March 2007 - Iran Special Weapons News

Crisis Escalates Over Iran's Seizure Of British Sailors RFE/RL 31 Mar 2007 -- The standoff continues between Britain and Iran over Tehran's detention of 15 British sailors in the Persian Gulf.
Britain, Iran Exchange Diplomatic Letters Over Sailor Detention Impasse VOA 31 Mar 2007 -- Britain says it has replied to a statement by Iran regarding the 15 British naval personnel, who are now in their ninth day of Iranian detention
United States Seeks To Engage the Iranian People Washington File 30 Mar 2007 -- After 25 years of holding each other at arm’s length, the United States is seeking to engage the people of Iran in direct exchanges with the hope of building stronger ties and greater understanding between Iranians and Americans, says Under Secretary of State R. Nicholas Burns.
EU Calls For Immediate Release of 15 Detained British Servicemembers VOA 30 Mar 2007 -- The European Union has called for the immediate and unconditional release of the 15 British sailors and marines detained by Iran last week.
Captive British Marine Confesses To Violating Iranian Territory RFE/RL 30 Mar 2007 -- A British serviceman has appeared on Iranian television apologizing for having entered Iranian waters without permission with his crew last week.
Detained U.K. seamen face punishment - Iran diplomat RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2007 -- Iran's Ambassador to Russia reiterated earlier official statements Friday that the British seamen detained allegedly for straying into Iranian territorial waters could face punishment.
U.K. waiting for Russian help in releasing sailors detained by Iran RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2007 -- The U.K. is waiting for Russia's help in releasing British sailors and marines detained by Iran, the British Ambassador in Russia said Friday.
Second British sailor admits illegally entering Iranian waters RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2007 -- A second British sailor, one of 15 detained last Friday in the Persian Gulf by Iranian authorities, has confessed to illegally entering Iranian territorial waters, the Iranian news agency IRNA said Friday.
Second British Sailor Shown on Iranian TV as Impasse Continues VOA 30 Mar 2007 -- A second member of the British crew captured last week in the Gulf has been shown on Iranian television making an apology for illegally entering Iranian waters
U.S. ready to strike Iran in early April - intelligence source RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2007 -- Russian intelligence has information that the U.S. Armed Forces have nearly completed preparations for a possible military operation against Iran, and will be ready to strike in early April, a security official said.
Boundary Dispute Seen as Root of Iranian Seizure of British Sailorsy VOA 29 Mar 2007 -- Britain continues to insist that it was within Iraqi territorial waters when Iranian Revolutionary Guards seized two small patrol craft and 15 sailors and marines. Iran maintains the boats were in Iranian waters
Britain Presses Demand for Sailors' Release in Standoff with Iran VOA 29 Mar 2007 -- Britain is pressing its demand for the immediate release of 15 sailors and marines, seized by Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces last Friday, while Tehran is warning of delays and says an apology would help speed up the process
FM: Britain should guarantee not to violate Iran's waters again IRNA 29 Mar 2007 -- Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent on Thursday a message to British embassy in Tehran, calling for guarantee by London to avoid violating Iranian territorial waters in the future.
Larijani: London's rhetoric might serve to suspend release of British sailor IRNA 29 Mar 2007 -- Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani said on Thursday that the harsh rhetoric and propaganda of British officials might lead to suspension of freedom of a female marine, who was arrested on Friday.
Security Council calls for ‘early resolution’ of Iran’s detention of British sailors UN News Centre 29 Mar 2007 -- The Security Council today called for an early resolution of the row over Iran’s detention of 15 British marines and sailors, voicing grave concern at the situation and calling for their release, while Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon discussed the issue with Iran’s Foreign Minister.
Ban Ki-moon discusses detained British sailors in talks with Iranian official UN News Centre 29 Mar 2007 -- The detention of 15 British marines and sailors in Iran and the Middle Eastern country’s nuclear programme topped the agenda today during bilateral talks between Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Motaki.
Iran Should Release British Sailors Unconditionally, U.S. Says Washington File 28 Mar 2007 -- The Bush administration is calling for the immediate and unconditional release of the 15 British sailors captured by Iran March 23 and says the sailors had been engaged in lawful activities in Iraqi territorial waters at the time they were seized.
Britain Appeals To UN In Sailors' Case RFE/RL 29 Mar 2007 -- Britain has asked the United Nations Security Council to call for the immediate release of 15 naval personnel seized by Iran.
Britain Asks UN to Condemn Iran for Capture of British Sailors VOA 29 Mar 2007 -- Britain's Foreign Office says it is seeking a statement from the United Nations condemning Iran's capture of 15 British sailors in the northern Persian Gulf last Friday.
Iranian FM doubts U.S. would dare invade his country RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2007 -- The United States is unprepared for a possible military campaign against Iran, the Middle East country's foreign minister said Thursday.
British marine apologizes for entry into Iranian waters IRNA 28 Mar 2007 -- British marine Mrs. Faye Turney from F99 Royal Navy on Wednesday admitted entry into Iranian territorial waters and apologized for doing so.
US Calls for British Sailors' Release VOA 28 Mar 2007 -- The United States is calling on Iran to immediately release the 15 sailors and marines seized in the waters of the Persian Gulf Friday
Iran TV Shows British Sailors as Britain Freezes Bilateral Ties with Iran VOA 28 Mar 2007 -- Iran has shown television footage of some of the 15 British sailors detained by Iranian forces last Friday and hints they could be released soonn
IRGC rejects claims about US wargames in Persian Gulf IRNA 28 Mar 2007 -- The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps on Wednesday dismissed rumours that the US had staged wargames in the Persian Gulf.
IAEO assigned to drop subsidiary undertakings to NPT IRNA 28 Mar 2007 -- The cabinet assigned Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (IAEO) to enforce a decision according to which the subsidiary undertakings to Non-Proliferation Treaty will no longer be valid.
Khatami: Iran does not seek to produce nuclear weapons, bombs IRNA 28 Mar 2007 -- Former Iranian president and head of the International Institute for Dialogue among Cultures and Civilizations, Mohammad Khatami declared on Wednesday that since the beginning of its nuclear program, Iran has never intended to produced nuclear weapons or bombs.
Britain Freezes Talks With Iran RFE/RL 28 Mar 2007 -- British Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett announced today that London is freezing all other bilateral talks with Iran until Iran releases 15 British sailors and marines.
Tehran says UK Navy servicewoman to be released within two days RIA Novosti 28 Mar 2007 -- Iranian authorities are ready to release the only female among the UK sailors seized in the Persian Gulf last Friday, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said Wednesday.
Britain freezes contacts with Iran until sailors release RIA Novosti 28 Mar 2007 -- Britain has frozen all official bilateral contacts with Iran until all of its 15 detained sailors have been released, the British foreign secretary said Wednesday.
Defense Chief: US Open to Higher-Level Talks With Iran VOA 27 Mar 2007 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says the United States is open to higher-level talks with Iran, but is warning against having any illusions about Tehran's intentions in the Persian Gulf region
United States Sees Broadening of International Concern over Iran Washington File 27 Mar 2007 -- New U.N. sanctions target terror infrastructure as well as nuclear program
UK sailors' issue to be settled by 'self-restraint, respect' IRNA 27 Mar 2007 -- The issue of violation of Iranian territories in the Persian Gulf by British marines will be settled through respect to the rules and self-restraint, Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.
Issue of UK marines will be resolved in light of law, Hosseini IRNA 27 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini said on Tuesday that the issue of the UK marines will be resolved in light of law calling for self-restraint.
US officials statements on Iran nuclear program, illusory IRNA 27 Mar 2007 -- It is an illusion on part of The US officials that the UN resolution against Iranian nuclear program caused rift between the nation and government, Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad Ali Hosseini said on Tuesday.
Iran will insist on its legitimate NPT rights, Mottaki IRNA 27 Mar 2007 -- Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs Manouchehr Mottaki said on Tuesday that Iranian nation will insist on its legitimate rights stipulated in Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
UNSC Resolution 1747 will have no impact on national economy IRNA 27 Mar 2007 -- The sanctions envisaged in the UN Security Council Resolution 1747 will have no impact on national economy, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Davoud Danesh-Jaafari said on Tuesday.
Iran: Tehran Outraged By Latest UN Resolution RFE/RL 27 Mar 2007 -- Unsurprisingly, senior Iranian officials have rejected UN Security Council Resolution 1747
Britain Calls On Iran To Release Sailors RFE/RL 27 Mar 2007 -- Britain has again called on Iran to quickly release the 15 British sailors and marines it has been holding since March 23.
UAE territory off-limits for anti-Iran strike - president RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2007 -- Khalifa bin Zayid al-Nuhayyan, president of the United Arab Emirates, said Tuesday his country will not allow anyone to use its territory to conduct anti-Iranian operations.
Russian intelligence sees U.S. military buildup on Iran border RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2007 -- Russian military intelligence services are reporting a flurry of activity by U.S. Armed Forces near Iran's borders, a high-ranking security source said Tuesday.
Moscow warns U.S. Iran policy may spark "clash of civilizations" RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2007 -- Moscow urges the United States to avoid escalating tensions around Iran over its nuclear program as it could lead to a "clash of civilizations," the Foreign Ministry said Tuesday.
Moscow hopes Iran will see positive UN message - FM Lavrov RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2007 -- Moscow hopes Iran will recognize the constructive proposals in the latest UN Security Council resolution and the Iran-6 statement on Tehran's nuclear program, Russia's foreign minister said Tuesday.
Analysis: Iran Standoff Deepens cfr.org 26 Mar 2007 -- The tone of confrontation between Iran and predominantly Western states has intensified with the latest round of UN Security Council sanctions
Iranian President: No break in Iran's peaceful atomic activities IRNA 26 Mar 2007 -- Iranian president said Sunday evening that Iran will definitely continue its peaceful and legal nuclear activities regardless of a UN Security Council resolution issued Saturday in this regard.
Tehran is legally examining case of British sailors: FM IRNA 26 Mar 2007 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said here Sunday that the charge against the British sailors arrested in Iran is illegal entry into Iranian waters and that the issue is being examined legally.
US Warns Iran Failure to Cooperate with IAEA Could Lead to More Isolation VOA 26 Mar 2007 -- Under Secretary of State Nicholas Burns, visiting Brussels for talks with European Union and NATO allies, warned Tehran its failure to cooperate with the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency would lead to Iran's further isolation
EU Expresses Desire for Negotiated Settlement to Iran Nuclear Standoff VOA 26 Mar 2007 -- The European Union's foreign policy chief has told Iran that the international community wants a negotiated settlement to the standoff on Tehran's nuclear program.
Iran resumes financing of Bushehr NPP - Russia RIA Novosti 26 Mar 2007 -- Tehran has resumed financing of the Bushehr nuclear power plant Russia is building in southern Iran, a Russian nuclear official said Monday.
London asks Moscow to help release 15 sailors detained in Iran RIA Novosti 26 Mar 2007 -- Britain has asked Russia to help win the release of 15 sailors detained by Iranian authorities March 23 for allegedly entering Iranian waters.
Iran parliamentary speaker says IAEA political tool RIA Novosti 26 Mar 2007 -- Iran's parliamentary speaker responded to tougher UN sanctions against his country by saying the organization's nuclear watchdog had turned into an international political tool.
Iran refuses to end nuclear program, curbs cooperation with IAEA RIA Novosti 26 Mar 2007 -- Iranian President Mahmud Ahmadinejad said Sunday the resolution of the UN Security Council will not stop his country's nuclear program "for a second."
Iran Considers Charges Against British Navy Personnel VOA 25 Mar 2007 -- Iran says it is considering charging 15 detained British sailors and marines with illegally entering Iranian waters.
Gov't spokesman: Cabinet reconsiders cooperation with IAEA IRNA 25 Mar 2007 -- Spokesman of Iranian government said Sunday evening that the government has decided to recosider part of its cooperation with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
President: Iran's nuclear activities based on NPT regulations IRNA 25 Mar 2007 -- President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said here Sunday that though Iran voluntarily implemented the Additional Protocol for two and a half years to prove its good will to Europe, the country's nuclear installations were sealed.
FM underlines features of resolution just adopted on Iran's nuclear issue IRNA 25 Mar 2007 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said that the resolution just adopted about Iran's peaceful nuclear program, while those who voted in favor of it did not even bother to listen to Iran's positions and explanations, has a number of characteristics which he would like to underline.
FM: Enemies attempt to manufacture evidence to deprive Iran of its nuclear right IRNA 25 Mar 2007 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said that to achieve the politically motivated and unlawful goal of depriving Iran of its inalienable right to nuclear technology, attempts have been made to manufacture evidence.
FM regrets UNSC attempt to deprive a nation of its inalienable right under pressure of its permanent members IRNA 25 Mar 2007 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said that it is very unfortunate that the Security Council, under the manifest pressure by a few of its permanent members, persists in trying to deprive a nation of its "inalienable right" to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.
FM questions if adoption of present Resolution strengthens int'l peace, security IRNA 25 Mar 2007 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki raised the question whether adoption of the present Resolution strengthens international peace and security.
FM: People support a national demand so solidly for first time in Iran's history IRNA 25 Mar 2007 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said that probably in the history of Iran there can be no time that the entire people have been so solidly behind a national demand.
FM: Iran's nuclear program is completely peaceful IRNA 25 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said that as it has been underlined time and again, Iran's nuclear program is completely peaceful.
President: Iran's nuclear activities are legal IRNA 25 Mar 2007 -- President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said here Sunday that Iran's nuclear activities are quite legal and based on NPT, adding that the resolutions issued by the United Nations Security Council are illegal.
Iran prepared for nuclear talks without preconditions -official RIA Novosti 25 Mar 2007 -- Iran is prepared for talks on its nuclear program without preconditions, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad Ali Hosseini said Sunday.
Russia urges Iran to study carefully new UN resolution RIA Novosti 25 Mar 2007 -- Russia is urging Iran to study carefully the UN Security Council's new resolution on the Islamic Republic and new proposals by six world powers, the Russian ambassador to the UN said Sunday.
UN Security Council imposes new sanctions on Iran RIA Novosti 25 Mar 2007 -- The UN Security Council voted unanimously Saturday to impose new sanctions against Iran for its unwillingness to halt nuclear activities.
New Sanctions a "Significant Rebuke" to Iran, State's Burns Says Washignton File 25 Mar 2007 -- The unanimous Security Council vote to impose new, substantial sanctions on Iran is "a significant international rebuke" and represents a tightening of international pressure on the country for its failure to suspend its uranium enrichment program and begin negotiations, a senior U.S. official says.
Former US Ambassador to UN Skeptical Over Latest Vote on Iran VOA 25 Mar 2007 -- A former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations says only regime change will cause Iran to halt its nuclear program
Iran Rejects UN Sanctions, Limits Cooperation With IAEA VOA 25 Mar 2007 -- Iran says it is limiting cooperation with the United Nations nuclear agency after the Security Council imposed new sanctions.
SECURITY COUNCIL TOUGHENS SANCTIONS AGAINST IRAN, ADDS ARMS EMBARGO, WITH UNANIMOUS ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 1747 (2007) UN Security Council 24 Mar 2007
Security Council tightens sanctions against Iran over uranium enrichment UN News Centre 24 Mar 2007 -- The United Nations Security Council acted unanimously today to tighten sanctions on Iran, imposing a ban on arms sales and expanding the freeze on assets, in response to the country's uranium-enrichment activities, which Tehran says are for peaceful purposes but which other countries contend are driven by military ambitions.
UN Passes New Iran Sanctions Resolution RFE/RL 24 Mar 2007 -- The UN Security Council has unanimously approved a resolution authorizing expanded sanctions against Iran for its failure to halt uranium enrichment.
Iran Moves British Sailors To Tehran RFE/RL 24 Mar 2007 -- The Iranian Foreign Ministry today described as a "suspicious act" what Iran says is the illegal entry of British navy personnel into Iranian waters.
Iranian Official: British Naval Detainees Admit to Illegally Entering Iranian Waters VOA 24 Mar 2007 -- An Iranian military commander says 15 British Navy personnel in Iran's custody have admitted to illegally entering Iranian waters.
Iran condemns illegal entry of British sailors into its waters IRNA 24 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini Saturday categorically condemned the "illegal entry" into Iranian territorial waters of British forces.
United Nations Imposes New Sanctions on Iran Washignton File 24 Mar 2007 -- The Security Council March 24 unanimously voted to increase sanctions on Iran for its failure to suspend its uranium enrichment activities, leaving the country increasingly isolated for its defiance of the international community.
Iranian Navy Seizes 15 British Sailors AFPS 23 Mar 2007 -- The British government is demanding the immediate and safe release of 15 sailors whose boats were surrounded by Iranian navy vessels and escorted into Iranian territorial waters in the Persian Gulf this morning.
Security Council to vote tomorrow on Iran’s nuclear programme UN News Centre 23 Mar 2007 -- The Security Council is set to vote tomorrow afternoon regarding possible further sanctions against Iran because of its nuclear programme, the president of the 15-member body said today, adding that the Iranian Foreign Minister will attend the discussions in New York.
President: We are not worried about US attack IRNA 23 Mar 2007 -- President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in an exclusive interview with France Channel 2 TV network said, " We are not worried about US military attack."
White House creates obstacle in visa issuance for Iran president IRNA 23 Mar 2007 -- The White House has created obstacle in issuing visa for Iranian president to take part in the meeting of the Security Council.
Russia: Why Is The Kremlin Retreating From Bushehr? RFE/RL 23 Mar 2007 -- This week has seen much speculation about why Russian specialists are abandoning work on the Iranian nuclear plant at Bushehr.
US: New UN Sanctions on Iran Imminent VOA 23 Mar 2007 -- The United States says a U.N. Security Council vote increasing sanctions on Iran for failing to halt uranium enrichment could come as early as Saturday
Iran Captures 15 British Troops in Persian Gulf VOA 23 Mar 2007 -- Iranian naval forces took 15 British sailors and marines captive early Friday in the northern Persian Gulf
Security Council Schedules Iran Sanctions Vote RFE/RL 23 Mar 2007 -- Diplomats say the United Nations Security Council intends to vote on March 24 on a draft resolution that would tighten sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program.
U.S. refuses to give visa to Iran pres. for UN session - Tehran RIA Novosti 23 Mar 2007 -- American authorities have refused to issue a visa for the Iranian leader, who planned to attend a UN Security Council session expected to toughen sanctions against his country over its nuclear program, diplomats in Tehran said.
U.S. Seeks To Limit Iranian Economic, Diplomatic Capabilities Washignton File 22 Mar 2007 -- The United States sees Iran’s hand at work in the four primary crises troubling the Middle East currently and is determined to limit Tehran’s ability to play a negative role in the region, says a State Department official.
President: Approach of certain powers disrupts UNSC performance IRNA 22 Mar 2007 -- President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said here Thursday that the approach of certain world powers disrupts the performance of the United Nations Security Council.
Leader warns of consequences of illegal actions against Iran IRNA 22 Mar 2007 -- Supreme Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei in Mashhad on Wednesday warned against any "illegal actions" against Iran.
US Officials Remain Confident About Sanctions Against Iran VOA 22 Mar 2007 -- The Senate committee that oversees U.S. banking heard testimony yesterday about the effectiveness of U.S. sanctions on Iran
UN Security Council Bargaining Over Iran Sanctions RFE/RL 22 Mar 2007 -- The United Nations Security Council is due to continue consultations today in an effort to reach agreement on new sanctions against Iran for refusing to halt uranium enrichment.
Iranian Navy begins maneuvers in Persian Gulf - national TV RIA Novosti 22 Mar 2007 -- The Iranian Navy has begun a series of military exercises in the Persian Gulf to test the capabilities of its domestically built naval weaponry, national television reported Thursday.
Russia wants UN guarantees its Iran contracts to be unaffected RIA Novosti 22 Mar 2007 -- The United Nations Security Council should provide guarantees its new resolution on Iran will not undermine Russia's contracts with the Islamic Republic, the Russian envoy to the UN said Thursday.
US Official: Russia Pressing Iran on Nuclear Issue VOA 21 Mar 2007 -- A U.S. State Department official says Russia has begun to exert pressure on Iran to comply with United Nations resolutions to end its nuclear program
Supreme Leader Says Iran Will Use All Capabilities to Defend Itself VOA 21 Mar 2007 -- Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has warned that his country will use all its capabilities to defend itself against an attack.
Ahmadinejad: Enemies must realize they cannot hurt Iran IRNA 21 Mar 2007 -- President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, in a message, congratulated the Iranian nation on the occasion of Nowruz, the Iranian New Year saying today Iran and Iranians are renowned worldwide as symbols of morality, faith, piety, kindness, unity and firmness.
Supreme Leader: Nation will foil enemy's divisive plots in New Year IRNA 21 Mar 2007 -- In a message issued on the occasion of the New Year, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei called the Year 1386 the year of ''national unity and Islamic solidarity''.
Russia not to blame for Bushehr NPP construction problems - FM RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2007 -- Problems around the construction of Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant arose because Iran violated its obligations to finance the project and are not Russia's fault, the Russian foreign minister said Wednesday.
Russia speaks against excessive sanctions on Iran RIA Novosti 21 Mar 2007 -- Russia will refuse to back excessive sanctions against Iran, suspected of secret plans to build nuclear weapons, the foreign minister said Wednesday.
FM welcomes trilateral Iran-5+1-UNSC talks IRNA 20 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki on Tuesday welcomed the idea of trilateral Iran-5+1 Group-UNSC talks to end the discords on the country's nuclear activities for peaceful purposes.
Analysis: Round Two Against Iran cfr.org 20 Mar 2007 -- On the eve of the Persian New Year, nervousness permeates (RFE/RL) the air over Iran instead of festivity
South Africa Offers Amendments To UN Iran Resolution RFE/RL 20 Mar 2007 -- South Africa has offered amendments to a UN Security Council draft resolution expanding sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program.
Report: Russia Gives Iran Nuclear Ultimatum VOA 20 Mar 2007 -- A U.S. newspaper says Russia has told Iran that it will withhold fuel for a nearly completed nuclear power plant, unless Tehran suspends enriching uranium.
Lavrov: US stance complicates settlements of Iran's nuclear case IRNA 19 Mar 2007 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the US position complicates the settlement of Iran's nuclear problem.
Russian PM: Iran's nuclear issue should be solved within IAEA framework IRNA 19 Mar 2007 -- Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov said on Monday that his country believes that Iran's nuclear issue should be solved within the framework of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections.
US Grants Visas to Ahmadinejad, Entourage, for UN Appearance VOA 19 Mar 2007 -- The Bush administration said Monday it has approved visas for a U.N. visit by Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and a large contingent of other Iranian officials
IAEA delegation to visit uranium enrichment center Mar. 20 - Ivanov RIA Novosti 19 Mar 2007 -- A delegation of the International Atomic Energy Agency will visit the Angarsk chemical plant, the site of the uranium enrichment center, March 20, a first Russian deputy prime minister said.
Iran nuclear issue must be solved by diplomacy -Russian official RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2007 -- The Iran nuclear issue must be solved by diplomatic means, the secretary of the Russian Security Council said Sunday.
Cleric says anti-Iran resolution "unimportant" IRNA 16 Mar 2007 -- Substitute Friday prayers leader of Tehran Ayatollah Mohammad Emami Kashani here Friday assessed as "unimportant" adoption of resolutions against Iran by the United Nations Security Council.
Peaceful use of nuclear energy, Iran's right: FM IRNA 16 Mar 2007 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said on Friday that Tehran does not intend to have a conflict with the UN but has the right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
UNSC reaches no agreement on anti-Iran resolution: Boroujerdi IRNA 16 Mar 2007 -- A Majlis deputy said here Thursday that the United Nations Security Council has reached no agreement on adoption of resolution against Iran's peaceful nuclear activities.
Iran develops new mobile air defense system - national TV RIA Novosti 16 Mar 2007 -- Iran has developed a new mobile air defense system capable of launching simultaneously two ground-to-air missiles, state-run television reported Friday.
Russian official urges Iran to comply with NPP contract terms RIA Novosti 16 Mar 2007 -- Russia's top civilian nuclear official urged Iran to comply with the contract terms on the Bushehr nuclear power plant that Russia is building in the south of the Islamic Republic.
Iran set to carry on with nuclear program despite new sanctions RIA Novosti 16 Mar 2007 -- Iran will proceed with its civilian nuclear energy research program despite new possible economic sanctions against the Middle East country, the Iranian president said Friday.
US Will Expedite Visa for Ahmadinejad UN Appearance VOA 16 Mar 2007 -- The State Department said Friday it will give expedited treatment to a request by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to address a critical U.N. Security Council session on Iran's nuclear program
Anti-Iran draft resolution submitted to UNSC IRNA 15 Mar 2007 -- The five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council plus Germany (5+1 Group) submitted the anti-Iran draft resolution to the UNSC non-permanent members, which once more underlines suspension of enrichment process.
Minister: With sanctions imposed over past 25 years, Iran not worried over possible new ones IRNA 15 Mar 2007 -- Oil Minister Kazem Vaziri-Hamaneh said on Thursday that Iran is not threatened by possible new sanctions, adding that it has been under an economic embargo in the past 25 years.
Velayati: Int'l pressure the price to be paid for nuclear fuel cycle IRNA 15 Mar 2007 -- The Supreme Leader's Advisor for International Affairs Ali Akbar Velayati said here Wednesday that putting up with international pressure was the high price the country was to pay for materializing great projects such as development of nuclear energy.
U.N. Draft Resolution Would Set New Sanctions on Iran Washington File 15 Mar 2007 -- The five permanent members of the Security Council (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States) and Germany have agreed on new military and financial sanctions against Iran for its nuclear activities and sent the text of a new resolution to the other members of the council for consideration.
World Powers Agree on Iran Sanctions at UN VOA 15 Mar 2007 -- Six world powers are jointly asking the U.N. Security Council to toughen sanctions against Iran for refusing to halt suspicious nuclear activities
Ahmadinejad Says UN Security Council Has 'No Legitimacy' RFE/RL 15 Mar 2007 -- Amid reports that world powers are expected later today to present the Security Council with a new set of sanctions against Iran for its failure to suspend uranium enrichment, Iran's president says the Security Council has "no legitimacy" in enforcing its resolutions.
Senior Atomstroyexport official heads to Iran Thu. for NPP talks RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2007 -- The head of Russian company Atomstroyexport's department for the construction of the Bushehr NPP in southern Iran will fly to Tehran for a final round of talks Thursday, a spokesman of the project's contractor said.
Six powers set to present draft resolution on Iran RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2007 -- A draft resolution on Iran will be presented to the 15-member UN Security Council on Thursday, the council's chairman said.
UN Powers Reach 'Agreement in Principle' on New Iran Sanctions VOA 15 Mar 2007 -- Major world powers have agreed in principle on a package of new U.N. penalties against Iran for its suspect nuclear activities
Iran strongly insists on national nuclear program, Larijani IRNA 14 Mar 2007 -- Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Ali Larijani on Wednesday bitterly criticized the Security Council interference in Iranian nuclear program when Iran upheld Non-Proliferation Treaty and Safeguards Agreement of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Velayati: Int'l pressure the price to be paid for nuclear fuel cycle IRNA 14 Mar 2007 -- The Supreme Leader's Advisor for International Affairs Ali Akbar Velayati said here Wednesday that putting up with international pressure was the high price the country was to pay for materializing great projects such as development of nuclear energy.
Bushehr nuclear power plant gigantic test for Tehran, Moscow: MP IRNA 14 Mar 2007 -- Majlis National Security and Foreign Policy Commission rapporteur Kazem Jalali said on Tuesday that the issue of Russia's completion of the Bushehr nuclear power plant was a "gigantic test" of Tehran-Moscow ties.
Russia denies reports on Bushehr construction payments RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2007 -- Russia's nuclear agency denied Wednesday Tehran's claims that Iran recently paid a $12.7-million installment for the construction of a nuclear power plant in the south of the country.
Russia pledges to supply fuel 6 months before Bushehr NPP launch RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2007 -- Russia has pledged to supply fuel to the Bushehr nuclear power plant in southern Iran six months before its launch, the country's nuclear chief said Wednesday.
Iran refuses to give in on nuclear program - president RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2007 -- Iran will not make concessions in the standoff over its nuclear program, the country's president said as discussions continue in the UN Security Council on further sanctions against the Islamic Republic.
Larijani: No connection between Bushehr project, UN resolution IRNA 13 Mar 2007 -- Iran's top nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani on Tuesday ruled out any connection between Russia's decision to delay completion of Bushehr nuclear power plant and the new UN Security Council resolution on Iran.
Larijani: Russia should abide by its commitments IRNA 13 Mar 2007 -- Iran's top nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani regretted Tuesday that Russia has delayed completion of Bushehr power plant and said Russia should abide by its commitments.
Russia should deliver fuel for Bushehr power plant by March 31 IRNA 13 Mar 2007 -- Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (IAEO) on Tuesday strongly criticized the Russian partner, Atomstroiexport (ASE), for over 8 years delay in completion of Bushehr power plant.
Elham says enrichment suspension no longer an issue IRNA 13 Mar 2007 -- Government spokesman Gholam-Hossein Elham said here Tuesday that suspension of enrichment was no longer an issue.
Elham optimistic Bushehr nuclear power plant will be inaugurated soon IRNA 13 Mar 2007 -- Government spokesman Gholam-Hossein Elham here Tuesday expressed optimism the Bushehr nuclear power plant in southern Iran will be inaugurated in due time.
Major Powers Inch Closer to Follow-up Iran Sanctions VOA 13 Mar 2007 -- Diplomats from major world powers are said to be nearing agreement on a new package of U.N. sanctions against Iran
Russia: Moscow Halts Fuel Shipments To Tehran RFE/RL 13 Mar 2007 -- Russian officials have said that nuclear fuel will not be delivered to Iran this month as planned because of Tehran's alleged failure to make payments on the Russian-built Bushehr nuclear power plant.
Iran: Ex-President Becomes Leading Government Critic RFE/RL 13 Mar 2007 -- Some Iranian commentators have observed a realignment of political forces in recent months, provoked by intense rhetoric from President Mahmud Ahmadinejad's government
UN Envoys Draw Closer On Iran Sanctions Resolution RFE/RL 13 Mar 2007 -- All 15 members of the United Nations Security Council are expected to begin consultations today over the imposition of additional sanctions on Iran for its refusal to halt uranium enrichment.
Iran expects Russia to supply fuel to Bushehr NPP by late March RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2007 -- Iran expects Russia to fulfill its obligations and to supply fuel to the Bushehr nuclear power plant by late March as scheduled, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran said Tuesday.
Russia insists Iran fulfill UN, IAEA decisions - ministry RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2007 -- Russia insists that Iran implement resolutions of the UN Security Council and the board of governors of the international nuclear watchdog, a Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman said Tuesday.
Handing Iran dossier over to IAEA key to nuclear deadlock - FM RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2007 -- Sending Iran's "dossier" from the UN Security Council back to the International Atomic Energy Agency could facilitate a resolution in Iran's nuclear problem, the country's foreign minister said Tuesday.
Atomstroyexport to continue construction of Bushehr NPP RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2007 -- Russian company Atomstroyexport will continue the partial construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in southern Iran despite financing difficulties, the project's contractor said in an official statement Tuesday.
Iran hopes talks with Russia will resolve Bushehr NPP issue RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2007 -- An Iranian government spokesman said his country expected the current negotiations with the Russian contractor in the suspended $1-billion Bushehr nuclear power plant project to resolve the issue.
Iranian Spokesman: Tehran Working to Get US Visa for Ahmadinejad VOA 13 Mar 2007 -- An Iranian official says his government is working to get a U.S. visa for President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad so he can address the U.N. Security Council.
Lawmaker: Delay in Bushehr project may reverse balance of ties IRNA 12 Mar 2007 -- An Iranian lawmaker on Monday voiced Iran's displeasure over Russian partner's delay in construction and delivery of Bushehr nuclear power plant and said the act may reverse balance of ties as some wish so.
Iran talks on Bushehr project funding to continue in Tehran IRNA 12 Mar 2007 -- A new stage of the Russian-Iranian negotiations on the completion of the Bushehr nuclear power plant is to begin in Tehran, the press secretary of the Russian company Atomstroieksport, Irina Yesipova, said.
Bushehr power plant to become operational after November IRNA 12 Mar 2007 -- Russian Atomstroiexport official said on Monday that Bushehr nuclear power plant would not become operational sooner than November.
Saeedi to brief MPs on Russian compliance with undertaking to construct Bushehr power plant IRNA 12 Mar 2007 -- The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran's (AEOI) Deputy for International Affairs Mohammad Saeedi is to a attend session of the Majlis National Security and Foreign Policy Commission on Monday to brief MPs of Russia's compliance with its undertaking to construct the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
Diplomat: Timetable is needed for foreign troop pullout from Iraq IRNA 11 Mar 2007 -- An Iranian foreign ministry official says withdrawal of the occupying troops from Baghdad based on a time-table is the only way to end crisis in Iraq.
US decisions in Iraq based on incorrect sources: Araqchi IRNA 11 Mar 2007 -- Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said here Saturday that the decisions made by Washington in Iraq were based on incorrect information.
Iran: Tehran Remains Suspicious After Baghdad Conference RFE/RL 12 Mar 2007 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry has called the March 10 Baghdad security conference a good "first step" toward the eventual restoration of peace in Iraq.
Bushehr NPP will not be launched in Sept. -Atomstroyexport RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2007 -- The Bushehr nuclear power plant in southern Iran will not be launched in September 2007 as planned, a spokesman for the project's contractor, Atomstroyexport, said Monday.
Russia-Iran talks on Bushehr NPP begin in Tehran RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2007 -- Russian and Iranian experts have begun talks on the settlement of financial issues associated with the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in southern Iran, a spokesman for Russian nuclear exporter Atomstroyexport said Monday.
Russian delegation in Iran to continue Bushehr NPP talks RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2007 -- A group of Russian experts that flew into Iran Sunday will continue talks on the further construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, the project's contractor said Monday.
Bushehr power plant's key facilities to be operational by March 13 IRNA 11 Mar 2007 -- Buildings housing pumping facilities and the 400-kilovolt power station of Bushehr nuclear power plant will become operational on Tuesday, March 13.
Defense ties between Tehran, Damascus help restore regional security IRNA 11 Mar 2007 -- Visiting Minister of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics Brigadier General Mostafa Mohammad-Najjar on Sunday conferred with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on issues of mutual interests and expansion of ties between the two countries.
Saeedi: Iran-IAEA stop cooperation on regional projects IRNA 11 Mar 2007 -- Deputy Head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (IAEO) Mohammad Saeedi said on Sunday that Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will stop cooperation mainly on regional and extraregional projects.
Saeedi: Technical grounds prepared for sending fuel to Bushehr IRNA 11 Mar 2007 -- Deputy Head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (IAEO) Mohammad Saeedi said here Sunday that the technical and legal grounds are ready for sending fuel to Bushehr nuclear power plant by the end of March.
Russia is expected not to mix Bushehr business with politics IRNA 11 Mar 2007 -- Russia is expected not to mix the business on completion of Bushehr power plant with politics, Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini said on Sunday.
Iran ready to help Russia launch Bushehr power plant: Aqazadeh IRNA 11 Mar 2007 -- Iran on Sunday expressed readiness to help the Russian contractor of Bushehr power plant, in southern Iran, increase its liquidity to inaugurate the plant on due time.
Iran expects Russia to supply fuel for NPP by end of month RIA Novosti 11 Mar 2007 -- Iran expects Russia to supply nuclear fuel for Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant by the end of March, despite disagreements over the financing of the plant's construction, an Iranian official said Sunday.
Russian delegation goes to Iran for Bushehr NPP talks RIA Novosti 11 Mar 2007 -- A Russian delegation will fly to Iran Sunday to continue talks on the further construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in the south of the Islamic Republic, the project's contractor said.
Iran Criticizes Russian Company For Nuclear Delays RFE/RL 11 Mar 2007 -- Iran complained today that financing problems at the Russian contractor building its first atomic plant at Bushehr is behind repeated delays.
Iran's President Wants To Brief UN On Nuclear Program RFE/RL 11 Mar 2007 -- Iranian President Mahmud Ahmadinejad has announced his intention to attend a UN Security Council meeting to defend his country's disputed nuclear program.
France's FM: Iran Nuke Progress Possible With Firmness, Dialogue VOA 11 Mar 2007 -- France's foreign minister says he believes progress on the Iranian nuclear crisis is still possible using a combination of firmness and dialogue.
Iran Calls Baghdad Conference 'A Good First Step' RFE/RL 11 Mar 2007 -- Iran today termed the international conference on Iraq's security held in Baghdad the previous day as "serious and constructive" and pledged support for any effort to help stabilize its neighbor.
Iranian envoy says occupation is the root of insecurity in Iraq IRNA 10 Mar 2007 -- Head of Iran's delegation in Baghdad meeting Abbas Araqchi said here Saturday Iraq is facing a vicious circle in which foreign occupation causes insecurity and insecurity is used as a justification for continuation of occupation.
Iran offers sightseeing tours of nuclear facilities: official IRNA 10 Mar 2007 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran is opening the gates of its nuclear facilities for tourists in a bid to show the peaceful nature of its nuclear programs, an Iranian tourist official announced in Berlin on Friday.
Russia, China Balk at Tighter Iran Nuclear Sanctions VOA 10 Mar 2007 -- Russia and China have expressed deep concern about Western proposals for tough financial penalties against Iran for its controversial nuclear program
Iran's IAEO deputy head wraps up his talks in Moscow IRNA 09 Mar 2007 -- Deputy Head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (IAEO) Mohammad Saeedi wrapped up his negotiations with Chief Executive Officer of Russia's Atomstroiexport Sergei Shmatko here on Friday.
Major cleric says Iranians are mobilized to access nuclear energy IRNA 09 Mar 2007 -- Tehran's substitute Friday Prayers Leader Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati said Iranian people and scientists have been mobilized to access peaceful nuclear energy and will never retreat from their decision.
Russia-Iran talks on Bushehr NPP unconstructive RIA Novosti 09 Mar 2007 -- Negotiations between Russian and Iranian nuclear officials on further construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in southern Iran produced no results, a Russian source said Friday.
Russia, Iran to issue statement on NPP debt RIA Novosti 09 Mar 2007 -- Russian and Iranian negotiators will make a statement on Tehran's outstanding debt for the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in south Iran, the project's contractor said Friday.
Iran: 'Pressure Groups' Maintain Role In Politics RFE/RL 09 Mar 2007 -- There are recent indications in Iran of a resurgence of what some politicians have ominously dubbed the "pressure group."
Iran is skeptical of US agenda in Iraq conference IRNA 08 Mar 2007 -- Head of Majlis Commission for National Security and Foreign Policy Alaeddin Boroujerdi said on Thursday that Iran is skeptical of the US agenda in the upcoming Iraq international conference.
Security Council meddling in IAEA affairs destroys agency's reputation IRNA 08 Mar 2007 -- Iran's Ambassador to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Ali-Asghar Soltanieh said Thursday that for the first time in the history of IAEA operation, the Security Council destroyed reputation of the UN specialized agency imposing restrictions on technical cooperation with the member states.
Envoy refutes Security Council interference in Iran nuclear program IRNA 08 Mar 2007 -- Iran's envoy to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Ali-Asghar Soltanieh said on Thursday that interference of the Security Council in verification process of Iranian nuclear program runs counter to IAEA Charter.
Iran's participation in Baghdad confab essential: Zebari IRNA 08 Mar 2007 -- Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshiyar Zebari, in a telephone conversation Thursday with his Iranian counterpart Manouchehr Mottaki, said Iran's presence in the Baghdad security conference scheduled for Saturday was essential.
IAEA never before weakened so much - Soltanieh IRNA 08 Mar 2007 -- IRI Ambassador to IAEA said here at a press conference UN nuclear watchdog had never before been as weakened as it is today throughout its history.
In nuclear dispute with Iran UN atomic watchdog suspends 22 technical aid projects UN News Centre 08 Mar 2007 -- The Board of Governors of the United Nations atomic watchdog agency today suspended 22 technical aid projects in Iran in conformity with sanctions imposed by the Security Council over a programme that Tehran says is for producing energy but which critics maintain is for making nuclear weapons.
IAEA Cuts Technical Aid To Iran RFE/RL 08 Mar 2007 -- The United Nations' nuclear watchdog has voted unanimously to cut almost half its aid programs to Iran as part of UN sanctions over Tehran's controversial nuclear program.
Iran: Ex-Defense Official's Whereabouts Remain A Mystery RFE/RL 08 Mar 2007 -- The fate of a former Iranian defense official remains a mystery a month after his disappearance in Turkey.
Iran says will continue nuclear research after UN cut technical aid RIA Novosti 08 Mar 2007 -- Iran will continue uranium enrichment activities despite the UN nuclear agency's decision to cut technical aid to the country, the Islamic Republic's ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency said Thursday.
Iran says Moscow wants NPP funding ahead of time RIA Novosti 08 Mar 2007 -- Iran's top security official said Thursday Russia demanded payments for the construction of a nuclear power plant in southern Iran ahead of schedule.
UN nuclear body suspends half of technical aid programs to Iran RIA Novosti 87 Mar 2007 -- A 35-nation meeting of the UN nuclear agency moved Thursday to suspend nearly half of technical assistance programs to Iran over its defiance of international nuclear demands.
United States Might Raise Concerns with Iran About Explosives Washington File 07 Mar 2007 -- U.S. delegates slated to attend a March 10 meeting in Baghdad, Iraq, on the future of Iraq might raise concerns with the Iranian delegation over Iran’s support and supply of groups and networks using explosive devices against U.S. and coalition forces.
State’s Burns Reports Progress on New Iran Sanctions Washington File 07 Mar 2007 -- Diplomats representing the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council and Germany have conferred several times over the past week on a new round of sanctions aimed at halting Iran’s nuclear program and have agreed that a new Chapter 7 resolution is in order, according to U.S. Under Secretary of State R. Nicholas Burns.
Mottaki: Iran Will Attend Iraq Meeting VOA 07 Mar 2007 -- Iran says it will attend the international conference on Iraq, which is to be held in Baghdad on Saturday.
Iran strongly condemns massacre of pilgrims in Iraq IRNA 07 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini here Wednesday strongly condemned the massacre of scores of pilgrims in two suicide bomb attacks in Iraq.
Soltanieh: Iran ready for negotiation IRNA 07 Mar 2007 -- Iran's IAEA envoy Ali-Asghar Soltanieh said here Wednesday that Iran is ready for negotiation on its nuclear problem.
Iran: Sanctions are illegal, undermine authority of IAEA IRNA 07 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini said here Tuesday that sanctions imposed on the country were illegal and undermined the authority of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
US Government Holds Hearings on Iran VOA 07 Mar 2007 -- Iran remains a top concern for the United States because of Iran's refusal to restrict its nuclear program
UN Security Council Mulls Possible Iran Sanctions RFE/RL 07 Mar 2007 -- Major powers on the United Nations Security Council have been holding talks on possible additional sanctions on Iran, but no agreement has been reported yet.
Russia denies Iran claim that Bushehr debt issue resolved RIA Novosti 07 Mar 2007 -- Russia has refuted Iran's claim Monday that the countries had resolved all outstanding financial issues regarding the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in south Iran.
Key Lawmaker Seeks More Congressional Pressure on Iran VOA 06 Mar 2007 -- A prominent House of Representatives lawmaker is proposing legislation to step up economic pressure on Iran over its nuclear ambitions
Larijani rejects slow-down in enrichment activities IRNA 06 Mar 2007 -- Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Ali Larijani here Tuesday night dismissed the claim about slowing down uranium enrichment.
Mottaki: No change in Iran's peaceful nuclear program IRNA 06 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said here Tuesday that no change has been made in Iran's peaceful nuclear program.
5+1 Group meets to discuss possible additional sanctions on Iran IRNA 06 Mar 2007 -- Representatives of the world's six major powers held a meeting here Tuesday morning to discuss a draft resolution imposing additional sanctions on Iran, with the media still speculating on what these sanctions would actually be.
No sign of Iran's deviation from peaceful nuclear activities - ElBaradei IRNA 06 Mar 2007 -- IAEA Chief said here on first day of UN nuclear watchdog Board of Governors' regular seasonal session that agency has found "no strong reason" for Iran's deviation from peaceful nuclear activities.
UN nuclear watchdog again urges ‘timeout’ by both sides on Iran’s nuclear programme UN News Centre 06 Mar 2007 -- The head of the United Nations atomic watchdog agency has again called for a “timeout” on the Iranian nuclear issue to allow for talks, with Iran suspending uranium enrichment and the international community suspending sanctions over a programme that Tehran says is for producing energy but which critics maintain is for making nuclear weapons.
Iran to conduct air defense exercises RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2007 -- Iran will conduct air defense exercises Tuesday in preparation for a possible air strike on its uranium ore conversion center at Isfahan, the IRNA news agency said Tuesday.
Iran ready to cooperate with IAEA on nuclear dossier - minister RIA Novosti 06 Mar 2007 -- Iran is prepared to answer any questions about its nuclear research posed by the international nuclear watchdog, the foreign minister said Tuesday.
Iran studying its presence in Baghdad meeting: FM IRNA 05 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said here on Monday that Iran was still considering the matter of whether it will send it deputy foreign minister to attend the upcoming security meeting in Baghdad scheduled for March 11.
Solana: EU will continue working on double-track with Iran IRNA 05 Mar 2007 -- German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said Iran's nuclear issue was discussed over lunch Monday by the EU foreign ministers in Brussels.
No sign of Iran's deviation from peaceful nuclear activities - ElBaradei IRNA 05 Mar 2007 -- IAEA Chief said here on first day of UN nuclear watchdog Board of Governors' regular seasonal session that agency has found "no strong reason" for Iran's deviation from peaceful nuclear activities.
ElBaradei: Negotiation only solution to Iran's nuclear case IRNA 05 Mar 2007 -- The UN nuclear watchdog chief Mohamed ElBaradei said on Monday that dialogue is the sole possible option to find a comprehensive and durable solution to Iran's nuclear problem.
Iran advises IAEA Board of Governors to defend findings on Iran IRNA 05 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki here Monday recommended Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to defend the agency's findings on Iranian nuclear program.
ElBaradei confirms supervision of Iran's nuclear activities IRNA 05 Mar 2007 -- International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Mohamed ElBaradei on Monday confirmed that Iran's nuclear programs over the past four years has been aimed at building up international confidence on its declared activities under IAEA supervision and based on the safeguards agreement.
Iran's nuclear program peaceful, under IAEA surveillance: envoy IRNA 05 Mar 2007 -- Iranian Ambassador to Portugal Mohammad Taheri said in Lisbon on Monday that his country's nuclear activities were completely for peaceful purposes and conducted under supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
UN atomic watchdog agency reports stalemate over Iran’s nuclear programme UN News Centre 05 Mar 2007 -- Lacking “the necessary level of transparency and cooperation,” the United Nations atomic watchdog agency reiterated yet again today that it could not provide assurances that Iran’s nuclear programme is solely for the peaceful purpose of generating energy and not for producing nuclear bombs.
US Lawmaker Seeks to Bar Funds for Military Action Against Iran VOA 05 Mar 2007 -- A U.S. senator has introduced legislation that would prohibit President Bush from spending money on unilateral military action against Iran without the consent of Congress
Iran's nuclear issue can only be resolved through talks - IAEA RIA Novosti 05 Mar 2007 -- The controversy over Iran's nuclear program can only be resolved through diplomatic means, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said Monday.
UN Atomic Agency Opens Meeting on Iran VOA 05 Mar 2007 -- The chief U.N. nuclear inspector says Iran's refusal to cooperate with an investigation by the International Atomic Energy Agency has left the agency unable to determine whether Tehran is trying to develop nuclear weapons.
Gov't to accept nuclear offers based on Iran's interests: MP IRNA 04 Mar 2007 -- A Majlis deputy said here Sunday that the government would accept any proposal offered by Europe on its peaceful nuclear case in line with Iran's national interests.
Iran ready to talk with 5+1 without preconditions: Hosseini IRNA 04 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini here Sunday voiced Iran's readiness to hold talks with all members of the Group 5+1 on its peaceful nuclear case with no preconditions.
Iran prepared for nuclear talks without preconditions - official RIA Novosti 04 Mar 2007 -- Iran is prepared for negotiations without preconditions will all interested parties on its nuclear program, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad Ali Hosseini said Sunday.
Israel, US Discuss Tightening Iran Sanctions VOA 04 Mar 2007 -- Senior Israeli and American officials are seeking ways to increase the economic pressure on Iran
Iran, Saudi Arabia Agree to Fight Sectarian Strife VOA 04 Mar 2007 -- The leaders of Saudi Arabia and Iran have agreed to work together to end sectarian violence in the region
Agreement Near on Second U.N. Resolution on Iran, U.S. Says Washington File 02 Mar 2007 -- The five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council and Germany (collectively known as the P5+1), which have been coordinating a response to Iran’s nuclear program, could begin drafting the text of a new resolution as soon as the week of March 5, according to the U.S. State Department.
US Reports Swift Progress on New Iran Resolution VOA 02 Mar 2007 -- U.S. officials are reporting rapid progress in talks among the major powers on a new U.N. Security Council resolution penalizing Iran for refusing to stop enriching uranium
Iran: Washington Sends Mixed Signals To Tehran, Europe RFE/RL 02 Mar 2007 -- As the UN Security Council again begins to wrestle with how to answer Iran's refusal to stop uranium enrichment, Washington continues to reserve the right to take unilateral action. U.S. officials say no options are off the table.
U.S.: Ex-UN Ambassador Warns Iran Against Nuclear Assumptions RFE/RL 02 Mar 2007 -- John Bolton spent nearly 1 1/2 years as Washington's ambassador to the United Nations. Radio Farda's Alireza Taheri spoke with Bolton, who said he favors "regime change" in Iran and does not expect the government in Tehran to give up voluntarily on sensitive nuclear work.
Iran: Neighbors Worried About Possible War RFE/RL 01 Mar 2007 -- As the conflict over Iran's nuclear program continues to heat up, many in the region around Iran are concerned about the prospect that the verbal sparring could escalate into armed conflict.
Iran: Officials Put Positive Spin On IAEA Report RFE/RL 01 Mar 2007 -- Although the February 22 report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said Iran is not in compliance with UN demands to suspend nuclear fuel-making activities, several Iranian officials are saying the report has positive aspects and confirms that Tehran has not broken any nonproliferation rules.
FM declares Iran's terms for holding talks on its nuclear issue IRNA 01 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki declared on Thursday Iran's conditions and demands for reaching a `multifaceted solution' on its nuclear issue.
FM: Larijani-Solana talks prepared grounds for materializing goals IRNA 01 Mar 2007 -- Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki in a meeting with his Spanish counterpart, Miguel Angel Moratinos on Thursday said that the talks between Iran's top nuclear negotiator, Ali Larijani and EU Foreign Policy Chief Javier Solana have prepared the proper ground for materializing the real goals of both sides.
Spanish FM: EU attempts to solve Iran's nuclear issue peacefully IRNA 01 Mar 2007 -- Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos in a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Manouchehr Mottaki on Thursday said that the European Union will certainly do its best to solve Iran's nuclear issue through talks.
Hans Blix: UNSC will not authorize use of force against Iran IRNA 01 Mar 2007 -- Former UN weapons inspector in Iraq, Hans Blix, said Thursday that the US military buildup in the Persian Gulf was to district the attention of the international community from the debacle in Iraq and stressed that the Security Council will not give the green signal for use of force against the Islamic Republic.
Nuclear fuel production breach of no int'l commitment - Iran IRNA 01 Mar 2007 -- Iran's permanent UN representative here Wednesday reiterated Iran is not breaching any of its international commitments by producing nuclear fuel.
Use of force in Iran would threaten Central Asia - CSTO RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2007 -- A possible military operation against Iran would jeopardize the security of the Central Asian states, the head of a post-Soviet security group said Thursday.
Any nuclear development scenario possible in Iran - senator RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2007 -- A senior Russian senator said Thursday he believes that Iran is not excluding any scenario in the development of its controversial nuclear program.
China says Iran will heed world concern over its nuclear program RIA Novosti 01 Mar 2007 -- China believes Iran will respond with understanding to the world community's concern over its nuclear program, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said Thursday.

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

March 2007 - Iran Special Weapons News