17:00 News in Brief: Bribery, Savings at HEC, US–Iran Secret Communications

Latest news from the past hour, summarized and detailed.

• A bribery scheme has been uncovered in Ararat, with searches conducted and arrests made.
• The management's compensation at the Armenian Electric Networks (HEC) has been reduced, with the saved funds redirected to increase employee salaries.
• Iran has denied accusations from the US and Israel regarding the use of cluster munitions.
• The Iranian ambassador will continue to serve in Lebanon despite the persona non grata declaration.
• The US and Iran are continuing to exchange messages through intermediaries.
• The US has stated it will not allow Iran to impose payments on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
• The European Commission has approved a military aid package of 1.5 billion euros for Ukraine.
• During protests against internet restrictions in Russia, at least 18 people were detained.
• In Armenia, roads are mostly passable, but there are some closed sections and restrictions.