On the Russia’s highest mountain Elbrus, 19 climbers were stranded at the altitude more than 5000 meters. Due to worsening conditions, the group of climbers asked for help. After reaching the foothills of Mount Elbrus, Russian Emergency Situations Ministry teams started search and rescue operations. 5 of 19 climbers were found dead. The remaining 14 people were rescued and treated at the hospital. It was announced that the search efforts became difficult due to the snowstorm that reached 40 kilometers per hour. The rescue operation continued at night, making all the means difficult for the mountaineers not to die at minus 20 degree.
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