Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)
May 2020 - Iran Special Weapons News
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- Iran completes cycle of space technology despite sanctions IRNA 31 May 2020 -- Deputy Minister of Communications and Information Technology Morteza Barari said on Sunday that despite all sanctions and restrictions, the Islamic Republic of Iran attained full cycle of space technology.
- Canada Continues Pressure On Iran To Hand Over Black Boxes Of Downed Airliner Radio Farda 31 May 2020 -- Canada and four other countries are still trying to pressure Iran to release the flight recorders from a Ukrainian passenger plane shot down in January over Tehran, Transport Minister Marc Garneau says.
- What's Behind Iran's Fuel Shipment to Venezuela? VOA 31 May 2020 -- The arrival in Venezuela of five Iranian oil tankers is expected to ease the South American nation's gasoline crisis, while challenging U.S. sanctions targeting both countries.
- Iran, Turkmenistan to reopen borders next week as COVID-19 restrictions ease IRNA 31 May 2020 -- Following gradual easing restrictions due to the global outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Iran and Turkmenistan have agreed to reopen borders next week (on June 10), according to Iranian ambassador to Ashgabat.
- Iran, Turkmenistan to reopen borders June 10 as COVID-19 restrictions ease ISNA 31 May 2020 -- Following gradual easing restrictions due to the global outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Iran and Turkmenistan have agreed to reopen borders next week (on June 10), according to Iranian ambassador to Ashgabat.
- Official: 63 more Iranians die from coronavirus over past 24 hours IRNA 31 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Sunday that 63 more coronavirus deaths were reported over the past 24 hours in Iran, bringing the total to 7,797.
- Long lines as Iranian fuel arrives at Venezuela's gasoline stations Press TV 31 May 2020 -- Fuel shipped from Iran has begun arriving at Venezuela's gasoline stations as the fifth cargo of an Iranian flotilla approached the Caribbean Sea and was expected to reach Venezuelan waters Sunday.
- Iran's New Parliament Speaker Rejects Talks With US As 'Futile' Radio Farda 31 May 2020 -- Iran's new parliament speaker Mohammad-Baqer Qalibaf has said any negotiations with the United States would be "futile" as he delivered his first major speech to the conservative-dominated chamber on Sunday.
- Special Representative Hook Calls Iran's Regime 'Marxist Theocracy' Radio Farda 31 May 2020 -- The "Fact Sheet" published by the U.S. Department of State, highlighting allegations against the Islamic Republic has triggered a war of words between Tehran and Washington.
- Iran Minister Downplays November Protest Death Toll In First Official Acknowledgement Radio Farda 31 May 2020 -- Nearly seven months after Iran's security forces killed several hundreds protesters in November 2019, Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli said implicitly for the first time on Saturday May 30 that the number of those killed was around 200.
- Iran's fight against COVID-19 exemplary model, Health Min says IRNA 30 May 2020 -- Iranian Minister of Health Saeed Namaki on Saturday said that the way Iran has combated COVID-19 pandemic has been set as an example in the world.
- Official: 57 more Iranians die from COVID-19 over past 24 hours IRNA 30 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Saturday that some 57 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 7,734.
- We need to accept limitations; we can't go back to pre-coronavirus conditions soon: Iran's President ISNA 30 May 2020 -- Emphasizing that instilling fear, anxiety and uncertainty about the future of life is not helpful, Iran's president called on the people to continue to work closely with the country's medical staff in the fight against coronavirus in full compliance with health protocols.
- Govt. employees return to work in Iran, mosques to reopen Press TV 30 May 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says mosques will reopen throughout the country as authorities are taking tougher measures to ensure that health regulations are observed.
- COVID-19: Mosques In Iran To Resume Daily Prayers; Uzbekistan Starts Lifting Some Restrictions RFE/RL 30 May 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is almost 370,000 with more than 5.9 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the new respiratory illness.
- Iran Infections Remain High While All Corornavirus Restrictions Are Lifted Radio Farda 30 May 2020 -- Iran has completely lifted all coronavirus restrictions across the country while according to health officials infections still remain high at more than 2,000 new cases every day.
- Mousavi : US blame game won't fool world IRNA 30 May 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi in a message referred to series of US withdrawal, saying the world will not be fooled by the US blame game.
- US refusal to extend waivers to sanctions on nuclear ties violation of UNSCR 2231, UN Charter: Iran IRNA 30 May 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi on Saturday termed US refusal to extend waivers to the sanctions on Iran's nuclear ties with outside world as the violation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231 and the UN Charter.
- EU regrets US decision to end waivers for Iran's civil nuclear programs IRNA 30 May 2020 -- The European Union, France, Germany and the United Kingdom expressed deep regret in a joint statement on Saturday for the US decision to end waivers that allowed countries to cooperate with Iran on civil nuclear projects under the 2015 nuclear deal.
- France, UK, Germany 'regret' US decision to end Iran nuclear waivers ISNA 30 May 2020 -- France, Germany and Britain along with High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and
- Iran condemns US move to end sanctions waiver for nuclear cooperation with Iran ISNA 30 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman has roundly condemned the United States' recent move to end the sanction waiver for nuclear cooperation with the Islamic Republic.
- US threatens to slap sanctions on countries aiding Iran and Venezuela Press TV 30 May 2020 -- The administration of US President Donald Trump has threatened to slap sanctions on the countries assisting Iran and Venezuela to do fuel trade.
- Iran will take 'legal, practical' steps against US revocation of sanctions waivers Press TV 30 May 2020 -- Iran has roundly condemned the United States' latest decision to end the sanctions waivers in a landmark nuclear deal signed between the Islamic Republic and world powers in 2015, vowing to take "necessary practical and legal" steps to counter the negative impacts of the move.
- France, Germany, UK criticize US for ending Iran nuclear waivers Press TV 30 May 2020 -- France, Germany and Britain have censured the United States for ending the last remaining sanctions waivers in a 2015 nuclear deal signed between Iran and the world powers, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
- US warns governments against aiding Iran fuel shipments to Venezuela Press TV 30 May 2020 -- The United States has warned foreign governments, shipping firms, seaports, and insurers of stiff sanctions if they assist Iranian tankers with supplying fuel to crisis-hit Venezuela.
- France, Britain, Germany 'Regret' US End To Iran Nuclear Waivers Radio Farda 30 May 2020 -- The three European signatories of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, France, Germany and Britain on Saturday criticized a U.S. decision to end sanctions waivers allowing work on Iranian nuclear sites designed to prevent weapons development.
- Iran Security Forces Arrest Dozens In Khuzestan Province Radio Farda 30 May 2020 -- Iranian human rights news agencies on Friday reported that police security department agents of Ahvaz arrested at least thirty citizens in the town of Shooshtar, Khuzestan Province on May 28.
- Britain, France, Germany 'Regret' U.S. Decision To End Sanctions Waivers On Iran's Nuclear Program RFE/RL 30 May 2020 -- Britain, France, and Germany have criticized a decision by the United States to end sanctions waivers for companies from countries that remain in the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran.
- France, Britain, Germany 'Regret' US Scrapping Sanctions Waivers on JCPOA-Related Projects in Iran Sputnik 30 May 2020 -- The United States announced on Wednesday it will terminate sanctions waivers that had allowed Russian, Chinese and European companies to carry out work at Iranian nuclear sites as part of the JCPOA nuclear deal.
- Britain, France, Germany Regret US Decision to End Waivers for Iran Civilian Nuclear Projects VOA 30 May 2020 -- Britain, France and Germany issued a joint statement Saturday in which they expressed "regret" about the United States decision to end sanctions waivers for Iranian civilian nuclear projects intended to prevent weapons development.
- Official: 114,931 COVID19-infected patients recover in Iran IRNA 29 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Friday that 114,931 people out of a total of 146,668 infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) have survived and recovered whereas 7,677 have lost their lives.
- Iran says coronavirus figures decreasing, virus being eradicated Press TV 29 May 2020 -- Over 88 percent of coronavirus patients have recovered in Tehran, an Iranian official said, adding that the virus is being eradicated in the country.
- US threatens to sanction tankers carrying fuel to Venezuela: WSJ Press TV 29 May 2020 -- The US has threatened to impose sanctions against two tankers carrying Iranian gasoline to fuel-starved Venezuela, a Wall Street Journal report says.
- Iran promises 'good nuclear news' in reaction to recent US bans Press TV 29 May 2020 -- Iran says its nuclear progress will not be hindered by recent US sanctions against two of its nuclear scientists.
- This Week in Iran Policy US Dept. of State 29 May 2020
- China firmly opposes US act to end sanctions waiver against Iran IRNA 29 May 2020 -- Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said on Friday that China firmly opposes US recent decision to end sanctions waiver against Iran.
- China firmly opposes US' ending of Iran nuclear sanctions waivers: Foreign Ministry Press TV 29 May 2020 -- China has censured the United States for ending the last remaining sanctions waivers in a landmark nuclear deal signed between Iran and world powers in 2015, warning that the move will undermine international non-proliferation progress.
- EU's Borrell expresses regret over US' move to end sanction waivers for JCPOA members IRNA 29 May 2020 -- The European Union's foreign policy chief slammed Washington's move to end sanction waivers for countries remaining in the Iran nuclear accord, warning against the repercussions of the US' act.
- Russia slams US for cancelling sanction waivers IRNA 29 May 2020 -- Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Friday condemned the measure taken by the US to cancel waivers to sanctions against Iran's nuclear facilities, terming the move as unfortunate.
- Iran's Faxon tanker berths at Venezuela's port IRNA 29 May 2020 -- Iranian tanker Faxon carrying fuels berthed at Venezuela's port on Friday morning.
- Three border guards killed in clashes with terrorists in NW Iran Press TV 29 May 2020 -- Three Iranian border guards have been killed during clashes with members of a terrorist group in the country's northwestern province of West Azarbaijan and on the border with Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.
- South Korea To Ship $500,000 Worth Of Medicine To Iran As Humanitarian Export Radio Farda 29 May 2020 -- The South Korean Foreign Ministry on Thursday said its first shipment of medicine worth $500,000 will be sent to Iran on Friday.
- Dreams And Nightmares: The Larijani Clan And The Run-Up To Succession In Iran Radio Farda 29 May 2020 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei appointed outgoing Majles Speaker Ali Larijani as his adviser and a member of the Expediency Council, demoting his status to a not-so-influential politician who has to spend his life at a not-so-significant advisory council.
- Russia blasts US for ending Iran sanctions waivers, quitting intl. treaties Press TV 28 May 2020 -- Russia condemns the United States for undermining international security by deciding to end waivers on the American sanctions that target Iran and withdraw from a number of international treaties, including a recent one pertaining to unarmed surveillance flights.
- Rouhani calls for persistent fight against COVID-19 IRNA 28 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday that everybody should get prepared for co-existence with coronavirus.
- Some 63 more Iranians die from coronavirus over past 24 hours IRNA 28 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Thursday that 63 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 7,627.
- Over 100 vessels in various classes join IRGC navy IRNA 28 May 2020 -- More than 100 vessels in various classes joined The Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) naval base in Bandar Abbas on Thursday in the presence of Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami and the IRGC Commander Hossein Salami.
- More than 100 domestically-built missile-launching speed boats join Iran's naval fleet Press TV 28 May 2020 -- Iranian naval forces have received more than 100 missile-launching speed boats designed and manufactured by experts at home, in what will boost the Islamic Republic's offensive power in the strategic Persian Gulf waters.
- More Than 100 Gunboats Delivered To Revolutionary Guard's Navy Radio Farda 28 May 2020 -- In a ceremony in the southern Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas on Thursday more than 100 new gunboats were delivered to the Revolutionary Guard's Naval Force.
- Iran tightening Persian Gulf security belt, defense minister says IRNA 28 May 2020 -- Iran's Minister of Defense Brigadier-General Amir Hatami said on Thursday that with the production and delivery of the combat speedboats to the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) navy forces, the security belt of the Persian Gulf region, the Strait of Hormuz in particular, will be more tightened.
- Diplomat: US pulls final plug in violating JCPOA, UNSCR 2231 IRNA 28 May 2020 -- Iran's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Majid Takht Ravanchi referred to US' Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's decision to end sanctions waiver on JCPOA-related projects in Iran, saying US has pulled the final plug in violating UNSCR 2231.
- Brian Hook To Iran: Negotiate Or Manage Economic Collapse Radio Farda 28 May 2020 -- The U.S. Special Representative for Iran on Wednesday reiterated that maximum economic pressure on Iran would prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
- U.S. Ending Sanctions Waivers On Iran's Civilian Nuclear Program RFE/RL 28 May 2020 -- The United States has announced it will end sanctions waivers that allow Russian, Chinese, and European firms to carry out civilian nuclear cooperation with Iran, effectively scrapping the last remnants of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, a move dismissed by Tehran as "desperate."
- Iran Rejects US Cancelation of Nuclear Sanctions Waivers VOA 28 May 2020 -- Iran says a U.S. move to cancel the last remaining sanctions waivers from the 2015 nuclear agreement will not impact its nuclear work.
- Fourth Iranian oil tanker enters Venezuelan special economic zone IRNA 28 May 2020 -- The fourth Iranian tanker carrying fuel for Venezuela has entered the country's special economic zone, according to a report by MarineTraffic.
- Fuel Shipments To Venezuela Hailed In Iran As 'Humiliation For America' Radio Farda 28 May 2020 -- Fuel shipments to Venezuela are being celebrated in some Iranian circles as a blow to the United States, which has imposed heavy sanctions on Tehran and Caracas targeting both regimes.
- Lawmakers elect Ex-Tehran mayor Qalibaf as new Parliament speaker Press TV 28 May 2020 -- Iranian lawmakers have overwhelmingly voted to elect ex-Tehran mayor Mohammad-Baqer Qalibaf as speaker of the country's newly-inaugurated Parliament (Majlis).
- Who Is Qalibaf, Iran's New Parliament Speaker Radio Farda 28 May 2020 -- Brigadier General Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf who was elected as the Speaker of Iran's parliament (Majles) on Thursday May 28, has 40 years of experience in military, political, economic, policing and urban management. Nonetheless, he is best known for being implicated in major financial corruption cases.
- Former Tehran Mayor Becomes Speaker Of Parliament RFE/RL 28 May 2020 -- Iran's new hard-line-controlled parliament has elected former Tehran Mayor Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, who served as air force commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), as its speaker for one year.
- Iran UN envoy: 'Desperate' US move to end sanctions waivers 'pulls final plug' on JCPOA Press TV 28 May 2020 -- Iran's ambassador to the United Nations says the US has destroyed the last means of retention of the 2015 nuclear agreement between the Islamic Republic and major world powers by ending waivers for sanctions prohibiting nuclear cooperation with Tehran.
- Iran Police Arrests Fourteen On Charges Of Separatism In Southern City Radio Farda 28 May 2020 -- The Law Enforcement Commander of Khuzestan Province on Wednesday said the security police of Mahshahr Port has arrested "fourteen agents of Takfiri and separatist groups".
- Turkey Replacing Natural Gas Imports From Iran, Russia By LNG From The US Radio Farda 28 May 2020 -- Official Turkish data show a significant drop in natural gas imports from its eastern neighbor, Iran, in the first quarter of 2020.
- Iran Can Supply Itself With Nuclear Fuel Without Russia's Help - Atomic Energy Body Sputnik 28 May 2020 -- Iran is capable of supplying itself with nuclear fuel even without Russia's assistance, Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI) spokesman, Behruz Kamalvandi, said on Thursday.
- Iran exports N95 masks, mask production machines IRNA 27 May 2020 -- An Iranian official in the office of Vice-President for Science and Technology said on Wednesday that Iran exports both N95 masks and the machines for making mask.
- Iran opens borders with Iraq, Turkey closed due to coronavirus epidemic IRNA 27 May 2020 -- Iran opened Bazargan Border Points on Wednesday and Iraq is to open Shalamcheh Border Point with Iran next week.
- Some 56 more Iranians die from coronavirus over past 24 hours IRNA 27 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Wednesday that 56 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 7,564.
- Keeping the World Safe From Iran's Nuclear Program US Dept. of State 27 May 2020 -- "Today, I am announcing the end of the sanctions waiver covering all remaining JCPOA-originating nuclear projects in Iran - the Arak reactor conversion, the provision of enriched uranium for the Tehran Research Reactor, and the export of Iran's spent and scrap research reactor fuel. The sanctions waiver covering these activities will end following a final, 60-day wind-down period allowing companies and entities involved in these activities to cease their operations."
- Briefing on Keeping the World Safe From Iran's Nuclear Program US Dept. of State 27 May 2020
- Trump administration ends last remaining sanctions waivers in Iran nuclear deal Press TV 27 May 2020 -- The United States has ended the last remaining sanctions waivers in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) as part of the Trump administration's brutal campaign against Iran.
- Iran arrests 14 people affiliated to Takfiri separatist groups in Kuzestan province Press TV 27 May 2020 -- Iran has arrested 14 people affiliated to Takfiri separatist groups in the southern port city of Mahshahr in Khuzestan province.
- Maduro thanks Iran for sending oil tankers; slams US for disrupting fuel shipments to Venezuela Press TV 27 May 2020 -- Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has thanked Iran for sending three oil tankers to his energy-hungry and sanction-hit nation while slamming the US for disrupting international fuel shipments headed to the Latin American country.
- Envoy: Iran receives all disbursement of sending oil to Venezuela IRNA 27 May 2020 -- Iranian Ambassador to Venezuela Hojjat Soltani said despite the US' cruel sanctions, all disbursement of exporting oil to Venezuela has been received.
- President: Iran's trade with friendly nations none of US business IRNA 27 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday that Iran's trade with friendly nations is none of the US business and that the US sanctions are not compatible with International Trade Law.
- Iran appreciates Venezuela for escorting oil tankers IRNA 27 May 2020 -- Iran's Ambassador to Caracas Hojjat Soltani appreciated Wednesday the Venezuelan army for escorting Iranian oil tankers carrying fuel to Venezuela.
- Two other Iranian oil tankers to arrive in Venezuela territorial waters by June 1st IRNA 27 May 2020 -- Having already announced the arrival of the third Iranian oil tanker in Venezuela territorial waters, Telesure Network said two more tankers are scheduled to enter the waters as of today till June 1st.
- Second Iranian tanker arrives at Venezuela territorial waters IRNA 27 May 2020 -- Second Iranian oil tanker named Forest arrived late on Tuesday in Venezuela's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) under escort by Sukhoi Su-30 and F-16 Fighter Jets.
- Fourth Iranian tanker carrying gasoline enters Venezuelan waters Press TV 27 May 2020 -- The fourth tanker of a five-vessel Iranian flotilla carrying much-needed gasoline to Venezuela has entered Venezuelan waters, approaching its fuel-starved final destination.
- Second Iranian Oil Tanker Arrives At Venezuela's Largest Refinery RFE/RL 27 May 2020 -- A second Iranian tanker carrying gasoline and oil derivatives has arrived at crisis-stricken Venezuela's main oil refinery, amid escalating tensions between Washington and the two U.S.-sanctioned countries.
- Third Iranian tanker enters Venezuela's territorial waters Press TV 27 May 2020 -- The third of the five Iranian oil tankers carrying fuel for Venezuela has sailed into the Latin American country's territorial waters.
- Iran Lawmaker Arrested To Serve Prison Term For Corruption Radio Farda 27 May 2020 -- Judicial officials have detained former member of Iran's parliament Mohammad Azizi who must serve his 61 months sentence for corruption related to the country's beleaguered auto industry.
- Parliament Opens In Iran As Chairman Calls It 'Supreme Leader's Majles' Radio Farda 27 May 2020 -- The interim chairman of Iran's new parliament has characterized the new Iranian Majles as the "Supreme Leader's Majles", and the Islamic Republic's leader Ali Khamenei in his message stressed the importance of his undefined theory of Jihadist Economy as a guideline for the new parliament.
- Former Mayor Accused Of Corruption Elected Iran's Speaker Of Parliament Radio Farda 27 May 2020 -- The newly elected Iranian parliament dominated by conservatives and hardliners elected a former mayor of Tehran and a former Revolutionary Guard general as Speaker on Thursday, local media reported.
- Iran Central Bank Forecasts Annual 22 Percent Inflation In Rare Move Radio Farda 27 May 2020 -- In a rare move, Iran's Central Bank (CBI) has announced its forecast about the country's annual inflation rate, saying it expects 22 percent rise in prices the current Iranian year.
- Official: 57 more Iranians die from COVID-19 over past 24 hours IRNA 26 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Tuesday that some 57 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 7,508.
- Getting It In The Gut: Iran Sees Rise In Gastrointestinal Coronavirus Infections RFE/RL 26 May 2020 -- Iran became one of the first coronavirus hot spots outside of China in March when thousands of Iranians began showing respiratory symptoms of COVID-19.
- Iran Spokesman Rejects State Department Allegations Of Extraterritorial Terrorism Radio Farda 26 May 2020 -- Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi on Monday dismissed the U.S. State Department allegations that the Iranian regime has carried out more than 360 assassinations and terrorist operations across the world since 1979.
- Venezuelan president terms Iranian fuel shipment sign of Tehran-Caracas solidarity IRNA 26 May 2020 -- Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a message on Tuesday termed shipment of Iranian fuel to Venezuela as sign of Tehran-Caracas solidarity.
- Iranian tankers feed fuel to Venezuela's El Palito refinery, help it resume gasoline production Press TV 26 May 2020 -- Iranian tankers have fed fuel to one of Venezuela's most important refineries, enabling the strategic El Palito facility to resume gasoline production after it was forced to largely reduce its activities under pressure from draconian American sanctions.
- Rouhani Concerned About New Hardliner-Dominated Parliament Radio Farda 26 May 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani and his Chief of Staff Mahmoud Vaezi have been sending mixed messages to the country's new Islamic Republic Parliament ahead of its opening on May 28.
- Khamenei Representative Apologizes After Plastic Bullets Fired At Iranian Protesters RFE/RL 26 May 2020 -- The representative of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in the southwestern province of Khuzestan has visited some of the people who were wounded by security forces during a protest over a lack of drinking water last week.
- Iran's Rouhani Orders State Bodies to Implement Law on 'Countering Israel', Reports Say Sputnik 26 May 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has issued an executive order to all government structures to implement the law passed last week on launching a comprehensive retaliation against any of Israeli's action that Tehran might consider hostile to itself or the Palestinian Authority, the IRNA news agency reported on Tuesday.
- COVID-19: Iran Reopens Religious Shrines After Two Months; Ukrainian Cities Reopen Subways RFE/RL 25 May 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is almost 350,000 with more than 5.4 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the new respiratory illness.
- Official: 34 more Iranians die from COVID-19 pandemic IRNA 25 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Monday that 107,713 people out of a total of 137,724 infected with the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic have recovered while 7,451 have lost their lives.
- Turkey delaying gas pipeline repair for unknown reasons: Iran Press TV 25 May 2020 -- Iran's Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh says he is unaware why Turkey has been delaying repair work on an Iranian gas pipeline that was blown up in late March.
- Era of US military presence in region ending: IRGC deputy commander Press TV 25 May 2020 -- A senior commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has censured the United States for conducting military drills in the Persian Gulf, saying the era of US military presence in the region is coming to an end.
- IRGC General Says US Military Presence 'Coming To An End' In Persian Gulf Radio Farda 25 May 2020 -- Iran's Revolutionary Guard deputy in political affairs, Brigadier General Yadollah Javani has dismissed U.S. military drills in the Persian Gulf saying these will not intimidate the Islamic Republic.
- Second Iranian oil tanker enters Venezuelan waters IRNA 25 May 2020 -- According to 'Marine Traffic' website, the second Iranian tanker named "Forest" arrived in Venezuelan waters and near Isla Margarita.
- Iranian oil tanker berthed at Venezuela's port ignoring US warnings IRNA 25 May 2020 -- First Iranian oil tanker berthed at Venezuela's El Palito port, TankerTrackers.com- an online service which tracks shipments in different geographical areas- reported on Monday.
- Iran's second fuel tanker sails into Venezuela's waters: Telesur Press TV 25 May 2020 -- The Venezuelan media announce that a second Iranian tanker loaded with gasoline has sailed into the South American country's territorial waters.
- First Iranian Tanker Reaches Venezuelan Oil Port Without U.S. Interference RFE/RL 25 May 2020 -- An Iranian tanker carrying fuel has reached port in Venezuela amid escalating tensions between Washington and the two U.S.-sanctioned countries.
- Iranian Oil Taker Docks in Venezuela, Defying US Sanctions VOA 25 May 2020 -- The first of what is expected to be five Iranian oil tankers has docked at a Venezuelan refinery, defying U.S. sanctions on both countries.
- First Iranian Tanker Docks At Venezuelan Refinery, Second Tanker Approaching Radio Farda 25 May 2020 -- An Iranian tanker carrying 43 million liters (11.3 million gallolns) of gasoline to fuel-starved Venezuela has arrived at El Palito, Venezuela, TankerTrackers reported on Monday.
- US not qualified to judge others, must address own dark past: Iran Foreign Ministry Press TV 25 May 2020 -- The spokesman for Iran's Foreign Ministry says the United States is by no means qualified to judge other countries in political, legal and moral terms, and must first clarify its own vicious and ominous track records.
- JCPOA opponents aim to undermine Iran-IAEA cooperation: Russian diplomat Press TV 25 May 2020 -- A senior Russian diplomat says opponents of a 2015 nuclear deal signed between Iran and major world powers are seeking to "undermine the confidence and cooperation" between Tehran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
- Iran Minister Says Turkey Unwilling To Repair Gas Pipeline Blown Up In Attack Radio Farda 25 May 2020 -- Iran's Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh on Monday blamed Turkey for not showing interest in repairing a gas pipeline near the Iranian border blown up by the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in March.
- Worker Protests Spring Up In Iran, As Sanctions, Coronavirus Weaken Economy Radio Farda 25 May 2020 -- Amid a worsening economy in Iran a new wave of worker protests have sprang up in the country in recent weeks, as government coffers empty out and many employers are unable to pay wages.
- Not All Ayatollahs Agree With Khamenei Over End Of Ramadan Radio Farda 25 May 2020 -- Some Iranians including those who follow Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's religious edicts marked the end of the fasting month with group prayers on Sunday, despite the coronavirus pandemic, while others who follow the edicts of other religious leaders hold Monday as the day of Eid al-Fitr.
- Iran's Central Bank To Merge Several Military-Owned Banks Amid Economic Crisis Radio Farda 25 May 2020 -- The Governor of the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) announced on Monday that two banks owned by the country's armed forces will be merged into Sepah Bank in the next ten days.
- Protests For Lack Of Drinking Water Turns Into Hot Discussion Among Iranians Radio Farda 25 May 2020 -- A clash between protesters demanding drinking water and security forces in southwestern Iran has turned into the hottest issue on Iranian social media.
- Official: 58 more Iranians die from COVID-19 over past 24 hours IRNA 24 May 2020 -- The head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office said on Sunday that 58 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 7,417.
- Iran, Turkey presidents urge full reopening of borders after pandemic Press TV 24 May 2020 -- Presidents of Iran and Turkey have stressed the need for immediate reopening of borders between the two neighbors after more than two months of closure over the new coronavirus pandemic.
- Iran's defense preparedness at highest level in 40 years: IRGC cmdr. Press TV 24 May 2020 -- Iran has reached the highest level of defense preparedness since the victory of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, says a senior commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), emphasizing that there is nothing for the Iranian people to worry about in this regard.
- Venezuelan Petroleum Minister appreciates Iran fuel supply IRNA 24 May 2020 -- Venezuelan Minister of Petroleum Tareck El Aissami in a message appreciated Iran for fuel supply, saying energy cooperation will develop relations in all fields.
- Venezuela hails arrival of Iranian fuel as 'landmark in struggle for sovereignty' Press TV 24 May 2020 -- Venezuela's permanent representative to the UN has welcomed the arrival of Iranian tankers loaded with gasoline to the South American country's waters, urging US President Donald Trump to avoid an act of aggression based on the "wrong advice" of warmongers.
- Venezuela hails arrival of Iranian fuel as 'landmark in struggle for sovereignty' Press TV 24 May 2020 -- Venezuela's permanent representative to the UN has welcomed the arrival of Iranian tankers loaded with gasoline to the South American country's waters, urging US President Donald Trump to avoid an act of aggression based on the "wrong advice" of warmongers.
- First Iranian tanker carrying gasoline enters Venezuelan waters Press TV 24 May 2020 -- The first of five Iranian tankers carrying fuel for gasoline-starved Venezuela has entered the Latin American country's territorial waters despite the US threats.
- First Iranian Tanker 'Fortune' Reaches Venezuelan Coast Escorted by Bolivarian Armed Forces Sputnik 24 May 2020 -- Iran has sent five ocean-going tankers loaded with an estimated 1.53 million barrels of gasoline to Venezuela, a move that has reportedly received threats from Washington. Tehran, in response, promised "retaliation" if the US moves to act against the ships.
- Iran's First Tanker Reaches Venezuelan Waters FARS 24 May 2020 -- The first of five Iranian oil tankers has entered the Venezuelan territorial waters to show Iran's determination to carry out exports of goods and oil to everywhere in the world regardless of US threats.
- Ukraine Says Those Responsible In Iran For Downing Its Airliner Must Face Justice Radio Farda 24 May 2020 -- The Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine has told Radio Farda Kyiv insists on punishing those responsible in Iran for shooting down its passenger plane in January.
- Iran's Exports To China Drop 61 Percent Compared With 2019 Radio Farda 24 May 2020 -- The latest trade figures published by China's customs shows a 61 percent drop in imports from Iran in the first four months of 2020 compared with the same period last year.
- Governor's Wife Accused Of Taking $200,000 Bribe From Dodgy Businessman In Iran Radio Farda 24 May 2020 -- In a high-profile corruption trial in Iran the wife of a governor stands accused of taking $200,000 in bribes from the CEO of a company that refused to pay its workers for months and then police brutally suppressed their protests.
- Official: 59 more Iranians die from coronavirus pandemic IRNA 23 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Saturday that 104,072 people out of a total of 133,521 infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) have recovered whereas 7,359 have lost their lives.
- Iran: Shrines, cultural sites to reopen; workers to return to work Press TV 23 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani says museums and historical sites are to reopen on Sunday to coincide with the Eid al-Fitr celebrations that end the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan.
- Iran Says Thousands Register To Go To Hajj Despite Pandemic Radio Farda 23 May 2020 -- The Islamic Republic's head of Hajj and Pilgrimage Organization (HPO) says that applicants have already registered for nearly ninety percent of Iran's share in the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
- COVID-19 And Iranian Foreign And Security Policy: Stasis, Not Change Radio Farda 23 May 2020 -- Leading up to and throughout the coronavirus crisis, the Islamic Republic of Iran has continued its policy of graduated escalation against its adversaries. Tehran's underwriting of such activities while facing a pandemic at home is a measure of their ideational and strategic importance for the regime. This means that Iran's five main threat vectors – nuclear, missile, maritime, cyber and regional – remain relatively unaffected by the onset of COVID-19 and will continue in the short-to-medium term.
- Iran To Open More Businesses, Religious Sites Amid Loosening Of Virus Restrictions RFE/RL 23 May 2020 -- Iran's president said authorities would allow more businesses, cultural sites, and religious shrines to open as part of the ongoing loosening of restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
- In letter to UN: Venezuela warns about US threat to Iranian ships IRNA 23 May 2020 -- The Venezuelan ambassador wrote in a letter to the United Nations secretary-general and the head of UN Security Council that his government alerted the "threat of imminent use of military force by the United States" against the Iranian ships carrying fuel for the Caribbean country.
- Iran to unveil new homegrown aircraft in near future: Air Force commander Press TV 23 May 2020 -- An Iranian Air Force commander says the country will unveil domestically-produced planes in the near future.
- Iranian Tankers Carrying Gasoline Approach Venezuela Radio Farda 23 May 2020 -- Five tankers carrying Iranian fuel for gasoline-starved Venezuela are approaching the Caribbean, with the first vessel expected to reach the South American country's waters on Sunday, Radio Farda was informed by TankerTrackers.com.
- Missile Operator's Breach Of Rules Downed Ukrainian Plane, Iran Defense Minister Says Radio Farda 23 May 2020 -- Outspoken former lawmaker Mahmoud Sadeqi (Sadeghi) on Friday disclosed that officials have found the operator of the missile system that downed a Ukrainian plane in January responsible for the incident.
- US State Department Highlights Allegations Of State Terrorism Against Iran Radio Farda 23 May 2020 -- In a fact sheet published on Friday, the U.S. Department of State highlighted allegations that since coming to power the Iranian regime has been involved in more than 360 assassinations, terrorist plots, and terrorist attacks in more than 40 countries.
- Iran Has Lost Its Top Position As Oil Exporter Without Developing Alternatives Radio Farda 23 May 2020 -- Iran's non-oil exports, which have suffered from weaknesses in its economic and management systems as well as from various sanctions over the years, is facing new problems following the coronavirus outbreak.
- Iran Suffers Huge Reduction Of Revenues From Overflight Rights Radio Farda 23 May 2020 -- Iran Airports Company (IAC) has reported an 85 percent reduction in overflights by airlines using Iran's airspace in March-April compared with the previous year.
- People Protest Lack Of Water In Iran's Oil-Rich Province Radio Farda 23 May 2020 -- Security forces stepped in and fired tear gas and "plastic bullets" into a crowd of residents in Iran's oil-rich Khuzestan province who were protesting lack of drinking water.
- Official: COVID19 death toll hits 7,300 in Iran IRNA 22 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Friday that some 51 more Iranians died because of coronavirus over the past 24 hours and 102,276 people out of a total of 131,652 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered, but regretfully the total number of deaths reached 7,300.
- Iran Suspected Of Being Behind New Cyberattacks Against Israel Radio Farda 22 May 2020 -- Hundreds of mostly unsecured Israeli websites were attacked by Iran-based hackers on Thursday morning, disabling the sites and replacing them with a message "threatening Israel" with "destruction", local media reported.
- Iran Health Officials Warning To Stay Home During Eid Al-Fitr Holiday Radio Farda 22 May 2020 -- Amid ever-increasing number of infections, Deputy Health Minister Iraj Harirchi on Friday once again called on Iranians to stay home during the Eid Al-Fitr holiday to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
- Iraq's New PM Was Once Critical of Country Seen as 'Iran's Backyard' VOA 22 May 2020 -- Before he held political office, Iraq's recently elected Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi was a strong critic of his predecessors for turning the country into "Iran's backyard" in the eyes of other nations.
- Ayatollah Khamenei: Everyone must assist in holy struggle to liberate Palestine Press TV 22 May 2020 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says the struggle to liberate Palestine is an obligation and an Islamic goal, adding "everyone must assist the Palestinian nation in this holy struggle".
- White House Condemns Khamenei's 'Anti-Semitic Rhetoric', Threats Radio Farda 22 May 2020 -- In a tweet on Thursday the White House National Security Council condemned "anti-Semitic rhetoric and threats by Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei against Israel".
- Khamenei On Qods Day: Yell At America, Israel Will Be Eliminated! Radio Farda 22 May 2020 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has once again called on Palestinians to continue their struggle against Israel and called the Palestinian question an international problem rather than an Islamic or Arab issue.
- This Week in Iran Policy US Dept. of State 22 May 2020
- Iran's Assassinations and Terrorist Activity Abroad US Dept. of State 22 May 2020
- Iran monitoring US military, to respond to threat to interests anywhere in world: Top general Press TV 22 May 2020 -- Iran's top military commander says Iranian Armed Forces have a full intelligence command of United States military movements in and far beyond the region and will respond to any move that endangers Iranian interests at any location in the world.
- Official: 66 more Iranians die from COVID-19 over past 24 hours IRNA 21 May 2020 -- The head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office said on Thursday that 66 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 7,249.
- Sanctioning Iranian individuals indicates US desperation IRNA 21 May 2020 -- Spokesman for the Foreign Ministry Abbas Mousavi censured Thursday the US for sanctioning Iranian Interior Minister and Police Chief, saying that the move indicates the US desperation.
- Iran says South Pars development will fully finish by March 2021 Press TV 21 May 2020 -- Iran's oil minister Bijan Namadar Zanganeh says the country would wrap up development work at South Pars gas field, the world's biggest natural gas reserve located in the Persian Gulf, by late March 2021 when the current Iranian calendar year comes to its end.
- South Pars Phase 11 jacket, base structure completely Iranian-made IRNA 21 May 2020 -- The managing director of Pars Oil and Gas Company said on Thursday that the base of the first jacket of the Phase 11 of South Pars Field is completely Iranian-made.
- Evidence From Downed Ukrainian Flight Poses More Puzzles About Crash Radio Farda 21 May 2020 -- The head of Ukraine's investigation team has said that evidence from the passengers on board flight PS752 suggests that something had happened to the plane even before it was hit by the missiles fired at it by the Revolutionary Guard.
- Iran's Guards Attack Regional Leaders For 'Normalization Of Relations With Zionists' Radio Farda 21 May 2020 -- In a statement issued on Thursday on the eve of Qods Day, Iran's Revolutionary Guard attacked regional leaders for "normalization of their official relations" with Israel, which they called "a cancerous tumor" to be wiped from the face of the earth.
- Netanyahu Says Khamenei Threat Of 'Final Solution' Evokes Nazi Slogan Radio Farda 21 May 2020 -- The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday said the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's "threat" to apply the "Final Solution" to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict "is reminiscent of the Nazis' ultimate solution for exterminating the Jews."
- Official: Some 64 more Iranians die from COVID19 over past 24 hours IRNA 20 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Wednesday that some 64 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 7,183.
- Pandemic Situation Is Alarming In Iran's Oil-Producing Region Radio Farda 20 May 2020 -- Reports from the province of Khuzestan in southwestern Iran say the situation with COVID-19 epidemic is "serious", particularly as people appear to ignore public health warnings and medical staff are affected by fatigue after weeks of hard work.
- US tells vessels in Persian Gulf to stay 100 meters away from its warships Press TV 20 May 2020 -- The US Navy has warned vessels in the Persian Gulf to stay 100 meters away from American warships or risk "lawful defensive measures," in a move that appears to be aimed squarely at Iran.
- U.S. Navy Warns Iran Of 'Defensive Measures' If Gunships Get Too Close RFE/RL 20 May 2020 -- The U.S. military has warned Iran that armed vessels approaching within 100 meters of U.S. Navy ships in the Persian Gulf region risk being "interpreted as a threat and subject to lawful defensive measures."
- Venezuelan Military to Escort Iranian Tankers Delivering Fuel, Defense Minister Says Sputnik 20 May 2020 -- Venezuela's military will escort Iranian tankers delivering fuel to the country when they enter Venezuela's exclusive economic zone, the country's Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino revealed Wednesday.
- Iran not to tolerate any nuisance at high Seas: Defense Minister IRNA 20 May 2020 -- Iran's Minister of Defense and Logistics of the Armed Froces said on Wednesday that Iran will not tolerate any nuisance at high Seas for its oil tankers and will respond strongly and decisively.
- Iran won't tolerate any trouble for its tankers: Defense Minister ISNA 20 May 2020 -- Iran's Minister of Defence Brigadier General Amir Hatami stressed that the country won't tolerate any trouble for its oil tankers and if the trouble continues and intensifies, it will be met with Iran's unwavering and crushing response.
- Iran to US: We will brook no harassment of our oil tankers in intl. waters Press TV 20 May 2020 -- Iran's defense minister has warned the US of a firm and crushing response should it continue to harass the country's ships and oil tankers in international waters.
- Venezuelan Military to Escort Iranian Tankers Delivering Fuel - Defense Minister Sputnik 20 May 2020 -- Venezuela's military will escort Iranian tankers delivering fuel to the country when they enter Venezuela's exclusive economic zone, the country's Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino revealed Wednesday.
- Standing with the Iranian People US Dept. of State 20 May 2020 -- Today, the United States is imposing financial sanctions and visa restrictions on Iranian individuals and entities under human rights-related authorities.
- Treasury Sanctions Iran's Interior Minister and Senior Law Enforcement Officials in Connection with Serious Human Rights Abuses US Treasury 20 May 2020 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) took action against Iran's Interior Minister for his role in serious human rights abuses against Iranians, as well as seven senior officials of Iran's Law Enforcement Forces (LEF) and a provincial commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
- US Treasury Slaps Iran With New Sanctions, Including Minister of Interior, Prison System Sputnik 20 May 2020 -- The restrictions are the latest in Washington's two year+ effort to ratchet up pressure against Tehran following President Trump's May 2018 decision to exit the Iran nuclear deal.
- US imposes sanctions on 8 Iranian officials, including interior minister Press TV 20 May 2020 -- The United States has imposed sanctions on 8 Iranian officials, including Iran's Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli.
- U.S. Puts Sanctions On Iranian Minister, Top Police Officials For Violent Crackdowns RFE/RL 20 May 2020 -- The U.S. government has imposed sanctions on Iran's interior minister, senior police officials, and a military commander for human rights abuses, including killing peaceful protesters.
- IRGC, Intelligence thwart sabotage attempt by counterrevolutionary group IRNA 20 May 2020 -- The forces of Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) in coordination with the Intelligence Office of Kordestan Province, western Iran, thwarted sabotage attempt by counterrevolutionary group.
- Iran Hardliner Media Launch Attack On Oil Minister For Hiring Outgoing Lawmakers Radio Farda 20 May 2020 -- Iran's hardliner media have launched an orchestrated attack on Oil Minister Bijan Namdar-Zanganeh for employing lawmakers who have not made it to the next parliament, allegedly to show new lawmakers that supporting his ministry can have personal benefits for them in the future.
- Iran Courts Sentence Ten People To A Total Of 100 Years Prison For Supporting Monarchy Radio Farda 20 May 2020 -- A court of appeals in Tehran has upheld the verdict against ten citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran sentenced to more than 100 years in prison for reportedly supporting monarchy.
- Baha'i Community Warns Of Increased Persecution Of Followers In Iran Radio Farda 20 May 2020 -- In a statement released on May 18 the Baha'i International Community (BIC) warned about the increased persecution of Baha'is in Iran despite the coronavirus health crisis.
- Iran's Currency Drops To Near All-Time Lows Against US Dollar Radio Farda 20 May 2020 -- The depreciation of Iran's currency against the U.S. dollar has continued in recent days, reaching near all-time lows as the country faces multiple economic challenges.
- Beijing slams Iran-related sanctions on Chinese company as 'illegal' Press TV 20 May 2020 -- China has blasted the United States for its sanctions on a Chinese company over cooperation with Iran's Mahan Air, saying the bans violate international rules on beneficial cooperation between countries.
- US Sanctions A Chinese Firm For Dealing With Iran's Banned Airline Radio Farda 20 May 2020 -- The U.S. Departments of State and Treasury sanctioned a Shanghai-based firm Tuesday, May 19, for allegedly working on behalf of the Islamic Republic of Iran's Mahan Air airline.
- Iran Lawmaker Says $30 Billion Spent On Syria Must Be Returned Radio Farda 20 May 2020 -- A conservative lawmaker and former chairman of the Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission has said that Iran spent 20-30 billion dollars in Syria that must be reimbursed.
- Iranian Media Refute Israel's Claim That Tehran is Scaling Down Its Presence in Syria Sputnik 20 May 2020 -- Previously, outgoing Israeli Defense Minister Naftali Bennet commented that Iran "has begun the withdrawal process from Syria," his uncorroborated-by-evidence statement coming in the wake of earlier reports of Israeli officials suggesting there was a scaling down of Tehran's presence in the country.
- Official: COVID-19 kills 62 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 19 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Tuesday that some 62 more Iranians died because of coronavirus over the past 24 hours and 97,173 people out of a total of 124,603 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered, but, unfortunately, the total number of deaths reached 7,119.
- Eight states demand Iran's coronavirus test kits IRNA 19 May 2020 -- Vice-President for Science and Technology Sorena Sattari stated on Tuesday that Iran has received orders from eight states demanding Iranian indigenous coronavirus test kits.
- Experts In Iran Say Coronavirus Symptoms Changing From Respiratory To Gastrointestinal Radio Farda 19 May 2020 -- Iranian epidemiologists say the symptoms associated with COVID-19 in Iran have changed from respiratory to gastrointestinal.
- Parliament Says Intelligence Agencies Brought Losses To Iran's Auto Makers Radio Farda 19 May 2020 -- The Iranian Parliament (Majles) says the existence of several intelligence agencies in Iran has led to corruption and losses in the country's automobile manufacturing industry.
- The United States Designates Company Providing Services for Iranian Airline Mahan Air's Operations in China US Dept. of State 19 May 2020 -- The People's Republic of China is one of the rapidly dwindling number of countries that welcomes Mahan Air, which ferries weapons and terrorists around the world for the Islamic Republic of Iran. Such cooperation has consequences.
- Treasury Designates China-based Mahan Air General Sales Agent US Treasury 19 May 2020 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating China-based Shanghai Saint Logistics Limited for acting as a general sales agent (GSA) for or on behalf of Iranian airline Mahan Air.
- US Sanctions Chinese Logistics Firm for Working With Iranian Airline Sputnik 19 May 2020 -- The United States introduced sanctions against a Chinese logistics company for providing services to Iran's Mahan Air, the Treasury Department announced in a statement on Tuesday.
- US sanctions Chinese logistics firm over business with Iran's Mahan Air Press TV 19 May 2020 -- The United States has imposed sanctions on a China-based company saying it acted on behalf of Iran's Mahan Air, which has been sanctioned by Washington.
- Iran's Rouhani Says Country Needs 'Two Or Three Main Political Parties' Radio Farda 19 May 2020 -- Islamic Republic's President Hassan Rouhani Monday called for the establishment of a few "main political parties" in the country that could take turns to govern.
- Iranian Extradited From UK Arraigned In Minneapolis For Sanction-Busting Radio Farda 19 May 2020 -- A U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota has charged Payment24, an Iranian online financial services company, its founder and Chief Executive Officer Seyed Sajjad Shahidian and Chief Operating Officer, Vahid Vali, with violating U.S. sanctions on Iran.
- 'Direct war' to follow if US attacks Iran tankers to Venezuela Press TV 19 May 2020 -- A top US political analyst is warning that, "direct war" war could break out if the country attempts to attack Iranian fuel tankers en route to Venezuela.
- US not allowed to disrupt legal international trade: Iran FM Zarif Press TV 19 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the US is not permitted to disrupt legal trade among other countries, slamming such interventionist policies as a threat to the entire world community.
- Iran judiciary issues hefty sentences to corruption convicts Press TV 19 May 2020 -- An Iranian court responsible for economic corruption cases has handed down hefty sentences to 34 convicts, including to a couple who have been sentenced to death over money laundering, the country's judiciary has said.
- Israeli Operatives Behind 'Highly Accurate' Cyberattack on Iranian Port Facility, Report Claims Sputnik 19 May 2020 -- On 10 May, the managing director of Iran's Ports and Maritime Organization, Mohammad Rastad, confirmed in a televised statement that the county's port of Shahid Rajaee, in the coastal city of Bandar Abbas, was the victim of a cyberattack by an unknown foreign hacker on 9 May, bringing to a halt all shipping traffic in the facility.
- Israeli cyber terrorist attack targets Iranian port: Report Press TV 19 May 2020 -- Israel carried out a cyber terrorist attack that caused disruption at an Iranian port this month, the Washington Post reports.
- Critical Lawmaker In Iran Sentenced To Prison At The End Of His Term Radio Farda 19 May 2020 -- An outspoken member of Iran's parliament, Mahmoud Sadeghi, says a Tehran court of appeals has upheld a decision, sentencing him to 21 months in prison, and a 100 million rial (roughly $2400) fine.
- US, other foreign forces must leave Syria, respect its sovereignty: Iran Press TV 18 May 2020 -- Iran's permanent ambassador to the United Nations says the US must end its illegal occupation of Syria and stop shielding terrorist groups under the mask of fighting terrorism.
- Iran's "white areas" increase to 280 cities: Rabiei IRNA 18 May 2020 -- Government spokesman Ali Rabiei said on Monday that Iran's white areas have increased to 280 in terms of coronavirus contamination and Iran ranks third in the world after China and Switzerland in terms of the recovery and treatment of patients of the pandemic.
- Official: Some 69 more Iranians die from coronavirus over the past 24 hours IRNA 18 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Monday that some 69 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours bringing the total death toll to 7,057.
- Iran Says First Steps Taken To Launch South Korean Humanitarian Trade Mechanism Radio Farda 18 May 2020 -- Iran's foreign ministry announced on Monday, May 18 that "preliminary steps and political consultations were undertaken" to launch a South Korean "humanitarian channel" for Iran.
- US, other foreign forces must leave Syria, respect its sovereignty: Iran Press TV 18 May 2020 -- Iran's permanent ambassador to the United Nations says the US must end its illegal occupation of Syria and stop shielding terrorist groups under the mask of fighting terrorism.
- Russia, Iran And The Future Of Syria's Assad Radio Farda 18 May 2020 -- The "project to oust the Syrian strongman, Bashar al-Assad" is a "big American-Zionist lie", says a former senior Iranian diplomat and a current advisor to the speaker of parliament.
- Iran will give crushing response to any aggressor: Defense Minister Press TV 18 May 2020 -- Iran's Defense Minister says the Islamic Republic will give a crushing answer to any aggressor when it comes to defending its national security.
- Why It Took Iran's Navy 3.5 Hours To Come To The Rescue Of Its Vessel Radio Farda 18 May 2020 -- Evidence show that the Iranian army's navy did not know about the Konarak Frigate's situation and whereabouts for about three hours after it was hit by a missile fired from another Iranian vessel on May 10.
- US responsible for any unwise measures against Iranian ships IRNA 18 May 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi on Monday termed the threat from the US officials shameless, adding if the US takes any action against Iranian tankers, they will be faced a decisive response by Iran and needless to say that they are accountable for consequences of any irrational actions against Iranian tankers.
- Foreign Ministry warns US against interference with Iran's fuel transfer to Venezuela ISNA 18 May 2020 -- Iran has warned the United States against any interference with the transfer of fuel by Iranian tankers to Venezuela.
- Any US threat against Iranian tankers to be met Iran's firm response: Mousavi ISNA 18 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Seyyed Abbas Mousavi stressed that any US' threat and irrational actions against Iranian tankers will be met with Iran's immediate and firm response and the US government will be responsible for its consequences.
- Iran warns U.S. against attempts to block fuel delivery to Venezuela People's Daily 18 May 2020 -- Iranian officials on Sunday warned the United States against any attempt to block the fuel delivery by Iranian tankers to Venezuela.
- Iran: US bears responsibility for any foolish act against tankers heading to Venezuela Press TV 18 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry has warned again that the United States will itself bear the responsibility for any foolish act that it could take against Venezuela-headed Iranian fuel tankers, saying Washington cannot come in the way of legitimate trade among independent countries.
- Iran's Tanker Convoy of Gasoline Sailing To Venezuela Radio Farda 18 May 2020 -- Iran yesterday warned the United States not to interfere with a convoy of five Iranian tankers heading towards Venezuela and loaded with approximately 220-240 million litters of gasoline.
- Iran Warns U.S. Of 'Firm Response' Over Interference Against Venezuela-Bound Fuel Tankers RFE/RL 18 May 2020 -- Iran has warned the United States against conducting "piracy" in the Caribbean as five Iranian tankers laden with fuel sail toward Venezuela.
- Founder and CEO of Iranian Financial Services Firm Extradited on Money Laundering, Wire Fraud, and Conspiracy Charges US Dept. of Justice 18 May 2020 -- Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers and U.S. Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the unsealing of a six-count federal indictment against Seyed Sajjad Shahidian, 33, Vahid Vali, 33, and PAYMENT24 for conducting financial transactions in violation of U.S. sanctions against Iran.
- US' 'inhumane, unilateral' sanctions cause suffering for people: Iran health minister Press TV 18 May 2020 -- Iran's health minister says unilateral sanctions imposed on the country by the administration of US President Donald Trump are inhumane and cause suffering and pain for people.
- Iran ready for worst-case scenario in faceoff with US, all options considered: Spokesman Press TV 18 May 2020 -- The spokesman for Iran's administration says the Islamic Republic is ready for the worst-case scenario in its current confrontation with the US over Iranian tanker ships delivering oil to Venezuela, stressing that Tehran-Caracas relations are not other countries' business.
- Outgoing Iran Speaker Proposed As National Security Council Secretary, Agency Says Radio Farda 18 May 2020 -- An Iranian news agency on Monday reported that the outgoing Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani may be proposed for the position of secretary of the Supreme National Security Council.
- Iran's Interior Ministry Claims No Responsibility For November Protests, Consequences Radio Farda 18 May 2020 -- In a letter to Iran's parliament on Monday the Interior Ministry claimed that it has not been found responsible for the causes and consequences of the November protests against the tripling of the price of gasoline.
- Khamenei Threatens The US With Expulsion From Iraq And Syria Radio Farda 18 May 2020 -- Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei says the United States will be "expelled from Iraq and Syria," adding that "The U.S. government's long-term performance has led to abhorrence by a major part of the world."
- Iran Warns Against US 'Piracy' VOA 17 May 2020 -- Iran is warning the United States against threatening its tankers carrying fuel to Venezuela, where gasoline and oil are in desperately short supply despite Venezuela being a major oil production center.
- Official: COVID19 kills 51 more Iranians in past 24 hours IRNA 17 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Sunday that some 51 more Iranians died because of coronavirus over the past 24 hours and 94,464 people out of a total of 120,198 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered, but, unfortunately, the total number of deaths reached 6,988.
- Iran Calls Off Anti-Israeli Qods Day Rallies Amid Fears Of Coronavirus Radio Farda 17 May 2020 -- Iran has cancelled the anti-Israeli Qods Day rallies planned for the last Friday of Ramadan, said a statement by the Islamic Propagation Council on Sunday May 17.
- Ayatollah Khamenei: Americans support terrorists, will be expelled from Syria and Iraq Press TV 17 May 2020 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says due to its support for terrorists, the US is hated in most parts of the world and will be soon expelled from Syria and Iraq, where it is illegally present in the two Arab countries.
- US Will Be 'Expelled From Iraq and Syria', Iran's Supreme Leader Says Sputnik 17 May 2020 -- The situation between Iran and the United States almost escalated into a full conflict after a US drone strike killed top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad in January, prompting Tehran to retaliate by firing ballistic missiles at two bases in Iraq hosting US forces.
- Supreme Leader: US to be expelled from Iraq, Syria IRNA 17 May 2020 -- Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei said on Sunday that the US government's long-term performance has led to its being abhorred by a major part of the world and the Americans won't stay in Iraq and Syria; they'll be expelled.
- Iran FM: Threatening Iranian tankers by US amounts to piracy, jeopardizes intl. peace Press TV 17 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has issued stern warning against the US provocative acts through dispatching its naval forces to the Caribbean Sea with the goal of disrupting the course of Iranian tankers carrying fuel for Venezuela.
- Rouhani Aide Defends Iran's Trade With Venezuela Radio Farda 17 May 2020 -- A senior Iranian official has defended shipping fuel to Venezuela, saying two independent countries are free to conduct trade and it is no one's business.
- Russian envoy: US needs to be JCPOA party to initiate snapback mechanism IRNA 17 May 2020 -- Russian envoy in a message urged US partners to read the UNSC resolution 2231 text more carefully, saying if the US wants to initiate a snapback mechanism it needs first to be a party to the deal.
- Russia says US cannot trigger snapback of UN sanctions on Iran Press TV 17 May 2020 -- Russia has slammed the United States' wrong interpretation of the UN resolution that enshrined a 2015 nuclear deal, stressing that the document does not allow Washington to trigger the so-called snapback of all UN sanctions on Iran.
- Defense minister: Iran ready for strategic partnership with Iraq Press TV 17 May 2020 -- Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami has voiced Iran's willingness to forge a strategic partnership with neighboring Iraq and turn bilateral ties into a "successful model for cooperation."
- Tehran's Booming Stock Market Begins To Run Out Of Steam Radio Farda 17 May 2020 -- Despite a drop of more than 90,000 points in the Tehran Stock Exchange (TSE) index in the past few days, the CEO of TSE announced that investors have not withdrawn funds from the stock market.
- How Iran Uses Cultural Centers To Expand Its Influence In Latin America Radio Farda 17 May 2020 -- Buenaventura is one of the most violent and poorest cities in Colombia. In one of the most dangerous neighborhoods, a music sang by children voices is wafting from a house with a big sign saying Mezquita in front of it. It is a mosque and a headquarters of the local Shia Muslim community led by Sheikh Munir Valencia, a Colombian cleric who got educated in Iran.
- Iran exports serology test kits to Germany, Turkey IRNA 16 May 2020 -- Iran has exported two cargoes of serology test kits to Germany and Turkey during the past two weeks, Chief Executive of the Equipment and Medical Device Directorate Hossein Safavi announced on Saturday.
- Iran allocates $75 million to jobless benefits for coronavirus Press TV 16 May 2020 -- Iranian authorities say a new rescue scheme is available to the main pension fund in the country to pay for its unemployment benefits amid a coronavirus pandemic that has left many jobless.
- As Coronavirus Crisis Persists, Iran Tones Down Anti-Israeli Qods Day Events Radio Farda 16 May 2020 -- Three weeks after easing lockdown regulations and introducing "smart social distancing" in Iran, President Hassan Rouhani says Tehran is in a state of red alert due to more coronavirus cases.
- Tactical Change Or Withdrawal? Iran's Syria Strategy Analyzed Amid Reports Of Force Reductions Radio Farda 16 May 2020 -- Some nine years after Iran's powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) deployed military advisers and fighters to Syria to prop up the regime of President Bashar al-Assad, Israeli and U.S. officials have said Tehran is reducing its presence in Syria.
- Former Iraqi minister: Iran to remain key energy source despite US pressure Press TV 16 May 2020 -- Iraq's former electricity minister says neighboring Iran will remain a key source of energy to the Arab country for years to come until suitable alternatives materialize.
- Iran's fuel shipment to Venezuela guaranteed by its missile power Press TV 16 May 2020 -- Iran is shipping tons of gasoline to Venezuela in defiance of US sanctions on both countries in a symbolic move guaranteed by Tehran's missile prowess.
- US spreads division, violence instead of fighting COVID-19 outbreak: Iran Press TV 16 May 2020 -- The spokesman for Iran's Foreign Ministry has lashed out at the United States for pressing ahead with its acts of sabotage while the world is in need of a united fight against the deadly coronavirus outbreak, saying Washington is continues to encourage division and violence across the globe.
- Iran Spent Billions Creating Alternative 'Internet' To Control Information Radio Farda 16 May 2020 -- The Research Center of the Iranian parliament (Majles) has estimated that about 190 trillion rials have been spent on setting up the National Information Network (NIN) by last year.
- Iran Offers Families Of Protesters Killed In November Money Instead Of Justice Radio Farda 16 May 2020 -- A London-based Human Rights Organization in a report published on Saturday says Iranian authorities have pressured the families of those killed during the November 2019 protests to settle for proposals of money and "martyrdom".
- This Week in Iran Policy US Dept. of State 15 May 2020
- COVID-19 takes lives of 48 others in Iran: Official IRNA 15 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Friday that 91,836 people out of a total of 116,635 infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) have survived and recovered while 6,902 have lost their lives.
- COVID-19 Cases Rising In Three Iranian Provinces As Total Reaches 117,000 Radio Farda 15 May 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokesman on Friday said the number of COVID-19 cases is expected to increase in three provinces in the coming days as the total number of cases in the country rose to nearly 117,000.
- Tactical Change Or Withdrawal? Iran's Syria Strategy Analyzed Amid Reports Of Force Reductions RFE/RL 15 May 2020 -- Some nine years after Iran's powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) deployed military advisers and fighters to Syria to prop up the regime of President Bashar al-Assad, Israeli and U.S. officials have said Tehran is reducing its presence in Syria.
- Russia: US citation of its right under JCPOA astonishing IRNA 15 May 2020 -- Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday that it is astonishing that American legal experts cite the rights of the US in resolutions on Iran that have been violated by White House officials.
- Russia, China slam US plan to extend UN arms embargo on Iran Press TV 15 May 2020 -- China and Russia have rejected US plans to extend a UN arms embargo on Iran along with a probable push to trigger a return of all sanctions on Tehran at the UN Security Council.
- China Rejects US Moves To Extend Iran Arms Embargo, Return Of Sanctions Radio Farda 15 May 2020 -- The Chinese mission to the United Nations in New York on Thursday said the United States "has no longer a right to extend an arms embargo on Iran, let alone to trigger snapback".
- The Iran Arms Embargo And the Guns of May Radio Farda 15 May 2020 -- Donald Trump recently said that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or the Iran deal, "was such a disaster." The United States exited the nuclear deal in May 2018, but is now insisting it never left the deal and can thus bring snapback sanctions into place and extend the arms embargo. This is part of the Maximum Pressure strategy. It wasdesigned to get a better deal that included stricterlimits on Iran's nuclear capabilities, ending its ballistic missile program, interventions in other states (e.g., Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen) and support for terrorism.
- Sen Feinstein Proposes 'Coronavirus Peace Plan' Between US And Iran Radio Farda 15 May 2020 -- U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif) has proposed a "coronavirus peace plan" between the United States and Iran to prevent instability during the global pandemic.
- Rivalry Among Iran's Conservatives Leaves Khamenei Relative Out In The Cold Radio Farda 15 May 2020 -- Less than two weeks before the inauguration of the new Iranian Parliament (Majles) on May 28, competition for the speakership has heated up among various conservative factions. Is the Supreme Leader backing any faction, or does it make any difference to him?
- Iranian fuel en route to Venezuela despite US sanctions on two allies: Report Press TV 15 May 2020 -- Reports of a shipment of Iranian fuel to Venezuela in the face of US sanctions against the two allies have infuriated the United States, with one official threatening to take "measures" against the "unwelcome" development.
- Iranian News Agency Warns US Acts Over Venezuela Fuel Shipments Will Not 'Go Without Repercussion' Sputnik 15 May 2020 -- An Iranian news agency has warned the US against taking action against several Iranian-flagged tankers transporting fuel to Venezuela, as Washington has threatened.
- Coronavirus Watch in Mideast: Turkey's COVID-19 cases surpass 143,000 as Iran's tally exceeds 112,000 People's Daily 14 May 2020 -- Turkey's COVID-19 cases on Wednesday exceeded 143,000, while the tally in Iran crossed 112,000.
- Iran Receives Another Cargo Of Medical Supplies From Germany Radio Farda 14 May 2020 -- An official of the Iranian Customs Organization on Thursday confirmed that a consignment of medical equipment purchased from Germany worth around 749,000 euros (about $800,000) has been delivered to Iran.
- Iran: US sponsors terrorists, not qualified to assess other countries' anti-terror efforts Press TV 14 May 2020 -- The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman has reacted to the United States' naming of Iran as one of the countries "not cooperating with the US' counterterrorism efforts," saying as a state sponsor of terrorism, Washington is barely qualified to assess other countries' anti-terror efforts.
- Rouhani: People's cooperation key factor in controlling coronavirus pandemic Press TV 14 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani says solidarity among Iranian officials and good cooperation from people were major factors that helped the country rein in a deadly outbreak of the new coronavirus.
- Iran says test kits sent to Turkey, though with delay, despite Turkish denial of delivery Press TV 14 May 2020 -- Iran reiterates that a consignment of 40,000 Iranian-made COVID-19 test kits has been sent to Turkey, although with a delay caused by transportation restrictions amid the pandemic, days after Turkish sources denied that the delivery had been made.
- Official: 71 more Iranians die from COVID-19 IRNA 14 May 2020 -- The head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office said on Thursday that some 71 Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 6,854.
- COVID-19 to slash global economic output by $8.5 trillion over next 2 years IRNA 14 May 2020 -- Against the backdrop of a devastating pandemic, the global economy is projected to contract sharply by 3.2 percent this year, the United Nations World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) reported on Thursday.
- Activists: Iraq's Kurdish Region Becomes Less Safe for Iranian Dissidents VOA 13 May 2020 -- Long hailed as a haven for minority groups, Iraq's northern autonomous Kurdistan region has turned into treacherous territory for many Iranian dissidents and refugees escaping persecution from Iranian authorities, rights activists say.
- US Global Maritime Advisory Warns Of Iran's 'Deceptions' Radio Farda 15 May 2020 -- In its newly released Global Maritime Advisory (GMA), the U.S. government has advised the world's shipping lines to be vigilant about "Iran's, North Korea's and Syria's deceptions".
- Almost All Smuggled Goods Into Iran Come Through Legal Ports Radio Farda 14 May 2020 -- The Iranian parliament has disclosed in a report that 95 percent of smuggling into the country is done through legal ports of entry and procedures, using 31 different techniques.
- Iran's FM Zarif compares US 'disinfectant' advice to Iran deal comments Press TV 14 May 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says the very US administration that has suggested use of "disinfectants" as a coronavirus cure is still behaving as if it is still a party to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal that it has quit.
- Iran FM slams US for making 'foolish' claims on nuclear deal, relevant resolution Press TV 14 May 2020 -- Iran's foreign minister slams US officials for making "foolish" claims about the 2015 nuclear deal and the UN resolution that endorsed it, saying it is natural for those who suggest disinfectant injections as a preventive measure against the new coronavirus to claim they are still party to the agreement they have already abandoned.
- US threatens to trigger return of UN Iran sanctions as Russia reaffirms opposition Press TV 14 May 2020 -- The United States has threatened to trigger a return of all United Nations sanctions on Iran if the UN Security Council does not extend an arms embargo on Tehran that is due to expire in October.
- Iran's Zarif Dismisses Trump, Hook Threats Over Sanctions Radio Farda 14 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad-Javad Zarif on Thursday lashed out at President Donald Trump and the Special Representative on Iran Brian Hook's threats to trigger a return of all United Nations sanctions if the arms embargo under the Iran nuclear agreement is not extended in October.
- Official: COVID19 kills 50 more Iranians in past 24 hours IRNA 13 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Wednesday that some 50 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours and 89,428 people out of a total of 112,725 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered, but, unfortunately, the total number of deaths reached 6,783.
- Spread of COVID-19 under "control" in most parts of Iran: minister People's Daily 13 May 2020 -- Iran's Minister of Health and Medical Education Saeed Namaki on Tuesday touted that the spread of COVID-19 is under control in most parts of the country, though the rise in new infections continued.
- Iran eases curbs on exports of COVID-19 test kits, PPEs Press TV 13 May 2020 -- Iran's caretaker minister of industries says that the country has lifted restrictions on exports of some tests kits and personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to confront the new coronavirus pandemic amid a surge in production that outweighs domestic demands.
- Thousands Attend Ramadhan Gatherings In Iran Amid Coronavirus Fears Radio Farda 13 May 2020 -- For the first time since March thousands of Iranians in the capital Tehran and 400 other cities throughout Iran gathered in mosques and open-air spaces on Tuesday evening for three-night long ceremonies amid coronavirus fears.
- Probe underway over Konarak vessel's tragedy, Army spokesman IRNA 13 May 2020 -- The spokesman of the Iranian Army said on Wednesday that investigations are underway over the tragic incident of Konarak military vessel.
- Supreme Leader condoles martyrdom of Navy sailors ISNA 13 May 2020 -- Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in a message to Army Commander Abdelrahim Mousavi extended condolences on martyrdom of brave naval forces on Konarak vessel and ordered the Iranian Army to hold an inquiry about the accident.
- 4 military expert teams investigating Konarak vessel incident: Iran's Army commander ISNA 13 May 2020 -- Iran's Army commander Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi announced that four teams of military experts are investigating into the incident in a recent naval training exercise that killed 19 servicemen on board "Konarak" support vessel in the country's southeastern waters.
- Iran's Army rejects media propaganda about naval accident, says probe still ongoing Press TV 13 May 2020 -- Iran's Army has dismissed rumors circulated by certain foreign and adversary media outlets about a recent deadly naval accident in the country's southern waters as mere propaganda, saying an investigation is still underway to determine all dimensions of the tragedy.
- Rouhani Says Cause Of Naval Accident To Be Announced To People When Established Radio Farda 13 May 2020 -- The Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday said the cause of the naval accident on Sunday in the Gulf of Oman that killed 19 sailors and wounded 15 will established and announced to the people.
- Pompeo Says Iran Attempting To 'Foment Terror' During Pandemic RFE/RL 13 May 2020 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on May 13 accused Iran of using its resources to "foment terror" even as its people suffer through one of the Middle East's deadliest coronavirus outbreaks.
- Rouhani Calls Trump White House 'Most Evil in History', Says Pompeo 'Doesn't Know ABCs of Politics' Sputnik 13 May 2020 -- Relations between Iran and the United States sank to new lows unseen since immediately after the Islamic Revolution of 1979 over the past two years, with Washington unilaterally pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal in 2018, and tensions flaring amid a string of tanker seizures, drone shootdowns, assassinations and missile strikes.
- Iran vows harsh response to any US escapade after Trump veto of war powers resolution Press TV 13 May 2020 -- Iran will give a harsh response to any military escapade the US president may resort to, the Iranian envoy to Russia says, after Donald Trump vetoed a congressional resolution that was seeking to limit his power to launch military operations against Tehran without congressional approval.
- Russia: US claim of Iran nuclear deal membership 'ridiculous' after unilateral withdrawal Press TV 13 May 2020 -- The United States' allegation that it remains a party to the Iran nuclear deal is "ridiculous," Russia says.
- Iran's Ambassador To Russia Warns Of Tough Response If Arms Embargo Extended Radio Farda 13 May 2020 -- Iran's ambassador to Russia, Kazem Jalali, says Tehran's reaction to the possible extension of the arms embargo against Iran beyond October 2020 will be tough.
- Russia's UN Envoy Strongly Opposes U.S. Attempt To Extend Arms Embargo On Iran RFE/RL 13 May 2020 -- Russia's ambassador to the United Nations says Moscow will oppose any attempts by the United States to extend the arms embargo on Iran and reimpose UN sanctions against Tehran.
- Iran's Anti-Riot Police Chief Says More Prepared Than Ever To Confront Protests Radio Farda 13 May 2020 -- The Commander of Iran's fearsome anti-riot police on Wednesday underlined the "unique support" and equipment provided to his force by the government to prepare it more than ever for suppression of "enemy threats" in urban areas.
- Zarif Goes To Parliament To Answer Lawmakers' Questions But No One Shows Up Radio Farda 13 May 2020 -- The Islamic Republic Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, went to parliament on May 11 to answer questions raised by several legislators, but the lawmakers failed to appear.
- Iran's Daily Oil Output Drops To Less Than 2 Million Barrels In April Radio Farda 13 May 2020 -- The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) says Iran's daily oil output has dropped to below two million barrels per day (1,969,000) in April.
- COVID-19: Kazakh NGOs Demand Detailed Report On Spending; Iran Allows All Mosques To Open Temporarily RFE/RL 12 May 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is some 286,000 with more than 4.1 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the new respiratory illness.
- Iran, Russia urge enhanced cooperation in battle against coronavirus pandemic Press TV 12 May 2020 -- Iran's Health Minister Saeed Namaki and his Russian counterpart Mikhail Murashko have stressed the importance of enhancing joint efforts in the fight against the deadly coronavirus outbreak.
- Official: COVID-19 kills 48 more in Iran IRNA 12 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour stated on Tuesday that 88,357 people out of a total of 110,767 infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) have survived while 6,733 have lost their lives.
- Iran's Top General Calls Upon Pakistan Army to Free Abducted Border Guards Sputnik 12 May 2020 -- Three Iranian border guards were held hostage by the jihadist militant organization Jaish ul-Adl in October 2018 and taken into Pakistan. The terror group operates in southeastern Iran, which has a porous border with Pakistan.
- Iran Army Video Says Missile Homing Device Or 'Enemy' Responsible For Naval Incident Radio Farda 12 May 2020 -- A website affiliated with Iran's army released a video Monday evening acknowledging that a missile hit one of its navy ships on Sunday in a friendly-fire incident that killed 19 sailors and injured 15.
- Supreme Leader condoles martyrdom of Iranian Navy forces IRNA 12 May 2020 -- Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in a message to Army Commander Abdelrahim Mousavi on Tuesday extended condolences on martyrdom of brave naval forces on Konarak vessel and wished the bereaved families strength and recovery for the wounded.
- Ayatollah Khamenei urges investigation into deadly naval accident off Iran's southern coast Press TV 12 May 2020 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei calls for an investigation into a recent deadly incident involving the Iranian Navy's Konarak logistical and support vessel in the country's southern waters.
- Iran's President condoles martyrdom of a number of navy sailors ISNA 12 May 2020 -- Iran's President sent a letter to express condolences over the martyrdom of a number of brave sailors of the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy in a tragic accident for a naval vessel, praying of those who have lost their lives and wishing swift recovery for the injured.
- Iran holds funeral procession for 19 victims of naval exercise incident Press TV 12 May 2020 -- A funeral procession has been held for 19 Iranian Navy personnel who lost their lives in a recent incident involving the Navy's Konarak logistical and support vessel in the country's southern waters.
- Iran Holds Funeral For Victims Of Naval Accident, No Explanation About Cause Radio Farda 12 May 2020 -- Iran on Tuesday buried the victims of an apparent friendly-fire incident during a naval exercise that killed nineteen sailors and wounded 15 others, without offering any explanations about the cause of the accident.
- There is no negotiation with US: Iran FM ISNA 12 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif stressed that there is no negotiation with the US and Washington has shown that no one can trust their negotiations and their results.
- Foreign Minister Zarif: Iran, US not engaged in any negotiations Press TV 12 May 2020 -- Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says there are no talks underway between Iran and the United States, reminding how Washington has proven to be an untrustworthy negotiation partner.
- US must stop acting callously, let Iranian hostages go: Foreign Ministry Press TV 12 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman has urged the US to stop acting callously and release the Iranian "hostages" jailed in America and other parts of the world upon Washington's request.
- Why Rouhani Suddenly Fired His Minister Of Industry And Trade Radio Farda 12 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani fired his Minister of Industry, Mining and Trade Reza Rahmani on Monday May 11 without offering any explanation about his abrupt decision.
- Minister: COVID19 did not stop oil production IRNA 12 May 2020 -- Iran's Oil Minister Bijan Zangeneh elaborated on Petroleum Ministry's measures in fighting COVID19, saying the ministry has put on its agenda making persistent efforts to prevent stopping oil production.
- Falling Demand Has Forced Iran To Stockpile 'Unprecedented' Amount Of Gasoline Radio Farda 12 May 2020 -- Iran's oil minister said Tuesday that stockpiling gasoline in his country has reached an "unprecedented historic level" due to falling demand.
- Food Aid For Iranian Poor At Khomeini's Luxurious Shrine Ignites Controversy RFE/RL 12 May 2020 -- The innumerous, pretty food packages for the poor were carefully set around the shrine of the founder of Iran's Islamic republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, to highlight support for people left in need by the deadly coronavirus pandemic.
- Official: COVID19 kills 45 more Iranians in past 24 hours IRNA 11 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Monday that some 45 more Iranians died from coronavirus over the past 24 hours and 87,422 people out of a total of 109,286 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered, but, unfortunately, the total number of deaths reached 6,685.
- Senior Cleric In Iran Says 'Secular' Coronavirus Was Made By West To Weaken Islam Radio Farda 11 May 2020 -- The head of the "Academy of Islamic Sciences" in Iran Mohammad Mehdi Mirbaqeri, says there has been excessive exaggeration about the dangers of the novel coronavirus, and that is an "enemy plot".
- Iran Locks Down A Key Oil Center To Prevent A Worsening Of Epidemic Radio Farda 11 May 2020 -- An important oil industry center in southwestern Iran has been placed under lockdown to prevent the spread a worsening of coronavirus crisis, Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday, also quoting the provincial governor as saying there had been a sharp rise in new cases across the province.
- Iran, Afghanistan Discuss 'Forced' Drowning Of Migrants In Border River Radio Farda 11 May 2020 -- The Foreign Ministry of Afghanistan on Sunday said the foreign ministers of Iran and Afghanistan held a phone coversation about "reports of torture and martyrdom of Afghan travelers" allegedly drowned by Iranian border guards.
- Iraq's independence, political stability of high importance to Iran: President Rouhani Press TV 11 May 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says the Islamic Republic attaches great importance to independence and political stability of Iraq, adding that Tehran will continue to stand by Baghdad in line with both countries' interests.
- President condoles martyrdom of Iranian Navy forces IRNA 11 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani in a message on Monday expressed condolences over martyrdom of a number of Iranian Navy forces on a vessel and wished the wounded sift recovery.
- 19 Navy personnel killed, 15 others injured in accident to Navy frigate (UPDATED) IRNA 11 May 2020 -- Some 19 Navy personnel have been martyred with some 15 others injured in an accident happened to an Iranian vessel in the course of drills in southern Iran, the Navy said in a statement on Monday.
- 12 injured personnel of an Iranian Navy frigate hospitalized following incident IRNA 11 May 2020 -- Some 12 personnel of an Iranian Navy frigate which had an accident in southern Iranian waters on Sunday were hospitalized, according to head of Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences and Health Services.
- Iranian Navy reports accident during military drill IRNA 11 May 2020 -- The Iranian Navy has reported an accident during a military drill in the country's southern waters.
- Several killed, injured in naval accident for Konarak vessel off port of Jaask ISNA 11 May 2020 -- At least a navy sailor has been killed and several injured in a naval accident on a light Iranian vessel in the Gulf of Oman on Sunday, public relations of 1st zone of Naval Force of the Iranian Army announced in a statement.
- 19 martyred, 15 injured in naval incident in southern Iran Press TV 11 May 2020 -- As many as 19 people have been martyred and 15 others injured in an incident involving the Iranian Navy's Konarak logistical vessel in the country's southern waters.
- Iran Missile Strikes Own Vessel Killing 19 And Wounding 15 Radio Farda 11 May 2020 -- An Iranian naval vessel was accidentally hit by a missile fired during naval exercises in the Gulf of Oman, killing nineteen sailors and wounding 15 others, state television said May 11.
- Friendly Fire Incident Kills 19 In Iranian Navy Drill RFE/RL 11 May 2020 -- The Iranian Navy says one of its own missiles has struck a support ship in a friendly fire incident during a training exercise in the Sea of Oman, killing 19 and injuring another 15.
- At Least 19 Iranian Sailors Die in Oman Sea Accident - Iran's Navy Sputnik 11 May 2020 -- Naval News earlier reported, citing local sources, that the Iranian Moudge-class frigate 'Jamaran' had accidentally fired at the friendly general-purpose ship 'Konarak' during live-fire exercises near Jask in the Gulf of Oman.
- 'He is Free': Zarif Says Scientist Detained by US on Trumped Up Charges Will Return to Iran Soon Sputnik 11 May 2020 -- Sirous Asgari, an Iranian-American scientist and academician, was arrested by the FBI in 2017 and accused of stealing trade secrets. The US government fought and lost its case against him in court, but continued to detain him indefinitely in the years that followed.
- Zarif: Iran-US prisoner swap needs no talk IRNA 11 May 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said prisoner swap between Iran and the US has no problem and "we do not need holding negotiations", adding that prisoner swap will be made with coordination of US' Interests Section in Tehran.
- Iranian scientist will return home soon if tested negative for COVID-19: FM Zarif Press TV 11 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says an Iranian scientist, who was detained in the US on groundless charges, has been freed and will return to the country if tested negative for coronavirus.
- US Official Tells Zarif 'Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is' Regarding Prisoners Radio Farda 11 May 2020 -- Acting Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security has responded to Iran's foreign minister on the issue of prisoner's by telling him to act to take back Iranian citizens he wants repatriated.
- Iran's Zarif Again Raises The Issue Of Prisoner Exchange With US Radio Farda 11 May 2020 -- Iran's foreign minister has said the United States has not yet responded to the Islamic Republic's two-year-old offer to exchange prisoners.
- JCPOA withdrawal to be remembered as everlasting US disgrace: Iran FM spox Press TV 10 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson has slammed US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's remarks praising Washington's withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, saying that the event will be remembered as "an everlasting disgrace" for the US.
- Iran's ambassador urges EU to take practical measures in support of JCPOA IRNA 11 May 2020 -- Iran's Ambassador to Croatia Parviz Esmaeili in a videoconference on Monday with the non-European ambassadors residing in the country reiterated that EU's single voice in support of multilateralism and JCPOA should be turned into a single resolve and practice.
- JCPOA masterpiece of diplomacy: Russia ISNA 11 May 2020 -- Russia's permanent representative to international organizations in Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov stressed that Iran nuclear deal was a masterpiece of diplomacy, saying, "In the IAEA Board of Governors US is practically in total isolation on this topic".
- Will A New Parliament Change Iran For Better? Insiders Are Pessimistic Radio Farda 11 May 2020 -- Amir Mohebbian, a prominent analyst in Iran, says the young conservatives who have won the parliament are more likely to serve the interests of the country's rulers than trying to meet the demands of the people.
- Iran's Hardliner Watchdog Rejects Lawmaker's Accusation Of Manipulating Elections Radio Farda 11 May 2020 -- In a statement on Monday, Iran's constitution and election watchdog refuted the allegations made against the clerical body and its secretary by an outspoken lawmaker.
- Iran's Currency Rial Loses More Value Against US Dollar Radio Farda 11 May 2020 -- The Iranian currency on Monday losy more value against the U.S. dollar and other major currencies in Tehran foreign exchange market, trading 166,000 rials at midday against one greenback.
- Official: COVID-19 kills 51 more people in Iran IRNA 10 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Sunday that some 51 more Iranians died of coronavirus over the past 24 hours and 86,143 people out of a total of 107,603 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered while unfortunately, the total number of deaths reached 6,640.
- National Task Force for Fighting Coronavirus convenes ISNA 10 May 2020 -- The National Task Force for Fighting Coronavirus convened on Sunday morning with the Supreme Leader of the Revolution Ayatollah Khamenei, President Hassan Rouhani, other members of the task force and governor-generals from around the country through videoconference.
- Khamenei Undecided: Reopen Shrines To Please Clerics, Or Opt For Public Health Radio Farda 10 May 2020 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appeared undecided on the sensitive issue of reopening busy religious sites and shrines during a meeting of the COVID-19 Control Task Force on Sunday May 10.
- IRGC Linked Agency Says Media, Analysts Got Khamenei's Pacifist Message Wrong Radio Farda 10 May 2020 -- Tasnim news agency in Iran says some foreign media and analysts got a tweet by Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei wrong and portrayed it as if he was prepared to make peace with the United States.
- Iran's Ex-President Warns Of A Cycle of Violence Between People And Government Radio Farda 10 May 2020 -- Ex-president of the Islamic Republic, Mohammad Khatami, has warned that people in Iran might resort to violence as an answer to their state of hopelessness and despair. He has also warned that a "cycle of reciprocal violence between the people and the government" could occur in the clergy-dominated Iran.
- Will The Stock Market Bubble Burst In Iran? Radio Farda 10 May 2020 -- Iran's stock market is on a historic run as prices increased 190 percent in the twelve months ending March 20 and keep rising, outpacing any other investment opportunity in the country.
- Rare Race Heats Up Among Iran's Conservatives For Parliament Speaker RFE/RL 10 May 2020 -- Three months after the first round of national elections in Iran, a behind-the-scenes battle over the parliament speaker's post is pitting several conservatives against an ambitious former mayor of Tehran.
- HRW Urges Iran To Halt Prosecutions For Protests Over Ukraine Air Crash RFE/RL 10 May 2020 -- Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on Iran to halt prosecutions of those who peacefully protested the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps' (IRGC) deadly attack on a civilian airliner and the initial denial of responsibility.
- Iran Says Ready For Prisoner Swap With U.S. Without Preconditions RFE/RL 10 May 2020 -- Iran is ready for a full prisoner exchange with the United States, Iranian government spokesman Ali Rabiei says, adding that Washington has yet to respond to Iran's call for a prisoner swap.
- Iran Ready for Unconditional Prisoner Swap With US, Reports Suggest Sputnik 10 May 2020 -- The New York Times previously reported that Tehran and Washington were holding negotiations on exchanging a US Navy veteran, Michael R. White, for an unidentified doctor held by the US.
- Iran Waiting to Hear from US About Prisoner Exchange VOA 10 May 2020 -- Iranian officials said Sunday they are ready for a prisoner exchange with the U.S. but that they have yet to hear from U.S. officials.
- Iran Still Hiding COVID Death Figures In Hotspots, 320 Arrested For 'Spreading Rumors' Radio Farda 09 May 2020 -- Iran's health officials say the coronavirus situation in the capital Tehran and Khuzestan Province is still alarming despite fewer deaths from COVID-19, while the police continue suppression of online activities that question official figures.
- Leading the World Against Iran's Threats US Dept. of State 09 May 2020 -- Press Statement by Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State
- Pundits Say Iran's New Parliament Is Weak, With 'Incompetent' Members Radio Farda 09 May 2020 -- Three weeks ahead of Iran's new parliament starting work, an outspoken conservative pundit and a prominent journalist, Mohammad Mohajeri, has shed light on the political makeup of the new Majles where conservatives of various shades have nearly taken all 290 seats.
- Iran exports COVID-19 test kits abroad: FM Global Times 09 May 2020 -- The Iranian foreign minister said Iran has sent COVID-19 test kits to several countries, state TV reported on Saturday.
- Official: 48 more Iranians die from COVID-19 IRNA 09 May 2020 -- The head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office said on Saturday that 48 people lost their lives to COVID-19 making the total death toll of Iran to the virus 6,589 people.
- Iran sent 40,000 test kits to several countries, appreciates Indian Parsis help: Zarif Press TV 09 May 2020 -- The Iranian foreign minister has stressed the importance of international cooperation on the response to the coronavirus pandemic, thanking Indian Parsis for sending aid to Iran, and saying that Tehran has sent 40,000 COVID-19 test kits to several countries.
- In letter to Guterres, Iran FM calls for UN's 'swift' action against US sanctions, withdrawal from JCPOA Press TV 09 May 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has called on the United Nations to take a swift action and hold the United States liable for any consequences of its "unlawful withdrawal" from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal and its "unlawful" re-imposition of unilateral sanctions against the country.
- US Says All Countries Should Ban Iran's Mahan Air To Avoid Coronavirus And Sanctions Radio Farda 09 May 2020 -- The U.S. State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus on Friday called on all countries to keep Iran's Mahan Air out to "avoid coronavirus and sanction risk".
- Zarif Sends Letter To UN's Guterres Saying Ready For Talks 'At All Levels' Radio Farda 09 May 2020 -- Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has sent a letter to the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres saying the Islamic Republic "is ready for talks at any level to ensure the full implementation" of the 2015 nuclear agreement.
- This Week in Iran Policy US Dept. of State 08 May 2020
- Rouhani urges producing coronavirus test kits fit for exports IRNA 08 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani hailed successful achievements in meeting the needs for countering coronavirus and called for development of coronavirus detection kits both to meet domestic needs and export to applicant countries.
- Official: COVID19 death toll mounts to 6,541 in Iran IRNA 08 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Friday that some 55 more Iranians died of coronavirus over the past 24 hours and 83,837 people out of a total of 104,691 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered while unfortunately, the total number of deaths reached 6,541.
- Iran daily coronavirus death toll hits lowest level in over 11 weeks: Health Ministry Press TV 08 May 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry says the coronavirus pandemic has claimed the lives of 55 people in the country over the past 24 hours with the death toll standing at 6,541, the lowest daily increase since the outbreak of the disease over 11 weeks ago.
- Doctors And Officials In Iran Say Coronavirus Seems To Trigger Strokes Radio Farda 08 May 2020 -- A neurologist physician in Iran says that 25 COVID-19 patients in one hospital had strokes, indicating that the virus played a role in developing blood clots.
- Iran's Newly Released Overall Death Numbers Can Shed Light On Coronavirus Toll Radio Farda 08 May 2020 -- After an unprecedented delay amid the COVID-19 epidemic the National Organization for Civil Registration of Iran (NOCRI) has finally published nationwide death figures for past winter.
- Earthquake Shatters Iran's Social Distancing Measures VOA 08 May 2020 -- An early morning earthquake in Iran has dealt a blow to the country's struggle to combat the coronavirus. Thousands of people took to the streets of Tehran, the capital, early Friday without observing the social distancing measures designed to prevent the spread of the disease. At least two people are reported to have died in the temblor, which Reuters reported had a magnitude of 5.1.
- Swiss humanitarian channel yet to process a single deal for Iran: Report Press TV 08 May 2020 -- A new report published in the American media shows a Swiss trade channel much publicized by Washington as a secure way of delivering humanitarian assistance to Iran at a time of sanctions has failed to process any single deal on Iranian medicine imports.
- Documentary Reveals Attempts To Groom Raeesi As Next Iranian Leader Radio Farda 08 May 2020 -- A new Radio Farda video documentary released this week, suggests that Judiciary Chief Ebrahim Raeesi is most certainly being groomed as the Islamic Republic's next Supreme Leader.
- COVID-19 Spreading Fast In Iran's Oil Producing Province Radio Farda 07 May 2020 -- Medical officials in Iran's Khuzestan Province say coronavirus is spreading at an alarming rate in the oil-rich southwestern province despite the epidemic having slowed down in some other regions of the country.
- Rouhani urges screening for COVID-19 patients to continue IRNA 07 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday that screening for COVID-19 should continue by the Ministry of Health, Treatment and Medical Education with diagnostic tests for suspected cases to ensure people's health.
- Official: COVID19 kills 68 more in past 24 hours IRNA 07 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Thursday that some 68 more Iranians died of coronavirus over the past 24 hours and 82,744 people out of a total of 103,135 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered while unfortunately, the total number of deaths reached 6,486.
- President Rouhani: Health Ministry must continue coronavirus screening across Iran Press TV 07 May 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani urges continuation of the Health Ministry-mandated countrywide screening for the new coronavirus infection, saying the diagnostic procedures should even grow in scale to cover larger population groups.
- US Lawmakers Fail to Check Trump on War-Making Power With Iran VOA 07 May 2020 -- The U.S. Senate failed to override a White House veto Thursday, bringing an end to a four-month congressional effort to limit presidential power to unilaterally take the United States into war.
- Senate Fails to Override Trump Veto Of Iran War Powers Resolution Radio Farda 07 May 2020 -- One day after President Donald Trump vetoed a bi-partisan resolution aimed at curbing his war-making powers, the Senate failed to override the veto.
- Trump Vetoes Resolution Seeking to Limit Actions Against Iran VOA 07 May 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump has vetoed a congressional resolution calling for him to halt the use of U.S. forces against Iran unless authorized by Congress.
- Trump Vetoes Congressional Resolution To Restrict War With Iran Radio Farda 07 May 2020 -- U.S President Donald Trump on Wednesday vetoed a congressional resolution restricting his powers to unilaterally take military action against Iran.
- Trump vetoes resolution to limit war power against Iran People's Daily 07 May 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday vetoed a resolution aimed at limiting the president's power to use military forces against Iran.
- US Extends Iran Sanctions Waiver For New Iraqi Government, Pledges Support Radio Farda 07 May 2020 -- Iraq has succeeded forming a government after months of instability, and the United States welcomed the move by extending a waiver on Iran sanctions to ease pressure on the new leader.
- US in no position to comment on Iran nuclear deal: Foreign Ministry Press TV 07 May 2020 -- On the anniversary of the US' unilateral departure from the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and major world powers, the Iranian Foreign Ministry says Washington has through its withdrawal forfeited all rights to address the issues concerning the landmark deal.
- Touting Missile Launch, Khamenei Urges Surge In Production In A Failing Economy Radio Farda 07 May 2020 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei says a "surge in production is doable" for a nation that launches satellites into space.
- Iran's Food Price Inflation At An Alarming 43 Percent Rate Radio Farda 07 May 2020 -- In a new report on Thursday, the Statistical Center of Iran (SCI) announced that the inflation rate in the 12-month period ending March 20, 2020 in for foodstuff, drinking water, beverages and tobacco products passed the 42 percent mark.
- Iran Says Two Terrorist Cells Destroyed, Three Guard Members Killed In Operation Radio Farda 07 May 2020 -- An Iranian news agency with close ties to the Revolutionary Guard on Wednesday reported that the Intelligence Ministry has "tracked down and destroyed two terrorist cells".
- Iran Says Two 'Terrorist Cells' Destroyed In Western Parts Of The Country RFE/RL 07 May 2020 -- Iran's Intelligence Ministry says it has tracked down and dismantled two "terrorist cells" in the Western part of the country.
- Iran Agency Forbidden To Release Number Of Deaths Amid Coronavirus Controversy Radio Farda 06 May 2020 -- A spokesman for Civil Registration Organization of Iran (NOCRI) says the agency will not disclose the country's death toll for the winter of 2020 at the request of the National Headquarters to Fight Coronavirus.
- Iran's Official COVID-19 Cases Pass The 100,000 Mark, With Fears Of A Second Wave Radio Farda 06 May 2020 -- Iran's health ministry announced on Wednesday that the number of Covid-19 cases in the country passed the 100,000 mark, with an uptick in new infections this week.
- WHO delivers more COVID-19 test kits to Iran IRNA 06 May 2020 -- The World Health Organization (WHO) delivered additional COVID-19 test kits to the Islamic Republic of Iran to help the country combat the epidemic.
- Official: COVID-19 Kills 78 more in Iran IRNA 06 May 2020 -- Head of Iranian Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Wednesday that some 78 more Iranians died of coronavirus over the past 24 hours and that 81,587 people out of a total of 101,650 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered while unfortunately, the total number of dead people reached 6,418.
- Coronavirus infects less than half a percent of Iranians IRNA 06 May 2020 -- A health official announced here on Wednesday that less than half a percent of Iranians have been infected with the deadly coronavirus since its outbreak in Iran late February.
- Iran sends medical items to Afghanistan, Lebanon, Germany ISNA 06 May 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Seyyed Abbas Mousavi announced that as a gesture of solidarity Tehran has sent medical items Afghanistan, Lebanon and Germany recently.
- US 'Appalled' at Iran's Alleged Drowning of Afghan Migrants VOA 06 May 2020 -- The United States has denounced as "appalling" reports that Iranian border guards tortured and drowned dozens of migrants from Afghanistan last week to prevent their entry into Iran.
- 'They Were Laughing': Iranian Border Guards Accused Of Torturing, Drowning Afghan Migrants RFE/RL 06 May 2020 -- To escape war and poverty, Shah Wali left his village in northwestern Afghanistan in search of a better life in neighboring Iran.
- Iran denies any role in Afghan border incident but says ready to cooperate for investigation Press TV 06 May 2020 -- Iran has once again rejected any involvement in a recent incident befalling a number of Afghan citizens at a border region but has expressed readiness to work with the Kabul government to investigate the issue.
- Presidential Veto Message to the Senate for S.J. Res. 68 The White House 06 May 2020
- Statement from the President Regarding Veto of S.J. Res. 68 The White House 06 May 2020
- Trump vetoes Congress effort to limit his war powers amid tensions with Iran Press TV 06 May 2020 -- US President Donald Trump has vetoed a measure by US Congress aimed at limiting his war powers amid his administration's hostility with Iran.
- Israel Not To Stop Operations Until Iran Driven Out Of Syria, Defense Minister Says Radio Farda 06 May 2020 -- Speaking to the state-owned Kan 11 news channel on Tuesday following airstrikes in the north of Syria that killed at least 14 fighters, Israeli Defense Minister Naftali Bennett said Israel will keep up its operations in Syria until Iran is driven out.
- Iran Navy industries heart of country's marine military: Cmdr IRNA 06 May 2020 -- Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Hossein Khanzadi said on Wednesday that the Defense Ministry's Marine Industries Organization is actually the heart of the country's marine military industry and has an important role in the strategic goals of the country.
- Iran Intelligence Ministry busts two terrorist groups, confiscates their arms cache Press TV 06 May 2020 -- The Iranian Intelligence Ministry says it has dismantled two terrorist groups in the west and northwest of the country and confiscated a cache of arms from them.
- Three Revolutionary Guardsmen Reportedly Killed in Clashes in Western Iran Sputnik 06 May 2020 -- Tehran has waged a low-intensity counterterrorism campaign against militants in the country's northwest for several decades, accusing the United States, Israel and Saudi Arabia of providing support to local separatists, and accusing officials in Iraqi Kurdistan of helping to arm and train the guerillas.
- Supreme Leader: If production thrives, Iran can resist virus of sanctions IRNA 06 May 2020 -- Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei underlined that favorable production will prevent invasive sanctions and oil prices from harming the country's economy.
- Robust production can fight off sanctions, other economic viruses: Leader Press TV 06 May 2020 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says an economy made robust through enhanced production can fend for itself and counter various intrusive elements such as sanctions that can harm an economy like a virus can hurt the human body.
- Envoy: Iran tops list in accepting IAEA 2019 inspections IRNA 06 May 2020 -- Iranian Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna said by accepting 21 percent of total inspections of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2019 and also accepting over 90 percent of inspections in its own group, Iran is now on top of the list.
- No more JCPOA for US unless they ask again and we accept: President Rouhani ISNA 06 May 2020 -- Iranian President warned the United States and its allies that Iran would never accept violation of Resolution 2231 of the United Nations Security Council, and it is Iran's undisputed right to exit the arms embargo soon within the framework of the resolution.
- Pompeo Pledges To Use 'Every Tool' To Maintain Arms Embargo On Iran Radio Farda 06 May 2020 -- A day after a large majority of the members of the U.S. House of Representatives called on President Donald Trump's administration to do its best to push for an extension of a United Nations arms embargo on Iran, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that every tool will be used to prevent the Islamic Republic from procuring more arms.
- Rouhani Threatens JCPOA Partners With 'Historic Defeat' If Arms Embargo Extended Radio Farda 06 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani responding to the United States has said extending the UN Security Council's arms embargo against Iran will have "serious consequences."
- Iran won't accept violation of UNSC resolution on arms ban, Rouhani warns US Press TV 06 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani has warned the United States that Iran will not accept any violation of the UN Security Council resolution that mandates the lifting of an arms embargo against the Islamic Republic, saying the country is absolutely entitled to the ban's cancellation.
- Iran's Rohani Vows 'Crushing Response' If Arms Embargo Extended RFE/RL 06 May 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani has threatened a "crushing response" if the United States continues efforts to prolong a UN Security Council arms embargo on Tehran that is set to expire later this year.
- Rouhani Warns of 'Crushing Response' if Arms Embargo Against Iran Extended Sputnik 06 May 2020 -- Earlier this week, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said that Tehran would oppose any efforts by the UN Security Council to extend an arms embargo on the country.
- Hardliner Watchdog In Iran Opposes Electoral Reform To Boost Competitiveness Radio Farda 06 May 2020 -- Iran's hardliner election watchdog has opposed a last-ditch effort by the outgoing parliament to boost political competitiveness in the country's closed electoral system.
- Facebook Dismantles IRIB-Linked Disinformation Campaign Radio Farda 06 May 2020 -- The social network Facebook has announced that it has taken down over five hundred Facebook assets that were linked to an IRIB disinformation campaign.
- Facebook Removes Hundreds Of Disinformation Accounts Linked To Russia, Iran, Georgia RFE/RL 05 May 2020 -- Facebook has removed hundreds of social-media accounts - more than half of them based in Russia, Iran, and Georgia - after finding they belonged to networks that were running influence campaigns.
- Coronavirus may have 2nd, 3rd peaks in Iran: Official IRNA 05 May 2020 -- The head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office said on Tuesday that coronavirus epidemic has no clear future and may come back for the second and third peaks.
- Iran exports 1st COVID19 serology kits consignment to Germany IRNA 05 May 2020 -- The first shipment of the Iranian knowledge-based companies including COVID19 serology diagnostic kits and 40,000 items was exported to Germany on Tuesday.
- Iran sends first batch of COVID-19 test kits to Germany Press TV 05 May 2020 -- An Iranian biomedicine company has supplied a large batch of coronavirus test kits to Germany amid reported surge in the production of the diagnostic tool in the country.
- Official: 63 more Iranian COVID19 patients die over past 24 hours IRNA 05 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Tuesday that some 63 more Iranians died of coronavirus over the past 24 hours and that 80,475 people out of a total of 99,970 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered while unfortunately total number of deaths reached 6,340.
- Iranian, Iraqi Fighters Reported Killed In Israeli Air Strikes In Syria RFE/RL 05 May 2020 -- Israeli air strikes in eastern Syria have killed 14 Iranian and Iraqi fighters, a group monitoring the Syrian war says.
- Iran's IRGC forces kill several terrorists in western Kordestan province Press TV 05 May 2020 -- A number of terrorists have been killed as forces with Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) carried out a security operation in the western province of Kordestan, which borders Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.
- Zarif advises Pompeo to read UNSCR 2231 IRNA 05 May 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in a message said Iran nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is part of UNSCR 2231 and advised US secretary of state to read the resolution.
- US must remove sanctions if it truly seeks to help Iran in virus fight: Rouhani Press TV 05 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani has lashed out at the United States for intensifying its illegal sanctions against the Iranian nation at a time when the country is fighting a deadly coronavirus outbreak, saying Washington should first lift the bans to prove its sincerity in offering help to the Islamic Republic in the battle.
- US forfeited any right to seek renewal of UN arms embargo on Iran: European diplomats Press TV 05 May 2020 -- European diplomats say by withdrawing from a nuclear agreement with Iran, the US forfeited any right to demand an extension to a United Nations arms embargo against the Islamic Republic that the deal has mandated to expire later this year.
- A Large Majority Of US House Members Call For Extension Of Iran Arms Embargo Radio Farda 05 May 2020 -- A large majority of U.S. legislators on both sides of the aisle called on President Donald Trump's administration on Monday, May 4, to push for an extension of a United Nations arms embargo on Iran.
- Iran's Trade Balance With Asian Partners Negative For First Time Radio Farda 05 May 2020 -- Official data published by Turkey and Iran's other Asian economic partners indicate that trade between Iran and these countries dropped significantly in the first quarter of 2020 with the balance going into negative for Iran for the first time in recent history.
- Political Factions In Iran Split And Rebrand Ahead Of 2021 Presidential Elections Radio Farda 05 May 2020 -- No matter how popular it was with the Iranian and Western media, the categorization of the two leading political factions in Iran as Reformists and Conservatives has become obsolete for a long time now.
- Egypt, Tunisia, Lebanon and Iran Announce Partial Easing of Coronavirus Restrictions VOA 04 May 2020 -- A number of Middle Eastern countries including Egypt, Lebanon, Iran and Tunisia have announced the reopening of parts of their economies in the wake of lengthy coronavirus closures. At the same time, Algeria has decided to reorder the closure of some businesses due to unsafe gatherings.
- Rouhani: US acts troublesome for Iran in fighting coronavirus IRNA 04 May 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday that the US' anti-human rights measures have challenged Iran's targeted plan in fighting deadly coronavirus disease.
- Coronavirus kills 74 more in Iran: Official IRNA 04 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Monday that 79,397 people out of a total of 98,647 infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19) have recovered whereas 6,277 have lost their lives.
- Minister: Iran manages COVID-19 amid sanctions climax IRNA 04 May 2020 -- Iran has relatively managed coronavirus outbreak amid sanctions and economic problems climax, Iranian Minister of Health, Treatment and Medical Education Saeed Namaki said.
- Iran to export coronavirus test kits to Germany, Turkey Press TV 04 May 2020 -- The vice president for science and technology says Iran is to export diagnostic kits that it has indigenously produced for identification of the new coronavirus patients to Germany and Turkey.
- Iran to export coronavirus test kits to Germany, Turkey ISNA 04 May 2020 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran will start exporting homegrown diagnostic test kits for the novel coronavirus disease to Germany and Turkey in the coming weeks, Vice-President for Science and Technology Sorena Sattari has announced.
- Rouhani: US cutting WHO funding hampers global fight against pandemic Press TV 04 May 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says a recent decision by the administration of US President Donald Trump to stop funding the World Health Organization (WHO) at a time that the world body is fighting a pandemic of new coronavirus hampers global efforts to eradicate the deadly virus.
- US invocation of UNSCR2231 a travesty, says diplomat IRNA 04 May 2020 -- Iran's Ambassador to the United Nations headquarters at Geneva said on Monday that the United States' invocation of UNSC Resolution 2231 against Iran is a travesty and it should be held accountable for abusing the UN Security Council.
- Iran Officials Make Conflicting Remarks On Consequences Of Extending Arms Embargo Radio Farda 04 May 2020 -- While the Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi has said that nothing will be left of the 2015 nuclear deal if the UN security Council extends the arms embargo against Iran beyond October 2020, President Hassan Rouhani's Spokesman, Ali Rabiei, says Iran is not planning to withdraw from the nuclear deal.
- Iran: U.S. Push To Extend Arms Embargo 'Illegitimate' RFE/RL 04 May 2020 -- Iran has criticized what it calls the "illegitimate" efforts by the United States to prolong the UN Security Council arms embargo on Tehran and said it would react to them with "proportionate" measures.
- Iran to 'decisively' counter potential arms embargo extension Press TV 04 May 2020 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi says Iran will serve a "decisive response" to a potential extension of an arms embargo against the country that is legally bound to expire under its nuclear agreement with world powers.
- Response to 'Illegitimate' US Plan to Extend Iran's Arms Embargo Will Be Proportionate - Mousavi Sputnik 04 May 2020 -- Earlier, US State Secretary Mike Pompeo said that Washington would do everything to extend the arms embargo against Iran and is working with the UN Security Council members on the issue.
- US must be held accountable for abusing UN Security Council: Iran envoy Press TV 04 May 2020 -- Iran's permanent ambassador to the United Nations office in Geneva has criticized the United States for attempting to extend an arms embargo against the Islamic Republic, saying the US must be held to account for taking advantage of the UN Security Council to achieve its own political goals.
- Spokesman Says Iran Still Prepared For Prisoner Exchange With US, Europe Radio Farda 04 May 2020 -- The Spokesman of Iran's Foreign Ministry on Monday said Iran is still prepared for prisoner exchange with the United States and European countries.
- Iran Official Says Five Military Personnel Are In Jail Abroad, Blames The US Radio Farda 04 May 2020 -- An Iranian lawmaker has quoted a deputy defense minister as saying that more than 30 Iranians "active in military affairs" have been in jail outside Iran, but currently there are five individuals in prison abroad on charges of "military activity."
- Iran parliament approves currency overhaul bill Press TV 04 May 2020 -- The Iranian parliament has approved a bill to allow a major overhaul in the country's currency rial.
- Iran Parliament Approves Bill To Change Currency, Slash Four Zeros Radio Farda 04 May 2020 -- The Iranian Parliament on Monday voted for the details of a government monetary reform bill which will change the country's currency name and drop four zeros from banknotes.
- Iran To Cut Four Zeros From Currency To Fight Hyperinflation RFE/RL 04 May 2020 -- Iran's parliament has voted to slash four zeros from the national currency, the rial, to fight hyperinflation caused by crippling U.S. sanctions and the coronavirus pandemic.
- Iran to Drop Four Zeros From National Currency Rial, Rename It as the Toman Sputnik 04 May 2020 -- Iran's central bank has been planning to overhaul its currency since 2008, but the idea began to materialise only after the rial lost more than half of its value due to the US withdrawal from the landmark nuclear deal in May 2018.
- Iran to launch 5 new free trade zones Press TV 04 May 2020 -- The Iranian parliament has approved plans for launching five new free trade zones (FTZ) in north and east of the country.
- The Ten Million Dollar Hezbollah Sheikh, 'Wanted' Radio Farda 04 May 2020 -- Last month the United States offered a prize for providing "any information on the activities, networks and colleagues" of a senior Lebanese Hezbollah official, thought to have replaced Qassem Soleimani as an operative in the region.
- Why Iranian Officials Hide COVID-19 Facts, Figures From The Public? Radio Farda 03 May 2020 -- Since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak, the Islamic Republic of Iran's approach to news dissemination about the epidemic has been one of chaotic management, secrecy and lies.
- Iran Statistical Center Claims Unemployment Dipped Last Year Radio Farda 03 May 2020 -- The Statistical Center of Iran (SCI) claims that the unemployment rate in 2019 decreased by about 1.5 percent compared with 2018 and went down to 10.7 percent.
- Iran to reopen mosques in low-risk towns amid slower growth of COVID-19 infections, deaths Global Times 03 May 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Sunday that the mosques will reopen in 132 towns designated as low-risk areas on Monday, as the COVID-19 infection cases and the death toll have taken on a downward trend over the past weeks, Press TV reported.
- Official: COVID19 kills 47 more in Iran over past 24 hours IRNA 03 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Sunday that some 47 more Iranians died of coronavirus over the past 24 hours and that 78,422 people out of a total of 97,424 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered while unfortunately total number of deaths reached 6,203.
- President Rouhani: Mosques to open in 132 low-danger cities IRNA 03 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani said in the meeting of the National Task Force Committee for Fighting Coronavirus on Sunday that mosques will open in 132 low-danger white zones and will hold Friday Prayers from this week.
- Rouhani outlines safety protocols from social distancing to smart reopening IRNA 03 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday outlined safety protocols to replace Social Distancing with Smart Reopening moving from lockdown.
- Iran to reopen mosques in 132 "White" cities : President Rouhani ISNA 03 May 2020 -- Iran's president said, "According to reports, 83% of the country's people have observed health protocols well, which shows the people's cooperation with officials, and we are seeing a decrease in visits to hospitals and medical centres, which is due to the good performance of medical staff."
- Iran to reopen mosques in low-risk areas from Monday Press TV 03 May 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says mosques will reopen in 132 regions designated as white under a color-coded system after being consistently free of the new coronavirus.
- Iran Guards Announce Cancellation Of Qods Day March Amid Pandemic Radio Farda 03 May 2020 -- The Islamic revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) has cancelled the annual Qods (Quds) day marches and gathering because of the coronavirus pandemic raging in Iran.
- Fencing border with Iran a strategic priority for Pakistan IRNA 03 May 2020 -- Pakistan's Ministry of Defence has sought US $ 188 million from the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) for the second phase of fencing of border with Iran saying the project has become a strategic priority to be initiated at the earliest, report said.
- JCPOA to die forever if expiry of arms embargo not observed: Senior official IRNA 03 May 2020 -- The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action will die forever if the expiry of arms embargo on Iran not be respected, Secretary of Supreme National Security Council Ali Shamkhani said on Sunday.
- US' double-standard game with JCPOA not justifiable by any criterion ISNA 03 May 2020 -- Iran's ambassador to France Bahram Qassemi stressed that the US' roguish and double-standard game with the JCPOA is not justifiable by any logic and criterion.
- US attempts to establish itself as JCPOA participant have no legal grounds: Iran ISNA 03 May 2020 -- Ambassador and permanent representative of Iran to the International Organizations in Vienna, Kazem Gharib-Abadi stressed that the US attempts to establish itself as the JCPOA participant have no legal grounds.
- JCPOA to be destroyed forever by extension of Iran's arm embargo: Shamkhani ISNA 03 May 2020 -- Iran's secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Ali Shamkhani stressed that the 2015 nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) will be destroyed forever by circumventing the UNSC's 2231 Resolution and extension of Iran's arm embargo.
- Iran's warning: Nuclear deal will die forever if arms ban extended Press TV 03 May 2020 -- Iran's top security official has warned that the 2015 nuclear deal will "die forever" if Security Council Resolution 2231 that endorsed the accord is circumvented and a UN arms ban on Tehran is renewed.
- Iran Nuclear Deal Will 'Die Forever' If US Uses 'Sanctions Virus' to Extend Arms Embargo – Tehran Sputnik 03 May 2020 -- The Trump administration has been searching for options to try to extend the United Nations ban on the sale of conventional weapons to Iran beyond October, proposing sanctions and even considering making the argument that the US is still effectively a party to the Iran nuclear deal, despite its decision to walk out of the agreement in 2018.
- Official: COVID19 kills 65 more in Iran IRNA 02 May 2020 -- Head of Iran's Health Ministry's Public Relations Office Kianoush Jahanpour said on Saturday that 77,350 people out of a total of 96,448 infected with the coronavirus have survived and recovered while 6,156 have unfortunately succumbed to death.
- COVID-19 daily infection rate reduces to 2.96% in Iran: Official IRNA 02 May 2020 -- Official statistics suggest that the rate of daily infections to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has reduced from 2.45% to 1.32% over the past ten days, according to Mohammad-Javad Dehqani, the President of the Islamic World Science Citation Center (ISC).
- IRGC Navy warned US to leave drill area, will pursue them: Commander Press TV 02 May 2020 -- The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy chief has said a recent incident with US forces in the Persian Gulf happened as they entered a drill area despite despite having been warned in advance not to approach it.
- 'Informed Source' Denies Iranian Guard General Killed In Israeli Attack Radio Farda 02 May 2020 -- An Iranian news agency on Saturday denied Arab social media reports claiming Brigadier General Amir-Ali Hajizadeh, Commander of the Guards' Aerospace Force, had was in an Israeli strike in Syria on Friday.
- US claim to be participant to nuclear deal lacks legal grounds: Iran envoy Press TV 02 May 2020 -- Iran's permanent representative to Vienna-based international organizations says the US attempts to establish itself as a participant to a 2015 nuclear deal signed between Iran and major world powers "have no legal grounds" following its withdrawal from the landmark accord.
- US imposes new sanctions on Iran amid coronavirus crisis Press TV 02 May 2020 -- The United States has slapped new sanctions on Iran despite claims of its readiness to help the Islamic Republic in its fight against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
- US plan to say still a party to nuclear deal 'a joke': Iran's envoy to UN Press TV 02 May 2020 -- Iran's ambassador to the UN says US officials' calls for an extension of an arms embargo on Tehran lack legal standing in international law, noting that the request will be "certainly" turned down at the Security Council.
- Iran Threatens Extending Arms Embargo Will Endanger Regional Security Radio Farda 02 May 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani's spokesman says Tehran will show a "hard reaction" to the extension of the arms embargo against Iran due to end in October.
- Iran Hardliner Lawmaker Attacks Rouhani For 'Wasting Public Money' Radio Farda 02 May 2020 -- An outspoken conservative legislator in Iran has lambasted the Islamic Republic government for wasting the national treasury by offering U.S. dollars to some companies at a preferential low rate in 2018.
- Venezuela Paying Iran 'In Gold' For Alleged Help To Revive Oil Industry Radio Farda 01 May 2020 -- The U.S. Special manager for Venezuela on Thursday said in a desperate attempt to revive its oil industry, cash-strapped Venezuela is paying Iran with gold in return for Iranian assistance.
- Treasury Designates IRGC-Qods Force Front Company and Owner US Treasury 01 May 2020 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today designated dual Iranian and Iraqi national Amir Dianat, a longtime associate of senior officials of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF). Dianat, who is also known as Ameer Abdulazeez Jaafar Almthaje, is involved in IRGC-QF efforts to generate revenue and smuggle weapons abroad. OFAC is also designating Taif Mining Services LLC, a company owned, controlled, or directed by Dianat.
- US Indicts Two Iran Operatives For Sanctions Violations Radio Farda 01 May 2020 -- Criminal charges have been filed Friday against two Iranian nationals for circumventing U.S. Iran sanctions, money laundering and breaking export laws by purchasing an oil tanker from a U.S. seller.
- Criminal Charges Filed Against Two Iranian Nationals for Violating Money Laundering & Sanctions Laws by Procuring Petroleum Tanker US Dept. of Justice 01 May 2020 -- Related Forfeiture Complaint Filed for Approximately $12.3 Million in Funds Is Largest Ever Seizure of IRGC-QF Related Funds
- Iran arm's embargo can't be prolonged despite US efforts, Russia says IRNA 01 May 2020 -- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said that the UN embargo on conventional weapons sales to Iran, which expires in October 2020, can't be extended despite the US efforts.
- US Imposes Iran-Related Sanctions on Investment Company, Individual, Treasury Says Sputnik 01 May 2020 -- On 26 April, The New York Times newspaper reported, citing sources in the US administration, that Washington plans to force either an extension of the arms embargo against Iran or re-impose harsher sanctions if the UN Security Council declines to extend the arms embargo.
- US State Dept. Says Russia and China Have No Reason to Vote Against Prolonging Iran Arms Embargo Sputnik 01 May 2020 -- Russia and China have no reason to vote against the prolongation of the arms embargo on Iran, US Special Representative for Iran, and Senior Advisor to the Secretary of State Brian Hook said.
- Iran to cut dependence on Russia for maintenance of Bushehr nuclear plant Press TV 01 May 2020 -- Iran says it will probably cut its dependence on Russian engineers and become self-sufficient in the maintenance of its Bushehr nuclear power plant by 2022.
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