May 2021 - Iran Special Weapons News

COVID-19 kills 217 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 31 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran increased to 80,156 with 217 more Iranians killed by the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Monday.
Iran to start using local jab for COVID vaccinations in few days Press TV 31 May 2021 -- Iran has approved the use of its flagship coronavirus vaccine CovIran Barekat for a public inoculation program that is set to begin in few days.
Iran Talks With Saudi Arabia on Restoring Relations Continue in 'Good Atmosphere' Sputnik 31 May 2021 -- Last month, an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman said that Iran and Saudi Arabia, "as two important countries in the region and the Muslim world," had a chance to open a "new chapter of interaction and cooperation".
Iran Says Talks On Reaching 'Common Understanding' With Saudi Arabia Taking Place In 'Good Atmosphere' RFE/RL 31 May 2021 -- Iran says ongoing talks on reaching a "common understanding" with regional rival Saudi Arabia are taking place in a "good atmosphere."
Iran Says Progress Made In Nuclear Talks But Problems Remain RFE/RL 31 May 2021 -- Iran says substantial progress has been made in talks with world powers to revive a landmark nuclear deal, but critical issues remain unresolved.
Iran, E3, China, Russia confer on JCPOA in Vienna IRNA 31 May 2021 -- Iran's negotiating delegation in two separating meetings with Russia, China, EU, and E3 on Monday examined the latest Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action aka JCPOA revival talks.
Iran, Russia, China continue talks on JCPOA in Vienna IRNA 31 May 2021 -- Senior diplomats from Iran, Russia and China discussed the case of a 2015 Iran nuclear deal – known as JCPOA – in a meeting in Vienna on Monday.
Iran meticulously continues Vienna talks IRNA 31 May 2021 -- The spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry said on Monday that Tehran continues Vienna talks with meticulousness as the country's stance has already been declared.
Intense talks between Iran, P4+1 countries on JCPOA revival continue in Vienna Press TV 31 May 2021 -- Iran's negotiators continue intense multilateral talks with the remaining members of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the landmark nuclear deal reached between Tehran and six world powers in 2015, to revive the agreement, which was abandoned three years later by the former US administration.
Iran's Top Negotiator Reportedly Says Nuclear Talks Unlikely to Conclude in Current Round Sputnik 31 May 2021 -- Iran's top negotiator on the revival of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Abbas Araqchi, said that the fifth round of talks was difficult and unlikely to be the last, media reported.
IAEA report reflects Iran's implementation of Majlis' strategic law: Envoy Press TV 31 May 2021 -- Iran's permanent representative to Vienna-based international organizations says a recent report by the UN nuclear agency serves to verify the Islamic Republic's implementation of a strategic parliamentary law that has widened the scope of the country's nuclear countermeasures.
Iran's enriched uranium stockpile 16 times over nuclear deal limit: IAEA Press TV 31 May 2021 -- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium is around 16 times the limit laid down in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the nuclear agreement signed between Tehran and major world powers in 2015.
IAEA: Iran Has Exceeded Nuclear Deal Uranium Enrichment Limit Stockpile by 16 Times Sputnik 31 May 2021 -- Iran is currently in talks with global powers over reviving the 2015 nuclear agreement, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which the US unilaterally abandoned in 2018.
COVID-19 kills 198 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 30 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran increased to 79,939 with 198 more Iranians killed by the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Sunday.
Iran produces one million doses of COV-Iran Barekat vaccine IRNA 30 May 2021 -- The managing director of COV-Iran Barekat vaccine research group said on Sunday that one million doses of COV-Iran Barekat vaccines were produced, which will be delivered to Ministry of Health.
Russia envoy: 'No plans for sixth' round of JCPOA talks in Vienna Press TV 30 May 2021 -- As negotiations between Iran and the remaining parties to the 2015 nuclear deal go on in the Austrian capital of Vienna to revitalize the agreement, a senior Russian diplomat says there are no plans to extend the talks beyond the fifth round.
Presidential candidate Rezaei: I'll make rial strongest currency in region Press TV 30 May 2021 -- Presidential candidate Mohsen Rezaei says his economic agenda will focus, among other things, on increasing and stabilizing the value of Iran's national currency, pledging that the rial will rise to become the strongest currency in the region following the dollar and the euro if he wins.
Akbar Komijani takes over as Iran central bank chief Press TV 30 May 2021 -- Iran's Cabinet has assigned Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Iran (CBI) Akbar Komijani with the responsibility to run the bank in just more than two months remaining from the incumbent government's second term in office.
Iranian presidential candidate vows to reduce inflation to 'below 5%' Press TV 30 May 2021 -- Iranian presidential candidate Amir-Hossein Ghazizadeh-Hashemi has pledged to take inflation down to below 5% if he is elected president, a reduction of 10 times.
Raeisi urges youth to vote, 'not to take revenge on next administration for current woes' Press TV 30 May 2021 -- Presidential candidate Seyyed Ebrahim Raeisi has called on the Iranian youth to go to the ballot boxes in the June 18 presidential vote in spite of all their current economic hardships, asking them not to "exact revenge" on the next administration for the woes they have faced during the terms of President Hassan Rouhani.
Rohani Dismisses Iran's Central Bank Chief Over Presidential Candidacy RFE/RL 30 May 2021 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani has dismissed the head of the country's central bank, Abdolnaser Hemmatti, because he is running as a candidate for president in an election in June.
Iran Confirms French Citizen Charged With Spying, Propaganda RFE/RL 30 May 2021 -- The lawyer for a French tourist detained in Iran a year ago says Iranian prosecutors have confirmed that his client will be tried on charges of espionage and "propaganda against the system."
IRGC dismantles terrorist, counterrevolutionary team in northwestern Iranian province Press TV 30 May 2021 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) forces have identified and dismantled a terrorist and counterrevolutionary team in the country's northwestern province of West Azarbaijan.
COVID-19 kills 173 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 29 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran increased to 79,741 with 173 more Iranians killed by the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Saturday.
Iran's home-made vaccine to enter market as of late June IRNA 29 May 2021 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani stated here on Saturday that Iranian-developed COVID-19 vaccine is to come onto market as of end of Khordad (May 22- June 21).
Quds Force chief: Israel must now think about leaving Palestine Press TV 29 May 2021 -- The head of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says it is time for the Israelis to think about leaving Palestine and redeem their homes in Europe and the US.
Jalili 'has plan to render foreign sanctions ineffective for good' Press TV 29 May 2021 -- Iranian presidential candidate Sa'eed Jalili says he has a plan to render sanctions as an instrument against Iran ineffective forever.
Presidential candidate Mohsen Rezaei promises to increase cash handouts 10-fold Press TV 29 May 2021 -- Iranian presidential candidate Mohsen Rezaei has promised to increase cash handouts to the Iranian people from the current monthly 455,000 Iranian rials (1.9 US dollars) to 4,500,000 — an increase of ten times and another indication that the candidates running in the June 18 election are heavily focused on the economy.
Mehr-Alizadeh's campaign urges massive turnout to bring '3rd Khatami administration' to office Press TV 29 May 2021 -- Reformist candidate Mohsen Mehr-Alizadeh's campaign has called on the Iranian people to exercise their national right and turn out en masse in the June 18 presidential election to help bring "a third Khatami administration" to office.
Ghazizadeh-Hashemi to pursue 'revolution in structures, management' if elected president Press TV 29 May 2021 -- Presidential candidate Seyyed-Amir Hossein Ghazizadeh-Hashemi says it is time for a "revolution" in management methods and mechanisms of running the country, and that such deep changes need the administration to become one with the people.
Iranian-flagged oil tanker seized in January by Indonesia released Press TV 29 May 2021 -- Tehran has secured the release of an Iranian-flagged tanker, seized by Indonesian maritime authorities earlier this year over allegations of illegal transfer of crude oil in the Southeast Asian country's waters.
Indonesia Frees Iranian Tanker Four Months After Seizure RFE/RL 29 May 2021 -- Officials from both countries say Indonesian authorities have released an Iranian-flagged tanker seized four months ago over the suspected illegal transfer of oil.
COVID-19 kills 184 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 28 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran increased to 79,568 with 184 more Iranians killed by the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Friday.
Iran's Rohani Congratulates Assad On Syria Election Victory RFE/RL 28 May 2021 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani has congratulated Syria's Bashar al-Assad on winning a fourth seven-year presidential term, according to an Iranian presidential website.
Las Vegas Woman Arrested and Charged with Illegally Exporting Goods to Iran US Dept. of Justice 28 May 2021 -- A Las Vegas woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury for conspiracy to export goods from the United States to Iran, in violation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations.
US will be careful in how to lift Iran sanctions: Treasury secretary Press TV 27 May 2021 -- US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen says her country will be careful in how it decides to lift sanctions from Iran if current talks in Austria on reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, better known as JCPOA, bear fruit.
It's US actions, not Iran election, that determine course of Vienna talks: Official Press TV 27 May 2021 -- An Iranian official has rejected speculation that the results of the country's upcoming presidential election could influence the negotiations in Vienna on a potential revival of the 2015 nuclear deal, saying it is in fact the United States' actions, not the vote, that determine the course of the talks.
Leader backs up Constitutional Council, urges Iranians to participate in June 18 election Press TV 27 May 2021 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has backed up the Constitutional Council against recent criticism of its disqualification of some presidential hopefuls.
Iranian Supreme Leader Backs Disqualification Of Key Presidential Candidates RFE/RL 27 May 2021 -- Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has expressed support for the Guardians Council's disqualification of prominent moderate candidates seeking to run in the country's June 18 presidential election.
Iran Harassing Families Of Those Killed In Downed Ukrainian Plane, Says Rights Watchdog RFE/RL 27 May 2021 -- Iranian security agencies have harassed and abused families of the victims of the Ukrainian passenger jet shot down by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) after takeoff from Tehran last year, Human Rights Watch said on May 27.
Iran's daily COVID-19 deaths decrease to 163 IRNA 26 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus in Iran increased to 79,219 while the nation experienced a significant decrease in deaths from 251 and 208 in the past two days to 163 death in the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Wednesday.
Zarif expresses hope for de-escalation between Azerbaijan, Armenia Press TV 26 May 2021 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has described the Caucasus as a "vital region," stressing that lasting peace and security there is a matter of national security for Iran.
COVID-19 kills 208 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 25 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran increased to 79,056 with 208 more Iranians killed by the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Tuesday.
Rouhani stresses competitive nature of Presidential elections in Iran IRNA 26 May 2021 -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday that competitiveness is the spirit of elections and falls dead if the spirit is eliminated, referring to the presidential election to be held next month in Iran.
In letter to Leader, President Rouhani expresses grievances about disqualifications Press TV 26 May 2021 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says he has written to Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei to express his grievances about the recent disqualification of certain presidential hopefuls — including his Vice President Es'haq Jahangiri — by the country's Constitutional Council in the run-up to the presidential election next month.

Rohani Urges Iran's Supreme Leader To Open Election To More Candidates RFE/RL 26 May 2021 -- Outgoing Iranian President Hassan Rohani says he has urged the country's supreme leader to widen the field in next month's presidential election after only seven candidates were approved and several of his high-profile allies were rejected.

Is Iran Paving The Way For Hard-Line Cleric Raisi To Become President? RFE/RL 26 May 2021 -- By disqualifying many prominent moderates and reformers, Iran's ruling clerics are being accused of paving the way for hard-line judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi to succeed President Hassan Rohani in the upcoming presidential vote.

Biden's dilemma of maintaining sanctions or reviving JCPOA IRNA 26 May 2021 -- US President Joe Biden seems to be hesitant to continue his predecessor Donald Trump's sanction campaign against Iran or try to revive the 2015 nuclear deal and lift anti-Iran sanctions.

Talks continue until Iran's interests are secured: Deputy FM IRNA 26 May 2021 -- Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that Iran would continue the talks in Vienna to revive the nuclear deal until its interests are secured.

JPCOA Joint Commission members determined to conclude negotiations: Iran deputy FM ISNA 26 May 2021 -- Iranian deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araghchi stressed that significant progress has been made in previous rounds of Vienna talks but serious issues still remained in the talks that need to be resolved.

China welcomes extension of nuclear monitoring agreement between Iran, IAEA: foreign ministry People's Daily 26 May 2021 -- China welcomes the extension of a temporary technical understanding between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and hopes it could be faithfully implemented, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said Tuesday.

Araghchi to Press TV: We still not confident a conclusion possible for Vienna talks Press TV 26 May 2021 -- Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araghchi says he is still not confident a conclusion would be possible for talks on the revival of a 2015 Iran nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

Iranian President Says Cryptocurrency Mining 'Must Stop' Until September RFE/RL 26 May 2021 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani has announced a four-month ban on all cryptocurrency mining in response to unplanned power cuts that have hit major Iranian cities.

Iran gains remarkable successes in land warfare area IRNA 25 May 2021 -- Minister of Defense Brigadier General Amir Hatami announced on Tuesday that Iran has achieved great successes in the areas of land warfare, anti-tank missiles, surface-to-surface missiles, smart weapons, guided bombs and tactical vehicles in recent years.

Iran among top 5 submarine producers: Cmdr IRNA 25 May 2021 -- Iran's Navy Marine Rangers Commander Rear Admiral Morteza Darkhoran said on Tuesday that the country is among the top five nations in building submarines thanks to the knowledge and expertise of domestic forces.

Iran's Army starts electronic warfare drill IRNA 25 May 2021 -- The Iranian Army started on Tuesday a large-scale military drill to practice electronic warfare tactics, this drill on electronic warfare is dubbed 'Separ-e-Aseman 1400' [Sky Shield 1400].

Iran's Army kicks off electronic warfare exercise ISNA 25 May 2021 -- A joint drill dubbed "Separ-e-Aseman 1400" (Sky Shield 1400) was started on Tuesday with the participation of the strategic electronic warfare units of four branches of Iran's Army.

Advancing Iran's missile power top priority at Defense Ministry: Brig. Gen. Hatami Press TV 25 May 2021 -- Iran's defense minister says advancing and further reinforcing the country's missile power is a top priority of his ministry.

Iranian Army launches large-scale electronic warfare drill Press TV 25 May 2021 -- The Iranian Army has launched a large-scale aerial drill involving electronic warfare units and featuring the country's domestically-built air defense systems and equipment.

Seven Candidates Approved For Iran Presidential Vote, Rohani Allies Barred RFE/RL 25 May 2021 -- An Iranian hard-line constitutional watchdog has approved seven candidates to run in next month's presidential election, leaving out several high-profile hopefuls allied to outgoing President Hassan Rohani.

Iran announces final list of qualified candidates for presidential election ISNA 25 May 2021 -- Iran's Election Office of the Ministry of Interior announced on Tuesday the final list of candidates qualified by the Guardian Council for the 13th presidential election.

After disqualification, Jahangiri says Constitutional Council bears all liabilities Press TV 25 May 2021 -- Iran's Vice President Es'haq Jahangiri, who has been disqualified by the country's Constitutional Council from running in the June 18 presidential election and who would have been the Reformist camp's top candidate, says the vetting body bears all liabilities arising from the rejection.

Raeisi says negotiated quietly to secure qualification of more candidates Press TV 25 May 2021 -- Seyyed Ebrahim Raeisi, Iran's Judiciary chief and a candidate in the June 18 presidential election, says he negotiated quietly to secure the qualification of more candidates following a move by vetting body Constitutional Council to disqualify a number of prominent figures, including Vice President Es'haq Jahangiri.

Iran presidential election 2021: Candidates announced, cleared to start campaigning Press TV 25 May 2021 -- Iran's Interior Ministry has released a final list of the candidates found qualified by the Constitutional Council to run for president in the June 18 election, officially clearing them to start campaigning.

Extension of agreement with IAEA signifies Iran's goodwill: Rabiei IRNA 25 May 2021 -- Noting that Iran's extension of a three-month agreement with IAEA for another month was a sign of goodwill by the country, Government spokesman Ali Rabiei said that the only proper response to Iran's move is to accelerate the negotiations and immediately terminate the unilateral sanctions against Tehran.

COVID-19 kills 251 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 24 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran increased to 78,848 with 251 more Iranians dying from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Monday.

Iran Nuclear Inspection Deal With UN Watchdog Extended By One Month RFE/RL 24 May 2021 -- Iran and the UN's nuclear watchdog say they have agreed to extend by one month an agreement to monitor Tehran's nuclear activities, a move that will give more time for ongoing diplomatic efforts to salvage the country's tattered nuclear deal with world powers.

UN, Iran Agree to Extend Nuclear Monitoring VOA 24 May 2021 -- Iran and the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog have agreed to extend an agreement for monitoring of Iran's nuclear activities for one month.

IAEA managing director announces month-long extension of Iran agreement IRNA 24 May 2021 -- Managing Director of the UN nuclear watchdog, IAEA, Rafael Grossi said in a press conference in Vienna on Monday that Iran-IAEA three-month agreement on continuation of IAEA cameras' functioning and verification has been extended for another month, till July 24.

Iranian envoy informs IAEA about Tehran's one-month extension of agreement IRNA 24 May 2021 -- Iran's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to Vienna-based International Organizations Kazem Gharibabadi on Sunday carried a decision by Iran to the IAEA about the extension of a late February agreement.

Iran extends agreement with IAEA for one more month IRNA 24 May 2021 -- Iran's Supreme National Security Council issued a statement on Monday announcing the extension of a three-month agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Iran's decision on continuation of data-recording for utmost one more month informed to IAEA ISNA 24 May 2021 -- Ambassador and permanent representative of Iran to the International Organizations in Vienna, Kazem Gharibabadi announced on Monday that Iran's decision on the continuation of the data-recording for utmost one more month was informed today to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Iran, IAEA agree to extend inspection agreement by one month as Vienna talks on JCPOA continue Press TV 24 May 2021 -- Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have agreed to extend by one month the agreement they had clinched for the UN nuclear agency to continue inspection of the country's nuclear sites while the ongoing talks in Vienna on the revival of a landmark nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers continue.

Iran: Vienna deal within reach but US has to make a decision Press TV 24 May 2021 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry says an agreement is within reach on the removal sanctions on Tehran, but what remains is for the US to make a "political decision" and change course on the "failed legacy" of the former Trump regime.

Salehi: 60, 20 and %5 enrichments still going on IRNA 24 May 2021 -- Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Ali Akbar Salehi said here on Monday that the %60, 20% and 5% enrichments still continue.

AEOI chief: Iran continues 60% uranium enrichment in line with parliament's law Press TV 24 May 2021 -- The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) says the country continues to enrich uranium to 60 percent purity level as talks between the country and the remaining signatories to a landmark nuclear deal clinched in 2015 continue in the Austrian capital.

Rouhani: Americans obliged to terminate anti-JCPOA sanctions IRNA 24 May 2021 -- President Hassan Rouhani said in a coordinating meeting of the heads of the three branches of power here on Monday that the fact that Americans have admitted the failure of their maximum pressure policy is a great victory for the Iranian nation.

Zarif terms lifting sanctions as legal & moral obligation IRNA 24 May 2021 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in a message reiterated the fact that lifting sanctions by the US is a legal and moral obligation not negotiating leverage.

Iran to continue nuke talks until final agreement: president People's Daily 24 May 2021 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Sunday that Iran will continue nuclear talks in Vienna until a final agreement is reached, official IRNA news agency reported.

Report: Jahangiri, Larijani disqualified from running in June 18 election Press TV 24 May 2021 -- A report by the Iranian Fars news agency says Iran's Vice President Es'haq Jahangiri and former Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani have been disqualified by the country's Constitutional Council from running in the June 18 presidential election.

Rostam Qassemi becomes second prominent candidate to withdraw, endorse Raeisi Press TV 24 May 2021 -- Former Iranian Oil Minister Rostam Qassemi has become the second prominent presidential hopeful to drop out of the June 18 election and endorse the Principlist camp's best presumptive bet Ebrahim Raeisi.

Hossein Dehqan, 1st general to register in Iran's presidential race, drops out in favor of Ebrahim Raeisi Press TV 24 May 2021 -- Former Defense Minister Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan has dropped his bid to run for president in Iran's June 18 election in favor of Seyyed Ebrahim Raeisi, the chief of the Judiciary.

All eyes on Constitutional Council as candidate vetting deadline nears Press TV 24 May 2021 -- Iran's Constitutional Council is shortly expected to release a final list of the candidates qualified to contest the upcoming presidential election, ending more than a week of intense guesswork about which hopefuls can secure the vetting body's green light to run for president.

Strengthening defense, offence power on Iranian agenda: Top commander IRNA 23 May 2021 -- Iran's Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Major-General Mohammad Baqeri said in a statement on Sunday on the anniversary of Liberation of Khorramshahr that the permanent component of Iran's armed forces agenda is strengthening defensive, offensive and deterrent power.

Iran among top countries in the world in terms of drone power: Defense Minister ISNA 23 May 2021 -- Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier-General Amir Hatami stressed that Iran is undoubtedly among the top countries in the world in terms of drone power.

Iran's armed forces ready to face decisively any threat with its thorough knowledge, knowhow ISNA 23 May 2021 -- Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Bagheri stressed that armed forces of the country is ready to face decisively any threat with its thorough knowledge and knowhow.

Defense minister: Iran among world's effective missile powers Press TV 23 May 2021 -- Iran's defense minister says the Islamic Republic has greatly developed its missile capability in the past years and is now among the world's topmost missile powers.

IAEA has no right to access cameras footages of AEOI ISNA 23 May 2021 -- Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stressed that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has no right to access the cameras footages of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran.

Iran may conditionally extend monitoring deal with IAEA by one month: SNSC source Press TV 23 May 2021 -- Iran is likely to extend by one month an agreement it had signed with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on inspection of its nuclear sites for a period of three months, an informed source with Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) says.

Qalibaf: IAEA no longer to access images of Iran nuclear sites Press TV 23 May 2021 -- Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf says the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will no longer be able to access images of the Iranian nuclear sites because a monitoring deal with the UN nuclear body has expired.

Iran Says Deal Ends Allowing UN Inspectors Access To Nuclear Site Images RFE/RL 23 May 2021 -- The speaker of the Iranian parliament said on May 23 that a three-month monitoring deal between Tehran and the UN's nuclear monitoring agency has expired, escalating tensions amid diplomatic efforts to save the Iranian nuclear deal with world powers.

UN Nuclear Watchdog to 'Lose Access' to Images of Iran's Nuclear Sites as Tehran-IAEA Deal Expires Sputnik 23 May 2021 -- Iran struck a deal with the UN nuclear watchdog in February to temporarily salvage part of the extra inspection activities introduced by its 2015 nuclear accord with major powers, which Tehran scaled back in retaliation for reimposed US sanctions after Washington unilaterally pulled out of that agreement in 2018.

Blinken: Unclear Whether Iran Will Comply with Nuclear Commitments VOA 23 May 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Sunday it is not clear whether Iran will comply with restrictions on its nuclear development program in order to have U.S. economic sanctions removed.

Iran continues Vienna talks until final agreement: President IRNA 23 May 2021 -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Sunday that Iran would move on with the talks in Vienna until a final agreement is reached, noting that US maximum pressure proved to be ineffective given Iran's production growth in different industrial sectors.

Iranian security forces dismantle three terrorist teams in southeastern province Press TV 23 May 2021 -- Iranian intelligence forces have dismantled three foreign-backed terrorist teams, including culprits of a bomb blast in the city of Saravan, in the southeastern and northwestern provinces of Sistan and Baluchestan and West Azarbaijan.

COVID-19 death toll in Iran decrease to 187 IRNA 22 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 78,381 with 187 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Saturday.

Disgruntled Iranians Say 'No Way,' Call For Boycott Of June Presidential Election RFE/RL 22 May 2021 -- Less than a month before Iran's June 18 presidential election, there are few signs of enthusiasm about the vote.

COVID-19 kills 200 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 21 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 78,194 with 200 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Friday.

Leader congratulates Palestinian nation on resistance victory against Israeli regime Press TV 21 May 2021 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has extended his congratulations to the Palestinian people over the historic victory of the resistance front against the Zionist regime.

Iran's IRGC unveils strategic drone, missile, radar systems Press TV 21 May 2021 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has unveiled three important and strategic products in the fields of unmanned aerial vehicle and air defense system.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps Unveil New Multipurpose 'Gaza' Drone Sputnik 21 May 2021 -- Oddly enough, the new drone was presented a day after the Gaza-based Hamas and Israel agreed on a ceasefire after 10 days of intense mutual hostilities.

Canadian court has no jurisdiction over Ukrainian airliner incident: FM spox IRNA 21 May 2021 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said on Friday that the verdict issued by a Canadian court regarding the downing of the Ukrainian airliner is baseless.

Canadian court has no jurisdiction to rule on 2020 Ukrainian plane crash: Iran Press TV 21 May 2021 -- Iran has rejected as baseless a recent ruling by a Canadian court on the January 2020 accidental downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane near Tehran, saying the court has no jurisdiction to rule on the case.

Tehran Slams Canadian Court's 'Groundless' Ruling on Ukrainian Jet Crash Sputnik 21 May 2021 -- Tehran deems a Canadian court's ruling that Iran deliberately downed a Ukrainian passenger plane in January 2020 to be baseless and politically motivated, the Foreign Ministry said on Friday.

Zarif derides Biden admin's use of Trump-era sanctions as leverage in Vienna talks Press TV 21 May 2021 -- As delegations to the Vienna talks return to their capitals for further consultations, Iran's foreign minister says the Biden administration's use of Trump-era illegal and inhumane sanctions as leverage in the talks is not acceptable.

Study: Iran Using Crypto Mining To Evade Sanctions RFE/RL 21 May 2021 -- Iran is using Bitcoin mining to evade crippling U.S. sanctions on its economy, according to a new study.

COVID-19 kills 229 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 20 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 77,994 with 229 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Thursday.

Iranian Navy dispatches 76th flotilla of warships to high seas on combat-training mission Press TV 20 May 2021 -- The Iranian Navy has dispatched the Alborz destroyer and the Khark logistics ship — the country's largest — to the high seas on a routine combat, reconnaissance and training mission aimed at safeguarding international shipping routes.

Iran's Rohani Says Broad Outline Of Deal Reached With World Powers, Details Remain RFE/RL 20 May 2021 -- Iranian President Hassan Rohani says the broad outline of a deal to end major sanctions on his country has been reached during talks with world powers aimed at restoring a 2015 troubled nuclear deal, although some difficult issues remain.

Rouhani says JCPOA parties in agreement over removal of all main sanctions Press TV 20 May 2021 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says the parties in Vienna talks have accepted to remove all main sanctions targeting the country's oil, petrochemical, shipping and insurance sectors as well as the Central Bank of Iran.

Araghchi: Time for US to return to JCPOA, lift sanctions IRNA 20 May 2021 -- Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for political affairs Abbas Araghchi said it was time for the United States to return to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and lift the sanctions.

Araghchi: Very good progress achieved in negotiations IRNA 20 May 2021 -- Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Seyyed Abbas Araghchi said in Vienna on Wednesday evening that good progress has been achieved at the Joint JCPOA Commission meeting about nuclear and sanctions issues.

COVID-19 kills 233 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 19 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 77,765 with 233 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Wednesday.

Iran to stand by Syrian nation, government in reconstructing their country: Defense Minister ISNA 19 May 2021 -- Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier-General Amir Hatami announced that economic centers of the Defense Ministry are ready for any sort of help and cooperation regarding reconstruction of Syria and meeting the country's needs.

Iran Navy 76th fleet departs for high seas IRNA 19 May 2021 -- Iranian Navy 76th fleet, consisting of the Alborz destroyer and the Khark helicopter carrier, departed Bandar Abbas on Wednesday for international waters so as to carry out their missions.

Vienna talks to end in victory of Iranian nation: President IRNA 19 May 2021 -- President Hassan Rouhani vowed on Wednesday that the talks in Vienna would end in victory of Iranian nation.

President Rouhani promises that Vienna talks to end with Iranian nation's victory ISNA 19 May 2021 -- Iran's President referred to the upcoming elections, saying, "These days are very important politically, socially and culturally, the days when the late Imam [Khomeini] (RA) passed away and this year, it is the 1400 elections".

Diplomats Report Progress In Iran Nuclear Pact Talks In Vienna RFE/RL 19 May 2021 -- Senior diplomats from multiple countries have reported progress in talks to revive the 2015 accord on Iran's nuclear weapons and persuade the United States to rejoin the landmark agreement.

Iran reports 14,319 new COVID-19 cases, 2,765,485 in total People's Daily 18 May 2021 -- Iran reported on Monday 14,319 new COVID-19 cases, raising the country's total number to 2,765,485.

COVID-19 kills 310 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 18 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 77,532 with 310 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Tuesday.

Iran avoids reciprocating Turkey's land border opening Press TV 18 May 2021 -- Iran's customs office IRICA has denied reports suggesting that land borders to Turkey have reopened following more than a fortnight of closure over concerns about the spread of the coronavirus.

Parliament stresses Iran's demand for '100%, real' removal of US sanctions Press TV 18 May 2021 -- Amid the diplomatic process in Vienna on a potential revival of the 2015 nuclear accord, Iran's Parliament (Majlis) has stressed the country's "definitive" demand for a "real removal" of the sanctions imposed on the Islamic Republic by the United States, followed by a "meticulous verification" of such a termination of the bans.

Who Are The Early Contenders For Iran's Looming Presidential Vote? RFE/RL 18 May 2021 -- With the application deadline expired and a month to go before Iran's election of a new president, two names are emerging as the likely top contenders to succeed President Hassan Rohani.

Spotlight on heavyweights in Iran's presidential race as vetting begins People's Daily 18 May 2021 -- Iran's Constitutional Council, which supervises elections in the country, on Sunday started the process of vetting the large number of registered presidential hopefuls, of whom a few number would qualify, with heavyweights already in the spotlight.

COVID-19 kills 286 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 17 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 77,222 with 286 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Monday.

Iran's Defense Ministry to deliver advanced drones to Army ISNA 17 May 2021 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran Army and Defense Ministry signed a strategic agreement on developing and boosting drone power of the Army and the Armed Forces.

No discussion like "preliminary agreement" in Vienna talks: Iran IRNA 17 May 2021 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said on Monday that no topic called "preliminary agreement" was raised in Vienna talks to revive the JCPOA, as a considerable part of the remaining issues were finalized in tripartite groups with some of them left for political decisions.

Iran to vaccinate 14m citizens against COVID-19 by end of June: Minister IRNA 16 May 2021 -- Iranian Minister of Health Saeed Namaki said on Sunday that the country will vaccinate some 13 to 14 million citizens against COVID-19 by the end of June.

COVID-19 kills 303 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 16 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 76,936 with 303 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Sunday.

592 Iranians sign up for presidential election People's Daily 16 May 2021 -- A total of 592 people, mostly political unknowns, have registered for the 13th presidential election in Iran, Jamal Orf, head of the country's election campaign, said on Saturday.

Drafting process of JCPOA under way: Mikhail Ulyanov ISNA 16 May 2021 -- Russia's permanent representative to international organizations in Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov stressed the work on the restoration of Iran nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) continues and the drafting process is under way.

Iran Military Commander Backs Hamas In Call With Militant Group's Leader RFE/RL 16 May 2021 -- A top Iranian commander has expressed support for the Palestinian Hamas movement in fighting that erupted this week in Gaza against Israel.

COVID-19 kills 200 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 15 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 76,633 with 200 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Saturday.

Iranian Judiciary Head Among Late Registrants For Presidential Election RFE/RL 15 May 2021 -- A hard-line cleric in charge of Iran's judiciary is among the final potential candidates who have registered to run in the country's upcoming presidential election.

Registration for Iran presidential election ends IRNA 15 May 2021 -- Registration for the next month presidential election in Iran ended at 18:00 o'clock local time (13:30 GMT).

Iran's Vice President Es'haq Jahangiri registers presidential run Press TV 15 May 2021 -- Iranian Vice President Es'haq Jahangiri has registered to run in the June 18 presidential election, pitting himself against Ebrahim Raeisi, who is seen as the Principlists' main candidate.

Ebrahim Raeisi registers to run for president as 'independent' Press TV 15 May 2021 -- Seyyed Ebrahim Raeisi, who heads Iran's Judiciary, has registered to officially run in the June 18 presidential election, shortly after announcing his candidacy as an "independent."

Former Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani throws hat in June 18 presidential race Press TV 15 May 2021 -- Ali Larijani, a veteran politician and seen as a key Principlist figure, has registered to run in Iran's June 18 presidential election.

Iran's Constitutional Council says recent interpretation of law yardstick for vetting candidates Press TV 15 May 2021 -- Iran's Constitutional Council says the body's recent interpretation of the law governing the necessary qualifications of presidential hopefuls will serve as the yardstick for vetting the candidates.

Surprise on last day of registration: Sa'eed Jalili joins Iran's presidential race Press TV 15 May 2021 -- Another Principlist figure, Sa'eed Jalili, has joined the 2021 Iranian presidential race, despite widespread belief earlier that he would not run if heavyweight Ebrahim Raeisi did, and potentially contributing to a further division of Principlist votes.

Iran, Russia discuss revival of JCPOA IRNA 15 May 2021 -- Iran's ambassador to Russia Kazam Jalali and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, in a meeting in Moscow on Saturday, discussed negotiations underway to revive a 2015 Iran nuclear deal – known as JCPOA.

COVID-19 kills 202 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 14 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 76,433 with 202 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Friday.

One day before registration ends in Iran's 2021 election, party heavyweights still no-shows Press TV 14 May 2021 -- The number-one choices of the Principlist and Reformist political camps for candidacy in Iran's 2021 presidential election have yet to put down their names for the race, one day before the registration of hopefuls officially ends.

IRGC dismantles a terrorist group in southeastern Iran IRNA 14 May 2021 -- Quds base of the IRGC Ground Force has dismantled a terrorist group in the city of Nikshahr, southeastern Iran, said a statement released by the public relations department of the base.

IRGC destroys terrorist team in Iran's Sistan and Baluchestan Press TV 14 May 2021 -- Forces of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) have destroyed a terrorist team that had martyred two members of Basij in the southwestern province of Sistan and Baluchestan.

COVID-19 kills 297 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 13 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 76,231 with 297 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Thursday.

China, Russia back Iran's demand for effective removal of US sanctions Press TV 13 May 2021 -- Russian and China — both parties to the 2015 nuclear deal — have once again backed Tehran's call for an effective removal of the sanctions imposed by the United States on the Iranian nation in the aftermath of Washington's withdrawal from the landmark accord.

U.S. Names Russia, Iran Among Worst Abusers Of Religious Rights, Slams 'Genocide' Against Uyghurs In China RFE/RL 13 May 2021 -- The U.S. State Department has accused China of committing "genocide" against Muslim Uyghurs and other religious minorities in an annual report that also labeled Iran and Russia among the world's worst offenders of religious freedom.

COVID-19 kills 366 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 12 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 75,934 with 366 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Wednesday.

Iran approves Italy-made AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine IRNA 12 May 2021 -- The spokesman for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Kianoush Jahanpour said that Iran has approved AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine made in Italy.

FM Zarif voices Iran's support for Syria presidential vote in meeting with President Assad Press TV 12 May 2021 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has voiced the Islamic Republic of Iran's support for the elections in Syria as Damascus is set to hold a presidential vote in two weeks' time.

IAEA says Iran enriched uranium to up to 63% purity Press TV 12 May 2021 -- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says samples taken from the Natanz nuclear facility show Iran has enriched uranium to up to 63 percent, and that the purity level is "consistent with the fluctuations" announced by the Islamic Republic.

Araghchi: Resumption of Additional Protocol needs lifting sanctions IRNA 12 May 2021 -- Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araghchi said on Wednesday that the resumption of voluntary application of Additional Protocols (AP) by Iran is predicated on sanctions being lifted.

Resumption of implementation of Additional Protocol requires lifting of sanctions: Iran deputy FM ISNA 12 May 2021 -- Iranian deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araghchi referred to the Vienna talks and Iran's efforts in reviving the JCPOA, stressing that resumption of voluntary application of Additional Protocol by Iran is predicated on sanctions being lifted.

Iran's chief negotiator: Resumption of Additional Protocol implementation 'predicated on sanctions lifting' Press TV 12 May 2021 -- Iran's chief negotiator says Tehran's resumption of the voluntary implementation of the Additional Protocol allowing short-notice inspections of the country's nuclear sites is "predicated" on the verifiable lifting of sanctions.

Zarif turns down Reformist appeals to run for president, potentially reshaping 2021 race Press TV 12 May 2021 -- Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iran's foreign minister, has announced he will not be running for president in the June 18 election, officially turning down a major appeal by the Reformist camp and potentially reshaping the race.

Iranian Ex-President Ahmadinejad Making Another Run For Office RFE/RL 12 May 2021 -- Former Iranian hard-line President Mahmud Ahmadinejad has registered his candidacy for a third term in office in next month's election.

Iran's IRGC vows 'more powerful' support for Palestine Press TV 12 May 2021 -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) vehemently condemns the Israeli regime's hugely deadly atrocities of the recent weeks across the Palestinian territories, pledging to stand "more powerfully" in support of the Palestinian nation.

IRGC destroys terrorist team in northwestern Iran, kills seven members Press TV 12 May 2021 -- Forces with Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) have destroyed a team of terrorists in the northwest of the country near the border with Turkey, killing several of its members in the security operation.

COVID-19 kills 307 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 11 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 75,568 with 307 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Tuesday.

COV-Iran Barekat coronavirus vaccine production line launched IRNA 11 May 2021 -- The official in charge of COV-Iran Barekat COVID-19 vaccine project said on Tuesday that first industrial production line for the domestically developed vaccine was launched with a capacity to produce 3 million doses a month.

EU's top diplomat voices optimism on talks to revitalize Iran nuclear deal People's Daily 11 May 2021 -- The negotiations in Vienna to revitalize the Iran nuclear deal are progressing, the top diplomat of the European Union (EU) said on Monday, as he expressed cautious optimism for an agreement to be reached.

US Responds Cautiously to Efforts by Iran, Saudi Arabia to End Tensions VOA 11 May 2021 -- The United States has cautiously responded to confirmation that its Middle East rival, Iran, has been holding rare talks with U.S. ally Saudi Arabia on reviving strained relations between the two neighboring regional powers.

Leader: Passionate turnout in election to bolster Iran's security, deterrent might Press TV 11 May 2021 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says a passionate popular turnout in the June 18 presidential election will boost the capabilities of the administration-elect and strengthen the country's security status and deterrent power.

Iran Opens Candidate Registration For Next Month's Presidential Vote RFE/RL 11 May 2021 -- Iran has opened registration for potential candidates in next month's presidential election amid continued high tensions with the West and uncertainty over Tehran's tattered nuclear deal with world powers.

Clash Reported Near Iran's Border With Turkey RFE/RL 11 May 2021 -- Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) forces on May 11 killed seven militants and dismantled their cell in the country's northwest near the border with Turkey, Iran's state-run IRNA news agency reported.

RSF Blasts 'Ridiculous' Iranian Bill Banning U.S., British Journalists And Media RFE/RL 11 May 2021 -- Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is urging the Iranian parliament to reject a bill that it says would "help further erode Iran's increasingly vulnerable press freedom" ahead of next month's presidential election.

Rejecting Pentagon claim, IRGC urges US to stop 'unprofessional behavior' in Persian Gulf, Hormuz Strait Press TV 11 May 2021 -- The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has rejected the Pentagon's claims that speedboats belonging to the elite Iranian force sparked an encounter with the US vessels, warning the Americans not to endanger shipping security in the Persian Gulf through "provocative" and "unprofessional" behavior.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards Blame U.S. Ship For Gulf Incident RFE/RL 11 May 2021 -- Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) is accusing a U.S. Coast Guard vessel of "provocation" after Washington said the ship fired warning shots against approaching Iranian military boats in the Persian Gulf.

IRGC navy warns US forces ISNA 11 May 2021 -- Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy warned that it is better for the Americans to avoid unprofessional behavior and not to endanger the security of the Persian Gulf by obeying the rules and regulations of the sea.

COVID-19 kills 351 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 10 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 75,261 with 351 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Monday.

U.S. Vessel Fires Warning Shots After Encounter With Iranian Fast Boats RFE/RL 10 May 2021 -- A U.S. Coast Guard ship fired some 30 warning shots after 13 boats from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) came close to it and other U.S. Navy vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, the Pentagon said on May 10.

Unsafe and Unprofessional Interaction with IRGCN FIAC in Strait of Hormuz NAVCENT 10 May 2021 -- On May 10, 2021, Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) fast in-shore attack craft (FIAC), a type of speedboat armed with machine guns, conducted unsafe and unprofessional maneuvers and failed to exercise due regard for the safety of U.S. forces as required under international law while operating in close proximity to U.S. naval vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian Fast Boats Harass US Ships, Submarine in Strait of Hormuz VOA 10 May 2021 -- A U.S. Coast Guard cutter fired two rounds of warning shots at a group of Iranian fast boats after what the Pentagon described as an "unsafe and unprofessional" encounter in the Strait of Hormuz.

In Strait of Hormuz, U.S. Vessels Exercised Right to Self Defense DoD News 10 May 2021 -- Earlier today, 13 "fast boats" with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy precariously approached U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels that were operating in the Strait of Hormuz. After those ships failed to heed warnings to move away to a safe distance, the U.S. fired warning shots, Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby said.

US Ship Fires 30 Warning Shots to Repel Iranian IRGC Boats, Pentagon Says Sputnik 10 May 2021 -- A US Coast Guard cutter on Monday fired dozens of warning shots to fend off multiple Iranian attack boats in the Strait of Hormuz, Defense Department spokesman John Kirby told reporters.

Tehran Protests To Iraq Over Assault On Its Consulate In Karbala RFE/RL 10 May 2021 -- Tehran says it "strongly condemns" a weekend attack on the Iranian Consulate in the southern Iraqi city of Karbala following the killing of a prominent activist.

Iran has made great strides in defense systems: Cmdr IRNA 10 May 2021 -- Commander of Aerospace Force of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps Brigadier-General Amir-Ali Hajizadeh said that over the past years, Iran has made great strides in research and producing of defense systems, including missile, radar, and electronic warfare systems.

JCPOA to be revived if West returns to its commitments IRNA 10 May 2021 -- There are both hopes and obstacles in the way of reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal amid the fourth round of the Joint Commission meetings of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in Vienna, Austria, and the remaining issues will be solved if the Western party shows seriousness when it comes to abiding by its commitments under the deal.

Technical talks with Iran ongoing in parallel to Vienna negotiations to revive JCPOA: IAEA chief Press TV 10 May 2021 -- The director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says talks on the technical aspects of Iran's peaceful nuclear program are going on in the Austrian capital, Vienna, in parallel to political talks on the revival of a landmark nuclear deal clinched by Tehran and world powers in 2015.

Iran presidential election: Registration of hopefuls to begin on Tuesday Press TV 10 May 2021 -- Iran is set to begin registering the hopefuls seeking to join the country's 13th presidential race as of Tuesday, officially beginning the quadrennial process of electing the country's chief executive.

Iranian administration, Constitutional Council differ on interpretation of electoral law Press TV 10 May 2021 -- Iran's Constitutional Council says it will only vet those presidential hopefuls who have submitted documents in accordance with the body's recent interpretation of the law, as a spat surfaces between the administration of President Hassan Rouhani and the Council over the required qualifications of presidential candidates.

Iran Says 'Too Soon' To Discuss Results Of Talks With Rival Saudi Arabia RFE/RL 10 May 2021 -- Iran has for the first time confirmed that it is holding talks with its bitter regional rival Saudi Arabia, saying that de-escalation of tensions in the Persian Gulf is in the interest of both nations and the region.

Iran Officially Confirms Holding Negotiations With Saudi Arabia to Mend Ties Sputnik 10 May 2021 -- The two countries cut bilateral ties in 2016 over scandals around the execution of a Shiite cleric in Saudi Arabia and Riyadh's claims of Iran's meddling in the domestic affairs of regional powers, including the kingdom's.

COVID-19 kills 386 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 09 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 74,910 with 386 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Sunday.

President Rouhani: 13mn Iranians to receive COVID-19 vaccine in next 2 months Press TV 09 May 2021 -- Iran's president says 13 million Iranians will be vaccinated against COVID-19 by July 22, as the country moves ahead with plans to develop a number of domestic vaccine candidates.

Cuba says US ban hinders vaccine production amid joint Iran plan Press TV 08 May 2021 -- The Cuban foreign minister says the US blockade against his country has hindered the development and production of domestically-manufactured vaccines against the coronavirus pandemic.

Rouhani: Establishment of Anti-Corona disease headquarters 1st effective management move IRNA 08 May 2021 -- President Hassan Rouhani said here on Saturday that the establishment of the Anti-Corona Disease Headquarters was the first effective management move in Iran against that pandemic.

COVID-19 kills 283 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 08 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 74,524 with 283 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Saturday.

Considerable volume of Covid-19 vaccine from China to arrive in Iran soon ISNA 08 May 2021 -- Following Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif's meeting with his Chinese counterpart and initial agreements, a considerable volume of Covid-19 vaccine from China will arrive in Iran in coming days.

Iran may extend cooperation with IAEA over inspections ISNA 09 May 2021 -- Iranian deputy Foreign Minister for the Political Affairs Seyyed Abbas Araghchi says Iran may consider extending cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency over inspections of its nuclear sites.

Intensive talks continuing in Vienna to revive JCPOA ISNA 09 May 2021 -- Intensive talks are continuing in Vienna on Sunday after all sides agreed to speed up the process of the negotiations.

Iran may extend cooperation with IAEA over inspections ISNA 09 May 2021 -- Iranian deputy Foreign Minister for the Political Affairs Seyyed Abbas Araghchi says Iran may consider extending cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency over inspections of its nuclear sites.

Parliament speaker: Iran has four red lines in talks on JCPOA revival Press TV 09 May 2021 -- Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf says Iran has four red lines that should be considered in ongoing talks with the remaining signatories to the 2015 nuclear agreement in Vienna on a potential revival of the accord.

Iranian FM Zarif Reportedly Not Running for President Sputnik 09 May 2021 -- The Iranian Foreign Minister landed in hot water after recordings of him spewing critical remarks on late Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' (IRGC) General Qasem Soleimani were leaked. Tehran launched an investigation into the leak, with President Hassan Rouhani suggesting that the recording was released to damage the Iranian government.

Iran rejects ‘fabricated' report on transferring Syria fighters to Yemen Press TV 09 May 2021 -- Iran has dismissed as "fabricated" a report published by a Turkish news agency which claimed that the Islamic Republic is transferring fighters from Syria to Yemen.

Iran dismisses Morocco's baseless accusations at AIPAC Press TV 08 May 2021 -- The Iranian Foreign Ministry has rejected baseless accusations by the Moroccan government that Iran carries out destabilizing activities in North and West Africa.

Zarif marks 3rd anniversary of US unilateral exit from JCPOA IRNA 08 May 2021 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in a twit on Saturday marked the 3rd anniversary of Trump's unilateral exit of the United States from Iran's nuclear deal with world powers, arguing that an ill-famed clown breached both the US commitments and the UNSC Resolution 2231 three years ago.

Iran mulls over extending deal with IAEA on inspections of nuclear sites: Senior diplomat Press TV 08 May 2021 -- A senior Iranian diplomat says the Islamic Republic may consider extending a deal with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on inspections of its nuclear sites as negotiations are underway in the Austrian capital of Vienna between Tehran and the P4+1 group of countries to revive a landmark 2015 nuclear agreement.

Iran's Zarif Says Onus on US to Return to Compliance With Nuclear Deal Sputnik 08 May 2021 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif has argued that it was up to the United States to take a step toward compliance with the nuclear deal.

COVID-19 kills 335 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 07 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 74,241 with 335 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Friday.

Jury Convicts Iranian National for Illegally Exporting Military Sensitive Items US Dept. of Justice 07 May 2021 -- federal jury convicted an Iranian citizen and a resident of the United Arab Emirates and Germany, for scheming to obtain military sensitive parts for Iran in violation of the Iranian Trade Embargo. These parts had dual-use military and civilian capability and could be used in systems such as nuclear weapons, missile guidance and development, secure tactical radio communications, offensive electronic warfare, military electronic countermeasures (radio jamming), and radar warning and surveillance systems.

JCPOA Commission in Vienna Agrees to Start Working on Agreement on Nuclear Deal, Tehran Says Sputnik 07 May 2021 -- Following the Friday meeting of the Joint Commission of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in Vienna, parties agreed to begin holding expert and technical consultations, as well as drafting an agreement, Deputy Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said.

Araghchi: US, all sides serious about reviving JCPOA IRNA 07 May 2021 -- Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Abbas Araghchi said on Friday that the US and all sides are serious about reviving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, aka JCPOA.

Top negotiator: US, all JCPOA parties serious in efforts to revive Iran deal Press TV 07 May 2021 -- Iran's top negotiator says all the parties concerned with the 2015 nuclear deal and the United States — a former signatory — are "serious" in efforts to revive the landmark agreement, and that the negotiations will continue until all of Iran's demands are met.

JCPOA parties end 4th round of Vienna talks; expert consultations to continue Press TV 07 May 2021 -- Delegates from Iran and the other five signatories to the 2015 nuclear agreement have wrapped up another round of talks in Vienna, Austria, on a potential revitalization of the accord apparently without any breakthrough, with both sides agreeing to speed up the diplomatic process.

4th JCPOA Joint Commission meeting ends in Vienna IRNA 07 May 2021 -- The fourth round of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action aka JCPOA Joint Commission meeting between Iran and P 4+1 on Friday ended an hour ago and it was decided that the working groups continue the work on the draft agreement immediately.

Iran, World Powers Hold New Round Of Talks On Bringing U.S. Back To Nuke Deal RFE/RL 07 May 2021 -- Iran held a fourth round of high-level talks with world powers on May 7 aimed at returning the United States back into a landmark 2015 nuclear deal.

3rd round of Vienna talks, passing from thematic to special bans IRNA 07 May 2021 -- The third round of Joint Commission meetings of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) came to an end and the P4+1 group (Britain, France, Russia, China plus Germany) have reached the consensus to lift thematic or partial sanctions against Iran; now, it is time to wait and see what will happen in the next round of negotiations when it comes to the lifting of special sanctions targeting 1500 Iranian bodies and figures.

COVID-19 kills 338 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 06 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 73,906 with 338 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Thursday.

IRGC chief says Guards won't act for, against any presidential candidate Press TV 06 May 2021 -- A day after the Constitutional Council cleared the way for military men to run for president, the chief of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says the elite force will not take sides with or act against any presidential candidate.

Briefing with Senior State Department Official On Ongoing U.S. Engagement in Vienna Regarding the JCPOA US Dept. of State 06 May 2021

Observers Urge US to Address Iran Nuclear Threat During Talks to Revive Deal VOA 06 May 2021 -- Negotiations continue on a U.S. return to the Iran nuclear deal and on how to ensure its full and effective implementation. Observers say the threat of nuclear proliferation in the Middle East cannot be ignored and must be tackled, even as Iran demands an end to crippling U.S. sanctions. Analysts also say that the wide-ranging activities of Iranian-backed Shiite militias and missiles in the region need to be addressed.

Vienna talks would've stopped by now, if US had insisted on maintaining crippling sanctions against Iran: Khatibzadeh ISNA 05 May 2021 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh stressed that Vienna talks would have stopped by now, if the United States had insisted on maintaining crippling sanctions against Iran.

Iran's lead negotiator meets IAEA chief ahead of Iran's deadline for US sanctions removal Press TV 06 May 2021 -- Iran's top negotiator at the Vienna talks has met with the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to discuss the latest developments on multilateral efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA, as a key deadline set by Tehran for the removal of US sanctions approaches.

In Historic Decision, Iran Allows Senior Military Commanders to Run for President Sputnik 06 May 2021 -- Until now, military officials were only able to make a bid for the highest publicly elected office in the land after being vetted by the Constitutional Court on a case-by-case basis.

Health Minister warns Iranians against any new COVID-19 mutation IRNA 05 May 2021 -- Iran's Health Minister Saeed Namaki said on Wednesday announced some new variants of COVID-19 have been observed in the country, warning Iranians against the possible consequences.

COVID-19 kills 349 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 05 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 73,568 with 349 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Wednesday.

Sanctions against Iran broken: President IRNA 05 May 2021 -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday that he was announcing the sanction against Iran were broken, adding that if Iranians were united, it would be lifted soon, since the United States knew that they had no way out except to return to their commitments.

In landmark ruling, Iran's Constitutional Council allows top military commanders to run for president Press TV 05 May 2021 -- Under a set of new, specifically-defined qualifications, top military commanders in Iran are now allowed to run for president, and a long-running public debate about whether or not men of the military should be able to contest presidential elections has been effectively settled.

Iraqi President Confirms Several Rounds Of Iran-Saudi Talks RFE/RL 05 May 2021 -- Iraqi President Barham Salih says his country has hosted multiple rounds of talks between Saudi and Iranian officials, confirming reports of diplomacy to defuse tensions between the Middle Eastern rivals.

Iranian Diplomat's 20-Year Sentence For French Bomb Plot Confirmed RFE/RL 05 May 2021 -- An Iranian diplomat's 20-year prison sentence in Belgium for plotting to bomb an opposition rally outside Paris has been confirmed after he dropped plans to appeal.

COVID-19 kills 344 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 04 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 73,219 with 344 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Tuesday.

US, EU top diplomats discuss JCPOA on margins of G7 summit Press TV 04 May 2021 -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks with the European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on a range of issues on the sidelines of the G7 ministerial in London on Tuesday.

Top EU diplomat: Current opportunity should be seized to return US to JCPOA Press TV 04 May 2021 -- The EU foreign policy chief has stressed the necessity of seizing the existing diplomatic opportunity to make the United States return to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and pave the way for the full implementation of the landmark agreement.

Principlist body backs Judiciary Chief Ebrahim Raeisi as top choice in June presidential vote Press TV 04 May 2021 -- Iran's Judiciary Chief Ebrahim Raeisi is facing mounting calls by his supporters and associated political figures to join the 2021 presidential race, with a top body of Principlists now backing him as its top choice.

Pakistan to suspend entry of pedestrians from Afghanistan, Iran through land border crossings amid COVID-19 People's Daily 03 May 2021 -- Pakistan will suspend the entry of pedestrians from Afghanistan and Iran through land border terminals for over two weeks from May 5 in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, according to an official notification released on Sunday.

COVID-19 kills 391 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 03 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 72,875 with 391 more Iranians who died from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Monday.

Iran denies reports on prisoners swap with US IRNA 03 May 2021 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh on Monday denied reports citing unknown sources that Tehran and Washington had agreed on prisoners swap with the US.

Iran denies reports of prisoner swap deal with US Press TV 03 May 2021 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry has denied reports of an agreement over the exchange of prisoners between Tehran and Washington, saying the ministry does not confirm the statements attributed to informed sources.

Top U.S., U.K. Diplomats Play Down Talk Of Deals With Iran On Prisoner Swaps RFE/RL 03 May 2021 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab have discussed issues related to Iran ahead of the start of a G7 ministers meeting in London but continued to downplay rumors swirling of imminent prisoner swaps with Tehran.

Report: Biden tells Mossad chief US not close to rejoining Iran deal Press TV 03 May 2021 -- A senior Israeli official says US President Joe Biden told Israel's Mossad chief Yossi Cohen that the US is not close to rejoining the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which Tel Aviv opposes.

COVID-19: Pakistan tightens border restrictions with Iran, bilateral trade to continue IRNA 02 May 2021 -- The government of Pakistan has imposed 15-day travel restrictions to control the spread of coronavirus and its mutated variants on its border with the Islamic Republic of Iran, however trade between the two countries would continue without any interruption.

Rouhani: Supplying COVID-19 vaccines highest priority of gov't programs IRNA 02 May 2021 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday said that vaccine preparation is the top priority of the government's plans.

COVID-19 kills 394 more Iranians over past 24 hours IRNA 02 May 2021 -- The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran exceeded 72,484 with 394 more Iranians who dies from the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Sunday.

Iran to pay for COVID-19 vaccine from its funds in Iraq IRNA 02 May 2021 -- Iran's Energy Minister Reza Ardakanian said on Sunday that the country would pay for the Russian coronavirus vaccine from funds in Iraq.

Pakistan Tightens Border to Stem Influx of New Coronavirus Variants VOA 02 May 2021 -- Pakistan decided Sunday to temporarily suspend incoming pedestrian movement at overland border crossings with Afghanistan and Iran to "restrain import of any new mutation" of the coronavirus.

Leader: IRGC Quds Force is the biggest deterrent to passive diplomacy in West Asia IRNA 02 May 2021 -- The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Imam Khamenei, introduced the IRGC Quds Force in his speech as being the biggest, effective factor in preventing passive diplomacy in West Asia.

Leader rebukes Foreign Minister Zarif over leaked remarks on foreign policy Press TV 02 May 2021 -- Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei rebukes Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif for the latter's "wrongful" remarks about Iran's foreign policy, the Quds Force of the country's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) and the force's martyred commander Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani.

JCPOA Joint Commission wraps up meeting in Vienna ISNA 02 May 2021 -- Negotiating teams from Iran and the P4+1 held the latest plenary meeting of the JCPOA Joint Commission in the Austrian capital of Vienna on Saturday afternoon.

Iran's Supreme Leader Chides Minister Despite Apology For Leaked Comments RFE/RL 02 May 2021 -- Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has lashed out at Tehran's top diplomat in a powerful rebuke that could hobble Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif as international nuclear talks continue in Vienna and a presidential election looms.

There's agreement on lifting sanctions on maximum part of list: Araghchi ISNA 02 May 2021 -- Iran's chief nuclear negotiator and deputy foreign minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi stressed that talks with the 4+1are progressing.

Iran says parties to nuke talks have reached "common ground" in areas People's Daily 02 May 2021 -- Iran's senior negotiator in Vienna talks aimed at reviving the Iran nuclear deal said Saturday that negotiating parties have reached "common ground in many cases," but there are still differences.

US national security adviser: Washington will keep working for return to JCPOA Press TV 02 May 2021 -- US national security adviser Jake Sullivan has said that American diplomats will keep working "to try to arrive at a mutual return to the JCPOA, which is the Iran nuclear deal, on a compliance-for-compliance basis."

Iran Detentions In Spotlight As U.K. Alleges 'Torture,' U.S. Rejects Report Of Prisoner Swap RFE/RL 02 May 2021 -- U.S., U,K., and Iranian officials have all dismissed or otherwise downplayed unconfirmed reports out of Iran that suggested deals had been struck to swap prisoners against the backdrop of high-profile nuclear talks over Iran's nuclear activities.

US Denies Hostage Deal With Iran VOA 02 May 2021 -- The United States is denying a report on Iranian state television that Tehran has reached a deal with Washington and Britain to free prisoners with Western ties in exchange for billions of dollars in new economic aid.

Iran's military court denies nonsuit order for Ukraine plane crash culprits Press TV 02 May 2021 -- The Judicial Organization of the Iranian Armed Forces has denied rumors that a nonsuit order was issued for the culprits in the downing of a Ukrainian plane in early 2020.

Iran's lead negotiator: Third round of Vienna talks reach 'level of maturity' on different issues Press TV 01 May 2021 -- Iran's lead negotiator says the third round of negotiations in Vienna to fully restore the 2015 nuclear agreement has concluded with some "maturity" and "clarity" while there remains a lengthy and bumpy road ahead.

In Vienna, Iran, P4+1 agree to continue talks with more speed, seriousness Press TV 01 May 2021 -- Representatives of Iran and the remaining signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), have agreed to continue the next round of Vienna talks with more speed and seriousness.

Iran Nuclear Talks Adjourn With Mixed Messages About Progress RFE/RL 01 May 2021 -- Parties to the 2015 international nuclear agreement with Iran wrapped up a third round of talks on May 1 focused on bringing the United States and Iran back into full compliance with the deal, with negotiators in Vienna giving contrasting accounts of the tasks ahead.

COVID-19 claims 332 lives in Iran over past 24 hours IRNA 01 May 2021 -- Some 332 more Iranians have died from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 72,090, Iran's Health Ministry announced on Saturday.

NEWSLETTER

Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list

Enter Your Email Address

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

May 2021 - Iran Special Weapons News