Garibashvili's Detention, Iran Crisis, and Economic Projects Shape Georgia's News Day
The day's headlines in Georgia were significantly shaped by the ongoing detention of former Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and the escalating Iran protests. Domestically, the political landscape was abuzz with various reactions to Garibashvili's legal situation. His lawyer stated that he is in good spirits, while current Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze expressed sadness over the events. Opposition figures like Eka Beselia and Mikheil Saakashvili interpreted the detention as a politically motivated move, with some suggesting it was a less severe outcome for Garibashvili amidst other potential legal challenges. The Penitentiary Service also released a statement regarding the conditions of another detained politician, Aleko Elisashvili, refuting claims about mistreatment.
Internationally, the deepening crisis in Iran drew considerable attention. Reports from CBS News indicated a grim toll of 12,000 to 20,000 fatalities during the ongoing protests. Former U.S. President Donald Trump explicitly called for Iranian patriots to continue their protests, asserting that "help is on the way," while the U.S. State Department advised American citizens to leave Iran immediately. Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze commented on the need for EU reforms in this context, while some Georgian analysts speculated on the geopolitical shifts that a free Iran could bring to the region. Meanwhile, Gazprom reported a significant 40.4% increase in gas supply to Georgia in 2025.
On the economic and infrastructure front, several key developments were announced. The founder of "Eagle Hills," Mohamed Alabbar, discussed a major construction project in Tbilisi expected to create 30,000 jobs and generate $3.5 to $4 billion in tax revenues, with construction slated to begin soon. Kutaisi is set to gain a new 5,000-seat sports palace, with architectural firm Gensler involved in the project. However, not all news was positive; the rehabilitation of a 7.2 km section of the Sajavakho-Chokhatauri road was reported to be behind schedule, and concerns were raised about the lack of proper infrastructure, including parking and sidewalks, at the Gudauri ski resort. Additionally, Wizz Air's cancellation of flights from Kutaisi to Vienna prompted worries about its impact on the tourism sector, and the National Bank fined 29 currency exchange points a total of 90,000 GEL for various violations.
In sports, a flurry of news captured the interest of fans. In European football, Xabi Alonso's departure as head coach from Real Madrid to be replaced by Álvaro Arbeloa was a major story, drawing comments from prominent figures like Manuel Pellegrini and Jürgen Klopp. Michael Carrick was appointed interim head coach for Manchester United. A new rule in Argentine football will prevent young players without professional contracts from playing for national teams if they move to European clubs. Georgian athletes also made headlines: UFC fighters Merab Dvalishvili and Ilia Topuria were listed among the highest earners in 2025, with Dvalishvili making $6,824,000 and Topuria $3,540,000. Nino Batsiashvili achieved a significant victory, becoming the European Champion in rapid chess. Georgian national teams in water polo and handball also competed in European championships.