PARIS: Iran has arrested a prominent reformist figure, deepening its crackdown on dissent in the wake of mass protests that have posed one of the most serious challenges to the Islamic Republic since its inception, local media reported.
Among those detained is Javad Emam, spokesperson for the country’s main reformist coalition. His arrest came just days after Iranian and US officials held talks in Oman, which both sides described as constructive.
Emam is at least the fourth leader linked to the Reformist Front to be taken into custody in recent days. His detention coincided with the arrest of several activists and filmmakers who had signed a statement critical of the authorities.
Meanwhile, Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called on the nation to show “resolve” in the face of what he described as foreign pressure.
Nuclear Talks and Sanctions
In a related development, Iran’s nuclear chief said Tehran could agree to dilute its most highly enriched uranium if all financial sanctions were lifted. The remarks offered one of the clearest signals so far of Iran’s position in ongoing talks with Washington.
The United States has demanded that Iran give up its stockpile of uranium enriched to up to 60% purity—just short of the 90% level considered weapons-grade—as part of any future agreement.
The twin developments underline the tense political climate in Iran, as authorities tighten internal controls while simultaneously seeking relief from international sanctions through diplomatic negotiations.
