Two luxury superyachts collided off the coast of Naples, Italy, on July 22. The 78-meter “Venus,” owned by Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of Apple founder Steve Jobs, and the 105-meter “Lady Moura,” owned by Mexican billionaire Ricardo Salinas, were involved in the incident. Both vessels, valued at $140 million and $125 million respectively, were anchored at the time of the collision, which was reportedly caused by strong winds. No major damage was reported, but the crews of both yachts are blaming each other for the mishap.
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