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TEHRAN PANORAMA POSTER IRAN

Vintage Travel Poster

by Alecse™ - Limited to 300ex

• Limited Edition
• Worldwide Free Shipping
• Printed on Order

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ORIGINAL RETRO TEHRAN POSTER - LIMITED EDITION 300ex

Tehran Poster titled Panorama, created by artist and designer Alecse, will add a stylish vintage Iranian vibe to your decoration. This retro poster is an Original Edition printed from the artist's master (file), it's not a photo and all noise, grain, vintage effects are part of the design. Hang Tehran Panorama Poster and enhance your home decor with a vintage inspired travel poster.

POSTER SPECIFICATIONS

• Exhibition quality HD print 12 giclees printers (Fine Art)
• Matte Finish on Thick Premium EMA paper (200gsm)
• Tehran Panorama poster is available in 8 sizes for a total of 300 prints ONLY
• Art Print only : Frame/Panel sold separately
• Free Worlwide Shipping with Tracking
• Production time : 2 business days
• Rolled and packaged in a carton tube for maximal protection
• Satisfaction guaranteed : if the print is damaged or defective, the poster will be replaced.

Tehran Poster Panorama , Iran Travel Poster by Alecse™ © MyRetroposter, 2017-2024 .

*MyRetroposter shall not be held responsible for any custom duty / import taxes that may occur.

Design SKU:

SKU: TEHRAN-PANO

Customer Reviews

4 stars review from Etsy (no comments) - Size L

Not the best quality

5 stars review from Etsy (no comments) - Size L

5 stars review from Etsy (no comments)

If it's the first time you order posters with us, we kindly suggest you to read this section

FAQ & IMPORTANT INFORMATION

What is the half-tone effect in alecse's travel posters how does it differ from pixelization.

Alecse's Original Travel Posters are celebrated for their unique half-tone render, a signature style that plays a crucial role in their appeal and authenticity. This distinctive digital effect is intentionally used to mimic the old poster printing process, where colors were rendered by the juxtaposition of dots of different sizes and colors. This method is a nod to vintage aesthetics, giving each poster a classic, retro look that aficionados of vintage travel and retro posters appreciate.

Half-Tone vs. Pixelization:

• Half-Tone is an artistic technique used to create shading and texture effects in images. It involves the arrangement of dots of varying sizes and spacing to simulate different shades of color. This technique was traditionally used in the printing industry to reproduce photographs and illustrations with a limited color palette, contributing to a poster's vintage appearance.
• Pixelization , on the other hand, refers to an effect seen in digital images when they are enlarged beyond their resolution. This results in the individual pixels becoming visible, making the image appear blocky or mosaic-like. Pixelization is often considered a flaw or limitation of digital images, unlike the half-tone effect, which is a deliberate artistic choice.

The posters by Alecse™ are printed in Fine Art 12 Giclées, ensuring high-quality reproductions that honor the original artistic intent. While these art prints are not meant to be crisp like photographs and intentionally include blurs and vintage effects, it's essential to distinguish these artistic choices from potential printing defects. A clear indication of a print's quality is the crispness of the signature and titles; if these elements are not sharp, it may indicate a printing issue.

For those interested in the intricate details of Alecse's work or wanting to appreciate the half-tone effect fully, we offer the option to receive a close-up picture in High Definition before placing an order. This allows customers to make informed decisions and ensures satisfaction with their purchase of vintage travel and retro posters, enhancing their collection with pieces that truly represent the artist's vision and the era's printing techniques.

Please contact us if you wish to receive a close-up picture in High Definition before placing your order.

What Makes Our Retro Posters Exhibition-Quality?

Every poster at Myretroposter.com is meticulously produced from the artist's master file. The dimensions of this master file consistently align with the largest size we offer, maintaining a resolution of 300 dpi. This meticulous process guarantees that each art print is a flawless reproduction, capturing the essence and detail envisioned by the artist.

Our commitment to delivering exceptional quality extends to every aspect of our process. We proudly collaborate with a leading professional British printing company, who crafts exhibition-quality FineArt 12 giclées posters on EMA paper 200gsm.

To ensure a consistent and identical standard of excellence, our printing partner operates state-of-the-art facilities in the UK, Europe, the US, and Australia. This strategic approach allows us to produce our posters in close proximity to their destination, minimizing delivery times and environmental impact.

Rest assured, regardless of where your order is placed, our posters maintain the same high-quality craftsmanship and are printed using the finest materials. Our partnership ensures that you receive an exquisite piece of art, meticulously crafted for lasting beauty.

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All delivery timings are estimates and Myretroposter declines any responsibility for delays due to courier services, customs, or local distribution networks. Please read our Shop Policies before placing your order.

Where do you ship from? Should I expect Customs Duty?

For customers in the UK, Europe, the US, and Australia, our printing partner has facilities in Alton and Harrogate for the UK, Venlo in the Netherlands for all EU orders, Charlotte (NC) for US orders and Victoria for Australia, to minimize the likelihood of customs duties. However, it's important to note that for orders outside these specified regions, customs duties, taxes, and fees may be imposed by the destination country.

Please be aware that any such charges are beyond our control and are the responsibility of the recipient. We recommend consulting your local customs office to understand the potential fees that may apply to your order.

At Myretroposter.com, we're committed to transparency and ensuring your satisfaction. While we do our best to prevent customs duties, your understanding of any applicable charges is appreciated.

My order seems lost. What should I do?

If you suspect your parcel might be lost, please follow these steps to help us address the issue swiftly:

• Immediate Notification: Do not wait for 30 days to alert us if your order hasn't arrived within the expected delivery timeframe. It's crucial to inform us as soon as you suspect a delay or loss so that we can take prompt action.
• Lost Parcel Policy: A parcel is considered lost if it has not been delivered 30 days after dispatch. However, this 30-day period represents the maximum time before we officially classify a package as lost. We strongly encourage you to contact us well before this deadline if you believe your parcel is delayed.
• Investigation Process: Upon receiving your notification, we will initiate an investigation with the shipping carrier to locate your parcel. We appreciate your patience during this search period.
• Replacement Process: If the investigation confirms that your parcel is lost, we will replace your order at no additional cost to you. Express Shipping of Replacements: To reduce your waiting time, replacement prints will be shipped express, ensuring their rapid delivery.
• Timely Communication: Effective communication is key to efficiently resolving any delivery issues. We will keep you updated throughout the process and may reach out for further information if needed.

Our aim is to ensure a pleasant and hassle-free shopping experience. If you have any more questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our customer service team. We're here to help!

A poster has been delivered damaged. How can I get it replaced?

At Myretroposter, we strive to ensure your order reaches you in perfect condition. In the unfortunate event that your posters are damaged during transit or have defects that were not spotted at quality-check stage, we've got you covered with our replacement policy:

Damaged Prints: If you receive damaged posters, please follow these steps:

• Notification: Notify us within 7 days of receiving the damaged posters. Send clear photos of the damaged items and the packaging to our customer service team.
• Replacement Process: Upon verification, we will initiate the replacement process. You won't incur any additional costs for the replacement of damaged prints.
• Return of Damaged Prints: You may be asked to return the damaged posters. If required, we'll cover the return shipping costs.

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Yes, at Myretroposter, we recognize that it's sometimes hard to visualize how a large image, such as a poster, will look in real life from a picture seen on a website. If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase for any reason, we offer a return policy to accommodate your needs. Here are the key points of our return policy:

• Return Window: You have 15 days from the date of reception to initiate a return for a refund.
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25 Unmissable Things To Do In Tehran: Iran’s Chaotic Capital

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Categories Iran

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Crazy, chaotic, surprising at every turn – Tehran, the smoggy capital of Iran, is more than just an eternal traffic jam.

The political, cultural, and economic heart of the Islamic Republic, one can not truly experience this dynamic country without spending at least a few days here…And don’t worry, there is no shortage of things to do in Tehran!

While many travelers make the mistake of rushing past Tehran in a race to the more historical cities of Iran, there is so much more here than meets the eye. With 14 million inhabitants, Tehran is one of the most dynamic and interesting cities in the world.

With glorious museums, huge bazaars, captivating people, and yes – even the notorious former US embassy, that was the focal point of the Iranian hostage crisis.

Thankfully today, Tehran is the most liberal and secular place in Iran, a city whose inhabitants are constantly pushing up against authority, whether it’s at one of Tehran’s many universities, in a contemporary coffee-shop or a modern art museum.

Through Tehran, you can get an idea of what the future of Iran might look like if many of the regimes more progressive elements get their way.

Throw in a spectacular mountain range, a few architectural gems, delicious food, and some of the friendliest people in the world, and you begin to see why Tehran is one destination in Iran you absolutely cannot miss!

25 Unmissable Things To Do In Tehran: Iran’s Chaotic Capital 🇮🇷

Page Contents

1. Tehran Grand Bazaar

2. tabi’at bridge / nature bridge tehran, 3. azadi tower, 4. golestan palace unesco world heritage site, 5. hi tehran hostel, 6. us den of espionage / embassy of the united states in tehran, 7. museum of the qasr prison, 8. tochal telecabin tehran, 9. skiing in iran, 10. tehran metro art, 11. wander tehran, 12. tehran museum of contemporary art (tmoca), 13. sa’d abad museum complex, 14. park e shahr / tehran city park, 15. museum of ancient iran, 16. museum of the islamic era, 17. islamic revolution & holy defense museum, 18. imamzadeh saleh / tajrish mosque, 19. tehran shopping malls, 20. saint sarkis cathedral, 21. sharaf al-eslami restaurant, 22. cinema museum of iran, 23. snapp / iranian uber, 24. tehran coffeeshops, 25. tehran street food, how to get to tehran iran, where to go after tehran when you visit iran.

Characterized as an old historical bazaar, but the Tehran Grand Bazaar is so much more than that, still to this day acting as a vital economic center of Tehran where everyone comes to buy anything.

You name it; you can find it here if you wander for long enough through its seemingly endless labyrinths of covered alleys. Make sure you have a map on your phone and then get as lost as you can, safe in the knowledge you will somehow find your way back!

Incredibly photogenic, be sure to visit the Tehran Grand Bazaar in the morning before all the stock gets refilled in the afternoon by scary fast-moving haulage equipment, which somewhat distracts from the experience.

Iranian carpet sellers will undoubtedly try to befriend you. They can make an interesting guide if you don’t mind the hard sell at the end (although in our experience they knew Westerners generally couldn’t afford their outrageous prices and were just happy to chat!)

A 270-meter three-level bridge connecting two parks in Tehran, the Tabi’at Bridge is probably the most beautiful piece of urban architecture built since the revolution.

Opened in 2014, the Tabi’at Bridge (also known as the Nature Bridge in Tehran) is a popular hang out for Iranian’s who come to enjoy a variety of dining options, views, and relaxation areas. Even more incredibly- the Tabi’at Bridge was the brainchild of an Iranian architecture student, Leila Araghian, who was only 26 at the time.

Winning design competitions all over the world – the Tabi’at Bridge should not be missed, and we can’t wait to see what Leila Araghian comes up with next!

An icon of Iran known around the world, the Azadi Tower – known as the Shah’s Memorial Tower before the revolution – marking the west entrance to Tehran and is part of the Azadi Cultural Complex.

There is a museum underground which is included in your ticket are you can either walk or take two elevators up the 45-meter tall structure. And yes, the entire thing is clad in cut marble so you can imagine how incredible it looks at sunset (though the views at the top are pretty incredible too!).

The Azadi Tower was built to mark the 2,500th anniversary of the foundation of the Imperial State of Iran by architect Hossein Amanat who based the design upon classical Iranian architecture. The entire grand design was financed by the huge wealth generated by Iran as a major oil-producing nation before the revolution; however, as a member of the persecuted Bahá’í Faith, Amanat fled Iran to Israel during the 1979 Iranian Revolution.

He went on to design the equally famous Bahá’í Arc buildings in Haifa, Israel, and weirdly enough – the House of Worship in Samoa.

The incredibly lavish Golestan Palace is widely regarded as a defining work of the Qajar era thanks to the marriage of Persian craft architecture with Western influences.

That is why it was rewarded UNESCO World Heritage Status , and quite rightly, I think!

The Palace is one of the oldest buildings in Tehran, and when the Qajar family came into power here in 1779, they made this remarkable the capital of Iran – where it has stayed ever since. Glorious and outrageously excessive, the Golestan Palace is one thing to do in Tehran you absolutely cannot skip.

However, be aware that with a total-ticket price of 850 000 rials (app. 25USD), it is tied with the far less-worthy Sa’d Abad Museum Complex for the most expensive museum in Iran.

Information about Iran can be hard to come by outside the country, so it pays to have a super-reliable place to connect with travelers with helpful locals on hand when you arrive.

This is why I loved staying at HI Tehran Hostel , a full-renovated hostel in a quiet street just minutes from many of Tehran’s top tourist attractions and a Tehran Metro Station. While the modern facilities, spacious dorms, and private food and free breakfast were excellent, what I loved most was the atmosphere as the staff would always be chatting at the communal breakfast table and answering everyone’s questions.

It’s also a great place to meet other travelers, either beginning or ending their trip to exchange money, find companions, get ideas, or just to swaps stories! I stayed here both at the beginning and end of my journey and would return to HI Tehran Hostel in a heart-beat!

Oh, and another nice bonus: HI Tehran Hostel provide an invitation via email needed to get the Iran visa on arrival at Tehran Airport, and the immigration staff seems to be so familiar with the hostel they didn’t even bother calling to confirm.

This meant I was out of the airport while other travelers were waiting for their hostel to answer the phone in the middle of the night (though I later called the hostel at 3 AM when I was lost, and they responded in a few seconds – they really are 24/7)

The famous former US embassy in Tehran, where 52 diplomats were taken hostage for 444 days by students during the 1979 revolution!

Even today, the massive compound is still controlled by the Student Basij Organisation, who are tasked with defending the revolution and have turned the building into a museum. Be sure to take the free tour to make the most of the colorful propaganda both visually and spoken.

It is also absolutely fascinating to see the once-secret rooms used for spying now embarrassingly on full display – and to get a real sense of the work undertaken in the US embassy before the revolution.

Truly like walking back in time and straight onto a movie set, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the historic US Den of Espionage.

Newly opened, the Museum of the Qasr Prison in Tehran is a dark look into the Pahlavi-era prison complex, renowned for psychological and physical torture.

Former prisoners still guide here somedays and will share memories of their torture, including broken teeth and amputated limbs. The former Qasr Prison gardens have been turned into a beautiful park, and while the main historic prison building may be the focus (with stunning brickwork none the less) don’t miss the much darker and newer concrete building at the back of the complex where recordings still play the screams of torture.

Here you get an intensely real look into what life was like in this prison just before and during the revolution here, but it is not for the faint-of-heart.

If the inevitable smog of Tehran gets a bit too much for you – why not head to the mountains with the Tochal Telecabin / Sky Lift! Located in the north of Tehran.

You can make a 45 minutes trip straight up and then couples with a short scramble you can easily summit Mt Tochal (3933m). As you would expect, the views are out of this world – both of the mountains and back down over the chaos that is Tehran – and if you’re feeling fit, there is plenty of hiking opportunities at the different stations along the way!

Super popular with local Tehranis during the weekend, but don’t make the same mistake as us and try to visit the Tochal Telecabin during the week – We were told it is closed for the first three days after the weekend, every week?! So that means the Tochal Telecabin opening hours are supposably Wednesday – Saturday, but best to call ahead before making the trip out there (best reached by taxi) and to go early as the last car back down is apparently 3 PM…

Like many things in Iran, it’s better not to question it!

Even though the majority of Iran is pretty much a desert, there is still some great skiing in Iran – and some of the cheapest skiing in the world!

While global warming seems to be shortening the season for skiing in Iran, you can get some pretty good powder for skiing in Tehran from January. The Tochal Ski resort is located at the end of the above cable car and makes a great day-trip, but if you are really serious, you are going to want to head to the nearby Dizin Ski Resort or Shemshak Ski Resort from Tehran. Not what you were expecting to do in Iran, right!

Just make sure you have everything you need for your first time skiing as you won’t be able to buy in Iran.

Continually expanding, the Tehran Metro is the lifeline of Tehran and carries over 3 million passengers a day while the streets above are in near-constant grid-lock.

Cheap and easy-to-use, there is also a bonus for tourists – if you pay attention, the Tehran Metro is the best place to see propaganda in Iran!

Constantly changing, pay special attention to the platforms, or the long entrance corridors to see cartoons and artwork depicting everything from the morals taught in the Quran and daily life in Iran to rather harsh and graphic anti-US and anti-Israel pieces. It doesn’t have as much artistic merit as the Stockholm Metro Art or Msheireb station in nearby Doha, Qatar … but it arguably more interesting!

While these Tehran metro cartoons make a great picture to share with friends back home, be discrete when taking photos and remember that the views expressed are directly from a government department and by-and-large not reflective of Iranian society at large (or at least many of the more liberal Tehranis)…

While each time crossing the road might be a near-death experience, there is no better way to get to experience the social fabric and stumble upon hidden gems in Tehran than to simply wander.

Instead of taking a taxi or heading a few stops on the Tehran Metro, why not get your walk on and see what you come across! Small parks, street food, intriguing shops, and hidden bazaars, there really is no telling! Expect a great many people to stop, and thank you for visiting Iran — and question you on your experiences in Iran so far.

Besides, if you ever are lost these people are great to help you find the nearest Metro, coffee-shop, museum or restaurant!

While Iran might not be a world leader in contemporary art today, you should still visit the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art to see the stunning collection of 19th and 20th century’s world-class European and American pieces.

Opened by Empress Farah Pahlavi in 1977 – just two years before the Revolution – TMoCA is said to hold the most valuable collections of modern Western masterpieces outside Europe and North America . However, most were hidden away until recently when they have again been put on display.

Possibly even more intriguing, however, is the liberal Tehranis that are drawn to the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art. Inside you’ll find many people rebelliously removing their hijabs, and you could easily imagine yourself in an art gallery in Western Europe or the US!

A sprawling 300-hectare complex built by the Qajar and Pahlavi monarchs in a similar pattern to the oil-rich rulers of Saudi and the Gulf States today…

Now open to the public, the Sa’ dabad Complex, while expensive by Iranian standards, is a beautiful place to wander and admire the natural forest, qanats, and buildings. Each museum is individually chargeable and, in our opinion — not at all worth it. Except, perhaps, for the famous Green House (with its outlandish hall of mirrors) —  which is currently under renovation.

There is also a collection of royal cars if you have a passion for vintage sports cars, but you can see them in only a few minutes. Look out for the President of Iran who has taken up residence in a private section of the Sa’ dabad Complex.

Don’t worry; there are plenty of armed guards to stop you accidentally wandering in!

A sprawling park in central Tehran near to all the major museums in the district. Take a wander through and admire the bizarre bird park, aquarium, and library.

The Tehran Peace Museum is also located here with strange opening hours – take a peek in if it is open. You can also find plenty of cats roaming around and can join in a game of ping-pong with the locals who gather here to relax and unwind.

The Park-e Shahr is probably the only place big enough to escape the constant traffic and honking in Central Tehran!

Housing historical objects from Iran’s pre-Islam, you would expect the Museum of Ancient Iran to be one of the most glorious in the country – but sadly, it is entirely underwhelming and a wasted opportunity.

Housing objects from the Shah era, the museum was opened after the revolution, and you get the feeling that the government did not want to venerate any part of Iran’s past before Islam. Still, if you’re interested in ancient history, you should still take a wander through.

Islam’s post-Islamic history is displayed next door and charged separately (and weirdly enough, the Museum of Ancient Iran is almost twice the price but nowhere near as good…)

Next door to the above Museum of Ancient Iran and far better, the Museum of the Islamic Era is one of the top museums in Tehran.

Recently reopened after a nine-year renovation, this three-story building displays over 1500 items and relics from the early Islamic period as well as Seljuk, Ilkhanid, Teymurid, Safavid, and Qajar eras. Beautifully done, you won’t want to rush through as you take in all the details of the ancient rugs, painting, plates, pots, and more.

There is also a temporary exhibition space on the ground floor changing every six months.

An outsized experiment in glorification with more than a hint of propaganda, the Iran Holy Defense Museum is easily one of the things to do in Tehran.

Focussing on the bloody Iran-Iraq war, which left over a million lives lost, there are over seven halls here going into minute details of every imaginable aspect of the conflict – though mostly through displays, walk-through models, visual effects and more. This is a very high-tech museum – if a little surreal – after which you might have a better idea of this harrowing episode in modern Iranian history.

The bridge of the martyrs here is especially fascinating —  and there are huge tanks, rockets, and planes outside.

Visit the beautiful Tajrish Mosque officially known as the Imamzadeh Saleh to see the entombed remains of Saleh, a son of the Twelver Shia Imam, Musa al-Kadhim.

One of the most famous shrines in Tehran, the interior is particularly spectacular and was our favorite mosque in Tehran. Make sure not to visit during prayer as it is far too busy, and you are likely not to be let in – but during other times, we found foreigners were welcomed, and someone is likely to take an interest in you and offer you a tour!

So as a tourist, you’re probably not going to Tehran for the shopping – and especially not given that you need to bring cash for everything you buy!

But a visit to the Tehran Shopping Malls is not just about shopping!

With giant food courts, arcades, and plenty of Iranian / independent stores, they are a socializing space for Tehran rising middle-and-upper class and a great place to meet young, educated Iranians.

While most Tehran Shopping Malls are mega-monstrosities and impressive to wander around for a bit, the best is the Palladium shopping center (with the largest toy store in the Middle East ), the Arg Commercial Complex (with its luxury stores and beautiful outdoor interactive facade)and the Sam Commercial Complex.

The largest church in Tehran, the Saint Sarkis Cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic, was completed in 1970.

While a Cathedral might not be top of your list of things to do in Tehran, you should not miss the opportunity to see Christian life play out in the Islamic Republic – complete with imposing giant walls, barbed wire, and strict security, though as a foreigner you will be welcomed in.

Forbidden from practicing their faith in public, the spires of the church are barely visible outside the compound. The surrounding area is intensely covered in pro-Islam murals and billboards.

This historic restaurant is hidden away in the Tehran Central Bazaar, but you can find Sharaf El Islam by following the throng of people until you see a line heading into a crowded basement.

Here you can try some of the best traditional food in Tehran in a crowded and frantic setting. The service is rushed, and people will hover to get a table — and  it all adds to the atmosphere! If you make it here, you’ll really be in the know, and 99% of the time, you’ll only be joined by locals.

Located in the north of Tehran is a stunning Qajar-era mansion complex with historic garden, the Cinema Museum of Iran is a curious mix of equipment, posters, and photos from the Iranian movie industry dating back over the last century – and all in English!

There is even a beautiful working cinema with ornate molding showing new and classic Iranian films – though without subtitles, but still intriguing.

So not really a thing to do, but everyone traveling to Tehran should have Snapp downloaded on their phone as it halves the price of taxi’s – and lets you get where you need to go without language barriers.

While it might be blocked on the Apple App store, you can still download Snapp for iPhone with this handy workaround. Basically, Uber in Iran, Snapp let you explore the more remote attractions of Tehran that are not easily reached via Subway, and is helpful if you’re a larger group – though prices are set and very low!

Though you will get a first-hand experience of the insane driving in Tehran.

I recommend sitting in the back-seat and potentially blindfolding yourself as some things are better not seen!

A hotbed of liberalism in Iran since the removal of sanctions — a café culture has exploded across Tehran as many more wealthy Iranians got a taste of Western culture and cosmopolitanism.

With some pretty decent views, coffee shops in Tehran are also a great place to meet young Iranians, engage in open discussion, or just to watch the unique culture that takes place here. A few years ago, many were raided as women were known not to wear hijabs inside.

Still, the authorities seem to be looking the other way again – but the morality police crackdown of 2013 makes for an exciting read. Lamiz Coffee is the Starbucks of Tehran with multiple locations (yet annoyingly no WiFi), but you should also stop by the historic Gol Rezaieh Café or the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art Café.

To be honest, so many have opened up over the past year it’s hard to keep track of the best – so just ask your hostel in Tehran for their recommendation nearby, or better yet just stop someone young and trendy on the streets!

While all over Tehran you will find plenty of traditional street food – and you should try as much as you can (check here for Iranian street food to watch out for) – we are specifically talking about the street food of 30th Tir Steet outside the National Museum of Iran. Trendy and oh-so-cool, swing by here in the afternoon or evening for a lively atmosphere, intriguing food trucks + carts, and some nice outdoor seating.

You will surely be joined quickly by locals who will be quick to recommend their favorite spots, to help you with a translation and let you know all their favorite things to do in Tehran!

The undeniable hub and main entry point of Iran getting to Tehran is easy via bus, train, and flight.

There are direct flights to Tehran daily from all over the Middle East, Europe, and even with Air Asia to Kuala Lumpur if you’re coming from that direction. You can also find direct flights to most major cities in Iran at least a few times of the week, multiple times daily for major cities.

You can also get overnight sleeper trains to and from almost every major city in Iran. As a major transport hub in Iran and the greater region, you should have no problem getting in and out of Tehran.

Are you planning on exploring more than just one city in Iran? Here are some excellent other guides and cities to continue on your trip around Iran – or you can just check out these top things to do in Iran.

And if you want even more adventure – and to get out into nature while exploring off-the-beaten-track in Iran – why not consider hiring a rental car in Iran ? What could be better, right!

Bam – A UNESCO World Heritage Listed Fortress in South Iran. This famous desert castle was devastated by an earthquake in 2003, but after a 15-year renovation is now back and open for business. Find out more in this Arg-e Bam Travel Guide 2018: Now The Most Quake-Proof City in Iran

Kerman – A rather dull city, surrounded by some of the best desert landscapes in Iran. Get off-the-beaten-track and see Iran without the tourists with these 10 Things To See And Do In Kerman Iran.

Isfahan – The most beautiful and grand city in Iran, with 3 UNESCO sites and stunning architecture – This is one city you just cannot miss. On Iran’s Golden Triangle, read the ultimate guide to Isfahan.

Shiraz – Often referred to as the cradle of Persian civilization, explore multiple ancient ruins, beautiful mosques, delicious food, and surreal natural landscapes. Intrigued? See these 12 unmissable things to do in Shiraz, Iran.

Shushtar – A hidden gem if ever there was one, Shushtar is really in the proverbial backwood. If you make the effort, however, you will be rewarded by some of the friendliest people in Iran, incredible ancient structures, and delicious food! Find out everything you need to visit Shushtar in Iran.

Tabriz – The largest city in Northern Iran with unique Azari culture, the most beautiful bazaar in Iran, and with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Read these 12 Epic Things to do in Tabriz, the 2018 Tourism Capital City of Islamic Countries

Yazd – An ancient city that appears miraculous out of a desert plateau. Yazd is one of Iran’s biggest highlights and one of the most unique cities on Earth. Check out these ten amazing things to do in Yazd, Iran.

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Middle East crisis — explained

The conflict between Israel and Palestinians — and other groups in the Middle East — goes back decades. These stories provide context for current developments and the history that led up to them.

Israel launches missile strikes into Iran, U.S. military official says

Rob Schmitz

Peter Kenyon

Demonstrators wave a huge Iranian flag in an anti-Israeli gathering in front of an anti-Israeli banner on the wall of a building at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, on Monday. Vahid Salemi/AP hide caption

Demonstrators wave a huge Iranian flag in an anti-Israeli gathering in front of an anti-Israeli banner on the wall of a building at the Felestin (Palestine) Square in Tehran, Iran, on Monday.

The Israeli military has conducted missile strikes against Iran, a senior U.S. military official told NPR on Thursday. There are also reports of explosions in Iraq and Syria.

The strikes appear to be the response Israel vowed to carry out after an Iranian attack on Sunday, when Tehran fired hundreds of drones and missiles at Israel. Most of Iran's volleys were intercepted or caused little damage. The U.S. military official spoke on condition of anonymity Thursday.

The extent of Israel's strikes and the weapons used weren't clear.

Iran state news agency IRNA reported a military official in the central Iranian city of Isfahan, Brigadier General Mihan Dost, as saying loud sounds heard east of the city were the sound of air defenses intercepting what he called a "suspicious target" and that no damage was reported in the area.

What we know so far about Israel's strike on Iran — and what could happen next

Other Iranian news agencies had not reported any such strike and have concluded the sounds reported near Isfahan were the interception of one or more drones.

Israel's military and prime minister's office have not yet responded to NPR's request for comment.

The International Atomic Energy Agency has confirmed on social media that there is no damage to Iran's nuclear sites.

Meanwhile, Israel's hardline National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, wrote on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that Israel's latest apparent strike against Iran was "weak" and too limited.

Commercial flights continue in and out of Israel, and the country's Home Front Command system, which is responsible for issuing threat alerts to civilians during tense military times, didn't change its threat level.

In Iran, flights were temporarily grounded in the morning, but resumed just a couple of hours later.

The U.S. and other western allies had been urging Israel to forego a military strike to avoid a regional conflict springing out of the Israel-Hamas war .

Those concerns rose when an air strike – which Iran blamed on Israel – killed two Iranian military commanders in the country's consulate in Damascus, Syria, on April 1.

How Iran and Israel became archenemies

Iran said Sunday's attack on Israel was in response to that.

The region has been on the edge of wider conflict since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and taking more than 240 others hostage, according to Israel. Israel's military campaign in response in Gaza has killed more than 33,000 people, according to Gaza health officials.

Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah have traded frequent fire over the northern Israel border. Houthi militants, also backed by Iran, have been going after international commercial vessels passing through the Red Sea in recent months. The group's leaders claim they're targeting ships with links to Israel in response to the country's ongoing invasion of Gaza.

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Pakistan says Iran’s President Raisi will visit next week despite tensions in the Middle East

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi speaks during Army Day parade at a military base in northern Tehran, Iran, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Raisi warned that the “tiniest invasion” by Israel would bring a “massive and harsh” response, as the region braces for potential Israeli retaliation after Iran’s attack over the weekend. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

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ISLAMABAD (AP) — Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi will visit Pakistan as scheduled next week despite increasing tension in the Middle East in the wake of Tehran’s aerial attack on Israel, Pakistan’s foreign minister said Thursday.

Ishaq Dar said Raisi will arrive in the capital, Islamabad, on April 22 on an official three-day visit.

Dar provided no further details, but the visit seems to be part of efforts by the two sides to mend ties which had briefly been strained in January, when Tehran and Islamabad carried out tit-for-tat strikes targeting militants accused of attacking each other’s security forces.

But the two sides soon agreed to work together to improve security cooperation.

The visit was announced days after Iran launched unprecedented air strikes on Israel after a suspected Israeli strike in Syria killed two Iranian generals in an Iranian consular building.

Pakistan is among the countries that has no diplomatic relations with Israel because of the lingering issue of Palestinian statehood. Dar said Pakistan wants the issue to be settled according to U.N. resolutions.

Iran attack: Tehran warns of 'severe' retaliation to any new Israeli attack

What we know.

• The U.S. and its partners will impose new sanctions on Iran , including its missile and drone program, in the "coming days," national security adviser Jake Sullivan said last night as the Biden administration works with allies to contain the fallout from Tehran's retaliatory attack .
• The U.K.'s top diplomat met with Israeli leaders today and said it was "clear the Israelis are making a decision to act." At a military parade in Tehran, Iran's president vowed a "severe and harsh" response to even the "tiniest" new Israeli attack.
• The United Nations appealed for $2.8 billion to provide desperately needed aid to Gaza, where Palestinians face a possible looming famine while the Israeli military continues to carry out deadly strikes.

Qatar undertakes 'comprehensive evaluation' of its role as mediator

Doha Madani

Recent criticisms of Qatar's work as mediator in hostage negotiations has prompted it to conduct a "comprehensive evaluation" of its role, Qatar's prime minister and foreign affairs minister said today.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Jassim Al Thani told reporters today that the "misuse" of Qatar's mediation for "narrow political interests" forced it to re-evaluate its position.

"There is exploitation and abuse of the Qatari role, and this abuse is unacceptable," Al Thani said. "We started this process from a humanitarian standpoint."

Qatar's embassy yesterday released a statement responding to criticism from Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-Md., who said the U.S. should re-evaluate its relationship to Qatar if it fails to apply pressure on Hamas to agree to a hostage release deal.

The embassy said that it shared Hoyer's frustration but that Qatar began its role as mediator at the request of the U.S. in 2012 and does not control Hamas or Israel. It went on to say that "blaming and threatening is not constructive."

Qatar's prime minister condemns 'policy of collective punishment against the Palestinian people'

It's time for the international community to act, said Qatar's prime minister and head of foreign affairs.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Jassim Al Thani reiterated his condemnation today of "the policy of collective punishment against the Palestinian people." During a news conference, Al Thani said the current circle of conflicts in the region has a "direct relationship of this to escalation and war on the Gaza Strip."

He urged the international community to work to stop the war in Gaza and "the continuous targeting of the Palestinian people and their killing in this way, as well as the policy of siege and starvation against them and the use of humanitarian aid as a tool for political exploitation."

14 Israeli soldiers wounded in strikes by Hezbollah after IDF killed two commanders

Raf Sanchez

Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group based in Lebanon, injured at least 14 IDF soldiers in strikes on Israel today, a day after two of the group's militia commanders were killed.

The news comes as world leaders urge restraint and express concern that the Israel-Hamas war will spill into a wider regional conflict.

Columbia University president grilled about campus antisemitism at congressional hearing

Emi Tuyetnhi Tran

Columbia University’s president strongly denounced antisemitism during a congressional hearing today, saying that after Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack, “the world changed, and so did my focus.”

“Antisemitism has no place on our campus, and I am personally committed to doing everything I can to confront it directly,” President Nemat “Minouche” Shafik told the Republican-led House Committee on Education and the Workforce. “Israel was brutally attacked by Hamas terrorists, and very soon it became clear that these horrific events would ignite fear and anguish across our campus.”

Shafik faced questions about her handling of antisemitism on campus after the attack alongside two members of Columbia’s board of trustees and the head of its antisemitism task force. She faced particular scrutiny over how the university handled faculty members who made comments about Hamas that were perceived as antisemitic.

Read the full story here.

Netanyahu 'should not be allowed' to drag states into war with Iran, Jordanian minister says

Andrea Mitchell

Netanyahu said Israel will respond to Iran’s retaliatory strikes last weekend as President Joe Biden calls for restraint.

Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi was critical of Netanyahu, saying he "should not be allowed to drag the U.S. and other Western powers into a war with Iran."

"Jordan will not be a battleground," Safadi said. "We are in the middle of the fire."

Italy would contribute to any U.N. peacekeeping in Gaza

The Associated Press

Italy’s foreign minister says Rome would be willing to contribute troops to any possible U.N. peacekeeping force in Gaza, even though no such proposal is on the table and Israel has rejected the idea.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani suggested that a U.N. force under Arab command could help provide security if Israel and Palestinians make headway on an eventual two-state solution. He said the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Lebanon could be the model.

“If there is the solution and for a short time we need the presence of the United Nations under Arab control, we are ready for sending Italian soldiers,” Tajani said ahead of a Group of Seven foreign ministers meeting in Capri.

Netanyahu has ruled out a foreign peacekeeping force in Gaza after the war, saying only Israel is capable of keeping the territory demilitarized.

Gallant vows justice for 14-year-old Israeli boy whose death sparked wave of violence in West Bank

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant visited the rural area today where 14-year-old Binyamin Ahimeir was found dead, a slaying that ignited a new wave of violence between Palestinians and Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank.

"We will apprehend the murderers and bring them to justice," Gallant said.

Binyamin was found Saturday, a day after he was reported missing, and the circumstances of his death are under investigation. The Israeli authorities said he was killed in a "terrorist attack" but have not provided additional details.

His death incensed Israeli settlers, sparking violence that resulted in at least two Palestinians' being fatally shot by settlers, as well as numerous injuries. The U.S. State Department condemned the killing of Binyamin and expressed concern about the "violence against Palestinian civilians and their property that ensued."

Netanyahu rejects famine warnings in Gaza

Mithil Aggarwal

Netanyahu rejected warnings of famine in Gaza today, even as the enclave faces a humanitarian crisis with an acute shortage of food and basic supplies.

“Israel goes above and beyond on the humanitarian issue,” Netanyahu’s office quoted him in a statement as saying after he met with British Foreign Secretary David Cameron.

Israel has faced mounting pressure from its allies and aid organizations to increase the flow of supplies to the besieged strip.

More than 4,000 embryos destroyed in strike on Gaza fertility clinic

When an Israeli shell struck Gaza’s largest fertility clinic in December, the explosion blasted the lids off five liquid nitrogen tanks stored in a corner of the embryology unit.

As the ultra-cold liquid evaporated, the temperature inside the tanks rose, destroying more than 4,000 embryos, as well as 1,000 more specimens of sperm and unfertilized eggs, stored at Gaza City’s Al Basma IVF centre.

The embryos were the last hope for hundreds of Palestinian couples facing infertility. At least half of the couples — those who can no longer produce sperm or eggs to make viable embryos — will not have another chance to get pregnant, said Dr. Bahaeldeen Ghalayini, a Cambridge-trained obstetrician and gynecologist who established the clinic in 1997.

“We know deeply what these 5,000 lives, or potential lives, meant for the parents, either for the future or for the past,” Ghalayini said.Asked by Reuters today about the incident, the Israeli military’s media desk said it was looking into the reports. Israel denies intentionally targeting civilian infrastructure, and it has accused Hamas fighters of operating from medical facilities, which Hamas denies.

Three years of fertility treatment were a psychological roller coaster for Seba Jaafarawi. Retrieving eggs from her ovaries was painful, the hormone injections had strong side-effects, and the sadness when two attempted pregnancies failed seemed unbearable.

In September, Jaafarawi became pregnant, her first successful IVF attempt.

“I did not even have time to celebrate the news,” she said.

She had a miscarriage in November, just days after she and her husband were able to leave Gaza for Egypt. Jaafarawi wanted to return to the war zone, retrieve her frozen embryos and attempt IVF again.

But it was soon too late.

10,000 women have been killed in Gaza, U.N. says

Around 10,000 Palestinian women have been killed in Gaza since the war began six months ago, U.N. Women said yesterday in a statement.

Of those, 6,000 were mothers, whose deaths left 19,000 children orphaned, it said, adding the women who have survived "have been displaced, widowed, and facing starvation."

"This devastating differentiated impact continues to make the war on Gaza also a war on women," it said.

Targeting nuclear facilities an option for Israel, former spy chief says

Henry Austin

Targeting nuclear facilities is an option for Israel as it decides how to respond to Iran’s drone and missile attack over the weekend, the former head of the country’s spy agency said today.

“Everything is on the table right now,” Zohar Palti told the British broadcaster Sky News. (Sky News is owned by Comcast, the parent company of NBC News.)

“When and where, we will choose the place,” he added. Asked whether that included targeting nuclear facilities, he said, “including everything.”

Navy ship headed to Gaza had to turn back after engine room fire

Courtney Kube

A U.S. Navy ship on its way to Gaza had to turn back last week after a fire broke out in the engine room, a Navy spokesperson confirmed in a statement to NBC News.

Crew members on the USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo reported the fire Thursday, saying they evacuated the area and used a portable fire extinguisher to smother the flames. No injuries were reported.

The vessel was traveling to the Mediterranean Sea to "deliver equipment and personnel in support of humanitarian aid operations off the Gaza Strip." But it returned to Florida yesterday with just one engine.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Israeli military complicit in West Bank settler violence, Human Rights Watch says

The Israeli military either “took part in or did not protect” Palestinians from settler violence in the occupied West Bank, a report by the nongovernmental organization Human Rights Watch published today has found.

HRW said “armed settlers, with the active participation of army units, repeatedly cut off road access and raided Palestinian communities.”

Settlers also “detained, assaulted, and tortured” residents, chasing them out of their homes at gunpoint, it said, based on video analysis and interviews with more than two dozen witnesses.

Gaza death toll nears 34,000, Health Ministry says

At least 33,899 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip since war began, the enclave’s Health Ministry said today in a statement on Telegram.

The ministry said at least 56 people were killed and another 89 people were injured in the last 24 hours during Israeli attacks.

Some of those injured were still trapped under rubble with Israeli forces preventing access for emergency services, it added.

Grief and despair as people seeking refuge in southern Gaza are killed

Peter Jeary

Two separate strikes in the Gaza Strip killed more than a dozen people and left grieving relatives weeping over the dead and injured.

A market crowded with women and children in central Gaza and an apartment in Rafah were struck without warning, eyewitnesses told NBC News' crew in the besieged enclave yesterday.

Gaza cease-fire talks at ‘delicate phase,’ mediator Qatar says

Talks for a new cease-fire and hostage release in Gaza are at a “delicate phase,” Qatar said today, after a senior Arab diplomat with direct knowledge of the negotiations told NBC News that the talks are “almost frozen.”

“We are trying as much as possible to address this stumbling block,” the Gulf state’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani told reporters in Doha.

“We are trying as much as possible to address this stumbling block and to move forward to put an end to this suffering,” he said.

Qatar has acted as a mediator between Israel and Hamas, brokering talks alongside the U.S. and Egypt.

'We will make our own decisions,' Netanyahu tells allies

Yarden Segev

TEL AVIV — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has thanked Israel's allies for support in the wake of Iran's retaliatory attack but made it clear that the country will do what it deems necessary to defend itself.

Speaking after meetings with the foreign ministers of Britain and France, Netanyahu said he wanted to "thank our friends for their support for the defense of Israel."

He added that "they also have all kinds of suggestions and advice, I appreciate it, but I want to make it clear - we will make our own decisions, and the state of Israel will do everything necessary to defend itself."

Netanyahu was speaking before a government meeting. In a readout of his discussions with the European diplomats, his office said he also "insisted that Israel preserve the right to self-defense."

Columbia University president to testify in Congress on campus antisemitism, conflicts over Gaza war

It's Columbia University's turn to be grilled before Congress after previous hearings led to the resignations of two Ivy League presidents over questions of antisemitism and the school’s response to conflicts on campus.

Nemat Shafik was originally scheduled to testify in December before the House Education and Workforce Committee, but cited scheduling conflicts at the time.

Tensions and accusations of hate and bias have roiled Columbia, too. In an op-ed published in The Wall Street Journal Tuesday, Shafik emphasized the delicate balance between protecting free speech and fostering a safe environment for students on campus.

“Calling for the genocide of a people — whether they are Israelis or Palestinians, Jews, Muslims or anyone else — has no place in a university community,” Shafik wrote. “Such words are outside the bounds of legitimate debate and unimaginably harmful.”

Iran warns any Israeli attack would bring 'severe and harsh response'

Richard Engel NBC News Chief Foreign Correspondent, Host of MSNBC's "On Assignment with Richard Engel"

TEL AVIV — As Israel weighs its response to the barrage of missiles and drones fired at the country over the weekend, Iran’s president could not have been more clear with his messaging: Don’t attack.    

Speaking at an army parade this morning in Tehran, Ebrahim Raisi said that even the “tiniest” attack by Israel would bring a “severe and harsh response.”  

It comes as the Israeli military is promising to respond to Iran’s weekend barrage of missiles and drones.

“Firing 110 ballistic missiles directly to Israel will not get scot-free. We will respond in our time, in our place, in the way that we will choose,” IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said.

Direct hit on building in northern Israel injures 13

At least 13 people were injured after rockets struck western Galilee in northern Israel today, the country's emergency services said in a statement.

The Magen David Adom emergency responders, along with the IDF, are providing medical treatment to the injured and evacuating them to the medical center in Nahariya, it said.

Four of the injured are in serious condition, it added.

In recent days, there have been frequent exchanges across the border with Lebanon between the Israeli military and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group.

Hezbollah said in a statement that it had struck a building in the village of Arab Al-Aramshe, in the western Galilee, this morning. It claimed to have killed and wounded Israeli soldiers in the attack, which it said was a response to the Israeli killing of its members and commanders in Lebanon.

NBC News has not independently verified the claims.

Israel analyzes debris from Iranian missiles that were shot down

CENTRAL ISRAEL — While the vast majority of Iran’s ballistic missiles were intercepted outside Israeli airspace, the country's military now faces the task of collecting and analyzing those that did get through. 

NBC News was given access to a military base in central Israel yesterday, where we saw what the Israel Defense Forces said was the remains of a fuel tank from one of those ballistic missiles. 

A hulking tube 36 feet long, it would have carried a warhead that weighs around a thousand pounds, said Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the IDF's chief spokesperson. “If those ballistic missiles would have hit Israel, it would have caused dangerous consequences to the region,” he told reporters.

The IDF said the fuel tank may have been from an Emad missile but that it continued to study the weapon. The fuel tank was found in the Dead Sea and the IDF believes it fell there after being intercepted. A rip in its metal side pointed to possible shrapnel from an interception. 

Four ballistic missiles did make it through Israeli air defenses and slammed into Nevatim air base in the south of the country. The IDF said they caused minimal damage and the base remained operational at all times. 

Pressed by NBC News, Hagari would not say whether Israel was committed to launching airstrikes or whether it would consider cyberattacks or other covert means to respond to Iran. “We will respond at our time at our way the way we choose to do,” he said. 

Ukraine sees allies help protect Israel from Iran attack and asks: What about us?

Daryna Mayer

KYIV, Ukraine — In the wave of Iranian drones and missiles that were shot down before reaching their targets over the weekend, another ally sees the possibilities, and limits, of Western support.

The United States and its partners helped Israel, so why — Ukraine is asking — won’t they help protect us from Russian attacks?

It “looks extremely strange,” Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak told NBC News in an interview yesterday.

“How does the civilian population of Ukraine or the civilian infrastructure of Ukraine differ from the civilian population of Israel from a humanistic point of view?” he asked bluntly.

'The Israelis are making a decision to act'

Israel has made a decision to respond to Iran's retaliatory strikes, British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said after meeting the Israeli President Isaac Herzog this morning.

"It’s clear the Israelis are making a decision to act," he told reporters. "We hope they do so in a way that does as little to escalate this as possible."

Cameron said Israel should refocus on its war against Hamas and on the release of the hostages. Tehran has said that any retaliation by Israel will not go unpunished.

Herzog also met with German Foreign Minister in Jerusalem Annalena Baerbock and thanked the two for the "warm discussion."

Iran hails success of retaliatory attack during military parade

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has hailed what he framed as the success of the country's retaliatory strikes on Israel, speaking at an annual military parade in Tehran today.

Raisi said that the operation was "limited" and "punitive" but that any Israeli response would be met with a retaliation that would not be limited.

“The army stands by the nation and acts to defend the homeland, territorial integrity, and the values of the Islamic Revolution,” he said, according to the state news agency IRNA.

U.N. appeals for $2.8 billion to provide aid to Palestinians

The United Nations appealed for $2.8 billion yesterday to provide desperately needed aid to 3 million Palestinians. It stressed that tackling a looming famine in Gaza requires not only food, but also sanitation, water and health facilities.

Andrea De Domenico, head of the U.N. humanitarian office for Gaza and the West Bank, told reporters that “massive operations” are required to restore those services and meet minimum standards — and this cannot be done during military operations.

He pointed to the destruction of hospitals, water and sanitation facilities, homes, roads and schools, adding that “there is not a single university that is standing in Gaza”.

De Domenico said Israel’s recently-ended second major military operation at Al-Shifa Hospital, Gaza’s largest medical facility, was so destructive that it has been forced to shut down.

Iranian propaganda aims missiles at Israel

Max Butterworth

A huge banner displayed across the facade of a building in the Iranian capital, Tehran, yesterday depicts missiles aimed at Israel.

U.S. will impose new sanctions on Iran, strengthen missile defense in Middle East

Monica Alba

Phil Helsel

The United States will put in place new sanctions targeting Iran and entities that support its Islamic Revolutionary Guard “in the coming days,” national security adviser Jake Sullivan said last night.

Sullivan said that the U.S. military will also work to strengthen missile defense and early warning systems across the Middle East “to further erode the effectiveness of Iran’s missile and UAV capabilities.”

“These new sanctions and other measures will continue a steady drumbeat of pressure to contain and degrade Iran’s military capacity and effectiveness and confront the full range of its problematic behaviors,” Sullivan said in a statement.

The European Union’s top diplomat Josep Borrell said its foreign affairs council met and was also united in increasing its sanctions against Iran.

Gaza cease-fire talks ‘almost frozen,’ Arab diplomat says

JERUSALEM — At the moment, talks for a cease-fire and the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas are “almost frozen,” a senior Arab diplomat with direct knowledge of the negotiations told NBC News.

The official did not attribute blame and said discussions stalled as tensions with Iran took center stage following Israel’s April 1 attack on the Iranian embassy compound in Damascus.  

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said on Sunday that Hamas had rejected Israel’s most recent offer for a deal.

Catch up on our latest coverage

• An uneasy alliance of Arab states helped defend Israel from Iran. Their resolve may soon be tested.
• Sen. Tom Cotton doubles down on comments urging people to ‘forcibly remove’ protesters blocking traffic
• Artist refuses to open Israeli pavilion at Venice Biennale until Gaza cease-fire, hostage release
• Mike Johnson unveils plan to move Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan aid as separate bills this week
• U.S. officials expect Israeli response to Iran strikes will be limited

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What We Know About Israel’s Strike in Iran

Israel struck Iran early Friday, according to officials from both countries, in what appeared to be its first military response to the Iranian attack on Israel last weekend.

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By Liam Stack

Reporting from Jerusalem

Israel struck Iran early on Friday, according to officials from both countries, in what appeared to be its first military response to the Iranian attack on Israel last weekend.

The strike was the latest in a cycle of retaliation between the two foes that has alarmed world leaders, who fear that back-and-forth attacks could erupt into a broader war.

Here is a look at what we know about the strike and its implications.

What did Israel strike?

Iranian officials said on Friday that an Israeli strike hit a military air base near Isfahan, a city in central Iran. The scale and method of the attack were unclear.

Iranian officials said a separate Israeli attack was thwarted in Tabriz, a region roughly 500 miles north of Isfahan. Iranian news agencies said explosions were heard near both cities.

The state media in Syria, a major Iranian ally that borders Israel, said also that Israeli missiles had hit air-defense positions in southern Syria on Friday.

The Israeli military declined to comment.

Why did Israel strike?

Israel attacked Iran in retaliation for a large Iranian attack on Israeli territory last weekend that included more than 300 missiles and drones.

That attack frightened Israelis but caused little damage and few injuries because nearly all of Iran’s weapons were intercepted by Israel and its allies, including the United States, Britain and Jordan.

That Iranian attack was launched in response to an Israeli strike on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria on April 1, which killed seven Iranian officials. Israeli officials did not warn the United States of the Damascus strike and some have since privately conceded that it was a serious miscalculation .

Will Iran retaliate?

It was not clear whether or not Iran would retaliate, but initial reaction in Israel and Iran, where some officials and state-backed media sought to downplay the strike’s severity, suggested that its response may be muted.

Iranian state TV broadcast footage of Isfahan looking peaceful, and reported that military and nuclear facilities there were undamaged. One newsreader told viewers the strike was “not a big deal.”

Officials in Israel said the strike had been designed to avoid escalating tensions.

Why is Isfahan important?

Isfahan is one of Iran’s most famous and historic cities , known for its beautiful turquoise and purple tiled mosques, picturesque arched bridges and Grand Bazaar.

The area is also home to four small nuclear research facilities and is a center of Iranian weapons production. Many of the country’s Shahab medium-range missiles — which can reach Israel and beyond — are assembled there.

The province of Isfahan also contains the Natanz uranium enrichment site , as well as an air base that is home to a fleet of American-made F-14 Tomcats. They were purchased by the U.S.-backed Iranian government before the 1979 Islamic revolution, according to The Associated Press .

Why are world leaders so worried about a war between Iran and Israel?

For the past week, President Biden and other world leaders have urged Israel not to respond to last weekend’s Iranian missile attack. They have said they fear that an Israeli response could escalate into an all-out war.

World leaders advised Israel that it should view the interception of nearly all of the Iranian missiles and drones as a strategic victory. That is especially so, they have said, because it was achieved by an international coalition including Arab countries, which have historically not been inclined to come to Israel’s defense.

Israel has also been fighting allies of Iran on two other fronts — Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon — for the last six months. Israel’s conduct of the war in Gaza, where more than 33,000 people have been killed and famine has begun to set in, has left it increasingly isolated diplomatically.

Liam Stack is a Times reporter covering the Israel-Hamas war from Jerusalem. More about Liam Stack