Iranian Protests and Fires
Footage verified by BBC Persian shows buildings on fire in the Iranian capital, Tehran, as anti-government protests spread across the country. Video from the 12th consecutive day of national unrest captures mosques in the Gholhak and Sa’adat Abad neighbourhoods of Tehran engulfed in flames. Frustration over the collapse of Iran’s currency has triggered demonstrations in more than 100 cities and towns across all 31 of Iran’s provinces, according to human rights groups.
Festivities in Manger Square
Hundreds gathered in Manger Square to bask in the festivities that included music, dancing and Santas bearing sweet treats.
Economic Crisis Sparks Nationwide Demonstrations
According to human rights groups, the collapse of Iran’s currency has become a catalyst for widespread protests, with demonstrations erupting in over 100 cities across the nation’s 31 provinces.
Ceasefire Deal and Prisoner Releases
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reports that over 80% of all buildings in the territory are destroyed or damaged. Israel has released 1,968 prisoners and detainees as part of a ceasefire deal with Hamas. Video released by the Israeli military shows Mor smiling and embracing two relatives. The footage also depicts Alon Ohel and Guy Gilboa-Dalal speaking to Israeli soldiers after being freed from Hamas captivity in Gaza. Einav Zangauker, the mother of a hostage freed from Hamas captivity and brought to Israel, spoke with him via video call for the first time in two years.
Hostages Square Celebrations
Large numbers of people packed out Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, where screens were erected to welcome home hostages freed from Hamas captivity.
International Reactions and Diplomatic Shifts
The US president was speaking at the Israeli parliament after the release of all 20 living hostages from Gaza. Israel is releasing 250 Palestinian prisoners as part of the ceasefire deal with Hamas. Palestinians in the West Bank express hope that the deal could lead to a united Palestinian future. The BBC’s Middle East Correspondent Yolande Knell and Gaza Correspondent Rushdi Abualouf reflect on their memories of 7 October. Hopes are growing of an end to the Israel-Gaza war, but it remains to be seen if the two sides can agree a ceasefire.
UN General Assembly Protests
Dozens of officials and diplomats staged a walk-out as the US president took to the podium, leaving large parts of the hall empty. Syrian president Ahmed Al-Sharaa became the first representative of Syria to address world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly for almost sixty years. The Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid has rejected Washington’s argument that the move is a reward for Hamas.
“About 14,000 babies will die in 48 hours if aid does not reach them,” warns a UN humanitarian chief. BBC Verify analyses President Trump’s peace plan for Gaza and what it means on the ground. People in Gaza and Jerusalem share their reactions to the US president’s new strategy for ending the war.
