Blackout over Iran: Can the regime keep a lid on the nationwide uprising?

Iran has closed its airspace to all flights as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied plans to execute protesters, stating that hangings are 'out of the question.' This comes amid a violent crackdown on anti-government demonstrations, which has reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths and a significant international response.

Sussan Ley, a prominent member of the Coalition, has criticized the Labor government's proposed hate law reforms, labeling them 'unsalvageable' and asserting that they fail to address the underlying issues related to the recent Bondi terror attack. Ley's remarks come amidst ongoing political tensions following the tragic incident that resulted in multiple fatalities during a Hanukkah celebration.

President Trump is facing limitations in his military options regarding Iran due to a significant military buildup in the Caribbean, which has diverted resources away from the Middle East. U.S. officials maintain that adequate military assets remain in the region to conduct strikes if necessary.

Morocco triumphed over Nigeria in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, winning 4-2 on penalties after a goalless 120 minutes. They will face Senegal in the final, who secured their spot with a 1-0 victory against Egypt, courtesy of Sadio Mané's late goal. Sports journalists, including Jean-Émile Jammine and Selina Sykes, covered the matches in Rabat.

Global tensions are escalating as President Donald Trump's renewed interest in acquiring Greenland has sparked diplomatic disputes with Denmark, particularly following his appointment of a special envoy to the territory. This move has been met with strong opposition from both Danish and Greenlandic leaders, who assert their sovereignty over the region.

The United States and the United Kingdom have begun withdrawing some military personnel from a base in Qatar due to escalating tensions with Iran, following threats from Tehran to target U.S. bases if military action is taken. This withdrawal comes amid a backdrop of significant unrest in Iran, where protests against the government have intensified, leading to a violent crackdown and rising death tolls among demonstrators.

U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that he has received information indicating that the killing of protesters in Iran has ceased, amidst ongoing violent crackdowns by the Iranian government that have reportedly resulted in thousands of deaths. This statement comes as tensions escalate between the U.S. and Iran, with Trump threatening military action if the Iranian government continues its violent suppression of dissent.

The U.S. has begun evacuating some personnel from a military base in Qatar as President Trump contemplates potential military action against Iran. This precautionary measure reflects heightened tensions in the region, particularly in light of recent developments involving Iran's airspace closure and ongoing geopolitical instability.