Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called Saturday on the United States to take a more active approach to help resume stalled talks aimed at reviving the Iran nuclear deal.

"It seems evident they should be more active" in "resolving all issues related" to the accord, Lavrov told reporters at the United Nations in New York.

Lavrov added that he hoped negotiations in Vienna among Iran, Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany would resume "as soon as possible."

The talks, brokered by the Europeans, seek the return of the United States to the 2015 agreement trashed by former president Donald Trump -- as well as Iran's return to full compliance.

Trump pulled America out in 2018, reinstating sanctions on Iran that Washington had lifted as part of the agreement.

Since then, Tehran has also retreated from many of its commitments.

Lavrov said Iran no longer meets elements of the agreement "simply because the United States has left it."

He added that sanctions reimposed on Iran also affected countries who "trade legally" with Tehran.

"These sanctions should be lifted as part of the restoration of the nuclear deal," he said, adding that Iran's "should not suffer from unilateral US measures."

Trump's successor Joe Biden has indicated he wants to return to the deal, but his administration has expressed impatience at the stalled talks.

Discussions between Iran and the remaining five parties aimed at reviving the deal began in Vienna in April but have been suspended since June, when ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi was elected president.

Hopes of reviving the deal were kept alive earlier this month when Iran agreed to a new compromise with the UN nuclear agency on the monitoring of its nuclear facilities.

Iran's foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, said Friday the talks would resume "very soon," but the United States said Tehran had not been specific about the timeframe.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called Saturday on the United States to take a more active approach to help resume stalled talks aimed at reviving the Iran nuclear deal.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called Saturday on the United States to take a more active approach to help resume stalled talks aimed at reviving the Iran nuclear deal. "It seems evident they should be more active" in "resolving all issues related" to the accord, Lavrov told reporters at the United Nations in New York. Lavrov added that he hoped negotiations in Vienna among Iran, Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany would resume "as soon as possible." The talks, brokered by the Europeans, seek the return of the United States to the 2015 agreement trashed by former president Donald Trump -- as well as Iran's return to full compliance. Trump pulled America out in 2018, reinstating sanctions on Iran that Washington had lifted as part of the agreement. Since then, Tehran has also retreated from many of its commitments. Lavrov said Iran no longer meets elements of the agreement "simply because the United States has left it." He added that sanctions reimposed on Iran also affected countries who "trade legally" with Tehran. "These sanctions should be lifted as part of the restoration of the nuclear deal," he said, adding that Iran's "should not suffer from unilateral US measures." Trump's successor Joe Biden has indicated he wants to return to the deal, but his administration has expressed impatience at the stalled talks. Discussions between Iran and the remaining five parties aimed at reviving the deal began in Vienna in April but have been suspended since June, when ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi was elected president. Hopes of reviving the deal were kept alive earlier this month when Iran agreed to a new compromise with the UN nuclear agency on the monitoring of its nuclear facilities. Iran's foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, said Friday the talks would resume "very soon," but the United States said Tehran had not been specific about the timeframe.

Russia calls on US to 'be more active' to revive Iran nuclear deal

Iran's supreme leader on Wednesday declared Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again. 
 
"The Americans acted completely cowardly and maliciously," state TV quoted Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as saying. 
 
"They once violated the nuclear deal at no cost by exiting it. Now they explicitly say that they cannot give guarantees that it would not happen again." 
 
A US&nbsp;State Department spokesperson said in a statement that President Joe Biden`s administration "has been sincere and steadfast in pursuing a path of meaningful diplomacy to achieve a mutual return to compliance" with the agreement. 
 
Since April 9, Tehran and six world powers have been in talks to revive the nuclear pact ditched three years ago by then US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, who argued it favoured Iran. 
 
The sixth round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington adjourned on June 20, two days after hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi was elected president of the Islamic Republic. Parties involved in the negotiations have yet to announce when the next round of negotiations will resume. 
 
The State Department spokesperson said the United States has made clear it is prepared to return to Vienna to resume negotiations. "We urge Iran to return to the negotiations soon so that we can seek to conclude this deal," the spokesperson said. 
 
Like Khamenei, Raisi has backed the revival of the nuclear pact but officials have said that his government might adopt "a hardline" approach. Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on Iran`s state matters, including the nuclear policy. 
 
Iranian and Western officials have said significant gaps remained to reinstate the deal, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear program to make it harder to obtain fissile material for a weapon in return for relief from tough sanctions. Iran says it has never sought nuclear weapons and never would. 
 
HARSH SANCTIONS 
 
Harsh sanctions reimposed by Trump since 2018 have prompted Tehran to violate the deal`s limits. However, Tehran says its nuclear steps are reversible if Washington lifts all sanctions. 
 
Biden seeks to reinstate and eventually broaden the pact to put more limits on Iran’s nuclear work and its missile development and constrain its regional activities. 
 
Khamenei again flatly rejected adding any other issues to the deal. 
 
"In the recent nuclear talks, the Americans staunchly insisted on their obstinate stance. When making promises and on paper they say they will remove sanctions, but in practice they have not and they will not," Khamenei said. 
 
Khamenei said Washington is "stubborn" and insists on adding a sentence to the existing nuclear deal. 
 
"By adding this sentence, they want to provide an excuse for their further interventions on the nuclear deal and (Iran`s) missile work and regional issues," Khamenei said. "Then if we refuse to discuss those issues, Americans will accuse Iran of violating the nuclear deal and they will say the agreement is over."

Iran's supreme leader on Wednesday declared Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again.

Iran's supreme leader on Wednesday declared Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again. "The Americans acted completely cowardly and maliciously," state TV quoted Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as saying. "They once violated the nuclear deal at no cost by exiting it. Now they explicitly say that they cannot give guarantees that it would not happen again." A US State Department spokesperson said in a statement that President Joe Biden`s administration "has been sincere and steadfast in pursuing a path of meaningful diplomacy to achieve a mutual return to compliance" with the agreement. Since April 9, Tehran and six world powers have been in talks to revive the nuclear pact ditched three years ago by then US President Donald Trump, who argued it favoured Iran. The sixth round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington adjourned on June 20, two days after hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi was elected president of the Islamic Republic. Parties involved in the negotiations have yet to announce when the next round of negotiations will resume. The State Department spokesperson said the United States has made clear it is prepared to return to Vienna to resume negotiations. "We urge Iran to return to the negotiations soon so that we can seek to conclude this deal," the spokesperson said. Like Khamenei, Raisi has backed the revival of the nuclear pact but officials have said that his government might adopt "a hardline" approach. Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on Iran`s state matters, including the nuclear policy. Iranian and Western officials have said significant gaps remained to reinstate the deal, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear program to make it harder to obtain fissile material for a weapon in return for relief from tough sanctions. Iran says it has never sought nuclear weapons and never would. HARSH SANCTIONS Harsh sanctions reimposed by Trump since 2018 have prompted Tehran to violate the deal`s limits. However, Tehran says its nuclear steps are reversible if Washington lifts all sanctions. Biden seeks to reinstate and eventually broaden the pact to put more limits on Iran’s nuclear work and its missile development and constrain its regional activities. Khamenei again flatly rejected adding any other issues to the deal. "In the recent nuclear talks, the Americans staunchly insisted on their obstinate stance. When making promises and on paper they say they will remove sanctions, but in practice they have not and they will not," Khamenei said. Khamenei said Washington is "stubborn" and insists on adding a sentence to the existing nuclear deal. "By adding this sentence, they want to provide an excuse for their further interventions on the nuclear deal and (Iran`s) missile work and regional issues," Khamenei said. "Then if we refuse to discuss those issues, Americans will accuse Iran of violating the nuclear deal and they will say the agreement is over."

Iran's Khamenei blames 'cowardly' United States for pause in nuclear talks

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday that nuclear talks with Iran "cannot go on indefinitely" but that Washington was "fully prepared" to continue negotiations.

"We're committed to diplomacy, but this process cannot go on indefinitely... we look to see what Iran is ready to do or not ready to do and remain fully prepared to return to Vienna to continue negotiations," Blinken said during a visit to Kuwait on Thursday.

"The ball remains in Iran's court."

It comes after&nbsp;Iran's supreme leader's&nbsp;declaration&nbsp;Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-khamenei-blames-cowardly-united-states-for-pause-in-nuclear-talks-401331" hreflang="en">Iran's Khamenei blames 'cowardly' United States for pause in nuclear talks</a>

Since April 9, Tehran and six world powers have been in talks to revive the nuclear pact ditched three years ago by then U.S. President Donald Trump, who argued it favoured Iran.

The sixth round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington adjourned on June 20, two days after hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi was elected president of the Islamic Republic. Parties involved in the negotiations have yet to announce when the next round of negotiations will resume.

Like&nbsp;Khamenei, Raisi has backed the revival of the nuclear pact but officials have said that his government might adopt "a hardline" approach.&nbsp;Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on Iran's state matters, including the nuclear policy.

Iranian and Western officials have said significant gaps remained to reinstate the deal, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear program to make it harder to obtain fissile material for a weapon in return for relief from tough sanctions. Iran says it has never sought nuclear weapons and never would.

Harsh sanctions reimposed by Trump since 2018 have prompted Tehran to violate the deal's limits. However, Tehran says its nuclear steps are reversible if Washington lifts all sanctions.

Biden seeks to reinstate and eventually broaden the pact to put more limits on Iran’s nuclear work and its missile development and constrain its regional activities.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday that nuclear talks with Iran "cannot go on indefinitely" but that Washington was "fully prepared" to continue negotiations.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday that nuclear talks with Iran "cannot go on indefinitely" but that Washington was "fully prepared" to continue negotiations. "We're committed to diplomacy, but this process cannot go on indefinitely... we look to see what Iran is ready to do or not ready to do and remain fully prepared to return to Vienna to continue negotiations," Blinken said during a visit to Kuwait on Thursday. "The ball remains in Iran's court." It comes after Iran's supreme leader's declaration Tehran would not accept Washington's "stubborn" demands in talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal and said the United States had failed to guarantee that it would never abandon the pact again. Also read| Iran's Khamenei blames 'cowardly' United States for pause in nuclear talks Since April 9, Tehran and six world powers have been in talks to revive the nuclear pact ditched three years ago by then U.S. President Donald Trump, who argued it favoured Iran. The sixth round of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington adjourned on June 20, two days after hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi was elected president of the Islamic Republic. Parties involved in the negotiations have yet to announce when the next round of negotiations will resume. Like Khamenei, Raisi has backed the revival of the nuclear pact but officials have said that his government might adopt "a hardline" approach. Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on Iran's state matters, including the nuclear policy. Iranian and Western officials have said significant gaps remained to reinstate the deal, under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear program to make it harder to obtain fissile material for a weapon in return for relief from tough sanctions. Iran says it has never sought nuclear weapons and never would. Harsh sanctions reimposed by Trump since 2018 have prompted Tehran to violate the deal's limits. However, Tehran says its nuclear steps are reversible if Washington lifts all sanctions. Biden seeks to reinstate and eventually broaden the pact to put more limits on Iran’s nuclear work and its missile development and constrain its regional activities. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken says nuclear talks with Iran 'cannot go on indefinitely'

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Wednesday that the outgoing government's experience of engaging with world powers including the United States shows that "trusting the West does not work".

"Future generations should use this experience. It was made clear during this government that trusting the West does not work," Khamenei told outgoing President Hassan Rouhani and cabinet members, his official website reported.

Earlier, the&nbsp;American authorities seized a range of Iran’s state-linked news website domains they accused of spreading disinformation, the US&nbsp;Justice Department said, a move that appeared to be a far-reaching crackdown on Iranian media amid heightened tensions between the two countries.

The takedowns come as world powers scramble to resurrect Tehran’s tattered 2015 nuclear deal and just days before&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;will hand over the presidency to hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi on August&nbsp;5.

Like&nbsp;Khamenei, Raisi has backed indirect talks between Tehran and Washington aimed at bringing back the arch-foes into full compliance with the accord. Trump quit the deal three years ago, saying it was biased in favour of Iran, and reimposed crippling sanctions on Tehran.

The sixth round of nuclear talks in Vienna adjourned on June 20. The next round of the talks has yet to be scheduled, and Iranian and Western officials have said that significant gaps still remain to be resolved.

Relations between Iran and the US&nbsp;have deteriorated for years following President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from Tehran’s nuclear deal and the return of devastating sanctions on the country. That decision has seen Iran, over time, gradually abandon every limit on uranium enrichment.

The country is now enriching uranium to 60 per cent, its highest level ever, though still short of weapons-grade levels.

Iran provides support to militant groups in the region, such as Lebanon’s militant Hezbollah and Yemen’s Houthi rebels, as it seeks to wield its influence far afield and counter its foes.

Trump blacklisted dozens of institutions vital to Iran's economy using laws designed to punish foreign actors for supporting terrorism or weapons proliferation.

Removing oil and financial sanctions is essential if Iran is to export its oil, the top prize for Tehran for complying with the nuclear agreement and reining in its atomic program.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali&nbsp;Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on all state matters such as nuclear policy.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Wednesday that the outgoing government's experience of engaging with world powers including the United States shows that "trusting the West does not work".

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Wednesday that the outgoing government's experience of engaging with world powers including the United States shows that "trusting the West does not work". "Future generations should use this experience. It was made clear during this government that trusting the West does not work," Khamenei told outgoing President Hassan Rouhani and cabinet members, his official website reported. Earlier, the American authorities seized a range of Iran’s state-linked news website domains they accused of spreading disinformation, the US Justice Department said, a move that appeared to be a far-reaching crackdown on Iranian media amid heightened tensions between the two countries. The takedowns come as world powers scramble to resurrect Tehran’s tattered 2015 nuclear deal and just days before Rouhani will hand over the presidency to hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi on August 5. Like Khamenei, Raisi has backed indirect talks between Tehran and Washington aimed at bringing back the arch-foes into full compliance with the accord. Trump quit the deal three years ago, saying it was biased in favour of Iran, and reimposed crippling sanctions on Tehran. The sixth round of nuclear talks in Vienna adjourned on June 20. The next round of the talks has yet to be scheduled, and Iranian and Western officials have said that significant gaps still remain to be resolved. Relations between Iran and the US have deteriorated for years following President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from Tehran’s nuclear deal and the return of devastating sanctions on the country. That decision has seen Iran, over time, gradually abandon every limit on uranium enrichment. The country is now enriching uranium to 60 per cent, its highest level ever, though still short of weapons-grade levels. Iran provides support to militant groups in the region, such as Lebanon’s militant Hezbollah and Yemen’s Houthi rebels, as it seeks to wield its influence far afield and counter its foes. Trump blacklisted dozens of institutions vital to Iran's economy using laws designed to punish foreign actors for supporting terrorism or weapons proliferation. Removing oil and financial sanctions is essential if Iran is to export its oil, the top prize for Tehran for complying with the nuclear agreement and reining in its atomic program. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, not the president, has the last say on all state matters such as nuclear policy. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's supreme leader says experience shows 'trusting West does not work'

President Hassan&nbsp;Rouhani has said that Iran can&nbsp;enrich uranium up to 90 per cent&nbsp;purity if its nuclear reactors needed it, according to local media.

Addressing a cabinet meeting, Rouhani said, ''Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation can enrich uranium by 20 per cent&nbsp;and 60&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;and if one day our reactor needs it, it can enrich uranium to 90&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;purity.''

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-takes-steps-to-make-enriched-uranium-metal-decision-draws-criticism-396433/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He added that&nbsp;he hopes his successor can clinch a deal to lift US sanctions, implying that nuclear talks will not conclude before his term ends in August.

The Islamic republic has held talks since April in Vienna with major powers on reviving its troubled 2015 nuclear agreement.&nbsp;

The accord offered Tehran international sanctions relief in exchange for limiting its nuclear programme, but was torpedoed in 2018 when former US president Donald Trump withdrew from it and reimposed sanctions.

"The work was ready" to be done, the moderate&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;said of the talks, speaking in a televised cabinet meeting.&nbsp;

But "they took away the 12th administration's opportunity," he added about his government, without elaborating. "We hope the 13th administration can finish this work."

The nuclear deal caps the fissile purity to which Tehran can refine uranium at 3.67 per cent, well under the 20&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;achieved before the agreement and far below the 90&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;suitable for a nuclear weapon. Iran has long denied any intention of developing nuclear weapons.

Rouhani&nbsp;is set to hand power in early August to the ultraconservative former judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi, who last month won a presidential poll.

Trump's successor Joe Biden has signalled his readiness to return to the deal and has engaged in indirect negotiations with Iran as the accord's remaining other state parties,&nbsp;Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia,&nbsp;hold talks in Vienna.

They have held six rounds of talks, concluding the latest on June 20 without setting a date for a new one.

(With inputs from agencies)

President Hassan Rouhani has said that Iran can enrich uranium up to 90 per cent purity if its nuclear reactors needed it, according to local media. Addressing a cabinet meeting, Rouhani said, ''Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation can enrich uranium by 20 per cent and 60 per cent and if one day our reactor needs it, it can enrich uranium to 90 per cent purity.

President Hassan Rouhani has said that Iran can enrich uranium up to 90 per cent purity if its nuclear reactors needed it, according to local media. Addressing a cabinet meeting, Rouhani said, ''Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation can enrich uranium by 20 per cent and 60 per cent and if one day our reactor needs it, it can enrich uranium to 90 per cent purity.'' He added that he hopes his successor can clinch a deal to lift US sanctions, implying that nuclear talks will not conclude before his term ends in August. The Islamic republic has held talks since April in Vienna with major powers on reviving its troubled 2015 nuclear agreement. The accord offered Tehran international sanctions relief in exchange for limiting its nuclear programme, but was torpedoed in 2018 when former US president Donald Trump withdrew from it and reimposed sanctions. "The work was ready" to be done, the moderate Rouhani said of the talks, speaking in a televised cabinet meeting. But "they took away the 12th administration's opportunity," he added about his government, without elaborating. "We hope the 13th administration can finish this work." The nuclear deal caps the fissile purity to which Tehran can refine uranium at 3.67 per cent, well under the 20 per cent achieved before the agreement and far below the 90 per cent suitable for a nuclear weapon. Iran has long denied any intention of developing nuclear weapons. Rouhani is set to hand power in early August to the ultraconservative former judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi, who last month won a presidential poll. Trump's successor Joe Biden has signalled his readiness to return to the deal and has engaged in indirect negotiations with Iran as the accord's remaining other state parties, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, hold talks in Vienna. They have held six rounds of talks, concluding the latest on June 20 without setting a date for a new one. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran can enrich uranium up to 90% purity if it wants, says President Hassan Rouhani

Israel's new foreign minister Yair Lapid expressed "serious reservations" over Iran nuclear deal. He voiced his concerns in his first meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Though he raised concerns, he pledged a more co-operative approach.

"Israel has some serious reservations about the Iran nuclear deal that is being put together in Vienna. We believe the way to discuss those disagreements is though direct and professional conversations, not in press conferences," Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said as he opened a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Rome.

World powers are currently in talks with Iran to revive the nuclear deal it struck in 2015

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-drones-with-7000-km-range-says-irans-top-commander-394311">We have drones with 7,000 km range, says Iran's top commander</a>

In 2015, the deal was struck but US under Donald Trump withdrew from the agreement and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran.

The talks to revive the deal were on but have now been adjourned for respective delegations to hold consultation in respective capitals.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's new foreign minister Yair Lapid expressed "serious reservations" over Iran nuclear deal. He voiced his concerns in his first meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Israel's new foreign minister Yair Lapid expressed "serious reservations" over Iran nuclear deal. He voiced his concerns in his first meeting with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Though he raised concerns, he pledged a more co-operative approach. "Israel has some serious reservations about the Iran nuclear deal that is being put together in Vienna. We believe the way to discuss those disagreements is though direct and professional conversations, not in press conferences," Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said as he opened a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Rome. World powers are currently in talks with Iran to revive the nuclear deal it struck in 2015 Also Read | We have drones with 7,000 km range, says Iran's top commander In 2015, the deal was struck but US under Donald Trump withdrew from the agreement and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran. The talks to revive the deal were on but have now been adjourned for respective delegations to hold consultation in respective capitals. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel voices 'serious reservations' on Iran deal to Blinken

Iranian state media quoted a top commander of the Revolutionary Guards as saying that the country has drones with a range of 7000 km (4,375 miles). The development may be seen by the USA as a threat to regional stability.

"We have unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) with long range of 7,000 kilometres. They can fly, return home, and make landing wherever they are planned to," the Guards commander-in-chief Hossein Salami was quoted as saying by state news agency IRNA.

The assertion has come as Iran and six major world powers are in talks to revive 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally withdrawn US from the deal and reimposed sanctions on Iran.

As per Western military analysts, Iran sometimes exaggerates its capabilities. However, drones are a key element in Iran's borders surveillance

Iran and regional forces it backs have increasingly relied on drones in Yemen, Syria, Iraq in recent years

US President Joe Biden is seeking to revive and eventually broaden the nuclear pact to put greater limits on Iran's nuclear and missile programmes, as well as constraining its activities.

Tehran has ruled out negotiations over ballistic missiles and its role in the Middle East, where Sh'ite-led Iran and Sunni Saudi Arabia have been involved in proxy wars.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian state media quoted a top commander of the Revolutionary Guards as saying that the country has drones with a range of 7000 km (4,375 miles). The development may be seen by the USA as a threat to regional stability.

Iranian state media quoted a top commander of the Revolutionary Guards as saying that the country has drones with a range of 7000 km (4,375 miles). The development may be seen by the USA as a threat to regional stability. "We have unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) with long range of 7,000 kilometres. They can fly, return home, and make landing wherever they are planned to," the Guards commander-in-chief Hossein Salami was quoted as saying by state news agency IRNA. The assertion has come as Iran and six major world powers are in talks to revive 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally withdrawn US from the deal and reimposed sanctions on Iran. As per Western military analysts, Iran sometimes exaggerates its capabilities. However, drones are a key element in Iran's borders surveillance Iran and regional forces it backs have increasingly relied on drones in Yemen, Syria, Iraq in recent years US President Joe Biden is seeking to revive and eventually broaden the nuclear pact to put greater limits on Iran's nuclear and missile programmes, as well as constraining its activities. Tehran has ruled out negotiations over ballistic missiles and its role in the Middle East, where Sh'ite-led Iran and Sunni Saudi Arabia have been involved in proxy wars. (With inputs from agencies)

We have drones with 7,000 km range, says Iran's top commander

Iran has not responded to International Atomic Energy Agency over extending a monitoring agreement that expired overnight. The international nuclear watchdog said that an "immediate response from Iran was needed. The agreement allows IAEA to collect data on Iran's activities.

The matter has become all the more important after USA said not extending the monitoring agreement would hamper the efforts of reviving Iran nuclear deal struck in 2015.

"An immediate response from Iran is needed in this regard," the IAEA said in a statement summarising a report by its chief Rafael Grossi to its 35-nation Board of Governors that was also seen by Reuters.

Grossi wrote to Iran last week "to understand Iran`s position regarding the possible continued collection, recording and retention of data", the report said. As of Friday, Iran had not replied or indicated whether it intends to maintain the current arrangement, it said.

Iran and the US have been holding indirect talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks are currently adjourned and no date for resumption has been finalised yet.

The United States abandoned the deal under then-President Donald Trump in 2018 and Iran responded by violating many of its restrictions. President Joe Biden`s administration wants to revive the accord, but Tehran and Washington have yet to agree which side should take what steps, and when.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran has not responded to International Atomic Energy Agency over extending a monitoring agreement that expired overnight. The international nuclear watchdog said that an "immediate response from Iran was needed.

Iran has not responded to International Atomic Energy Agency over extending a monitoring agreement that expired overnight. The international nuclear watchdog said that an "immediate response from Iran was needed. The agreement allows IAEA to collect data on Iran's activities. The matter has become all the more important after USA said not extending the monitoring agreement would hamper the efforts of reviving Iran nuclear deal struck in 2015. "An immediate response from Iran is needed in this regard," the IAEA said in a statement summarising a report by its chief Rafael Grossi to its 35-nation Board of Governors that was also seen by Reuters. Grossi wrote to Iran last week "to understand Iran`s position regarding the possible continued collection, recording and retention of data", the report said. As of Friday, Iran had not replied or indicated whether it intends to maintain the current arrangement, it said. Iran and the US have been holding indirect talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal. The talks are currently adjourned and no date for resumption has been finalised yet. The United States abandoned the deal under then-President Donald Trump in 2018 and Iran responded by violating many of its restrictions. President Joe Biden`s administration wants to revive the accord, but Tehran and Washington have yet to agree which side should take what steps, and when. (With inputs from agencies)

IAEA demands answer from Iran on monitoring agreement deal

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned on Friday that it would be 'very hard' for US to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks dragged on.

The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by world powers in 2015. But the deal faced uncertainties as former US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew US from the agreement.

"There will come a point, yes, where it will be very hard to return back to the standards set by the JCPOA," Blinken told reporters in Paris,&nbsp;

Talks were on in Vienna till just a few days ago to revive the deal but they have now been adjourned. Another factor that has been added to the mix is election of hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi as President of Iran. Though he hasn't put out a definitive statement making clear his position on reviving the nuclear deal, he categorically said that he would not be meeting US President Joe Biden.

No date has been decided for resumption of Vienna talks.

Ebrahim Raisi said earlier this week that he would not allow negotiations for negotiation's sake.

"Any negotiations that guarantee national interests will certainly be supported, but... we will not allow negotiations to be for negotiation's sake," he said in his first press conference on Monday (June 25).

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned on Friday that it would be 'very hard' for US to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks dragged on. The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by world powers in 2015.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned on Friday that it would be 'very hard' for US to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks dragged on. The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by world powers in 2015. But the deal faced uncertainties as former US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew US from the agreement. "There will come a point, yes, where it will be very hard to return back to the standards set by the JCPOA," Blinken told reporters in Paris, Talks were on in Vienna till just a few days ago to revive the deal but they have now been adjourned. Another factor that has been added to the mix is election of hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi as President of Iran. Though he hasn't put out a definitive statement making clear his position on reviving the nuclear deal, he categorically said that he would not be meeting US President Joe Biden. No date has been decided for resumption of Vienna talks. Ebrahim Raisi said earlier this week that he would not allow negotiations for negotiation's sake. "Any negotiations that guarantee national interests will certainly be supported, but... we will not allow negotiations to be for negotiation's sake," he said in his first press conference on Monday (June 25). (With inputs from agencies)

'Very hard' to rejoin Iran nuclear deal if talks drag on: Blinken

Amid negotiations with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-allow-negotiations-for-the-sake-of-it-says-president-elect-raisi-on-iran-nuclear-talks-392965">Iran</a> on the nuclear deal in Vienna, German foreign minister Heiko Maas said there was a good chance the 2015 deal can be revived.

Iran's state-run television channel quoted the presidential chief of staff Mahmoud Vaezi as saying that the US has agreed to "remove all insurance, oil and shipping sanctions imposed by the former president Donald Trump."

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-powers-must-wake-up-on-iran-nuke-deal-israel-392834/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"About 1,040 Trump-era sanctions will be lifted under the agreement. It was also agreed to lift some sanctions on individuals and members of the supreme leader's inner circle," Vaezi told the state-run channel.

However, US officials said there were still details to be hammered out even as Joe Biden's administration seeks to restore the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/talks-to-revive-iran-nuclear-agreement-closer-to-a-deal-eu-official-392810">nuclear deal</a>.

Heiko Maas said negotiations are going forward in a "step by step" direction in every round of negotiation. The German foreign minister said there was a "good chance to conclude them in the foreseeable future".

The US government under ex-president Trump had pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal citing violations as it imposed harsh sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

However, Israel's new government under Prime Minister&nbsp;Naftali Bennett has vowed it would object to the revival of the deal between world powers and Iran.

Israel's foreign minister Yair Lapid had said that the country "will do whatever it takes to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear bomb".

Meanwhile, Iran's state television said the country had allegedly foiled a sabotage attack on a building belonging to the country's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-detects-technical-fault-in-bushehr-nuclear-power-plant-392978">atomic energy agency</a> even as the government warned the United States that seizure of 33 websites run by Iran-linked media was "not constructive" for ongoing nuclear talks.

The US Justice Department had earlier declared that the 33 Iranian government-controlled media websites violated sanctions which included three websites belonging to Iraqi group Kataeb Hezbollah.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid negotiations with Iran on the nuclear deal in Vienna, German foreign minister Heiko Maas said there was a good chance the 2015 deal can be revived. Iran's state-run television channel quoted the presidential chief of staff Mahmoud Vaezi as saying that the US has agreed to "remove all insurance, oil and shipping sanctions imposed by the former president Donald Trump.

Amid negotiations with Iran on the nuclear deal in Vienna, German foreign minister Heiko Maas said there was a good chance the 2015 deal can be revived. Iran's state-run television channel quoted the presidential chief of staff Mahmoud Vaezi as saying that the US has agreed to "remove all insurance, oil and shipping sanctions imposed by the former president Donald Trump." Watch: "About 1,040 Trump-era sanctions will be lifted under the agreement. It was also agreed to lift some sanctions on individuals and members of the supreme leader's inner circle," Vaezi told the state-run channel. However, US officials said there were still details to be hammered out even as Joe Biden's administration seeks to restore the nuclear deal. Heiko Maas said negotiations are going forward in a "step by step" direction in every round of negotiation. The German foreign minister said there was a "good chance to conclude them in the foreseeable future". The US government under ex-president Trump had pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal citing violations as it imposed harsh sanctions on Iran. However, Israel's new government under Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has vowed it would object to the revival of the deal between world powers and Iran. Israel's foreign minister Yair Lapid had said that the country "will do whatever it takes to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear bomb". Meanwhile, Iran's state television said the country had allegedly foiled a sabotage attack on a building belonging to the country's atomic energy agency even as the government warned the United States that seizure of 33 websites run by Iran-linked media was "not constructive" for ongoing nuclear talks. The US Justice Department had earlier declared that the 33 Iranian government-controlled media websites violated sanctions which included three websites belonging to Iraqi group Kataeb Hezbollah. (With inputs from Agencies)

'About 1,040 Trump-era sanctions will be lifted': Iran, Germany eye nuclear deal revival

Iran's President-elect Ebrahim Raisi on Monday ruled out meeting US President Joe Biden over revival of 2015 Iran nuclear deal.&nbsp;He was speaking at his first press conference after getting elected as President of Iran.

"No," said Raisi to a question from American media on whether he would meet Biden in the event that these talks lead to the US lifting sanctions on Iran, and in order to "fix" the problems between the arch-enemies.

Duiring the press conference, Raisi said on Monday that his government will not allow negotiations for the sake of negotiations aimed at reviving 2015 nuclear deal.

"Any negotiations that guarantee national interests will certainly be supported, but... we will not allow negotiations to be for negotiation's sake," he said in his first press conference, adding that his election on Friday followed a "massive" voter turnout.

The talks in Vienna to revive the nuclear deal have been adjourned. They were adjourned on June 20. Chief of Iran's delegation said on Sunday that the talks <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-nuclear-talks-to-be-adjourned-for-consultations-in-capital-392761">have been adjourned</a> for respective delegations to have consultations in respective capitals.

No date has been decided to resume the talks.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disagreements-remain-in-iran-nuclear-talks-says-us-392784">Disagreements remain in Iran nuclear talks, says US</a>

Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by P5+1 powers in 2015. But former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took USA out of the agreement and reimposed sanctions that crippled Iran economy.

Have 'always' defended human rights

Raisi said that he had always defended human rights.

"All that I have done through my years of service has always been towards defending human rights," said Raisi, who is Iran's outgoing judiciary chief, while accusing the west of violating human rights.

Raisi faces allegations of executions, torture and other abuses from the US and western organisations.

'No obstacles' to restoring ties with Saudi Arabia

"There are no obstacles from Iran's side to re-opening embassies... there are no obstacles to ties with Saudi Arabia," he said, as talks are underway to discuss a thaw in relations between the two countries who have had no diplomatic ties since 2016.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's President-elect Ebrahim Raisi on Monday ruled out meeting US President Joe Biden over revival of 2015 Iran nuclear deal. He was speaking at his first press conference after getting elected as President of Iran.

Iran's President-elect Ebrahim Raisi on Monday ruled out meeting US President Joe Biden over revival of 2015 Iran nuclear deal. He was speaking at his first press conference after getting elected as President of Iran. "No," said Raisi to a question from American media on whether he would meet Biden in the event that these talks lead to the US lifting sanctions on Iran, and in order to "fix" the problems between the arch-enemies. Duiring the press conference, Raisi said on Monday that his government will not allow negotiations for the sake of negotiations aimed at reviving 2015 nuclear deal. "Any negotiations that guarantee national interests will certainly be supported, but... we will not allow negotiations to be for negotiation's sake," he said in his first press conference, adding that his election on Friday followed a "massive" voter turnout. The talks in Vienna to revive the nuclear deal have been adjourned. They were adjourned on June 20. Chief of Iran's delegation said on Sunday that the talks have been adjourned for respective delegations to have consultations in respective capitals. No date has been decided to resume the talks. Also Read | Disagreements remain in Iran nuclear talks, says US Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by P5+1 powers in 2015. But former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took USA out of the agreement and reimposed sanctions that crippled Iran economy. Have 'always' defended human rights Raisi said that he had always defended human rights. "All that I have done through my years of service has always been towards defending human rights," said Raisi, who is Iran's outgoing judiciary chief, while accusing the west of violating human rights. Raisi faces allegations of executions, torture and other abuses from the US and western organisations. 'No obstacles' to restoring ties with Saudi Arabia "There are no obstacles from Iran's side to re-opening embassies... there are no obstacles to ties with Saudi Arabia," he said, as talks are underway to discuss a thaw in relations between the two countries who have had no diplomatic ties since 2016. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran President-elect Raisi says 'no' to meeting Joe Biden

Talks to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), are "closer to a deal," said a European Union (EU) official on Sunday after the latest meeting that wrapped up the previous six rounds of negotiations. 
 
"We are closer to a deal, but we are not still there," Enrique Mora, deputy secretary-general and political director of the European External Action Service, told reporters following a meeting of the JCPOA Joint Commission, attended by representatives from China, France, Germany, Russia, Britain and Iran, Xinhua reported. 
 
"We have made progress on a number of technical issues. We have now more clarity on technical documents, all of them quite complex. And that clarity allows us to have also a clear idea of what the political problems are," Mora said, adding that they are "closer (to a deal) than one week ago." 
 
Meanwhile, all participants will travel back to their capitals for consultations. Mora said that he hopes that in the next round, delegations will come back "with clearer instructions, clearer ideas on how to finally close the deal." 
 
The EU diplomat also noted that this round of talks has taken place "against important political developments," citing the recent meeting of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell and the US officials in the EU-US summit and Borrell`s meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. 
 
"Welcomed progress made over last weeks, but difficult decisions remain. It is important to seize the political opportunity, and for all to be flexible. In view of today`s Presidential elections, I called for continued commitment by Iran," Borrell tweeted Friday after meeting with Zarif. 
 
Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran`s deputy foreign minister and top nuclear negotiator, told reporters before the meeting that documents for an agreement on the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal are almost ready, the official IRNA news agency reported. 
 
"We are closer to an agreement ever than before, but bridging the gaps... requires decisions by the parties," he said, adding that some issues still need to be resolved. 
 
The US administration under former President Donald Trump withdrew from the JCPOA in May 2018 and unilaterally reimposed sanctions on Iran. In response to the US moves, Iran gradually stopped implementing parts of its JCPOA commitments from May 2019. 
 
The JCPOA Joint Commission began to meet in offline format on April 6 in Vienna to continue previous discussions in view of a possible return of the United States to the JCPOA and on how to ensure the full and effective implementation of the JCPOA.

Talks to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), are "closer to a deal," said a European Union (EU) official on Sunday after the latest meeting that wrapped up the previous six rounds of negotiations.

Talks to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), are "closer to a deal," said a European Union (EU) official on Sunday after the latest meeting that wrapped up the previous six rounds of negotiations. "We are closer to a deal, but we are not still there," Enrique Mora, deputy secretary-general and political director of the European External Action Service, told reporters following a meeting of the JCPOA Joint Commission, attended by representatives from China, France, Germany, Russia, Britain and Iran, Xinhua reported. "We have made progress on a number of technical issues. We have now more clarity on technical documents, all of them quite complex. And that clarity allows us to have also a clear idea of what the political problems are," Mora said, adding that they are "closer (to a deal) than one week ago." Meanwhile, all participants will travel back to their capitals for consultations. Mora said that he hopes that in the next round, delegations will come back "with clearer instructions, clearer ideas on how to finally close the deal." The EU diplomat also noted that this round of talks has taken place "against important political developments," citing the recent meeting of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell and the US officials in the EU-US summit and Borrell`s meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. "Welcomed progress made over last weeks, but difficult decisions remain. It is important to seize the political opportunity, and for all to be flexible. In view of today`s Presidential elections, I called for continued commitment by Iran," Borrell tweeted Friday after meeting with Zarif. Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran`s deputy foreign minister and top nuclear negotiator, told reporters before the meeting that documents for an agreement on the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal are almost ready, the official IRNA news agency reported. "We are closer to an agreement ever than before, but bridging the gaps... requires decisions by the parties," he said, adding that some issues still need to be resolved. The US administration under former President Donald Trump withdrew from the JCPOA in May 2018 and unilaterally reimposed sanctions on Iran. In response to the US moves, Iran gradually stopped implementing parts of its JCPOA commitments from May 2019. The JCPOA Joint Commission began to meet in offline format on April 6 in Vienna to continue previous discussions in view of a possible return of the United States to the JCPOA and on how to ensure the full and effective implementation of the JCPOA.

Talks to revive Iran nuclear agreement closer to a deal: EU official

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-allow-negotiations-for-sake-of-it-says-raisi-on-iran-nuclear-talks-392965">Iran</a> shut its nuclear Bushehr power plant on the southern coast on Sunday.

The country's atomic energy body said the shutdown was due to a "technical fault". Iran's state television said it was due to a "technical overhaul" and it was taken off the power grid.

Watch:

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Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said the issue will be resolved in a week but did not specify the exact nature of the problem.

The state electric company said repairs will last till Friday. The plant is monitored by the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency(IAEA) with uranium which fuels the plant being produced in Russia.

The power plant located south of the capital Tehran was built by Russia and&nbsp;handed over to Iran in 2013 after years of delay. The work was initially started by a German company but was stalled after the 1979 Islamic revolution.

Russia and Iran pledged to two new nuclear reactors at the Bushehr site.

In April, the area where the nuclear plant is located was rocked by an earthquake but authorities had said there was no damage to the complex.

The country was hit by a series of power blackout in May which the government blamed on rising temperatures and drought&nbsp;causing a drop in hydropower generation.

The government had earlier announced plans to build twenty nuclear power plants in order to fulfil the energy demand of the country.

The latest development comes as Iran has been negotiating&nbsp;with officials in Vienna to kickstart the 2015 nuclear deal after the former Trump administration pulled out the deal citing violations by Iran.

Although the Biden administration has expressed its willingness to re-enter the deal but US officials insist Iran must agree to a series of nuclear compliance.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Iran shut its nuclear Bushehr power plant on the southern coast on Sunday. The country's atomic energy body said the shutdown was due to a "technical fault". Iran's state television said it was due to a "technical overhaul" and it was taken off the power grid.

Iran shut its nuclear Bushehr power plant on the southern coast on Sunday. The country's atomic energy body said the shutdown was due to a "technical fault". Iran's state television said it was due to a "technical overhaul" and it was taken off the power grid. Watch: Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said the issue will be resolved in a week but did not specify the exact nature of the problem. The state electric company said repairs will last till Friday. The plant is monitored by the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency(IAEA) with uranium which fuels the plant being produced in Russia. The power plant located south of the capital Tehran was built by Russia and handed over to Iran in 2013 after years of delay. The work was initially started by a German company but was stalled after the 1979 Islamic revolution. Russia and Iran pledged to two new nuclear reactors at the Bushehr site. In April, the area where the nuclear plant is located was rocked by an earthquake but authorities had said there was no damage to the complex. The country was hit by a series of power blackout in May which the government blamed on rising temperatures and drought causing a drop in hydropower generation. The government had earlier announced plans to build twenty nuclear power plants in order to fulfil the energy demand of the country. The latest development comes as Iran has been negotiating with officials in Vienna to kickstart the 2015 nuclear deal after the former Trump administration pulled out the deal citing violations by Iran. Although the Biden administration has expressed its willingness to re-enter the deal but US officials insist Iran must agree to a series of nuclear compliance. (With inputs from Agencies)

Iran detects 'technical fault' in Bushehr nuclear power plant

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that there were still disagreements between Iran and world powers over reviving 2015 nuclear deal talks. He added that that the final decision on this issue was up to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"There is still a fair distance to travel on some of the key issues, including on sanctions and on the nuclear commitments that Iran has to make, Sullivan told "This Week with George Stephanopoulos" on ABC television.

The nuclear deal was struck with Iran buy P5+1 powers in 2015. However former US President Donald Trump pulled US out of the deal and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran in 2018. Talks were on in Vienna from April this year to revive the nuclear deal, but they were adjourned on Sunday (June 20).

Tehran's delegation chief said negotiators with return to respective capitals for consultations. No date has been made public for resumption of talks.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-nuclear-talks-to-be-adjourned-for-consultations-in-capital-392761">Iran says nuclear talks to be adjourned for consultations in respective capitals</a>

"We will see if the Iranian negotiators come to the next round of talks prepared to make hard choices that they have to make," Sullivan said.

On Friday, Ebrahim Raisi, a hardliner won Iran's presidential election. He will take office in early August.

Asked if Raisi's election increased the chances of a deal, Sullivan said the ultimate decision was with the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;

"He was the same person before this election as he is after the election, so ultimately it lies with him and his decision," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that there were still disagreements between Iran and world powers over reviving 2015 nuclear deal talks.

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that there were still disagreements between Iran and world powers over reviving 2015 nuclear deal talks. He added that that the final decision on this issue was up to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "There is still a fair distance to travel on some of the key issues, including on sanctions and on the nuclear commitments that Iran has to make, Sullivan told "This Week with George Stephanopoulos" on ABC television. The nuclear deal was struck with Iran buy P5+1 powers in 2015. However former US President Donald Trump pulled US out of the deal and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran in 2018. Talks were on in Vienna from April this year to revive the nuclear deal, but they were adjourned on Sunday (June 20). Tehran's delegation chief said negotiators with return to respective capitals for consultations. No date has been made public for resumption of talks. Also Read | Iran says nuclear talks to be adjourned for consultations in respective capitals "We will see if the Iranian negotiators come to the next round of talks prepared to make hard choices that they have to make," Sullivan said. On Friday, Ebrahim Raisi, a hardliner won Iran's presidential election. He will take office in early August. Asked if Raisi's election increased the chances of a deal, Sullivan said the ultimate decision was with the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "He was the same person before this election as he is after the election, so ultimately it lies with him and his decision," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Disagreements remain in Iran nuclear talks, says US

Iran's chief negotiator at international talks on its nuclear program said late Saturday that he does not think they can conclude this week before the country's June 18 presidential election.

No conclusion yet on reviving nuclear deal as Iran Presidential Polls become a hurdle

Iran on Thursday accused International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of taking a "counterproductive approach" after the head of the agency said Iran hadn't clarified queries over possible undeclared nuclear activity.

Last week, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) voiced concern in a report to its members that Iran had not clarified the long-outstanding queries.

The regular report has come at a time when world powers are holding talks with Iran to bring the nuclear deal back on track.

The 2015 landmark accord has been hanging by a thread since the US left it in 2018 and re-imposed sanctions, leading to Tehran to step up its nuclear activities long curtailed by the deal.

Iran Ambassador Kazem Gharib Abadi told the IAEA's board of governors' meeting that the latest agency report is "not credible", calling it "deeply disappointing".&nbsp;

Iran insists it is cooperating with the IAEA as it seeks clarity on several undeclared Iranian sites where nuclear activity may have taken place, mostly in the early 2000s.

"The secretariat has taken a counterproductive approach at the expense of its own credibility," he said, warning this "could turn into an obstacle for future good-will interactions between the two sides".

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told reporters on Monday that it was "becoming increasingly difficult" to extend a temporary inspections arrangement with Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran on Thursday accused International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of taking a "counterproductive approach" after the head of the agency said Iran hadn't clarified queries over possible undeclared nuclear activity.

Iran on Thursday accused International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of taking a "counterproductive approach" after the head of the agency said Iran hadn't clarified queries over possible undeclared nuclear activity. Last week, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) voiced concern in a report to its members that Iran had not clarified the long-outstanding queries. The regular report has come at a time when world powers are holding talks with Iran to bring the nuclear deal back on track. The 2015 landmark accord has been hanging by a thread since the US left it in 2018 and re-imposed sanctions, leading to Tehran to step up its nuclear activities long curtailed by the deal. Iran Ambassador Kazem Gharib Abadi told the IAEA's board of governors' meeting that the latest agency report is "not credible", calling it "deeply disappointing". Iran insists it is cooperating with the IAEA as it seeks clarity on several undeclared Iranian sites where nuclear activity may have taken place, mostly in the early 2000s. "The secretariat has taken a counterproductive approach at the expense of its own credibility," he said, warning this "could turn into an obstacle for future good-will interactions between the two sides". IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told reporters on Monday that it was "becoming increasingly difficult" to extend a temporary inspections arrangement with Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran calls IAEA's report 'counterproductive' amid undeclared nuclear activity row

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that hundreds of US sanctions will remain on Iran even if the United States rejoins the 2015 nuclear accord. Blinken said the sanctions will remain in place until Iran's behaviour changes.

Antony Blinken says hundreds of sanctions to remain on Iran even if US rejoins nuclear deal

As Iran continues to battle with the US over the 2015 nuclear deal, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the House Foreign Affairs Committee that it is "unclear whether Iran is willing and prepared to do what it needs to do to come back into compliance."

Watch:

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The US secretary of state's statement comes as the UN nuclear watchdog had said last week that the Rouhani government hadn't answered questions on undeclared nuclear activity.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) had said that there are at least three undeclared locations including a fourth site where Iran&nbsp;had allegedly carried out experiments with uranium between 2002 and 2003.

Iranian officials had entered into talks with world powers after the Biden administration signalled its intention to revive the 2015 nuclear deal which the former Trump administration had rejected.

The US has put down compliance with the nuclear deal as a precondition, while Iran has insisted that the US should lift all sanctions imposed by Trump to revive the nuclear deal.

"We're not even at the stage of returning to compliance for compliance," Blinken told the committee even as officials in Vienna continue to negotiate with Iran.&nbsp;

"We don't know if that's actually going to happen," Blinken added on the fate of Iran's compliance over the nuclear deal.

In a report earlier, the IAEA had said Iran had reportedly enriched uranium around 16 times above the limit laid down by the nuclear deal.

Britain, China, France, Germany and Russian officials along with the EU are currently negotiating in Vienna with Iranian officials ensuring indirect talks with the US.

(With inputs from Agencies)

As Iran continues to battle with the US over the 2015 nuclear deal, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the House Foreign Affairs Committee that it is "unclear whether Iran is willing and prepared to do what it needs to do to come back into compliance.

As Iran continues to battle with the US over the 2015 nuclear deal, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told the House Foreign Affairs Committee that it is "unclear whether Iran is willing and prepared to do what it needs to do to come back into compliance." Watch: The US secretary of state's statement comes as the UN nuclear watchdog had said last week that the Rouhani government hadn't answered questions on undeclared nuclear activity. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) had said that there are at least three undeclared locations including a fourth site where Iran had allegedly carried out experiments with uranium between 2002 and 2003. Iranian officials had entered into talks with world powers after the Biden administration signalled its intention to revive the 2015 nuclear deal which the former Trump administration had rejected. The US has put down compliance with the nuclear deal as a precondition, while Iran has insisted that the US should lift all sanctions imposed by Trump to revive the nuclear deal. "We're not even at the stage of returning to compliance for compliance," Blinken told the committee even as officials in Vienna continue to negotiate with Iran. "We don't know if that's actually going to happen," Blinken added on the fate of Iran's compliance over the nuclear deal. In a report earlier, the IAEA had said Iran had reportedly enriched uranium around 16 times above the limit laid down by the nuclear deal. Britain, China, France, Germany and Russian officials along with the EU are currently negotiating in Vienna with Iranian officials ensuring indirect talks with the US. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Unclear' about Iran's nuclear compliance, Blinken to lawmakers

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said Wednesday a breakthrough in talks in Vienna to revive a nuclear deal before he leaves office in August required a "will" beyond his power.

Rouhani is Iran's main architect of the 2015 nuclear agreement with world powers, which was torpedoed by former US President Donald Trump in 2018.

Under its terms, international sanctions against Iran were eased in return for a commitment from Tehran that it would not seek to develop nuclear weapons. 
 
Watch: Iran says 60% enrichment response to Israel's 'Nuclear terrorism'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-says-60-enrichment-response-to-israels-nuclear-terrorism-377667/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But the final decision regarding the ongoing Vienna negotiations rests with the Islamic republic's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"Our main issues with the United States in these negotiations have been resolved, and there are only a few minor issues left, on which we will negotiate and produce results," Rouhani said, at a televised cabinet meeting.

"If there is the will that this be done in the current administration, then this administration has finished the work," he added.

Iranians vote on June 18 for a new president, Rouhani having served the maximum two consecutive terms allowed under the constitution. He will hand over power in August.

Negotiations have been underway since April in the Austrian capital between Iran and the remaining members of the accord, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia.

Talks resume next week

Mikhail Ulyanov, the Russian envoy at the talks, tweeted they had reached a point where the different countries needed to consult with their respective capitals.

The talks have been halted on Wednesday but are due to resume at the end of next week, he added.

EU negotiator Enrique Mora, who is chairing the talks in Vienna, told journalists Wednesday he hoped that it would be the last round of negotiations.

"But we are going to keep working and I am sure that at the next round next week we will finally have an agreement," he added.

In Washington, US State Department spokeswoman Jalina Porter spoke of progress, while cautioning that reaching an agreement would be neither a fast nor an easy process.

The United States is participating indirectly in the talks.

Trump's successor, US President Joe Biden, has signalled his readiness to revive the nuclear deal.

For this to happen, the US would need to return to the accord and lift the sanctions reinstated by Trump, while Tehran would have to re-commit to full compliance with nuclear obligations it progressively withdrew from since 2019 in retaliation.

Sanctions reimposed by Trump deprived Iran of the economic benefits the deal had promised, especially by blocking its vital oil export lifeline and access to its funds abroad, sparking an economic crisis.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said Wednesday a breakthrough in talks in Vienna to revive a nuclear deal before he leaves office in August required a "will" beyond his power.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said Wednesday a breakthrough in talks in Vienna to revive a nuclear deal before he leaves office in August required a "will" beyond his power. Rouhani is Iran's main architect of the 2015 nuclear agreement with world powers, which was torpedoed by former US President Donald Trump in 2018. Under its terms, international sanctions against Iran were eased in return for a commitment from Tehran that it would not seek to develop nuclear weapons. Watch: Iran says 60% enrichment response to Israel's 'Nuclear terrorism' But the final decision regarding the ongoing Vienna negotiations rests with the Islamic republic's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "Our main issues with the United States in these negotiations have been resolved, and there are only a few minor issues left, on which we will negotiate and produce results," Rouhani said, at a televised cabinet meeting. "If there is the will that this be done in the current administration, then this administration has finished the work," he added. Iranians vote on June 18 for a new president, Rouhani having served the maximum two consecutive terms allowed under the constitution. He will hand over power in August. Negotiations have been underway since April in the Austrian capital between Iran and the remaining members of the accord, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia. Talks resume next week Mikhail Ulyanov, the Russian envoy at the talks, tweeted they had reached a point where the different countries needed to consult with their respective capitals. The talks have been halted on Wednesday but are due to resume at the end of next week, he added. EU negotiator Enrique Mora, who is chairing the talks in Vienna, told journalists Wednesday he hoped that it would be the last round of negotiations. "But we are going to keep working and I am sure that at the next round next week we will finally have an agreement," he added. In Washington, US State Department spokeswoman Jalina Porter spoke of progress, while cautioning that reaching an agreement would be neither a fast nor an easy process. The United States is participating indirectly in the talks. Trump's successor, US President Joe Biden, has signalled his readiness to revive the nuclear deal. For this to happen, the US would need to return to the accord and lift the sanctions reinstated by Trump, while Tehran would have to re-commit to full compliance with nuclear obligations it progressively withdrew from since 2019 in retaliation. Sanctions reimposed by Trump deprived Iran of the economic benefits the deal had promised, especially by blocking its vital oil export lifeline and access to its funds abroad, sparking an economic crisis.

Main issues with US on nuclear deal resolved, only a few left: Iran's President Hassan Rouhani

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Sunday that it was unclear Iran was prepared to take the necessary steps to return to compliance with the multination nuclear agreement. The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by USA and other world powers in 2015. Former US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew USA from the deal in 2017. Talks are on in Vienna in order to bring the deal back on track.

Blinken was asked about Iranian reports that Washington had already agreed to lift some of the sanctions that have crippled the Iranian economy.

"We know what sanctions would need to be lifted if they're inconsistent with the nuclear agreement," he said on ABC's "This Week".

He added that more importantly, "Iran, I think, knows what it needs to do to come back into compliance on the nuclear side, and what we haven't seen is whether Iran is ready to make a decision.&nbsp;

"That's the test and we don't yet have an answer."

US President Joe Biden wants to revive the deal with Iran.

For that to happen, Washington must agree to lift the sanctions reinstated by Trump and Tehran must commit to follow the terms of the deal.

Once Trump walked away from the agreement, the Islamic republic started to abandon the constraints on its production of nuclear material.

European participants to the Vienna talks had expressed optimism as the latest round of negotiations wound up on Wednesday.

"We've made good progress," Enrique Mora, the European Union official who chaired the talks between Russia, China, Germany, France, Britain and Iran, said in a tweet on Wednesday.

"An agreement is shaping up."

Indirect negotiations between Washington and Tehran have been going on in the Austrian capital since early April, with the other five countries that are signatories to the deal acting as intermediaries.

Diplomats are hoping to get the US back on board before Iranian presidential elections on June 18.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Sunday that it was unclear Iran was prepared to take the necessary steps to return to compliance with the multination nuclear agreement.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Sunday that it was unclear Iran was prepared to take the necessary steps to return to compliance with the multination nuclear agreement. The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by USA and other world powers in 2015. Former US President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew USA from the deal in 2017. Talks are on in Vienna in order to bring the deal back on track. Blinken was asked about Iranian reports that Washington had already agreed to lift some of the sanctions that have crippled the Iranian economy. "We know what sanctions would need to be lifted if they're inconsistent with the nuclear agreement," he said on ABC's "This Week". He added that more importantly, "Iran, I think, knows what it needs to do to come back into compliance on the nuclear side, and what we haven't seen is whether Iran is ready to make a decision. "That's the test and we don't yet have an answer." US President Joe Biden wants to revive the deal with Iran. For that to happen, Washington must agree to lift the sanctions reinstated by Trump and Tehran must commit to follow the terms of the deal. Once Trump walked away from the agreement, the Islamic republic started to abandon the constraints on its production of nuclear material. European participants to the Vienna talks had expressed optimism as the latest round of negotiations wound up on Wednesday. "We've made good progress," Enrique Mora, the European Union official who chaired the talks between Russia, China, Germany, France, Britain and Iran, said in a tweet on Wednesday. "An agreement is shaping up." Indirect negotiations between Washington and Tehran have been going on in the Austrian capital since early April, with the other five countries that are signatories to the deal acting as intermediaries. Diplomats are hoping to get the US back on board before Iranian presidential elections on June 18. (With inputs from agencies)

Unclear if Iran ready to return to nuclear pact, says US

Iranian President Hassan&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;said on Thursday that the United States was ready to lift sanctions on his country's oil, banking and shipping sectors that were reimposed after former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal three years ago.

Iran and world powers have been in talks since April on reviving the deal and the EU official leading the discussions said on Wednesday he was confident a deal would be reached.

But European diplomats said success was not guaranteed and very difficult issues remained, while a senior Iranian official contradicted the president.

"The talks in Vienna are about minor issues. They have accepted to lift sanctions on Iran's oil and shipping sectors as well as sanctions on the Central Bank and others," President Hassan&nbsp;Rouhani&nbsp;said during a televised cabinet meeting.

Rouhani&nbsp;was speaking a few weeks ahead of Iran's presidential election, in which the revival of the nuclear accord could boost moderate candidates close to him.

Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018, prompting Iran to steadily overstep the accord’s limits on its nuclear programme designed to make it harder to develop an atomic bomb,&nbsp;an ambition Tehran denies.

Iran's top nuclear negotiator Abbas Araqchi said on Wednesday that some "key issues" needed to be discussed further.

And a senior Iranian official told the country's Press TV that Washington had no intention to "completely lift any sanctions on the oil, banking, finance and energy sectors".

"Washington intends to temporarily suspend some of the sanctions over a long period of time and in various steps," said the official, who was not identified by the station run by hardliners and which is close to the Revolutionary Guards.

Oil prices were on course for a third day of losses on Thursday after diplomats said progress was made towards a deal to lift sanctions on Iran, which could boost crude supply.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday that the United States was ready to lift sanctions on his country's oil, banking and shipping sectors that were reimposed after former US President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal three years ago.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday that the United States was ready to lift sanctions on his country's oil, banking and shipping sectors that were reimposed after former US President Donald Trump exited a 2015 nuclear deal three years ago. Iran and world powers have been in talks since April on reviving the deal and the EU official leading the discussions said on Wednesday he was confident a deal would be reached. But European diplomats said success was not guaranteed and very difficult issues remained, while a senior Iranian official contradicted the president. "The talks in Vienna are about minor issues. They have accepted to lift sanctions on Iran's oil and shipping sectors as well as sanctions on the Central Bank and others," President Hassan Rouhani said during a televised cabinet meeting. Rouhani was speaking a few weeks ahead of Iran's presidential election, in which the revival of the nuclear accord could boost moderate candidates close to him. Trump withdrew from the deal in 2018, prompting Iran to steadily overstep the accord’s limits on its nuclear programme designed to make it harder to develop an atomic bomb, an ambition Tehran denies. Iran's top nuclear negotiator Abbas Araqchi said on Wednesday that some "key issues" needed to be discussed further. And a senior Iranian official told the country's Press TV that Washington had no intention to "completely lift any sanctions on the oil, banking, finance and energy sectors". "Washington intends to temporarily suspend some of the sanctions over a long period of time and in various steps," said the official, who was not identified by the station run by hardliners and which is close to the Revolutionary Guards. Oil prices were on course for a third day of losses on Thursday after diplomats said progress was made towards a deal to lift sanctions on Iran, which could boost crude supply.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says US is ready to lift sanctions

Talks between the United States and Iran to revive a nuclear deal will be continued beyond Friday, the planned deadline.

US, Iran to continue talks to revive nuclear deal

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif cancelled his meeting with his Austrian counterpart as a sign of displeasure over Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz flying Israeli flag in Vienna. Zarif was due to meet Austria's foreign minister Alexander Schallenberg but he called off the meeting, said a spokeswoman for Schallenberg

"We regret this and take note of it, but for us it is as clear as day that when Hamas fires more than 2,000 rockets at civilian targets in Israel then we will not remain silent," the spokeswoman said.

Hamas is the Islamist group that runs Gaza. Israel has pummelled Gaza with airstrikes and Palestinian militants have launched rocket barrages at Israel in the worst escalation of violence in years.

The dispute between Iran and Austria has come during talks to revive 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally taken US out of the deal struck between Iran and world powers.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-as-violence-rocks-gaza-israel-and-west-bank-385182">Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank&nbsp;</a>

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, who is firmly pro-Israel, had called flying the Israeli flag over the federal chancellery on Friday a mark of solidarity amid the violent clashes. But Abbas Araqchi, who heads the Iranian delegation at the Vienna talks, criticised the move.

"Vienna is the seat of (nuclear watchdog) IAEA &amp; UN, and (Austria) so far been a great host for negotiations," Araqchi wrote on Twitter. "Shocking &amp; painful to see flag of the occupying regime, that brutally killed tens of innocent civilians, inc many children in just few days, over govt offices in Vienna. We stand with Palestine."

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif cancelled his meeting with his Austrian counterpart as a sign of displeasure over Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz flying Israeli flag in Vienna.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif cancelled his meeting with his Austrian counterpart as a sign of displeasure over Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz flying Israeli flag in Vienna. Zarif was due to meet Austria's foreign minister Alexander Schallenberg but he called off the meeting, said a spokeswoman for Schallenberg "We regret this and take note of it, but for us it is as clear as day that when Hamas fires more than 2,000 rockets at civilian targets in Israel then we will not remain silent," the spokeswoman said. Hamas is the Islamist group that runs Gaza. Israel has pummelled Gaza with airstrikes and Palestinian militants have launched rocket barrages at Israel in the worst escalation of violence in years. The dispute between Iran and Austria has come during talks to revive 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally taken US out of the deal struck between Iran and world powers. Also Read | Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, who is firmly pro-Israel, had called flying the Israeli flag over the federal chancellery on Friday a mark of solidarity amid the violent clashes. But Abbas Araqchi, who heads the Iranian delegation at the Vienna talks, criticised the move. "Vienna is the seat of (nuclear watchdog) IAEA & UN, and (Austria) so far been a great host for negotiations," Araqchi wrote on Twitter. "Shocking & painful to see flag of the occupying regime, that brutally killed tens of innocent civilians, inc many children in just few days, over govt offices in Vienna. We stand with Palestine." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran foreign minister cancels meet with Austrian counterpart over Israel flag

Iran Nuclear Deal have wrapped up with the third round of negotiations. Diplomates from Russia, China, France, Germany and the UK met in Vienna.

Iran Nuclear Deal: Third round of negotiations concluded

The US on Wednesday shared with Iran details of sanctions it was prepared to lift, as per a senior official quoted by AFP. The sanctions will be lifted if Iran returns to the nuclear deal. US and Iran have been engaged in indirect talks with each other over revival of 2015 nuclear deal.

"This time, we have gone into more detail," a senior US official said of the latest EU-led talks.

"We have provided Iran with a number of examples of the kind of sanctions that we believe we would need to lift in order to come back into compliance and the sanctions that we believe we would not need to lift," he said.

Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under former President Barack Obama. Other world powers were party too. But Donald Trump unilaterally pulled US out of the nuclear deal during his presidency.

Iran has pressed for the United States to lift all sanctions imposed under Trump before it rolls back the steps Tehran took away from the 2015 deal in protest.

The US official said that the United States and Iran have not yet gone into detail on the question of who goes first.

But the official said: "We're open to different kinds of sequencing which meets our interest -- which is to see both sides in full compliance."

He declined to confirm a Wall Street Journal report that the Biden administration has voiced a willingness to ease sanctions on the Iranian finance and oil sectors.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani earlier voiced optimism, saying that negotiations have made "60-70 percent progress."

(With inputs from agencies)

The US on Wednesday shared with Iran details of sanctions it was prepared to lift, as per a senior official quoted by AFP. The sanctions will be lifted if Iran returns to the nuclear deal.

The US on Wednesday shared with Iran details of sanctions it was prepared to lift, as per a senior official quoted by AFP. The sanctions will be lifted if Iran returns to the nuclear deal. US and Iran have been engaged in indirect talks with each other over revival of 2015 nuclear deal. "This time, we have gone into more detail," a senior US official said of the latest EU-led talks. "We have provided Iran with a number of examples of the kind of sanctions that we believe we would need to lift in order to come back into compliance and the sanctions that we believe we would not need to lift," he said. Nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under former President Barack Obama. Other world powers were party too. But Donald Trump unilaterally pulled US out of the nuclear deal during his presidency. Iran has pressed for the United States to lift all sanctions imposed under Trump before it rolls back the steps Tehran took away from the 2015 deal in protest. The US official said that the United States and Iran have not yet gone into detail on the question of who goes first. But the official said: "We're open to different kinds of sequencing which meets our interest -- which is to see both sides in full compliance." He declined to confirm a Wall Street Journal report that the Biden administration has voiced a willingness to ease sanctions on the Iranian finance and oil sectors. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani earlier voiced optimism, saying that negotiations have made "60-70 percent progress." (With inputs from agencies)

US gives 'examples' of sanctions against Iran it is ready to lift

Envoys participating in the negotiations to revive 2015 nuclear deal with Iran hailed progress of the talks on Saturday. The negotiations are going on in Vienna.

European Union envoy Enrique Mora said Saturday that "progress has been made in a far from easy task. We need now more detailed work".

Russian ambassador to Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov added that "participants took note with satisfaction of the progress made so far and expressed determination to continue negotiations with a view to complete the process&nbsp; 
successfully as soon as possible."

The discussions involved EU officials and representatives from Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and Iran.

The talks are aimed at determining which sanctions the United States should lift and the measures Iran has to take in order to rein in Tehran's nuclear programme.

Iran delegation head Abbas Araghchi remarked on Telegram that "a good discussion took place within the joint commission.

"It appears that a new agreement is taking shape and there is now a common final goal among all," he added.

Ali Akbar Salehi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, confirmed Iran was now producing uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, taking the country closer to the 90-percent level required for use in a nuclear weapon.

"The enrichment of uranium to 60 percent is underway" in Natanz, he was quoted by Tasnim news agency as saying. 
Iran has repeatedly insisted it is not seeking atomic weapons, but it has gradually rolled back its nuclear commitments since 2019, the year after Washington withdrew from the accord and began imposing sanctions.

The nuclear deal was struck with Iran in 2015. Doubts were cast on its longevity after former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took US out of the deal.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Envoys participating in the negotiations to revive 2015 nuclear deal with Iran hailed progress of the talks on Saturday. The negotiations are going on in Vienna.

Envoys participating in the negotiations to revive 2015 nuclear deal with Iran hailed progress of the talks on Saturday. The negotiations are going on in Vienna. European Union envoy Enrique Mora said Saturday that "progress has been made in a far from easy task. We need now more detailed work". Russian ambassador to Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov added that "participants took note with satisfaction of the progress made so far and expressed determination to continue negotiations with a view to complete the process successfully as soon as possible." The discussions involved EU officials and representatives from Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and Iran. The talks are aimed at determining which sanctions the United States should lift and the measures Iran has to take in order to rein in Tehran's nuclear programme. Iran delegation head Abbas Araghchi remarked on Telegram that "a good discussion took place within the joint commission. "It appears that a new agreement is taking shape and there is now a common final goal among all," he added. Ali Akbar Salehi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, confirmed Iran was now producing uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, taking the country closer to the 90-percent level required for use in a nuclear weapon. "The enrichment of uranium to 60 percent is underway" in Natanz, he was quoted by Tasnim news agency as saying. Iran has repeatedly insisted it is not seeking atomic weapons, but it has gradually rolled back its nuclear commitments since 2019, the year after Washington withdrew from the accord and began imposing sanctions. The nuclear deal was struck with Iran in 2015. Doubts were cast on its longevity after former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took US out of the deal. (With inputs from agencies)

Envoys hail 'progress' over Iran nuclear deal talk

Iran's supreme leader&nbsp;Ayatollah Ali Khamenei&nbsp;on Wednesday dismissed initial offers at talks in Vienna to save Tehran's tattered nuclear deal as ''not worth looking at,''&nbsp;attempting to pressure world powers after an attack on the country's main nuclear enrichment site.

The comments by Khamenei, who has final say on all matters of state in the Islamic Republic, came after a day that saw Iran's president similarly ratchet up pressure over the accord.

European powers meanwhile warned Tehran its actions were ''particularly regrettable''&nbsp;and ''dangerous.''

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-powers-warn-iran-over-dangerous-uranium-enrichment-move-377640" hreflang="en">European powers warn Iran over 'dangerous' uranium enrichment move&nbsp;</a>

The talks already have been thrown into disarray by a weekend attack on Iran's main Natanz nuclear enrichment site suspected to have been carried out by Israel.

Tehran retaliated by announcing it would enrich uranium up to 60 per cent&nbsp;higher than it ever has before but still lower than weapons-grade levels of 90&nbsp;per cent.

"The offers they provide are usually arrogant and humiliating (and) are not worth looking at,''&nbsp;the 81-year-old Khamenei said in an address marking the first day of the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan in Iran. He also criticized the US&nbsp;And warned time could be running out.

''The talks shouldn't become talks of attrition,''&nbsp;Khamenei said. "They shouldn't be in a way that parties drag on and prolong the talks. This is harmful to the country.''

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-says-60-uranium-enrichment-answer-to-nuclear-terrorism-377567/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Speaking to his Cabinet, an impassioned Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said the first-generation IR-1 centrifuges that were damaged in Sunday's attack would be replaced by advanced IR-6 centrifuges that enrich uranium much faster.

''You wanted to make our hands empty during the talks but our hands are full,''&nbsp;Rouhani said.

''60&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;enrichment is an answer to your evilness. ... We cut off both of your hands, one with IR-6 centrifuges and another one with 60 per cent,''&nbsp;Rouhani added:

Rouhani also accused Israel of being behind the Natanz attack and threatened to retaliate.

In Jerusalem at a Memorial Day commemoration, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to reference Iran.

''We must never remain apathetic to the threats of war and extermination of those who seek to eliminate us,''&nbsp;he said. Israel has not claimed the attack, though it rarely does in its ongoing shadow war against Tehran.

The talks in Vienna are aimed at finding a way for the United States to re-enter Tehran's nuclear agreement with world powers and have Iran comply again with its limits.

The accord, which former President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the US&nbsp;from in 2018, prevented Iran from stockpiling enough high-enriched uranium to be able to pursue a nuclear weapon in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

Late on Wednesday, the European Union said formal negotiations would resume Thursday in Vienna.

Rouhani in his comments Wednesday insisted Iran is still hoping that the Vienna talks lead to a negotiated settlement over its program&nbsp;and the accompanying lifting of punishing sanctions. Khamenei as well said he believed in his negotiators, but kept up the pressure on the West in his remarks Wednesday night.

''They must do what we say first, and we are assured that it's done, then we will do what is we are required to do," he said.

France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, all parties to the nuclear deal, only hours earlier issued a joint statement Wednesday expressing their ''grave concern''&nbsp;over Iran's decision to increase enrichment.

''This is a serious development since the production of highly enriched uranium constitutes an important step in the production of a nuclear weapon,''&nbsp;the countries said.

''Iran has no credible civilian need for enrichment at this level.''

China and Russia also took part in the deal.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken also called Iran's enrichment decision a ''provocative announcement.''

''It calls into question Iran's seriousness of purpose in the nuclear talks,''&nbsp;he said in Brussels.

Saudi Arabia, a regional rival to Iran, similarly issued a statement, saying enriching at that level ''could not be considered a program intended for peaceful purposes.'' It called on Iran to ''avoid escalation."

Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, though the West and the International Atomic Energy Agency says Tehran had an organized military nuclear program up until the end of 2003.

An annual US&nbsp;Intelligence report released Tuesday maintained the American assessment that ''Iran is not currently undertaking the key nuclear weapons-development activities that we judge would be necessary to produce a nuclear device.''

Iran previously had said it could use uranium enriched up to 60&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;for nuclear-powered ships. However, the Islamic Republic currently has no such ships in its navy.

Iran had been enriching up to 20&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;even that was a short technical step to weapons-grade levels. The deal limited Iran's enrichment to 3.76&nbsp;per cent.

Iran's envoy to the IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, posted a letter online addressed to IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi warning against any adventurism by (the) Israeli regime&nbsp;targeting Iranian nuclear sites.

''The most recent cowardly act of nuclear terrorism will only strengthen our determination to march forward and to replace all (damaged) centrifuges with even more advanced and sophisticated machines,''&nbsp;Gharibabadi wrote.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday dismissed initial offers at talks in Vienna to save Tehran's tattered nuclear deal as ''not worth looking at,'' attempting to pressure world powers after an attack on the country's main nuclear enrichment site.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday dismissed initial offers at talks in Vienna to save Tehran's tattered nuclear deal as ''not worth looking at,'' attempting to pressure world powers after an attack on the country's main nuclear enrichment site. The comments by Khamenei, who has final say on all matters of state in the Islamic Republic, came after a day that saw Iran's president similarly ratchet up pressure over the accord. European powers meanwhile warned Tehran its actions were ''particularly regrettable'' and ''dangerous.'' Also read| European powers warn Iran over 'dangerous' uranium enrichment move The talks already have been thrown into disarray by a weekend attack on Iran's main Natanz nuclear enrichment site suspected to have been carried out by Israel. Tehran retaliated by announcing it would enrich uranium up to 60 per cent higher than it ever has before but still lower than weapons-grade levels of 90 per cent. "The offers they provide are usually arrogant and humiliating (and) are not worth looking at,'' the 81-year-old Khamenei said in an address marking the first day of the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan in Iran. He also criticized the US And warned time could be running out. ''The talks shouldn't become talks of attrition,'' Khamenei said. "They shouldn't be in a way that parties drag on and prolong the talks. This is harmful to the country.'' Speaking to his Cabinet, an impassioned Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said the first-generation IR-1 centrifuges that were damaged in Sunday's attack would be replaced by advanced IR-6 centrifuges that enrich uranium much faster. ''You wanted to make our hands empty during the talks but our hands are full,'' Rouhani said. ''60 per cent enrichment is an answer to your evilness. ... We cut off both of your hands, one with IR-6 centrifuges and another one with 60 per cent,'' Rouhani added: Rouhani also accused Israel of being behind the Natanz attack and threatened to retaliate. In Jerusalem at a Memorial Day commemoration, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to reference Iran. ''We must never remain apathetic to the threats of war and extermination of those who seek to eliminate us,'' he said. Israel has not claimed the attack, though it rarely does in its ongoing shadow war against Tehran. The talks in Vienna are aimed at finding a way for the United States to re-enter Tehran's nuclear agreement with world powers and have Iran comply again with its limits. The accord, which former President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the US from in 2018, prevented Iran from stockpiling enough high-enriched uranium to be able to pursue a nuclear weapon in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. Late on Wednesday, the European Union said formal negotiations would resume Thursday in Vienna. Rouhani in his comments Wednesday insisted Iran is still hoping that the Vienna talks lead to a negotiated settlement over its program and the accompanying lifting of punishing sanctions. Khamenei as well said he believed in his negotiators, but kept up the pressure on the West in his remarks Wednesday night. ''They must do what we say first, and we are assured that it's done, then we will do what is we are required to do," he said. France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, all parties to the nuclear deal, only hours earlier issued a joint statement Wednesday expressing their ''grave concern'' over Iran's decision to increase enrichment. ''This is a serious development since the production of highly enriched uranium constitutes an important step in the production of a nuclear weapon,'' the countries said. ''Iran has no credible civilian need for enrichment at this level.'' China and Russia also took part in the deal. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also called Iran's enrichment decision a ''provocative announcement.'' ''It calls into question Iran's seriousness of purpose in the nuclear talks,'' he said in Brussels. Saudi Arabia, a regional rival to Iran, similarly issued a statement, saying enriching at that level ''could not be considered a program intended for peaceful purposes.'' It called on Iran to ''avoid escalation." Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, though the West and the International Atomic Energy Agency says Tehran had an organized military nuclear program up until the end of 2003. An annual US Intelligence report released Tuesday maintained the American assessment that ''Iran is not currently undertaking the key nuclear weapons-development activities that we judge would be necessary to produce a nuclear device.'' Iran previously had said it could use uranium enriched up to 60 per cent for nuclear-powered ships. However, the Islamic Republic currently has no such ships in its navy. Iran had been enriching up to 20 per cent even that was a short technical step to weapons-grade levels. The deal limited Iran's enrichment to 3.76 per cent. Iran's envoy to the IAEA, Kazem Gharibabadi, posted a letter online addressed to IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi warning against any adventurism by (the) Israeli regime targeting Iranian nuclear sites. ''The most recent cowardly act of nuclear terrorism will only strengthen our determination to march forward and to replace all (damaged) centrifuges with even more advanced and sophisticated machines,'' Gharibabadi wrote. (With input from agencies)

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei says Vienna offers 'not worth looking at'

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani sought to calm western powers over the country's latest move of uranium enrichment. He insisted that Iran's nuclear programme was "peaceful".&nbsp;

Rouhani said in televised remarks that it was a "mistake" for Europe and the United States to express concerns that the move "means we can enrich to 90 per cent in one go".

"Today, we can enrich to 90 per cent if we want to. But we have declared it from day one and we're keeping our word: our nuclear activities are peaceful; we are not seeking to obtain the atomic bomb."

His comments came hours before Vienna talks. The dialogue is aimed at reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under Barack Obama in 2015. But his successor Donald Trump unilaterally took the US out of the deal, opening a new chapter of acrimony between US and Iran.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani sought to calm western powers over the country's latest move of uranium enrichment. He insisted that Iran's nuclear programme was "peaceful".

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani sought to calm western powers over the country's latest move of uranium enrichment. He insisted that Iran's nuclear programme was "peaceful". Rouhani said in televised remarks that it was a "mistake" for Europe and the United States to express concerns that the move "means we can enrich to 90 per cent in one go". "Today, we can enrich to 90 per cent if we want to. But we have declared it from day one and we're keeping our word: our nuclear activities are peaceful; we are not seeking to obtain the atomic bomb." His comments came hours before Vienna talks. The dialogue is aimed at reviving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The nuclear deal with Iran was struck by US under Barack Obama in 2015. But his successor Donald Trump unilaterally took the US out of the deal, opening a new chapter of acrimony between US and Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran nuclear programme peaceful, 'mistake' for US to express concerns: Rouhani

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday Tehran's decision to boost uranium enrichment to 60 per cent was a response to Israel's "nuclear terrorism," three days after an attack on its Natanz nuclear facility.

"Enabling IR-6 (centrifuges) at Natanz today, or bringing enrichment to 60 per cent: this is the response to your malice," Rouhani said in televised remarks. "What you did was nuclear terrorism. What we do is legal."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-to-begin-60-enrichment-after-natanz-site-incident-377425/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The disclosure came soon before the resumption of talks in Vienna aimed at reviving&nbsp;Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago.

A fissile purity of 90 per cent&nbsp;is suitable for a nuclear bomb.

Announcing 60 per cent&nbsp;enrichment, chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araqchi also said&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;would activate 1,000 advanced centrifuge machines at Natanz, a nuclear plant hit by an explosion on Sunday that Tehran called an act of sabotage by its arch-foe Israel.

However, an&nbsp;Iranian official told Reuters later that "60% enrichment will be in small quantity" only.

"From tonight, practical preparations for 60% enrichment will begin in Natanz; 60 per cent&nbsp;uranium is used to make a variety of radiopharmaceuticals," the semi-official Fars news agency quoted&nbsp;Iranian nuclear agency spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi as saying.

The International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. nuclear watchdog, said it had been informed of&nbsp;Iran's decision.

In Washington, White House press secretary Jen Psaki called&nbsp;Iran's announcement "provocative" and said the Biden administration was concerned, adding that it called into question Tehran's seriousness on nuclear talks.

Last week,&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and the global powers held what they described as "constructive" talks to salvage the 2015 accord, which has unravelled as&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;has breached its limits on uranium enrichment since Trump re-imposed harsh sanctions on Tehran.

The deal had capped the level of purity to which&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;can enrich uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, at 3.67 per cent, far below the 90 per cent&nbsp;needed for bomb-grade material.

Iran&nbsp;in recent months has raised enrichment to 20 per cent&nbsp;purity, a level where uranium is considered to be highly enriched and is a significant step towards weapons-grade. Three-five percent is broadly the level required to run civilian nuclear power plants.

The biggest obstacle to producing nuclear weapons is accumulating sufficient quantities of fissile material - either 90 per cent&nbsp;enriched uranium, or plutonium - for the core of a bomb.

One of the central objectives of the 2015 nuclear containment deal was to extend the time&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;would need to do this, if it chose to, to a year from about 2-3 months.

Iran&nbsp;says it has never sought to obtain or develop nuclear weapons, and that it seeks nuclear technology for civilian purposes in the fields of medicine or energy.

Western intelligence services believe&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;had a clandestine nuclear weapons programme that was mothballed in 2003, though arch-adversary Israel believes it continues in some form and sees Tehran's nuclear activity as an existential threat.

'Bad gamble'

Iran's top diplomat said earlier on Tuesday that the blast in the underground Natanz plant that it blames on Israel was a "very bad gamble" that would boost Tehran's leverage in the talks to salvage the nuclear deal.

"I assure you that in the near future more advanced uranium enrichment centrifuges will be placed in the Natanz facility," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told a news conference alongside his visiting Russian counterpart in Tehran.

The nuclear talks are due to resume on Thursday in Vienna.

Tehran has said the explosion at Natanz, which knocked out electricity in centrifuge production halls, was sabotage by Israel and vowed revenge for the incident, which appeared to be latest episode in a long-running covert war.

Israel, which the Islamic Republic does not recognise, has not formally commented on the matter.

US&nbsp;President Joe Biden has said&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;must resume full compliance with curbs on its enrichment activity mandated by the deal, which won the lifting of all international sanctions against Tehran, before Washington can rejoin the pact.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday Tehran's decision to boost uranium enrichment to 60 per cent was a response to Israel's "nuclear terrorism," three days after an attack on its Natanz nuclear facility.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday Tehran's decision to boost uranium enrichment to 60 per cent was a response to Israel's "nuclear terrorism," three days after an attack on its Natanz nuclear facility. "Enabling IR-6 (centrifuges) at Natanz today, or bringing enrichment to 60 per cent: this is the response to your malice," Rouhani said in televised remarks. "What you did was nuclear terrorism. What we do is legal." The disclosure came soon before the resumption of talks in Vienna aimed at reviving Iran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former US President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago. A fissile purity of 90 per cent is suitable for a nuclear bomb. Announcing 60 per cent enrichment, chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araqchi also said Iran would activate 1,000 advanced centrifuge machines at Natanz, a nuclear plant hit by an explosion on Sunday that Tehran called an act of sabotage by its arch-foe Israel. However, an Iranian official told Reuters later that "60% enrichment will be in small quantity" only. "From tonight, practical preparations for 60% enrichment will begin in Natanz; 60 per cent uranium is used to make a variety of radiopharmaceuticals," the semi-official Fars news agency quoted Iranian nuclear agency spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi as saying. The International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. nuclear watchdog, said it had been informed of Iran's decision. In Washington, White House press secretary Jen Psaki called Iran's announcement "provocative" and said the Biden administration was concerned, adding that it called into question Tehran's seriousness on nuclear talks. Last week, Iran and the global powers held what they described as "constructive" talks to salvage the 2015 accord, which has unravelled as Iran has breached its limits on uranium enrichment since Trump re-imposed harsh sanctions on Tehran. The deal had capped the level of purity to which Iran can enrich uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, at 3.67 per cent, far below the 90 per cent needed for bomb-grade material. Iran in recent months has raised enrichment to 20 per cent purity, a level where uranium is considered to be highly enriched and is a significant step towards weapons-grade. Three-five percent is broadly the level required to run civilian nuclear power plants. The biggest obstacle to producing nuclear weapons is accumulating sufficient quantities of fissile material - either 90 per cent enriched uranium, or plutonium - for the core of a bomb. One of the central objectives of the 2015 nuclear containment deal was to extend the time Iran would need to do this, if it chose to, to a year from about 2-3 months. Iran says it has never sought to obtain or develop nuclear weapons, and that it seeks nuclear technology for civilian purposes in the fields of medicine or energy. Western intelligence services believe Iran had a clandestine nuclear weapons programme that was mothballed in 2003, though arch-adversary Israel believes it continues in some form and sees Tehran's nuclear activity as an existential threat. 'Bad gamble' Iran's top diplomat said earlier on Tuesday that the blast in the underground Natanz plant that it blames on Israel was a "very bad gamble" that would boost Tehran's leverage in the talks to salvage the nuclear deal. "I assure you that in the near future more advanced uranium enrichment centrifuges will be placed in the Natanz facility," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told a news conference alongside his visiting Russian counterpart in Tehran. The nuclear talks are due to resume on Thursday in Vienna. Tehran has said the explosion at Natanz, which knocked out electricity in centrifuge production halls, was sabotage by Israel and vowed revenge for the incident, which appeared to be latest episode in a long-running covert war. Israel, which the Islamic Republic does not recognise, has not formally commented on the matter. US President Joe Biden has said Iran must resume full compliance with curbs on its enrichment activity mandated by the deal, which won the lifting of all international sanctions against Tehran, before Washington can rejoin the pact. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran says 60% uranium enrichment is response to Israel's 'nuclear terrorism'

Iran is going to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity starting Wednesday, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi announced on Tuesday, state media reported. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-take-our-revenge-from-the-zionists-iran-blames-israel-for-natanz-incident-376980">Also read | 'We will take our revenge from the Zionists': Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident</a> 
 
“Iran has informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of its plan to start 60 per cent uranium enrichment as of Wednesday,” Iran’s Press TV cited Araghchi as saying. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-atomic-agency-claims-nuclear-facility-hit-by-terrorism-376886">Also read: Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism'</a>

In February this year, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had said that Iran could increase its level of uranium enrichment to whatever the country needs, including up to 60%.

Under the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and six world powers, Iran is limited to refining uranium to 3.67%.&nbsp;

On Monday, Iran accused arch-foe Israel of sabotaging its key Natanz nuclear site and vowed revenge for an attack that appeared to be the latest episode in a long-running covert war.

Iran said the person who caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the underground uranium enrichment plant had been identified. “Necessary measures are being taken to arrest this person,” Iranian state media reported, without giving further details.

The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by Iran and the United States to revive Tehran’s 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran is going to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity starting Wednesday, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi announced on Tuesday, state media reported.

Iran is going to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity starting Wednesday, Iran’s chief nuclear negotiator Abbas Araghchi announced on Tuesday, state media reported. Also read | 'We will take our revenge from the Zionists': Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident “Iran has informed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of its plan to start 60 per cent uranium enrichment as of Wednesday,” Iran’s Press TV cited Araghchi as saying. Also read: Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism' In February this year, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had said that Iran could increase its level of uranium enrichment to whatever the country needs, including up to 60%. Under the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and six world powers, Iran is limited to refining uranium to 3.67%. On Monday, Iran accused arch-foe Israel of sabotaging its key Natanz nuclear site and vowed revenge for an attack that appeared to be the latest episode in a long-running covert war. Iran said the person who caused an electricity outage in one of the production halls at the underground uranium enrichment plant had been identified. “Necessary measures are being taken to arrest this person,” Iranian state media reported, without giving further details. The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by Iran and the United States to revive Tehran’s 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran to begin enriching uranium at 60 per cent purity: State media

Iran's foreign minister said Tuesday that Israel made a "very bad gamble" if it believed its alleged sabotage at the Natanz nuclear plant would stop efforts to lift US sanctions.

"If they thought that they can stop Iran from following up on lifting sanctions from the Iranian people, then they made a very bad gamble," Mohammad Javad Zarif&nbsp;told a joint press conference with his visiting Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

"The&nbsp;Israelis thought the attack will weaken our hand in the Vienna talks but in contrary it will strengthen our position," Zarif said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-take-our-revenge-from-the-zionists-iran-blames-israel-for-natanz-incident-376980" hreflang="en">'We will take our revenge from the Zionists': Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident</a>

Iran has accused arch-foe&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;of sabotaging its key Natanz nuclear site on Sunday and has vowed revenge for the attack.

The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and the United States to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said&nbsp;Moscow expects the Iranian nuclear deal to be saved and condemns EU sanctions against Iran.

"We expect that it will be possible to preserve the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action," Lavrov said after talks with Iran's Zarif.&nbsp;He also blasted recent EU sanctions on Iran, saying they sparked "a huge amount of questions".

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-israels-mossad-sabotage-irans-nuclear-site-377152/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and the United States to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago.

Last week,&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and the global powers held what they described as "constructive" talks to salvage the deal, which has unravelled as&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;has breached its limits on sensitive uranium enrichment since Trump reimposed harsh sanctions on Tehran.

Iranian authorities described the incident a day earlier as an act of "nuclear terrorism" and said Tehran reserved the right to take action against the perpetrators.

On Monday, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif explicitly blamed Israel. "The Zionists want to take revenge because of our progress in the way to lift sanctions... We will not fall into their trap...We will not allow this act of sabotage to affect the nuclear talks," Zarif was quoted by state TV as saying.

"But we will take our revenge against the Zionists."

Multiple Israeli media outlets have quoted unnamed intelligence sources as saying the country's Mossad spy service carried out a successful sabotage operation at the underground Natanz complex, potentially setting back enrichment work there by months.

Israel - whose existence&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;does not recognise - has not formally commented on the incident. The White House said the United States was not involved in the attack and had no comment on speculation about the cause of the incident.

In a letter to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Zarif said those involved "committed a grave war crime" and "any power with knowledge of, or acquiescence in, this act must also be held accountable as an accomplice to this war crime."

Iranian nuclear energy chief Ali Akbar Salehi said an emergency power system had been activated at Natanz to offset the outage. "Enrichment of uranium has not stopped at the site."

Advanced centrifuges

A spokesman for&nbsp;Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation, Behrouz Kamalvandi, said the facility was hit by an explosion.

"It is a power grid issue. The explosion was not powerful enough to destroy everything but the ceiling collapsed in one of the control rooms," Kamalvandi told state TV.

The incident took place a day after Tehran, which has insisted it wants only peaceful nuclear energy not nuclear bombs from the enrichment process, launched new advanced centrifuge machines at Natanz.

Referring to&nbsp;Iran's first generation of enrichment machines more vulnerable to outages, Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said that: "all of the centrifuges that went out of circuit at Natanz site were of the IR-1 type".

"Our nuclear experts are assessing the damage but I can assure you that&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;will replace damaged uranium enrichment centrifuges in Natanz with advanced ones."

Modernised centrifuges can refine uranium to higher fissile purity at a much faster rate, helping accumulate a stockpile that could shorten&nbsp;Iran's route to a nuclear weapon, if it chose to develop them, than the IR-1 that still predominates in Natanz's production halls.

The 2015 deal only allows&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;to enrich with up to 5,060 IR-1 machines, in a plant designed to house around 50,000, but it has begun enriching at Natanz with hundreds of advanced centrifuges including the IR-2m.

Despite strong Israeli opposition, US&nbsp;President Joe Biden's administration is committed to rejoining the deal if the Islamic Republic returns to full compliance with restrictions on nuclear fuel production.

Asked by reporters about the Natanz outage, a German Foreign Ministry spokesman, warned that such incidents could adversely affect the nuclear negotiations.

Khatibzadeh said nuclear talks would resume on Wednesday in Vienna. Diplomatic headway has been made, delegates said on Friday.&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;insists all US&nbsp;sanctions crippling its oil-based economy must be lifted first before it stops accelerating enrichment and restores caps on the process.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;had never given up efforts to develop nuclear weapons and that Israel would never allow Tehran to do so. Israel sees the&nbsp;Iranian enrichment drive as a existential menace.

There have been sporadic episodes of sabotage and outages at&nbsp;Iranian nuclear installations over more than a decade, for which Tehran has blamed Israel, including a fire last July that broke out at&nbsp;Iran's Natanz site.

In 2010, the Stuxnet computer virus, widely believed to have been developed by the United States and Israel, was discovered after it was used to attack Natanz, causing damaging breakdowns of centrifuge cascades that refine uranium.

Iran&nbsp;also accused Israel of responsibility for last November's ambush killing outside Tehran of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, who was considered by Western intelligence services as the mastermind of a covert&nbsp;Iranian nuclear weapons programme. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement in his death.

Iran's foreign minister said Tuesday that Israel made a "very bad gamble" if it believed its alleged sabotage at the Natanz nuclear plant would stop efforts to lift US sanctions.

Iran's foreign minister said Tuesday that Israel made a "very bad gamble" if it believed its alleged sabotage at the Natanz nuclear plant would stop efforts to lift US sanctions. "If they thought that they can stop Iran from following up on lifting sanctions from the Iranian people, then they made a very bad gamble," Mohammad Javad Zarif told a joint press conference with his visiting Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. "The Israelis thought the attack will weaken our hand in the Vienna talks but in contrary it will strengthen our position," Zarif said. Also read| 'We will take our revenge from the Zionists': Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident Iran has accused arch-foe Israel of sabotaging its key Natanz nuclear site on Sunday and has vowed revenge for the attack. The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by Iran and the United States to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former US President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow expects the Iranian nuclear deal to be saved and condemns EU sanctions against Iran. "We expect that it will be possible to preserve the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action," Lavrov said after talks with Iran's Zarif. He also blasted recent EU sanctions on Iran, saying they sparked "a huge amount of questions". The incident occurred amid diplomatic efforts by Iran and the United States to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with major powers, an accord Israel fiercely opposed, after former US President Donald Trump abandoned it three years ago. Last week, Iran and the global powers held what they described as "constructive" talks to salvage the deal, which has unravelled as Iran has breached its limits on sensitive uranium enrichment since Trump reimposed harsh sanctions on Tehran. Iranian authorities described the incident a day earlier as an act of "nuclear terrorism" and said Tehran reserved the right to take action against the perpetrators. On Monday, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif explicitly blamed Israel. "The Zionists want to take revenge because of our progress in the way to lift sanctions... We will not fall into their trap...We will not allow this act of sabotage to affect the nuclear talks," Zarif was quoted by state TV as saying. "But we will take our revenge against the Zionists." Multiple Israeli media outlets have quoted unnamed intelligence sources as saying the country's Mossad spy service carried out a successful sabotage operation at the underground Natanz complex, potentially setting back enrichment work there by months. Israel - whose existence Iran does not recognise - has not formally commented on the incident. The White House said the United States was not involved in the attack and had no comment on speculation about the cause of the incident. In a letter to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Zarif said those involved "committed a grave war crime" and "any power with knowledge of, or acquiescence in, this act must also be held accountable as an accomplice to this war crime." Iranian nuclear energy chief Ali Akbar Salehi said an emergency power system had been activated at Natanz to offset the outage. "Enrichment of uranium has not stopped at the site." Advanced centrifuges A spokesman for Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation, Behrouz Kamalvandi, said the facility was hit by an explosion. "It is a power grid issue. The explosion was not powerful enough to destroy everything but the ceiling collapsed in one of the control rooms," Kamalvandi told state TV. The incident took place a day after Tehran, which has insisted it wants only peaceful nuclear energy not nuclear bombs from the enrichment process, launched new advanced centrifuge machines at Natanz. Referring to Iran's first generation of enrichment machines more vulnerable to outages, Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said that: "all of the centrifuges that went out of circuit at Natanz site were of the IR-1 type". "Our nuclear experts are assessing the damage but I can assure you that Iran will replace damaged uranium enrichment centrifuges in Natanz with advanced ones." Modernised centrifuges can refine uranium to higher fissile purity at a much faster rate, helping accumulate a stockpile that could shorten Iran's route to a nuclear weapon, if it chose to develop them, than the IR-1 that still predominates in Natanz's production halls. The 2015 deal only allows Iran to enrich with up to 5,060 IR-1 machines, in a plant designed to house around 50,000, but it has begun enriching at Natanz with hundreds of advanced centrifuges including the IR-2m. Despite strong Israeli opposition, US President Joe Biden's administration is committed to rejoining the deal if the Islamic Republic returns to full compliance with restrictions on nuclear fuel production. Asked by reporters about the Natanz outage, a German Foreign Ministry spokesman, warned that such incidents could adversely affect the nuclear negotiations. Khatibzadeh said nuclear talks would resume on Wednesday in Vienna. Diplomatic headway has been made, delegates said on Friday. Iran insists all US sanctions crippling its oil-based economy must be lifted first before it stops accelerating enrichment and restores caps on the process. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday Iran had never given up efforts to develop nuclear weapons and that Israel would never allow Tehran to do so. Israel sees the Iranian enrichment drive as a existential menace. There have been sporadic episodes of sabotage and outages at Iranian nuclear installations over more than a decade, for which Tehran has blamed Israel, including a fire last July that broke out at Iran's Natanz site. In 2010, the Stuxnet computer virus, widely believed to have been developed by the United States and Israel, was discovered after it was used to attack Natanz, causing damaging breakdowns of centrifuge cascades that refine uranium. Iran also accused Israel of responsibility for last November's ambush killing outside Tehran of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, who was considered by Western intelligence services as the mastermind of a covert Iranian nuclear weapons programme. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement in his death.

Iran's foreign minister says Israel made 'very bad gamble' by sabotaging Natanz site

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