Azerbaijan celebrates the 105th anniversary of its Armed Forces with a vibrant march in Baku. Military academy cadets, officers, and military bands took part in the commemorative event. The Azerbaijani Armed Forces were established in 1918, and the modern army was formed in 1993 after Azerbaijan regained independence. President Heydar Aliyev declared June 26 as the official Day of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan in 1998.
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