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12 Pages Price 50,000 Rials 1.00 EURO 4.00 AED 42nd year No.13742 Saturday AUGUST 22, 2020 Shahrivar 1, 1399 Muharram 2, 1442

We are the nation of Imam Hussein See page 3

By Afshin Majlesi E3 foreign ministers do not support triggering ‘No apologies whatsoever!’ Chicago mayor defends Tehran Times journalist snapback mechanism ban on protests in HER neighborhood On the occasion of By staff and agency the processes and institutions which constitute the Progressive Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has outline any examples. World Mosque Day In a joint statement on Thursday the foreign foundation of multilateralism. We remain guided insisted that a ban on demonstrations in her Since a wave of mass demonstrations kicked ministers of France, Germany and the United by the objective of upholding the authority and neighborhood is necessary to ward off any threats off after the death of George Floyd at the hands ifty-one years ago, on August Kingdom, whose countries are signatory to the integrity of the United Nations Security Council. to her family, despite vocal support for citizens’ of law enforcement in Minneapolis, crowds of 21, 1969, an extremist set 2015 nuclear deal (JCPO), issued a joint statement We call on all UNSC members to refrain from right to peacefully protest elsewhere. activists have gathered outside Lightfoot’s home fire to Jerusalem’s al-Aqsa saying they cannot support the United States’ any action that would only deepen divisions in The Chicago Police Department has ordered on several occasions to protest against police F action in triggering the snapback mechanism the Security Council or that would have serious officers to bar protesters from Lightfoot’s Logan brutality and department funding. Following mosque, which is of very high sig- nificance for Muslims as once be- to return all the UN sanctions on Iran. adverse consequences on its work.” Square neighborhood and arrest any who refuse one event in late July that drew hundreds to ing their first qibla or direction of “France, Germany and the United Kingdom (‘the The three European countries also noted that to leave, the Chicago Tribune reported on Thurs- the neighborhood, however, police have largely prayer. The fire swept through an E3’) note that the U.S. ceased to be a participant they remain committed to the JCPOA despite the day, citing a recently surfaced police directive kept demonstrators away, apparently enforcing area of nearly 1500 square meters to the JCPoA following their withdrawal from the significant challenges caused by the U.S. withdrawal. from July. Though the progressive Democrat the CPD directive. of the mosque, burning an ancient deal on 8 May, 2018. Our position regarding the On Thursday, the U.S. sent a letter to the UN mayor has frequently applauded “peaceful pro- Through the weeks of unrest – which in Chica- pulpit, altar, arches, pillars, walls, effectiveness of the U.S. notification pursuant to Security Council requesting to initiate the “snap- tests,” she argues the ban is needed for her own go has frequently descended into riots and loot- and ultimately causing a collapse. resolution 2231 has consequently been very clearly back” mechanism, which allows a participant to safety, Rt reported. ing – Lightfoot has vacillated between support It was early on Thursday morning when expressed to the Presidency and all UNSC members. the JCPOA to seek the reimposition against Iran “I think that residents of this city, under- and vocal condemnation of protesters. In a leaked the alarm was sounded; Al-Aqsa Mosque We cannot therefore support this action which is of UN sanctions lifted under the nuclear deal. standing the nature of the threats that we are recording of a conference call with city officials was on fire! People, both Muslims and incompatible with our current efforts to support The U.S. took the move following its failure last receiving on a daily basis – on a daily basis – published in June, the mayor said Chicago Alder- Christians, rushed to the mosque to quell the JCPoA,” said the statement published by the week at the UN Security Council in its attempt to understand I have a right to make sure that my man Raymond Lopez was “full of s**t” when he the flames despite short but fierce clashes UK Foreign Ministry’s website. extend arms embargo on Iran which will expire in home is secure,” Lightfoot told reporters when voiced concerns about violent protests reaching with the Israeli occupation forces who It added, “The E3 are committed to preserving October in accordance to Resolution 2231. asked about the directive, though declined to residential neighborhoods. 10 tried to prevent their entry. The blaze, however, burned for hours with flames soaring from windows just below the dome, before it was finally ex- National Doctor’s Day: a salute to our healthcare warriors Online tazieh performance tinguished despite water shortages and By Faranak Bakhtiari distinguished Iranian physician, and writer of were forced to leave them, the medical community safe solution for delays in pumping water engines. TEHRAN – Although the important role of ‘The Book of Healing’, who is regarded as the stood still that many of them even lost their lives. A suspect was soon recognized; Den- doctor in our lives was all clear to everyone, the father of early modern medicine. Since March 25, it is reported that 164 health- pandemic: performer nis Michael Rohan, an Australian-born outbreak once more has shown us how immense Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, physicians and care workers in the country have lost their lives Christian tourist, who was detained on 23 is the contribution of doctors and medical staff in doctors have been recognized for their selfless due to the coronavirus infection, according to Ala’eddin Qasemi August. Rohan was declared to be insane extreme circumstances and how hard the saving devotion and efforts this year. Working around Es’haq Jahangiri, Iran’s first vice president. By Manijeh Rezapoor and hospitalized in a mental institution but of a nation is. the clock, fighting at the frontline against the Here, we will remind some of the brave doctors TEHRAN — Ala’eddin Qasemi, a major performer Muslim-majority nations were skeptical In Iran, National Doctor’s Day is commemo- pandemic, putting their lives in danger made us who have been leading the battle against COVID-19 and director of tazieh plays, has said that online about possibly being cheated. Days later, rated on the first day of the sixth calendar month salute and admire these exceptional caregivers. at the forefront, and their uttermost commitment to performance is a safe and ultimate solution as over 20 Muslim-majority nations submit- of Shahrivar (this year falling on August 22) The sacrifices made by the medical staff to treat keep the nation safe in these challenging times was tazieh performances from across the country are ted a complaint to the UN Security Council commemorating the birthday of Avicenna, the the coronavirus patients, when all their relatives truly exceptional but are no longer among us. 9 to conduct a thorough investigation. being prepared to go on stage during the lunar “It was indicative of the true nature of months of Muharram and Safar amid the COV- the occupying, aggressive and terrorist Zi- ID-19 pandemic. onist regime, and on the other hand was a “Tazieh means mourning, that is, we perform sign for the awakening of Muslims and (the and the audience sits and watches and reacts, but necessity of) safeguarding our religious and Surface-to-surface if gatherings are not permitted these days, the per- Islamic identity,” President Hassan Rouhani formance could be broadcast on TV channels and said, addressing the 13th Conference of the missile with online platforms for interested people,” Qasemi told World Mosque Day held in Tehran in 2015. the Tehran Times in an exclusive interview. Mosque, according to Islamic tradition, 1,400km range During the Muharram rituals, millions of Mus- is any house or open area of prayer in Islam. lims commemorate the martyrdom anniversary The Arabic word masjid means “a place of named after General of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of Prophet prostration” to God, and the same word is Muhammad (S). used in Persian, Urdu, and Turkish. The Soleimani unveiled “Only the members of the troupes will gather to first mosques were modeled on the place of give a performance and this could certainly lessen worship of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH); TEHRAN – Iran on Thursday unveiled a the risk while it would allow people to experience the courtyard of his house at Medina. number of new homegrown missiles, includ- the rituals during the mourning days of Muharram,” Iran is home to countless mosques and holy ing long-range ballistic and cruise missiles, he added. as the Islamic Republic marked the National However, he said that so far he has not received

shrines in the country, many of which represent a combination of symmetry, geometric designs, Defense Industry Day. a proposal for any online performances. and vibrant colors creating an astonishing Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Qasemi further noted that these days are hard view which no visitor can forget easily. The Hatami said Iran had inaugurated a sur- days for the actors, especially for the stage actors, and architecture of the mosques in the country face-to-surface ballistic missile with a range that tazieh actors and performers are not exceptions. varies from one region to another. However, of 1,400 kilometers named after top anti-ter- He added, “We don’t know what to do. It was they often boast very complex structures in ror commander Lieutenant General Qassem about two months ago we talked about having a performance in Mehrab Hall during Muharram, which color variations, tiles, and symbolic of Defence Ministry Soleimani, who was assassinated by the U.S. but up to now there has been no word on it.” designs are utilized. 8 military in January. 3 12 I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y POLITICS AUGUST 22, 2020

Instead of isolating Iran, U.S. finds itself on the outside Ex-diplomats: Trump over nuclear deal: NY Times

A diplomatic standoff over restoring international sanctions against Iran may be the most vivid example yet of how the United States isolating U.S. not Iran has largely isolated itself from the world order — instead of isolat- ing Tehran, as the Trump administration intended, The New York Rejecting legitimacy of snapback says a lot about intl. status of U.S., says former French ambassador to Washington Times said on Thursday. At nearly every step President Trump has taken in his dogged POLITICAL TEHRAN — Gerard pursuit to demolish a 2015 accord limiting Iran’s nuclear program, deskAraud, a former French he has run into opposition, including from America’s strongest ambassador to the United States, has said allies in Europe. that the Western allies of Washington have On Thursday, the opposition turned into open defiance. rejected legitimacy of snapback mechanism Secretary of State Mike Pompeo traveled to New York to per- which says a lot about the international sta- sonally demand that the United Nations Security Council “snap tus of the U.S. back” the sanctions on Iran for violating some terms of the nuclear “That the closest western allies of the deal. The act was born of frustration: His closest allies had rejected US unambiguously reject the legitimacy of an American effort to recast the terms of the deal by extending an using the SnapBack procedure set in R. 2231 arms embargo against Iran that begins to expire in October. Only confirms their commitment to the JCPOA, the Dominican Republic voted with the United States. their opposition to the maximum pressure Mr. Pompeo, sounding incredulous, again accused Iran of fo- policy against Iran and says a lot about the menting terrorism, destabilizing west of Asia and trying to hide world status of the US today,” Araud tweeted Wendy Sherman Richard Haass Colin H. Kahl Gerard Araud its nuclear and weapons programs from international inspectors. on Friday. the administration and now a professor at In a joint statement on Thursday the The U.S. on Thursday formally began the But he directed some of his harshest words toward diplomats from Also Wendy Sherman, the former under- Stanford University, also said in a tweet on foreign ministers of France, Germany and process of activating snapback mechanism Britain, France, and Germany, whom he said “chose to side with secretary of state for political affairs who led Friday, “A diplomatic standoff over restoring the United Kingdom, whose countries are aimed at reimposing all the UN sanctions ayatollahs”. the U.S. negotiating team that concluded international sanctions against Iran may be signatory to the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPO), on Iran. “It’s not a matter for anger or frustration,” Mr. Pompeo said. the Iran nuclear agreement, told MSNBC the most vivid example yet of how the United issued a joint statement saying they cannot Richard Haass, the president of the Coun- “We’ll follow the rules of the UN Security Council, and that will in an interview on Thursday, “My take is States has largely isolated itself from the support the United States’ action in triggering cil on Foreign Relations, also tweeted on lead to the sanctions being reimposed.” that the president has once again isolated world order — instead of isolating Tehran, the snapback mechanism to return all the Friday, “America First truly has become Never mind that Iran’s major violations were in response to the United States from the rest of the world as the Trump administration intended.” UN sanctions on Iran. America alone. Foreign policy unilateralism Trump’s decision to exit the nuclear agreement. And set aside and instead of isolating Iran from the rest has isolated the US more than Iran. Cake the legal contortion that underpins America’s insistence that it is of the world.” Richard Haass say: “America First truly & eat it diplomacy, withdrawing from the still a “participant” in the international accord, with the author- Colin H. Kahl, Joe Biden’s national JCPOA then seeking its benefits, is a non ity to restore the economic penalties, despite Trump declaring security advisor from 2014 to the end of has become America alone.” starter.” in 2018 that he was “terminating United States participation.” The bigger issue is that even if Pompeo succeeds, he may be reimposing sanctions that no U.S. allies are willing to enforce. And that could not only weaken American authority worldwide, it may also show adversaries how to sidestep the United Nations China: U.S. is ineligible to invoke snapback mechanism in future global disputes. “We call on all UNSC members to refrain from any action that Russia says not to stop cooperating with Iran despite U.S. threats would only deepen divisions in the Security Council or that would POLITICAL TEHRAN – The Chinese mission to the uphold the just position, resolutely preserve the JCPOA and desk have serious adverse consequences on its work,” diplomats from United Nations said in a tweet on Friday UNSC resolution, safeguard multilateralism, the authority Britain, France and Germany wrote in a joint statement issued that the United States is not a participant to the 2015 nuclear of the Security Council, the international non-proliferation moments after Pompeo spoke. deal and therefore it is “ineligible” to invoke the snapback regime and regional peace and stability, and seek a political They maintained that since the United States left the nuclear mechanism to return all the UN sanctions on Iran. and diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue. At the agreement, it has no right to act under its provisions. “We cannot, “The United States, as a nonparticipant to #JCPOA, is same time, we are firmly against U.S. unilateral sanctions therefore, support this action,” the European diplomats wrote. ineligible to demand the Security Council invoke the #snapback and ‘long-arm jurisdiction’ against other countries in the The rejection last week by the Security Council of the arms em- mechanism. US letter does not constitute the ‘notification’ name of Iranian nuclear issue, and will continue to safeguard bargo issue has already been wrapped up in election-year politics: specified in #UNSCR2231 and shall not be deemed as a our legitimate rights and interests.” Pompeo was quick to note that the nuclear agreement had been trigger of snapback,” said the tweet. ‘We are guided exclusively by obligations and reached by the “Obama-Kerry-Biden” triumvirate. In a statement on Thursday, the Chinese mission had international law’ But in making his point, Pompeo further fractured the group also said the U.S. demand to trigger the snapback has no Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov also of nations that negotiated the original accord with Tehran. legal ground and common sense. said Thursday that Moscow will not stop cooperating with “They are pushing our allies (Europeans) to balance against “It is nothing but a political show staged by the United Iran in defiance of U.S. threats of sanctions, Xinhua reported. us, along with our adversaries (China and Russia),” said Jon B. States. It receives no support of the Security Council members invoke a snapback as stipulated in Resolution 2231. In the “We are guided exclusively by our own interests, our Alterman, a geostrategy and security expert at the Center for Stra- and no acknowledgment of the international community,” meantime, a snapback mechanism should never be invoked obligations and international law,” Ryabkov was quoted tegic and International Studies in Washington. “It’s unthinkable read the statement. until all efforts are made to exhaust dispute resolution process by RIA Novosti news agency as saying. to me why you would intentionally lose a fight like this, at the UN.” It also said, “The JCPOA, endorsed by UNSC Resolution specified in the JCPOA. Therefore, the JCPOA participants On Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Pompeo is instead preparing to declare victory. 2231, has the force of international law. In May 2018, the and overwhelming majority of the Security Council mem- threatened to punish those countries that oppose its effort Wielding a veto threat to dissuade defectors, he has demand- United States unilaterally withdrew from the JCPOA and bers believe that the U.S. demand has no legal basis, and a to re-impose sanctions on Iran. ed that UN sanctions be restored on Iran’s energy, military, and reinstated illegal unilateral sanctions against Iran. This vi- snapback mechanism has not been invoked. Ambassador Russia condemns U.S. intentions to restore United Na- financial industries. olated the JCPOA and UNSC Resolution 2231. Having quit Zhang Jun has sent a letter to the President of the Security tions sanctions against Iran, Ryabkov said. Britain, France, and Germany have largely been left to hold the the JCPOA, the United States is no longer a participant to Council, expressing China’s opposition to the U.S. demand.” It is regrettable that as a result of Washington’s irrespon- accord together, creating festering diplomatic resentments and the JCPOA and has no right to demand the Security Council “China will work with relevant parties to continue to sible actions, the UN Security Council is plunging into a very fueling perceptions of the United States as an unreliable partner. serious crisis, which distracts the Security Council from The countries cite a different legal technicality in the nuclear deal “The JCPOA participants and overwhelming majority working on a wide range of issues within its mandate and to prevent Trump from forcing through international sanctions. creates certain political and psychological tensions, he said. In January, after Iran began compiling and enriching nuclear of the Security Council members believe that the U.S. Despite Washington’s latest moves on Iran, Russia fuel beyond the limits of the agreement, European officials for- demand has no legal basis,” the Chinese mission to the will continue to cooperate with the United States because mally accused Tehran of violating the deal. That set off a dispute UN says in a statement. without dialogue the situation could become even worse, mechanism that is part of the 2015 accord. A Security Council Ryabkov said. diplomat said it must be resolved before international sanctions were restored. Negotiations between Europe and Iran continue without a deadline for completion. U.S. not a participant to nuclear deal and cannot trigger snapback: EU’s Borrell Pompeo isn’t waiting. He claims the agreement allows the By staff and agency have repeatedly recalled, the U.S. unilat- He added, “As coordinator of the JCPOA United States to act, regardless of whether it has declared it is EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell erally ceased participation in the JCPOA Joint Commission I will continue to do leaving the accord. has said that the United States cannot by presidential Memorandum on 8 May everything possible to ensure the preserva- Yet Wendy R. Sherman, the chief American negotiator during be considered to be a participant to the 2018 and has subsequently not partici- tion and full implementation of the JCPOA the Obama administration, said the United States “does not have 2015 nuclear deal and cannot trigger the pated in any JCPOA-related activities. It by all. The JCPOA remains a key pillar of standing” to restore the sanctions and was unlikely to convince snapback mechanism to restore UN sanc- cannot, therefore, be considered to be a the global non-proliferation architecture, European diplomats that it did. tions on Iran. JCPOA participant State for the purposes contributing to regional security.” (See full text at tehrantimes.com) “I take note of today’s announcement of possible sanctions snapback foreseen The U.S. on Thursday formally began by the U.S. regarding the so-called UN by the resolution,” he said in a statement the process of activating snapback mech- sanctions “snapback mechanism” under published by the European Union’s official anism aimed at reimposing all the UN Joe Biden hails Muharram UN Security Council resolution 2231. As I website on Thursday. sanctions on Iran. amid doubts over his sincerity

POLITICAL TEHRAN — Democratic presidential candidate deskJoe Biden implicitly praised the martyrdom of U.S. illegal demand will never be realized, Iran says Imam Hossein (AS) in what appears to be a bid to win the hearts of POLITICAL TEHRAN – Iranian Foreign Ministry continue economic terrorism and psychological warfare Muslim voters despite the fact that he, during his tenure as Barak deskspokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said on against Iran. Obama’s vice president, imposed sweeping economic sanctions on Friday that the United States will never realize its “illegal The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump a country that is widely known for its love the Imam. demand” from the UN Security Council to activate the formally notified the United Nations on Thursday that “As our Muslim friends and neighbors mark the start of the Islamic snapback mechanism. it wants all UN sanctions on Iran restored. New Year and honor the sacrifice made during the holy month of “This is while the United States has no status to take Secretary of State Mike Pompeo delivered the notifica- Muharram, let us all recommit to standing together in the struggle for such action which is contrary to international law and tion to the president of the UN Security Council, and later compassion, equality, and justice,” Biden said in a tweet on Friday. terms of the 2231 resolution. It [the U.S.] has just pre- told reporters the U.S. had the right to reimpose sanctions Biden didn’t mention Imam Hossein by name, but his mention of sented a demand to the rotating presidency of the Security under UN resolution 2231 which endorses the JCPOA. “the sacrifice made during the holy month of Muharram” was widely Council,” Khatibzadeh said in a statement. The U.S. withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018. seen as an allusion to the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, who was He noted that all the signatories to the 2015 nuclear Iran’s Ambassador to the UN Majid Takht-Ravanchi martyred in the Battle of Karbala on October 10, 680 (Muharram deal, known as the JCPOA, have rejected the U.S. status said on Thursday the U.S. letter was “inadmissible”. 10, 61 AH). to take such action, noting that Washington has become States’ illegal and unfounded demand and have informed Dmitry Polyansky, a Russian deputy ambassador to Biden’s tweet may ring hollow for many Muslim Shiites who totally isolated. the president of the Security Council. Other members of the UN, condemned the U.S. move on Twitter. remember the days when Biden played a pivotal role in organizing “All the remaining parties to the JCPOA, three Eu- the Security Council will adopt similar position in the Germany, France and the UK also rejected the move the Obama administration’s efforts to impose economic sanctions ropean countries of Germany, France and England and coming days,” he said. and stressed their continuing support for the nuclear on Iran. also Russia and China, have strongly opposed the United Elsewhere, Khatibzadeh said that the U.S. seeks to agreement. Russia requests UNSC meeting over U.S. sanctions IAEA chief mulling over visit to Iran: NHK snapback: source POLITICAL TEHRAN — NHK has Grossi is also expected to talk with Iranian and Germany. desklearned that the head of the officials about a nuclear facility in Natanz in At a meeting of the IAEA board of governors UNITED NATIONS (UrduPoint News/Sputnik) — Rus- International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael central Iran, where a fire broke out last month. in June via video conference, Iranian Ambas- sia has requested a UN Security Council meeting to be held on Grossi, is planning to visit Iran for the first time. The IAEA plans to release its updated report sador to the IAEA Kazem Gharibiabadi said, Friday following the U.S. move to invoke the reimposition of all Diplomatic sources say IAEA Director General on Iran’s nuclear program in early September, “Iran acknowledges the IAEA’s right for asking UN sanctions on Iran, a diplomatic source at the United Nations Rafael Grossi hopes to visit Tehran as early as next ahead of a board of governors meeting in the legitimate questions, seeking transparency or told Sputnik on Thursday. week to hold talks with senior Iranian officials. middle of the month. demand of access for its mission; meanwhile, “Yes, the meeting has been requested for Friday,” the source said. He is expected to ask for Iran’s cooperation The UN nuclear watchdog’s board of gov- Iran also emphasizes its right as a member state Earlier in the day, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in a over the IAEA’s inspections of two facilities where ernors adopted a resolution in June calling on to request that the IAEA provide solid evidence letter informed the Security Council president that Washington it is claimed that the country is suspected of Iran to give inspectors access to the two sites. and supporting documents and arguments in had started the procedure to invoke all UN snapback sanctions. storing undeclared nuclear material. The resolution was proposed by Britain, France this regard.” I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y AUGUST 22, 2020 IRAN IN FOCUS 3

U.S. cannot benefit from fruits of U.S. may blackmail JCPOA parties into overlooking its unlawful act, Zarif warns snapback of UN sanctions POLITICAL TEHRAN — The Unit- havior,” Zarif pointed out. POLITICAL TEHRAN— The U.S. push to force a return desked States cannot benefit Guterres, in turn, vowed to carefully deskof international sanctions on Iran was met from the fruits of its unlawful act, Foreign consider the points made by the Iran’s with strong opposition from the international community, a Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a chief diplomat. move that could prompt the U.S. to use blackmail against parties letter to the chairman of the UN Security ‘Trump administration will be to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Council on Thursday, pointing to the U.S. once again isolated disgraced’ The U.S. diplomatically explosive decision to demand a withdrawal from the Joint Comprehen- On Friday, Zarif wrote on his Instagram snapback of all UN sanctions on Iran sent shockwaves across sive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and its efforts account that the Trump administration will the world, prompting a diplomatic backlash against the U.S. to invoke parts of the JCPOA to impose be once again isolated and disgraced at the unilateralism at the UN Security Council. sanctions on Iran. world stage. “Based on the universally accepted general “Last night, Pompeo, in his own illusion, principle of law, the United States cannot activated the mechanism for returning the benefit from the fruits of its unlawful act of repealed Security Council resolutions, but withdrawal from the JCPOA by assuming that at the same time, Iran, along with Russia, it has no obligation to submit its notification China, the European Union, Germany, France, alongside a description of good-faith efforts,” and Britain in separate letters described the Zarif wrote in his letter. Trump administration’s action as illegal,” U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Zarif wrote. Thursday officially informed the UN Security “Some other members of the Security Council it is demanding the restoration of Council are likely to take similar stances all UN sanctions on Iran, insisting that the today, once again isolating and disgracing U.S. has the legal right to “snap back” UN the Trump administration at the world stage,” sanctions even though U.S. President Donald he said. Trump pulled out of the UNSC-endorsed deal but the move received almost no support at eral Antonio Guterres on Thursday, when The chief Iranian diplomat added that between Iran and six major powers. the UN Security Council meeting last week, he highlighted the responsibility of the UN such circumstances are unprecedented in Zarif said the U.S. has no right to abuse prompting Washington to threaten to trigger Security Council and the secretary general the history of the UN Security Council. Parties to the nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Com- mechanisms enshrined in the JCPOA to the JCPOA mechanism that would restore with regard to the U.S. unlawful act. Earlier, France, the UK and Germany prehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), rejected the U.S. move with restore UN sanctions after they were lifted all of the UNSC sanctions against the Islamic “All parties to the JCPOA, the Security released a joint statement telling the U.S. one voice, declaring that the U.S. had no right to notify the Security under the accord. Republic. Council member states and international that it could not use “snapback” measures Council of Iran’s “significant non-performance” as defined in He said the dangerous and unlawful In his letter, Zarif underlined that given jurists all share the view that the U.S. is no against Iran as it is no longer part of the the UN Security Council Resolution 2231, which was adopted position of the United States defies the the baseless and illegal nature of the United longer a party to the JCPOA, and Washing- nuclear deal. in 2015 to endorse the JCPOA. established norms of international law States’ bid, it has to be “rejected on the part ton’s move has no basis as per the Security “France, Germany and the United Kingdom “France, Germany, and the United Kingdom (“the E3”) note and procedures, which have been put in of the Security Council and the international Council Resolution 2231 and the JCPOA,” note that the U.S. ceased to be a participant to that the US ceased to be a participant to the JCPOA following place through centuries to safeguard the community.” Zarif said, according to the Foreign Min- the JCPOA following their withdrawal from their withdrawal from the deal on May 8, 2018. Our position world from chaos. “It is imperative that the international istry website. the deal on May 8, 2018,” the statement said. regarding the effectiveness of the US notification pursuant to As part of an illegal underway push, the community be wary of such [attempts at] He warned that the U.S. move will have “We cannot therefore support this action resolution 2231 has consequently been very clearly expressed to United States has been trying to invoke the abusing the Security Council’s mechanisms,” dangerous consequences for international which is incompatible with our current efforts the Presidency and all UNSC Members. We cannot, therefore, so-called “snapback” mechanism in the nu- he wrote. law, and will result in nothing but damaging to support the JCPOA.” support this action which is incompatible with our current efforts clear deal, although by leaving the JCPOA “Iran advises the Council to stop this abuse international mechanisms and discrediting In response, Pompeo on Thursday accused to support the JCPOA,” the E3 foreign ministers said in a joint the United States forfeited all of its rights of mechanism -- which carries serious re- the Security Council. the three European countries of “siding with statement on August 20, moments after the U.S. sent a letter under the nuclear deal percussions for the international peace and “The Islamic Republic of Iran expects the the ayatollahs”, claiming that “their actions to the Security Council demanding to initiate the “snapback” Washington also launched a bid to pre- security,” he added. secretary general and the Security Council endanger the people of Iraq, of Yemen, Leb- mechanism, which allows a participant to the JCPOA to seek the vent expiry of an arms embargo against Iran The Iranian foreign Minister also had a member states to fulfil their legal duties and anon, Syria, and indeed their own citizens re-imposition against Iran of the multilateral sanctions lifted in that will expire in October under the accord, phone conversation with UN Secretary Gen- counter the U.S. administration’s rogue be- as well.” 2015 in accordance with resolution 2231. Similarly, EU High Representative Josep Borrell, who is also the coordinator of the Joint Commission of the JCPOA, said that the U.S. has “ceased participation” in the nuclear deal, and thus Tehran summons UAE envoy over killing of fishermen it cannot trigger the snapback mechanism. “As I have repeatedly recalled, the US unilaterally ceased par- POLITICAL TEHRAN — Iran has summoned the out-of-norm move rests with the UAE government. its readiness to make up for all the damage inflicted. desk ticipation in the JCPOA by presidential Memorandum on 8 May chargé d’affaires of the United Arab Emir- He stressed that those arrested as well as the fishing Also, through the coordination of both countries’ 2018 and has subsequently not participated in any JCPOA-relat- ates (UAE) over the UAE coast guard’s act of shooting at boats seized must be released, and bodies of those border guards, the seized fishing boat and its crew ed activities. It cannot, therefore, be considered to be a JCPOA a number of Iranian fishing boats in the Persian Gulf on killed must be handed over to Iran. were released. participant State for the purposes of possible sanctions snapback Monday in which two fishermen were killed. The diplomat also demanded compensation for the The incident comes amid Tehran’s strong condem- foreseen by the resolution,” Borrell said in a statement on Thursday. In a statement on Thursday, the Foreign Ministry damage, and called on the UAE to take the necessary nation of Abu Dhabi for agreeing to normalize ties with Russia and China also strongly opposed the U.S. measure, said right after the incident, relevant Iranian officials measures to prevent such events in the future. Israel under a deal brokered by the U.S. saying the U.S. had no legal authority to initiate the snapback put on their agenda an immediate investigation into The UAE charge daffaires, for his part, expressed The deal was announced on August 13, after a phone mechanism. the tragic event. regret over the incident, and underlined that he will call between Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benja- “The U.S. demand has no legal ground and common sense. According to the statement, after the situation on inform Abu Dhabi of the developments accordingly. min Netanyahu, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed It is nothing but a political show staged by the United States. the ground was carefully examined, the UAE envoy In less than 24 hours, another meeting was also Al Nahyan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, according It receives no support of the Security Council members and no was summoned to the ministry in the early hours of held between the UAE envoy and the Iranian official to Aljazeera. acknowledgment of the international community,” Chinese per- the following days by the director of the International to follow up on the outcome of the previous talks. Iran has called the UAE move a treasonous act manent mission to the UN said in a statement. Legal Affairs Department of the ministry. Following these developments in Tehran and thanks against the Palestinian cause. The statement also said, “Having quit the JCPOA, the United At the ministry, the Iranian diplomat condemned to efforts by the Iranian embassy in the UAE, the Abu President Hassan Rouhani has warned Abu Dhabi States is no longer a participant to the JCPOA and has no right the UAE vessels’ harassment of the Iranian fishing Dhabi government sent an official note to Tehran ex- that the agreement must never prepare the ground for to demand the Security Council invoke a snapback as stipulated boats, saying the responsibility for this illegal and pressing deep sorrow over the incident and expressed the presence of the Zionist regime in the Persian Gulf. in Resolution 2231.” Russia called the U.S. move “a big mistake which can have extremely negative implications” and vowed to challenge it. In a tweet on Thursday, Maria Khrenova, the TASS news agency Nation of Imam Hussein (AS) stand united to confront U.S. oppression correspondent at the United Nations, said that Russia will chal- POLITICAL TEHRAN — As the U.S. Hussein was still refusing to offer allegiance also became a guiding principle for Iran in wants a negotiated solution to tensions between lenge the U.S. push to trigger the snapback of the UN sanctions. deskrequested a return of all and traveled to Mecca in a bid to stay away dealing with the U.S. Over the past five years, Iran and the U.S. This is while many experts Her tweet was retweeted by Mikhail Ulyanov, the permanent UN sanctions on Iran, the Iranian people from the Caliph’s mounting pressures. In there have been calls for negotiating with the believe that Donald Trump’s administration representative of Russia to international organizations in Vienna. made preparations for commemorating Mecca, he was approached by the people of U.S. in line with what some of the Twelve doesn’t want to solve the problems with Iran. “Our position and not just ours is that [the] U.S. doesn’t the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Kufa, who were longing for the overthrow of Imams did with their enemies, especially Instead, it seeks Iran’s surrender, just as Yazid’s have legal right or reason to initiate this thing. Of course, we will Hussein (AS), the grandson of the Prophet the Umayyad Caliphate. They urged Imam Imam Hassan (AS), the brother of Imam policy toward Imam Hussein (AS). challenge it,” Khrenova quoted Russia’s Ambassador to the UN Muhammad (PBUH) who was martyred in Hussein to overthrow the caliphate. The Imam Hussein who reached a peace deal with the Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Vasily Nebenzya as saying. the Battle of Karbala on October 10, 680 went to Kufa only to realize that the people of father of Yazid, Mu’awiya ibn Abi Sufyan. Javad offered several diplomatic initiatives The opposition to the U.S. measure was not limited to the (Muharram 10, 61 AH). Kufa have reneged on their promise of help. However, the Leader of the Revolution to deescalate tensions between Tehran and JCPOA parties. Others also opposed it. The Imam’s martyrdom has long been Eventually, the army of the caliphate, led dismissed these calls as “utmost simplifi- Washington, including an offer to swap pris- “For Belgium, the case is crystal clear: the USA cannot trigger a source of inspiration for Muslims around by Omar ibn Sa’ad, intercepted the Imam’s cation”, saying what the Imams did wasn’t oners. However, the U.S. refused to alter its a snapback of sanctions through the JCPOA since it ‘ceased its the world through the centuries. They see caravan in the plain of Karbala and martyred equivalent to modern-day negotiations. maximalist position on Iran, a move that participation’ to the JCPOA in May 2018,” The Belgium mission him as a hero who sacrificed himself and the Imam and his companions. “These people say how is it that Imam Ali contributed to the continuation of tensions to the UN said in a tweet. his family to stand up against oppression. The Battle of Karbala had a deep influ- (AS) and Imam Hussein (AS) negotiated with between the two sides. Facing a global backlash against its measure, the U.S. seems to Imam Hussein (AS) was born in Medina ence on the Shiite Muslims. Every year, they their enemies, but now negotiating with the Now that Iran has refused to negotiate be on a collision course with the international community over the in January 626 to a family of modest means. hold mourning ceremonies to commem- United States is prohibited?” wondered the under the pressure of sanctions, the U.S. is triggering of the snapback mechanism, with little or no support However, his piety and righteousness earned orate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, Leader at an October 2015 meeting with the making efforts to restore all UN sanctions from its closest allies on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean. him widespread popularity among Muslims who became a symbol for the fight against IRGC’s navy commanders. on Iran, even though its allies and rivals In light of this backlash, some experts and former officials of from all walks of life, which along with his sta- oppression and arrogance. “Such an analysis of the issues of Islamic alike say the U.S. has no legal authority the Trump administration began a tit-for-tat approach toward tus as the progeny of the Prophet, made him a “Imam Hussain (AS) was a symbol of hon- history and the issues of the country is ex- to trigger the snapback process, a mecha- Washington’s European allies after they refused to support the target for the Umayyad Caliphate. or, and because he firmly withstood, he was tremely simplistic because Imam Ali (AS) nism built into the 2015 Iran nuclear deal U.S. request for the snapback mechanism. Mu’awiya ibn Abi Sufyan, the founder also a symbol of dignity. This is the honor and did not negotiate with Zubair and Imam to allow the accord’s parties to restore the “One positive outcome from the French decision to ignore and first caliph of the Umayyad Caliphate, dignity attributed to Imam Hussein. Some Hussein did not negotiate (AS) with Omar UN sanctions in case Iran fails to uphold the plain text of a Security Council Resolution and try to strip sought to pressure the Imam into paying people might say something, but never stand ibn Sa’ad in the sense of today’s negotiation, its commitments under the deal. its ally of its P5 rights: no longer must anyone at @StateDept allegiance to his son, Yazid, as he touted him for what they say and retreat; these people which means making a bargain. They both In light of U.S. pressures, this year’s Mu- play nice on France’s request to renew the mandate for the @ as the next caliph of the Umayyad Caliphate. cannot take pride in what they say,” Leader admonished their enemies and advised them harram could once again inspire the Iranian UNIFIL_ billion dollar boondoggle,” tweeted Richard Goldberg, But the Imam refused to offer allegiance to of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali to fear God,” the Leader explained. people to withstand the U.S. pressures by the former official at Donald Trump’s National Security Council. Yazid, who was known for his dissoluteness. Khamenei said on March 29, 2002. Calls for negotiations with the U.S. are based following the lead of Imam Hussein (AS), The mandate of the United Nations Interim Forces in Leba- When Yazid came to power in 680, Imam Imam Hussein’s resistance against Yazid on the proposition that the White House really who chose freedom over humiliation. non (UNIFIL) expires on August 31. The UN is considering the idea of extending the mandate of UNIFIL in Southern Lebanon. French and Lebanese officials have exchanged views on the issue in recent days. While France supports extending the mandate of Surface-to-surface missile with 1,400km range named after the UNIFIL forces, some experts in Washington make the case for reforming or even ending the operation of the UNIFIL forces. General Soleimani unveiled Goldberg called for punishing France by vetoing the extension of the UNIFIL mandate if it opposed the snapback. Similarly, 1 “We are mature in the defense industry,” Hatami training aircraft will take place,” the defense chief added. second-in-command of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization he called on the U.S. to cut foreign aid to countries standing up said at the ceremony, adding, “Iran provides more than The Thursday ceremony was attended via video con- Units (PMU). against the U.S. at the Security Council. 770 defense items, counting for up to 90% of the needs ference by President Hassan Rouhani. In the early hours of January 8, the IRGC attacked the U.S. “Burying the lede: ‘The United States will be carefully watching, of the armed forces.” Hatami explained that Martyr Soleimani ballistic missile airbase of Ain al-Assad in Anbar province in western Iraq as and remembering, which of our partners and allies stand with “The country’s defense advances in the last four decades has a range of 1,400 kilometers and Martyr Abu-Mahdi part of its promised “tough revenge” for the U.S. terror attack. us.’ Recipients of US foreign aid on UNSC include: Indonesia, are not comparable to any similar period,” he pointed out. cruise missile has a range of 1,000 kilometers. During the ceremony, President Rouhani praised all Estonia, Tunisia, Vietnam, Niger, South Africa. UK wants FTA According to Hatami, in the last few years, Iran has The defense industry “with 770 various product groups Iranian academics, experts and science-based firms for [free trade agreement]. France wants UNIFIL mandate,” the achieved remarkable progress in defense sector, in par- can meet the demands of the Iranian Armed Forces in working hard to pave the way for the country’s defense former official tweeted. ticular, in the recent three years among which it can be wars,” Hatami stated. sector to grow stronger. The U.S. has yet to announce how it would force other referred to as the unveiling of the Kowsar fighter jets. In the missile sector, Hatami said, deterrence power He also underlined the importance of cruise missiles for countries to give up on the snapback. Whether it would take “The advanced Yasin training jet was designed and is a significant factor in today’s world. Iran’s defense industry. “The fact that we have increased note of Goldberg’s extortion advice remains an open ques- built with a new and indigenous platform. With the pro- On January 3, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the range from 300 to 1000 in less than two years shows tion. But the U.S. may resort to blackmailing the remaining duction of Yasin, A90, and Fajr 3 training aircraft, which strikes that martyred General Soleimani, chief of the the country is on the path of production and self-suffi- JCPOA parties given the sweeping opposition to its gambit are in the operational testing phase, the complete cycle of IRGC Quds Force, and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the ciency in this field.” at the Security Council. I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y 4 ECONOMY AUGUST 22, 2020

Over $38m worth of juice Iran exploring ways for removing exported in 4 months

ECONOMY TEHRAN – Iran exported nearly 48,000 desktons of fruit juice valued at $38.107 million NTBs in trade with Eurasia to other countries in the first four months of the current Iranian calendar year (March 20-July 21), the spokesman of the Islamic ECONOMY TEHRAN – Head of the mentioned meeting, the official said that Republic of Iran Customs Administration (IRICA) announced. deskIran’s Trade Promotion all the agreements reached in the working As reported by IRNA, the exported products included fruit Organization (TPO) said that along with the group meeting were signed by both parties juices, mixtures of juice with vegetables, fruit extracts, fruit juice implementation of the preferential trade in the form of a protocol and were turned essential oils, non-alcoholic beverages, concentrated fruit juices, agreement with the members of Eurasian into a document that was exchanged between citrus juices including oranges, grapefruits, grape juice, apple Economic Union (EAEU), Iran is considering the two sides. juice, and pineapple juice, according to Ruhollah Latifi. ways for removing the non-tariff barriers “In this document, we agreed to hold pre- (NTBs) in trade with the union, TPO news liminary talks three weeks before the start of portal reported. the main negotiations, and to follow up on “Apart from the [preferential trade] the side issues of the agreement, including agreement and the commodity items that standards, plant quarantine, transport and we agree on, what should be considered as a transit, and banking, each of which could side benefit of this agreement for both sides have a working group,” he explained. is the removal of non-tariff barriers to trade According to the official, the Central Bank between the parties,” Hamid Zadboum said of Iran (CBI) pursues the joint banking work- in a conference on promotion of trade with ing group, Islamic Republic of Iran Customs EAEU in Tehran. Administration (IRICA) will be in charge Speaking in the conference, Zadboum of the joint customs working group, while underlined some of the problems in the way in some member countries, as well as customs mentation of the preferential trade agreement Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, of trade between Iran and EAEU, including problems, and expressed hope that they will between Iran and EAEU, and said: “We held Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA) follows banking and money transfer problems, the be removed following the implementation the first meeting of the joint working group up on the joint working group on rules of lack of Iranian banking branches in some of the preferential trade agreement. in the form of a video conference with the origin and the Ministry of Transport and member countries, transportation problems Zadboum further mentioned a working Eurasian Economic Union last month.” Urban Development is in charge of the joint and high transit costs, delays in issuing visas group established for monitoring the imple- Emphasizing the positive outcomes of transportation and transit working group. More than 35 countries were the destination for the Iranian juice exports, including Germany, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Mal- dives, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Turkey, Pakistan, New Zealand, Russia, Norway, Turkey, and Kuwait. According to Latifi, Pakistan with more than $9.665 million Afghanistan calls for Iran’s contribution to its mining projects worth of imports stood in the first place among the top export ECONOMY TEHRAN – Afghanistan’s Commercial countries and said: “The Commerce Department of the destinations, followed by Turkey with more $6.525 million, and deskAttaché in Tehran has called for Iranian Afghan Embassy is ready to interact and cooperate with Afghanistan with $6.151 million. mining companies’ investment in his country’s mining the Tehran Chamber [of Commerce, Industries, Mines As reported, Iran also imported 2,111 tons of the mentioned sector, IRIB reported. and Agriculture] to pave the way for the two countries’ products worth over $2.101 million during the said four months. Speaking in a meeting with the representatives of the private sectors to know each other better.” Turkey, Brazil, Belgium, UAE, Spain, Thailand, India, and Iranian private sector at the place of the Tehran Chamber In the meeting, which was attended by managers of Italy were the main exporters to Iran in the mentioned period. of Commerce Industries, Mines and Agriculture (TCCIMA), several Iranian companies active in the mining and mineral Thailand was the top juice exporter to Iran with 1,007 tons Ahmad Saeed pointed to his country’s mines as a unique industries, telecommunications equipment, power plants, of pineapple juice and condensed pineapple juice worth $2.106 opportunity for Iranian companies active in the mining construction, as well as fruits and vegetables, the TCCIMA sent to the Islamic country. industry, saying the bases are prepared for the activity of Deputy Head for International Affairs Hessamedin Hallaj Iranian companies in Afghanistan. referred to the holding of several joint meetings between Noting that based on the Afghanistan government’s TCCIMA and the Commerce Department of the Afghan TEDPIX falls 11% in a week plans, all provinces of the country will be equipped with fiber Embassy for drawing a roadmap for trade cooperation optics by 2023, Saeed underlined the telecommunications between the two countries’ private sectors and said that ECONOMY TEHRAN — TEDPIX, the main index of sector as another opportunity for Iranian companies in several proposals have been made by the two sides in this deskthe Tehran Stock Exchange (TSE), which the Afghan market. regard. is Iran’s major stock exchange, dropped 11.3 percent in the The official further pointed to the lack of sufficient “Several proposals were made by the Commerce past Iranian calendar week (ended on Friday). border areas, as well as the development of cooperation in knowledge and information as one of the problems in the Department of the Afghan Embassy, including the The index stood at 1.757 million points at the end of the energy, minerals, medical equipment, and food industry, way of developing economic relations between the two establishment of Iranian factories in Afghanistan or joint past week, IRNA reported. to strengthen the trade ties,” Hallaj said. As reported, most of the trades were conducted through the indices of National Iranian Copper Industry Company, Ghadir Investment company, Bank Saderat, Mobarakeh Steel Company, and Bandar Abbas Oil Refining Company, while IME to start residential units preselling via salaf bonds by next month transportation, paper products, ceramic and tile, cement ECONOMY TEHRAN — Iran Mer- exchange was due to be established in the Exchange Company is going to be estab- and chalk were the most traded items at the TSE during the deskcantile Exchange (IME) middle of the previous Iranian calendar lished with an initial capital of 50 trillion previous week. will start preselling trades of residential month (early July). rials (about $1.2 billion), of which 50 per- TEDPIX had also experienced a two-percent drop in the units via standard parallel salaf bonds by the When established, it will be the country’s cent will be offered to people in the form week ended on Friday, August 14. next month, the IME director of economic fifth major stock exchange. The four other of underwriting, while 25 percent will be It should be mentioned that the index had hit the record studies announced. ones are TSE, Iran’s over-the-counter (OTC) shared among government agencies and high of two million points on August 2, and while it had Javad Fallah said, “IME is seeking at- market, known as Iran Fara Bourse (IFB), another 25 percent is given to private sector been experiencing an unprecedented trend of rising over traction of liquidity by the capital market Iran Energy Exchange (IRENEX), and Iran companies. the recent months, it witnessed several days of drop in the to provide financing for the construction Mercantile Exchange (IME). “Companies wishing to participate must past two weeks. of houses; so, we are intending to offer slaf Deputy Head of Iran Chamber of Com- submit their initial application; these com- Gaining 45,672 points on August 2, the TSE’s main index bonds to achieve this goal”, Tasnim news merce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture panies will be allocated up to 2.5 percent of had stood at 2.007 million, notching up another outstand- agency reported on Friday. (ICCIMA) says the establishment of the the total capital which would be 1.25 trillion ing record in the current Iranian calendar year (started on The official said that the IME have re- fairs and Public Relations Department, the country’s real estate stock exchange is go- rials (equal to nearly $29 million)”, he added. March 20). ceived the salaf bonds from Housing In- side market of the IME hosted the offering at ing to promote transparency in this market. Underlining the great capacities of this It had hit the record high of 1.5 million points on June 30, vestment Company, which is affiliated to the base price of 10.639 billion rials (about According to Hossein Selahvarzi, estab- exchange, Selahvarzi said the capital market and then it climbed half a million points in just one month Bank Maskan (Housing Bank). $253.3 million). lishing this stock exchange is going to be an has the ability to define practical tools for These bonds enable the people to pre-pur- On July 25, a member of Iran’s Securities opportunity for making the transactions in financing the real estate market and large chase the residential units based on the and Exchange High Council announced that the housing market more competitive and construction projects, and it will make peo- amount of their money. the country’s real estate stock exchange would transparent, and will gain people’s trust for ple more confident in participating in the A standard parallel salaf is an Islamic be established by the next four-six months. participation in mass construction projects. implementation of such projects. contract similar to futures, with the difference The establishment of such exchange is in Earlier this month, speaking in a meeting I late June, Finance and Economic Affairs being that the contract’s total price must be line with the government’s policy of providing with the officials from Iran’s Mercantile Minister Farhad Dejpasand announced the paid in advance. housing units for the underprivileged, and Exchange, which is in charge of the es- establishment of the country’s real estate It also should be mentioned that a com- many efforts have been already made to pre- tablishment of the real estate exchange, stock exchange. mercial property has been offered at the IME pare the required infrastructure in this due. Selahvarzi said: “We are studying various The minister had stated that the Economy for the first time on Wednesday. The head of Tehran Stock Exchange aspects of the project.” Ministry was finalizing the issue with the As reported by the IME International Af- (TSE) had previously announced that the The official noted that the Real Estate Securities and Exchange Organization (SEO). 21% of Iran’s idle production units revived ECONOMY TEHRAN — The head of Iran Small In- is necessary to increase their share of bank facilities up to to hit the record high of two million. deskdustries and Industrial Parks Organization at least 40 percent, he stressed. Iranian stock market, which had been experiencing some (ISIPO) has said that 21 percent of the country’s total 9,800 The ISIPO head further said: “despite all the limitations, unprecedented growth in the past Iranian calendar year, idle production units have been revived by the Industry, we are currently witnessing an increase in production in some continued its trend of growth during the present year as well. Mining, and Trade Ministry, IRNA reported. units active in the field of home appliances; also, according It’s been a while that the capital market in Iran had been According to Mohsen Salehinia, ISIPO plans to revive to the plans made and by solving the problems in the way unbelievably flourishing; we have been witnessing new record 1,500 units, mostly small and medium-sized enterprises of the production and industrial units, we will realize the highs continuously posted by the TSE since the year start, and (SMEs), in the current Iranian calendar year (ends in March motto of “surge in production” by the end of this year.” climbing to the peak of one million points, something almost 2021) of which so far 468 units have resumed operation, In late June, ILNA reported that ISIPO revived 211 idle unbelievable just some time ago, came true in early May. reviving 8,000 job opportunities. production units during the first three months of the current Such prosperous status of the capital market led to a highly Providing liquidity is the main issue for many of the Iranian calendar year (March 20-June 20). absorbing of liquidity. country’s production units, so based on the arrangements ISIPO managed to revive 1,185 idle production units As announced by the head of Iran’s Securities and Exchange made, these units can receive part of their needed liquidity across the country during the past Iranian calendar year Organization (SEO), the amount of liquidity absorbed by through bank facilities, the official said. to the country’s production and industry,” Salehinia added. (ended on March 19), according to Ali-Asghar Mosaheb, Iran’s capital market reached 500 trillion rials (about $12 “Currently, the share of the country’s production and Given the position of production in the country’s economy ISIPO deputy head for small industries affairs. billion) during the first quarter of the current year (March industrial units in receiving bank facilities is about 31 percent and employment, and the fact that production units are facing According to the official, the mentioned units returning 20-June 20). and it is necessary to allocate a larger share of banking facilities lack of liquidity to supply raw materials and equipment, it to operation created direct jobs for 21,618 persons. Hasan Qalibaf-Asl said, “It is while the total amount of liquidity entered into this market stood at 300 trillion rials (about $7.14 billion) during the past year.” But since two weeks ago, when the stock market experi- enced some trend of falling, the liquidity is being exited from TCCIMA inks co-op MOU with Iran-Turkey Joint Chamber this market, and some experts say that such exit of liquidity ECONOMY TEHRAN – Tehran two neighbors. the framework of this memorandum the that the chamber plans to open an office will increase the inflation rate. deskChamber of Commerce, Speaking in the signing ceremony, He- two sides would access information about in Turkey after the travel restrictions due In an interview conducted by the Tasnim news agency Industries, Mines and Agriculture (TCCIMA) samedin Hallaj, TCCIMA deputy head for each other’s companies and the problems in to the coronavirus outbreak are removed. last week, Shayan Zahrakar, a capital market expert, said has signed a memorandum of understanding the international affairs, noted that the the way of the traders of the two countries “We are looking to open the office of that when the liquidity is bringing out of the capital market, (MOU) with Iran-Turkey Joint Chamber Tehran chamber of commerce has fo- will be identified and resolved. the Iran-Turkey Joint Chamber in Istanbul it will lead to higher inflation. of Commerce for cooperation in drawing cused its efforts on developing relations “We are trying to draw a roadmap for after the normalization of travel conditions “Without the support of the government, it could not be a roadmap for expansion of trade between with the neighboring countries, adding: the expansion of the relations between the [resulted from the coronavirus outbreak] expected that there will be again the long lines of investors the two countries. “Iran and Turkey have had good relations two countries by using the capacities of the between Iran and Turkey.” for buying shares at the stock market and the money flowing As reported by the TCCIMA portal, the in recent years and now Tehran chamber Tehran Chamber and the Joint Chamber,” He also noted that the Iran-Turkey Joint from the parallel markets to the capital market”, he noted. MOU is aimed at developing the trade re- of commerce intends to put the expansion Hallaj stressed. Chamber’s ranking has upgraded from 28 Majid Mohammad Alizadeh, another capital market ex- lations between the two countries’ private of these relations on the agenda through Elsewhere in the meeting, Mehrdad Saa- to gold according to the evaluations of the pert, told IRNA in another interview that the government’s sectors, mainly by exploring opportunities this memorandum.” dat Dehghan, the chairman of the Iran-Tur- Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, support can surely bring growth back to the stock market. for boosting economic ties between the He further expressed hope that under key Joint Chamber of Commerce, noted Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA). I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y AUGUST 22, 2020 ENERGY 5

Iran expected to export 1st oil cargo OPEC+ needs to fix daily oversupply of more than 2m from Jask terminal by Mar. 2021 barrels, document shows Some members of the OPEC+ group of oil-producing nations would need to slash output by an extra 2.31 million barrels per ENERGY TEHRAN – The head The PEDEC’s goal is to export the day (bpd) to make up for their recent oversupply, an internal deskof Iran’s Petroleum En- first oil cargo from Jask oil terminal in OPEC+ report seen by Reuters shows. gineering and Development Company the last month of the current Iranian The surplus seen between May and July ought to be compen- (PEDEC) has said that considering pro- calendar year (starts on February 19, sated for in August and September, the report said. gress in Goreh-Jask oil pipeline project, 2021). OPEC+ - which includes members of the Organization of the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) Goreh-Jusk oil pipeline project was Petroleum Exporting Countries and other producers including will be able to export its first oil cargo inaugurated in late June by President Russia - stepped up their joint output cuts to a record 9.7 million from Jask terminal by the end of the Hassan Rouhani. bpd in May before tapering them to 7.7 million bpd this month. current Iranian calendar year (March The pipeline will transfer one million In April the impact of the new coronavirus on air and road 20, 2021). barrels of heavy and light crude oils per travel and other areas of the global economy sent benchmark oil According to Touraj Dehqani, the day to Jask oil terminal in the southern prices below $16 a barrel. development of the project is going on Hormozgan Province to be exported. The ongoing spread of the virus is now threatening oil demand uninterrupted and the project has reached Addressing the inaugural ceremony recovery forecasts. over 50 percent of physical progress, of the project, the Oil Minister Bijan The internal report seen by Reuters did not say how the ad- IRNA reported. Namdar Zanganeh said this project was ditional cuts would be distributed over August and September. “With the main pumping stations of one of the most strategic projects in the But if the 2.31 million bpd figure is adopted and spread equally the project going operational, we will Rouhani administration. over the two months, it would take OPEC+ oil cuts to about 8.85 witness the beginning of the oil transfer Zanganeh said a total of $300 million million bpd. from Goreh to Jask by the end of the has so far been invested in the project The report shows OPEC+ expects oil demand in 2020 to fall by year,” Dehqani said. while another $800 million to $850 9.1 million bpd, 100,000 bpd more than in its previous forecast, “Of course, like other parts of the million is needed for its full operation. before rising by 7 million bpd in 2021. project, Jask export terminal itself has “We hope that exports from Jask will However, OPEC+ also see an alternative scenario in which developed and progressed,” he added. begin as the government’s most strategic a stronger and more-prolonged second wave of infections hits The official noted that if the re- were not ready by the end of the year, single-point-mooring (SPM) storing the project by the end of this [calendar] year Europe, the United States, India and China in the second half quired storages at the Jask terminal alternative options such as the use of oil will be on the agenda. (March 20, 2021),” the minister noted. of the year. Under this scenario, demand is forecast to fall by 11.2 million bpd in 2020, sending OECD commercial oil inventories in the fourth quarter to 233 million barrels above the latest 5-year av- Technology could end oil age: Zanganeh erage, the report showed. TEHRAN (Shana) — Iranian Oil Minister Bijan Namdar has now seen a 2.5-fold jump having reached 700 mcm/d. Stocks would stand at 250 million barrels above the latest Zanganeh said the end of the oil age would be caused by He also said that during this period, 26 offshore platforms, 5-year average in 2021. the introduction of new technologies rather than the end 228 wells, 2,160 km of sea pipelines and 30 refining trains Data shows among OPEC members, Iraq and Nigeria were of oil reserves. had been commissioned in the massive field. the least compliant and even the United Arab Emirates, which Speaking in a televised interview on Wednesday evening, Regarding Phase 11 development plan, he noted the with- made additional voluntary cuts in June, overproduced by around he underlined the role of technological advances in replacing drawal of Total and CNPC International from the project, 50,000 bpd over the May-July period. new and renewable energies in the world, saying: “Person- adding Petropars, the Iranian partner of a consortium to Among non-OPEC participants, Russia and Kazakhstan over- ally, I think we should do our best to produce maximum develop the phase, is scheduled to drill the first well in the produced by 280,000 bpd and 190,000 bpd, respectively. oil; The development of technology is increasing day by day phase by fall. and we may reach a point where oil can no longer compete “We hope that gas be transferred to onshore facilities U.S. oil, gas rigs rise by one with new energies.” within a year,” he said, adding the contract to develop Farzad He said oil revenues must be deposited in the national gas field would also be signed this calendar year to March to 289 on week, as Permian development fund of Iran (NDFI) so that the resources could 20, 2021. be used for developing projects such as petrochemical plants, We must be ready for the post-sanctions era rigs hit 11-year low petro-refineries and other industries. In response to a question about the possibility of fluid “If we do not produce oil today, maybe one day we will migration in joint fields, the oil minister did not rule out The U.S. oil and gas rig count rose by one to 289 on the week, need to get international permission to sell oil (in terms this possibility, and said: “In some joint fields, the area of rig data provider Enverus said Aug. 20, while Permian Basin of the environment),” he said. “We must also produce the the field on the opposite side is much larger than ours. At rigs dropped to an 11-year low in the West Texas/New Mexico play. maximum amount of natural gas, because endorsement the same time, it should be noted that despite the sanctions, Zanganeh noted that oil prices have now risen by more The Permian, which has produced oil and gas for about a century, of alternative energies by the society is not going to take a in which no one is willing to work with us, great work has than $30 compared to May and that the continuation of this clocked in with 128 rigs for the week ended Aug. 19, down one. But hundred years.” been done in various sectors of the oil industry and good trend would depend on economic conditions. as recently as the first week of March, 428 rigs – 300 more than Increased production capacity of joint oil fields capacities have been created.” “OPEC reports indicate that economic growth in coun- currently – were working in the basin, Enverus data show. The Oil Minister touched on the productivity and de- There is no going back tries other than China is negative and still this prediction The week’s Permian rig volume is the lowest since August 2009, velopment of joint oil and gas fields, and said: “Our most Referring to the significant progress of oil industry in Iran, has not changed given the circumstances of the corona a time when unconventional drilling for oil was in its infancy and important joint oil fields in terms of volume and importance Zanganeh said: “There is no going back. The oil industry, outbreak.” the industry was recovering from the Great Recession, which began of reserves are located in the west of Karoun River. Our daily in terms of management, services and equipment, is not To the question that it is said that the United States wants in December 2007. production capacity in these fields in 2013 was about 70,000 comparable to 20 years ago. At that time we could not do to prevent export of Iran’s petroleum products to Venezuela, Although the Permian is both the largest U.S. oil producing basin barrels, which has now reached about 400,000 barrels; one meter of offshore pipe laying and now we can lay one and has already seized a shipment, and whether Iran would and players there call it one of the most economic, upstream opera- That means an increase of about 6 times in seven years.” kilometer of pipes into the sea in one day. Today we can still continue this cooperation under these circumstances, tors are being prudent during the current period of low crude prices Zanganeh, stating that during this period only about 150 build the most complex oil rigs inside the country. When he stated: “Our cargo was not confiscated. The shipment caused by the coronavirus pandemic, Matt Andre, an analyst with wells have been drilled in South Azadegan field, continued: Total held Phase 11 tenders, all the winners were Iranian belonged to Venezuela, we had sold it free on board (FOB).” S&P Global Platts Analytics, said. “The daily oil production capacity of Azar joint field will companies, but due to Trump’s malice, those contracts with The official added: “The United States wanted to declare “We think producers are practicing capital discipline,” Andre said. soon reach 60,000 barrels and we will officially announce Iranian companies were not enforced.” a success with this news and say that they have hit Iran, as “Second-quarter 2020 earnings talked a lot about maintenance mode it; the contract for the development of Azar and West Paydar Countdown starts for inauguration of largest if they needed it very much. After all, this is a war and both for the oil plays and although $40/b WTI may be above breakeven, fields has also been signed; the contract for Forouzan and APG processing facilities sides are working against each other.” it’s not the profit they’re looking for.” Resalat fields has also been signed in recent days in the In another part of his interview, the oil minister said the Iran, largest petrol exporter in region “Coming out of an oil price collapse, we believe producers are being form of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC). operation of launching the largest facility for collecting and Zanganeh pointed out that Iran’s daily gasoline production extremely conservative with their money,” he added. He expressed hope that in the future, the daily oil produc- processing associated gases in Khuzestan province, namely capacity has increased from 56 million liters at the beginning WTI, which had been hanging just below $50/b at the beginning tion capacity the West Karoun fields cluster would exceed the Persian Gulf Bidboland gas refining project, has begun of the Rouhani administration to the current figure of 107 of March, plummeted to the teens in April and was still in the $20s/b one million barrels, and said: “In this regard, recovery rate in Behbahan. $3 billion has been spent to build the refinery million liters per day. in early May. Prices are currently in the low $40s/b – enough for most is very important because in this region due to special ge- which can receive about 2 billion cubic feet of gas, which is “At the beginning of this administration, Iran was one of public producers to maintain current production and meet financial ology and fluid type, recovery rate is low and currently the equivalent to two phases of South Pars, daily, and sweeten, the largest importers of gasoline and diesel and one of the goals for now. Petroleum Institute of the University of Tehran is specifically separate and send them as feedstock petrochemical plants. US threats was to prevent the import of gasoline to Iran; The domestic rig count, which troughed at 279 in mid-July, has now studying the Azadegan field in order to find ways to increase Oil market and the coronavirus Iran currently exports both gasoline and diesel, and there crept slightly off the bottom but remains at historic lows. It appears to oil recovery rate in this field. The results of the studies of Asked about the future of the oil market due to the corona- is evidence to believe that Iran is the largest exporter of have roughly stabilized as it seeks its next range while industry pauses this body show that a 10% increase in the recovery rate of virus pandemic and the global economic downturn, Zanganeh gasoline in the region.” drilling to focus on maintaining production before launching more Azadegan is possible.” said: “The situation in the oil market has not recovered yet, 4-fold leap in export of petroleum products well completions later this year. Drilling of the 1st south pars phase 11 well by fall but with the action taken by OPEC (Organization of the The Minister of Petroleum pointed to a fourfold jump in So far in August, the domestic rig count is flat with the 287 July Zanganeh further referred to South Pars as the world’s Petroleum Exporting Countries), which I think was an im- the export of petroleum products, and added: “The annual average. At its lowest, it was down 67 percent from early March levels. largest gas reserve, saying Iran’s production capacity from portant step, Brent crude is now above $45 a barrel, which exports of products have increased from about 5.8 to 5.9 For the week ended Aug. 19, oil rigs gained one for a total of 201, the gas field was 280 million cubic meters back in 2013 which is not a price in jeopardy.” million tons in 2012 to nearly 23 million tons currently.” while gas rigs held steady at 88. “In our last update, we noted that private operators were helping to put a floor in on total U.S. land horizontal activity and that trend continued again last week,” investment bank Tudor Pickering Holt said in an Aug. 17 investor note. The oil industry’s biggest weakness is its reliance on China “However, those gains were more than offset by public operators By Irina Slav China, the default buyer of the world’s oil, as people remained reluctant to spend amid collectively continuing to curtail activity, with ExxonMobil – the largest was now selling it, after having bought it on still heightened uncertainty about the future. U.S. land horizontal rig operator – continuing to lead the charge lower.” Whenever the commodity cycle reaches a the cheap in the spring. While the selling can Although not as vital as it is for the U.S., con- By the week ended Aug. 7, ExxonMobil had just 29 rigs running trough, all eyes turn to China. Asia’s biggest hardly be called the beginning of a trend, it did sumer spending is an essential indicator of in Q3, compared with 47 rigs on average in Q2, said TPH, which uses powerhouse has through years of explosive represent an unforeseen event in an industry any economy’s recovery, so that reluctance both Enverus data and its own research in calculating rig counts. For growth become the top—or one of the top— already rocked by unforeseen events this year. to spend was counted towards the downward the same two respective quarters, EOG Resources had five rigs, as importers of many commodities, leading the China is not obligated to keep buying oil at risks for oil demand. opposed to 10, Diamondback Energy had 13 compared with seven, producers of these commodities to base their this pace forever. If it suits it, China could take Then there is the already present fuel glut and Concho Resources had nine rigs versus 12. own growth strategies on China’s insatiable advantage of the higher prices and sell this in Asia, caused by none other than Chinese Enverus data shows that for the week ended Aug. 19, most of the appetite. Nowhere is this truer than in oil oil, in competition with the rest of the sellers. refineries. Higher oil import quotas, low oil eight most prominent unconventional basins registered changes of and gas. And now the pandemic has bared There is a congestion of oil tankers at the prices, and strong pre-crisis demand led to just one rig up or down. The exceptions were the Haynesville Shale the shaky foundation of this dependence. moment in Chinese ports. For weeks now, this glut, and it came back to bite its makers in East Texas/Northwest Louisiana, up two to 37, and the Marcellus It could hardly be argued that China is an degree of certainty that if it was not for China, according to a Wall Street Journal report, tank- with falling margins and, most recently, a wave Shale mostly in Pennsylvania, which at 25 rigs remained the same important factor in the oil markets. It is the prices would have slumped a lot lower. In ers have been piling up at the ports, waiting of refinery shutdowns across Asia as demand week on week. second-largest consumer of crude oil—most that, the country shined as what some have to unload in what in some cases are already continued to stall. The round of Q2 earnings conference calls that finished in early of which it imports—and the second-largest called “the Asian tooth fairy”. full storage tanks. According to brokers that On the positive news front, there are ex- August brought some badly needed confidence to an industry wracked LNG importer in the world. This has turned But even this tooth fairy’s storage space the WSJ cited, the pileup is made up of at pectations that an ambitious infrastructure by months of uncertainty from low oil demand in the wake of the the country into a natural focus of growth is finite and as global storage filled up with least 80 tankers, more than half of the Very spending program devised by Beijing to jump- pandemic. Operators that had curtailed oil output as wells became strategies in the oil and gas industry. Every unsold—and unsellable—crude, so did Chi- Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), each with a start the economy will push up demand for at uneconomic at prices not seen in 20 years, by early August had re- oil demand forecast and every gas demand na’s, raising questions about how long it could capacity to ship 2 million barrels of crude. least diesel to a record high this year. stored the bulk of their volumes, and began, or planned, to restart forecast inevitably has China specifically— continue to soak up the world’s excess crude. The world’s top crude oil importer seems to Will that be enough to keep Chinese oil some limited drilling and well completions. and Asia more generally—as the drivers of China’s crude oil imports over the first half have nowhere to put the oil it ordered earlier imports as strong as they were during the In short, some of the former clouds of invisibility on H2 2020 had future growth. of the year rose by some 10 percent from the this year in hopes that demand for fuel would second half of the year? We have yet to see. begun to lift during the calls, allowing operators to look forward to The pandemic has not changed this. Asia, sale period of 2019. The latest data suggests increase quickly. So, one of the many unpleasant truths what they believe will be a more solid year in 2021. and China in particular, are still seen as drivers they have continued to be robust in July, even “The swift increase in imports in recent about the modern world that the coronavirus Rig providers, particularly the largest drillers, indicated that Q3 of future oil and gas demand growth. as they slipped 3 percent from June. On top months is an optimistic sign for the global has bared is the oil industry’s dangerously rig counts will be down sequentially. investment bank Credit Suisse The problem is, this growth will not be as of that, reports emerged that Chinese state oil economy. However, the pace has been so quick strong reliance on a single source of demand said. For Q3, Patterson-UTI and Helmerich and Payne each came robust as analysts forecast before the crisis. companies had booked tankers for at least 20 that it has challenged the logistical capabilities growth. Effectively, oil exporters have got- in at declines of around 28 percent quarter on quarter, and Nabors What is more, this growth will be delayed, million barrels of U.S. oil this month and next. of Chinese ports,” said OilX analysts earlier ten used to putting most of their eggs in the Drilling at 19 percent lower for the three month period, investment potentially wreaking havoc with companies’ So far, so good. But there is always a but. this month in comments on early Chinese Asian basket, and this has backfired. In all bank Credit Suisse said. near-term plans. In July, Bloomberg reported that China had oil import data. fairness, oil demand has been devastated “These guides roughly approximate our expectation for a 25 per- China gobbled up millions of barrels of oil started selling crude oil from its storage. Now, Indeed, demand for oil in China rebounded across the world, not just in Asia. Yet the cent sequential decline ... but represent significant improvements when prices fell in March and continued to this piece of information had the potential to quickly to about 90 percent of its pre-crisis hit from Asia—and specifically China—has from the Q3 quarter-to-date average,” the bank said in an Aug. fall through May. One could say with a decent shake up global markets like nothing else. level, but then things began to slow down, been particularly painful. 7 investor note. I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y 6 ADVERTISEMENTS AUGUST 22, 2020 TEHRAN TIMES Iran’s Leading International Daily Advertising Dept

The Tehran Times new pocket-sized glossary is now available on the market. The reader-friendly is a rich source of the most common journalistic terminology collected by the daily’s retired staff. Tel: 021 - 430 51 430 It can benefit a wide range of tastes from students to professional journalists. Persian equivalents have been given for all entries, including idioms and expressions. The [email protected] glossary also includes example sentences for entries the authors thought it would be a bit difficult to learn. For more information contact: tehrantimes79 Tel: 021 - 430 51 430 tehrantimes79 [email protected] I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y AUGUST 22, 2020 ANALYSIS/INTERVIEW 7 Special Tribunal for Lebanon failed to provide U.S. policies towards Iran must be understood in evidence for its claims: Lebanese analyst terms of Israeli lobby:

By Mohammad Mazhari assassination, the March 14 alliance ex- Senate candidate sought to exploit the incident, through TEHRAN — After 15 years of work, a political accusation against Syria at the “The Europeans are increasingly on August 19, the Special Tribunal for beginning and Hezbollah lately. disenchanted with Washington’s Lebanon handed down its verdict on the Accordingly, many considered that Hariri assassination charges. the court had become a tool consumed by Zionist war drum beating” The judgment was initially scheduled this alliance to the maximum extent, the to be delivered in May but was delayed aim of which was to blockade Damascus BY Mohammad Mazhari twice—first due to the coronavirus pan- and later to surround Hezbollah inside demic and second as a gesture of solidarity Lebanon. TEHRAN — Mark Dankof, a former U.S. Senate candidate, for the victims of the massive explosion Despite the content of the verdict is- says Washington’s policies towards Iran must be understood in in Beirut on August 5, which devastated sued by the international court, there terms of the Israeli lobby stranglehold on American presidential the city. are those within the March 14 alliance administrations. In this regard, Maher al-Khatib, a which sought to go far in interpreting it, On Thursday, the Trump administration formally demanded Lebanese writer, tells the Tehran Times by emphasizing that it deals with Hez- the UN Security Council to reinstate all UN sanctions against that the Special Tribunal for Lebanon bollah as a political organization, which Iran, sparking an immediate confrontation with Russia and other has politicized Rafic Harir’s assassina- is identical to the positions issued by members of the Security Council, who called the U.S. move illegal. tion case. “The court failed to provide some regional and international parties. The United States claims that under the Security Council evidence for its claims,” he argues. “It In light of the international tri- resolution approving the agreement, it retains the right, as an failed to provide evidence for its claims.” bunal’s statement, do you expect an in- initial party, to invoke the provision to “reinstate” the sanctions. Following is the full text of the in- ternationalization of the Beirut blast? But Russia, China, Britain, France, Germany and virtually terview: After the verdict issued by the Inter- everyone country on the council say the Trump administration has What is your comment on the ver- national Tribunal, many political forces no right since it is no longer a party to the Joint Comprehensive dict issued by the Special Tribunal for and features affiliated with the March Plan of Action, or JCPOA. Lebanon? 14 alliance considered that it has proved U.S. action sets the stage for a confrontation that could lead A: It is not possible to understand the that the court was not politicized, on the to a credibility crisis for the Security Council. verdict of the International Tribunal for basis that they did not incriminate all the In this regard Dankof, a broadcaster for The Ugly Truth Pod- Lebanon, without returning to the full individuals mentioned in the prosecution. cast, tells the Tehran Times that there is no logical rationale for path that it went through over the past So, they tried to use it as a justifica- U.S. counterproductive lunacy. years and before that the process that the previously known but in a softer way. Therefore, it will not have any reac- tion to support their call for the inter- “It must be understood in terms of the Israeli lobby strangle- international investigation commissions Given Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah’s tion to the verdict issued by the court; nationalization of the investigation on hold on American presidential administrations,” Dankof adds. have gone through. statements, what will be the response of however, its silence is an affirmation of the Beirut blast. Following is the full text of the interview: The two paths showed the fact that Hezbollah to the court’s ruling? its previous position on it, which means On the other hand, the March 8 alli- The UN Security Council has rejected the U.S. proposal the court was highly politicized, and the A: A few years ago, Hezbollah an- that it does not recognize the court and ance saw that the verdict issued by the to extend the Iran arms embargo. In this regard, Senator Chris verdict of the hearing session confirmed nounced that it was dealing with the its verdict. court, regardless of being politicized or Murphy (D-CT) said, “It wasn’t a defeat. It was a rout.” What is this. International Tribunal on the basis that How did the March 14 alliance has not, indicates that the Lebanese judicial your opinion? For the most part, it presented just it did not exist, after it was turned into a tried to use the International Tribunal to organs can reach better results and faster. A: It was a deserved rout and an absolute embarrassment a political analysis of the process of the political tool in the hands of the United undermine Hezbollah’s status in Lebanon They insist on refusal to go to the in- and foreign policy catastrophe for the United States. I am among Lebanese events before 2005. States of America and Israel, in addition to during the past years? ternationalization of cases in Lebanon. those on the American Right who supported and still support The court reached certain conclusions other international and regional powers. A: From the first day of the Hariri Based on Lebanon’s current political JCPOA. Pat Buchanan and David Stockman are two other ex- underlining that Hezbollah and the Syrian balances today, which are different from amples, Stockman having written an outstanding defense of the state had an interest in the assassination From the first day of the Hariri the conditions of Hariri ‘s assassination treaty in several places. He has also rightly attacked Trump for of Hariri. assassination, the March 14 alliance sought in 2005, I rule out the option of interna- the Soleimani assassination. However, the court failed to provide tionalizing investigations on the Beirut In the end, the UN Security Council members know that the evidence for its claims. to exploit the incident, through a political port explosion. treaty is solid, undermined by the Israeli lobby’s control of the Consequently, what the court reached, accusation against Syria at the beginning However, Lebanon is ready to use in- United States’ foreign policy regardless of which political party takes power. in the end, maybe aimed at defending its and Hezbollah lately. ternational expertise, including French objectivity, while it presented what was and American. The illegitimate unilateral withdrawal of the Trump admin- istration from the deal broke the American word of honor not only to Iran but also to the other signatories. The notion that the United States insists it can continue to dictate policies on Iran and the JCPOA terms having withdrawn Could Saudi Arabia be parting ways with Pakistan? as a party to the deal is especially outlandish, and an insistence no one else outside of Mr. Trump’s Zionist entourage is buying. A growing schism between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan relations have been known for their depth and a bond How do you assess Trump’s “maximum pressure” policy has unfolded in recent weeks as tensions threaten of trust. on Iran? Was it successful? their strategic partnership. Over the decades, the two countries have worked A: It is an obvious failure. The Europeans are increasingly The problems began when Pakistani Foreign Minister together on various bilateral, regional, and global disenchanted with Washington’s Zionist war drum beating, and Shah Mahmood Qureshi hinted that he had lost faith forums. Pakistan is also a founding member of the the “maximum pressure” approach is simple and understandably in the Saudi-led Organization of Islamic Cooperation OIC, which was created in 1969. strengthening the Russian and Chinese political and economic (OIC), saying that if a high-level meeting was not held In this equation, Riyadh’s role remained most- relationship with Iran at American expense. to discuss the Kashmir crisis then other options, such ly economic, while Islamabad was more focused on Do you think that the rest of the world, including the Euro- as meetings with other Islamic countries, would be providing support on the security front. Since the pean countries, will cooperate with Trump’s administration to explored. 1960s, Pakistani troops have had a sizable presence ruin the nuclear deal by triggering “snapback” sanctions on Iran? Since August last year, Pakistan has pushed for in the oil-rich state and have provided assistance and A: With the exception of the UK, I believe the other European action, when India revoked the Muslim-majority re- training to the Saudi military. Furthermore, some powers will balk at this idea. The German resistance to illegitimate gion’s special status, but with limited success. The 70,000 Pakistani nationals are estimated to serve in American interference with the Nord Stream 2 deal with Russia is OIC has only held low-level meetings on the Kashmir Saudi Arabia’s armed forces. both an example of a reassessment of post-war American dictation crisis despite Islamabad’s demands. It was unusual, Having had a bilateral security cooperation agreement of policy to Europe, a situation that will exacerbate resentment however, that Qureshi voiced such forceful opinions since 1982, Islamabad has assisted the Kingdom in of American dictation on Iran policy and JCPOA, and eventually publicly. defense production capabilities, and Pakistani special force a reassessment of NATO and neo-conservative militarism Irked by these comments, Riyadh did not issue forces were often appointed to guard the royal fami- with India have recently received a massive boost, toward Russia in the post-Cold War world where the Reagan-Bush an official statement, but Saudi ex-ambassador to ly. Saudi pilots and soldiers have also received their which may partly explain Riyadh’s reluctance to be I pledges to Gorbachev have been systematically broken in the Pakistan, Ali Awadh Asseri, responded with an article training in Pakistan or from the troops stationed in proactive in Kashmir. This is a major discrepancy same way that the American promises on JCPOA have been. in Arab News. the Kingdom in training and advisory roles. between the two allies, as drawing attention to the It is beginning to dawn on Europeans that the Zionist neo-con- Notably, when the Saudi-led Islamic Military Al- Kashmir crisis is a top priority for Pakistan. servative foreign policy on both Iran and Putin’s Russia makes Pakistan has pushed for liance to Fight Terrorism (IMAFT) was launched in Since 2014, ties between Riyadh and New Delhi have them more vulnerable and far less secure. It is my hope that a 2015, the ex-armed forces chief of Pakistan, General been on an upward trajectory, and on his maiden trip comatose American electorate eventually figures this out in terms action on Kashmir since Raheel Sharif, was asked to head the 41-nation army. to India last year, Mohammed bin Salman discussed of their own self-interest and national security. August last year when India On the economic front, Riyadh has helped Islam- investment plans worth over $100 billion. India’s On May 8, 2018, the United States withdrew from the Joint abad in times of financial crisis or during sanctions. Reliance Industries, the largest private-sector cor- Comprehensive Plan of Action (the nuclear deal) unilaterally revoked the Muslim-majority In addition, nearly three million Pakistanis work in poration in the country, intends to sell 20 percent of while Iran was committed to its obligations. Now Trump tries region’s special status. Kingdom and send home remittances to the tune of its shares to Saudi Aramco, making it one of India’s to use the deal to unite the other signatories against Iran? What up to $8 billion every year. largest foreign direct investment deals. kind of logic is this? “Where does FM Qureshi’s diatribe stand after Saudi Arabia has long been suspected of bankrolling For the moment, Saudi Arabia will have to delicately A: There is no logical rationale whatsoever for this counter- this? Will PM Imran Khan remind him to be careful Pakistan’s nuclear program and was among the few balance its ties with India and Pakistan, nuclear rivals productive lunacy. It must be understood in terms of the Israeli in future, as any damage to our brotherly ties goes countries that congratulated Islamabad after its first and neighbors who have fought several deadly wars lobby stranglehold on American presidential administrations, against our respective national interests and public nuclear trials in response to India’s nuclear tests in over the Kashmir crisis. Congress, and mainstream media (MSM) in the United States. aspirations?” he wrote. the late 1990s. Likewise, any upgrade in ties between Pakistan and Trump is perhaps the worst example of this yet, in terms of an In the past, the 57-member OIC had supported Where the foreign policy is concerned, both coun- Iran will require extra vigilance to avoid a heavy-hand- absolute blank check being issued to Israel on Gaza, Lebanon, the Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir, and the OIC Contact tries issued a joint policy statement in 2014 expressing ed Saudi response. For decades, Pakistan’s foreign Occupied Territories, and East Jerusalem. This is not changed Group on Jammu and Kashmir, established in 1994, a common understanding of Kashmir, Afghanistan, policy has focused on balancing ties with Tehran and by the 2020 election year fraud of the American-brokered “deal” held a meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations Palestine, and other conflicts in the Middle East (West Riyadh on an equal footing. between Israel and the UAE, which does nothing for the Palestin- General Assembly in New York last year. Asia). Recently, China and Iran discussed the possibility ians at all. Netanyahu admitted that his annexation policies are The bilateral crisis escalated last week after Saudi Cracks appear of a strategic partnership, which, if it materializes, “still on the table.” You can be assured they will reappear after Arabia forced Pakistan to repay $1 billion given as part Over the years, both countries have also faced could see Iran joining the China Pakistan Economic the first Tuesday in November in the United States. of a $6.2 billion package announced in late 2018. The challenges in their close bilateral relationship, with Corridor (CPEC). On a trip to Pakistan last year, Saudi Do you expect that America will recognize the reality of a deal consisted of a $3 billion loan and $3.2 billion oil Riyadh in recent times flexing its influence over the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced large multi-polar world? credit facility, which was announced during Crown south Asian state. investments in Gwadar, and Islamabad will have to A: I do not believe that this reality has yet dawned on an Amer- Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Pakistan. In December, Saudi Arabia used its influence to balance relations with both rival countries delicately. ican National Security and foreign policy establishment drenched Riyadh is also yet to respond to Pakistan’s request to dissuade Pakistan from attending a Kuala Lumpur Moreover, in a new development, Riyadh has con- in false notions of Empire, and false doctrines of American and extend the oil credit facility, which expired last month. Summit, where 400 Muslim leaders, scholars, and structed a nuclear technology facility and started several Israeli Exceptionalism. A $26 trillion dollar national debt, the Soon after, the Saudi envoy to Pakistan met with thinkers from 52 countries convened to explore solu- joint nuclear projects, including one to extract uranium rise of competing economies and military establishments around the Pakistani army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa. Over tions for problems that affect the Muslim world. Riyadh from seawater, with Chinese help. Therefore, Saudi the world, and an American domestic scene mired in the more the weekend, Bajwa visited Riyadh for prescheduled considered the event a direct challenge to the OIC. Arabia is getting closer to Beijing, which already has political and cultural division than I’ve ever witnessed in my military talks, but it was also a good opportunity for In 2015, both countries faced another divergence a growing footprint in the GCC region. Even the UAE lifetime suggest the obvious end of the post-WW II American some damage control. According to a statement from when Pakistan refused to join Saudi and Emirati forc- has inaugurated its first nuclear power plant in the Empire for reasons similar to the end of the old British Empire and Pakistan’s Army, the chief met his Saudi counterpart es in their military operations in Yemen, opting to Arab world with Chinese cooperation. the dissolution of the USSR. But the American political oligarchy to discuss “military to military ties, including training stay neutral as it did not want to aggravate sectarian In past Saudi Arabia had shown little interest in a seems presently oblivious to this obvious reality. exchanges.” issues at home. nuclear program, as Pakistan, the only nuclear Muslim What about former Trump’s national security advisor John The Pakistan Army Chief also met Saudi Deputy On a geopolitical level, Saudi business relations state, had always guaranteed the security of the Holy Bolton, and his advocacy of a “maximum pressure” policy on Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman who later Sites in Saudi Arabia and helped in military matters. Iran, as he expressed this in his recent interview with the BBC? tweeted, “Met today with my brother, H.E General Eventually, these moves could have implications for A: “John Bolton is an Apostle of World Zionism, the Israeli Qamar Bajwa, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff. We dis- Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Saudi-Pakistan relations. Even though Islamabad would government, and the Israeli lobby solely interested in a war for cussed bilateral relations, military cooperation, and have faced challenges in their remain a close defense ally, China has also become an Netanyahu and neo-conservative regime change in Iran. He ap- our common vision for preserving regional security.” close bilateral relationship, important strategic partner. proves of the Soleimani assassination and Marxist MEK terror A special relationship Sabena Siddiqui is a foreign affairs journalist, lawyer, operations in Iran and from the latter’s Troll Farm in Albania. His Over the decades, Saudi-Pakistan bilateral relations with Riyadh in recent times and geopolitical analyst specializing in modern China, ideas, if implemented, would likely ignite World War III. Innocent have remained strong and relatively stable. Initiated flexing its influence over the the Belt and Road Initiative, Middle East (West Asia), Americans would die alongside innocent Iranians and others. It is in 1940, when Saudi delegations visited leaders of the and South Asia. not illegitimate to tag him as a war criminal with a psychopathic All India Muslim League in Karachi, Saudi-Pakistan south Asian state. (Source: The New Arab) psychological profile. He is, simply put, a dangerous man.” I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y 8 HERITAGE & TOURISM AUGUST 22, 2020

A glimpse of Muharram On the occasion of mourning rituals across Iran: Bil Zani (Part 3/8) World Mosque Day One of the other Muharram rituals in South Khorasan prov- ince is Bil Zani. This is one of the ancient traditions that are 1 Here is a select of ten magnificent surrounded by beautifully tiled alcoves and on Iran’s national heritage list. Birjand and Khusf cities are mosques travelers should not miss while vis- porches, two vast iwans (porticos), and a the main centers for the ritual. iting the country: pleasingly proportioned prayer hall. Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque of The mosque is connected to a bazaar of Isfahan the same name and almost attached to a Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is a stunning bathhouse with a lane in between. As one example of intricate Iranian architecture, enters the mosque, they can see a corridor standing strong since the early 17th century. leading to the Vakil Bazaar on their left. It is also very famous for having a very pic- Blue Mosque of Tabriz turesque dome that makes extensive use of The Blue Mosque, known as Masjed-e delicate cream-colored tiles, changing color Kabud in Farsi, is one of the notable historic throughout the day from cream to pink. Some buildings standing tall in the northwestern say the sunset is usually the best time to city of Tabriz. The place of worship has witness the change. long been distinguished for the grandeur of The exterior panels boast collections of its intricate blue tilework and calligraphy arabesques and floral designs that have be- for which it is nicknamed. The ornament come a signature motif of the masterpiece. took artists about a quarter-century to The portal itself contains some stalactite-type cover every surface. stone carving used to decorate doorways and Completed in c. 1465 it is remarkable for window recesses with rich concentrations its simplicity, brickwork, and a great size of blue and yellow motifs. as well. The mosque survived a devastating The ritual shows unity amongst the people of the city. They Nasir al-Mulk Mosque of Shiraz earthquake in 1727. However, many parts gather in a place to hold the mourning ceremony. Then they The atmospheric Nasir al-Mulk Mosque of it caved in due to a quake struck later lift their bils (shovels) and move them in the air chanting the in the same century. Many parts of the sometimes referred to as the “Pink Mosque”, A painting by French architect Pascal Coste, who visited Isfahan in c. 1840, depicts name of Imam Ali (AS), Heydar Ali, simultaneously. This structure were rebuilt in 1973. situated in downtown Shiraz, southern Iran, the main courtyard and two iwans of the Imam Mosque (then the Shah Mosque) in the symbolic event reminds the procession ceremony of Imam Gohar Shad Mosque of Mashhad has long been a prime destination for inter- central Iranian city. Hussein (AS) companions during Ashura. national and domestic travelers. The name Situated within the holy shrine complex The origin “Pink Mosque” is driven from abundant Shah-e Cheragh Mosque of Shiraz during the rule of the Safavid King Shah Abbas of Imam Reza (AS) in Mashhad, the great The ritual of Bil Zani, also called Bil Gardani, is a reminder pink-colored tilework that dominates its Shah-e Cheragh (“King of Light”) is a major the Great who reigned from 1588 to 1629. mosque of Goharshad is a remarkable Is- of Banu Asad tribe. Three days after Ashura, Banu Asad tribe courtyard and exteriors facade. mausoleum and pilgrimage site in Shiraz. The mosque’s topmost dome was completed lamic structure due to its age, architectural reached Karbala and encountered the bodies of Imam Hussein When standing outside the mosque, you The dazzling shrine of mirrored tiles is where in the last year of his sovereignty. Visitors to characteristics, and rich tile decorations. (AS) companions. Then they dig the earth with their shovels may not guess what waits for you inside. Just Sayyed Mir Ahmad, one of the brothers of the mosque are mainly overwhelmed with Made of brick and plaster in the 15th and bury them. Bil Gardani in South Khorasan province is step in and discover the magic blend of the Imam Reza (AS), is laid to rest. Each day, it good views of the main dome with its glorious century, the monument used to be served a symbol of the event. light, color is interwoven with arabesque draws hundreds of the faithful from all over profusion of turquoise-shaded tiles. as a free-standing mosque and currently South Khorasan province is home to many historical and designs and tilework. the country or even abroad. Jameh Mosque of Yazd serves as one of the prayer halls of the natural attractions such as Birjand Castle, Dragon Cave, Furg Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah of The mausoleum boasts architectural el- Soaring above the old city of Yazd, the complex that is one of the tourism centers Citadel, and Polond Desert. It is also known for its famous Ardebil ements and motifs from various centuries 12th-century Jameh Mosque of Yazd (Mas- in the country and has been described as rugs as well as its saffron and barberry which are produced Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine and its courtyard and tilework represent jid-e Jameh) is graced with a tiled entrance “the heart of the Shia Iran”. in almost all parts of the province. Ensemble is a microcosm of Sufism where relatively modern embellishments from portal (one of the tallest in Iran), flanked by Agha Bozorg Mosque of Kashan arrays of harmonious sun-scorched domes, the late-Qajar period. Its blue-tiled dome two 48m-high minarets and adorned with Standing tall in the oasis city of Kashan, well-preserved and richly-ornamented fa- is flanked by dazzling gold-tipped minarets. inscriptions from the 15th century. the 19th-century mosque Agha Bozorg Bangladeshi envoy calls cades and interiors and, above all, an at- Imam Mosque of Isfahan The terms “Jameh Mosque” or “Masjed-e Mosque is simply one of many top desti- Zanjan tourist sites mosphere of peace and tranquility have all At the southern end of Isfahan’s main Jameh” or “Friday Mosque” is used in Iran for nations in central Iran that lure not only made a must-see stopover while traversing square stands the big, grand and impressive a grand communal mosque where mandatory the faithful but travelers and architecture ‘extraordinarily beautiful’ northwest Iran. Imam Mosque, which is not only impressive Friday prayers are performed: the phrase is buffs. It boasts a good-looking symmetry The ensemble is named after Sheikh Safi because of its sheer size and incredible used in other Muslim countries but only in in its traditional design that is embellished TOURISM TEHRAN – Bangladesh’s Ambassador to al-Din Ardebili (1253-1334), who was a Sufi decorations, but also helps to get a good Iran does it designate this purpose. by intricate plasterwork, woodwork, mir- deskTehran Gousal Azam Sarker traveled to philosopher and leader of Islamic mystic impression of the needs and challenges of Vakil Mosque of Shiraz rorwork, and geometric tilework patterns. the northwestern Zanjan province on Thursday, praising practices. It embodies the essence of Sufi always on-going restoration works. The Being in Shiraz without a visit to Mas- The massive structure includes sev- the province for its extraordinarily beautiful tourist sites. traditions by having a microcosmic ‘city’, craftsmanship continues and is intricate jed-e Vakil (Vakil Mosque), which is part eral congregational halls, adjoining ar- He considered the tourist attractions as one of the most which embraces a mosque, a madrasa, a with amazing views both on the façade and of a bigger 18th-century ensemble, may cades, tiled minarets, massive badgirs important capabilities and advantages of the tourism in- library, a cistern, a bathhouse, kitchens, a the interior. The monuments boast perfect be tantamount to a trip to Istanbul while (wind towers), and an austere dome. The dustry in the region. hospital, as well as religious houses amongst proportions and iconic blue-tiled mosaics. missing the Blue Mosque. The mosque has mud-brick walls, arches, and ceilings are The official paid visits to Rakhtshooy Khaneh Edifice others. The place also boasts a remarkable Originally named Masjed Shah (“the a recessed entrance decorated with Shirazi covered with Quranic inscriptions and Museum and Zolfaqari Archaeological Museum. collection of antique artifacts. Shah Mosque”), its construction began in 1611 rose-pink tiles, a splendid inner courtyard mosaics as well. During the visits, the ambassador proposed joint ventures in the field of tourism and handicraft exports, CHTN quoted provincial tourism chief Amir Arjomand as saying on Friday. Zanjan is one of the cities founded by Sassanid King Ar- Tasht Gozari ritual held observing health protocols dashir I (180-242 CE). The province makes a base for wider TEHRAN – The annual Muharram to the rhythm of a sung eulogy. explorations with the architectural wonder of Soltaniyeh, HERITAGE deskritual of Tasht Gozari was held at the After the ceremony, some men put the washtubs on their the subterranean delights of the Katale-Khor caves, colorful UNESCO-registered Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and heads and turn them among the people so that they can drink mountains, and the UNESCO-registered Takht-e Soleiman Shrine Ensemble in the northwestern province of Arde- the water, which is considered blessing water. ruins are nearby. bil on Wednesday, observing health protocols and social Despite the shortage of water, Imam Hussein (AS) asked In late January, Zanjan was designated as a “world city distancing rules. his companions to pour water they bring with themselves in of filigree” by the World Crafts Council after the WCC asses- Iranians, who are mostly Shia Muslims, hold special washtubs for Al-Hurr ibn Yazid al Tamimi, a commander of sors visited various craft workshops, stores, exhibits, and ceremonies during the first ten days of the lunar month of Yazid’s army, and his companions. This sacrifice made Hurr bazaars of the city in a two-day itinerary in last December. Muharram, which began on Friday, to commemorate the choose Imam Hussain (AS) over Yazid and fight for him. Filigree consists of curling, twisting, or plaiting fine, martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson Tasht Gozari ritual is usually held in three days, however, pliable metal threads and soldering them at their points of of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his 72 loyal companions. this year the ceremony was limited and with less time due contact with each other with a metal groundwork. While Iran is still fighting the coronavirus outbreak, this to the coronavirus outbreak. year’s Muharram mourning rituals across the country would The Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble Jameh Mosque of Saveh be different from previous years. is named after Sheikh Safi al-Din Ardebili (1253-1334), who Tasht Gozari is one of the most popular rituals in Ardebil was a Sufi philosopher and leader of Islamic mystic practic- variety of functions. undergoes partial and nearby cities. People gather mostly in the Jame Mosque es. Developed between the early 16th century and the end Sprawling on a high, windswept plateau, whose altitude of the city and fill some big washtubs with water and put of the 18th century, this place of spiritual retreat enjoys averages 3,000 meters above sea level, Ardebil is well-known restoration them in a corner of the mosque. Mourners then start the principal elements of traditional Iranian architecture to for having lush natural beauties, hospitable people, and its ceremony with Sineh-Zani [beating the chest] according make the best use of existing space for accommodating a silk and carpet trade tradition. HERITAGE TEHRAN – A partial restoration and ren- deskovation work has been commenced on the 12th-century Jameh Mosque of Saveh, which is sometimes referred to as “a museum of Islamic architecture”. Iranian police seize Parthian-era relics in southwest TOURISM TEHRAN – Iranian po- from Asia Minor to northern India, until they could spend weeks exploring. The province is desklice have recently confis- were overthrown by Sasanian armies from also a cradle for handicrafts and arts whose cated three historical relics from a home southwest Iran in the early third century CE. crafters inherited from their preceding gen- in Dehdez city, Izeh county, southwestern Parthian wealth obtained through lucra- erations. Khuzestan province. tive trade networks resulted in substantial Lying at the head of the Persian Gulf and The recovered objects have been esti- patronage of the arts, in particular, relief bordering Iraq on the west, Khuzestan was mated to date back to the Parthian era (247 sculpture, statuary (large and small scale), settled about 6000 BC by a people with af- BC – 224 CE), provincial tourism official architectural sculpture, metalwork, jewelry, finities to the Sumerians, who came from Ahmadreza Hosseini announced on Friday, and ceramics; coins with images of Parthian the Zagros Mountains region. Urban centers ILNA reported. rulers form another important category of appeared there nearly contemporaneously The clay objects include a water bottle objects. with the first cities in Mesopotamia in the and two small containers that were used to Izeh is home to three UNESCO World 4th millennium. Khuzestan, according to store spices and liquids, the official added. Heritage sites of Susa, Tchogha Zanbil, and Encyclopedia Britannica, came to constitute Establishing a primary residence at Mesopotamia, Parthian kings ruled for nearly Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System yet it the heart of the Elamite kingdom, with Susa Ctesiphon, on the Tigris River in southern half a millennium and influenced politics is a region of raw beauty where its visitors as its capital.

The rooftop of the mosque is the key element of the mosque Three neglected crafts revived in Eshtehard being restored through tasks such as applying a traditional TOURISM TEHRAN – Three fields of handicraft, back to prehistoric times. plaster of clay and straw; bandaging, cleansing, and plas- deskwhich were obsolete in Eshtehard city, Iran exported $523 million worth of handicrafts during tering, CHTN reported on Thursday. Alborz province, have recently been revived, a provincial the past calendar year 1398 (ended March 19). Of the figure, Sources say that the mosque has continuously been a busy tourism chief has said. some $273 million worth of handicrafts were exported offi- place of worship, yet has undergone restoration projects Forgotten fields of weaving Kilim, ruduzi (a kind of cially through customs, and about $250 million was earned since the time it was completed in the 12th century onwards. traditional embroidery) and seraji (a kind of traditional via suitcase trade (allowed for customs-free and tax-free The Seljuk-era Jameh Mosque of Saveh is still a big source leatherwork) have been brought back to life by organizing transfer) through various provinces. of charm for the faithful, sightseers, and buffs of history training courses, CHTN quoted Mohtaram Bidgoli as saying Back in May, deputy tourism minister Pouya Mahmoud- and Islamic architecture. It comprises a courtyard, porch, on Thursday. ian noted that due to the outbreak of coronavirus, suitcase minaret, dome, and two archaic altars ornamented with The courses were held observing health protocols and exports of handicrafts has been completely stopped since Kufic calligraphic works. social distancing rules, the official added. the month of Esfand (the last month of the Iranian calendar The mosque is named after Saveh, the in the central Iranian Alborz province is surrounded by Mazandaran, Tehran, year, started February 19), and official exports of handicrafts city. The terms “Jameh Mosque” or “Masjed-e Jameh” or Markazi, and Qazvin provinces. Its name is driven by the experienced a steep decline.” “Friday Mosque” is used in Iran for a grand communal mosque Alborz Mountains. The significant part of the mountains “Some 295 fields of handicrafts are currently practiced where mandatory Friday prayers are/were performed: the is located in the north part of the province. across Iran with more than two million people engaging, phrase is used in other Muslim countries but only in Iran Historical resources and documents as well as archeo- majority of whom are women… Handicrafts also play an does it designate this purpose. logical studies indicate that Alborz has a rich culture dating important role in the economy in our rural villages,” she said. I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y AUGUST 22, 2020 SOCIETY 9

Relief Foundation plans to support female- Climate change: ‘Unprecedented’ ice loss as headed households with home-based jobs Greenland breaks record Scientists say the loss of ice in Greenland lurched forward again SOCIETY TEHRAN — Imam about 33 percent of the country’s employment, desk last year, breaking the previous record by 15%. Khomeini Relief Foun- he further added. A new analysis says that the scale of the melt was “unprece- dation plans to extend home-based em- This year, 65 percent of employment op- dented” in records dating back to 1948, BBC reported. ployment programs in a bid to support fe- portunities will be opened up in rural areas to High pressure systems that became blocked over Greenland male-headed households. support economic resilience, he highlighted. last Summer were the immediate cause of the huge losses. Fifty-five percent of the families support- A total of 62 trillion rials (nearly $1.4 bil- ed by the Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation lion at the official rate of 42,000 rials) have are women heads of households, Seyed been allocated from banking resources, rural Morteza Bakhtiari, head of the Founda- employment, and others in this regard, he tion said on Thursday. said and expressed hope that the fund to be In this regard, the home-based employ- fully allocated. ment program in the form of small workshops Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation works is pursued as an essential element for the to provide employment in deprived areas empowerment of these women, he stated. and empowers financially struggling families, He went on to note that creating jobs and other services such as building or buying empowering the financially-struggling fam- housing, cultural services, medical services, ilies is the Foundation’s top priority so that and other facilities are provided, for example, 200,000 job opportunities will be created in the field of treatment, more than 80,000 But the authors say ongoing emissions of carbon are pushing for supported families this year. patients of incurable diseases are currently Greenland into an era of more extreme melting. Last year, the Relied Foundation launched under the Foundation’s coverage. Over the past 30 years, Greenland’s contribution to global sea levels has grown significantly as ice losses have increased. A major international report on Greenland released last De- cember concluded that it was losing ice seven times faster than Iranian women’s participation in research, it was during the 1990s. Today’s new study shows that trend is continuing. Using data from the Grace and Grace-FO satellites, as well development above global average as climate models, the authors conclude that across the full year SOCIETY TEHRAN — The participation of Iranian development is mostly due to their increasing share in Greenland lost 532 gigatonnes of ice - a significant increase on 2012. desk women in research and development is knowledge-based companies,” she highlighted. The researchers say the loss is the equivalent of adding 1.5mm higher than the global average, Masoumeh Ebtekar, the vice Overall, women account for a minority of the world’s to global mean sea levels, approximately 40% of the average president for women’s and family affairs has said, quoting researchers. Despite the growing demand for cross-na- rise in one year. the UNESCO 2020 report on Women in Science. tionally-comparable statistics on women in science, According to a calculation by Danish climate scientist Martin “Our women’s participation in research and development national data and their use in policymaking often re- Stendel, the 2019 losses would be enough to cover the entire UK has increased from 27.7 percent in 2019 to 31.2 percent this main limited. The UNESCO report presents global and with around 2.5 metres of melt water. year, which is above the global average of 30 percent,” she regional profiles, pinpointing where women thrive in Both last year and 2012 were marked by “blocking” events, wrote on her Twitter account on Thursday. this sector and where they are under-represented, the the researchers say, where disturbances in the jet stream saw “The increase in the share of women in research and UNESCO report reads. high pressure systems become stuck over Greenland, resulting in enhanced melting. “We seem to have entered a realm of more and more extreme melt in Greenland,” said lead author Dr Ingo Sasgen, from the National Doctor’s Day: a salute to our healthcare warriors Alfred Wegener Institute in Bremerhaven, Germany. 1 Not just a doctor, but a father and disease but also with our problems. that, his brother, Mohammad Javad Fakhri, to untying the knots of his patients’ problems, “It’s expected that something like the 2019 or 2012 years will Dr. Vahid Iravani, neurologist, born on For example, if the patient was an unem- had been martyred in 1983 in Iran-Iraq war. and he was a friend for his patients that even be repeated. And we don’t exactly know how the ice behaves in March 23, 1964, was graduated in general ployed young man, he was trying to find a Dr. Marzieh Pourakbari, his wife, em- gave up his life in serving the people. terms of feedback mechanisms in this vigorous range of melting.” medicine from Ahvaz Jondishapur University job,” she says. phasizing on his kindness and humanity and Dr. Shirin Niromanesh, his wife, who is also “There could be... hidden feedbacks that we are not aware of Medical Sciences, who did not give up A sincere person sought to help said that he always tried to provide services serving patients in obstetrics and gynecology about or that are maybe not perfectly described in the models humanity during the outbreak, not thinking others to those in need; he served at all times and in these days, says that the doctor had a very right now. That could lead to some surprises.” about his own life, and continued to serve Dr. Gholamreza Fakhri, an anesthesiol- all circumstances and never thought about gentle spirit and wanted to choose the field While 2019 broke the record, both 2018 and 2017 saw decreased the patients who came from far and near. ogist and intensive care specialist, was born money and salary. of pediatric surgery as a specialty, but due to ice losses, lower than any other two-year period since 2003. It was in the first days of March that he on January 21, 1971, in Bushehr city. “He was only eager to serve the patient. the Iran-Iraq war conditions, he chose the The authors say this was due to two very cold summers in developed symptoms of a cold, rested at He first studied general medicine at It was the love of service to others that made field of general surgery, because it seemed Greenland followed by heavy snows in autumn. home for a few days, and as soon as he got a Semnan University of Medical Sciences us remember him today as a heavenly man. that he might have been more able to serve However the return to high levels of melting in 2019 is a major little better, he went back to work. But this and then specialized at Isfahan University We lived together for about 24 years and I the wounded during the war. concern. Five of the years with the biggest mass loss have now recovery did not last long, the corona had of Medical Sciences. testify that he was not an ordinary man and The doctor was frequently present in the occurred in the past decade. penetrated the doctor’s body and involved A physician whose history of compas- sincerely sought to meet the needs of others,” front line hospitals over a four-year period “What really matters is the trend,” said Dr Ruth Mottram, his lungs. He became ill again, this time sionate service to patients is well known she said about Dr. Fakhri. during the war, and he served the war-wound- from the Danish Meteorological Institute in Copenhagen, who much more severely, his wife also became to his colleagues and patients. A person Always at the frontline ed around the clock, she added. wasn’t involved with this new study. ill and the two were hospitalized; but there who served in the field of intensive care Dr. Habibollah Peiravi, vascular surgery He visited many patients free of charge, “And that trend as shown through the Imbie (Ice Sheet Mass was no way back for the doctor and left us for patients with COVID-19 in Noorafshar specialist and former chancellor of Shahid and provided financial assistance to those Balance Inter-comparison Exercise) project and other work is on March 14. Hospital from the earliest days of the out- Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, born patients in need; his main concern was tracking the high end of projections.” Seyedeh Monireh Kazemi, his wife, says break, until finally martyred on April 17, on August 19, 1957, is one of the physicians to educate more knowledgeable students nothing but humanity when talking about him. after enduring 5 days in the ICU of Masih who fought against the epidemic but lost his and thought that the more capable his “His patients believe that Dr. Iravani Daneshvari Hospital. life on March 9. students were, the better prepared they LET’S LEARN PERSIAN Of course, martyrdom was not a new path A doctor who was not only a doctor, but were to serve the people, and this was his was not just a simple doctor, but just like (Part 6) (Source: saadifoundation.ir) a father, he helped not only with medicine for the family in which he grew up, and before according to his wife, dedicated his whole life reward, she said. Human consumption of the Earth’s resources declined in 2020 The rate at which humanity is consuming the Earth’s re- of the biological challenge we face,” said Mathis Wacker- but somehow in the ecological domain we think it’s okay. sources declined sharply this year as a result of the Covid-19 nagel, president of Global Footprint Network. Although We’ve only got one planet and that’s not going to change. pandemic, according to researchers. Wackernagel said this year’s data was encouraging, he We’ve got a very simple choice, one-planet prosperity or Consequently, Earth Overshoot Day, the point at called for further progress to be made “by design not one-planet misery.” which human consumption exceeds the amount nature by disaster”. Previous economic crises have seen the date pushed back can regenerate in a year, has moved back by over three The three week shift between the dates of Earth Over- temporarily, such as the 2007-08 financial crisis which saw weeks from 29 July in 2019 to 22 August this year. shoot Day in 2019 and 2020 represents the greatest ever the date retreat five days further into the year. According to research conducted by Global Footprint single-year shift since global overshoot began in the 1970s. David Lin, who leads the research team behind Earth Network, an international research organisation, coro- Since then, rising populations and increasing levels of Overshoot Day, explained: “This year it was particularly tricky navirus-induced lockdowns led to a 9.3% reduction in per capita consumption have seen Earth Overshoot Day because we wanted to give an indication of how Covid-19 humanity’s ecological footprint compared with the same move earlier into the year, with the date arriving in July affected 2020 results”. period last year. However, in order to keep consuming for the first time in 2019. Lin’s research found that there was a major drop in CO2 ecological resources at our current rate we would still “It’s a Ponzi scheme, we’re using up the future to pay emissions (down 14.5% compared with the same period need the equivalent of 1.6 Earths. for the present,” said Wackernagel. “Most countries have in the previous year), and in commercial forestry (down “Earth Overshoot Day is a way to illustrate the scale pretty strict laws about businesses running Ponzi schemes 8.4% on 2019).

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20,000 residential units to be احداث ۲۰ هزار واحد مسکونی برای محرومان constructed for the deprived بــه گــزارش خبرگــزاری مهــر تفاهــم نامــه مشــترک بــرای احــداث The Welfare Organization and the Islamic Revolution ۲۰ هــزار واحــد مســکونی بــرای محرومــان بیــن بنیــاد مســکن انقــاب Housing Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding اســامی و ســازمان بهزیســتی کشــور منعقــد شــد. MOU) to construct 20,000 housing units for the financially) تفاهــم نامــه احــداث ۲۰ هــزار واحــد مســکونی روســتایی بــا .struggling families, Mehr reported حضــور علیرضــا تابــش رئیــس بنیــاد مســکن انقــاب اســامی و Alireza Tabesh, the Foundation’s head, and Vahid Qobadi وحیــد قبــادی دانــا رئیــس ســازمان بهزیســتی کشــورروز دوشــنبه Dana, the Organization’s head, inked the MOU during a بــه امضــا رســید. .meeting held in Tehran on Monday قبــادی دانــا گفــت: ایــن تفاهــم نامــه بــه منظــور ســاخت ۲۰ هــزار As per the agreement, 20,000 housing units will be provided واحــد مســکونی بــرای معلولیــن سرپرســت خانــوار، زنــان سرپرســت ,to breadwinners with disabilities, breadwinner women خانــوار، و بهبودیافتــگان از بــای اعتیــاد کــه در روســتاها و and the ex-addicts under the Organization’s coverage شــهرهایی بــا جمعیــت کمتــر از ۲۵ هــزار نفــر ســاکن و تحــت ,residing in villages with a population of less than 25,000 پوشــش بهزیســتی هســتند؛ منعقــد می شــود. .Qobadi Dana explained I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y 10 INTERNATIONAL AUGUST 22, 2020 Iraqi resistance groups threaten to target U.S. Israel principal threat to security in Middle East: Nasrallah interests in case of no deal on troops pullout

The secretary general of the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance Iraqi resistance groups threaten to tar- (IRGC), and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the movement has called Israel the greatest threat to peace and get the American interests in the Arab PMU’s second-in-command, in Baghdad security in the Middle East region, warning against mischie- country if Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kha- alongside many others. The attack came vous plots being hatched by the Tel Aviv regime. dhimi’s ongoing visit to Washington fails while General Solemani was paying an “The principal threat nowadays in our region is the ex- to produce an agreement on U.S. forces’ official visit to the Iraqi capital. istence of the occupying Zionist regime,” Sayyed Hassan withdrawal from the Iraqi soil. “If an agreement on the expulsion of Nasrallah said in a televised speech broadcast live on the The statement was released on Thurs- U.S. forces from Iraq is not concluded local Arabic-language al-Manar television network from day -- concurrent with the premier’s in Washington, we reserve the right to the Lebanese capital Beirut late on Thursday. meetings with American officials at the target America’s interests in Iraq,” the “If one wants to confront the Israeli enemy, they must White House -- by the resistance groups statement warned. know the history of Palestine. We must know who these that form part of Iraq’s Hashd al-Sha’abi “We do not expect Kadhimi to return invaders are, where they came from, and what their goals, or Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) to his own country from Washington strengths and weaknesses are,” he added. anti-terror force, Lebanon’s al-Mayadeen with new expansionist plots and sce- The Hezbollah chief further noted that the United States television network reported. narios devised by the United States,” was established through mass murder of Native Americans, The PMU, which includes such re- the statement read. dismissing reliance on the U.S. administration to reclaim sistance groups as the Kata’ib Hezbollah According to Press TV, the groups also rights from the Israeli regime as “pointless” because they and Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, has weighed in on a recent agreement that ena- both have the same terrorist nature. been integrated into the Iraqi Defense bled full normalization of relations between “Today, the United States represents the toughest chal- Forces as a result of its successful and the United Arab Emirates and Israel. lenge to world nations and the greatest threat to interna- indispensable contribution to the coun- It condemned the development and tional peace and security. The U.S. is a racist and savage try’s defeating the Daesh Takfiri terrorist urging the PM to accord primacy to a law uary shortly after a U.S. drone strike as- cautioned, “We confront treacherous state, which has been established on unjust foundations and group in late 2017. approved by the parliament that mandates sassinated Lieutenant General Qassem rulers and regimes that are considered racial discrimination. It hides behind fake news as well as The groups considered expulsion of the forces’ withdrawal. Soleimani, commander of the Quds Force to be cheap tools for prolonging the Israeli fraudulent and misleading policies,” Nasrallah highlighted. the troops to be Baghdad’s top priority, The legislature passed the law in Jan- of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps occupation of Palestinian territories.”

Arab regimes supporting Trump redoubles vow to withdraw Tribes vow to fight U.S.-backed Israel complicit in crimes troops from Iraq militants in northeastern Syria against Palestinians: Houthi U.S. President Donald Trump has once A number of Arab clans, tribes and na- again promised Iraqi Prime Minister tional elites have voiced their support The leader of Yemen’s Houthi Ansarullah movement has Mustafa al-Kadhimi to withdraw the for popular resistance forces against U.S. roundly denounced attempts by a number of Arab states to few U.S. troops who are still in Iraq. troops and their allies, accusing the so- establish full diplomatic relations with Israel, saying such In his first meeting with the Iraqi pre- called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) countries are complicit in the Tel Aviv regime’s crimes against mier which took place at the White House and other militant groups of stealing the the Palestinian nation. on Thursday, Trump said that although country’s resources. “The Arab regimes supporting the Zionist regime are he was looking forward to the day when In a statement issued on Thursday, the indeed partners in crimes against Palestinians,” Abdul-Malik all U.S. troops could leave Iraq, American elders and notable members of various al-Houthi said in a televised speech broadcast live from the businesses were already making “very tribes in the northwestern Syrian city of capital, Sana’a, on Thursday evening. big oil deals” there. Aleppo pledged after a meeting to take He also censured efforts by certain Arab states to portray “We’ll be leaving shortly,” he told re- a permanent military presence in the action against the “American occupiers” that the SDF’s constant raids and arrest a good image of the Tel Aviv regime, emphasizing that such porters. “We have very few soldiers in country. and the U.S.-backed mercenaries and campaigns have generated a state of frus- countries are actually turning a blind eye to facts, and telling Iraq ... but we’re there to help. And the Iraqi lawmakers unanimously ap- Turkish-backed militants, and to liberate tration and instability, severely affecting lies in a bid to justify their normalization of ties with Israel. prime minister knows that.” proved a bill on January 5, demanding Syrian territories. their businesses and livelihoods. “The Zionist regime was created through stealing Pales- He, however, did not elaborate on the withdrawal of all foreign military The participants stressed their resolve Residents accuse the U.S.-backed mil- tinian land and killing innocent people. Israel is the worst the exact time U.S. troops would exit forces led by the United States from the to extend moral and material assistance itants of stealing crude oil and failing to enemy of the Muslim world, and has been sinister, destruc- the country. country following the assassination of to the popular resistance until the full ex- spend money on service sectors. tive and illegal ever since its creation,” Houthi pointed out. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani, pulsion of foreign-backed militants and Local councils affiliated with the SDF The Ansarullah chief then condemned a deal that will lead Mike Pompeo also told reporters Wash- the commander of the Quds Force of Iran’s liberation of the Syrian soil. have also been accused of financial corrup- to full normalization of diplomatic relations between the ington was working with Baghdad to bring Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, along They also hailed consecutive victories tion. They are said to be embezzling funds United Arab Emirates and Israel. the number of U.S. troops in Iraq “down with Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the deputy achieved by the Syrian government forces provided by donors, neglecting services He said that the United States and the Tel Aviv regime only to the lowest level as quickly as we can.” head of Iraq’s PMU, and their companions in Aleppo, Idlb and other areas over the and not meeting the people’s basic needs. think of exploiting Arab regimes in the Persian Gulf region. The United States has had nearly in a U.S. airstrike authorized by Trump past few months “under the courageous In recent months, the U.S. has dis- “Persian Gulf Arab regimes do not seek peace for Mus- 5,000 troops in the Arab country, and near Baghdad International Airport two leadership” of President Bashar al-Assad. patched fresh military convoys to Syria’s lims, but rather try to sow the seeds of discord and division coalition allies another 2,500. days earlier. Security conditions are reportedly dete- northeastern province of Hasakah. The among Muslim nations,” he noted. In June, the U.S. and Iraq affirmed Later on January 9, former Iraqi prime riorating in the areas controlled by the SDF presence of U.S. forces in northern and Under the agreement between Israel and the UAE, the Tel their commitment to the reduction minister, Adel Abdul-Mahdi, called on in Hasakah and Dayr al-Zawr provinces eastern Syria has particularly irked civilians, Aviv regime has allegedly agreed to “temporarily” suspend of American troops in Iraq in coming the United States to dispatch a delegation amid ongoing raids and kidnapping of and local residents have on several occa- applying its own rule to further areas in the occupied West months, with Washington declaring no to Baghdad tasked with formulating a civilians by the U.S.-sponsored militants. sions stopped American military convoys Bank and the strategic Jordan Valley that Prime Minister plan to maintain permanent bases or mechanism for the move. According to Press TV, locals argue trying to enter the regions. Benjamin Netanyahu had pledged to annex. According to Press TV, Israeli leaders, however, lined up last week to call UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed American ‘darkness’: Biden recycles Clinton’s 2016 language in final DNC speech bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s bluff that Israel’s annexation plans were off the table after the deal. Shifting between angry and sedate, Joe Biden made First of all, he argued Trump somehow “failed to “There is no change to my plan to extend sovereignty, his big convention speech appealing to American protect America” from the coronavirus. The five million our sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, in full coordination unity with divisive rhetoric, making vague feel-good infected and 170,000 dead, the economic consequences with the United States,” Netanyahu said in Jerusalem al- promises, and reusing a very specific rhetorical trick of lockdowns that Democrats have championed – all Quds, using the biblical name for the occupied West Bank. from four years ago. Trump’s personal fault, he insisted, while offering Democrats, Biden argued in the final speech of the nothing different except a national mask mandate. Resistance News 2020 Democratic National Convention, were the uni- “No miracle is coming!” he told America, even as fying “light” of America to the divisive “darkness” of he promised magical instant tests and “science.” President Donald Trump. He underscored that point The second fiction was ‘Russiagate’. A President Mahathir: UAE-Israel deal by never actually referring to the “occupant of the Biden, he said, would “not turn a blind eye to Russian White House” by name, as if he were a fantasy villain, bounties on the heads of American soldiers” or “put to divide Muslims into RT reported. up with foreign interference in our most sacred dem- “warring factions” It wasn’t quite plagiarism, but the “dark” stuff was ocratic exercise.” These were direct references to definitely recycled – Biden’s against climate change, you forget it! – definitely seemed in better form on a debunked New York Times story – the bounties INTERNATIONAL TEHRAN— Malaysia’s former premier after all – from 2016, when Democrats used it to de- Thursday evening than during much of the summer, were groundless speculation – and Hillary Clinton’s deskMahathir Mohamed has strongly denounced scribe Trump following the Republican convention which he spent in the basement of his Delaware home, excuse for losing in 2016, which Democrats clearly the normalization deal reached by the United Arab Emirates that nominated him. Cartoonist Scott Adams noticed often struggling to string together coherent sentences. remain obsessed with to this day. (UAE) and Israel, describing it as “a step backwards for peace” the “linguistic kill shot” at the time and pointed it “We choose hope over fear, facts over fiction, fairness The third, and biggest one of all, was the repeated- and a step that will stir up conflicts in the Muslim world. out on his blog, and later in his best-selling book about over privilege,” Biden said, finally delivering the line ly debunked libel that Trump had called Neo-Nazis In recent press remarks, Mahathir, a long-time defender the art of persuasion. he famously flubbed a year ago. Yet in attempting to marching in Charlottesville in 2017 “very fine peo- of the Palestinians, said the UAE’s agreement with Israel Yet whoever wrote the speech was not a genius, paint a contrast between “hope and light and love” his ple.” Biden cited it as his reason to run for president, would “divide the Muslim world into warring factions and as evidenced by lines such as “This is not a partisan party supposedly offered and Trump’s “darkness… clearly believes it happened, and his allies in the me- in this, the Israelis would add fuel to the fire.” moment,” literally delivered at a party convention. anger… fear… division,” he actually invoked three dia have pretended it happened – but none of that “They will increase the ability of the contestants to fight Barack Obama’s former vice president – and don’t massive fictions, which he pretended were facts. makes it so. each other and there will be no peace even between Muslim countries,” the -95year-old Malaysian leader said. “It bolsters the stand taken by Israel that Palestine belongs to Israel. Of course there will be a reaction from Libya’s government announces cease-fire, calls for elections the Palestinians and those who are sympathetic towards the Palestinians. This will mean prolonging the war in the Libya’s UN-supported government The Tripoli-based government also mander Khalifa Hifter launched an West Asia,” he added. Friday announced a cease-fire across called for parliamentary and presi- offensive in April 2019 trying to capture the country and called for demilita- dential elections to be held in March. the capital Tripoli. But his campaign rizing the contested strategic city of Libya was plunged into chaos when a collapsed in June when the Tripoli-al- Sirte, which is controlled by rival forces. NATO-backed uprising in 2011 toppled lied militias, with Turkish support, Hamas: Any hand harming In a separate statement, Aguila longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi, gained the upper hand, driving his Saleh, speaker of the rival east-based who was later killed. The country has forces from the outskirts of Tripoli Aqsa Mosque will be cut off House of Representatives, also called since split between rival east- and and other western towns. for a cease-fire, AP reported. west-based administrations, each The UN Support Mission in Libya INTERNATIONAL TEHRAN — The Hamas Movement has desk Both administrations called for an backed by armed groups and foreign welcomed both statements, and called warned that any aggressive act against the end to an oil blockade imposed by rival governments. for the expulsion of all foreign forces Aqsa Mosque “will be met with fierce resistance from the forces since earlier this year. Eastern forces of military com- and mercenaries in Libya. Palestinian people who will not allow the fire to reach it again,” describing the Mosque as “a red line.” “The hand that tries to extend to it (the Aqsa Mosque) will be cut off,” Hamas said in a statement on the 51st an- niversary of the arson attack on the Aqsa Mosque. ‘No apologies whatsoever!’ Chicago mayor The Movement pointed out that Israel’s systematic ban- ishment of Muslim worshipers from the Aqsa Mosque and defends ban on protests in HER neighborhood the detention of Sheikh Ra’ed Salah are attempts to take over the holy site, stressing the need for the Palestinians to close 1 Yet just one day prior, the mayor issued a harsh state- saying the neighborhood “should be locked down” and that ranks to confront the occupation and its malicious plans. ment slamming protests that had “devolved into criminal officers should immediately call for back-up at the first sign Hamas also expressed its categorical rejection of any conduct,” saying some activists showed up “armed for all-out of a gathering. But despite a constant police presence around step to normalize Arab ties with the Israeli occupation state, battle” with police, though she has continued to encour- the mayor’s home, no arrests have been made on her block calling such practice as “a stab in the heart of the Palestin- age “peaceful” demonstrations since. since the order was issued earlier this summer, with only ian cause” and “a betrayal of the Aqsa Mosque, Jerusalem The order banning protests on Lightfoot’s block makes no two “public peace” violations reported there since July 21, and Palestine.” distinction between peaceful and violent protest, however, according to city statistics cited by the Tribune. I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y AUGUST 22, 2020 SPORTS 11

Maybe not the best way to prevent Cheick Diabate wins IPL Golden Boot Iranian clubs from signing foreigners SPORTS TEHRAN — Esteghlal football team striker deskCheick Diabate clinched Iran Professional SPORTS TEHRAN — The execu- closing doors to the good foreign coaches. League (IPL) Golden Boot. desktive board of Iran Football In Iran, a strong football coaching struc- League Organization on Wednesday an- ture is missing. What we have now is certainly nounced that no Iranian team are permitted not good enough to produce top players and to sign a foreign coach and player for the high-level teams. next Iran Professional League (IPL) season, In recent years a few foreign coaches, but it seems is not the best possible way. such as Branko Ivankovic, Carlos Queiroz, Earlier, such a decision had been ratified and Andrea Stramaccioni have had a great only for two Tehran giants, Persepolis and impact on the Iranian teams both in the club Esteghlal, by the Iranian Ministry of Sport and national team level. and Youth, the owner of the two clubs. We need to bring in such foreign coaches The reason was that both teams have who are able to prepare our teams at the had a lot of financial problems in recent highest level, keep them in the country for years and could be banned from signing a certain number of years, and benefit from players for the next transfer windows by their knowledge. the FIFA Disciplinary Committee after On the other hand, the ban on signing failing to pay the salary of their former foreign players causes an unreasonable in- foreign coaches and players. crease in the price of domestic players and Diabate scored two goals in Esteghlal’s 4-1 win over relegated Now, however, all the IPL teams are re- it will put more financial pressure on the Shahin in Bushehr and was crowned the top scorer. quired to follow the order made by the Iran the Iranian football teams! overseas players and coaches, have brought Iranian clubs in the long run. The Malian player joined Esteghlal last season on a two-year Football League Organization. The FIFA Players’ Status verdict, which the Iranian football authorities to the conclu- The best way to prevent financial com- contract. The decision to ban the signing of for- obliged the Football Federation of the Islamic sion that a ban on foreign players and staff plaints against the Iranian teams by foreigners Paykan forward Shahriar Moghanlou and Persepolis striker eign players and coaches is not taken to Republic of Iran (FFIRI) to pay more than might be necessary at the current situation. is to develop a legal and codified framework Ali Pour came second and third with 13 and 12 goals. ensure a future for Iranian football, but, six million euros to Marc Wilmots, the for- However, such a decision can decrease the for how to conclude contracts with them, surprisingly, such a decision was made mer national team coach, along with many excitement of the IPL matches and jeopardize rather than banning the clubs from signing only to prevent further complaints against complaints against the Iranian clubs by the the development of the Iranian teams due to overseas staff. Fenerbahce open door to Sayyadmanesh Sepahan fail to qualify for ACL, Foolad do it Iranian football player Allahyar Sayyadmanesh is deemed surplus SPORTS TEHRAN — Sepahan football team could Foolad, headed by ex-Iran captain Javad Nekounam, to requirements at Turkish football team Fenerbahce. deskhave finished second in Iran Professional made a big splash, booking a place in the ACL play-off round Newly-appointed coach Erol Bulut has wanted the club to League (IPL) but they ended the league in fifth place. for the next season after beating Tractor 1-0 in Ahvaz. part company with Sayyadmanesh. Sepahan were held to a 1-1 draw by Paykan and failed to Tractor will get direct entry into the ACL if they win Zanka and Frey are two other players Bulut is not going to qualify for the AFC Champions League next year. Hazfi Cup. It will be disappointing for them if Naft Mas- work with them. Sepahan, as one of the most decorated football teams in jed Soleyman win the title and if it will happen, Naft Sayyadmanesh joined Fenerbahce last year from Esteghlal the Persian Gulf League, need changes right now. replace Tractor as one of Iranian teams in the continental on a five-year deal but failed to meet expectations. Long-serving coach Amir Ghalenoei, who stepped down competition. The -19year-old forward was a member of Iran football team as head coach of Sepahan two weeks ago, played a vital role If Persepolis or Esteghlal win the title, Tractor will qualify who qualified for the2017 FIFA U17- World Cup quarter-final in the club’s disappointing results and now the Yellows are for the ACL play-off as the IPL fourth team. in India. not among IPL top four after many years. In Mashhad, Shahr Khodro and Nassaji shared the spoils He made his Iran national football team debut on June ,6 IPL champions Persepolis defeated Saipa 3-0 in Teh- in a goalless draw. Machine Sazi escaped relegation from 2019 against Syria and scored a goal. ran and Esteghlal finished in second place after defeating IPL with a 1-0 win over Sanat Naft in Tabriz. (Source: Ensonhaber) already-relegated Shahin 4-1 in Bushehr. Zob Ahan also suffered a 3-2 home loss against Gol Gohar. Hazfi Cup final date Saeid Ezatolahi joins Vejle Boldklub announced SPORTS TEHRAN — Iran inter- with Rostov in 2015 and was loaned to my qualities and see me as an important desknational midfielder Saeid Russian teams Anzhi Makhachkala and piece of the team,” he said. “I want to show Ezatolahi officially joined Danish football Amikar Perm. that to my teammates and the club’s fans. Tasnim — The Iran’s Hazfi Cup final will be played on September club Vejle Boldklub for an undisclosed fee. He also was a member of English football “At the same time, I know that the club 3 behind closed doors. The 23-year-old defensive midfielder, team Reading but failed to make an impact. have a strong development environment Persepolis will meet its archrivals Esteghlal on August 26 in who played for Belgian team Eupen on loan Ezatollahi represented Iran in 2018 FIFA and a coach who wants technical football. Tehran’s Azadi Stadium in the competition’s semifinal. last season, has penned a three-year contract World Cup. So, I look forward to showing my worth in Tractor will also host Naft Masjed Soleyman in Tabriz in with Vejle Boldklub. “Vejle Boldklub have shown great interest, the red jersey and earning the respect that the same day. Ezatolahi penned a five-year contract and I want to play for a club that believe in good performances command.” Iran’s Football League Organization announced that the final match will be held on September 3. Esteghlal are the most decorated team in Hazfi Cup compe- Pars Jonoubi relegated from Iran tition, winning the titles seven times. Professional League Iranian students win SPORTS TEHRAN — Pars Jonoubi football team Both teams are from Bushehr Province. six medals at intl. deskwere relegated from the Iran Professional Persepolis claimed the title for the fourth time in a row League (IPL) on Thursday. and Esteghlal became runners-up. poomsae event Pars Jonoubi had to defeat Naft Masjed Soleyman to Football Club Pars Jonoubi Jam, commonly known as escape from relegation but lost 1-0 and were relegated from Pars Jonoubi Jam, are an Iranian football club based in MNA — Iranian students won six medals at the first virtual the IPL and will play in the Azadegan League next season. Jam, Bushehr. They were promoted to the Persian Gulf tournament of ISF World School Taekwondo Poomsae Cham- Omid Singh scored a late goal for the hosts. Pro League in 2016–17 season. pionship, which was held in Nepal. Last week, Shahin Bushehr had become the first team The club are owned and supported by the PSEEZ (Pars The event was hosted by Nepal School Sports Federation to relegate from the competitions. Special Energy Economic Zone). under the banner of the International School Sports Federation. About 292 boys and 268 girls from across the world partic- ipated in this mega event which was judged by international referees of Taekwondo. Mohammad Mousavi turns 33 today Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the competition was held He has surprised the world in the As a club player, Mousavi has won coming season. online in two age groups of 12 to 14 and 15 to 17 years by the recent years and is considered as one several gold medals with Paykan, Kalleh, Saipa hope to win the Iran Super World Student Federation. of the top four middle blockers at the Matin and Sarmayeh Bank at the AVC League title with Mousavi. The Iranian students were asked to record a video of world. Asian Club Championship. Mousavi was invited to national team their poomsae performance and send it to the provincial Mousavi, undoubtedly, has played a He helped the Persians qualify for in 2008. He was named Best Block- authorities. key role in Iran’s success over the past the 2016 Olympic Games for the first er at the 2008 Olympic Qualification After evaluation of all videos, performances of 82 students years due to his eye-catching skills. time, where Iran finished in fifth place. Tournament, where Iran ended up on were selected by the technical committee of Iran’s Taekwon- Mousavi started volleyball 16 years ago Now, he can play a vital role in the Tokyo sixth place and missed qualification for do Federation and were submitted to Nepal to be judged by when he was 17 and has won more than Games since the Iranians are ready to the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, international judges. 10 continental gold medals since then. win a medal for the first time ever. China. He was named twice the Best In the age category of 12-14 years, Sanaz Taghipour from SPORTS TEHRAN – Seyed The 2-meter player has won Asian Mousavi played for Polish team AZS Blocker in Asian Championship. Tehran was ranked second. Narges Bolqand and Amir Hossein deskMohammad Mousa- Championships on three occasions. Olsztyn last season and was named as He made a brilliant performance in Esmaeili both from Isfahan finished third in girls and boy’s vi, who is a member of Iran volleyball He has also claimed two gold medals the best defender of the PlusLiga season. 2013 World League and was named Best groups, respectively. golden generation, has turned 33 today. in Asian Games and Asian Cup each. He has returned to Iran for the up- Middle Blocker in 2015 World Cup. In the age category of 15-17 years, Zeinab Toghyani and ahtab Taji Rostammabadi both from Isfahan finished second and third, respectively. In the boy’s category, Mohammad Amin Gomarian stood at Bracket Challenge - Ro32: Ali Daei (IRN) vs Sun Ke (CHN) || the second place. Three of the referees at the event were from Iran. Saeed Al Owairan (KSA) vs Kim Jung-woo (KOR) The AFC Asian Cup has always captivated audiences berth for the first time since 2004 with the midfielder with its moments of sheer genius, brilliant celebrations sending his effort past the outstretched arms of cus- Iran to build beach volleyball and - above all - stunning goals. todian Ignatiy Nesterov. camp in Azerbaijan Legends and national heroes have made their impact Saeed Al Owairan (KSA) vs Kim Jung-woo (KOR) on the Continental stage, and we close off the AFC Asian Saeed Al Owairan (KSA) Volley.ir — Iran volleyball federation will construct a beach Cup Bracket Challenge Round of 32 with four iconic 1992 AFC Asian Cup volleyball camp in Aras Free Zone, located in the northwest of Iran. goals from Islamic Republic of Iran’s Ali Daei, Sun Ke Saudi Arabia v Thailand (02.12.1992) The project included the construction of the 7,000 square-me- of China PR, Saudi Arabia’s Saeed Al Owairan and Kim Defending champions Saudi Arabia got off to a great ter camp. Jung-woo of Korea Republic. start against Thailand with Saeed Al Owairan netting a The delegation, including Tofigh Kaboli, head of Beach Vol- Ali Daei (IRN) vs Sun Ke (CHN) fabulous free-kick in the fourth minute, with the forward leyball Committee, Nader Ansari, international referee, and Fa- Ali Daei (IRN) striking a left-footed shot past Thailand goalkeeper Kump- rajollah Farajollahi, head of East Azarbaijan Committee, showed 1996 AFC Asian Cup anat Oungsoongnem into the top right corner of the net. up in Aras for this purpose after the Aras Free Zone’s officials Korea Republic v Islamic Republic of Iran (16.12.1996) Kim Jung-woo (KOR) announced their readiness to build the camp. With the quarter-final against Korea Republic tied a half-volley into the top right-hand corner from just 2007 AFC Asian Cup Chief Executive of Aras Free Zone Organization Mohsen at 2-2, Islamic Republic of Iran legend Ali Daei turned outside the box. Indonesia v Korea Republic (18.07.2007) Nariman talked about the project with Kaboli. the game on its head when he went on to hit four goals Sun Ke (CHN) Kim Jung-woo’s long-range effort against Indonesia The construction of the camp will start as soon as possible, in the second half for a 6-2 victory, with his second one 2015 AFC Asian Cup ensured Korea Republic a spot in the quarter-finals with they reached an agreement. of the greatest goals in the history of the AFC Asian Cup, China PR v Uzbekistan (14.01.2015) the defensive midfielder striking home an unstoppable Iran has improved in beach volleyball during the past years as he perfectly controlled a 30-yard cross with the inside Supersub Sun Ke netted with a stunning curler drive from outside the penalty box. and hosted many international events including 2019-2020 FIVB of his right boot, before shifting his body to hammer against Uzbekistan to secure China PR a quarter-final (Source: the-afc) Beach Volleyball World Tour in Bandar Torkaman and Qeshm. Prayer Times Noon:13:07 Evening: 20:04 Dawn: 5:00 (tomorrow) Sunrise: 6:30 (tomorrow) AUGUST 22, 2020 ART&CULTURE I N T E R N A T I O N A L D A I L Y www.tehrantimes.com Managing Director: Mohammad Shojaeian Editor-in-Chief: Ali A.Jenabzadeh Editorial Dept.: Fax: (+98 21) 88808214 — 88808895 Artist to bring Ashura tragedy [email protected] Switchboard Operator: Tel: (+98 21) 43051000 Advertisements Dept.: Telefax: (+98 21) 43051430 Public Relations Office: Tel: (+98 21) 88805807 to life in teahouse painting Subscription & Distribution Dept.: Tel: (+98 21) 43051603 Webmaster: [email protected] ARTTEHRAN — Artist of Abbas Bolukifar, a pioneer of the Iranian Printed at: Jame Jam Bartar Borna - 44197737 deskMohammadreza teahouse painting. He has portrayed stories Mohammad-Hossein plans to recreate the about Ashura in over 20 huge teahouse Tehrantimes79 Tehrantimes79 Tehrantimes79 tragedy of Ashura in a huge teahouse painting. paintings, which are on display at various The painting titled “That My Peace of Soul religious centers across Tehran. No. 18, Bimeh Alley, Nejatollahi St., Tehran, Iran Is Going” will be done before the people in The teahouse has had various functions P.o. Box: 14155-4843 the courtyard of Tehran’s Resaneh (Media) in different eras during its 400-year history Zip Code: 1599814713 Cultural Center over two months. in Iran. Teahouses used to be places where The art project will commence at 7 pm on people gathered to spend their leisure time Saturday, the first day of the lunar month of listening to a naqqal, an Iranian traditional Muharram, and will be completed on October storyteller, narrating stories from Ferdowsi’s 8, which is the last day of the month of Safar. Shahnameh. People talked and exchanged Shia Muslims commemorate the views, and along with lutis, wise and generous anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam people, helped poor people. Hussein (AS) and his companions with Teahouse painters emerged in such an rituals that begin every year from the first atmosphere. They listened to the discussions day of Muharram. and tales, using them as subjects for the GUIDE TO The rituals reach their climax on Ashura, paintings they drew on the walls, tiles, stones SPIRITUAL AWAKENING the 10th day of Muharram, the day upon and canvases. Sometimes, teahouse owners which Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions commissioned the painters to draw the stories. were martyred in Karbala as a result of their With their own unique perspective not The aim of my revolution is to reform the valiant stand against the injustices of the A poster for the art project “That My Peace of Soul Is Going”. used in other styles, teahouse painters drew society and revive the true teachings of Islam. oppressive Umayyad dynasty in 680 CE. during Arbaeen next year. of the Imam and his loyal companions on motifs entirely based on their imagination. The The artwork will be auctioned to raise Arbaeen marks the end of the 40-day Ashura. themes of such paintings are epics, traditions Imam Hussein (AS) funds for an offering, which will be presented mourning period following the martyrdom Mohammad-Hossein is one the pupils and religion.

WHAT’S IN ART GALLERIES Online tazieh performance safe solution for pandemic: performer Ala’eddin Qasemi Painting 1 “You know that tazieh invites the audience to come ten nights of Muharram. on Imam Hussein (AS) in a program titled “Mourning Farshid Maleki and Hamed and sit next to one another. We cannot separate them. Rudaki Foundation Managing Director Mehdi Afzali of the Sun”. Sahihi are displaying their latest Tazieh is a performance from heart to heart,” he said. has invited tazieh expert Ahmad Azizi, the head of Sayyid A number of the performances will also take place paintings in an exhibition at “The truth is that nothing is clear yet. We have talked al-Shuhada Tazieh Troupe, to give performances. in the courtyards of Imamzadehs, the tombs of the Shia Tarrahan Azad Gallery. and have been invited for the performances before, but Azizi said that the troupe will begin their performances Imams’ descendants. The exhibit runs until September now in these hard days, we do not know what will happen. every night after the evening azan (call to prayer) for ten The courtyards of the cultural centers of Khatam, Eshraq, 8 at the gallery that can be found We will have to wait and see,” he noted. nights. Razi and Bahman, as well as Imamzadeh Ali-Akbar (AS) at 5 Salmas Square, off Fatemi St. “Tazieh must be performed in a place like tekyeh or “A big stage has been set up in the area and rows of in Chizar, Imamzadeh Ahl ibn Ali (AS) in Khavaran and A collection of paintings by hosseinieh [places for seasonal religious rituals]. It needs seats observing social distancing have also been situated, Imam Hussein Square are among the main locations for Farbod Elkai is on view in an viewers. We are not hopeless and we hope there will be observing health protocols proposed by the Health Ministry, the tazieh performances. exhibition Dastan Basement Gallery. something good happening,” he remarked. so that the mourners can make the best use of these days According to the director of the Khatam Cultural Center, The exhibit named “It Is Possible He said that he doesn’t like to be far from the audience, and nights,” Azizi said. Seyyed Ahmad Musavi, the performances will take place to Stay Here for a While” will be that is, if he cannot see the audience, he would not get Pointing to the high position of ritual art and plays, in open spaces observing health protocols. running until August 28 at the the right feelings. especially tazieh, among the Iranian nation, Azizi said, The performances will begin on Friday and will continue gallery located at 6 Bidar St., off He added that tazieh troupes usually go on stage based “We know that we are experiencing a different situation until September 17. Fereshteh St. on invitations from various organizations, and noted, this year due to the spread of coronavirus, but the love of Hojjatoleslam Meisam Amrudi, the director of the Art and Vista Gallery is playing host “Given that there are no contracts and no agreements, the Muslim nation towards Imam Hussein (AS) cannot Cultural Organization of the Tehran Municipality, had also to an exhibition of paintings by there will be nothing.” be disturbed without repercussions.” announced earlier that the courtyards of its cultural centers Razieh Aarabi. “The performers want their money after each “The management of the Rudaki Foundation in addition will be dedicated to Muharram mourning ceremonies. The exhibit titled “Plastic performance. If I invite them, I must first get the money to Iran’s Dramatic Arts Center, has had good cooperation He added that the decision has been made to support Painting” will run until August in advance. If they would say do it without viewers, okay, with the troupe, and we hope the audience will make the the mourning groups across capital. 28 at the gallery located at No. we would do it,” he concluded. best use of the performances,” he concluded. “About 60 cultural centers and culture houses with a 11, 12th Alley, Mir Emad St. However, the Rudaki Open-Air Theater announced In addition, several cultural and religious centers capacity of over 20,000 individuals will be dedicated to that it will be hosting tazieh performances during the first across Tehran will be hosting over 50 tazieh performances the groups,” he said. Filmmaker Majid Majidi presides over festival of shorts on family rituals for Muharram ARTTEHRAN — World-renowned Iranian deskfilmmaker Majid Majidi has been selected as president of a festival, which will put its spotlight on short films covering rituals Iranian families will practice in their homes to commemorate the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein (AS) this year. The Mourning at Home Short Film Festival has been launched by the Rahe Iman Charity Organization this year to encourage people to stay at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic and organize the rituals for their family members. Only one-minute-long films and movies under three minutes are allowed to participate in the festival and submissions should be sent to the organizers by the end of September 21. Movies will be judged by a jury composed of Majidi and Iranian filmmakers Reza Mirkarimi and Narges Abyar. The festival also intends to highlight top Islamic clerics’ calls for conducting the Muharram rituals at home due A poster for the 1st edition of the Mourning at Home to the pandemic. Short Film Festival. The Rahe Iman Charity Organization has been established Shia Muslims commemorate the anniversary of the with contributions from Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Sistani to raise martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions with living standards among people living in poverty in the remote rituals that begin every year from the first day of the lunar border towns of southeastern Iran. month of Muharram. Iran culture sector suffers over $45m hit due to COVID-19: minister arts, music and theater, that is, about 120 theater halls have been closed just in Tehran. The same has been true in other cities.” He added that insurance for the members of the Art Credit Fund, which was 350 billion rials (about $1.6 million), has been paid, and, based on an enactment approved by the Coronavirus Combat and Prevention Headquarters, those interested applicants can register for a facility. The culture minister further noted that a sum of 120 billion rials (about $5.5 million) will be paid to members of the Art Credit Fund as livelihood assistance, while 2000 billion rials (over $9 million) will also be paid as loans to the artists and owners of cultural venues. Iran’s Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance canceled Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Seyyed all art, cultural and cinematic events across the country in Abbas Salehi in an undated photo. February in an attempt to stem the spread of the coronavirus. CULTURE TEHRAN — Minister of Culture and Islamic The Association of Iranian Theater Owners asked President deskGuidance Seyyed Abbas Salehi has said that Hassan Rouhani to lift the coronavirus restriction on cinemas, the coronavirus outbreak in Iran has caused an estimated loss calling for reopening of the theaters across the country based of over 10,000 billion rials (about $45.5 million, based on the on the health protocols during the pandemic on May 20. free-market rate) in the art and culture sectors by April 19, the Later, the Cinema Organization of Iran announced that end of the first month of the Iranian calendar year. the movie theaters in the so-called “white areas” or regions He made the remarks on the live TV program “Negah-e with no coronavirus hospitalizations in the past two weeks Yek” broadcasted on IRIB Channel 1 on Wednesday. would be allowed to reopen, while the protocols issued by “For example, the Tehran International Book Fair had an the Coronavirus Control Operations Headquarters for the estimated sale of 1200 to 1300 billion rials (about $5.5 to $6 theaters must be observed. million) last year. In the film industry, the sale was about 3 The cinemagoers were asked to observe social distancing, while trillion rials (over $13.6 million),” He said. the employees were asked to wear face masks and plastic gloves. However, the book fair was canceled this year, and the In late June, all movie theaters resumed activities after Iranian movie theaters have mostly been closed over the past a four-month-long closure, but were forced to close once six months due to the pandemic. again due to a sharp rise in the number of coronavirus Salehi said, “We have also experienced a big loss in visual infections and deaths.