An Iranian American and former UNICEF official, Baquer Namazi, who has been detained in Tehran for over six&nbsp;years on spying charges has been released. The United States has previously called the charges against him baseless. Notably, he is also one&nbsp;of the four citizens whose freedom was demanded by Washington in the context of the 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the Iranian media posted footage of Namazi boarding a plane out of Tehran and said, “Mohammad Baquer Namazi, who had been released from prison a few days ago, left Iran today”, but did not announce where he is going. Later that day, Namazi landed in Muscat and Oman’s government announced his arrival in a tweet, indicating that Iran has allowed him to leave for medical treatment.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the former UNICEF official’s lawyer said that he is released from Iran “after more than 6.5 years of illegal detention”, this includes the time he was in jail as well as the period when he was barred from leaving the country.&nbsp;

“After a short layover, he will be leaving Oman and heading to Abu Dhabi”, said the human rights lawyer representing the Namazi family, Jared Genser. According to reports, the Iranian American will get undergo surgery to clear out “severe blockage of his left internal carotid artery (ICA)” which puts him at a “very high risk” for a stroke.&nbsp;

The US has been pushing Iran to release Namazi, his son and two other Americans, this is amid efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and major powers. Namazi’s son Siamak was also detained by Tehran. In 2016, the former UN official was convicted of “collaboration with a hostile government” and sentenced to 10 years in prison.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-baquer-namazi-the-american-held-in-iran-allowed-to-leave-521634">Who is Baquer Namazi? The American held in Iran allowed to leave</a>

Reportedly, the Iranian authorities released him on medical grounds in 2018 and closed his case in 2020, commuting his sentence to time served. However, barred him from leaving until Saturday, when the UN said that he is allowed to leave on medical grounds. His 51-year-old son was also convicted in 2016 on the same charges and was released from Tehran's Evin prison on Saturday on a one-week renewable furlough but he was barred from leaving the country.&nbsp;

In a statement released by the Namazi family’s lawyer, Babak Namazi, Baquer Namazi's son, expressed gratitude for his father's release from Iran but also sorrow that his brother could not leave the country.&nbsp;

“While getting my father out of Iran is incredibly important, today is also bittersweet. My brother Siamak, as well as Americans Emad (Shargi) and Morad Tahbaz, remain detained in Iran and our nightmare will not be over until our entire family (and) the other Americans are reunited with their families,” the statement read. Meanwhile, Genser added that while today is a good day for the Namazi family, the work is far from over and said that they need Iran and America to reach an agreement which would bring all American hostages, held in Tehran, home.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prisoners-who-could-be-freed-alongside-iran-nuclear-deal-458114">Prisoners who could be freed alongside Iran nuclear deal</a>

Reportedly, the Iranian Americans have often been used as pawns between the two nations, as Iran does not acknowledge their US citizenship. The two countries are now at odds over the 2015 pact which limits Tehran’s nuclear program in return for some relief from sanctions place against them.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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An Iranian American and former UNICEF official, Baquer Namazi, who has been detained in Tehran for over six years on spying charges has been released. The United States has previously called the charges against him baseless.

An Iranian American and former UNICEF official, Baquer Namazi, who has been detained in Tehran for over six years on spying charges has been released. The United States has previously called the charges against him baseless. Notably, he is also one of the four citizens whose freedom was demanded by Washington in the context of the 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran. On Wednesday, the Iranian media posted footage of Namazi boarding a plane out of Tehran and said, “Mohammad Baquer Namazi, who had been released from prison a few days ago, left Iran today”, but did not announce where he is going. Later that day, Namazi landed in Muscat and Oman’s government announced his arrival in a tweet, indicating that Iran has allowed him to leave for medical treatment. On the other hand, the former UNICEF official’s lawyer said that he is released from Iran “after more than 6.5 years of illegal detention”, this includes the time he was in jail as well as the period when he was barred from leaving the country. “After a short layover, he will be leaving Oman and heading to Abu Dhabi”, said the human rights lawyer representing the Namazi family, Jared Genser. According to reports, the Iranian American will get undergo surgery to clear out “severe blockage of his left internal carotid artery (ICA)” which puts him at a “very high risk” for a stroke. The US has been pushing Iran to release Namazi, his son and two other Americans, this is amid efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and major powers. Namazi’s son Siamak was also detained by Tehran. In 2016, the former UN official was convicted of “collaboration with a hostile government” and sentenced to 10 years in prison. ALSO READ: Who is Baquer Namazi? The American held in Iran allowed to leave Reportedly, the Iranian authorities released him on medical grounds in 2018 and closed his case in 2020, commuting his sentence to time served. However, barred him from leaving until Saturday, when the UN said that he is allowed to leave on medical grounds. His 51-year-old son was also convicted in 2016 on the same charges and was released from Tehran's Evin prison on Saturday on a one-week renewable furlough but he was barred from leaving the country. In a statement released by the Namazi family’s lawyer, Babak Namazi, Baquer Namazi's son, expressed gratitude for his father's release from Iran but also sorrow that his brother could not leave the country. “While getting my father out of Iran is incredibly important, today is also bittersweet. My brother Siamak, as well as Americans Emad (Shargi) and Morad Tahbaz, remain detained in Iran and our nightmare will not be over until our entire family (and) the other Americans are reunited with their families,” the statement read. Meanwhile, Genser added that while today is a good day for the Namazi family, the work is far from over and said that they need Iran and America to reach an agreement which would bring all American hostages, held in Tehran, home. ALSO READ: Prisoners who could be freed alongside Iran nuclear deal Reportedly, the Iranian Americans have often been used as pawns between the two nations, as Iran does not acknowledge their US citizenship. The two countries are now at odds over the 2015 pact which limits Tehran’s nuclear program in return for some relief from sanctions place against them. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tehran releases Iranian-American Baquer Namazi after over six years of detention

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated on Wednesday that it was unable to guarantee the "peaceful" nature of the Iranian nuclear programme, claiming that there had been "no progress" in resolving concerns about the alleged past presence of nuclear material at unreported sites.

Citing a report that was seen by it, AFP reports that the UN's nuclear watchdog said it was "not in a position to provide assurance that Iran's nuclear programme is exclusively peaceful".

Watch |&nbsp;Nuclear deal talks see no breakthrough; Iran highlights four new issues

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The report also said that the agency's director Rafael Grossi was "increasingly concerned that Iran has not engaged with the Agency on the outstanding safeguards issues during this reporting period and, therefore, that there has been no progress towards resolving them".

This comes as the United States pushes for answers on the three undeclared nuclear sites. The IAEA too has been pressing Iran for answers, however, Tehran insists that the atomic agency conclude its probe in order to revive the 2015 deal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-eu-policy-chief-expresses-hope-for-nuclear-deal-iran-demands-stronger-guarantees-511851">EU talks of nuclear deal in 'days', Iran wants 'stronger guarantees'</a>

In a separate report released on Wednesday, the IAEA examined Iran's June decision to turn off 27 cameras that allowed the agency's inspectors to keep an eye on the nation's nuclear activity.

The agency's ability to guarantee the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme has been negatively impacted by the removal of the cameras, the report noted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/havent-got-response-from-the-us-says-iran-over-nuclear-deal-513087">Haven't got response from the US, says Iran over nuclear deal</a>

The newest reports come as negotiations to revive the 2015 nuclear agreement remain in a stalemate after some headway was made last month.

Another recent IAEA report as reported by Reuters pointed out that Iran's stock of uranium has been enriched to up to 60 per cent, much higher than the 3.67 per cent purity it was allowed under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) agreement, and much closer to the roughly 90 per cent that is weapons-grade.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated on Wednesday that it was unable to guarantee the "peaceful" nature of the Iranian nuclear programme, claiming that there had been "no progress" in resolving concerns about the alleged past presence of nuclear material at unreported sites.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) stated on Wednesday that it was unable to guarantee the "peaceful" nature of the Iranian nuclear programme, claiming that there had been "no progress" in resolving concerns about the alleged past presence of nuclear material at unreported sites. Citing a report that was seen by it, AFP reports that the UN's nuclear watchdog said it was "not in a position to provide assurance that Iran's nuclear programme is exclusively peaceful". Watch | Nuclear deal talks see no breakthrough; Iran highlights four new issues The report also said that the agency's director Rafael Grossi was "increasingly concerned that Iran has not engaged with the Agency on the outstanding safeguards issues during this reporting period and, therefore, that there has been no progress towards resolving them". This comes as the United States pushes for answers on the three undeclared nuclear sites. The IAEA too has been pressing Iran for answers, however, Tehran insists that the atomic agency conclude its probe in order to revive the 2015 deal. Also read | EU talks of nuclear deal in 'days', Iran wants 'stronger guarantees' In a separate report released on Wednesday, the IAEA examined Iran's June decision to turn off 27 cameras that allowed the agency's inspectors to keep an eye on the nation's nuclear activity. The agency's ability to guarantee the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme has been negatively impacted by the removal of the cameras, the report noted. Also read | Haven't got response from the US, says Iran over nuclear deal The newest reports come as negotiations to revive the 2015 nuclear agreement remain in a stalemate after some headway was made last month. Another recent IAEA report as reported by Reuters pointed out that Iran's stock of uranium has been enriched to up to 60 per cent, much higher than the 3.67 per cent purity it was allowed under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) agreement, and much closer to the roughly 90 per cent that is weapons-grade. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN Nuclear watchdog says can't ensure 'Iran's nuclear programme is exclusively peaceful'

Iran has submitted a document to the European Union (EU) seeking&nbsp;to finalise the 2015 nuclear accord with world powers, The Guardian has reported.

Nasser Kanaani, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, has reportedly said that the latest text submitted on Friday presented “a constructive approach with the aim of finalising the negotiations”.

The latest Iranian document is part of the series of exchanges with the US via mediators from the EU aimed at tweaking a draft agreement presented on August 8.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Wednesday had hoped for a resolution within days to revive the 2015 nuclear deal.

Tehran gave its first response to the draft on August 15, which was followed by a response from Washington.

Meanwhile, the US has confirmed receiving the latest response from Iran on reviving the nuclear deal, however it found the text not "constructive".

"We can confirm that we have received Iran's response through the EU," US state department spokesman Vedant Patel was quoted as saying by AFP late Thursday in Washington.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-and-his-supporters-are-threat-to-democracy-says-joe-biden-512218" hreflang="en">Donald Trump and his supporters are 'threat to democracy', says Joe Biden</a>

"We are studying it and will respond through the EU, but unfortunately it is not constructive," he added.

Though United States has not discussed details publicly, reports indicate that disputes include Iran's insistence on the UN nuclear watchdog closing a probe of three undeclared sites suspected in nuclear work before the 2015 nuclear deal.

On Wednesday, French president Emmanuel Macron expressed optimism on a new deal “in the next few days” during an address to French diplomats in Paris on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran has submitted a document to the European Union (EU) seeking to finalise the 2015 nuclear accord with world powers, The Guardian has reported. Nasser Kanaani, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, has reportedly said that the latest text submitted on Friday presented “a constructive approach with the aim of finalising the negotiations”.

Iran has submitted a document to the European Union (EU) seeking to finalise the 2015 nuclear accord with world powers, The Guardian has reported. Nasser Kanaani, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, has reportedly said that the latest text submitted on Friday presented “a constructive approach with the aim of finalising the negotiations”. The latest Iranian document is part of the series of exchanges with the US via mediators from the EU aimed at tweaking a draft agreement presented on August 8. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell on Wednesday had hoped for a resolution within days to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. Tehran gave its first response to the draft on August 15, which was followed by a response from Washington. Meanwhile, the US has confirmed receiving the latest response from Iran on reviving the nuclear deal, however it found the text not "constructive". "We can confirm that we have received Iran's response through the EU," US state department spokesman Vedant Patel was quoted as saying by AFP late Thursday in Washington. Also read | Donald Trump and his supporters are 'threat to democracy', says Joe Biden "We are studying it and will respond through the EU, but unfortunately it is not constructive," he added. Though United States has not discussed details publicly, reports indicate that disputes include Iran's insistence on the UN nuclear watchdog closing a probe of three undeclared sites suspected in nuclear work before the 2015 nuclear deal. On Wednesday, French president Emmanuel Macron expressed optimism on a new deal “in the next few days” during an address to French diplomats in Paris on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran sends ‘constructive’ response to finalise nuclear deal, US rejects it

European Union's policy chief Josep Borell has expressed hope that the Iran nuclear deal could be revived "in the coming days," however Tehran has asked for "stronger guarantees".

After receiving "reasonable" responses to his proposed text from Iran and the United States, Borell said, "I am hoping that in the coming days we are not going to lose this momentum and we can close the deal."&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Iran using advanced centrifuges IR-6 for enriching Uranium: IAEA

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On the other hand, as per AFP, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said on Wednesday: "We are thinking about how to reach a strong text on the issue of the guarantee, and to obtain stronger guarantees" adding that his colleagues are examining the American side's text.

"We want to reinforce in the text the idea that the International Atomic Energy Agency concentrates on its technical task and moves away from its political role," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-steps-up-underground-uranium-enrichment-iaea-report-says-511383" hreflang="en">Iran steps up underground uranium enrichment, IAEA report says</a>

The US has insisted that Tehran comply with the IAEA to assuage fears about operations at three unannounced sites.

"When it comes to guarantees, resolving outstanding issues related to the IAEA is also of serious concern to us," Amir-Abdollahian said on Wednesday.

AFP reports that earlier on Monday, Tehran President Ebrahim Raisi said that renewing the nuclear agreement would be useless unless the UN nuclear inspector stopped looking into three unreported sites in the Islamic republic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/revival-of-nuclear-deal-pointless-unless-un-watchdog-ends-probe-of-undeclared-sites-raisi-511252" hreflang="en">Revival of nuclear deal pointless unless UN watchdog ends probe of undeclared sites: Raisi</a>

IAEA &nbsp;board of governors also adopted a resolution denouncing Iran in June for failing to effectively respond to the finding of traces of enriched uranium at three locations that Tehran had not acknowledged as having hosted nuclear operations.

However, in an interview with CNN last week, Rafael Grossi, the head of the IAEA, dismissed the idea of the organisation wrapping up its investigation into the unreported locations without receiving any responses.

(With inputs from agencies)

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European Union's policy chief Josep Borell has expressed hope that the Iran nuclear deal could be revived "in the coming days," however Tehran has asked for "stronger guarantees".

European Union's policy chief Josep Borell has expressed hope that the Iran nuclear deal could be revived "in the coming days," however Tehran has asked for "stronger guarantees". After receiving "reasonable" responses to his proposed text from Iran and the United States, Borell said, "I am hoping that in the coming days we are not going to lose this momentum and we can close the deal." Watch | Iran using advanced centrifuges IR-6 for enriching Uranium: IAEA On the other hand, as per AFP, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said on Wednesday: "We are thinking about how to reach a strong text on the issue of the guarantee, and to obtain stronger guarantees" adding that his colleagues are examining the American side's text. "We want to reinforce in the text the idea that the International Atomic Energy Agency concentrates on its technical task and moves away from its political role," he said. Also read | Iran steps up underground uranium enrichment, IAEA report says The US has insisted that Tehran comply with the IAEA to assuage fears about operations at three unannounced sites. "When it comes to guarantees, resolving outstanding issues related to the IAEA is also of serious concern to us," Amir-Abdollahian said on Wednesday. AFP reports that earlier on Monday, Tehran President Ebrahim Raisi said that renewing the nuclear agreement would be useless unless the UN nuclear inspector stopped looking into three unreported sites in the Islamic republic. Also read | Revival of nuclear deal pointless unless UN watchdog ends probe of undeclared sites: Raisi IAEA board of governors also adopted a resolution denouncing Iran in June for failing to effectively respond to the finding of traces of enriched uranium at three locations that Tehran had not acknowledged as having hosted nuclear operations. However, in an interview with CNN last week, Rafael Grossi, the head of the IAEA, dismissed the idea of the organisation wrapping up its investigation into the unreported locations without receiving any responses. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EU talks of nuclear deal in 'days', Iran wants 'stronger guarantees'

The United States does not have the will to reach an agreement to revive a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran at talks in Vienna where it is insisting on "unacceptable proposals", Iran's top security official, Ali Shamkhani, said on Thursday.

The 2015 deal that lifted sanctions on Iran in return for curbs on its nuclear programme was on the verge of being restored after 11 months of negotiations until Russia presented a new obstacle by demanding written guarantees from the United States that Western sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine would not affect its trade with Iran.

Shamkhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme Security Council, said on Twitter that in the absence of a political decision by the United States the talks "become more complicated every hour".

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US approach to Iran's principled demands, coupled with its unreasonable offers and unjustified pressure to hastily reach an agreement, show that US isn't interested in a strong deal that would satisfy both parties. Absent US political decision, the talks get knottier by the hour.
— علی شمخانی (@alishamkhani_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/alishamkhani_ir/status/1501802748760760320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prisoners-who-could-be-freed-alongside-iran-nuclear-deal-458114">Prisoners who could be freed alongside Iran nuclear deal</a>

The United States “has no will to reach a strong agreement", he said adding that it was making “unacceptable proposals (and) insists on a quick agreement with false pretences”.

He did not elaborate on the US&nbsp;proposals.

US&nbsp;Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Victoria Nuland on Tuesday accused Russia of seeking to reap extra benefits from its participation in the effort to restore the nuclear agreement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-remove-obstacle-for-reviving-nuke-deal-iran-iaea-agree-on-3-month-timeline-459480">To remove obstacle for reviving nuke deal, Iran, IAEA agree on 3-month timeline</a>

European negotiators from France, Britain, and Germany have temporarily left the talks as they believed they had gone as far as they could and it was now up to the United States and Iran to agree on outstanding issues.

Iran's chief negotiator, Ali Bagheri Kani, returned to Tehran unexpectedly after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov outlined Moscow's new demands.

Watch |&nbsp;West warns Russia over Iran Nuclear Deal

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Iran's foreign minister said at the time that Tehran would not let its interests be harmed by "foreign elements". 
Bagheri Kani flew back to Vienna on Wednesday.

The United States does not have the will to reach an agreement to revive a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran at talks in Vienna where it is insisting on "unacceptable proposals", Iran's top security official, Ali Shamkhani, said on Thursday.

The United States does not have the will to reach an agreement to revive a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran at talks in Vienna where it is insisting on "unacceptable proposals", Iran's top security official, Ali Shamkhani, said on Thursday. The 2015 deal that lifted sanctions on Iran in return for curbs on its nuclear programme was on the verge of being restored after 11 months of negotiations until Russia presented a new obstacle by demanding written guarantees from the United States that Western sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine would not affect its trade with Iran. Shamkhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme Security Council, said on Twitter that in the absence of a political decision by the United States the talks "become more complicated every hour". US approach to Iran's principled demands, coupled with its unreasonable offers and unjustified pressure to hastily reach an agreement, show that US isn't interested in a strong deal that would satisfy both parties. Absent US political decision, the talks get knottier by the hour. — علی شمخانی (@alishamkhani_ir) March 10, 2022 × Also read | Prisoners who could be freed alongside Iran nuclear deal The United States “has no will to reach a strong agreement", he said adding that it was making “unacceptable proposals (and) insists on a quick agreement with false pretences”. He did not elaborate on the US proposals. US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Victoria Nuland on Tuesday accused Russia of seeking to reap extra benefits from its participation in the effort to restore the nuclear agreement. Also read | To remove obstacle for reviving nuke deal, Iran, IAEA agree on 3-month timeline European negotiators from France, Britain, and Germany have temporarily left the talks as they believed they had gone as far as they could and it was now up to the United States and Iran to agree on outstanding issues. Iran's chief negotiator, Ali Bagheri Kani, returned to Tehran unexpectedly after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov outlined Moscow's new demands. Watch | West warns Russia over Iran Nuclear Deal Iran's foreign minister said at the time that Tehran would not let its interests be harmed by "foreign elements". Bagheri Kani flew back to Vienna on Wednesday.

Iran says lack of US decision on nuclear deal makes talks 'more complicated every hour'

Iran is five years away from developing a nuclear weapon, and international talks due to restart next week will do nothing to slow it down, Israel said on Tuesday, adding it reserved the right to act to protect itself.

Israel: Iran nuke program at the most advanced stage

Iran’s foreign minister and the country’s top nuclear negotiator, Ali Bagheri Kani, has said that Tehran will resume talks next month with world powers over its 2015 nuclear deal.

Kani confirmed the talks after meeting with European officials in Brussels on Wednesday, saying the exact date will be announced next week.

The other participants in the talks —which included indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran —still need to confirm their participation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-wants-to-rejoin-iran-nuclear-deal-but-it-wont-be-easy-343936">Biden wants to rejoin Iran nuclear deal, but it won’t be easy</a>

“We agree to start negotiations before the end of November. Exact date would be announced in the course of the next week,” Bagheri wrote on Twitter.

The talks that were held in Vienna broke off in June at the time of the Iranian presidential elections.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-launch-arak-nuclear-research-reactor-within-a-year-418149">&nbsp;Iran to launch Arak nuclear research reactor 'within a year'</a>

The new hardline president Ebrahim Raisi has been under pressure from allies including&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to return to the talks.

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had a very serious &amp; constructive dialogue with <a href="https://twitter.com/enriquemora_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@enriquemora_</a> on the essential elements for successful negotiations. 
We agree to start negotiations before the end of November. Exact date would be announced in the course of the next week. <a href="https://t.co/0A7BOPZh8f">https://t.co/0A7BOPZh8f</a>
— علی باقری‌کنی (@Bagheri_Kani) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bagheri_Kani/status/1453368358645207046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The agreement between Iran and world powers to find a long-term solution to the crisis over its controversial nuclear programme has been suspended since former US president Donald Trump walked out of the deal in May 2018 and imposed a series of sanctions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-britain-and-germany-regret-us-end-to-iran-nuclear-waivers-301999">France, Britain and Germany regret US end to Iran nuclear waivers</a>

His successor Joe Biden has said he is ready to re-enter the agreement, as long as Iran meets key preconditions including full compliance with the deal whose terms it has repeatedly violated by ramping up nuclear activities since the US left the pact.

Another issue is that Iran continues to push for guarantees that the US and European powers won’t renege on their commitments in the future.

There was also some controversy over in what format Iranian officials wanted to meet with their European counterparts prior to the Vienna negotiations.

The EU acts as a coordinator for the deal that also involves Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s foreign minister and the country’s top nuclear negotiator, Ali Bagheri Kani, has said that Tehran will resume talks next month with world powers over its 2015 nuclear deal.

Iran’s foreign minister and the country’s top nuclear negotiator, Ali Bagheri Kani, has said that Tehran will resume talks next month with world powers over its 2015 nuclear deal. Kani confirmed the talks after meeting with European officials in Brussels on Wednesday, saying the exact date will be announced next week. The other participants in the talks —which included indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran —still need to confirm their participation. Also read | Biden wants to rejoin Iran nuclear deal, but it won’t be easy “We agree to start negotiations before the end of November. Exact date would be announced in the course of the next week,” Bagheri wrote on Twitter. The talks that were held in Vienna broke off in June at the time of the Iranian presidential elections. Also read | Iran to launch Arak nuclear research reactor 'within a year' The new hardline president Ebrahim Raisi has been under pressure from allies including Russia to return to the talks. had a very serious & constructive dialogue with @enriquemora_ on the essential elements for successful negotiations. We agree to start negotiations before the end of November. Exact date would be announced in the course of the next week. https://t.co/0A7BOPZh8f — علی باقری‌کنی (@Bagheri_Kani) October 27, 2021 × The agreement between Iran and world powers to find a long-term solution to the crisis over its controversial nuclear programme has been suspended since former US president Donald Trump walked out of the deal in May 2018 and imposed a series of sanctions. Also read | France, Britain and Germany regret US end to Iran nuclear waivers His successor Joe Biden has said he is ready to re-enter the agreement, as long as Iran meets key preconditions including full compliance with the deal whose terms it has repeatedly violated by ramping up nuclear activities since the US left the pact. Another issue is that Iran continues to push for guarantees that the US and European powers won’t renege on their commitments in the future. There was also some controversy over in what format Iranian officials wanted to meet with their European counterparts prior to the Vienna negotiations. The EU acts as a coordinator for the deal that also involves Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran agrees to restart negotiations on 2015 nuclear deal by November-end

As the EU prepares to hold talks to revive the 2015 nuclear deal on Thursday, Iran's military declared that it had "successfully" tested its anti-missile defences during its war games.

Iran had conducted military exercise on Tuesday to reportedly destroy incoming cruise missiles at "sensitive sites".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-alerts-embassies-over-iran-terror-threat-report-418779">Also Read:&nbsp;Israel alerts embassies over Iran terror threat</a>

The development comes as European Union's official Enrique Mora is set to hold talks with Iranian officials to revive the stalled talks on the 2015 nuclear deal.

However, France raised doubts about the talks as the French foreign ministry spokeswoman Anne-Claire Legendre said Iran's new President Raissi had raised "doubts" about returning to the deal through "statements and actions on the ground".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hopes-to-restart-iran-talks-but-cites-alarming-nuclear-progress-418287">Also Read:&nbsp;US hopes to restart Iran talks but cites 'alarming' nuclear progress</a>&nbsp;

The French foreign ministry spokesperson asserted that Iran should be clear about its "intentions" as it comes back to the negotiating table in Vienna.

Iran's defence ministry on the other hand declared that had deployed "multi-layered defence against cruise missile attacks" during its exercise which was one of its objectives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-launch-arak-nuclear-research-reactor-within-a-year-418149">Also Read:&nbsp;Iran to launch Arak nuclear research reactor 'within a year'</a>

Iran's media reported that electronic surveillance systems and radars were also used during the&nbsp;military exercise.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As the EU prepares to hold talks to revive the 2015 nuclear deal on Thursday, Iran's military declared that it had "successfully" tested its anti-missile defences during its war games.

As the EU prepares to hold talks to revive the 2015 nuclear deal on Thursday, Iran's military declared that it had "successfully" tested its anti-missile defences during its war games. Iran had conducted military exercise on Tuesday to reportedly destroy incoming cruise missiles at "sensitive sites". Also Read: Israel alerts embassies over Iran terror threat The development comes as European Union's official Enrique Mora is set to hold talks with Iranian officials to revive the stalled talks on the 2015 nuclear deal. However, France raised doubts about the talks as the French foreign ministry spokeswoman Anne-Claire Legendre said Iran's new President Raissi had raised "doubts" about returning to the deal through "statements and actions on the ground". Also Read: US hopes to restart Iran talks but cites 'alarming' nuclear progress The French foreign ministry spokesperson asserted that Iran should be clear about its "intentions" as it comes back to the negotiating table in Vienna. Iran's defence ministry on the other hand declared that had deployed "multi-layered defence against cruise missile attacks" during its exercise which was one of its objectives. Also Read: Iran to launch Arak nuclear research reactor 'within a year' Iran's media reported that electronic surveillance systems and radars were also used during the military exercise. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ahead of talks with EU on nuclear deal, Iran tests anti-missile defences

A spokesperson for Iran government said on Saturday that the country believed US sanctions would soon be lifted in spite of “diplomatic wrangling” over nuclear deal. This signalled Tehran's desire to end the impasse while not offering a new position.&nbsp;

USA and Iran have been sparring with each other over who should take first step to revive nuclear deal that was struck in the year 2015. Obama administration struck the deal with Iran but Donald Trump withdrew US from the accord.

Now Iran insists that the United States must first lift former President Donald Trump’s sanctions while Washington says Tehran must first return to compliance with the deal.

The White House said on Friday that the United States plans to take no additional actions in response to pressure from Iran before potential talks with Tehran and major powers about returning to the deal.

However, government spokesman Ali Rabiei was quoted as saying by the official IRNA news agency on Saturday: &nbsp; 
“We predict with confidence that diplomatic initiatives will result in a favourable outcome despite the diplomatic wrangling, which are a natural prelude to the return of the parties to their commitments, including the lifting of all sanctions in the near future.”

Under the deal with major powers, Iran accepted curbs to its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of international sanctions. Washington reimposed sanctions after Trump quit the deal in 2018, and Iran responded by violating some of the deal’s nuclear limits.

Adding to pressure for a resolution to the impasse, a law passed by the hardline parliament obliges Tehran on Feb. 23 to limit the sweeping access given to U.N. inspectors under the deal.

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, is due in Tehran this weekend to discuss ways to work with Iran in light of the possibility of scaling back cooperation.

Rabiei said the law “does not go against our commitment” to the agreement, nor is it “an obstacle to our appropriate response to American actions”. 
&nbsp;

A spokesperson for Iran government said on Saturday that the country believed US sanctions would soon be lifted in spite of “diplomatic wrangling” over nuclear deal.

A spokesperson for Iran government said on Saturday that the country believed US sanctions would soon be lifted in spite of “diplomatic wrangling” over nuclear deal. This signalled Tehran's desire to end the impasse while not offering a new position. USA and Iran have been sparring with each other over who should take first step to revive nuclear deal that was struck in the year 2015. Obama administration struck the deal with Iran but Donald Trump withdrew US from the accord. Now Iran insists that the United States must first lift former President Donald Trump’s sanctions while Washington says Tehran must first return to compliance with the deal. The White House said on Friday that the United States plans to take no additional actions in response to pressure from Iran before potential talks with Tehran and major powers about returning to the deal. However, government spokesman Ali Rabiei was quoted as saying by the official IRNA news agency on Saturday: “We predict with confidence that diplomatic initiatives will result in a favourable outcome despite the diplomatic wrangling, which are a natural prelude to the return of the parties to their commitments, including the lifting of all sanctions in the near future.” Under the deal with major powers, Iran accepted curbs to its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of international sanctions. Washington reimposed sanctions after Trump quit the deal in 2018, and Iran responded by violating some of the deal’s nuclear limits. Adding to pressure for a resolution to the impasse, a law passed by the hardline parliament obliges Tehran on Feb. 23 to limit the sweeping access given to U.N. inspectors under the deal. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, is due in Tehran this weekend to discuss ways to work with Iran in light of the possibility of scaling back cooperation. Rabiei said the law “does not go against our commitment” to the agreement, nor is it “an obstacle to our appropriate response to American actions”.

Iran confident that US sanctions will be lifted: Govt spokesperson

In an attempt to salvage the nuclear deal, US President Biden's administration offered talks with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-thought-why-not-iran-and-the-decision-upended-their-lives-364644">Iran </a>to be led by European allies.

Watch:

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US State Department spokesman Ned Price said: "The United States would accept an invitation from the European Union High Representative to attend a meeting of the P5+1 and Iran to discuss a diplomatic way forward on Iran's nuclear program."

The P5 consists of the United States, Russia, Britain, France and China, including Germany. The US under the former Trump administration had walked out of the nuclear deal in 2018 and had imposed stiff sanctions against Iran. The Rouhani government&nbsp;has demanded an end to the sanctions before joining the US at the negotiating table.

In a bid to cool temperatures, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-phone-call-biden-netanyahu-discuss-iran-threat-peace-accords-364411">Biden </a>administration allowed Iranian diplomats to be treated like those from other nations who have poor relations with the US. Iranian authorities will have to seek permission from the US if diplomats venture beyond the 40-kilometre radius.

Earlier, Iranian diplomats in New York were disallowed from all but a few blocks around the UN and its missions.&nbsp;

The recent moves come as IAEA chief Rafael Grossi travels to Iran on Saturday for talks to find a solution to the nuclear crisis.

Iran has said it will restrict some inspections by the IAEA if the United States does not lift sanctions imposed since 2018 by Sunday.

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said: "Instead of sophistry and putting onus on Iran, E3/EU must abide by own commitments and demand an end to Trump's legacy of economic terrorism against Iran."

In an attempt to salvage the nuclear deal, US President Biden's administration offered talks with Iran to be led by European allies. Watch: US State Department spokesman Ned Price said: "The United States would accept an invitation from the European Union High Representative to attend a meeting of the P5+1 and Iran to discuss a diplomatic way forward on Iran's nuclear program.

In an attempt to salvage the nuclear deal, US President Biden's administration offered talks with Iran to be led by European allies. Watch: US State Department spokesman Ned Price said: "The United States would accept an invitation from the European Union High Representative to attend a meeting of the P5+1 and Iran to discuss a diplomatic way forward on Iran's nuclear program." The P5 consists of the United States, Russia, Britain, France and China, including Germany. The US under the former Trump administration had walked out of the nuclear deal in 2018 and had imposed stiff sanctions against Iran. The Rouhani government has demanded an end to the sanctions before joining the US at the negotiating table. In a bid to cool temperatures, the Biden administration allowed Iranian diplomats to be treated like those from other nations who have poor relations with the US. Iranian authorities will have to seek permission from the US if diplomats venture beyond the 40-kilometre radius. Earlier, Iranian diplomats in New York were disallowed from all but a few blocks around the UN and its missions. The recent moves come as IAEA chief Rafael Grossi travels to Iran on Saturday for talks to find a solution to the nuclear crisis. Iran has said it will restrict some inspections by the IAEA if the United States does not lift sanctions imposed since 2018 by Sunday. Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said: "Instead of sophistry and putting onus on Iran, E3/EU must abide by own commitments and demand an end to Trump's legacy of economic terrorism against Iran."

Biden administration offers talks with Iran over nuclear deal

According to a UN report, North Korea and Iran cooperated on the development of long-range missiles last year in violation of UN resolutions. Watch: An independent panel of experts from the UN has claimed that the two countries resumed cooperation of transfer of critical parts.

According to a UN report, North Korea and Iran cooperated on the development of long-range missiles last year in violation of UN resolutions. Watch: An independent panel of experts from the UN has claimed that the two countries resumed cooperation of transfer of critical parts. The UN report said Iran’s Shahid Haj Ali Movahed Research Center received "support and assistance" from North Korean missile specialists. The annual report is set to be presented to the Security Council's North Korea sanctions committee. The report says North Korea "produced fissile material, maintained nuclear facilities and upgraded its ballistic missile infrastructure". The UN report said that it "is highly likely that a nuclear device" could be mounted on to long-range, medium-range and short-range ballistic missiles" by North Korea. The report said North Korea "maintained and developed its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, in violation of UN Security Council(UNSC) resolutions." The US had walked out of the nuclear deal with Iran under the Trump administration in 2018, however, newly-elected US President Joe Biden has signalled his intention to get the country back in the deal, however, the new US government has insisted that Tehran should ensure full compliance. A year after the US withdrew from the nuclear deal and imposed harsh sanctions, Iran suspended its compliance with nuclear commitments in the deal. Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has openly said that the US must "completely lift" sanctions first before the country can return to full compliance. Iran has also asked European nations to coordinate with the Biden administration to ensure the 2015 nuclear deal is revived.

Iran, North Korea collaborated last year on missile development: UN report

The Russian government said today that the United States should return to "full compliance" of the 2015 nuclear deal for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-zarif-open-to-oil-gulf-security-contacts-with-us-not-on-israel-358827">Iran </a>to meet its obligations under the pact.

Watch:

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Russian foreign miniser Sergei Lavrov said: "The United States returns to full compliance with the corresponding Security Council resolution, creating conditions for Iran to meet its obligations under the nuclear deal."

The deal also known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was signed in 2015 between Iran, the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany fell apart after former US president Donald Trump pulled the US out of the deal in 2018 as part of his administration's "maximum pressure" policy on Iran.

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif&nbsp;had said earlier that his country "will return to the full implementation of our obligations" if the US government lifts sanctions.

Meanwhile, France said the Iranian government must comply with the accord limiting nuclear programme in order to have the United States return to the deal.

The Iran government had urged the US government to "unconditionally" lift sanctions. The Donald Trump administration had imposed harsh sanctions on Iran targeting its oil and banking sector after pulling out of the deal..

Iran now insists the Joe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cautious-welcome-for-biden-in-gulf-amid-yet-uncertain-iran-policy-358313">Biden</a> administration should first lift all sanctions and return to its own JCPOA obligations.

Biden had earlier expressed desire to negotiate more broadly with Iran.

The Russian government said today that the United States should return to "full compliance" of the 2015 nuclear deal for Iran to meet its obligations under the pact.

The Russian government said today that the United States should return to "full compliance" of the 2015 nuclear deal for Iran to meet its obligations under the pact. Watch: Russian foreign miniser Sergei Lavrov said: "The United States returns to full compliance with the corresponding Security Council resolution, creating conditions for Iran to meet its obligations under the nuclear deal." The deal also known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was signed in 2015 between Iran, the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany fell apart after former US president Donald Trump pulled the US out of the deal in 2018 as part of his administration's "maximum pressure" policy on Iran. Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had said earlier that his country "will return to the full implementation of our obligations" if the US government lifts sanctions. Meanwhile, France said the Iranian government must comply with the accord limiting nuclear programme in order to have the United States return to the deal. The Iran government had urged the US government to "unconditionally" lift sanctions. The Donald Trump administration had imposed harsh sanctions on Iran targeting its oil and banking sector after pulling out of the deal.. Iran now insists the Joe Biden administration should first lift all sanctions and return to its own JCPOA obligations. Biden had earlier expressed desire to negotiate more broadly with Iran.

Nuclear deal row: US should return to full compliance for Iran to meet obligations, says Russia

The President of United States of America has announced the new sanctions on Iranians for violating the United Nations' arms embargo. President Donald Trump demanded the enforcement by US allies who have disputed the fact that he has any such authority to reimpose the sanctions.

US President announces new sanctions on Iranians for violating UN arms embargo

The UN's nuclear watchdog said Friday that Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium now stands at more than ten times the limit set down in the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-hails-united-resolve-to-preserve-nuclear-deal-against-us-324856">Also Read:&nbsp;Iran hails 'united resolve' to preserve nuclear deal against US</a>

The limit was set at 300 kilogrammes (661 pounds) of enriched uranium in a particular compound form, which is the equivalent of 202.8 kg of uranium.

Measured against the latter figure, Iran's stockpile now stands at over 2,105 kg, the report said.

The UN's nuclear watchdog said Friday that Iran had granted its inspectors access to one of two sites where undeclared nuclear activity may have taken place in the early 2000s.

"Iran provided Agency inspectors access to the location to take environmental samples," an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report seen by AFP said.

"The samples will be analysed by laboratories that are part of the Agency's network," it added.

One diplomatic source told AFP the results of this analysis could take up to three months.

Tehran announced last week it would allow the IAEA access to the two sites, following a visit by IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.

In a separate report also issued on Friday, the IAEA said Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium now stands at more than ten times the limit set down in a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

The limit was set at 300 kilogrammes (661 pounds) of enriched uranium in a particular compound form, which is the equivalent of 202.8 kg of uranium.

Measured against the latter figure, Iran's stockpile now stands at over 2,105 kg, the report said.

Iran is also continuing to use more advanced centrifuges to enrich uranium than is permitted under the deal.

However, the level of enrichment has not gone above that which would be needed for use in a nuclear weapon.

- US trying to up pressure - 
The 2015 deal has been fraying ever since US President Donald Trump dramatically withdrew from it in May 2018 and re-imposed swingeing sanctions on Iran.

Tehran has responded by progressively exceeding limits on its nuclear activities set down in the deal.

In recent months the Trump administration has tried to increase pressure on Iran, but Washington suffered a humiliating defeat in August when it failed in its bid to reimpose international sanctions on the Islamic republic.&nbsp;

At a meeting in Vienna earlier this week the remaining parties to the 2015 deal -- Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia -- said they remained committed to the deal and wanted to find a way to ensure its "full implementation despite current challenges".

The second IAEA report issued Friday also gave an update on another location in Tehran which had not been declared to the agency and where it found uranium particles last year.

The Agency has analysed samples from the site, the results of which were "not inconsistent" with information provided by Iran about the possible origin of the particles.

"However, the Agency has recently informed Iran that there are a number of other findings for which further clarifications and information need to be provided," the report says.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The UN's nuclear watchdog said Friday that Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium now stands at more than ten times the limit set down in the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

The UN's nuclear watchdog said Friday that Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium now stands at more than ten times the limit set down in the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. Also Read: Iran hails 'united resolve' to preserve nuclear deal against US The limit was set at 300 kilogrammes (661 pounds) of enriched uranium in a particular compound form, which is the equivalent of 202.8 kg of uranium. Measured against the latter figure, Iran's stockpile now stands at over 2,105 kg, the report said. The UN's nuclear watchdog said Friday that Iran had granted its inspectors access to one of two sites where undeclared nuclear activity may have taken place in the early 2000s. "Iran provided Agency inspectors access to the location to take environmental samples," an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report seen by AFP said. "The samples will be analysed by laboratories that are part of the Agency's network," it added. One diplomatic source told AFP the results of this analysis could take up to three months. Tehran announced last week it would allow the IAEA access to the two sites, following a visit by IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi. In a separate report also issued on Friday, the IAEA said Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium now stands at more than ten times the limit set down in a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. The limit was set at 300 kilogrammes (661 pounds) of enriched uranium in a particular compound form, which is the equivalent of 202.8 kg of uranium. Measured against the latter figure, Iran's stockpile now stands at over 2,105 kg, the report said. Iran is also continuing to use more advanced centrifuges to enrich uranium than is permitted under the deal. However, the level of enrichment has not gone above that which would be needed for use in a nuclear weapon. - US trying to up pressure - The 2015 deal has been fraying ever since US President Donald Trump dramatically withdrew from it in May 2018 and re-imposed swingeing sanctions on Iran. Tehran has responded by progressively exceeding limits on its nuclear activities set down in the deal. In recent months the Trump administration has tried to increase pressure on Iran, but Washington suffered a humiliating defeat in August when it failed in its bid to reimpose international sanctions on the Islamic republic. At a meeting in Vienna earlier this week the remaining parties to the 2015 deal -- Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia -- said they remained committed to the deal and wanted to find a way to ensure its "full implementation despite current challenges". The second IAEA report issued Friday also gave an update on another location in Tehran which had not been declared to the agency and where it found uranium particles last year. The Agency has analysed samples from the site, the results of which were "not inconsistent" with information provided by Iran about the possible origin of the particles. "However, the Agency has recently informed Iran that there are a number of other findings for which further clarifications and information need to be provided," the report says.

Iran's enriched uranium over ten times the limit set in 2015 nuclear deal: IAEA

As IAEA officials get set to go to Teheran for talks on its nuclear activities, the United States accused UNSC members Britain and France of "abdicating their duty" to maintain an arms embargo and impose broader sanctions on the Islamic state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-chief-grossito-to-make-first-visit-to-iran-on-august-24-322398">Also Read:&nbsp;IAEA chief Grossito to make first visit to Iran on August 24</a>

"Iran is in violation of its voluntary nuclear commitments. The conditions have been met to initiate snapback. We don't need anybody's permission to initiate snapback," Brian Hook, the State Department's Special Representative for Iran, said.

The "snapback" clause aims to restore all international sanctions against Iran that were lifted as part of the 2015 nuclear accord between Tehran and the rest of the world powers.

Iran has criticised Trump administration's move to activate the snapback mechanism.&nbsp;

"Iran expects the Secretary-General and member states of the Security Council to fulfil their legal obligations, to counter rogue behaviour by the US administration," Iran's Mohammad Javad Zarif&nbsp;told UN chief Antonio Guterres even as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo submitted a letter to the UNSC accusing Iran of "significant" non-compliance with the terms of the 2015 nuclear agreement.

Zarif said since the United States is not a part of the nuclear agreement, therefore, Washington's decision had "no foundation".

"China and Russia and France and the United Kingdom decided to ignore the views of the Gulf Cooperation Council," Hook said.

"These are the countries that are closest to the danger, and the Council had a responsibility to respect their views to extend the arms embargo," Hook said, adding, "it was a very disappointing abdication of duty."

Earlier, France, Britain and Germany had the rejected use of the snapback mechanism, calling it "incompatible with our current efforts to support the JCPOA."

As IAEA officials get set to go to Teheran for talks on its nuclear activities, the United States accused UNSC members Britain and France of "abdicating their duty" to maintain an arms embargo and impose broader sanctions on the Islamic state.

As IAEA officials get set to go to Teheran for talks on its nuclear activities, the United States accused UNSC members Britain and France of "abdicating their duty" to maintain an arms embargo and impose broader sanctions on the Islamic state. Also Read: IAEA chief Grossito to make first visit to Iran on August 24 "Iran is in violation of its voluntary nuclear commitments. The conditions have been met to initiate snapback. We don't need anybody's permission to initiate snapback," Brian Hook, the State Department's Special Representative for Iran, said. The "snapback" clause aims to restore all international sanctions against Iran that were lifted as part of the 2015 nuclear accord between Tehran and the rest of the world powers. Iran has criticised Trump administration's move to activate the snapback mechanism. "Iran expects the Secretary-General and member states of the Security Council to fulfil their legal obligations, to counter rogue behaviour by the US administration," Iran's Mohammad Javad Zarif told UN chief Antonio Guterres even as Secretary of State Mike Pompeo submitted a letter to the UNSC accusing Iran of "significant" non-compliance with the terms of the 2015 nuclear agreement. Zarif said since the United States is not a part of the nuclear agreement, therefore, Washington's decision had "no foundation". "China and Russia and France and the United Kingdom decided to ignore the views of the Gulf Cooperation Council," Hook said. "These are the countries that are closest to the danger, and the Council had a responsibility to respect their views to extend the arms embargo," Hook said, adding, "it was a very disappointing abdication of duty." Earlier, France, Britain and Germany had the rejected use of the snapback mechanism, calling it "incompatible with our current efforts to support the JCPOA."

'Don't need permission to initiate snapback': US in tussle with France, UK over Iran sanctions

US President Donald Trump has announced that he intends to move next week to trigger a "snapback" of international sanctions against Iran at the UNSC.

Trump threatens 'Snapback' of UN sanctions against Iran

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in a report said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-slams-iran-intimidation-of-iaea-inspector-as-outrageous-260911">Iran's</a> enriched uranium stockpile is more than five times the limit fixed under the 2015 nuclear deal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-concerned-over-irans-decision-to-deny-accreditation-to-iaea-inspector-eu-260590">Also Read: EU 'deeply concerned' over Iran's decision to deny accreditation to IAEA inspector</a>

The atomic agency said as of February 19, Iran's uranium stockpile stood at&nbsp;1,510 kilogrammes, as compared to 300 kg limit set under the 2015 agreement by world powers.

The UN watchdog said it was denied entry to at least two sites in January by Iranian authorities.

The agency in its report said it had "identified a number of questions related to possible undeclared nuclear material and nuclear-related activities."

In November last year, the UN nuclear watchdog had urged Iran to explain the presence of uranium particles at an undeclared site.

Iran had rejected IAEA's report of traces of uranium found in unnamed sites.

Iran has openly breached several parts of the deal it signed with the US as well as Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, in which it committed to scaling back its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief.

The IAEA had earlier flagged Iran's stock of heavy water for reactors had crossed the 130-tonne limit.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in a report said Iran's enriched uranium stockpile is more than five times the limit fixed under the 2015 nuclear deal.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in a report said Iran's enriched uranium stockpile is more than five times the limit fixed under the 2015 nuclear deal. Also Read: EU 'deeply concerned' over Iran's decision to deny accreditation to IAEA inspector The atomic agency said as of February 19, Iran's uranium stockpile stood at 1,510 kilogrammes, as compared to 300 kg limit set under the 2015 agreement by world powers. The UN watchdog said it was denied entry to at least two sites in January by Iranian authorities. The agency in its report said it had "identified a number of questions related to possible undeclared nuclear material and nuclear-related activities." In November last year, the UN nuclear watchdog had urged Iran to explain the presence of uranium particles at an undeclared site. Iran had rejected IAEA's report of traces of uranium found in unnamed sites. Iran has openly breached several parts of the deal it signed with the US as well as Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, in which it committed to scaling back its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief. The IAEA had earlier flagged Iran's stock of heavy water for reactors had crossed the 130-tonne limit.

Iran's enriched uranium stockpile over five times deal limit: IAEA

Iran said today that it would consider "withdrawing from Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) treaty" if the nuclear dispute reaches the UN Security Council.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-not-ruled-out-talks-to-end-nuclear-dispute-says-official-275436 ---">Also Read:&nbsp;Iran not ruling out talks to end nuclear dispute, says official</a>

Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told the country's parliamentary website that there was "no legal basis" for the European nations to take the dispute to the UNSC.

"If the Europeans return to the commitments, Iran will also stop reducing its commitments, but if the Europeans continue as they have been... we have different options," Zarif said, adding, "It was stated in the president's letter that if this issue is referred to the Security Council, Iran's withdrawal from the NPT will be discussed but before that we can consider other (options)."

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Britain, France and Germany had earlier accused Iran of violating the 2015 nuclear deal. Zarif had said then that the dispute mechanism was "legally baseless and a strategic mistake".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-close-is-iran-to-producing-a-nuclear-bomb-275120">In Pics: How close is Iran to producing a nuclear bomb?</a>

The European powers had said they were acting to avoid a crisis over nuclear proliferation amid increased tensions in the Middle East in the wake of General Sulemani's assassination in a US drone strike earlier this month. UK PM Johnson had surprised everyone by declaring that &nbsp;Iran nuclear deal could be replaced by the "Trump deal".

Iran's parliamentary speaker Ali Larijani had earlier stated: "If Europe for any reason, uses Article 37 of the nuclear agreement unfairly, then Iran will make a serious decision regarding cooperation with the agency."

The Iran nuclear deal which was signed in 2015, also called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was signed by the United States, Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia. According to Article 36 and 37, if the dispute is not solved then it goes to the advisory board and then to the UNSC.

Iran said today that it would consider "withdrawing from Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) treaty" if the nuclear dispute reaches the UN Security Council.

Iran said today that it would consider "withdrawing from Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) treaty" if the nuclear dispute reaches the UN Security Council. Also Read: Iran not ruling out talks to end nuclear dispute, says official Iran's foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told the country's parliamentary website that there was "no legal basis" for the European nations to take the dispute to the UNSC. "If the Europeans return to the commitments, Iran will also stop reducing its commitments, but if the Europeans continue as they have been... we have different options," Zarif said, adding, "It was stated in the president's letter that if this issue is referred to the Security Council, Iran's withdrawal from the NPT will be discussed but before that we can consider other (options)." Watch Video: Britain, France and Germany had earlier accused Iran of violating the 2015 nuclear deal. Zarif had said then that the dispute mechanism was "legally baseless and a strategic mistake". In Pics: How close is Iran to producing a nuclear bomb? The European powers had said they were acting to avoid a crisis over nuclear proliferation amid increased tensions in the Middle East in the wake of General Sulemani's assassination in a US drone strike earlier this month. UK PM Johnson had surprised everyone by declaring that Iran nuclear deal could be replaced by the "Trump deal". Iran's parliamentary speaker Ali Larijani had earlier stated: "If Europe for any reason, uses Article 37 of the nuclear agreement unfairly, then Iran will make a serious decision regarding cooperation with the agency." The Iran nuclear deal which was signed in 2015, also called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was signed by the United States, Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia. According to Article 36 and 37, if the dispute is not solved then it goes to the advisory board and then to the UNSC.

Iran could consider withdrawing from NPT if nuclear dispute referred to UNSC: Zarif

Iran is capable of resuming production of 20 per cent&nbsp;enriched uranium within two days, the spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Behrouz Kamalvandi said on Tuesday.

"If Iran decides, it can have 20 per cent&nbsp;enriched fuel within one to two days," Fars news agency quoted Kamalvandi as saying.

News agency AFP quoted Rouhani saying that Iran may further cut nuclear commitments in days.

Enriching uranium up to 20 per cent purity is considered an important intermediate stage on the path to obtaining the 90 per cent pure fissile uranium needed for a bomb.

Iran has said it will breach the deal's limits on its nuclear activities one by one, ratcheting up pressure on the countries who still hope to save it.

Tehran had threatened to take further steps by September 6, such as enriching uranium to 20 per cent or restarting mothballed centrifuges, machines that purify uranium for use as fuel in power plants or, if very highly enriched, in weapons.

Tehran is prepared to take a "stronger step" in reducing its commitments under the deal with world powers if European countries don't take action to save the pact, its foreign ministry's spokesman said on Monday.

"The third step has been designed and will be stronger than the first and second steps to create balance between Iran's rights and commitments to the JCPOA," state news agency IRNA quoted the foreign ministry's spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying on Monday.

However, Iran had earlier stressed that these steps are "reversible" if the European signatories of the pact fulfilled their obligations.

President Donald Trump last year exited the accord between Iran and six world powers aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear programme, which the West suspected sought to make a nuclear weapon, in exchange for the lifting of many international sanctions on Tehran. Washington has also reimposed sanctions on exports of Iranian oil.

Iran denies ever having sought a nuclear weapon.

Also, Iran's government spokesman said on Monday that Iran and France's views on the deal have moved closer, mainly after phone calls between President Hassan Rouhani and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron.

(Inputs: Reuters, AFP)

Iran is capable of resuming production of 20 per cent enriched uranium within two days, the spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Behrouz Kamalvandi said on Tuesday.

Iran is capable of resuming production of 20 per cent enriched uranium within two days, the spokesman of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Behrouz Kamalvandi said on Tuesday. "If Iran decides, it can have 20 per cent enriched fuel within one to two days," Fars news agency quoted Kamalvandi as saying. News agency AFP quoted Rouhani saying that Iran may further cut nuclear commitments in days. Enriching uranium up to 20 per cent purity is considered an important intermediate stage on the path to obtaining the 90 per cent pure fissile uranium needed for a bomb. Iran has said it will breach the deal's limits on its nuclear activities one by one, ratcheting up pressure on the countries who still hope to save it. Tehran had threatened to take further steps by September 6, such as enriching uranium to 20 per cent or restarting mothballed centrifuges, machines that purify uranium for use as fuel in power plants or, if very highly enriched, in weapons. Tehran is prepared to take a "stronger step" in reducing its commitments under the deal with world powers if European countries don't take action to save the pact, its foreign ministry's spokesman said on Monday. "The third step has been designed and will be stronger than the first and second steps to create balance between Iran's rights and commitments to the JCPOA," state news agency IRNA quoted the foreign ministry's spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying on Monday. However, Iran had earlier stressed that these steps are "reversible" if the European signatories of the pact fulfilled their obligations. President Donald Trump last year exited the accord between Iran and six world powers aimed at curbing Tehran’s nuclear programme, which the West suspected sought to make a nuclear weapon, in exchange for the lifting of many international sanctions on Tehran. Washington has also reimposed sanctions on exports of Iranian oil. Iran denies ever having sought a nuclear weapon. Also, Iran's government spokesman said on Monday that Iran and France's views on the deal have moved closer, mainly after phone calls between President Hassan Rouhani and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron. (Inputs: Reuters, AFP)

Will be able to resume production of 20% enriched uranium in 2 days: Iran atomic agency

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani urged Europe on Thursday to "accelerate" its efforts to salvage the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-deal-parties-not-ready-to-launch-dispute-mechanism-against-iran-prefer-more-diplomacy-european-union-236356">2015 nuclear deal</a>, during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron.

"Europe must accelerate its efforts to realise <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-prime-minister-blasts-european-union-for-trying-to-save-iran-nuclear-deal-236278">Iran's legitimate interests</a> and bring about a ceasefire (in Washington's) economic war" against Iran, Rouhani told Macron, according to the government's official website.

"Iran is determined to keep open all options" for preserving the landmark treaty, he added.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin and French leader Emmanuel Macron agreed on Thursday on the need to "consolidate efforts" to save the Iran nuclear deal following months of soaring tensions, the Kremlin said.

In a phone call, Putin and Macron agreed the Iran deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was an "important factor in ensuring security in the Middle East and maintaining a non-proliferation regime," the Kremlin said in a statement.

"Both sides stressed the advisability of consolidating efforts of all countries that are interested in preserving the Comprehensive Plan," it added.

US President Donald Trump last year withdrew from the accord negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama with five other world powers under which Iran drastically scaled back its nuclear programme.

Trump instead imposed sweeping sanctions prohibiting Iranian oil exports in a bid to reduce the clerical regime's regional clout.

In Germany, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said "it would be a mistake to blame" Iran for the situation.

He said it was very important to reach "a common position of all the remaining parties of the JCPOA ... and we will not achieve a result if it is claimed that the safeguarding of this agreement depends solely on Iran".

His German counterpart Heiko Maas said that "we have always made it clear that we do not understand the exit of the United States from the JCPOA".

He added that "we expect Iran to respect its commitments -&nbsp;what has happened in recent days in Tehran is not acceptable".

Putin and Macron also discussed ways to settle a separatist conflict in Ukraine as the country is set to hold parliamentary elections on Sunday.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani urged Europe on Thursday to "accelerate" its efforts to salvage the 2015 nuclear deal, during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani urged Europe on Thursday to "accelerate" its efforts to salvage the 2015 nuclear deal, during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron. "Europe must accelerate its efforts to realise Iran's legitimate interests and bring about a ceasefire (in Washington's) economic war" against Iran, Rouhani told Macron, according to the government's official website. "Iran is determined to keep open all options" for preserving the landmark treaty, he added. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin and French leader Emmanuel Macron agreed on Thursday on the need to "consolidate efforts" to save the Iran nuclear deal following months of soaring tensions, the Kremlin said. In a phone call, Putin and Macron agreed the Iran deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was an "important factor in ensuring security in the Middle East and maintaining a non-proliferation regime," the Kremlin said in a statement. "Both sides stressed the advisability of consolidating efforts of all countries that are interested in preserving the Comprehensive Plan," it added. US President Donald Trump last year withdrew from the accord negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama with five other world powers under which Iran drastically scaled back its nuclear programme. Trump instead imposed sweeping sanctions prohibiting Iranian oil exports in a bid to reduce the clerical regime's regional clout. In Germany, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said "it would be a mistake to blame" Iran for the situation. He said it was very important to reach "a common position of all the remaining parties of the JCPOA ... and we will not achieve a result if it is claimed that the safeguarding of this agreement depends solely on Iran". His German counterpart Heiko Maas said that "we have always made it clear that we do not understand the exit of the United States from the JCPOA". He added that "we expect Iran to respect its commitments - what has happened in recent days in Tehran is not acceptable". Putin and Macron also discussed ways to settle a separatist conflict in Ukraine as the country is set to hold parliamentary elections on Sunday.

Accelerate efforts to salvage nuclear deal: Rouhani to Macron in phone call

Iran to raise Uranium enrichment level from 3.67% to 5%. Iran set to announce further reductions of N deal. Iran President talks to french counterpart on phone. Watch this video to know more.

Iran to increase Uranium enrichment to 5%

Iran announces new breach of nuclear deal