As Nowruz celebrations began, Supreme Leader Khamenei named 1404 the "Year of Investment for Production" in his annual address, dominating morning headlines across all Iranian outlets. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Araqchi characterized Trump's recent letter to Khamenei as "more of a threat" and promised Iran would respond.
In a gesture of diplomatic flexibility, Iran released French citizen Olivier Grandot after 887 days of imprisonment. This move coincided with continuing regional tensions as Admiral Siyari warned of retaliation against any aggression toward Iran.
Trump's Nowruz message to Iranians contrasted with US actions as Washington sanctioned a network involved in transporting and processing Iranian oil, while Axios reported that US-Israel consultations on Iran's nuclear program would occur next week.
Istanbul mayor's arrest continued generating regional coverage as protesters defied authorities for a second day despite dozens of arrests for "provocative" social media posts.
