Hormuz reopening conditions
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson says the Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until the US lifts its blockade and meets Tehran's demands, stressing that the ball is now in Washington's court. At his weekly press briefing, Esmaeil Baqaei said the US and Israel are responsible for the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. He also rejected the possibility of transferring Iran’s enriched uranium abroad, saying Tehran would not agree to such a move. Baqaei acknowledged that the question of withdrawal from the NPT is a genuine issue under discussion, but emphasized that, at the decision-making level, Iran remains a member of the treaty and considers itself bound by its commitments. Addressing the possibility of renewed aggression, Baqaei said the war against Iran is already underway, with the blockade forming part of it. He stressed that Iran remains prepared for all possible scenarios.
US midterm elections
With the US midterms just a day away, candidates are making their final push to win over voters. Democratic and Republican candidates traded sharp attacks during debates and campaign rallies, with the war on Iran and its economic consequences in the US among the key issues. According to the latest survey, Democrats continue to hold an edge over Republicans. However, several closely contested Senate races could determine which party takes control of Congress. Democrats need to flip four Republican-held seats to gain control of the Senate, while defending their own seats in key states such as Michigan, Georgia and New Hampshire. Several states, including Texas and California, are seeing closely contested House races, with competitive contests taking place across the country.
France protests
French students have resumed blocking schools throughout the country after their return from a two-week holiday. The head of a student union said the government's proposals fell short of expectations and failed to address their demands. The blockades are expected to expand on Tuesday spreading to universities across the country. French President Emmanuel Macron has urged schools to resume classes, pointing to new government measures aimed at tackling the education crisis. France has been gripped by nationwide anti-government protests since September 17, when student-led demonstrations over poor school conditions began. The movement has since widened to include anger over the rising cost of living and soaring fuel prices, with protesters also demanding Macron's resignation. Human rights groups have accused police of using disproportionate force to suppress the demonstrations, reporting that several teenagers have suffered severe, war-like injuries from police weapons.
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