-e Yalda is traditional food. Special items such as pomegranate, watermelon, dried fruits, and nuts are consumed. The pomegranate symbolizes love, life, and fertility, while watermelon represents health and long life. It is believed that eating these fruits helps people stay healthy during the winter.

Speaker: Dr. K. M. Saiful Islam Khan, Senior Professor, Dept. of Persian Language & Literature, University of Dhaka.

Another important aspect of the festival is literary practice. Many families read poems by the famous Iranian poet Hafez (Diwan of Hafez), seeking hopeful messages for life. This transforms Shab-e Yalda into not only a celebration but also an occasion for reflection, knowledge, and inspiration.

Speaker: Dr. Mumit Al Rashid, Chairman, Dept. of Persian Language & Literature, University of Dhaka.

Shab-e Yalda is celebrated not only in Iran but also in Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and other regions influenced by Persian culture. The festival teaches that no matter how long the darkness, light will ultimately prevail. It is thus a unique symbol of hope, unity, love, and cultural heritage.

In Iranian culture, Shab-e Yalda is more than just the longest night—it embodies the hope for light after darkness. Families sit together reading poetry from the Diwan of Hafez, believing that no matter how great the hardship, sorrow, or darkness, light will eventually come.

Birth Anniversary of Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA) and Women’s Day at the Iran Cultural Center

Iranian cultural center

On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA) and Women’s Day, the Cultural Center of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Bangladesh organized a discussion meeting titled “Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA): An Exemplary Woman and a Perfect Role Model For Human Being ” on December 10, 2025.

The discussion was chaired by Seyed Reza Mirmohammadi, Cultural Counsellor of the Iran Cultural Center. Speakers at the event included Quazi Farzana Afrin, Assistant Professor of the Department of Islamic Studies at the University of Dhaka, and Islamic researcher Dr. A. K. M. Anwarul Kabir.

Speaker: Quazi Farzana Afrin, Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Studies University of Dhaka.

Quazi Farzana Afrin said that a look at history makes it clear that Hazrat Fatima (SA) was a highly respected and distinguished personality in Mecca and among the Quraysh, and that her family held a unique status and tradition as custodians of the Kaaba. She devoted her entire being to Islam and earned the title “Umm Abiha” (the Mother of her Father).

She further said that when the Holy Prophet (SA) faced persecution, oppression and torture by the disbelievers and polytheists of Mecca during the propagation of Islam—and was even subjected to attempts on his life—Hazrat Fatima Zahra stood firmly by her father’s side and supported him.

She added that Hazrat Fatima was an unparalleled example and model of patience. If we are able to apply the comprehensive and profound teachings of the radiant life of Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA)  in our own lives, success will come to each of us.

Speaker: Islamic researcher Dr. A. K. M. Anwarul Kabir.

Dr. Anwarul Kabir, in his speech, further stated that Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA) is recognized not only as a perfect role model for women worldwide but also for all of humanity. As a mother, she set a true and supreme example, raising Imam Hasan, Imam Husain (AS), and Hazrat Zainab al-Kubra in her care. While fulfilling her social responsibilities, she never deviated from the ideals of her personal life and managed her personal and social affairs in accordance with Islamic teachings.

He added that Hazrat Fatima Zahra explained Tawheed (Oneness of God), Prophethood, and even the political structure of Islam in her sermons, advocating for the rights and guardianship of the Prophet’s family. She appeared before men while fully observing Islamic modesty and carried out her duties with utmost integrity. Hazrat Fatima (SA) will remain a luminous and shining teacher for all humanity until the Day of Judgment.

Speaker: Seyed Reza Mirmohammadi, Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Mr. Seyed Reza Mirmohammadi, Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of  Iran, said that the personality and exalted status of Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA) as a perfect woman and exemplary human being are highlighted in several verses of the Qur’an, particularly in Surah Al-Kawthar, as well as in the sayings of the Holy Prophet (SA) and the Imams. He emphasized that we must understand the character of this unique woman of creation from this perspective.

He explained that the word “Kawthar” in the Qur’an and the title “Sayyidat Nisa’ al-Alamin” (Leader of the Women of the Worlds) used by the Prophet (SA) reflect her personality, showing that she was a perfect and sinless human being. She serves as an ideal and role model for all people, both men and women, for all time. He noted that in today’s so-called modern world, humanity faces a greater crisis in terms of values, spirituality, and morality compared to the past, and adopting practical and behavioral examples from human figures like Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA) can help overcome these challenges.

He clarified that Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA) is perfect in all personal and social aspects—whether as a daughter, wife, and mother at home, or as a social and political figure and source of inspiration in society. In today’s world, she remains a guide and leader for everyone. He concluded that we should first truly understand Hazrat Fatima Zahra (SA), and after knowing her, adopt her as a practical role model and guide in our lives to achieve success and liberation.

Iran, Turkey business groups seek to expand industrial, trade cooperation

News, News 5

TEHRAN – Business delegations from Turkey’s Van province and Iranian industrial representatives held talks in Tehran on ways to remove trade barriers and expand bilateral industrial and commercial cooperation, officials said.

The meeting brought together members of a Van-based trade delegation, Iranian industrialists and the head of the Tehran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (TCCIMA)’s industry and mining committee.

Hervik Yarijanian, head of the committee, said the Iranian and Turkish economies are both on a path of growth and that closer links between private-sector players could boost trade, encourage joint investment and help both sides make better use of existing capacities.

He proposed exchanges of industrial experts and engineers, the removal of customs obstacles and a stronger role for Van as a transit hub for goods moving between the two countries.

Mehrdad Saadat Dehghan, head of the Iran–Turkey Joint Chamber of Commerce, said the two countries have nearly three decades of experience in cross-border trade but that the scale of exchanges has fallen short of expectations. He said broader cooperation, with the Tehran chamber playing a central role, could help unlock new opportunities.

Ali Sadri, vice head of the Tehran chamber’s industry and mining committee, said Tehran province is home to around 19,000 industrial and mining operators, including companies active in agro-processing, metals and non-metallic minerals. He said there is scope to connect Turkish traders and industrialists from Van with Iranian companies based in Tehran’s industrial zones.

Mehmet Tashan, head of the Van branch of the HAKSIAD industrialists and traders association, said businesses in the province, Turkey’s closest region to Iran, are keen to raise trade volumes with Iranian partners.

He stressed the need to address transport and connectivity challenges and said commercial ties could be expanded through HAKSIAD’s representation in Iran.

The meeting concluded with further exchanges of views between Iranian and Turkish businesspeople on potential areas of cooperation.

Tehran Times

Ilam province expands handicraft exports to Persian Gulf markets

Art & Culture, Art & Culture 2, News, News 6

TEHRAN – Iran’s western province of Ilam has begun exporting its handicrafts to the Persian Gulf littoral countries, marking a new phase in efforts to expand international markets for locally made products, a provincial official said on Sunday.

Farzad Sharifi, director general of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts of Ilam province, said exports of handicrafts to Arab countries along the Persian Gulf had entered a “promising new stage,” citing the recent shipment of locally made products to the United Arab Emirates.

He said about 200 items of traditional woven handicrafts produced by an artisan from Abdanan county had been exported to Dubai, describing the move as a sign of the growing competitiveness of Ilam’s traditional crafts in regional markets.

“Exporting indigenous products not only showcases the capabilities of Ilam’s artisans but also contributes to economic and cultural development in the province,” Sharifi said.

He added that the shipment demonstrated the quality, originality and creativity of local artisans, noting that handicrafts from Ilam were capable of securing a sustainable share of international markets.

Sharifi said handicrafts should be viewed not only as cultural products but also as economic opportunities that support women’s empowerment and local development. He added that expanding support for production, packaging and exports remained a priority for the provincial administration.

Ilam, located in western Iran, shares a 425-kilometre border with Iraq and borders the provinces of Kermanshah, Lorestan and Khuzestan. The province takes its name from the ancient civilization of Elam, which flourished in southwestern Iran from around 2700 BC to 539 BC.

Nationally, Iran exported $223 million worth of handicrafts in the last Iranian calendar year ending March 20, 2025, according to official data, with an additional similar amount estimated to have been exported informally by travelers.

Farzad Ojani, director general of the marketing and commercialization office at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, said Iran has around 7,000 handicraft shops, in addition to permanent and seasonal bazaars, and that online platforms have become an increasingly important sales channel.

Ojani said Iran leads the world with 299 recognized branches of handicrafts across 18 categories and has 14 cities and three villages registered internationally for their handicrafts. He added that family-based production, environmentally friendly methods and high value-added output give Iranian handicrafts a strong competitive edge in global markets.

“Handicraft products exported from Iran are well received abroad and have many buyers,” Ojani said. “With proper planning and stronger cooperation between the public and private sectors, exports can increase significantly.”

Tehran Times

Iran launches three remote sensing satellites on Russian Soyuz rocket

News, News 3

Iran has launched three domestically built remote sensing satellites using a Russian launcher.

Iranian officials said the three satellites were launched into orbit from Russia’s Vostochny Cosmodrome as part of a multi-payload mission, marking the seventh time the country has used Russian rockets for satellite deployment.

The Soyuz satellite carrier lifted off on Sunday at 16:48 Tehran time, carrying multiple payloads, including Iran’s Zafar 2, Paya, and Kowsar satellites.

Iran’s Space Agency chief, Hassan Salarieh, said the launch heralded a bright future for the country’s space sector.

“The successful launch of these satellites, achieved through the participation of various actors in the space industry, reflects the expanding scope of Iran’s space program and the rapid growth of new players in this field,” he said.

Salarieh said Iran has long been among the world’s top 10 to 11 countries with full space technology, from building satellites and launch vehicles to having its own systems for launching, controlling, and receiving data.

In remarks ahead of the launch, Iran’s Ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, described the mission as a major step forward for Iran’s space program.

In a series of posts on the social platform X, Jalali emphasized that the satellites were designed and built entirely with indigenous Iranian technology, the result of collaboration between government agencies, universities, and private knowledge-based companies.

The ambassador explained that while all stages of design and construction were completed in Iran, the launch itself is being carried out in cooperation with Russia.

“Two of the satellites belong to the government, and one belongs to the private sector, and our knowledge-based companies and universities are active in this field.”

Araghchi says Iran satellite program ‘entirely peaceful’ ahead of triple launch

Araghchi says Iran satellite program ‘entirely peaceful’ ahead of triple launch

The Iranian foreign minister says the country’s satellites are completely peaceful and exclusively for scientific missions.

Paya (Tolou‑3), weighing in at 150 kilograms, is Iran’s heaviest satellite to date. It delivers imagery with a resolution of about five meters in black and white and 10 meters in color.

Zafar‑2, developed by the Iran University of Science and Technology, is designed to monitor natural resources, assess environmental conditions, and provide data for disaster response and mapping.

Kowsar‑1.5, an upgraded version of earlier Kowsar and Hodhod satellites, integrates Internet of Things (IoT) capability, enabling real‑time data transmission for smart monitoring systems.

Iran first entered the space arena in 2009 with the launch of the Omid satellite. Despite Western sanctions, Tehran has steadily expanded its civilian space program.

Press TV