Iran and Pakistan have deported over 6,000 Afghan migrants in the past 24 hours, according to the Taliban-run commission for refugee affairs. This latest wave contributes to millions of forced returns this year, exacerbating Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis amid warnings from aid agencies.
Recent rainfall on Iran's Hormuz Island has once again turned its famed Red Beach into a striking crimson landscape as iron-rich soil flowed into the Persian Gulf. This natural phenomenon, caused by high concentrations of hematite, regularly draws tourists and photographers to the 'Rainbow Island'.
Iran's judiciary has announced that an unnamed Iranian-Swedish dual national has been tried for allegedly spying for Israel during the recent 12-day war in June 2025. The defendant, reportedly recruited by Israeli intelligence in 2023, faces charges after electronic surveillance equipment was discovered, and a verdict is expected soon.
Iran's rial currency has fallen to a new record low against the U.S. dollar, trading at over 1.3 million rials per dollar. This sharp depreciation intensifies inflationary pressures, particularly on food prices, and is largely attributed to international sanctions, regional tensions, and recent domestic economic policy changes.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has affirmed the nation's armed forces are fully prepared for defense, emphasizing a preference for diplomacy while remaining vigilant against potential threats amidst ongoing regional tensions and recent conflicts.
Iranian authorities have seized a foreign oil tanker in the Sea of Oman, alleging it carried 6 million liters of smuggled diesel. The vessel, with 18 crew members from India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, reportedly had its navigation systems disabled. This incident follows a series of similar seizures by Iran in the region.
Iran is set to host a regional meeting on Afghanistan in Tehran next week, bringing together special representatives from Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, China, and Russia. The gathering aims to foster dialogue and cooperation on developments in Afghanistan, particularly in light of recent tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan. Iranian officials emphasize the meeting's focus on exchanging views rather than direct mediation.
Iran is experiencing a severe H3N2 influenza outbreak, with over 100 deaths reported since mid-November. The fast-spreading virus is straining hospitals nationwide, particularly affecting unvaccinated individuals, the elderly, and those with underlying conditions. School closures have been implemented in several provinces, and health officials warn of the flu's unusual transmissibility and reduced vaccine effectiveness, exacerbated by severe air pollution.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian began a two-day official visit to Astana, Kazakhstan, on December 10, 2025, following an invitation from Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The trip focuses on expanding economic, transport, and cultural cooperation, with discussions encompassing trade, logistics, industrial, mining, and humanitarian fields. Several cooperation agreements are expected to be signed between the two nations.
A senior Israeli Defense Forces official has warned that Iran has resumed large-scale production of ballistic missiles, approximately six months after its 12-day conflict with Israel in June 2025. This acceleration follows significant damage to its missile manufacturing capacity during the recent hostilities, with Tehran reportedly prioritizing the rapid restoration of its missile program.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on December 8, 2025, that nuclear facilities bombed during a recent June conflict pose radiation risks and contain unexploded munitions. He reaffirmed Iran's commitment to its peaceful nuclear program and expressed openness to dialogue with the US under fair terms, including recognition of Iran's right to enrichment.
On December 7, 2025, Iran witnessed widespread protests on 'Student Day,' with students, retirees, and villagers demonstrating against severe economic conditions, including rampant inflation and soaring prices, as well as various government policies. Protests spanned multiple cities, highlighting deep-seated discontent.
Iran's Foreign Ministry has strongly criticized the Middle East section of the newly released US National Security Strategy, with spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei calling it 'Israel's national security document'. Tehran asserts the strategy prioritizes Israeli interests and energy resources over regional stability.
Iranian authorities have initiated a criminal case against the organizers of a recent marathon on Kish Island after women participants were seen without mandatory hijabs. Two organizers have been arrested and charged, facing penalties including bans from public employment and organizing future events. The judiciary cited 'violations of public decency' despite prior warnings.
Iran faces its most severe water crisis in over six decades, escalating into a profound political and security issue. Tehran is grappling with critical water shortages, with reservoirs at alarmingly low levels, leading to rationing and warnings of potential evacuation. Mismanagement, climate change, and inefficient agricultural practices are cited as primary causes.
Tehran and other major Iranian cities are experiencing severe air pollution, with Air Quality Index levels frequently surpassing 'very unhealthy' thresholds. The crisis has led to extensive school and office closures, travel restrictions, and urgent health advisories, as officials acknowledge the dire health and economic consequences.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Navy has launched a two-day annual military exercise, codenamed 'Shahid Mohammad Nazeri,' across the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Sea of Oman. The drill, which began on December 4, focuses on interception capabilities and involves missile and drone fire, with warnings issued to US vessels in the region.
Iran and Turkey have agreed to construct a new USD 1.6 billion railway line, spanning approximately 200 kilometers, to connect Marand and Cheshmeh Soraya to Turkey's Aralik border region. This strategic project, announced on November 30, 2025, aims to strengthen railway corridors between Asia and Europe, transforming a section of the historic Silk Road into an 'all-rail corridor' for efficient cargo transport.
Iran's government has confirmed receiving a directive from Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on hijab enforcement, reportedly triggered by a leaked intelligence report on cultural dissent. While hardliners call for stricter measures, the administration of President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasizes restraint and non-coercive approaches, highlighting internal divisions and a delicate balancing act in the face of widespread non-compliance.
Iran and Russia recently held high-level discussions in Moscow to enhance bilateral and multilateral cooperation in combating money laundering and terrorism financing. Key figures, including Iran's Ambassador Kazem Jalali and Russia's Rosfinmonitoring head Yury Chikhanchin, participated in talks that also focused on strengthening coordination within the Eurasian Group (EAG) and included a technical assistance package for Iran.
