In Yerevan, Armenia, a clash occurred between the police and demonstrators demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in front of the parliament building. These protests were triggered by tensions related to Azerbaijan’s actions in Karabakh, with the opposition criticizing Pashinyan for not supporting Karabakh separatists. Protesters gathered, leading to road closures and heightened security. During the demonstration, some protesters attempted to enter the parliament, resulting in police intervention and arrests. The number of detainees remains unspecified, but anti-Pashinyan protests continue in Yerevan.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi issued a stern warning to the UK, Germany, and France, accusing them of making a “new strategic mistake” regarding Tehran’s nuclear program. In a social media post, Arakchi said, “Iran will give a tough and determined response to the violation of its rights,” criticizing the European trio for backing a resolution against Iran at the IAEA Board of Governors.
Arakchi condemned the move as baseless, recalling past disputes in 2005 which led to the expansion of Iran’s uranium enrichment. “Have these three really not learned any lessons in the last twenty years?” he said.
Meanwhile, the IAEA reported on May 31 that Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile had grown from 274.8 kg in February to 408.6 kg by May 17. In response, the UK, Germany, and France are reportedly preparing to refer Iran’s file to the UN Security Council, which could activate the “snapback” mechanism and reimpose UN sanctions.
TR