Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, has alleged that the United States and Israel played a direct role in recent unrest, claiming the violence was planned abroad to provoke foreign intervention.

Speaking about clashes during protests in early January, Araghchi said Iran possesses audio recordings, documents and detainee confessions that he claims show armed elements were instructed to open fire among demonstrators to increase casualties. According to his account, the aim was to cross a threshold that would trigger external intervention after public statements warning action if deaths mounted.

He further alleged that detained individuals confessed to receiving large cash payments to attack ...

Iranian authorities say security forces have brought anti-government protests under control after nearly two weeks of unrest across the country. The claim comes amid sharply contrasting reports from human rights campaigners, who allege a far higher human cost than official statements acknowledge.

According to the government in Iran, demonstrations have subsided following a broad security crackdown. Officials say order has been restored through a combination of deployments and counterdemonstrations broadcast on state television to project a return to normal life in major cities, including Tehran.

Human rights groups and eyewitness accounts paint a different picture. Campaigners report that hundreds of protesters have ...

An Australian literary festival is facing a growing boycott after organisers removed Palestinian author Randa Abdel-Fattah from its programme, prompting dozens of writers to withdraw in protest.

The decision led to widespread criticism within the literary community, with authors accusing organisers of censorship and political pressure. Nearly 50 writers have since pulled out of the Adelaide Writers’ Festival, citing concerns over artistic freedom and the marginalisation of Palestinian voices.

Festival organisers said the change to the line-up followed internal considerations and discussions, but did not accept claims of political motivation. Critics argue the removal reflects a broader reluctance by cultural institutions to ...

Anti-government protests in Iran are continuing to gather momentum, with demonstrations reported in multiple cities despite an intensified security response. Protesters have voiced anger over political repression and economic hardship, while authorities have responded with arrests, force and tighter controls on public gatherings.

Amid the unrest, Donald Trump said the United States is considering “very strong” military options, warning that Tehran faces increasing regime pressure if violence against demonstrators continues. His remarks have fuelled concerns about escalation risks at a time of heightened regional instability.

Iranian officials have accused foreign powers of exploiting the protests and have vowed to maintain order, signalling ...

Planned BRICS war games have drawn attention after India confirmed it would not take part, prompting debate over the bloc’s ambitions in defence cooperation. The exercises, involving several emerging powers, are intended to showcase coordination and shared security interests within the grouping.

Indian officials have framed the decision as consistent with the country’s long-standing emphasis on strategic autonomy. Analysts say New Delhi remains cautious about military activities that could be seen as aligning it too closely with certain partners, even as it engages actively with a range of global and regional security frameworks.

The episode highlights broader questions about multipolar security and ...