Iran, the second-largest country in the Middle East, is a multi-ethnic Islamic theocracy with the ultimate decision maker being the country's prime religious authority, its Supreme Leader. It infuses elements of democracy, such as an elected president. With one of the longest and storied histories of civilization, the current Islamic Republic of Iran was established by Ruhollah Khomeini in 1979 following the Islamic Revolution. Kohmeini became Iran's first Supreme Leader.
Iran is considered authoritarian in its suppression of rights for women and children and the violent squandering of opposing political protests.
Strategically located between the water bodies of the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the Caspian sea, it is bordered by key middle-eastern players, such as Turkey, Afghanistan and Iraq.
Iran holds the world's second-largest natural gas supply as well as a massive oil reserve, a key element often discussed in its role in international relations and political leverage.
Before 1979, Iran maintained friendly relations with Israel via pro-Western leader Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. However, after the Islamic Revolution, Iran severed all ties with Israel and by the 1990s relations turned hostile.
Iran has escalated its nuclear technology development over the years while also funding and supporting Islamic-extremist proxy groups much closer to Israel, such as Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and Hezbollah.
"Anyone who attempts to undermine the stability and security of the State of Israel, the IDF will stand firm against them," Halevi stated.
The Houthis are lashing out. They are willing to confront the US, Israel, and perhaps Saudi Arabia and other states.
"Iran must respect the will of the Syrian people and the country's sovereignty and security," Syria’s new Foreign Minister wrote on X.
The game, discovered in 1977, includes a decorated wooden board featuring a snake motif, 27 carved pieces, and four uniquely shaped dice.
Iran’s government has faced criticism for years from ordinary Iranians, Western governments, the United Nations, and political activists for its draconian attitude toward the internet.
IDF reveals over 85,000 seized Hezbollah items, inside story on pager attack, how it blocked Tel Aviv terror • IDF clears roads in northern Gaza • Pressure on Hamas continues
Iran claims Israel's admission of assassinating former Hamas leader Haniyeh justifies its October missile attack, escalating diplomatic tensions after Katz's recent statements.
The proposed deal is set to bolster the ties between Tehran and Moscow.
According to the indictment, in recent months, Amoyal communicated via Telegram with an Iranian agent who identified himself using fake usernames.
“The Houthis pose a threat not only to Israel but to the region and the entire world. The most basic and fundamental step is to designate them as a terrorist organization," Sa'ar said.
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