Across Latin America, Iranian Spanish-Language State-Controlled, Hizbullah-Affiliated, And Pro-Hizbullah Media Outlets Extensively Cover Funeral Of Hizbullah Leader Nasrallah – As Do Some Regional Alternative Media
The event triggered an unprecedented surge in Iran-controlled and Iran-affiliated Spanish-language social media activity across Latin America, revealing the extent of Iran's influence across the continent.
In this coordinated media campaign led by Iranian state-controlled outlets such as IRNA Español and HispanTV, together with the Beirut-based pro-Hizbullah network Al-Mayadeen, Nasrallah was depicted as a revered martyr, and his killing framed as a unifying moment for the so-called "resistance" movement. The campaign was also picked up by regional mainstream platforms such as Venezuela's state-funded TeleSUR TV, thus boosted Tehran's ideological reach in the Spanish-speaking world.
Additionally, Iran's embassies in Venezuela and Bolivia, along with a network of Argentinean clerics linked to Mohsen Rabbani – the prominent Shi'ite cleric identified as a key suspect in the 1994 AMIA Jewish center bombing in Buenos Aires and is affiliated with the Organization for the Liberation of Argentina (OLA) [2] – leveraged the funeral to further promote Tehran's ideological messaging in the region.
This media blitz underscores how Tehran and its accessories continue to use Spanish-language platforms to shape narratives in Latin America. By melding religious rhetoric with political propaganda, these networks not only justify Hizbullah's activity but also cultivate support in the region for Iran's broader geopolitical agenda in Latin America.
The following is a review of the posts in the coordinated media campaign centering on Nasrallah's funeral, published by the Iranian state media outlet IRNA Español, the Iranian state-controlled HispanTV, and the pro-Hizbullah Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen Español; by the Venezuelan state-funded TelesurTV and by Resumen Latinoamericano and AlmaPlusTV – two regional outlets that bill themselves, respectively, as an alternative media platform with a strong focus on social movements, resistance struggles, and countering mainstream media narratives and as a "resistance platform" that promotes an "anti-imperialist", anti-capitalist, and anti-interventionist agenda [3] – and also by pro-Hizbullah, pro-Iran activist sheikhs in Argentina.
Iranian State Outlet IRNA Español – Posting Footage Of Massive Crowds Attending Nasrallah's Funeral
Iranian state media shaped the narrative surrounding Nasrallah's and Safieddine's funerals for the region via their Spanish-language branches. IRNA Español, the Latin America branch of the Iranian state-run Islamic Republic News Agency, extensively covered the funerals, depicting them as a moment of widespread mourning and unwavering support for the "resistance."
On February 22, the day before the funerals took place, IRNA Español posted a reel on Instagram showing massive crowds gathering for Nasrallah's funeral in Beirut. It wrote, in Spanish and English: "Thousands of people are arriving in Lebanon from around the world – by plane, car, bus, or even on foot – to witness the funeral of martyr Hassan Nasrallah this Sunday and to bid farewell to their leader. This is more than just a funeral; it is a pledge of allegiance to the Resistance." [4]
Later that day, another reel was posted by IRNA Español, of footage of Nasrallah's funeral procession. The text stated: "Grief and tears sweep through the Lebanese people as they mourn the loss of Hizbullah's Secretary General, the martyr Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah." [5] As the funeral proceeded on February 23, IRNA Español posted another reel showing the growing crowds and stating that hundreds of thousands of people were making their way to the funeral venue. [6]
Also on February 23, IRNA Español posted a reel of footage of Nasrallah's funeral ceremony at Beirut's Camille Chamoun Stadium. It wrote: "Aerial images show the enthusiastic attendance of people at the funeral ceremony of the leaders of the Lebanese Resistance." [7] The reel was shared in coordination with two other Instagram pages: @ sin_censura43 (35.6K Instagram followers) and @ clamorsur (11.2K Instagram followers), amplifying the reach of the narrative of mass public support for Nasrallah among Latin American audience s. IRNA Español itself has fewer than 4,500 followers on Instagram.
Iranian State-Controlled HispanTV – Reporting On This "Profoundly Symbolic" Event, Interviewing People In The Street
On February 24, the Iranian state-owned media outlet HispanTV posted a live TV report on Instagram under its analysis show, "Behind the Reason," covering Nasrallah's funeral. The show host called the event "profoundly symbolic," especially since "axis of resistance" figures had clarified that Hizbullah would continue along the path laid out by Nasrallah throughout his three decades as its leader. HispanTV has 294,000 followers on Instagram.
HispanTV wrote in the post that Hizbullah would remain steadfast in Nasrallah's path and that the massive crowds at the funeral ceremony reflected the unwavering support in Lebanon and abroad for Hizbullah and its broader alliance. The resistance, it said, was still united, with the view of martyrdom as a virtue that strengthened its resolve to defend its land and sovereignty with even greater determination. [8] HispanTV has more than 29K followers on Instagram.
On February 25, 2025, HispanTV published a post on Instagram about the Israeli fighter jet flyover during Nasrallah's funeral. Its "Voices of Beirut" show interviewed a Lebanese man in the street, who said: "Israel thought it could scare us. We've been fighting it for 40 years, and it has learned that our people do not fear... so now it tries to frighten us as we bid farewell to our secretary-general... The Zionists are backed by all the world's nations. Our battle has never been just against Israel – we've fought the U.S., its allies, and Zionist agents worldwide. They watch us, waiting for us to weaken... Our homes have been destroyed, yet we stand firm. Our youth have been martyred, yet we remain steadfast. We have liberated what remains of our land with our bare chests. Humiliation is foreign to us... His Eminence Sayyed Nasrallah taught us pride, dignity, and honor. The Israelis and their agents have failed to shake our confidence; not one ounce of our faith in victory has wavered. And victory will come, God willing. God has destined him to be a martyr." [9]
A reel published by HispanTV on Instagram on February 24 stated that nearly half of Lebanon had taken to the streets of Beirut to reaffirm their commitment to Hizbullah, showing footage of the crowds, the Hizbullah flags, and the banners glorifying Nasrallah. Several of the participants were interviewed; they all expressed defiance and asserted that Israel's actions had only strengthened Hizbullah's resolve.
One young woman, proudly holding a portrait of her dead Hizbullah-fighter father, declared, "We are here to renew this pact [with Hizbullah], to say that we rema in despite all the sacrifices, and that we will continue to sacrifice ourselves. This country deserves it." Another young woman called Nasrallah's "martyrdom" an "honor" and a "blessing," vowing to continue in his path, and another said, "If they think fighting us is weakening us, on the contrary, they are making us stronger." She added: "Our blood is boiling, and patience has its limits." The report concluded with a reference to Nasrallah as "the man of victories" who left a lasting impression on his followers. [10] Later, HispanTV posted a similar reel with similar themes. [11]
Pro-Hizbullah Beirut-Based Outlet Al-Mayadeen Español – Narrative Comic Strip Depicts Lebanese Citizens Praising Nasrallah, Vowing To Continue Resistance
A narrative comic strip was posted on Instagram on February 23, 2025 by Al-Mayadeen Español, the Spanish-language branch of the pro-Hizbullah Beirut-based network Al-Mayadeen. The comic strip, titled "The Legacy Of Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah Transcends Time And Space," depicted Lebanese people of all ages and backgrounds expressing their sorrow over Nasrallah's death, expressing how he had influenced them and the future of the resistance, and reaffirming their commitment to his cause. One stated that Nasrallah was the vital force behind both the resistance and the people; another called his killing "a wound in the heart of the nation." Others rejected the notion that his death was a victory for Israel, insisting that the enemy had only strengthened their resolve. A little boy was depicted as being guided by his father in vowing that Nasrallah's example would live on in future generations and that he himself would grow up inspired by the leader's legacy. In the final image, Nasrallah's hand is shown alongside the message: "His legacy strengthens us, his example guides us, and his victory is eternal ." [12]
Al-Mayadeen added on each post that "every mountain, every olive tree, and every candle lit" had become symbols of a people who refuse to surrender, and that while Lebanon was bidding farewell to its leader, it was also rising with renewed strength to continue the struggle. [13] AlMayadeenenespanol has 196,000 followers on Instagram.
Venezuela's State-Funded TelesurTV – Showcasing The Massive Turnout For Nasrallah's Funeral
On February 23, 2025, TelesurTV, a Venezuelan state-funded news outlet headquartered in Caracas, shared several Instagram posts showing the massive turnout for Nasrallah's funeral at Camille Chamoun Stadium from the early morning hours, arriving from across Lebanon and from Iran, Yemen, Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Turkey. One caption, including on a post of a woman holding up a photo of Nasrallah, [14] stated: "Tens of thousands have gathered in Beirut, the capital of Hizbullah, to take part in funeral ceremonies honoring the martyrs of the Lebanese Islamic Resistance Movement." Another two reels showcased the crowds gathered at the venue waving thousands of Hizbullah flags, stating: "Thousands of followers bid farewell to the leader of Hizbullah Hassan Nasrallah." [15] TelesurTV has 568K followers on Instagram.
In another February 23 post, TelesurTV recounted Nasrallah's life from to his early involvement in "resistance movements" and his cofounding of Hizbullah, calling him "a key figure in the region and a defender of the Palestinian cause." It added that thanks to his leadership, "Hizbullah grew into one of the most influential resistance movements in the Middle East." [16] A street poster in the photo features an image of Nasrallah and Safieddine taken from Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's message "on the occasion of the funeral ceremonies for martyrs Nasrallah and Safieddine." This image had been used as a backdrop to the funeral ceremony at the stadium and elsewhere as well around the time of the event. [17]
Also on February 23, TelesurTV posted another reel showing the crowds attending the funeral and citing current Hizbullah leader Naim Qassem 's speech at the funeral in which he called Nasrallah "an historic, extraordinary, and exceptional leader who represented the free men of the world." [18]
Notably, on February 24, TelesurTV posted about a meeting between the outlet's president, Patricia Villegas Marín, and Ahmad Bin Saeed Al-Rumaihi, director of the Doha-based Qatar News Agency. According to the post, the meeting, which was held WHERE?, was aimed at "strengthening cooperation and expanding the global reach" of TelesurTV's network, raising questions about the nature of this collaboration. [19]
Resumen Latinoamericano – Praising Nasrallah's Legacy, Quotes Hizbullah Leader Calling Him "Leader Of The Resistance"
On February 23, the Resumen Latinoamericano outlet, which bills itself as an alternative media platform with a strong focus on social movements, resistance struggles, and countering mainstream media narratives, [20] posted a reel about Nasrallah, adding numerous quotes by him and by the current Hizbullah leader Naim Qassem, who praised Nasrallah's legacy and vowed to continue in his footsteps. The outlet also quoted Qassem as calling Nasrallah "the leader of the Resistance," and highlighted his deep commitment to Islam and loyalty and his alleged humility, wisdom, and strategic vision. It added that he was "beloved by the Resistance and the people," and that he "kept his eyes on Palestine and Jerusalem," for the revitalization of the Palestinian cause, and that he had supervised Hizbullah's military operations from the Resistance's operations room until he was "martyred on this path." [21] Resumen Latinoamericano has over 25,000 followers on Instagram.
Reel Posted By Resumen Latinoamericano In Collaboration With AlmaPlusTV – Nasrallah As Constellation Of Stars, Quran Verse On Martyrdom
A reel posted February 23 by the Venezuela-based AlmaPlusTV in collaboration with Resumen Latinoamericano featured a depiction of Nasrallah as a constellation of stars in the sky and stated: "Today, the world pays tribute to Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, leader of the Lebanese Resistance. Nasrallah, a symbol of struggle and unity, leaves behind an eternal legacy that inspires people worldwide to resist oppression and fight for justice. His example of courage and leadership has transcended borders, uniting millions in an unprecedented global tribute. His legacy will endure as a beacon of hope and strength for generations to come." The narration included the Quran verse on martyrdom from Surah Al-Imran (3:169-170): "Never think of those who were killed in the cause of God as dead. Rather, they are alive with their Lord, receiving sustenance, rejoicing in what God has bestowed upon them, and waiting for those who will follow in their path." [22] AlmaPlusTV bills itself a "resistance platform" that promotes an "anti-imperialist", anti-capitalist, and anti-interventionist agenda. [23]
Pro-Hizbullah, Pro-Iran Sheikhs In Argentina – Affiliates Of Prominent Cleric Mohsen Rabbani
Two of Latin America's most vocal defenders of Hizbullah and of Iran's ideological agenda are Sheikh Abdul Karim Paz and Sheikh Mohsen Ali. Both of them are directly affiliated with the Organization for the Liberation of Argentina (OLA) [24] and with the prominent Shi'ite cleric Mohsen Rabbani, who was i dentified by federal prosecutor Alberto Nisman as the key architect of the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish center in Buenos Aires in which 85 people died and over 200 were wounded. [25] Nisman, who was murdered a day before he was scheduled to report on the findings of his investigation, [26] had described the At-Tawhid Mosque as the hub where Iranian officials coordinated the attack in conjunction with Hizbullah.
Sheikh Abdul Karim Paz, who succeeded Rabbani as a leader of the At-Tawhid Mosque in Buenos Aires, has played a central role in propagating Iran's influence in Argentina. Paz has maintained close ideological and operational ties with Hizbullah, openly promoting its narrative.
Sheikh Mohsen Ali, a disciple of Rabbani, serves as the director of the House for the Dissemination of Islam (Casa para la Difusión del Islam) in Buenos Aires, which operates on a property owned by Rabbani. Ali is known for his extremist rhetoric, including Holocaust denial, and for his unwavering support for Hizbullah. On February 21 and 22, Mohsen Ali announced on Instagram and Facebook that on February 22, he would host a special segment marking Nasrallah's funeral on his radio program The Human Being and The Qur'an on 1600 Armonía online radio. [27]
In the segment, Sheikh Mohsen Ali interviewed Sheikh Abdul Karim Paz, who was in in Iran at the time of Nasrallah's funeral. Paz called Nasrallah "extraordinarily charismatic," and added that he had had the privilege of seeing him speak publicly prior to the 2006 Israel-Hizbullah war. He added, "I saw him three or four times in Beirut, and his presence was remarkable. He was deeply loved by [Iranian Supreme Leader Ali] Khamenei and also by [IRGC Qods Force commander] Qassem Soleimani." Lamenting Nasrallah's death, Paz said: "The day Seyyed Hassan was martyred was devastating for everyone. Believers around the world were deeply shaken. We could hardly believe it – it felt impossible. I remember posting, 'Oh Allah, send us Imam Mahdi as the only comfort great enough to console this immense loss.' But Seyyed Hassan always said that from now on, every step would be a victory. The people remain hopeful. His successor, Sheikh Naim Qassem, is also widely respected, and the movement remains strong."
Both Mohsen Ali and Paz glorified Nasrallah in the broadcast, calling his death not a loss but part of Hizbullah's divine struggle. Mohsen Ali declared that Nasrallah was not "dead" in the traditional sense, but rather that he had received immediate reward in Paradise as a martyr. Quoting the Quran, he stated: "Do not count those who have fallen in the path of Allah among the dead, for they are alive, receiving a reward from Allah." He added: "Seyyed Hassan is alive, Seyyed Hashem is alive. All the martyrs, all the Palestinians who have died under oppression, tyranny, genocide, the Israeli bombs – they are alive and receiving their reward from Allah [although] you cannot perceive it [and] you do not realize it." Mohsen Ali insisted that this was not the beginning of Nasrallah's peaceful rest, but rather the "culmination of mourning."
In a direct attack on Israel and Western narratives, Paz blamed "Zionist terrorism" for the suffering of Nasrallah and the so-called "Islamic Resistance," rejecting any portrayal of Hizbullah as a terrorist organization. Mohsen Ali then denied the Holocaust, stating: "The victim narrative they built around the Holocaust has collapsed – just like the gas chambers."
Mohsen Ali wished Nasrallah "the highest level of Paradise" and "Allah's divine satisfaction." He went on to declare that "the victory of Islam is inevitable," asserting that this was neither a matter of willpower nor fanaticism, but rather a divine promise. Citing the Quran, he proclaimed: "It is our right to grant victory to the believers." He then predicted that "you will see people entering [Islam] in great numbers, entire nations accepting Islam." [28]
On February 23, 2025, Abdul Karim Paz posted on Facebook: "Mass funeral of martyr Seyyed Hassan Nasrullah and martyr Seyyed Safieddine in Beirut. Infinite love all over the world." [29]
On February 24, 2025, Sheikh Abdul Karim Paz reposted a video recapping key moments from Nasrallah's funeral. He wrote in the post: "Immense pain, we will follow your path." The post drew numerous comments expressing grief and admiration, with followers emphasizing Nasrallah's lasting influence. Some wrote, "Hassan left, but the Resistance continues with Hizbullah," and "May Allah be pleased with them." Others reflected on his legacy, stating, "We must follow his example; that way, he will always be present," and "He didn't get to see the triumph on earth." Many lamented the loss of Nasrallah; one wrote: "These are very sad moments we are living. It's not goodbye – he remains with every one of us." [30]
On February 23, 2025, the day of Nasrallah's funeral, the Ash-Shahid Mosque in San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina, posted a photo of mosque director Sheikh Mahmud Aid alongside alongside a young Nasrallah and wrote: "On this special day for the followers of Ahlul-Bayt, we share this memory. Sheikh Mahmud Aid, Director of Ash-Shahid Mosque, with Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah, martyred by the Zionist Regime." [31]
Earlier, on November 27, 2024, Jalil (Khalil) Zevallos, another sheikh at the At-Tawhid Mosque, had posted a graphic of the Hizbullah emblem along with the Quranic verse: "Indeed, the Party of God will be victorious" (Qur'an 5:56). He added: "Let's see how long this stays up..." [32]
Iranian Embassies Across Latin America
The Iranian Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela posted, on February 24, 2025, photos of a gathering the previous day, the day of Nasrallah's funeral, at Caracas Youth Square, where a group of Venezuelan supporters had assembled to honor Nasrallah. The event featured a speech by Iranian regime representative Siros Karimi. [33] One notable commenter on the post was Mohammed Hussain Azadi, who in his bio states that he is affiliated with the IRGC Aerospace Division. [34]
Also on February 24, the Iranian Embassy in Bolivia shared a post on Instagram featuring a message from Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei about the funeral ceremonies of Nasrallah and Safieddine. Khamenei called Nasrallah a "great mujahid and vanguard leader of the Resistance in the region," stating that "while his pure body was buried in the land of jihad, his spirit and life would be more revered each day and will guide others on the path." The message concluded with prayers for peace upon the fallen figures and all "valiant and self-sacrificing fighters who have attained martyrdom." [35]
More MEMRI Reports On Iran And Hizbullah Activity In Latin America
MEMRI JTTM report The Organization For The Liberation of Argentina (OLA) – Building Support For The Iranian Regime And Hizbullah In Argentina, June 24, 2020.
MEMRI Inquiry & Analysis No. 1517, The Organization For The Liberation Of Argentina (OLA) – Building Support For The Iranian Regime And Hizbullah, July 1, 2020.
MEMRI JTTM report Brazilian Shi'ite Cleric Rodrigo Jalloul Supports Iranian Regime, Disseminates Its Ideology In Brazil – And Recently Announced Intention To Run For São Paulo City Councilor, September 1, 2020.
MEMRI Inquiry & Analysis No. 1662, Colombia's New President Gustavo Petro And The Dawn Of A New Era Of Opportunity For Iran In Latin America, October 21, 2022.
MEMRI Inquiry & Analysis No. 1710, Massive Campaign Promoting Spanish Translation Of Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei's Memoir – Iran's Latest Strategy For Spreading Its Islamic Revolution In Latin America, August 15, 2023.
[1] Cnn.com/2025/02/23/middleeast/nasrallah-funeral-lebanon-beirut-israel-intl/index.html; Nbcnews.com/news/world/tens-thousands-mourn-hezbollah-leader-nasrallah-funeral-lebanon-rcna193347; Reuters.com/world/middle-east/tens-thousands-mourn-hezbollahs-slain-leader-nasrallah-mass-funeral-2025-02-23/, February 23, 2025.
[3] Instagram.com/s/aGlnaGxpZ2h0OjE3OTMyOTczNjQyODcyODIx?story_media_id=3418430069461673168&igsh=MWNpMXQzeTZhanI5OQ==, July 23, 2024.
[4] Instagram.com/reel/DGYm8IYOfh4/?igsh=MXZtenJkMjR4eGY0dA==, February 22, 2025.
[5] Instagram.com/reel/DGbgqzEut68/?igsh=N2p1NTVsc2p2aDl1, February 23, 2025.
[6] Instagram.com/reel/DGa3Cd_oKRT/?igsh=b3k2Z3dudHFkcmI3, February 23, 2025.
[7] Instagram.com/reel/DGbRtdDu6jP/?igsh=MWV6NzVmbnRmOXA5MQ==, February 23, 2025.
[8] Instagram.com/reel/DGd1bJyyES0/?igsh=c3lzZW5kM3Fzbm5n, February 24, 2025.
[9] Instagram.com/reel/DGgxy75o5VW/?igsh=MXF2bmJjZXNuNHQyeg==, February 25, 2025.
[10] Instagram.com/reel/DGd0efryMVZ/?igsh=MXZqODl0N2l3cndrdQ==, February 24, 2025.
[11] Instagram.com/reel/DGgWT5wSmLa/?igsh=MTZxZnQ1b283Y3hlag==, February 25, 2025.
[12] Instagram.com/p/DGcEZOVqVQ3/?img_index=7&igsh=a2U2MDFvNjh2eGds, February 23, 2025
[13] Instagram.com/p/DGcEZOVqVQ3/?img_index=7&igsh=a2U2MDFvNjh2eGds, February 23, 2025
[14] Instagram.com/p/DGa1Ls2xUVO/?igsh=M3k5aTl0b2cxaHd4, February 23, 2025.
[15] Instagram.com/reel/DGasAqhiEjq/?igsh=MXhwNWZzYXo1b3lyNg==m, February 23, 2025;
Instagram.com/reel/DGaiAgqCa06/?igsh=MnZvcjkyeHVsNDNj, February 23, 2025.
[16] Instagram.com/reel/DGahsK1iUqu/?igsh=cmhleGU4Y2s5Y2N4, February 23, 2025.
[17] English.khamenei.ir/news/11506/Imam-Khamenei-s-message-on-occasion-of-funeral-ceremonies-for, February 23, 2025.
[18] Instagram.com/reel/DGbYD73MJF-/?igsh=aXk0cHd5dnM3OXVu, February 23, 2025.
[19] Instagram.com/p/DGnyCtstQQX/?igsh=YnJvMW9vbXJ0aTI0, February 24, 2024.
[20] Resumenlatinoamericano.org/quienes-somos/.
[21] Instagram.com/reel/DGb-XY9ynY_/?igsh=YXZpd21tcmR2cnZv, February 23, 2025.
[22] Instagram.com/reel/DGbzl99SJiK/?igsh=ZmM5aXVyaTdnYjdm, February 23, 2025.
[23] Instagram.com/s/aGlnaGxpZ2h0OjE3OTMyOTczNjQyODcyODIx?story_media_id=3418430069461673168&igsh=MWNpMXQzeTZhanI5OQ==, July 23, 2024.
[25] Newyorker.com/magazine/2015/07/20/death-of-a-prosecutor, July 13, 2015.
[26] Bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-42491527, December 27, 2017.
[27] Instagram.com/reel/DGWbINnBpng/?igsh=MXA5ZWVyY3F0NDRrcA==, February 21, 2025.
Facebook.com/share/p/18KAV2wweW/, February 22, 2025.
[28] Youtube.com/live/vIgtVNgnSUM, February 22, 2025.
[29] Facebook.com/share/p/1KL5SKRqYE/, February 23, 2025.
[30] Facebook.com/share/p/194hKHYMpW/, February 24, 2025
[31] Instagram.com/reel/DGanWj2xCdh/?igsh=Nzl1MHl4NWJtczIy, February 23, 2025.
[32] Instagram.com/p/DC49EkJAeY4/?igsh=NHIxc2p2czF2ZjZt, November 27, 2024
[33] Instagram.com/p/DGdKd6_xbiR/?img_index=5&igsh=b3UxcDEzamhqMHFu, February 24, 2025.
[34] Instagram.com/m.hazadi7906?igsh=MTJ3eTcxcXNsOGFoOA==
[35] Instagram.com/p/DGdM-VCtw0i/?igsh=NGlteDIxYmxzMXhx, February 24, 2025.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Rudaw Net
5 hours ago
- Rudaw Net
Deadly blast in northwestern Syria kills 4, injures 5
Also in Syria Syria Alawite violence 'systematic', may constitute 'war crimes': UN SDF says investigating suspected ISIS attack in Deir ez-Zor Syria denies attacks on Kurdish neighborhoods in Aleppo US envoy says Syria vowed accountability for Suwayda violence A+ A- ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - At least four people, including two children, were killed and five others injured in an explosion on the outskirts of Syria's northwestern Idlib city on Thursday, according to state media. While initial reports described the site of the explosion as a 'residential building,' local authorities told Rudaw the explosion occurred at a warehouse storing 'war remnants.' The state-run Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) cited the health ministry, reporting that 'four people, including two children, were killed and five others, including one child, were injured in an explosion that occurred this morning in a residential building on the outskirts of Idlib city.' SANA added that 'authorities are still investigating the cause of the blast.' Syrian Civil Defense teams immediately launched rescue operations and extinguished fires sparked by the explosion. 'They are on alert to secure the site and prevent the fire from spreading to neighboring buildings,' the agency noted. Meanwhile, local authorities in Idlib told Rudaw that the explosion occurred in an arms depot. Abed Kontar, director of media relations in Idlib province, affiliated with the Syrian information ministry, said the blast took place at an 'ammunition and war remnants warehouse,' adding that 'it was not the result of an aerial attack.' 'There was no aviation in the area and no sound of missiles was heard," Kontar said, suggesting that "the explosion was likely caused by high temperatures and poor storage conditions.' He also stated that 'the identities of the deceased had not yet been confirmed,' and it remains unclear 'whether they were civilians or military personnel.' For its part, the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), which relies on a network of sources inside Syria, reported on Thursday that 'several violent explosions' rocked a 'warehouse and headquarters for non-Syrian foreign fighters' in the farmlands west of Idlib. According to SOHR, the incident 'resulted in four deaths and five injuries among those fighters.' The monitor added that the explosions 'coincided with drone activity in the area' but did not specify who the drone belonged to. This latest incident follows a similar explosion in late July, when 'a series of blasts inside a warehouse belonging to the 'Turkistan Islamic Party'' in northern Idlib 'resulting in 12 deaths' and '107 civilian injuries, with unconfirmed reports of casualties among Turkistan nationals whose fate was being kept quiet.' Following a swift offensive in early December, a coalition of opposition groups, led by the now-dissolved Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham - then-headed by Ahmed al-Sharaa - toppled the regime of longtime Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad. In late January, Sharaa was appointed Syria's interim president. Since then, explosions at 'war remnants depots' and incidents involving unexploded ordnance have emerged as a major cause of casualties, particularly in Idlib province.
Shafaq News
6 hours ago
- Shafaq News
Iraq's al-Sadr rejects missile displays during Arbaeen
Shafaq News – Baghdad Iraqi Patriotic Shiite Movement (Sadrist) Leader Muqtada al-Sadr condemned, on Thursday, the display of missile replicas in religious shrines during the Arbaeen pilgrimage, one of the world's largest annual Shiite gatherings commemorating the martyrdom of the third Shia Imam Hussein bin Ali. 'Militarizing shrines is forbidden,' Al-Sadr said in a brief handwritten note circulated by media outlets linked to his movement. His remarks came after videos surfaced showing pilgrims making missile-launch gestures—apparently referencing recent Iranian strikes on Israel—and exhibits inside the Imam Hussein shrine in Karbala featuring missile models widely interpreted as symbols of Iranian military power. The controversy coincided with an unannounced visit by Iranian officials to Iraq. Earlier this week, Israeli Army Spokesperson Avichay Adraee denounced the displays, alleging they glorify attacks by Iran's regional proxies 'who have suffered repeated defeats over the past two years.' Al-Sadr has long opposed pulling Iraq into regional conflicts, frequently clashing with Iran-backed factions. In June, he called for keeping Iraq out of the Iran–Israel confrontation, but accused Israel of crossing red lines with US support, warning that Iran might not be the last target if tensions continue to escalate.
Shafaq News
6 hours ago
- Shafaq News
Iraqi–Iranian Security MoU rekindles a decade of border deals—and old controversies
Shafaq News – Baghdad A new security memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Iraq and Iran has reignited debate over sovereignty, parliamentary oversight, and Iraq's vulnerability to regional rivalries. Signed on Tuesday under the auspices of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, the document upgrades an earlier security record into a broader agreement between National Security Advisor Qassem al-Araji and his Iranian counterpart Ali Larijani. Objectives and Security Provisions According to a senior Iraqi security source, the MoU aims to strengthen border protection, address the presence of Iranian opposition groups in the Kurdistan Region, and prevent the emergence of a PKK-style model in Iraq's frontier districts. It establishes mechanisms for intelligence sharing, joint patrols, counter-narcotics coordination, and monitoring ISIS movements along roughly 1,450 kilometers of border, about 600 kilometers of which lie inside the Kurdistan Region. Al-Araji said the accord builds directly on the March 2023 border security agreement, calling it its 'foundation.' That earlier deal focused on tightening control along the Kurdistan Region frontier, where Tehran has accused armed dissidents of staging cross-border attacks. Parliamentary Oversight and Political Reactions Kareem Abu Souda, a member of the parliamentary Security and Defense Committee, criticized the absence of legislative review, noting that the Council of Representatives had not been informed due to its current suspension. He told Shafaq News the committee 'rejects any external interference outside the framework of formal agreements,' and insisted any pact 'must be presented to Parliament in line with constitutional procedures.' Security expert Sarmad al-Bayati described the MoU as mutually beneficial for border management and threat reduction, linking it to the 2023–2024 withdrawal of armed Iranian opposition factions from Iraq. 'The memorandum does not contain secret clauses,' he stressed. MP Mukhtar al-Moussawi of the Foreign Relations Committee called Iran Iraq's 'strategic depth,' recalling Tehran's early military assistance against ISIS in 2014 and saying the agreement 'affirms that Iraq is not alone.' US Rejection and Regional Pushback The US State Department warned the MoU could weaken Iraqi security institutions and 'turn Iraq into a client state of Iran.' Spokesperson Tammy Bruce argued it undermined efforts to build independent Iraqi defense capabilities. Baghdad's embassy in Washington responded that Iraq is not subordinate to any state's policies, that its decisions reflect independent national will, and that it maintains balanced relations with both neighbors and the United States based on mutual respect and shared interests. Iran's Embassy in Baghdad also rejected Washington's position, calling it 'an unacceptable intrusion into the relations between two neighboring and sovereign states' and accusing the United States of pursuing a destabilizing approach in the region. The statement said such actions violate the UN Charter and international law. Domestic Political Divide Salah al-Zubaidi of the Iran-aligned al-Nasr Coalition said Washington has no right to dictate Iraq's security policy, though he acknowledged the possibility of US economic pressure to limit Iranian influence. Security analyst Ahmed al-Sharifi told Shafaq News that under the 2008 US–Iraq Strategic Framework Agreement, Washington can raise objections because Iran is a US adversary. 'For now, the MoU remains a security understanding, not a treaty, and therefore carries limited legal weight,' he said. Security expert Adnan al-Kanani described the memorandum as part of long-term cooperation but stressed political divisions over Baghdad's closeness to Tehran. He noted that distancing Iranian opposition elements—estimated at around 20,000 people, including families—remains a central goal. A Decade of Agreements and Flashpoints The 2023 accord, reaffirmed by al-Araji as the base of the current MoU, followed Tehran's September ultimatum to disarm and relocate armed Iranian Kurdish groups by the 19th of that month. Baghdad complied by moving them from border zones to designated camps. Those measures came after Iranian Revolutionary Guard missile and drone strikes in September and November 2022 against targets in the Kurdistan Region—operations Tehran framed as counter-terrorism, but which intensified pressure for formal border arrangements. Earlier milestones include the July 2017 military cooperation MoU, which expanded joint training and logistics but drew US concern over deepening Iranian military ties, and the December 2014 defense cooperation MoU signed at the height of ISIS's advance. The deeper legal backdrop is the 1975 Algiers Agreement, which settled land and river boundaries along the Shatt al-Arab—a reference point repeatedly revived in moments of crisis. Over the past decade—2014, 2017, 2023, and now 2025—each deal has been followed by cycles of coercion or escalation. The latest memorandum again seeks to codify border rules in hopes of reducing friction. Whether this MoU breaks that cycle will depend less on the language of the agreement than on transparent enforcement and Baghdad's ability to shield itself from the gravitational pull of competing regional powers. Potential spoilers, according to observers, include renewed Iranian strikes in Kurdistan, shifts in Iraq's domestic political balance, or US economic measures aimed at curbing Tehran's influence.
