Mahbod's News

Russia Renews Attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv; Peace Talks Loom Amidst Truce Violations and US Warnings

After a brief truce, Russian forces have resumed missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and Kharkiv, injuring residents and damaging civilian infrastructure including residential buildings and a kindergarten. This resurgence of hostilities comes amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts, with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressing readiness for 'concrete steps' towards peace in upcoming Abu Dhabi talks, while noting Russia's general adherence to a temporary energy ceasefire. Former US President Trump hinted at progress in peace talks, yet Moscow warns that any foreign troops in Ukraine would be considered legitimate targets. Meanwhile, the US has cautioned Russia against interfering with American nuclear technology at a Ukrainian plant, and reports reveal covert operations funneling young Africans into the Russian military to fight in Ukraine.

Iran Confirms Possible US Talks Amidst Escalating Threats and Regional War Warnings

Amidst heightened tensions, Iran has confirmed the possibility of resuming nuclear talks with the United States, with Turkey emerging as a potential host. This diplomatic overture follows strong warnings from Iran's Supreme Leader that any US attack would ignite a regional war, a stance reinforced after President Trump's deployment of a naval armada to the Middle East and his threats of 'bad things' if a deal isn't reached. An opinion piece urges Trump not to miss a 'historic opportunity' to confront the Iranian regime. Separately, Iran's participation in BRICS+ naval drills in South Africa caused a high-level state crisis, highlighting the complexities of its international engagements.

Gaza and Lebanon Tensions: Rafah Crossing Reopens as Israel Strikes Hezbollah Amid EU Pressure

The reopening of the Rafah border crossing, while symbolically significant, holds little practical importance for Gaza as both Hamas and Israel maintain their objectives, signaling a distant return to normalcy. Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff is set to meet Netanyahu in Israel. Concurrently, the Israeli army has carried out strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon following earlier warnings. Over 400 European former diplomats and officials have urged the EU to exert greater pressure on Israel to cease 'excesses and unremitting violations of international law' in Gaza and the West Bank, advocating for actions aligned with a two-state solution.