Ancient Alamut fortifications complete Iran's architectural and defensive history, expert says

The proposed UNESCO nomination of Alamut's Cultural Landscape represents a key link in understanding Iranian architecture and military organization, says heritage veteran Seyyed Mohammad Beheshti. "The chain of Iran's architectural history cannot be fully understood without Alamut."

The serial nomination comprises seven Nizari Ismaili fortifications (11th–13th centuries), with Alamut Castle as central command—a rare surviving structure from the Seljuk period.

Archaeological evidence shows many fortifications date to the Parthian era, expanded into an integrated defensive system. If inscribed, it will become one of the few Iranian World Heritage properties recognized as a cultural landscape.

https://www.tehrantimes.com/news/528338/Ancient-Alamut-fortifications-complete-Iran-s-architectural-and

Gen. Ibn al-Reza: Sanctions and war became engine for Iran's defense tech leap

🔹Acting Defense Minister said US-imposed sanctions and war became catalysts for Iran's defense innovation, with missile and drone production multiplying during conflict.

🔹"Iran emerged from the technological battle with pride," he stated, emphasizing that geographical distances from enemies can only be bridged through advanced technology.

🔹He added that Iranian scientists stand firm against major powers despite all restrictions, with the defense industry serving as the pillar of national power.

Army Spokesperson: War will continue until full deterrence achieved

🔹Brigadier General Amir Akraminia, the Iranian Army's spokesperson, stated that rationality dictates the war must continue until it establishes "full deterrence" for the Iranian nation, drawing on the "lessons of the 1980-1988 Iran-Iraq war" .

🔹"Otherwise, the enemy—through miscalculation—will once again invade Iran's sacred soil," he warned.

Pakistan, Qatar propose return to pre-July 9 positions as first step for talks

🔹Pakistan and Qatar submitted a joint proposal today, urging Iran and the US to return to their positions prior to July 9 as a first step toward resuming negotiations .

Ghalibaf: US keeps sending new military equipment while claiming to seek peace

🔹Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, commenting on US military movements in the region, stated:

🔹"The Americans keep bringing new military equipment to the region while claiming they are seeking to end the war. They have underestimated our intelligence—thinking we have the IQ of their own limited understanding."

🔹"We have reached the level of mastery in recognizing these American games and are fully prepared accordingly," he wrote.

🔹"Actions must confirm claims, not contradict them."

Andy Burnham officially becomes new UK Prime Minister, replacing Starmer

Geography's veto

The United States keeps tripping over the same reality: the material intransigence of the Iranian coastline. The Strait of Hormuz's narrowest point is just 34 kilometers wide, with shipping lanes three kilometers across. Iran's mountainous coast and strategic islands grant Tehran a dominant surveillance position that favors coastal defense over power projection.

Washington views Hormuz through liberal international law; Tehran views it through national security and sovereignty. Militarizing the strait to protect trade turns the conduit into a war zone.

Iran doesn't need a total blockade—just sporadic interventions that spike insurance premiums to prohibitive levels. The actuarial market does the work of deterrence. Geography has vetoed imperial power.

https://www.tehrantimes.com/news/528333/Geography-s-veto

🔴 IRGC Commander reaffirms allegiance to Leader, vows resistance amid US aggression

🔹In response to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution message Ayatollah Sayyed Mojtaba Khamenei, the IRGC Commander-in-Chief declared:

🔹"We consider your message a binding command. With all our being, we shout 'Labbaik Ya Khamenei' in unison with the great Iranian nation."

🔹"We vow never to tie our destiny to promises of a child-killing enemy whose record is filled with betrayal."

🔹"As America has once again chosen aggression, we will teach the 'unforgettable lesson' you promised—with power and wisdom."

🔹"The IRGC, alongside other armed forces, considers safeguarding national unity, protecting the Revolution's social capital, and preventing enemy infiltration as its most critical duties."

Ancient Iranian goldsmithing in spotlight as 3,000-year-old earrings worn by actress spark heritage debate

American actress Zendaya wore earrings incorporating approximately 3,000-year-old Iranian gold medallions—believed to originate from the Ziwiye hoard in Kordestan province—at a London photocall.

The discs, associated with the Medes and Scythians (7th century BC), showcase the mastery of ancient Iranian goldsmiths: repoussé, hammering, and intricate ornamental techniques.

The London jeweler mounted them in modern settings. Archaeologists and social media users argued such artifacts belong in museums, not as personal accessories.

Questions of legal ownership and looting have renewed scrutiny of the Ziwiye collection's history.