Inflation leaves Iranian pensioners unable to cover basic costs

Key Points:

• The UK government has introduced the National Security (State Threats) Act 2026 to designate foreign state bodies like Iran’s IRGC, enabling prosecution of proxies conducting hostile activities in Britain, as existing terrorism laws were inadequate for state institutions.
• The new legislation targets individuals who assist designated foreign bodies with activities such as surveillance or violence, carrying penalties up to life imprisonment for espionage or sabotage, but exempts conscripts forced to serve in such organizations.
• Iranian violinist Bijan Mortazavi is expected to perform at the first-ever World Cup final halftime show on July 19, symbolizing a cultural milestone amid Iran’s national team’s early exit and domestic political tensions.
• Reports reveal a scandal involving subsidized US-dollar allocations for medical implants in Iran, with allegations of corruption and unequal distribution leading to shortages and exorbitant prices for patients, highlighting systemic issues in Iran’s multiple-exchange-rate system.
• Former US President Donald Trump threatened intensified strikes against Iran’s infrastructure unless negotiations occur, while Iranian officials vowed retaliation after recent US military actions and the killing of a former Supreme Leader, with some Iranian lawmakers calling for direct military responses.