Iranian health officials sought on Sunday to play down the president’s estimate that some 25 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, saying it was based on serological blood tests that measure exposure to the illness and that cannot be relied on to show the current state of disease.

Iranian health officials sought on Sunday to play down the president’s estimate that some 25 million people have been infected with the coronavirus, saying it was based on serological blood tests that measure exposure to the illness and that cannot be relied on to show the current state of disease. The 25 million figure put forward by Rouhani on Saturday is nearly a third of the population and massively higher than the official number of COVID-19 cases. Official case numbers rose to 273,788 on Sunday, with 14,188 deaths, Health Ministry spokeswoman Sima Sadat Lari said. A Health Ministry statement carried by Iranian news media said the figure given by the president was based on numbers produced by a deputy in the ministry. "It is not possible to rely on serological tests to diagnose the current state of the disease," the statement said. Serological tests determine if a person has been exposed to a disease by showing their antibody response. In the coronavirus pandemic, they have been used by countries to survey samples of the population and estimate overall infection rates -- whether or not people have had severe, mild or no symptoms of COVID-19. Also read: President Rouhani says 35 million Iranians face virus infection “Serological tests only show if people have been exposed to the virus in the past,” Mostafa Qanei, head of the government’s scientific committee of the coronavirus task force, was quoted as saying by the state IRINN website. PCR tests of the throat and nose are needed to diagnose COVID-19, he added. Iran has been hardest hit by the pandemic in the Middle East, with infections and deaths rising sharply since restrictions were eased, beginning in mid-April. Still, the number given by Rouhani took many Iranians by surprise. Parliament deputy Alireza Salimi called on the government to come up with a single official figure for coronavirus cases. Also read: 'Truly tragic': Iran's supreme leader on resurgence in coronavirus cases; urges everyone to fight against it In announcing the 25 million estimate on Saturday, Rouhani did not say what the figure was based on, but added that 30-35 million more were possibly at risk. A coronavirus task force official said Saturday the 25 million were “mildly affected patients who ... did not need to seek medical advice”.

Iranian health officials play down president's figure of 25 million people infected

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday that 25 million Iranians have been infected with coronovirus and another 35 million are at risk of receiving it.

Hassan Rouhani: 30% of Iran badly infected with COVID-19 pandemic

President Hassan Rouhani said Saturday that 35 million Iranians may contract the coronavirus, as the country still did not have herd immunity although a quarter of the popualtion may be infected.

President Hassan Rouhani said Saturday that 35 million Iranians may contract the coronavirus, as the country still did not have herd immunity although a quarter of the popualtion may be infected. It appears to be the first time a senior Iranian official has indicated the country is seeking to defeat COVID-19 via herd immunity. The virus has killed more than 588,000 people and infected nearly 14 million around the world since first being detected in China late last year. Iran has been battling a resurgence of COVID-19, with figures showing a rise in both new infections and deaths since a two-month low in May. Officially, the virus has so far killed close to 14,000 people and infected more than 269,400 in the country with a population of more than 80 million. Also read: Iran reports highest surge in COVID-19 cases in nearly two months The rising toll has prompted authorities to reimpose restrictions in worst-hit provinces after being lifted country-wide in April, with Tehran extending them for an extra week on Friday. "Our estimate is that up to now, 25 million Iranians have been infected with this virus," Rouhani said during a televised meeting of the country's virus-fighting taskforce. "We have to consider the possibility that 30 to 35 million more may face infection," he added, citing the results of a study by the health ministry. "We have not yet achieved herd immunity and we have no choice but to be united and break the chain of transmission of the coronavirus." Also read: Iran's Khamenei warns economy will worsen if coronavirus spreads Rouhani's deputy head of communications, Alireza Moezi, said on Twitter hours later that the 25 million in fact refers to "those who have encountered the virus and achieved complete immunity". Rouhani also said that Iran may have to prepare itself for double the amount of hospitalisations it has had in the past five months, according to the study. The health ministry does not report the overall amount of hospitalisations over COVID-19. The Islamic republic has been struggling to contain the Middle East's worst COVID-19 outbreak since announcing its first cases in mid-February. Iran has refrained from imposing full lockdowns but closed schools, cancelled public gatherings and banned travel between provinces in March, before lifting the restrictions the next month to reopen its sanctions-hit economy.

President Rouhani says 35 million Iranians face virus infection

Iran on Wednesday said that it was ready for talks with the United States if Washington apologises for withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal and compensates Tehran, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said.

The confrontation between arch-rivals Tehran and Washington has worsened since 2018, when US President Donald Trump abrubtly exited&nbsp;from Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers and reimposed sanctions that have crippled Iran's economy.

Iran has refused to hold any talks with the United States, which is trying to force Tehran to negotiate a new deal, unless Washington lifts sanctions on Tehran and returns to the original agreement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-russia-want-to-safeguard-iran-nuclear-deal-macron-274067">France, Russia want to safeguard Iran nuclear deal: Macron</a>

In a tweet in early June, Trump repeated Washington's call for a new deal with Tehran aimed at putting stricter limits on Tehran's nuclear work, curbs its ballistic missile program and ends its decades of regional proxy wars.

"We have no problem with talks with the US, but only if Washington fulfils its obligations under the nuclear deal, apologies and compensates Tehran for its withdrawal from the 2015 deal," Rouhani said in a televised speech. 
"But we know these calls for talks with Tehran are just words and lies," he added.

In retaliation for Washington's 'maximum pressure' policy, Iran has gradually scaled back its nuclear commitments, a process Tehran says is reversible if the European parties to the pact carry out their promises to shield Iran's economy from US&nbsp;penalties.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-challenges-donald-trump-to-return-to-nuclear-deal-303659">Iran challenges Donald Trump to return to nuclear deal</a>

"The Europeans have failed to fulfil their promises. They should carry out their obligations," Rouhani said.

Rouhani also blasted a resolution by the U.N. nuclear watchdog passed on Friday that called on Iran to stop denying the agency access to two suspected former sites and to cooperate fully with it.

"Iran is ready to cooperate with the (International Atomic Energy Agency) IAEA under law," he said.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Iran on Wednesday said that it was ready for talks with the United States if Washington apologises for withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal and compensates Tehran, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said.

Iran on Wednesday said that it was ready for talks with the United States if Washington apologises for withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal and compensates Tehran, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said. The confrontation between arch-rivals Tehran and Washington has worsened since 2018, when US President Donald Trump abrubtly exited from Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers and reimposed sanctions that have crippled Iran's economy. Iran has refused to hold any talks with the United States, which is trying to force Tehran to negotiate a new deal, unless Washington lifts sanctions on Tehran and returns to the original agreement. Also read: France, Russia want to safeguard Iran nuclear deal: Macron In a tweet in early June, Trump repeated Washington's call for a new deal with Tehran aimed at putting stricter limits on Tehran's nuclear work, curbs its ballistic missile program and ends its decades of regional proxy wars. "We have no problem with talks with the US, but only if Washington fulfils its obligations under the nuclear deal, apologies and compensates Tehran for its withdrawal from the 2015 deal," Rouhani said in a televised speech. "But we know these calls for talks with Tehran are just words and lies," he added. In retaliation for Washington's 'maximum pressure' policy, Iran has gradually scaled back its nuclear commitments, a process Tehran says is reversible if the European parties to the pact carry out their promises to shield Iran's economy from US penalties. Also read: Iran challenges Donald Trump to return to nuclear deal "The Europeans have failed to fulfil their promises. They should carry out their obligations," Rouhani said. Rouhani also blasted a resolution by the U.N. nuclear watchdog passed on Friday that called on Iran to stop denying the agency access to two suspected former sites and to cooperate fully with it. "Iran is ready to cooperate with the (International Atomic Energy Agency) IAEA under law," he said. (With inputs from Reuters)

Iran says it's ready for talks if US apologises for withdrawing from nuclear deal

Iran President Hassan Rouhani warned that the country must be prepared to live with the novel coronavirus "for a long time", as the restrictions are gradually lifted.

Iran President Hassan Rouhani warned that the country must be prepared to live with the novel coronavirus "for a long time", as the restrictions are gradually lifted. People should not assume that "this disease will be eliminated in 15 days or a month: we must, therefore, follow the instructions for a long time," Rouhani said during the weekly meeting of the coronavirus taskforce broadcast on state TV. "We must end all gatherings, be it marriage, mourning, or family visits until told otherwise by the health minister," he added. Iran has been the worst affected country in the Middle East since reporting its first cases in February. Health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said the country's total number of cases had risen to 169,425 with 2,269 new infections confirmed in the past 24 hours. He added that 75 people who were infected died in the same period, bringing the overall fatalities to 8,209. According to Rouhani, there is no "second path" for Iran and economic activity across the country must continue. He announced a further relaxation of restrictions with travel agencies set to resume local tours as of June 13, and cinemas and concerts reopening with only half of venue capacity from June 21. (With inputs from AFP)

Iranians must be prepared to live with virus 'for long time': Rouhani

A wedding party contributed to a new surge in coronavirus infections in Iran, President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday but insisted the country had no option but to keep its economy open despite warnings of a second wave of the epidemic.

People should not assume that "this disease will be eliminated in 15 days or a month: we must therefore follow the instructions for a long time," Rouhani said during the weekly meeting of the coronavirus taskforce broadcast on state TV.

"We must end all gatherings, be it marriage, mourning, or family visits, until told otherwise by the health minister," he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-challenges-donald-trump-to-return-to-nuclear-deal-303659">Iran challenges Donald Trump to return to nuclear deal</a>

Iran, which has been gradually relaxing its lockdown since mid-April, has reported a sharp rise of new daily infections in recent days. Thursday's toll of 3,574 new cases was the highest since February, when the outbreak was first reported.

"At one location, we witnessed a peak in this epidemic, the source of which was a wedding that caused problems for the people, health workers and losses to the economy and the country's health system," Rouhani said on state TV. He did not say when or where the wedding took place.

New cases dipped to 2,886 on Friday, bringing Iran's total cases to more than 167,000, with over 8,000 deaths.

Health officials have been warning of a second wave of the outbreak, but say a reason for the surge in new cases could be wider testing. One official said about 70% of the new cases in Tehran were among those who had traveled outside the capital in recent days.

Iran has been struggling to curb the spread of COVID-19 but authorities are concerned that measures to limit public and economic life to contain the virus could wreck an already economy already reeling under international sanctions.

"In these circumstances, we have no other choice - that is, there is no second option," Rouhani added. "We have to work, our factories have to be active, our shops have to be open, and there has to be movement in the country as far as it is necessary."

Iranian universities reopened on Saturday after being closed for more than three and a half months, state media reported. Nurseries will reopen in a week's time, when Koran and languages classes will also resume, Rouhani said.

Iran has been battling the Middle East's deadliest outbreak of the novel coronavirus since reporting its first cases in February

A wedding party contributed to a new surge in coronavirus infections in Iran, President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday but insisted the country had no option but to keep its economy open despite warnings of a second wave of the epidemic.

A wedding party contributed to a new surge in coronavirus infections in Iran, President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday but insisted the country had no option but to keep its economy open despite warnings of a second wave of the epidemic. People should not assume that "this disease will be eliminated in 15 days or a month: we must therefore follow the instructions for a long time," Rouhani said during the weekly meeting of the coronavirus taskforce broadcast on state TV. "We must end all gatherings, be it marriage, mourning, or family visits, until told otherwise by the health minister," he added. Also read: Iran challenges Donald Trump to return to nuclear deal Iran, which has been gradually relaxing its lockdown since mid-April, has reported a sharp rise of new daily infections in recent days. Thursday's toll of 3,574 new cases was the highest since February, when the outbreak was first reported. "At one location, we witnessed a peak in this epidemic, the source of which was a wedding that caused problems for the people, health workers and losses to the economy and the country's health system," Rouhani said on state TV. He did not say when or where the wedding took place. New cases dipped to 2,886 on Friday, bringing Iran's total cases to more than 167,000, with over 8,000 deaths. Health officials have been warning of a second wave of the outbreak, but say a reason for the surge in new cases could be wider testing. One official said about 70% of the new cases in Tehran were among those who had traveled outside the capital in recent days. Iran has been struggling to curb the spread of COVID-19 but authorities are concerned that measures to limit public and economic life to contain the virus could wreck an already economy already reeling under international sanctions. "In these circumstances, we have no other choice - that is, there is no second option," Rouhani added. "We have to work, our factories have to be active, our shops have to be open, and there has to be movement in the country as far as it is necessary." Iranian universities reopened on Saturday after being closed for more than three and a half months, state media reported. Nurseries will reopen in a week's time, when Koran and languages classes will also resume, Rouhani said. Iran has been battling the Middle East's deadliest outbreak of the novel coronavirus since reporting its first cases in February

Wedding party in Iran fuelled fresh surge in coronavirus cases, says Rouhani

Iran has reopened its major Shia Muslim shrines, two months after they were closed to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

Worshippers will be allowed to access courtyards, but not covered areas. They must also wear face masks and abide by social distancing rules.

People were sprayed with disinfectant and had their temperatures checked at Tehran's Abdol Azim shrine on Monday.

Iran's Shia shrines are visited every year by tens of millions of pilgrims, who spend many hours praying near the tombs they house. Many also kiss or touch the tombs.

Iran has suffered the Middle East's worst Covid-19 outbreak, with 137,000 cases and 7,450 deaths reported.

On 16 March, as the official death toll approached 1,000, the government ordered the closure of major religious sites, schools and universities to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

&nbsp;

Iran has reopened its major Shia Muslim shrines, two months after they were closed to combat the coronavirus pandemic. Worshippers will be allowed to access courtyards, but not covered areas.

Iran has reopened its major Shia Muslim shrines, two months after they were closed to combat the coronavirus pandemic. Worshippers will be allowed to access courtyards, but not covered areas. They must also wear face masks and abide by social distancing rules. People were sprayed with disinfectant and had their temperatures checked at Tehran's Abdol Azim shrine on Monday. Iran's Shia shrines are visited every year by tens of millions of pilgrims, who spend many hours praying near the tombs they house. Many also kiss or touch the tombs. Iran has suffered the Middle East's worst Covid-19 outbreak, with 137,000 cases and 7,450 deaths reported. On 16 March, as the official death toll approached 1,000, the government ordered the closure of major religious sites, schools and universities to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Iran reopens religious shrines after two-month closure

Rallies next week in Tehran to mark the annual Quds Day against Israel will involve Iranians driving in vehicles not marching through the streets, to avoid spreading the coronavirus, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on state television on Saturday.

The elite Revolutionary Guards would be in charge of organising the rallies, Rouhani said, adding that those joining in could still chant slogans from their vehicles and wave flags.

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Rallies to mark Quds Day, which uses the Arabic name for Jerusalem, are held in towns and cities across the country and aim to show of support for the Palestinians. Typically those marching chant "Death to Israel" and burn the Israeli flag.

Rouhani said Quds Day, held each year on the last Friday of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan which falls on May 22, would go ahead as normal in 218 other towns and cities, where the coronavirus outbreak has been less severe than the capital.

"The coronavirus danger is still there, but our situation is better than before," he said. "We have crossed the main peak."

As of Saturday, Iran's death toll from the pandemic stood at 6,937 with 118,392 diagnosed cases, the health ministry said.

The ministry spokesman said the death toll in the past 24 hours was 35, the lowest in the past 70 days, while the number of new cases was 1,757.

Shia Muslim shrines dotted around the country are due to reopen for six hours a day after Ramadan, which is based on the lunar calendar and is expected to end around May 24 this year.

Shrines would open for three hours in the morning and three hours in the afternoon, Rouhani said, although he said some areas of the shrines, such as narrow corridors, would stay shut.

The president said restaurants would also reopen after Ramadan and sports activities would resume without spectators. Universities, but not medical schools, would reopen on June 6, Rouhani added.

Rallies next week in Tehran to mark the annual Quds Day against Israel will involve Iranians driving in vehicles not marching through the streets, to avoid spreading the coronavirus, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on state television on Saturday.

Rallies next week in Tehran to mark the annual Quds Day against Israel will involve Iranians driving in vehicles not marching through the streets, to avoid spreading the coronavirus, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on state television on Saturday. The elite Revolutionary Guards would be in charge of organising the rallies, Rouhani said, adding that those joining in could still chant slogans from their vehicles and wave flags. Also read: Iran news agency warns US against any move on fuel shipment to Venezuela Rallies to mark Quds Day, which uses the Arabic name for Jerusalem, are held in towns and cities across the country and aim to show of support for the Palestinians. Typically those marching chant "Death to Israel" and burn the Israeli flag. Rouhani said Quds Day, held each year on the last Friday of the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan which falls on May 22, would go ahead as normal in 218 other towns and cities, where the coronavirus outbreak has been less severe than the capital. "The coronavirus danger is still there, but our situation is better than before," he said. "We have crossed the main peak." As of Saturday, Iran's death toll from the pandemic stood at 6,937 with 118,392 diagnosed cases, the health ministry said. The ministry spokesman said the death toll in the past 24 hours was 35, the lowest in the past 70 days, while the number of new cases was 1,757. Shia Muslim shrines dotted around the country are due to reopen for six hours a day after Ramadan, which is based on the lunar calendar and is expected to end around May 24 this year. Shrines would open for three hours in the morning and three hours in the afternoon, Rouhani said, although he said some areas of the shrines, such as narrow corridors, would stay shut. The president said restaurants would also reopen after Ramadan and sports activities would resume without spectators. Universities, but not medical schools, would reopen on June 6, Rouhani added.

Vehicles, not marches, to mark Iran's annual anti-Israel rally, says President Rouhani

The death toll from the coronavirus outbreak in Iran rose by 80 in the past twenty-four hours to 5,957, Health Ministry spokesman Kianush Jahanpur said in a statement on state TV on Wednesday.

The death toll from the coronavirus outbreak in Iran rose by 80 in the past twenty-four hours to 5,957, Health Ministry spokesman Kianush Jahanpur said in a statement on state TV on Wednesday. The total number of diagnosed cases of new coronavirus in Iran has reached 93,657, he said. Meanwhile, Iran, one of the countries hardest hit by the outbreak in the Middle East, reopened for business despite its persistent coronavirus outbreak as there was no end in sight to the crisis, its president said Wednesday. "Due to uncertainty about when this virus will end, we are preparing for work, activity and science," said President Hassan Rouhani. "We have to follow all the medical instructions, but work and production are as essential as these precautions," he told a televised cabinet meeting. Iran has struggled to contain the coronavirus outbreak since reporting its first cases -- two deaths in the Shiite holy city of Qom -- on February 19. The actual numbers of those killed and sickened by the virus are widely thought to be much higher than the Iranian government's official tolls.

Iran virus death toll reaches 5,957 as country reopens business

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday that Tehran was watching US activities and said his country will not initiate a conflict in the region. Rouhani's comments came during a telephone call to Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani amid rising tension between Washington and Tehran, were made, Iranian state media reported.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday that Tehran was watching US activities and said his country will not initiate a conflict in the region. Rouhani's comments came during a telephone call to Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani amid rising tension between Washington and Tehran, were made, Iranian state media reported. "The Islamic Republic of Iran follows America's activities and movements closely, but it will never be the one that starts conflict and tension in the region," Rouhani was quoted as saying during the call, held due to the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. × US President Donald Trump on Wednesday that he had instructed the US Navy to fire on any Iranian ships that harass it at sea. Earlier this month, the US military said 11 Revolutionary Guards naval vessels came close to US Navy and Coast Guard ships in the Gulf, calling the moves "dangerous and provocative". Tehran blamed its long-time adversary for the incident. (With inputs from Reuters)

Iranian President Rouhani says Tehran watches US closely, but won't start conflict

Iran's military spokesman on&nbsp;Wednesday said US President Donald Trump should concentrate on "saving" his own country from the "major crisis" caused by coronavirus rather than&nbsp;making threats.

Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesman for&nbsp;Iran's armed forces, said "today, instead of intimidating others, the Americans would do better to save their troops infected by the coronavirus."

"If the US is skilful and competent, they will withdraw their troops (from the Middle East) in order to save (the country) from the coronavirus disease... before mobilising all other forces in the US... to save the people from this major crisis hitting their country," Shekarchi said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/instructed-us-navy-to-shoot-down-iranian-gunboats-if-they-harass-our-ships-at-sea-trump-294036" hreflang="en">Instructed US Navy to shoot Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships: Trump</a>

His comments came after Trump said on Twitter he had "instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea".

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I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1252932181447630848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Pentagon later said the US military considered the tweet a message to the Iranian regime, suggesting that no new orders had been issued to US Navy ships patrolling the Gulf.

The US Defence Department had accused Iran of "dangerous and provocative" actions in the Gulf. The US department had said that eleven Iran boats had "repeatedly crossed the bows and sterns" of US vessels in international waters.

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Iran dismissed the US allegation, saying that it was a "Hollywood account of the encounter" while warning the US that any "miscalculation will receive a decisive response".

The tensions between the two nations have escalated since a US drone strike killed Major General Qasem Soleimani, the former head of the country's elite Quds Force.

However, with the coronavirus sweeping the country Iran has accused the US of hurting it with sanctions at a time when its citizens are suffering.&nbsp;

Iran's military spokesman on Wednesday said US President Donald Trump should concentrate on "saving" his own country from the "major crisis" caused by coronavirus rather than making threats.

Iran's military spokesman on Wednesday said US President Donald Trump should concentrate on "saving" his own country from the "major crisis" caused by coronavirus rather than making threats. Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, spokesman for Iran's armed forces, said "today, instead of intimidating others, the Americans would do better to save their troops infected by the coronavirus." "If the US is skilful and competent, they will withdraw their troops (from the Middle East) in order to save (the country) from the coronavirus disease... before mobilising all other forces in the US... to save the people from this major crisis hitting their country," Shekarchi said. Also read: Instructed US Navy to shoot Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships: Trump His comments came after Trump said on Twitter he had "instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea". I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 22, 2020 × The Pentagon later said the US military considered the tweet a message to the Iranian regime, suggesting that no new orders had been issued to US Navy ships patrolling the Gulf. The US Defence Department had accused Iran of "dangerous and provocative" actions in the Gulf. The US department had said that eleven Iran boats had "repeatedly crossed the bows and sterns" of US vessels in international waters. Also read: Death toll due to coronavirus rises to 5,391 in Iran; businesses open Iran dismissed the US allegation, saying that it was a "Hollywood account of the encounter" while warning the US that any "miscalculation will receive a decisive response". The tensions between the two nations have escalated since a US drone strike killed Major General Qasem Soleimani, the former head of the country's elite Quds Force. However, with the coronavirus sweeping the country Iran has accused the US of hurting it with sanctions at a time when its citizens are suffering.

Iran general takes jibe at Trump, says should focus on saving US from virus

Iran's president said on Sunday "low-risk" economic activities would resume from April 11 in the Middle Eastern country worst-affected by the new coronavirus.

Iran has been struggling to curb the spread of the highly infectious respiratory disease known as COVID-19 but authorities are also concerned that measures to limit public life to contain the virus could wreck an already sanctions-battered economy.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-of-coronavirus-surge-after-many-ignore-stay-home-rules-290632">Iran warns of coronavirus surge after many ignore 'stay home' rules</a>

"Under the supervision of the health ministry, all those low-risk economic activities will resume from Saturday," President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised meeting, adding that "those activities will resume in Tehran from April 18".

"Two thirds of all Iranian government employees will work out of the office from Saturday...The decision does not contradict stay at home advice by the health authorities."

Rouhani did not spell what he meant by low-risk activity, but said the suspension of "high-risk activities" - schools, universities and various social, cultural, sports and religious events would be extended to April 18.

The health ministry said on Saturday that the Islamic Republic's death toll had reached 3,452 among a total of 55,743 infected people. The daily toll has been rising by at least 100.

Iranian officials have repeatedly complained that many Iranians ignored appeals to stay at home and cancel travel plans for the New Year holidays that began on March 20.

Health authorities have since warned of a new wave of coronavirus infections in the Islamic Republic. Rouhani's government has refrained from imposing a lockdown on cities but prohibited intercity travel until April 8.

Rouhani said this ban would now be extended until April 18.

Iran's president said on Sunday "low-risk" economic activities would resume from April 11 in the Middle Eastern country worst-affected by the new coronavirus. Iran has been struggling to curb the spread of the highly infectious respiratory disease known as COVID-19 but authorities are also concerned that measures to limit public life to contain the virus could wreck an already sanctions-battered economy.

Iran's president said on Sunday "low-risk" economic activities would resume from April 11 in the Middle Eastern country worst-affected by the new coronavirus. Iran has been struggling to curb the spread of the highly infectious respiratory disease known as COVID-19 but authorities are also concerned that measures to limit public life to contain the virus could wreck an already sanctions-battered economy. Also read: Iran warns of coronavirus surge after many ignore 'stay home' rules "Under the supervision of the health ministry, all those low-risk economic activities will resume from Saturday," President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised meeting, adding that "those activities will resume in Tehran from April 18". "Two thirds of all Iranian government employees will work out of the office from Saturday...The decision does not contradict stay at home advice by the health authorities." Rouhani did not spell what he meant by low-risk activity, but said the suspension of "high-risk activities" - schools, universities and various social, cultural, sports and religious events would be extended to April 18. The health ministry said on Saturday that the Islamic Republic's death toll had reached 3,452 among a total of 55,743 infected people. The daily toll has been rising by at least 100. Iranian officials have repeatedly complained that many Iranians ignored appeals to stay at home and cancel travel plans for the New Year holidays that began on March 20. Health authorities have since warned of a new wave of coronavirus infections in the Islamic Republic. Rouhani's government has refrained from imposing a lockdown on cities but prohibited intercity travel until April 8. Rouhani said this ban would now be extended until April 18.

Low-risk economic activities to resume from April 11 amid coronavirus: Iran's Rouhani

Iran to&nbsp;ban&nbsp;inter-city travel within days, the government announced as the death toll due to coronavirus topped 2,000 Wednesday. While the number of infections rose to&nbsp;27,017 after the health ministry registered new cases of&nbsp;2,206 new cases of COVID-19.

The latest development comes after Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned&nbsp;that his government was poised to introduce tough new measures against the coronavirus which first originated in China and now has rapidly spread to&nbsp;over 200 countries.&nbsp;

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"We need to step up those measures," Rouhani&nbsp;said in a televised address.&nbsp;He also said that the health ministry had "presented the committee with a plan" that could be "approved and published" during the day.

&nbsp;"It may create problems for people's travel plans and require that people return home early," the president said.

"It could stop the next wave of journeys. People have to realise that these are difficult decisions that are being taken to protect people's lives.

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"But we have no choice because the lives of Iranians are important to us."

So far, Iran has resisted imposing any lockdown, choosing instead to rely on verbal appeals for people to stay home.

But those have been widely ignored. Hundreds of thousands of Iranians took to the roads as usual last weekend to spend the two-week Persian New Year holiday with family despite fears of the disease spreading from the big cities to the countryside.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-state-accounts-for-over-5-of-global-coronavirus-cases-numbers-expected-to-increase-288271" hreflang="en">New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase</a>

Rouhani said the new measures would be adopted for 15 days and would be "implemented thoroughly until Saturday, April 4," the day when children normally return to school after the holiday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-students-fleeing-virus-hit-us-pay-20000-for-seats-on-private-jets-288420">Chinese students fleeing virus-hit US pay $20,000 for seats on private jets</a>

Iran on Wednesday announced 143 new deaths from the novel coronavirus, raising the official death toll to 2,077 in one of the world's worst-hit countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran to ban inter-city travel within days, the government announced as the death toll due to coronavirus topped 2,000 Wednesday. While the number of infections rose to 27,017 after the health ministry registered new cases of 2,206 new cases of COVID-19.

Iran to ban inter-city travel within days, the government announced as the death toll due to coronavirus topped 2,000 Wednesday. While the number of infections rose to 27,017 after the health ministry registered new cases of 2,206 new cases of COVID-19. The latest development comes after Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned that his government was poised to introduce tough new measures against the coronavirus which first originated in China and now has rapidly spread to over 200 countries. Also read: Spain overtakes China virus toll with 3,434 deaths - Government "We need to step up those measures," Rouhani said in a televised address. He also said that the health ministry had "presented the committee with a plan" that could be "approved and published" during the day. "It may create problems for people's travel plans and require that people return home early," the president said. "It could stop the next wave of journeys. People have to realise that these are difficult decisions that are being taken to protect people's lives. Also read: Spain's 'Ice Palace' to become a temporary morgue as coronavirus kills over 2,600 "But we have no choice because the lives of Iranians are important to us." So far, Iran has resisted imposing any lockdown, choosing instead to rely on verbal appeals for people to stay home. But those have been widely ignored. Hundreds of thousands of Iranians took to the roads as usual last weekend to spend the two-week Persian New Year holiday with family despite fears of the disease spreading from the big cities to the countryside. Also read: New York state accounts for over 5% of global coronavirus cases, numbers expected to increase Rouhani said the new measures would be adopted for 15 days and would be "implemented thoroughly until Saturday, April 4," the day when children normally return to school after the holiday. Also read: Chinese students fleeing virus-hit US pay $20,000 for seats on private jets Iran on Wednesday announced 143 new deaths from the novel coronavirus, raising the official death toll to 2,077 in one of the world's worst-hit countries. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus-hit Iran to ban inter city travel as death toll tops 2,000

The death toll due to coronavirus rose to 1,556 in Iran after health ministry confirmed 123 deaths on Saturday.&nbsp;

Over the past 24 hours, 966 more cases have been confirmed Iran with this 20,610 people are now known to have been infected in Iran, health ministry spokesperson Kianoush Jahanpour said.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-temporarily-freed-85000-prisoners-including-political-ones-amid-coronavirus-286933"> Iran has temporarily freed 85,000 prisoners, including political ones, amid coronavirus</a>

Meanwhile, earlier in the day Iran President addressed the nations through television during which he assures his country that social distancing measures including travel restrictions to combat the rapidly spreading virus will apply for only two to three weeks as he expects the crisis to ease by then.

Iran "has to do everything necessary to return economic production to normal," Rouhani said.&nbsp;

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-50-new-cases-of-coronavirus-detected-every-hour-1-death-every-10-minutes-287504"> Iran &nbsp;- 50 new cases of coronavirus detected every hour, 1 death every 10 minutes</a>

After Italy and China, Iran is one of the worst-affected countries from coronavirus pandemic which first originated in Chinese city Wuhan. The virus has now spread to over 150 countries killing more than 11,000 people worldwide.

Meanwhile, on Friday, Jahanpour said that "50 new cases of infection are detected every hour and one death recorded every 10 minutes."

Earlier, Iran freed about 85,000 prisoners, including political prisoners in response to the coronavirus epidemic.

On March 10, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran said he had asked Tehran to free all political prisoners temporarily from its overcrowded and disease-ridden jails to help stem the spread of coronavirus. 
&nbsp;

The death toll due to coronavirus rose to 1,556 in Iran after health ministry confirmed 123 deaths on Saturday. Over the past 24 hours, 966 more cases have been confirmed Iran with this 20,610 people are now known to have been infected in Iran, health ministry spokesperson Kianoush Jahanpour said.

The death toll due to coronavirus rose to 1,556 in Iran after health ministry confirmed 123 deaths on Saturday. Over the past 24 hours, 966 more cases have been confirmed Iran with this 20,610 people are now known to have been infected in Iran, health ministry spokesperson Kianoush Jahanpour said. Also read: Iran has temporarily freed 85,000 prisoners, including political ones, amid coronavirus Meanwhile, earlier in the day Iran President addressed the nations through television during which he assures his country that social distancing measures including travel restrictions to combat the rapidly spreading virus will apply for only two to three weeks as he expects the crisis to ease by then. Iran "has to do everything necessary to return economic production to normal," Rouhani said. Also read: Iran - 50 new cases of coronavirus detected every hour, 1 death every 10 minutes After Italy and China, Iran is one of the worst-affected countries from coronavirus pandemic which first originated in Chinese city Wuhan. The virus has now spread to over 150 countries killing more than 11,000 people worldwide. Meanwhile, on Friday, Jahanpour said that "50 new cases of infection are detected every hour and one death recorded every 10 minutes." Earlier, Iran freed about 85,000 prisoners, including political prisoners in response to the coronavirus epidemic. On March 10, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Iran said he had asked Tehran to free all political prisoners temporarily from its overcrowded and disease-ridden jails to help stem the spread of coronavirus.

Coronavirus pandemic: Death toll soars to 1,566 in Iran; total infections exceed 20,000

Iran now has the highest coronavirus death toll outside of China. Even the Deputy Health Minister of Iran has been infected by the Wuhan virus. From Iran, the disease is spreading to other West Asian countries. This report tells you more.

Gravitas: Iran struggles to contain Wuhan coronavirus

Iran to vote in crucial parliamentary election, many see as 'lost cause'

The election comes at a time of growing economic hardship for many in Iran. U.S. sanctions have strangled Iran’s ability to sell its oil abroad, forcing its economy into recession.

WION Dispatch: Iran Elections | 7,148 candidates in the poll race

Iranians are voting in their country's eleventh parliamentary election, seen as a test for the popularity of President Hassan Rouhani's reformist-moderate camp.

Polls open across Iran

Iranian parliamentary election begins, hardliners set to dominate

Iran elections come at a time when the Islamic Republic is most vulnerable, both from the inside and from the outside. American sanctions have crippled the economy and public anger against the regime has raged on unabated.

Iranians will vote for the first time since US President Donald Trump pulled out of the Nuclear Deal. Whether they turn out in big numbers or not will be a referendum in itself.

This Parliamentary election of Iran is a litmus test of the people's faith in the state. It comes at a time when the sentiment against the regime is at its worst.

The confrontation with America, the economic hardship and an airline tragedy - the people's confidence in Iran's leaders is battered 
and that is set to pose the biggest problem for the authorities in this election. &nbsp;

Four years ago, things looked very different - Hassan Rouhani and his allies won big. Hopes were high that the 2015 nuclear deal would pull Iran out of political isolation, and more importantly boost the economy.

But now, the vote to pick 290 lawmakers comes after the US pulled out of the deal. Sanctions have sent the economy on a swift downward spiral over the last 2 years and the standard of living has dipped.&nbsp;

In November 2019, protests exploded across the country against fuel price hikes. Those protests turned political, with demonstrators demanding a regime change.

A crackdown by the revolutionary guards killed hundreds and thousands of others were arrested. The regime also faced major flack for the poor handling of slain General Qasem Soleimani's funeral. The stampede which occurred during his funeral killed over 50 people and more than 200 were injured.

The public is also livid over the accidental downing of the Ukrainian passenger plane last month, which killed all 176 people aboard - mainly Iranians.

After days of denial, Tehran finally put the blame on the revolutionary guards. The people of Iran are exhausted by a string of crises.&nbsp;

Around 58 million Iranians are eligible to vote - the turnout in 2012 was 66 per cent, in 2016, it reduced to 62 per cent and in 2020, it is expected to drop significantly.

Nearly half of the candidates, with moderate political views, have been rejected. Ayatollah Khamenei has ensured that hardliners dominate the field. He is Iran's highest authority and has tried to drum up the nationalistic sentiment to secure a strong turnout.

Whatever be the turnout, Iran's foreign policy or nuclear policy will remain the same because it will be Khamenei's loyalists who will be in Parliament.

Iran elections come at a time when the Islamic Republic is most vulnerable, both from the inside and from the outside. American sanctions have crippled the economy and public anger against the regime has raged on unabated.

Iran elections come at a time when the Islamic Republic is most vulnerable, both from the inside and from the outside. American sanctions have crippled the economy and public anger against the regime has raged on unabated. Iranians will vote for the first time since US President Donald Trump pulled out of the Nuclear Deal. Whether they turn out in big numbers or not will be a referendum in itself. This Parliamentary election of Iran is a litmus test of the people's faith in the state. It comes at a time when the sentiment against the regime is at its worst. The confrontation with America, the economic hardship and an airline tragedy - the people's confidence in Iran's leaders is battered and that is set to pose the biggest problem for the authorities in this election. Four years ago, things looked very different - Hassan Rouhani and his allies won big. Hopes were high that the 2015 nuclear deal would pull Iran out of political isolation, and more importantly boost the economy. But now, the vote to pick 290 lawmakers comes after the US pulled out of the deal. Sanctions have sent the economy on a swift downward spiral over the last 2 years and the standard of living has dipped. In November 2019, protests exploded across the country against fuel price hikes. Those protests turned political, with demonstrators demanding a regime change. A crackdown by the revolutionary guards killed hundreds and thousands of others were arrested. The regime also faced major flack for the poor handling of slain General Qasem Soleimani's funeral. The stampede which occurred during his funeral killed over 50 people and more than 200 were injured. The public is also livid over the accidental downing of the Ukrainian passenger plane last month, which killed all 176 people aboard - mainly Iranians. After days of denial, Tehran finally put the blame on the revolutionary guards. The people of Iran are exhausted by a string of crises. Around 58 million Iranians are eligible to vote - the turnout in 2012 was 66 per cent, in 2016, it reduced to 62 per cent and in 2020, it is expected to drop significantly. Nearly half of the candidates, with moderate political views, have been rejected. Ayatollah Khamenei has ensured that hardliners dominate the field. He is Iran's highest authority and has tried to drum up the nationalistic sentiment to secure a strong turnout. Whatever be the turnout, Iran's foreign policy or nuclear policy will remain the same because it will be Khamenei's loyalists who will be in Parliament.

US pullout from nuclear deal makes Iran elections even more crucial

Iran's electoral watchdog on Wednesday defended its decision to disqualify thousands of candidates for a crucial parliamentary election in two days, as a lacklustre campaign neared its end.

Conservatives are expected to make an overwhelming resurgence in Friday's vote, which comes after months of steeply escalating tensions between Iran and its decades-old arch-foe the United States.

Their gains would be made at the expense of those who back President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-sounds-alarm-for-democracy-after-candidates-barred-276882">Hassan Rouhani</a>, a moderate conservative who was re-elected in 2017 promising people more freedoms and the benefits of engagement with the West.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-says-voting-in-irans-election-a-religious-duty-281420">Khamenei says voting in Iran's election 'a religious duty'</a>

But many people in Iran feel their lives have been crippled by an economic slump exacerbated by harsh US sanctions since President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-no-trade-deal-should-be-expected-during-donald-trumps-india-visit-281652">Donald Trump</a> pulled the United States out of a landmark nuclear deal with the Islamic republic in 2018.

A week of campaigning, which has seen posters go up but only a few low-key gatherings, comes to an end on Wednesday, before a day of silence on the eve of polling day.

The interior ministry said around half of the 16,033 hopefuls would contest the election after the Guardian Council barred thousands, most of them moderates and reformists.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-sounds-alarm-for-democracy-after-candidates-barred-276882">Iran's Hassan Rouhani sounds alarm for 'democracy' after candidates barred</a>

But the Council said it was "neutral" in its dealings with all political camps and acted in accordance with the law when it blocked their candidacy.

"The Guardian Council follows the laws and regulations parliament has passed at different times," said its spokesman Abbas Ali Kadkhodaee.

"This time, just like at previous elections, we have tried to properly follow the law," he told a news conference.

"The Council has never had a political view... It approaches political factions with closed eyes.

"What it does judge is the evidence in the cases of the candidates and then it only acts in accordance with the law passed by parliament."

Commentators expect disillusionment among the 57 million-strong electorate in the sanctions-hit country to result in a low turnout.

Many people on the streets of Tehran have expressed dissatisfaction with politicians ahead of the election, saying they failed to keep their word or to raise living standards.

Supreme leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-says-voting-in-irans-election-a-religious-duty-281420">Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a> on Tuesday urged Iranians to vote, saying it was a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-says-voting-in-irans-election-a-religious-duty-281420">religious duty</a>".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-says-voting-in-irans-election-a-religious-duty-281420">Rouhani </a>issued a similar call on Wednesday, saying that taking part would give <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-says-voting-in-irans-election-a-religious-duty-281420">Iran </a>the "strength and unity" needed in its stand against the United States.

"We are going to the polls to choose the best people for parliament, which is a very important institution," he said in televised remarks after a meeting of his cabinet.

"We are under severe sanctions and pressure by the global arrogance, and we have to break these sanctions and improve people's lives," he added, referring to the United States.

"Sanctions are a terrorist and tyrannical act against Iran.

"One cannot say sanctions have no effect and the government should be doing more... It's lies, it's supporting America."

Turnout at Iran's past 10 elections averaged 60.5 per cent, said the interior ministry.

The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 per cent of registered voters to cast ballots in the election.

"Our forecast is that we will have a good turnout in the upcoming election, and the average turnout has usually not been under 50 per cent, and we will witness a turnout of 50 per cent turnout in this election too," its spokesman Kadkhodaee said.

Iranians have been feeling the strain after months of turmoil.

The economy has been battered since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-no-trade-deal-should-be-expected-during-donald-trumps-india-visit-281652">Trump </a>abandoned the nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions as part of a "maximum pressure" campaign.

In November, demonstrations over petrol price hikes spread across Iran and turned violent before being crushed in a deadly crackdown.

Tehran and Washington have nearly gone to war twice in the past seven months, most recently after the US killed prominent Iranian general Qasem Soleimani on January 3.

The "martyrdom" of the hugely popular general provoked an outpouring of grief in Iran.

Millions of people turned out to mourn his death, but that unity suffered a blow after Iran admitted it "accidentally" shot down a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-demands-punishment-compensation-for-airliner-downed-by-iran-273583">Ukrainian airliner</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-demands-punishment-compensation-for-airliner-downed-by-iran-273583">,</a> killing 176 people.

Voting for Iran's 290-seat parliament, or Majles opens at 8:00 am on Friday and lasts 10 hours but can be extended. The first results are expected on Sunday.

Iran's electoral watchdog on Wednesday defended its decision to disqualify thousands of candidates for a crucial parliamentary election in two days, as a lacklustre campaign neared its end.

Iran's electoral watchdog on Wednesday defended its decision to disqualify thousands of candidates for a crucial parliamentary election in two days, as a lacklustre campaign neared its end. Conservatives are expected to make an overwhelming resurgence in Friday's vote, which comes after months of steeply escalating tensions between Iran and its decades-old arch-foe the United States. Their gains would be made at the expense of those who back President Hassan Rouhani, a moderate conservative who was re-elected in 2017 promising people more freedoms and the benefits of engagement with the West. Also read: Khamenei says voting in Iran's election 'a religious duty' But many people in Iran feel their lives have been crippled by an economic slump exacerbated by harsh US sanctions since President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of a landmark nuclear deal with the Islamic republic in 2018. A week of campaigning, which has seen posters go up but only a few low-key gatherings, comes to an end on Wednesday, before a day of silence on the eve of polling day. The interior ministry said around half of the 16,033 hopefuls would contest the election after the Guardian Council barred thousands, most of them moderates and reformists. Also read: Iran's Hassan Rouhani sounds alarm for 'democracy' after candidates barred But the Council said it was "neutral" in its dealings with all political camps and acted in accordance with the law when it blocked their candidacy. "The Guardian Council follows the laws and regulations parliament has passed at different times," said its spokesman Abbas Ali Kadkhodaee. "This time, just like at previous elections, we have tried to properly follow the law," he told a news conference. "The Council has never had a political view... It approaches political factions with closed eyes. "What it does judge is the evidence in the cases of the candidates and then it only acts in accordance with the law passed by parliament." Commentators expect disillusionment among the 57 million-strong electorate in the sanctions-hit country to result in a low turnout. Many people on the streets of Tehran have expressed dissatisfaction with politicians ahead of the election, saying they failed to keep their word or to raise living standards. Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday urged Iranians to vote, saying it was a "religious duty". Rouhani issued a similar call on Wednesday, saying that taking part would give Iran the "strength and unity" needed in its stand against the United States. "We are going to the polls to choose the best people for parliament, which is a very important institution," he said in televised remarks after a meeting of his cabinet. "We are under severe sanctions and pressure by the global arrogance, and we have to break these sanctions and improve people's lives," he added, referring to the United States. "Sanctions are a terrorist and tyrannical act against Iran. "One cannot say sanctions have no effect and the government should be doing more... It's lies, it's supporting America." Turnout at Iran's past 10 elections averaged 60.5 per cent, said the interior ministry. The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 per cent of registered voters to cast ballots in the election. "Our forecast is that we will have a good turnout in the upcoming election, and the average turnout has usually not been under 50 per cent, and we will witness a turnout of 50 per cent turnout in this election too," its spokesman Kadkhodaee said. Iranians have been feeling the strain after months of turmoil. The economy has been battered since Trump abandoned the nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions as part of a "maximum pressure" campaign. In November, demonstrations over petrol price hikes spread across Iran and turned violent before being crushed in a deadly crackdown. Tehran and Washington have nearly gone to war twice in the past seven months, most recently after the US killed prominent Iranian general Qasem Soleimani on January 3. The "martyrdom" of the hugely popular general provoked an outpouring of grief in Iran. Millions of people turned out to mourn his death, but that unity suffered a blow after Iran admitted it "accidentally" shot down a Ukrainian airliner, killing 176 people. Voting for Iran's 290-seat parliament, or Majles opens at 8:00 am on Friday and lasts 10 hours but can be extended. The first results are expected on Sunday.

Iran defends barring of candidates as campaign ends

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-yield-to-americas-pressure-for-talks-says-president-rouhani-280967">campaign of maximum pressure against Iran</a> would continue, said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday. Pompeo also said that the authorities in Washington are ready to talk to Iran "anytime", but that it needed to "fundamentally" change its behaviour.&nbsp;

"We are not rushed, the pressure campaign continues. It's not just an economic pressure campaign... it's isolation through diplomacy as well", Pompeo told reporters in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa before boarding a flight to Saudi Arabia.

The latest statement comes days after Iran President Hassan Rouhani had said that his country will never yield to America's pressure for talks.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unbearable-for-us-to-accept-irans-victory-rouhani-taunts-on-anniversary-of-shahs-ouster-280079">&nbsp;'Unbearable for US to accept Iran's victory': Rouhani taunts on anniversary of Shah's ouster</a> 
&nbsp; 
"Iran will never negotiate under pressure ... We will never yield to America's pressure and we will not negotiate from a position of weakness. America's 'maximum pressure' towards Iran is doomed to failure," Rouhani said.

Tensions have increased between Iran and the United States since 2018 when President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and six world powers and Washington reimposed sanctions on Tehran that has crippled its economy.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-sanctions-to-negotiate-with-iran-donald-trump-276694">US will not lift sanctions to negotiate with Iran: Donald Trump</a>

Trump administration wants a new deal that further curbs Iran's nuclear programme, ends its ballistic missile programme and its involvement in decades of proxy wars in the Middle East.

Tehran has rejected holding negotiations over a new deal, saying talks are possible only if the United States returns to the nuclear pact and lifts sanctions.

Iran has been involved in decades of regional proxy wars with its key regional rival Saudi Arabia.

"Securing peace and stability in the sensitive region of the Middle East and in the Persian Gulf is impossible without Iran's help," Rouhani said.

(With inputs from Reuters)

A campaign of maximum pressure against Iran would continue, said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday. Pompeo also said that the authorities in Washington are ready to talk to Iran "anytime", but that it needed to "fundamentally" change its behaviour.

A campaign of maximum pressure against Iran would continue, said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday. Pompeo also said that the authorities in Washington are ready to talk to Iran "anytime", but that it needed to "fundamentally" change its behaviour. "We are not rushed, the pressure campaign continues. It's not just an economic pressure campaign... it's isolation through diplomacy as well", Pompeo told reporters in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa before boarding a flight to Saudi Arabia. The latest statement comes days after Iran President Hassan Rouhani had said that his country will never yield to America's pressure for talks. Also read: 'Unbearable for US to accept Iran's victory': Rouhani taunts on anniversary of Shah's ouster "Iran will never negotiate under pressure ... We will never yield to America's pressure and we will not negotiate from a position of weakness. America's 'maximum pressure' towards Iran is doomed to failure," Rouhani said. Tensions have increased between Iran and the United States since 2018 when President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and six world powers and Washington reimposed sanctions on Tehran that has crippled its economy. Also read: US will not lift sanctions to negotiate with Iran: Donald Trump Trump administration wants a new deal that further curbs Iran's nuclear programme, ends its ballistic missile programme and its involvement in decades of proxy wars in the Middle East. Tehran has rejected holding negotiations over a new deal, saying talks are possible only if the United States returns to the nuclear pact and lifts sanctions. Iran has been involved in decades of regional proxy wars with its key regional rival Saudi Arabia. "Securing peace and stability in the sensitive region of the Middle East and in the Persian Gulf is impossible without Iran's help," Rouhani said. (With inputs from Reuters)

US ready to talk to Iran, but pressure to continue says Secretary of State Pompeo

Iran will never yield to America's pressure for talks, says President Rouhani

Iran will never hold talks with its longtime foe, the United States, under pressure, President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised news conference on Sunday, adding that Tehran's help was essential to establish security in the Middle East. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-yield-to-americas-pressure-for-talks-says-president-rouhani-280967">Read more</a>

Coronavirus outbreak: China reports drop in cases for third consecutive day as toll passes 1,600

The number of new cases from China's coronavirus epidemic dropped for a third consecutive day on Sunday, as the World Health Organisation chief warned it was "impossible" to predict how the outbreak would develop.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-china-reports-drop-in-cases-for-third-consecutive-day-as-toll-passes-1600-280937">Read more</a>

Sri Lanka calls on US to reconsider barring army chief

Sri Lanka on Sunday said the US should reconsider its decision to refuse entry to the island's army chief over his alleged war crimes and warned that relations were being "unnecessarily complicated".&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-calls-on-us-to-reconsider-barring-army-chief-280963">Read more</a>

UK issues rare 'danger to life' warning over Storm Dennis

Storm Dennis swept across Britain on Sunday with the army drafted in to help deal with heavy flooding and high winds, officials warning it could be "life-threatening" in South Wales.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-uk-issues-rare-danger-to-life-warning-over-storm-dennis-280930">Read more</a>

Pakistan's fate hangs in the balance as FATF plenary kicks off today in Paris&nbsp;

Pakistan's fate hangs in balance as crucial Financial Action Task Force (FATF) plenary begins in Paris later today. The plenary will decide whether Pakistan stays in or out of the 'Grey List'.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-fate-hangs-in-balance-as-fatf-plenary-starts-today-in-paris-280888">Read more</a>

Virus spreads on ship in Japan, American passengers set to disembark

Hundreds of passengers were preparing to be evacuated from a cruise ship on Sunday after spending two weeks under quarantine off Japan over the coronavirus, with Americans expected to begin flying home on chartered planes as soon as Sunday evening.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virus-spreads-on-ship-in-japan-american-passengers-set-to-disembark-280966">Read more</a>

'Happy I can choose': New era sees Saudi women light up in public

Like Western feminists of the early 20th century, in an era of social change in Saudi Arabia some women are embracing cigarettes, shisha pipes or vaping as a symbol of emancipation.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-happy-i-can-choose-new-era-sees-saudi-women-light-up-in-public-280946">Read more</a>

Multiple rockets hit Iraqi base hosting American troops near US embassy; no casualties

Multiple rockets hit an Iraqi base hosting American troops near the US embassy early Sunday, the latest in a flurry of attacks against US assets in the country.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-rocket-attack-hits-near-us-embassy-in-iraq-capital-militaries-280932">Read more</a>

Turkey President Erdogan says Russia managing Libya war 'at highest level'

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Russia of managing the Libyan conflict "at the highest level", local media reported Saturday, as Ankara-Moscow tensions mount.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-erdogan-says-russia-managing-libya-war-at-highest-level-280933">Read more</a>

NBA loses 'hundreds of millions' in China over Hong Kong tweet

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Saturday the league expects to lose "several hundred million dollars" due to a row with China over a tweet by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey supporting Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/latest-sports-news-nba-loses-hundreds-of-millions-in-china-over-hong-kong-tweet-280931">Read more</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

 
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Iran will never yield to America's pressure for talks, says President Rouhani Iran will never hold talks with its longtime foe, the United States, under pressure, President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised news conference on Sunday, adding that Tehran's help was essential to establish security in the Middle East.

Iran will never yield to America's pressure for talks, says President Rouhani Iran will never hold talks with its longtime foe, the United States, under pressure, President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised news conference on Sunday, adding that Tehran's help was essential to establish security in the Middle East. Read more Coronavirus outbreak: China reports drop in cases for third consecutive day as toll passes 1,600 The number of new cases from China's coronavirus epidemic dropped for a third consecutive day on Sunday, as the World Health Organisation chief warned it was "impossible" to predict how the outbreak would develop. Read more Sri Lanka calls on US to reconsider barring army chief Sri Lanka on Sunday said the US should reconsider its decision to refuse entry to the island's army chief over his alleged war crimes and warned that relations were being "unnecessarily complicated". Read more UK issues rare 'danger to life' warning over Storm Dennis Storm Dennis swept across Britain on Sunday with the army drafted in to help deal with heavy flooding and high winds, officials warning it could be "life-threatening" in South Wales. Read more Pakistan's fate hangs in the balance as FATF plenary kicks off today in Paris Pakistan's fate hangs in balance as crucial Financial Action Task Force (FATF) plenary begins in Paris later today. The plenary will decide whether Pakistan stays in or out of the 'Grey List'. Read more Virus spreads on ship in Japan, American passengers set to disembark Hundreds of passengers were preparing to be evacuated from a cruise ship on Sunday after spending two weeks under quarantine off Japan over the coronavirus, with Americans expected to begin flying home on chartered planes as soon as Sunday evening. Read more 'Happy I can choose': New era sees Saudi women light up in public Like Western feminists of the early 20th century, in an era of social change in Saudi Arabia some women are embracing cigarettes, shisha pipes or vaping as a symbol of emancipation. Read more Multiple rockets hit Iraqi base hosting American troops near US embassy; no casualties Multiple rockets hit an Iraqi base hosting American troops near the US embassy early Sunday, the latest in a flurry of attacks against US assets in the country. Read more Turkey President Erdogan says Russia managing Libya war 'at highest level' Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Russia of managing the Libyan conflict "at the highest level", local media reported Saturday, as Ankara-Moscow tensions mount. Read more NBA loses 'hundreds of millions' in China over Hong Kong tweet NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Saturday the league expects to lose "several hundred million dollars" due to a row with China over a tweet by Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey supporting Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters. Read more

Top 10 world news today: Coronavirus outbreak, Iran warns US, and more

Iran will never hold talks with its longtime foe, the United States, under pressure, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-sounds-alarm-for-democracy-after-candidates-barred-276882">President Hassan Rouhani</a> said in a televised news conference on Sunday, adding that Tehran's help was essential to establish security in the Middle East.

"Iran will never negotiate under pressure ... We will never yield to America's pressure and we will not negotiate from a position of weakness. America's 'maximum pressure' towards Iran is doomed to failure," Rouhani said.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unbearable-for-us-to-accept-irans-victory-rouhani-taunts-on-anniversary-of-shahs-ouster-280079"> 'Unbearable for US to accept Iran's victory': Rouhani taunts on anniversary of Shah's ouster</a>

Tensions have increased between Iran and the United States since 2018 when President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and six world powers and Washington reimposed sanctions on Tehran that has crippled its economy.

Trump administration wants a new deal that further curbs Iran's nuclear programme, ends its ballistic missile programme and its involvement in decades of proxy wars in the Middle East.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-sanctions-to-negotiate-with-iran-donald-trump-276694">US will not lift sanctions to negotiate with Iran: Donald Trump</a>

Tehran has rejected holding negotiations over a new deal, saying talks are possible only if the United States returns to the nuclear pact and lifts sanctions.

Iran has been involved in decades of regional proxy wars with its key regional rival Saudi Arabia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-rejects-new-trump-deal-tells-us-to-pick-right-path-274435">Iran's Hassan Rouhani rejects new 'Trump deal'; tells US to pick 'right path'</a>

"Securing peace and stability in the sensitive region of the Middle East and in the Persian Gulf is impossible without Iran's help," Rouhani said.

Iran will never hold talks with its longtime foe, the United States, under pressure, President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised news conference on Sunday, adding that Tehran's help was essential to establish security in the Middle East.

Iran will never hold talks with its longtime foe, the United States, under pressure, President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised news conference on Sunday, adding that Tehran's help was essential to establish security in the Middle East. "Iran will never negotiate under pressure ... We will never yield to America's pressure and we will not negotiate from a position of weakness. America's 'maximum pressure' towards Iran is doomed to failure," Rouhani said. Also read: 'Unbearable for US to accept Iran's victory': Rouhani taunts on anniversary of Shah's ouster Tensions have increased between Iran and the United States since 2018 when President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and six world powers and Washington reimposed sanctions on Tehran that has crippled its economy. Trump administration wants a new deal that further curbs Iran's nuclear programme, ends its ballistic missile programme and its involvement in decades of proxy wars in the Middle East. Also read: US will not lift sanctions to negotiate with Iran: Donald Trump Tehran has rejected holding negotiations over a new deal, saying talks are possible only if the United States returns to the nuclear pact and lifts sanctions. Iran has been involved in decades of regional proxy wars with its key regional rival Saudi Arabia. Also read: Iran's Hassan Rouhani rejects new 'Trump deal'; tells US to pick 'right path' "Securing peace and stability in the sensitive region of the Middle East and in the Persian Gulf is impossible without Iran's help," Rouhani said.

Iran will never yield to America's pressure for talks, says President Rouhani

Iran taunted the United States on the 41st anniversary Tuesday of the ouster of its ally the shah, as huge crowds took to the streets to mark the historic occasion.

Waving national flags and holding portraits of the founder of the Islamic republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the crowds converged on Tehran's iconic Azadi Square braving sub-zero temperatures.

"It is unbearable for the United States to accept the victory of a great nation and that a superpower has been driven out of this land," President Hassan Rouhani told the gathering.

"It is natural for them to have dreamt, for 41 years, of returning to this land, because they know that we are one of the most powerful countries" in the Middle East, he added.

Tehran and Washington have been sworn enemies since 1979, when the government of the US-backed shah was ousted and the Islamic republic established.

Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi had already fled the country weeks earlier after months of protests against his regime.

That November radical students demanding the shah's extradition seized 52 hostages at the US embassy in Tehran and held them for 444 days, prompting Washington to sever ties.

The bad blood between Tehran and Washington worsened in 2018 when US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from a deal that froze Iran's nuclear programme and reimposed crippling sanctions.

In the capital, the atmosphere was mixed, with some people casually strolling the streets with their children clutching balloons and others chanting hardline slogans and trampling on US and Israeli flags.

"Death to America" and "We will resist until the end", read some of the banners they carried.

Show of unity

Women in black chadors held portraits of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Qasem Soleimani, a hugely popular general killed in a US drone strike last month.

Young men posed for selfies in front of a row of coffins draped in US flags and bearing the logos of companies seen as symbols of American imperialism.

Girls marched with backpacks bearing Soleimani's face as patriotic songs and Koranic verses were played on loudspeakers and volunteers dished out bowls of soup to keep people warm.

"I'm here to support the authority of the Islamic republic," one participant, Yasser Mohammadi, 37, told AFP.

"Maybe we have some problems internally, like the economy and mismanagement, but this won't stop us supporting our Islamic republic.

"We want to show the world that what the US is doing is wrong, including the killing of Soleimani."

State television showed crowds on the streets of the northern cities of Rasht and Tabriz, dressed in woolly scarves and hats and holding umbrellas, seemingly undeterred by heavy snowfall.

The state had appealed for a large turnout as a show of solidarity after a year in which Iran has been shaken by protests and military tensions with the United States.

"Securing our country and our region depends on our unity, and participation in this rally is a symbol of this unity," said Hadi Khamenei, brother of the supreme leader.

Iran's economy has been battered since May 2018, when Trump abandoned the multilateral nuclear deal and reimposed sanctions.

Crucial elections

When Iran raised petrol prices in November, nationwide protests erupted and turned violent before security forces put them down amid a near-total internet blackout.

Tensions with Washington escalated in early January when the US killed Soleimani, head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' foreign operations arm, the Quds Force.

Iran retaliated by targeting US forces but then accidentally shot down a Ukrainian airliner, killing all 176 people on board, in a tragedy that sparked anger at home and abroad.

This year's anniversary comes ahead of crucial parliamentary elections in Iran.

The alliance of moderates and reformers that propelled Rouhani to power in 2013 is scrambling to avoid losing its majority in the February 21 election.

Rouhani's government has come under intense pressure from conservatives for agreeing the 2015 nuclear deal that has unravelled since Trump's withdrawal.

"In the past two years, America has put so much pressure on our beloved people, on all of our trade, all of our exports, all of our imports, and all of the country's needs, to exhaust the patience of our people," Rouhani told Tuesday's rally.

But "the Americans did not understand the greatness of the Iranian people," he said.

"The United States believes it is facing 41 years of civilisation. No, the Americans are facing thousands of years of Iranian civilisation."

Iran taunted the United States on the 41st anniversary Tuesday of the ouster of its ally the shah, as huge crowds took to the streets to mark the historic occasion.

Iran taunted the United States on the 41st anniversary Tuesday of the ouster of its ally the shah, as huge crowds took to the streets to mark the historic occasion. Waving national flags and holding portraits of the founder of the Islamic republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the crowds converged on Tehran's iconic Azadi Square braving sub-zero temperatures. "It is unbearable for the United States to accept the victory of a great nation and that a superpower has been driven out of this land," President Hassan Rouhani told the gathering. "It is natural for them to have dreamt, for 41 years, of returning to this land, because they know that we are one of the most powerful countries" in the Middle East, he added. Tehran and Washington have been sworn enemies since 1979, when the government of the US-backed shah was ousted and the Islamic republic established. Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi had already fled the country weeks earlier after months of protests against his regime. That November radical students demanding the shah's extradition seized 52 hostages at the US embassy in Tehran and held them for 444 days, prompting Washington to sever ties. The bad blood between Tehran and Washington worsened in 2018 when US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from a deal that froze Iran's nuclear programme and reimposed crippling sanctions. In the capital, the atmosphere was mixed, with some people casually strolling the streets with their children clutching balloons and others chanting hardline slogans and trampling on US and Israeli flags. "Death to America" and "We will resist until the end", read some of the banners they carried. Show of unity Women in black chadors held portraits of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Qasem Soleimani, a hugely popular general killed in a US drone strike last month. Young men posed for selfies in front of a row of coffins draped in US flags and bearing the logos of companies seen as symbols of American imperialism. Girls marched with backpacks bearing Soleimani's face as patriotic songs and Koranic verses were played on loudspeakers and volunteers dished out bowls of soup to keep people warm. "I'm here to support the authority of the Islamic republic," one participant, Yasser Mohammadi, 37, told AFP. "Maybe we have some problems internally, like the economy and mismanagement, but this won't stop us supporting our Islamic republic. "We want to show the world that what the US is doing is wrong, including the killing of Soleimani." State television showed crowds on the streets of the northern cities of Rasht and Tabriz, dressed in woolly scarves and hats and holding umbrellas, seemingly undeterred by heavy snowfall. The state had appealed for a large turnout as a show of solidarity after a year in which Iran has been shaken by protests and military tensions with the United States. "Securing our country and our region depends on our unity, and participation in this rally is a symbol of this unity," said Hadi Khamenei, brother of the supreme leader. Iran's economy has been battered since May 2018, when Trump abandoned the multilateral nuclear deal and reimposed sanctions. Crucial elections When Iran raised petrol prices in November, nationwide protests erupted and turned violent before security forces put them down amid a near-total internet blackout. Tensions with Washington escalated in early January when the US killed Soleimani, head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' foreign operations arm, the Quds Force. Iran retaliated by targeting US forces but then accidentally shot down a Ukrainian airliner, killing all 176 people on board, in a tragedy that sparked anger at home and abroad. This year's anniversary comes ahead of crucial parliamentary elections in Iran. The alliance of moderates and reformers that propelled Rouhani to power in 2013 is scrambling to avoid losing its majority in the February 21 election. Rouhani's government has come under intense pressure from conservatives for agreeing the 2015 nuclear deal that has unravelled since Trump's withdrawal. "In the past two years, America has put so much pressure on our beloved people, on all of our trade, all of our exports, all of our imports, and all of the country's needs, to exhaust the patience of our people," Rouhani told Tuesday's rally. But "the Americans did not understand the greatness of the Iranian people," he said. "The United States believes it is facing 41 years of civilisation. No, the Americans are facing thousands of years of Iranian civilisation."

'Unbearable for US to accept Iran's victory': Rouhani taunts on anniversary of Shah's ouster

The current US government is the worst in the history of America, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state TV on Tuesday.

Rouhani also said Iran's upcoming parliamentary elections in February will have an effect on regional and international politics.

The current US government is the worst in the history of America, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state TV on Tuesday. Rouhani also said Iran's upcoming parliamentary elections in February will have an effect on regional and international politics.

Current US government is the worst in America's history: Iran president

Iranians should not allow US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/americas/china-loves-ripping-off-america-says-us-president-donald-trump-218218">Donald Trump</a>'s "maximum pressure" approach to harm national unity ahead of parliamentary elections, President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on his official website.

Iran's clerical rulers face challenges in keeping the economy afloat under increasingly tough US&nbsp;sanctions imposed by Washington after it withdrew in 2018 from Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers. Vital oil exports have been slashed.

"We should not let Trump succeed in creating gaps between the establishment and people ... We should remain united ... Don't turn your back on (February 21) elections. Let's have a high turn out," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-are-our-masters-and-we-are-its-servants-says-rouhani-amid-protests-in-tehran-274463">Rouhani</a> said.

Iran's hardline Guardians Council, which vets all election candidates, has disqualified about 9,000 of the 14,000 who registered to run in the elections. Moderates say in most cities they have no candidates to enter the race.

Since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, its rulers have swept aside challenges to their grip on power. But the gap between them and the people has widened since last year when hundreds were killed in anti-government protests.

Tehran also risks a legitimacy crisis amid mounting public fury and international criticism over the belated admission of blame by Iran's elite <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-stands-by-revolutionary-guards-after-unrest-over-downed-plane-275015">Revolutionary Guards</a> for shooting down a Ukrainian passenger plane by mistake.

Angry Iranians took to streets to protest against the delayed admission by the Guards.

The distrust between the rulers and the ruled, combined with economic hardship, bodes ill for the parliamentary vote in February when Iran's rulers typically seek a high turnout to show their legitimacy, even if the outcome will not change any major policy.

"I am calling on our nation to vote," Rouhani said. "Even if you have criticism over issues and problems, please cast your vote."

Iranians should not allow US President Donald Trump's "maximum pressure" approach to harm national unity ahead of parliamentary elections, President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on his official website.

Iranians should not allow US President Donald Trump's "maximum pressure" approach to harm national unity ahead of parliamentary elections, President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on his official website. Iran's clerical rulers face challenges in keeping the economy afloat under increasingly tough US sanctions imposed by Washington after it withdrew in 2018 from Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers. Vital oil exports have been slashed. "We should not let Trump succeed in creating gaps between the establishment and people ... We should remain united ... Don't turn your back on (February 21) elections. Let's have a high turn out," Rouhani said. Iran's hardline Guardians Council, which vets all election candidates, has disqualified about 9,000 of the 14,000 who registered to run in the elections. Moderates say in most cities they have no candidates to enter the race. Since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, its rulers have swept aside challenges to their grip on power. But the gap between them and the people has widened since last year when hundreds were killed in anti-government protests. Tehran also risks a legitimacy crisis amid mounting public fury and international criticism over the belated admission of blame by Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards for shooting down a Ukrainian passenger plane by mistake. Angry Iranians took to streets to protest against the delayed admission by the Guards. The distrust between the rulers and the ruled, combined with economic hardship, bodes ill for the parliamentary vote in February when Iran's rulers typically seek a high turnout to show their legitimacy, even if the outcome will not change any major policy. "I am calling on our nation to vote," Rouhani said. "Even if you have criticism over issues and problems, please cast your vote."

Iranians should not let Trump harm national unity, Rouhani says

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-sanctions-to-negotiate-with-iran-donald-trump-276694">Iran</a>'s president warned Monday of threats to the Islamic republic's "democracy and national sovereignty", after a body dominated by his ultra-conservative rivals disqualified thousands of candidates, weeks before elections.

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-rejects-new-trump-deal-tells-us-to-pick-right-path-274435">Hassan Rouhani</a>'s moderate conservatives and their reformist allies are locked in a public quarrel with the Guardian Council over the disqualification of thousands of candidates -- including 92 sitting MPs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-not-lift-sanctions-to-negotiate-with-iran-donald-trump-276694">US will not lift sanctions to negotiate with Iran: Donald Trump</a>

The council, which oversees Iran's elections, says it has barred some 9,500 potential candidates from standing, almost two thirds of the 14,500 hopefuls.

Rouhani, whose alliance fears losing its majority in the February 21 polls, said the disqualifications risked appointments being made "elsewhere" than the ballot box.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-rejects-new-trump-deal-tells-us-to-pick-right-path-274435">Iran's Hassan Rouhani rejects new 'Trump deal'; tells US to pick 'right path'</a>

"The greatest danger for democracy and national sovereignty is the day when elections become a formality," the government's website quoted Rouhani as saying in a meeting with provincial governors.

"May God never bring this day," he added.

"Let us reassure the people and tell them our system is not a single-party system."

In an apparent reference to ultra-conservatives, he said "they should at least let there be competition and participation".

He called on Iranians of all stripes to vote, "even if... there are shortcomings in elections".

"Sometime I may not want to vote for some reason, but some other time I may not have enough trust to go to the ballot box; this is very dangerous," he said.

Candidates who are disqualified are allowed to appeal before the elections.

The polls come after a traumatic month for Iran, in which it approached the brink of war with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-china-trade-deal-may-not-be-signed-this-year-263497">United States </a>and mistakenly shot down a passenger jet.

A US drone strike in Iraq killed top Iranian general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/qasem-soleimani-and-irans-plan-to-dominate-iraq-273471">Qasem Soleimani </a>on January 3, and Iran retaliated five days later by launching a wave of missiles at US troops stationed in Iraq.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-iranians-general-qasem-soleimani-and-its-consequences-271884">The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences</a>

Hours later, with Iranian forces on high alert, its air defences mistakenly shot down a Ukraine International Airlines passenger jet, killing all 176 people on board.

The disaster triggered scattered protests in Tehran and other cities, although they appeared smaller than nationwide demonstrations in November, sparked by a fuel price hike, in which Amnesty International said at least 300 people died.

Iran's president warned Monday of threats to the Islamic republic's "democracy and national sovereignty", after a body dominated by his ultra-conservative rivals disqualified thousands of candidates, weeks before elections.

Iran's president warned Monday of threats to the Islamic republic's "democracy and national sovereignty", after a body dominated by his ultra-conservative rivals disqualified thousands of candidates, weeks before elections. President Hassan Rouhani's moderate conservatives and their reformist allies are locked in a public quarrel with the Guardian Council over the disqualification of thousands of candidates -- including 92 sitting MPs. Also read: US will not lift sanctions to negotiate with Iran: Donald Trump The council, which oversees Iran's elections, says it has barred some 9,500 potential candidates from standing, almost two thirds of the 14,500 hopefuls. Rouhani, whose alliance fears losing its majority in the February 21 polls, said the disqualifications risked appointments being made "elsewhere" than the ballot box. Also read: Iran's Hassan Rouhani rejects new 'Trump deal'; tells US to pick 'right path' "The greatest danger for democracy and national sovereignty is the day when elections become a formality," the government's website quoted Rouhani as saying in a meeting with provincial governors. "May God never bring this day," he added. "Let us reassure the people and tell them our system is not a single-party system." In an apparent reference to ultra-conservatives, he said "they should at least let there be competition and participation". He called on Iranians of all stripes to vote, "even if... there are shortcomings in elections". "Sometime I may not want to vote for some reason, but some other time I may not have enough trust to go to the ballot box; this is very dangerous," he said. Candidates who are disqualified are allowed to appeal before the elections. The polls come after a traumatic month for Iran, in which it approached the brink of war with the United States and mistakenly shot down a passenger jet. A US drone strike in Iraq killed top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani on January 3, and Iran retaliated five days later by launching a wave of missiles at US troops stationed in Iraq. Also read: The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences Hours later, with Iranian forces on high alert, its air defences mistakenly shot down a Ukraine International Airlines passenger jet, killing all 176 people on board. The disaster triggered scattered protests in Tehran and other cities, although they appeared smaller than nationwide demonstrations in November, sparked by a fuel price hike, in which Amnesty International said at least 300 people died.

Iran's Hassan Rouhani sounds alarm for 'democracy' after candidates barred

Iran's supreme leader is expected to lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran on Friday, after a traumatic month in which the country had appeared on the brink of war with the United States and accidentally downed a Ukrainian passenger jet.

The last time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-to-lead-friday-prayers-for-first-time-since-2012-274495">Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a> led Friday prayers at Tehran's Mosalla mosque was in February 2012, on the 33rd anniversary of the Islamic revolution and at a time of crisis over the Iran nuclear issue.

His Friday appearance comes at a tumultuous moment for the country which had seemed headed for conflict earlier in January after the United States killed its top general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eleven-us-troops-injured-in-january-8-iran-missile-attack-in-iraq-274776">Qasem Soleimani</a> in a drone strike in Baghdad, prompting Iran to retaliate against US military targets in Iraq with a volley of missiles.

The strike, which caused significant material damage, wounded 11 US troops, according to a statement by US Central Command released Thursday, which contradicted the military's previous assessment of no casualties.

Earlier in the day President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-iran-conflict-a-high-stakes-bet-on-who-blinks-first-274636">Hassan Rouhani</a> emphasized in a televised speech that Iran "is working daily to prevent military confrontation or war", and maintained that a dialogue with the world was still "possible".&nbsp;

Tensions between Washington and Tehran seemed to subside in the wake of the accidental downing of a Ukrainian passenger airliner hours after Iran's retaliatory strikes, as Tehran was on high alert for US reprisals.

The tragedy killed 176 people, mostly Iranians and Canadians.&nbsp;

Canada's foreign minister on Thursday vowed to push Iran for answers about the tragedy.

Ottawa said earlier that US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trumps-impeachment-trial-officialy-gets-underway-274778">Donald Trump's</a> policies had contributed to the heightened tensions that led to the catastrophe.

In June 2019, Iran and the United States had also appeared to be on the brink of direct military confrontation after Tehran shot down a US drone it said had violated its airspace. &nbsp;

Trump said he called off retaliatory strikes at the last minute.&nbsp;

The animosity between Washington and Tehran has increased since Trump withdrew the United States from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed biting sanctions.

In Iran, the air disaster sparked public outrage and anti-government demonstrations took place every day from Saturday to Wednesday.&nbsp;

Security forces were deployed across the capital in response to the protests.&nbsp;

According to a&nbsp;journalist, around 50 riot police with batons, motorbikes and what appeared to be a tear gas launcher were posted at a major junction in north Tehran on Thursday evening.

Concentrated in the capital, the protests appeared smaller than a wave of national demonstrations in November, prompted by a fuel price hike. They had been met with a crackdown that left at least 300 people dead, according to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/icj-ruling-on-urgent-measures-in-rohingya-case-on-january-23-gambia-274450">Amnesty International</a>.&nbsp;

Rouhani implicitly acknowledged a crisis of confidence in authorities, but called Wednesday for "national unity", better governance and greater pluralism.

On Thursday, Rouhani also defended the policy of openness that he has pursued since his first election in 2013, and which Iran's ultra-conservatives criticise.&nbsp;

"Of course, it's difficult," he acknowledged, but added, "the people elected us to lower tensions and animosity" between the Islamic republic and the world.

That said, Khamenei, who maintains that the West is not trustworthy, bans dialogue with Trump.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Rouhani said Iran's "daily enrichment" of uranium was currently "higher" than before the conclusion of the 2015 nuclear deal.

Rouhani, who instigated the negotiations, made the comments while justifying his nuclear policy and Iran's progressive disengagement from the accord. He also stated his willingness to continue dialogue on the agreement.&nbsp;

In response to the US withdrawal from the deal and sanctions, an increasingly frustrated Iran has hit back with a step-by-step suspension of its own commitments under the deal, which drastically limited its nuclear activities.

On Tuesday, Germany, the UK and France, the three European parties to the deal, announced they had triggered a dispute mechanism in response to the latest step back from the deal by Tehran.

Germany on Thursday confirmed a Washington Post report that the US had threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on imports of European cars if EU governments continued to back the nuclear deal.

Iranian Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/countries-demand-iran-compensate-relatives-of-plane-crash-victims-274765">Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> accused the European parties of having "sold out" the deal to avoid trade reprisals from the United States, and said Trump was again behaving like a "high school bully".

Iran's supreme leader is expected to lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran on Friday, after a traumatic month in which the country had appeared on the brink of war with the United States and accidentally downed a Ukrainian passenger jet.

Iran's supreme leader is expected to lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran on Friday, after a traumatic month in which the country had appeared on the brink of war with the United States and accidentally downed a Ukrainian passenger jet. The last time Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led Friday prayers at Tehran's Mosalla mosque was in February 2012, on the 33rd anniversary of the Islamic revolution and at a time of crisis over the Iran nuclear issue. His Friday appearance comes at a tumultuous moment for the country which had seemed headed for conflict earlier in January after the United States killed its top general Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike in Baghdad, prompting Iran to retaliate against US military targets in Iraq with a volley of missiles. The strike, which caused significant material damage, wounded 11 US troops, according to a statement by US Central Command released Thursday, which contradicted the military's previous assessment of no casualties. Earlier in the day President Hassan Rouhani emphasized in a televised speech that Iran "is working daily to prevent military confrontation or war", and maintained that a dialogue with the world was still "possible". Tensions between Washington and Tehran seemed to subside in the wake of the accidental downing of a Ukrainian passenger airliner hours after Iran's retaliatory strikes, as Tehran was on high alert for US reprisals. The tragedy killed 176 people, mostly Iranians and Canadians. Canada's foreign minister on Thursday vowed to push Iran for answers about the tragedy. Ottawa said earlier that US President Donald Trump's policies had contributed to the heightened tensions that led to the catastrophe. In June 2019, Iran and the United States had also appeared to be on the brink of direct military confrontation after Tehran shot down a US drone it said had violated its airspace. Trump said he called off retaliatory strikes at the last minute. The animosity between Washington and Tehran has increased since Trump withdrew the United States from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed biting sanctions. In Iran, the air disaster sparked public outrage and anti-government demonstrations took place every day from Saturday to Wednesday. Security forces were deployed across the capital in response to the protests. According to a journalist, around 50 riot police with batons, motorbikes and what appeared to be a tear gas launcher were posted at a major junction in north Tehran on Thursday evening. Concentrated in the capital, the protests appeared smaller than a wave of national demonstrations in November, prompted by a fuel price hike. They had been met with a crackdown that left at least 300 people dead, according to Amnesty International. Rouhani implicitly acknowledged a crisis of confidence in authorities, but called Wednesday for "national unity", better governance and greater pluralism. On Thursday, Rouhani also defended the policy of openness that he has pursued since his first election in 2013, and which Iran's ultra-conservatives criticise. "Of course, it's difficult," he acknowledged, but added, "the people elected us to lower tensions and animosity" between the Islamic republic and the world. That said, Khamenei, who maintains that the West is not trustworthy, bans dialogue with Trump. On Thursday, Rouhani said Iran's "daily enrichment" of uranium was currently "higher" than before the conclusion of the 2015 nuclear deal. Rouhani, who instigated the negotiations, made the comments while justifying his nuclear policy and Iran's progressive disengagement from the accord. He also stated his willingness to continue dialogue on the agreement. In response to the US withdrawal from the deal and sanctions, an increasingly frustrated Iran has hit back with a step-by-step suspension of its own commitments under the deal, which drastically limited its nuclear activities. On Tuesday, Germany, the UK and France, the three European parties to the deal, announced they had triggered a dispute mechanism in response to the latest step back from the deal by Tehran. Germany on Thursday confirmed a Washington Post report that the US had threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on imports of European cars if EU governments continued to back the nuclear deal. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif accused the European parties of having "sold out" the deal to avoid trade reprisals from the United States, and said Trump was again behaving like a "high school bully".

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to lead Friday 'prayers' in Tehran amid Iranian tumult

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran this week, state news agency IRNA reported on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-are-our-masters-and-we-are-its-servants-says-rouhani-amid-protests-in-tehran-274463">Also Read:&nbsp;People are our masters and we are its servants, says Rouhani amid protests in Tehran</a>

Khamenei is officially the imam of Tehran but usually delegates the task of leading Friday prayers to others.

The last time he led Friday prayers at Tehran's Mosalla mosque was in February 2012, on the 33rd anniversary of the Islamic revolution and at a time of crisis over the Iran nuclear issue.

Meanwhile, President Hassan Rouhani appealed Wednesday for "unity" and flagged the need for radical changes to the way Iran is run, after a wave of angry protests over the accidental downing of a Ukrainian airliner.

The Kiev-bound Boeing 737 was shot down in a catastrophic error shortly after takeoff from Tehran, killing all 176 people aboard.

One week on from the disaster, Rouhani called for "national unity" in remarks broadcast live on state television.

"If there was a delay" by the armed forces to release information about what happened, "let them apologise," he said.

Rouhani also sought a full explanation after it took Iran days to admit the airliner had been mistakenly shot down.

The blunder sparked four consecutive nights of protests in Tehran calling for those responsible to resign or be prosecuted, leading to at least 30 arrests.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said they were demonstrating after being deceived for days.

"In Iran... people can state their views. Sometimes they state their views in excessive ways, sometimes the reaction is excessive," he said in New Delhi.

"But the fact of the matter is, (over the) last few nights we've had people in the streets of Tehran, demonstrating against the fact that they were lied to for a couple of days."

Iran has been rocked by crisis after crisis since 2018.

In May that year, US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from a landmark 2015 agreement that gave Iran relief from sanctions in return for curbs on its nuclear programme.

Since then, the US has relentlessly slapped waves of sanctions on Iran as part of a "maximum pressure" campaign.

Washington says the campaign is aimed at reining in Tehran's missile programme as well as its "destabilising behaviour" in the region.

Iran has hit back by progressively reducing its nuclear commitments.

On Tuesday, as tensions mounted over the downed airliner, European parties to the deal launched an arbitration process charging Iran with failing to observe its commitments to the accord. 
&nbsp;

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran this week, state news agency IRNA reported on Wednesday. Also Read: People are our masters and we are its servants, says Rouhani amid protests in Tehran Khamenei is officially the imam of Tehran but usually delegates the task of leading Friday prayers to others.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will lead the main weekly Muslim prayers in Tehran this week, state news agency IRNA reported on Wednesday. Also Read: People are our masters and we are its servants, says Rouhani amid protests in Tehran Khamenei is officially the imam of Tehran but usually delegates the task of leading Friday prayers to others. The last time he led Friday prayers at Tehran's Mosalla mosque was in February 2012, on the 33rd anniversary of the Islamic revolution and at a time of crisis over the Iran nuclear issue. Meanwhile, President Hassan Rouhani appealed Wednesday for "unity" and flagged the need for radical changes to the way Iran is run, after a wave of angry protests over the accidental downing of a Ukrainian airliner. The Kiev-bound Boeing 737 was shot down in a catastrophic error shortly after takeoff from Tehran, killing all 176 people aboard. One week on from the disaster, Rouhani called for "national unity" in remarks broadcast live on state television. "If there was a delay" by the armed forces to release information about what happened, "let them apologise," he said. Rouhani also sought a full explanation after it took Iran days to admit the airliner had been mistakenly shot down. The blunder sparked four consecutive nights of protests in Tehran calling for those responsible to resign or be prosecuted, leading to at least 30 arrests. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said they were demonstrating after being deceived for days. "In Iran... people can state their views. Sometimes they state their views in excessive ways, sometimes the reaction is excessive," he said in New Delhi. "But the fact of the matter is, (over the) last few nights we've had people in the streets of Tehran, demonstrating against the fact that they were lied to for a couple of days." Iran has been rocked by crisis after crisis since 2018. In May that year, US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from a landmark 2015 agreement that gave Iran relief from sanctions in return for curbs on its nuclear programme. Since then, the US has relentlessly slapped waves of sanctions on Iran as part of a "maximum pressure" campaign. Washington says the campaign is aimed at reining in Tehran's missile programme as well as its "destabilising behaviour" in the region. Iran has hit back by progressively reducing its nuclear commitments. On Tuesday, as tensions mounted over the downed airliner, European parties to the deal launched an arbitration process charging Iran with failing to observe its commitments to the accord.

Khamenei to lead Friday prayers for first time since 2012

Several people have been arrested in Iran over the downing of a Ukrainian passenger plane as Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned that those responsible would be punished.

West Asia crisis intensifies; Countries mull legal action against Iran

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