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World News Snapshot #6 (2026) Protests in Iran, clashes in Syria, and fires in Australia dominate global headlines this morning. Pahlavi Urges Iranians to Seize Cities Reza Pahlavi, the US-based son of Iran’s deposed shah, praised yesterday’s “magnificent” turnout and called on Iranians to mount more targeted protests this weekend, aiming to seize and hold city centers. “Our goal is no longer just to take to the streets. The goal is to prepare to seize and hold city centres,” Pahlavi said. Why is this hot? The unification around Pahlavi spells trouble for the Islamic republic, although, given his long history in exile, it’s far from certain that he’d be able to ruin the ayatollah’s regime. Syrian Army Claims Control Over Aleppo District The Syrian army said it had completed security operations in Aleppo’s Sheikh Maksoud district, indicating it had taken control of the area from Kurdish fighters. Kurdish forces, however, rejected the claim, insisting they were still holding out and resisting government advances. Why is this hot? The fighting in Aleppo raises questions about the government’s ability to unify the country. Firefighters Battle Intense Bushfires Across Victoria Thousands of firefighters were deployed across southeastern Australia as intense bushfires destroyed homes and scorched vast areas of bushland. Authorities said the fires have burned through more than 300,000 hectares in Victoria since midweek, fueled by extreme heatwave conditions. Why is this hot? The government prioritizes protecting Victorian lives as the situation remains dangerous and unpredictable.