Israel's Foreign Ministry Jokes About Mercury Retrograde in Persian

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has published a humorous statement in Persian, playfully denying responsibility for Mercury retrograde. The statement, released on social media, plays on the astrological belief that Mercury retrograde can cause disruptions and misunderstandings, a phenomenon often cited on social media to explain misfortunes. This move is seen as a subtle jab at Iranian authorities, who frequently blame Israel for various issues, including domestic problems within Iran. By attributing a cosmic event to Israel, the ministry satirizes such accusations, pushing the logic to an absurd extreme.

In a separate advisory, the Israeli Foreign Ministry issued an urgent warning to citizens in or planning to travel to France. The ministry expressed concern over potential escalations of security situations, anticipating new mass riots and clashes around October 24 and November 5. This warning follows riots that erupted in France on October 17. Israelis in France are urged to exercise caution, avoid large gatherings and protests, and stay away from conflict zones. They are also advised against observing or filming disturbances, as this could pose additional risks. The ministry noted that protests might disrupt public transport, leading to cancellations and route changes. Travelers are encouraged to adhere to French authorities' restrictions, which could include curfews or movement bans, and to monitor local media for updates. The ministry also cautioned that security measures could be implemented with little notice, requiring travelers to be prepared to adjust their plans accordingly.