At least 10 climbers in Iran have died in mountains north of Tehran in an avalanche and blizzards, officials say.

Axar.az reports that this was reported by foreign media.

The Alborz mountain range that towers over the capital city is popular with climbers and skiers but the past few days have seen treacherous weather.

The Red Crescent has deployed 20 teams who have rescued 14 climbers - but at least seven others are missing.

The search operation had to be halted at nightfall and is now expected to resume on Sunday morning.

Among those who died are a political activist, an academic, a doctor, and a mountaineering instructor.