Iran’s clerical leaders face existential crisis amid nuclear deadlock

Iran’s Clerical Leaders Face Existential Crisis Amid Nuclear Deadlock

Iran is confronting mounting unrest and severe economic challenges following the snapback of United Nations sanctions. The situation is further complicated by growing fears of potential Israeli strikes and stalled nuclear negotiations with Western powers.

In Tehran, Iranian clerics were seen passing in front of an anti-US mural during the 45th anniversary of the US expulsion from Iran, on November 3, 2024. This moment serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions between Iran and the West.

The deadlock in nuclear talks and renewed sanctions have intensified pressure on the country’s leadership, raising concerns about the stability and future of the clerical establishment in Iran.

https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-868765

Aggression against Russia will be met with ‘decisive response’, minister says

Russia’s top diplomat has assured world leaders that his nation has no intention of attacking Europe. However, he warned that any aggression against Russia would be met with a decisive response.

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov made these remarks amid rising concerns in Europe over unauthorized flights into NATO airspace. These incidents have been attributed to Russia, especially following NATO jets downing drones over Poland and Estonia’s claims that Russian fighter jets entered its territory.

Russia has denied these accusations, stating that its planes did not enter Estonian airspace and that the drones were not targeting Poland. Moscow’s ally Belarus suggested that Ukrainian signal-jamming caused the drones to go off course.

Lavrov emphasized that Russia perceives itself as the party facing threats. “Russia has never had and does not have any such intentions of attacking European or NATO countries,” he said. “However, any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response.”

These statements come three years into Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, an action widely condemned by the international community.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump expressed optimism this week that Ukraine can reclaim all the territories lost to Russia. This marks a notable shift in tone from a leader who had previously suggested Ukraine might need to make concessions and would be unlikely to regain all areas occupied by Russia since 2014, when Moscow seized the Crimean Peninsula, and after launching a full-scale invasion in 2022.

Just three weeks prior, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia and the US had reached a mutual understanding, praising the previous Trump administration for “listening to us.”

Trump’s new stance followed a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. This meeting, occurring seven months after a heated televised exchange between the two in the Oval Office, was conducted behind closed doors and reportedly had a much more positive tone. Zelensky described it as “a good meeting” during his address to the assembly the following day.

For the fourth consecutive year, President Zelensky appealed to the gathering of world leaders, urging them to expel Russia from Ukraine. He warned that failure to act could endanger other countries, stating, “Ukraine is only the first.”

Russia has offered various justifications for its war in Ukraine, including concerns over its own security following NATO’s eastward expansion over the years.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/aggression-against-russia-will-be-met-with-decisive-response-minister-says-1811920.html

MP News: ‘I Love Mohammad’ Banners Sparks Communal Row In Jabalpur; Hindu Outfits Responds With ‘I Love Shri Ram’ Posters

**Communal Tension Surfaces in Jabalpur Over “I Love Mohammad” Banners**

Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh): A fresh wave of communal tension was witnessed in Madhya Pradesh’s Jabalpur following the appearance of massive banners bearing the slogan “I Love Mohammad” in several Muslim localities across the city.

A large poster prominently displayed at Mohammadi Gate in the Naya Mohalla area caught the attention of residents, while similar banners were spotted on a mosque under the jurisdiction of Hanuman Tal police station. These banners, with the message written in English, quickly became a hot topic of discussion not only within Jabalpur but also nationwide.

Reports indicate that more such posters may soon be put up across various Muslim-dominated areas throughout the city. Images circulating on social media showed members of a community standing in rows, holding “I Love Mohammad” posters, further fueling discussion and reactions.

The display of these banners has prompted the Hindu Seva Parishad to file a formal police complaint at Omati police station. In response, Hindu organizations have put up posters with slogans such as “I Love Shri Ram,” “I Love Mahakal,” and saffron flags at various locations throughout the city. These groups have stated that they are fully prepared to maintain peace and will not allow any untoward incident to disturb the harmony of Jabalpur.

It is noteworthy that similar “I Love You Mohammad” posters have been reported not only in Jabalpur but also in other parts of India. Police complaints regarding this matter have also been filed in cities like Kanpur.

Meanwhile, the Jabalpur administration and police are closely monitoring the situation to ensure law and order is maintained and to prevent any escalation in tensions.

*Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-news-i-love-mohammad-banners-sparks-communal-row-in-jabalpur-hindu-outfits-responds-with-i-love-shri-ram-posters

Ladakh protest: LG reviews security situation in Leh, calls for vigilance

The situation in Ladakh has become extremely concerning amid ongoing protests, which have resulted in four people being killed and more than 80 others injured. The violence erupted during widespread clashes amid a shutdown called in the region.

In response to the deteriorating situation, the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory, Kavinder Gupta, chaired a security review meeting in Leh on Thursday. During the meeting, Gupta emphasized the need for heightened vigilance to maintain peace across Ladakh, as reported by news agency PTI.

The shutdown and protests were initiated by a constituent of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) in support of their demand to advance proposed talks with the Centre regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the grant of statehood to Ladakh.

According to a statement posted on the social media platform X by the Lieutenant Governor’s office, a high-level security review meeting was held to assess the emerging situation across Ladakh. The meeting highlighted the necessity of seamless inter-agency coordination, proactive measures, and heightened vigilance to safeguard peace, security, and public order across the Union Territory.

Senior officers from the police, CRPF, and civil administration attended the meeting, discussing the prevailing law and order situation in detail.

Hundreds of protesters advocating for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule turned violent on Wednesday. The protest escalated with demonstrators setting fire to the BJP office in Leh and several vehicles, prompting authorities to impose a curfew in the town and adjoining areas.

The Centre alleged that the mob violence was incited by “provocative statements” from climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The Modi-led party also suggested that certain “politically motivated” individuals were unhappy with the progress in ongoing talks between the government and Ladakhi groups.

Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk, who had been leading a hunger strike in Leh over the twin demands, called off his hunger strike following the violence. He urged people to restore peace across Ladakh, according to PTI.

(With inputs from PTI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/ladakh-protest-lg-reviews-security-situation-in-leh-calls-for-heightened-vigilance-23595753

Plea to remove Afzal Guru’s grave from Tihar Jail rejected

**Plea to Remove Afzal Guru’s Grave from Tihar Jail Rejected**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 24, 2025 | 02:12 PM*

**Overview**

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking the removal of the graves of convicted terrorists Mohammad Afzal Guru and Mohammad Maqbool Bhat from Tihar Jail. The petitioners contended that maintaining the graves of these terrorists within a state-run prison was illegal and unconstitutional, urging judicial intervention to relocate the remains. They argued that such graves could encourage glorification of terrorism and lead to misuse of prison premises.

**Judicial Stance: Decision Reserved for Competent Authorities**

The Delhi High Court observed that the matter involves sensitive decisions which were taken by the government at the time of execution. The court emphasized that reopening such issues after more than a decade is unwarranted.

It was noted that only competent authorities have the jurisdiction to decide on such matters. The court further highlighted that without specific legislation banning burials or cremations inside prison premises, judicial intervention is not justified.

**Concerns Raised by Petitioners**

The petitioners, Vishwa Vedic Sanatan Sangh and Jitendra Singh, argued that the presence of the graves has transformed Tihar Jail into a “radical pilgrimage” site. According to them, extremist elements visit the prison to venerate these convicted terrorists, which in turn undermines national security and public order.

They asserted that this scenario sanctifies terrorism and violates the principles of secularism and the rule of law enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Additionally, they cited violations of the Delhi Prisons Rules, 2018.

**Health and Security Arguments**

The plea also claimed that the burial of the bodies within prison grounds poses risks of infectious and hazardous diseases to inmates and staff.

For context, Mohammad Maqbool Bhat was hanged at Tihar Jail on February 11, 1984, for the murder of a policeman, and his body was buried on the prison premises. Mohammad Afzal Guru, a key conspirator in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack that resulted in nine deaths, was executed in February 2013 at Tihar Jail, with his body similarly buried on site.

**Conclusion**

The Delhi High Court’s refusal to interfere leaves the graves of Afzal Guru and Maqbool Bhat at Tihar Jail intact, affirming that decisions regarding their location rest with appropriate governmental authorities and legislative frameworks.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/hc-dismisses-plea-to-remove-afzal-guru-s-grave-from-tihar/story

Plea to remove Afzal Guru’s grave from Tihar Jail rejected

**Plea to Remove Afzal Guru’s Grave from Tihar Jail Rejected by Delhi High Court**

*By Snehil Singh | September 24, 2025 | 02:12 PM*

The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition seeking the removal of the graves of convicted terrorists Mohammad Afzal Guru and Mohammad Maqbool Bhat from Tihar Jail. The petitioners contended that maintaining the graves of terrorists within a state-run facility was illegal and unconstitutional. They urged judicial intervention to relocate the remains, arguing that doing so would prevent the glorification of terrorism and curb the misuse of prison premises.

### Judicial Stance: Authorities to Decide on Sensitive Issues

The Delhi High Court observed that such matters are sensitive and were decided by the government at the time of the executions. The court emphasized that after more than a decade, these issues cannot be reopened. It noted that only competent authorities are empowered to make decisions regarding burials or cremations within prison premises. The court further stated that judicial intervention is unwarranted in the absence of specific legislation prohibiting such practices inside prisons.

### Petitioners’ Concerns: Graves as ‘Radical Pilgrimage’ Sites

The petitioners, Vishwa Vedic Sanatan Sangh and Jitendra Singh, argued that the presence of these graves has transformed Tihar Jail into a “radical pilgrimage” site. According to them, extremist elements visit the graves to venerate the convicted terrorists, which undermines national security and public order.

They claimed this situation sanctifies terrorism and violates the principles of secularism and the rule of law enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Additionally, they cited violations of the Delhi Prisons Rules, 2018, which govern prison premises.

### Health and Security Concerns Raised

The plea also highlighted potential health risks, asserting that burials within the prison compound pose a threat of infectious and hazardous diseases to inmates and staff.

### Background

Mohammad Maqbool Bhat was hanged at Tihar Jail on February 11, 1984, after being convicted for the murder of a policeman. His body was buried on the prison grounds.

Mohammad Afzal Guru, a key conspirator in the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament that resulted in nine deaths, was executed in February 2013 at Tihar Jail. His remains were also interred within the prison premises.

The Delhi High Court’s decision maintains the status quo, leaving the sensitive issue of terrorist graves within Tihar Jail in the hands of the authorities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/hc-dismisses-plea-to-remove-afzal-guru-s-grave-from-tihar/story

Donald Trump Tells NATO To Shoot Down Russian Jets Crossing Airspace In Fresh Jibe At Putin

When asked by reporters if he thought NATO should take action against Russian aircraft crossing their airspace, Donald Trump responded affirmatively. “Yes, I do,” Trump said on Tuesday, advocating that NATO should shoot down Russian aircraft entering their airspace.

The US President made these comments while speaking to reporters after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

When specifically asked about NATO shoot-downs during his meeting with Zelenskyy, Trump reiterated, “Yes, I do.”

In contrast, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte appeared to adopt a more cautious stance, according to a report by US broadcaster CNN. Rutte emphasized that any decision to shoot down aircraft should depend on available intelligence regarding the threat posed by the planes.

“This also includes questions we have to answer like intent, armaments, and potential risk to allies, forces, civilians, or infrastructure. We will always assess the situation and the immediate threat the plane poses,” Rutte told CNN following a meeting of NATO states.

The first direct encounters between NATO and Moscow since the start of the Ukraine war occurred recently with alleged incursions of Russian aircraft over Poland, Estonia, and other NATO nations. The CNN report highlighted that these incursions tested the alliance’s preparedness and credibility in deterring Russian aggression.

Russian jets allegedly violated Estonian airspace, which prompted Tallinn to call for a meeting among NATO members.

Meanwhile, Trump suggested that Ukraine could achieve more than just reclaiming its lost territory since the war began in February 2022.

“I think Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form,” Trump said in a Truth Social post after his meeting with Zelenskyy at the United Nations.

Trump added that Kyiv might even be able to go further than just recovering the country’s original borders, although he did not elaborate on what he meant by that.
https://www.news18.com/world/donald-trump-tells-nato-to-shoot-down-russian-jets-crossing-airspace-in-fresh-jibe-at-putin-ws-kl-9592594.html

EU’s von der Leyen says she wants Europe to stop buying Russian oil by end of year

**EU’s Von der Leyen Says Europe Aims to Stop Buying Russian Oil by End of Year**

In her recent address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared that Europe intends to cease purchasing Russian oil by the end of the year. This move comes as part of the EU’s broader response to the Kremlin’s incursions.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump responded to the situation by stating that NATO countries should shoot down Russian aircraft if they enter NATO airspace, highlighting the heightened tensions in the region.

During her speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on September 10, 2025, von der Leyen received applause for her firm stance and clear outline of Europe’s energy and security policies moving forward.

*Photo credit: YVES HERMAN/REUTERS*
https://www.jpost.com/international/internationalrussia-ukraine-war/article-868431

Trump Puts Venezuela on Notice… ‘OR THE PRICE YOU PAY WILL BE INCALCULABLE!’

President Donald Trump demanded on Saturday that Venezuela immediately accept prisoners and individuals released from mental institutions who have been sent into the United States. This call is part of the administration’s broader effort to tighten enforcement on illegal immigration and combat international drug trafficking.

In a post on Truth, Trump stated, “We want Venezuela to immediately accept all of the prisoners, and people from mental institutions, which includes the Worst in the World Insane Asylums, that Venezuelan Leadership has forced into the United States of America. Thousands of people have been badly hurt, and even killed, by these Monsters. GET THEM THE HELL OUT OF OUR COUNTRY, RIGHT NOW, OR THE PRICE YOU PAY WILL BE INCALCULABLE!” The White House confirmed the authenticity of the president’s post.

The Department of Homeland Security also issued a statement online reading: “Americanism not globalism.”

This demand followed Trump’s order on Friday for Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to destroy a drug boat. The administration has made fentanyl a central focus in its anti-drug campaign, with Trump signing multiple executive orders aimed at curbing the flow of the substance across both the southern and northern borders.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 105,007 people died of drug overdoses in 2023, many linked to fentanyl-laced narcotics. Cartels often mix fentanyl into drugs to increase profits, despite its lethality in very small quantities.

The White House has stated it is working with both Canada and Mexico to disrupt trafficking routes and interdict supplies. In addition to international cooperation, Trump has authorized the deployment of U.S. troops to certain areas. Troops have already been sent to Washington, D.C., and officials have suggested further deployments to cities such as Detroit, Portland, and Baltimore to combat violent crime.

The administration has also restructured parts of the federal government. Notably, the Department of Defense has been renamed the Department of War, reflecting Trump’s stated goal of rebranding and refocusing federal agencies on national security priorities.

Domestically, the administration has linked its immigration and drug policies to broader enforcement efforts. Illegal aliens have been removed from taxpayer-funded programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to approximately 42 million Americans. Other entitlement programs have also been restricted to citizens only.

Mexico’s cartels have been formally designated as foreign terrorist organizations. This move provides new authorities for U.S. agencies, including the power to impose sanctions, expand prosecution of cartel-linked activities, and limit financial networks associated with traffickers. The government has also imposed visa restrictions on family members and associates of cartel leaders.

These actions come alongside the annual release of the U.S. Department of State’s list of countries designated as major drug transit or producing nations. By linking international drug policy, immigration enforcement, and domestic security measures, the Trump administration has made clear that it views narcotics trafficking and illegal migration as interconnected challenges requiring aggressive action.

As of now, Venezuelan authorities have not publicly responded to the president’s demand.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/09/trump-puts-venezuela-on-notice-or-the-price-you-pay-will-be-incalculable/