<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/top-american-allies-regret-us-withdrawal-from-iranian-nuclear-deal--135598">Top American allies 'regret' US withdrawal from Iranian nuclear deal</a>

Top American allies, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Canada regretted and expressed concerns over the decision of US President Donald Trump to withdraw from the Iranian nuclear deal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-abducted-in-afghanistan-4-belonged-to-jharkhand-135599">Indians abducted in Afghanistan: 4 belonged to Jharkhand</a>

The seven Indian engineers who were abducted in Afghanistan on Sunday, at least four belonged to Jharkhand, report said. The Indians belonged to Jhargram in Jharkhand's populous Giridih district. All the engineers worked for a private company named KEC.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/google-ceo-sundar-pichai-apologises-for-flawed-beer-burger-emoji-displays-new-versions--135607">Google CEO Sundar Pichai apologises for flawed beer, burger emoji, displays new versions</a>

Google's annual developer conference kicked off on Tuesday in California starting with CEO Sundar Pichai apologising for the flawed designs of the burger and beer emoji on Android.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-sonam-kapoors-reception-shah-rukh-salman-and-anil-kapoor-set-the-stage-on-fire-with-their-dance-moves-135603">Sonam Kapoor's reception: Shah Rukh, Salman set the stage on fire</a>

It was a night that tinsel town will remember for a long time. Shah Rukh and Salman Khan danced their heart out at Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja's wedding reception on Tuesday night as nearly the entire film industry descended at Leela Hotel to celebrate the joyous occasion.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/reports-linking-nawaz-sharif-laundering-49-billion-to-india-incorrect-world-bank-135606">Reports linking Nawaz Sharif laundering $4.9 billion to India 'incorrect': World Bank</a>

The World Bank today described as "incorrect" media reports in Pakistan about allegations that former prime minister Nawaz Sharif laundered $4.9 billion to India. In the past day, there have been media reports citing the World Bank's Remittances and Migration Report of 2016.&nbsp

Top American allies 'regret' US withdrawal from Iranian nuclear deal Top American allies, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Canada regretted and expressed concerns over the decision of US President Donald Trump to withdraw from the Iranian nuclear deal. Indians abducted in Afghanistan: 4 belonged to Jharkhand The seven Indian engineers who were abducted in Afghanistan on Sunday, at least four belonged to Jharkhand, report said. The Indians belonged to Jhargram in Jharkhand's populous Giridih district. All the engineers worked for a private company named KEC. Google CEO Sundar Pichai apologises for flawed beer, burger emoji, displays new versions Google's annual developer conference kicked off on Tuesday in California starting with CEO Sundar Pichai apologising for the flawed designs of the burger and beer emoji on Android. Sonam Kapoor's reception: Shah Rukh, Salman set the stage on fire It was a night that tinsel town will remember for a long time. Shah Rukh and Salman Khan danced their heart out at Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja's wedding reception on Tuesday night as nearly the entire film industry descended at Leela Hotel to celebrate the joyous occasion. Reports linking Nawaz Sharif laundering $4.9 billion to India 'incorrect': World Bank The World Bank today described as "incorrect" media reports in Pakistan about allegations that former prime minister Nawaz Sharif laundered $4.9 billion to India. In the past day, there have been media reports citing the World Bank's Remittances and Migration Report of 2016.

News brief: Big stories of the day

President Emmanuel Macron spoke with Iran's Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday, with the two leaders agreeing to work toward "the continued implementation of the nuclear deal" following the US decision to withdraw from the agreement, the French presidency said.

"The French and Iranian presidents agreed to pursue their joint efforts with all nations involved, with the aim of continued implementation of the nuclear deal and maintaining regional stability," Macron's office said in a statement.

'The French and Iranian presidents agreed to pursue their joint efforts with all nations involved,' Macron's office said in a statement

President Emmanuel Macron spoke with Iran's Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday, with the two leaders agreeing to work toward "the continued implementation of the nuclear deal" following the US decision to withdraw from the agreement, the French presidency said. "The French and Iranian presidents agreed to pursue their joint efforts with all nations involved, with the aim of continued implementation of the nuclear deal and maintaining regional stability," Macron's office said in a statement.

Macron, Rouhani agree to seek 'continued implementation of nuclear deal'

&nbspFormer U.S. President Barack&nbspObama&nbspsaid on Tuesday that President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, struck during&nbspObama's presidency, was "misguided."

"I believe that the decision to put the JCPOA at risk without any Iranian violation of the deal is a serious mistake,"&nbspObama&nbspsaid in a statement, referring to the acronym for the agreement worked out by the United States, five other world powers and Iran.

Since leaving office in January 2017,&nbspObama, a Democrat, has largely remained on the sidelines of the political debate, although he has criticized his Republican successor's efforts to undo some of his major policy achievements.

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There are few issues more important to the security of the US than the potential spread of nuclear weapons or the potential for even more destructive war in the Middle East. Today’s decision to put the JCPOA at risk is a serious mistake. My full statement: <a href="https://t.co/4oTdXESbxe">https://t.co/4oTdXESbxe</a>
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/993938824752451586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He has condemned Trump for pulling out of the Paris climate accord and for ending a program that shielded from deportation immigrants brought to the United States illegally as children. He also spoke out against Trump's effort to unravel the&nbspObamacare healthcare program.

Obama&nbspsaid the Iran agreement significantly rolled back Tehran's nuclear program and was a model for a possible deal Trump hopes to negotiate with North Korea to eliminate Pyongyang's nuclear weapons.

"That is why today’s announcement is so misguided,"&nbspObama&nbspsaid.

"Walking away from the JCPOA turns our back on America’s closest allies, and an agreement that our country’s leading diplomats, scientists, and intelligence professionals negotiated," he said.

President Trump on Tuesday announced the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or Iran nuclear deal.

He terminated the US participation in the JCPOA citing that the deal failed to protect America's national security interest.

He also underscored that the deal was one of the worst and most one-sided transactions the United States has ever entered into.

The US President also delivered a message to the long-suffering people of Iran saying "the people of America stand with you."

Since leaving office in January 2017, Obama, a Democrat, has largely remained on the sidelines of the political debate, although he has criticized his Republican successor's efforts to undo some of his major policy achievements

&nbspFormer U.S. President Barack&nbspObama&nbspsaid on Tuesday that President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, struck during&nbspObama's presidency, was "misguided." "I believe that the decision to put the JCPOA at risk without any Iranian violation of the deal is a serious mistake,"&nbspObama&nbspsaid in a statement, referring to the acronym for the agreement worked out by the United States, five other world powers and Iran. Since leaving office in January 2017,&nbspObama, a Democrat, has largely remained on the sidelines of the political debate, although he has criticized his Republican successor's efforts to undo some of his major policy achievements. There are few issues more important to the security of the US than the potential spread of nuclear weapons or the potential for even more destructive war in the Middle East. Today’s decision to put the JCPOA at risk is a serious mistake. My full statement: https://t.co/4oTdXESbxe — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 8, 2018 × He has condemned Trump for pulling out of the Paris climate accord and for ending a program that shielded from deportation immigrants brought to the United States illegally as children. He also spoke out against Trump's effort to unravel the&nbspObamacare healthcare program. Obama&nbspsaid the Iran agreement significantly rolled back Tehran's nuclear program and was a model for a possible deal Trump hopes to negotiate with North Korea to eliminate Pyongyang's nuclear weapons. "That is why today’s announcement is so misguided,"&nbspObama&nbspsaid. "Walking away from the JCPOA turns our back on America’s closest allies, and an agreement that our country’s leading diplomats, scientists, and intelligence professionals negotiated," he said. President Trump on Tuesday announced the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or Iran nuclear deal. He terminated the US participation in the JCPOA citing that the deal failed to protect America's national security interest. He also underscored that the deal was one of the worst and most one-sided transactions the United States has ever entered into. The US President also delivered a message to the long-suffering people of Iran saying "the people of America stand with you."

Obama calls Trump's decision on Iran nuclear deal 'misguided'

Top American allies, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Canada regretted and expressed concerns over the decision of US President Donald Trump to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pulls-out-of-iran-nuclear-deal-reimposes-us-sanctions-135588">withdraw from the Iranian nuclear deal</a>.

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.

"It is with regret and concern that we, the leaders of France, Germany and the United Kingdom take note of President Trump's decision to withdraw the United States of America from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action," British Prime Minister Theresa May, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel said yesterday.

<a href="Anger, dismay, support: How the world sees US withdrawal from Iran nuclear deal">In a joint statement issued</a> soon after Trump announced his decision to withdraw from the Iranian nuclear deal yesterday, the leaders emphasized their continuing commitment to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

"This agreement remains important for our shared security. This resolution remains the binding international legal framework for the resolution of the dispute about the Iranian nuclear programme. We urge all sides to remain committed to its full implementation and to act in a spirit of responsibility," the three leaders said.

Trump's National Security Adviser John Bolton said the US was having consultations with its top allies.

"It has been already in consultations with European and other allies before today's announcement because we were trying to be fully transparent with them," Bolton told reporters at the White House.

The President already made some calls yesterday and will make more. "I'm going to be discussing this tomorrow morning with my British, French, and German counterparts, so we're already underway," he said.

Leaders of the three countries encouraged Iran to show restraint in response to the decision by the US. Iran must continue to meet its own obligations under the deal, cooperating fully and in a timely manner with IAEA inspection requirements, they reiterated.

"There must be no doubt: Iran's nuclear programme must always remain peaceful and civilian. While taking the JCPOA as a base, we also agree that other major issues of concern need to be addressed," the statement said.

"A long-term framework for Iran's nuclear programme after some of the provisions of the JCPOA expire in 2025 will have to be defined. We must also address shared concerns about Iran's ballistic missile programme and its destabilising regional activities, especially in Syria, Iraq and Yemen. We have already started constructive and mutually beneficial discussions on these issues, and the E3 is committed to continuing them," they said.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland supported an effective rules-based international order, saying that the JCPOA was essential to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapons capability and to ensure greater regional and global security.

"Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons. The JCPOA has subjected Iran's nuclear programme to a rigorous and unprecedented international verification regime by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)," she said.

The JCPOA was not perfect but it helped curb a real threat to international peace and security, Freeland said.

"Canada regrets that the United States has decided to withdraw from the JCPOA, particularly given that, according to the IAEA, Iran continues to implement its JCPOA commitments. Canada condemns Iran's ongoing development of its ballistic missile programme and its ballistic missile launches, which are destabilising for the region. Canada maintains sanctions that target Iran's ballistic missile programmes," she added.

(With inputs from PTI)

The leaders emphasized their continuing commitment to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

Top American allies, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Canada regretted and expressed concerns over the decision of US President Donald Trump to withdraw from the Iranian nuclear deal. 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. "It is with regret and concern that we, the leaders of France, Germany and the United Kingdom take note of President Trump's decision to withdraw the United States of America from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action," British Prime Minister Theresa May, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel said yesterday. In a joint statement issued soon after Trump announced his decision to withdraw from the Iranian nuclear deal yesterday, the leaders emphasized their continuing commitment to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). "This agreement remains important for our shared security. This resolution remains the binding international legal framework for the resolution of the dispute about the Iranian nuclear programme. We urge all sides to remain committed to its full implementation and to act in a spirit of responsibility," the three leaders said. Trump's National Security Adviser John Bolton said the US was having consultations with its top allies. "It has been already in consultations with European and other allies before today's announcement because we were trying to be fully transparent with them," Bolton told reporters at the White House. The President already made some calls yesterday and will make more. "I'm going to be discussing this tomorrow morning with my British, French, and German counterparts, so we're already underway," he said. Leaders of the three countries encouraged Iran to show restraint in response to the decision by the US. Iran must continue to meet its own obligations under the deal, cooperating fully and in a timely manner with IAEA inspection requirements, they reiterated. "There must be no doubt: Iran's nuclear programme must always remain peaceful and civilian. While taking the JCPOA as a base, we also agree that other major issues of concern need to be addressed," the statement said. "A long-term framework for Iran's nuclear programme after some of the provisions of the JCPOA expire in 2025 will have to be defined. We must also address shared concerns about Iran's ballistic missile programme and its destabilising regional activities, especially in Syria, Iraq and Yemen. We have already started constructive and mutually beneficial discussions on these issues, and the E3 is committed to continuing them," they said. Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland supported an effective rules-based international order, saying that the JCPOA was essential to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapons capability and to ensure greater regional and global security. "Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons. The JCPOA has subjected Iran's nuclear programme to a rigorous and unprecedented international verification regime by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)," she said. The JCPOA was not perfect but it helped curb a real threat to international peace and security, Freeland said. "Canada regrets that the United States has decided to withdraw from the JCPOA, particularly given that, according to the IAEA, Iran continues to implement its JCPOA commitments. Canada condemns Iran's ongoing development of its ballistic missile programme and its ballistic missile launches, which are destabilising for the region. Canada maintains sanctions that target Iran's ballistic missile programmes," she added. (With inputs from PTI)

Top American allies 'regret' US withdrawal from Iranian nuclear deal

US President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal prompted the furious reaction in Tehran, regret in Europe and cheers from Israel and Saudi Arabia.

The following is a selection of reactions from around the globe to Trump's biggest foreign policy move since taking office:

"This decision was an act of psychological warfare against Iran."

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani

"I have instructed the Iranian Atomic Energy Organization to take the necessary measures for future actions so that, if necessary, we can resume industrial enrichment without limit."

Rouhani

"Stay true to your commitments as we will stay true to ours and together with the rest of the international community, we will preserve this nuclear deal."

European Union diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini

"France, Germany and the UK regret the US decision to leave the JCPOA. The nuclear non-proliferation regime is at stake. We will work collectively on a broader framework, covering nuclear activity, the post-2025 period, ballistic activity and stability in the Middle East, notably Syria, Yemen and Iraq."

French President Emmanuel Macron, on Twitter, referring to the Iran deal by its formal name, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action

"I call on other JCPOA participants to abide fully by their respective commitments under the JCPOA and on all other member-states to support this agreement."

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres

"Israel fully supports President Trump's bold decision today to reject the disastrous nuclear deal with the terrorist regime in Tehran."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp

 
"The kingdom supports and welcomes the steps announced by the US president toward withdrawing from the nuclear deal... and reinstating economic sanctions against Iran."

Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry

"The reality is clear. The JCPOA is working... That is why today's announcement is so misguided... I believe that the decision to put the JCPOA at risk without any Iranian violation of the deal is a serious mistake."

Former US President Barack Obama, whose administration brokered the 2015 deal

Israel fully supports President Trump's bold decision today to reject the disastrous nuclear deal with the terrorist regime in Tehran.

US President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal prompted the furious reaction in Tehran, regret in Europe and cheers from Israel and Saudi Arabia. The following is a selection of reactions from around the globe to Trump's biggest foreign policy move since taking office: "This decision was an act of psychological warfare against Iran." Iranian President Hassan Rouhani "I have instructed the Iranian Atomic Energy Organization to take the necessary measures for future actions so that, if necessary, we can resume industrial enrichment without limit." Rouhani "Stay true to your commitments as we will stay true to ours and together with the rest of the international community, we will preserve this nuclear deal." European Union diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini "France, Germany and the UK regret the US decision to leave the JCPOA. The nuclear non-proliferation regime is at stake. We will work collectively on a broader framework, covering nuclear activity, the post-2025 period, ballistic activity and stability in the Middle East, notably Syria, Yemen and Iraq." French President Emmanuel Macron, on Twitter, referring to the Iran deal by its formal name, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action "I call on other JCPOA participants to abide fully by their respective commitments under the JCPOA and on all other member-states to support this agreement." United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "Israel fully supports President Trump's bold decision today to reject the disastrous nuclear deal with the terrorist regime in Tehran." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "The kingdom supports and welcomes the steps announced by the US president toward withdrawing from the nuclear deal... and reinstating economic sanctions against Iran." Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry "The reality is clear. The JCPOA is working... That is why today's announcement is so misguided... I believe that the decision to put the JCPOA at risk without any Iranian violation of the deal is a serious mistake." Former US President Barack Obama, whose administration brokered the 2015 deal

Anger, dismay, support: How the world sees US withdrawal from Iran nuclear deal

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/walmart-buying-77-stake-in-flipkart-for-16-billion-135737">Walmart buying 77% stake in Flipkart for $16 billion</a>

Walmart Inc has agreed to pay $16 billion for a roughly 77 per cent stake in Indian online shopping site Flipkart, the US retailer's biggest foreign investment as it battles rival Amazon.com Inc in one of the world's biggest emerging markets.

The deal, capping almost two years of talks, will help the Bentonville, Arkansas-based retailer fortify and boost market share against Amazon.com, which reportedly had tried to make a competing offer for a stake.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/india-to-grow-at-74-in-2018-78-in-2019-imf-135754">India to grow at 7.4% in 2018, says IMF</a>

The Indian economy is expected to grow at 7.4 per cent in the current fiscal and accelerate further to 7.8 per cent as it recovers from the impact of demonetisation and GST roll out, IMF said today.

Asia continues to be the main engine of the world's economy, accounting for more than 60 per cent of global growth, three-quarters of which comes from China and India alone, as per IMF's Regional Economic Outlook: Asia and Pacific (REO).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-says-will-quit-nuke-deal-without-european-guarantees-135725">Iran supreme leader Khamenei says will quit nuclear deal without European guarantees</a>

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Wednesday that Tehran would quit the landmark 2015 nuclear deal unless European signatories offered solid guarantees that trade relations would continue after the US withdrawal.

Addressing Iran's government in a televised speech, Khamenei said: "We hear that you want to continue the nuclear deal with the three European countries. I don't have confidence in these three countries."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-xi-is-worlds-most-powerful-person-modi-is-9th-forbes-135739">China's Xi is world's most powerful person, Modi is 9th: Forbes</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been ranked among the top 10 most powerful people in the world by Forbes in a list that has been topped for the first time ever by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who dethroned Russian President Vladimir Putin as the most influential person on the planet.&nbsp;

Modi ranks 9th on the Forbes 2018 list of 75 of the World's Most Powerful People who make the world turn.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-returning-from-north-korea-with-three-us-detainees-trump-135759">Pompeo returning from North Korea with three US detainees: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that three Americans detained by North Korea have been released and are on their way home with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

"I am pleased to inform you that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is in the air and on his way back from North Korea with the 3 wonderful gentlemen that everyone is looking so forward to meeting. They seem to be in good health," Trump wrote in a post on Twitter.

Walmart buying 77% stake in Flipkart for $16 billion Walmart Inc has agreed to pay $16 billion for a roughly 77 per cent stake in Indian online shopping site Flipkart, the US retailer's biggest foreign investment as it battles rival Amazon.com Inc in one of the world's biggest emerging markets. The deal, capping almost two years of talks, will help the Bentonville, Arkansas-based retailer fortify and boost market share against Amazon.com, which reportedly had tried to make a competing offer for a stake. India to grow at 7.4% in 2018, says IMF The Indian economy is expected to grow at 7.4 per cent in the current fiscal and accelerate further to 7.8 per cent as it recovers from the impact of demonetisation and GST roll out, IMF said today. Asia continues to be the main engine of the world's economy, accounting for more than 60 per cent of global growth, three-quarters of which comes from China and India alone, as per IMF's Regional Economic Outlook: Asia and Pacific (REO). Iran supreme leader Khamenei says will quit nuclear deal without European guarantees Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Wednesday that Tehran would quit the landmark 2015 nuclear deal unless European signatories offered solid guarantees that trade relations would continue after the US withdrawal. Addressing Iran's government in a televised speech, Khamenei said: "We hear that you want to continue the nuclear deal with the three European countries. I don't have confidence in these three countries." China's Xi is world's most powerful person, Modi is 9th: Forbes Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been ranked among the top 10 most powerful people in the world by Forbes in a list that has been topped for the first time ever by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who dethroned Russian President Vladimir Putin as the most influential person on the planet. Modi ranks 9th on the Forbes 2018 list of 75 of the World's Most Powerful People who make the world turn. Pompeo returning from North Korea with three US detainees: Trump US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that three Americans detained by North Korea have been released and are on their way home with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. "I am pleased to inform you that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is in the air and on his way back from North Korea with the 3 wonderful gentlemen that everyone is looking so forward to meeting. They seem to be in good health," Trump wrote in a post on Twitter.

Oil prices pushed higher in early trading on Wednesday after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pulls-out-of-iran-nuclear-deal-reimposes-us-sanctions-135588">US President Donald Trump walked away</a> from an international nuclear deal with Iran, a move that may curb the OPEC member's crude exports in an already tight market.

Trump on Tuesday pulled the United States out of an international nuclear deal with Iran that was agreed in late 2015, raising the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-decision-on-iran-is-psychological-warfare-iran-president--135593">risk of conflict in the Middle East </a>and casting uncertainty over global oil supplies.

Brent crude oil futures were at $76.21 per barrel at 0005 GMT, up $1.36, or 1.8 percent from their last close and not far off Monday's $76.34, the highest since late 2014.

US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up $1.18 per barrel, or 1.7 percent, at $70.24 a barrel, also close to highs last seen in late 2014.

"The big event of the night was President Trump`s cancelling of the nuclear deal made with Iran back in 2015. Sanctions will, therefore (likely) be reimposed on Iran, which will ultimately affect Iran's oil exports," said William O`Loughlin, investment analyst at Australia`s Rivkin Securities.

Iran re-emerged as a major oil exporter in 2016 after international sanctions against it were lifted in return for curbs on Iran`s nuclear programme, with its April exports standing at 2.6 million barrels per day (bpd).

This makes Iran the third biggest exporter of crude within the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), behind Saudi Arabia and Iraq.

Walking away from the deal means that the United States will likely re-impose sanctions against Iran after 180 days unless some other agreement is reached before then.

ANZ bank said Trump`s decision "puts into place a scenario that could see the crude oil market tighten significantly in H2 2018 and into next year."

Iran's exports of oil to Asia and Europe will almost certainly decline later this year and into 2019 as some nations seek alternatives in order to avoid trouble with Washington and as sanctions start to bite.

Despite this, it is not yet clear, how strongly global oil markets will be affected.

The United States buys no Iranian oil, while the other signatories of the agreement, Russia, Britain, France and Germany, are opposed to ending the agreement, and may continue to buy Iranian crude.

Asia, by far the biggest importer of oil from Iran, will likely continue to take in some supplies as well, as it did during the previous round of sanctions.

"There are worries that Iran`s oil exports could fall by about 1 million barrels per day (bpd) from current levels," said Tomomichi Akuta, senior economist at Mitsubishi UFJ Research and Consulting in Tokyo.

"The oil supply/demand balance is roughly in balance now, but it could turn to a complete supply shortage (in case of new supply curbs). Oil prices could rise at least $10 (a barrel), with Brent approaching near $90," he said.

Walking away from the deal means that the United States will likely re-impose sanctions against Iran after 180 days unless some other agreement is reached before then.

Oil prices pushed higher in early trading on Wednesday after US President Donald Trump walked away from an international nuclear deal with Iran, a move that may curb the OPEC member's crude exports in an already tight market. Trump on Tuesday pulled the United States out of an international nuclear deal with Iran that was agreed in late 2015, raising the risk of conflict in the Middle East and casting uncertainty over global oil supplies. Brent crude oil futures were at $76.21 per barrel at 0005 GMT, up $1.36, or 1.8 percent from their last close and not far off Monday's $76.34, the highest since late 2014. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up $1.18 per barrel, or 1.7 percent, at $70.24 a barrel, also close to highs last seen in late 2014. "The big event of the night was President Trump`s cancelling of the nuclear deal made with Iran back in 2015. Sanctions will, therefore (likely) be reimposed on Iran, which will ultimately affect Iran's oil exports," said William O`Loughlin, investment analyst at Australia`s Rivkin Securities. Iran re-emerged as a major oil exporter in 2016 after international sanctions against it were lifted in return for curbs on Iran`s nuclear programme, with its April exports standing at 2.6 million barrels per day (bpd). This makes Iran the third biggest exporter of crude within the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), behind Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Walking away from the deal means that the United States will likely re-impose sanctions against Iran after 180 days unless some other agreement is reached before then. ANZ bank said Trump`s decision "puts into place a scenario that could see the crude oil market tighten significantly in H2 2018 and into next year." Iran's exports of oil to Asia and Europe will almost certainly decline later this year and into 2019 as some nations seek alternatives in order to avoid trouble with Washington and as sanctions start to bite. Despite this, it is not yet clear, how strongly global oil markets will be affected. The United States buys no Iranian oil, while the other signatories of the agreement, Russia, Britain, France and Germany, are opposed to ending the agreement, and may continue to buy Iranian crude. Asia, by far the biggest importer of oil from Iran, will likely continue to take in some supplies as well, as it did during the previous round of sanctions. "There are worries that Iran`s oil exports could fall by about 1 million barrels per day (bpd) from current levels," said Tomomichi Akuta, senior economist at Mitsubishi UFJ Research and Consulting in Tokyo. "The oil supply/demand balance is roughly in balance now, but it could turn to a complete supply shortage (in case of new supply curbs). Oil prices could rise at least $10 (a barrel), with Brent approaching near $90," he said.

Oil prices push higher after US walks away from Iran nuclear deal

A day after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump pulled out of the Iran Nuclear deal, Ministry of External Affairs in India has said that the Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully.

The Ministry asserted that India believes in Iran's right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

It further said that Iranian Nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue and diplomacy.&nbsp;

The MEA said, "Indian has always maintained that Iranian nuclear&nbsp;issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue and diplomacy by respecting Iran's right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy and international community's strong interest in exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program."

US President Donald Trump withdrew from the Iran Nuclear Deal on Tuesday.

The deal called for Iran to accept restraints on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of UN, European and US nuclear-related economic sanctions.&nbsp;

Trump also said he would reimpose economic sanctions on Tehran immediately.

The&nbsp;international agreement&nbsp;was introduced in 2015 by the United States and five other international powers including Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany, eased sanctions on Iran

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India has always maintained that Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue&diplomacy by respecting Iran’s right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy & international community’s strong interest in exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program: MEA
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&nbsp;

The MEA said, 'Indian has always maintained that Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue and diplomacy by respecting Iran's right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy and international community's strong interest in exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program'

A day after US President Donald Trump pulled out of the Iran Nuclear deal, Ministry of External Affairs in India has said that the Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully. The Ministry asserted that India believes in Iran's right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy. It further said that Iranian Nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue and diplomacy. The MEA said, "Indian has always maintained that Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue and diplomacy by respecting Iran's right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy and international community's strong interest in exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program." US President Donald Trump withdrew from the Iran Nuclear Deal on Tuesday. The deal called for Iran to accept restraints on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of UN, European and US nuclear-related economic sanctions. Trump also said he would reimpose economic sanctions on Tehran immediately. The international agreement was introduced in 2015 by the United States and five other international powers including Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany, eased sanctions on Iran India has always maintained that Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved peacefully through dialogue&diplomacy by respecting Iran’s right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy & international community’s strong interest in exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program: MEA — ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2018 ×

India believes in Iran's right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy: MEA

Oil prices surged nearly three per cent on Wednesday, reaching fresh 3.5-year highs after President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the Iran nuclear deal, resulting in sanctions on the Islamic Republic's crude exports.

Both main crude contracts had already been rising in recent weeks, hitting 3.5-year highs, on expectations Trump was going to withdraw from the 2015 pact that had opened up Tehran's atomic programme in return for an easing of sanctions.

"The geopolitical repercussions of this decision will no doubt be widely felt, and due to as many as one million barrels of crude supply per day being effectively taken off the market when these sanctions are enforced, it represents a large supply-side shock for crude and this has driven the price up to its highest level since 2014," said David Cheetham, chief market analyst at traders XTB.

Benchmark oil contract Brent North Sea crude hit $77.20 dollars Wednesday, the highest level since November 2014. New York's WTI contract reached $71.17 -- also the highest for 3.5 years.

Oil's surge helped lift shares prices in energy majors, with Royal Dutch Shell and BP up more than two percent approaching midday in London.

"Both these firms have seen their share price rise to its highest level in several years," said Cheetham.

"The gains have boosted the broader index with the FTSE 100 close to its highest level since January.&nbsp

"The oil-and-gas sector accounts for roughly one-sixth of the benchmark, and the recent gains in this area are lifting the whole index," he added.

Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter, has meanwhile said it will take all necessary measures to prevent supply shortages.

Trump reinstated US sanctions which could curtail Iran's ability to export oil, its mainstay for public revenues.

US withdrawal from the accord, which had been agreed by Britain, China, Germany, Russia and the Obama administration -- was confirmed as Trump called it "defective at its core".

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said his country could resume uranium enrichment "without limit" but would discuss its response with the other signatories before making a decision.

With the move already priced into markets, oil's main contracts, Brent and WTI, sank soon after Tuesday's announcement, with some commentators suggesting Trump could still pedal back on some of his rhetoric and shift to a more diplomatic tone.

However, they bounced back strongly in Asian deals Wednesday. There was talk that crude could continue rising to $80 a barrel, with gains helped also by uncertainty in oil-rich Venezuela, an OPEC-Russia output cap, improving global demand and data pointing to a drop in US energy stockpiles.

Key figures around 1015 GMT

Oil - Brent North Sea: UP $2.10 at $76.95 per barrel

Oil - West Texas Intermediate: UP $1.98 at $71.04&nbsp

London - FTSE 100: UP 0.5 percent at 7,605.94 points&nbsp

Frankfurt - DAX 30: UP 0.3 percent at 12,956.40&nbsp

Paris - CAC 40: UP 0.1 percent at 5,526.37&nbsp

EURO STOXX 50: UP 0.3 percent at 3,569.14

Tokyo - Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.4 percent at 22,408.88 (close)

Hong Kong - Hang Seng: UP 0.4 percent at 30,536.14 (close)

Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 0.1 percent at 3,159.15 (close)

New York - Dow: FLAT at 24,360.21 (close)

Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1859 from $1.1864 at 2100 GMT

Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.3535 from $1.3548

Dollar/yen: UP at 109.73 yen from 109.07 yen

Benchmark oil contract Brent North Sea crude hit $77.20 dollars Wednesday, the highest level since November 2014

Oil prices surged nearly three per cent on Wednesday, reaching fresh 3.5-year highs after President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the Iran nuclear deal, resulting in sanctions on the Islamic Republic's crude exports. Both main crude contracts had already been rising in recent weeks, hitting 3.5-year highs, on expectations Trump was going to withdraw from the 2015 pact that had opened up Tehran's atomic programme in return for an easing of sanctions. "The geopolitical repercussions of this decision will no doubt be widely felt, and due to as many as one million barrels of crude supply per day being effectively taken off the market when these sanctions are enforced, it represents a large supply-side shock for crude and this has driven the price up to its highest level since 2014," said David Cheetham, chief market analyst at traders XTB. Benchmark oil contract Brent North Sea crude hit $77.20 dollars Wednesday, the highest level since November 2014. New York's WTI contract reached $71.17 -- also the highest for 3.5 years. Oil's surge helped lift shares prices in energy majors, with Royal Dutch Shell and BP up more than two percent approaching midday in London. "Both these firms have seen their share price rise to its highest level in several years," said Cheetham. "The gains have boosted the broader index with the FTSE 100 close to its highest level since January. "The oil-and-gas sector accounts for roughly one-sixth of the benchmark, and the recent gains in this area are lifting the whole index," he added. Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter, has meanwhile said it will take all necessary measures to prevent supply shortages. Trump reinstated US sanctions which could curtail Iran's ability to export oil, its mainstay for public revenues. US withdrawal from the accord, which had been agreed by Britain, China, Germany, Russia and the Obama administration -- was confirmed as Trump called it "defective at its core". Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said his country could resume uranium enrichment "without limit" but would discuss its response with the other signatories before making a decision. With the move already priced into markets, oil's main contracts, Brent and WTI, sank soon after Tuesday's announcement, with some commentators suggesting Trump could still pedal back on some of his rhetoric and shift to a more diplomatic tone. However, they bounced back strongly in Asian deals Wednesday. There was talk that crude could continue rising to $80 a barrel, with gains helped also by uncertainty in oil-rich Venezuela, an OPEC-Russia output cap, improving global demand and data pointing to a drop in US energy stockpiles. Key figures around 1015 GMT Oil - Brent North Sea: UP $2.10 at $76.95 per barrel Oil - West Texas Intermediate: UP $1.98 at $71.04 London - FTSE 100: UP 0.5 percent at 7,605.94 points Frankfurt - DAX 30: UP 0.3 percent at 12,956.40 Paris - CAC 40: UP 0.1 percent at 5,526.37 EURO STOXX 50: UP 0.3 percent at 3,569.14 Tokyo - Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.4 percent at 22,408.88 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng: UP 0.4 percent at 30,536.14 (close) Shanghai - Composite: DOWN 0.1 percent at 3,159.15 (close) New York - Dow: FLAT at 24,360.21 (close) Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.1859 from $1.1864 at 2100 GMT Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.3535 from $1.3548 Dollar/yen: UP at 109.73 yen from 109.07 yen

Oil prices surge after Trump tears up Iran deal

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

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke by telephone Tuesday with Donald Trump, just hours before the US president is widely expected to pull out of a key nuclear deal with Iran, his office said.

In a terse statement, the Elysee Palace said only that the two men "discussed matters relating to peace and stability in the Middle East," with no specific mention of Iran.

Macron has positioned himself as the emissary for European officials seeking a compromise that would keep the deal intact, after months of warnings by Trump that it fails to guarantee Tehran won't eventually build a nuclear weapon.

He had hoped to successfully argue his case during a state visit to Washington last month, but later made no secret that he believed Trump had already made up his mind to scrap the Obama-era accord.

Their discussion Tuesday came as Britain, Germany, France and a senior EU official met Iran's deputy foreign minister Abbas Araghchi in Brussels and "used this opportunity to reiterate their support to the continued full and effective implementation of the (deal) by all sides", the bloc said in a statement.

Trump said on Twitter that he would announce his decision at 1800 GMT, in what could be his most consequential foreign policy move yet.

In a terse statement, the Elysee Palace said only that the two men 'discussed matters relating to peace and stability in the Middle East,' with no specific mention of Iran

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke by telephone Tuesday with Donald Trump, just hours before the US president is widely expected to pull out of a key nuclear deal with Iran, his office said. In a terse statement, the Elysee Palace said only that the two men "discussed matters relating to peace and stability in the Middle East," with no specific mention of Iran. Macron has positioned himself as the emissary for European officials seeking a compromise that would keep the deal intact, after months of warnings by Trump that it fails to guarantee Tehran won't eventually build a nuclear weapon. He had hoped to successfully argue his case during a state visit to Washington last month, but later made no secret that he believed Trump had already made up his mind to scrap the Obama-era accord. Their discussion Tuesday came as Britain, Germany, France and a senior EU official met Iran's deputy foreign minister Abbas Araghchi in Brussels and "used this opportunity to reiterate their support to the continued full and effective implementation of the (deal) by all sides", the bloc said in a statement. Trump said on Twitter that he would announce his decision at 1800 GMT, in what could be his most consequential foreign policy move yet.

Macron speaks with Trump hours before his announcement on Iran nuclear deal

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dust-storm-in-delhi-overnight-flights-delayed-imd-predicts-rain--thundershowers-in-north-india-135297">Duststorm in Delhi overnight, flights delayed IMD predicts rain & </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dust-storm-in-delhi-overnight-flights-delayed-imd-predicts-rain--thundershowers-in-north-india-135297">thunder showers</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dust-storm-in-delhi-overnight-flights-delayed-imd-predicts-rain--thundershowers-in-north-india-135297"> in North India</a>

Delhi was hit by a powerful thunderstorm with wind speeds of 50-70 kmph on Monday night with the Meteorological department predicting rain in Delhi and adjoining areas in NCR.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-us--guatemala-paraguay-to-open-embassy-in-jersualem-135312">After US & Guatemala, Paraguay to open </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-us--guatemala-paraguay-to-open-embassy-in-jersualem-135312">embassy</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-us--guatemala-paraguay-to-open-embassy-in-jersualem-135312"> in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-us--guatemala-paraguay-to-open-embassy-in-jersualem-135312">Jersualem</a>

After Guatemala decided to open its embassy in Jerusalem, Paraguay said it would also open its embassy in the holy city just days ahead of the opening of the US embassy in the region.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-interior-minister-ahsan-iqbal-was-an-easy-target-says-primary-suspect-after-assassination-attempt-135300">Pak Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal was an 'easy target', says, primary suspect after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-interior-minister-ahsan-iqbal-was-an-easy-target-says-primary-suspect-after-assassination-attempt-135300">assassination</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-interior-minister-ahsan-iqbal-was-an-easy-target-says-primary-suspect-after-assassination-attempt-135300"> attempt</a>

The primary suspect, Abid Hussain, who was responsible for the assassination bid at Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, reportedly said that Iqbal was an "easy target" and "belonged to his area," reports said.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-options-on-iran-nuclear-deal-135293">What could be Trump's possible options on Iran nuclear deal?</a>

US President Donald Trump will decide the future of the Iran nuclear deal today. Signed in the year 2015, between Iran and P5+1 countries (China, Russia, France, United States, Germany and the UK) in Vienna, the accord called for Iran to accept restraints on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of UN, European and US nuclear-related economic sanctions.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-mother-prayed-five-times-a-day-but-never-on-streets-taslima-nasreen-135295">My mother prayed five times a day but never on streets: Taslima Nasreen</a>

Bangladesh-born Taslima Nasreen, 55, who fled her country after a fundamentalist backlash over her book Lajja in the 90s, backed Haryana chief minister's move to not to allow namaz in public places.&nbsp

Duststorm in Delhi overnight, flights delayed IMD predicts rain & thunder showers in North India Delhi was hit by a powerful thunderstorm with wind speeds of 50-70 kmph on Monday night with the Meteorological department predicting rain in Delhi and adjoining areas in NCR. After US & Guatemala, Paraguay to open embassy in Jersualem After Guatemala decided to open its embassy in Jerusalem, Paraguay said it would also open its embassy in the holy city just days ahead of the opening of the US embassy in the region. Pak Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal was an 'easy target', says, primary suspect after assassination attempt The primary suspect, Abid Hussain, who was responsible for the assassination bid at Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, reportedly said that Iqbal was an "easy target" and "belonged to his area," reports said. What could be Trump's possible options on Iran nuclear deal? US President Donald Trump will decide the future of the Iran nuclear deal today. Signed in the year 2015, between Iran and P5+1 countries (China, Russia, France, United States, Germany and the UK) in Vienna, the accord called for Iran to accept restraints on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of UN, European and US nuclear-related economic sanctions. My mother prayed five times a day but never on streets: Taslima Nasreen Bangladesh-born Taslima Nasreen, 55, who fled her country after a fundamentalist backlash over her book Lajja in the 90s, backed Haryana chief minister's move to not to allow namaz in public places.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump will decide the future of the Iran nuclear deal today. Signed in the year 2015, between Iran and P5+1 countries (China, Russia, France, United States, Germany and the UK) in Vienna, the accord called for Iran to&nbsp;accept&nbsp;restraints on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of UN, European and US nuclear-related economic sanctions.&nbsp;

As per the agreement, Iran agreed to eliminate its stock of medium-enriched and low-enriched uranium and exercise strict control over its uranium-enrichment activities. The country also agreed to reduce the number of its gas centrifuges by about two-thirds for 13 years.&nbsp;

The deal gave the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) a regular access to all Iranian nuclear facilities.&nbsp;

Time and again, the US President has threatened to pull out of the deal. Countries like Germany and France have been trying to persuade Donald Trump not to scrap the deal. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that calling off the JCPOA "would open the Pandora’s box. There could be war".

On 30 April 2018, the United States and Israel announced that Iran violated one of the clauses stated in the 2015 agreement which required the country to disclose a past covert nuclear weapons program to the IAEA.

While all eyes are set on Trump's announcement on JCPOA today, here are four possible avenues he could take on the fate of the 2015 deal.

Trump could claim that Iran is not living up to the deal by pointing to last week’s revelation by Israel of what it said was evidence of a secret Iranian nuclear weapons programme, most of which was already known to the international community and UN&nbsp;nuclear inspectors.

The International Atomic Energy Agency says Iran is in compliance with the agreement. While senior US&nbsp;officials acknowledge that Iran has complied with the letter of the accord, Trump points to Iran's ballistic missile activity and regional conduct as evidence of the deal's shortcomings.

Scenario 1: Trump re-issues sanctions waivers

Trump could waive US&nbsp;sanctions on Iran’s central bank and oil exports – as he has done every four months – while continuing talks with Germany, France and Britain on a side agreement that addresses what he sees as the deal's flaws.&nbsp;

Scenario 2: Trump does not waive sanctions

Trump could decide not to waive the US&nbsp;sanctions, under which the penalties would take effect 180 days later, and leave it to European allies – who favour preserving the deal - to decide on their own course of action. In this scenario, Iran would have to decide whether it will continue to abide by the accord's restrictions on its nuclear programme.

Scenario 3:&nbsp;Trump doesn't waive sanctions, but could reconsider

Trump could decide not to waive sanctions, but announce that he could restore the waivers before the penalties for violating the sanctions go back into effect if European allies reach a side agreement with the United States. Again, it would be Iran’s choice whether to continue abiding by the deal in the meantime.

Scenario 4: Trump doesn't waive sanctions and says Iran violating the deal 

Trump could announce that he will not waive the sanctions, and, citing the purported evidence revealed by Israel, claim that Iran is violating the deal. The United States could then use a dispute resolution mechanism laid out in the JCPOA to seek a “snap-back” of UN&nbsp;sanctions on Iran.

The International Atomic Energy Agency says Iran is in compliance with the agreement

US President Donald Trump will decide the future of the Iran nuclear deal today. Signed in the year 2015, between Iran and P5+1 countries (China, Russia, France, United States, Germany and the UK) in Vienna, the accord called for Iran to accept restraints on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of UN, European and US nuclear-related economic sanctions. As per the agreement, Iran agreed to eliminate its stock of medium-enriched and low-enriched uranium and exercise strict control over its uranium-enrichment activities. The country also agreed to reduce the number of its gas centrifuges by about two-thirds for 13 years. The deal gave the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) a regular access to all Iranian nuclear facilities. Time and again, the US President has threatened to pull out of the deal. Countries like Germany and France have been trying to persuade Donald Trump not to scrap the deal. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that calling off the JCPOA "would open the Pandora’s box. There could be war". On 30 April 2018, the United States and Israel announced that Iran violated one of the clauses stated in the 2015 agreement which required the country to disclose a past covert nuclear weapons program to the IAEA. While all eyes are set on Trump's announcement on JCPOA today, here are four possible avenues he could take on the fate of the 2015 deal. Trump could claim that Iran is not living up to the deal by pointing to last week’s revelation by Israel of what it said was evidence of a secret Iranian nuclear weapons programme, most of which was already known to the international community and UN nuclear inspectors. The International Atomic Energy Agency says Iran is in compliance with the agreement. While senior US officials acknowledge that Iran has complied with the letter of the accord, Trump points to Iran's ballistic missile activity and regional conduct as evidence of the deal's shortcomings. Scenario 1: Trump re-issues sanctions waivers Trump could waive US sanctions on Iran’s central bank and oil exports – as he has done every four months – while continuing talks with Germany, France and Britain on a side agreement that addresses what he sees as the deal's flaws. Scenario 2: Trump does not waive sanctions Trump could decide not to waive the US sanctions, under which the penalties would take effect 180 days later, and leave it to European allies – who favour preserving the deal - to decide on their own course of action. In this scenario, Iran would have to decide whether it will continue to abide by the accord's restrictions on its nuclear programme. Scenario 3: Trump doesn't waive sanctions, but could reconsider Trump could decide not to waive sanctions, but announce that he could restore the waivers before the penalties for violating the sanctions go back into effect if European allies reach a side agreement with the United States. Again, it would be Iran’s choice whether to continue abiding by the deal in the meantime. Scenario 4: Trump doesn't waive sanctions and says Iran violating the deal Trump could announce that he will not waive the sanctions, and, citing the purported evidence revealed by Israel, claim that Iran is violating the deal. The United States could then use a dispute resolution mechanism laid out in the JCPOA to seek a “snap-back” of UN sanctions on Iran.

What could be Trump's possible options on Iran nuclear deal?

<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?

US President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-options-on-iran-nuclear-deal-135293">Donald Trump</a> is set to decide the fate of the landmark <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-&-economy/ahead-of-us-decision-on-iran-deal-a-look-at-gulf-oil-diplomacy-135492">Iran nuclear deal</a> on Tuesday, announcing his verdict on US sanctions relief underpinning the international accord, which he has repeatedly and harshly criticised.

Officials and diplomats expect the pugnacious US leader to ignore last-ditch European pleas and move to withdraw the United States from a 2015 agreement, which he insists was "very badly negotiated".

Trump has unsuccessfully demanded changes to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-nuclear-deal--135480">Obama-era deal</a>, which saw Iran mothball a suspected nuclear weapons program in return for massive sanctions relief.

Months of intensive talks between the United States and European allies now appear deadlocked, with Berlin, London and Paris refusing to rewrite the agreement. The prospect of Trump pulling out of the deal has left many West Asian countries concerned.

"I can't say if the US will walk away from the Iran nuclear deal but we have to all work together and strive for Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction, especially nuclear weapons," Jordan's foreign minister Ayman al-Safadi said.

"If we do not look at the political picture and ... find a way to ensure that the whole region is free of (these weapons), we'll be looking at a lot of dangerous repercussions that will affect the region in terms of an arms race," he said.

In March, Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told CBS news that his kingdom would "without a doubt" develop nuclear weapons if Iran, Riyadh's arch foe, did so.

Trump has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/a-timeline-of-trumps-statements-on-the-iran-nuclear-deal-135463">consistently threatened to pull out</a> of the 2015 agreement because it does not address Iran's ballistic missile program or its role in wars in Syria and Yemen, and does not permanently prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons.

One European diplomat echoed the mood around foreign embassies in Washington, saying "there is plainly a difference of opinion," acknowledging that Trump seems poised to walk away from the accord.

WHAT OTHER COUNTRIES ARE SAYING

Germany and France on Monday vowed to stand by the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers even if the United States pulls out.

"This agreement is not the best one in the world," France's Defence Minister Florence Parly told RTL radio. "But without being perfect, it still has its virtues... and they (the Iranians) are respecting it," she said.

Volker Kauder, head of Merkel's conservatives in parliament, said continued dialogue was needed to avoid isolating Iran.

"That would only further exacerbate the situation in the Middle East," Kauder told reporters in Murnau, where Merkel and other leaders of the coalition government are gathered for a retreat.

Andrea Nahles, head of the Social Democrats, junior partner in the coalition, also warned against a US decision to withdraw from the accord. "The situation is more difficult than ever. Things are falling apart at every corner," she said.

'READY FOR ANY SCENARIO'

Iran has, meanwhile, said that it will not re-negotiate and will resist any American attempt to counter its presence in West Asia. <a href="www.wionews.com/world/what-could-iran-do-if-trump-pulls-out-of-nuclear-deal-135382">Iran also said</a> that it is ready for any scenario.

"We are ready for any possible scenario... If the United States violates the deal, it would be naive to negotiate with this country again," Vice-President Eshaq Jahangiri was quoted as saying by news agency Tasnim.

Iranian officials say all this amounts to a flagrant violation of article 29 of the nuclear deal, which committed the US to ensure "the normalisation of trade and economic relations with Iran".

The US counters that it never promised to lift non-nuclear sanctions related to issues such as human rights and Iran's missile programme, which were already complicating trade before Trump came to power.

Trump has consistently threatened to pull out of the 2015 agreement because it does not address Iran's ballistic missile program or its role in wars in Syria and Yemen.

US President Donald Trump is set to decide the fate of the landmark Iran nuclear deal on Tuesday, announcing his verdict on US sanctions relief underpinning the international accord, which he has repeatedly and harshly criticised. Officials and diplomats expect the pugnacious US leader to ignore last-ditch European pleas and move to withdraw the United States from a 2015 agreement, which he insists was "very badly negotiated". Trump has unsuccessfully demanded changes to the Obama-era deal, which saw Iran mothball a suspected nuclear weapons program in return for massive sanctions relief. Months of intensive talks between the United States and European allies now appear deadlocked, with Berlin, London and Paris refusing to rewrite the agreement. The prospect of Trump pulling out of the deal has left many West Asian countries concerned. "I can't say if the US will walk away from the Iran nuclear deal but we have to all work together and strive for Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction, especially nuclear weapons," Jordan's foreign minister Ayman al-Safadi said. "If we do not look at the political picture and ... find a way to ensure that the whole region is free of (these weapons), we'll be looking at a lot of dangerous repercussions that will affect the region in terms of an arms race," he said. In March, Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told CBS news that his kingdom would "without a doubt" develop nuclear weapons if Iran, Riyadh's arch foe, did so. Trump has consistently threatened to pull out of the 2015 agreement because it does not address Iran's ballistic missile program or its role in wars in Syria and Yemen, and does not permanently prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons. One European diplomat echoed the mood around foreign embassies in Washington, saying "there is plainly a difference of opinion," acknowledging that Trump seems poised to walk away from the accord. WHAT OTHER COUNTRIES ARE SAYING Germany and France on Monday vowed to stand by the 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers even if the United States pulls out. "This agreement is not the best one in the world," France's Defence Minister Florence Parly told RTL radio. "But without being perfect, it still has its virtues... and they (the Iranians) are respecting it," she said. Volker Kauder, head of Merkel's conservatives in parliament, said continued dialogue was needed to avoid isolating Iran. "That would only further exacerbate the situation in the Middle East," Kauder told reporters in Murnau, where Merkel and other leaders of the coalition government are gathered for a retreat. Andrea Nahles, head of the Social Democrats, junior partner in the coalition, also warned against a US decision to withdraw from the accord. "The situation is more difficult than ever. Things are falling apart at every corner," she said. 'READY FOR ANY SCENARIO' Iran has, meanwhile, said that it will not re-negotiate and will resist any American attempt to counter its presence in West Asia. Iran also said that it is ready for any scenario. "We are ready for any possible scenario... If the United States violates the deal, it would be naive to negotiate with this country again," Vice-President Eshaq Jahangiri was quoted as saying by news agency Tasnim. Iranian officials say all this amounts to a flagrant violation of article 29 of the nuclear deal, which committed the US to ensure "the normalisation of trade and economic relations with Iran". The US counters that it never promised to lift non-nuclear sanctions related to issues such as human rights and Iran's missile programme, which were already complicating trade before Trump came to power.

What will happen to West Asia if Trump pulls out of Iran nuclear deal?

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

President Donald Trump will announce on Tuesday whether he will withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal and a senior US official said it was unclear if efforts by European allies to address Trump`s concerns would be enough to save the pact.

Trump has repeatedly threatened to withdraw from the deal, which eased economic sanctions on Iran in exchange for Tehran limiting its nuclear program unless France, Germany and Britain - which also signed the agreement - fix what he has called its flaws.

The senior US official said the European allies had moved significantly in Trump's direction on what he sees as the defects - the failure to address Iran`s ballistic missile program, the terms under which international inspectors visit suspected Iranian sites, and "sunset" clauses under which some terms expire.

The official did not know, however, if the Europeans had done enough to convince Trump to remain in the deal.

"The big question in my mind is does he think the Europeans have moved far enough so that we can all be unified and announce a deal? That’s one option," said the official. "Or (does he conclude) the Europeans have not moved far enough and we say they’ve got to move more?"

European diplomats said privately they expected Trump to effectively withdraw from the agreement, which was struck by six major powers - Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States - and Iran in July 2015.

"It’s pretty obvious to me that unless something changes in the next few days, I believe the president will not waive the sanctions," one European diplomat said, adding he saw only a "very small" chance that Trump stays in the deal.

European leaders have warned that Trump`s withdrawal would strike a blow to the alliance between Western Europe and the United States, and undo years of negotiations that they say were successful in halting Iran`s nuclear ambitions.

Iran has ruled out renegotiating the accord and threatened to retaliate, although it has not said exactly how, if Washington pulls out.

Trump gave no indication of which way he was leaning on Monday, saying only in a Twitter post that he would announce his decision at 11:30 PM on Tuesday.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I will be announcing my decision on the Iran Deal tomorrow from the White House at 2:00pm.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/993562242124865536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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IRAN BACKLASH?

Under the deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the United States committed to easing a series of U.S. sanctions on Iran and it has done so under a string of "waivers" that effectively suspend them.

Under U.S. law, Trump has until Saturday to decide whether to reintroduce U.S. sanctions related to Iran`s central bank and Iranian oil exports.

The reimposition of sanctions would dissuade foreign companies from doing business with Iran because they could be subject to U.S. penalties.

Bringing back U.S. sanctions could also trigger a backlash by Iran, which could resume its nuclear arms program or punish U.S. allies in Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Lebanon, diplomats said.

On Monday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani suggested Iran could remain in the accord even if the United States dropped out but that Tehran would fiercely resist U.S. pressure to limit its influence in the Middle East.

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 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."

Trump's Iran tweet helped oil prices break $70 a barrel to reach their highest level since late 2014.

ALLIES COMMITTED TO 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 program, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 - when pivotal provisions of the deal expire - and its role in the wars in Syria and Yemen.

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, in Washington this week, said the deal`s weaknesses 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.

Johnson met U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Vice President Mike Pence on Monday.

Diplomats say Iran 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.

Sanctions imposed on Iran in early 2012 by the United States and European Union over its nuclear program cut Iran`s crude exports from a peak of 2.5 million barrels per day before the sanctions to a little more than 1 million bpd.

But Iran re-emerged as a major oil exporter in January 2016 when international sanctions were suspended in return for curbs on Iran’s nuclear program.

Iran`s clerical rulers have repeatedly ruled out reducing its sway across the region, as the United States and its European allies may seek as part of any new deal.

Underlining Tehran`s growing regional clout, pro-Iranian group Hezbollah and its political allies won just over half the seats in Lebanon`s parliamentary election, unofficial results showed on Monday.

The official did not know, however, if the Europeans had done enough to convince Trump to remain in the deal.

President Donald Trump will announce on Tuesday whether he will withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal and a senior US official said it was unclear if efforts by European allies to address Trump`s concerns would be enough to save the pact. Trump has repeatedly threatened to withdraw from the deal, which eased economic sanctions on Iran in exchange for Tehran limiting its nuclear program unless France, Germany and Britain - which also signed the agreement - fix what he has called its flaws. The senior US official said the European allies had moved significantly in Trump's direction on what he sees as the defects - the failure to address Iran`s ballistic missile program, the terms under which international inspectors visit suspected Iranian sites, and "sunset" clauses under which some terms expire. The official did not know, however, if the Europeans had done enough to convince Trump to remain in the deal. "The big question in my mind is does he think the Europeans have moved far enough so that we can all be unified and announce a deal? That’s one option," said the official. "Or (does he conclude) the Europeans have not moved far enough and we say they’ve got to move more?" European diplomats said privately they expected Trump to effectively withdraw from the agreement, which was struck by six major powers - Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States - and Iran in July 2015. "It’s pretty obvious to me that unless something changes in the next few days, I believe the president will not waive the sanctions," one European diplomat said, adding he saw only a "very small" chance that Trump stays in the deal. European leaders have warned that Trump`s withdrawal would strike a blow to the alliance between Western Europe and the United States, and undo years of negotiations that they say were successful in halting Iran`s nuclear ambitions. Iran has ruled out renegotiating the accord and threatened to retaliate, although it has not said exactly how, if Washington pulls out. Trump gave no indication of which way he was leaning on Monday, saying only in a Twitter post that he would announce his decision at 11:30 PM on Tuesday. I will be announcing my decision on the Iran Deal tomorrow from the White House at 2:00pm. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 7, 2018 × IRAN BACKLASH? Under the deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the United States committed to easing a series of U.S. sanctions on Iran and it has done so under a string of "waivers" that effectively suspend them. Under U.S. law, Trump has until Saturday to decide whether to reintroduce U.S. sanctions related to Iran`s central bank and Iranian oil exports. The reimposition of sanctions would dissuade foreign companies from doing business with Iran because they could be subject to U.S. penalties. Bringing back U.S. sanctions could also trigger a backlash by Iran, which could resume its nuclear arms program or punish U.S. allies in Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Lebanon, diplomats said. On Monday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani suggested Iran could remain in the accord even if the United States dropped out but that Tehran would fiercely resist U.S. pressure to limit its influence in the Middle East. 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 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." Trump's Iran tweet helped oil prices break $70 a barrel to reach their highest level since late 2014. ALLIES COMMITTED TO 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 program, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 - when pivotal provisions of the deal expire - and its role in the wars in Syria and Yemen. British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, in Washington this week, said the deal`s weaknesses 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. Johnson met U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Vice President Mike Pence on Monday. Diplomats say Iran 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. Sanctions imposed on Iran in early 2012 by the United States and European Union over its nuclear program cut Iran`s crude exports from a peak of 2.5 million barrels per day before the sanctions to a little more than 1 million bpd. But Iran re-emerged as a major oil exporter in January 2016 when international sanctions were suspended in return for curbs on Iran’s nuclear program. Iran`s clerical rulers have repeatedly ruled out reducing its sway across the region, as the United States and its European allies may seek as part of any new deal. Underlining Tehran`s growing regional clout, pro-Iranian group Hezbollah and its political allies won just over half the seats in Lebanon`s parliamentary election, unofficial results showed on Monday.

Donald Trump to unveil Iran decision today; Europeans move his way

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

The future of the landmark Iran nuclear deal is at stake today as US President Donald Trump will announce his decision on the nuke agreement. In a tweet posted yesterday, Trump noted that he would announce a decision on the future of the Iran nuclear deal on Tuesday at 2pm (United States time).&nbsp;

While the world speculates the turn of events post-Trump's nuke declaration today, let us quickly revisit facts related to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) aka the Iran nuclear deal.&nbsp;

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I will be announcing my decision on the Iran Deal tomorrow from the White House at 2:00pm.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/993562242124865536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The nuke deal

Signed in the year 2015, between Iran and P5+1 countries (China, Russia, France, United States, Germany and the UK) in Vienna, the accord, orchestrated by the Obama administration, called for Iran to accept restraints on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of UN, European and US nuclear-related economic sanctions.&nbsp;

As per the agreement, Iran agreed to eliminate its stock of medium-enriched and low-enriched uranium and exercise strict control over its uranium-enrichment activities. The country also agreed to reduce the number of its gas centrifuges by about two-thirds for 13 years.&nbsp;

The deal gave the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) a regular access to all Iranian nuclear facilities.&nbsp;

Trump's dissent&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has spoken against the Iran nuke accord out in the public ever since his presidential campaigning days.&nbsp;

Time and again, Trump had accused Iran of not living up to the deal. Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made revelations about what it called 'evidence of a secret Iranian nuclear weapons programme' and urged Trump to pull out of the deal.&nbsp;

The International Atomic Energy Agency says Iran is in compliance with the agreement. While senior US officials acknowledge that Iran has complied with the letter of the accord, Trump points to Iran's ballistic missile activity and regional conduct as evidence of the deal's shortcomings.

The US President had previously described the deal as "insane" and "ridiculous", flawed, "one-sided" and not in America's interest.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-why-donald-trump-wants-to-scrap-iran-nuclear-deal-so-badly-135331">Opinion: Why Donald Trump wants to scrap Iran nuclear deal so badly</a>

What can <a href="www.wionews.com/world/trumps-options-on-iran-nuclear-deal-135293">Trump say tonight</a>?

All in all, there are a handful of possibilities of what the US President will pronounce later in the day. Trump can choose to re-issue&nbsp;sanctions waivers or decide not to waive them.&nbsp;

"Trump could decide not to waive sanctions, but announce that he could restore the waivers before the penalties for violating the sanctions go back into effect if European allies reach a side agreement with the United States," Reuters reported.&nbsp;

He could also decide not to waive the sanctions, and continue to sing the tale of Iran violating the deal.

Iran's take&nbsp;

Iran has warned that in the event of the United States exiting the deal, the White House must brace up for consequences and face "regret of historic proportions".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-could-iran-do-if-trump-pulls-out-of-nuclear-deal-135382">Iran could retaliate</a> by undermining the interests of Washington and its allies 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 pressure to limit its influence in the Middle East.

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 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."

US President Donald Trump has spoken against the Iran nuke accord out in the public ever since his presidential campaigning days in the year 2015-16.

The future of the landmark Iran nuclear deal is at stake today as US President Donald Trump will announce his decision on the nuke agreement. In a tweet posted yesterday, Trump noted that he would announce a decision on the future of the Iran nuclear deal on Tuesday at 2pm (United States time). While the world speculates the turn of events post-Trump's nuke declaration today, let us quickly revisit facts related to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) aka the Iran nuclear deal. I will be announcing my decision on the Iran Deal tomorrow from the White House at 2:00pm. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 7, 2018 × The nuke deal Signed in the year 2015, between Iran and P5+1 countries (China, Russia, France, United States, Germany and the UK) in Vienna, the accord, orchestrated by the Obama administration, called for Iran to accept restraints on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of UN, European and US nuclear-related economic sanctions. As per the agreement, Iran agreed to eliminate its stock of medium-enriched and low-enriched uranium and exercise strict control over its uranium-enrichment activities. The country also agreed to reduce the number of its gas centrifuges by about two-thirds for 13 years. The deal gave the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) a regular access to all Iranian nuclear facilities. Trump's dissent US President Donald Trump has spoken against the Iran nuke accord out in the public ever since his presidential campaigning days. Time and again, Trump had accused Iran of not living up to the deal. Last week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made revelations about what it called 'evidence of a secret Iranian nuclear weapons programme' and urged Trump to pull out of the deal. The International Atomic Energy Agency says Iran is in compliance with the agreement. While senior US officials acknowledge that Iran has complied with the letter of the accord, Trump points to Iran's ballistic missile activity and regional conduct as evidence of the deal's shortcomings. The US President had previously described the deal as "insane" and "ridiculous", flawed, "one-sided" and not in America's interest. Also Read: Opinion: Why Donald Trump wants to scrap Iran nuclear deal so badly What can Trump say tonight? All in all, there are a handful of possibilities of what the US President will pronounce later in the day. Trump can choose to re-issue sanctions waivers or decide not to waive them. "Trump could decide not to waive sanctions, but announce that he could restore the waivers before the penalties for violating the sanctions go back into effect if European allies reach a side agreement with the United States," Reuters reported. He could also decide not to waive the sanctions, and continue to sing the tale of Iran violating the deal. Iran's take Iran has warned that in the event of the United States exiting the deal, the White House must brace up for consequences and face "regret of historic proportions". Iran could retaliate by undermining the interests of Washington and its allies 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 pressure to limit its influence in the Middle East. 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 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."

What is Iran nuclear deal? All about 2015 JCPOA accord

After <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-should-win-nobel-peace-prize-south-korea-president-133773">South Korea Presiden Moon Jae-Un</a> said that US President Donald Trump should be nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, Britan's Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has also suggested that Trump be given the honor if he "fixes" North Korea and the Iran nuclear deal, reports said.&nbsp;

Johnson also said that Trump is as a deserving candidate as for the prize as Barack Obama "who got it before he even did anything," reports quoted him as saying.&nbsp;

Obama had won the prestigious award in 2009, less than a year after entering office.

Johnson's remarks came during his trip to Washington DC where he plans to convince Trump to renew the Iran nuclear deal of 2015. Johnson told Trump that Iran will "go for a bomb" if the deal is scrapped.&nbsp;

On Monday, Trump announced on Twitter that he would make a decision on Tuesday. “I will be announcing my decision on the Iran Deal tomorrow from the White House at 2.00pm,” he wrote.&nbsp;

Johnson said that, if he backs the Iran deal, Trump has as much chance of winning the award as Barack Obama.

Johnson is set to meet the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo but has no meetings with Trump this week.&nbsp;

Earlier, South Korean President Moon Jae-Un said: "President Trump should win the Nobel Peace Prize. What we need is only peace," Moon told a cabinet meeting, according to a presidential Blue House official who briefed media.

Trump has tamped down expectations from the North Korea talks over its nuclear weapon programme but has claimed credit for making it possible. &nbsp;

Calls have followed for the Nobel Peace Prize for Trump, Kim and South Korea’s Moon Jae-in. According to a leading London bookie, the Korea reconciliation initiative is currently the favorite for the prize in 2018, with Kim and Moon front-ending it. Trump is the next favorite.

Also, loyal supporters of Donald Trump in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/house-of-representatives-nominate-trump-for-nobel-peace-prize-134374">House of Representatives</a> have nominated the US President's name for Nobel Peace Prize.

The members from House of Representatives have sent a letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee for their proposal.&nbsp;

The nomination was headed by Indiana's Rep. Luke Messer, who is locked in a fierce GOP primary battle in the Hoosier State for a Senate seat. Besides Messer, other members endorsing the proposal are Freedom Caucus leader Rep. Mark Meadows of North Carolina and Rep. Steve King of Iowa.&nbsp;

Johnson also said that Trump as a deserving candidate as for the prize as Barack Obama 'who got it before he even did anything' reports quoted him as saying

After South Korea Presiden Moon Jae-Un said that US President Donald Trump should be nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, Britan's Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson has also suggested that Trump be given the honor if he "fixes" North Korea and the Iran nuclear deal, reports said. Johnson also said that Trump is as a deserving candidate as for the prize as Barack Obama "who got it before he even did anything," reports quoted him as saying. Obama had won the prestigious award in 2009, less than a year after entering office. Johnson's remarks came during his trip to Washington DC where he plans to convince Trump to renew the Iran nuclear deal of 2015. Johnson told Trump that Iran will "go for a bomb" if the deal is scrapped. On Monday, Trump announced on Twitter that he would make a decision on Tuesday. “I will be announcing my decision on the Iran Deal tomorrow from the White House at 2.00pm,” he wrote. Johnson said that, if he backs the Iran deal, Trump has as much chance of winning the award as Barack Obama. Johnson is set to meet the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo but has no meetings with Trump this week. Earlier, South Korean President Moon Jae-Un said: "President Trump should win the Nobel Peace Prize. What we need is only peace," Moon told a cabinet meeting, according to a presidential Blue House official who briefed media. Trump has tamped down expectations from the North Korea talks over its nuclear weapon programme but has claimed credit for making it possible. Calls have followed for the Nobel Peace Prize for Trump, Kim and South Korea’s Moon Jae-in. According to a leading London bookie, the Korea reconciliation initiative is currently the favorite for the prize in 2018, with Kim and Moon front-ending it. Trump is the next favorite. Also, loyal supporters of Donald Trump in House of Representatives have nominated the US President's name for Nobel Peace Prize. The members from House of Representatives have sent a letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee for their proposal. The nomination was headed by Indiana's Rep. Luke Messer, who is locked in a fierce GOP primary battle in the Hoosier State for a Senate seat. Besides Messer, other members endorsing the proposal are Freedom Caucus leader Rep. Mark Meadows of North Carolina and Rep. Steve King of Iowa.

This is why Trump could win the Nobel Peace Prize, according to Boris Johnson

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-warns-donald-trump-of-historic-regret-over-nuclear-deal-135020">Iran’s Hassan Rouhani warns Donald Trump of ‘historic regret’ over </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-warns-donald-trump-of-historic-regret-over-nuclear-deal-135020">nuclear</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-warns-donald-trump-of-historic-regret-over-nuclear-deal-135020"> deal</a>

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

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/cia-nominee-gina-haspel-tried-to-withdraw-over-torture-allegation-report-135024">CIA nominee Gina Haspel tried to withdraw over 'torture' allegation: Report</a>

Ahead of her Senate intelligence committee appearance on Wednesday, Gina Haspel who was picked by Trump to be the next CIA chief has reportedly informed the White House that she may not attend the confirmation hearing over her intelligence records which allegedly involves "waterboarding" technique which is condemned as torture.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-issues-thunderstorm-alert-in-13-states-2-union-territories-135026">Thunderstorm warning: Schools closed in Haryana, 13 states on alert</a>

Thunderstorms accompanied by squall, hail and heavy rains are likely to occur in at least 13 states and two Union Territories across the country today. Thunderstorm accompanied with squall and hail are very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh while thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds are very likely today at isolated places in Uttarakhand and Punjab.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/more-than-50-killed-in-blast-at-mosque-in-eastern-afghanistan--135027">More than 50 killed in blast at </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/more-than-50-killed-in-blast-at-mosque-in-eastern-afghanistan--135027">mosque</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/more-than-50-killed-in-blast-at-mosque-in-eastern-afghanistan--135027"> in eastern Afghanistan</a>

More than 50 people lost their lives during an explosion at a mosque on Sunday when attackers targetted a voter centre in the eastern Afghan province of Khost, also leaving over 34 people wounded.&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-government-faces-legal-pressure-over-arms-sales-to-saudi-uae-135031">French government faces legal pressure over arms sales to Saudi, UAE</a>

Two rights groups campaigning for the French government to halt weapons sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates said on Sunday they were taking their case to France's highest legal authority.

Iran’s Hassan Rouhani warns Donald Trump of ‘historic regret’ over nuclear deal 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. CIA nominee Gina Haspel tried to withdraw over 'torture' allegation: Report Ahead of her Senate intelligence committee appearance on Wednesday, Gina Haspel who was picked by Trump to be the next CIA chief has reportedly informed the White House that she may not attend the confirmation hearing over her intelligence records which allegedly involves "waterboarding" technique which is condemned as torture. Thunderstorm warning: Schools closed in Haryana, 13 states on alert Thunderstorms accompanied by squall, hail and heavy rains are likely to occur in at least 13 states and two Union Territories across the country today. Thunderstorm accompanied with squall and hail are very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh while thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds are very likely today at isolated places in Uttarakhand and Punjab. More than 50 killed in blast at mosque in eastern Afghanistan More than 50 people lost their lives during an explosion at a mosque on Sunday when attackers targetted a voter centre in the eastern Afghan province of Khost, also leaving over 34 people wounded. French government faces legal pressure over arms sales to Saudi, UAE Two rights groups campaigning for the French government to halt weapons sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates said on Sunday they were taking their case to France's highest legal authority.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/anger-in-france-britain-over-us-president-donald-trumps-gun-law-speech-134851">Anger in France, Britain over US president Donald Trump's gun law speech</a>

US President Donald Trump sparked anger in France and Britain by suggesting looser gun laws could have helped prevent deadly attacks in Paris in 2015, and linking a wave of knife crime in London to a handgun ban.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/18-miners-killed-several-injured-as-two-coal-mines-collapse-in-balochistan-134856">18 miners killed, several injured as two coal mines collapse in Balochistan</a>

At least 18 people were killed, 13 injured and about a dozen went missing as two coal mines collapsed in different areas of Pakistan's Balochistan on Saturday, media reports said.'

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/muslim-organisations-burn-anti-jinnah-posters-outside-bjp-office-134860">Muslim </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/muslim-organisations-burn-anti-jinnah-posters-outside-bjp-office-134860">organisations</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/muslim-organisations-burn-anti-jinnah-posters-outside-bjp-office-134860"> burn 'anti-Jinnah' posters outside BJP office</a>

Muslim organisations on Saturday burnt 'anti-Jinnah' posters outside BJP office in Lucknow in protest against the portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-army-chief-confirms-death-sentences-for-11-hardcore-terrorists-134865">Pakistan Army Chief confirms death sentences for 11 'hardcore terrorists'</a>

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Saturday confirmed the death sentence of 11 hardcore terrorists, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

I<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-to-meet-russias-putin-on-wednesday-statement-134853">sraeli PM Netanyahu to meet Russia's Putin on Wednesday: Statement</a>

Benjamin Netanyahu will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday in Moscow to discuss regional issues, the Israeli prime minister said in a statement on Saturday.

Anger in France, Britain over US president Donald Trump's gun law speech US President Donald Trump sparked anger in France and Britain by suggesting looser gun laws could have helped prevent deadly attacks in Paris in 2015, and linking a wave of knife crime in London to a handgun ban. 18 miners killed, several injured as two coal mines collapse in Balochistan At least 18 people were killed, 13 injured and about a dozen went missing as two coal mines collapsed in different areas of Pakistan's Balochistan on Saturday, media reports said.' Muslim organisations burn 'anti-Jinnah' posters outside BJP office Muslim organisations on Saturday burnt 'anti-Jinnah' posters outside BJP office in Lucknow in protest against the portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Pakistan Army Chief confirms death sentences for 11 'hardcore terrorists' Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Saturday confirmed the death sentence of 11 hardcore terrorists, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Israeli PM Netanyahu to meet Russia's Putin on Wednesday: Statement Benjamin Netanyahu will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday in Moscow to discuss regional issues, the Israeli prime minister said in a statement on Saturday.

US President Donald Trump has all but decided to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear accord by May 12 but exactly how he will do so remains unclear, two White House officials and a source familiar with the administration's internal debate said on Wednesday.

There is a chance Trump might choose to keep the United States in the international pact under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear programme in return for sanctions relief, in part because of "alliance maintenance" with France and to save face for French President Emmanuel Macron, who met Trump last week and urged him to stay in, the source said.

A decision by Trump to end U.S. sanctions relief would all but sink the agreement and could trigger a backlash by Iran, which could resume its nuclear arms programme or "punish" U.S. allies in Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Lebanon, diplomats said.

Technically, Trump must decide by May 12 whether to renew "waivers" suspending some of the US sanctions on Iran. One of the White House officials who spoke on condition of anonymity said it was possible Trump will end up with a decision that "is not a full pullout" but was unable to describe what that might look like.

A presentation by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday about what he said was documentary evidence of Tehran's past nuclear arms programme could give Trump a fresh argument to withdraw, even though U.N. inspectors say Iran has complied with the terms of the deal.

Iran has denied ever seeking nuclear weapons and accuses its arch-foe Israel of stirring up world suspicions against it.

The pact between Iran and six major powers - Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States - was among former U.S. President Barack Obama's signature foreign policies but has been described by Trump as "one of the worst deals I have ever witnessed."

The White House official said Trump was "most of the way there towards pulling out of the deal but he hasn't made the decision" and that he "seems poised to do it but until a decision is made by this president it is not final."

Top aides are not seeking aggressively to talk Trump out of withdrawal because he seems intent on it, a second White House official said.

Europeans losing hope

Trump gave Britain, France and Germany a May 12 deadline to fix what he views as the deal's flaws - its failure to address Iran's ballistic missile programme, the terms by which inspectors visit suspect Iranian sites, and "sunset" clauses under which some of its terms expire - or he will reimpose US sanctions.

While European officials continue to work towards such a "fix," they believe the odds are against reaching one.

One of the main sticking points has to do with the "sunsets," where the United States in effect wishes to find a way to extend some of the limits on Iran's nuclear programme beyond their expiration dates under the agreement.

The source familiar with the debate said US negotiators are hamstrung by the fact that they do not really know where Trump's "red line" is and so they cannot tell the Europeans what would secure Trump's blessing.

Trump could refuse to renew the waivers but give new US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo time to negotiate more with the Europeans, exploiting the deal's dispute resolution mechanism or the time before the most draconian sanctions take effect.

Several sources familiar with the negotiations said that if Trump pulls out, a question for the Europeans will be whether this would be the start of a much harder US line towards Iran, including military confrontation.

"The Europeans are not keen to be dragged into a regional conflict by the US," said one source familiar with the talks.

Two US intelligence officials said they were particularly concerned about Iranian retaliation in harder-to-trace actions such as cyber attacks on the United States or its allies and attacks on soft targets by people without obvious ties to Tehran.

Such attacks are considered more likely than actions that might trigger a US military response against Iranian nuclear and military targets.

UN chief warns against scrapping Iran nuclear deal

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Thursday against scrapping an international deal on Iran's nuclear programme unless there was a good alternative in place.

"If one day there is a better agreement to replace it it`s fine, but we should not scrap it unless we have a good alternative," Guterres said in an interview with BBC Radio 4.

"I believe the JCPOA (the Iran nuclear deal) was an important diplomatic victory and I think it will be important to preserve it but I also believe there are areas in which it will be very important to have a meaningful dialogue because I see the region in a very dangerous position," he said.

"I understand the concerns of some countries in relation to the Iranian influence in other countries of the region. So I think we should separate things."

US President Donald Trump has all but decided to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear accord by May 12, two White House officials and a source said

US President Donald Trump has all but decided to withdraw from the 2015 Iran nuclear accord by May 12 but exactly how he will do so remains unclear, two White House officials and a source familiar with the administration's internal debate said on Wednesday. There is a chance Trump might choose to keep the United States in the international pact under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear programme in return for sanctions relief, in part because of "alliance maintenance" with France and to save face for French President Emmanuel Macron, who met Trump last week and urged him to stay in, the source said. A decision by Trump to end U.S. sanctions relief would all but sink the agreement and could trigger a backlash by Iran, which could resume its nuclear arms programme or "punish" U.S. allies in Syria, Iraq, Yemen and Lebanon, diplomats said. Technically, Trump must decide by May 12 whether to renew "waivers" suspending some of the US sanctions on Iran. One of the White House officials who spoke on condition of anonymity said it was possible Trump will end up with a decision that "is not a full pullout" but was unable to describe what that might look like. A presentation by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday about what he said was documentary evidence of Tehran's past nuclear arms programme could give Trump a fresh argument to withdraw, even though U.N. inspectors say Iran has complied with the terms of the deal. Iran has denied ever seeking nuclear weapons and accuses its arch-foe Israel of stirring up world suspicions against it. The pact between Iran and six major powers - Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States - was among former U.S. President Barack Obama's signature foreign policies but has been described by Trump as "one of the worst deals I have ever witnessed." The White House official said Trump was "most of the way there towards pulling out of the deal but he hasn't made the decision" and that he "seems poised to do it but until a decision is made by this president it is not final." Top aides are not seeking aggressively to talk Trump out of withdrawal because he seems intent on it, a second White House official said. Europeans losing hope Trump gave Britain, France and Germany a May 12 deadline to fix what he views as the deal's flaws - its failure to address Iran's ballistic missile programme, the terms by which inspectors visit suspect Iranian sites, and "sunset" clauses under which some of its terms expire - or he will reimpose US sanctions. While European officials continue to work towards such a "fix," they believe the odds are against reaching one. One of the main sticking points has to do with the "sunsets," where the United States in effect wishes to find a way to extend some of the limits on Iran's nuclear programme beyond their expiration dates under the agreement. The source familiar with the debate said US negotiators are hamstrung by the fact that they do not really know where Trump's "red line" is and so they cannot tell the Europeans what would secure Trump's blessing. Trump could refuse to renew the waivers but give new US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo time to negotiate more with the Europeans, exploiting the deal's dispute resolution mechanism or the time before the most draconian sanctions take effect. Several sources familiar with the negotiations said that if Trump pulls out, a question for the Europeans will be whether this would be the start of a much harder US line towards Iran, including military confrontation. "The Europeans are not keen to be dragged into a regional conflict by the US," said one source familiar with the talks. Two US intelligence officials said they were particularly concerned about Iranian retaliation in harder-to-trace actions such as cyber attacks on the United States or its allies and attacks on soft targets by people without obvious ties to Tehran. Such attacks are considered more likely than actions that might trigger a US military response against Iranian nuclear and military targets. UN chief warns against scrapping Iran nuclear deal United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Thursday against scrapping an international deal on Iran's nuclear programme unless there was a good alternative in place. "If one day there is a better agreement to replace it it`s fine, but we should not scrap it unless we have a good alternative," Guterres said in an interview with BBC Radio 4. "I believe the JCPOA (the Iran nuclear deal) was an important diplomatic victory and I think it will be important to preserve it but I also believe there are areas in which it will be very important to have a meaningful dialogue because I see the region in a very dangerous position," he said. "I understand the concerns of some countries in relation to the Iranian influence in other countries of the region. So I think we should separate things."

Trump has all but decided to withdraw from Iran nuclear deal: Sources

Amid speculation US president<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-rouhani-decide-to-work-on-iran-nuclear-deal-despite-threats-by-trump--133752"> will pull out of the Iran nuclear deal</a>, Trump said doing so will send the right message ahead of talks with North Korea.

"I think it sends the right message," Trump told reporters on whether it would send a wrong message to Kim's regime as the two nations get ready for summit talks.

"You know in seven years, that deal will have expired and Iran is free to go ahead and create nuclear weapons," Trump said expressing dissatisfaction with the nuclear deal, adding,"That is just not an acceptable situation. They're not sitting back idly. They're setting off missiles, which they say are for television purposes."

Last week while meeting French president Macron at the White House the two leaders had spoken about the impending May 12th deadline in which the stakeholders - US, UK, Russia, France, China, Germany and the European Union will have to decide&nbspon the future course of action.&nbsp

Under the accord, Tehran agreed to limit its nuclear program in return for relief from US and other economic sanctions.

Trump has been against the deal since the beginning of this presidency, which was brokered by the Obama administration with the Islamic state in 2015.&nbsp

Macron had said he would be interested in negotiating a "new deal" with Iran in the presence of Trump.

Trump has kept everyone guessing on the outcome retreating yesterday "we'll see what happens."&nbspTrump has often termed the deal "terrible" and said it needs to be "fixed"

However, speaking to reporters the US president said: "That doesn't mean we won't negotiate a real agreement."

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JHBpT2k0Jyw" width="560"></iframe>

Under the accord, Tehran agreed to limit its nuclear program in return for relief from US and other economic sanctions.

Amid speculation US president will pull out of the Iran nuclear deal, Trump said doing so will send the right message ahead of talks with North Korea. "I think it sends the right message," Trump told reporters on whether it would send a wrong message to Kim's regime as the two nations get ready for summit talks. "You know in seven years, that deal will have expired and Iran is free to go ahead and create nuclear weapons," Trump said expressing dissatisfaction with the nuclear deal, adding,"That is just not an acceptable situation. They're not sitting back idly. They're setting off missiles, which they say are for television purposes." Last week while meeting French president Macron at the White House the two leaders had spoken about the impending May 12th deadline in which the stakeholders - US, UK, Russia, France, China, Germany and the European Union will have to decide&nbspon the future course of action. Under the accord, Tehran agreed to limit its nuclear program in return for relief from US and other economic sanctions. Trump has been against the deal since the beginning of this presidency, which was brokered by the Obama administration with the Islamic state in 2015. Macron had said he would be interested in negotiating a "new deal" with Iran in the presence of Trump. Trump has kept everyone guessing on the outcome retreating yesterday "we'll see what happens."&nbspTrump has often termed the deal "terrible" and said it needs to be "fixed" However, speaking to reporters the US president said: "That doesn't mean we won't negotiate a real agreement."

Nuclear accord: Trump hints at 'real agreement' with Iran

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-talks-of-ease-of-doing-business-congress-believes-in-ease-of-doing-murder-modi-in-karnataka-134040">Govt talks of 'ease of doing business', Congress believes in 'ease of doing murder': Modi in Karnataka's Udupi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing his second rally of the day in Karnataka, once again went on the offensive against the Congress.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-revive-track-ii-diplomacy-delegation-visits-islamabad-for-talks-134019">India-Pakistan revive Track-II diplomacy, delegation visits Islamabad for talks</a>

India has restarted its Track-II diplomacy — the Neemrana Dialogue — with Pakistan. News reports said Tuesday than an Indian delegation visited Pakistan from April 28 to 30.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-syrian-man-stuck-at-malaysia-airport-for-54-days--134025">Video: Syrian man stuck at Kuala Lumpur airport for 54 days, dubs plight 'The Terminal Part 2'</a>

A Syrian man has been stranded inside Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia for over a month and has nowhere to go.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pok-activists-demand-abolition-of-1949-karachi-agreement-134012">Activists demand </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pok-activists-demand-abolition-of-1949-karachi-agreement-134012">abolition</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pok-activists-demand-abolition-of-1949-karachi-agreement-134012"> of 1949 Karachi Agreement which gives Pakistan control over PoK</a>

Political activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) carried out a protest rally in Rawalpindi city against the Karachi Agreement.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iran-netanyahu-an-infamous-liar-comments-aimed-to-influence-trump---134057">Iran: Netanyahu an 'infamous liar,' comments aimed to influence Trump</a>

Iran on Tuesday called Israel Prime Minister an "infamous liar" after his comments over Iran having secret nuclear weapons program that could increase pressure on the United States to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Govt talks of 'ease of doing business', Congress believes in 'ease of doing murder': Modi in Karnataka's Udupi Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing his second rally of the day in Karnataka, once again went on the offensive against the Congress. India-Pakistan revive Track-II diplomacy, delegation visits Islamabad for talks India has restarted its Track-II diplomacy — the Neemrana Dialogue — with Pakistan. News reports said Tuesday than an Indian delegation visited Pakistan from April 28 to 30. Video: Syrian man stuck at Kuala Lumpur airport for 54 days, dubs plight 'The Terminal Part 2' A Syrian man has been stranded inside Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia for over a month and has nowhere to go. Activists demand abolition of 1949 Karachi Agreement which gives Pakistan control over PoK Political activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) carried out a protest rally in Rawalpindi city against the Karachi Agreement. Iran: Netanyahu an 'infamous liar,' comments aimed to influence Trump Iran on Tuesday called Israel Prime Minister an "infamous liar" after his comments over Iran having secret nuclear weapons program that could increase pressure on the United States to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in Saudi Arabia on Saturday on a hastily-arranged visit to the Middle East as the United States aims to muster support for new sanctions against Iran.

The visit to Riyadh, Jerusalem and Amman just two days after Pompeo was sworn-in comes as President Donald Trump is set to decide whether to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran that is still supported by European powers.

"We are urging nations around the world to sanction any individuals and entities associated with Iran's missile program, and it has also been a big part of discussions with Europeans," Brian Hook, a senior policy advisor travelling with Pompeo, told reporters.

Hook said a salvo of ballistic missiles fired into Saudi Arabia by Yemen's Iran-allied Houthi movement that killed a man earlier on Saturday had been provided by Tehran.

"Iran's missiles prolong war and suffering in the Middle East, they threaten our security and economic interests and they especially threaten Saudi Arabia and Israel," he said.

The 2015 deal that limits Iran's nuclear programme in return for sanctions relief does not cover its missile programme.

Trump has called it the "worst deal ever" and threatened to re-impose sanctions unless Britain, France and Germany agree to fix it. Resuming sanctions would likely kill the deal.

Russia, China, Germany, Britain and France, which all struck the accord with Iran and the United States, see the deal as the best way to stop Iran from developing a nuclear bomb.

Speaking after a NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels on Friday, Pompeo said Trump had not taken a decision on whether to abandon the deal but was not likely to stick to it without substantial changes.

"There's been no decision, so the team is working and I am sure we will have lots of conversations to deliver what the president has made clear," Pompeo told a news conference.

Earlier this week French President Emmanuel Macron called on Trump not to abandon the deal, although he later acknowledged he thought he would pull out.

The Trump administration is also currently reviewing the U.S. role in fighting Islamic State in Syria’s seven-year conflict. Trump has called on Gulf countries to provide funding and troops to stabilize areas once controlled by the group in Syria.

Pompeo was one of the first Trump administration officials to visit Saudi Arabia early in his tenure as CIA director.

In Riyadh, Pompeo was greeted on the tarmac by Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir. He is expected to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and King Salman during the visit.

The visit to Riyadh, Jerusalem and Amman just two days after Pompeo was sworn-in comes as President Donald Trump is set to decide whether to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran that is still supported by European powers.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in Saudi Arabia on Saturday on a hastily-arranged visit to the Middle East as the United States aims to muster support for new sanctions against Iran. The visit to Riyadh, Jerusalem and Amman just two days after Pompeo was sworn-in comes as President Donald Trump is set to decide whether to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran that is still supported by European powers. "We are urging nations around the world to sanction any individuals and entities associated with Iran's missile program, and it has also been a big part of discussions with Europeans," Brian Hook, a senior policy advisor travelling with Pompeo, told reporters. Hook said a salvo of ballistic missiles fired into Saudi Arabia by Yemen's Iran-allied Houthi movement that killed a man earlier on Saturday had been provided by Tehran. "Iran's missiles prolong war and suffering in the Middle East, they threaten our security and economic interests and they especially threaten Saudi Arabia and Israel," he said. The 2015 deal that limits Iran's nuclear programme in return for sanctions relief does not cover its missile programme. Trump has called it the "worst deal ever" and threatened to re-impose sanctions unless Britain, France and Germany agree to fix it. Resuming sanctions would likely kill the deal. Russia, China, Germany, Britain and France, which all struck the accord with Iran and the United States, see the deal as the best way to stop Iran from developing a nuclear bomb. Speaking after a NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels on Friday, Pompeo said Trump had not taken a decision on whether to abandon the deal but was not likely to stick to it without substantial changes. "There's been no decision, so the team is working and I am sure we will have lots of conversations to deliver what the president has made clear," Pompeo told a news conference. Earlier this week French President Emmanuel Macron called on Trump not to abandon the deal, although he later acknowledged he thought he would pull out. The Trump administration is also currently reviewing the U.S. role in fighting Islamic State in Syria’s seven-year conflict. Trump has called on Gulf countries to provide funding and troops to stabilize areas once controlled by the group in Syria. Pompeo was one of the first Trump administration officials to visit Saudi Arabia early in his tenure as CIA director. In Riyadh, Pompeo was greeted on the tarmac by Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir. He is expected to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and King Salman during the visit.

Mike Pompeo starts Mideast tour with call for new Iran sanctions

The leaders of Britain, France and Germany have agreed the Iran nuclear deal is the best way of stopping Tehran from gaining nuclear weapons, British Prime Minister Theresa May's office said in a statement on Sunday.

May had phone calls with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel where they agreed the deal may need to be broadened to cover other areas such as ballistic missiles, what happens when the deal expires, and Iran's destabilising regional activity, the statement said.

"They committed to continue working closely together and with the US&nbspon how to tackle the range of challenges that Iran poses – including those issues that a new deal might cover," the statement said.&nbsp

This comes as a deadline looms next month for President Donald Trump to decide on whether to restore US&nbspeconomic sanctions on Tehran.&nbsp

Trump has criticised a 2015 agreement which effectively lifted some Western sanctions on Iran in exchange for curbs on its nuclear programme.

The leaders of Britain, France and Germany have agreed the Iran nuclear deal is the best way of stopping Tehran from gaining nuclear weapons, British Prime Minister Theresa Ma's office said in a statement on Sundays

The leaders of Britain, France and Germany have agreed the Iran nuclear deal is the best way of stopping Tehran from gaining nuclear weapons, British Prime Minister Theresa May's office said in a statement on Sunday. May had phone calls with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel where they agreed the deal may need to be broadened to cover other areas such as ballistic missiles, what happens when the deal expires, and Iran's destabilising regional activity, the statement said. "They committed to continue working closely together and with the US&nbspon how to tackle the range of challenges that Iran poses – including those issues that a new deal might cover," the statement said. This comes as a deadline looms next month for President Donald Trump to decide on whether to restore US&nbspeconomic sanctions on Tehran. Trump has criticised a 2015 agreement which effectively lifted some Western sanctions on Iran in exchange for curbs on its nuclear programme.

Britain, France and Germany agree support for Iran nuclear deal

German Chancellor Angela Merkel's visit to the United States will have many agendas, some of which will certainly include achieving smoothened ties with her American counterpart and saving the JCPOA. The German foreign ministry once noted that "the biggest priority is maintaining the nuclear accord".

Merkel's US visit closely follows Macron's three-day-long engagement with Donald Trump.&nbsp;

While Merkel identifies Iran's ballistic missile program a "cause for concern" and the deal as something extremely significant, Trump rubbishes the same as "insane" and the "worst deal ever".

Speaking at a joint press conference with Trump on Tuesday in Washington, Macron said that the current Iran nuclear deal was not "sufficient" and a new pact should be worked out. Macron came away from his meetings speculating that Trump would kill the deal, but debate continues to rage.

Trump said Macron's suggestion was "a pretty good idea," yet remained unsure "whether or not it will be possible to do a new deal with solid foundations."

"Because this (the current Iran nuclear deal) (is) a deal with decayed foundations. It`s a bad deal. It`s a bad structure. It`s falling down. Should have never, ever been made," Trump noted.<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wNkXrRf2VKM" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

In her previous interactions with Donald Trump, Merkel had raised issues related to trade policy, migration and defence spending.

This time around, the German agenda is likely to push Trump to reconsider metal tariffs besides, his 'protectionist'&nbsp;trade policy and the impulse to scrap the Iran nuclear deal.

US Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis on Thursday said Washington was yet to make "any decision" on tearing up the deal but stressed that some aspects needed to be improved.&nbsp;

Iran's Supreme National Security Council on Tuesday communicated that the country would consider withdrawing from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty if Washington tries to scraps the nuke deal.

Merkel is known to have enjoyed better relationships with Trump's predecessors Barack Obama and George Bush. Despite this, she has been vocal about strengthening the strategic alliance between Germany and America.

The Merkel-Trump engagement is certain to spark off disagreements, especially when Germany is definite to bring up trade war and the Iran nuke deal.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In her previous interactions with Donald Trump, Merkel had raised issues related to trade policy, migration and defence spending.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel's visit to the United States will have many agendas, some of which will certainly include achieving smoothened ties with her American counterpart and saving the JCPOA. The German foreign ministry once noted that "the biggest priority is maintaining the nuclear accord". Merkel's US visit closely follows Macron's three-day-long engagement with Donald Trump. While Merkel identifies Iran's ballistic missile program a "cause for concern" and the deal as something extremely significant, Trump rubbishes the same as "insane" and the "worst deal ever". Speaking at a joint press conference with Trump on Tuesday in Washington, Macron said that the current Iran nuclear deal was not "sufficient" and a new pact should be worked out. Macron came away from his meetings speculating that Trump would kill the deal, but debate continues to rage. Trump said Macron's suggestion was "a pretty good idea," yet remained unsure "whether or not it will be possible to do a new deal with solid foundations." "Because this (the current Iran nuclear deal) (is) a deal with decayed foundations. It`s a bad deal. It`s a bad structure. It`s falling down. Should have never, ever been made," Trump noted. In her previous interactions with Donald Trump, Merkel had raised issues related to trade policy, migration and defence spending. This time around, the German agenda is likely to push Trump to reconsider metal tariffs besides, his 'protectionist' trade policy and the impulse to scrap the Iran nuclear deal. US Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis on Thursday said Washington was yet to make "any decision" on tearing up the deal but stressed that some aspects needed to be improved. Iran's Supreme National Security Council on Tuesday communicated that the country would consider withdrawing from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty if Washington tries to scraps the nuke deal. Merkel is known to have enjoyed better relationships with Trump's predecessors Barack Obama and George Bush. Despite this, she has been vocal about strengthening the strategic alliance between Germany and America. The Merkel-Trump engagement is certain to spark off disagreements, especially when Germany is definite to bring up trade war and the Iran nuke deal.

Merkel's agenda in Washington, 'saving' Iran nuke deal and stalling trade wars

New US&nbspSecretary of State Mike Pompeo said President Donald Trump has not taken a decision on whether to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal but was not likely to keep to it without substantial changes.

"There's been no decision, so the team is working and I am sure we will have lots of conversations to deliver what the president has made clear," Pompeo told a news conference after a NATO meeting of foreign ministers.&nbsp

"Absent a substantial fix, absent overcoming the flaws of the deal, he is unlikely to stay in that deal," Pompeo said.

New US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said President Donald Trump has not taken a decision on whether to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal but was not likely to keep to it without substantial changes

New US&nbspSecretary of State Mike Pompeo said President Donald Trump has not taken a decision on whether to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal but was not likely to keep to it without substantial changes. "There's been no decision, so the team is working and I am sure we will have lots of conversations to deliver what the president has made clear," Pompeo told a news conference after a NATO meeting of foreign ministers. "Absent a substantial fix, absent overcoming the flaws of the deal, he is unlikely to stay in that deal," Pompeo said.

No Trump decision on Iran nuclear deal yet: Mike Pompeo

Defense secretary Jim Mattis played down concerns on Thursday about whether a potential US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal would undermine attempts to strike an agreement with North Korea to dismantle its nuclear weapons programme.

"Some people point out that this could impact on the North Korea negotiations. But I would say in that case, in light of Kim's family and himself breaking every international treaty, every agreement they've ever made ... I'm less concerned with that ripple effect right now," Mattis told a Senate hearing. He was referring to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

 
"I think we need to focus on what is in the best interest of Middle East stability and the threat that Iran poses."

"I think we need to focus on what is in the best interest of Middle East stability and the threat that Iran poses."

Defense secretary Jim Mattis played down concerns on Thursday about whether a potential US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal would undermine attempts to strike an agreement with North Korea to dismantle its nuclear weapons programme. "Some people point out that this could impact on the North Korea negotiations. But I would say in that case, in light of Kim's family and himself breaking every international treaty, every agreement they've ever made ... I'm less concerned with that ripple effect right now," Mattis told a Senate hearing. He was referring to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. "I think we need to focus on what is in the best interest of Middle East stability and the threat that Iran poses."

Mattis plays down link between Iran nuclear deal and North Korea talks