July 2020 - Iran Special Weapons News

COVID-19 kills 197 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 31 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on ّFriday that some 197 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours.
To Weep Or Not To Weep: Iran Debates Holding Muharram During Coronavirus Pandemic Radio Farda 31 Jul 2020 -- Despite an upsurge in coronavirus infections in Iran and a ban on weddings and large funerals, the country's famed gatherings of mourners during the Shi'ite month of Muharram will be held.
Iran To Recruit 10,000 Health Workers To Fill In For 6,000 Infected With Coronavirus Radio Farda 31 Jul 2020 -- As the number of health care professionals falling victim to COVID-19 is soaring in Iran, the government will be recruiting of 10,000 to join the country's Ministry of Health, its contractors, and affiliated companies.
Leaked Iran Judiciary Letters Claim Government Ignored Requests For Coronavirus Aid To Prisons Radio Farda 31 Jul 2020 -- Amnesty International on Friday released the text of four letters from the hardliner-dominated Judiciary's Prisons Organization written to the health ministry requesting coronavirus aid to prisons, which the government left unanswered.
Amnesty Says Iran Has Ignored Pleas By Prison Officials For Essential Virus Resources RFE/RL 31 Jul 2020 -- Amnesty International says it has obtained several leaked documents signed by officials at Iran's Prisons Organization that reveal that the Iranian government has ignored repeated pleas by senior prison officials for additional resources to control the spread of the coronavirus in the country's overcrowded correctional facilities.
US Sanctions Are Intended to Collapse Iran's Economy, Supreme Leader Says Sputnik 31 Jul 2020 -- Earlier, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the United States is expanding its metal sanctions against Iran to cover 22 additional materials used in various missile programmes.
Khamenei Rules Out Negotiations With US, Says Trump Seeks Personal Gain Radio Farda 31 Jul 2020 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has once again ruled out negotiations with the United States and accused U.S. President Donald Trump of suggesting talks with Iran for personal gain.
Leader: US sanctions, crime against Iranian nation IRNA 31 Jul 2020 -- The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei described the US sanctions against Iran not as sabotage against the government but a crime against the nation.
Ayatollah Khamenei rules out any letup in resistance to US Press TV 31 Jul 2020 -- Leader of Iran's Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has slammed US sanctions on Tehran as "a crime against the Iranian nation".
Large Fire In Tehran Commercial Area Engulfs Warehouses Radio Farda 31 Jul 2020 -- Tehran's fire department says a huge blaze broke out this morning in a large commercial area housing depots for various manufactured goods.
Tehran Does Not Believe Blast on Natanz Nuclear Plant Caused by Missile, Drone Attack Sputnik 31 Jul 2020 -- Tehran does not consider that an incident that occurred on Iran's Natanz advanced centrifuge plant in early July was the result of a drone or missile attack, Mojtaba Zonnour, the head of the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee in the Iranian parliament, said on Friday, adding that a reason should be found within Iran.
Iran will let no aggressors to approach its borders: Spox IRNA 31 Jul 2020 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi reiterated that territorial integrity and land, sea and air borders are sacred for the Iranian people, stressing that 'We will certainly not allow any intruder to infiltrate or harm this sacred trinity.'
This Week in Iran Policy US Dept. of State 31 Jul 2020
Pompeo: US expanding scope of Iran metals sanctions Press TV 31 Jul 2020 -- The US is currently working to expand the scope of Iran metals sanctions which relate to the country's nuclear, military and ballistic missile programs, says Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
U.S. expands scope of Iran metals sanctions People's Daily 31 Jul 2020 -- The United States on Thursday expanded the scope of Iran metals-related sanctions by identifying 22 specific materials, a move to constrain Iran's nuclear, military programs.
U.S. Adds Materials To Metals Sanctions Against Iran RFE/RL 31 Jul 2020 -- The United States has expanded sanctions against Iran's metals industry, adding 22 materials to the U.S. sanctions regime, a move that allows Washington to blacklist any company or entity that transfers the materials to Iran.
Ukraine welcomes 'constructive' talks over plane crash with Tehran Press TV 31 Jul 2020 -- Ukraine says the first round of talks between Kiev and Tehran about the downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane near Tehran was constructive, but it was too early to say how much compensation Iran would agree to pay.
Ukraine Reiterates Determination For Justice In Talks With Iran Over Downed Passenger Jet RFE/RL 31 Jul 2020 -- Ukraine has reiterated its determination to bring Iran to justice for the downing of a Ukrainian airliner shortly after takeoff in Tehran during talks on compensation over the January air disaster that killed 176 people.
Former Iran Parliament Speaker In Hospital With COVID-19 For Second Time Radio Farda 30 Jul 2020 -- The former Iranian Parliament Speaker and current member of the Expediency Council Ali Larijani has been hospitalized for COVID-19 for a second time. Larijani tested positive for COVID-19 in early April for the first time.
COVID-19 kills 226 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 30 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Thursday that some 226 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours.
President Rouhani: Iran transiting from coronavirus' peak IRNA 30 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani stated here on Thursday that the country is passing through the coronavirus peak.
IRGC will take firm, resolute action to defend Iran's interests: Statement Press TV 30 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says its forces will spare no sacrifice in defending the achievements of the Islamic Revolution as well as the Iranian nation and the Islamic establishment.
Iranian Satellite Once Derided as 'Tumbling Webcam in Space' Snaps Pics of US's Largest Mideast Base Sputnik 30 Jul 2020 -- The images were reportedly obtained amid the ongoing massive war games in southern Iran involving multiple branches of the armed forces, including elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) formations.
Rouhani: Regional security, stability only possible through regional cooperation Press TV 30 Jul 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says establishment of security in the region is only possible through cooperation among all regional countries.
Expansion of the Scope of Iran Metals Sanctions Targeting Iran's Nuclear, Military, and Ballistic Missile Programs and the IRGC US Dept. of State 30 Jul 2020 -- Iran's nuclear, ballistic missile, and military programs pose a grave threat to international peace and security.
US Expands Sanctions Against Iran to Target Nuclear, Military, Ballistic Missile Programs - Pompeo Sputnik 30 Jul 2020 -- United States sanctions against Tehran were reimposed after President Donald Trump in 2018 announced a unilateral withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, also known as the Iran nuclear deal.
US Senator Accuses Twitter Of Violating Sanctions By Providing Platform To Iran's Khamenei Radio Farda 30 Jul 2020 -- U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has said that Twitter is violating sanctions on Iran by providing the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei with account services.
Iranian Delegation Arrives In Kiev To Discuss Compensation For Downed Ukrainian Flight Radio Farda 30 Jul 2020 -- Iranian news agencies on Thursday reported that a delegation headed by Deputy Foreign Minister for International and Legal Affairs Mohsen Baharvand has arrived in Kiev for talks with the Ukrainian authorities over the downing of Flight PS752 over Tehran on January 8.
Iran Agrees to Pay Compensation for Ukranian Plane Downed in January, Foreign Ministry Says Sputnik 30 Jul 2020 -- In January, the crash of a Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737-800 killed all of the 176 people on board. Commenting on the tragedy, Tehran later said that the plane was mistakenly downed after the military confused it with a hostile target.
Iranian Media Name Potential Candidates For 2021 Presidential Election Radio Farda 30 Jul 2020 -- Nine months before the next presidential election in Iran, concerns over the coronavirus pandemic has pushed competition over the post of president of the Islamic Republic to backstage.
Iran Dismisses Leaked Details of Proposed China Deal VOA 30 Jul 2020 -- Talks between Iran and China aimed at finalizing a 25-year strategic cooperation agreement are continuing despite what Tehran dismissed as "baseless rumors" about the deal that leaked earlier this month.
Dollar Rising Again In Iran After Central Bank's Intervention Fizzled Out Radio Farda 30 Jul 2020 -- The U.S. dollar has started rising again since Saturday in Iran after a central bank intervention last week briefly strengthened the Iranian currency.
Waiting For Khamenei's Verdict On Row Over Iran Religious Ceremonies Amid Pandemic Radio Farda 29 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Deputy Health Minister Iraj Harirchi on Tuesday advised those who insist on holding Muharram ceremonies to wait for the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other sources of emulation to announce their view but insisted any indoor congregation will be "impossible".
Official: COVID-19 kills 196 more in Iran IRNA 29 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Wednesday that some 235 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 16,343.
Iran bans export of medial oxygen, gases amid surge in virus cases Press TV 29 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian customs office (IRICA) has imposed a ban on exports of medical grade bulk oxygen and other gases needed in hospitals to deal with a new surge in the coronavirus pandemic.
Iran Launches Underground Ballistic Missiles During Exercise RFE/RL 29 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has launched underground ballistic missiles as part of a drill involving a fake U.S. aircraft carrier during military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a day after the IRGC fired a missile from a helicopter targeting the same carrier.
First ballistic missiles fired deeply from beneath Earth by IRGC IRNA 29 Jul 2020 -- Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh said on Wednesday that IRGC can target hostile targets anywhere in the Persian Gulf region with the facilities which it has available today.
IRGC fires underground ballistic missiles on 2nd day of massive drills Press TV 29 Jul 2020 -- The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has, in an unprecedented maneuver, fired ballistic missiles from underground launch facilities on the second day of its major naval and aerial drills in southern Iran.
IRGC Drill In Persian Gulf: Unverified Claims, Propaganda And Naïve Stunts Radio Farda 29 Jul 2020 -- As the Islamic Republic of Iran continues its military exercises in the Persian Gulf near the strait of Hormuz, more details are coming out in traditional and social media revealing the Revolutionary Guard's publicity about Tehran's military might.
U.S. Bases In The Persian Gulf Go On Alert After Iran Fires Ballistic Missiles Radio Farda 29 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has launched underground ballistic missiles as part of a drill involving a fake U.S. aircraft carrier during military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a day after the IRGC fired a missile from a helicopter targeting the same carrier.
Combinatory war games by IRGC' navy, aerospace forces at 2nd day of drills ISNA 29 Jul 2020 -- Day two of the final phase of major war games by Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) named "Payambar-e Azam 14" saw ballistic missiles fired from deep inside the ground.
IRGC Navy: Persian Gulf drills conducted in 'wargame' style Press TV 29 Jul 2020 -- The Navy of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps says the IRGC's ongoing drills simulate actual warzone engagement with real enemy forces and are meant to send across a message of warning to those potentially seeking to undermine the country's security.
Iran military satellite relays full-scale image of US base Press TV 29 Jul 2020 -- Iran's first military satellite Nour (Light)-1 has relayed a full-scale image of the United States' biggest airbase in West Asia in its first attempt at imaging from the space since launch.
Iran urges other countries not to be deceived by US over arms embargo ISNA 29 Jul 2020 -- Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Mohsen Baharvand has urged other countries not to be deceived by the US, which is trying to have the UN's arms embargo on Iran extended.
Hook Says Iran Wants 'Endless War' In Yemen, Asks For Extension Of Arms Embargo Radio Farda 29 Jul 2020 -- The Islamic Republic wants an "endless war" in Yemen, on Saudi Arabia's southern flank, U.S. Special Representative Brian Hook told reporters in during his visit to London on Wednesday, where he is lobbying for the extension of UN's arms embargo against Iran.
Iran Parliament's Research Arm Says U.S. Sanctions Are Here To Stay Radio Farda 29 Jul 2020 -- In a new report published on July 28, the Iranian Parliament's Research Center (MRC) has said that U.S. sections are expected to remain in effect in mid and even long terms, and longstanding strategies to cope with them are required.
Iran pursuing complaint against S Korean banks IRNA 29 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry on Wednesday in a communiqué said that the Islamic Republic of Iran will pursue the lawsuit concerning the frozen assets against the South Korean banks in the international courts.
South Korea, Iran to hold talks on expanding humanitarian trade ISNA 29 Jul 2020 -- South Korea was set to hold virtual talks with Iran later Wednesday about expanding humanitarian trade like medicine exports, following the first such shipment to Tehran in May.
US authorities give necessary assurances for operation of SHTA humanitarian channel ISNA 29 Jul 2020 -- The first Iran and Switzerland deal via humanitarian channel went through. For discussing SHTA and further details, we'd asked Nadine Mathys for a commentary.
Iran Reverses Decision to Give Public Lands To Religious Endowment Following Uproar Radio Farda 29 Jul 2020 -- Public uproar over news that vast lands around Damavand Mountain, a national symbol was handed over to a religious endowment has forced the state to reverse its decision and return the land to government ownership.
Iranian Workers Strike Amid Worsening Economy, Deadly Coronavirus Crisis RFE/RL 29 Jul 2020 -- Amid crushing economic conditions, demonstrations and strikes by workers have sprung up in Iran recently over unpaid wages and poor working conditions.
Official: COVID-19 kills 235 more in Iran IRNA 28 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Tuesday that some 235 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 16,147.
Iran posts record 235 deaths from coronavirus in past 24 hours Press TV 28 Jul 2020 -- Iran has registered a record 235 deaths in the past 24 hours from its outbreak of the new coronavirus, Health Ministry figures show.
Ideology And Profits Drive Hardliners In Iran To Hold Religious Events Amid Pandemic Radio Farda 28 Jul 2020 -- As the coronavirus crisis in Iran shows no sign of abetting, the clerical rulers have to decide what to do with upcoming religious ceremonies that are highly important for the regime both ideologically and in terms of financial interests of hardliners.
Russia Hands Over Terror Suspect To Azerbaijan, Allegedly Trained In Iran Radio Farda 28 Jul 2020 -- At the request of the Republic of Azerbaijan Russia handed over an individual accused of receiving "terrorist" training in Iran, TASS and Azerbaijani media reported July 28.
Iran Conducts Military Exercise With Mock U.S. Aircraft Carrier In Persian Gulf RFE/RL 28 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has fired a missile from a helicopter targeting a mock U.S. aircraft carrier during military exercises in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, local media reported.
Iran's IRGC holds massive aerial, naval drills off Hormuz Strait Press TV 28 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) is conducting large-scale aerial and naval drills off the strategic Strait of Hormuz and in the Persian Gulf, with the country's first domestic multi-purpose satellite monitoring the process.
Iran Fires Missile At Replica Of US Aircraft Carrier In Persian Gulf Amid Tensions Radio Farda 28 Jul 2020 -- Iranian media on Tuesday reported that a Revolutionary Guard helicopter has fired a Cruise missile at the replica of a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Persian Gulf during military exercises dubbed as The Great Prophet-14 (Payambar-e Azam 14).
Long-range ballistic missiles used in Prophet Mohammad 14 drills IRNA 28 Jul 2020 -- Spokesman for Prophet Mohammad 14 drills Brigadier General Abbas Nilforoushan said ballistic and cruise missile defense operations have been conducted and some surprising weapons and equipment like long-range ballistic missiles were used during the military exercise.
IRGC launches final stage of joint military exercise in southern Iran ISNA 28 Jul 2020 -- The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) on Tuesday launched the final stage of a large-scale and joint military exercise named "Payambar-e Azam 14" in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran's weapons development based on enemy's weaknesses, strengths: IRGC cmdr IRNA 28 Jul 2020 -- Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Major General Hossein Salami said on Tuesday that the development of Iran's armament matches the threat and recognition of the enemy's weaknesses and strengths.
IRGC commander: Iran won't initiate aggression, but is fully offensive in tactics Press TV 28 Jul 2020 -- The chief commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says Iran will never initiate any offensive, but assumes a fully offensive mode when it comes to tactical and operational performance.
US forces asked to stay in bunkers as Iran fires missiles amid drills: Reports Press TV 28 Jul 2020 -- US military forces deployed to the Persian Gulf kingdoms were reportedly asked to stay in bunkers as Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) fired ballistic missiles during normal military drills off the strategic Hormuz Strait.
U.S. Bases In The Persian Gulf Go On Alert After Iranian Missiles Hit Nearby Radio Farda 28 Jul 2020 -- Fox News correspondent Lucas Tomlinson says U.S. forces went on high alert after three missiles hit the waters near their military bases in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Persian Gulf.
US must put end to illegal, unlawful measures: Iran gov't spox IRNA 28 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Government spokesman Ali Rabiee on Tuesday said that the US must terminate its illegal and unlawful moves before it is too late.
Iran urges other countries not to be deceived by US over arms embargo ISNA 28 Jul 2020 -- Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Mohsen Baharvand has urged other countries not to be deceived by the US, which is trying to have the UN's arms embargo on Iran extended.
President Rouhani receives successive requests from American officials for negotiation ISNA 28 Jul 2020 -- Iran's President described the producers and activists of the petrochemical and steel industries as soldiers at the forefront of the country's important economic and export front, and said that in the petrochemical and steel sectors we have passed crude sales, emphasizing that the products of all steel and even petrochemical chain links in the country have almost doubled in the government of Prudence and Hope, which is a great development in these two fields.
South Korea must abandon illegal policies on Iran frozen assets: Government spokesman Press TV 28 Jul 2020 -- Government spokesman Ali Rabiei has called on South Korea to abandon its "illegal" policies and release the Iranian assets that it has frozen due to the US sanctions so that Tehran can step up its fight against a deadly coronavirus outbreak.
Iran imposes fresh limit on cash withdrawals from banks Press TV 28 Jul 2020 -- The Central Bank of Iran (CBI) has ordered a new limit on withdrawal of cash from banks amid toughening of rules on money laundering and also concerns about hoarding money because of the new coronavirus pandemic.
While China Says No Oil From Iran In June, Three Tankers Arrived In Recent Weeks Radio Farda 28 Jul 2020 -- While the latest customs data from China show no imports of Iranian oil in June, data intelligence firm Kepler told Radio Farda Iran has shipped oil to the Asian economic giant.
A Newspaper In Iran Is Censured For Interview Defending People's Right To Revolt Radio Farda 28 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, which oversees censorship in the clergy-dominated country, has cnesured Etemad, a local pro-reform daily for an interview touching upon the sensitive issue of revolt against the regime.
Iranian Delegation To Visit Ukraine To Discuss Compensation For Shooting Down Passenger Jet RFE/RL 28 Jul 2020 -- An Iranian delegation will visit Ukraine later this week to discuss compensation for a Ukrainian jet shot down by Iran on January 8, the Ukrainian foreign minister has said.
Fuel Trucks Catch Fire In Western Iranian City Of Kermanshah RFE/RL 28 Jul 2020 -- Several fuel tankers have caught fire at a truck park near the western Iranian city of Kermanshah, sparking panic among local residents.
Blast Reported in Western Iranian Province of Kermanshah Sputnik 28 Jul 2020 -- Over the past few weeks, a series of fires and explosions have hit sensitive Iranian facilities. In early July, a blaze swept through a uranium enrichment facility in Natanz, and a blast was reported at a gas storage tank east of Tehran. In mid-July, a fire broke out at a plant producing liquefied natural gas in the city of Fariman.
Iran's Goverment Spokesman Hospitalized For COVID As Death Toll Reaches 16,000 Radio Farda 27 Jul 2020 -- Ali Rabiei, the Cabinet Spokesman of the administration of President Hassan Rouhani, has been hospitalized after testing positive for corornavirus, the state-run television reported on Monday.
COVID-19: Iranian Government Spokesman Hospitalized; Kosovo Restaurant Owners Protest Restrictions RFE/RL 27 Jul 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is more than 640,000, with more than 16 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the respiratory illness.
Official: COVID-19 kills 212 more in Iran IRNA 27 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Monday that some 212 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 15,912.
Multiple Explosions Hit Iraq Weapons Depot Used By Pro-Iran Militia Radio Farda 27 Jul 2020 -- A weapons depot at al-Saqr base belonging to Iraq's federal police force but also used by pro-Iran paramilitaries exploded on Sunday in Baghdad's southern suburbs.
Satellite Images Show Iranian Replica Of U.S. Aircraft Carrier In Strait of Hormuz RFE/RL 27 Jul 2020 -- Satellite images show that Iran has placed a replica of a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Strait of Hormuz, possibly to use for naval exercises.
Iran Papers React To Democratic Party's 'No Regime Change, Return To JCPOA' Policy Radio Farda 27 Jul 2020 -- A conservative newspaper in Tehran has observed in its July 27 issue on Monday that there is a rising interest evident in a part of the Iranian media about the U.S. presidential elections that take place in November.
Iran will pursue peaceful nuclear program with IAEA, deputy FM says IRNA 27 Jul 2020 -- Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araghchi said on Sunday that Iran will continue peaceful nuclear activities with the International Atomic Energy Agency according to the regulations agreed with the IAEA.
Swiss Govt says Iran performed first transaction with Pharmaceutical company via humanitarian channel IRNA 27 Jul 2020 -- A Swiss pharmaceutical company has completed the first transaction under a new humanitarian trade channel with Iran, the government in Bern said on Monday.
First Swiss deal proved Iran funds got round US sanctions: Businessman Press TV 27 Jul 2020 -- An Iranian businessman says a first deal with Iran under the Swiss Humanitarian Trade Arrangement (SHTA) was a sign that funds provided by the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) had reached Swiss authorities despite US sanctions limiting any use of such finances.
First Transaction To Send Medicine To Iran Via Swiss Channel Takes Place Radio Farda 27 Jul 2020 -- The Swiss government announced July 27 that a pharmaceutical company has completed the first transaction under a new humanitarian trade channel with Iran.
Swiss Government Says First Deal With Iran Via Humanitarian Channel Completed RFE/RL 27 Jul 2020 -- A Swiss pharmaceutical firm has completed the first transaction under a new humanitarian trade channel with Iran, the government of Switzerland said on July 27.
Iran opted for infrastructure investment despite economic woes: Rouhani Press TV 27 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says his administration opted for massive visionary investment in the country's infrastructure despite economic woes caused by American sanctions.
Khamenei-Controlled Financial Conglomerate In Iran Nets $2.5 Billion In Profits Radio Farda 27 Jul 2020 -- Parviz Fattah, Head of Khamenei-controlled Mostazafan Foundation, on Monday said the conglomerate's revenues increased by 34 percent to reach 360 trillion rials (approximately $2.5 billion) in the Iranian calendar year ending 20 March, 2020.
Iran Official Denies 'Herd Immunity' Is Government Coronavirus Policy Radio Farda 26 Jul 2020 -- Iran's deputy health minister has denied any intention to move toward "a policy of herd immunity" in regard with COVID-19, arguing that countries such as Britain and Sweden and did so "failed".
COVID-19: Rohani Sees No Early End To Crisis; Serbia Reports Record Number Of Daily Cases RFE/RL 26 Jul 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is more than 640,000, with more than 16 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the respiratory illness.
Official: COVID-19 kills 216 more in Iran IRNA 26 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Sunday that some 216 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 15,700.
Iran will pursue peaceful nuclear program with IAEA, deputy FM says IRNA 27 Jul 2020 -- Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araghchi said on Sunday that Iran will continue peaceful nuclear activities with the International Atomic Energy Agency according to the regulations agreed with the IAEA.
Iran refutes US weird approach to Afghan peace talks in absence of Afghan Government IRNA 26 Jul 2020 -- Iranian diplomatic mission in Kabul in a statement rejected fallacious remarks made by Former US Ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Iran's position in Afghan peace talks, saying Iran supports peace talks respecting national sovereignty and Government of Afghanistan.
Iran rejects US' untrue remarks on Tehran's position in Afghan peace talks ISNA 26 Jul 2020 -- Iran's embassy in Kabul in a statement rejected the untrue and fallacious remarks made by the US's special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Iran's position in Afghan peace talks, stressing Iran supports peace talks based on Afghan ownership and leadership.
Netanyahu Says Won't Allow Iran's Military to Establish Itself Along Israeli Border Sputnik 26 Jul 2020 -- Earlier this week, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said in a statement that the country's armed forces were stepping up security measures on the northern border on the heels of an escalation unfolding on the frontier with Lebanon and Syria.
Iran will continue nuclear program based on terms agreed with IAEA: Deputy foreign minister Press TV 26 Jul 2020 -- The Islamic Republic will continue its peaceful nuclear program according to the terms of agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) since Tehran sees the peaceful use of nuclear energy as an inalienable right of the nation, says a senior Foreign Ministry official.
President says Govt determined to create balance to thwart pressures IRNA 26 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Sunday that the Government is determined to create a balance in terms of satisfactory supply of the fundamental needs of the people and thwart all pressures imposed by the enemies as well.
Iran determined to create necessary balance to thwart pressures: President Rouhani ISNA 26 Jul 2020 -- Emphasizing on dealing effectively with the unjustifiable increase in the prices of some goods, Iran's President stated, "Along with efforts to boost production and improve the quality of goods, the supply of goods to the end consumer should be considered as equally important".
Hook: Lifting Arms Embargo On Iran Will Intensify Conflicts In Syria And Elsewhere Radio Farda 26 Jul 2020 -- The United States Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook says conflicts in Syria and elsewhere will escalate if the United Nations arms embargo on Iran is lifted.
Iran's Exports To Iraq Drop 40 Percent In Second Quarter Radio Farda 26 Jul 2020 -- The Secretary-General of Iran-Iraq Joint Chamber of Commerce announced that the volume of Iran's non-oil exports to Iraq dropped forty percent in the second quarter of 2020.
Iran Unofficially Accuses Jordan Of 'Role' In Interception Of Iran Airliner Radio Farda 26 Jul 2020 -- A website close to Iran's security council has said "most probably the two American F-15 fighter planes" that intercepted an Iranian airliner on July 23 flew out of al-Azraq airbase in Jordan.
More Questions About Mahan Air Flight As Iran's Judiciary Calls For Aggressive Diplomacy Radio Farda 25 Jul 2020 -- Issues relating to the interception of an Iranian airliner by U.S. fighter jets on Thursday June 23 have been playing out in Iran's domestic scene while questions continue to be raised about ambiguities mainly as a result of Iran's secretive behavior.
Official: COVID-19 kills 195 more in Iran IRNA 25 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Saturday that some 195 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 15,484.
Rouhani Says Religious Ceremonies To Be Held Despite Pandemic In Iran Radio Farda 25 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Saturday stressed the importance of holding Muharram mourning ceremonies everywhere, even in coronavirus hotspots, but also underlined that social distancing protocols including wearing masks should be observed.
Iran's army manufacturing most military equipment domestically ISNA 25 Jul 2020 -- Coordinating Deputy of Islamic Republic of Iran Army, Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari announced that most of military equipment is manufactured domestically.
Rouhani says pressure cannot make Iranians to kneel IRNA 25 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday that the pressures and sanctions against Iran cannot brought the Iranian people to their knees.
Speaker slams US' fighter jets threatening Iran's passenger plane IRNA 25 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said on Friday that the Americans are lying that they flew in the standard routine, while the pilot received two TCAS warnings due to the too much approach of two fighters at the top and bottom of the aircraft.
Iran condemns US' dangerous move against Iranian plane ISNA 25 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Seyyed Abbas Mousavi has strongly condemned the adventurist and dangerous move by US jet fighters against Mahan Air's Beirut-bound passenger plane, saying Tehran will not leave any hostile move unanswered.
Iran vows to lodge complaint against U.S. fighter jets for "harassment" of passenger plane People's Daily 25 Jul 2020 -- The Civil Aviation Organization of Iran announced on Friday that it will lodge a complaint with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) over "harassment" of its passenger plane by two U.S. fighter jets over the Syrian airspace on Thursday.
Iran nation to never kneel before pressure of enemies: President Rouhani ISNA 25 Jul 2020 -- Stressing that creating a dichotomy between "life and bread" and "mourning and health" is wrong and both should be together in compliance with health protocols, Iran's President said that the mourning ceremony of Imam Hussein (AS) must be held throughout the country gloriously with precise observation of health protocols.
Iran Jails 20 Protesting Downing Of Ukrainian Plane, None Sentenced From Military Radio Farda 25 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Revolutionary Courts have in the past six months sentenced twenty individuals who participated in peaceful protests against the downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane in January to prison terms totaling more than 23 years. However, none of the people responsible for the incident have yet been named or put on trial.
Iran to legally pursue US 'act of terrorism' against its Beirut-bound flight Press TV 24 Jul 2020 -- Iran has condemned the harassment of its Beirut-bound passenger plane by two US fighter jets over the Syrian airspace, vowing to lodge a complaint over the "unlawful" act at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Iran Dubs US Harassment of Passenger Airliner 'Act of Terror', Says May Take Legal Action Sputnik 24 Jul 2020 -- A Mahan Air Airbus A310 jetliner with over 150 people onboard was forced to take evasive maneuvers over Syria on Thursday after being intercepted by a pair of US F-15 jets, with the incident leaving at least 12 passengers with injuries of varying severity. Tehran submitted a complaint the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) on Friday.
Iran's Zarif Slams US for Putting Lives of Intercepted Plane Passengers at Risk Sputnik 24 Jul 2020 -- The day before, reports emerged in Iranian media that Iran's Mahan Air passenger plane was forced to land, after trying to avoid a collision with two fighter jets while en route to Lebanon.
This Week in Iran Policy US Dept. of State 24 Jul 2020
US warplanes in aggressive maneuvering near Iranian airliner: Reports Press TV 23 Jul 2020 -- Various reports say warplanes deployed by the so-called United States-led coalition operating illegally in Syria have conducted some aggressive and "dangerous" maneuvering close to a Beirut-bound Iranian passenger airplane.
COVID-19 kills 215 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 24 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Friday that some 215 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours.
Prayer Imam In Iran Says Coronavirus Is Secular, Corrupting Religious Countries Radio Farda 24 Jul 2020 -- Qom's Friday Prayer Imam, Abbas Mousavi Motlaq, says some people are unduly warning that the coronavirus outbreak threatens upcoming Muharram religious ceremonies, and commemorating third Shiite Imam in October.
Company Established To Make Purchases On Iran's Behalf To Settle Iraq's $5 Billion Debt Radio Farda 24 Jul 2020 -- An Iranian trade official said Friday a company has been established in Iraq which will make purchases on behalf of the Iranian government to settle Baghdad's accumulated debts to Iran amounting to $5 billion.
Iranian Lawmaker Says Blast At Nuclear Site Caused By 'Security Breach' RFE/RL 24 Jul 2020 -- A member of the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee of Iran's parliament says a blast at the Natanz nuclear complex was caused by a "security breach."
Netanyahu: Fight Against Iran's Military, Nuclear Programs Continued 'In Recent Days' Radio Farda 24 Jul 2020 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said he the fight against Iran's nuclear program, ballistic missiles and the country's military presence in Syria has "continued' in recent days.
Iran Condemns U.S. Intercept Of Airliner Over Syria RFE/RL 24 Jul 2020 -- Iran has accused Washington of endangering civilians after U.S. military aircraft intercepted an Iranian passenger plane over Syria as it was flying to Beirut from Tehran in a "standard visual inspection."
Iran not to leave any hostile act unanswered: FM spox IRNA 24 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said Iran will leave no hostile act unanswered and will reciprocate any US unlawful actions with decisive and proportionate response.
Zarif lashes out at US audacity to compound lawlessness upon lawlessness IRNA 24 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in message slammed US audacity to compound lawlessness with lawlessness, saying these outlaws must stop before disaster.
Iran Condemns U.S. Intercept Of Airliner Over Syria RFE/RL 24 Jul 2020 -- Iran has accused Washington of endangering civilians after U.S. military aircraft intercepted an Iranian passenger plane over Syria as it was flying to Beirut from Tehran in a "standard visual inspection."
Iran lodges protest with ICAO over US aggression on passenger plane IRNA 24 Jul 2020 -- Iran lodged protest with International Civil Aviation Organization over the US aggression on Iranian passenger plane, calling for urgent action, Iran's Civil Aviation Organization said on Friday.
Iran strongly reacts to threatening Mahan Air passenger plane by US military jets IRNA 24 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi has said that investigations are underway about an incident on Thursday night in which two American jets threatened an Iranian passenger jet on the Syrian air.
Intercepting Iran's Airliner Elicits Questions By Public, Threats By Officials Radio Farda 24 Jul 2020 -- Controversy surrounding reports of an Iranian airliner being intercepted by U.S. fighter jets over Syria on Thursday, 23 July continued on Friday with many questions raised that have yet to be answered.
Iran's IRGC Highlights Role As Judicial Enforcer With New Arrests, Business Closures Radio Farda 24 Jul 2020 -- Revolutionary Guard and the Judiciary in separate statements Thursday announced that the Intelligence Unit of the Guards has arrested several officials of an industrial company in Alborz Province and has shut down fifty real estate agencies in various cities of Yazd Province.
Iran Central Bank Spent Nearly $1 Billion Recent Days To Support Falling Currency Radio Farda 24 Jul 2020 -- Figures released by Central Bank Of Iran (CBI) show that during four days since July 18, it injected $921 million into the foreign exchange market to boost the country's currency against the U.S. dollar.
Canada Says Preliminary Analysis Of Data From Downed Ukrainian Airliner Is Complete RFE/RL 24 Jul 2020 -- International investigators in France have completed the download and preliminary analysis of data from the black boxes recovered from the Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) jet shot down by Iran in January, killing all 176 people on board.
International Team Completes Analysis of Ukrainian Jet Shot Down by Iran VOA 24 Jul 2020 -- An international team has completed a preliminary investigative analysis of the black boxes from a Ukrainian passenger jetliner accidentally shot down by Iran in January, Canada's Transportation Safety Board said Thursday.
Iran Parliament Decision To Distribute $600 Million 'Free Asphalt' Ticket To Corruption Radio Farda 23 Jul 2020 -- Critics say the ratification of a controversial motion by Iran's hardliner-dominated parliament that obligates the government to distribute free asphalt (Bitumen) worth around $600 million to contractors will lead to massive corruption.
Official: 221 more Iranians die from COVID-19 over past 24 hours IRNA 23 Jul 2020 -- Some 221 people in Iran have died as a result of the coronavirus disease over the past 24 hours, Iranian Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Thursday.
Iran says indigenous COVID-19 vaccine passes initial tests "successfully" People's Daily 23 Jul 2020 -- Iran's health minister said that a vaccine for the novel coronavirus developed by the Iranian scientists has "successfully" passed the initial tests, Tasnim news agency reported on Thursday.
Spanish Officials Say Anti-Corruption Party Received Money From Iran Radio Farda 23 Jul 2020 -- Spain's El Mundo on Thursday reported that the Economic and Fiscal Crime Division of the Spanish Police (UDEF) has announced that between 2012 and 2015 the media company belonging to Pablo Iglesias, the leader of the leftist, anti-corruption Podemos Party, received more than nine million euros from Iran through other companies.
Iraq to soon begin construction work on railway link to Iran: Iraqi official Press TV 23 Jul 2020 -- A senior Iraqi official says that work for a key rail link connecting the country to the neighboring Iran will begin in the very near future.
Iran's Sidewinder air-to-air missiles can now travel 12 miles: Senior cmdr. Press TV 23 Jul 2020 -- The deputy commander of the Iranian Army's Air Force has highlighted the country's progress in developing air-launched missiles, saying the Islamic Republic has successfully extended the range of its Sidewinder air-to-air missiles to 12 miles.
Iran says recent fires have nothing to do with cyber attacks Press TV 23 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman has rejected claims that recent fires in Iran were caused by cyber attacks, but said the country reserves the right to deliver a "proper" response to any such operation in the future.
Iran dismisses media hype on fire-cyberattack relation IRNA 23 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi on Thursday dismissed the media hype on the relationship between the recent fire incidents and cyberattacks against the country.
US Democratic Party Rules Out Regime Change In Iran And Supports Nuclear Deal Radio Farda 23 Jul 2020 -- The Iran policy part of a new draft of Democratic Party's 2020 platform which calls for "a responsible end to forever wars" has received mixed reactions in the United States and worried some in Israel, while politicians in Iran have remained silent about It.
US turned into rogue state after leaving Iran nuclear deal: Zarif Press TV 23 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohmmad Javad Zarif says the US has turned into a "rogue" country after leaving the 2015 multilateral nuclear deal in defiance of international law and re-imposing economic sanctions against the Islamic Republic.
Iran starts pipe-laying for longest subsea gas artery Press TV 23 Jul 2020 -- An Iranian contractor has started laying pipes for a long underwater gas transfer project connecting the Kish Island in the Persian Gulf to the country's national gas network.
Iran Central Bank Spent Nearly $1 Billion Recent Days To Support Falling Currency Radio Farda 23 Jul 2020 -- Figures released by Central Bank Of Iran (CBI) show that during four days since July 18, it injected $921 million into the foreign exchange market to boost the country's currency against the U.S. dollar.
Iran's Deteriorating Economy, Raging Coronavirus Have Raised Fears Of Renewed Street Protests RFE/RL 22 Jul 2020 -- A provocative street protest in southwestern Iran last week that was critical of the Islamic establishment has many predicting more demonstrations are coming amid the country's faltering economy and anger over the handling of the coronavirus pandemic.
WHO delivers 16 CT scan machines to assist Iran in combating COVID-19 IRNA 22 Jul 2020 -- The World Health Organization (WHO) has delivered 16 CT scan machines to strengthen Iran's emergency response to COVID-19.
Official: COVID-19 kills 219 more in Iran IRNA 22 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Wednesday that some 219 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 14,853.
Tehran Continues Its Terror Campaign In Europe - Will Europeans Respond? Radio Farda 22 Jul 2020 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran is waging an assassination campaign in Europe to silence its critics and pressure European governments to adopt conciliatory measures. The uptick should serve as a wakeup call. Amid popular unrest in Iran and the possibility of a "snapback" of UN sanctions, violence has become an even more attractive tool for a desperate regime. European governments are afraid to get tough on the Islamic Republic, lest they jeopardize the 2015 nuclear deal, yet passivity only encourages more violence.
Iran finalizes deals to rehabilitate, develop Iraq's power grid Press TV 22 Jul 2020 -- Iran and Iraq have finalized two agreements to rehabilitate and develop the Arab country's power grid, IRNA news agency on Wednesday cited Iranian Energy Minister Reza Ardakanian as saying.
Army Cmdr: Iran's defense keeps growing in all areas IRNA 22 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Army Commander Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said on Wednesday that Iran is up-to-date in the field of defense and is ready to fight against all threats.
Iran Has Started Development of Heavy Fighter Jet, Senior Commander Says Sputnik 22 Jul 2020 -- At the moment, the Islamic Republic's Air Force is equipped with dozens of Russian, American, Chinese and French-made combat jets, with part of this inventory inherited from the Shah's regime after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, and the rest purchased in the 1990s, 2000s and 2010s, before the introduction of the United Nations arms embargo.
Key Lawmaker: Blast In Iran's Enrichment Site Was Due To Security Breach Radio Farda 22 Jul 2020 -- A member of the Iranian Parliament's National Security Committee says the blast at Iran's main nuclear establishment in Natanz on July 2 was caused by a "security breach".
Assassination of General Soleimani flagrant violation of Iraq sovereignty: Speaker IRNA 22 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf in a tweet on Wednesday reiterated that assassination of anti-terror commander Lieutenant General Qasem Soleimani is a flagrant breach of Iraq sovereignty.
Iran to strike back at U.S. over assassination of General: Supreme Leader ISNA 22 Jul 2020 -- The Prime Minister of Iraq, Mustafa al-Kadhimi met with the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.
Iran's top security official: Harsher revenge awaits perpetrators of Gen. Soleimani's assassination Press TV 22 Jul 2020 -- Iran's top security official says harsher revenge awaits the perpetrators of the attack that killed senior Iranian anti-terrorism commander Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani and his companions.
Iran Urges Iraq to 'Vigorously Pursue' Justice in Soleimani Assassination Case Sputnik 22 Jul 2020 -- Iranian authorities have already issued an arrest warrant against US President Donald Trump and three dozen other alleged conspirators in the plot to kill senior Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani. Interpol has said it would refuse a red notice request for Trump, citing the case's "political" nature.
Iran, Russia to devise long-term strategic cooperation agreement: FM Zarif Press TV 22 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says Tehran and Moscow have agreed to devise and conclude a long-term strategic cooperation agreement.
Zarif says delivered 'important' message to Putin, agreed on strategic cooperation deal Press TV 22 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says he has delivered an "important" message from Iran's President Hassan Rouhani to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, adding that Tehran and Moscow agreed to finalize a long-term comprehensive deal on strategic cooperation.
Body of Judge Found Dead In Romania Repatriated To Iran Along With Report Radio Farda 22 Jul 2020 -- A website close to Iran's Supreme National Security Council reported Wednesday that the body of Judge Gholamreza Mansouri who was found dead in Bucharest last month was delivered to Iran on Tuesday.
Iran Lawmakers Appoint Controversial Ahmadinejad Ally To Head Court Of Audit Radio Farda 22 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Parliament on Wednesday elected a controversial politician known as an associate of the former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as the new head of its supervisory arm, the Supreme Court of Audit.
Ukraine Rejects 'Human Error' As Iran's Explanation For Downing Jetliner Radio Farda 22 Jul 2020 -- Dmytro Kuleba, the Foreign Minister of Ukraine, on Tuesday said Iranian representatives have promised to visit Ukraine till the end of next week to discuss compensations for the downing of its airliner in January.
Top Official Claims Part Of Iran's 'Blocked' Funds Are Freed To Be Used For Imports Radio Farda 22 Jul 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani's Chief of Staff announced July 21 the "release of blocked Iranian financial assets" in some countries and maintained that these resources would be used for international payments.
Iran Planning to Lever Financial Assets Held Abroad to Balance Own Currency Rate Sputnik 22 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian government has unveiled plans to use foreign currency reserve assets abroad for balancing domestic exchange rates, which have experienced extreme volatility over the past week, President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday.
UN Experts Urge Immediate Release Of Iranian Human Rights Defender With COVID-19 Symptoms RFE/RL 22 Jul 2020 -- A group of UN human rights experts has called on Iran to immediately release imprisoned human rights activist Narges Mohammadi, who has reportedly been suffering from symptoms of COVID-19 -- the illness caused by the new coronavirus -- "before it is too late."
Iran urged to release rights activist with COVID-19 symptoms 'before it is too late' UN News 22 Jul 2020 -- A group of independent UN human rights experts has called for Iran to urgently release an activist who reportedly is ill with COVID-19 symptoms "before it is too late".
Iran's Zarif Offers A New Long-Term Cooperation Agreement To Russia Radio Farda 21 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says extending Tehran-Moscow 20-year cooperation agreement is on the Islamic Republic's agenda.
Extending Iranian Arms Embargo Will Destroy Nuclear Deal, Foreign Minister Zarif Warns Sputnik 21 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif left Tehran earlier today to hold talks with Russia's top diplomat Sergei Lavrov in Moscow on the 2015 nuclear deal, bilateral relations, and the crisis in Syria.
Official: COVID-19 kills 229 more in Iran IRNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Tuesday that some 229 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 14,634.
Syria's air defenses respond to Israeli missile attack over Damascus Global Times 21 Jul 2020 -- The Syrian air defenses responded to an Israeli missile attack over the capital Damascus on Monday evening, state news agency SANA reported.
Syrian Media: Israeli Airstrikes Kill 5 Pro-Iranian Fighters VOA 21 Jul 2020 -- Syrian state media reports say Israel carried out airstrikes in Syria near Damascus Monday for the first time in several weeks, targeting Iranian-linked sites and killing at least five Iranian-backed fighters. Israel has not confirmed it was behind the airstrikes, which come after a series of explosions in Iran itself over the past few weeks. While Israel may not have been responsible for all of the attacks in Iran – some observers in Israel argue Iran could strike Israel as a way of diverting attention from sanctions and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Some 1,044 centrifuges enrich uranium at Fordow IRNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Spokesman of Majlis National Security and Foreign Policy Commission said on Monday that some 1,044 centrifuges are enriching uranium at Ahmadi-Rowshan Nuclear Site in Fordow.
Lavrov hails Iran-Russia cooperation deal as significant IRNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Tuesday said that the agreement signed on the basis of mutual relations and principles of cooperation between Iran and the Russia is an important deal which determines shape of bilateral relations and the principles of interaction as the key areas are mentioned in the document.
FM Zarif: Iran-Russia ties at highest level IRNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zaif said that the relations between Iran and Russia today have the strongest status compared to the previous decades, and the two sides hope to bolster such relations to the highest level possible.
Russia trying hard to maintain JCPOA, Lavrov says IRNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stressed that Moscow is working hard to maintain the nuclear deal between Iran and the six world powers, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which the US unilaterally withdrew from.
FM Zarif: Renewing Iran's 20-year agreement with Russia on agenda IRNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Tuesday described Iran's relations with Russia as strategic, adding that he is going to discuss the renewal of a 20-year agreement with Russia during his visit to Moscow.
Iran interested in buying new Russian weapons: ambassador to Moscow ISNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Iran is interested in buying new Russian weapons to enhance its defense capacities, Iranian ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali said in an interview with the Kommersant daily.
Strong Iran-Russia ties guarantee global peace, security: FM Zarif Press TV 21 Jul 2020 -- Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says Iran-Russia relations are at their strongest in decades, adding that such sustainable ties will benefit both countries and guarantee global peace and security.
Extension of 20-year Iran-Russia cooperation deal on agenda of talks: Zarif in Moscow Press TV 21 Jul 2020 -- In Moscow, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says extending a 20-year cooperation agreement with Russia, which will expire next year, is on the agenda of talks between the two countries.
US's Pompeo repeats widely-disregarded appeal for arms embargo on Iran Press TV 21 Jul 2020 -- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has repeated a widely-disregarded call for the extension of an arms embargo on Iran that is due to expire in a matter of months under an international deal with Tehran, even though a US attempt at the United Nations (UN) to have that embargo extended is most likely to fail.
Leader: Iran to deal US 'counterblow' for Gen. Soleimani's assassination Press TV 21 Jul 2020 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says Iran will never forget Washington's assassination in Iraq of Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani and will definitely deliver a "counterblow" to the United States.
Khamenei Tells Iraqi PM: 'We Will Strike Back At US' For Soleimani's 'Assassination' Radio Farda 21 Jul 2020 -- In his first public meeting since the onset of the coronavirus crisis in February, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei met with Iraq's visiting Prime Minister Mostafa Al-Kadhimi in Tehran on Tuesday July 21.
Rouhani: Iraq PM visit to Iran milestone in bilateral ties Press TV 21 Jul 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani says the visit to Iran by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi – the latter's first foreign trip in the capacity – will serve as a "milestone" in bilateral ties between the two neighbors.
Iraqi PM in Tehran for high-level talks on first foreign visit Press TV 21 Jul 2020 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi is in Iran's capital Tehran for high-level talks with senior Iranian officials.
Iraqi Prime Minister Arrives In Iran For First Official Visit Radio Farda 21 Jul 2020 -- Iraq's new prime minister who arrived in Tehran on Tuesday for his first official visit abroad is scheduled to meet with the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Seoul Summons Iran Envoy Over Tehran's Threat And 'Inappropriate' Remark Radio Farda 21 Jul 2020 -- Iran's ambassador to Seoul was summoned to the South Korean foreign ministry on Tuesday to lodge a protest over the Iranian threat to sue Seoul over frozen assets and calling the Korea-U.S. relationship one of "master and servant".
Part of Iran's frozen funds released in several countries: Vaezi IRNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Head of Presidential Office Mahmoud Vaezi said on Tuesday that parts of Iran's frozen funds in several countries have been released, noting that the amount will be used in the remittances section of the Central Bank of Iran to address the concerns and problems of importers.
Iran's Rial Gains 10 Percent As Government Pumps $300 Million Into Market Radio Farda 21 Jul 2020 -- Iran's national currency gained 10 percent of its value back on Monday after several deep plunges in the past few days following the injection of $300 million into the market for businesses seeking imports.
Iran's rial recouping losses as government collects more export cash Press TV 21 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian national currency rial keeps recouping losses suffered because of the coronavirus pandemic and the continued pressure of US sanctions on the economy.
US Allows Iran To Use Financial Channel For Humanitarian Aid -Iran Official Radio Farda 21 Jul 2020 -- Chairman of Iran's Red Crescent Society (IRCS) Karim Hemmati on Monday announced that the United States has allowed the launch of a financial channel for transfer of international humanitarian aid to Iran.
Analysis of Ukrainian plane black boxes underway in France IRNA 21 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Embassy in France announced that analyzing data of the crashed Ukrainian plane black boxes will start in laboratory of the Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety on Tuesday.
Iran's Judiciary Dismisses Online Campaign To Stop Executions Radio Farda 21 Jul 2020 -- Reacting to more than 11 million tweets calling for an end to executions in Iran, the Islamic Republic Judiciary spokesman has said, "We are not obliged to listen to the counter-revolutionaries, aggressive opposition movements and the media empire."
Iran's Hardliner Watchdog Aims To Expand Power Over Parliament Radio Farda 21 Jul 2020 -- The Secretary of The Islamic Republic's hardliner-dominated Guardian Council (GC), ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, has called for expanding the already powerful body's authority.
Well-Connected Suspects In Large Corruption Cases In Iran Are Often Off The Hook Radio Farda 21 Jul 2020 -- One of the suspects in a major financial corruption case in Iran has gone "missing," the Young Journalists Club, an Iranian state TV affiliate, revealed on Tuesday July 21.
UN issues $10.3 billion coronavirus appeal and warns of the price of inaction IRNA 20 Jul 2020 -- The UN's Humanitarian Chief, Mark Lowcock, has called on G20 nations to act now or face a series of human tragedies more brutal and destructive than the direct health impacts of the virus as he released an updated US$10.3 billion appeal to fight the coronavirus in low-income and fragile countries.
Official: COVID-19 kills 217 more in Iran IRNA 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Monday that some 217 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 14,405.
Iranian Government Releases About 36,000 Prisoners as Part of Fight Against COVID-19 Sputnik 20 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian authorities have released about 36,000 inmates as part of a new phase of the fight against the spread of COVID-19 in the country's prisons, Iranian prison service chief Mohammad Mehdi Haj-Mohammadi said on Monday.
Argentina's Jewish Community Calls For Action Against Iran, Hezbollah For 1994 Bombing Radio Farda 20 Jul 2020 -- Days before the 26th anniversary of the Buenos Aires AMIA Jewish center bombing that killed 85 in 1994, Jewish community leaders called for international action against the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Lebanese Hezbollah.
Iran hails 'successful' parliamentary elections in Syria, hopes for peace, stability Press TV 20 Jul 2020 -- The spokesman of Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has hailed the successful parliamentary elections in Syria, expressing hope that the vote would pave the way for the promotion of peace and stability in the war-ravaged country.
IRGC self-sufficient in production of helicopter parts: Chief commander Press TV 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has become self-sufficient in the production of helicopter parts and overhauling various types of the aircraft, says the commander-in-chief of the IRGC.
Open Letter By Diaspora Iranians To Biden Urges Vigilance Radio Farda 20 Jul 2020 -- A group of diaspora Iranians and two opposition groups released "an open letter" to the Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden Monday appealing to him to take steps against Iran's "human rights violation" and "global terrorism networks".
Despite its intl. obligation, US still violates UNSC Resolution 2231: Iran diplomat Press TV 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran's permanent ambassador to the United Nations says despite its international obligation to abide by resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council, the United States is still in violation of the world body's Resolution 2231, which endorses a landmark nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.
Iran Official Says Natanz Explosion Different From Other Recent Incidents Radio Farda 20 Jul 2020 -- The Head of Iran's Passive Defense Organization on Sunday said the incident at Natanz nuclear facilities is different from other recent explosions and fires in Iran none of which according to him is "security-related".
Two More Fires In Iran Raise Questions Again About Possible Sabotage Radio Farda 20 Jul 2020 -- Two more mysterious fires in Iran on Sunday, July 19 have once again raised questions about similar recent incidents, including a suspected explosion and fire at the uranium enrichment facility at Natanz.
China, Iran Approach Major Accord Amid Deteriorating US-China Relations VOA 20 Jul 2020 -- Beijing is reported to be in the final stages of approving a $400 billion economic and security deal with Tehran, which some analysts say could give China a vast and secure source of energy and a strategic foothold in the Gulf.
Canada says black boxes of downed Ukrainian plane arrive in Paris Press TV 20 Jul 2020 -- Canada's foreign minister says the black boxes of a Ukrainian plane that crashed in Iran in January has arrived in France for analysis.
ICAO: Decoding black boxes of Ukrainian plane starts in France IRNA 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) announced on Monday that the process of decoding black box of Ukrainian plane (PS752) started in France.
Ukraine Welcomes Iranian Handover Of Flight Recorders As Data Extraction Begins RFE/RL 20 Jul 2020 -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has welcomed Iran's handover to France of the flight recorders from a Ukrainian airliner that was downed shortly after taking off from Tehran on January 8.
Downed Ukrainian Airline's Flight Data Recorders in France for Analysis VOA 20 Jul 2020 -- Canada's Foreign Minister François-Philippe Champagne said the flight data recorders from a Ukrainian passenger plane downed by an Iranian missile are in Paris where they are expected to be taken to France's Civil Aviation Safety Investigation Authority for analysis Monday.
Iran increases oil output from western Karoun joint oilfields by 330,000 IRNA 20 Jul 2020 -- Oil Minister Bijan Zanganeh announced an increase of 330,000 barrels of oil production from the western Karoun fields over the past seven years.
Iran expected to produce 2.7bn more barrels of oil from shared Azadegan Field: Minister IRNA 20 Jul 2020 -- With a 10% increase in extraction rate from the shared field of South Azadegan, Iran is expected to produce some 2.7 billion more barrels of oil amounted to dlrs one trillion, Petroleum Minister Bijan Zangeneh said on Monday.
Iran signs deal to develop South Azadegan oilfield Press TV 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran has awarded a contract to a local company for development of one of its largest oilfields, a sign its oil industry would continue to expand despite US sanctions.
Oil Minister Says Foreign Countries Refusing To Sign Agreements With Iran Radio Farda 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Oil Minister on Monday told reporters that all foreign countries are now refusing to sign agreements with Iran in all areas due to the U.S. sanctions and are even discontinuing existing contracts.
Iran always prepared for dialog with regional states: Foreign Ministry Press TV 20 Jul 2020 -- The Foreign Ministry says Iran is always prepared for dialog with the countries of the region, considering negotiation to be the sole way out of existing differences among regional states.
Iran Security Official Says 'Instigators Of Protests In Behbahan' Arrested Radio Farda 20 Jul 2020 -- The Security Chief of Iran's oil-rich Khuzestan Province on Sunday said all of the individuals that he called "instigators of the protest rally in Behbahan on July 16" have been arrested.
Man spying for CIA/Mossad put to death IRNA 20 Jul 2020 -- Mahmoud Mousavi Majd who was linked with CIA and Mossad and has provided them with intelligence from security bodies, especially armed forces including the IRGC was executed on Monday morning.
Mahmoud Mousavi Majd spying for CIA, Mossad executed ISNA 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Judiciary announced that Mahmoud Mousavi Majd who was linked with CIA and Mossad and has provided them with intelligence from security bodies, especially armed forces including the IRGC was executed on Monday morning.
Iran executes US, Israeli agent who spied on General Soleimani Press TV 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran says it has executed a CIA and Mossad agent, who had been convicted of espionage for US and Israeli spying agencies, including the exposing of top anti-terror commander Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani's whereabouts to them.
Iran Executes Man Charged With 'Spying', Defying Popular Call To Stop Executions Radio Farda 20 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian Judiciary has announced on Monday July 20 that Mahmoud Mousavi Majd, a young man who was in jail on charges of "spying for the CIA and Mossad" has been executed.
Iran Executes Man Convicted Of Giving U.S. Information On Soleimani RFE/RL 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran's judiciary says the country has executed a man convicted of providing information to the United States and Israel about a top Iranian commander later killed by a U.S. drone strike in Iraq.
Iran Executes Man Accused of Spying for US, Israel VOA 20 Jul 2020 -- Iran's judiciary says a former translator Monday, whom the government accused of spying for U.S. and Israeli intelligence, and of helping to locate Revolutionary Guards commander Qassem Soleimani has been executed. Soleimani was killed in an America drone attack earlier this year.
Senior Health Official Rejects Government's Possible 'Herd Immunity' Policy In Iran Radio Farda 19 Jul 2020 -- A senior member of the National Coronavirus Combat Taskforce has reacted to the possible adoption of "herd immunity policy" by the government of President Hassan Rouhani, saying it is "inefficient".
Iran's president says 25 mln Iranians infected with COVID-19 Global Times 19 Jul 2020 -- Some 25 million people in Iran have so far contracted the novel coronavirus, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday.
Official: COVID-19 kills 209 more in Iran IRNA 19 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Sunday that some 209 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 14,188.
Iranian Health Officials Play Down President's '25 Million Infected' Estimate RFE/RL 19 Jul 2020 -- Iranian health officials have tried to play down President Hassan Rohani's estimate that as many as 25 million Iranians could have been infected with the coronavirus since the beginning of the outbreak.
Taliban have no office in Iran: Deputy foreign minister Press TV 19 Jul 2020 -- The Taliban militant group has no office in the Islamic Republic, says Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, rejecting reports claiming otherwise.
Encouraging sabotage in Iran can ignite full range escalation, Tehran warns Press TV 19 Jul 2020 -- Tehran's UN Mission has denounced a Bloomberg article that has praised the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientists and encouraged sabotage in the country's infrastructure, warning against "barbaric" measures that can spark a full range escalation.
Explosion At Iranian Power Plant, No Casualties Reported RFE/RL 19 Jul 2020 -- The official IRNA news agency has reported an explosion at a power plant in Iran's central Isfahan Province, but says there were no casualties.
Explosion Hits Central Iranian Power Plant Few Weeks After Natanz Nuclear Site Blast Sputnik 19 Jul 2020 -- The blast occurred a few weeks after an explosion ripped through Iran's Natanz facility for enriching uranium, in an incident that was reportedly caused by a bomb.
President Rouhani says Iran able to pass through tough times IRNA 19 Jul 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Sunday that the important thing is that Iran has the ability to pass through the hard times despite all the obstacles and complexities.
Devaluation Of Iran's Currency Accelerates With Dollar Hitting 260,000 Rials Radio Farda 19 Jul 2020 -- The devaluation of Iran's currency has dramatically accelerated in recent days with the rial hitting an all-time low of 260,000 against the U.S. dollar on Sunday, an almost 10,000 rial drop in one day.
Tehran Factory Closes As City Seeks To Buy Metro Wagons From China In Return For Oil Radio Farda 19 Jul 2020 -- A company producing wagons for the subway in Tehran and other major Iranian cities has shut down due to delay in a government contract, while the cash-strapped municipal authorities try to secure the purchase of 630 wagons from China in return for oil.
Lawmaker Says Giving Control Of Iran Islands To China Scrapped After Popular Outcry Radio Farda 19 Jul 2020 -- A hardliner member of Iran's parliament, Majles, has said that he believes "transferring full authority of Iranian islands to China" was included in a proposed 25-year comprehensive cooperation agreement with China.
Iran Supreme Court Puts Death Sentences On Hold, Calls For New Investigation Radio Farda 19 Jul 2020 -- In what has been perceived as a victory for the social media campaign against capital punishment in Iran, the country's Supreme Court has ruled to reconsider the death sentences issued for three young political activists.
Iran Suspends Execution Of Three Protesters RFE/RL 19 Jul 2020 -- Iran has suspended the execution of three men linked to anti-government protests in November 2019, one of their lawyers says.
Iraqi Kurdistan no staging ground for anti-Iran attacks: Barzani Press TV 19 Jul 2020 -- Senior Kurdish political leader Masoud Barzani has given Iran an assurance that the Iraqi Kurdistan region will never be used to threaten the Islamic Republic's interests.
Iran, Iraq call for respecting nat'l sovereignty IRNA 19 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and Speaker of Iraq's Council of Representatives Mohamed al-Halbousi in a meeting on Sunday emphasized respecting Iraq's national sovereignty.
Iranian FM, PMU chief review recent issues in region IRNA 19 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and the chairman of Hashd al-Shaabi, aka Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), Falih al-Fayyadh met to examine the recent regional developments, as well as issues of mutual interest.
Zarif says Iran, Iraq should get prepared against terrorist threats IRNA 19 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Sunday that Iran and Iraq should get prepared against security threats, including the threats posed by terrorist groups such as Daesh.
Iran, Iraq FMs hold talks in Baghdad ISNA 19 Jul 2020 -- Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Mohammad Javad Zarif and his Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein held two rounds of meetings in Baghdad on Sunday.
FM Zarif in Iraq to discuss regional security, US assassination of Gen. Soleimani Press TV 19 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has traveled to Baghdad ahead of Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi's visit to Tehran on his first foreign trip.
Zarif Arrives In Baghdad Two Days Before Iraqi Premier's Visit To Tehran Radio Farda 19 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has arrived in Baghdad for a visit weeks after a new prime minister was appointed in Iraq, who seems to have a tougher stance toward Iran's proxy militias is scheduled to visit Tehran on July 21.
Iran's Zarif In Baghdad As Iraq Seeks To Balance Regional Ties RFE/RL 19 Jul 2020 -- Iran's foreign minister has held a series of meetings with top officials in Baghdad as Iraq's new prime minister seeks to balance complex regional ties.
Cleric Says Ahmadinejad 'Begging' To See Khamenei But Has Been Rebuffed Radio Farda 18 Jul 2020 -- A former advisor to Iran's ex-president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says the Supreme Leader's office has refused requests by Ahmadinejad to meet with Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Official: COVID-19 kills 188 more in Iran IRNA 18 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Saturday that some 188 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 13,979.
Rouhani urges massive efforts to break chain of COVID-19 spread IRNA 18 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Saturday urged massive efforts by both the public and the Government to break the chain of COVID-19 spread by observing precautionary measures and personal care.
30-35 million Iranians likely to be exposed to coronavirus in coming months: President Rouhani ISNA 18 Jul 2020 -- Iran's President described using masks, observing physical distancing and avoiding gatherings along with strict observance of health protocols as a great contribution to the health of the society and the process of fighting coronavirus, and stressed that we will undoubtedly win this battle.
Iranians can break outbreak chain by observing health guidelines Press TV 18 Jul 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani says has called on all Iranians to join hands and break the chain of the outbreak by observing health guidelines.
Rouhani Says 35 Million More People In Iran Could Become Infected With Coronavirus Radio Farda 18 Jul 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani citing a health ministry report said on Saturday that 30-35 million more Iranians, out of a population of 82 million, could become infected with the coronavirus.
Rohani Says An Estimated 25 Million Iranians Infected With Coronavirus RFE/RL 18 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani on July 18 estimated that as many as 25 million Iranians could have been infected with the coronavirus since the beginning of the outbreak, as he urged the public to take the pandemic seriously.
Will World Powers Manage A Compromise Over Iran Arms Embargo? Radio Farda 18 Jul 2020 -- Precisely three months from now, the international arms embargo on Iran will expire, a development that Washington strongly opposes and attempts to block through all available diplomatic means.
EU's Borrell vows full work to preserve Iran nuclear deal Press TV 18 Jul 2020 -- The high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy has once again stressed the importance of preserving a 2015 nuclear deal signed between Iran and major world powers, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, pledging to work with other relevant parties to that effect.
Israeli Media Reports Claim Huge Explosion Occurred at Iranian Oil Pipeline Sputnik 18 Jul 2020 -- At the beginning of July, an explosion occurred at the country's Natanz nuclear facility, which an anonymous Middle Eastern intelligence official blamed on Israel. In an interview with The New York Times, the man claimed that Tel Aviv had planted a powerful bomb at the site.
Iran plans new phase at sprawling PGSGCR refinery: Contractor Press TV 18 Jul 2020 -- Iran is planning to build out its largest gasoline refinery located south of the country on the coasts of the Persian Gulf, says a contractor.
Iran seizes back oil tanker hit by US sanctions; vessel anchored off Iranian coast Press TV 18 Jul 2020 -- Iran has successfully retaken an oil tanker wanted by the United States for allegedly skirting sanctions on the Islamic Republic, and now the vessel is located off the coast of the country near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Iran Spokesman Says 'Stop Execution' Hashtag Was 'A Straightforward Demand' By Public Radio Farda 18 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian government has for the first time reacted to the "Stop Executions in Iran" hashtag that has been used by more than 10 million Twitter users since Wednesday evening July 15.
Long-term co-op between Iran, China a right, wise decision: Gharibabadi ISNA 18 Jul 2020 -- Ambassador and permanent representative of Iran to the International Organizations in Vienna, Kazem Gharib-Abadi stressed on Saturday that the US and its allies opposition shows that entering long-term bilateral and strategic cooperation with China is a right and wise decision.
Iran Sends Downed Ukrainian Plane's Black Box To France Radio Farda 18 Jul 2020 -- Six months after downing an airliner, Iran says that it has sent the aircraft's black box to France on Friday July 17.
Iran Sends Black Boxes Of Downed Ukrainian Airliner To France For Analysis RFE/RL 18 Jul 2020 -- Iran has sent the black boxes of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752, which crashed shortly after takeoff in Tehran on January 8 after being struck by two missiles, killing 176 people.
Iran Sends Crashed Ukrainian Jet's Black Box to France, Diplomat Says Sputnik 18 Jul 2020 -- A black box from a Ukrainian plane downed near Tehran in January has been sent to France for reading, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Mohsen Baharvand said Saturday.
Covid-19 kills 183 more Iranians over past 24 hours: Official IRNA 17 Jul 2020 -- Some 183 people in Iran have died as a result of the coronavirus disease over the past 24 hours bringing the total death toll to 13,791, Iranian Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Friday.
Tehran Consolidates Hardline Gains At Home While COVID-19 Spreads Radio Farda 17 Jul 2020 -- Iran experienced its highest-ever record of coronavirus-related deaths in just one day earlier this month, bringing the official number of reported deaths since late February to more than 13,000. These deaths follow a widely reported second peak of confirmed coronavirus infections from early June. Despite this trend, as well as Iran's status as a regional hub for the virus, the Islamic Republic has not used the pandemic as an opportunity to moderate its behavior or improve the function of government at home.
CIA conducted cyber attacks against Iran after secret Trump order in 2018: Report Press TV 17 Jul 2020 -- The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) conducted a series of covert cyber operations against Iran and other targets after US President Donald Trump issued a secret order in 2018 giving the agency power to undertake such activities, according to a report.
Iran Military Insists Only Eight Servicemen Killed In All Israeli Air Raids In Syria Radio Farda 17 Jul 2020 -- The senior spokesman of Iran's Armed Forces has insisted that only eight Iranian servicemen have been killed in Israeli airstrikes against Iranian military bases in Syria in recent years.
Iran Vows To 'Deal Decisively' With Protests RFE/RL 17 Jul 2020 -- Iran has vowed to "deal decisively" with further protests, a day after police fired tear gas to disperse antiestablishment demonstrators in the southwestern city of Behbahan.
Police Chief In Iran Threatens Protesters With 'Forceful' Crackdown Radio Farda 17 Jul 2020 -- The police chief in Behbahan, a southwestern Iranian city where the first of what appears to be a new round of protests took place Thursday evening, says security forces used their "might" to disperse the protesters.
Hundreds Of Iranian Political Activists Urge Chief Justice To Free Prisoners With COVID Radio Farda 17 Jul 2020 -- In a letter to Chief Justice Ebrahim Raeesi on Wednesday, nearly five hundred political activists living in Iran and in exile abroad have urged him to order the release of prisoners infected with the coronavirus, including the prominent human rights activist Narges Mohammadi.
Tehran warns Seoul over 'unacceptable' freezing of Iranian oil money Press TV 17 Jul 2020 -- Iran has issued an official warning to the "rude" government of South Korea over its "unacceptable" and "unjustifiable" move to block the Islamic Republic's oil money.
European Aviation Agency Warns Airliners Of Risks Flying Over Iran Radio Farda 17 Jul 2020 -- The European Aviation Safety Agency has warned airliners flying over Iran of the danger of being accidentally targeted by Iran's anti-aircraft defense system, seven months after a Ukrainian jetliner was shot down over Tehran.
IRGC arrests counter-revolutionary elements in NE Iran IRNA 17 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) on Friday announced that a number of counter-revolutionary and violence-seeking stooges have been arrested in northeastern Iran.
Iran dismantles MKO terrorist team in Fars province IRNA 17 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) identified and dismantled a terrorist team of the terrorist Mujahedin-e-Khalq Organization (MKO) in Shiraz, Fars province.
US, Allies Fear Lifting of Arms Embargo Could Embolden Iran, Its Proxies VOA 16 Jul 2020 -- The upcoming expiration of an international arms embargo on Iran has left the United States and its allies in the Middle East uneasy, fearing that the seemingly unavoidable outcome in October could lead to a proliferation of weapons in the hands of Iran and its proxy groups across the region.
Protests Break Out In Two Iranian Cities, Internet Disrupted Radio Farda 16 Jul 2020 -- Iranian protesters have taken to the streets in Shiraz and Behbahan as security forces increase their presence on the streets of Tehran and several other cities.
Iran Will Not 'Give Away' Its Soil to China, Or Anyone Else, Zarif Insists Radio Farda 16 Jul 2020 -- Under an incessant barrage of criticism, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has once again defended a draft document called Iran-China 25-year Comprehensive Cooperation Plan.
Belgium To Try Iranian Diplomat Accused Of Planned Terrorist Attack In France Radio Farda 16 Jul 2020 -- A Belgian court on Wednesday ruled that an Iranian diplomat and three others suspected of a planned terrorist attack on a gathering of 25,000 dissidents in Paris in 2018 should be held in Belgium in the coming months.
Coronavirus kills 198 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 16 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Thursday that some 198 more Iranians have died of coronavirus (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total death toll to 13,608.
Lebanon And Its Hezbollah Follow Iran, Hoping For A Chinese Rescue Radio Farda 16 Jul 2020 -- While beating on the drums of war for years by Lebanon's Hezbollah has driven major foreign investors out of Lebanon, the group's leader Hassan Nasrallah has called for turning to China to rescue the country's failing economy.
Iran ready to help Afghan govt. advance national peace process: Deputy FM Press TV 16 Jul 2020 -- A senior Iranian diplomat has expressed the country's readiness to help the Afghan government advance the peace process in the conflict-ridden country.
Iran envoy hails productive talks with counterparts in Vienna IRNA 16 Jul 2020 -- Iran's new ambassador to Austria, Abbas Baqerpour Ardakani, in a message referred to his recent productive meetings with his counterparts in Vienna.
Russia calls for JCPOA parties' unity to save the deal IRNA 16 Jul 2020 -- Russian Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov in a message said Iran nuclear deal will be preserved if all participants are united in this regard.
Possible collapse of JCPOA as "failure of EU values": Iranian envoy People's Daily 16 Jul 2020 -- The world anticipates Europeans to take measures to protect the Iranian nuclear deal, also known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), against its collapse, said an Iranian diplomat.
Iran's president urges end to US unilateralism in talks with Russian counterpart Press TV 16 Jul 2020 -- Iran's president says measures must be taken to oppose US unilateralism, while emphasizing the necessity for preserving the landmark nuclear deal clinched by the Islamic Republic and world powers in 2015.
IAEA Chief Gives Iran Until End Of Month To Grant Access To Suspected Sites Radio Farda 16 Jul 2020 -- The Chief of the U.N. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Wednesday warned Iran of "bad" consequences if access is not granted by the end of July to two sites where undeclared nuclear activities may have taken place in the past.
FM Zarif: Iran-China cooperation plan in negotiation phase IRNA 16 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif underlined that the 25-year cooperation plan between Iran and China is presently in the negotiation phase and waiting for further approvals.
Iran will not give 'even a handspan' of its soil to China, any other country: Zarif Press TV 16 Jul 2020 -- Iran's foreign minister says the Islamic Republic will not cede even "a handspan" of its soil to China or any other country, dismissing rumors and anti-Iran reports that a 25-year agreement with Beijing entails cession of some parts of the Iranian territory to Chinese contractors.
Iran's Currency Falls To A New Low Of 240,000 Against The US Dollar Radio Farda 16 Jul 2020 -- The recent wave of currency devaluation continued in Iran forcing the national rial into a new low of 240,000 against the U.S. dollar on Thursday.
Trump Warns Iran Not to Execute 3 Protesters as Their Lawyers Request Retrial VOA 16 Jul 2020 -- Iranian lawyers representing three men sentenced to death for involvement in antigovernment protests last November say they have asked the judiciary for a retrial of their clients, potentially averting executions that many Iranians and President Donald Trump fear are imminent.
Large Fire Hits Shipyard In Iran's Persian Gulf Port Radio Farda 15 Jul 2020 -- At least seven vessels caught fire in a massive blaze at a shipyard in Bushehr's port in southern Iran, the head of the local Crisis Management Organization disclosed on Wednesday, July 15.
Terrorist attack on coronavirus aid convoy leaves 2 dead in western Iran Press TV 16 Jul 2020 -- A terrorist attack on a coronavirus aid convoy in Iran's western province of Kordestan has left two people dead and one injured.
Official: COVID-19 kills 199 more in Iran IRNA 15 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Wednesday that some 199 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 13,410.
Mosques, Sports Shutting Down Again In Iran's Capital As Pandemic Crisis Deepens Radio Farda 15 Jul 2020 -- The coronavirus pandemic in the Iranian capital Tehran has reached critical levels, spurring health authorities to call for reintroduction of restrictions including a halt in religious gatherings. Iran's daily death toll is now hovering around 200.
Iran Has 'Smart, Pinpoint, Electronic Weapons', is Ready for Wars of the Future, Top Commander Says Sputnik 15 Jul 2020 -- Cut off from its traditional Western arms suppliers following the Iranian Revolution of 1979, Iran has since built up a major domestic defence industry, producing everything from small arms to ballistic and cruise missiles.
Sanctions leave no impact on Iran's defense achievements, defense minister says IRNA 15 Jul 2020 -- Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami said on Tuesday that the Islamic Republic of Iran has always made progress despite sanctions, as they have had no impact on the country's defense accomplishments.
Iranian Port Hit By Fire, Latest In String Of Incidents At Military, Civilian Sites RFE/RL 15 Jul 2020 -- Several vessels caught fire on July 15 at Iran's port of Bushehr on the Persian Gulf, local media reported.
Seven Vessels Reportedly Catch Fire at Bushehr Port in Iran - Videos Sputnik 15 Jul 2020 -- Iran has seen a wave of explosions and fires around its military and industrial facilities since last month.
Iran reaffirms commitment to JCPOA, warns of reciprocity to irresponsible parties IRNA 15 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry on Wednesday reaffirmed commitment to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of action and warned of reciprocity to the irresponsible parties to the international agreement endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2231.
EU foreign policy chief: Preserving JCPOA is urgent need IRNA 15 Jul 2020 -- High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Policy and Security Affairs in his Op-ed underlined the fact that Iran nuclear deal is under pressure, adding that it is urgent need to preserve the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
End of arms embargo an attempt to preserve int'l law, multilateralism, value of int'l pacts: President Rouhani ISNA 15 Jul 2020 -- Iran's President called the end of the arms embargo on Iran a move to protect international law, multilateralism and value international agreements, emphasizing, "Tehran has been closely monitoring developments in this area".
Iran turned tables, proved America to blame in JCPOA case: Rouhani Press TV 15 Jul 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says the country maneuvered with political skill following the United States' withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal to prove that "American lawbreakers" are to blame for any shortfalls with regard to the agreement.
5th JCPOA anniv.: Iran urges European parties not to toe US line Press TV 15 Jul 2020 -- Iran has urged the European parties to the 2015 nuclear deal to live up to their obligations under the agreement, which has been the target of the US's "illegal" and "destructive" moves, stressing Tehran's resolve to take "decisive" action against any "irresponsible behavior" undermining the UN-endorsed document.
Putin and Merkel Say There is 'No Point' in Sanctions Pressure Against Iran - Kremlin Sputnik 15 Jul 2020 -- On Wednesday, Russian president Vladimir Putin and German Chancellor Angela Merkel had a phone conversation, during which they discussed various issues, including resolving the conflict in Ukraine and efforts to maintain the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in relation to Iran's nuclear program.
Kiev disagrees with Iran's theory on Ukrainian jet crash: Ukrainian FM People's Daily 15 Jul 2020 -- Ukraine does not agree with Iran's claim that the downing of the Ukraine International Airlines passenger plane was due to human error, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said Tuesday.
Iran oil revenue dips but future holds bright promises Press TV 15 Jul 2020 -- The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) says Iran's revenue from total crude oil exports and oil products in 2019 was just over $19 billion, less than a third of the previous year.
Rouhani Vows To Stay On As President Despite Pressures By Iran Hardliners Radio Farda 15 Jul 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani Wednesday implicitly rejected any talk of an early departure from his post, promising to remain as president "to the last moment" without paying attention to "controversies".
Iran's Zarif Insists Talks With China Are On Track For 'Strategic Pact' Radio Farda 15 Jul 2020 -- The Islamic Republic and China are holding talks on finalizing their 25-year "Cooperation Roadmap" Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif insisted on Tuesday, July 14.
Spectacle Of Justice: How Iran's Executions Highlight Its Perverse Social System Radio Farda 15 Jul 2020 -- As Sadegh Khalkhali was beginning what would be a long career of executions, he got his hands on Azar, the white horse of Iran's former Shah. In an act of extreme cruelty, he publicly paraded with the horse, then broke his legs, blinded him, cut off his tongue before shooting him through the head. This total disregard for innocent life would follow him through the rest of his career and cast a shameful shadow over Iran's new history of turning executions into a public spectacle. .
Rouhani's Former Aide Reportedly Indicted On Trumped-Up Charges Radio Farda 14 Jul 2020 -- A news website in Iran reported Monday that an indictment has been issued for the former Deputy President for Iran for Women's Affairs, Shahindokht Molaverdi.
Official: COVID-19 kills 179 more in Iran IRNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Tuesday that some 179 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 13,211.
Iran Official Says Those Who Knowingly Spread Coronavirus Must Be Hanged Radio Farda 14 Jul 2020 -- A judicial official in Iran has threatened that knowingly spreading the coronavirus should be punishable by death, based on the Islamic principle of an eye for an eye.
Iranian Rights Activist Says She, Her Cellmates Suffering From COVID-19 Symptoms RFE/RL 14 Jul 2020 -- Imprisoned Iranian human rights activist Narges Mohammadi says she has been suffering from symptoms similar to those of COVID-19 - the illness caused by the coronavirus - including coughs, fatigue, diarrhea, and loss of smell, and has complained that authorities have not released the results of her test.
Zarif slams continuation of cruel blockade in Yemen IRNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said the continuation of aggression and cruel blockade by the Saudi coalition in Yemen and confiscating vessels carrying food and fuel is not acceptable.
Zarif: Iran will keep trying to send Yemen relief aid despite Saudi siege Press TV 14 Jul 2020 -- Despite the ongoing restrictions and setbacks, Iran will keep up its efforts to transfer humanitarian aid to Yemen, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says, denouncing continuation of the Saudi-led war and siege against the impoverished country as "unacceptable."
Iran executes CIA spy; another agent of US, Israel on death row Press TV 14 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian Judiciary says it has executed a former employee of the Defense Ministry convicted of spying for the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and that another agent of American and Israeli spy services is now on death row.
Iran Executes Retired Defense Employee Charged With 'Spying For CIA' Radio Farda 14 Jul 2020 -- Iran says it has executed a retired Ministry of Defense employee on charges of "spying for the CIA," the spokesman for Iran's Judiciary Gholamhossein Esmaili said on Tuesday July 14.
Tehran Says It Has Executed Alleged Iranian Spy For CIA RFE/RL 14 Jul 2020 -- Iran's judiciary says a a former defense ministry worker convicted of selling information to the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has been executed.
Iran's Former Defence Ministry Worker Executed for Allegedly Spying for CIA Sputnik 14 Jul 2020 -- Tehran has executed a former Iranian Defence Ministry official over charges of alleged espionage for the United States' Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaeili said on Tuesday.
Iran Executes Man Convicted of Spying for CIA VOA 14 Jul 2020 -- Iran has executed a former defense ministry employee who was convicted of selling information to the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, Iran's judiciary said Tuesday.
US discredited by JCPOA withdrawal, government spokesman says IRNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Government Spokesman Ali Rabiee blasted the US for its withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and said that Washington has been sidelined in the world by what is had done.
Iran nuclear deal 5th anniv.: EU vows 'to do everything possible' to preserve JCPOA Press TV 14 Jul 2020 -- The European Union (EU) has pledged "to do everything possible" to preserve the landmark nuclear deal signed between Iran and originally six major world powers in 2015.
China: World must stop US push to reinstate Iran sanctions, kill JCPOA Press TV 14 Jul 2020 -- China has reaffirmed its firm support for the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and five other world states, calling on the international community to put pressure on the US – which left the deal in 2018 – to abandon a hostile push to reinstate sanctions against Tehran and deal even more blows to the multilateral accord.
EU foreign policy chief says EU resolved to preserve JCPOA IRNA 14 Jul 2020 -- High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Policy and Security Affairs said in a statement that the EU will do everything possible together with other parties to preserve Iran nuclear deal - the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
US disregard for law, diplomacy threat to own, global security: Iran FM Press TV 14 Jul 2020 -- On the anniversary of the 2015 nuclear deal, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif of Iran draws attention to the US's unilateral withdrawal from the accord in defiance of international law, saying Washington's "contempt for law and diplomacy" poses a security threat both to America itself and the entire world.
Gov't spokesman: Iran considers South Korea's freezing of assets unfriendly IRNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Government spokesman Ali Rabiee said on Tuesday that Iran is not looking for tension with South Korea and South Korea's action to block Iran's property is an unfriendly, destructive, and unconstitutional after over decades of trade between the two countries.
China presents its own draft for 25-year co-op plan based on Iran's draft: Zarif ISNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif announced on Tuesday that Foreign Ministry will form a working committee with the industry commission of the parliament to encourage non-oil exports.
Oman, China cooperating on blocked funds belonging to Iran: Zarif Press TV 14 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif say his department would exhaust all means to have the country's blocked funds released, adding that China and Oman have been the most supportive in this regard.
Rouhani says handling economy with least reliance on oil token of Iran's power in economic war IRNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Iran President Hassan Rouhani said on Tuesday that administering the economy with the least reliance on oil revenues is token of Iran's power in the economic war.
Iran emerged victorious in US economic war by cutting reliance on oil: Rouhani Press TV 14 Jul 2020 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says the country has managed to overcome the US sanctions and emerged victorious in Washington's economic war by cutting reliance on oil revenues.
Iranian President Rouhani Declares Victory in Economic War With US Sputnik 14 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has declared victory in the country's economic war with the United States, adding that Tehran has successfully overcome Washington's sanctions, as reported by domestic media on Tuesday.
Official In Iran Says Sanctions 'Have Broken Economy's Back' Radio Farda 14 Jul 2020 -- A provincial official in Iran has said that ignoring the impact of sanctions on the country's economy is "the wrong approach" and he emphasized that sanctions "have broken the back of the economy."
Iran Drops India From Railway Project As China's Shadow Looms In Background Radio Farda 14 Jul 2020 -- The media in India say Iran has dropped India from a railway project that will connect Chabahar, a would be trading hub in southern Iran to Zahedan, the capital of Sistan-Baluchistan Province.
India fully removed from Iranian railway project: Report Press TV 14 Jul 2020 -- An Indian newspaper says Iran has decided to remove India from a partnership on a key railway project that is being constructed southeast of Iran along the border with Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Spox: China attaches importance to developing ties with Iran IRNA 14 Jul 2020 -- Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying described Iran as a friendly country, saying China attaches importance to deepening relations with Iran.
President Rouhani: Iran to emerge victorious in economic war with US IRNA 14 Jul 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani called for cooperation and solidarity among three branches of government at a time when the people face difficult economic conditions in the wake of sanctions and coronavirus pandemic, and said that victory is near in the economic war that the US has started against Iran.
Media Report: US Frees Convicted Terror Financier as Part of Deal with Iran VOA 13 Jul 2020 -- A Lebanese businessman, who pleaded guilty in 2018 to violating U.S. sanctions, was released from U.S. federal prison last month and is now back in Lebanon, the U.S. Federal Bureau of Prisons said in a report by Reuters.
COVID-19: Kazakhstan Holds National Day Of Mourning For Victims, Third Iranian Deputy Dies Of Virus RFE/RL 13 Jul 2020 -- The global death toll from the coronavirus is over 570,000, with more than 12.9 million infections confirmed, causing mass disruptions as governments continue to try to slow the spread of the respiratory illness.
Official: COVID-19 kills 203 more in Iran IRNA 13 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry Spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Monday that some 203 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 13,032.
Iran produces 6.5 million masks a day IRNA 13 Jul 2020 -- According to the deputy minister of industry, mines and trade, Iran is now producing 6.5 million 3-layered and N95 masks a day.
Iran places order for 2,000 home-made ventilators: Health Ministry Press TV 13 Jul 2020 -- Iranian health ministry has placed an order for 2,000 ventilators that would be fully designed and produced by local manufacturers.
Iranians Make Fun Of 'Coronavirus Detection Device' Promoted By Revolutionary Guard Radio Farda 13 Jul 2020 -- Social media users in recent days are asking why a coronavirus detection machine "unveiled" in April by Revolutionary Guard as a "breakthrough" has not been put to use to prevent the new alarming surge in COVID cases. The Guards' spokesperson says it is "still undergoing verification testing".
Can Iran Boost Syria's Air Defenses To The Detriment Of Israel? Radio Farda 13 Jul 2020 -- Tehran's new military agreement with Damascus has strengthened Syria's chances of receiving Iranian designed and produced air defense systems to boost the war-torn country's inefficient and weak anti-air networks.
Iran: JCPOA product of openness to engagement IRNA 13 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry in a message described nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) as a product of Iran's openness to engagement.
Iran informs JCPOA Joint Commission of Europeans' violation of commitments: Senior diplomat Press TV 13 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araqchi says the three European signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran have not abided by their commitments and this is why Iran has requested activation of the deal's dispute resolution mechanism in a letter to the European Union's foreign policy chief.
JCPOA product of Iran's openness to engagement: Foreign Ministry Press TV 13 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry says since its inception, the Islamic Republic has always been open to dialogue on critical issues on the basis of mutual respect.
Explainer: Anger Among Iranians Over Long-Term Deal With China RFE/RL 13 Jul 2020 -- Iran is negotiating a controversial 25-year agreement with China that has led to accusations that parts of Iran are being sold to Beijing.
FM spox says foreign elements behind attacks to Iran-China 25-year draft document IRNA 13 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi on Monday said the smear campaign against the 25-year draft document for comprehensive cooperation between Tehran and Beijing has foreign roots.
Iran-China ties to enter new phase by correct track laying: Mousavi ISNA 13 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Seyyed Abbas Mousavi stressed that Iran- China relations will enter a new phase by the correct track laying.
Iran-China deal to ditch dollar, bypass US sanctions: Leader's advisor Press TV 13 Jul 2020 -- An advisor to Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says a pending roadmap for strategic partnership between Iran and China is to help ditch the dollar in bilateral trade and bypass illegal and unilateral US sanctions.
Zarif Dismisses Criticism Of China Pact As 'Rumors' By Ill-Wishers Radio Farda 13 Jul 2020 -- A top lawmaker in Iran has said that foreign minister Javad Zarif defended the Iran-China cooperation pact proposed document and told parliament today that talk about selling an island and cheap oil to China are mere rumors.
'Iran open to long-term roadmaps for cooperation with friendly countries' Press TV 13 Jul 2020 -- The Foreign Ministry says Iran is ready for setting out roadmaps similar to the one that is in the works with China, with other friendly countries, saying attacks targeting the pending arrangement with Beijing are definitely being orchestrated from abroad.
Iran to double length of railways in 5 years: Minister Press TV 13 Jul 2020 -- Iran's transportation minister says the length of the country's railway network will double in the next five years as the country keeps making efforts to encourage increased rail freight services.
Iranian Currency Takes Big Hit, Falling To New Record Low Radio Farda 13 Jul 2020 -- Iran's currency took another big hit on Monday, falling to 234,000 rials against the U.S. dollar despite official promises to prevent the further devaluation of the national currency.
OPEC Report Shows Declining Oil Revenues For Iran And A Massive Budget Deficit Radio Farda 13 Jul 2020 -- In its new annual report published on Monday, July 13, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) announced Iran's revenue from total crude oil exports and oil products in 2019 was just over $19 billion, less than a third of the previous year.
Tehran Rejected Washington's Demand for No Response to Soleimani's Assassination - Iranian Deputy FM Sputnik 13 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Mohsen Baharvand alleges that Tehran immediately rejected Washington's attempt at preventing a retaliatory attack by Iranian forces, shortly after the January assassination of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force commander Major General Qasem Soleimani.
'Faced with an assassination similar to Soleimani's, West would declare war' Press TV 13 Jul 2020 -- A UN special rapporteur, who has raised a firestorm by condemning the assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani, has once again denounced the United States' sheer disregard for international law.
More Explosions, Fires At Industrial And Commercial Sites In Iran Radio Farda 13 Jul 2020 -- In Iran police is investigating the explosion of a gas tank and a fire at an industrial complex in the country's northeast, local news agencies reported. There were several condensate gas tanks at the location.
Khamenei's 'Islamic Kindness' Turned Into Threats, Torture And Death Penalty Radio Farda 13 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's order to treat those jailed for protests in Iran in November 2019, may in fact have been a call for maximum pressure on inmates in security prisons.
Judicial Official Says Several 'Spies' Convicted In Iran Radio Farda 13 Jul 2020 -- A judicial official in Iran has announced Monday that "several people" working for foreign intelligence organizations and opposition groups have been tried and their verdicts have been issued in the city of Kerman.
Fire contained at Iranian petrochemical complex: Official Press TV 12 Jul 2020 -- Iranian officials say a fire that caused a short halt to production at a major petrochemical plant located southwest of the country has been fully contained.
Khamenei Strikes A Balance, Telling Iran's Parliament Not To Impeach Rouhani Radio Farda 12 Jul 2020 -- In a rare address to the Iranian parliament (Majles), Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has made it clear that impeaching President Hassan Rouhani is out of the question.
Official: COVID-19 kills 194 more in Iran IRNA 12 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Sunday that some 194 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 12,829.
Leader urges Iranians to observe heath protocols as virus cases rise again Press TV 12 Jul 2020 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has expressed deep regret over a spike in coronavirus infections, calling on Iranians to fully adhere to health guidelines in a bid to break the chain of the outbreak.
Official Says Cheap Drug Sold As Remdesivir In Iran At 'Very High Prices' Radio Farda 12 Jul 2020 -- Iran's deputy health minister issued a warning Saturday that a cheap medication is mislabeled and sold as remdesivir in Iran at extremely high prices.
Supreme Leader: All Iranians should act in unison against enemy IRNA 12 Jul 2020 -- The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei underlined that all Iranians should stand up against the enemy and act in unison in this regard.
Commander: Iran's Army Aviation Service missiles range to reach 100 km IRNA 12 Jul 2020 -- Commander of Iran's Army Aviation Service (Havanirooz) Brigadier-General Yousef Ghorbani said on Sunday that the aviation service will be provided with 20 km and 100 km range missiles.
Iranian Air Force to 'Soon' Be Equipped With 100-Kilometre Range Missiles Sputnik 12 Jul 2020 -- Last month, Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Hossein Khanzadran announced that Tehran would soon start manufacturing a new class of supersonic cruise missiles known as the Talaeey-e to complement the subsonic weapons currently in service.
Iran Guards Deny Suing Journalists For Army Interview Critical Of IRGC Radio Farda 12 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Revolutionary Guard has denied Sunday suing five IRNA directors and journalists for publishing an interview with a senior Army general criticizing the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps, IRGC.
Ukrainian Jet Downing Caused by Misaligned Radar, Tehran States Sputnik 12 Jul 2020 -- A Boeing 737 operated by Ukraine International Airlines, crashed in January soon after departing from an airport in Tehran. The catastrophe claimed the lives of 176 passengers and crew.
Iran: 'Human Error' Caused Ukraine Crash VOA 12 Jul 2020 -- Iran claims "human error" was responsible for the downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane earlier this year that killed all 176 people on board.
Ukraine plane downed due to radar operator's error: Iran Civil Aviation Organization Press TV 12 Jul 2020 -- The Civil Aviation Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran (CAO.IRI) says the mismanagement of an air defense unit's radar system by its operator was the key "human error" that led to the accidental downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane in early January.
Iran Civil Aviation Says Military Approved Flight Of Downed Ukraine Airliner Radio Farda 12 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Civil Aviation Organization (CAO) has blamed the "forgetfulness" of an Iranian air defense unit's commander for shooting down Ukraine International Airlines' (UIA) flight 752 on January 8 over Tehran, killing all 176 aboard.
Iran Says Misaligned Radar, Human Error To Blame For Downing Of Ukrainian Airliner RFE/RL 12 Jul 2020 -- Iranian authorities say a misaligned missile battery and miscommunication between soldiers and superior officers were to blame for the January downing of a Ukrainian jetliner that killed 176 people.
Vaezi: Enemies misportray 25-year draft document with China to use as pressure leverage IRNA 12 Jul 2020 -- Head of Iran's Presidential Office Mahmoud Vaezi says that the enemies misportray the issue of Iran-China 25-year plan for comprehensive cooperation to use as a leverage for pressure.
Top Rouhani Aide Says Iran-China Pact Can Be Finalized By March 2021 Radio Farda 12 Jul 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani's chief of staff has said the coronavirus pandemic delayed negotiations on a proposed Iran-China 25-year pact, but probably a final agreement can be reached by March 2021, when the current Iranian calendar year ends.
U.S. admits failure of sanctions against Iran: Ayatollah Khamenei ISNA 12 Jul 2020 -- The chairman, representatives, and a group of staff members from the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majlis) met with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei via video conference on Sunday.
Rouhani: Despite Rise in Iran's COVID-19 Cases, Economy Must Stay Open VOA 11 Jul 2020 -- Iran's economy must stay open despite a rise in the number of coronavirus infections, President Hassan Rouhani said Saturday. He called for a ban on large gatherings, such as at weddings and wakes, to limit the spread of the disease.
Official: COVID-19 kills 188 more in Iran IRNA 11 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Saturday that some 188 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 12,635.
Rouhani rules out lockdown, calls on Iranians to respect protocols Press TV 11 Jul 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani says Iran cannot afford to shut down its economy amid the most draconian US sanctions which are hampering the country's fight against the coronavirus outbreak.
Iran's Rohani Calls For Temporary Ban On Weddings, Funerals As Coronavirus Cases Rise RFE/RL 11 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani called for large public gatherings such as weddings and funerals to be temporarily banned to slow a rise in coronavirus infections, but he shied away from recommending another round of curbs on economic activity.
Iran-Syria accord first step to defang US Caesar sanctions: Assad's top aide Press TV 11 Jul 2020 -- A senior aide to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has hailed a comprehensive military-security deal recently signed with Iran as the first step to overcome sweeping US economic sanctions against the Arab country, saying Damascus has many other options to counter American restrictions.
Iran to Contribute to Security of Syrian Skies Amid Continuing Israeli Air Strikes Sputnik 11 Jul 2020 -- Iran will help Syria strengthen its air defence as part of an agreement between the two states signed on Wednesday. The agreement was signed by Iran's Chief of the Armed Forces General Staff, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, and Syrian Minister of Defence Ali Abdullah Ayyub.
Assassination of Gen. Soleimani obvious example of state terrorism, violation of int'l law: Iran's envoy to UN ISNA 11 Jul 2020 -- Iran's ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations Majid Takht Ravanchi stressed that brutal and cowardly assassination of Major General Qasem Soleimani is another obvious example of State terrorism pursued in gross violation of the fundamental principles of international law.
UN expert raps US for arbitrary drone attack that killed Gen. Soleimani Press TV 11 Jul 2020 -- A UN special rapporteur has once again lashed out at the United States for breaching international law by assassinating top Iranian commander Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani in a drone attack, warning about the repercussions of unbridled and self-willed use of armed drones.
Commander highlights US footprints in anti-Iran threats IRNA 11 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Border Guards Commander Brigadier General Ahmad Ali Goudarzi said on Saturday that Iran is facing with complicated threats posed by the US and foreign saboteurs just like Iraqi-imposed war.
Iranian companies sign Development contract of joint oilfield with Iraq IRNA 11 Jul 2020 -- Iranian companies on Saturday signed contract for development of Yaran joint oil field with Iraq.
Iran says to develop oil industry despite sanctions; local firm inks deal Press TV 11 Jul 2020 -- Minister of Petroleum Bijan Zangeneh has expressed Iran's resolve to develop its oil industry despite US sanctions, overseeing the signing of a deal to domestically develop the Yaran oilfield in southwestern Khuzestan Province.
Iran's National Oil Company Inks Deal With Outfit Controlled By Khamenei Radio Farda 11 Jul 2020 -- An agreement between the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) and an organization controlled by Iran's Supreme Leader was signed today to develop and expand an exisiting oil field.
Iran warns of effective measures if Europe yields to US pressure over arms embargo extension Press TV 11 Jul 2020 -- Iran has warned it will take "effective measures" if European countries cave in to the US pressure aimed at extending an arms embargo on the Islamic Republic that is legally bound to expire under an international 2015 nuclear agreement.
Iran slams 'flurry of disinformation' about potential China deal Press TV 11 Jul 2020 -- A senior Iranian foreign ministry official has slammed a "disinformation" campaign that seeks to stoke fears about the impacts of a potential agreement between Iran and China.
EXCLUSIVE: Iran's IRGC Trying Illegally To Take Ownership Of Major Steel Producer Radio Farda 11 Jul 2020 -- Radio Farda has obtained a confidential letter that shows Iran's IRGC, which holds 49 percent of Khuzestan Steel Mill Company, is attempting to "illegally acquire" the remaining shares belonging to workers.
US Senior Diplomat Says Iran And Venezuela 'Are Governed By Thieves' Radio Farda 11 Jul 2020 -- U.S. Special Representative on Iran Brian Hook says that Washington's sanctions have cut Iran's oil exports from 2.5 million barrels a day in May 2018 to 70,000 barrels in 2020.
Iran's Kurdish Sufis Dash Into Iraq for Funeral, Exposing COVID Border Control Deficiencies VOA 10 Jul 2020 -- Hundreds of Iranian Kurdish members of a Muslim sect seeking to attend the funeral of their leader in neighboring Iraq have forced their way through a crossing into Iraqi territory, exposing a weakness in Iranian and Iraqi border controls aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus.
COVID-19 kills 142 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 10 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Friday that some 142 more Iranians have died of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours.
Iran To Postpone Nationwide University Entrance Exams Due To Surge In COVID Radio Farda 10 Jul 2020 -- With COVID-19 deaths alarmingly rising in various Iranian provinces, authorities have to face the dilemma of canceling nationwide university entrance examinations starting next week or risking the lives of more than a million participants.
Iran Parliament investigating Natanz site incident IRNA 10 Jul 2020 -- Head of National Security and Foreign Policy Commission of the Iranian Parliament Mojtaba Zulnouri said various dimensions of incident in Natanz nuclear site is under investigation and the cause of incident has been identified.
FM spox says too early to comment on cause of Natanz incident IRNA 10 Jul 2020 -- Spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry Abbas Mousavi commented on the claims by certain enemy media bout the incident which recently happened in Iran's Natanz nuclear facility and said it was too early to decide about its main cause.
Iran warns of consequences if foreign role in Natanz blast proven Press TV 10 Jul 2020 -- Iran says it is still early to talk about the main cause of the recent explosion at Natanz nuclear facility, but there will be consequences if it is proven that foreign elements have been involved.
Tehran Vows Consequences for Anyone Involved in Natanz Nuclear Facility Blast Sputnik 10 Jul 2020 -- Iran has warned about consequences if Tehran learns information on the involvement of any country in the recent incident that took place on the Natanz advanced centrifuge plant, Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said on Friday.
Iran Refutes Claims of Explosion in Western Tehran Province Sputnik 10 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian authorities have denied reports about an explosion that allegedly took place in the province of Tehran late on Thursday, the broadcaster IRIB reported on Friday, citing the head of one of the local cities.
Witnesses refute rumors about blast, power outage near Tehran Press TV 10 Jul 2020 -- Eyewitnesses have refuted rumors circulating across various news outlets and social media platforms about explosions and power outage in and near Tehran province.
Lawmaker Denies Online Reports Of Explosion West Of Tehran Radio Farda 10 Jul 2020 -- Following social media reports saying an explosion was heard west of Iran's capital city Tehran, a member of parliament has denied it.
Blast Reported In Western Tehran, Officials Deny RFE/RL 10 Jul 2020 -- An explosion was heard in western Tehran early on June 10, Iran's state broadcaster IRIB and the semiofficial Mehr news agency reported, citing social media.
Iran Made 'Procurement Attempts' for Its Nuclear Programme Last Year, Report Says Sputnik 10 Jul 2020 -- The crisis around Tehran's atomic programme resumed in 2018 after President Donald Trump announced America's unilateral withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
UN Special Rapporteur Gives More Cause to Distrust UN Human Rights Mechanisms US Dept. of State 09 Jul 2020 -- "We reject the report and opinions released today by UN Special Rapporteur Callamard related to the U.S. strike that killed Islamic Republic Guard Corps Qods Force commander Qassem Soleimani."
Pompeo Calls UN Expert's Conclusions On Soleimani Killing 'Spurious' RFE/RL 10 Jul 2020 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has defended a U.S. drone strike that killed top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in Iraq early this year, after a UN expert deemed it as "unlawful."
US Is Committed To Defending Arab States In The Persian Gulf, Pompeo Says Radio Farda 10 Jul 2020 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has reiterated that Washington is committed to providing security help for the Persian Gulf Arab countries in the face of the Islamic Republic of Iran's increasing missile capability.
Russian Exports To Iran Continue To Grow Despite Decline In Tehran's Trade Radio Farda 10 Jul 2020 -- According to the latest figures released by Russia's Federal Customs Service (FTS) it exported $692 million worth of goods to Iran from January to May, which indicates a 31 percent growth in comparison with the same period last year.
Increasing Electricity Consumption In Iran Can Lead To Blackouts Radio Farda 10 Jul 2020 -- Iran's electricity management company, TAVANIR, says consumers in the country set a new record for electricity consumption in the past few days.
Government Price Fixing Hugely Benefits Iran Steel Producers Radio Farda 10 Jul 2020 -- A lawmaker in Iran says iron ore prices dictated to mine owners hugely benefits steelmakers as they purchase the ore at half the international price but sell their products at 5 to 10 percent higher.
Iran Promises To Publish Details Of Pact With China As Negative Reactions Grow Radio Farda 10 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Gholamreza Ansari has promised to publish the details of a controversial pact with China, amid a strong public outcry against concessions to Beijing.
Iran's FM spokesman defends draft strategic document with China IRNA 10 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi defended a draft roadmap document with China, saying despite all the speculations made about it in social networks, the document is a source of pride.
COVID-19 kills 221 more in Iran IRNA 09 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Thursday that some 221 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 12,305.
President urges reinstating smart restrictions proportionate to each region IRNA 09 Jul 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday that given the authorities delegated to governors general, restrictions should be applied intelligently and in proportion to the causes of the outbreak in each region.
Frustrated Iran Health Minister Warns Of 'Insurrection' Amid Pandemic Radio Farda 09 Jul 2020 -- In highly charged comments the Islamic Republic health minister barraged top Iranian officials with criticism on Wednesday, July 8, accusing them of "negligence," having no economic plan, and "losing control" over the outbreak of the deadly coronavirus in the country.
Iran's Ahmadinejad 'Mediates' To End Yemen War, Report Says Radio Farda 09 Jul 2020 -- An Iranian news website has quoted an "informed source" as saying that former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has written to Saudi and Houthi leaders as well as the U.N. Secretary-General in an attempt to mediate an end to Yemen's conflict.
Iran says US is telling lie, dismissing alleged violation of UN arms embargo IRNA 09 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Thursday that the US is telling lie, dismissing alleged violation of UN arms embargo.
Tehran Denies Seizure Of Iranian Weapons Shipment To Yemeni Rebels RFE/RL 09 Jul 2020 -- Iran has rejected a U.S. claim that a boat carrying Iranian weapons to Huthi rebels in Yemen had been seized, saying the "baseless" accusation was aimed at extending a UN arms embargo on Tehran.
Iran, Syria sign agreement to expand "comprehensive" military cooperation Global Times 09 Jul 2020 -- Iran and Syria signed an agreement on Wednesday to expand "comprehensive" military and security cooperation, the semi-official Fars news agency reported.
Syrian president: Iran-Syria military accord rooted in years of anti-terror cooperation Press TV 09 Jul 2020 -- Syria's President Bashar al-Assad says the recent military agreement signed by Damascus and Tehran is the result of years of cooperation in fighting against terrorism in the Arab country.
U.S. Blasts UN Expert's Conclusion That Strike On Iran General Was Unlawful RFE/RL 09 Jul 2020 -- The United States has accused a UN expert of "giving a pass to terrorists" after she concluded that a U.S. drone strike that killed top Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and nine other people in Iraq early this year was "unlawful."
UN Investigator: Drone Killing of Top Iranian General Unlawful VOA 09 Jul 2020 -- A U.S. drone strike that killed Iran's top general, Qassem Soleimani, at Baghdad International Airport in January is a violation under international law, according to U.N. report Thursday.
Spokesman: US violated basic principles of intl. law by assassinating Gen. Soleimani Press TV 09 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian Foreign Ministry says the US' assassination of Iran's top anti-terror commander, Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani, took place in absolute disregard for fundamental legal, humanitarian, and moral principles, belying Washington's claim of fighting terrorism in the region.
Coward assassination of Gen. Soleimani clear violation of UN charter, Iran says IRNA 09 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi said on Thursday that the assassination of anti-terror commander General Soleimani was a flagrant violation of the United Nations' charter.
UN report on General Soleimani's assassination draws US ire Press TV 09 Jul 2020 -- A conclusion by the United Nations (UN) that the US's assassination of Iranian commander Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani was "unlawful" has drawn Washington's ire.
US tricks worn-out, futile: FM Spox IRNA 09 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi described US tricks as foreseeable but worn-out and useless and mocked the fact that a country with such a long history of piracy is boasting of seizing "a boat loaded with weapons".
Lying, accusations major elements of US foreign policy: Iran Press TV 09 Jul 2020 -- Iran dismisses the recent US allegations that American and "partner" forces have seized a vessel taking "Iranian weapons" to Yemen as continuation of Washington's policy of leveling accusations and hatemongering against Tehran, which this time seeks to prolong a UN arms embargo against the Islamic Republic.
President gives upbeat report about Govt performance despite sanctions, pandemic IRNA 09 Jul 2020 -- President Hassan Rouhani gave upbeat report about performance of the Government on Thursday in reference to different development projects being inaugurated despite the US sanctions, foreign plots and the coronavirus pandemic.
Suspicions Mount Of Foreign Hand In Fire At Sensitive Iranian Nuclear Site Radio Farda 09 Jul 2020 -- There is growing support among outside security experts for the notion that an "incident" at Iran's main nuclear-enrichment facility last week was an act of sabotage in a shadow war aimed at setting back Tehran's nuclear activities.
Remembering The July 1999 Iran Student Movement; A Forgotten Protest? Radio Farda 09 Jul 2020 -- Friday July 9, 1999 was the hottest day for students in Tahran as their anti-government protests were met by the iron fist of the Revolutionary Guard. It remained in memories as Iran's student movement, but it marked a watershed after which disillusionment with the Islamic Republic gradually deepened and the era of popular protests began.
Chinese Fishing Trawlers Cleaning Out The Persian Gulf, Iran Daily Reports Radio Farda 09 Jul 2020 -- Under the cover of night, Chinese vessels are illegally cleaning out fish resources in the Persian Gulf, a pro-reform Iranian daily, Sharq (Orient) disclosed on Wednesday, July 8.
At Least Six Lawmakers In Iran Test Positive For Coronavirus Radio Farda 08 Jul 2020 -- At least six members of the newly elected Majles (Iranian parliament) have tested positive for the deadly coronavirus as a new wave of the epidemic is raging in Iran.
Some 2,691 new viral cases, 153 fatalities over past 24 hours IRNA 08 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Wednesday that some 153 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 12,084.
Iran-linked Militia Accused of Killing Key Iraqi Researcher VOA 08 Jul 2020 -- Weeks before he was fatally shot in Baghdad, Husham al-Hashimi, a prominent Iraqi writer and leading expert on extremist groups, sought advice from a friend after allegedly receiving a chilling message from Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah (KH).
Iran's top cmdr., Syria's defense minister sign agreement to boost military, security cooperation Press TV 08 Jul 2020 -- Iran will boost Syria's air defenses, as part of a wider military security agreement between the two countries.
Iraq reopens border to Iranian goods after three months Press TV 08 Jul 2020 -- A key border for entry of Iranian goods into Iraq has reopened after more than three months of closure to combat the new coronavirus.
Natanz incident had no impact on Iran's peaceful nuclear program: Spokesman Press TV 08 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian government says nothing can come in the way of the country's peaceful nuclear program and that the recent incident in one of its nuclear sites would not affect Iran's uranium enrichment level.
Iran Lawmaker Accuses IAEA Investigators Of Spying At Natanz Nuclear Facility Radio Farda 08 Jul 2020 -- An ultra-conservative member of Iran's parliament on Tuesday accused the U.N. nuclear watchdog investigators of "spying" and "infiltration" in Iran's nuclear facilities and said the information they collected had contributed to the explosion at Natanz nuclear facility on July 2.
Iran: Enemy propaganda meant to undermine strategic partnership deal with China Press TV 08 Jul 2020 -- Iran has defended a 25-year strategic cooperation agreement being negotiated with China, saying the enemies will not succeed in obtaining the details of the yet-to-be-finalized roadmap by spreading lies about it.
Controversy Over Iran-China 'Pact' Continues As Text Is Leaked Radio Farda 08 Jul 2020 -- A highly controversial document outlining a proposed long-term pact between and China has been leaked amid strong public criticism of what has been dubbed as Iran's capitulation and a sell-out of national resources.
Iranian railway to provide landlocked Afghanistan with a lifeline Press TV 08 Jul 2020 -- A 610-kilometer railway connecting Iran's only ocean port of Chabahar to Zahedan near the eastern border would provide a lifeline to the landlocked Afghanistan, a country where the transport system has been hampered by years of war and a fierce rivalry between two major neighbors of India and Pakistan.
Pompeo Condemns Killing Of Iraqi Expert As Iran Vows To Help Syrian Air Defenses Radio Farda 08 Jul 2020 -- As the burial of a well-known Iraqi jihadism expert turned into a protest in Baghdad against Iran-linked groups on Tuesday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo demanded justice over his killing by masked gunmen on Wednesday.
Pompeo Warns Security Council Mideast Will Face More Strife if Iran Arms Embargo Not Extended Sputnik 08 Jul 2020 -- Washington's bid to extend the international arms embargo against Iran past its October 2020 deadline was rejected last week, with US special envoy for Iran Brian Hook warning that the US would leave the military option "on the table" to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Iranian leaders have denied having any such ambitions.
Iranians React Angrily To High Payments To Lawmakers Radio Farda 08 Jul 2020 -- Iranian social media users have strongly reacted to the disclosure of salary and benefits for newly seated lawmakers after the disclosure of their first paychecks.
Saudi Officials Call On International Community To 'Take Firm' Stand Against Iran Radio Farda 08 Jul 2020 -- Saudi Arabia on Tuesday called on the International community to "deal seriously with the nuclear and ballistic programs being developed by Iran" and to take appropriate measures to extend the UN arms embargo on the country.
COVID-19 kills 200 more in Iran IRNA 07 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Tuesday that some 200 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 11,931.
Public Enemy: Islamic Republic's Coronavirus Disinformation Radio Farda 07 Jul 2020 -- Mark Dubowitz and Saeed Ghasseminajad of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies have done an investigation of the Iranian regime's disinformation campaign to minimize the real impact of the coronavirus pandemic and blame the United States for their failures in confronting the health crisis.
Iran COVID Daily Toll Rises To Unprecedented 200, 70 Victims Buried In Tehran Radio Farda 07 Jul 2020 -- For the first time since February, Iran's official death toll on Tuesday reached 200 while according to the Chairman of Tehran City Council over the last 24-hour reporting period 70 died in the capital Tehran alone.
Iran Condemns Assassination Of Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Expert In Baghdad Radio Farda 07 Jul 2020 -- In a statement on Monday evening, the Iranian Embassy in Baghdad condemned the assassination of Iraqi historian and researcher of jihadi groups, Hisham al-Hashimi in Baghdad.
Iran condemns assassination of Iraqi researcher in security, strategic affairs ISNA 07 Jul 2020 -- Iran's embassy in Baghdad in a statement condemned assassination of Hisham al-Hashemi, an Iraqi researcher in security and strategic affairs.
Commander: Iran ready to make military, non-military aircraft simulators IRNA 07 Jul 2020 -- The commander of the Air Force of the Army Brigadier-General Aziz Nasirzadeh said today Iran is capable of producing various simulators for military and non-military aircraft.
Iran parliament discusses Natanz incident with intelligence minister in attendance IRNA 07 Jul 2020 -- The National Security and Foreign Policy Commission of the Iranian parliament in the presence of Iranian Intelligence Minister and representative of security bodies reviewed Natanz nuclear site accident today.
Israel's Lieberman urges PM to 'shut up' official claiming Natanz 'bomb attack' Press TV 07 Jul 2020 -- Israel's former minister of military affairs, who has now turned into an opposition figure, says Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should gag an unnamed official leaking to the press Tel Aviv's alleged role in a recent incident at Iran's Natanz nuclear facility.
Security Website Says Incident At Iran's Nuclear Plant Was 'Deliberate Attack' Radio Farda 07 Jul 2020 -- A website close to Iran's Supreme Council of National Security (SCNS) has published a commentary on the blast at Iran's "centrifuge assembly line" in Natanz which says the incident was "a deliberate attack".
Incident At Iran Nuclear Site Discussed In Parliament Commission Meeting Radio Farda 07 Jul 2020 -- Iranian parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission spokesman Abolfazl Amouei says his committee held a meeting Tuesday evening to investigate the recent "accident" at the uranium enrichment facility in the city of Natanz.
Factory Blast Latest in Spate of Incidents Targeting Iran Infrastructure, Fueling Media Speculation Sputnik 07 Jul 2020 -- Amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran over the latter's nuclear program, a series of blasts have occurred in Iran near Tehran's Parchin military complex, at the Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant (FEP) and a power plant in Ahvaz, with reports claiming that Iranian officials regard the incidents as "sabotage".
Iran dismisses rumors on explosion in Yazd nuclear complex IRNA 07 Jul 2020 -- The public relations office of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEoI) in a statement dismissed the false news and rumors concerning an alleged explosion taking place in Shahid Rezaei Nejad nuclear complex in Yazd.
AEOI says no explosion hit Yazd nuclear site in central Iran Press TV 07 Jul 2020 -- The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) has dismissed rumors about an explosion at a nuclear facility in the central province of Yazd, saying such claims are in line with an anti-Iran propaganda campaign serving Israeli and American goals.
UN Rights Rapporteur Calls U.S. Killing Of Top Iranian General 'Unlawful' RFE/RL 07 Jul 2020 -- A UN expert has concluded that a U.S drone strike that killed top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in Iraq early this year constituted an "arbitrary killing" that was "unlawful."
UN Investigator Rules US Killing of Soleimani 'Unlawful', Implies That It Constitutes 'Act of War' Sputnik 07 Jul 2020 -- Last week, Iranian authorities issued an arrest warrant against US President Donald Trump and 35 other persons over the drone strike assassination of Revolutionary Guards Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad on January 3. Interpol indicated that it would not honour any Iranian extradition request over the Soleimani case.
UN Drone Strike Report Calls US Attack on Iranian General 'Arbitrary Killing' VOA 07 Jul 2020 -- As part of a new report on targeted killings using drones, a U.N. human rights investigator says a January U.S. strike that killed top Iranian General Qassem Soleimani was an "arbitrary killing," and that Iran's retaliatory missile attack was not justified.
Spox: China ready to work with Iran to advance practical ties IRNA 07 Jul 2020 -- Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian hailed traditional relations between Iran and China, saying his country is ready to advance practical cooperation with Iran.
First vice-president: US' anti-Iran sanctions doomed to failure IRNA 07 Jul 2020 -- Iranian First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri said on Monday that the US has failed to bring Iran's economy to its knees through imposing unilateral sanctions.
South Korea releases parts of frozen Iranian funds: Businessman Press TV 07 Jul 2020 -- South Korea has agreed to release a part of funds belonging to Iran and frozen in the country's banks under pressure from the United States, says a businessman leading trade between the two countries.
Middle East Countries Want Iran's Arms Embargo Extended, Pompeo Says Radio Farda 07 Jul 2020 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Monday, July 6, that Middle Eastern countries demand to extend Iran's arms embargo, and the United Nations Security Council should listen to them.
Iran Exiled Crown Prince Calls Proposed Iran-China Accord 'Despicable Radio Farda 07 Jul 2020 -- In a statement on Tuesday, Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi condemned a planned 25-year agreement Iran is seeking to sign with China.
Ukraine Set To Sue Iran In International Courts Over Downed Airliner Radio Farda 07 Jul 2020 -- Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Yevhen Yenin says Kyiv is preparing to file a lawsuit against the Islamic Republic in international courts over Tehran's lack of cooperation after the downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane in January.
Iran's Judiciary Says Many Licensed Exporters Were 'Fake Entities' Radio Farda 07 Jul 2020 -- Judicial Deputy of Tehran Prosecutor on Monday said many of the exporters flagged by the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) for not transferring currency earnings to the government FOREX system cannot be identified or are "fake entities".
Mossad Thwarted 'Iranian Plot' to Target Israeli Embassies Around the World, Report Claims Sputnik 07 Jul 2020 -- The report comes amid media speculation that Israel may have been involved in the 2 July blast at Iran's Natanz nuclear power plant. Defence Minister Benny Gantz appeared to deny the claims on Sunday, saying "not every event that happens in Iran is connected to us".
2,613 new viral cases, 160 fatalities in Iran IRNA 06 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Monday that some 160 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 11,731.
Iran says face mask output boosted by 3,000 times in over 4 months Press TV 06 Jul 2020 -- Iran's ministry of industries (MIMT) says total domestic output for face masks has increased by 3,000 times since the start of the new coronavirus pandemic in the country in late February.
Iran Health Officials Concerned Over Ventilator Shortage In Oil-Rich Province Hospitals Radio Farda 06 Jul 2020 -- An official of Jondi-Shapour Medical Sciences University in Iran's oil-rich Khuzestan Province where the COVID-19 crisis has reached alarming dimensions said Sunday shortage of ventilators has become a serious issue in hospitals.
Commander says Iranian fighter jets to be equipped against any possible threat IRNA 06 Jul 2020 -- Lieutenant Commander of the Iranian Army Brigadier General Mohammad Hossein Dadras said on Monday that the Army's fighter jets will be equipped so as to get prepared for responding to any possible threat.
Iran Shows Off Computing Power With Domestically Produced Flight Simulator for Russian Il-76 Plane Sputnik 06 Jul 2020 -- The new tool is expected to be followed up by simulators of other military and civilian planes, including Iran's stock of Lockheed P-3 Orion anti-submarine and maritime surveillance aircraft delivered to the country prior to the Iranian Revolution of 1979.
Azerbaijan Denies Its Airspace Was Used In Attack On Iran Nuclear Site Radio Farda 06 Jul 2020 -- The Defense Ministry of Azerbaijan on Monday denied allowing another country – presumably Israel or the United States – to use its airspace to carry out attacks on Iran.
NYT: 'Powerful Bomb' Planted by Israel Behind Natanz Station Explosion Sputnik 06 Jul 2020 -- A 2 July blast at the Iranian Natanz nuclear power plant significantly damaged the above-ground part of the building. Against this background, reports emerged, citing unnamed Iranian officials, suggesting that Israel was behind behind the incident.
Israeli Analysts Say Incident At Nuclear Facility A Message To Iran Radio Farda 05 Jul 2020 -- Israeli media have widely covered recent mysterious explosions in Iran, especially those related to the Islamic Republic's military and nuclear installations, reflecting analysts' assessments of the incidents.
Iran Nuclear Chief Says 'Various Scenarios' Examined Regarding Natanz 'Incident' Radio Farda 05 Jul 2020 -- Chief of Iran's atomic Energy Organization has said Sunday at parliament that "various scenarios" are being considered regarding the "Natanz incident" and "the definitive results" will soon be announced.
Iran Says Fire At Natanz Nuclear Facility Caused Significant Damage RFE/RL 05 Jul 2020 -- A fire last week at the Natanz nuclear facility in Iran caused significant damage, an Iranian nuclear official said on July 5 in a new assessment of the incident, adding that it could slow down the development and production of advanced centrifuges in the medium term.
AEOI Spox: Reconstruction of damaged building to get underway at Natanz nuclear site IRNA 06 Jul 2020 -- Spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Behrouz Kamalvandi said that reconstruction of the damaged building will get underway at Shahid Ahmadi Roshan Natanz Complex with bigger plot of land for advanced equipment are supposed to be built there.
Iran studying various scenarios over Natanz incident: AEOI chief ISNA 06 Jul 2020 -- Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Ali Akbar Salehi announced that various scenarios over the Natanz incident are being studied and the exact cause of the event will be announced soon.
Iran Says Incident At Nuclear Site Could Slow Boost To Enrichment Radio Farda 06 Jul 2020 -- An incident at Natanz nuclear complex in Iran caused significant damage and could slow the production of advanced centrifuges used to enrich uranium, the country's atomic energy spokesman said.
IAEA Likely To Send Iran's Case To UN, Says Senior Diplomat Radio Farda 06 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi (Araghchi) says the next IAEA Board of Governors' meeting is likely to send Iran's case to the UN Security Council.
JCPOA participants must preserve deal, avoid fruitless disputes: Russia diplomat Press TV 06 Jul 2020 -- Russia's permanent representative to international organizations in Vienna has warned participants to the landmark Iran nuclear deal against engaging in "fruitless and potentially damaging disputes," urging them to do their best to preserve the agreement.
Iranian Lawmakers Set to Summon President Rouhani Over Economic Woes, Nuclear Deal Sputnik 06 Jul 2020 -- On Sunday, Iran's president accused the country's foreign enemies of mounting a "complicated psychological operation" targeting Iran's currency, the rial, saying that the action was aimed at undermining the Islamic Republic's move toward an economy that's free of dependence on oil exports.
Enemies' plot to collapse Iranian economy will not succeed: President Rouhani ISNA 05 Jul 2020 -- "Despite the difficult economic situation caused by the economic war with the enemies over the past two years, the long-held aspirations of the people and the elites to achieve an oil-free economy have been founded, and despite the harsh economic shocks caused by the unjust sanctions and the outbreak of coronavirus, the trend of the main indicators of the country's economy in the production and export sectors is going well," said Iran's President.
Deputy FM says barter with countries needs to be reorganized IRNA 06 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Economic Affairs Gholamreza Ansari said that the barter trade with other countries is a way to circumvent sanctions that need to be reorganized.
Iran's rial rebounds on news blocked funds could be released Press TV 06 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian rial has regained some of its lost value after the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) governor announced the country would be able to access parts of its funds that have been blocked aboard because of US sanctions.
Iran To Force Exporters To Repatriate Their Hard Currency Earnings Amid Devaluation Radio Farda 06 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Central Bank Governor Abdolnaser Hemmati on Sunday said exporters who have not transferred their foreign currency earnings to the government FOREX system will be summoned for explanations.
Iran Lawmaker Says People Should Be 'Encouraged' To Change Their Dollars Into Devalued Rials Radio Farda 06 Jul 2020 -- A member of Iran's parliament has cited the central bank as saying that people in the country have stashed away $35 billion at their homes.
US government must compensate losses it has inflicted on Iran: Zarif Press TV 06 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says regardless of who wins the forthcoming presidential election in the United States, the next American government must make up for the losses that its predecessor has inflicted on the Iranian nation.
Zarif: Iran's capability makes US, Israel concerned IRNA 06 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Iran's eloquence and capabilities have brought about concern for the US and the Zionist regime of Israel.
Iran's progress, capabilities causes of concern for US, Israel: FM Zarif Press TV 06 Jul 2020 -- Iran's foreign minister says the pressures exerted by the United States and Israel on the Islamic Republic prove that both regimes are concerned about the new grounds Tehran has broken in recent years and its continued progress.
Prestige Of Iranian Passport Declines Further In World Rankings Radio Farda 06 Jul 2020 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran's passport has ranked as the sixth least respected in the world in the latest Passport Index report.
Iran Says It Is Negotiating 25-Year Bilateral Deal With China RFE/RL 06 Jul 2020 -- Iran has been negotiating a 25-year accord with China "with confidence and conviction," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told parliament on July 5, saying its terms will be announced once the deal is struck.
COVID-19 kills 163 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 05 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Sunday that some 163 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 11,571.
Iran Marks Single-Day High Of Coronavirus Deaths RFE/RL 05 Jul 2020 -- Iran has recorded its highest single-day death toll since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, reporting 163 deaths in the last 24 hours on July 5.
Iran operates underground missile cities along southern shores: IRGC commander Press TV 05 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Armed Forces have developed underground missile cities along the country's entire southern shores, including the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, says the commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy.
'We Are Your Nightmare': Iran Has Underground 'Missile Cities' on Southern Coasts, Admiral Says Sputnik 05 Jul 2020 -- Despite numerous protests from Iran, US warships regularly patrol the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, including the Islamic Republic's maritime borders. Washington hasn't backed down from the practice, even after complaining about Iranian speedboats "harassing" American destroyers.
Official: Iran to Build Bigger Building to Replace Damaged One at Natanz Uranium Enrichment Site Sputnik 05 Jul 2020 -- On 2 July, the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI) said there was an incident during construction work at the Natanz uranium enrichment plant in the central province of Isfahan, which damaged one of the awnings under construction.
Natanz incident investigated by parliament's National Security Commission IRNA 05 Jul 2020 -- Rapporteur of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission Abolfazl Amouei said on Sunday that the dimensions of the Natanz incident and the report of the IAEA Board of Governors were discussed in the meeting in the presence of Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Ali Akbar Salehi.
More advanced shed to replace damaged one at Natanz facility: AEOI spokesman Press TV 05 Jul 2020 -- The spokesman for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) says a new and more advanced shed will be built at Natanz nuclear facility to replace the one damaged in a recent incident.
France reaffirms commitment to JCPOA IRNA 05 Jul 2020 -- French Foreign Ministry in a statement on Sunday reaffirmed commitment to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
US trying to portray Iran as security threat to the world: Zarif ISNA 05 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif stressed that the United States is trying to portray Iran as a security threat to the world.
Iran will stand up to IAEA's excessive demands: Parliament speaker Press TV 05 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Parliament speaker says the country will stand against excessive demands put forth by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its Board of Governors, and will not allow the agency to act as it wills on the Iranian soil without limitation.
Israeli foreign minister: Israel taking any action to stop 'Iranian nuclear threat' Press TV 05 Jul 2020 -- The Israeli foreign minister says the regime considers Iran's nuclear abilities as an "existential threat" to itself, noting that Tel Aviv is taking any action to stop what he called "Iranian nuclear threat."
Iran lodges complaint against US at ICC over sanctions amid rise in COVID-19 infections Press TV 05 Jul 2020 -- Iran has filed a complaint at the International Court of Justice (ICC) against the United States regarding the impact of Washington's sanctions that have seriously hampered the country's efforts to curtail the coronavirus pandemic.
FM Zarif: Iran's ditching of US dollar to ease sanctions pressure paying off Press TV 05 Jul 2020 -- Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has underlined Iran's achievements in ditching the US dollar, citing the country's use of barter system to ease up pressure caused by the illegal US sanctions.
Iran Lawmakers Call Zarif A 'Liar', Table Motion To Question Rouhani Radio Farda 05 Jul 2020 -- Iranian lawmakers continuously heckled Foreign Minister Javad Zarif at the Iranian Parliament on Sunday July 5 throughout his speech, which was interrupted several times.
Iran Spending Hundreds Of Millions On Religious Shrines In Iraq And Syria Radio Farda 05 Jul 2020 -- The head of Iran's Holy Shrines' Reconstruction Headquarters, Mohammad Jalal Ma'ab, says, despite the coronavirus epidemic in Iraq, building the "Zaynab Courtyard" project in the city of Karbala "continued unabated".
Iran's Rial Hits New Historic Low Against US Dollar, Other Currencies Radio Farda 05 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian currency rial fell to new lows against the U.S. dollar in trading on Sunday at Tehran's exchange market, going above the 220,000 rial to the dollar mark.
Iran's Vice President Says US Failed to Stop Iranian Oil Exports Sputnik 05 Jul 2020 -- The United States has failed to stop the Iranian oil exports despite the intention to bring it to zero, First Vice President of Iran Eshaq Jahangiri said on Sunday.
Iran's Top Security Official Says Killing Soleimani is US 'Biggest Gift' to Terrorism in Region Sputnik 05 Jul 2020 -- At the request of US President Donald Trump, the commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), General Qasem Soleimani, was killed during a goodwill trip to Iraq in January in a targeted drone strike, alongside Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the deputy head of Iraq's Hashd al-Sha'abi militia.
COVID-19 kills another 148 Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 04 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Saturday that some 148 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 11,408.
Iran tightens COVID-19 restrictions as of Sunday IRNA 04 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday that wearing mask will become mandatory in the crowded and public places as of Sunday (July 5).
Iran says U.S. sanctions hamper global fight against COVID-19 People's Daily 04 Jul 2020 -- The unilateral sanctions by the United States on countries like Iran, Syria and Yemen hamper global efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran's envoy to the United Nations, was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency on Friday.
Coronavirus Infected 20 Percent In Iran, Random Serology Tests Show Radio Farda 04 Jul 2020 -- A member of the national Coronavirus Combat Taskforce of Iran on Saturday said based on random serologic test findings 20 percent of Iranians must have had been infected with the coronavirus so far.
Iran's President Says Wear Masks, Or Be Denied Public Services RFE/RL 04 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani says Iranians who do not wear masks will be denied public services and workplaces that fail to comply with health protocols will be shut for a week.
Iran Allowed Commercial Flights To Conceal Plans To Strike US Military Bases Radio Farda 04 Jul 2020 -- The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) on Friday said it has obtained an audio recording that suggests Iranian authorities did not close the airspace over Tehran on January 8 to conceal their plans to strike U.S. military bases in Iraq, leading to the shooting down of a Ukrainian airliner.
Iranian team to visit Natanz Nuclear site following recent incident IRNA 04 Jul 2020 -- A team comprising members of Iranian Parliament National Security and Foreign Policy Commission is to visit Shahid Ahmadi Roshan Natanz Nuclear Complex following an incident that has taken place recently, a senior Iranian lawmaker Yaghoub Rezazadeh said on Saturday.
Cause of Natanze's accident to be made publice at appropriate time due to security considerations ISNA 04 Jul 2020 -- The spokesperson for the Supreme National Security Council of Iran, Keivan Khosravi said expert teams have determined the cause of a recent accident at Natanz nuclear facility in the central province of Isfahan.
Russia says dispute mechanism for JCPOA lacks "clear procedure" IRNA 04 Jul 2020 -- Russia's Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov wrote on Saturday that dispute resolution mechanism to solve issues related to the July 2015 nuclear deal "lacks clear and agreed procedure."
Borrel terms JCPOA historic achievement for global non-proliferation IRNA 04 Jul 2020 -- EU Foreign Policy chief Josep Borrel has said he believes the JCPOA is an historic achievement for global nuclear non-proliferation contributing to regional and global peace and security.
Zarif raps EU3's non-compliance with JCPOA in letter to Borrell ISNA 04 Jul 2020 -- Foreign Minister of Iran Mohammad Javad Zarif has sent a letter to EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell to denounce the EU3's non-compliance with the 2015 nuclear agreement after the three European states drafted an anti-Iranian resolution at the IAEA Board of Governors, Foreign Ministry spokesperson has announced.
Iran says has triggered JCPOA dispute mechanism 'six times' Press TV 04 Jul 2020 -- Iran's foreign minister says he has triggered the "dispute resolution mechanism" of the 2015 nuclear deal, officially known as the JCPOA, on at least six occasions.
JCPOA partners must solve all issues through Joint Commission: Russian diplomat Press TV 04 Jul 2020 -- A senior Russian diplomat says Moscow's principled stance is to support the settlement of all issues pertaining to the implementation of a landmark nuclear agreement between Iran and six world powers through the deal's Joint Commission.
Iran Has Triggered Nuclear Accord Dispute Mechanism, EU Says Radio Farda 04 Jul 2020 -- The European Union's top diplomat disclosed Friday that he has received a letter from Iran's foreign minister that triggers a dispute mechanism in the 2015 nuclear agreement, complaining that Britain, France and Germany are not living up to their side of the deal.
EU's Borrell: Iran triggers dispute mechanism in nuclear deal Press TV 04 Jul 2020 -- The EU foreign policy chief says he has received a letter from Iran that demands triggering the dispute resolution mechanism of the 2015 nuclear deal over the failure of the three European signatories to the agreement to honor their commitments.
UN Nuclear Watchdog Says Inspections Will Continue After Iran Nuclear Site Incident Radio Farda 04 Jul 2020 -- In a statement on Friday the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, said that although its inspectors were not present at the time of a fire/explosion at Iranian nuclear facility in Natanz, the Islamic Republic authorities had informed the U.N. nuclear watchdog of the incident.
Gen. Soleimani's assassination, US biggest gift to Takfiri terrorism: Top Iran security official Press TV 04 Jul 2020 -- Iran's top security official says Washington's assassination of senior Iranian anti-terror commander Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani was the biggest gift from the US to Takfiri terrorism and its supporters.
Breaking: Explosion At Power Plant And Chlorine Leak At Petrochemical Plant In Iran Radio Farda 04 Jul 2020 -- Iranian news agencies on Saturday reported an explosion at Zargan power plant and a chlorine leak at Karoun Petrochemical Industries Plant, but possible casualties and the scope of damages remain unclear.
Are US Sanctions An Obstacle To China's Domination Of Iran? Radio Farda 04 Jul 2020 -- Beijing's increasing political influence in Tehran during the past five years, and the unusual growth in military cooperation and trade between the two have turned China into the biggest winner of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, says Iranian analyst Reza Taghizadeh.
2,566 new viral cases, 154 fatalities in Iran IRNA 03 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Health Ministry Spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Friday that an additional 2,566 coronavirus cases and 154 deaths were recorded on Friday, as the coronavirus disease continues its rapid spread around the country.
US sanctions on countries hamper efforts to battle virus: Iran Press TV 03 Jul 2020 -- Iran's envoy to the United Nations (UN) has called for an end to unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States on various countries as the restrictive measures hamper their fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Iran Bans Cosmetic Surgery Six Months After Coronavirus Pandemic Began Radio Farda 03 Jul 2020 -- A deputy health minister has sent a letter to the heads of Iran's state-run medical sciences universities to instruct them to halt cosmetic surgeries until further notice "due to the requirement to manage hospital beds".
Cause of Natanz site incident to be announced at appropriate time, SNSC spokesman says IRNA 03 Jul 2020 -- Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) spokesman Keyvan Khosravi said on Friday that the cause of the incident at the Shahid Ahmadi Roshan Natanz Nuclear Complex has been identified following the technical and security investigations and will be declared in due course for security reasons.
Iran Says It Has Pinpointed Cause Of Incident At Nuclear Site But Will Not Share For Now Radio Farda 03 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) has announced that the cause of Thursday's incident in the Natanz uranium enrichment facility has been determined but due to "security considerations" no information will be made public for the time being.
Iran Says It Identified Cause Of Natanz 'Incident' But Won't Disclose It RFE/RL 03 Jul 2020 -- Iran's top security body said the cause of an "incident" at one of the country's nuclear facilities has been determined, but it declined to release details, citing security reasons.
Cause of incident at Natanz nuclear site identified, to be announced at appropriate time: SNSC Press TV 03 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) says the "main cause" of a recent incident at the country's Natanz nuclear facility has been determined and will be announced at an appropriate time.
Zarif writes to Borrell on EU's noncompliance with JCPOA IRNA 03 Jul 2020 -- Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in a letter to the High Representative of the European Union Josep Borrell once again referred the cases of European countries' non-compliance to the Joint Commission for settlement in accordance with Article 36 of the JCPOA.
Khamenei's Defiant Foreign Policy Chief Lashes Out At EU Trio, IAEA Radio Farda 03 Jul 2020 -- The top foreign policy aide to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has criticized UK, France and Germany for voting against Iran at the latest meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Iran To Compensate Ukrainian Plane Victims, Families Say Investigation First Radio Farda 03 Jul 2020 -- Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde on Thursday said Iran has agreed to compensate the families of the victims of the Ukrainian plane shot down near Tehran on January 8 by the Revolutionary Guard.
COVID-19 kills 148 Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 02 Jul 2020 -- Iran's Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said on Wednesday that some 148 more Iranians have died from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 11,106.
Explosion At Iran Nuclear Site: Accident, Sabotage Or Foreign Attack Radio Farda 03 Jul 2020 -- A mysterious explosion and fire in one of Iran's nuclear facilities has opened the flood gates to speculations and analysis as to whether it was an accident, sabotage or foreign attack.
Mystery Group Claims Responsibility For 'Operation' Against Iran Nuclear Facility Radio Farda 02 Jul 2020 -- A mysterious group calling itself "Homeland Panthers" on Thursday claimed responsibility for the explosion at Iran's Natanz nuclear facility hours before its announcement by sending emails to a number of BBC Persian journalists.
Natanz complex not affected by incident, enrichment continues normally, AEOI spox says IRNA 02 Jul 2020 -- Spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Behrouz Kamalvandi said on Thursday that there were no casualties in Shahid Ahmadi Rowshan Natanz Complex as a result of the incident occurred this morning, and the normal process of enrichment continues far from the site of the incident.
AEOI spox says fire in Iran nuclear enrichment site led no release of radiation IRNA 02 Jul 2020 -- Spokesman for Iran Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI) Behrouz Kamalvandi said the incident in Natanz nuclear site did not affect its centrifuge operation or cause any release of radiation.
AEOI: Natanz incident causing no work stoppage, slowdown at facility Press TV 02 Jul 2020 -- The spokesman for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) says an incident hitting the country's Natanz nuclear facility early Thursday has caused no stoppage or slowdown of enrichment work at the facility, because the affected shed was actually under construction and not part of the enrichment process yet.
Official: No evidence to show that Natanz incident was deliberate act Press TV 02 Jul 2020 -- An informed Iranian security official says there is no evidence to show that an incident earlier today at Iran's Natanz nuclear facility has been an act of intentional sabotage.
Iran investigating cause behind Natanz nuclear facility incident: Kamalvandi Press TV 02 Jul 2020 -- Iran has reported an incident at the Natanz nuclear complex in the central part of the country, but there has been no damage to the main uranium enrichment facility.
Breaking News: Iran Official Says No Casualties, Serious Damages In 'Accident' At Natanz Nuclear Facility Radio Farda 02 Jul 2020 -- Quoting the Spokesman of Iran's Atomic Energy Agency, Behrouz Kamalvandi, local news agencies on Thursday morning reported an "accident" in an "industrial shed" under construction within the grounds of Natanz nuclear facility".
Iran Says Natanz Nuclear Facility Not Damaged Despite 'Incident' RFE/RL 02 Jul 2020 -- Iran says there has been an "incident" at one of its nuclear facilities monitored by the UN's atomic agency, but there was no damage to the site.
Iran Nuclear Spokesman Confirms 'Incident' Near Natanz Nuclear Site Sputnik 02 Jul 2020 -- The facility in Natanz in the central Iranian province of Isfahan is the country's primary uranium enrichment facility. Iran began expanding its enrichment programme after the United States unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal, which curbed the Islamic Republic's nuclear ambitions in exchange for the lifting of sanctions.
Russia: US bid to extend Iran embargo compromises JCPOA Press TV 02 Jul 2020 -- Russia says the United States' controversial bid to extend an arms embargo on Iran that is expected to expire under Tehran's nuclear deal with world countries jeopardizes the prospect of the agreement's continued preservation.
US stance against Resolution 2231, a threat to world peace: Iran envoy IRNA 02 Jul 2020 -- The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Pakistan says that the US hindrance in the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2231 has endangered world peace urging the United Nations to take notice of the economic terrorism against the Iranian people.
This Week in Iran Policy US Dept. of State 02 Jul 2020
US lawsuit seeks to deter deliveries of Iranian fuel to Venezuela Press TV 02 Jul 2020 -- US prosecutors have filed a lawsuit to seize the much-needed gasoline aboard four tankers that Iran is shipping to Venezuela, the country which is facing fuel shortages due to American economic embargo on it.
Warrant and Complaint Seek Seizure of All Iranian Gasoil Aboard Four Tankers Headed to Venezuela Based on Connection to IRGC US Dept. of Justice 02 Jul 2020 -- A forfeiture complaint and warrant were filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia alleging that all petroleum-product cargo aboard the Bella with international maritime organization (IMO) number 9208124, the Bering with IMO number 9149225, the Pandi with IMO number 9105073, and the Luna with IMO number 9208100 are subject to forfeiture based on the terrorism forfeiture statute.
U.S. Seeks To Seize Iran Gasoline Shipments Heading To Venezuela RFE/RL 02 Jul 2020 -- U.S. prosecutors have filed a lawsuit to seize the gasoline aboard four tankers that Iran is currently shipping to Venezuela, the latest attempt to increase pressure on the two sanctioned anti-American allies.
Central Bank; Where Iran's Foreign Currency Resources Are Plundered Radio Farda 02 Jul 2020 -- The rate of exchange for the U.S. dollar has risen 2,700 times during the past 41 years since the start of clerical rule in Iran under the Islamic Republic system.
Khamenei Assures Student That Criticism Is OK. But Later He's Sentenced For Criticizing The Iranian Leader RFE/RL 02 Jul 2020 -- Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei assured a doctoral student in a 2016 meeting that there was nothing wrong with criticizing the country's top official.
Sweden Says Iran Agrees To Compensate Families From Downing Of Ukrainian Airliner RFE/RL 02 Jul 2020 -- Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde says Iran has agreed that it will compensate the families of foreign victims who died when a Ukrainian airliner was shot down after taking off from Tehran's main airport in January, killing all 176 people on board.
Iran restores restrictions over COVID-19 in 8 provinces Press TV 01 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian government has restored tough restrictions in eight provinces with high rates of infection related to the spread of the COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus pandemic.
Soaring Infection Rates In Iran Might Close Down Religious City Radio Farda 01 Jul 2020 -- As coronavirus infections soar in Iran, there is talk of a lockdown in Mashhad, the country's second city and a major destination for pilgrims this week.
Iran's president denounces US sanctions against Syria, pledges support for Damascus Press TV 01 Jul 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has denounced as inhumane the US sanctions against Syria amid the war-torn country's battle against the coronavirus pandemic, while pledging Tehran's unwavering support for Damascus.
In Call With Erdogan And Putin, Iran's Rohani Calls For End Of 'Illegitimate' U.S. Presence In Syria RFE/RL 01 Jul 2020 -- The "illegitimate" presence of U.S. forces in Syria should end immediately, Iranian President Hassan Rohani told Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in a video conference on July 1 on the situation in the war-torn country.
Iran's Rough Road In Iraq Radio Farda 01 Jul 2020 -- Iran's influence in Iraq through proxy groups appears to be facing serious challenges as the new Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kazemi is trying to control pro-Iranian Shiite militia groups, while some shift their loyalty from Iran to Ayatollah Ali Sistani.
Iran to spare no effort to reinforce defense infrastructure IRNA 01 Jul 2020 -- Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abbas Mousavi said on Wednesday that as long as the US officials speak of military option against the Iranian people and delay their withdrawal, Iran will spare no legitimate effort to strengthen its defense infrastructure by relying on domestic power.
Arms Embargo Extension For Tehran Takes Center Stage In U.S.-Iranian Tensions RFE/RL 01 Jul 2020 -- A confrontation is heating up between Tehran and Washington over the possible extension of a five-year arms embargo against Iran that is due to expire in four months.
Pompeo Defends Arms Embargo, Says Iran 'Cannot Be Trusted' Radio Farda 01 Jul 2020 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo intensified his efforts on Wednesday, July 1, to defend Washington's position against lifting the international arms embargo on Iran.
Khamenei's Allies Attack His Critic, Defend His Record Radio Farda 01 Jul 2020 -- Tehran's Friday Prayer Imam and member of the influential Assembly of Experts (A.E.), Ahmad Khatami, has stepped in to defend the Islamic Republic Supreme Leader's economic record.
Iran Lawmakers Want To Set Up 'Garlic And Lentil' Caucus In Parliament Radio Farda 01 Jul 2020 -- A member of Iran's parliament, Majles, says that the Board of Directors of the legislative body has so far received about 100 requests for forming parliamentary factions.
Iran resumes gas exports to Turkey after pipeline fixed Press TV 01 Jul 2020 -- The Iranian Oil Ministry says it has resumed exports of natural gas to Turkey despite reports in the media suggesting that exports could stop for good because of price disputes.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

July 2020 - Iran Special Weapons News