Akashvani News – Midday News
In Iran, nationwide anti-government protests have entered their 16th day. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency said the death toll has reached 544, and the protests have continued to grow despite an internet shutdown and phone lines being cut across the country. More than 10,600 people have reportedly been arrested.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has said that Iran wants to negotiate, adding that a meeting with the Islamic Republic’s leadership is being organized. The US president however said that Washington may have to act before the meeting due to the ongoing protests and violence against protesters.
On the other hand, Iran’s parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has warned that Tehran will consider US military and commercial bases as the legitimate targets for retaliation.