Hundreds of thousands of Muslims in Mecca for pilgrimage are experiencing soaring taxi prices due to traffic congestion near the Kaaba. With shuttle services from Aziziye halted three days before Tarwiyah Day, transportation costs have surged by 3 to 20 times. Pilgrims, especially those over 60, are forced to pay up to 100 riyals ($26) for short taxi rides. Many resort to walking or using wheelchairs. Criticism grows over the lack of a rail system to alleviate traffic woes. Additionally, increased police checks are causing further delays.
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