Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said US sanctions were "economic terrorism", as he sought to foster a united front from visiting regional officials on Saturday.&nbsp;

"America's unjust and illegal sanctions against the honourable nation of Iran have targeted our nation as a clear instance of terrorism," Rouhani told a conference in Tehran attended by officials from Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, Russia and Turkey.

"Economic terrorism is designed to create panic in the economy of a country and fear in other countries in order to prevent investment in the target country," he added.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said US sanctions were "economic terrorism", as he sought to foster a united front from visiting regional officials on Saturday. "America's unjust and illegal sanctions against the honourable nation of Iran have targeted our nation as a clear instance of terrorism," Rouhani told a conference in Tehran attended by officials from Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, Russia and Turkey.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said US sanctions were "economic terrorism", as he sought to foster a united front from visiting regional officials on Saturday. "America's unjust and illegal sanctions against the honourable nation of Iran have targeted our nation as a clear instance of terrorism," Rouhani told a conference in Tehran attended by officials from Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, Russia and Turkey. "Economic terrorism is designed to create panic in the economy of a country and fear in other countries in order to prevent investment in the target country," he added.

US sanctions are 'economic terrorism', says Iran President Hassan Rouhani

The United States will not be able to stop Iran exporting its oil and any move to prevent Iranian crude shipments passing through the Gulf would lead to all oil exports through the waterway being blocked, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-will-continue-missile-tests-after-us-allegation-181026">Iran’s president</a> said on Tuesday.

The United States has imposed sanctions on Iran and US officials say they aim to reduce Iran`s oil exports to zero in a bid to curb the Islamic Republic`s missile programme and regional influence.

"America should know that we are selling our oil and will continue to sell our oil and they are not able to stop our oil exports," President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised speech during a trip to the northern Iranian city of Shahroud.

"If one day they want to prevent the export of Iran’s oil, then no oil will be exported from the Persian Gulf," he said.

Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States after US President Donald Trump withdrew from a multilateral nuclear deal in May and reimposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic.

Rouhani said the United States would not succeed in cutting Iran's economic ties with the region and the world.

Iranian Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri also said on Tuesday that US sanctions were hitting vulnerable people in Iran.

"When (Americans) say their target is the Iranian government and there won`t be pressure on the sick, the elderly and the weak in society, it`s a lie," Jahangiri said, according to the state-run Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

The United States will not be able to stop Iran exporting its oil and any move to prevent Iranian crude shipments passing through the Gulf would lead to all oil exports through the waterway being blocked, Iran’s president said on Tuesday.

The United States will not be able to stop Iran exporting its oil and any move to prevent Iranian crude shipments passing through the Gulf would lead to all oil exports through the waterway being blocked, Iran’s president said on Tuesday. The United States has imposed sanctions on Iran and US officials say they aim to reduce Iran`s oil exports to zero in a bid to curb the Islamic Republic`s missile programme and regional influence. "America should know that we are selling our oil and will continue to sell our oil and they are not able to stop our oil exports," President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised speech during a trip to the northern Iranian city of Shahroud. "If one day they want to prevent the export of Iran’s oil, then no oil will be exported from the Persian Gulf," he said. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States after US President Donald Trump withdrew from a multilateral nuclear deal in May and reimposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic. Rouhani said the United States would not succeed in cutting Iran's economic ties with the region and the world. Iranian Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri also said on Tuesday that US sanctions were hitting vulnerable people in Iran. "When (Americans) say their target is the Iranian government and there won`t be pressure on the sick, the elderly and the weak in society, it`s a lie," Jahangiri said, according to the state-run Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

If Iran cannot export oil then no country will export oil from the Gulf: Rouhani

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals".

Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

"Submitting to the West headed by America would be treason against our religion ... and against the future generations of this region," Rouhani told an international conference on Islamic unity in Tehran, in a speech broadcast live on state television.

"We have a choice to either roll out red carpets for criminals, or to forcefully stand against injustice and remain faithful to our Prophet, our Koran and our Islam," Rouhani said, in an apparent reference to Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states which have close ties to Washington.

Iran and Saudi Arabia are regional rivals and have supported opposing sides in conflicts in Syria and Yemen and different political factions in Iraq and Lebanon.

"We are ready to defend the interests of the Saudi people against terrorism, aggression and the superpowers... and we don`t ask for $450 billion to do it," Rouhani said, referring to Saudi Arabia`s contracts with the United States.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals". Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals". Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted. "Submitting to the West headed by America would be treason against our religion ... and against the future generations of this region," Rouhani told an international conference on Islamic unity in Tehran, in a speech broadcast live on state television. "We have a choice to either roll out red carpets for criminals, or to forcefully stand against injustice and remain faithful to our Prophet, our Koran and our Islam," Rouhani said, in an apparent reference to Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states which have close ties to Washington. Iran and Saudi Arabia are regional rivals and have supported opposing sides in conflicts in Syria and Yemen and different political factions in Iraq and Lebanon. "We are ready to defend the interests of the Saudi people against terrorism, aggression and the superpowers... and we don`t ask for $450 billion to do it," Rouhani said, referring to Saudi Arabia`s contracts with the United States.

Iran President Hassan Rouhani calls for Muslims to unite against United States

Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, during his meeting with his British counterpart Jeremy Hunt in Tehran on Monday, stated that Iran is used to pressuring and will survive the newly imposed US sanctions.&nbsp;

He added that Tehran will resist the pressure imposed by the United States and will even thrive while surviving it.&nbsp;Zarif called for a political commitment from Britain on the nuclear deal.&nbsp;

Britain's Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt was in Tehran on Monday on his first official visit in Tehran to hold talks with Iranian authorities on issues including the future of the 2015 nuclear deal.

"The Europeans should accelerate their efforts to save the deal...We are ready for all scenarios, including a return to pre-deal era," the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Ali Shamkhani, told Hunt, Iranian state television reported.

Hunt said Britain was committed to the nuclear deal and discussed European efforts to maintain nuclear-related sanctions relief, Iran's state news agency IRNA reported.

"The Iran nuclear deal remains a vital component of stability in the Middle East by eliminating the threat of a nuclearised Iran. It needs 100 per cent compliance though to survive," Hunt said in a statement ahead of the visit.

The top diplomats also discussed the conflict in Yemen and other issues in meetings.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Monday said <a href="http://wioneews.com/world/rouhani-says-iran-to-continue-oil-exports-and-resist-us-economic-war-178271">Tehran will continue to export oil despite US sanctions</a>, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"We will not yield to this pressure, which is part of the psychological war launched against Iran," Rouhani said in a speech in the city of Khoy, broadcast live on state television.&nbsp;

"They have failed to stop our oil exports. We will keep exporting it ... Your regional policies have failed and you blame Iran for that failure from Afghanistan to Yemen and Syria," he added.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, during his meeting with his British counterpart Jeremy Hunt in Tehran on Monday, stated that Iran is used to pressuring and will survive the newly imposed US sanctions.

Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, during his meeting with his British counterpart Jeremy Hunt in Tehran on Monday, stated that Iran is used to pressuring and will survive the newly imposed US sanctions. He added that Tehran will resist the pressure imposed by the United States and will even thrive while surviving it. Zarif called for a political commitment from Britain on the nuclear deal. Britain's Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt was in Tehran on Monday on his first official visit in Tehran to hold talks with Iranian authorities on issues including the future of the 2015 nuclear deal. "The Europeans should accelerate their efforts to save the deal...We are ready for all scenarios, including a return to pre-deal era," the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Ali Shamkhani, told Hunt, Iranian state television reported. Hunt said Britain was committed to the nuclear deal and discussed European efforts to maintain nuclear-related sanctions relief, Iran's state news agency IRNA reported. "The Iran nuclear deal remains a vital component of stability in the Middle East by eliminating the threat of a nuclearised Iran. It needs 100 per cent compliance though to survive," Hunt said in a statement ahead of the visit. The top diplomats also discussed the conflict in Yemen and other issues in meetings. Meanwhile, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Monday said Tehran will continue to export oil despite US sanctions, news agency Reuters reported. "We will not yield to this pressure, which is part of the psychological war launched against Iran," Rouhani said in a speech in the city of Khoy, broadcast live on state television. "They have failed to stop our oil exports. We will keep exporting it ... Your regional policies have failed and you blame Iran for that failure from Afghanistan to Yemen and Syria," he added. (With inputs from Reuters)

Won't yield to this pressure, will survive and thrive: Iran on newly imposed US sanctions

Iran will continue to export oil despite US&nbsp;sanctions, which are part of a psychological war doomed to failure, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday.

By reimposing sanctions on OPEC's third biggest crude producer, Washington wants to force Tehran to drop its ballistic missile programmes, further curb its nuclear work and limit its support for proxy militias from Syria to Lebanon and Yemen.

"We will not yield to this pressure, which is part of the psychological war launched against Iran," Rouhani said in a speech in the city of Khoy, broadcast live on state television.

"They have failed to stop our oil exports. We will keep exporting it ... Your regional policies have failed and you blame Iran for that failure from Afghanistan to Yemen and Syria," he added, to chants of "Death to America!".

Rouhani said Washington lacked the necessary international support for its sanctions, and noted that it had granted temporary waivers to eight major buyers of Iranian oil.

"America is isolated now. Iran is supported by many countries. Except for the Zionist regime (Israel) and some countries in the region, no other country backs America's pressure on Iran," he said.

The European Union, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, participants with the United States in the 2015 deal that lifted sanctions on Iran in exchange for curbs on its nuclear programme, have been trying to find ways to circumvent the US&nbsp;limitations.

In particular, the EU has been trying to establish a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for non-dollar trade with Iran.

But this has not stopped foreign businesses ranging from oil companies and trading houses to firms leaving Iran for fear of incurring US penalties.

Iran has threatened to exit the deal if its economic benefits are not preserved, but Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi told a news conference that it remained "hopeful that the Europeans can save the deal".

The SPV was conceived as a clearing house that could be used to help match Iranian oil and gas exports against purchases of EU goods, circumventing the US&nbsp;sanctions, which are based on the global use of the dollar for oil trade.

The EU wanted to have the SPV set up by this month, but no country has offered to host it, six diplomats told Reuters last week.

"We expect EU to implement the SPV as soon as possible," Qasemi said. "Iran adheres to its commitments as long as other signatories honour theirs."

Iran's deputy Oil Minister Amirhossein Zamaninia said "France might host the SPV", the semi-official Fars news agency reported on Monday.

The French Foreign Ministry declined to comment. The Finance Ministry has said that all options are on the table for the SPV and that no decisions had been taken.

Washington has warned that European banks and firms who engage in the SPV will be at risk from the reimposed US&nbsp;sanctions.

Iran will continue to export oil despite US sanctions, which are part of a psychological war doomed to failure, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday. By reimposing sanctions on OPEC's third biggest crude producer, Washington wants to force Tehran to drop its ballistic missile programmes, further curb its nuclear work and limit its support for proxy militias from Syria to Lebanon and Yemen.

Iran will continue to export oil despite US sanctions, which are part of a psychological war doomed to failure, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday. By reimposing sanctions on OPEC's third biggest crude producer, Washington wants to force Tehran to drop its ballistic missile programmes, further curb its nuclear work and limit its support for proxy militias from Syria to Lebanon and Yemen. "We will not yield to this pressure, which is part of the psychological war launched against Iran," Rouhani said in a speech in the city of Khoy, broadcast live on state television. "They have failed to stop our oil exports. We will keep exporting it ... Your regional policies have failed and you blame Iran for that failure from Afghanistan to Yemen and Syria," he added, to chants of "Death to America!". Rouhani said Washington lacked the necessary international support for its sanctions, and noted that it had granted temporary waivers to eight major buyers of Iranian oil. "America is isolated now. Iran is supported by many countries. Except for the Zionist regime (Israel) and some countries in the region, no other country backs America's pressure on Iran," he said. The European Union, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, participants with the United States in the 2015 deal that lifted sanctions on Iran in exchange for curbs on its nuclear programme, have been trying to find ways to circumvent the US limitations. In particular, the EU has been trying to establish a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for non-dollar trade with Iran. But this has not stopped foreign businesses ranging from oil companies and trading houses to firms leaving Iran for fear of incurring US penalties. Iran has threatened to exit the deal if its economic benefits are not preserved, but Foreign Ministry spokesman Bahram Qasemi told a news conference that it remained "hopeful that the Europeans can save the deal". The SPV was conceived as a clearing house that could be used to help match Iranian oil and gas exports against purchases of EU goods, circumventing the US sanctions, which are based on the global use of the dollar for oil trade. The EU wanted to have the SPV set up by this month, but no country has offered to host it, six diplomats told Reuters last week. "We expect EU to implement the SPV as soon as possible," Qasemi said. "Iran adheres to its commitments as long as other signatories honour theirs." Iran's deputy Oil Minister Amirhossein Zamaninia said "France might host the SPV", the semi-official Fars news agency reported on Monday. The French Foreign Ministry declined to comment. The Finance Ministry has said that all options are on the table for the SPV and that no decisions had been taken. Washington has warned that European banks and firms who engage in the SPV will be at risk from the reimposed US sanctions.

We will not yield to this pressure: Rouhani says Iran will continue oil exports despite US sanctions

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday launched an attack on the Trump administration over sanctions on Tehran, stating that the United States has chosen the wrong path and will be defeated, news agency Reuters reported quoting state media.&nbsp;

Last week, Washington reinstated sanctions on Iran, targetting its oil industry, a move aimed at pressuring Tehran to curb its missile program.&nbsp;

Rouhani, last week, stated that Iran "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-proudly-bypass-us-sanctions-rouhani-175592">will proudly bypass sanctions</a>" by the United States that took effect on November 5.

"I announce that we will proudly bypass your illegal, unjust sanctions because it's against international regulations," Rouhani said in a televised speech.

"We are in a situation of economic war, confronting a bullying power. I don't think that in the history of America, someone has entered the White House who is so against law and international conventions," news agency AFP quoted Rouhani.

Meanwhile, the latest <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-sticking-to-nuclear-deal-conditions-iaea-176925">report from the UN atomic watchdog</a> stated that Iran has been abiding by the terms of its nuclear deal with global powers.&nbsp;

The International Atomic Energy Agency's latest report showed that as of early November, Iran had been complying with the restrictions to its nuclear programme laid down in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday launched an attack on the Trump administration over sanctions on Tehran, stating that the United States has chosen the wrong path and will be defeated, news agency Reuters reported quoting state media.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday launched an attack on the Trump administration over sanctions on Tehran, stating that the United States has chosen the wrong path and will be defeated, news agency Reuters reported quoting state media. Last week, Washington reinstated sanctions on Iran, targetting its oil industry, a move aimed at pressuring Tehran to curb its missile program. Rouhani, last week, stated that Iran "will proudly bypass sanctions" by the United States that took effect on November 5. "I announce that we will proudly bypass your illegal, unjust sanctions because it's against international regulations," Rouhani said in a televised speech. "We are in a situation of economic war, confronting a bullying power. I don't think that in the history of America, someone has entered the White House who is so against law and international conventions," news agency AFP quoted Rouhani. Meanwhile, the latest report from the UN atomic watchdog stated that Iran has been abiding by the terms of its nuclear deal with global powers. The International Atomic Energy Agency's latest report showed that as of early November, Iran had been complying with the restrictions to its nuclear programme laid down in the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. (With inputs from agencies)

United States chose wrong path on sanctions, will be defeated: Iranian President Rouhani

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday said his country had no fear of the new US sanction&nbsp;which was due to take effect in the coming days.

"November 4 sees a new injustice from the Americans, the people should know with certainty that the government has no fear of American threats", Rohani said ahead of the imposition of new US sanctions.

Rouhani also warned that the country will have to face hard times when new US sanctions take effect on Sunday assuring that the government would do its best to alleviate them from the crisis.

"In the past few months our people have faced difficult times and it's possible that the next few months will be difficult. But the government will use all its power to reduce these problems", he said.

The United States plans to impose sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector on November 4.

The US has already reimposed a number of sanctions on Iran in May after pulling out of a multilateral 2015 deal intended to curb the Islamic Republic's nuclear program.

Following the imposition of the sanctions, the&nbsp;Iranian rial had hit record lows against the US dollar in recent months. The cost of living had also soared in recent months.

The sanctions had also resulted in demonstrations against profiteering and corruption in which protesters have chanted anti-government slogans.

To counter the consequences of the sanctions,&nbsp;Iran began selling crude oil to private companies for export on Sunday.

(With inputs from Reuters)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday said his country had no fear of the new US sanction which was due to take effect in the coming days. "November 4 sees a new injustice from the Americans, the people should know with certainty that the government has no fear of American threats", Rohani said ahead of the imposition of new US sanctions.

Iran President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday said his country had no fear of the new US sanction which was due to take effect in the coming days. "November 4 sees a new injustice from the Americans, the people should know with certainty that the government has no fear of American threats", Rohani said ahead of the imposition of new US sanctions. Rouhani also warned that the country will have to face hard times when new US sanctions take effect on Sunday assuring that the government would do its best to alleviate them from the crisis. "In the past few months our people have faced difficult times and it's possible that the next few months will be difficult. But the government will use all its power to reduce these problems", he said. The United States plans to impose sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector on November 4. The US has already reimposed a number of sanctions on Iran in May after pulling out of a multilateral 2015 deal intended to curb the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. Following the imposition of the sanctions, the Iranian rial had hit record lows against the US dollar in recent months. The cost of living had also soared in recent months. The sanctions had also resulted in demonstrations against profiteering and corruption in which protesters have chanted anti-government slogans. To counter the consequences of the sanctions, Iran began selling crude oil to private companies for export on Sunday. (With inputs from Reuters)

Iran has no fear over new US sanctions: President Hassan Rouhani

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday that the United States was isolated among its traditional allies in its confrontation with Iran, and that even Europe was siding with Tehran against the reimposition of US sanctions.

"It does not happen often that the US makes a decision and its traditional allies abandon it," Rouhani told parliament in a speech carried live on state television.

Washington reintroduced sanctions against Iran’s currency trade, metals and auto sectors in August after the US withdrawal from a multinational 2015 deal that lifted sanctions in return for limits on Iran’s nuclear programme.

European countries have criticised the US withdrawal from the accord and have been putting together a package of economic measures to help offset the US pressures on Tehran, which have contributed to the economic volatility in the country.

US curbs on Iran’s vital oil exports are set to come into force on November 4.

Rouhani was speaking at the start of a parliament session to discuss a cabinet reshuffle which includes a proposed new economy minister, academic Farhad Dejpasand, who is widely seen as a technocrat, and three other economy-linked ministers.

The proposed cabinet changes come as the government faces intense pressure over the economic instability mostly caused by the US sanctions.

The economy has markedly deteriorated in the past year, suffering rising inflation and unemployment, a slump in the rial currency and state corruption.

"A year ago no one would have believed ... that Europe would stand with Iran and against America," Rouhani said.

"Russia, China, India, the European Union, and some African and Latin American countries are our friends. We have to work with them and attract investments," Rouhani added.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday that the United States was isolated among its traditional allies in its confrontation with Iran, and that even Europe was siding with Tehran against the reimposition of US sanctions.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday that the United States was isolated among its traditional allies in its confrontation with Iran, and that even Europe was siding with Tehran against the reimposition of US sanctions. "It does not happen often that the US makes a decision and its traditional allies abandon it," Rouhani told parliament in a speech carried live on state television. Washington reintroduced sanctions against Iran’s currency trade, metals and auto sectors in August after the US withdrawal from a multinational 2015 deal that lifted sanctions in return for limits on Iran’s nuclear programme. European countries have criticised the US withdrawal from the accord and have been putting together a package of economic measures to help offset the US pressures on Tehran, which have contributed to the economic volatility in the country. US curbs on Iran’s vital oil exports are set to come into force on November 4. Rouhani was speaking at the start of a parliament session to discuss a cabinet reshuffle which includes a proposed new economy minister, academic Farhad Dejpasand, who is widely seen as a technocrat, and three other economy-linked ministers. The proposed cabinet changes come as the government faces intense pressure over the economic instability mostly caused by the US sanctions. The economy has markedly deteriorated in the past year, suffering rising inflation and unemployment, a slump in the rial currency and state corruption. "A year ago no one would have believed ... that Europe would stand with Iran and against America," Rouhani said. "Russia, China, India, the European Union, and some African and Latin American countries are our friends. We have to work with them and attract investments," Rouhani added.

US isolated among its traditional allies in its confrontation with Iran: Hassan Rouhani

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday&nbsp;appointed Farhad Dejpasand as the new economy and finance minister in a cabinet reshuffle, news agency Reuters reported quoting&nbsp;state television.&nbsp;

Rouhani also appointed a new urban development and roads minister and an industry, mines, and trade minister.

Mohammad Shariatmadari, the outgoing industry minister, has been nominated to head the Labour, Cooperatives and Social Affairs Ministry, the report added.&nbsp;

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday appointed Farhad Dejpasand as the new economy and finance minister in a cabinet reshuffle, news agency Reuters reported quoting state television.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday appointed Farhad Dejpasand as the new economy and finance minister in a cabinet reshuffle, news agency Reuters reported quoting state television. Rouhani also appointed a new urban development and roads minister and an industry, mines, and trade minister. Mohammad Shariatmadari, the outgoing industry minister, has been nominated to head the Labour, Cooperatives and Social Affairs Ministry, the report added.

Iranian President Rouhani appoints new economy minister in reshuffle: Report 

Iran's president boasted Sunday that the United States has lost against the Islamic republic's "righteousness and wisdom" by walking out of the landmark nuclear deal.

"Everyone knows that America has lost legally and politically by giving up on its international obligations and that we have achieved victory," said President Hassan Rouhani in a speech at the University of Tehran to mark the beginning of the school year.

"There are but a few countries in the world that would call the US withdrawal from the JCPOA (nuclear deal) a good move," he added.

"Those that are cautious express disappointment, those that are more frank say it was a mistake, and the outspoken say it was illegal."

Washington pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers in May and is reimposing punishing sanctions on the country, hoping to pressure Tehran into what President Donald Trump calls a "better deal".

The US is due to complete the reimposition of sanctions on November 5, targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank.

The other parties to the agreement -- Russia, China, the UK, France and Germany -- have all pledged to continue to try to make the deal work, despite their firms being vulnerable to the US sanctions if they keep doing business with Iran.

Rouhani said Iran's response had left Washington "empty-handed".

"They expected us to leave the JCPOA hours after they announced they are, and what would have happened? The case would have returned to the UN Security Council, turned against Iran and isolated us," he said.&nbsp;

He said Iran had lost nothing by staying in the deal and could leave "whenever" it chooses.

Iran's president boasted Sunday that the United States has lost against the Islamic republic's "righteousness and wisdom" by walking out of the landmark nuclear deal.

Iran's president boasted Sunday that the United States has lost against the Islamic republic's "righteousness and wisdom" by walking out of the landmark nuclear deal. "Everyone knows that America has lost legally and politically by giving up on its international obligations and that we have achieved victory," said President Hassan Rouhani in a speech at the University of Tehran to mark the beginning of the school year. "There are but a few countries in the world that would call the US withdrawal from the JCPOA (nuclear deal) a good move," he added. "Those that are cautious express disappointment, those that are more frank say it was a mistake, and the outspoken say it was illegal." Washington pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and six world powers in May and is reimposing punishing sanctions on the country, hoping to pressure Tehran into what President Donald Trump calls a "better deal". The US is due to complete the reimposition of sanctions on November 5, targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank. The other parties to the agreement -- Russia, China, the UK, France and Germany -- have all pledged to continue to try to make the deal work, despite their firms being vulnerable to the US sanctions if they keep doing business with Iran. Rouhani said Iran's response had left Washington "empty-handed". "They expected us to leave the JCPOA hours after they announced they are, and what would have happened? The case would have returned to the UN Security Council, turned against Iran and isolated us," he said. He said Iran had lost nothing by staying in the deal and could leave "whenever" it chooses.

US is loser by abandoning Iran nuclear deal: Iranian President Rouhani

The United States will refuse any additional reconstruction assistance to war-torn Syria so long as Iranian troops are present in the country, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday.

Speaking to a pro-Israel group, Pompeo vowed to press forward with President Donald Trump's push to isolate Iran, boasting of imposing "some of the harshest sanctions in history."

"The onus for expelling Iran from the country falls on the Syrian government, which bears responsibility for its presence there," Pompeo told the Jewish Institute for National Security of America.

"If Syria doesn't ensure the total withdrawal of Iranian-backed troops, it will not receive one single dollar from the United States for reconstruction," Pompeo said.

Pompeo's remarks come as the Trump administration shifts its reasoning for US involvement in Syria's brutal civil war, which a war monitor says has killed close to 365,000 people since 2011.

The United States has some 2,000 troops in Syria, mainly training and advising rebels, after former president Barack Obama authorized the mission to defeat the Islamic State extremist group, or IS.

Pompeo said that fighting IS "continues to be a top priority" but listed rolling back Iran as another.&nbsp;

National security adviser, John Bolton, said last month that US troops would stay "as long as Iranian troops are outside Iranian borders."

Iran, ruled by Shiite Muslim clerics, and Russia are the primary supporters of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his bloody campaign against largely Sunni Muslim rebels and IS.

Pompeo did not make similar demands for a withdrawal by Russia, which has long considered Syria a major ally.

Trump in August already pulled out of Syria's immediate reconstruction, suspending $230 million after pledges by Gulf Arab allies.

The United States will refuse any additional reconstruction assistance to war-torn Syria so long as Iranian troops are present in the country, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday.

The United States will refuse any additional reconstruction assistance to war-torn Syria so long as Iranian troops are present in the country, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday. Speaking to a pro-Israel group, Pompeo vowed to press forward with President Donald Trump's push to isolate Iran, boasting of imposing "some of the harshest sanctions in history." "The onus for expelling Iran from the country falls on the Syrian government, which bears responsibility for its presence there," Pompeo told the Jewish Institute for National Security of America. "If Syria doesn't ensure the total withdrawal of Iranian-backed troops, it will not receive one single dollar from the United States for reconstruction," Pompeo said. Pompeo's remarks come as the Trump administration shifts its reasoning for US involvement in Syria's brutal civil war, which a war monitor says has killed close to 365,000 people since 2011. The United States has some 2,000 troops in Syria, mainly training and advising rebels, after former president Barack Obama authorized the mission to defeat the Islamic State extremist group, or IS. Pompeo said that fighting IS "continues to be a top priority" but listed rolling back Iran as another. National security adviser, John Bolton, said last month that US troops would stay "as long as Iranian troops are outside Iranian borders." Iran, ruled by Shiite Muslim clerics, and Russia are the primary supporters of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his bloody campaign against largely Sunni Muslim rebels and IS. Pompeo did not make similar demands for a withdrawal by Russia, which has long considered Syria a major ally. Trump in August already pulled out of Syria's immediate reconstruction, suspending $230 million after pledges by Gulf Arab allies.

Pompeo says no more US reconstruction aid to Syria if Iranian troops stay

The United States was not able to register any achievements at the United Nations General Assembly meeting which took place this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday.

Rouhani and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump exchanged threats and insults during their speeches at the UN&nbsp;assembly.

"The Americans had no achievements in this public assembly," Rouhani said, at a news conference broadcast on state TV on his return to Tehran.

The assembly had shown America's isolation, he said.

"When Mr. Trump was speaking and at the beginning of his speech bragged a lot about the accomplishments of his two-year-old administration, everyone laughed."

"What's important is that today, other than one or two countries, no one is supporting America," he said. "It's a historic political isolation that is rare for America."

The United States was not able to register any achievements at the United Nations General Assembly meeting which took place this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday.

The United States was not able to register any achievements at the United Nations General Assembly meeting which took place this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday. Rouhani and US President Donald Trump exchanged threats and insults during their speeches at the UN assembly. "The Americans had no achievements in this public assembly," Rouhani said, at a news conference broadcast on state TV on his return to Tehran. The assembly had shown America's isolation, he said. "When Mr. Trump was speaking and at the beginning of his speech bragged a lot about the accomplishments of his two-year-old administration, everyone laughed." "What's important is that today, other than one or two countries, no one is supporting America," he said. "It's a historic political isolation that is rare for America."

America had no achievements at UN General Assembly: Iran President Hassan Rouhani 

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Tuesday lashed out at the sanctions reinstated by the Donald Trump-led United States administration, saying that they amounted to "economic terrorism" and "economic war", while speaking at the ongoing 73rd session of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-corrupt-dictatorship-plundering-its-people-pay-aggression-abroad-donald-trump-un-167667">United Nations General Assembly</a> (UNGA).

"Unlawful unilateral sanctions in themselves constitute a form of economic terrorism and a breach of the 'Right to Development'. The economic war that the United States has initiated under the rubric of new sanctions not only targets the Iranian people but also entails harmful repercussions for the people of other countries, and that war has caused a disruption in the state of global trade," The Hill quoted Rouhani, as saying.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-free-society-successfully-lifting-millions-out-poverty-trump-tells-un-167674">India a free society, successfully lifting millions out of poverty — Trump tells UN</a>

"We are pleased that the international community did not acquiesce to the US government's unilateral and illegal withdrawal from the JCPOA ... If you dislike the JCPOA because it is the legacy of your domestic political rivals, then we invite you to come back to the Security Council resolution. We invite you to remain in the international institutions. Do not engage in imposing sanctions," he further said.

Trump, in his speech at the UNGA, took a jibe at Iran and re-established the sanctions, scheduled to be put back in place in early November.

He also dismissed reports which stated that he would meet Rouhani on the sidelines of the UNGA.

More sanctions will be imposed on Iran in November, including barring Iran's sale of crude oil and transactions with its Central Bank, the report highlighted.

In order to protect European companies from any penalties imposed by the United States for doing business with or in Iran, EU has updated a blocking statute.

In 2015, six countries - Iran, US, Britain, Germany, Russia, France, and China- signed the Iran nuclear deal, for lifting economic sanctions on Tehran in exchange for limitations to the country's nuclear programme.

However, Trump announced the US' withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or the Iran nuclear deal in May, which limited the country's uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief.

Calling the accord as an "embarrassment" that was "defective at its core", the US President then warned of severe consequences if Iran resumed its nuclear programme.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Tuesday lashed out at the sanctions reinstated by the Donald Trump-led United States administration, saying that they amounted to "economic terrorism" and "economic war", while speaking at the ongoing 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Tuesday lashed out at the sanctions reinstated by the Donald Trump-led United States administration, saying that they amounted to "economic terrorism" and "economic war", while speaking at the ongoing 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). "Unlawful unilateral sanctions in themselves constitute a form of economic terrorism and a breach of the 'Right to Development'. The economic war that the United States has initiated under the rubric of new sanctions not only targets the Iranian people but also entails harmful repercussions for the people of other countries, and that war has caused a disruption in the state of global trade," The Hill quoted Rouhani, as saying. Also read: India a free society, successfully lifting millions out of poverty — Trump tells UN "We are pleased that the international community did not acquiesce to the US government's unilateral and illegal withdrawal from the JCPOA ... If you dislike the JCPOA because it is the legacy of your domestic political rivals, then we invite you to come back to the Security Council resolution. We invite you to remain in the international institutions. Do not engage in imposing sanctions," he further said. Trump, in his speech at the UNGA, took a jibe at Iran and re-established the sanctions, scheduled to be put back in place in early November. He also dismissed reports which stated that he would meet Rouhani on the sidelines of the UNGA. More sanctions will be imposed on Iran in November, including barring Iran's sale of crude oil and transactions with its Central Bank, the report highlighted. In order to protect European companies from any penalties imposed by the United States for doing business with or in Iran, EU has updated a blocking statute. In 2015, six countries - Iran, US, Britain, Germany, Russia, France, and China- signed the Iran nuclear deal, for lifting economic sanctions on Tehran in exchange for limitations to the country's nuclear programme. However, Trump announced the US' withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or the Iran nuclear deal in May, which limited the country's uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief. Calling the accord as an "embarrassment" that was "defective at its core", the US President then warned of severe consequences if Iran resumed its nuclear programme.

Iranian President Rouhani slams Trump administration over sanctions

Trump sure Rouhani is a Lovey Man; refuses to meet  Rouhani

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/despite-requests-no-plans-meet-iran-president-trump-167606">Iran rejects US offer for top-level meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President'</a>

Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bad-debts-decline-loan-recovery-picking-psu-banks-says-arun-jaitley-167633">Bad debts on a decline, loan recovery of PSU banks picking up, says Arun Jaitley</a>

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Tuesday said bad debts or NPAs in the banking system are on the decline as recoveries of unpaid loans have picked up.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-mirabai-chanu-conferred-rajiv-gandhi-khel-ratna-award-167619">Virat Kohli, Mirabai Chanu conferred Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award</a>

Indian Cricket team captain Virat Kohli and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu were conferred with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-pronounce-judgment-aadhaar-validity-tomorrow-167609">Can Aadhaar be made mandatory? Supreme Court judgement tomorrow</a>

The Supreme Court will likely pronounce the crucial judgment on petitions challenging the validity of Aadhaar on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/merkel-says-still-unclear-what-britain-wants-brexit-talks-167599">German Chancellor Angela Merkel says still unclear what Britain wants in Brexit talks</a>

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that Britain had still not expressed a clear position on its post-Brexit relations with the EU, warning that only "six to eight weeks" remained to reach an agreement.

&nbsp;

Iran rejects US offer for top-level meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President' Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other.

Iran rejects US offer for top-level meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President' Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. Bad debts on a decline, loan recovery of PSU banks picking up, says Arun Jaitley Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Tuesday said bad debts or NPAs in the banking system are on the decline as recoveries of unpaid loans have picked up. Virat Kohli, Mirabai Chanu conferred Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award Indian Cricket team captain Virat Kohli and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu were conferred with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday. Can Aadhaar be made mandatory? Supreme Court judgement tomorrow The Supreme Court will likely pronounce the crucial judgment on petitions challenging the validity of Aadhaar on Wednesday. German Chancellor Angela Merkel says still unclear what Britain wants in Brexit talks German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that Britain had still not expressed a clear position on its post-Brexit relations with the EU, warning that only "six to eight weeks" remained to reach an agreement.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Ahead of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-un-look-progress-north-korea-brace-trump-167312">UN General Assembly meetin</a>g, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Describing&nbsp;Iran President&nbsp;Hassan Rouhani as&nbsp;an&nbsp;absolutely ''lovely man'', Trump said&nbsp;"Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.''

Trump tweeted, "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man!"

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1044540438806482944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, a&nbsp;top adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader rejected a US offer for top-level meetings, according to news agency Reuters.

Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards also kept up the anti-US rhetoric in the build-up&nbsp;to the UN session, calling President Donald Trump "evil and adventurous" and accusing him of waging economic war on Tehran.

Relations between the two countries worsened after Trump pulled out of an international nuclear deal with Iran in May.

He has since started reinstating economic penalties and pressing other countries to stop buying Iranian oil.

Trump said in July he was ready to meet Iran's President Hassan Rouhani without preconditions to negotiate a new deal.

President Rouhani, seen as a moderate, has stopped short of ruling out meetings between the two countries. But he has come under increasing pressure from hardliners, including the Guards, since Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear accord.

Trump is set to address the UNGA meeting on Tuesday where he is likely to face foes and increasingly uneasy allies.

He will chair a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation and weapons of mass destruction on Wednesday.

(With inputs from Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. Describing Iran President Hassan Rouhani as an absolutely ''lovely man'', Trump said "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.

Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. Describing Iran President Hassan Rouhani as an absolutely ''lovely man'', Trump said "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.'' Trump tweeted, "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man!" Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 25, 2018 × Meanwhile, a top adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader rejected a US offer for top-level meetings, according to news agency Reuters. Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards also kept up the anti-US rhetoric in the build-up to the UN session, calling President Donald Trump "evil and adventurous" and accusing him of waging economic war on Tehran. Relations between the two countries worsened after Trump pulled out of an international nuclear deal with Iran in May. He has since started reinstating economic penalties and pressing other countries to stop buying Iranian oil. Trump said in July he was ready to meet Iran's President Hassan Rouhani without preconditions to negotiate a new deal. President Rouhani, seen as a moderate, has stopped short of ruling out meetings between the two countries. But he has come under increasing pressure from hardliners, including the Guards, since Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear accord. Trump is set to address the UNGA meeting on Tuesday where he is likely to face foes and increasingly uneasy allies. He will chair a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation and weapons of mass destruction on Wednesday. (With inputs from Reuters)

Iran rejects US offer for meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President' 

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani vowed a "crushing response" to Saturday's attack on a military parade in the city of Ahvaz near the Iraqi border that left at least 29 people dead.

"The response of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the smallest threat will be crushing", Rouhani said in a statement on his official website. "Those who give intelligence and propaganda support to these terrorists must answer for it."

Twenty-nine people were killed on Saturday when gunmen opened fire on an army parade in southwestern Iran, a state television reported.

Islamic State group has claimed the responsibility of the attack on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-24-including-12-revolutionary-guards-attack-iran-military-parade-167119">army parade attack&nbsp;</a>

Citing a security source, Islamic State's propaganda agency Amaq said: "Islamic State fighters attacked a gathering of Iranian forces in the city of Ahvaz in southern Iran".

While three terrorists were killed on the spot in a counter-attack, the fourth attacker who was injured died in the hospital.

Half of the people killed in the attack were the members of the Revolutionary Guards, state news agencies reported.

The casualties also included a&nbsp;number of non-military victims, including women and children who had come to watch the parade.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani vowed a "crushing response" to Saturday's attack on a military parade in the city of Ahvaz near the Iraqi border that left at least 29 people dead.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani vowed a "crushing response" to Saturday's attack on a military parade in the city of Ahvaz near the Iraqi border that left at least 29 people dead. "The response of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the smallest threat will be crushing", Rouhani said in a statement on his official website. "Those who give intelligence and propaganda support to these terrorists must answer for it." Twenty-nine people were killed on Saturday when gunmen opened fire on an army parade in southwestern Iran, a state television reported. Islamic State group has claimed the responsibility of the attack on army parade attack Citing a security source, Islamic State's propaganda agency Amaq said: "Islamic State fighters attacked a gathering of Iranian forces in the city of Ahvaz in southern Iran". While three terrorists were killed on the spot in a counter-attack, the fourth attacker who was injured died in the hospital. Half of the people killed in the attack were the members of the Revolutionary Guards, state news agencies reported. The casualties also included a number of non-military victims, including women and children who had come to watch the parade.

Iran army parade attack toll rises to 29, President vows crushing response

The Islamic State group claimed a deadly gun assault against a military parade in the city of Ahvaz in southwestern Iran on Saturday, its second major attack in the Islamic Republic in 15 months.

Compared to regional peers, Iran has suffered only sporadic attacks in recent years.&nbsp;

But a number of groups represent a threat to the Shiite powerhouse, including Kurdish separatists and Sunni extremists. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Tehran regularly accuses Saudi Arabia and the US of supporting anti-Iranian "terrorists".

The Islamic State group&nbsp;

An attack early on September 22 in Ahvaz kills at least 29 and wounds scores of people, according to Arabic language state TV al-Alam.

Women and children are among the dead, as people gathered to mark the anniversary of the start of the 1980-1988 war with Iraq.&nbsp;

The deadly gun assault is claimed by IS on its propaganda agency Amaq, but Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif blames "terrorists recruited, trained, armed &amp; paid by a foreign regime". He holds the US accountable.&nbsp;

Ahvaz lies in Khuzestan, a province bordering Iraq that has a large ethnic Arab community and has seen separatist violence in the past.

IS claimed its first attack in Iran on June 7, 2017, when gunmen and suicide bombers hit the parliament in Tehran and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, killing 17 people and injuring dozens.&nbsp;

In a video released in March 2017, the jihadists threatened to retaliate against Iran for its military and logistical support to the Syrian and Iraqi governments, as Damascus and Baghdad battled IS insurgencies. &nbsp;

The jihadists said they wanted to conquer Iran to "return it to the Sunni Muslim nation" and to provoke a Shiite bloodbath.

Jundallah (Soldiers of God)

&nbsp;This extremist Sunni group began a bloody rebellion against the Islamic republic in 2000.&nbsp;

It draws on support from the Baluch ethnic group, which has a major presence in Sistan-Baluchistan province, bordering Pakistan and Afghanistan. The group has rear bases in both countries.

Tehran has long alleged Jundallah received training from the American, British and Israeli intelligence services. It also accuses Pakistan of supporting the group.&nbsp;

- December 15, 2010: Jundallah claims a suicide attack against Shiites celebrating Ashura in Chabahar in southeastern Iran. 34 are killed and more than 80 wounded.

- July 15, 2010: Twin suicide bombings in a crowded Shiite mosque in Zahedan, capital of Sistan-Baluchistan, kill at least 28 people and wound more than 250. The attacks, targeting members of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards, are claimed by Jundallah.

- October 18, 2009: Jundallah kill 42 people including several Revolutionary Guard officers in Pishin, a city close to the Pakistan border. The suicide attack targets a meeting between commanders and tribal leaders called to enhance co-operation between Sunnis and Shiites.

- May 28, 2009: 25 people are killed and 125 wounded in a suicide bombing at the Amir al-Momenin Shiite mosque in Zahedan. The attack is blamed on Jundallah.

- February 14, 2007: A car bomb attack against a bus in Sistan-Baluchistan kills 13 and wounds 29.&nbsp;

Kurdish rebels&nbsp;

Iranian authorities have blamed "counter-revolutionary" groups based in northeastern Iraq for several attacks, particularly the Kurdistan Democratic Party of Iran and the Party of Free Life of Kurdistan.&nbsp;

- July 20, 2018: at least 10 Revolutionary Guards are killed in an attack led by insurgents against a base in the village of Dari, in the Marivan district of Iran's northwestern Kurdistan region. The attack is not claimed. &nbsp;

- September 22, 2010: 12 people are killed and 81 wounded by a bomb explosion during a military parade in Mahabad, a city with a large Kurdish population in Western Azerbaijan province, bordering Iraq and Turkey.&nbsp;

Most of the victims are women and children watching a parade commemorating the 30th anniversary of the outbreak of the Iran-Iraq war. Iran blames "counter-revolutionary elements".

After the attacks in Tehran on June 7, 2017, Iran ramped up anti-militant operations across the country, targeting northwestern regions, the Iraqi borderlands and the Kurdish minority.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Islamic State group claimed a deadly gun assault against a military parade in the city of Ahvaz in southwestern Iran on Saturday, its second major attack in the Islamic Republic in 15 months.

The Islamic State group claimed a deadly gun assault against a military parade in the city of Ahvaz in southwestern Iran on Saturday, its second major attack in the Islamic Republic in 15 months. Compared to regional peers, Iran has suffered only sporadic attacks in recent years. But a number of groups represent a threat to the Shiite powerhouse, including Kurdish separatists and Sunni extremists. Tehran regularly accuses Saudi Arabia and the US of supporting anti-Iranian "terrorists". The Islamic State group An attack early on September 22 in Ahvaz kills at least 29 and wounds scores of people, according to Arabic language state TV al-Alam. Women and children are among the dead, as people gathered to mark the anniversary of the start of the 1980-1988 war with Iraq. The deadly gun assault is claimed by IS on its propaganda agency Amaq, but Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif blames "terrorists recruited, trained, armed & paid by a foreign regime". He holds the US accountable. Ahvaz lies in Khuzestan, a province bordering Iraq that has a large ethnic Arab community and has seen separatist violence in the past. IS claimed its first attack in Iran on June 7, 2017, when gunmen and suicide bombers hit the parliament in Tehran and the shrine of revolutionary leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, killing 17 people and injuring dozens. In a video released in March 2017, the jihadists threatened to retaliate against Iran for its military and logistical support to the Syrian and Iraqi governments, as Damascus and Baghdad battled IS insurgencies. The jihadists said they wanted to conquer Iran to "return it to the Sunni Muslim nation" and to provoke a Shiite bloodbath. Jundallah (Soldiers of God) This extremist Sunni group began a bloody rebellion against the Islamic republic in 2000. It draws on support from the Baluch ethnic group, which has a major presence in Sistan-Baluchistan province, bordering Pakistan and Afghanistan. The group has rear bases in both countries. Tehran has long alleged Jundallah received training from the American, British and Israeli intelligence services. It also accuses Pakistan of supporting the group. - December 15, 2010: Jundallah claims a suicide attack against Shiites celebrating Ashura in Chabahar in southeastern Iran. 34 are killed and more than 80 wounded. - July 15, 2010: Twin suicide bombings in a crowded Shiite mosque in Zahedan, capital of Sistan-Baluchistan, kill at least 28 people and wound more than 250. The attacks, targeting members of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards, are claimed by Jundallah. - October 18, 2009: Jundallah kill 42 people including several Revolutionary Guard officers in Pishin, a city close to the Pakistan border. The suicide attack targets a meeting between commanders and tribal leaders called to enhance co-operation between Sunnis and Shiites. - May 28, 2009: 25 people are killed and 125 wounded in a suicide bombing at the Amir al-Momenin Shiite mosque in Zahedan. The attack is blamed on Jundallah. - February 14, 2007: A car bomb attack against a bus in Sistan-Baluchistan kills 13 and wounds 29. Kurdish rebels Iranian authorities have blamed "counter-revolutionary" groups based in northeastern Iraq for several attacks, particularly the Kurdistan Democratic Party of Iran and the Party of Free Life of Kurdistan. - July 20, 2018: at least 10 Revolutionary Guards are killed in an attack led by insurgents against a base in the village of Dari, in the Marivan district of Iran's northwestern Kurdistan region. The attack is not claimed. - September 22, 2010: 12 people are killed and 81 wounded by a bomb explosion during a military parade in Mahabad, a city with a large Kurdish population in Western Azerbaijan province, bordering Iraq and Turkey. Most of the victims are women and children watching a parade commemorating the 30th anniversary of the outbreak of the Iran-Iraq war. Iran blames "counter-revolutionary elements". After the attacks in Tehran on June 7, 2017, Iran ramped up anti-militant operations across the country, targeting northwestern regions, the Iraqi borderlands and the Kurdish minority.

Timeline of recent attacks in Iran by militant groups

China&nbsp;will host Iranian President Hassan Rouhani next month at a regional summit aimed at avoiding disruption of joint projects, its foreign ministry said on Monday, as major powers scramble to save Iran's nuclear deal after the United States pulled out.

Rouhani will pay a working visit to&nbsp;China&nbsp;and attend the summit of the&nbsp;China&nbsp;and Russia-led security bloc the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the ministry said.

It did not give exact dates for his visit, but the summit is scheduled to be held on the second weekend of June in the northern Chinese city of Qingdao.

Iran is currently an observer member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, though it has long sought full membership.

"Our hope is that&nbsp;China&nbsp;and Iran will have close consultation on the basis of observing the deal and push forward development of bilateral cooperation," Chinese deputy foreign minister Zhang Hanhui said at a briefing.

"We should together look into how to avoid major disruption of joint projects between the two sides," he added.

Russia has previously argued that with Western sanctions against Tehran lifted, it could finally become a member of the bloc which also includes four ex-Soviet Central Asian republics, Pakistan and India.

The 2015 agreement between Iran and world powers lifted international sanctions on Tehran.

In return, Iran agreed to restrictions on its nuclear activities, increasing the time it would need to produce an atom bomb if it chose to do so.

Since US&nbsp;President Donald Trump withdrew the United States this month, calling the agreement deeply flawed, European states have been scrambling to ensure Iran gets enough economic benefits to persuade it to stay in the deal.

China&nbsp;has also strongly supported the deal and is one of its signatories.

Hassan Rouhani will pay a working visit to China and attend the summit of the China and Russia-led security bloc the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the ministry said

China will host Iranian President Hassan Rouhani next month at a regional summit aimed at avoiding disruption of joint projects, its foreign ministry said on Monday, as major powers scramble to save Iran's nuclear deal after the United States pulled out. Rouhani will pay a working visit to China and attend the summit of the China and Russia-led security bloc the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the ministry said. It did not give exact dates for his visit, but the summit is scheduled to be held on the second weekend of June in the northern Chinese city of Qingdao. Iran is currently an observer member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, though it has long sought full membership. "Our hope is that China and Iran will have close consultation on the basis of observing the deal and push forward development of bilateral cooperation," Chinese deputy foreign minister Zhang Hanhui said at a briefing. "We should together look into how to avoid major disruption of joint projects between the two sides," he added. Russia has previously argued that with Western sanctions against Tehran lifted, it could finally become a member of the bloc which also includes four ex-Soviet Central Asian republics, Pakistan and India. The 2015 agreement between Iran and world powers lifted international sanctions on Tehran. In return, Iran agreed to restrictions on its nuclear activities, increasing the time it would need to produce an atom bomb if it chose to do so. Since US President Donald Trump withdrew the United States this month, calling the agreement deeply flawed, European states have been scrambling to ensure Iran gets enough economic benefits to persuade it to stay in the deal. China has also strongly supported the deal and is one of its signatories.

China to host Iran to avoid project disruption amid nuclear deal doubt

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani reiterated on Sunday that Tehran would remain committed to its 2015 nuclear deal if its interests can be protected and said the U.S. withdrawal from the accord was a "violation of morals".

"The U.S. withdrawal ... is a violation of morals, the correct way to carry out politics and diplomacy and against international regulations," Rouhani during a meeting with visiting Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena.

"If the remaining five countries continue to abide by the agreement, Iran will remain in the deal despite the will of America," Rouhani said in remarks carried by state television.

U.S. President Donald Trump's decision on Tuesday to pull out of the nuclear deal has upset European allies, cast uncertainty over global oil supplies and raised the risk of conflict in the Middle East.

Iran has said it will stay committed to the deal, to which Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia are also signatories, if powers still backing the agreement can ensure it is protected from sanctions against key sectors of its economy such as oil.

In what is seen as a last-ditch effort to save the accord after Washington's withdrawal, Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has embarked on a tour of world powers.

U.S. President Donald Trump's decision on Tuesday to pull out of the nuclear deal has upset European allies

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani reiterated on Sunday that Tehran would remain committed to its 2015 nuclear deal if its interests can be protected and said the U.S. withdrawal from the accord was a "violation of morals". "The U.S. withdrawal ... is a violation of morals, the correct way to carry out politics and diplomacy and against international regulations," Rouhani during a meeting with visiting Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena. "If the remaining five countries continue to abide by the agreement, Iran will remain in the deal despite the will of America," Rouhani said in remarks carried by state television. U.S. President Donald Trump's decision on Tuesday to pull out of the nuclear deal has upset European allies, cast uncertainty over global oil supplies and raised the risk of conflict in the Middle East. Iran has said it will stay committed to the deal, to which Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia are also signatories, if powers still backing the agreement can ensure it is protected from sanctions against key sectors of its economy such as oil. In what is seen as a last-ditch effort to save the accord after Washington's withdrawal, Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has embarked on a tour of world powers.

Rouhani says Iran may remain part of nuclear accord

President Donald Trump on Tuesday pulled the United States out of an international agreement aimed at stopping Iran from obtaining a nuclear bomb, and said he would reimpose economic sanctions on Tehran immediately.

The decision is likely to raise the risk of conflict in the Middle East, upset America`s European allies and disrupt global oil supplies.

"This was a horrible one-sided deal that should have never, ever been made," Trump said at the White House. "It didn`t bring calm. It didn`t bring peace. And it never will."

The 2015 deal, worked out by the United States, five other international powers and Iran, eased sanctions on Iran in exchange for Tehran limiting its nuclear programme.

Trump says the agreement, the signature foreign policy achievement of Trump`s predecessor Barack Obama, does not address Iran`s ballistic missile programme, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 nor its role in conflicts in Yemen and Syria.

Trump said he was willing to negotiate a new deal with Iran, but Tehran has already ruled that out and threatened unspecified retaliation if Washington pulled out.

Iranian state television said on Tuesday that Trump`s decision to withdraw was "illegal, illegitimate and undermines international agreements."

Renewing sanctions would make it much harder for Iran to sell its oil abroad or use the international banking system.

The Iran deal may remain partially intact, even without the United States. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani suggested on Monday that Iran could remain in the accord with the other signatories that stay committed to it.

Trump`s move is a snub to European allies such as France, Britain and Germany who are also part of the Iran deal and tried hard to convince the U.S. president to preserve it. The Europeans must now scramble to decide their own course of action with Tehran.

China and Russia are also signatories to the Iran deal.

Oil prices dived as much as 4 percent on Tuesday as media reports rattled markets with doubts about whether Trump would withdraw Washington.

Trump did not provide details of what he described as the “highest level of economic sanctions” that he is reimposing on Iran.&nbsp;

But he implied that he was going beyond not renewing waivers on sanctions related to Iran’s oil exports and its central bank that were due to expire on Saturday and reimpose all of the other U.S. sanctions that were suspended under the nuclear deal.

Iran`s growing military and political power in Yemen, Syria, Lebanon and Iraq worries the United States, Israel and U.S. Arab allies such as Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Israel has traded blows with Iranian forces in Syria since February, stirring concern that major escalation could be looming.

Trump said the 'disastrous' deal was an embarrassment for the US

President Donald Trump on Tuesday pulled the United States out of an international agreement aimed at stopping Iran from obtaining a nuclear bomb, and said he would reimpose economic sanctions on Tehran immediately. The decision is likely to raise the risk of conflict in the Middle East, upset America`s European allies and disrupt global oil supplies. "This was a horrible one-sided deal that should have never, ever been made," Trump said at the White House. "It didn`t bring calm. It didn`t bring peace. And it never will." The 2015 deal, worked out by the United States, five other international powers and Iran, eased sanctions on Iran in exchange for Tehran limiting its nuclear programme. Trump says the agreement, the signature foreign policy achievement of Trump`s predecessor Barack Obama, does not address Iran`s ballistic missile programme, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 nor its role in conflicts in Yemen and Syria. Trump said he was willing to negotiate a new deal with Iran, but Tehran has already ruled that out and threatened unspecified retaliation if Washington pulled out. Iranian state television said on Tuesday that Trump`s decision to withdraw was "illegal, illegitimate and undermines international agreements." Renewing sanctions would make it much harder for Iran to sell its oil abroad or use the international banking system. The Iran deal may remain partially intact, even without the United States. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani suggested on Monday that Iran could remain in the accord with the other signatories that stay committed to it. Trump`s move is a snub to European allies such as France, Britain and Germany who are also part of the Iran deal and tried hard to convince the U.S. president to preserve it. The Europeans must now scramble to decide their own course of action with Tehran. China and Russia are also signatories to the Iran deal. Oil prices dived as much as 4 percent on Tuesday as media reports rattled markets with doubts about whether Trump would withdraw Washington. Trump did not provide details of what he described as the “highest level of economic sanctions” that he is reimposing on Iran. But he implied that he was going beyond not renewing waivers on sanctions related to Iran’s oil exports and its central bank that were due to expire on Saturday and reimpose all of the other U.S. sanctions that were suspended under the nuclear deal. Iran`s growing military and political power in Yemen, Syria, Lebanon and Iraq worries the United States, Israel and U.S. Arab allies such as Saudi Arabia. Israel has traded blows with Iranian forces in Syria since February, stirring concern that major escalation could be looming.

Trump pulls out of Iran nuclear deal, reimposes US sanctions

President Donald Trump was poised Tuesday to pull the United States out of the Iran nuclear deal, reimposing sanctions and abandoning the 2015 accord that Washington's allies believe is the last barrier against a Middle East arms race.

A US government official told AFP that Trump intends to announce he is dropping Washington's commitments under the deal, in defiance of desperate calls from European capitals for more time to negotiate a "Plan B".&nbsp

Trump, who has long pledged to tear up the "very badly negotiated" agreement, was due to speak at 2:00 pm at the White House, and some deal supporters are clinging to hopes he might only partially reinstate sanctions or allow more time for talks.

Instead, it now seems more likely that he will effectively tear up the accord -- which his predecessor Barack Obama agreed with Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- and dare Tehran's regime to restart its enrichment program and alleged quest for a nuclear weapon.

Former Obama administration officials said this would put Washington on a collision course with Iran, distance the White House from its key allies, put US citizens held in Iran at risk, undermine efforts to negotiate away North Korea's nuclear arsenal and threaten new conflict in the Middle East.

Former deputy secretary of state Tony Blinken, who helped negotiate the accord, said this would be a "monumental mistake" and former senior diplomat Wendy Sherman told reporters Trump was putting international stability at risk for purely domestic political purposes.

"This has been a crisis that Trump has been precipitating himself to answer his base, to fulfil a campaign pledge that he made, without any sense whatsoever of what Plan B is," she told reporters.

"It says that the United States is not a reliable partner," she added, insisting that the existing deal permanently prevents Iran from gaining a nuclear weapon.

Blinken said ending the deal gives "hardliners in Iran an excuse to restart their pursuit of nuclear weapons, but without the united international coalition to oppose them or inspectors on the ground to expose them."

Trump had had until May 12 to decide whether to continue to waive sanctions on Iran's central bank and its oil sector dealings, a key pillar of the 2015 agreement.

Sombre mood 
For months, critics have been warning ending the waivers would unravel the carefully constructed deal, plunge Iran's already struggling economy into crisis and expose the biggest transatlantic rift since the Iraq War.

But some US officials close to Trump, as well as hawkish Washington lobbyists, argue that an Iranian economic collapse could lead to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-losing-everything-due-to-trump-135503">Tehran's Islamist regime falling</a> -- and that this would be a good thing.&nbsp

The president's decision will be closely watched across the Middle East, where a number of powers are mulling their own nuclear programs, and in Pyongyang ahead of non-proliferation talks between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

For months, Trump has unsuccessfully demanded changes to the Obama-era nuclear accord, which saw Iran stop military-scale uranium enrichment and open up to inspections, in return for massive sanctions relief.

Months of intensive talks with European allies ultimately stalled when Berlin, London and Paris refused Trump's demand to rewrite key provisions of the accord.

One European diplomat, echoing the somber mood around foreign embassies in Washington on the eve of Trump's announcement, said "there is plainly a difference of opinion."

"I would like to pretend to you today that I feel that there is a chance of the existing (deal) remaining intact," the European official said. "I think that that chance may exist but it is very small."

A French official said Macron left the United States last week "convinced that we would get a negative decision."

Danger of 'escalation' 
Ahead of Trump's verdict, diplomats shifted into damage limitation mode, hoping that beyond his inevitably harsh rhetoric, he stops short of immediately reimposing sanctions.

In Brussels, officials are already working on "blocking" measures that would protect EU citizens and companies from US prosecution.

"We are having conversations obviously and we are working on a number of proposals that could protect European companies and operators," a senior EU official told reporters.

Tehran has sent mixed signals about its potential response, hinting it could leave a fatally undermined deal and resume military-scale uranium enrichment.

But Iranian President Hassan Rouhani -- who publicly backed engagement with the United States and could face a domestic backlash if that policy fails -- indicated his country would stay in the agreement even if Washington pulls out.

It is still unclear whether Iran's more hardline military leaders, or Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, hold the same view.

Iran staying in the deal makes it more likely that vital avenues for European trade would stay open.

Amid six months of speculation over Trump's decision, the Iranian rial had lost around a third of its value, before authorities in April took the drastic step of pegging the exchange rate to the dollar.

A US government official said Trump intends to announce he is dropping Washington's commitments under the deal, in defiance of desperate calls from European capitals for more time to negotiate a 'Plan B'

President Donald Trump was poised Tuesday to pull the United States out of the Iran nuclear deal, reimposing sanctions and abandoning the 2015 accord that Washington's allies believe is the last barrier against a Middle East arms race. A US government official told AFP that Trump intends to announce he is dropping Washington's commitments under the deal, in defiance of desperate calls from European capitals for more time to negotiate a "Plan B". Trump, who has long pledged to tear up the "very badly negotiated" agreement, was due to speak at 2:00 pm at the White House, and some deal supporters are clinging to hopes he might only partially reinstate sanctions or allow more time for talks. Instead, it now seems more likely that he will effectively tear up the accord -- which his predecessor Barack Obama agreed with Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- and dare Tehran's regime to restart its enrichment program and alleged quest for a nuclear weapon. Former Obama administration officials said this would put Washington on a collision course with Iran, distance the White House from its key allies, put US citizens held in Iran at risk, undermine efforts to negotiate away North Korea's nuclear arsenal and threaten new conflict in the Middle East. Former deputy secretary of state Tony Blinken, who helped negotiate the accord, said this would be a "monumental mistake" and former senior diplomat Wendy Sherman told reporters Trump was putting international stability at risk for purely domestic political purposes. "This has been a crisis that Trump has been precipitating himself to answer his base, to fulfil a campaign pledge that he made, without any sense whatsoever of what Plan B is," she told reporters. "It says that the United States is not a reliable partner," she added, insisting that the existing deal permanently prevents Iran from gaining a nuclear weapon. Blinken said ending the deal gives "hardliners in Iran an excuse to restart their pursuit of nuclear weapons, but without the united international coalition to oppose them or inspectors on the ground to expose them." Trump had had until May 12 to decide whether to continue to waive sanctions on Iran's central bank and its oil sector dealings, a key pillar of the 2015 agreement. Sombre mood For months, critics have been warning ending the waivers would unravel the carefully constructed deal, plunge Iran's already struggling economy into crisis and expose the biggest transatlantic rift since the Iraq War. But some US officials close to Trump, as well as hawkish Washington lobbyists, argue that an Iranian economic collapse could lead to Tehran's Islamist regime falling -- and that this would be a good thing. The president's decision will be closely watched across the Middle East, where a number of powers are mulling their own nuclear programs, and in Pyongyang ahead of non-proliferation talks between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. For months, Trump has unsuccessfully demanded changes to the Obama-era nuclear accord, which saw Iran stop military-scale uranium enrichment and open up to inspections, in return for massive sanctions relief. Months of intensive talks with European allies ultimately stalled when Berlin, London and Paris refused Trump's demand to rewrite key provisions of the accord. One European diplomat, echoing the somber mood around foreign embassies in Washington on the eve of Trump's announcement, said "there is plainly a difference of opinion." "I would like to pretend to you today that I feel that there is a chance of the existing (deal) remaining intact," the European official said. "I think that that chance may exist but it is very small." A French official said Macron left the United States last week "convinced that we would get a negative decision." Danger of 'escalation' Ahead of Trump's verdict, diplomats shifted into damage limitation mode, hoping that beyond his inevitably harsh rhetoric, he stops short of immediately reimposing sanctions. In Brussels, officials are already working on "blocking" measures that would protect EU citizens and companies from US prosecution. "We are having conversations obviously and we are working on a number of proposals that could protect European companies and operators," a senior EU official told reporters. Tehran has sent mixed signals about its potential response, hinting it could leave a fatally undermined deal and resume military-scale uranium enrichment. But Iranian President Hassan Rouhani -- who publicly backed engagement with the United States and could face a domestic backlash if that policy fails -- indicated his country would stay in the agreement even if Washington pulls out. It is still unclear whether Iran's more hardline military leaders, or Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, hold the same view. Iran staying in the deal makes it more likely that vital avenues for European trade would stay open. Amid six months of speculation over Trump's decision, the Iranian rial had lost around a third of its value, before authorities in April took the drastic step of pegging the exchange rate to the dollar.

Trump will pull out of Iran nuclear deal: US official

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani will respond on state television on Tuesday, shortly after US counterpart Donald Trump's expected withdrawal from the nuclear deal, an Iranian official told AFP.

"If Trump speaks, President Rouhani will respond tonight" on television, said the official on condition of anonymity.&nbsp

A US official in Washington told AFP that Trump will announce he is pulling the United States out of the landmark nuclear deal signed with world powers in 2015

'If Trump speaks, President Rouhani will respond tonight' on television, an official said on condition of anonymity

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani will respond on state television on Tuesday, shortly after US counterpart Donald Trump's expected withdrawal from the nuclear deal, an Iranian official told AFP. "If Trump speaks, President Rouhani will respond tonight" on television, said the official on condition of anonymity. A US official in Washington told AFP that Trump will announce he is pulling the United States out of the landmark nuclear deal signed with world powers in 2015

Iran's Rouhani will respond to Trump tonight: Official

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-elections-sonia-hits-campaign-trail-after-2-years-says-wherever-modi-goes-he-distorts-historical-facts-135515">Karnataka elections: Sonia hits campaign trail after 2 years. Says wherever Modi goes, he distorts facts</a>

Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi hit the campaign trail Tuesday after two years, and immediately went on the attack against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-and-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-met-in-china-reports-135511">Xi Jinping and North Korea's Kim Jong-Un meet in China</a>

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kim Jong-Un met in northeast China on Tuesday in an unannounced visit by the North Korean leader ahead of an expected summit with US President Donald Trump.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-here-is-the-first-picture-of-the-newlyweds-sonam-kapoor-and-anand-ahuja--135478">Here is the first picture of the newlyweds: Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja</a>

The couple got married in Mumbai at Rockdale as the entire Bollywood fraternity turned up to wish the young couple in their new phase of lives.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamist-group-youth-leader-accused-of-shooting-pakistani-minister-police-135524">Islamist group youth leader accused of shooting Pakistani minister: Police</a>

The gunman accused of shooting and wounding&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-interior-minister-ahsan-iqbal-was-an-easy-target-says-primary-suspect-after-assassination-attempt-135300">Pakistan's interior minister</a>&nbspis a youth leader of a hardline religious group that sees its mission as enforcing death for blasphemers and ridding government of secular influence, police said in a report.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-losing-everything-due-to-trump-135503">Iran's Rouhani 'losing everything' due to Trump</a>

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani staked his legacy on efforts to end decades of tension with the West. With the landmark nuclear deal unravelling, what hope is there for his political future?

Karnataka elections: Sonia hits campaign trail after 2 years. Says wherever Modi goes, he distorts facts Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi hit the campaign trail Tuesday after two years, and immediately went on the attack against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Xi Jinping and North Korea's Kim Jong-Un meet in China Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kim Jong-Un met in northeast China on Tuesday in an unannounced visit by the North Korean leader ahead of an expected summit with US President Donald Trump. Here is the first picture of the newlyweds: Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja The couple got married in Mumbai at Rockdale as the entire Bollywood fraternity turned up to wish the young couple in their new phase of lives. Islamist group youth leader accused of shooting Pakistani minister: Police The gunman accused of shooting and wounding Pakistan's interior minister&nbspis a youth leader of a hardline religious group that sees its mission as enforcing death for blasphemers and ridding government of secular influence, police said in a report. Iran's Rouhani 'losing everything' due to Trump Iran's President Hassan Rouhani staked his legacy on efforts to end decades of tension with the West. With the landmark nuclear deal unravelling, what hope is there for his political future?

India's ties with the United States has been helped along by the personal chemistry of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, but the US President's policies, first towards Russia <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-will-happen-to-west-asia-if-trump-pulls-out-of-iran-nuclear-deal-135516">and now Iran</a>, are causing anxieties to New Delhi.

Russia is among the biggest exporters of military hardware to India, and Iran is the third largest supplier of oil to India. Together, they are crucial for India's defence and energy security.

But the recent US sanctions on Russia threaten the defence relationship between New Delhi and Moscow.

The sanctions make it more difficult for Indian banks to make payment to Russian state-owned arms manufacturers.

India is also scrambling to insulate Russian defence purchases from the American domestic law called Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which mandates the Trump administration to punish entities engaging in significant transaction with the defence or intelligence sectors of Russia.

On August 2 last year, Trump signed into law the act, which among other things, imposes new sanctions on Russia, Iran and North Korea.

India is currently in an advance stage of negotiations with Russia for five S-400 system worth an estimate US $4.5 billion.

The S-400 Triumf long-range air defence missile system has the capability to destroy incoming hostile aircraft, missiles and even drones at ranges of up to 400 km. The S-400 missile system can fire three types of missiles and simultaneously engage 36 targets, thereby creating a layered defence.

As if this was not enough, Trump's opposition to the Iran nuclear deal, with its attendant consequences, comes just as India ramps up ties with Iran.

Any instability in what India sees as its extended neighbourhood will have implications for New Delhi. Disruption of oil imports from Iran will be an immediate worry.

Between April 2017 and January this year, Iran was India's third largest supplier of crude oil after Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

The mode of payment for the oil imported is another concern as banks would be reluctant to route payments to Iran because of the fear of inviting adverse reaction from the US.

India is also invested in developing the Chabahar port in Iran. It is of immense strategic importance for both India and the land-locked Afghanistan.

The other connectivity project of interest of to India is the international north-south transport corridor linking India with Central Asia and Russia via Iran.

In fact, this was a major point of discussion during Iranian <a href="www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-losing-everything-due-to-trump-135503">President Hassan Rouhani’s visit to India</a> in February, 2018.

The joint statement issued towards the end of his visit said, "The two leaders agreed on the deepening trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. In this context, they recognised the need to put in place an effective banking channel for business transactions. It was noted that permission for the Iranian Pasargad Bank to open a branch in India was under advance consideration. It was also agreed to set up a joint committee of officials to examine feasible options, including Rupee-Rial arrangement, Asian clearing union mechanism to establish functional payment channels."

India lost a decade in its relations with Iran after voting against it in the international atomic energy agency in 2005. Iran retaliated immediately by cancelling a deal for selling liquefied natural gas or LNG to India.

It was only after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power that the ties began to look up. But, if the Iran nuclear deal unravels, West Asia may face new problems, which could potentially create a new global crisis at India's doorstep.

Any instability in what India sees as its extended neighbourhood will have implications for New Delhi. Disruption of oil imports from Iran will be an immediate worry.

India's ties with the United States has been helped along by the personal chemistry of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, but the US President's policies, first towards Russia and now Iran, are causing anxieties to New Delhi. Russia is among the biggest exporters of military hardware to India, and Iran is the third largest supplier of oil to India. Together, they are crucial for India's defence and energy security. But the recent US sanctions on Russia threaten the defence relationship between New Delhi and Moscow. The sanctions make it more difficult for Indian banks to make payment to Russian state-owned arms manufacturers. India is also scrambling to insulate Russian defence purchases from the American domestic law called Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), which mandates the Trump administration to punish entities engaging in significant transaction with the defence or intelligence sectors of Russia. On August 2 last year, Trump signed into law the act, which among other things, imposes new sanctions on Russia, Iran and North Korea. India is currently in an advance stage of negotiations with Russia for five S-400 system worth an estimate US $4.5 billion. The S-400 Triumf long-range air defence missile system has the capability to destroy incoming hostile aircraft, missiles and even drones at ranges of up to 400 km. The S-400 missile system can fire three types of missiles and simultaneously engage 36 targets, thereby creating a layered defence. As if this was not enough, Trump's opposition to the Iran nuclear deal, with its attendant consequences, comes just as India ramps up ties with Iran. Any instability in what India sees as its extended neighbourhood will have implications for New Delhi. Disruption of oil imports from Iran will be an immediate worry. Between April 2017 and January this year, Iran was India's third largest supplier of crude oil after Iraq and Saudi Arabia. The mode of payment for the oil imported is another concern as banks would be reluctant to route payments to Iran because of the fear of inviting adverse reaction from the US. India is also invested in developing the Chabahar port in Iran. It is of immense strategic importance for both India and the land-locked Afghanistan. The other connectivity project of interest of to India is the international north-south transport corridor linking India with Central Asia and Russia via Iran. In fact, this was a major point of discussion during Iranian President Hassan Rouhani’s visit to India in February, 2018. The joint statement issued towards the end of his visit said, "The two leaders agreed on the deepening trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. In this context, they recognised the need to put in place an effective banking channel for business transactions. It was noted that permission for the Iranian Pasargad Bank to open a branch in India was under advance consideration. It was also agreed to set up a joint committee of officials to examine feasible options, including Rupee-Rial arrangement, Asian clearing union mechanism to establish functional payment channels." India lost a decade in its relations with Iran after voting against it in the international atomic energy agency in 2005. Iran retaliated immediately by cancelling a deal for selling liquefied natural gas or LNG to India. It was only after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power that the ties began to look up. But, if the Iran nuclear deal unravels, West Asia may face new problems, which could potentially create a new global crisis at India's doorstep.

Trump's decision on Iran can impact India. Here's how

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani staked his legacy on efforts to end decades of tension with the West. With the landmark nuclear deal unravelling, what hope is there for his political future?

Regardless of whether US President Donald Trump tears up the 2015 nuclear deal that was the centrepiece of Rouhani's diplomatic efforts, it is clear that the traditional animosity between the US and Iran has returned for the foreseeable future.

"Rouhani bet big on the nuclear deal and invested all his political capital in it," said Mojtaba Mousavi, a political analyst in Tehran.&nbsp

"Now the deal is gasping its last breaths, and so Rouhani is losing everything -- all his economic and political plans -- that he built on the back of the nuclear deal," Mousavi told AFP.&nbsp

A boon for conservatives

From the start, Rouhani's conservative opponents were deeply suspicious of his negotiations with Washington, and their fears were borne out when it became clear that US pressure would continue to hobble Iran's trade ties even after the 2015 deal.

With his constant threats to tear up the accord, Trump has ensured the world stays wary of doing business with Iran.

"The uncertainty around the JCPOA (nuclear deal) is a victory for the conservatives who feed off the hostility of US foreign policy to reinforce internal repression and limit the reach of the Islamic republic's elected institutions," said Clement Therme, an Iran expert with Britain's International Institute for Strategic Studies.&nbsp

Behind-the-scenes conservative forces have made their presence felt in recent months, with sweeping arrests of dual nationals and NGO workers on espionage charges, the blocking of Iran's most popular social media app Telegram, and pressure on high-profile reformers that forced the resignation of Tehran's mayor and a top environmental official.

Rouhani has overseen a moderate easing of social restrictions, but in Iran the presidency is only one of many power centres.&nbsp

He faces powerful conservative forces embedded in the clergy, the judiciary and a Guardian Council with veto power over laws and election candidates, not to mention the over-riding authority of the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"Rouhani has totally flunked on all his promises, but he has doubled down on the reform rhetoric recently, trying to maintain his popular base and finger-pointing at the conservatives," said Ardavan Amir-Aslani, an author and international lawyer with an office in Tehran.

"But opening a few new cafes and letting women push their headscarves back a few inches are not the fundamental reforms that Iran needs," he added.

Need for unity

What may save Rouhani from being completely sidelined is the establishment's fear of a greater unravelling.&nbsp

Protests in December and January showed that anger over the economy and civil liberties was much wider spread than in the past, affecting dozens of second-tier towns and cities.&nbsp

"I think the leader (Khamenei) is still trying to help Rouhani. Protecting the prosperity and unity of the country is his top priority, especially in this tough situation," said Mousavi.&nbsp

Rouhani won a second term as president a year ago, with the backing of reformists who saw him as the best option from the small selection allowed to stand by the Guardian Council.&nbsp

There were never any illusions that he was a radical reformer -- he has been a regime insider from the earliest days of the Islamic revolution -- but many were still disappointed when his promises of reform fell flat.&nbsp

"Some of the criticism is unfair. Rouhani has done great things. There is more openness, less morality police, journalists are somewhat freer," said a reformist journalist, who asked to remain anonymous.

"But he is ultimately a man of the system and wants to remain one. His identity is tied up with being part of the system -- if he denies it, he denies himself."

For now, Rouhani has stuck to his guns, strongly criticising the censorship of social media and slamming officials for failing to respond effectively to popular anger.&nbsp

But he faces a difficult challenge, having to respond to Trump without derailing his wider diplomatic efforts.&nbsp

"The smart move would be to wait out the end of Trump's mandate, stay in the nuclear deal and build up something with the Europeans, however limited. Wait until this blows over," said Amir-Aslani.

"That's what they should do -- but we'll see."

Regardless of whether US President Donald Trump tears up the 2015 nuclear deal that was the centrepiece of Rouhani's diplomatic efforts, it is clear that the traditional animosity between the US and Iran has returned for the foreseeable future

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani staked his legacy on efforts to end decades of tension with the West. With the landmark nuclear deal unravelling, what hope is there for his political future? Regardless of whether US President Donald Trump tears up the 2015 nuclear deal that was the centrepiece of Rouhani's diplomatic efforts, it is clear that the traditional animosity between the US and Iran has returned for the foreseeable future. "Rouhani bet big on the nuclear deal and invested all his political capital in it," said Mojtaba Mousavi, a political analyst in Tehran. "Now the deal is gasping its last breaths, and so Rouhani is losing everything -- all his economic and political plans -- that he built on the back of the nuclear deal," Mousavi told AFP. A boon for conservatives From the start, Rouhani's conservative opponents were deeply suspicious of his negotiations with Washington, and their fears were borne out when it became clear that US pressure would continue to hobble Iran's trade ties even after the 2015 deal. With his constant threats to tear up the accord, Trump has ensured the world stays wary of doing business with Iran. "The uncertainty around the JCPOA (nuclear deal) is a victory for the conservatives who feed off the hostility of US foreign policy to reinforce internal repression and limit the reach of the Islamic republic's elected institutions," said Clement Therme, an Iran expert with Britain's International Institute for Strategic Studies. Behind-the-scenes conservative forces have made their presence felt in recent months, with sweeping arrests of dual nationals and NGO workers on espionage charges, the blocking of Iran's most popular social media app Telegram, and pressure on high-profile reformers that forced the resignation of Tehran's mayor and a top environmental official. Rouhani has overseen a moderate easing of social restrictions, but in Iran the presidency is only one of many power centres. He faces powerful conservative forces embedded in the clergy, the judiciary and a Guardian Council with veto power over laws and election candidates, not to mention the over-riding authority of the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "Rouhani has totally flunked on all his promises, but he has doubled down on the reform rhetoric recently, trying to maintain his popular base and finger-pointing at the conservatives," said Ardavan Amir-Aslani, an author and international lawyer with an office in Tehran. "But opening a few new cafes and letting women push their headscarves back a few inches are not the fundamental reforms that Iran needs," he added. Need for unity What may save Rouhani from being completely sidelined is the establishment's fear of a greater unravelling. Protests in December and January showed that anger over the economy and civil liberties was much wider spread than in the past, affecting dozens of second-tier towns and cities. "I think the leader (Khamenei) is still trying to help Rouhani. Protecting the prosperity and unity of the country is his top priority, especially in this tough situation," said Mousavi. Rouhani won a second term as president a year ago, with the backing of reformists who saw him as the best option from the small selection allowed to stand by the Guardian Council. There were never any illusions that he was a radical reformer -- he has been a regime insider from the earliest days of the Islamic revolution -- but many were still disappointed when his promises of reform fell flat. "Some of the criticism is unfair. Rouhani has done great things. There is more openness, less morality police, journalists are somewhat freer," said a reformist journalist, who asked to remain anonymous. "But he is ultimately a man of the system and wants to remain one. His identity is tied up with being part of the system -- if he denies it, he denies himself." For now, Rouhani has stuck to his guns, strongly criticising the censorship of social media and slamming officials for failing to respond effectively to popular anger. But he faces a difficult challenge, having to respond to Trump without derailing his wider diplomatic efforts. "The smart move would be to wait out the end of Trump's mandate, stay in the nuclear deal and build up something with the Europeans, however limited. Wait until this blows over," said Amir-Aslani. "That's what they should do -- but we'll see."

Iran's Rouhani 'losing everything' due to Trump

Iran says it has plans to respond to any move by US President Donald Trump on the 2015 nuclear agreement and the US would regret a decision to exit the accord, as France’s president warned such a move could lead to war.&nbsp;

Hassan Rouhani repeated his refusal to negotiate a new deal in place of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said he would pull out of on May 12, Efe reported.

"If the US exits the JCPOA, it will soon regret it," Rouhani said during a speech in northeast Iran.

"We don't favour war and tension, but will strongly defend our rights," he asserted.

"We have lived up to our obligations in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action," he said, stressing that Iran's "commitment" to the deal had been recognized by the international community, with the exception of the US, Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Trump is seeking to add additional conditions to the agreement as a pretext to withdraw, such as limits on Iran`s military capabilities, especially its ballistic missile system, as well as Tehran`s support for the Syrian regime and the Lebanese group Hezbollah, among others.

"We tell the world explicitly that we will not negotiate our defensive weapons with anyone," Rouhani said, adding "We will combat terrorism anywhere in the region and we won`t let another ISIS be formed."

The JCPOA, signed between Iran and the US, Russia, China, France, the UK and Germany, limits Tehran`s atomic program in exchange for lifting international sanctions but does not include any reference to conventional weapons or the foreign policy of the Islamic Republic.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has warned that the US will face “historic regret” if Donald Trump scraps a nuclear agreement with Tehran.

Iran says it has plans to respond to any move by US President Donald Trump on the 2015 nuclear agreement and the US would regret a decision to exit the accord, as France’s president warned such a move could lead to war. Hassan Rouhani repeated his refusal to negotiate a new deal in place of the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said he would pull out of on May 12, Efe reported. "If the US exits the JCPOA, it will soon regret it," Rouhani said during a speech in northeast Iran. "We don't favour war and tension, but will strongly defend our rights," he asserted. "We have lived up to our obligations in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action," he said, stressing that Iran's "commitment" to the deal had been recognized by the international community, with the exception of the US, Israel and Saudi Arabia. Trump is seeking to add additional conditions to the agreement as a pretext to withdraw, such as limits on Iran`s military capabilities, especially its ballistic missile system, as well as Tehran`s support for the Syrian regime and the Lebanese group Hezbollah, among others. "We tell the world explicitly that we will not negotiate our defensive weapons with anyone," Rouhani said, adding "We will combat terrorism anywhere in the region and we won`t let another ISIS be formed." The JCPOA, signed between Iran and the US, Russia, China, France, the UK and Germany, limits Tehran`s atomic program in exchange for lifting international sanctions but does not include any reference to conventional weapons or the foreign policy of the Islamic Republic.

Iran’s Hassan Rouhani warns Donald Trump of ‘historic regret’ over nuclear deal

President Hassan Rouhani hinted on Monday that Iran could remain in its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers even if the United States dropped out but Tehran would fiercely resist US&nbsppressure to limit its influence in the Middle East.

US&nbspPresident Donald Trump, a long-time critic of the deal reached between Iran and six powers in 2015 before he took office, has threatened to pull out by not extending sanctions waivers when they expire on May 12, unless European signatories of the accord fix what he calls its “flaws”.

Under the agreement with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, Iran strictly limited uranium enrichment capacity to satisfy the powers that it could not be used to develop atomic bombs. In exchange, Iran received relief from sanctions, most of which were rescinded in January 2016.

Rouhani said the Islamic Republic had been preparing for every possible scenario, including a deal without Washington - which would still include the other signatories that remain committed to it - or no deal at all.

"We are not worried about America's cruel decisions ... We are prepared for all scenarios and no change will occur in our lives next week," Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state TV.

"If we can get what we want from a deal without America, then Iran will continue to remain committed to the deal. What Iran wants is our interests to be guaranteed by its non-American signatories ... In that case, getting rid of America's mischievous presence will be fine for Iran."

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<h5>If they want to make sure that we are not after a nuclear bomb, we have said repeatedly that we are not and we will not be,' said Rouhani, who engineered the nuclear accord to ease Iran's isolation</h5>
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"If they want to make sure that we are not after a nuclear bomb, we have said repeatedly that we are not and we will not be," said Rouhani, who engineered the nuclear accord to ease Iran's isolation.

"But if they want to weaken Iran and limit its influence whether in the region or globally, Iran will fiercely resist."

Tehran has made repeated threats to walk away if Trump does, but several Iranian officials told Reuters last week that as long as Tehran was not excluded from the global financial and trading system, it could consider respecting the accord.

Diplomats say Tehran would rather the deal remain intact out of concern about a revival of domestic unrest over economic hardships that mounted over the years sanctions were in place.

EUROPEAN POWERS VOW TO UPHOLD DEAL

Britain, France and Germany remain committed to the accord and, in an effort to address U.S. complaints, want to open talks on Iran's ballistic missile programme, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 - when pivotal provisions of the deal expire - and its role in the wars in Syria and Yemen.

Whatever Trump decides, France, Britain and Germany will stick to the deal because it is the best way to stop Iran developing a nuclear bomb, French Foreign Minister Yean-Yves Le Drian said on Monday after meeting his German counterpart.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said the deal, which is being policed by U.N. nuclear inspectors, "makes the world safer", and would do everything possible to uphold it.

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, now in Washington for talks, said the deal had weaknesses but these could be remedied. "...At this moment Britain is working alongside the Trump administration and our French and German allies to ensure that they are," he said in a commentary in the New York Times.

"I am sure of one thing: every available alternative is worse. The wisest course would be to improve the handcuffs rather than break them."

Even if Trump rejects a possible remedy being worked out by U.S. and European officials and decides to bring back sanctions, the most drastic U.S. measures targeting Iran's oil sales will not immediately resume.

There are at least two avenues potentially offering more time for talks after May 12.

The agreement has a dispute resolution clause that provides at least 35 days to consider a claim that any party has violated its terms. That can be extended if all parties agree.

And if Trump restores the core U.S. sanctions, under U.S. law he must wait at least 180 days before reimposing penalties on banks of nations that do not slash purchases of Iranian oil.

Iran's clerical rulers have repeatedly ruled out reducing its sway across the region, as demanded by the United States and its European allies. Tehran says its missile capabilities are purely defensive and nuclear ambitions only civilian in nature.

The UN&nbspnuclear watchdog says it is maintaining the "world's most robust verification regime" in Iran and has repeatedly said Tehran is complying with the deal terms.

President Hassan Rouhani hinted on Monday that Iran could remain in its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers even if the United States dropped out but Tehran would fiercely resist US pressure to limit its influence in the Middle East

President Hassan Rouhani hinted on Monday that Iran could remain in its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers even if the United States dropped out but Tehran would fiercely resist US&nbsppressure to limit its influence in the Middle East. US&nbspPresident Donald Trump, a long-time critic of the deal reached between Iran and six powers in 2015 before he took office, has threatened to pull out by not extending sanctions waivers when they expire on May 12, unless European signatories of the accord fix what he calls its “flaws”. Under the agreement with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, Iran strictly limited uranium enrichment capacity to satisfy the powers that it could not be used to develop atomic bombs. In exchange, Iran received relief from sanctions, most of which were rescinded in January 2016. Rouhani said the Islamic Republic had been preparing for every possible scenario, including a deal without Washington - which would still include the other signatories that remain committed to it - or no deal at all. "We are not worried about America's cruel decisions ... We are prepared for all scenarios and no change will occur in our lives next week," Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state TV. "If we can get what we want from a deal without America, then Iran will continue to remain committed to the deal. What Iran wants is our interests to be guaranteed by its non-American signatories ... In that case, getting rid of America's mischievous presence will be fine for Iran." If they want to make sure that we are not after a nuclear bomb, we have said repeatedly that we are not and we will not be,' said Rouhani, who engineered the nuclear accord to ease Iran's isolation × "If they want to make sure that we are not after a nuclear bomb, we have said repeatedly that we are not and we will not be," said Rouhani, who engineered the nuclear accord to ease Iran's isolation. "But if they want to weaken Iran and limit its influence whether in the region or globally, Iran will fiercely resist." Tehran has made repeated threats to walk away if Trump does, but several Iranian officials told Reuters last week that as long as Tehran was not excluded from the global financial and trading system, it could consider respecting the accord. Diplomats say Tehran would rather the deal remain intact out of concern about a revival of domestic unrest over economic hardships that mounted over the years sanctions were in place. EUROPEAN POWERS VOW TO UPHOLD DEAL Britain, France and Germany remain committed to the accord and, in an effort to address U.S. complaints, want to open talks on Iran's ballistic missile programme, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 - when pivotal provisions of the deal expire - and its role in the wars in Syria and Yemen. Whatever Trump decides, France, Britain and Germany will stick to the deal because it is the best way to stop Iran developing a nuclear bomb, French Foreign Minister Yean-Yves Le Drian said on Monday after meeting his German counterpart. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said the deal, which is being policed by U.N. nuclear inspectors, "makes the world safer", and would do everything possible to uphold it. British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, now in Washington for talks, said the deal had weaknesses but these could be remedied. "...At this moment Britain is working alongside the Trump administration and our French and German allies to ensure that they are," he said in a commentary in the New York Times. "I am sure of one thing: every available alternative is worse. The wisest course would be to improve the handcuffs rather than break them." Even if Trump rejects a possible remedy being worked out by U.S. and European officials and decides to bring back sanctions, the most drastic U.S. measures targeting Iran's oil sales will not immediately resume. There are at least two avenues potentially offering more time for talks after May 12. The agreement has a dispute resolution clause that provides at least 35 days to consider a claim that any party has violated its terms. That can be extended if all parties agree. And if Trump restores the core U.S. sanctions, under U.S. law he must wait at least 180 days before reimposing penalties on banks of nations that do not slash purchases of Iranian oil. Iran's clerical rulers have repeatedly ruled out reducing its sway across the region, as demanded by the United States and its European allies. Tehran says its missile capabilities are purely defensive and nuclear ambitions only civilian in nature. The UN&nbspnuclear watchdog says it is maintaining the "world's most robust verification regime" in Iran and has repeatedly said Tehran is complying with the deal terms.

Iran says could remain in nuclear deal if its interests guaranteed: State TV

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Tuesday warned US President Donald Trump to remain in the nuclear deal or else he could face "severe consequences."

The nuclear deal was formed by Tehran in 2015 for which the other signatories have stepped up efforts to save it. Rouhani also said that Iran is "prepared for all possible situations."

“I am telling those in the White House that if they do not live up to their commitments, the Iranian government will firmly react,” Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state television.

“If anyone betrays the deal, they should know that they would face severe consequences,” he told a cheering crowd of thousands gathered in the city of Tabriz. “Iran is prepared for all possible situations,” he added.

His comments come during a time when Trump has been hosting French President Emmanuel Macron in Washington, who is working to convince him to stay in the pact. As per reports, &nbspGermany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel will also work to convince Trump at a meeting later this week.

On Monday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-either-all-or-nothing-says-iran-foreign-minister-over-nuclear-deal--132298">Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> had said that "It is either all or nothing. European leaders should encourage Trump not just to stay in the nuclear deal, but more important to begin implementing his part of the bargain in good faith."

Under Iran's settlement with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, Teheran agreed to curb its nuclear programme to satisfy the powers that it could not be used to develop atomic bombs.

In exchange, Iran received relief from sanctions, most of which were lifted in January 2016.

Trump has given the European signatories a May 12 deadline to "fix the terrible flaws" of the 2015 nuclear deal, or he will refuse to extend US sanctions relief on Iran.

The nuclear deal was formed by Tehran in 2015 for which the other signatories have stepped up efforts to save it. Rouhani also said that Iran is 'prepared for all possible situations'

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Tuesday warned US President Donald Trump to remain in the nuclear deal or else he could face "severe consequences." The nuclear deal was formed by Tehran in 2015 for which the other signatories have stepped up efforts to save it. Rouhani also said that Iran is "prepared for all possible situations." “I am telling those in the White House that if they do not live up to their commitments, the Iranian government will firmly react,” Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state television. “If anyone betrays the deal, they should know that they would face severe consequences,” he told a cheering crowd of thousands gathered in the city of Tabriz. “Iran is prepared for all possible situations,” he added. His comments come during a time when Trump has been hosting French President Emmanuel Macron in Washington, who is working to convince him to stay in the pact. As per reports, &nbspGermany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel will also work to convince Trump at a meeting later this week. On Monday, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had said that "It is either all or nothing. European leaders should encourage Trump not just to stay in the nuclear deal, but more important to begin implementing his part of the bargain in good faith." Under Iran's settlement with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, Teheran agreed to curb its nuclear programme to satisfy the powers that it could not be used to develop atomic bombs. In exchange, Iran received relief from sanctions, most of which were lifted in January 2016. Trump has given the European signatories a May 12 deadline to "fix the terrible flaws" of the 2015 nuclear deal, or he will refuse to extend US sanctions relief on Iran.

Trump will face 'severe consequences' if nuclear deal not accepted: Iran President

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned US&nbsp;President&nbsp;on Tuesday to stay in the nuclear deal Tehran signed with world powers in 2015, or face "severe consequences", as other signatories stepped up efforts to save the agreement.

Trump has said that unless European allies fix what he has called "terrible flaws" in the deal by May 12, he will restore US&nbsp;economic sanctions on Iran, which would be a severe blow to the pact.

The other powers that signed the deal - Russia, China, Germany, Britain and France - have all said they want to preserve the agreement that curbed Iran's nuclear programme in return for lifting most sanctions.

"I am telling those in the White House that if they do not live up to their commitments, the Iranian government will firmly react," Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state television.

"If anyone betrays the deal, they should know that they would face severe consequences," he told a cheering crowd of thousands gathered in the city of Tabriz. "Iran is prepared for all possible situations," he added.

French President Emmanuel Macron is in Washington, trying to convince Trump not to tear up the accord.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday he had agreed with his Chinese counterpart that Moscow and Beijing would try to block any US&nbsp;attempt to sabotage the nuclear deal.

Iran has warned that it will ramp up its nuclear programme if the deal collapses.

Donald Trump has said that unless European allies fix what he has called "terrible flaws" in the deal by May 12, he will restore U.S. economic sanctions on Iran, which would be a severe blow to the pact

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani warned US President on Tuesday to stay in the nuclear deal Tehran signed with world powers in 2015, or face "severe consequences", as other signatories stepped up efforts to save the agreement. Trump has said that unless European allies fix what he has called "terrible flaws" in the deal by May 12, he will restore US economic sanctions on Iran, which would be a severe blow to the pact. The other powers that signed the deal - Russia, China, Germany, Britain and France - have all said they want to preserve the agreement that curbed Iran's nuclear programme in return for lifting most sanctions. "I am telling those in the White House that if they do not live up to their commitments, the Iranian government will firmly react," Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state television. "If anyone betrays the deal, they should know that they would face severe consequences," he told a cheering crowd of thousands gathered in the city of Tabriz. "Iran is prepared for all possible situations," he added. French President Emmanuel Macron is in Washington, trying to convince Trump not to tear up the accord. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday he had agreed with his Chinese counterpart that Moscow and Beijing would try to block any US attempt to sabotage the nuclear deal. Iran has warned that it will ramp up its nuclear programme if the deal collapses.

Iran warns Trump to remain in the nuclear deal or to 'face severe consequences': State TV

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday Iran's atomic agency was ready with "expected and unexpected" reactions if the United States pulls out of a multinational nuclear deal, as US&nbspPresident Donald Trump has threatened to do.

"Our Atomic Energy Organization is fully prepared ... for actions that they expect and actions they do not expect," Rouhani said without elaborating in a speech carried by state television, referring to a possible decision by Trump to leave the accord next month.

The deal reached between Iran, the United States and five other world powers put curbs on Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief.

Trump has called the agreement one of the worst deals ever negotiated. In January he sent an ultimatum to Britain, France and Germany, saying they must agree to fix what the United States sees as the deal's flaws or he would refuse to extend the critical US&nbspsanctions relief that it entails.

US&nbspdisarmament ambassador Robert Wood said on Thursday Washington had been having "intense" discussions with European allies ahead of the May 12 deadline, when US&nbspsanctions against Iran will resume unless Trump issues new waivers to suspend them.

Iran has said it will stick to the accord as long as the other parties respect it, but will "shred" the deal if Washington pulls out.

"Iran has several options if the United States leaves the nuclear deal. Tehran's reaction to America's withdrawal of the deal will be unpleasant," Iranian state TV quoted Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif as saying in New York.

Foreign exchange controls 'preventive' in case US exits

Rouhani said his government intended to prevent instability in the foreign exchange market after a possible Washington exit from the nuclear accord when the central bank this month slapped controls on markets in an attempt to unify the Iranian rial.

"This was a preventative blow against any American decision on May 12. They fully hoped to ... cause chaos in the (foreign exchange) market. I promise to the people that the plot of the enemy has been thwarted, and whether or not the nuclear deal remains in effect, we will have no problem," Rouhani said.

On April 9, Iran moved to formally unify the country's official and open market exchange rates and banned money changing outside of banks, after its currency, the rial, plunged to an all-time low on concerns over a return of crippling sanctions.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday Iran's atomic agency was ready with "expected and unexpected" reactions if the United States pulls out of a multinational nuclear deal, as US President Donald Trump has threatened to do

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday Iran's atomic agency was ready with "expected and unexpected" reactions if the United States pulls out of a multinational nuclear deal, as US&nbspPresident Donald Trump has threatened to do. "Our Atomic Energy Organization is fully prepared ... for actions that they expect and actions they do not expect," Rouhani said without elaborating in a speech carried by state television, referring to a possible decision by Trump to leave the accord next month. The deal reached between Iran, the United States and five other world powers put curbs on Iran's nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. Trump has called the agreement one of the worst deals ever negotiated. In January he sent an ultimatum to Britain, France and Germany, saying they must agree to fix what the United States sees as the deal's flaws or he would refuse to extend the critical US&nbspsanctions relief that it entails. US&nbspdisarmament ambassador Robert Wood said on Thursday Washington had been having "intense" discussions with European allies ahead of the May 12 deadline, when US&nbspsanctions against Iran will resume unless Trump issues new waivers to suspend them. Iran has said it will stick to the accord as long as the other parties respect it, but will "shred" the deal if Washington pulls out. "Iran has several options if the United States leaves the nuclear deal. Tehran's reaction to America's withdrawal of the deal will be unpleasant," Iranian state TV quoted Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif as saying in New York. Foreign exchange controls 'preventive' in case US exits Rouhani said his government intended to prevent instability in the foreign exchange market after a possible Washington exit from the nuclear accord when the central bank this month slapped controls on markets in an attempt to unify the Iranian rial. "This was a preventative blow against any American decision on May 12. They fully hoped to ... cause chaos in the (foreign exchange) market. I promise to the people that the plot of the enemy has been thwarted, and whether or not the nuclear deal remains in effect, we will have no problem," Rouhani said. On April 9, Iran moved to formally unify the country's official and open market exchange rates and banned money changing outside of banks, after its currency, the rial, plunged to an all-time low on concerns over a return of crippling sanctions.

Iran vows 'expected and unexpected' moves if US exits nuclear deal

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