Last night, The Lady Mary Joy 3 ferry caught fire for unknown reasons while travelling from Mindanao Island to Jolo Island. The Philippines Coast Guard Force and local fishermen rescued 230 passengers off Baluk-Baluk Island, but the ship suffered severe damage and turned to ashes. Sadly, 12 lives, including three children, were lost, and 14 individuals were injured. Seven people are still missing, and the authorities are concerned that the number may increase as the number of passengers on board exceeded the reported 205. A detailed investigation into the incident is underway.
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